Red Sox’ Turnaround: From Coaching Changes to Playoff Contention

By Mason Reed — 18 July 2026 — 3 min read

The Boston Red Sox have demonstrated a notable turnaround this season, securing 11 straight wins and positioning themselves as a contender in the American League wild-card race. This resurgence follows a challenging start to the season, which included the firing of manager Alex Cora on April 25, alongside most of the coaching staff. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow addressed the changes, stating that the move provided the team with 135 games to achieve a fresh start and compete for a division title and a deep postseason run.

Despite initial struggles, compounded by the absence of young star Roman Anthony and AL Cy Young Award finalist Garrett Crochet for much of the first half, the Red Sox have found their stride. Since Cora’s departure, the team has a record of 38-31, sweeping the Los Angeles Angels, Chicago White Sox, and New York Mets before the All-Star break. This strong performance has brought Boston to within a 1/2 game of the third AL wild-card spot as of Friday.

The team’s recent success has significant implications for the upcoming trade deadline, which is less than three weeks away. Prior to their winning streak, the Red Sox were considered potential sellers, with players like right-hander Sonny Gray, first baseman Willson Contreras, and closer Aroldis Chapman seen as valuable trade candidates. However, their current form suggests these players are now unlikely to be moved.

Trade Deadline Decisions Loom

According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Red Sox’ plans for the August 3 trade deadline remain fluid. While the team is not ruling out pursuing additions, they are also mindful that their recent 15-game success follows an entire half-season of mediocrity. This perspective suggests the team is weighing its options carefully, acknowledging the possibility of pivoting to a ‘dump mode’ if their performance falters, potentially trading players like Chapman, Gray, Contreras, and Garrett Whitlock.

MLB insider Jon Morosi reported on Friday that a trade involving All-Star closer Chapman is increasingly unlikely. This aligns with the team’s improving playoff odds, which stood at 44.3 percent following Boston’s Game 1 victory against the Tampa Bay Rays. The Red Sox won that game 10-0, marking their 10th straight win.

The team’s interim manager, Chad Tracy, who took over for Cora in April, has been credited with contributing to a more positive atmosphere around the team. The offense has been scoring consistently, and both the starting rotation and bullpen have performed well. Despite their current hitting prowess during the win streak, the front office is reportedly being realistic about the offensive contributions from players like Anthony Seigler as they consider roster moves.

Potential Additions and Player Returns

If the Red Sox decide to be buyers at the deadline, strengthening their offense will be a key focus. Despite their recent run, Boston was tied for 24th in MLB in runs scored this season as of Friday. Contreras’ bat has been a primary offensive contributor, and third baseman Caleb Durbin has also performed strongly in the last month. However, the team recognizes that these two players alone cannot carry the lineup to the postseason.

Given that Boston’s lineup is heavily left-handed and some outfielders are struggling, the team may look to acquire right-handed outfielders. Potential options mentioned include Orioles outfielder Taylor Ward and Reds utilityman Spencer Steer. An earlier report from ESPN’s Buster Olney indicated that Boston was aggressively seeking a right-handed bat and was even prepared to take on a less favorable contract to achieve this.

Beyond potential trade acquisitions, the return of Roman Anthony and Garrett Crochet from injury in the second half of the season would provide a significant boost. The Red Sox will need to make their trade deadline decisions soon, as the deadline is on August 3.

Source: sports.yahoo.com

Mason Reed

Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.