Best of the Red Sox on WEEI: Playing the blame game after a horrendous start to the season

The WEEI Afternoons podcast dives into the Boston Red Sox's disastrous start to the 2026 season, with the team sitting at a 2-7 record after nine games — tied for the worst nine-game start in franchise history. Hosts Greg Hill, Curtis, Shyam, and Fitzy express frustration over the team's lack of competitiveness across all facets: poor hitting (lowest OPS with runners in scoring position, fourth-most strikeouts), weak pitching (519 ERA), and defensive lapses (nine errors in nine games). They point to underperforming veterans like Trevor Story, Wilson Contreras, and Ranger Suarez, while praising only Willer Abreu and a few young players. The conversation shifts to blame, with growing criticism aimed at General Manager Craig Breslow for roster decisions, including not re-signing veteran leader Brock Holt and failing to bring in a strong clubhouse presence. Hosts question the team’s culture, noting a lack of leadership despite a young core, and suggest that Alex Cora may be failing in his managerial role by not making timely changes — such as moving Story to second base and Meyer to shortstop. The episode ends with a consensus: the team is underachieving, and unless drastic adjustments are made, the Red Sox may face a long, painful season.