Dividing the blame pie for the Red Sox and their abysmal start to 2026 (The Drive)
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The WEEI Afternoons team dives into the Boston Red Sox's dismal 1-5 start to the 2026 season, dissecting the growing frustration across the roster, management, and front office. Hosts Ted Johnson and Fitzy debate whether the blame lies with players, manager Alex Cora, or general manager Chaim Breslow, with a poll showing 53% of listeners placing the most heat on Breslow’s roster construction. Key concerns include poor early-game execution, historic strikeout rates, defensive lapses, and the disruption of Garrett Crochet’s rhythm after being paired with a different catcher than his usual setup man, Cristian Narvaez. The conversation highlights the team’s reliance on a few key performers—especially Crochet—while questioning leadership, lineup construction, and the psychological toll of repeated slow starts. With calls from fans expressing fatigue from the recurring pattern of underperformance, the hosts explore whether this early slump is a sign of deeper systemic issues or just a temporary blip. The episode ends with anticipation for Rob Bradford’s upcoming segment, where he may offer solutions to the Red Sox’s offensive and strategic woes.
The Red Sox’s 1-5 start has sparked intense debate over who bears the most responsibility: 53% of listeners blame roster construction (Chaim Breslow), not players or manager Alex Cora.
Garrett Crochet’s performance was impacted by the absence of his usual catcher, Cristian Narvaez, highlighting the importance of pitcher-catcher chemistry and routine.
Roman Anthony’s early-season struggles—especially a three-strikeout game—raise questions about lineup optimization, with calls to reconsider his leadoff role despite his past success.
The team has been outscored 12-3 in the first three innings across six games, indicating systemic issues in early-game execution and offensive timing.
Fan frustration is mounting due to the eighth consecutive season starting below .500, fueling concerns about long-term team culture and leadership preparedness.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Easter Confusion and Hosting Intro
Hosts Ted Johnson and Fitzy open with a humorous anecdote about confusing Easter with Master Sunday, leading to a misplaced restaurant reservation. They use the moment to reflect on distractions and the importance of staying on track, setting a light tone before diving into sports.
Red Sox’s 1-5 Start and Early Season Frustration
The hosts express disbelief at the Red Sox’s poor start, emphasizing that despite being projected as a playoff team, they’ve struggled with hitting, pitching, and defense. They debate whether six games is enough to judge the season, with Fitzy arguing it’s too early to panic.
Blame Game: Who’s to Blame for the Slump?
“It's not just about the players. It's about who built this team. And if you're not getting the right guys in the right spots, that's on the front office.”
Garrett Crochet’s Struggles and Catcher Disruption
“You're an athlete. I don't think athletes like changes, especially starting pitchers where that's a routine, right?”
Fan Frustration and Systemic Concerns
“It feels so familiar, though. It's the same movie over and over again.”
“It's not just about the players. It's about who built this team. And if you're not getting the right guys in the right spots, that's on the front office.”
“You're an athlete. I don't think athletes like changes, especially starting pitchers where that's a routine, right?”
“It feels so familiar, though. It's the same movie over and over again.”
Hosts
Guest
Boston Red Sox
other
Ted Johnson
person
Fitzy
person
Garrett Crochet
person
Roman Anthony
person
Alex Cora
person
Cristian Narvaez
person
Chaim Breslow
person
Fenway Park
place
Easter
other
Trying to find the bright spots with this 1-3 Red Sox team
WEEI Afternoons • 21m • 3/31/2026
Alex Cora joins the show, brushes off early season struggles
WEEI Afternoons • 15m • 3/31/2026
Three Point Stance - Not your dad's Patriots
WEEI Afternoons • 21m • 3/31/2026
How big is the disconnect between Kraft and Vrabel?
WEEI Afternoons • 19m • 3/31/2026
Is the release of Josh Dobbs a good thing for Drake Maye?
WEEI Afternoons • 10m • 3/31/2026
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