While there's been a lot of attention given to the Boston Red Sox's need for starting pitching and right-handed hitting help in recent weeks, their true biggest problem shined bright in their series loss to the New York Yankees.
According to The Boston Globe's Alex Speier, the Red Sox entered Sunday night's series finale with the second-worst July bullpen ERA (6.28) and strikeout rate (19%). They also had the ninth-highest walk rate (10%).
Things didn't get better in that game, as Cam Booser allowed a run on a hit and a walk in 1/3 of an inning, Greg Weissert gave up two runs (one earned) on two hits and two walks in 1 2/3 innings and Cooper Criswell allowed one run on two hits in his lone inning.
Boston needs help in the bullpen with guys like Chris Martin and Justin Slaten on the injured list and some other guys being either overused or being put in high-leverage situations that they can't handle.
The Red Sox claimed right-handed reliever Yohan Ramirez off of waivers on Sunday, but that won't be enough, as other teams competing and contending with Boston are adding bullpen arms to make their lives easier.
Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow needs to turn away from the bargain bin he's been shopping in, and start looking at some of the real options on the shelves. And, if he doesn't, the Red Sox could see another second-half skid that buries this team quickly.
