The Phillies and Red Sox, each hoping to contend this season, meet at Fenway Park for the start of a three-game Interleague series. Both teams dismissed their managers before the start of May and are now under interim leadership, attempting to turn their seasons around.
A Rare Managerial Convergence
This series marks a rare occasion. It’s the first time since 2002 that two teams have met within their first 45 games with different managers than they had on Opening Day, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. This has only happened four times previously in the Modern Era (since 1900), and unlike the Phillies and Red Sox, none of the clubs involved were coming off postseason berths the year prior.
Since replacing Rob Thomson with interim manager Don Mattingly, Philadelphia has gone 10-3. The Red Sox, under interim manager Chad Tracy who took over for Alex Cora, have gone 7-6.
Playoff Odds and Team Strengths
FanGraphs gives the Phillies a 54.9% chance of reaching the postseason. The Red Sox have a 30% chance. The Phillies’ roster has a stronger foundation and a higher ceiling.
Key Players and Performance
Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber and Cristopher Sánchez have been performing well for the Phillies. Zack Wheeler has also looked good since returning from surgery on April 25, recording a 3.12 ERA with 18 strikeouts. Trea Turner is projected for a higher fWAR total (2.8) the rest of this season than any Red Sox position player.
- Bryce Harper: 10 HR, 159 wRC+
- Kyle Schwarber: 16 HR, 161 wRC+
- Cristopher Sánchez: 2.11 ERA, 10.9 K/9
The Red Sox’s best hitters this season have been Willson Contreras and Wilyer Abreu. Ranger Suarez has anchored their rotation with a 2.77 ERA over 39 innings.
The Phillies sit at 19-22 entering their series against Boston, while the Red Sox are 17-23 overall.