The Boston Red Sox are on the brink of returning to the playoffs for the first time since 2021, with their magic number down to one. A single loss by the Houston Astros or a win by the Red Sox will secure Boston’s spot in the postseason. However, the Red Sox’s potential opponents in the Wild Card Series remain uncertain, as their fate hinges on the outcomes of several games.
According to insights from Masslive.com’s Chris Cotillo, the most probable destinations for the Red Sox for a Wild Card Series starting next Tuesday could be New York, Toronto, Cleveland, or Detroit. If Boston clinches their playoff berth on Thursday, it would set the stage for a final series against Detroit that serves primarily as a chance to prepare the team for the playoffs.
While the possibility of claiming the division or the top wild card spot remains, it is considered a long shot. The Red Sox are hoping for favorable outcomes in games across the league to clarify their seeding and potential opponents. This uncertainty also leaves Boston’s plans for pitchers Lucas Giolito, Garrett Crochet, and Brayan Bello somewhat in flux. If Boston secures a playoff spot and seeding becomes irrelevant, Giolito might be rested for Sunday’s game.
Various scenarios are being considered for Boston’s playoff matchup. If Toronto wins the AL East, the Red Sox could face the Yankees. Alternatively, if the Yankees win the division, Boston might play against Toronto. The Red Sox could play against Cleveland or Detroit depending on how the Central Division unfolds. FanGraphs currently estimates Boston’s chances of making the playoffs at 99.5%.
The upcoming games, including the Astros against the Athletics and the Tigers versus the Guardians, will be crucial for determining Boston’s path. The Red Sox themselves will compete against the Blue Jays, while the Yankees engage with the White Sox in a key matchup. With so much at stake, the Red Sox are on the edge of official playoff recognition, watching and waiting as the baseball drama unfolds.