Why The Red Sox Won The World Series

The resounding World Series victory boils down to one word: Leadership.

The Boston Red Sox won because they had a better manager, better hitting and better pitching. The Red Sox manager out managed the Los Angeles Dodger’s manager. Here’s how I see it.

Clayton Kershaw, the Dodger’s ace pitcher, allowed 4 runs in 7 innings. He was quickly down 2 at the end of the first inning. He gave up one run in the 6th and 7th inning bring the score to 4 to 1. The Dodger’s relief pitcher gave up one additional run in the 8th inning bringing the score to 5 to 1 in favor of the Red Sox.

David Price of the Boston Red Sox allowed 1 run in the first inning. At the top of the 8th inning, Price walked the lead off batter and was immediately replaced by a fresh pitcher from the bullpen. There was no hesitation on the part of the Red Sox manager, Alex Cora.

This is what a leader does. Alex Cora displayed great situational awareness. He apparently didn’t hesitate replacing Price for one more batter.

Dave Roberts should have replaced Kershaw in the 6th inning when the score was 3-1 in favor of Boston. But, no, he kept his ace in. I was incredulous. Why the heck did he leave him in? Kershaw gave up his 4th run in the 7th inning.

Did Roberts give up on the game and series? Did he feel like the loss was inevitable? Will the Dodgers ask him to return next year? If I owned the team, I’d ask him go.

I want a leader who does everything to win. Roberts didn’t display that to me. In a one and done situation, you have to give it your all. Period. He didn’t do that.

I’m really happy the Red Sox won. I lived in Massachusetts for 3 years and became a fan. I’m sad the Dodgers didn’t have better leadership to replace Kershaw sooner. This error likely wouldn’t have changed the outcome of the game or the World Series.

Go Sox!