MLB Analysts Reveal 2026 Red Sox Playoff Predictions On Opening Day
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Before the Boston Red Sox squared off against the Cincinnati Reds on Opening Day, MLB Network's MLB Central crew discussed whether the Red Sox will make the playoffs this year.
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Former MLB players Mark DeRosa and Kevin Kiermaier both predicted Boston to reach the postseason.
"Alright, here's my hot take," DeRosa said. "I'm gonna say four teams from the AL East might get in the postseason. I'm on Baltimore, I'm in on Boston, I'm in on Toronto and I'm in on the Yanks."
Kiermaier, who shared a division with the Red Sox for 12 seasons, agreed.
Ball or strike: The Red Sox will be a Postseason team in 2026 ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/EtBSoH3ZlN
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"I got them having a good season," Kiermaier said. "They pitch, they play defense, they got enough hitting and speed throughout the lineup to beat you in so many ways. And when you have that recipe for success, I think they're gonna take that next step."
"I like their team a lot," DeRosa added. "They pitch. I love their outfield. If a guy like Marcelo Mayer gets rolling for 'em, watch out."
Boston made the postseason as a Wild Card team last year after winning 89 games during the regular season and finishing third in the AL East. The Red Sox made several dramatic roster changes over the offseason, however, losing Alex Bregman but bringing in Ranger Suarez, Willson Contreras and Sonny Gray.
As DeRosa mentioned, the AL East is shaping up to be incredibly competitive this year with four possible playoff teams. Boston hasn't made consecutive postseason appearances since 2016-2018, but the season is off to a good start after Thursday's 3-0 road win over the Reds.
According to FanGraphs' updated playoff odds, Boston has a 65.4 percent chance of making the postseason entering play on Friday.
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