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BATTING LEADOFF

With the season set to resume Friday, the Red Sox have withstood a blender of a season — a horrific beginning, the chaos from firing manager Alex Cora and much of the coaching staff, injuries to stars, residence in last place for most of three months, and one of the worst offensive stretches in franchise history — to rekindle hopes of contention in the American League.

The Sox surged into the All-Star break with wins in nine straight games and 14 of 16 contests on the strength of tremendous pitching and defense, elements that chief baseball officer Craig Breslow tabbed as the foundation of the team once free agent Alex Bregman turned down an offer to return to Boston and signed with the Cubs. The club has allowed 3.8 runs per game, its second-lowest mark through 94 games since the end of World War II.

TO THE LINKS

STILL BRINGING IT: What does Aroldis Chapman, who was selected for his ninth All-Star Game this year despite his sinker averaging “only” 98.0 miles per hour, represent to baseball’s hardest throwers? Alex Speier asked around at this week's All-Star Game.

LET'S PLAY TWO!: The Red Sox return to action from the All-Star break with a doubleheader against the first-place Rays at Fenway Park. Jake Bennett will be on the mound for the matinee. Here is a preview.

MARCH MADNESS: Assuming there isn't a work stoppage, the Sox are booked to open next season on Thursday, March 25, in Seattle against the Mariners, the earliest date ever for MLB’s traditional Opening Day. Alex Speier has the story.

BUSY BREAK: It appears Payton Tolle and his partner, Devin, used the All-Star break as a chance to tie the knot. John Waller has more on a busy week for the Sox rookie.

See more of our Red Sox coverage here.

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