To the surprise of many, the Red Sox enter the All-Star break holding a playoff spot.
The Red Sox improved to 53-42 with their win over Kansas City on Sunday. As the Royals were the team closest to them for the final wild-card spot entering the day, the Red Sox now have a two-game cushion for the last playoff spot.
Not only is Boston in control of its playoff destiny, but it’s also within reach of first place in the American League East. The Orioles regained the division lead on Sunday with their win over the Yankees, putting them a game ahead of New York.