Lenin Sosa’s elite fastball contact and 22-homer year put him in a legitimate 1B vs Bell debate for 2026, despite a rough walk rate and limited defensive value at first. Bell’s cheaper, more traditional DH-friendly profile complicates the decision, but Sosa’s age and upside tilt the scale toward in-house growth. They also brainstorm in-house options (Teal, Caro) and potential roster pivots, including using pitching spend more efficiently than a big-first-base splash.

Beyond the 1B question, the discussion dives into the Sox’ second-half adjustments against fastballs, vertical-tilt concepts, and the impact on lineup construction. The show closes with a lighthearted trivia quiz about four-game homer streaks, underscoring how depth pieces and depth charts will shape 2026 projections.

Mets free-agent pursuit centers on elite infield talent and a fortified rotation, weighing Alex Bregman’s leadership and postseason pedigree against Pete Alonso’s franchise tether. Cody Bellinger adds defensive versatility, while Michael King and Ranger Suarez offer a potential rotation backbone. The panel also weighs Max Fried’s ace ceiling and even references Juan Soto as a benchmark for impact, with Carl Crawford’s left-field legacy invoked as a reminder of ceiling and fit in New York. Payroll tradeoffs and timing loom large as the club balances win-now pressure with long-term flexibility.

Boston jumped out to a five-run edge, then leaned on a steady defense and timely contact to pressure the visitor from the start. The pitcher admitted the early hole was brutal and that Boston’s approach—putting the ball in play and making you earn every out—kept the game secure. The squad remains confident heading home, aiming to flip the series with a controlled, high-confidence rotation and trusted bats.

Fantasy players should monitor Boston’s bullpen depth and the lineup’s ability to capitalize in home games. Max anchors the staff, a reliable source of wins when run support backs him, and the offense’s balance offers multiple sleeper plays as the series shifts back to familiar confines.