A couple things that made me say, “Hmmm… interesting.” while watching MLB Big Inning (Friday 6/26)

1. The Red Sox are 8–34 when scoring four runs or fewer

This stat came up on the Red Sox broadcast, where the announcers were discussing how many more wins Boston would have if their offense were even league-average. The consensus seemed to be around 10 additional wins.

My first thought was: Wow, 8--34 is brutal. But then I wondered: How many teams actually have a decent record when scoring four runs or fewer?

The answer: None.

Still, Boston's lack of run support is glaring. Only three teams (Giants, Mets and Mariners) have played more games than the Red Sox while scoring four runs or fewer. The Red Sox currently rank 23rd in MLB in runs per game (3.96) and 29th in total runs scored with just 319. It all goes a long way toward explaining their underwhelming 34–46 start to the season.

That said, momentum can change quickly in baseball. A four-game sweep of the Yankees this weekend would alter the conversation in a hurry. They’re already halfway there after yesterday's 6–3 victory and tonight’s 6–1 win.

2. Fernando Tatis Jr.’s resurgence in the leadoff spot

Since moving to the leadoff spot on May 17, Tatis is hitting .343 with 47 hits, 3 home runs, 13 RBIs, and 20 runs scored over 34 games. While I haven’t seen an official announcement from the Padres, Tatis has anchored the top of the order ever since bouncing around the lineup earlier this season.

There has been plenty of chatter about his lack of power this year. He recently went a career-long 55 games without a home run before finally breaking the drought against the Nationals at the end of May. Since locking down the leadoff spot, however, he has posted a stellar .393 on-base percentage.

Unfortunately for San Diego, Tatis’s hot streak won't solve the Padres' bigger issue: Manny Machado hitting just .184 on the year.

3. The White Sox won 22-1.

Thanks for coming out Royals.