Boston Red Sox: Is David Price ready to perform in 2018?

ST. PETERSBURG, FL - MARCH 30: Pitcher David Price
ST. PETERSBURG, FL - MARCH 30: Pitcher David Price
FT. MYERS, FL – FEBRUARY 14: David Price
FT. MYERS, FL – FEBRUARY 14: David Price /

David Price got off to a sizzling start for the Boston Red Sox in game two of the regular season. His health means everything; he certainly appeared healthy and dominant in start number one.

Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price needed no time to settle in for the 2018 season. Price went seven strong Friday night, striking out five and allowing only four hits against the Tampa Bay Rays. He needed just 76 pitches to complete his work for the night. Also, Price was very efficient, as did not walk a batter, and 72% of the pitches he threw were for strikes.

The results of Price’s start were ideal for both him and his team. Boston will take every win they can get; however, with yesterday being game 2 of a 162-game season, management was likely more concerned about the lefty’s health and progression.

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David Price is one of those players that is always observed in a cringe-worthy manner. It’s not because he’s shaky on the mound, but due to the fact, he is so injury-prone. To see a 76-pitch, injury-free outing to start the year is just what the Boston Red Sox desired. Price made the outing appear stress-free, though, he did have to keep posting zeros to assist a Red Sox offense that is sluggish out of the gate.

Health is the sole issue regarding the former Cy Young. David Price will be dominant almost every time he takes the mound. His stuff is too good, and his pitching intelligence is off the charts not to dominate on the mound. As long as he’s healthy, the Red Sox will be in great shape. Furthermore, a healthy David Price and a healthy Chris Sale awards Boston the top one-two rotation punch in the American League.

Price is ready to perform in 2018, that wasn’t much of a doubt. 200+ innings from Price this season would be glorious for the Boston Red Sox. Remember, he made 35 starts and threw 230 innings just two seasons ago, resulting in a 17-9 record with 228 strikeouts.

Next: What we learned on opening day

He’s a make-or-break talent. Boston Red Sox fans keep your fingers crossed as much the team’s World Series hopes rely on a healthy David Price.