Worcester Red Sox News: September 1 - September 7, 2024

The Worcester Red Sox, also known as the WooSox, have been through a mixed bag of performances over the past week, wrapping up the first half of the 2024 Minor League Baseball season. Here’s a brief overview of their recent games and a look at what’s to come.

Recent Performance

The WooSox concluded the first half with a 9-7 loss to the Columbus Clippers, finishing tied for seventh place in the International League East division with a record of 35-40. Despite their overall record, the team showed promising signs, particularly on offense. They ended the first half with a plus-34 run differential, ranking third best in the International League. Additionally, they led the league in walks (395) and OBP (.369), while sitting in the top five in runs scored (423) and OPS (.797).

Key Players

Several players have stood out for the WooSox. Niko Kavadas, the team’s most prolific power hitter, is fourth in the International League with a .972 OPS. In 63 games, he leads Worcester in home runs (14), RBIs (49), and SLG (.556), while ranking in the top three in runs (43), hits (54), doubles (14), walks (42), and OBP (.416).

Newcomers Nick Yorke and Mickey Gasper have also made significant impacts. Yorke is hitting .355/.459/.532 in 16 games, collecting 22 hits and scoring 12 runs. Gasper has been equally impressive, posting a .424 average and a 1.264 OPS in 10 games.

On the pitching side, Richard Fitts has been a force at the top of Worcester’s rotation. In 60.2 innings, he ranks in the top 10 in the International League in ERA (3.86), opponents' batting average (.239), and WHIP (1.29).

Upcoming Schedule

The WooSox are set to begin the second half of the season with a clean slate, starting on Tuesday, September 10. The team will look to rebound and make a push for the playoffs. Here are some upcoming games and promotions:

- **Tuesday, September 10**: 6:05 PM game, gates open at 5:00 PM.
- **Wednesday, September 11**: 6:05 PM game, gates open at 5:00 PM.
- **Thursday, September 12**: 6:05 PM game, gates open at 5:00 PM.
- **Friday, September 13**: 6:05 PM game, gates open at 5:00 PM.
- **Saturday, September 14**: 4:05 PM game, gates open at 2:30 PM.

Promotions and Events

The WooSox have a variety of promotions and events lined up for the second half of the season. Some highlights include:

- **Fan Appreciation Week**: From Tuesday, September 10, through Sunday, September 15, the WooSox will celebrate their fans with special events and giveaways.
- **Team Autograph Day**: On Sunday, September 15, fans can get autographs from the WooSox players.

Conclusion

The Worcester Red Sox are looking to turn their season around in the second half. With a strong offense and promising pitching, they have the potential to make a push for the playoffs. Fans can look forward to exciting games and promotions at Polar Park, starting with the upcoming series beginning on Tuesday, September 10.