JD Martinez Explains Why This Season Has Been So Much Harder Than 2018

The 2019 MLB season hasn't exactly been a smooth one for JD Martinez and the Boston Red Sox. They currently sit nine games out of first place in the AL East and are hoping that the second half of the season goes slightly more according to plan.

Last season was a dream come true for Martinez and the Red Sox. Before they went on to win another World Series title, the Red Sox dominated their division and the regular season. Martinez touched on the differences the Red Sox are facing this year as compared to last season.

JD Martinez on the difference between 2018 and 2019: pic.twitter.com/ZWiROellr7
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) July 8, 2019

It certainly has been a year of ups and downs for Martinez and the Red Sox. Along with a slew of injuries, the Sox have had to deal with the dominant play of both the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays as well.

If both teams above them continue to thrive in the second half of the season, Boston will have a tough time competing for the division title. However, they are far from being completely counted out of the 2019 postseason, especially if they can sneak in as a Wild Card team.

Perhaps their success in the second half could come from a new acquisition.

#RedSox pushing to add a starting pitcher, sources tell The Athletic. Would prefer to act sooner rather than later. Casting wide net.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 8, 2019

Boston will have to keep fighting to reclaim the AL East title, but this season has definitely been a wake up call for the Red Sox, especially as their rotation and bullpen struggles to keep pace.