4 things to expect from the Sox on Opening Day

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Conor Frederick (@C_Frederick1016)
Contributing Writer

Let's get this party started. The snow is (almost) thawed and is time for baseball. The Red Sox square off against the Philadelphia Phillies later today in the debut of the new look 2015 Red Sox. So, what can we expect today? Well, here are the 4 main things to expect today:

1. Expect a lot of runs from the Sox: This lineup is built to score runs, and I think that will be on full display today. I'm particularly interested to see how the middle of the order does. David Ortiz will get the start at first base over Mike Napoli, so it will likely be Ortiz-Ramirez-Sandoval in the heart of the order. I don't know about everyone else, but I'm excited about the prospect of watching those guys doing their thing.

2. Be prepared to see a high scoring game: As good as the Red Sox offense is, the one question mark is their pitching, especially Clay Buchholz, the Opening Day starter. Clay finished 2014 with an 8-11 record and a 5.31 ERA, so will today be a continuation of that, or will Buchholz go back to his form in the first few months of 2013? Hopefully the latter, but don't be surprised if the Phillies put up some runs on the Red Sox today. I may be overrating Philly's offense, but I know what Clay Buchholz is capable of, both good and bad.

3. Look for the young guns to step up, Mookie Betts in particular: Mookie Betts looks a lock to start in center today, and with the way he played in Spring Training, it's not a surprise. I expect big things from Mookie, and I think he'll start today. I forsee Mookie taking the first step towards legendary status today.

4. Most of all, expect a motivated team: It's the first game of the season and I think the Red Sox will be looking to right the ship after last year's disappointing season. They'll be looking to get back into the playoffs at a minimum, and the Sox will want to take that first step today.

Hopefully they will take the first step today and beat the Phillies. But, more importantly, let's enjoy the fact that baseball is back!