The Red Sox should shift team's focus toward the future

While they have not technically been eliminated, the Boston Red Sox have not shown that they can make up any ground in the hyper-competitive American League wild-card race. 

As of Sept. 2, the Red Sox are 6.5 games out of the final wild-card spot. After getting swept by the Houston Astros and suffering an embarrassing 13-2 loss against the last-place Kansas City Royals, it's time for the Red Sox to throw in the towel and do whatever they can to make sure they're ready to compete in the future. 

Here are three things the Red Sox can do to make sure that happens: 

Play Ceddanne Rafaela

The No. 3 prospect in the Red Sox system and the No. 75 overall prospect in baseball per MLB's prospect rankings, Ceddanne Rafaela is just beginning to make an impact at the big league level. He made his debut pinch-hitting on Aug. 28, and made his first start two days later on Aug. 30. 

Rafaela is unique in his ability to play multiple positions, having logged minor league appearances at all outfield spots, shortstop, second base, and third base. 

In just seven at bats so far, he has three hits, including a double and an RBI. It is clear that Rafaela is a key part of the Red Sox future. The big question right now though, is where does he fit best. 

The Red Sox should use this month to try and help Rafaela adjust to big league pitching before he takes on more of an every day role next season and play him all around the diamond to try and get him comfortable in as many positions as possible to give manager Alex Cora as much lineup flexibility as possible.

Protect Trevor Story

Shortstop Trevor Story recently returned to the Red Sox lineup after recovering from an elbow injury. At his best, Story has 30+ home run power, 30+ stolen base speed, and can provide above average defense at a premium position. 

He has struggled with staying healthy the past few years, and it should be a priority for the Red Sox to make sure that he is going to go into 2024 as healthy as he can be. That means not over-extending him this season by giving him plenty of opportunities to DH and rest.

Build up Bobby Dalbec's trade value

One of the more disappointing aspects of this season for the Red Sox was the regression of utility-man Bobby Dalbec. After being leap-frogged on the depth chart by first baseman Triston Casas, Dalbec has only played a handful of games for the major league club this season. Despite his lack of big league appearances, Dalbec has been productive in Triple-A Worcester, hitting 31 homers and slashing .274/.388/.575. 

Even though Dalbec may not have a path to playing time for the Red Sox, they can still give him a chabce this month, see if he can replicate the success he's had in Triple-A and make him a more appealing trade target this offseason. 

It would be an absolute win for the Red Sox if they are able to get any major league talent or a high level prospect for Dalbec and the only way for that to happen is to give him another chance at the major league level.