Daily Red Sox Links: Chris Sale, Lance McCullers Jr., Chaim Bloom

The expectation from most was certainly that the Red Sox would be handing Nathan Eovaldi the ball for Game One of the ALCS. They’ve surprised everyone by announcing Chris Sale as the game’s starter, and it could be a stroke of genius if he’s fixed himself as he thinks. (Peter Abraham; Boston Globe)

Of course, we know that setting the rotation for this team in the playoffs is almost pointless, as there’s a decent chance any plan will have to be scrapped. (Sean McAdam; Boston Sports Journal)

The Red Sox and Astros met twice this year, both in the first half, within a week or so of each other, and with Houston dominating. How much does that matter at this point? (Chad Jennings; The Athletic)

Boston is certainly an underdog once again, just as they were in the previous two rounds. Here’s the path to beating the Astros. (John Tomase; NBC Sports Boston)

A big break for Boston, and a proportionately big blow for Houston, is the likely loss of Lance McCullers Jr. for the series. (Matt Vautour; Masslive)

The balance of styles between Dave Dombrowski and Chaim Bloom have led to this surprising roster. (Jason Mastrodonato; Boston Herald)