The first-place Boston Red Sox, who finished 69-93 just last year, are on the cusp of one of the greatest one-season turnarounds in baseball history, but can they go all the way?

In 2011 the Red Sox became the first team ever to miss the playoffs after having a 9-game lead in September. The following off-season was full of rumors about poor management, (and rumors of a dugout full of chicken and beer), leading to the departure of skipper Terry Francona and most of the front office (including general manager Theo Epstein). In 2012, the BoSox finished in last place, their first losing season since 1997.

This season, though, has turned out quite different. The Red Sox are first in the majors in slugging percentage, on-base percentage and runs. They also currently lead the A.L. East by 9 games, a number that hopefully isn't cursed.

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