A payroll of $184.3 million couldn’t buy the Red Sox a playoff spot. But in the midst of a 78–84 record and last-place finish, there were some reasons for hope. The play of rookie centerfielder Mookie Betts and shortsop Xander Bogaerts was remarkable, forming what could be a dynamic duo for years to come at two of the sport’s hardest positions. Also notable was the resurgence of slugger David Ortiz, who at 39 hit 37 home runs, his most since 2006.