When Adam Duvall and Chris Sale were teammates on the Boston Red Sox in the 2023 Major League Baseball season, Adam Duvall witnessed firsthand the work ethic Chris Sale possessed. Duvall never saw Sale give up despite the difficulties he encountered the previous season as he persisted in trying to make amends.
Thus, when the Braves regrouped in Atlanta following Boston’s sale of Sale to the National League side, he was fully aware of the type of talent they would be acquiring.
“I believe that his fight is what matters most. I absolutely enjoy playing behind. Before Sale made his Braves debut, Duvall told Bally Sports, “He’s up there, he’s fighting, and he’s not giving in, and that’s a mentality that is good for the team, too, when we run out there.” “It was enjoyable to play behind him last year.”
Sale’s mentality, according to Duvall, is “contagious” and “not a facade.” Fans of the Red Sox were able to witness that way of thinking while the pitcher was in Boston. Even though Sale’s contract was extended while he was dealing with injuries, he never shirk responsibility or held others accountable for his failures.
During a certain period in his career, Sale was a pitcher that hitters were afraid to face. He finished 17-8 with a 2.90 ERA in 2017, his first season with the Red Sox. Sale recorded the final out to help lead Boston to a historic regular season and World Series win in 2018.
Sale, a southpaw, now gets a fresh start in Atlanta after finishing 20 starts, 6-5, with a 4.30 ERA in 2023. Sale had a great start against the Philadelphia Phillies, striking out seven batters in five and a half innings while giving up two earned runs on five hits.
Duvall declared, “He means business and he’s going to war when he’s out there.” The game’s lost art, if you will. It’s a touch more retro, but still really awesome. .. You know you’re in for a rough ride since he’s throwing everything at you.
Sale started his time with the Braves on a positive note, even though the team was unable to finish the sweep against the Phillies.