The Red Sox finished first in the American League (AL) with a record of 75 wins and 51 losses, in a season cut short due to World War I.

Due to the entry of the United States into World War I, several Red Sox players enlisted with the military over the winter of 1917-1918. Notable players who enlisted included Pitchers Ernie Shore and Herb Pennock, Outfielder Duffy Lewis, as well as Manager Jack Barry.

[6] The Red Sox' pitching staff, led by Carl Mays and Bullet Joe Bush, allowed the fewest runs in the league.

Babe Ruth was the fourth starter and also spent significant time in the outfield, as he was the best hitter on the team, leading the AL in home runs and slugging percentage.

After this season the Red Sox would fall into mediocrity as they traded away most of their star players to other teams, most notably sending Ruth to the Yankees in 1920.