Daily Red Sox Links: Kyle Schwarber, Alex Cora, Kiké Hernández

The Red Sox just continue to roll in this ALCS, coming very close to a 3-0 series lead and holding a 2-1 lead. That’s in large part thanks to an offense that is as locked in as we’ve seen all season long. (Alex Speier; Boston Globe)

Boston’s offense put themselves in the history books with Kyle Schwarber’s grand slam on Monday, the team’s third in a two-game span. (Joon Lee; ESPN)

His offensive abilities is clearly the main value from Kyle Schwarber, but his defense at first base continues to improve, in part because of the guy he’s replaced. (Steve Hewitt; Boston Herald)

Alex Verdugo grew up idolizing David Ortiz, and now is getting his own big hits for a Red Sox playoff run. (Matt Vautour; Masslive)

To top it all off, Monday was also Alex Cora’s birthday. (Ian Browne; RedSox.com)

Stephen J. Nesbitt has a great story illustrating just what makes Kiké Hernández Kiké Hernández. (Stephen J. Nesbitt; The Athletic)

Jonathan Papelbon was back at Fenway on Monday as well for first pitch duties. (Rob Bradford; WEEI)