Chris Sale’s return provides an impact beyond the days he pitches

Photo by Richard T Gagnon/Getty ImagesSaturday was one of the biggest days in recent Red Sox history — as in the last few years — in terms of an impact on the franchise. It wasn’t a super notable game on its own. They did win by 14 runs, which is at least a little notable in any context, but clearly it was a whole lot more than just one win in a three-game sweep over one of the worst teams in the sport. Rather than just a win, it was how they did it, and more specifically who led the way.

I’m going to assume if you’re reading this that, by now, you realize I’m talking about the return of Chris Sale to the rotation. For the first time in just over two years, the southpaw was back on the mound…