Yankees’ Postseason Hopes Hang by a Thread After Costly Mistakes Against Red Sox
New York— Yankees believed they had the talent and readiness to advance to October’s playoff game against the Red Sox. They face elimination following a humiliating 3-1 setback that raised more doubts about their decision-making than their capacity to compete.
The setback went beyond mound dominance. Missed opportunities, poor tactics, and a manager’s calls will be debated for years if the Yankees leave early. Bottom of ninth, Yankee Stadium rocking, team loaded bases with no outs. Following a gut-punch sequence, Aroldis Chapman defeated Giancarlo Stanton, Jazz Chisholm, and Trent Grisham. The crowd’s enthusiasm turned to disbelief as another good opportunity passed.
Aaron Boone’s decisions were scrutinized all night. Perhaps none was more obvious than withdrawing Max Fried, who was dominating the Red Sox lineup. Fried might have finished the seventh inning with 102 pitches, but Boone chose Luke Weaver. That choice unraveled immediately as Weaver surrendered three consecutive baserunners and two critical runs. Critics say Boone’s focus on bullpen matchups rather than momentum has harmed the Yankees in past Octobers.
The displeasure went beyond pitching changes. Jazz Chisholm, known for his intensity, spoke to reporters with his back turned after being benched in a crucial moment, clearly furious. If the Yankees don’t recover quickly, this could fracture a pressured clubhouse.
In the ninth inning, Boone didn’t pinch-run for Paul Goldschmidt after his leadoff single, another odd decision. Judge and Cody Bellinger hit, loading the bases, but Goldschmidt’s slowness left him stranded. On succeeding plays, a speedier runner could have shifted momentum by scoring, but the chance passed.
Even team captain Aaron Judge was exposed defensively. Due to a partly injured flexor tendon, Judge’s throw to home plate was weak, allowing the Red Sox to test him. Yankees opponents now know their defensive weaknesses, which they can exploit in a short series.
Every playoff loss adds to the Yankees’ 16-year championship wait. Boone came into the playoffs believing this was “the year.” However, the team is one loss away from another early exit, which would taint Boone’s career as a manager who could never complete his club.
The Yankees must find answers quickly with one game left to save their season. Otherwise, another October disaster will define this Yankee baseball era, leaving supporters with just squandered opportunities and what-ifs.
Sources
NJ Advance Media coverage of Yankees vs. Red Sox Game 1
Postgame statements from Aaron Boone and Aaron Judge
Player reactions and clubhouse reports
