Red Sox Host Yankees in Key Series at Fenway Park

BOSTON, Mass. — The Boston Red Sox will host the New York Yankees for a crucial three-game series starting Friday at 7:10 p.m. at Fenway Park. This matchup comes after the Sox have found some momentum with back-to-back series wins over the Tampa Bay Rays and the Yankees themselves.

The Red Sox may face challenges with the potential absence of rookies Roman Anthony and Marcelo Mayer, who could sit in favor of right-handed hitters Rob Refsnyder and Romy Gonzalez. This adjustment comes as the Yankees are set to pitch three left-handed starters during the series.

Ryan Yarbrough will start for the Yankees after struggling against the Red Sox last Saturday, giving up eight runs in just four innings. The Red Sox will counter with left-handed pitcher Garret Crochet, who earned a win in his last outing despite allowing five runs.

The Yankees, with a record of 42-25 and sitting in first place in the American League East, are coming off a sweep against the Kansas City Royals. Meanwhile, the Red Sox, at 34-36, hope to capitalize on recent successes as they look to climb back into contention.

Statistically, the Red Sox have excelled in their last nine games, hitting 16 home runs. Crochet is 1-0 with a 4.66 ERA in his career against the Yankees. In contrast, Yarbrough is 5-5 with a 7.65 ERA against Boston.

However, there are concerns for the Yankees as Giancarlo Stanton may be activated from the injured list, while Jazz Chisholm Jr. is expected to play despite a recent groin injury. The veteran Giancarlo Stanton has been sidelined all season, but his return could be a significant boost for New York.

Manager Alex Cora emphasized the importance of using experienced players against lefties to maximize the team’s chances of winning. As the series begins, both teams are gearing up for intense matchups that could influence the division standings.

“If we don’t play Romy or Ref against the lefty, is that good for the team? That’s what we consider,” Cora said, discussing lineup decisions. “We want to give them opportunities, but winning is the priority.”

This storied rivalry promises to deliver high stakes and excitement as two competitive teams clash in one of baseball’s most iconic ballparks.