The New York Yankees clawed their way back from the brink Tuesday night, shutting down the Boston Red Sox 4-0 in Game 3 of the AL Wild Card Series to advance to the American League Division Series. It was a gritty performance from the Bronx Bombers, especially after dropping the opener 3-1 on September 30 and then scraping by with a 4-3 win in Game 2 the following day. Rookie pitcher Cam Schlittler stole the show, hurling a gem with 12 strikeouts over seven innings, his fastball popping like fireworks on a cool October evening.
Indeed, Schlittler's poise under pressure was something to behold—a Massachusetts kid, son of a Boston-area police chief, turning the tables on his hometown team. The Yankees' offense, meanwhile, didn't waste the opportunity. They plated two runs early off Red Sox starter Tanner Houck, who labored through four innings, and added insurance later with timely hits from the middle of the order. Boston's bats went quiet, managing just three hits against a bullpen that locked things down tight. This marks the third time in seven years these rivals have clashed in the postseason, and once again, the Yankees come out on top, though not without that familiar dose of drama.
However, the series wasn't without its tense moments. Game 1 saw Boston's pitching staff suffocate New York, holding them to a single run in a low-scoring affair that had Fenway faithful dreaming of an upset. Then came Game 2, where the Yankees rallied late, capitalizing on a Red Sox error to force the decider. For fans glued to their screens, coverage aired on ESPN, with streaming options across MLB.tv and the usual suspects like YouTube TV. What channel? Well, it varied by market, but the rivalry's pull made it must-watch TV regardless.
Looking ahead, the Yankees now face a tougher test in the ALDS, but this win over Boston feels like a statement—a reminder of their pedigree in October. One can't help but wonder if Schlittler's debut will be the spark that reignites Yankee magic, or just another chapter in this endless feud.