The Boston Red Sox secured a crucial 3-1 victory over the New York Yankees in Game 1 of the American League Wild Card round on October 3, 2023. The win was propelled by both a stellar pitching performance from Garrett Crochet and a series of late-game heroics, including aggressive baserunning that shifted the momentum in Boston’s favor.
With the team trailing 1-0 heading into the seventh inning, the Red Sox faced a formidable challenge against Yankees starter Max Fried. Despite several missed opportunities earlier in the game, Boston’s determination began to show as they turned to their bench for inspiration. Alex Cora, the Red Sox manager, often emphasizes the importance of collective effort during the postseason, and it was evident that his players were ready to respond.
After Jarren Duran grounded out to start the seventh, Fried exited the game to a standing ovation, leaving the mound after a dominant performance. Cora seized the moment, sending in Ceddanne Rafaela to face reliever Luke Weaver. Rafaela demonstrated remarkable patience, battling through an 11-pitch walk that proved pivotal for the Red Sox.
Turning Point for Boston
Rafaela’s walk set the stage for Nick Sogard, batting ninth in the lineup. Despite spending the majority of the 2025 season in the minors, Sogard’s presence became a game-changer. Capitalizing on the momentum, he quickly made an impact against Weaver, hitting a soft liner into right field. Displaying impressive speed, Sogard turned the single into a double, advancing Rafaela to third base.
“It was a risky play, but it was part of a plan to test Aaron Judge’s arm in right field,” Sogard explained after the game. Judge’s recent elbow strain had made him less effective defensively, and the Red Sox aimed to exploit that weakness. Cora praised Sogard’s awareness, noting, “We talked about their outfielders and what we can do, and he took advantage of it.”
With runners at second and third and only one out, the situation intensified for Boston. Cora made another strategic decision, bringing in Masataka Yoshida to pinch-hit for left-handed batter Rob Refsnyder. Yoshida didn’t waste any time making his mark; he delivered a two-run single off Weaver, shifting the score to 2-1 in favor of the Red Sox.
Yoshida’s clutch hit marked a historic moment, as he became the first pinch hitter in Red Sox postseason history to turn a deficit into a lead. “I’m just really glad I could contribute to this team,” Yoshida said through his translator.
Game Impact and Outlook
The combined efforts of Rafaela’s walk, Sogard’s aggressive baserunning, and Yoshida’s timely hit allowed Boston to seize control of the game. These small yet significant contributions highlighted the importance of teamwork in the playoffs. The Red Sox ultimately added another run, sealing their 3-1 victory and placing them one step closer to advancing in the postseason.
Reflecting on the game, Alex Bregman, Boston’s third baseman, remarked on the team’s aggressive strategy, stating, “One base here, one base there can make a difference.” The Red Sox now look to capitalize on this momentum as they prepare for their next challenge in the Wild Card series.
The performance by Crochet, combined with the late-game resurgence, underscores the unpredictable nature of playoff baseball. With one victory secured, the Red Sox are poised to continue their quest for postseason success.
