Connelly Early to Make Historic Postseason Start for Red Sox Against Yankees

What's Happening?

Connelly Early, a rookie pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, is set to make his first postseason start in a decisive Game 3 against the New York Yankees in the American League Wild Card series. At 23 years and 182 days old, Early will become the youngest pitcher to start a postseason game since Babe Ruth, who was 21 years and 246 days old during the 1916 World Series. Early was called to start after Lucas Giolito suffered an elbow injury, sidelining him for the postseason. Despite his lack of postseason experience, Early expressed excitement and readiness for the challenge, stating, 'It’s gonna be really fun. You know, it’s 1-1 now, so it comes down to this game and I’m excited to get out there.'

Why It's Important?

This game is significant not only for its historical context but also for its impact on the Red Sox's postseason aspirations. Early's performance could be pivotal in determining the outcome of the series, as the Red Sox and Yankees are tied 1-1. The pressure is high, as this game will decide which team advances. Early's ability to handle the pressure and perform well could set the tone for his future career and the Red Sox's postseason success. The comparison to Babe Ruth adds a layer of historical significance, highlighting the rarity and importance of such an opportunity for a young pitcher.

What's Next?

The outcome of this game will determine the Red Sox's fate in the postseason. If Early performs well and the Red Sox win, they will advance further in the playoffs, potentially boosting team morale and Early's standing within the team. Conversely, a loss could end their postseason run and prompt evaluations of team strategy and player performance. Fans and analysts will be closely watching Early's performance, which could influence future decisions regarding his role on the team.