On one hand, there was sheer joy, while on the other, there was disappointment.
The Yankees popped champagne in their clubhouse after delivering a 9-2 defeat to the Red Sox in Game 2 of the wild-card series, which means they’re heading to the ALDS to face the Rays.
Even though Aaron Judge sat out the series due to a calf strain, he was all smiles during the clubhouse festivities. He mentioned that the Yankees drew some inspiration from the Knicks, who won the basketball championship in 2026.
“We’re definitely inspired by the Knicks, we’ve got to keep the winning going in New York,” Judge stated.
The celebration carried onto the field as the Yankees enjoyed yet another wild-card series victory over the Red Sox, having clinched last year’s series as well, also in three games.
Cody Bellinger, who hit a crucial three-run homer in the sixth inning to seal the game, expressed that playing in The Bronx during the postseason felt “special” to him and his teammates.
“Honestly, this place is such an amazing place to play in the postseason,” Bellinger told a reporter. “Fans are so into the game; it’s just an electric atmosphere. It’s truly special.”
Jazz Chisholm Jr. even made a statement by wearing a bright orange jersey while on the field.
In stark contrast, the Red Sox, who had pulled off an impressive turnaround to become playoff contenders, saw their postseason dreams vanish almost instantly.
Garrett Crochet, returning from a shoulder issue, struggled during his outing, giving up three runs on four hits without recording an out.
He didn’t hold back on how disappointed he felt about the abrupt end of the season.
“I feel healthy but I feel like s–t,” Crochet said post-game. “For our season to end the same way it did last year, against what many would call our biggest rival, is tough. We made them work for it — they’re a solid team.”
“It just sucks that’s how it ends for us.”
The Yankees will now gear up to face Tampa Bay in the ALDS, which is set to begin on Saturday.
