Red Sox Rookie Connelly Early Starts Decisive Game 3 Versus Yankees

The Boston Red Sox are entrusting rookie left-handed pitcher Connelly Early, who debuted in September 2025, with a critical Game 3 start in their AL Wild Card Series against the New York Yankees. Early, who has only four major league starts and 19 ⅓ innings pitched, is tasked with keeping Boston's season alive in a winner-take-all game at Yankee Stadium, marking the first time a pitcher has started such a playoff game within 30 days of his debut. Despite limited experience, Early has shown poise and command, striking out 11 in his debut and maintaining a 2.33 ERA over his starts, which has earned the confidence of Red Sox manager Alex Cora, especially given bullpen fatigue and injuries to veteran pitchers like Lucas Giolito. The Yankees will counter with their own rookie, Cam Schlittler, highlighting the youth and high stakes of this pivotal matchup between two historic rivals. Early acknowledges the challenge posed by the Yankees' powerful lineup and the hostile atmosphere but remains focused and confident, emphasizing trust in his pitching arsenal. This game will ultimately decide which team advances, spotlighting the pressure and opportunity facing both rookies in one of baseball's most intense rivalries.