Yankees Face Elimination After Boone's Bullpen Decisions in AL Wild Card Game 1

In Game 1 of the 2025 AL Wild Card Series, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone's decision to pull starting pitcher Max Fried after 6⅓ scoreless innings came under heavy scrutiny following a 3-1 loss to the Boston Red Sox. Fried had been effective throughout, throwing 102 pitches and allowing only four hits, with Boone initially planning to lift him after six innings but deciding to let him get one more out in the seventh. Boone justified the move by noting Fried's increased workload and diminished command in the later innings, but the bullpen, led by Luke Weaver, faltered immediately, allowing a two-run single that gave Boston the lead. Weaver, who had struggled since returning from injury, walked the first batter he faced and then allowed multiple hits without recording an out. Fried expressed that he felt he had enough energy to continue pitching but deferred to the team's decision. Boone's pitching management, especially the bullpen choices, faced criticism as the Yankees now face potential elimination in the series.