2025-09-30 Red Sox at Yankees Matchup Preview

Pitching Matchup

The Red Sox will send left-hander Garrett Crochet to the mound. Crochet is known for his blazing fastball and devastating slider combination. He aims to control the strike zone with both the movement and velocity to neutralize opposing hitters, which he will need to do against a potent Yankees lineup.

Opposing Crochet is veteran left-hander Max Fried of the Yankees. Fried relies on a mix of sinkers, curveballs, and changeups to keep hitters off balance. His ability to command the strike zone and generate weak contact will be crucial in containing the Red Sox's offense.

Red Sox Hitting

The Boston Red Sox offense has compiled a weighted on-base average of .326 this season. Their lineup features a mix of veterans and young talent, with several players capable of changing the game with one swing. To succeed against Fried, the Red Sox hitters will need to be patient and selective at the plate, waiting for pitches they can drive.

One key factor for the Red Sox will be their ability to handle Fried's sinker. If they can avoid hitting into double plays and find ways to get runners on base, they'll put pressure on the Yankees' defense.

Yankees Hitting

The New York Yankees boast a formidable offense, demonstrated by their weighted on-base average of .350. They possess a lineup filled with power hitters and patient on-base threats. To overcome Crochet, the Yankees hitters will need to be aggressive early in the count, taking advantage of his tendency to challenge hitters with his fastball.

The Yankees' approach against Crochet's slider will be critical. If they can lay off the pitches out of the zone and make him come into the strike zone, they will force him to give up hittable pitches.

Key Matchup

The key matchup to watch will be how the Yankees' hitters perform against Crochet's fastball. If they can handle his velocity and make solid contact, they'll have a good chance of scoring runs. Conversely, if Crochet can keep his fastball under control and locate it effectively, he could dominate the Yankees' lineup.

Similarly, the Red Sox's ability to hit Fried's curveball will be crucial. The Red Sox will have a better chance of having a successful day if they can drive the curveball from Fried.

Bullpen Outlook

Both teams have reliable bullpens, but their effectiveness will depend on the length of the starters' outings. The Red Sox's bullpen has been solid throughout the season, with several relievers capable of pitching in high-leverage situations. They will need to be ready to come in and shut down the Yankees' offense if Crochet struggles to go deep into the game.

The Yankees' bullpen is equally strong, with a mix of power arms and experienced veterans. They'll need to be sharp and consistent if Fried is forced to exit early, maintaining the lead and preventing the Red Sox from mounting a comeback.

Prediction

This game has all the makings of a classic Red Sox-Yankees battle. The pitching matchup is intriguing, and both teams have the offensive firepower to score runs. Expect a close, hard-fought game that could go either way.

With Crochet's velocity keeping the Yankees at bay and the Red Sox eking out just enough offense against Fried, Boston takes a narrow victory.