In an impressive postseason debut, Garrett Crochet led the Boston Red Sox to a crucial 3-1 victory over the New York Yankees in Game 1 of the wild card series. Pitching seven solid innings, Crochet struck out 11 batters, showcasing his skills and determination on a grand stage. This performance marks a significant moment not only in his career but also for the Red Sox as they aim to advance to the American League Division Series (ALDS).
Garrett Crochet’s Historic Performance
Crochet’s efforts set a record for the most pitches thrown by a starter in a playoff game since Stephen Strasburg of the Washington Nationals in 2019. On his 117th pitch, he achieved a remarkable 100-mph strikeout against Yankees’ batter Austin Wells. This performance solidifies his status as a top pitcher and highlights the Red Sox’s confidence in him after securing a six-year, $170 million extension earlier this year.
Key Game Highlights
- Crochet improved his record against the Yankees to 4-0 this season.
- He allowed only four hits, with Anthony Volpe hitting a solo home run off a 97-mph slider.
- The Red Sox took a 2-1 lead supported by effective offensive play.
- Boston is one win away from securing a matchup against the Toronto Blue Jays in the ALDS.
Managerial Decisions and Insights
Manager Alex Cora expressed confidence in Crochet, emphasizing his stellar performance and mental focus throughout the game. Crochet himself acknowledged the trust Cora placed in him, stating, “I wanted to honor that decision.” Despite concerns over his pitch count, Crochet felt mentally locked into the game from start to finish.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone commented on Crochet’s prowess, stating, “We weren’t able to pressure them enough.” Despite a few good swings, the Yankees couldn’t deliver enough runs to threaten Crochet’s lead.
Looking Ahead
As the Red Sox gear up for Game 2, they will aim to capitalize on this momentum. With Crochet demonstrating the potential to be a cornerstone of their pitching rotation, the team appears poised for further success in the postseason.
