The Boston Red Sox are placing the fate of their 2025 season in the hands of a rookie. With the AL Wild Card Series tied 1-1, they’ll turn to 23-year-old southpaw rookie Connelly Early as their Game 3 starter in Thursday’s elimination clash against the New York Yankees in the Bronx.

Early has made only four big league starts since his September debut, but he’s shown poise and command beyond his experience. The decision reflects manager Alex Cora’s confidence in his young arm and the need for innings after using seven pitchers in Game 2. With bullpen fatigue setting in, the Red Sox need Early to deliver.

The matchup adds another layer of tension to the Yankees vs. Red Sox rivalry. Both teams are relying on rookies in Game 3, with the Yankees starting Cam Schlittler. Boston is hoping

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