The Red Sox ’ 2025 season rests upon a 23-year-old left-handed pitcher with just four big league starts on his resume.

Connelly Early will start the win-or-go-home Game 3 of the American League Wild Card Series against the Yankees on Thursday at Yankee Stadium.

“He reminds me a lot of [rookie] Roman [Anthony],” Jarren Duran said. “They’re so calm, cool and collected. And it’s awesome to see that. I can’t wait to see him get on the mound tomorrow and see that big smile he always has when he’s competing.”

Just over two months ago, Early was pitching at Double-A Portland. He made his Triple-A debut Aug. 2 and his major league debut Sept. 9 in Sacramento against the Athletics. He never imagined being in this spot.

“But I’m in that position now, so got to go out there and trust myself,

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