The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees finish off a three-game series Thursday night in the Bronx at Yankee Stadium
Boston Red Sox at New York Yankees
Boston’s success against New York has been pivotal in the club obtaining first place in the American League East, entering tonight’s series finale with a 7-1 record against them, including winning all five matchups in the Bronx. “If you don’t play well, they’re going to beat you,” said Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter. “They’ve outplayed us every time we’ve played them so far.” Red Sox designated-hitter David Ortiz continues to pace the offense by hitting .467 with four homers and 10 RBIs in his last eight games overall. Since the start of May, Ortiz leads the Majors with 25 extra-base hits, while the club leads all teams with a .299 average over the last 17 games. Boston is 21-5 this season when playing against a team with a winning record.
Red Sox starting pitcher Josh Beckett is 4-2 with a 2.01 ERA in 12 starts this season and took his team-leading sixth no-decision of the season last time out against the Athletics. He allowed three runs on four hits over six solid innings in that particular appearance. Beckett has compiled an even 2-2 mark and 2.87 ERA in six road starts, as opposing hitters are batting just .216 against him. The right-hander has not allowed a home run over his last seven starts, which is incredibly important against tonight’s opponent. He will be facing the Yankees for the third time this season, tossing 14 scoreless innings in his first two starts, while issuing three walks and striking out 19.
New York has dropped its first five home games to Boston this season, something that has never happened while the club has called the Bronx home. “We’re one game back, we’re not really in a hole,” said Yankees manager Joe Girardi. “Obviously, we’re not happy with our record against the Red Sox, but you go out and win a game Thursday.” The Yankees has still captured victories in six of their last nine games and 13 of 20. Third baseman Alex Rodriguez must get things going in order for the squad to beat its nemesis, going 6 for 29 with two home runs in the season series. New York is 13-11 versus division opponents this season and 15-10 following a loss.
Yankees starting pitcher C.C. Sabathia is 7-3 with a 2.80 ERA in 13 starts this season and will be aiming for his fifth consecutive win. He is coming off a 3-2 road win over the Los Angeles Angels, giving up two runs (one earned) and eight hits over 8 2/3 innings. The left-hander is 2-1 with a 3.43 ERA in six home starts, surrendering just two home runs in 42 frames. Sabathia has registered a losing 6-7 record and 3.63 ERA in 17 career starts versus the Red Sox. He dropped a 6-0 home decision in his lone start against them this year at Yankee Stadium, allowing six runs and seven hits over 6 2/3 innings.
Bettors will be interested in backing the Red Sox due to their 8-0 mark versus left-handed starters, while the Yankees are 4-9 in their last 13 home games
