Yankees' Boone Under Fire After Bullpen Collapse in Wild Card Opener
 |
Fried Dominates Before the Hook
Starter Max Fried was outstanding through 6 2/3 innings, allowing just four hits and one run while striking out several key batters. He threw 102 pitches, 63 for strikes, and left the mound with the Yankees holding a 1-0 lead thanks to Anthony Volpe’s solo home run.
Boone’s Controversial Decision
Despite Fried’s strong performance, manager Aaron Boone decided to turn the game over to his bullpen after a double play. Reliever Luke Weaver immediately struggled, issuing a walk and giving up a double before surrendering a pinch-hit two-run single to Masataka Yoshida. The Red Sox added another run in the ninth off David Bednar to seal the victory.
Boone Defends His Call
Boone defended his decision, noting that Fried had battled through high-pressure innings in the fourth, fifth, and sixth. “I felt like his command was not as sharp in those later innings. He gave us what we needed, but I felt strongly about going to the bullpen at that point,” Boone said after the game.
Fried Felt Strong
Fried, however, expressed that he still had plenty left. “I definitely felt good at the end, coming out feeling strong. I’m always ready to stay in until the ball gets taken from me,” Fried said.
Bullpen Concerns Grow
The bullpen’s struggles highlight an ongoing concern for New York, as Weaver has not been the same since returning from injury in June. His ERA ballooned from 1.05 pre-injury to 5.31 afterward, raising questions about his reliability in high-stakes situations.
What’s Next for the Yankees?
With Boston now holding the series lead, the Yankees face an uphill battle to stay alive. Boone’s decisions will continue to be heavily scrutinized as the team looks to bounce back in Game 2.
إرسال تعليق