If you’re a Boston Red Sox fan or looking for the latest info on the early Red Sox pitcher, tonight’s winner-take-all playoff game against the Yankees is a historic moment. Here’s everything trending about Boston’s young pitching phenom, tonight’s lineups, and Red Sox-Yankees rivalry—with exclusive stats and key SEO keywords.
Who Is Connelly Early? The Youngest Red Sox Postseason Starter Since Babe Ruth
Connelly Early, age 23, will start for the Red Sox tonight against the Yankees in Game 3 of the AL Wild Card Series. He’s become the youngest Boston pitcher to start a postseason game since Babe Ruth in the 1916 World Series, at just 23 years and 182 days old.
Early is Boston’s No. 6 prospect and has made only four MLB appearances, posting a remarkable 2.33 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, and 29 strikeouts in 19.1 innings.
His MLB debut came on September 9, 2025, after a fast rise through the minor leagues. Early struck out 11 batters in five innings in his first big league outing.
Background: Early played college ball at Army and Virginia, was drafted in the fifth round in 2023, and began 2025 with Double-A Portland before being promoted to the majors.
Red Sox Pitcher Tonight & Lineup vs Yankees
Boston Red Sox starting pitcher: Connelly Early
Yankees starting pitcher: Cam Schlittler, another rookie, age 24.
Red Sox lineup features Jarren Duran at leadoff, Masataka Yoshida cleanup, and Wilyer Abreu starting in right field.
Nathaniel Lowe starts at first base, offering postseason experience and defensive skill.
Red Sox and Yankees: Do-or-Die Wild Card Matchup
The Red Sox have placed their season hopes on Connelly Early due to injuries, notably with Lucas Giolito out for all of October.
This is the first game in postseason history where both starting pitchers have 15 or fewer career appearances, adding serious drama to the rivalry.
Historic Red Sox Pitchers and Babe Ruth Connection
Babe Ruth’s legendary postseason start in 1916 was surpassed only by Connelly Early for youthful achievement in Red Sox history.
Like Ruth, Early throws left-handed and is touted for his calm demeanor and confidence under pressure.
Key Red Sox Pitcher Stats—2025 Season & Tonight
Pitcher | Age | MLB Debut | 2025 MLB ERA | WHIP | K/BB | Innings | Notable Achievement |
Connelly Early | 23 | Sep 9, '25 | 2.33 | 1.09 | 29/4 | 19.1 | Youngest playoff starter since Babe Ruth |
Rival Pitchers Trending: Yankees Cam Schlittler
Yankees rookie Cam Schlittler (age 24) faces Boston tonight, making this the most youthful pitching duel in Wild Card history.
Today’s Red Sox Pitching Storyline
Boston’s confidence in Early is due to his fearless approach, strong minor league track record (10-3, 2.60 ERA in minors), and outstanding control.
Manager Alex Cora: “He’s calm and ready. We trust him to keep our ALDS hopes alive.”
Final Word: History in the Making!
Tonight’s Red Sox vs Yankees playoff battle isn’t just about numbers—it’s a clash of rookies, a test of nerves, and a chance for Connelly Early to etch his name alongside Babe Ruth in Red Sox lore. Don’t miss this historic pitching showdown and rivalry that defines October baseball!
