NEW YORK — When a battle for the aces in the offseason evolved into a battle of the aces on the opening day of the postseason, the Red Sox emerged victorious — again. “I felt like [manager Alex Cora has] put a lot of faith in me this year, and I haven’t let him down yet,” Crochet said. “So I was going to be damn sure this wasn’t the first time.”

Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora showed his true colors amid defeat to the New York Yankees in the MLB playoffs, delivering a touching message to Aaron Boone and rookie Cam Schlittler

Because Brayan Bello was unable to go very deep in this game, Alex Cora simply ran out of his best relievers a little early. Garrett Whitlock was summoned in the 7th inning while Aroldis Chapman warmed up with his towel for the 9th. The game was tied 3-3.