Fri Oct 03 00:20:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the Sporting News article:
**Red Sox Gamble on Yoshida and Rookie Early as Season Hangs in the Balance**
**BOSTON** – With their season on the line, the Boston Red Sox are turning to unexpected heroes in Game 3 against the New York Yankees. Manager Alex Cora has slotted Masataka Yoshida into the cleanup spot, rewarding the outfielder for his clutch hitting in the first two games of the series. Yoshida, who struggled with injuries during the regular season, has surged late, carrying that momentum into the playoffs. He’s currently 2-for-3 in the series, delivering key hits off the bench.
To bolster the lineup, Nathaniel Lowe and Wilyer Abreu also get the start, while Eaton and Nick Sogard will head to the bench.
On the pitching side, the Red Sox are placing their faith in rookie left-hander Connelly Early. The young pitcher, who only made four regular-season starts, will make his postseason debut with the daunting task of silencing the Yankees’ bats.
Early’s start and Yoshida’s promotion represent a significant gamble for Boston, but with their backs against the wall, Cora appears willing to shake things up in the hopes of keeping their playoff aspirations alive.
First Piper 