Let’s get real, there are rivalries, and then there’s Yankees vs. Red Sox. It’s not just about baseball; it’s an ongoing epic of grudge matches and dramatic trades. From the Curse of Bambino to Aaron Boone’s legendary walk-off homer from 2003, these two teams have been at each other’s throats for almost a century. And guess what? The chances just tipped in the Red Sox’s favor this season. 

This rivalry dates back to 1919, when the Red Sox sold Babe Ruth to the Yankees. Continued in the 2004 ALCS, when the Red Sox made a crazy comeback. We may never see that intensity again. Oh! How can we forget Boston’s 2021 Wild Card win over New York? Maybe the rivalry isn’t dead after all. 

But this off-season, the Red Sox went all out by bringing in Alex Bregman, the former Astro who’s no stranger to intense situations. In the AL division and World Series, there can be only one winner. This signing isn’t just a simple roster move; it’s ammunition to win the war. 

Are you wondering how serious the Red Sox are about closing the gap in the AL East? Well, look no further than the $120 million, three-year deal they just gave Bregman. Alex Bregman is a two-time All-Star winner and an ALCS MVP and he’s got a .272 career batting average. This guy isn’t just impressive; he’s elite. As Boston desperately tries to make a comeback after missing the 2024 playoffs, Bregman might be exactly what they need. 

And when the other team’s manager notices this, you know something’s up. Talking about the Red Sox’s revamped roster, Boone said, “Getting Bregman here recently, they look like they have a really formidable team. We talk about our division and how tough it is; you can make a case for all five teams. I think it’s really good for the game when the two of us are really good.”

Translation? Aaron Boone knows the East Crown is under threat. Everyone’s seen what Bregman can do, the manager realizes that Boston isn’t playing to catch up—they’re playing to win this season. Adding on, Boone’s assessment of Bregman is spot on. Bregman isn’t just about his impressive numbers. A proven performer in high-pressure situations, he is a game-changer, plain and simple. First, his ability to get on base consistently with an on-base percentage (of .315 in 2024) proves that he’s one of the most dangerous hitters in the league. 

Second, his track record of postseason success: Bregman has been to the playoffs six times. And his .238 postseason battling average shows his ability to deliver even on the big stage. Third, the Red Sox has a lot of young talent. Bregman’s experience could guide guys like Triston Casas and Jarren Duran into becoming key players. Hold on, there’s more. Lastly, Bregman offers defensive flexibility. As the 3B drama continues, Bregman isn’t finalized for third base yet. However, thanks to his versatility, manager Alex Cora can experiment in the infield, depending on the matchups. With Bregman’s addition, the Red Sox might just take away the AL East title. 

But let’s not count the Yankees out just yet. While Aaron Boone agrees that the Red Sox look stronger this year, Boone’s team also has a formidable line-up. Aaron Judge is just coming off finishing a monster season. Adding on, Giancarlo Stanton remains a formidable threat in the middle of the order. Plus, DJ LeMahieu’s ability to get on base will be a key factor in New York’s success. 

Other than power, they’ve also got depth. Jazz Chisholm Jr., their versatile infielder, brings energy and speed to their game. Talking of rookies, Anthony Volpe looks all set to deliver another strong season after winning the American League Gold Glove Award in his rookie year. And on the mound, Gerrit Cole is still the striking ace, and Aaron Boone has built a line-up for a long-hauled playoff run. 

In the end, it seems that Aaron Boone was right–it’s good for the game when both the Yankees and the Red Sox are at their best. Now with Bregman on board, Boston looks ready to take a chance and go for the title. And the Yankees? They’ll be right there to defend their east. 

3B Turmoil: Alex Bregman and Rafael Devers 

After an underwhelming 81-81 finish in 2024, plus Boone’s Yankees and Rays overtaking the AL East, Boston needed to make changes. They brought in Alex Bregman for a $120 million contract for three years. But there’s a twist: Alex Bregman is a third-baseman. And the Red Sox already had a baseman who was doing just fine. Enter Rafael Devers, who’s held down the 3B position since 2018. And has made it clear: he’s not moving.

While Dever wants to stay at 3B, Bregman is open to playing second, though his defense at third base is hard to ignore. The situation has turned into a 3B dilemma for the Red Sox management. Rumours suggest Devers may play at DH but the latest updates suggest that Devers will be the one taking the spot.

“We’re preparing Raffy to play third base,” said manager Alex Cora over his 3B choice. While this is how things are rolling for the training season, it’s unclear whether or not it will continue into the regular season. Another combination they could try out of putting Devers to DH and Alex Bregman to 3B. The addition of Bregman ultimately strengthens the Red Sox’s infield, and it will be interesting to see how he increases their winning chances this season, regardless of the position he’s placed in.