The Yankees-Red Sox rivalry ain’t what it used to be. We know this because they trade with each other more often than they brawl now.
We can’t expect fireworks or fisticuffs in the four-game series that began Friday night at the Stadium. The matchup feels less about hatred than ever. It’s just business now.
The arrival of the Red Sox, another rare winning American League team, does represent a nice test for the Yankees, who are surviving but not exactly thriving in the absence of the great Aaron Judge. They’re 39-35 without their captain, good but far from great.
The Yankees are battling the resurgent Red Sox for second place in the AL East, which might mean the home-field advantage should they meet again in the wild-card round. The Yankees also haven’t given up hope of catching the small-revenue Rays, who lead the division. But to accomplish their goals they will need a few things to go well, or at least better.
