MLB
When did the Yankees - Red Sox rivalry begin? History and head-to-head record
The Yankees–Red Sox rivalry is one of the fiercest rivalries in American sports. It began over a century ago, and here’s a glimpse into its fascinating history.
The Yankees–Red Sox rivalry, often dubbed the “Greatest Rivalry in Sports,” has its roots in the early 20th century. On May 7, 1903, the New York Yankees, then known as the Highlanders, faced the Boston Red Sox at the Huntington Avenue Grounds in Boston. The Red Sox secured a 6–2 victory, marking the beginning of a fierce competition that would span generations.
In 1919, Red Sox owner Harry Frazee made a fateful decision: he sold star player Babe Ruth to the Yankees. Little did he know that this transaction would trigger an 86-year World Series drought for the Red Sox. The infamous “Curse of the Bambino” haunted the team until their dramatic turnaround in 2004.
It is worth noting that the cultural rivalry between the cities of New York and Boston also fuels this feud. Boston has a bigger Irish background, while New York hosts more Italians. This used to be a bigger issue back in the day, and when the Bambino left Boston for New York, it was a signal of this.
Head-to-Head record
In recent years, the Yankees and Red Sox have continued their intense clashes. The 2018 AL Division Series (ALDS) saw the Red Sox dominate, including a memorable 16–1 victory at Yankee Stadium.
Regular Season: Yankees lead with 1,238 wins to the Red Sox’s 1,022 wins. Postseason: The teams are tied at 12 wins each.
The Yankees-Red Sox rivalry isn’t just about wins and losses; it’s about culture and history. Fans from New York to Boston live and breathe this rivalry. The Irish vs the Italians. This is a rivalry that reflects on what America is all about and who its people are. Whether it’s the “Evil Empire” or the “Sawx,” the rivalry endures, reminding us why baseball is more than just a game