Yankees host Red Sox in final 2024 series at The Bronx

The final series of the 2024 season between the Yankees and Red Sox is set to take place in The Bronx, reigniting one of baseball's most storied rivalries. This matchup features Yankees pitcher Nestor Cortes, who has recently stabilized his performance after a rough patch, boasting a 3.19 ERA at home this season. In contrast, Red Sox pitcher Cooper Criswell has been effective in his last few outings, but his underlying metrics suggest he may be vulnerable against a potent Yankees lineup. The Yankees have demonstrated strong offensive capabilities against right-handed pitchers, highlighted by a .440 slugging percentage and a 118 wRC+ since August. This offensive prowess, combined with the Red Sox's struggling bullpen—currently holding the worst ERA in the league—creates a challenging scenario for the visiting team. The return of Justin Slaten from injury may provide some relief for the Red Sox, but his recent performance raises concerns. Cortes's ability to pitch effectively at home, coupled with the Red Sox's struggles against left-handed pitching, positions the Yankees favorably in this matchup. The Red Sox have struggled significantly against lefties, posting a wRC+ of just 68 and a high strikeout rate in recent games. As the series unfolds, the Yankees are expected to capitalize on Criswell's potential weaknesses early in the game, making it likely they will cover the run line. This matchup not only holds significance for the teams' standings but also for the fans who cherish this historic rivalry.