NEW YORK -- Garrett Crochet retired 17 consecutive batters in a sparkling pitching performance, and pinch-hitter Masataka Yoshida lined a two-run single off reliever Luke Weaver that sent the Boston Red Sox past the New York Yankees 3-1 on Tuesday night in their AL Wild Card Series opener.

New York loaded the bases with nobody out in the ninth inning, but All-Star closer Aroldis Chapman pitched out of the jam against his former team. Boston is 10-4 versus its longtime rival this year and halfway to winning the best-of-three playoff.

Game 2 is Wednesday night in the Bronx again, with Aaron Judge and the Yankees needing a victory to extend their season. Carlos Rodon (18-9, 3.09 ERA) will start for New York, opposed by Brayan Bello (11-9, 3.35).

Crochet gave up only An

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