Yankees Smash Red Sox 9-0 in Wildcard Opener Behind Schlittler and Rice A dominant pitching performance by Cam Schlittler and a multi-homer game from Ben Rice propelled the New York Yankees to a resounding 9-0 victory over the Boston Red Sox in Game 1 of the Wildcard round. The loss puts the Red Sox on the brink of elimination as they return to Boston for a do-or-die Game 2. Sep 29, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Cam Schlittler (31) reacts during the sixth inning against the Boston Red Sox during game one of the Wildcard round for the 2026 MLB Playoffs at Yankee Stadium. Yankees Rout Red SoxMandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectOn Tuesday night, the New York Yankees delivered a masterclass in playoff baseball, demolishing the Boston Red Sox 9-0 in Game 1 of the Wildcard round. The victory was driven by a standout performance from young pitcher Cam Schlittler and a power surge from catcher Ben Rice, who erupted for two home runs.The result leaves the Red Sox on the brink of elimination, needing a win on Wednesday to stay alive. For the Yankees, this win confirms their status as a true contender. Schlittler, a rising star in the minor leagues, seized the opportunity to start Game 1 and dominated the Red Sox lineup with ten strikeouts over six innings.His fastball was unhittable, and his curveball and slider were equally effective, suggesting he may have just secured a spot in the Yankees' rotation for the rest of the postseason. While Schlittler stole the pitching thunder, Ben Rice stole the show with his bat. Rice, a local product from Massachusetts, channeled his childhood hero Aaron Judge by going 4-for-6 with a grand slam and another two-run homer.Red Sox Face EliminationThe grand slam was particularly impressive, as it came off a fastball from Red Sox reliever Isaiah Campbell in the eighth inning, cementing the Yankees' blowout victory. The loss was a bitter pill for the Red Sox, who had high hopes coming into the playoffs. Their offense, which had been inconsistent down the stretch, failed to capitalize on limited opportunities. The injury to star prospect Roman Anthony in the third inning further darkened the clouds for Boston.With their backs against the wall, the Red Sox will have to regroup quickly to avoid an early exit.