Boston.com · Apr 25, 2017
The Red Sox’ current rival isn’t the Yankees — it’s the Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles' Manny Machado.COMMENTARY
There is no spoiler alert required before acknowledging that the Yankees are the Red Sox’ chief rival, forever and again. Carlton Fisk didn’t pummel Lou Piniella to smithereens in ’76 just so we’d all someday be chums.
No, the competition is perhaps not as contentious as it once was. The balance of power shifted seismically in October 2004, offering joy, fulfillment and catharsis to those used to playing the nail to fate’s cruel hammer. And the franchises haven’t collided in the postseason since, which is downright strange when you think about it. You’d think the Yankees would want a rematch.
