It is a rivalry like no other. In fact, it is probably the best rivalry
in North American Sports, maybe even in the world. Whenever the Yankees and Red Sox meet, it is a time of both great excitement and anguish for the fans of both teams. The games mean a little bit more and the tension in the air grows a little bit thicker. That’s how it is with rivalries. Ask any pair of siblings who have ever competed against each other for anything.
The problem is, however, that in a world of instant media access, major outlets tend to over-hype the rivalry. Yes, there are plenty of fans in the Yankees Universe, as well as Red Sox Nation, who chomp at the bit when a series comes up on the baseball calendar. But, does the rest of the country care as much in, say, May? The answer is no. As fans of other teams, they are concerned about their own teams chances at such an early point in the season.
Joe: "Where's Troy? I always do the Super Bowl with Troy." Tim: "Joe. It's baseball season. We're doing Yankees/Red Sox. I know they are similar."
If you are a frequent reader of this blog. Or you follow me on any of the various Social Networks such as Twitter or Google+, cialis jelly then you know that I am very much opposed to the continuous over selling of this rivalry. Yes, they are exciting games. But they are exciting for Yankees fans and Red Sox fans. So, thanks FOX for treating a three game set as if it were the Super Bowl, but it’s not necessary. Baseball’s outcome is never determined by one game. Unless it’s September, or a one game playoff. And as for ESPN… They’re trying to act like one of the richest teams in baseball is still The Little Engine That Could trying to topple the mighty Evil Empire. It’s old, tired, and very much cliched.
Which brings us to this weekend. The Yankees march into Fenway Park, winners of six straight, and in a first place tie with the Red Sox. The dog days of August have arrived and the Baseball God’s have given us a gift. Both teams have overcome inexplicably long stretches of poor play, pitching issues, and injuries to ascend to the top of the American League. These games are important now. Not only to Yankees and Red Sox fans. But to all of baseball. As the pennant races heat up, the games become more entertaining. Also, fans of other contenders will want to “size up” the competition in the chase for a World Series Championship.
The three game set may mean even more to the Yankees. They are tied for first despite dropping eight of the first nine games this season to the Red Sox. If the Yankees can leave Boston this weekend in sole possession of first place, it may give them a tremendous momentum that they could ride to the postseason.
This is Yankees/Red Sox as everyone believes it should be. This is the Rivalry at it’s regular season best. So, for the first time this season, I say that we let the Hype makers have their fun. Just this once.
