Before their showdown in the ninth inning, New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge had faced Boston Red Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet seven times, and struck out in each one.
It marked just the second time in his career that a pitcher had given him this much trouble. Baltimore Orioles’ Zach Eflin previously struck Judge out 10 times in their matchups.
But on June 13, Judge once again showed why he’s considered the best hitter in baseball. In the ninth inning, he battled Crochet to a full count before turning on a 100 mph four-seamer and launching it over the Green Monster.
Aaron Judge Weighs In on Red Sox Ace Garrett Crochet
Judge’s 26th home run of the season was the Yankees’ only run of the game and came off Crochet’s fastest pitch of the night. The homer forced extra innings, but the Bronx Bombers ultimately fell 2-1 in 10.
According to Boston Strong on X, Judge gave Crochet credit after the game.
“He’s an incredible pitcher; that’s why Boston went out there and got him. He can use both sides of the plate with overpowering stuff,” Judge said.
Aaron Judge on Garrett Crochet: “He’s an incredible pitcher, that’s why Boston went out there and got him. He can use both sides of the plate with overpowering stuff.”
— Boston Strong (@BostonStrong_34) June 14, 2025
Every time Crochet has taken the mound this season, the Red Sox have had a chance to win. He was once again the answer to the Yankees, aside from one missed pitch in the ninth.
“I’m going to live and die with my best pitch,” Crochet said afterward. “Whether it be pitch selection or execution, tough way to end it. But overall, I felt really good tonight.”
In an attempt to earn their first playoff berth since 2021, Boston made a trade with the Chicago White Sox for the young lefty ace. The rebuilding White Sox, who lost a record 121 games last season, needed prospects and dealt Crochet.
Since making the move to Boston, Crochet has been nothing short of dominant and is currently one of the top five favorites for the American League Cy Young Award.
The Red Sox hold a 35-36 record and sit two games back of the final AL wild card spot. With a season full of ups and downs, Boston can count on Crochet to give them a shot against division leaders like the Yankees when it matters most.