It looks like every player that the Boston Red Sox does not want to be in the same sentence as the Yankees. First, it was Sonny Gray with his comments about how he didn’t like the Yankees or the time he spent there. Now, it is Willson Contreras.

In a recent interview, Contreras said, “I’m not coming to Boston to like the Yankees because that’s not going to happen.”

Willson Contreras seems eager to embrace the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry, following a path similar to Sonny Gray. Gray, who struggled to a 4.51 ERA with New York, said he never wanted to play for the Yankees initially. He added that playing in Boston allows him to be himself and compete fully against New York.

Contreras echoed that sentiment, saying he isn’t coming to Boston to like the Yankees, showing focus on his new team.

Contreras brings significant offensive firepower, hitting 20 home runs with a .257 batting average in 2025. His OPS+ since 2022 has been consistently above 120, demonstrating production at 20 percent above league average. He also posted a 49 percent hard-hit rate and a 13.9 percent barrel rate last season, highlighting power potential.

Transitioning from Busch Stadium to Fenway’s hitter-friendly environment could increase his run production significantly for the Red Sox.

With Triston Casas recovering from a torn patellar tendon, Contreras carries more responsibility at first base immediately.

Casas admitted that Contreras is a better player, showing the team’s need for a reliable everyday option. Contreras’ versatility allows him to play both first base and designated hitter, giving manager Alex Cora flexibility.

His focus on winning and high-energy approach could push the Red Sox deeper into the postseason than last year.

Contreras’ defensive skills also reinforce his value, finishing with +6 outs above average at first base in 2025. His 76 mph arm strength ranked in the 76th percentile, complementing Fenway’s challenging infield angles. Combined with his playoff experience, including 30 postseason games, he adds maturity in pressure situations.

Contreras appears ready to assume leadership at first base, balancing offensive output and defensive reliability for Boston.

Wilsson Contreras and Sonny Gray have made it clear: the Yankees will never get Boston’s loyalty. With Fenway as their stage, both players plan to turn rivalry games into full showcases. Red Sox fans can relax knowing Contreras and Gray bring focus, fire, and postseason ambition.

What the Red Sox’s signing of Ranger Suarez means for the Yankees

The Red Sox just added Ranger Suarez, and suddenly the Yankees are squinting at their rotation charts. With Willson Contreras already settling into first base, Boston is stacking pieces with purpose. This isn’t a subtle nudge; it’s a statement: the AL East isn’t just competitive, it’s personal. Suarez gives the Red Sox another weapon while the Yankees scramble to keep pace.

The Boston Red Sox secured left-handed pitcher Ranger Suarez with a five-year, $130 million contract on Wednesday. Suarez finished 2025 with a .221 batting average against left-handed hitters and a .611 OPS in 122 at-bats.

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He joins Garrett Crochet and Sonny Gray, giving Boston three reliable starting options for the 2026 rotation. This signing strengthens Boston’s pitching depth and positions them as a formidable contender in the American League East.

For the New York Yankees, Suarez’s arrival adds pressure to an already left-heavy lineup, particularly against left-handed pitching.

New York went 4-9 against Boston in 2025, losing all four matchups against Garrett Crochet, showing vulnerabilities. Suarez’s effectiveness against lefties highlights the Yankees’ need for more right-handed hitters, a concern Cashman has previously mentioned.

The Yankees remain in the market for a starter, but Suarez’s deal emphasizes that immediate competition in the division just became tougher.

The Yankees now face Ranger Suarez, whose lefty dominance could haunt them all season long. Brian Cashman’s lineup decisions will be scrutinized as Boston quietly strengthens its rotation with purpose. Every Yankees-Red Sox series now feels like Suarez versus their already left-heavy batting lineup showdown.