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Chad Tracy’s controversial call to pull Payton Tolle backfired for Red Sox in horrific fashion in Game 1 blowout

During the opening matchup of the American League Wild Card Series, Red Sox manager Chad Tracy pulled starting pitcher Payton Tolle with two outs in the fifth frame despite a manageable pitch count of 83. Seeking a favorable matchup against upcoming batter Ben Rice, Tracy brought in relief pitcher Erik Miller, who immediately allowed a towering solo home run to center field.

The disastrous pitching change unraveled the contest for Boston, sparking a cascade of bullpen struggles that culminated in a 9-0 defeat against the Yankees. Tolle had successfully navigated earlier traffic and retired Paul Goldschmidt for the third time before being lifted, while opposing pitcher Cam Schlittler and the New York bullpen locked down the shutout.

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