Red Sox Newcomer Kiner-Falefa Admits Jays Preferred Facing Yankees in Playoffs

Yankees manager Aaron Boone responds to IKF's comments about the 2025 postseason matchup.

Feb. 11, 2026 at 7:23pm

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Red Sox infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa, who played for the Yankees in 2022-23, said his 2025 Blue Jays team was happier to face the Yankees instead of the Red Sox in the playoffs last October. Yankees manager Aaron Boone responded, saying "I guess he was right" and that he wasn't really bothered by the comments.

Why it matters

The comments from Kiner-Falefa provide an interesting look into the rivalries and strategic thinking of MLB teams during the playoffs. The Yankees-Red Sox rivalry is one of the most intense in sports, so Kiner-Falefa's admission that the Blue Jays preferred facing the Yankees adds an extra layer of intrigue to last year's postseason matchups.

The details

According to Kiner-Falefa, the Blue Jays felt facing Red Sox ace Garrett Crochet twice in a short series would be a difficult matchup, so they were happier to play the Yankees instead. The Blue Jays ended up knocking out Yankees rookie Luis Gil early in Game 1 and pounding All-Star Max Fried in Game 2 on their way to a series victory. Kiner-Falefa, who played for the Yankees in 2022-23, went 0-for-6 with an error in the series.

  • The 2025 American League Division Series between the Blue Jays and Yankees took place in October.
  • Kiner-Falefa made his comments about the matchup during Red Sox spring training on February 11, 2026.

The players

Isiah Kiner-Falefa

A Red Sox infielder who played for the Yankees in 2022-23 and was part of the 2025 Blue Jays team that faced the Yankees in the playoffs.

Aaron Boone

The manager of the New York Yankees.

Garrett Crockett

The ace left-handed pitcher for the Boston Red Sox in 2025.

Luis Gil

A rookie pitcher for the Yankees who was knocked out early in Game 1 of the 2025 ALDS against the Blue Jays.

Max Fried

An All-Star left-handed pitcher for the Yankees who was shelled in Game 2 of the 2025 ALDS against the Blue Jays.

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What they’re saying

“We definitely felt (Boston) was a tougher matchup for us. Once we saw the other team, we were a lot happier. It was definitely a topic.”

— Isiah Kiner-Falefa

“I guess he was right. It's a little surprising to hear IKF say that, but whatever. That's fine.”

— Aaron Boone, Yankees Manager

“Not really, honestly. You've got to play who you play. Whatever.”

— Aaron Boone, Yankees Manager

What’s next

The Yankees and Red Sox are expected to continue their intense rivalry in the 2026 season, with both teams looking to knock the Blue Jays off their perch atop the AL East.

The takeaway

Kiner-Falefa's comments provide a rare glimpse into the strategic thinking of MLB teams during the playoffs, highlighting how they assess potential matchups and opponents. The Yankees-Red Sox rivalry remains one of the most compelling in sports, with both teams always looking to gain an edge over their longtime foes.