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Red Sox Rookie Makes History Matching Babe Ruth Feat
Connelly Early becomes youngest Red Sox starter since Babe Ruth to have strong opening day outing.
Mar. 30, 2026 at 9:49pm
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A young Red Sox pitcher's electric debut performance evokes memories of the franchise's storied past.University of Virginia TodayBoston Red Sox rookie left-hander Connelly Early made history in his first start of the 2026 season, becoming the youngest Red Sox starter since Babe Ruth in 1916 to allow 1 run or fewer and strike out 5 or more batters in one of the team's first 3 games. The 23-year-old former University of Virginia standout had a strong outing against the Cincinnati Reds, allowing just 1 run in 5.1 innings with 6 strikeouts and 2 walks.
Why it matters
Early's impressive debut is an encouraging sign for the Red Sox, who are looking to the young pitcher to be a key part of their rotation for years to come. Matching a feat last accomplished by the legendary Babe Ruth underscores Early's potential and the high expectations the team has for him.
The details
In his first start of the 2026 season, Connelly Early allowed just 1 run on 5 hits over 5.1 innings against the Cincinnati Reds. He struck out 6 batters and walked 2. This made Early the youngest Red Sox starter since Babe Ruth in 1916 to have such a strong opening day outing, allowing 1 run or fewer while striking out 5 or more in one of the team's first 3 games.
- Connelly Early made his first start of the 2026 season on March 30, 2026.
The players
Connelly Early
A 23-year-old left-handed pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, who made his MLB debut in 2025 and is considered a key part of the team's future rotation.
Babe Ruth
The legendary baseball player who played for the Boston Red Sox from 1914 to 1919 before being traded to the New York Yankees, where he became one of the greatest players in MLB history.
What they’re saying
“Connelly Early is the youngest Red Sox starter since Babe Ruth in 1916 to allow 1 or 0 runs and strike out 5+ batters in one of the team's first 3 games of a season.”
— JP Long
The takeaway
Connelly Early's strong debut, matching a feat last accomplished by Babe Ruth over a century ago, is an exciting sign for the Red Sox and their fans. The young pitcher appears poised to be a key part of the team's rotation for years to come.
