NEW YORK — Tensions between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox took center stage once again, following remarks from Red Sox manager Alex Cora before their final face-off of the season.

Cora's comments suggested that his team's starting pitcher, Brayan Bello, may have intentionally thrown at Yankees superstar Aaron Judge, igniting conversations about retaliatory tactics in one of baseball's most storied rivalries.

During Saturday's game, Bello threw a 97.4 mph sinker that narrowly missed Judge, followed by another pitch that came dangerously close to hitting him. This late-inning drama was perceived as retaliation for a previous incident in which Yankees ace Gerrit Cole hit Red Sox star Rafael Devers.

When asked whether the situation had been resolved, Cora replied, "It was closed yesterday around the sixth inning. We had our chance. It didn’t happen and we have to move on."

Judge, addressing the media after the game, shrugged off the incident. "It’s baseball. He missed. Nothing I can do about it besides take it and go to first. It is what it is," he stated, emphasizing his focus on gameplay rather than any off-field drama.

Cora and Judge reportedly had a "professional" conversation post-game, although neither disclosed specific details. Judge, reflecting on his performance on Sunday, energized the crowd with a two-run homer that helped the Yankees secure a convincing 5-2 victory. This feat temporarily quelled any hopes the Red Sox had from Saturday's flurry of excitement.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone weighed in on Cora's pre-game remarks, suggesting that the Red Sox skipper was attempting to galvanize his squad, which is currently battling for a playoff spot. “I think it’s a manager that’s using that moment to rally his troops,” Boone said, observing that Cora's strategy reflected the high stakes Boston faces in the playoff race.

Despite the drama and the palpable tension on the field, the Red Sox’s playoff hopes are now dwindling. Cora stated optimistically that if his team did manage to reach the postseason, they might look back at Saturday’s events as a pivotal moment.

However, with the current standings placing them 4.5 games back of the third American League wild card, time is running out for Boston to make a significant comeback.

As rivalries reignite and the postseason approaches, Cora remains hopeful. "If this happens (making the playoffs), we’re probably going to thank Gerrit Cole to get us going," he remarked, looking toward the future while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead.

This season of rivalry has proved to be as thrilling off the field as it is on it, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this competitive saga. Will tensions boil over again, or can both teams find a way to focus on clinching playoff spots? Only time will tell in this intense championship chase!