Ex-Toronto Blue Jays infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa takes shot at New York Yankees
Photo credit: Boston Red Sox - x.com
Former Toronto Blue Jays infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa took a subtle swipe at the New York Yankees during his introductory media availability with the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday.
Isiah Kiner-Falefa, who recently signed a one-year, $6 million deal with Boston, was officially introduced by the organization and made an eyebrow-raising comment while reflecting on last season’s playoffs.
According to Boston Globe Red Sox beat writer Tim Healey, Kiner-Falefa said the Blue Jays were pleased to see Boston eliminated in the postseason because they believed the Yankees would be an easier matchup.
Isiah Kiner-Falefa said the Blue Jays were glad the Red Sox lost in the playoffs last year because they thought the Yankees were an easier matchup.
IKF's remark on the Yankees raised some eyebrows given the layered rivalries involved.
In his first comments with a new team, Kiner-Falefa suggested his former club was relieved to avoid a potential matchup with the Red Sox, all while taking an indirect shot at the Yankees.
Toronto had consistent success against New York throughout the 2025 regular season, posting an 8–5 record in the head-to-head matchup.
That success carried weight when the Yankees eliminated Boston in Game 3 of the AL Wild Card round to earn a meeting with the Blue Jays.
Although Toronto and Boston never faced each other in the postseason, Kiner-Falefa’s insight comes from firsthand experience in the Blue Jays’ clubhouse.
Hindsight always adds context, and the scenario remains hypothetical. Still, given Toronto’s track record against New York last season, Kiner-Falefa’s comment may not have been entirely unfounded with his recent jab at the Yankees.
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FEVRIER 10|136 ANSWERS Ex-Toronto Blue Jays infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa takes shot at New York Yankees Do you agree with Isiah Kiner-Falefa? | ||
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