Payton Tolle's Game 1 start places his name next to Babe Ruth in playoff history

Just by taking the mound, Payton Tolle will make history when the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees renew their rivalry in Game 1of their American League Wild Card matchup. 

Because at just 23 years and 332 days as of Sept. 29, when the series begins on Tuesday, Tolle will etch his name in franchise lore regardless of how he performs. 

Payton Tolle's name will live in Red Sox history forever 

Tolle will become the third-youngest pitcher to ever start the opening game of a Red Sox playoff run, according to MLB.com's Sarah Langs.

He will also be the youngest in well over 100 years, only behind Babe Ruth (23 years and 211 days) from game No. 1 of the 2018 World Series and Smoky Joe Wood (22 years and 349 days), who owns the record as being the youngest, from the 1912 Fall Classic. 

Tolle earned the start due to a solid first full season 

Despite his lack of playoff experience, Tolle earned the historic honor due to his impressive work throughout his first full season in the Big Leagues. After posting a 0-1 mark with a 6.06 ERA in seven appearances in 2025, Tolle was 9-6 in 26 starts in 2026.