As a Made Yankee Fan in Boston for the past 45 years, it pains me to say that the 2019 New York Yankees – easily the most likable squad in recent memory – have been their worst selves in this increasingly sad American League Championship Series.

Innumerable runners stranded. Inexplicable pitching decisions. Incessant flailing at the plate. Insufficient grit.

Exhibit umpteen, with high/lowlights.

Given my status as Patient Zero from Yankees Gone Chernobyl in 2004, I’ll never say never.

But . . .

Justin Verlander vs. James (The Gopher) Paxton tonight?

Oy.