THE STORY
On October 16, 2003, during Game 7 of the American League Championship Series at Yankee Stadium, Boston Red Sox manager Grady Little chose to keep pitcher Pedro Martínez in the game in the eighth inning with a 5–2 lead. Martínez allowed four consecutive hits, including a two-run double by Jorge Posada, tying the game at 5–5. The Yankees won 6–5 in 11 innings, advancing to the World Series.
TEAMS / PEOPLE:
Boston Red Sox, Pedro Martinez
WHY IT MATTERS
This decision is often cited as a pivotal moment in the Red Sox's 2003 postseason collapse, leading to Little's dismissal as manager.