During that decade-and-a-half period, the Yankees finished either in first place or second in the American League East 15 times and the Red Sox 12. The rivalry hit its earlier apex in 1978.

And 1978. And 1986, when the collapse was so ... Since being down 3-0 in 2004, the Red Sox and Yankees have played nine playoff games over three series. The Red Sox are 8-1. First, from 1903 ...