On September 10 , the two teams had a game against each other rained out . The next day , the country saw one of its biggest tragedies bring both sides together . Following the terrorist attacks on New York City 's Twin World Trade Center Towers ( which ironically involved two passenger jets departing from Boston ) , Boston fans displayed signs saying " Boston Loves New York " in a rare moment of peace between the two sides of the rivalry . On September 23 , the Yankees ' home field hosted a memorial service titled , " Prayer for America " . The warm feeling of solidarity would once again be short-lived as just prior to the 2003 season , Red Sox President Larry Lucchino labeled New York Yankees the " Evil Empire " after Cuban free agent José Contreras opted to sign with the Yankees instead of the Red Sox . The new ownership group had made it their personal mission to win a championship
the terrorist attacks
September 11 attacks
Yankees–Red Sox rivalry