Ryan Kalish wondered if it could actually be happening.
Kalish, a graduate of Red Bank (N.J.) Catholic and now a Red Sox outfielder, played in New York last night for the first time as a professional. In the sixth inning of Boston’s 6-3 win over the Yankees, Kalish slammed the first pitch he saw from Javier Vazquez over the fence in right field for his first major league homer.
“I remember saying to myself, ‘Is this real?’ “ Kalish said.
Kalish, 22, had a memorable night. The rookie prospect continues to help the Red Sox overcome their injuries and hang in the playoff race. He was recalled from the minors Saturday and he’s been superb, batting .429 (9-for-21) with the homer and four RBIs.
Kalish — who was batting .294 with 13 homers and 25 steals in 78 games in Double-A and Triple-A — replaced Jeremy Hermida on the roster. He was brought up when Hermida was designated for assignment. Mike Cameron, who was placed on the DL two days later, is who Kalish has replaced in the outfield. Kalish has played left, center and right. Boston is 5-2 in the seven games he’s appeared in.
“Has a lot of talent,” David Ortiz said. “He’s like a young Papi out there.”
The Sox were leading 4-2 in the sixth when Mike Lowell singled to left off Vazquez. One pitch later, it was 6-2.
Kalish drove a low offering from Vazquez over the wall in right and followed it with his first major league home run trot.
Asked if he thought it mattered more to Kalish because he played in the local area, Red Sox manager Terry Francona said, “I don’t care where he grew up. As long as he helps us win.”
“It’s wild,” said Kalish, who had his parents, brother and friends in the stands.
He also got his home run ball returned to him.
mark.hale@nypost.com