We are the Champions of the World!…

 

The 2009 World Champions!…

 

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I knew that Andy, at his best would give up about 3 or 4 runs, and I had a feeling that this would come down to the bullpen. 

 

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On my FaceBook page, I started the day by posting this Bob Lemon quote:

“I’ve come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen.”

Those words rang true as the game ultimately came down to the strength of the Yankees bullpen.  Damaso Marte did an outstanding job, but in the end, it was the legendary Mariano Rivera who delivered the 27^th World Championship to New York.

 

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Deservedly so, Hideki Matsui was named the Series MVP.  At this point, I simply cannot imagine a scenario where the Yankees allow the clutch bat of Matsui to walk in the off-season.  More than likely, this means the end of Johnny Damon’s Yankee career.  But I fully expect to see Godzilla in Tampa next spring.

 

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It was sad that George Steinbrenner could not be in attendance, but perhaps this championship was for Hal Steinbrenner.  In 1923, the original Yankee Stadium opened with a World Championship.  In 2009, it’s a new stadium but the same result.  What a way to christen the new home of Aura and Mystique! 

 

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Manager Joe Girardi earned the number on his back, and he can always wear it with pride.  He personally delivered it to the fans of New York, and it will be great to see the parade return to the Big Apple. 

 

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Is there anyone who doesn’t believe that Mariano Rivera will be a first ballot Hall of Famer?  It has been tough for closers to gain entry to Cooperstown, but the legend of Mo Rivera will be long remembered.  He is the greatest closer in Yankee history, and certainly one of the best ever in Major League baseball.

 

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Going away from the Series, I have to say that I am glad the Yankees didn’t have to face Chase Utley more than they did.  The guy is a stud, and certainly one of the premier players in the game.  Cliff Lee also proved that he is truly an ace.  It’s not like he had anything to prove before the Series, but on the grandest stage of all, he showed that he is a champion.  There is no doubt that the Phillies will be back…

 

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A World Championship celebration in the Bronx…the way it was meant to be.  Life is good.

 

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Hey Julia, I am ready for Opening Day 2010!  Bring on the Red Sox!  My friend, it is Game On!