Ugh, not another Red Sox player!

UPI

Don't we already have one of those?  I think one is more than enough...

Reuters

Unless your name is Jason Bay or Jon Lester, I am not interested in seeing you wear pinstripes.  It was no fun watching David Wells and David Cone in Boston; conversely I do not need any repeat appearances of Mark Bellhorn or Mike Myers in New York.

Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

AP

AP  

Much to my chagrin, the Yankees acquired third baseman Eric Hinske from the Pittsburgh Pirates.  Hinske was batting .255 in 106 at-bats and had 1 HR and 11 RBI's (hardly earth-shattering numbers).  To Hinske's defense, he did hit 20 home runs (with 60 RBI's) for the 2008 American League Champion Tampa Bay Rays but he isn't exactly the "supersub" I was hoping for.   He was also a member of the 2007 World Champion Boston Red Sox.

Reuters

Well, I guess sometimes having an ex-Red Sox player is not so bad...

Hinske can play both corner spots, providing relief for both Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira.  I recognize the need for backup support at first since Nick Swisher is locked in at right field now that Xavier Nady is out for the season.  Hinske can also play right and left field.  The Yankees do not have the roster space to call up Shelley Duncan, who would have been limited to 1B/DH duty.  With Hinske on board, the Yanks should be able to rest A-Rod more often.

Elsa/Getty Images 

To acquire Hinske, the Yankees gave up two minor leaguers, right-hander Casey Erickson and outfielder Eric Fryer.  They had acquired Fryer in last year's trade of pitcher Chase Wright to the Milwaukee Brewers. 

Due to a flight delay from Pittsburgh, a roster decision might not be made until Wednesday, but Ramiro Pena will be optioned to AAA-Scranton/Wilkes Barre to make room for Hinske.  At this point, the move makes sense.  Pena needs more playing time, and the Yankees needed some pop off the bench with the loss of Nady. 

Hinske must be on one of those AL East circuits like Kevin Millar...don't stop until you've played with every team in the division.  He only needs to play for Baltimore to complete the circuit, whereas Millar just has to spend some time in pinstripes.  Egads!  Please, Brian Cashman, do not let that happen!  We do not need any 'Cowboy Up' in the Bronx!

Somewhere in Boston, Julia is probably in hysterics.  We acquire a Red Sox "has been" and Boston will most likely pursue a former beloved Yankee like Nick Johnson.  It's not fair.  One of the days, the tide has to turn.  The season has been way too easy on the illustrious Ranter from Boston...

The Yankees also signed another third baseman from the independent leagues.  Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks 3B Yurendell DeCaster's contract was purchased by the Yankees, and he was assigned to AAA-Scranton/Wilkes Barre.  DeCaster is 29 and was leading the Northern League with 13 HR's and 43 RBI's, while batting .344.  Sounds like Cash is still looking to catch lightening in a bottle...

Is there anything more temporary than being a good outfielder in Pittsburgh?  The Pirates traded yet another quality outfielder in Nyjer Morgan to the Washington Nationals for OF Lastings Milledge and reliever Joel Hanrahan.  The Nats also picked up left hander Sean Burnett.  Will Milledge finally realize his potential in Pittsburgh?  If so, how long before he is traded?  At this rate, he is a future Yankee...

AP

Go Yankees!

--Scott 

Exit light, enter night, take my hand, off to never never land...

Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

When the words of the famed Metallica song, "Enter Sandman", reverberate throughout Yankee Stadium, it means only one thing.  It's the entrance of Mariano Rivera for yet another save opportunity.  On Sunday night, against the New York Mets, Mo reached a milestone with his 500^th career save.  He became only the second man to reach 500 saves, behind leader Trevor Hoffman.

William Perlman/The Star Ledger 

Mo also picked up his first career RBI on a bases-loaded walk from Mets closer Francisco Rodriguez, bringing home Melky Cabrera for an insurance run in the Yankees' 4-2 win over the Mets.  The Yankees swept the weekend series against the Mets, and won the season series, taking 5 of 6 games.

Jason Szenes/The New York Times

At the end of the game, there were no fist pumps, no wild displays of emotion.  Mo, in his usual business-like approach, calmly watched Robinson Cano fire Alex Cora's ground out to Mark Teixeira to end the game.  Tex handed Mo the game ball and gave him a big hug.  The rest of the team came and did the same.  It was a very touching scene, and I have to admit that I got chills watching the moment.  I have said it will be a very difficult day when Mo decides to hang up his glove, but I am very appreciative for moments like this as we move toward the sunset of an absolutely fantastic career.

Kathy Willens/AP

As usual, Mo is quicker to credit his teammates than he is to take praise alone. 

"But don't get me wrong, this is definitely special, being the second guy who does that in the history of baseball; it's kind of special, but I'm a team player. My team fought hard today to give me that opportunity to be there. I tried to do my job. Really, all the 500 saves belong to my teammates."

"I'm proud of what I have done with the team. I'm proud of my teammates. I'm proud of everything we have accomplished. Every time I have the chance to wear this uniform, I'm proud."

Mo, we're even prouder of you...

Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

Congrats on #500...and #1! 

The game started with a double by Derek Jeter.  Nick Swisher followed with a fielder's choice to first, but first baseman David Murphy opted to throw to third to stop an advancing Jeter.  But a double pump caused too much of a delay so Murphy's throw third arrived late, and it allowed Swisher to reach first uncontested.  Mark Teixeira promptly hit a double to score both Jeter and Swisher.  Tex advanced to third on a fielder's choice hit by Robinson Cano, and scored on a sac fly by Jorge Posada.  Quickly, the Yankees had raced to a 3-0 lead and those were all the runs they would need.

New York Post

Chien-Ming Wang was unable to match the pitching performances of CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett in the first two games of the series, but it was still enough to pick up his first win of the year, and his first in 379 days.  The Mets did mount a mini-rally in the 4^th on a run-scoring double by Fernando Martinez and a RBI single by Luis Castillo.  But pitcher Livan Hernandez grounded out to end the threat. 

For the game, Wang went 5 1/3 innings, giving up four hits and two runs.  He walked three batters and struck out three. His ERA remains in double-digits (10.06), but another quality start will bring it down to single digits after the horrendous start to the season.

Keivom/NY Daily News 

Phil Hughes continued his successful transition to the bullpen.  In his last five outings, he's pitched 7 1/3 scoreless innings.  That's a far cry of the early season disasters involving Jose Veras and Damaso Marte.  Hughes has played a huge role in re-shaping the bullpen into a quality unit.  Granted, it still doesn't match the stellar Red Sox bullpen, but at least it's improving.

I realize that the Subway Series would have had a different look had Carlos Beltran, Jose Reyes, Carlos Delgado et al been healthy.  But wins are wins, and I'll take them.  My friend Julia seems to enjoy "distance" but we are quietly gaining ground on her beloved Red Sox.  Hey Julia, I'll use one you used on me once upon a time...even if the deficit is 3 ½ games heading into Tuesday's action...

Other News...

Xavier Nady definitely facing an uphill battle in his attempt to come back from his right elbow injury.  He previously underwent Tommy John surgery in 2001, so another surgery will be the second of its kind.  I read that the success rate for a second surgery is only about 20%.  Nady will miss the rest of 2009 and most likely all of 2010 (typical recovery time is 12-14 months).  However, it is possible that he may never return and that would truly be unfortunate.

Kim Klement/US Presswire 

Speaking of injuries, I want to put the rivalry with the Red Sox aside and wish Mike Lowell the very best.  He had fluid drained from his ailing right hip and received an injection to relieve inflammation in the joint.  It will take a few days to determine if Lowell will be able to play now or if he'll need to be placed on the DL for a return later this summer.  I truly hope that the best case scenario works out for Mike, and that he is back on the field sooner rather than later.  I want to beat Boston, but I want to beat Boston with their best on the field.  Mike is a huge part of why the Red Sox have been so successful, and I hope he has a speedy recovery.

Finally, today was the funeral for Iowa high school football coach Ed Thomas (of Aplington-Parkersburg).  A 24-year old former player has been charged with the murder of Thomas, who coached the likes of Aaron Kampman, Brad Meester, Jared DeVries, and Casey Wiegmann during his 37-year coaching career.  Thomas was the NFL's High School Coach of the Year in 2005, and won two state titles.  I grew up playing Iowa high school football, and it is shocking that something like this could happen in the Hawkeye State.  My high school coach, Pearl Smith, never won a state championship (not for the lack of trying, I can assure you), but he was a winner in my eyes.  It's been many years since I've seen him, but he had a huge impact on my life and the lessons he taught stick with me to this day.  So, I am deeply saddened to see the loss of Ed Thomas and what it means to everyone whose life he touched during his long and very successful coaching career.

--Scott

I really do not believe the headline, but it's time to settle the bet so let's begin the temporary journey back to the Red Sox Nation...

On June 9^th through 11^th, the Yankees played a three-game series against the Boston Red Sox.  Of course, they were once again swept by Boston, who are now 8-0 against the Bombers this season.  The scores of the latest series were 7-0, 6-5, and 4-3, respectively.  According to the rules of the wager with Julia of Julia's Rants, the loser was to wear a t-shirt belonging to the opposing team.  If I had won the bet, Julia would be wearing a Mark Teixeira t-shirt.  I was originally slated for a Jason Bay t-shirt, but Julia, with my consent, opted for a t-shirt from the Life is Good series.  T-Shirts were included for both me and my Yankee bear, Lou.

My t-shirt simply made the following statement...

Courtesy myspace.com/theyankeenation

Yankees Win Subway Series...

A.J. Burnett returned from his 5-game suspension on Saturday, and brought his "A" game with him.  He had a no-hitter going until the 6^th inning, when Alex Cora opened with a single.  But that's all the offense the Mets could muster against Burnett, as he finished with a 7-inning one-hitter, and a season high 10 strikeouts. 

Jim McIsaac/Getty Images 

I knew that A.J. was going to be tough to beat after watching him strike out two of the first three batters he faced in a 3-up, 3-down first inning.  Burnett, 6-4, was removed after the conclusion of the 7^th inning despite the fact that he was still cruising.  He had thrown 108 pitches, and was working under a team-imposed pitch limit of 115 pitches.  With a 5-run lead, I thought it was the right thing to do.  It would have been interesting to see what would have happened if Cora hadn't gotten that hit.  But I recognize that a healthy A.J. is better than a complete game performance.  Brian Bruney and David Robertson each pitched an inning of hitless relief to keep the one-hitter intact.  A terrific performance by A.J., with great support from the Pen.  Hopefully, this is a recipe that we'll see again...soon and often!

The Yankees only scored in two innings, the 3^rd and 6^th innings, but it was enough.  Aside from a RBI single by Alex Rodriguez, the Yankees scored the rest of their runs on homers (by Nick Swisher and Jorge Posada).

The Yankees have won this Subway Series by taking the first 2 games of the 3 game series, and have won their first season series against the Mets since 2003.  Yes, I think I kind of like the new Citi Field...

I had forgotten that the Mets losing pitcher, Tim Redding, had once pitched a game for the Yankees.  On July 15, 2005, he faced the Red Sox at Fenway Park and the results were disastrous.  He started but was only able to record three outs.  During those forgettable first two innings, he faced 11 batters, and allowed 6 runs on 4 hits and 4 walks.  The Red Sox went on to a 17-1 victory that day...

Redding was designated for assignment the next day.

Other News...

The flu bug has been tearing through the Yankees clubhouse like the Red Sox playing at Yankee Stadium.  It hasn't been pretty.  Derek Jeter has missed two games, although you could tell that he was frustrated to sit out Saturday's game.  Girardi's hand was forced when the medical staff advised him that Jeter should not play.  Also sitting out the game with the flu was Johnny Damon. 

John Munson/The Star Ledger

Now comes word that Phil Hughes has been bit by the bug.  Perhaps there was some sort of virus on that David Ortiz jersey that they dug out of the Stadium...

As the other contenders start to add talent in the coming days leading up to the trading deadline, I am hopeful that GM Brian Cashman is working overtime to convince the Steinbrenners to loosen the purse strings and allow the team to pursue additional depth.  DeRosa is lost, but there is still plenty of talent available for the right price.  Shelley Duncan is having a tremendous season with the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees (21 HR's, 64 RBI's, .289 BA), but he unfortunately fills the same role as Nick Swisher so he most likely won't be getting an opportunity with the big league club anytime soon.

With his next save, the great Mariano Rivera will reach 500 saves for his career.

Note:  Tommy Hanson proved me correct as the Atlanta Braves defeated the Red Sox, 2-1.  Hanson, despite the flu, was masterful and pitched six innings of two-hit, shutout ball.   

Go Yankees!

--Scott

Feelin' way too damn good...

It may be the name of a great song by Nickelback, but it also describes the feeling watching last night's 9-1 rain-delayed win over the New York Mets by the Yankees.

Noah K. Murray/The Star Ledger

Any concerns about the tendonitis in CC Sabathia's biceps were put to rest early.  Perfect through four innings, Sabathia showed why he deserved the ridiculously excessive contract in the off-season.  Outside of the leadoff home run to former Yank Gary Sheffield to open the fifth inning, he shut down the Mets on 3 hits over seven innings with 8 strikeouts.  He was consistently throwing 95 mph, and did not walk any batters.  He even contributed to his own cause with a RBI single in the second inning.  With the win, CC improved to 7-4.  Brett Tomko pitched effectively for the final two innings in relief.

Noah K. Murray/The Star Ledger

Speaking of the second inning, it was a very ugly one for the Mets.  Three errors allowed the Yankees jump out to a 4-0 lead and with CC dealing, the game was essentially over.

Simmons/New York Daily News 

Admittedly, I do not follow the Mets and if I had a preference in the NL East, it would probably be the Philadelphia Phillies.  So, I haven't been keeping up with the Mets this year.  Derek Jeter had a bad cough, and was given the night off (which was also his 35^th birthday).  I was a bit concerned with the insertion of Ramiro Pena into the starting lineup, particularly considering that Francisco Cervelli was playing in place of Jorge Posada (worried about the loss of potential offense).  But then I browsed the Mets' order and was surprised to see names like Alex Cora, Nick Evans (who?), Omir Santos, and Ryan Church playing center field.  I knew that the Mets had been hurt by injuries, but I didn't realize the decimation was this bad.

Reuters 

Brett Gardner has re-surfaced as a force in center.  He is batting .387 over the past 27 games.  Batting lead-off in place of Jeter, he had 5 hits, with 3 runs scored.  He was a double short of hitting for the cycle, but raised his batting average to .303 with the great performance.  When Gardner is hitting, he's scary with his speed.  He is making it very difficult for Joe Girardi to keep him out of the lineup. 

Melky Cabrera will benefit from Xavier Nady's misfortune (lost for the season), and will continue to platoon with Nick Swisher in right (barring any deadline trades by the Yankees). 

The world looks so much better when the Yankees are winning.  Right, Julia? ;)

Despite the win by the Yanks, there was no change in the AL East standings.  It was a rare night that saw the AL East sweep the NL East, 5 games to none.

Yankees 9, Mets 1

Red Sox 4, Braves 1

Blue Jays 6, Phillies 1

Rays 7, Marlins 3

Orioles 11, Nationals 1

Of course, I am wondering why the Rays' pitching staff was so inept compared to the others.  LOL!  It was definitely a good night for the AL East, which is why I am truly feelin' so damn good!  And, oh yeah, I am going home to California!  Woohoo!

Other News...

Speaking of Xavier Nady, he's told friends that he tore the ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow and will need surgery.  He's headed to California (like me!) for further medical evaluation, but he's done for the year.  Given that he is a free agent at the end of the year, his time with the Yankees may be over. Personally, I hope not.  I'd like to see the team work out a new deal.  However, given that there is doubt Nady will be able to play in 2010, the chances of returning to the Yankees are probably not good.  Nady has been a good player and I hope we have not seen the last of him in pinstripes.

Chris Faytock/The Star Ledger

Per Peter Abraham of the LoHud Yankees Blog, Mariano Rivera will be on ESPN's Sunday Conversation.  Mo was asked about performance enhancing drugs, and he replied, "The reason why I'm laughing is because I don't even drink coffee. And if I don't drink coffee, I would never put in my mind or think to put that in my body. If the talent that God has given me is not enough, well, I'll have to quit. When I leave this game I know deep in my mind, deep in my heart that I was clean."

John Munson/The Star Ledger

I remember being somewhat disappointed when John Wetteland left, breaking up the deadly late inning combo of Rivera-Wetteland.  Little did I know that it was the dawn of greatness, the creation of a new Yankees legend.  It will be a sad day when #42 is no longer in the bullpen, but it won't take very long for it to make its way to Monument Park...and Cooperstown.  Mo can stand next to Jackie Robinson and be proud.

AP

No updates on Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings, but I am taking much abuse from my friends...

--Scott 

Derek Lowe versus Andy Pettitte...

It was a match-up that reminded me of some great Red Sox battles of the past.  Unfortunately, this one was not memorable as neither pitcher was around very long.  The Yankees had built an 8-1 lead by the 4^th inning against Lowe.  It should have been an easy win for Andy Pettitte, but he struggled too.  In the bottom of the 4^th inning, he gave up 5 runs, thanks in part to an error by center fielder Brett Gardner, and was lifted for Alfredo Aceves.  Aceves was the eventual winner in the 11-7 Yankees victory over the Atlanta Braves.

Kathy Willens/AP

I am concerned about Pettitte.  He pitched great during his last start, but otherwise, his starts have been very spotty.  He is definitely no longer the pitcher he once was, or at least I do not recall him being so consistently "hittable". 

But the one player we do not need to be concerned about is Alex Rodriguez.  After a month long slump that saw his batting average slide to .207, A-Rod was back last night.  He had a key hit on Wednesday, and followed that up with his 563^rd home run (tying Mr. October, Reggie Jackson on the all-time list).  He was 3-for-5, with two runs scored, a walk, and 4 RBI's (pushing his BA to .223).

John Bazemore,AP

The key hit for this game, in my opinion, was delivered by Johnny Damon.  With the bases loaded in the top of the 3^rd inning, Damon came to bat against his former Red Sox teammate and delivered a triple to clear the bases.  The hit increased the Yankees' lead to 6-1 at the time.  Even though the Braves scratched and clawed to get back in the game, they could never recover from the huge hole created by Damon.

Stuart Cahill/Boston Herald 

The bullpen did a good job with Aceves, Phil Coke, and the great Mariano Rivera.  The only questionable performance was by David Robertson who gave up a 9^th inning home run to Brian McCann, and had runners at the corners, before Mo came in to get the final out.  Robertson did have two strikeouts in the frame.  Hopefully, he was just upset by the Mets' recent release of his brother Connor, and he'll perform the next time he is placed in a key situation.

The Yankees now head to Queens for a weekend Subway Series against the Mets.  I am concerned about the health of CC Sabathia, but it appears that he is a 'go' and should be fine this evening.  A.J. Burnett will return from his suspension tomorrow so it should be a fun weekend in Flushing Meadow.  With A-Rod coming around, I am sure that the biggest beneficiary will be Mark Teixeira.  The team responded to Brian Cashman's call to arms, and hopefully that will continue. The Toronto Blue Jays lost last night, so the Yankees once again have sole possession of 2^nd place and are now 4 games behind Boston.  Meanwhile, those pesky Rays keep winning...

Chris Urso/Tampa Tribune

Happy 35^th Birthday to the Captain, Derek Jeter!

Charles Krupa/AP

Finally, Thursday was a very sad day in the Entertainment World with the loss of two icons... Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett.

Say what you will about MJ in recent years, but he was truly the King of Pop during the early 80's.  His music was everywhere, and I can still so vividly remember waiting to watch the MTV world premiere of the video for Thriller in late 1983.  Like Elvis, Michael has left us way too soon. 

Farrah's passing was more expected but no less difficult.  I had the Farrah poster on my wall as a teenager (like every other guy my age). 

Goodbye to both...they will be missed...

To borrow the words of Johnny Cash, the Man Comes Around...

Posted on YouTube by MadSin69

The other Cash arrived in Atlanta, and made his presence known.

DeCrow/AP 

GM Brian Cashman, who apparently was supposed to watch AAA-Scranton/Wilkes Barre play, opted to travel to Atlanta for the Yankees game against the Braves.  He did not go with axe in hand, but he met with manager Joe Girardi and the players.  Clearly, he, like the rest of the fans and organization, is frustrated with the Yankees recent offensive slump and knows that the team is better than this. 

Cash insists that the team does not need to make any player acquisitions to improve.  As I said yesterday, the team has the talent and ability to succeed so the answer lies within.  I still think the bench could use some upgrade, along with the pen.  But from the top to the bottom of the order, the team is fine so long as they can snap out of the recent slide that has left them tied with the Toronto Blue Jays, 5 games behind the Boston Red Sox. 

Xavier Nady should be back soon, and that will certainly help.  But after watching the continued play of catcher Francisco Cervelli, I have to admit that I really do not want to see Jose Molina come back.  I liked Cervelli's throws to first, his intensity, the way he was openly communicating with pitcher Joba Chamberlain in the dugout between innings, his energy, his excitement...and of course, his first home run!  So perhaps the Yanks should look to move Molina upon his return from the DL.  As for Damaso Marte, I am hopeful that we'll see the reliever who was among baseball's best when he played for the Pittsburgh Pirates upon his return.  There is no reason that he can't be that player again.  Cash might be right that the answer lies within.  If the team's response to Cash's visit, an 8-4 win over the Braves, can be sustained in the coming weeks and months, I like the Yankees' chances come October. 

As for the game, I do want to send Braves pitcher Kenshin Kawakami best wishes for a speedy recovery.  I am thankful he was not more seriously hurt when he was struck at the base of the neck by a ball hit by Joba Chamberlain.  At the time, Kawakami had pitched three perfect innings and it looked like he was in the midst of a great game.  He has a contusion, but it sounds like the ball didn't hit a bone.  Kawakami will be re-evaluated in a couple of days to determine if he'll be able to make his next start.  Hopefully, he is back in full action shortly.

John Bazemore/AP

The Braves scored first on a 5^th inning home run by Jeff Francoeur.  Considering that Francoeur hasn't really hit anybody this year, it was disappointing to see him get untracked against the Yankees.  Nevertheless, the Yankees came back at the top of the next inning.  Brett Gardner walked to start the inning, becoming the Yankees first base runner.  After a few pick-off throws, the Braves got lucky when Gardner was called out even though his hand had clearly reached first base before he was tagged out.  The play brought manager Joe Girardi out of the dugout and although his tirade got him tossed, it served as the catalyst the Yankees needed to snap out of their offensive doldrums.  Cervelli followed with his first career home run, and a few batters later, Alex Rodriguez, who had entered the game with a .207 BA, drilled a two-run single.

Curtis Compton/MCT

Although the Braves kept fighting back, the Yankees never relinquished the lead.  In the 8^th inning, with Brian Bruney struggling (two walks, a single and a run scored), Girardi brought Mariano Rivera into the game with two outs. Rivera struck out Kelly Johnson to end the inning.  Rivera, who hadn't pitched since June 16^th, showed no signs of rust.  The Yankees scored a couple more runs at the top of the 9^th to pad their lead, but they were unnecessary runs as Rivera struck out the side in the bottom of the inning to end the game.  Vintage Mo, and it was sweet!

The Red Sox, Blue Jays and Rays all won, so there were no changes in the standings.  But the victory was definitely something for the team to build upon.  One game at a time.  The path to the Red Sox is not that far away...

Jim Davis/Boston Globe staff

As expected, the Yankees designated Angel Berroa for assignment prior to the game to make room for infielder Cody Ransom.  I was surprised to see that the Yankees were actually able to get cash for reliever Jose Veras (from the Cleveland Indians).  I thought the Yankees would have to pay to get someone to take him.  Peter Abraham of the LoHud Yankees Blog had the best line when he said that the cash involved was "at least three figures".  Good luck in Cleveland, Jose...you won't be missed.   Of course, now that you are in Cleveland, you'll probably start pitching lights out...

Denny Medley/US Presswire

The fielders made the trip to Atlanta, but the hitters were a no-show...

A-Rod is definitely looking like anything but A-Rod as his batting average continues to its freefall to the dreaded Mendoza line.

After years of clutch hits, Derek Jeter is starting to become the guy to call when you are looking to kill a potential rally.

John Bazemore/AP

Cody Ransom is due to come off the disabled list today, so a move is expected.  I doubt that the Yankees would designate Ransom for assignment, so that means either Angel Berroa or Ramiro Pena has to go.  My guess is that Berroa has seen his final day in pinstripes.

Kathy Willens/AP

Regarding Ransom's return, manager Joe Girardi said, "He could help us a lot".  I am not a major league manager, but sorry, Joe, I can't buy that one.  The Yanks need help, but Cody Ransom is not going to be the savior.

Courtesy Wikipedia

In last night's loss, the Yankees stranded 11 base runners.  There was no shortage of candidates for the Goat of the Game.  It was a disappointing loss, and the team is definitely reeling right now.  At this point, you have to consider the Yankees to be lucky that they are only 5 games behind Boston.  Next week, it could be much worse if things don't change. 

AP 

If the Yankees had gone down fighting last night and still lost, I would have felt much better than them simply mailing it in.  The lackadaisical effort is a reflection of the manager and coaching staff.  Girardi said after the game, "This is going to turn and when it does it is going to be a welcome sight".  I only hope that it is not too late.  5 games are not insurmountable, particularly not in July.  But there is no question that the Boston Red Sox are the superior team right now.  I do not recall a recent Red Sox game where I felt that the "team" had given up.  They battle down to the last at-bat.  That's the type of effort and attitude that the Yankees need to model. 

AP 

The Yankees are now tied for second with the Toronto Blue Jays.  A loss today and the Yanks are potentially in fourth place with the Tampa Bay Rays tapping on their shoulder.

AP

The Yankees protest of Sunday's game was denied by Major League Baseball.  I never expected the Yankees to get anywhere with the protest, but admittedly; it was fun to talk about.  However, the Yankees need to win games because of their play, not because of technicalities.

The Star Ledger

It's time to start hitting and fielding like May, and resume the charge on Boston.  The talent and ability is there.  Let's Go Yankees!

--Scott 

The Yankees lost...again...

Somewhere in Boston, I can assure you that there's a woman who couldn't be happier...

Not so quick, Julia!  There is an outside chance that Derek Jeter may get a second chance.  After Alejando de Aza hit for Renyel Pinto in the 7^th inning, Marlins manager Freddie Gonzalez did a double-switch and inserted relief pitcher Leo Nunez into left fielder Chris Coghlan's lead off spot.  In the 8^th, Coghlan took the field with Nunez going to the mound.  So, technically, two players listed as first in the batting order were on the field at the same time.  De Aza should have been in left instead of Coghlan.  After Nunez threw one pitch, a strike, to Derek Jeter, manager Joe Girardi protested.  Coghlan left the game, but De Aza couldn't return because of the no re-entry rule.  Jeremy Hermedia took over left, and was placed 9^th in the batting order.  Nunez was allowed to continue pitching.  Girardi felt that Nunez should have been disallowed to continue, but Gonzalez disagreed.  Nevertheless, Girardi filed a protest.  If upheld, the teams would have to resume the 8^th inning with the Marlins ahead, 6-3.  I doubt anything comes out of the protest, but, hey, you never know.  Jeter might get the chance to be a hero in Miami after all...

Lynne Sladky/AP

Right fielder Xavier Nady is getting closer!  He will begin a minor league rehab assignment with Triple A Scranton/Wilkes Barre on Wednesday.  Soon...very soon, the X-Man returns!

Noah K. Murray/The Star Ledger 

Despite being pulled after 1 1/3 innings on Sunday for left biceps tendonitis, CC Sabathia believes that he'll be able to make his next start.  Time will tell, but hopefully he's right.  Now that Phil Hughes is starting to establish himself as a presence in the bullpen, I'd hate to see him yanked (no pun intended) back and forth between the pen and the starting rotation.

Courtesy Yankees Online Magazine 

A.J. Burnett's suspension was decreased by one game to 5 games by Major League Baseball (for throwing near the head of the Rangers' Nelson Cruz).  He began serving the suspension on Sunday, so he'll be able to start next Saturday.  With Sabathia's uncertainty, Burnett's return is critical.

Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images 

Alex Rodriguez feels better after some rest.  That's nice...

A two game losing streak, and the next game will feature Chien-Ming Wang on the mound?  Yikes!  Hopefully, the law of averages will kick in sooner rather than later and allow Wang to record his first win of the year.  Of course, he'll be facing the Braves pitching phenom Tommy Hanson.  They might be a bit agitated after the walk-off homer by Boston's Nick Green on Sunday...

Jim Davis/Boston Globe

More off-topic stuff...

It is really starting to sound like Brett Favre will be playing for the Minnesota Vikings this year.  One website reported that he had already agreed to a contract, but that was quickly dismissed as a false rumor.  Plus, there are rules that require prompt reporting of player contracts to the league so the Vikings would potentially be in violation of league rules if they failed to disclose a formal contract in a timely manner.  Nevertheless, there is speculation that a post-dated contract for, say, July 3^rd, is a possibility.  Much of the media will be off on Friday, July 3^rd for the holiday weekend, so the news wouldn't be as magnified as it would be on a normal work day.  By the following Monday, much of the hoopla would start to die down.  So, the timing seems right.  It would also allow some time of the news to settle before training camp begins at the end of July.  I am hopeful that this doesn't mean the loss of a roster spot for John David Booty, who has looked so much better this year.  I would prefer to see Tavaris Jackson shipped elsewhere, but he was hand-picked by Head Coach Brad Childress, so it may be tough for Childress to let go of T-Jack.

Courtesy The Fan 740 AM

I have never heard of today's winner of the U.S Open in Golf, Lucas Glover, but he's a Yankees fan, so I'll say CONGRATS to an absolutely great guy!  ;)

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

--Scott

No A-Rod in the line-up?  No problem, just call Andy...

Hans Deryk/Reuters

Andy had a run-scoring double in the 2^nd inning to put New York on top of the Florida Marlins, 3-0.  It was a lead that the Yankees never relinquished.  They won the game, 5-1, behind Pettitte's other skills....a solid pitching performance that saw only three hits in 7 innings, with 7 strikeouts.  He had good control as he did not issue any walks, and became the first Yankees pitcher to reach 7 wins.  He was, of course, quite winded after the long run to second base!  Hahaha! The lone Marlin run was a homer by outfielder Cody Ross.  Pettitte did say after the game that several other fly balls would have been home runs in Yankee Stadium.  Nevertheless, they were in Miami and the Yankees easily won, snapping a two game losing streak.

AP

The Yankees also got great production from their bullpen with two innings of hitless relief provided by Brian Bruney and Brett Tomko.  I can't say that I was excited to see Tomko enter the game, but he did his job.

The Yankees only had one home run, a solo shot by Melky Cabrera in the 3^rd.

Before the game, it was announced that Alex Rodriguez would sit the first two games of the series in Miami against the Marlins.  Alex has been struggling lately, and his batting average has plummeted to .212.  Kevin Long tracks swings that are considered reaches, and indicated that since early June, A-Rod has extended his arms from his body in his swings nearly 85% of the time.  He wants to work with A-Rod to bring his arms back in for a tighter, more compact swing.  Hopefully, the rest will do A-Rod some good, although I am sure it's frustrating for him to sit while the team is in his hometown.  Angel Berroa filled in for A-Rod at third, while Jorge Posada batted clean-up.

Wilfredo Lee/AP 

It was a good game for the Yankees, beginning to end.  I had some concerns that they were facing a pitcher they had never seen before (Sean West), but they easily figured him out and scored all 5 runs against West in his four innings of work.

Derek Jeter was back in the lineup Friday night, but you could tell that the ankle is still bothering him. 

It was a reunion of sorts for manager Joe Girardi, who got his first managerial job with the Marlins in 2006.  He was named NL Manager of the Year, and was subsequently fired by owner Jeffrey Loria.  Girardi and Loria chatted briefly outside of the Yankees clubhouse prior to the game.  Per Girardi, it was a pleasant conversation with Loria and they have a good relationship.  Still, you just know that Girardi took satisfaction in taking the first game of the series with the Marlins...

AP

The Yankees picked up a game on both first place Boston and third place Toronto as both of those teams lost on Friday night.  The Yanks are two games behind the Red Sox and two games ahead of the Blue Jays.  I wonder if the Red Sox could start Dice-K again tonight?  I kinda like it when he pitches...  ;)  Seriously, I have faith in the Braves' Derek Lowe even though he is facing Josh Beckett.  Vindication is always a sweet feeling, and Lowe is a gamer.  Good luck to him as he faces his former teammates!

UPI

Despite watching Pedro Martinez pitch in the Dominican Republic, the Yankees expressed no interest in signing the 37 year old pitcher.  Whew!

Jeff Roberson/AP

Brett Gardner is still feeling the effects of the collision with the outfield wall on Thursday, but is improving.

Posted on YouTube by Victorcoral

Have a great Saturday!

--Scott

I leave for a few days, and the world falls apart...

The Yankees are losing to the Washington Nationals tonight, 3-0, in the 8th inning.  If they lose the game, the Nationals will win the series, 2 games to 1.  Aren't the Nationals supposed to be the baseball's worst team?  I was worried about the series going in, because I know that this series had disaster spelled all over it.

GM Brian Cashman indicates that he does not expect the team to any major moves prior to the trading deadline this year.  He likes the team he has assembled, and wants to see what how it does once the injured guys (Jose Molina, Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte) return.  I don't know what Cash calls it, but I'd call it third place.  Meanwhile, the Rays look to improve and the Red Sox have John Smoltz ready to go on June 25^th and of course you know that Theo won't stand pat.  This might be the part of the marathon where the elite runners begin to make separation from the rest of the pack.  I can only hope that Cash is playing with his poker face...

Don Hogan Charles/The New York Times

Chien-Ming Wang is going to remain in the rotation.  I guess the Yankees want to be assured of a loss every fifth day...

Bill Greene/Globe Staff

I am not ready to break out the 'Joe's gotta go!' card, but at what point does pitching coach Dave Eiland begin to take some responsibility for the woes of the pitching staff?

Oh well, hopefully, my perspective will improve tomorrow and the Yankees will return to their winning ways...

Frank Franklin II/AP 

I spent the last couple of days in Denver, and had a great time!   It was strictly a business trip, but Colorado is always a fun place to be.  I lived there a few years ago, so it was great to be back in the Mile High City.  If visiting (and you are a meat eater), you've got to try The Fork in the foothills of Morrison, CO.  I had William Bent's Buffalo Tenderloin Filet Mignon and it was one of the most tender steaks that I've had in recent years.  Very flavorful!  I didn't know about The Fork when I lived in Denver but wish I had.

--Scott 

Like an old pair of shoes, Jose Veras has been tossed aside...

David L. Pokress/Newsday 

I wonder if Bruney got a congratulatory card from Mets closer Francisco Rodriguez for his return?

By the way, I used to live two blocks from Coors Field.  I definitely miss those days! 

Nevertheless, the Yankees did play a game tonight.  The Washington Nationals are in the Bronx for a three-game series with the Yanks.  Everybody is quick to say that it will be a three-game sweep, but I don't think it will be that easy.  The Yanks always have trouble against the teams they are supposed to beat, so I could see the Nats steal a win or two.  Fortunately, tonight was not the night for the Nats as they fell to the Yankees, 5-3.

Bill Kostroun/AP 

The Yankees led 2-0 until the 5^th inning when Anderson Hernandez unloaded a three-run homer on CC Sabathia.  Of course, that provoked an email from Julia ("You are losing to the Nats????".  But hey, 15-0 games are boring...or even the 8-2 yawner that the Red Sox put on the Florida Marlins.  With 21 come from behind wins, now 22, the Yanks came roaring back in the 7^th inning against old friend Ron Villone.  Johnny Damon singled to open the inning, and he scored on Mark Teixeira's double.  Following an A-Rod strikeout, Robinson Cano hit a double that scored Tex.  Cano was thrown out attempting to stretch the double into a triple.  Ramiro Pena added an insurance run in the 8^th inning with a RBI single. 

Cano was clearly the star of the game as he went 4-for-4, with 2 RBI's and a run scored.  He also shined defensively.

CC Sabathia (6-4) picked up the win, and Mariano Rivera earned his 15^th save.  Brian Bruney made his first appearance following his stint on the DL, and came into the game during the 8^th inning after CC walked another old friend, Nick Johnson.  That brought the Nats' best hitter, Ryan Zimmerman, to the plate.  Hey Bruney, no pressure!

Fortunately, Zimmerman grounded out and the inning was over.  Welcome back, Bruney!  We don't care what K-Rod says about you...you are the star of the 8^th inning -- exactly where we need you to be!

The Nats should have an excellent chance for victory on Wednesday with Chien-Ming Wang on the mound...

It's sure is starting to sound like Brett Favre will be wearing Purple this fall.  He is definitely making much reference to the fact that no one remembers that Vince Lombardi ended his career as Head Coach of the Washington Redskins.  All I can say is that I am glad my childhood idol, Fran Tarkenton, retired with the Vikings.  I don't know what I would have thought if he had played with the Green Bay Packers during his final year, but I have to believe that it would have changed my perception of Sir Francis...

Oh, by the way, CONGRATULATIONS to the new NBA Champions, the Los Angeles Lakers! 

Paul Rodriguez/Orange County Register 

Now, if the Yankees can only win the World Series...

--Scott

A "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" kind of weekend...

On Saturday morning, when I saw the Mets starting pitcher (an unknown, at least to me, by the name of Fernando Nieve), I figured that the Yankees were going to have an offensive field day.  Unfortunately, I forgot that the Yankees just don't play very well against pitchers they've never faced before.  Nieve, a former Astro, got his first win since June 25, 2006 by allowing only 4 hits and 2 runs in 6 2/3 innings. 

Meanwhile, Andy Pettitte looked pathetic. 

Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images

Former Yankee minor leaguer Omir Santos hit a two-run homer in the second inning to set the tone for the day.

Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images

The Mets pounded out 17 hits enroute to the 6-2 victory.  Every Mets starter had at least one hit, and Gary Sheffield homered against his former team for the second straight day.  It was not a fun game, and it was obvious that the Yanks had mentally checked out of this game.  When you watch the Boston Red Sox, they never give up and battle to the end.  So, it was disappointing to see the Yanks throw in the towel...

On Sunday, after the Yanks disappointing performance the previous day and Johan Santana on the mound for the Mets, it didn't look promising.  My only hope was for A.J. Burnett to try and keep it close so that perhaps Tex or A-Rod could come up with a key hit in the later stages of the game.  What I saw shocked me, to say the least.  When you analyze the line scores for the two starting pitchers, you'd assume that Burnett must have had a bad day...

Pitcher A

Pitcher B

Fortunately, Pitcher A was the Mets' Johan Santana, who suffered the worst start of his career.

Nick Laham/Getty Images 

A.J. Burnett pitched a terrific game.  Of course, it helps when your team stakes you to a 13-0 lead after only four innings.  But the Burnett of the last few starts, excluding the debacle in Boston, is the pitcher the Yanks thought they were getting in the off-season when they signed him to the big contract.

As the Mets did the previous day, the Yankees pounded out 17 hits, including three by catcher Francisco Cervelli.  Jose Molina who?...

The Yankees got the scoring started in the second inning with run-scoring singles by Cervelli and Derek Jeter, as well as a two-run single by Johnny Damon.  I guess he is over his "fluttering eye" issue...

What, no homers?  Don't worry; they were on the way...

In the 4^th, the Yankees scored 9 runs and ran Santana out of the game.  The weekend birthday boy, Hideki Matsui, hit a two-run homer to start the scoring.  Derek Jeter and Johnny Damon knocked in runs with an infield single and a double, respectively.  Jeter scored when Alex Rodriguez hit into a double-play.  Robinson Cano followed with a two-run homer, scoring A-Rod.  Melky Cabrera capped the scoring with a two-run double, but he ended the inning attempting to stretch out the double to a triple.

Sipkin/New York Daily News

Four innings, a 13 run lead, and Johan Santana in the showers...the game was effectively ended at that point.  The Yanks did pick up a couple more RBI's by Ramiro Pena and Robinson Cano in the 7^th inning, but the Fat Lady had already sung...

Phil Hughes looked like he was going to ruin the shutout in the 9^th inning, when he allowed two base runners.  But he settled down, and got the final outs.  So, thanks largely to Friday's gift from Luis Castillo, the Yankees won the Subway Series, two games to one.

The Red Sox lost to the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizen's Bank Park, 11-6, so the Yankees closed the gap back to two games. 

Ron Cortes/Staff Photographer, Philly.com 

The two teams have a much needed break on Monday, before they resume interleague play.  The Red Sox return home to Fenway Park to face owner John Henry's former team, the Florida Marlins.  Meanwhile, the Yanks will see old friend Nick Johnson when the Washington Nationals travel to Yankee Stadium.  Of course, I wonder who the manager of the Nationals will be...Manny Acta or someone else...

Brian Blanco/AP

It's been a great day...almost perfect, in fact!  The only thing that could be better would be the crowning of Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers as the 2009 NBA Champions!

Chris Carlson/AP

Go Lakers, but more importantly...

Go Yankees!

--Scott

A walk-off "Gift"...

The setting was set for a dramatic Yankees comeback.  The YES Network's Michael Kay indicated that any win by the Yankees would be a walk-off win (statement of the obvious?), and they have had six walk-off wins so far this year.  The stars seemed to be aligned for A-Rod to be the hero.  Like with Tex, K-Rod threw the first three pitches outside of the strike zone and A-Rod didn't bite.  The fourth pitch came in for a called strike.  With a 3-1 hitter's count, A-Rod got under the next pitch and lifted a pop fly to short right field.  Second baseman Luis Castillo charged under the ball and it appeared to land in his glove.  A-Rod slammed his bat into the ground, and started to gently run to first base.  The feeling of defeat sunk in, and I was thinking that the Yankees had just lost their fourth consecutive game.  But miraculously, the ball hit Castillo's glove and bounced out. 

Noah K. Murray/New York Daily News 

Castillo slid to the ground so he wasn't able to get up immediately to retrieve the ball.  When he did get up, he threw the ball to the cutoff man, shortstop Alex Cora.  Derek Jeter had already scored the tying run, but third base coach Rob Thomson had sent Teixeira home.  Cora fired the ball to catcher Omir Santos, but it was too late...Tex had already scored the winning run...

UPI (Courtesy New York Post)

Whoa, talk about high drama!  After the game, A-Rod was being interviewed and Kimberly Jones mentioned that Francisco Rodriguez hadn't blown a save this season.  A-Rod responded, "He still hasn't".  True, but I'll take it...

Richard Perry/The New York Times

The Yankees should have given the pie in the face to Castillo...

The Yankees had started the scoring with a solo home run by Robinson Cano in the bottom of the second inning.  I was a bit frustrated the next inning when Joba Chamberlain loaded the bases with two walks and a hit batter.  Carlos Beltran drew a walk to bring home a run.  After David Wright struck out, Ryan Church was hit by a pitch to bring home Alex Cora.  So, with no hits in the 3rd, the Mets had taken a 2-1 lead over the Yanks.

In the bottom of the 3^rd, the Yankees regained the lead, 3-2, with a two-run homer by Mark Teixeira.  Joba Chamberlain was pulled after four innings.  Although he only gave up one hit and two runs, he walked 5 and had two hit by pitches.  So, to start the 5^th inning, Manager Joe Girardi brought in Brett Tomko.  My first reaction, of course, was "Ugh!".  Unfortunately, as they say, always trust your first instinct.  Carlos Beltran doubled and subsequently stole third.  David Wright walked.  Ryan Church doubled to score Beltran and Wright.  The Mets had the lead, 4-3.  Former Yankee Gary Sheffield came up and promptly hit a two-run homer, his 505^th, to increase the Mets' lead to 6-3.  Isn't there a minor league team somewhere (anywhere but Scranton/Wilkes Barre!) that could use Tomko?  He needs to go wherever it is that Julia wants Julio Lugo to go...or where Mets fans want Luis Castillo to go...

In the bottom of the 5^th, Derek Jeter cut the deficit to 6-4 with a solo home run.  In the 6^th, with Robinson Cano and Jorge Posada at first and second, thanks to a single and walk, the birthday boy, Hideki Matsui, slammed a three-run homer to allow the Yanks to recapture the lead, 7-6.  Happy 35^th Birthday to Godzilla!

Marc Carig/The Star Ledger

The Mets tied the score, 7-7, in the 7^th on a double play grounder by Fernando Tatis with men on the corners. 

Phil Coke retired the first two Mets in the top of the 8^th, but then, in a surprising move, Joe Girardi brought Mariano Rivera into the game to face Carlos Beltran.  In recent years, Mo has pretty much become a one inning relief specialist.  It started in the latter years of the Joe Torre era as a way to keep Mo healthy.  I suppose Joe didn't want to take any chances with the dangerous Beltran at the plate and preferred to see Mo get four outs as opposed to three.  Unfortunately, the move backfired.  Beltran drew a walk, and the next batter, David Wright doubled to center field, scoring Beltran.  The Mets had taken an 8-7 lead.  It was three up and three down against Mo in the 9^th, and the stage was set for the dramatic comeback win...

Noah K. Murray/The Star Ledger

Peter Abraham of the LoHud Yankees blog had a great story after the game.  Joba's three-year old son, Karder, was in the clubhouse  and he interrupted the reporters talking to Joba by asking, "Daddy, you didn't throw strikes!".  Joba responded, "He knows me.  Pretty scary, huh?"  That's funny stuff!  Of course, it's easier to laugh about it when your team escapes with a 9-8 win rather than an 8-7 loss.

Noah K. Murray/The Star Ledger

This game was yet another example for why Mark Teixeira ranks as one of the greatest free agent signings in Yankees history.  It remains to be seen if he has the post-season success of, say, Reggie Jackson, but so far, he's earned every bit of his huge contract.

Mike Stobe/Getty Images

The Yankees remain two games behind the Boston Red Sox.  The Red Sox defeated the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park in extra innings, 5-2.  I had warned Julia about late inning heroics by the Phillies' Chase Utley and Ryan Howard.  Howard came through with a game-tying 9^th inning home run, but the Phillies couldn't muster any magic in extra innings against the Red Sox bullpen.

AP 

So, the Yankees remain one of baseball's best teams, so long as they aren't at Fenway Park or playing the Red Sox...

OTHER "OFF TOPIC" STUFF...

Everyone doubted the Pittsburgh Penguins' chances and until Game 7, the team with home ice had won every game in the Stanley Cup Finals.  So, with Game 7 in Detroit, it appeared that the odds were stacked in the Red Wings' favor.  The Pens took a 2-0 lead after two periods, but you knew that the third period would be a 'free for all'.  The Red Wings played at a kinetic pace.  You could definitely tell that there was a sense of urgency in their game, and they did appear to be the superior team on the ice for that period.  They were able to score a goal to close the gap.  The game hung in the balance down to the final seconds.  Even with 6 seconds or so, you knew that the Red Wings were capable of scoring the tying goal. 

Fortunately, it was not meant to be and the Penguins were the Stanley Cup Champions!  It was a great game, a great series, and a great win by a deserving team.  Granted, it would have been better (at least for me) had the San Jose Sharks won the Stanley Cup, or perhaps even Julia's Boston Bruins, but short of that, the Penguins are a worthy champion!

Matt Freed/Post-Gazette 

Now, hopefully, the Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy awaits the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday night...

The Brett Favre "fiasco" continues.  The Vikings apparently have sent a coach and their head trainer to Mississippi to track the health of QB Brett Favre.  No word on which coach made the trip, but offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell has prior history with Favre during their time in Green Bay together.  I really think this issue needs closure soon.  Otherwise, it risks becoming a huge distraction for the team.  The 2009 Vikings have a great deal of potential.  I like many of the young guys, and I am excited about what Percy Harvin will mean to the offense if properly utilized.  Guys like center John Sullivan and safety Tyrell Johnson will step up and fill the voids caused by the departures of veterans Matt Birk and Darren Sharper.  Regardless of what Favre decides to do, the Vikings will be in contention this year.  I am not ready to anoint them Super Bowl contenders, but they have the potential for great things.  At this point, I am ready to let Tavaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels fight it out, and let Favre starting counting his days for entry into the Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.  But, of course, if he does sign with the Vikes, so be it...

Have a great weekend!

GO YANKEES!

--Scott

Thoroughly and soundly defeated...

Michael Dwyer/AP

Congratulations to Julia and her beloved Red Sox.  They played hard and never gave up.  Like one New York paper wrote, if it is the two teams' destiny to meet in the ALCS, Boston should go ahead and print World Series tickets...

Barry Chin/Boston Globe

There's no rest for the weary as the Yankees return to Yankee Stadium to face the New York Mets for a three game series beginning tonight.  The timing obviously couldn't be any worse for what is generally a very intense rivalry.  The Mets are coming off two consecutive g extra inning defeats to the Philadelphia Phillies (who took 2 of 3 from the Mets), and are probably looking forward to finding the cure that ails them against the psychologically weakened Yanks.  The Yankees need to put the last three days behind them, and remember how they were playing before the disaster in Boston. 

John Munson/The Star Ledger 

It's time for Joba Chamberlain, who faces the Mets' Livan Hernandez tonight, to continue his progression toward pitching like a frontline ace...

John Munson/The Star Ledger 

Last night wasn't a complete disaster as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Orlando Magic, 99-91, to go up 3 games to 1 in the NBA Finals.  But this has been a frustrating week to be a sports fan with the Yankees' ineptitude against Boston and the continued Brett Favre fiasco in Minnesota.  I am looking forward to sunnier days...

The Boston Red Sox clearly have the psychological advantage over the New York Yankees...

With last night's 6-5 loss, the Yankees are now 0-7 in the season series with the Red Sox (0-8 if you go back to last season).  Alex Rodriguez can relate, given that he is 0-for-7 in the latest series.

Winslow Townson/AP 

Chien-Ming Wang looks completely lost.  It is becoming very painful to watch his struggles in meaningful games.  What's the answer?  Back to the bullpen?  An extended summer vacation in Taiwan with plans to return for spring training in 2010?  I don't know, but the Yankees simply cannot afford to leave him in the starting rotation.  It's a very disappointing situation, and remain hopeful that Wang will return to the pitcher that he once was...

Simmons/NY Daily News

I felt that the Yankees could have won last night's game.  The back-to-back home runs by Johnny Damon and Mark Teixeira against Ramon Ramirez seemed to give the team new life, but they were unable able to capitalize. 

The game saw both good and bad from Nick Swisher.  Poor base running in the second inning allowed Nick Swisher to be doubled off first base, which possibly prevented the Yankees from adding another run after Jorge Posada's homer.  He also misplayed a fly ball in the bottom of the inning that appeared he had a great jump on, allowing the Red Sox to score a run.  He did make a spectacular diving catch in the seventh inning to take away a hit from Mike Lowell.

AP 

Congratulations to Julia, of Julia's Rants, for yet another victory in our lopsided 2009 wagers that seem to be all-Julia.  I am now 0-for-3 on the season.  I guess there's a Jason Bay in my future after all...unfortunately.

Bill Simmons/Boston Globe

If the Yankees expect to contend for the AL East Championship, they need to figure out how to beat Boston.  A strong pitching performance today by CC Sabathia would be a great start in the right direction.  Feel free to mix in a timely hit or two from Alex Rodriguez...

In the MLB Draft, the Yankees selected first baseman Luke Murton.  Murton's brother, Matt, is an outfielder for the Colorado Rockies, but was originally drafted by the Red Sox.  Nothing like bringing the rivalry into the family...

--Scott

Okay, that was really ugly...

If

Advantage Julia...

A.J. Burnett was a disappointment, giving up 5 runs, 3 earned, and 5 walks in less than 3 innings of work.  I guess he has to wear a Jays uniform to be effective at Fenway Park because it certainly doesn't work in a Yankees jersey...

Winslow Townson/AP

The Yankees and the Red Sox are once again tied at the top of the AL East Standings with records of 34-24.

The Yankees need to put this one behind them, and come out today with a new and fresh attitude.  They are better than their 0-for-6 record against the Sox indicates, and hopefully, good things are in store for Chien-Ming Wang and the Yankees tonight.

I won't lose the faith, and I am certainly not ready to be sized for a Jason Bay t-shirt.

The Yankees chose center fielder Slade Heathcott, an 18 year old high school player from Texarkana, Texas.  Slade definitely has a name fit for a Texan, and hopefully a swing fit for Yankee Stadium.  There's only one serious flaw in Slade's game...he's a Red Sox fan...but I think we'll  be able to cure that ailment.

With their second pick, the Yankees selected another 18-year old high school player in defensive-minded catcher John Murphy from Bradenton, Florida.

IMG Baseball Academy

Can't say that I care for the batting helmet...  ;) 

The Vikings have supposedly "temporarily suspended" their pursuit of QB Brett Favre.  The deadline imposed by head coach Brad Childress was a poor idea if the team legitimately wanted Favre, so supposedly the 'cooling off' period will allow Favre additional time to decide if his shoulder is up to the challenge of another season.  All things considered, Brett, stay home...

Congratulations to the Pittsburgh Penguins for their 2-1 victory over the Detroit Red Wings in the Stanley Cup Finals to force Game 7.  The team with home ice has won every game of this series, and unfortunately, Game 7 is in Detroit.  Nevertheless, if there's anyone who can perform the impossible, it's Sidney Crosby.  Hopefully, they'll be hoisting the Stanley Cup in the streets of Pittsburgh.  Good luck to the Pens!

Matt Freed/Post-Gazette

What?  The Lakers lost?  What's up with that...

--Scott 

The new and improved Yankees make their way to Beantown for a three-game series beginning tonight...

David Pokress/Newsday

Fresh off a 5-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays, the Yanks find themselves a game up on the Red Sox in the AL East Standings.  Of course, anything can happen over the next three days, but the stage is set for a major in-season battle for supremacy.

AP 

When they last played, New York was left with a 13-13 record after being swept in a two-game series in early May, Mark Teixeira was batting .198, and Alex Rodriguez was in Tampa in preparation of rejoining the team in Baltimore the following weekend.  Since A-Rod has arrived, the Yankees have been on a tear.  The Yankees record is now 34-23 and Mark Teixeira has improved his batting average to .286, with 18 home runs.

Mitsu Yasukawa/The Star Ledger 

The team chemistry is better than I've seen in a number of years.  A little Swish goes a long way...

Nick Laham/Getty Images

Of course, the usual rhetoric is taking place with the latest Yankees-Red Sox series.  Tony Massarotti of the Boston Globe wrote a story called "A missed mark" and went as far as to say the Yankees' signing of Mark Teixeira at the Red Sox expense "...could loom as a pivotal turning point in baseball's fiercest division".    Teixeira is proving to be one of the best free agent signings ever by the Evil Empire.  He has obviously been playing in a higher league for the last month, but taking him away from a bitter rival can never be understated.  With Ortiz on the downslope, how much different would the Red Sox have looked with Tex at first and Kevin Youkilis at third?  Julia will give you all the reasons for why it's great to have Mike Lowell in the lineup, but clearly they would have been better with Tex and Youk at the corners.  Fortunately, we'll never know what could have been but rather what was meant to be...

Nick Laham/Getty Images

Julia seems pretty confident that I'll be wearing a Jason Bay t-shirt by the end of the week.  She also thought the Bruins were going to win the Stanley Cup and the Celtics were going to repeat as champions in the NBA.  She also said that the Patriots wouldn't trade Matt Cassel.  So, when she says that the Red Sox will sweep the Yankees, I smile and wonder what she'll look like wearing a Mark Teixeira t-shirt...

Like CC Sabathia said, "We're pitching better, playing better defense obviously.  Getting A-Rod back makes a huge difference.  We're a different team."  Yes, Julia, there is a Santa Claus...

Other News...

Congratulations to the Washington Nationals for their selection of pitcher Stephen Strasburg as the number one pick in the First Year Player Draft.  Granted, the pick had been anticipated for weeks, but I am hopeful to see Strasburg fulfill his tremendous promise.

In a departure from baseball talk, the Minnesota Vikings have given Brett Favre until the end of the week to decide if he'll play in 2009.  Favre had arthroscopic surgery on his throwing shoulder last month, and he still doesn't know if he'll be ready to resume his playing career.  Meanwhile, the Favre family has blocked out 25 to 30 hotel rooms for the November weekend when the Vikings will be in Green Bay to play the Packers.  Does it mean Favre will come out of retirement?  Who knows.  The family certainly has time to cancel the reservations.  I have mixed feelings.  I am all in favor of anything that would increase the Vikings chances for a 5^th Super Bowl appearance.  Is Favre better than Sage Rosenfels or Tavaris Jackson?  If healthy, the answer is yes.  But it was miserable to watch Favre the second half of last season.  Is that the Favre we'd be destined to see?  If so, I'd prefer he just stay in Mississippi and only make a trip to Green Bay to retire his number.  Favre's presence on the Vikings roster would probably cause the loss of John David Booty who has looked very much improved in this year's OTA's.  That price is too high for a one year gamble...

 --Scott

It's funny what a difference a day makes.  I took another look at that dog for the blog about yesterday's loss, and miraculously its appearance has changed dramatically...

I will borrow the words of my friend in Boston; the Yankees are back where we belong!

Looks good to me!  J  The teams should start Tuesday's series with the Yankees either up by a game or the two teams in a deadheat since the Red Sox are off on Monday while the Yanks close out their series with the Rays.  Make no mistake, the Yankees-Red Sox series is huge.  The Yankees cannot afford to "no show" like they did earlier in the season.  With the Mets on the heels of the Red Sox, the next week is going to be very challenging and the team needs to show what it is made of.  Plus, the Yankees wouldn't really want to see me in a Jason Bay t-shirt, would they?  Let's hope that they put a Mark Teixeira t-shirt on my friend Julia!

Okay, I suppose I should say how we got to this point.  Sorry, I got a little ahead of myself...

The Yankees defeated the Tampa Bay Rays today, 4-3, in a comeback win.  It wasn't the dramatic 9^th inning walk-off variety, but it worked just as well.

The game was rather tight in the early going.  I was pleased to see Joba Chamberlain breeze through the first inning with three putouts by Mark Teixeira.  B.J. Upton started the scoring with a RBI double in the 3^rd, bringing home Reid Brognac.  The Yankees countered in the bottom of the inning when Nick Swisher hit the 100^th home run at Yankee Stadium this season, a solo shot.

During ESPN's Baseball Tonight show prior to the game, the sportscasters attempted to predict who would hit the 100^th home run.  Names like Carl Crawford, Carlos Pena, Derek Jeter and Mark Teixeira were thrown out, but in the end, it was Swish!

The game remained tied at 1 until the 6^th inning.  With a two-run single by Gabe Gross, the Rays took a 3-1 lead.  Joba only had 4 strikeouts on the day, but he registered a huge one when he struck out Dioner Navarro with two outs, and runners at second and third, preventing further damage by the Rays.

In the bottom of the 8^th, with both starting pitchers long gone, the Yankees played a game of small ball.  After Derek Jeter flied out, Johnny Damon singled.  The next batter, Mark Teixeira, singled to advance Damon to third.

Christopher Pasatieri/US Presswire

Alex Rodriguez walked to load the bases.  J.P. Howell was brought in to relieve Grant Balfour who had started the top of the inning in relief of Joe Nelson.  He surrendered a walk to Robinson Cano, which scored Damon from third.  3-2 Rays.  Jorge Posada grounded into a fielder's choice at third, which scored Teixeira.  A-Rod was safe at third, due to an error by third baseman Willy Aybar.  Game tied at 3.  Hideki Matsui came up next, and hit a grounder to second which took out Jorge Posada but Alex Rodriguez scored to put the Yanks up, 4-3.  Melky Cabrera missed a clutch scoring opportunity with a strikeout to end the inning, but the Yankees had their first lead of the game.

Bring on the 9^th and Mariano Rivera.  A day earlier, the Rays had victimized Rivera, scoring 4 runs in the 9^th to win 9-7.  In a controversial decision by manager Joe Girardi, Rivera had intentionally walked the Rays' Evan Longoria.  But Sunday was a new day, and Mo, never one to back down, was prepared.  The first two batters were retired easily.  Matt Joyce grounded out to first, and Gabe Gross struck out swinging.  The next batter due up was Dioner Navarro, but he took a seat as Evan Longoria was brought in to pinch hit.  The dramatic stage was set.  Rivera versus Longoria.  The matchup that had never materialized the previous day due to the intentional pass ordered by Girardi.  Would Longoria tie the game or get on base as the potential tying run?  Or would Rivera re-establish his dominance as perhaps the greatest closer of all-time?  Longoria fouled the first two pitches to fall behind in the count, 0-2.  The next pitch was a ball to put the count at 1-2.  On the fourth pitch, Longoria grounded out to second and the ball game was over.  The Rays were no longer undefeated at Yankee Stadium and the Yankees had moved into a tie with the Boston Red Sox for first, and then moved forward by a ½ game later in the day when the Texas Rangers defeated the Red Sox 6-3.  Alfredo Aceves, who has truly morphed into the role once occupied by Ramiro Mendoza, was the winner with two innings of one-hit, shutout ball in relief of Chamberlain.  Rivera picked up his 13th save.

Goodnight to the Rays and Red Sox!  This day belonged to the Yankees...

Hey Julia, the Yankees will soon be headed for Boston...with a vengeance!  Look out...

Go Yankees!

--Scott 

It was ugly...

When you have a game where the Yankees give up a total of 9 runs, it is surprising that the pitchers included CC Sabathia and Mariano Rivera.  But that's what happened in a disappointing Saturday game against the Tampa Bay Rays that saw the Yanks fall, 9-7.

Antonelli/New York Daily News

The Yankees had rallied from two runs down to tie the score at 5 in the 8^th inning.  CC Sabathia pitched 8 innings, but a homer by Ben Zobrist in the 5^th inning and a three-run shot in the 6^th by Willy Aybar had allowed the Rays to take a 5-3 lead. 

In the Yankees' 8^th, Mark Teixeira greeted reliever Grant Balfour with a leadoff homer to pull the Yanks within one.  The Yanks added another run when Melky Cabrera hit into a fielder's choice with the bases loaded, scoring Jorge Posada.

The stage was set for a dramatic Yankees comeback and walk-off win, but it was not meant to be.

The usually reliable Mariano Rivera came out to open the 9^th inning.  Ben Zobrist immediately hit a triple.  The next batter, Joe Dillon, singled to left single to score Zobrist with the go-ahead run.  The next two outs, a grounder and a fly out, advanced Dillon to third.  In a move that backfired and one that Rivera openly disagreed with, manager Joe Girardi called for Evan Longoria to be intentionally walked.  With Andy Sonnanstine running for Longoria, B.J. Upton followed with a single to score Dillon and advanced Sonnanstine to second.  In a rare occurrence, Rivera was pulled and Phil Coke was brought in to face Carl Crawford.  Crawford singled to left to score Sonnanstine, and Upton moved to third.  An error by Alex Rodriguez allowed Willy Aybar to reach first base, scoring Upton.  Crawford was thrown out attempting to steal third to finally end the horrific inning.

Jeff Zelevansky/AP

I do think it was inappropriate for Girardi to call for an intentional walk with Mo on the mound.  When you have your closer on the hill, I feel strongly that it should be an all or nothing proposition.  Mo wanted to pitch to Longoria, and he should have been allowed to.  Who knows, perhaps Longoria would have belted a homer, but we were never given the opportunity to find out.  Mo deserves better, and hopefully, he'll be back to his usual stellar self before the current series concludes.

sportsgrumblings.com

The Yankees attempted to rally in the 9^th.  Derek Jeter singled, and Johnny Damon doubled to put two runners in scoring position.  Mark Teixeira followed with a two-run double to bring the Yankees within two.  However, Tex was stranded at second as the next three Yankee batters were retired to end the game.  Former Yankee Randy Choate even picked up the save, his third of the season.

Tampa's pitching phenom, David Price, pitched a good game.  In 5 2/3 innings, he gave up three runs on two hits (only one run was earned), walking 5 and striking out 3.

AP

Alex Rodriguez hit his 561^st career home run, leaving him two shy of Reggie Jackson for 11^th place on the all-time list.

The Yankees remain winless at Yankee Stadium against their two key AL East Rivals, the Rays and the Boston Red Sox.  The Rays have won 3 games at the Stadium this year, and have a 4-2 mark overall for the season series.

I know that my friend, Kelly, is probably doing the Happy Dance in Tampa.  Thankfully, I haven't heard from her yet but I know it's coming if the games continue like this...

The loss, combined with the Red Sox win, dropped the Yankees out of first place.  They are now a ½ game behind Boston.  Boston beat the Texas Rangers 8-1 behind a tremendous pitching performance by Jon Lester.  I do have to tip my cap to Lester...he was masterful.  He had a perfect game through 6 1/3 innings.  He finished with a complete game, and allowed only 2 hits and 2 walks while striking out 11.

Globe Staff Photo/Barry Chin 

The game also included a David Ortiz home run, so I guess it was a perfect night for Julia...

Matthew Healey/Boston Herald 

It was a tough day, but in the words of the Governor, I'll be back!

Go Yankees!

--Scott

When does not playing a game mean a Yankees win?

Posted on YouTube by ShaBiCaoNiMa

Taking the glass is half empty approach, I had assumed that the Sox would pull in the front of the Yanks in the AL East Standings last night.  Fortunately, Elvis Andrus continued to impress, Ian Kinsler hit a huge three-run homer, Kevin Millwood pitched a terrific game, and Julio Lugo is the starting shortstop for the Boston Red Sox...

The Boston Glob

Friday's rainout against the Tampa Bay Rays has allowed manager Joe Girardi to reset the starting rotation in anticipation of the Red Sox series next week.  A.J. Burnett, currently appealing the 6 game suspension for throwing near the head of Texas outfielder Nelson Cruz, will open the series on Tuesday.  Chien-Ming Wang has been pushed from Tuesday to Wednesday (heck, David Ortiz is probably even salivating about the facing Wang), and CC Sabathia, today's starter against the Rays, will close the series against the Sox on Thursday.  Will it be enough to keep me out of a Jason Bay t-shirt and Julia in a Mark Teixeira t-shirt?  Time will tell, but I like my chances.  I don't think this will be a sweep for either team but Julia will be in for a surprise if she thinks that this is the same team she saw in April and early May.

Reuters 

Friday night's game has not been re-scheduled and it will not be made up during the current weekend series in New York.  All these make up days are going to take their toll later on the season due to double-headers or lost off-days.

OTHER NEWS...

I understood why the Pittsburgh Pirates traded Jason Bay to the Red Sox and Xavier Nady to the Yankees, but I do not understand the trade of Nate McLouth to the Atlanta Braves.  The Pirates are only 6 ½ games out of first place, yet they move one of their best players for young talent.  It feels like they are giving up the race before it starts.  I think Andrew McCutchen will be a great player, but now wasn't the time to make this type of move.  Of course, it just makes you wonder that when McCutchen finally puts it all together at the major league level if he'll just simply be moved on for more prospects.  Is there a plan in Pittsburgh?  I realize they have financial constraints, but the moves are very suspect.

AP

Carl Pavano threw a three-hit shutout against the White Sox?  Incredible.  I still see the day where the Tribe puts all their eggs in the Pavano basket and come away greatly disappointed.

Nam Y. Huh/AP

Shame on the Atlanta Braves for the way that they handled the release of Tom Glavine.  It is sad to see the departures of John Smoltz and Tom Glavine end so poorly.  Both guys deserved better treatment from the organization for their years of loyal service and high production.  I can't say that all Yankee careers have ended in a positive manner, but Smoltz and Glavine were poster boys for doing things the right way.  Hopefully, Glavine will land on his feet and be allowed to exit the stage on his own terms.

Elsa/Getty

There is speculation that the Boston Red Sox are interested in Washington Nationals first baseman Nick Johnson.  I would really prefer to see Johnson traded elsewhere.  It hasn't been fun watching onetime Yankee top prospect Mike Lowell prosper in Boston, particularly since the Yanks do not really have anything to show for the trade.  Of course, who did the Yankees get for Johnson?  Atlanta Braves pitcher Javier Vazquez, who had a very short stay in the Bronx as he was part of the three-way deal that brought Randy Johnson to New York for two uninspired years.  All things considered, I would have preferred to keep Nick Johnson...

Considering that Jason Bay is a "West Coast" guy (born in Trail, British Columbia), I'd like to see the San Francisco Giants pursue him in the off-season.

It would be the perfect setting for him to play in the Bay Area.  It doesn't get any better than that!  I wouldn't mind checking out a few games to see Bay by the Bay.  From a marketing standpoint, this makes way too much sense!

Hey Julia, thanks for First Place!  Your generosity, as always, is impeccable!  Please keep up your spirit of giving!  I'll gladly take it all...

Go Yankees!

--Scott

It wasn't a perfect, but all things considered, it could have been worse...

The Yankees beat the Texas Rangers, 8-6, while the Boston Red Sox won in Detroit against the Tigers, 6-3.  So, the two teams remain deadlocked atop the AL East Standings.

The Yankees survived a less than stellar return to the starting rotation by Chien-Ming Wang. 

The Yankees took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning on a Johnny Damon home run to right.

Wang looked good for the first couple of innings, but the trouble began in the 3^rd.  Chris Davis started the inning with a ground rule double.  He advanced to third on a sacrifice by Taylor Teagarden.  After an by Elvis Andrus, Davis scored on a wild pitch when Wang slipped.  The next batters, Ian Kinsler and Michael Young, reached base on a walk and an infield single, respectively.  That brought Hank Blalock to the plate who hit a single to left, scoring Kinsler and Young.  Nelson Cruz struck out to end the inning, but the Rangers resumed their offensive strike in the 4^th.

David Murphy singled, and was followed by Marlon Byrd who doubled, advancing Murphy to third.  Chris Davis doubled to right to score the two runners ahead of him.  Wang was then able to retire the next three batters to end the inning, but the Rangers had increased their lead to 4-1. 

Simmons/NY Daily News

In the 5^th, Wang was able to induce the first two batters to hit into ground outs, but the third batter, Nelson Cruz, unloaded a homer to center and Wang's day was done.  He was relieved by Alfredo Aceves, He walked two batters, and an error allowed the lead runner to third.  But Chris Davis popped out to end the threat.

In the bottom of the 5^th, the Yankee bats came alive against Rangers pitcher Brandon McCarthy.  Francisco Cervelli and Ramiro Pena both singled, and Johnny Damon walked to load the bases.  Nick Swisher walked, which scored Cervelli.   Mark Teixeira, continuing his offensive surge which began in May, doubled to left with a shot near line past charging third baseman Michael Young, scoring all three base runners to tie the score at 5.  Alex Rodriguez singled, scoring Teixeira, and the Yankees had re-captured the lead. 

The next inning, Aceves was able to retire the first two batters without much difficulty, but then allowed a home run to left by Ian Kinsler.  Once again, the game was tied.  It stayed that way until the bottom of the 8^th.  With C.J. Wilson on the mound for the Rangers, the first batter, Robinson Cano walked.  Hideki Matsui flied out, which brought Melky Cabrera to the plate.  Granted, it was a bit early for the "Walk Off" king, but Cabrera ignored that it wasn't the 9^th inning and launched a Wilson offering to left, giving the Yankees an 8-6 lead.

Noah K. Murray/The Star-Ledger

"What can you say?  He's always coming through for us," Mark Teixeira said after the game about Cabrera.

Mariano Rivera came on in the 9^th to close out the game.  He made it interesting with two hits, and had runners at second and third when he induced David Murphy to pop out to end the game.  Bent, but not broken and the Yankees had the win and Rivera had earned his 12^th save.  David Robertson, 1-0, was the winner after throwing just one pitch (a fly out to retire the Rangers in the 8th).  For a change, the Yankee bullpen was able to rescue the starting pitcher, and  the Yankees were able to win the series against the Rangers, two games to one.  It was disappointing to see the underwhelming performance by Wang, but all things considered, I'll take the victory. 

I was disappointed to hear that Wang's next start will be against the Boston Red Sox.  I am sure that their hitters started salivating when they heard the news.  The bad news was further compounded by the fact that A.J. Burnett was suspended for six games for his retaliatory pitch thrown near the head of Rangers outfielder Nelson Cruz in the game where Vicente Padilla plunked Mark Teixeira twice.  I was surprised that Vicente Padilla was only fined for his actions.  Burnett has appealed the suspension.

I wonder if Julia would give me a three run handicap for our wager on the Yankees-Red Sox series next week?  Probably not.  She's definitely living the good life, but hopefully there will be a few storm clouds on her Red Sox horizon...

Congratulations to...

Randy Johnson of my favorite National League team, the San Francisco Giants.  He because the sixth left hander and 24th major league player to win 300 games.  Johnson, 300-164, won on his first attempt at the milestone, and saved us the agony of watching the media follow him from city to city in his quest for 300 wins.  It was a good win for the Giants and a great performance by the Big Unit.

Nick Wass/AP

The Los Angeles Lakers, who thoroughly dominated the Orlando Magic, 100-75, in Game 1 of the NBA Finals.

Paul Buck/EPA

The Pittsburgh Penguins, who even the Stanley Cup Finals at 2 games, with a 4-2 victory over the Detroit Red Wings.

Jeff Kowalsky/EPA

Perhaps yesterday really was the perfect day... 

Have a fantastic Friday!

--Scott 

So much for sole possession of first place...

The Yankees lost to the Texas Rangers on Wednesday, 4-2.  Andy Pettitte gave up 4 runs in the first two innings, and the Yanks were never able to recover.

William Perlman/The Star Ledger 

After knocking in a run in the first inning, Alex Rodriguez did his best impression of the 2009 version of Big Papi as he stranded five runners on base.

The Yankees had every opportunity for late inning heroics, but it was a night of no magic or miracle comebacks.  Meanwhile, in Detroit, Josh Beckett and the Red Sox had a no-hitter going until the seventh inning, and ultimately won the game, 10-5.  So, this morning finds the Yankees and Red Sox perched atop the AL East Standings together.  Can they co-exist together?

Umm, probably not...

Julia has asked me to step aside, however, I'll be the rude host and block her path!  Hopefully, the Yankees can rebound today when Chien-Ming Wang faces Brandon McCarthy in the final game of the three game series with the Texas Rangers.  Will we see the 2006-07 version of Wang, or will the April 2009 version make its ugly reappearance?  I am obviously praying for the former.  Phil Hughes should be available for long relief should Wang falter...and of course the ever reliable Alfredo Aceves.

Lucy Nicholson/Reuters

In Detroit, Tim Wakefield pitches against the Tigers' Dontrelle Willis.  Wake has been the source of consistency for the Red Sox this season, so it will be a challenge for the Yanks to maintain a share of first place.  But, c'mon, an unhappy Julia is a great thing...at least when it comes to baseball!  So, hopefully today will see a Yankees win and a Red Sox loss.  The perfect day!

Have a great day!  Well, everyone except Red Sox fans...  ;)

--Scott

Perfect no more...

The Yankees errorless streak was halted at a major league record 18 games. I had expected Derek Jeter or Robinson Cano to boot a routine grounder to end the streak, but it was a throwing error by catcher Jorge Posada that sailed into center field on a stolen base attempt. Truth be told, I am glad to see the streak come to an end so that it removes the "pressure" of trying to maintain the streak.

John Dunn/MCT

Okay, I am better now...

It's amazing what a Yankees win will do for one's morale!  Especially, when it means some added ground on the Boston Red Sox, who had the night off.

Behind the best start of Joba Chamberlain's brief career, the Yankees defeated the Cleveland Indians, 5-2.  With the victory, they took three of four games from the Tribe, and completed the latest road trip with a 5-2 record.

I don't think anyone told the Yankees about "the birds and the bees" in Cleveland, but they seemed to be everywhere.  Nevertheless, Joba was able to focus on the game and didn't let them get into his psyche like the play-off game a few years back.  Regarding the bugs, he finally decided that if you can't beat them, eat them.  "Man, I started to see them come, I'll be honest with you", Joba said about the 8^th inning.  "I actually swallowed one when I was walking around the mound to start that inning".  So long as you can keep those fastballs coming in at 98 mph, Joba, you can eat whatever you'd like!

The play of the game clearly occurred in the 5^th inning.  The teams were deadlocked at 1, but Ryan Garko started the bottom of the 5^th with a walk.  Jamey Carroll was up next, and he singled to right to advance Garko to second.  After the homer by Victor Martinez the previous inning, I was starting to worry that the Tribe was getting ready to get untracked for a potential big inning.  Kelly Shoppach was the next batter, and popped the ball up toward third base.  The ball looked like it was going to drop quickly, so Garko was running toward third.  Joba ran toward third and dove for the ball in a full airborne sprawl, and caught it while he was falling to the ground.  He was a little disoriented regarding Garko's location, but the other players yelled out and Joba had time to spin around and throw Garko out at second. 

Mark Duncan/AP

Chuck Crow/The Plain Dealer 

Just like that, the fear of the big inning was over, and the Tribe had two outs with a runner at first.  Bases loaded or if he hadn't thrown Garko out, Cleveland would have had at least two runners in scoring position and the inning would have looked much different.  The cameras caught Andy Pettitte in the dugout.  He was standing next to CC Sabathia, and laughing hysterically.  After the game, Pettitte said that it looked like Joba was diving into a swimming pool.  Regardless of what it looked like, it was two outs and Joba never looked back.

LM Otero/AP

The next inning, Cleveland walked the first three batters so the Yankees had the bases loaded with no outs...and of course, no hits.  Greg Aquino relieved Jeremy Sowers, and struck out A-Rod.  The next two  batters were easily retired, and the threat was eliminated. 

By now, Joba was on top of his game and breezed through the Tribe in the 6^th.  The Yanks broke through for 4 runs in the 7^th.  A double off the left field wall by Nick Swisher, started the scoring by bringing home Ramiro Pena and Brett Gardner.  After an intentional walk to Mark Teixeira, former Yankee Luis Vizcaino came in and gave up a two-run single to Alex Rodriguez. 

Cleveland scored a run in the bottom of the 7^th to pull within 3 runs, but that was it.  Joba pitched effectively through 8 innings, and Mariano Rivera was his usual stellar self in the 9^th. 

Per Mark Feinsand's Blogging the Bombers column in the New York Daily News, the quote of the night was by Nick Swisher:  "There were like, what, 8,000 seagulls out there?  Come on, this ain't even the beach, it's Cleveland!"

It was a fun game to watch.  You could easily see the team chemistry at play.  One shot of the bench showed CC Sabathia getting up and walking toward Johnny Damon's direction.  With his right hand, he flipped a handful of sunflower sands on Damon as he walked past.  Damon had a feigned look of disgust, and you could tell that these guys genuinely like each other.  That is something that could not always been said of Yankee teams in recent years.  For me, it reminds me of the camaraderie of the late 90's.  The results may not match the achievements of those teams, particularly the great season of 1998.  However, this is a team destined for the play-offs if GM Brian Cashman can make the right moves to solidify the bullpen.  No pressure, Brian!