Baseball, The Yankees, and Life...

YANKEES ARE 2009 WORLD CHAMPIONS !!!

2009-11-05T04:51:25Z

YES !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

#27

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

Phillies Win Game 5; Yankees Still Lead Series, 3-2

2009-11-04T01:06:00Z

No second guessing [here] on my part regarding Joe Girardi's decision to pitch A. J. Burnett on three games rest in Game 5 of the World Series against the Phillies. Even though A.J. was terrible in his start ... in my view, Girardi, and the Yankees braintrust, made the right move in sending Burnett to the mound because basically: what other options did they have?

Chad Gaudin, the only possible fourth starter for the Yanks in this series, has not pitched in about a month. He would have pitched no more than three to five innings. So, it would have made very little sense in taking a chance with Gaudin on the mound instead of Burnett, especially, with all the ineffectiveness out of the bullpen.

A.J. was brought to the Bronx to pitch big games for the Yanks, and it seems very clear to me: Game 5 of the World Series was a "big" game. Since Burnett was available to pitch on three games rest, then, there really was no other choice for Girardi, but to pitch A.J. over Gaudin. Period.

There is no way to sugarcoat A.J. Burnett's performance, though -- he was awful.

A.J., who had a solid outing in Game 2, lasted only two innings, allowing, six runs, on four hits, four walks, and two strikeouts.

He was replaced by David Robertson with no outs in the third inning, after walking Utley and Howard, and, then, allowing RBI singles to Jayson Werth and Raul Ibanez before being taken out of the game. Robertson allowed one more run to score for a 6-1 Phillies lead before getting out of the jam without any further damage.

The Phillies took their first lead, 3-1, in the bottom of the first inning on a three-run homer by Chase Utley after the Yanks scored a run in the top of the inning.

In the seventh inning, the Phillies increased their lead to 8-2 on solo home runs by Utley and Ibanez. Utley's homer was his fifth of the series, tying Reggie Jackson's record of five homers in the Yankees victory over the Dodgers in the 1977 World Series.

In the meantime, Phillies starter, Cliff Lee pitched seven solid innings before getting into trouble in the top of the eight inning.

Johnny Damon led off the eight with a single which was followed by a single by Mark Teixeira and a two-RBI double by Alex Rodriguez that cut the Phillies lead to 8-4.

Lee (2-0), was replaced by Chan Ho Park with no outs in the eight.

Park faced Nick Swisher, who advanced Rodriguez on a ground ball out. A-Rod then scored on a sac-fly by Robinson Cano that made the score 8-5.

The Yankees scored their final run in the top of the ninth, before Ryan Madson closed out the Phillies 8-6 victory.

The 2009 World Series now heads to the Beautiful Bronx for Game 6, with the New York Yankees leading the series "three" games to "two" over the Philadelphia Phillies.

Another classic pitching match-up is on tap ...

Andy Pettitte, (Yankees) vs. Pedro Martinez, (Phillies).

In my view, I think both starters will pitch well, with Andy out-dueling Pedro into the seventh inning.

But, the key for a Yankees win will be a solid bridge directly from Pettitte, with seven strong innings pitched, to the "Great Mariano" Rivera, closing out the Yankees World Series winning final game by recording a two-inning save, pitching a scoreless eight and ninth innings.

Andy to Mariano is: "THE BRIDGE TO VICTORY" !!!

And, a final note: I look for huge offensive numbers by: Hideki Matsui, Jorge Posada, and Mark Teixeira in tonight's game.

"GO YANKEES" !!!

ONE MORE WIN FOR #27 !!!

Enjoy the game tonight ...

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

Damon's Daring Dash Sparks Yanks 7-4 Win In Game 4

2009-11-02T12:04:00Z

With two outs and the score tied 4-4 in the top of the ninth inning of Game 4 of the 2009 World Series against the Phillies, Johnny Damon battled at the plate until he stroked Brad Lidge's ninth pitch of the at bat to leftfield for a single that started yet another late-inning rally by the Bronx Bombers.

Then, on the first pitch to next batter Mark Teixeira, Damon took off for second and easily stole the base. On the play, with the shift on the right side of the infield for Teix, Damon quickly poped up from his slide, spun around, and sprinted towards third base which was not covered by any Phillie player because of the shift, earning Johnny an unchallenged second stolen base on a very rare base running play.

The unusual turn of events clearly unnerved the Phillies closer as Lidge then hit Teixeira that set up a first and third situation for Alex Rodriguez.

And, A-Rod delivered ... one of his biggest hits as a Yankee, a RBI double that plated Damon with the go-ahead run, moving the Yankees into the 5-4 lead.

Jorge Posada followed with a two-RBI single that scored Teixeira and Rodriguez with two big insurance runs, capping the scoring in the Yankees 7-4 victory.

The Great Mariano Rivera closed out the Yankees win with an easy one-two-three ninth inning that gave the Bombers a three games to one lead in the 2009 World Series.

The Yankees starter on the mound, CC Sabathia, was pitching with three days rest, and gave the Yanks a very solid effort even though he struggled throughout his six and two-thirds innings of work in which he gave up three runs, on seven hits, three walks, and six strikeouts, while throwing 107 pitches.

Damaso Marte recorded the final out of the seventh inning, protecting the Yanks 4-3 lead as the game entered the eight.

Joba Chamberlain was then called on to build the "Bridge to Mariano". But, even though Joba struck out the side, he allowed a two-out, solo homer to Pedro Feliz on a three-two pitch that resulted in the Phillies tying the score at 4-4.

The Yankees jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead in the first off Phillies starter Joe Blanton on a lead-off single by Derek Jeter, which was followed by a double by Damon, and, a RBI groundout by Teixeira; A-Rod reaching first on a hit-by-pitch; and, a sac-fly by Posada.

The hit-by-pitch was the third time Alex has been hit in this Series, and resulted in the home plate umpire issuing warnings to both benches. It seems obvious, the Phillies would rather hit A-Rod with one pitch instead of using four balls to walk him to first.

Anyway, the Phillies scored one run in the bottom of the first to cut the Yanks lead in half; and, scored again in the fourth to tie the score 2-2.

Then, in the top of the fifth, Nick Swisher walked; Melky Cabrera singled; Jeter [2-for-4], hit a RBI single that gave the Yanks a 3-2 lead; which was followed by a RBI single by Damon [3-for-5], that increased the Bombers lead to 4-2 at the time.

Blanton delivered a serviceable six innings starting this game for the Phillies, a move that has been, and will always be questioned, as manager Charlie Manuel decided "not" to pitch his "ace" Cliff Lee on three days rest, which would have matched Lee up against the Yankees "ace" CC Sabathia who "was" working on three days rest.

Advantage Joe Girardi on these pitching decisions, as the Yankees manager has perfectly set CC in the rotation to pitch games one, four, and seven [if necessary].

So, the New York Yankees are now up in this Series 3-1, with A.J. Burnett [on three days rest] taking the mound against Cliff Lee in Game 5.

Alex Rodriguez had the game-winning hit in Game 4; but, it was Johnny Damon's classic nine-pitch at-bat; single; and two stolen bases, in the ninth inning that sparked the Yankees victory.

Much like Paul O'Neill's classic ten-pitch at-bat against Armando Beitez in the ninth inning of Game One of the 2000 World Series against the New York Mets, Damon's at-bat has now become another special moment in Yankees history.

Johnny Damon's great game and play in this World Series may lead to him be selected MVP, as the Yankees are on a solid path to their 27th World Championship.

The "Magic Number" is now "ONE" for number 27.

"GO YANKEES" !!!

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

"GC" Lee Out-Duels "CC" In Game 1 Of World Series

2009-10-29T10:01:00Z

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cliff Lee was in total control on the mound in the first game of the 2009 World Series against the New York Yankees, leading the National League Champs to a 6-1 victory over the Bronx Bombers.

Cliff Lee was brilliant, dazzling Yankee batters with a devastating curveball throughout his 122 pitch effort, that produced ten strikeouts, while Lee allowed one unearned run, six hits [including three hits by Derek Jeter], and no walks, in route to his complete game win.

Yankees starter CC Sabathia pitched well enough to win, throwing 113 pitches over seven solid innings of work, allowing only two runs [two solo homers by second baseman Chase Utley: in the third and sixth innings]; on four hits; three walks; and six strikeouts.

When CC was replaced at the start of the eight inning, the Phillies were leading 2-0; and, that's when the senseless parade of Yankee relievers was put in motion [once again] by grand marshal, Joe Girardi.

The bullpen was awful, collapsing any possible "Bridge to Mariano" before it was even constructed.

Phil Hughes walked two batters at the start of the eight, and was booed off the mound after being replaced by Damaso Marte who was the most effective Yankee reliever, retiring the two batters he faced.

With two outs, David Robertson replaced Marte, and promptly issued a four-pitch walk to load the bases. Then, Robertson gave up a two-RBI single to the next batter Raul Ibanez that increased the Phillies lead to 4-0.

Brian Bruney, who for reasons unknown was added to the World Series roster, allowed the final two Phillies runs in the ninth, without any help from Phil Coke - the final Yankee pitcher out of the pen. This continued ineffectiveness put the game out of reach for the Yanks as Cliff Lee was still on the mound painting his masterpiece.

The Yankees scored a meaningless unearned run in the bottom of the ninth on a throwing error by shortstop Jimmy Rollins on a double play attempt that capped the scoring in the Phillies 6-1 victory.

Maybe, even if CC Sabathia was allowed to stay in this game into the ninth inning, it still would not have made a difference in the score because Cliff Lee was just way too dominant on this night in the Bronx.

But, Joe Girardi has to stop "over-managing" the bullpen the rest of this World Series.

If four, or five, [or more], Yankee relievers are constantly brought into each game, the odds are: not all these pitchers are going to be effective and pitch well. The only bridge to Mariano Rivera should be built directly from the starting pitcher each game.

And, maybe, even allowing the Yankees starters to complete some games would be a very refreshing path to victory.

Just look at the game Cliff Lee pitched in Game One -- a "CG" victory.

It is time for Manager Joe Girardi to forget about "pitch-counts"; "inning limitations"; "righty/lefty pitching matchups"; or, "using the middle relievers" out of the Yankees bullpen.

Let the starters pitch into the eight and ninth innings; then, go to the "Great Mariano".

This is the reason why CC, A.J., and Andy were given huge contracts in 2009 -- to start, and lead the Yankees to victory.

There will be plenty of time to rest after the World Series is over; and, the deeper our starters pitch in each game, the greater the Yankees chances of winning their 27th World Championship this year.

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

Yankees Freeze-Out Angels; Win Game 1 of ALCS, 4-1

2009-10-17T20:01:00Z

Finally, after a week delay, baseball has returned. And, it is a great return for all of us in the Yankees Universe, as the New York Yankees, led by an awesome pitching performance by our "ace" CC Sabathia, won the first game of the American League Championship Series, 4-1, over the Los Angeles Angels on a raw, frigid, winter-like night at Yankee Stadium in the "always" beautiful Bronx, New York.

It is so wonderful that baseball is back on the national stage. Also, personally, it feels great to be back blogging again after a short absence because of my busy schedule which has greatly limited and curtailed my blogging activities here at my mlblog and throughout the mlblogosphere.

I am truly sorry for my lack of new posts, and not responding to the many excellent comments that have been posted on my blog over the past few weeks. I hope to update my blog by offering new posts on a regular basis throughout the rest of the playoffs and World Series, as well as, offering responses to comments on my blog, and, also, commentary on as many other mlblogs as possible in the time that my schedule permits.

Thank you to all who have visited my blog, and, or, also, posted comments on my posts. I truly appreciate all your kind words and thoughts; and, look forward to your future support and visits. Enjoy all the upcoming baseball action the rest of this post-season.

Game 1 was really over after the first inning when the Yankees took a early 2-0 lead, on a lead-off single by Derek Jeter; a single by Johnny Damon who advanced to second on a throwing error by left fielder Juan Rivera; a long sacrifice fly to center by Alex Rodriguez after Mark Teixeira flied out to left; and, an infield single on a pop-up in between short and third by Hideki Matsui that looked like an easy out; but, there was some miscommunication on the play between shortstop Erick Aybar and third baseman Chone Figgins that allowed the ball to drop safely to the ground [untouched] for the RBI hit.

On the replay it looked like Figgins called to Aybar to make the catch; but, Aybar was waring a ski mask to shield is face from the cold which also covered both his ears. Maybe this caused the shortstop to not hear his third baseman on the play. Anyway, this was a major mistake by the Angels infielders, and probably the key moment of the game that set the tone for the Yankees victory.

The Angels scored their only run in the fourth inning on a double by Vladmir Guerro, and a RBI single by Kendry Morales that cut the Yankees lead to 2-1 at the time.

The Yankees increased their lead to 3-1 on a RBI by Matsui in the bottom of the fifth; and, completed the scoring in the game in the sixth inning when Melky Cabrera reached first on a two-out walk; advanced to second on a bad pick-off attempt by Angels starter John Lackey; and scored on a single to center by Derek Jeter that deflected off the glove of Torii Hunter allowing Melky to score without a play at the plate, upping the score to 4-1 in favor of the Yanks.

John Lackey lasted only five and two-third innings in this game, and certainly was hurt by the three Angels erros which resulted in two of the Yankee four runs being unearned.

But, CC Sabathia delivered a brilliant performance, throwing 113 pitches over eight solid innings, allowing one run, on four hits, one walk, and seven strikeouts to earn a very well-pitched victory, exactly the reason why the Yankees signed the great left-handed hurler last winter.

Mariano Rivera closed out this win for the Yankees by pitching a scoreless ninth inning, recording his all-time leading 36th post-season save.

Game 1 is now history with the Yankees leading the ALCS one game to none against the Angels.

The Yankees need only three more wins to become American League Champions; and, seven total wins for their 27th World Championship.

It is great to see baseball back on the world stage.

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

Road To The 2009 MLB World Championship

2009-10-07T16:00:00Z

I do not usually like to make predictions 'cause you never know how a baseball game or series is going to turn out. Any team can get hot at the right time of the year, and go on to win big ball games and Championship series', all the way to winning the World Series.

Also, if the New York Yankees are involved in any playoff or World Series games, I am always going to to root for my all-time favorite team, the Bronx Bombers, throughout the post-season. So, I will never pick the Yankees to lose a series.

With all the above said, the following are my views on which teams will win the Division and Championship Series' in both leagues, and, also, the 2009 World Series winner ...

ALDS

Yankees over Twins -- 4 games

Red Sox over Angels -- 5 games

NLDS

Dodgers over Cardinals -- 5 games

Phillies over Rockies -- 4 games

ALCS

Yankees over Red Sox -- 7 games

NLCS

Dodgers over Phillies -- 7 games

WORLD SERIES

New York Yankees over Los Angeles Dodgers -- 6 games

The New York Yankees, 2009 World Champions ...

Their 27th World Championship !!!

Congratulations to all teams playing in the 2009 Post-Season !!!

May every "game" and each "series" be fun and exciting to watch !!!

Everybody, enjoy all the baseball action !!!

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

Yanks Clinch AL East Crown; 11 Wins To Go For #27

2009-09-28T17:00:00Z

Well, it has been awhile since my last post. But during my busy schedule over the last few weeks I certainly have followed the Yankees pennant drive as the Bronx Bombers finally coasted into a smooth landing on top of the AL East, clinching their 16th Division Title since 1976.

The Yankees won six World Championships so far during the George M. Steinbrenner III era, and, hope to make this seven World Series victories for "The Boss", winning their 27th World Championship, sometime at the close of the 2009 post-season in the early days of November.

From (0-8), to (6-9), to (9-9), vs. the Boston Red Sox, reflects the story of the New York Yankees 2009 regular season. And, what a perfect way to claim victory in the AL East: a three-game sweep, 9-5; 3-0; 4-2, over the Red Sox this past weekend at Yankee Stadium that resulted in the Bronx Bombers clinching first place with their 100th win of the year, which also clinched home-field advantage throughout the playoffs for the Yanks who will end up with the best record in all of Major League Baseball.

So, now the journey continues as it really just starts for the New York Yankees with the beginning of the playoffs in about 10 days.

The Yankees goal this year is the same goal as "every" year -- "Win The World Series".

The climb to the top of the baseball world has three acts that must be accomplished by the Yanks to become 2009 World Champions:

* Win three of five games in the American League Division Championship Series.

* Win four of seven games in the American League Championship Series.

* Win four of seven games in the World Series.

The above three-act play places the Yankees "Magic Number" at 11. If they play to perfection during this post-season, the New York Yankees will continue their great winning tradition with their 27th World Championship. Anything less will be a failure.

"Congratulations" to all in the New York Yankees organization !!!

The 2009 regular season has been outstanding and wonderful to watch. You have made all of us in the Yankees Universe very proud to be Yankee fans. We all look forward to another special post-season, with the closing act ending with a standing ovation that will last throughout the days of Autumn and Winter into spring training 2010.

And, then, that ovation will continue at the Yankees home Opening Day, 2010, which will be even more special, highlighted by the raising of the 2009 World Championship banner in centerfield at the new Yankee Stadium, signifying that the New York Yankees are once again the best team in all of Baseball.

27 is a very special number !!!

But, it will take 11 more wins to make it happen.

The Yankees goal is clearly in sight. May this October and November bring many special memories that Yankee fans will remember for a lifetime.

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

Three Hits By The "Captain", Ties The "Captain" ...

2009-09-10T18:04:00Z

The "Captain" Derek Jeter collected three hits in the Yankees 4-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays in the final game of their four-game series at Yankee Stadium [which was swept by the Yanks], that tied the Yankees first "Captain", Hall of Famer, Lou Gehrig, on top of the New York Yankees all-time hit list with 2,721 hits.

Derek Jeter

Jeter led off the game with a surprise bunt single on the first pitch by Rays starting pitcher Jeff Niemann that ended the captain's 0-12 hitless streak.

In the third inning Jeter grounded out to short.

In the fifth inning Derek blasted a shot to straight away centerfield that sailed over the head of B.J. Upton before taking a bounce over the wall for a grounds-rule double.

And, finally, in the bottom of the seventh Jeter stroked a two-out, first pitch, single, past first base down the right field line for his Gehrig tying 2,721th hit.

Lou Gehrig

In the meantime, as this game headed into the eight inning, the Yankees were losing 2-0 to the Rays.

Without doubt, Jeter was happy that he had tied the "Great" Lou Gehrig's all-time hit record; but, I'm sure Derek would be the first one to tell anybody: a Yankees loss would certainly take the shine off this outstanding accomplishment.

The Yankees had this in mind also, and, once again, provided some late-inning dramatics by first scoring a run in the eight that made the score 2-1, before Jorge Posada hit a solid line drive, one-out, three-run homer, off reliever Grant Balfour, into the lower right-field porch that moved the Bronx Bombers into a 4-2 lead.

Posada's 21st homer kept the inning going; and, after Melky Cabrera made the second out, Derek Jeter had one more chance to travel past Gehrig's hit record in this game.

Jeter had a couple of good cuts at the plate, but was walked on a 3-2 count by Balfour.

So, Derek would remain tied with Lou Gehrig until at least Friday night, September 11th, when the Yankees start a three-game series against the Baltimore Orioles at The Stadium.

The Yankees took their 4-2 lead into the top of the ninth inning; and, in a game that the "Joba Rules" once again limited Joba Chamberlain to only three innings on the mound, [in which he allowed both Tampa Bay runs in the first inning], the Yankees relievers: Alfredo Aceves, Jonathan Albaladejo (5-1), Brian Bruney, and Phil Coke, held the Rays hitless from the fourth inning on, with Coke earning his second save by closing out this win on a final out strikeout.

On this historic night that Derek Jeter tied the "Iron Horse", Lou Gehrig's all-time hit record, the Yankees 4-2 victory which completed a four-game sweep over the Tampa Bay Rays, made this special accomplishment even more "special".

In Mike Puma's New York Post article, Derek Jeter expressed his feelings on tying Lou Gehrig's record:

"I was a Yankee fan growing up and to come up through this organization and what [Gehrig] stood for, being the captain, he's probably one of the classiest people ever to play the game" ... "To be alongside him, pretty much anything you can do to have your name next to his is quite an accomplishment" ...

"We had so many special moments across the street", Jeter said ... "This is hopefully the first of many memorable moments here at the new Stadium. The fans have been tremendous and it's just a lot of fun."

-- photo credits:

* google images

* photos. nj. com/star-ledger/2009/09/derek_jeter

* http:// yankeeology. com/yankeefans

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

A Game To Just Forget

2009-09-07T05:48:00Z

Blue Jays 14, Yankees 8 ...

With this loss, the New York Yankees split a four-game series against the Blue Jays in Toronto. But, this was a very successful road trip as the Bronx Bombers (87-50), won five of seven games to remain in first place in the AL East, seven and a half games ahead of the second place Boston Red Sox (79-57).

The Yankees return home to play a Labor Day day/night doubleheader against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium in the Beautiful Bronx.

The big story, of course, is Derek Jeter's pursuit of Lou Gehrig's all-time Yankees hit record.

The "Captain" Jeter is four hits away from passing the Yankees first "Captain", the Iron Horse, Lou Gehrig on the all-time New York Yankees hit list.

Gehrig has 2,721 career hits; and, Jeter with three hits in yesterday's loss to the Blue Jays, now stands at a total of 2,718 hits.

"Best Wishes" and "Thanks" to Derek for his many great years in Yankee Pinstripes.

And, Best Wishes to all who have visited my blog ...

I hope everybody has a very enjoyable Labor Day holiday weekend !!!

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

A Tale Of Two Starting Pitchers ...

2009-09-05T10:00:00Z

After beating the Blue Jays 10-5 in the first game of this four-game series in Toronto, the New York Yankees were stopped right in their tracks by the good doctor, Roy "Doc" Halladay, on a masterfully pitched, one-hit, complete game, 6-0 shutout.

Roy "Doc" Halladay

This game could really be called "A Tale Of Two Starting Pitchers", as Halladay delivered a performance that once again showcased why he is one of the best pitchers in baseball, while the Yankees braintrust are still dabbling with the "Joba Rules", trying to find the right formula that will limit Joba Chamberlain's innings pitched [this year] in the range of 150-160 innings, and, also, win ball games during this experiment.

In this era of baseball when the "complete game" is a very rare feat indeed, Roy "Doc" Halladay (14-8, 2.98 ERA), pitched his sixth CG this year by tossing 111 pitches, over nine brilliant innings, allowing no runs, on only one hit, a double to Ramiro Pena in the sixth innng, three walks and nine strikeouts.

In his 12-year Major League career, all with the Blue Jays, Doc Halladay has started 282 games; has a record of (145-74, 3.46 ERA); 46 complete games, including 13 shutouts, with two shutouts in 2009.

Halladay had a perfect game going with two outs in the fifth inning when he walked Jorge Posada, ending his bid for perfecton. But, Doc struck out Robinson Cano to end the inning with a no-hitter still on the scoreboard.

Then, in the sixth inning with a 4-0 lead, Halladay had his most trouble of the night, loading the bases on Pena's one-out double, which broke up the no-hitter; and, back-to-back, two-out walks to Eric Hinske and Mark Teixeira that brought Alex Rodriguez up to the plate.

But, A-Rod could not deliver a big clutch hit, striking out on four pitches, with the third strike being a pitch right over the middle of the plate that fooled Rodriguez as he was called-out [looking] to end the Yankees only threat of scoring in this game.

At this point, Joba Chamberlain (8-5, 4.41 ERA), was already out of the game, lasting a pre-determined three innings, in which he threw 59 pitches, allowing three runs (two earned), six hits, and two walks, while striking out only two batters.

Joba Chamberlain

Well, maybe it did not mean much, as Joe Girardi said after the game, "Roy Halladay was great; if we gave up one run, we wouldn't have won tonight."

But, the Yankees did use four relievers out of the bullpen after Joba's early departure; and, in his next three scheduled starts, Chamberlain is projected [?] to pitch only four, five, and six innings in successive order of those games.

This all adds extra pressure to the Yankees bullpen, as well as, not giving Joba enough innings of work to go the distance [at least seven or eight innings] in his future starts this season, and in the post-season.

I guess the only reason the Yankees (86-49), can continue this experiment is because they are in first place, up by seven and a half games over the second place Boston Red Sox (78-56) in the AL East.

It would have made a lot more sense, though, to limit Joba's innings in April and May so these ridiculous set of "rules" were not in effect at this late stage of the 2009 season, in the middle of a pennant race.

I look forward to the 2010 season, for Joba's sake, and all in the Yankees Universe, when the "Joba Rules" will be no more.

-- photo credits:

* google images

* http:// www. rightfieldbleachers. com/

* http:// blogs. mycentraljersey. com / yankees

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

Yankees Sweep Orioles; Magic Number Is 23

2009-09-03T16:30:00Z

Almost Perfect Andy Spins A Gem ...

Andy Pettitte was masterful on the mound in the first game of this three-game series against the Orioles, almost tossing a perfect game in the Yankees 5-1 victory at Camden Yards in Baltimore.

Pettitte retired 20 straight batters until Adam Jones hit a grounder to third base that traveled through Jerry Hairston's legs for an error with two outs in the bottom of the seventh inning that ended Andy's bid for perfection.

There was still a no-hitter on the board, though, that was broken by next batter Nick Markakis on an opposite field single, past third base, down the left field line that made this game even more interesting. The game was now "on the line" with the go-ahead run coming up to the plate with runners on first and second, two outs, and the Yanks leading 2-0.

But, Pettitte protected the shutout by retiring the final batter Nolan Reimold, on a full-count, ground out to Derek Jeter at short.

Nick Swisher (3-for-4), put the Yanks in the 2-0 lead with a solo homer (#22), in the third, and a RBI double in the fifth. And, the Bronx Bombers gave Pettitte a little more breathing room by scoring three runs in the top of the eight on a RBI single by Johnny Damon, and a two-RBI double by Robinson Cano that increased their lead to 5-0.

The shutout was wiped off the scoreboard in the bottom of the eight inning when Pettitte gave up a solo homer to Melvin Mora that cut the Yankees lead to 5-1.

Andy Pettitte (12-6), finished his brilliant performance with 104 pitches thrown over eight spectacular innings, allowing one run, two hits, no walks, while striking out eight.

After the game, Jorge Posada said, this may have been Pettitte's best start, as he could not remember Andy ever having that good of a game.

Brian Bruney was called into this game at the start of the ninth but could not close out the victory. He put two runners on base on a single and walk with one out, which resulted in Mariano Rivera having to take the mound.

The "Great Mariano" retired the final two batters to preserve this 5-1 Yankees victory, recording his 37th save.

To view boxscore, click on: Yankees 5, Orioles 1

Five Homers Power Yanks 9-6 Win Over Orioles ...

In a game that Yankees starting pitcher A.J. Burnett was "awful", lasting only 5.1 innings, while allowing six runs, on eleven hits, two walks, and two strike outs, the Bronx Bombers won their fifth game in a row on a power surge of "five" home runs that led to a 9-6 victory in the middle game of their three-game series vs. the Orioles.

Robinson Cano (3-for-4), two runs, two RBI's, hit his 22nd homer.

Jorge Posada (2-for-4), three runs, three RBI's, hit two homers (#18, 19).

Nick Swisher hit homer number 23.

Eric Hinske hit his 6th homer as a Yankee.

This game started out poorly for A.J. Burnett right from the first inning when Felix Pie hit a homer that gave the O's an early 1-0 lead.

Robinson Cano then hit a two-run homer in the second, and Posada hit a solo shot in the third that gave the Bombers the 3-1 lead in this contest.

The Orioles tied the score 3-3 in the bottom of the third before Posada hit his second home run of the night that moved the Yanks back into the lead at 5-3.

But, A.J. once again could not hold the score as Luke Scott sent a soaring three-run blast out of the ballpark over the right field wall onto Eutaw Street to give the O's a 6-5 advantage, and basically ended Burnett's time on the mound in this game.

In his last seven starts, A.J. Burnett is 0-4 with a 6.54 ERA; and, when the Yankees tied the score 6-6 in the top of the sixth, this took Burnett off the hook for the loss. But, a "no decision", or loss, is not what is expected from one of our top free-agent signings every time he takes the mound.

The Yankee bats are hot, though; and, back to back homers by Nick Swisher (two-run blast, his 20th road homer), and Eric Hinske's solo shot in the top of the seventh, moved the Bombers into the lead for good with the score now 9-6.

The bullpen held the lead the rest of the way, as Marte (1-1), Robertson, and Coke built a solid "Bridge to Marinao" who recorded his 38th save tossing a scoreless ninth inning that closed out the Yankees 9-6 win.

To view boxscore, click on: Yankees 9, Orioles 6

CC Rides to 16th win as Yanks Beat O's 10-2 ...

The Baltimore Orioles scored a run in the bottom of the first, and Eric Hinske tied the score 1-1 with a homer (#7) in the third which was all the scoring through the first six innings of this game.

Then, in the seventh, Johnny Damon walked; Nick Swisher doubled; and both scored on a single by Alex Rodriguez that gave the Yanks a 3-1 lead.

For A-Rod, that was his second single of the game, his first being his 2,500th career hit in the fifth inning.

In the meantime, CC Sabathia (16-7), pitched a very solid game, throwing 105 pitches over seven great innings of work, allowing one run, on seven hits, one walk, and nine strikeouts.

Brian Bruney replaced Sabathia at the start of the eight inning, and he was ineffective once again as he promptly gave up a solo homer to Nolan Reimold (#13), that cut the Yankees lead to 3-2.

Bruney was awarded his 9th "hold" for his one-third of an inning on the mound which is a totally ridiculous stat in this situation.

A "hold" is given when a reliever holds the lead of his team when he makes an appearance in a game. In my view, though, a "hold" should only be awarded when a reliever holds the lead by not allowing any runs to score during his time in the game.

Anyway, Brian Bruney was not effective once again out of the bullpen. That is the most important stat that should concern Joe Girardi, as well as, all Yankee fans, as we go forward in this pennant drive.

Phil Coke and Phil Hughes retired the final two batters of the eight, moving this game into the top of the ninth with the Yanks still leading 3-2.

In the ninth, the Bombers broke this game wide open by sending 12 batters up to the plate scoring seven runs which included another two-RBI single by Alex Rodriguez.

This ninth-inning outburst by the Bronx Bombers capped the scoring in this game, framing the Yankees 10-2 lead.

Phil Hughes pitched a scoreless ninth inning to preserve this Yankees victory, earning his second save of the season.

To view boxscore, click on: Yankees 10, Orioles 2

The first place New York Yankees now have a record of (85-48), and a seven and a half game lead over the second place Boston Red Sox (77-55) in the AL East.

This places the Yankees "magic number" at 23 games.

Any combination of 23 Yankees wins, and, or, Red Sox losses will clinch first place in the AL East for the New York Yankees.

"Go Yankees" !!!

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

Yanks Sweep ChiSox; Joba Rules Only Three Innings

2009-08-31T19:08:00Z

The New York Yankees completed a three-game weekend sweep over the Chicago White Sox with an 8-3 win on a beautiful Sunday afternoon at Yankee Stadium in the Beautiful Bronx.

Joba Chamberlain was the Yankees starting pitcher; but, really, he was only a three-inning set-up man for construction of a very long bridge by the bullpen that thankfully led to victory.

In the "new and improved" [?] version of the Joba Rules, Chamberlain was slated to pitch only three innings -- no matter how well he pitched. The top secret "rules" which are known by fewer people than those who know the top secret recipes of Coca Cola and Kentucky Fried Chicken have left all of us in the Yankees Universe, and I'm sure other baseball fans as well, to wonder: what exactly will be Joba's innings limitations and pitch counts for the rest of the 2009 season?

I mean, come on already. Is it too much to let Chamberlain pitch at least five innings in games that he starts?

Joba threw "only" 35 pitches over three innings of work. He gave up two runs on four hits, walked none and struck out one, and, then, was replaced by Alfredo Aceves at the start of the fourth inning with the Yankees leading 3-2. Joba Chamberlain's effort earned him a "no decision" without any chance of getting the win in this game because he did not pitch five innings [a decision made by the Yankees braintrust].

It is not only the fact that Joba was allowed to pitch only three innings that is annoying. The limited time on the mound by Joba meant the bullpen would be given extra pressure to perform perfectly; and, it was annoying to sit through a parade of five Yankee relievers entering the game starting from the fourth inning with our starting pitcher sitting on the bench.

The Yankees only had a 3-2 lead at this time; and, the odds are: the more relievers that take the mound in a game, not every relief pitcher is going to pitch well. Also, using some of these relievers in this game would prevent them from appearing in the next game or two, when they may be really needed.

Until the Yankees reach the eight inning in a game, where Phil Hughes has performed brilliantly; and, of course, the ninth inning, in which the "Great Mariano" Rivera is having one of his best seasons of his career -- a Cy Young Award type season -- it is in the best interest of the New York Yankees to have their starting pitchers work [at least] seven innings in every start they take the mound.

As it turned out, though, in this game ...

Johnny Damon hit a two-run homer (#24, which tied his career high) that gave the Yankees the 3-2 lead in the bottom of the third.

Alfredo Aceves (9-1), pitched very well in three innings of relief to earn the win in this game.

Derek Jeter had two hits in three at-bats, walked once, and scored three runs, raising his batting average to .335.

The Yankees broke this game wide open when they scored five runs in the bottom of the seventh inning on a three-run homer (#32) by Mark Teixeira; a RBI double by Melky Cabrera; and, a sac-fly by Jerry Hairston, Jr., that increased their lead to 8-2.

Mark Teixeira was (1-for-3), with four RBI's, which moved his season RBI total to 101. This is Teixeira's sixth straight season with 30+ homers, and 100+ RBI's. Only Mark Teixeira and Albert Pujols of the St. Louis Cardinals have accomplished this feat over the last six seasons.

Phil Coke ended the five scoreless innings streak by the bullpen when he allowed a ninth inning homer to Dye (#25) that capped the scoring in this 8-3 Yankees victory.

This win increases the first place New York Yankees record to 82-48, still six games ahead of the second place Boston Red Sox (76-54) who just completed a three-game sweep of the Toronto Blue Jays.

Well, as we reflect on the "Joba Rules" the one good thing is: next year there will be "no more" Joba rules. Joba Chamberlain will be allowed to be a real starting pitcher without innings limitations, and hopefully, also, without an unreasonable pitch-count limitation, that will advance Joba's progress into the 200+ innings pitched neighborhood.

Then, the new discussion that everybody will be focusing on, will be:"Innings Usage Rules for Phil Hughes" who the Yankees project as a starting pitcher next season.

What will these rules be called?

"Innings Use Rules For Hughes", or some other ridiculous version of this year's Joba Rules.

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

Yanks Win First Two Games Over White Sox

2009-08-30T14:00:00Z

The New York Yankees (81-48), continue to play well as they won the first two games of their current three-game weekend series at Yankee Stadium against the Chicago White Sox, 5-2 (10 innings), and 10-0, to remain six games in front of the second place Boston Red Sox (75-54) in the AL East.

The Yankees won the first game on a 10th inning, walk-off, game-winning, three-run homer by Robinson Cano that lead the Bronx Bombers to a 5-2 victory, their 12th walk-off victory of the 2009 season, which is only one short of the Yankees record for walk-off wins held by the 1978 New York Yankees.

The game was tied 2-2, on Derek Jeter's lead off homer (#17) in the first; and Johnny Damon's 23rd homer leading off the third inning, for the Yanks off Chicago starting pitcher Mark Buehrle; and, a RBI double by Alex Rios, and a RBI single by Gordon Beckham in the top of the seventh by the White Sox off Yankees starter CC Sabathia.

Both starters pitched well, but did not get a decision in this very exciting game.

Buehrle lasted six innings, tossing 99 pitches, while giving up two runs, on eight hits, two walks, and one strikeout.

Sabathia threw 113 pitches over seven innings of work, allowing two runs, on eight hits, one walk, while striking out 10 batters.

The bullpens were very effective for both the Yankees and White Sox as the game entered the bottom of the 10th inning with the scored 2-2.

White Sox reliever Randy Williams (L,0-1), caused all the damage for the Chisox in the 10th by allowing back to back, two-out walks, to Hideki Matsui and Nick Swisher, before serving up the game winning three-run homer to Robinson Cano.

Phi Hughes pitched a scoreless eight inning; Mariano Rivera threw a perfect ninth inning; and, Brian Bruney (W,4-0), shut down the White Sox with a scoreless 10th inning of work, that held the score until Cano delivered his extra innings heroic blast that gave the Bombers their 5-2 win.

Also, Derek Jeter set another record, as his home run in this game was the 223th of his "Hall of Fame" career, moving the "Captain" into 10th place on the all-time New York Yankees Home Run list ahead of another Yankee "great", Don Mattingly.

******************

In the middle game of this series, the Yankees had a very easy 10-0 victory over the Chisox, led by Sergio Mitre (3-1), who was brilliant in his 6.1 innings on the mound starting this game for the Bombers.

Mitre allowed the only hit the White Sox would get on this day, a hard hit double by Jim Thome to right field that Mark Teixeira had no chance of catching.

Actually, Mitre had thrown only 73 pitches into the seventh inning, but had to leave the game when he was hit on his right arm by a hard line drive off the bat of A.J. Pierzynski. Sergio had a contusion on his arm, but X-rays were negative. So, it's day by day for Mitre regarding whether or not he will take the mound in his next scheduled start.

Chad Gaudin pitched the remaining 2.2 innings, striking out four, to share the shutout victory with Sergio Mitre.

Highlights of the Yankees 10-run, 14-hit attack ...

Derek Jeter was (3-for-4), raising his batting average to .333.

Robinson Cano was (3-for-5), that increased his average to .315.

Alex Rodriguez hit his 23th homer of the year.

The Yankees go for the three-game sweep, Sunday afternoon, August 30th.

"Go Yankees" !!!

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

Yanks Score Nine Again; Beat Texas 9-2 This Time

2009-08-27T13:02:00Z

Baseball is a funny game which is one of the many reasons that baseball is such a "great" game.

In the middle game of the three-game series against the Texas Rangers at Yankee Stadium, the Yanks took a 4-2 lead into the bottom of the seventh when they put this game out of reach, scoring five runs that capped the Yankees 9-2 victory.

Robinson Cano led off the seventh with a double, and Jerry Hairston, Jr. walked, setting-up a first and second, no out, situation for the next batter Melky Cabrera.

This is interesting because in the first game of this series the Yankees entered the bottom of the ninth inning trailing the Rangers 10-5 when they put together a rally that almost tied or won that very exciting contest.

Joba Chamberlain pitched very poorly in the first game -- a game in which I was at the new ballpark, with my brother, for my second visit. We were sitting all the way up in Section 405, Row 5, of the grandstand, just under the rightfield facade/frieze that was in about the same seat location that was under the frieze at the old Yankee Stadium in which the great Mickey Mantle once hit a hard line drive blast, off the frieze, just inches from traveling out of the old Stadium into the surrounding Bronx streets.

Anyway, the view was not as bad as I expected, except for any plays that were in the right and right centerfield parts of the field. But, the seats were close enought to hear the boos directed at Joba when he walked off the mound in the top of the fourth after he allowed seven runs, on nine hits, and three walks, in the game, wasting the 4-0 lead that the Yanks staked Joba to in the first inning.

Chad Gaudin allowed the other three Rangers runs on a solo homer by Nelson Cruz, and a two-run homer by Michael Young that made the score 10-5 through seven innings.

The score remained 10-5 as the Yankees attemped their comeback in the bottom of the ninth.

Damon led off the inning with a single, which was followed by back to back walks to Teixeira and A-Rod that loaded the bases; then, RBI singles by Matsui and Posada made the score 10-7.

Robinson Cano kept the rally going by stroking a two-RBI single that cut the Rangers lead to 10-9. There were now runners on first [Cano], and second [Hairston, pinch-running for Posada], with no outs.

In this game, Matsui, Posada, and Cano each had three RBI's apiece accounting for all nine Yankee runs.

Now, returning to the seventh inning of the middle game of this series, with runners on first and second, and no outs, Melky Cabrera put down a perfect sacrifice bunt that actually ended up with Melky standing on first base after the pitcher made an error on the play which loaded the bases with no outs for Derek Jeter.

The "captain" promptly hit a two-RBI single that increased the lead to 6-2; then, Swisher doubled to make the score 7-2; and, finally, Teixeira hit a line drive two-RBI double down the rightfield line that completed the scoring in this five-run inning and gave the Yanks the 9-2 lead. The inning ended with Alex Rodriguez hitting into a 4-6-3 double play, and Matsui striking out.

Connecting these two games, I return to the ninth inning of the first game with runners on first and second, no outs, and the Rangers leading 10-9.

Nick Swisher was the next batter, and Joe Girardi called for a bunt.

Normally, I agree with most small-ball decisions; but, at the time, in that situation, it was not a move that I would have made.

Swisher has a great eye at the plate, with power, but certainly is not a great bunter.

The odds were probably just as great that Swisher would draw a walk, or get a hit, or hit a three-run, game-winning homer. He could have also struck out or hit into a double play. In this situation, though, I would have taken my chances with any move other than an attempted sac bunt.

If Melky was the batter, like in the middle game, the bunt would be the perfect play. But, as it turned out, Swisher bunted a pop up to the third baseman for the first out; and, Melky, who was up next, hit a hard liner to the shortstop that turned into a game-ending, unassisted double play on a close play at second in which shortstop Andrus just beat Hairston to the bag for the final out of this tough 10-9 loss by the Yankees.

The ball was hit very hard by Melky, and oh so close to being a game-tying base hit.

Baseball is a funny game.

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

"A Season Within A Season", 2009

2009-08-24T12:04:00Z

* Updated: Monday, August 24, 2009 ... ( Yankees 8, Red Sox 4 )

The New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox is the greatest "rivalry" in the history of baseball and all sports.

Every game that is played by these two great teams each year takes on a very unique meaning with a playoff atmosphere, and really becomes its own very special "season within a season" in the overall American League schedule each year.

This is the reason I coined the phrase "A Season Within A Season" for this great rivalry last year, and look to continue this special reflection on the Yankees vs. Red Sox games in 2009 and future seasons.

So, as a way of getting ready for the beginning of the games between both teams in 2009, the following is a listing of their scheduled games this upcoming year. I will offer my thoughts with updates, scores and highlights of each game throughout the year, and most importantly, look forward to all the comments, thoughts, and opinions of viewers of my mlblog.

My hope is, this ongoing season-long "post" will become a site where mlbloggers will visit throughout this season with their thoughts on each game, and any other comments or stories related to the great New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox rivalry.

Please let me know what think; and, also, feel free to offer any suggestions that you may have. Of course, I welcome all Yankee and Red Sox fans, as well as, all baseball fans, to visit any time to become a part of this great rivalry and tradition which is the most unique in baseball and all sports !!!

* Updated: Monday, August 24, 2009 ... Check-out "post" below, and please offer any comments, thoughts, or observations that you may want to include in this "season-long" tribute in honor the great New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox rivalry ...

Thank you, everybody, for all your visits !!!

"A Season Within A Season", 2009 ...

* Game # 1 -- April 24, 2009 - Red Sox 5, Yankees 4, (11) - Fenway Park

* Game # 2 -- April 25, 2009 - Red Sox 16, Yankees 11 (Fenway Park)

* Game # 3 -- April 26, 2009 - Red Sox 4, Yankees 1 (Fenway Park)

* Game # 4 -- May 4, 2009 - Red Sox 6, Yankees 4 (Yankee Stadium)

* Game # 5 -- May 5, 2009 - Red Sox 7, Yankees 3 (Yankee Stadium)

* Game # 6 -- June 9, 2009 - Red Sox 7, Yankees 0 (Fenway Park)

* Game # 7 -- June 10, 2009 - Red Sox 6, Yankees 5 (Fenway Park)

* Game # 8 -- June 11, 2009 - Red Sox 4, Yankees 3 (Fenway Park)

* Game # 9 - August 6, 2009 - Yankees 13, Red Sox 6 (Yankee Stadium)

* Game #10 - August 7, 2009 - Yankees 2, Red Sox 0, (15) - Yankee Stadium

* Game #11 - August 8, 2009 - Yankees 5, Red Sox 0 (Yankee Stadium)

* Game #12 - August 9, 2009 - Yankees 5, Red Sox 2 (Yankee Stadium)

* Game #13 - August 21, 2009 - Yankees 20, Red Sox 11 (Fenway Park)

* Game #14 - August 22, 2009 - Red Sox 14, Yankees 1 (Fenway Park)

* Game #15 - August 23, 2009 - Yankees 8, Red Sox 4 (Fenway Park)

* Game #16 - September 25, 2009 -- Red Sox @ New York, Yankee Stadium

* Game #17 - September 26, 2009 -- Red Sox @ New York, Yankee Stadium

* Game #18 - September 27, 2009 -- Red Sox @ New York, Yankee Stadium

The 2009 Baseball Season is almost here ...

But, let the discussion begin "now" about baseball's greatest rivalry ...

"New York Yankees" vs. "Boston Red Sox"

Everybody, have a great day !!!

-- Jimmy Curran, "Baseball, The Yankees, and Life"

****************************************************************

* Game 1 -- April 24, 2009 -- Red Sox 5, Yankees 4 (11 innings)

With the Yankees leading 4-2 in the bottom of the 9th inning, with two outs, a runner on second base, Jason Bay the batter for the Red Sox, and Mariano Rivera on the mound -- Mariano blew this save by serving up a long, hard hit, two-run homerun, to Bay, to straight away centerfield, that tied the score 4-4.

The game remained tied going into the bottom of the 11th inning with Damaso Marte pitching for the Yankees. After striking-out the first batter, David Ortiz, the next hitter, Kevin Youkilis blasted a long walk-off homerun over the "Green Monster" to give the Red Sox a very dramatic 5-4 victory.

The Yankees had many opportunities to score more runs in this game, including, in the top of the 9th inning, when the Yanks loaded the bases with no outs, but Robinson Cano hit into a 4-2-3 double play, and Melky Cabrera poped out to the catcher to end the rally and inning with the Yanks still leading 4-2 at the time.

For the Boston Red Sox, this was a very well deserved comeback victory.

For the New York Yankees, this was, to say the least, a very disappointing loss.

* To view boxscore, click on ... Game 1 -- Red Sox 5, Yankees 4

*************************

* Game 2 -- April 25, 2009 -- Red Sox 16, Yankees 11

-- To view boxscore, click on ... Game 2 -- Red Sox 16, Yankees 11

* Game 3 -- April 26, 2009 -- Red Sox 4, Yankees 1

-- To view boxscore, click on ... Game 3

* Game 4 -- May 4, 2009 -- Red Sox 6, Yankees 4

-- To view boxscore, click on ... Game 4

* Game 5 -- May 5, 2009 -- Red Sox 7, Yankees 3

-- To view boxscore, click on ... Game 5

The "Season Within A Season" 2009, continues with a three-game series at Fenway Park, starting on Tuesday June 9th.

As of June 9, 2009, the Yankees are in "First Place" in the AL East.

The AL East standings are as follows ...

New York Yankees 34-23 .596 --

Boston Red Sox 33-24 .579 1.0

Toronto Blue Jays 33-27 .550 2.5

Tampa Bay Rays 29-30 .492 6.0

Baltimore Orioles 24-33 .421 10.0

"Go Yankees" !!!

* Game 6 -- Tuesday, June 9, 2009 -- Red Sox 7, Yankees 0

-- Josh Beckett (7-2) was brilliant in his start for the Red Sox, in total control throughout his six innings on the mound, allowing zero runs, on only one hit and two waks, while striking out eight batters. The Boston bullpen closed out the Sox shutout victory.

-- For the Yankees, their starter, A.J. Burnett (4-3) was "awful" !!! ... A.J. allowed five runs (three earned), on five hits, five walks, and one strikeout in only 2.2 innings. A two-run homer by David Ortiz in Boston's four run second inning was the turning point of the game, as the Red Sox easily coasted to their sixth straight win vs. the Yankees this year.

-- To view boxscore, click on ... Game 6

* Game 7 -- Wednesday, June 10, 2009 -- Red Sox 6, Yankees 5

-- Chien-Ming Wang started for the Yankees, and was totally ineffective, allowing four runs, on six hits, [including a homerun], and three walks, in 2.2 innings pitched. Phil Hughes replaced Wang, and was also not effective, giving up two runs, on two hits, including a home run, two walks, and five strikeouts in 3.2 innings out of the bullpen.

-- The Yankees had three homeruns in the game ... Posada in the 2nd inning; and back-to-back homers by Damon and Teixeira in the top of the 7th; and, Tex was 4-for-5 including two doubles with his homer; but, this power was not enough for the Bronx Bombers, as the Red Sox held on for a solid 6-5 win. Mike Lowell and Kevin Youkilis homered for the Sox; and, Tim Wakefield (8-3) pitched six strong innings for the victory. This was Boston's seventh straight win against the New York Yankees this year.

-- To view the boxscore, click on ... Game 7

** The win in Game 7 moved the Red Sox back into first place in the AL East, one game ahead of the Yankees, as of the morning of Thursday June 11, 2009.

** The final game of this three-game series at Fenway Park continues tonight, June 11th, with CC Sabathia (5-3, 3.56) on the mound for the Yankees vs. the Red Sox starter, Brad Penny (5-2, 5.85).

Enjoy the game, everybody !!!

* Game 8 -- Thursday, June 11, 2009 -- Red Sox 4, Yankees 3

-- A VERY CRUSHING LOSS BY THE NEW YORK YANKEES !!! ... [Enough said]

-- The Yankees are now "0-8" against the Red Sox this year !!!

-- To view boxscore, click on ... Game 8

-- Click on: Yanks 0-8 vs. Red Sox, Trying To Make Sense Of It All

______________________________________

Updated: Thursday, July 9, 2009 ...

The Yankees just completed a three-game sweep of the Twins in Minnesota with a 6-4 win in the final game of the series.

The Red Sox lost their game on this day, 8-6, to the K.C. Royals at Fenway Park.

This tied the Yankees and Red Sox for first place in the AL East !!!

AL EAST STANDINGS (at the end of baseball action on July 9, 2009) ...

New York Yankees 51-34 .600 --

Boston Red Sox 51-34 .600 --

Tampa Bay Rays 47-39 .547 4.5

Toronto Blue Jays 43-44 .494 9.0

Baltimore Orioles 38-47 .447 13.0

At this point in the season, the Yankees headed to the West Coast to play a three-game weekend series against the L.A. Angels, July 10-11-12th.

The Red Sox were scheduled to play the second game of a four-game weekend series vs. the K.C. Royals, July 9-10-11-12th.

These two series would end the first half of the season for the Yanks and Red Sox; and, baseball's annual All-Star break would take place during the upcoming week, with the All-Star Game scheduled for Tuesday, July 14, 2009 in St. Louis.

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

______________________________________

Updated: Friday, August 7, 2009 ...

AL EAST STANDINGS - (at the start of baseball action, August 6, 2009)

New York Yankees 65-42 -- .607

Boston Red Sox 62-44 2.5 .585

Tampa Bay Rays 60-48 5.5 .556

Toronto Blue Jays 51-56 14.0 .477

Baltimore 45-62 20.0 .421

BRONX, NEW YORK -- August 6, 2009 -- The center of the baseball world now shifts to the "Beautiful Bronx", New York, for the start of a huge four-game weekend series between the first place New York Yankees and second place Boston Red Sox.

The Yankees are returning home from their just completed road trip that concluded with a two-game sweep of the Blue Jays 8-4 and 5-3, in Toronto.

The Red Sox travel into the Bronx from Florida, after being swept by the third place Tampa Bay Rays, 6-4 and 4-2 (13 innings), that dropped the Sox two and a half games behind the Yankees. The Rays remain five and a half games behind the Yanks.

So, let the "Season Within A Season" continue ... Baseball's greatest rivalry: the New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox ... as the Yankees look to get their first victory over the Red Sox this year after Boston has an 8-0 record up to this point of the 2009 season.

* Game 9 -- Thursday, August 6, 2009 -- Yankees 13, Red Sox 6

Well, one thing both Yankee and Red Sox fans can agree on about this contest, is: the pitching was awful by all pitchers who took the mound in this very important "must-win" game for the Yankees.

Boston starter, future Hall of Famer, John Smoltz, was hit very hard, lasting only 3.1 innings, while allowing eight runs; on nine hits, including two homeruns; four walks; and, three strikeouts. With this loss, Smoltz's record is now 2-5 with a 8.32 ERA.

The Red Sox did stake Smoltz to a 3-1 lead as the game entered the bottom of the third, on an opposite field homer by Dustin Pedroia in the top of the second inning; and, after, Johnny Damon tied the score 1-1 with a homer in the bottom of the second, Boston newcomer, Casey Kotchman blasted a two-run homerun in the top of the third that increased the Sox lead to 3-1 at the time.

Then, the Bronx Bombers exploded in the bottom of the third inning, sending 13 batters up to the plate, in a 35-minute, eight hit, two walk, attack, that was highlighted by a three-run homer by Melky Cabrera that gave the Yanks a 5-3 lead; and, a three-run homer by Jorge Posada that capped the scoring during the Bombers eight-run spectacular display of power, putting this game out of reach for the Bosox, 9-3. [Robinson Cano and Hideki Matsui also had an RBI apiece in the middle of this rally].

In the meantime, Yankees starter, Joba Chamberlain, also did not pitch a good game, and was maybe one hit or walk away from being removed from the game before the fifth inning was completed.

With a 9-3 lead, Joba walked the bases loaded with one out in the top of the fifth before allowing a RBI single to Mike Lowell that cut the lead to 9-4. It was clear, Manager Joe Girardi was struggling with thoughts of taking Chamberlain out of this game at this point, thus eliminating Joba's chance of getting the win if the Yanks held onto the lead.

But, Girardi showed confidence in his young starter, and Joba, to his credit, delivered the goods, striking out the next two batters, Kotchman and Green, to end the Boston rally and keep the score at 9-4 in favor of the Bombers.

In the bottom of the fifth, the Yankees increased their lead to 11-4 on a two RBI double by Hideki Matsui, but Joba Chamberlain's night was finished.

Maybe, because Joba had an extra two days off [seven days rest instead of five days] since his last start, [and, this could become a major concern as the season continues and the Yankees braintrust stays firm with their plan to limit Joba's pitches and innings], this affected his performance on the mound tonight as he just did not have full command and control of his pitches. Joba was wild in each of the five innings he threw in this game.

Overall, Joba's performance was the exact opposite of his fine 3-0 record since this year's All-Star break. In five innings of work, Chamberlain threw 108 pitches, and allowed four runs; on six hits, including two homers; "seven" walks; and, five strikeouts.

Even though Joba struggled in this game, he stranded two Boston runners in each of the first and second innings without allowing a run to score; got out of the third with an inning-ending double play after giving up the Pedroia homerun; and, left the bases loaded in the fifth, ending the inning with two big strikeouts, to hold the score at 9-4 before his departure.

It was not one of Joba Chamberlain's best efforts, by far. But, all great pitches have to battle at times when they do not have their best stuff. And to his credit, in my view, Joba Chamberlain (8-2) battled on the mound tonight, and at least earned the win by lasting five innings without any further damage against a great team. Of course, the Yankees hitting was the main reason the Bombers won this game.

The Yankees scored their final two runs on a RBI single by Derek Jeter in the sixth inning; and, Mark Teixeira's 28th homerun in the bottom of the seventh, that increased the Bombers lead to 13-4.

Boston scored two runs in the top of the ninth, on two hits and two walks, off rookie reliever Anthony Claggett who was just recalled from (AAA) - Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, completing the scoring in the Yankees 13-6 victory.

Yankee batters pounded out 18 hits, including three hits each by: Damon, Teixeira, and Posada. For the Red Sox, Pedroia had three of Boston's eight total hits.

And, Yankee pitchers walked 12 batters, and Red Sox pitchers walked six batters, for a total of 18 base-on-balls allowed in this three-hour, fifty-two minute game before a sold-out crowd of 49,005 at the new Yankee Stadium.

Before the game, the Yankees honored Muhammad Ali ... but, it was very sad that Yankees owner, George M. Steinbrenner, III was not able to attend this game and four-game series as he had planned on doing.

The "Boss" visited the Yankees team during their just completed two-game series against the Rays in Tampa Bay which greatly energized and inspired the Yankees players and coaching staff. But, because of health reasons, Mr. Steinbrenner cannot make the trip to the Bronx, and will follow this "key" series from his home in Tampa Bay, Florida.

We all wish George Steinbrenner well, and hope he will be healthy enough to attend post-season games this year, if "his" New York Yankees continue to play as well as they are playing now, and go onto the playoffs and World Series in route to their 27th World Championship.

At this point in the season, 1-8 vs. the Red Sox looks a lot better than 0-8 or 0-9 for the Yankees.

But, what looks even better, is the Yankees 66-42 record in first place, at the top of the AL East, three and a half games ahead of the second place Red Sox who now have a record of 62-45.

To view boxscore, click on: Game 9 -- Yankees 13, Red Sox 6

AL EAST STANDINGS -- Morning of Friday, August 7, 2009 ...

Yankees 66-42 .611 --

Red Sox 62-45 .579 3.5

Rays 60-48 .556 6.0

Blue Jays 51-56 .477 14.5

Orioles 45-63 .417 21.0

-- Jimmy 27NYY Curran, "BY&L" - "Baseball, The Yankees, and Life"

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* Game 10 -- Friday, August, 7, 2009 -- Yankees 2, Red Sox 0 (15 innings)

"A Classic Game For The Ages" ...

Click on my post: "A Classic For The Ages In The Bronx" for my account of this great game.

Boxscore, click on: Yankees 2, Red Sox 0 (15 innings) -- "An All-Time Classic"

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

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* Game 11 -- Saturday, August 8, 2009 -- Yankees 5, Red Sox 0

Yankees starter CC Sabathia pitched an outstanding game, taking a no-hitter into the sixth inning which was broken-up on a two-out single by Jacoby Ellsbury.

Mark Teixeira stroked a RBI single in the bottom of the third, that plated Melky Cabrera, who led off the inning with a single, giving the Yanks an early 1-0 lead.

The Bombers then scored a run in the sixth on a sac-fly by Jose Molina; and, a run in the seventh on a bases loaded walk to Nick Swisher that increased the lead to 3-0.

Boston starting pitcher Clay Buchholtz (L,1-2), pitched a very good game, tossing 105 pitches over six innings of work, allowing two runs, on six hits, five walks, and three strikeouts.

Buchholtz was replaced by Ramirez who gave up the Yankees run in the seventh.

In the meantime, CC Sabathia was working on a two-hit shutout through seven and two-thirds innings, when Joe Girardi replaced CC with Phil Hughes who retired the final batter in the eight that held the score at 3-0.

Sabathia had thrown 123 pitches up to this point in the game, and if I was manager, I would have let CC stay in the game to pursue the complete game shutout. But, oh, those annoying "pitch-counts" and "innings-limitations".

CC Sabathia (W,12-7), ended up pitching seven and two-thirds innings, while allowing no runs, on two hits, two walks, and striking out nine. A truly great performance.

The Yankees completed the scoring in this game on a two-run homer by Derek Jeter (#12), off Enrique Gonzalez in the bottom of the eight, that moved the Yanks into a 5-0 lead.

David Robertson replaced Hughes and closed out this 5-0 Yankees victory with a scoreless ninth inning after allowing two hits.

With the back-to-back shutouts, 2-0, (15 innings), and 5-0, the Yankees pitching staff has now held the Red Sox batters scoreless over the last 24 innings.

The Yanks have now won the first three games in this very imortant four-game series, and go for the "sweep" in the final game on Sunday night, August 9th.

To view boxscore, click on: Yankees 5, Red Sox 0

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

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Updated: Monday, August 10, 2009 ...

* Game 12 -- Sunday, August 9, 2009 -- Yankees 5, Red Sox 2

With this 5-2 victory, the New York Yankees "swept" the four-game weekend series against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium, in the Beautiful Bronx, New York !!!!

This game featured another pitcher's duel as Andy Pettitte of the Yankees battled Jon Lester of the Red Sox, zero for zero, inning by inning, into the bottom of the seventh when Alex Rodriguez broke the deadlock by blasting a solo homerun (#21), that gave the Bronx Bombers a 1-0 lead. This was A-Rod's second big homer of this series ...

Of course, the first dramatic homer was a two-run shot into the Red Sox bullpen in leftfield, in the bottom of the 15th inning of the "classic" 0-0 pitcher's duel in the second game of this series. Rodriguez's two-out, walk-off, two-run homer, drove home Derek Jeter, who led off the inning with a single, ahead of A-Rod's game-winning homer that gave the Yankees a 2-0 victory in one of the "greatest games ever played", and certainly, one of the most "exciting gamers I have ever seen".

Both managers decided to go to the bullpen after the seventh inning of the final game, dictated, once again, by the dreaded "pitch count" totals of "both" starting pitchers who were "brilliant" in this playoff-like game.

Jon Lester threw a strong 107 pitches over seven innings of work, allowing one run, on the A-Rod homer; five hits; no walks, while striking out seven.

Yankees starter, Andy Pettitte, was solid in his seven shutout innings on the mound, giving up five hits, two walks, and striking out four batters.

In a puzzling move, in my view, Yankees manager Joe Girardi replaced Pettitte with Phil Coke at the start of the eight inning. Why take Andy Pettitte out of this game when he is pitching so well? And, if Girardi was so intent on going to the bullpen, why didn't he bring in Phil Hughes?

Now, after the game Girardi gave is reasons for this move, saying he did not want to use Hughes in three straight games. Phil Hughes pitched to only one batter in each of the last two games, so how tired or over-worked could he be?

But, the real question, in my opinion, is: Why was CC Sabathia removed with two outs in the eight inning, and replaced by Phil Hughes, while pitching a shutout over seven and two thirds innings in his brilliant start in the third game of this series? Certainly, CC should have been allowed to complete the eight inning, even though he had already thrown 123 pitches. Then, if Girardi still wanted to bring in David Robertson in the ninth inning, which "was" the move that he made in that game -- it would have at least saved Hughes from taking the mound in Game Three, thus saving him for the final game in this series on Sunday night.

But, as it turned out, it was already decided by Girardi before the game that Phil Hughes would not pitch in the final game. And, Alfredo Aceves was also not available because of back problems. So, Phil Coke got the call, when I think the obvious decision would have been to just let Andy Pettitte stay in the game for at least one more inning, the eight, and, then, go to Mariano Rivera in the ninth inning.

Coke struck out the first batter, Jacoby Ellsbury. Then, Dustin Pedroia stroked a single, and newly acquired Victor Martinez blasted a long two-run homer that ended the Yankees 31 consecutive scoreless innings against the Sox in this series, and shocked the sold-out Yankee Stadium crowd as the the Red Sox took a 2-1 lead.

After, Kevin Youkilis singled for the Sox third straight hit, Coke did prevent further damage by getting Jason Bay to ground into a 6-4-3 double play that ended the inning. This was the first game of the series that the injured Bay played, and that was good news for the Yankees as Jason Bay hit really well against the Yanks in previous games this year.

Red Sox 2, Yankees 1, as the game entered the bottom of the eight inning.

Boston manager Terry Francona made the call to the bullpen, replacing Jon Lester after 107 pitches thrown, with hard-throwing rookie reliever Daniel Bard.

Bard retired pinch-hitter Hideki Matsui and Derek Jeter for a quick two outs.

Johnny Damon was the next batter up, and "BAM" !!! Damon unloaded his 21st homer, a crushing shot over the wall in right-centerfield to tie this very exciting game 2-2.

The Yankee Stadium crowd was rocking like it was an October post-season big-game event; and, then, when Mark Teixeira lofted a high arching Ruthian blast into the beautiful night air of the new ballpark in the Bronx, that landed into the second deck of the short rightfield porch for a homerun that moved the Bombers into the 3-2 lead, it felt as if the Yankees had just won another World Series, as this August evening was transformed into another "classic game", a percursor, maybe, to many more classic moments in this year's "Fall Classic".

The go-ahead homer by Tex was his league leading 29th of the season, and, also, the sixth time that both he and Damon hit back-to-back homers in a game this year, a new all-time Yankee record for back-to-back homeruns by the same two players in a Yankee lineup.

Just think about that for a moment ...

Of all the great Yankee players that hit back-to-back in the same lineup, including: Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig; Joe DiMaggio and Lou Gehrig; Mickey Mantle and Yogi Berra; Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris; Thurman Munson and Bobby Murcer; Chris Chambliss and Reggie Jackson; Don Mattingly and Dave Winfield; and, Mark Teixeira and Alex Rodriguez, to name a few combinations -- it is now Johnny Damon and Mark Teixeira who hold this very extraordinary Yankee record. A very fine performance and special record, indeed.

After the game, Mark Teixeira said about his homer, this was the closest you can get to a walk-off, game-winning homer during the game. And, when Teixeira hit the ball, he held his bat up in the air when he was running to first base, as if to point the homerun ball into the seats.

But, it was still the eight inning, and the Yankees were not done yet with this late-inning rally.

A-Rod walked, and Francona replaced Daniel Bard (L,0-1) with Hideki Okajima.

Okajima promptly gave-up a double to Jorge Posada, and a two-RBI single to Nick Swisher that capped-off the scoring in the Bombers four-run outburst that increased their lead to 5-2.

Mariano Rivera closed out this come-from-behind 5-2 victory by pitching a scoreless ninth inning, recording his 32th save.

Phil Coke (4-3) who blew the lead in this game, was credited with the win, but certainly, did nothing to earn this win. But, as I stated above, in my view, Coke should not have been brought into this game.

Bullpen management, and stretching out the innings of the starters by the Yankees braintrust will be "crucial" to the New York Yankees success the rest of the way on their journey to their 27th World Championship.

It's time to eliminate "pitch-counts" and "innings limitations" on the Yankees pitching staff.

But, on this August weekend, the New York Yankees delivered an awesome performance sweeping four games over the second place Boston Red Sox that showed at this point in the season the Yankees are the best team in the AL East.

To view boxscore, click on: Yankees Sweep Red Sox With 5-2 Win

AMERICAN LEAGUE STANDINGS - (Monday, Morning, August, 10, 2009) ...

AL EAST

New York Yankees 69-42 .622 ---

Boston Red Sox 62-48 .564 6.5 (tied with Texas - wild card)

Tampa Bay Rays 61-50 .550 8.0

Toronto Blue Jays 53-57 .482 15.5

Baltimore Orioles 46-65 .414 23.0

AL WEST

L.A. Angels 65-44 .596 ---

Texas Rangers 62-48 .564 3.5 (tied with Boston - wild card)

Seattle Mariners 58-53 .523 8.0

Oakland A's 49-62 .441 17.0

AL CENTRAL

Detroit Tigers 59-51 .536 ---

Chicago White Sox 57-55 .509 3.0

Minnesota Twins 54-57 .486 5.5

Cleveland Indians 48-63 .432 11.5

Kansas City Royals 43-68 .387 16.5

Everybody, have a great day !!!

Thanks for all your visits and excellent comments and thoughts !!!

-- Jimmy Curran, "BY&L" - "Baseball, The Yankees, and Life"

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Updated: Friday, August 21, 2009

The first place New York Yankees (76-45) continue their 10 game road trip with a big three-game series against the second place Boston Red Sox (69-51) at Fenway Park.

So far the Bronx Bombers have a record of (5-2) on this trip after winning three of four games vs. the Seattle Mariners, and two of three games against the Oakland A's.

Friday, August 21, 2009 ...

* Game 13 -- "A Season Within A Season" -- Yankees 20, Red Sox 11

To view boxscore, click on: Yanks Out-Slug Red Sox, 20-11

To read my "post" on my blog about this game, click on ...

"Yankees Blast Red Sox in a 20-11 Rout"

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

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Updated: Sunday, August 23, 2009 ...

* Game 14 -- Saturday, August 22, 2009 -- Red Sox 14, Yankees 1

The New York Yankees pitching was terrible in this game, as the Boston Red Sox lit up Yankees starter A.J. Burnett (10-7), to the tune of nine runs; on nine hits, including three homers and three doubles, and two walks, during Burnett's 97 pitch, five innings of work.

The Sox took an early 3-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning on a two RBI double by David Ortiz, and a RBI single by Jason Bay. Then, Boston put this game out of reach for the Yanks with a four run outburst in the second when Alex Gonzalez hit a solo homer (#1) to up the score to 4-0; and, after walks to Dustin Pedroia and Victor Martinez, a three-homer by Kevin Youkilis (#21) increased the Red Sox lead to 7-0.

In the fifth inning, Boston completed their bashing of A.J. Burnett on a two-out homer by Ortiz (#20), which was followed by back to back doubles by Bay and J.D. Drew that upped Boston's lead to 9-0.

The Yankees bullpen was just as ineffective as the awful performance turned in by Burnett, as Alfredo Aceves allowed three runs in the sixth on a two-out double by Pedroia; a RBI single by Martinez; and, Kevin Youkilis' second homer (#22) of the game, a two-run blast that further embarrassed the Yanks 12-0.

In the meantime, Boston starter Junichi Tazawa (2-2), pitched a very good game, throwing six strong shutout innings, allowing eight hits and two walks while striking out two. This was a great comeback effort for Tazawa, who in his last appearance against the Yankees, [his first time on the mound in the Major Leagues], he gave up the game winning, walk-off, two run homer to Alex Rodriguez in the bottom of the 15th inning of that classic pitcher's duel, on August 7, 2009, at Yankee Stadium, which the Yankees won 2-0.

Nick Swisher broke up the Red Sox shutout with a solo homer (#21) off reliever Daniel Bard that made the score 12-1 at the time.

David Robertson replaced Aceves at the start of the eight inning, and once again, Boston scored more runs [after two outs]. Pedroia, Casey Kotchman, and Youkilis hit three straight doubles that completed the scoring in this 14-1 Red Sox victory.

A major key to the Boston Red Sox win in this game was the fact that they scored 13 of their 14 runs after two outs in the individual innings that they scored.

This was a very embarrassing loss for the New York Yankees in the middle game of this very important three-game series at Fenway Park, a game that was broadcast on FOX's Saturday Baseball Game Of The Week.

To view boxscore, click on: Red Sox 14, Yankees 1

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"

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Updated: Monday, August 24, 2009 ...

* Game 15 -- Sunday, August 23, 2009 -- Yankees 8, Red Sox 4

Sabathia Out-Lasts Beckett for 15th win; Yanks Beat Sox, 8-4 ...

The New York Yankees got right back on the winning track with a big 8-4 victory over the Boston Red Sox in the rubber game of their three-game showdown at Fenway Park on ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball Game of the Week.

With this victory, the first place Yankees (78-46) increased their lead to seven and a half games over the second place Red Sox (70-53) in the AL East.

Also, after starting off this season 0-8 vs. the Red Sox, the Yankees have now narrowed the gap to 6-9 in the 2009 version of "A Season Within A Season".

The Yankees have a chance to tie the season series 9-9, when they play the Red Sox three more games this season, September 25-26-27th at Yankee Stadium.

The story of this game was the five homers that the Yankees hit off Boston starter Josh Beckett (14-5), who threw 120 pitches over eight disappointing [for Red Sox fans] innings; while allowing eight runs; on nine hits; no walks; and five strikeouts.

Derek Jeter led off the game by hitting the first pitch over the right centerfield fence for his 16th home run of the year, and quick 1-0 Yankees lead.

Hideki Matsui followed "The Captain's" lead by also hitting a first pitch homer (#22), into the right field bleachers, in the top of the second inning, that increased the Bronx Bombers lead to 2-0.

After Boston tied the score 2-2 in the bottom of the second, the Yankees upped their lead to 4-2 on a Mark Teixeira RBI single, and RBI ground out by Alex Rodrigiuez in the top of the third.

Robinson Cano crushed his 19th homer of the year, in the fourth, [the Yanks third homer in this game], that kept the pressure on Beckett and the Sox as the Yanks moved ahead by 5-2 in the game.

Boston scored again in the bottom of the fourth inning to cut the Yankees lead to 5-3.

Then, in the top of the fifth, with Damon on first base, and two outs, Alex Rodriguez stroked a solid line drive that just cleared the top of the Green Monster into the seats on top of the wall for his 22nd homer that increased the Bombers lead to 7-3.

The Red Sox cut the lead to 7-4 in the bottom of the sixth, before Hideki Matsui capped the scoring by hitting his second homer (#23) of the game, in the top of the eight, the Yanks fifth homer of the game off Josh Beckett, for the 8-4 lead.

CC Sabathia (15-7), pitched a solid game, not his best, but good enough to earn the victory.

CC lasted 6.2 innings, tossing 118 pitches, while giving up four runs (three earned); on eight hits; no walks; and eight strikeouts. Also, this win elevates CC Sabathia into the American League Cy Young Award conversation. And, in my view, I would suggest that Mariano Rivera should also be included in the Cy Young Award discussion.

Phil Hughes replaced CC in this game and built a strong "Bridge to Mariano" holding the Yankees 8-4 lead as the game entered the bottom of the ninth inning.

It was not a save situation, but Mariano Rivera closed out this very important 8-4 Yankees victory over the Red Sox, by pitching a scoreless ninth inning.

The Yankees are now 27-9 since the All-Star break, winning 10 of the 11 series' since the mid-summer All-Star Game, including six straight winning series.

The 2009 season now continues with the New York Yankees in first place in the AL East, seven and a half games over the second place Boston Red Sox.

And, the Yankees vs. Red Sox rivalry continues ...

At Yankee Stadium during the weekend of September 25-26-27, 2009.

To view boxscore, click on: Yankees 8, Red Sox 4

-- Jimmy, "BY&L"