Thats right folks, the Yanks are actually making a race out of this season. And panic has officially set in throughout Sox Nation. Well, at least part of it after GaG-me's performance over the weekend...
Your 43 - 43 Yanks at the break have been feasting on sub par teams to the tune of 23 - 8 since the break. They have been an absolute hitting machine.
However, pitching isn't much improved over the first half. Surprised? It sure seems like it has but the numbers don't lie. Before the break, the team Era stood at 4.36 - while since the break it's been 4.25. What does that tell you? They've been hitting and scoring runs against lesser pitching opponents.
Curiously, the Yanks traded away one of their most reliable relievers in Proctor & picked up a utility infielder. They are also going against their past history, relying on young pitching to take them down the stretch and into the playoffs. Based on years of playoffs, you'd think this is a recipe for disaster. Heck, the Sox teams of the 70's & 80's were built the same way & where did that get them?
The Yanks finally begin a tough stretch of schedule. Although, if their sweep of the Indians over the weekend is any indicator, they'll still be standing at the end of the month. Nevertheless, we'll all know how good this Yankee team really is in another couple of weeks.
Despite the bullpen blowing two very winnable games this weekend, the Sox starters are getting the job done. That's what really counts this time of year. It looks like Schilling is back to old form and it looks like we'll get a look at the phenom Buckholtz at the double header later in the week (don't be shocked to see him replace Lester). The bullpen will straighten itself out with or without Gagne, but he can't be worse than what we've seen already. And despite perception, this offense is 3rd in runs scored and 2nd post all star break. So those of you still pining for Jermaine Dye, he's not as needed as you think.
The lead is still 4 games, and the Yanks really can't play much better than they have been. In turn, the Sox won't struggle as much as they have been either. Look for the Sox to build the lead back up to a more comfortable level before facing them on the 28th...
Hey you, off the ledge!!!
1 comment:
I think we are going to take it all the way this year. The pitching is better than it was ever before (even Wakefield is coming around), the hitting is very solid and I don't see anybody stopping us in the playoffs. Go Nation!
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