“Total domination” was probably the headline tonight. Game 3 carries with it the same caveats as Game 2, but at least we have some smiles on our faces.
A.J. Burnett looked great. With the pitching matchup today, we saw the difference between a 70 win team and a division-winning team. The Yankees probably aren’t going to have to roll out that many Alfredo Simons this year, and certainly not too many Brian Basses. He was pulled a bit early, but its his first start.
Nick Swisher and Robinson Cano, both coming off disappointing years, are looking hot. Tom pointed out in the game thread that Cano is taking more pitches than usual. We’ll have some meaningful data on that subject in 4-5 more games, and I we’ll see what the result is. A strong Nick Swisher could displace Hideki Matsui from the starting lineup.
Mark Teixeira had a good day. I don’t know how long it will be until we can start to judge whether or not he had a strong start, but he’ll be much more likely to earn his paychecks if he can shrug off his April problems. The last time that he did not start slow was 2006, when he hit a 131 OPS+ in April but just 129 on the season, so we should be careful not to read too much into his start.
The bullpen came in and did not allow a base runner for almost four innings. That is always pretty.
Now on to Kansas City. I’m calling it now: Kansas City breaks .500 this season.
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5 Responses to Recap: Yankees beat Orioles 11 to 2
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TIQ IQ
Mark down this date… April 9, 2009, the day Derek Jeter was pinch hit for late in a game… this isn’t Joe Torre or George’s team anymore. The darling lost a little bloom off his rose today. I just can’t figure out if its a sad day or not.
I wouldnt read to much into him being replaced, we were up by 7 when he got pinch hit for, no need to risk an injury in a blowout
I’m not so certain it will be Matsui, rather than Nady, that needs to be replaced. In fact, there’s nothing to suggest any of them will have to be replaced. The OF/DH numbers game may just insure that everyone is well rested.
I agree that it’s Nady who is more likely to be replaced. Aside from a month or 2 in Pittsburgh last year, he has put up the numbers of a platoon corner outfielder.
I agree with Kareem that it seemed more like Jeter was being rested. Still, if this becomes a pattern I’ll be thrilled. If Giambi can get defensively replaced all the time, why not Jeter? Jeter to Pena is a huge improvement.