Red Sox Stick A Knife In New York's Side: Yankees Struggles Continue

This was a big series for the New York Yankees. Going into the series the Yankees' manager Joe Girardi said that the team needed to take 2 of 3 in the series. At this point the Yankees are facing the possibility of a Boston sweep. I think making the statement that they needed to win two of three was a bad statement for Girardi. At this point in the season teams need to take it one game at a time.

It was a tight game until the top of the eighth when Boston posted seven runs. Dustin Pedroia hit his first career grand slam to basically seal the deal for the BoSox. It was Pedroia's 15thhome run of the season. The two new comers to the Red Sox, Jason Bay and Paul Byrd, played big roles in the victory for the Sox. Bay was 2 for 4 with 4 RBI's. Paul Byrd went six strong allowing 2 runs on 5 hits. This was hands down Byrd's best performance since joining the club. 

The Yankees are still mathematically still alive in the hunt for October, but their chances are slim to none. Ponson got off to a shaky start by throwing 28 pitches in the first inning. He was able to settle in, but fatigue set in for Ponson. Ponson lasted 4.2 innings and allowed 4 runs on 7 hits. Alex Rodriguez was able to bounce back after an 0 for 5 performance last night. Although A-Rod had a good night it wasn't enough to lift the team.

Tomorrow will be a battle of the aces. For Boston lefty Jon Lester will take the hill. The past two starts against the Yankees for Lester were some of his best. Last time out Lester went seven innings allowing 2 runs. The previous start Lester pitched a complete game shutout at the stadium. Lester will look to continue his success against the Yankees tomorrow.

For the Yankees veteran Mike Mussina will be pitching in a game that the Yankees need to win to keep pace with Boston. Mussina faced Boston back on July 5th. He picked up the win going six innings and not allowing a single run. The Yankees will look to Mussina to keep their season alive. The Yankees elimination number is now 21.