Historic October, But Still Jitters of Previous Haunts

Most people in the sporting world would tell you that the New York Yankees are in a dynamite spot.  Up 3 games to 1 on the Anaheim Angels, and less than 24 hours from potentially meeting the Phillies in the World Series, I ask myself: Haven't I had this feeling before? The answer is: yes, many many times.  Most notably, we travel back to the historic year of 2004.   The magicial Red Sox were down 3 games to none and stormed back to win that series, and the world series.   Now, quite frankly, this is a much different team.  It's built on younger pitching, some fantastic hitting.  The 360 turn around of Alex Rodriguez is quite notable and headline worthy because of the stereotype Alex was given.  However, the real story at the end of the day is how good there starting pitching has been.  Sabathia has been an Ace caliber who is shaking off his own Post-Season Demons, and Burnett has been "Effectively" wild.   Petitte is Petitte which is to say that he can battle through the best of them and although his line might not look great, it could of been a heck of a lot worse..not to mention, he has 15 Post-Season wins in his belt...The bullpen has been very nice too, leading to Mariano...Although Aceves has not looked like the 10 game relief winner he was, David Robertson has been a nice lock-down set up guy to help Joba, Hughes, and Mo. 

So why am I nervous?  Because after 8 years of not winning any World Series, I've seen my share of close-knit games and heart breaks (I ask for no sympathy, however)

2001:  Luis Gonzalez wins it in the bottom of the 9th...thought we'd win that game.

2002:  Angels come from 5 runs down to win a game, and then the next game to take the series.

2003:  Aaron Boone beats the 'Sox, and with that momentum, we lose in 6 to Florida.

2004: Historic comeback, 5 outs away from destiny. Choke T-Shirts became famous.

2005:  I was still stunned from the year past.

2006:  Didn't like our pitching, but was glad Boston wasn't in it.

2007: Stupid Bugs ruining Joba's performance....wish CLE would of beat Boston.

2008:  No Yankee Playoffs - Postseason Irrelevant.

Now, we have waited.  Not as long as many clubs out there, but 8 years for a Yankee fan is like...25-30 for a regular fan.  I can't compete with the Indians or Cubs fans as they have waited longer....however, I still will not be popping Champagne or making hyperbole statements via Facebook until the final out is produced.  And the biggest over-statement of the year is...if the Yanks don't make it to the Series and win, then this historic run they have....will be like their last season.....irrelevant.