New York Yankees vs. Tampa Bay Rays: Can CC Break Shields?

New York Yankees ace CC Sabathia will square off against Tampa Bay Rays James Shields, in the third and final game of this series.

Let’s check out this matchup:

Tampa Bay Rays: James Shields (9-9)

James Shields is a lights-out pitcher, if you are referring to his high strikeout numbers.

In 2010 Shields has posted 122 strikeouts over 135 innings. He maintains a minimal number of walks with 31.

So what explains Shields ERA being 4.79?

It is because Shields has given up 22 home runs this season, along with 72 earned runs. His weakest pitch is his fastball and it gets hit hard. Shields's change-up is his strongest pitch, but without it he is very hittable.

Over his last three starts, Shields is 2-0, pitching 19 innings, allowing nine earned runs, while walking five, and striking out 13. Still, he has been better after a horrible June and he has won his last two starts.

If Shields doesn’t shield his pitches and is predictable, the Yankees bats will eat him alive. Jeter and Cano have done it in the past, so look for them to go after Shields from the start.

 
New York Yankees: CC Sabathia (13-4)

Yankees ace CC Sabathia had his first loss since May 23, but he actually pitched very well. Lack of run support, along with some sloppy fielding behind him, was to blame for the result.

Sabathia has a 3.15 ERA in 151 innings this season. The Yankees ace has two complete games, giving up 53 earned runs, 12 homers, and 124 strikeouts.

Sabathia’s 52 walks are not great, but no matter what he can go deep into games, which allows the bullpen to rest.

Even in his most recent start, where he took the loss, Sabathia pitched seven solid innings, struck out five, walked three, but allowed two hits.

Sabathia is not going to have another bad start, so expect him to dominate from the start of this game.

The Rays to watch for against CC are BJ Upton, who is off the DL, and Evan Longoria. Otherwise, the rest of the Rays pose no threat.

Prediction:

Yankees beat the Rays 4-1.

Sabathia gets the win.

Shields take the loss.

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