The first game of interleague play was not so kind to the Yankees. A.J. Burnett gave up three homers and the Yankees (24-18) fell to the Phillies (23-17) 7-3.
Quick ‘Cap:
Jimmy Rollins led off the game with a homer to right, and the Phils never lost their lead. Johnny Damon was thrown out at home by Rollins after Alex Rodriguez doubled doubled to left.
The Phils extended their lead to three when Carlos Ruiz (No. 9 hitter) hit a two-run shot in the second. They made it 5-0 when Jayson Werth hit another two-run jack in the fifth. A-Rod finally put the Yanks on the board with a solo homer in the sixth, but Burnett’s day was done.
Chien-Ming Wang, who was added to the Yankees bullpen today, tossed the final three innings but did not look good. He allowed six hits and two runs.
Derek Jeter and Mark Teixeira homered in the eighth, but that was all. Brett Myers pitched eight strong innings and scattered eight hits. Full box score here.
Thoughts:
All good things must come to an end. The Yankees had to lose a game eventually, and it came against the defending champs. However, this is no time to get back in a slump. They need to show they can compete with any team.
Noteworthy Performances:
- Rodriguez hit his fifth homer in seven days. He’s only batting .200 so far, but he still has his power.
Up Next:
The Phillies will send out J.A. Happ (2-1, 2.49) in tomorrow’s game 2 at 4:10 p.m. The Yankees counter with Andy Pettitte (4-1, 4.18).
