In the beginning of their recent winning streak, the Yankees used three walk-off wins to gain momentum. After the streak finally ended last night, the Yanks may have gotten back on track with another walk-off win. Melky Cabrera’s RBI single in the ninth propelled the Yankees (25-18) to a 5-4 win over the Phillies (23-18).
Quick ‘Cap:
The Yanks and Phils scored a run in the second inning, and the game remained tied until the fifth. Raul Ibanez hit his league-leading 17th homer, and Nick Swisher’s groundout scored Robinson Cano. Lefties J.A. Happ and Andy Pettitte were both strong throughout the game, but Pettitte ran into trouble in the fifth inning.
Phillies rookie John Mayberry wacked a three-run homer to left to open up the game, but Pettitte would stay strong through seven innings. Yankee captain Derek Jeter started the eventual comeback with a solo jack in the sixth to make the score 4-2.
Brad Lidge entered in the ninth inning looking for his ninth save, but the Yankees did not go quietly. Johnny Damon drew a leadoff walk, and after Mark Teixeira struck out, Alex Rodriguez tied it up with one swing. It was his sixth home run in eight days. The Yankees weren’t done, as Robinson Cano singled and stole second with still just one out. Cabrera singled to right-center field and Cano scored easily.
Thoughts:
Another walk-off win for the Yankees – their fourth on this homestand alone. A walk-off win occasionally is bound to happen, but this many so quickly is a sign of real clutch hitting. It is the best way to win, and it seems the Yankees are the best at it.
Noteworthy Performances:
- Phil Coke tossed 1 2/3 scoreless innings after Pettitte left. He allowed one hit to Chase Utley, but was a big key to the win.
Up Next:
Sunday’s afternoon matchup in in line to be a great one. Two stud lefties Cole Hamels (2-2, 4.95) and CC Sabathia (4-3, 3.43) will duel in the rubber match.
