Timely hitting absent in Yankees loss

The Yankees (48-44) lost for just the second time in their last ten games, and you can’t help but think about all their blown chances in the late innings to score. The Blue Jays (43-41) did pick up the timely hits, and went on to win 7-6.

Quick ‘Cap:
The Blue Jays went on to an early 4-0 lead on an RBI single by Rod Barajas and a three-run homer by Alex Rios. Eric Hinske hit his first homer as a Yankee in the fifth, but the Yanks still trailed by three.

Andy Pettitte was looking to complete his traditional 6-7 innings, four runs allowed start, until he allowed a leadoff homer in the seventh and then walked the next man. Brian Bruney relieved him and didn’t do much better. He allowed back-to-back doubles and the Jays were up 7-1.

The Yankees scored two times in the seventh, but wasted a first and second, one out opportunity with Mark Teixeira and Alex Rodriguez due up. They both struck out, and the Yankees managed three runs in the final two innings, but fell one run short. Full box score here.

Thoughts:
Hinske had a chance in the ninth to hit a walk-off homer, but instead he struck out. It was just one of those days when the big hit never came.

Line of the Day:
Nick Swisher: 3-for-4, 2 RBI, BB. It was his first three-hit day since April 9.

Up Next:
The Yankees travel to Minnesota for a three game series. Full series preview later.