Yankees ride Melky’s cycle down victory lane

Melky Cabrera tripled and scored in the ninth inning to complete the first cycle by a Yankee since 1995. The Yankees (63-42) rode Melky’s four hits and four RBI en route to an 8-5 win and avoided being swept by the White Sox (54-52).

Quick ‘Cap:
Melky’s three-run homer was his first of the day, and accounted for the Yankees’ first three runs. The White Sox stormed back with a four-runs third against CC Sabathia. Despite the rough inning, Sabathia lasted seven-plus innings to earn his 11th victory of the season.

RBI singles from Jose Molina, Johnny Damon, Melky and Jerry Hairston Jr. gave the Yankees four runs total between the fourth and fifth innings. Mariano Rivera recorded four outs for his 30th save of the season. Full box score here.

Thoughts:
Now that it’s happened, I feel like one Yankee was due for a huge game. The Melk man delivered, what a guy. As for CC, you have to be disappointed in the five earned runs, but at least he gave the middle relievers a break.

Line of the Day:
Melky: 4-for-5, 2B, 3B, HR, 3 R, 4 RBI

Up Next:
The Yankees will take a much-needed day off on Monday and then will travel to Toronto for two games. I’ll have a series preview posted.