Joba pitches four innings, Yanks win 5-3

For the first time in three starts, Joba Chamberlain pitched more than three innings. But not much further. Chamberlain pitched four innings in the Yankees (93-52) 5-3 victory over the Angels (86-57) in a makeup game.

Quick ‘Cap:
Mark Teixeira led the offense with three hits, including a two-run triple in the fifth inning and a double in the eighth that allowed the game-winning run to score. Brett Gardner pinch ran for Teixeira, and stole third base causing an overthrow, which allowed him to score. Alex Rodriguez came around to score an insurance run on Robinson Cano’s single.

Alfredo Aceves relieved Chamberlain, and Phil Coke helped complete the seventh inning. Phil Hughes blew another save, but the Yankees offense bailed him out once again. Mariano Rivera pitched the ninth for his 40th save of the season. Full box score here.

Thoughts:
This was a nice victory to have under their belts. The Angels are the only team threatening to snatch the best record in the American League from the Yankees. Also, the Yanks have never had much success against the Angels.

I’m glad Chamberlain’s walk total is going down. Tonight was the second time in his last four starts he hasn’t walked anyone.

Line of the Night:
Rivera: IP, zeroes, BB. He has allowed one run in his last 32 innings pitched.

Up Next:
The Yankees have two games left on their homestand, starting Tuesday with two games against Toronto. The series preview will be posted before game time.