It all started with a little fly ball in the infield. It dropped between Chone Figgins and Erick Aybar and Johnny Damon scored from second to give the Yankees a 1-0 lead in the first inning.
The bad defensive play by the Halos was a precursor for the rest of the game, as they went on to make three errors and it cost them. The Yankees took a 4-1 victory anchored by CC Sabathia’s eight strong innings.
Quick ‘Cap:
Sabathia struck out seven over eight innings and allowed just five base runners before handing the ball to Mariano Rivera for the ninth. Hideki Matsui drove in two runs and Damon scored twice to lead the offense.
Thoughts:
I think the cold weather may have thrown off the Angels because they pride themselves on their defense. The Yankees have now won all four games this postseason. Here is a defining characteristic for the Yankees this season:
The Yankees improved to 82-4 this year when leading after seven innings. They are also now 52-1 when holding opponents to two runs or less.
It shows just how good the bullpen has been. Even though it was Sabathia last night, the Yankees could have thrown out three pitchers they felt extremely confident with before giving it to Rivera.
Line of the Night:
Sabathia: 8 IP, 4 H, R, BB, 7 K. Simply brilliant.
Up Next:
Game 2 is scheduled for tonight at 7:57 p.m., but the weather doesn’t look too good.
