Vazquez brings confidence, Yanks forget bats

Javier Vazquez exceeded expectations in his first start since May 1, but the normally reliable Yankee offense was shut out for the first time this season in a 2-0 loss to the Tigers.

Quick ‘Cap:
Vazquez exchanged zeroes with Tigers starter Rick Porcello through five, but allowed four hits and two runs in the sixth inning. He got out of a tight jam on a double play, but Pocello had all the run support he needed. The Tigers bullpen was great once again to hold on to the victory.

Today’s goat was Ramiro Pena, who flied out to center with the bases loaded and two out in the second and struck out with men on first and second and two out in the fourth. In the seventh, he grounded into an inning-ending double play. Yankees-Tigers box score.

Thoughts:
This game defines losing the battle, but winning the war. The fact that Vazquez proved he isn’t completely worthless is winning the war. He’ll be needed the rest of the year, especially if Andy Pettitte can’t stay healthy, and a brilliant performance like today is exactly what he needed to restore his confidence.

So far, my prediction of the series has held true. Now, the Yankees just need to win the next two with Phil Hughes and CC Sabathia toeing the rubber. (Doesn’t sound too hard.)

Line of the Day:
Vazquez: L, 7 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 7 K.

Up Next:
The Yankees play the nightcap of the doubleheader at 7 p.m. with Hughes on the mound squaring off against Jeremy Bonderman.