It’s inevitable. Burnett will pitch in ALCS

Much to the chagrin of Yankees fans, myself included, A.J. Burnett will pitch Game 4 of the ALCS, Brian Cashman announced yesterday.

To clarify, Joe Girardi is still figuring out his team’s ALCS roster, but the Yankees will deploy a four-man rotation of CC Sabathia, Andy Pettitte, Phil Hughes and now Burnett.

I am not happy about this decision, to say the least. My attitude is: it’s the postseason; don’t hold anyone back. Will Hughes’ right arm fall off if he starts Game 6 on three days rest? Possibly. But I’m willing to take that risk if my team is one win away from the World Series or handing it to Sabathia for Game 7.

Last year the schedule allowed the Yankees to use a three-man rotation without taxing their starters because of the extra off day. That extra day is gone this year and the Yankees are dealing with a different A.J. Burnett.

I also don’t like how the Yankees made this rotation announcement before the Rays-Rangers series wrapped up. Their decisive game is tonight. Game 1 of the ALCS is Friday. What’s the rush?

It doesn’t sound like the Yankees are going to change their rotation plans, so I’m just trying to get used to the idea of seeing Burnett in a meaningful situation again. Unless of course, there is a conveniently placed rainout and the Yankees opt to go right to Sabathia for Game 4.

For once, Mother Nature, I’m begging for rain!