D-Rays Game 1 Thoughts

Derek Jeter is continuing to have a monster year.  He looks very comfortable in the 2-hole.  By going 3-5 he gets his average up to .391, second to only Miguel Tejada in the AL.  His 1st inning HR put the Yanks on top for good.  If he keeps it up, he may add an MVP to his list of credentials.  I know the MadDog wouldn't mind seeing that.

Mike Mussina again looked awesome.  I was a little worried after the 1st inning HR to Gomes (that guy is huge).  But he settled down and was awesome.  4 hits, no walks, and 7 Ks!  Not bad for 6 innings of work.  It looks like the change in his change is paying off.  He is switching speeds with the best of them.  Definitely a key to his success, and the Yankees success.

Matsui seems to be in a little slump.  Didn't he do this last year also?  He'll be fine and will be Godzilla-like soon.

Giambi appears to be the Giambi of old.  He has the highest .OBP and OPS in the AL, and is second in both in the Majors.  Just imagine if he played this way all last year.

The Yankees as a team are continuing to impress.  A team batting average of .308, second to only Toronto (.002 behind).  The highest team OBP in the Majors at .394 (.027 ahead of Cleveland).  Second in slugging % at .504 (.004 behind Toronto).  They have the second best team ERA in the AL at 3.63 (.005 behind Detroit).  Major League leaders in walks allowed.  It's hard to believe that the Yankees are 10-8?  Incidentally, we're ahead of Boston in every major statistical category except for doubles (43-40), Ks by pitchers (124-119) and saves (9-2).  Keep in mind that Boston has played two more games than the Yankees, so in all reality saves may be the only category they have the edge in statistically.  Unfortunately, it's the number of wins that matter most.  Boston is on top of the standings.  We meet head-to-head next week.  On paper, the Yanks have the edge.  But games aren't played on paper.  Should be a fun series.  Damon's 1st return to Fenway. 

Wang gets the ball tonight.  He's had some good outings but seems to always struggle for an inning or two.  Seth McCLung is on the mound for the D-Rays.  He's off to a rough start.  Let's hope if Wang falters, the offense picks him up.

Go Yankees!

J