Following a game where the Yankees new closer David Robertson, gave up the lead in the ninth to blow his first save of the year, the Yankees came back in a big way against an elite pitcher, David Price. CC Sabathia went eight strong innings, not allowing an earned run and stuck out 10 batters. His best pitches came later in the game, however Girardi went the safe way and called on Rafael Soriano to earn his first save of the season with Robertson pitching three straight games. Soriano too, pitched three nights but his outings were less stressful than Robertson's.
Robinson Cano had a huge night at the plate, going 3-4 with a long 2-run home run in the Yankees bullpen. Robbie has been heating up over the last week since hitting a grand slam in Sunday's game. When he is on, it is difficult to get a mistake past him. The Yankees ability to work Price's pitch count in the fifth inning led to the go-ahead runs scoring and ultimately winning the game for the Yankees.
Although this could have easily been a 3 game sweep, the Yankees managed to win two out of three, which is what you want to do against a rival team. It doesn't get any easier for the Yankees tomorrow when they find themselves facing Felix Hernandez. The Yankees will counter with Hiroki Kuroda. Kuroda has been very hit or miss this season for the Yankees. With a light-hitting offense coming in, I expect Kuroda to pitch like he would in an NL West match-up.
UPDATE- 10:14: Gardner has re-injured himself and will not be in the lineup for another 15-25 days. It was the same injury he had when he initially went on the DL. The bone bruise is essentially gone. He won't pick up a bat for 10 days.
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