Since my last post, the Tigers managed to stave off the Yankees in yet another close contest. Fister pitched five strong innings, surrendering a tape measure blast to Cano as his only blemish. An amped-up Scherzer would follow, making his first-ever appearance outta the Detroit ‘pen. Max really reached back a few times, touching 98mph. Benoit would enter, impressively wiggling out of a seventh inning, bases loaded jam. After an eventless eighth, Valverde came in to shut the door. Girardi may have over-managed a bit, using seven pitchers, including C.C., who would surrender the eventual deciding run. Pre-game discussion(s) swirled around Leyland’s adamant choice to exclude Justin Verlander from the bullpen… further cementing his decision, by having JV throw his regular (exposed) side session. There were also media grumblings about his decision to start Kelly at third, possibly being a detriment on the corner. After the game, Leyland would be praised for his baseball savant-like tactics. Kelly’s solo shot in the first inning set the game’s mood… and in the later innings, after replacing Ordonez in right, the Yankees denied themselves of possible scoring opportunities, choosing not to challenge his arm. And after all the criticism about NOT allowing his ace to join the relief cause, “Albert Leyland Einstein” had a fresh Cy Young candidate ready start game 1 of the ALCS.
"Utility-man Extraordinaire"
Post game coverage revealed a not-so-crusty Jim Leyland, welling up over Kelly’s contribution:
"To have this moment in Yankee Stadium for Donnie Kelly -- you've got your stars, but to happen to a guy like this, "that's real special. Cabrera and all those are gonna have millions of memories, but this is one Donnie Kelly will have forever."
No comments:
Post a Comment