The Yankees will probably not take a different approach to Game Two of their World Series rematch with the Phillies tonight.
Phillies starter Jamie Moyer has been up and down this season including a complete game, but has since returned to his inconsistent form.
The Yankees’ AJ Burnett was stellar against the Phillies in the postseason, and it will be interesting to see how amazing he may look if the Phillies bats don’t show up—much like they have done all season.
The last time the Yankees saw Moyer as a starter on the mound was in 2005, and this is definitely a different team.
There is no Jason Giambi, Gary Sheffield, Bernie Williams, or Tino Martinez on this team. Moyer is looking at a completely new lineup with several players having won a World Series ring last year.
Moyer was ripped apart by the Red Sox in his last start. Is this a good sign for the Yankees? Only time will tell. The Red Sox offense has been picking it up recently, so the runs scored can be justified.
Burnett can be like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. He has two sides to his pitching. He can be lights-out, especially against a National League team. Or Burnett can be ripped just as badly as Moyer. Both were subtly displayed in the World Series.
But Burnett should have some help from Alex Rodriguez. The Yankees’ third baseman is expected to return to the lineup after missing the team’s last series and the first game of the Philadelphia series.
All eyes will be on A-Rod and his hip as he steps onto the field for his first bit of action in a few days. He should be fine, though, since he was at batting practice and participated yesterday without pain. He also shagged grounders inside the stadium afterwards. Either way it is A-Rod, and he will always be at the center of attention.
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