Yankees up on its toes against the Red Sox
August 04, 2009 by Marc Jerbs
The Yankees' two and a half game lead over the Red Sox in the AL East is now a thing of the past. Four road-game losses by the Yanks against the A's and White Sox helped the Red Sox erase the lead of the Yankees in the AL East into a mere half game. Things could get complicated once the Yankees host the Red Sox on Thursday and every game is a must win for either teams. These two great rivals will play with a playoff atmosphere and are fighting for the bragging rights on who's the best in the AL East.
Before the Yankees worry about their closest pursuer, they must first face the Blue Jays. Roy Halladay who was subjected to various trade proposals before the deadline will pitch for the Blue Jays. He was able dominate the entire Yankees lineup last May 12 wherein he pitched a 5-hitter for a 5-1 victory. The Yankees must find a weakness in Halladay's pitching armor in order for them to earn a much needed win.
The Toronto Blue Jays failed to get a decent trade proposal from the suitors of their ace pitcher Roy Halladay. I think they were asking too much, it was doomed from the start since they play their ace pitcher in the trading block. Likewise, it is much better to have him stay and finish the season with the Blue Jays.
The Blue Jays are 12 games behind the AL East and 11 games behind the AL Wild Card standings. It would be difficult for the Jays to challenge in the AL East but they could still act as spoilers to other teams that would want to be in the playoffs. That should send a stern warning to the Yankees on tomorrow's game.
It seems that I would go with the Jays on this one as long as Halladay brings his A-game against the Yankees. But Andy Pettitte could also make it a pitcher's duel and make it a one wrong pitch you lose game. Yet, the handicapping experts heavily favor the Blue Jays to win against the Yankees.
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