A Chilly Night For Wells
By Geoff Marks
It’s that time of year again, a time when fans of all different backgrounds can gather together in celebration of the American Pastime. A time when a group of friends can wave banners, scream profanities, and have a beer, without being frowned upon by the neighbors (unless of course they support the opposing team. If that is the case then more profanities can be expected, with occasional taunts and jeers). Most importantly though, as put by Randy Johnson, "it is a time for a new beginning." So break out the Crackerjacks, pop open a 12 ouncer, and sit back and enjoy the game.
Despite the cool temperatures, things in the Bronx heated up quickly, particularly within the Yankees’ bats. They had a three run rally in the 3rd, a two run 6th, and a three run 8th. The chill however, remained with 41 year old David Wells. In 4.1 innings, he gave up 10 hits, 4 runs, and even managed to peg Giambi twice on the elbow.
Wells also had a bases loaded balk, affording New York yet another run. Unfortunately, the fire didn’t end with the Boomer. Blaine Neal gave up two runs in 0.1 innings, earning himself an ERA of 27.00, and later in the game, Hideki Matsui sent a two run shot over the center field wall.
On the other side of things, stands Randy Johnson. Also 41, the Big Unit debuted for the Yankees with a very impressive performance. In 6.0 innings, Johnson gave up only one run, two BB’s, and struck out six; Manny Ramirez twice. In spite of some close calls early on, particularly a shot to the stands robbed by Matsui, the Big Unit displayed good control and velocity through-out his time on the mound. Following Johnson was Tanyon Sturtz, who pitched a perfect performance through two innings, with 3 strike-outs. The Yankee pitching held out, allowing only two runs the whole game.
This probably was not the start to the season that the Red Sox ball-club was looking for, with a final score of 9-2, but there is still plenty of time for redemption. Their next time out is on Tuesday at 1:05 pm when they will battle with the Bronx Bombers for the second game of this three game series.
Sources- www.mlb.com
-YESNetwork
