More rain and more of the same (Rays 4, Yanks 3)

The rain is sapping the energy from the stadium, which negates the Yankees' home field advantage. Also, the field level seats that are caught on camera simply MUST be filled by game time. That's a serious PR problem that the Yankees need to tackle right now. The "concrete moat" patrolled by a "fleet" of menacing security guards also undermine the atmosphere of inclusiveness. We can understand celebities' and the super-wealthy's desire for separation from descheveled Red Sox fans in sweat-stained, sun-bleached caps, but that's what the suites are for.

The other issue that must be resolved is Girardi. There's no escaping the fact that he needs to go, right now. Too many close, important games have been lost against rival opponents. There have been too many exceptionally poor performances by former all-stars. And too many of Girardi's decisions seem lazily reasoned. It all adds up to a sub-500 record and one agonizing game after another to watch. The sooner they fire Girardi, the better the Yankees' chances are of contending for a playoff spot this season.

Now if you want to get to the root of the problem, it's probably Steinbrenner's illness. He can't rule the team with an iron fist anymore, and so the team has declined in exactly the same trajectory as the Boss's health. And it doesn't appear as though he has set things up for others to perform in his old job at the same level of excellence. But that can't be changed. What can be changed is the leadership on the field, and that's Girardi.