A Proper Thrashing (Yanks 9, Red Sox 5)

Wow. This game wasn't as close as the final score, and several details showed how thoroughly the Yankees thrashed the Sox into oblivion and, hopefully, acceptance of their second-best status in the AL East. It's obvious now.

The Yankees had 7 stolen bases off of Varitek, more than against any Yankee opponent in 13 years. Michael Kay eventually remarked, "they're not even close to getting thrown out."

Melky drilled Lester, capping a pounding of the Sox's prized #2 starter, who had already been rocked for 5 runs by the 3rd inning.

A well-rested A-Rod totally dominated this game: 3 for 3 with two walks, 3 stolen bases, a home run, 4 RBIs, 3 runs scored. And Jeter wasn't far behind: 2 for 4 with a walk, 2 stolen bases, 2 runs scored and 1 RBI and a base hit on the first pitch of the game. Incidentally this is the second game in a row he has done this against the Red Sox...last time he hit Becket's first pitch into the bullpen in right field at Fenway. Maybe I'll just tune in to the first pitch of the game tomorrow. If Jeter gets a hit, the Yankees will win. It's just such a great way to start a game, isn't it?

And Joba Chamberlain pitched a quality start against maybe the best non-pinstripe-wearing offense in the league: 6 IP and 3 earned runs. Even more encouraging, before Martinez's home run he had retired the first 11 Red Sox hitters. Joba has been telling the media that he's ready to "step up". Well this is the time. And if he can start a game four and pitch like this, the Yankees will be in very good shape.

By the way, if you're still counting the Yankees are 7-1 since the All Star break against the Red Sox. After starting the season 0-8 against them, the Bombers are now 7-9, two away from tying the season series with these guys. Should they win the next two games, they'd also clinch the AL East at Yankee stadium against their arch rivals, ensuring that a game 7 between these two teams would be at the new, glimmering throne in the Bronx, rather than at that old crumbling reminder of a Red Sox history that should be forgotten.

But enough about that. Here's the final play of the game. A fitting showcase of Yankee talent and a nice end for a very satisfying day.

Current record: 98-56
AL East Lead: 6 games
Games remaining: 8

AL East magic number: 3
Magic number over the Angels: 2