I hate to put it this way, but after Leiter's last performance, todays shut out ball for 5 2/3 innings was a big step.

Leiter allowed four hits and four walks while striking out two. Offensively, A-Rod and Jeter were huge today both having 3-4 days. A-Rod hit his 31st HR of the season in the second inning. Rivera closed out the game in the 9th for his 29th save.

An embarrassing moment for Matsui in the eighth when Eric Hinske hit a sac fly into left with the bases loaded. Matsui closed his glove on the ball thinking it was the 3rd out of the inning. Shea Hillenbrand scored easily from third. Greg Zaun tried to advance to third from second, when Matsui figuring out his error, threw to third for the out to end the inning. Embarassing, but nevertheless, and inning ending double play.

The Yankees next game will be tomorrow night against the Chicago White Sox. Mike Mussina (10-7, 4.05 ERA) will face former Yankee Orlando "El Duque" Hernandez (8-4, 4.69 ERA) at the Stadium in the Bronx. Game time: 7:05pm et