Well...we all knew that you can't throw fastballs by Giambi, but who knew you couldn't throw mid-high 90's fastballs by Andy Phillips?? (I know, he had HR's in the minors, but you don't face power pitchers in Yankee Stadium in the minors)

Last evening's game was another pleasant surprise all around, beginning with Melky's daredevil baserunning in the bottom of the first. After an errant throw by Varitek, an improper rotation of Boston infielders found Cabrera rounding third base with home uncovered!! Melky ran like he had stolen something, which he had: 1-0.

Top 2nd was a nervous 1/2 inning, as Mussina's apparently good pitches were put in play by the middle of the Red Sox order to take the lead, 2-1. This lead proved to be temporary for Boston...

Bottom 2nd was the critical stretch and essentially ended the game. Andy Phillips is growing into a role as a credible power threat. Regular YB.com readers know that I find Jason Giambi's 24 month climb out of his self-made hole to be inspirational. Last night's shot off the upper deck facade reminded me that 18 months ago, Jason's career was over for all intents and purposes. However, the ancient Romans believed that: Virtutis fortuna comes. (Good luck is the companion of courage)

The Yankees added 5 more runs in the wake of the decisive bottom 2nd on hits by Cano and Cabrera. Another fine outing for Mike Mussina, who continues to build his AL Cy Young case. (knock on wood) Also good to see Mariano throwing easily in the 9th.

Hey Tiger Wang: Keep that sinker down...