Andy Pettitte turned in a clunker Tuesday night against Boston, lasting just 4 and 2/3 innings pitched and throwing 101 pitches. He allowed 6 earned runs on 10 hits, 3 walks and 3 strikeouts. The bullpen did a good job, finishing the final 4 and 1/3 innings with just 1 earned run, but the damage was done and the offense would not recover as the Yankees lost, 7-3.

This was despite Johnny Damon's best effort, as he went 2 for 4 with 2 home runs, giving himself 11 on the season. Jose Molina chipped in the other RBI by scoring Hideki Matsui on a single in the second. Once Red Sox starter Tim Wakefield left the game to start the sixth. That's not to say they didn't have any chances.

In the bottom of the 7th, Damon, Jeter and Abreu loaded the bases for A-Rod, who grounded into a double play. In the 8th, Giambi and Nady reached to make it 1st and 2nd with no outs. But, Matsui struck out, Cano popped out and I-Rod grounded out. Finally, in the ninth, Jeter was on first with one out for Abreu, who grounded into a fielder's choice. And then A-Rod struck out. Frustrating.

I don't want to say it's over because it's not. We're 6 games back of Boston with 5 games left against them. But, it needs to start tomorrow and with us winning the final two games of this series.

Who will we send to the hill? None other than Sidney Ponson (7-4, 4.67). He'll go against Paul Byrd (8-11, 4.61. Game time is 7:05 PM ET.