AJ Burnett can really earn his pinstripes tonight with a strong performance in Game 2 of the World Series. He's been lucky so far in the postseason. The Yanks won AJ's first two playoff starts and almost won his start in Anaheim despite Burnett's struggles.
But Burnett hasn't put in a signature performance in any of these starts. CC Sabathia, who pitched three strong games in a row in the division and AL championship series, deservedly won the ALCS most valuable player award. Andy Pettitte was brilliant during the ALCS clincher. It's time for AJ to step up and give the Yankees the dominant performance that he is capable of. I want to see 7 strong innings from him, keeping the walks and hit batters to a minimum, and getting the ball to Mariano Rivera.
I don't think the Yanks are in trouble despite being shut out by the unhittable Cliff Lee last night. But they do need to win Games 2 and 3 since they probably get Lee again in Game 4. Lee can only start three games at the most so the Yanks can win the World Series if they take the other four games. But to do that, they need the offense to recover from last night, they need to avoid the bullpen except for Mo at all costs, but most importantly, they need AJ Burnett tonight. Step up AJ!!! Earn your stripes!!!
Thanks to Keith Allison via Wikipedia for the photo.
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