Back in the Win Column.... Finally

The team desperately needed something to feel good about and tonight's win was certainly that. Ivan Nova pitched pretty well over 5.1, allowing just a run on four hits. The bullpen, and especially David Robertson did a solid job (more on that later) holding the lead, something they haven't done lately. And the Yankees got some nice timely hitting, including two bombs by A-Rod, three hits by Gardner, two hit for Posada (WOW!), and Chris Dickerson even picked up a hit and an RBI in his debut. All in all, a very nice win over the first place Rays.

Things were pretty much decided in the 6th when David Robertson came into a 2-1 game with the bases loaded and one out. He would come up huge, striking out BJ Upton and Casey Kotchman to end the inning. The Yanks would score two more in the top of the 7th to increase their lead to three.

It's just one win, but it came when they needed it the most. Hopefully, it's something they can build upon. Who knows, maybe after getting destroyed in the papers for the last few days they'll play with a chip on their shoulder. They did seem a little extra pumped up on the bench tonight, but obviously winning for the first time in a week will do that to you.

The Yanks start a two-game series with the O's in Baltimore tomorrow before interleague play, and the Subway Series, kick off on Friday.

(BOX SCORE)