Go Yankees!!!

[Jason Porter]

Well, game 1 was outstanding. The clutch players for New York kept up the hot bats, and Mike Mussina put on a great showing.

Curt Schilling has a toasted ankle, and apparently will not be of help to the Red Sox. It looks as though since he can't push off, he's gripping the ball tighter trying to generate power, which actually slows the ball down, and makes it rise in the strike zone...Not ideal for pitching to the Yankees.

A-Rod, Sheffield, and "holy ***** did you see that hit" Matsui once again came up big, with Matsui killing the Red Sox...again.

Without Schilling, it looks like the Sox are down to their former ace, Pedro Martinez, and a lackluster crew of starters, which pretty much evens up the pitching game, as the Yankees have unpredictable Kevin Brown and a couple of other guys who go to the mound hoping not to ruin things long enough to get Rivera out in the 9th.

Also, Kenny Lofton may prove to be a X-factor in this series, with a decent bat, and lots of playoff experience.

The Yankees have to be disappointed in the bat of Jorge Posada and John Olerud though. Even though these guys are defensively great and rtespected team leaders, they appear to be easy quick outs for opposing pitchers.

Tonight is a must win for the Sox, as the Yankees almost always pick up one win in Boston. Look for a very tough game from Pedro Martinez. His stuff isn't what it was three years ago, but he still has his days. A good outing is certainly needed, but the Yankees and their fans won't make it easy for him.

Also, the eye of the baseball world will be on Manny Ramirez, who had a miserable Game 1, and will certainly be looking for a turnaround in Game 2. If he doesn't get hot in this series with his bat, the Sox will be hurting...