The Grandyman Can...Long Ball and Nova Combine for Yanks Win

Commentary:

Ivan Nova continues to look like he is successfully evolving into a big league pitcher, throwing his 2nd quality start in as many outings.  He pitched into the 7th, allowing 2 runs and striking out 5.  The one tarnish on his line was the 4 walks.  It may not be the quickest game when he pitches but he has been getting the job done and while the rest of the rotation has been magnificent, it's okay to have Nova learn about the big leagues in his 5th starter role...especially if he continues to pitch like he is currently.

Sporting a knee-buckling curveball, Nova kept the Jays off balance despite trouble locating his fastball.  Adam Lind connected on a solo home run on a flare down the left field line in the 2nd that bounced off the foul screen.  Dave Robertson relieved Nova in the 7th and got into some trouble before Logan came on to get the last out of the inning which entailed him making a backhand snare on a grounder back to the mound that caught him.  Soriano and Mo closed out the contest with Rafael Soriano allowing the seemingly required long flyballs to give Girardi and Yankee fans heart palpatations.

The Bronx Bombers once again did the majority of their scoring via the long ball on Saturday with a solo shot in the 1st by Tex and a momentum changing 3-run blast by Granderson ("The Grandyman"--John Sterling's nickname and Willy Wonka reference) in the 5th.  Francisco Cervelli, in his first game back from a DL stint added a RBI ground-out in the 5th.  The Yanks combined for 6 hits and were 3-6 with runners in scoring position (RISP).

Grades:

Offense:  B  Good home run productivity once again but back to back innings ended in double play groundouts which can't continue to happen.  Jeter continues to put the ball on the ground too often--68% to be specific which is the most in the majors.  Gardner is starting to hit...finally.

Starting Pitching (Nova): B  The number of walks is too high but he continues to be successful allowing only 2 runs in 6.1 IP

Bullpen:  A  No runs, no hits but 2 walks keeps this grade from being an A+.  Soriano thankfully didn't give up a run.

Weather for Tomorrow's Matchup (@ Tigers):

A cold front will sweep through the region tonight and tomorrow morning bringing a few showers which will clear by gametime tomorrow.  Clouds will remain for the game however with cooling temperatures.

Game Time Conditions (7:05pm):  Mostly cloudy with a temperature of 55 degrees.