tonytalkssports My Take on Sports, particularly the Yankees, Maple Leafs and Browns

Hughes Answers The Bell

Phil Hughes was in total control last night as the Yankees defeated the Chicago White Sox 4-0 in a rain-shortened contest. Hughes was never in trouble, allowing only 4 hits over 6 innings and maintaining his velocity on his fastball between 91-93 and even hitting 95 in the first inning. One almost has to wonder if the key to success for Hughes is being able to work through nights when he doesn't have his best stuff. On Monday, CC Sabathia did not have his best stuff but was able to go 8 innings and allow the Yanks to hang on for the victory. If Hughes is able to continue to pitch this way, the Yankees will be in much better shape.

The interesting decision to be made is what to do with Ivan Nova if he pitches well on Thursday??? It would seem to be exceedingly unfair if Nova pitches well and is then sent down to the minors. It's highly unlikely Nova would go to the bullpen. Hughes has been in the bullpen and was a key factor in the Yankees run to a World Championship in 2009. The Yankee high command will have a difficult decision to make if Nova pitches well. One thing that is not being considered: what if Colon and/or Garcia get bombed in Fenway over the weekend?? Will their status be in question??? It probably won't but I think it should.

Mark Texiera has really stepped it up since ARod has been out. Big Tex is hitting .310 since ARod has been out and the Yankees really need him to stay hot heading into Fenway. I can't tell you how important this Red Sox series is in my mind. The Red Sox lead the series 8-1 and the Yankees are still only 1 game out of first. If the Red Sox dominate once again over this weekend, you may have to be resigned to the fact that the Yanks will be the wild card entry into the playoffs. On top of the fact that I'm sick and tired of the smugness on the part of many Red Sox fans and the unbelievable love affair the sports media has with the Bosox. I only hope the Yankees have the same fire as I do for this series coming up.

Tonight AJ Burnett goes for the Yanks and hopefully he will get some run support to get a much needed win.