Yankees Inch Closer To World Series With 10-1 Route Over Los Angeles

NFL News - October 21st, 2009 - Written by Scott

The New York Yankees have moved one step closer to reaching their first World Series in six years after their 10-1 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday night. Backed by the offensive fireworks displayed by third baseman Alex Rodriquez and the strong pitching from CC Cabathia, the Yankees have taken a 3-1 lead over the Angels and are just one win away from reaching the title series. Rodriguez homered in his third straight playoff game and added three hits to propel New York in Game 4 of the ALCS. Sabathia, who has now won 3 of New York's seven playoff games, allowed only 5 hits in 8 innings of work, on just three day's rest. Before the playoffs, he was just 2-3 in playoff appearances, but has been dominant this fall. Sabathia struck out five and allowed only two walks.

"We've still got a little ways to go, but I've been feeling good," Sabathia said. "I never had any doubt about me being able to perform on this stage and to pitch well late in October, but it seems like people did. But I feel great. You know, hopefully I can keep it going."

Rodriguez scored the game's first run after he singled and scored on a fielder's choice. Melky Cabrera then singled and drove in Jorge Posada and Robinson Cano to give the Yankees a 3-1 lead. In the 5th inning, Rodriquez would homer and brought in Teixeira to put New York ahead 5-1.

After being such a strong offensive ball club throughout the regular season, the Angels have struggled in the series and are batting just .201 against the Yankees. The Angles only run came in the 5th on a home run by Kendry Morales. Sabathia retired Torii Hunter in the 8th and a frustrated crowd of 45,160 began to empty the stands. Los Angeles skipper Mike Sciocsia realizes that this series is not over yet.

"We got beat pretty badly tonight, [but] it was one loss. That's it," Scioscia said. "Our guys are confident. There is nobody in that clubhouse that's down. We know where we have to get to, and there's a terrific challenge for us."

Losing pitcher Scott Kazmir allowed six hits and four walks in his second straight postseason start for the Angels. A.J. Burnett will get the start for New York on Thursday as the Yankees try to close out the series and make a return to the World Series. He has an ERA of 2.19 during the postseason, but has two no-decisions. The Angels will send John Lackey to the mound in Game 5. He is 1-1 during the playoffs with an ERA of 1.38.

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