We’ve got Game 6 in a few hours, and the key has got to be Andy Pettitte.  His success will predicate on his ability to get ahead, and get easy outs on the Phillies hitters.   

Cruising early will build his confidence up, while knocking down the Phillies confidence.  He’s always been a pitcher who can identify and exploit a hitter’s weakness on the mound, using his slider, cutter, and curve arsenal.  Not being at full strength, he’ll need his command of those pitches to be on point.  

By attacking the cold hitters, and making good pitches to the hot hitters, he’ll be able to get through the early innings quickly, and stay sharp.  On only three days rest, getting off to a good start is essential to his success.

But, if he gets behind the eight ball and has to labor early, it’s going to be trouble.  It’s so vital to his success because he needs to be confident out on the mound.  With the Phillies facing elimination, every inning he shuts them down will put more and more pressure on the hitters, especially those who are already pressing.

So it’s down to this, Pettitte and Pedro, Game 6, Yankee Stadium.

Our stage is set; is today going to be the last day of summer, or will we travel to one of the greatest destinations in sports, World Series, Game 7, Yankee Stadium? – Al Leiter