New York Yankees 2012 regular season review – Part 3
With momentum on their side Tampa Bay Rays continued their domination in Game 3 of the series. From New York Yankees prospective, they were looking to prevail in the finale to restore some of the lost pride but that did not turn out to be the case as Rays came up with another outstanding performances to complete a deserving series sweep against the American League East Division rivals.
Rays’ starting pitcher Jeremy Hellickson had one of his career best outings as he allowed jus three hits in eight plus scoreless innings, denting Yankees’ confidence levels. Striking out batters regularly, he ensured the Rays had complete control of the situation. Fernando Rodney continued his brilliant work on the mound as he held off the Yankees in the ninth.
"That was very impressive," Pena said of Hellickson's performance. "He was just so calm the whole time. That's something that should never be overlooked. He's just a kid out there, and just handled the spotlight, the pressure, whatever you want to call it, in such a way that is just amazing."
"That was a good birthday present," Hellickson said. "It's always nice to get off to a good start against these guys in our division. We came out and played hard and got three good wins."
"Everything they did worked out perfectly," Alex Rodriguez said in a post game interview.
Yankees’ starter Phil Hughes struggled to outperform his counterpart from the Rays in a low scoring contest. He allowed five hits and two runs to take his first loss of the season. Relief pitcher Boone Logan, Clay Rapada and David Phelps put up a fine effort but the Rays held on to their lead comfortably to complete a thrilling series sweep.
Matt Joyce provided the Rays with the kind of start they were hoping for as he tripled to deep right centre in the first inning. Carlos Pena had another productive outing as he smacked a solo home run to right in the third to double Rays’ lead to 2-0. Jeff Keppinger also made his presence felt with a home run in the sixth.
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