New York Yankees: Post season results – MLB 2011 – Part 2
New York Yankees looked in commanding form in the opening game of a five match series against Detroit Tigers. Asserting dominance over their rivals in almost all departments, they raised their game to a higher level in the American League playoffs.
The Tigers fought back brilliantly in the following game and they took complete advantage of the opponents' unforced errors to level the series at 1-1. Yankees’ team manager, Joe Girardi aimed to make a strong come back in third game to cheer up their disappointed fans.
Despite putting up a valiant effort, the Yankees were overwhelmed by a formidable Tigers’ side in third game. Justin Verlander was the star of the show for the Tigers as he struck out eleven in eight sharp innings to let the Tigers rally past New York Yankees 5-4. Delmon Young scored a tie breaking home run in the seventh inning and the Tigers secured a crucial 2-1 lead in the best of five series.
"This is the first time I've been in this situation and felt good. In 2006 as a rookie, I was pretty fatigued," Verlander said. "I've worked my tail off since then, and I feel like every year I've been ready for this. And this is why I work so hard. There's no point in holding anything back now."
"I feel good about Jeter whenever he's up there in those situations because he's been there so many times," New York manager Joe Girardi said.
The Yankees, on the other hand, were unable to control their nerves in tense situations and they paid the ultimate price. Miguel Cabrera and Victor Martinez also failed to live to their immense potential and the Yankees lost two straight games after making a bright start to their post season campaign.
Joe Girardi was disappointed with his team’s effort but he aimed to give a solid performance in the fourth game to keep the series alive. The Yankees did exactly that as they hammered the Tigers 10-1 in fourth game to level the series 2-2. Showing great determination, fighting spirit and mental strength, Girardi’s side looked in complete control of the contest.
For the Yankees, Curtis Granderson and Don Kelly displayed some high quality skills to let their side emerge victorious in a must-win game. After hitting 41 home-runs during the regular season, Granderson put up a great show with his gloves as he backed up and jumped to take an important catch.
"We don't win that game tonight without defense," Burnett said.
A.J. Burnett was absolutely terrific in pitching department of the game as he secured his first win of the postseason to let the Yankees force the series into the decider.
Continued in part 3
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