Brandon Morrow made the first start of his career (after 100 career relief innings) a memorable one, throwing 7.2 innings of one-hit ball. His fastball lived in the mid-90s, and it was even more effective because of his great curve and changeup. It was reminiscent of the gem Joba threw in Boston a few weeks ago.
The Yanks finally broke through in the 8th when Wilson Betemit lined a pinch-hit double just past a running Ichiro in right. The Yanks (and I) breathed a sigh of relief, for a no-hitter would've been the ulitmate embarrassment in a season full of them.
Three runs or less counter: 60
- Remember how Brian Cashman was killed and Theo Epstein was lauded when Boston landed Eric Gagne last season? He's been one of the worst relievers in baseball since that trade, posting a 6.70 ERA in 55 innings. Tonight he blew the save in Milwaukee (but was later bailed out as the Brewers won in the 11th).
- Kei Igawa pitched Scranton to a 2-1 series lead over Pawtucket while Kevin Whelan (acquired in the Gary Sheffield deal) helped Trenton sweep Portland to advance to the Eastern League finals.
- Many high-ceiling low-level prospects are going to the Instructional League in Tampa (starting September 18th). They include Jesus Montero, Dellin Betances, Brett Marshall, Chris Garcia, Jeremy Bleich and Kelvin DeLeon (among others).