Pulling Into The Station

It's that time again - interleague play is upon us. There have been some interesting match ups over the years, but overall this is one big bore already. Having to play teams from the other league that impact your standings is absurd, but of course this is all about cash money. Like all that money a Marlins-Rays series brings in (roll your eyes now). The Yankees-Mets series was always full of tension, especially as a Yankee fan, because the Yankees were always expected to win. An in-season match up of course could not compare to the 2000 World Series. There is still pressure to win, but it's really more about the competitiveness of Yankee and Met fans. Of course, George Steinbrenner does NOT want to lose.

This is the Mets strongest offense since the interleague play began in 1997. Their pitching even with Pedro and Tom Glavine has been stronger in the past. Probably for the first time they are the favorites in this year six-game battle (there should only be 3 games, but that's a thought for another day).

The pitching match ups would normally indicate 1 for the Yankees, 1 for the Mets, and a toss-up. But because of Randy Johnson's ineffectiveness, tonight's start against Jeremi Gonzalez is a toss up too. Throw in the Yankees already weakened offense even weaker with the pitcher batting and the Yankees could be in trouble. The good news is that the Red Sox have to face a good hitting Phillies team.

Yankees-Mets pitching for the series:

Friday - Randy Johnson vs. Jeremi Gonzalez
Saturday - Mike Mussina vs. Pedro Martinez
Sunday - Aaron Small vs Tom Glavine

Shawn Chacon was originally scheduled to start Sunday night's prime time game, but the hematoma on his leg has made him a scratch for the series.

Bubba Crosby is also gone from the Yankees depth chart. Crosby was placed on the 15 day DL after injuring his hamstring in yesterday's 6-2 loss to the Rangers. Veteran minor leaguer Mitch Jones has been recalled from Columbus to take his spot. The 28-year old, who has never appeared in a major league game, has 150 career minor league home runs.