Yankees vs. Pirates - June 26

The rubber game of the series is tonight in P-burgh and the Yankees need to take this series. You can't be losing back t0 back series to the Reds and Pirates, and expect to go anywhere. Mike Mussina (10-5, 3.93) goes for the Yankees while the Pirates trot out another left-hander, Paul Maholm (5-5, 4.41).

Moose has faced the Pirates once, tossing a complete game shutout in a 9-o win on June 14, 2006 at Yankee Stadium. Four current pirates - Jason Bay, Jack Wilson, Ryan Doumit, and Freddy Sanchez - were in the lineup.

Pirates vs. Mussina

Bay 2-4
Doumit 1-4
Michaels 1-4
Mientkiewicz 4-18
Nady 0-3
Rivas 0-9
Sanchez 0-3
Wilson 0-3

Paul Maholm's one career appearance results in a loss to Roger Clemens, in his first game back, last June 9. Maholm allowed 5 runs, 3 earned, 6 hits, and 5 walks in 5.1 innings pitched.

Yankees vs. Maholm

Abreu 3-7
Cabrera 0-2
Cano 1-3 1 RBI
Damon 1-3
Jeter 1-2
Matsui 0-2
Moeller 0-3
Posada 1-2 1 RBI
Rodriguez 0-2 1 RBI


News and Notes

Andy Phillips designated for assignment by the Reds last week, was claimed on waivers by the Mets last night.

Mark Feinsand of the Daily News reports that Phil Hughes threw 25 pitches from 60 feet in his first day of throwing since going on the DL.

Johnny Damon doesn't think his sore arch will require a trip to the DL.

It's official, Sidney Ponson will be starting the nightcap of Friday's twinbill with the Mets.

Tyler Kepner of the Times has a story on Jorge Posada's appreciation of Roberto Clemente's legacy.

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has a story on, former Pirates player and current Yankees coach, Tony Pena's return to Pittsburgh.