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Game 85: Masterful Masterson

Justin Masterson showed that his record does not reflect his skills. Entering tonight’s game, the former Red Sox pitcher was 6-6 but this record was a reflection of his team’s lack of support for the righty as his ERA was 2.85.

The returning Phil Hughes struggled with placing his 93 mph fastball along the sides of the strike zone and surrendered 2 runs in the 1st. However he did settle down after what could be considered an adrenaline-pumped first and went 5 innings without allowing another run.

Considering what we saw from Hughes early in the season, this was a definite improvement. It also appeared that he was using a changeup too. But we can’t be too quick to settle with the idea that he is back; he has not shown the All-Star material that we were spoiled with last season but there is still time in the season for him to improve, having him start and be in the rotation is progress. The All-Star break should be beneficial to the aging and the youthful.

The Yankees offense made an attempt at a comeback in the 9th but there weren’t enough outs.

Derek Jeter hit a double in the 8th for hit #2,997.

He is 3 away from 3,000 hits with 4 games against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium. This is the best situation that Jeter, the Yankees, their fans, and MLB could hope for. Derek Jeter, the Yankees, and their fans want him to break the record in front of the New York crowd to have a celebration properly. Derek Jeter has been such an ambassador for baseball that I believe MLB wants Jeter to accomplish this in New York as well, and possibly before the All-Star Game to acknowledge his accomplishment.

Ryan Nakada
@adakannayr