Yanks Win Final Home Opener 3-2

Excellent all-around game last night from the Yankees. Wang pitched 7 strong innings and only gave up 4 real hits (plus 2 infield singles) and only 2 runs. Joba and Mo closed the game in typical fashion. Joba was not as sharp as he was last year but you cannot expect him to be brilliant every time out. He worked some deep counts and gave up a walk but still did not give up a hit and struck out 2 batters. His fastball topped off at 97 mph and his slider was not as sharp but I expect those pitches to improve as he builds arm strength.

The Yankees offense was somewhat quiet but they got some timely hits against one of the best pitchers in baseball and scored just enough to win. They only wasted 1 good scoring opportunity after Damon led off the 8th with a triple and was stranded. Arod was solid with 2 hits and an RBI, Abreu had 2 hits and Melky hit his first HR since last August. "F***ing ballpark" yelled Halladay after the HR (a solo shot down the right field line that just went over the wall to tie the game).

Melky was also solid in the field making 2 excellent back to back catches. Giambi had a good game in the field as well with a great catch to save a run and a scoop to save a bad throw by Jeter. He also was smart on the bases avoiding a tag before reaching 2nd on a ground out by Cano. Arod later scored from 3rd after Posada was intentionally walked and Matsui hit an RBI ground ball.

All in all a great effort and a good win to kick off the season.