world-series-phils-yanksThanks in part to some lazy Yankee defense early on in Game 3 of the World Series, all signs pointed to a messy blowout and an early exit for Andy Pettitte, who threw 40 pitches in the first two innings.

But Andy settled down nicely while the Yankee bats, including his own (!), finally busted open, scoring runs in five consecutive innings after being shut out for the first three. Seemed like the moment one thing went wrong, Cole Hamels was toast. 

Game 3 also treated us to our first umpire review after a ball, initially ruled a double, clanked off a Fox camera in the right field corner. Naturally, it was A-Rod who hit it. Apparently, Charlie Manuel questioned MLB officials about the camera before the game and was told that if it were hit, it would be ruled a home run. Well it was hit, and ruled a double. Sounds about right.

Worth noting — Nick Swisher’s bat is momentarily alive. Jayson Werth’s bat is terrifying. Phil Hughes will not be seen again. Mo was used, but only threw five pitches. Ryan Howard is 2-for-13 with nine strikeouts. He has not looked good. But neither had A-Rod, and now everyone loves him, again.

Tonight, CC takes the mound on three days rest. Cliff Lee will not be joining him. No, he’s never pitched on short rest, but with Joe Blanton as the next viable option, Manuel’s decision not to use Lee will be questioned all day long.

But, since no one in Philly or New York are giving Blanton a chance, expect him to show up and grind out 6 2/3 innings of two-run ball.

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Check out the comments from Cole Hamels on the prospect of a Game 7. Guy sounds like a baby.