The ShowGirl

  (5:03 PM)

Hey everybody, welcome to The Show! Enjoy the games and the chat tonight with the one and only, Buzzmaster! ...

Buzzmaster

  (5:03 PM)

Hey folks, your humble Buzzmaster reporting for duty thanks to David Ortiz. And I, for one, couldn't be happier. Pedro trying to keep the Sox alive and the Astros trying to push the Cards to the brink of a stunning upset? It's going to be a good night.

Greg (Woburn, MA)

Awwwww WE WANT THE SHOWGIRL!!!

Buzzmaster

  (5:06 PM)

Hey, she had late duty with last night's game. She has to rest her arm at some point!

Adam (NH via NJ)

Hope. It is the quintessential human delusion, simultaneously the source of our greatest strength and our greatest weakness. Always have hope!

Chris (Sioux City)

How many Cokes do you have standing by Buzz?

Buzzmaster

  (5:07 PM)

Chris- Apparently not enough to keep up with Adam ...

Casey (Whitewater, WI)

Another day just like yesterday in both Houston and Boston would be great with me!

Pokey Reese (Boston)

What are my chances of playing tonight?

Buzzmaster

  (5:09 PM)

It sounds like Francona is sticking with Bellhorn in the No. 9 hole. Maybe he can at least work some counts before striking out.

Paul (Portland, OR)

Interesting quote Adam. Would people say hope or fear are our greatest weakness? Fear can be awfully debilitating whether at the plate with a full count, about to release a free throw, whatever...

Buster Olney

  (5:11 PM)

Hey folks, hope all is well, and that you got enough sleep... Let's get it started...

Mike (San Francisco)

Buzz, convince me that Pedro can turn back the clock and put up a solid 8 innings tonight. I'd rather not have this come down to Mike Myers in a big spot...

Buzzmaster

  (5:12 PM)

Before we get to Pedro, let me be a little tardy in pointing out we're lucky enough to have Buster Olney back again for more ALCS inside info.

Buzzmaster

  (5:14 PM)

Pedro opens with a K and a BB, and his arm looks lively early.

paul (nyc)

a walk by pedro.. not a good sign for a first inning..

JD (LA)

Please Buzz, can you continue to post only questions and whiny posts from BoSox fans, as if they are the only people interested in the series?

Buzzmaster

  (5:14 PM)

Hey, someone from LA is on time for a baseball game? Go figure.

Buzzmaster

  (5:15 PM)

Down goes Sheff, Pedro with two Ks early.

Greg (Woburn, MA)

Looks like Pedro brought his A game.

Chris (Sioux City)

Nice curve by Pedro, his breaking stuff is solid early!

Buzzmaster

  (5:15 PM)

Breaking news: The Red Sox retired Matsui ...

Rob (Stamford)

Why am I scared out of my mind when Matsui hits?

Greg (Woburn, MA)

Wow Matsui is retired....barely though.

adam (nj)

in the spirit of this election, buzz is blatantly partisan and makes no apologies

Buster Olney

  (5:17 PM)

Middle of the first: Unless Pedro dominates -- and that three-pitch whiff of Jeter was quite an opening statement -- the exhausted bullpens are obviously going to be a huge factor. From what I hear, the Red Sox bullpen is in shambles now, 16 hours after Game 4. Embree is on fumes, there was real doubt whether Leskanic could pitch LAST night because his shoulder is hurting, Myers is a mess, Timlin threw 37 pitches, and Foulke was needed for 2 2/3 innings. Francona is apparently fully prepared to used Arroyo in middle relief today. For Torre, Gordon is tired but ready to take the ball, Rivera is available for 3 to 4 ours (although Torre will ask for more, if necessary). Pedro looked great right out of the box, throwing hard, and more importantly, throwing his off-speed stuff for strikes (rung up Sheffield on a curve...)

Buster Olney

  (5:17 PM)

Middle of the first: Unless Pedro dominates -- and that three-pitch whiff of Jeter was quite an opening statement -- the exhausted bullpens are obviously going to be a huge factor. From what I hear, the Red Sox bullpen is in shambles now, 16 hours after Game 4. Embree is on fumes, there was real doubt whether Leskanic could pitch LAST night because his shoulder is hurting, Myers is a mess, Timlin threw 37 pitches, and Foulke was needed for 2 2/3 innings. Francona is apparently fully prepared to used Arroyo in middle relief today. For Torre, Gordon is tired but ready to take the ball, Rivera is available for 3 to 4 ours (although Torre will ask for more, if necessary). Pedro looked great right out of the box, throwing hard, and more importantly, throwing his off-speed stuff for strikes (rung up Sheffield on a curve...)

Buzzmaster

  (5:17 PM)

But I do have a red light by my keyboard, to keep all my comments to 90 seconds or less. And Yankees fans will get a chance to respond for 60 seconds.

Jack (boston, MA)

matsui is 0 for 1 today, which lowers his batting average to .985 for the series...

Buzzmaster

  (5:18 PM)

Johnny Damon steps to the plate and is somehow already 0-2 today.

Bryan (Maryville, MO)

Let's see if Moose can match Pedro's first!

Ross (Missoula, MT)

Cmon Johnny baby, WAKE UP!

Wagon (Burlington, VT)

how important is it for the yankees to keep damon off base? anyone?

Ross (LI, NY)

Boston will go no where if Damon can not find a way to get on

Steve (NY)

one in a row, 26 to go

Buster Olney

  (5:20 PM)

Couple of things: Count the foul balls against Mussina. Pitch count will be absolutely enormous today, because of the state of both bullpens.. 12 pitches for Pedro in the first inning...

Joe (New York)

True. If they intend to make a dent in New York's lead, the Sox are going to have to start getting some hits from the top of their order.

Buzzmaster

  (5:22 PM)

Cabrera gets on with a single off Mussina. Will it help the Sox to get something, anything off Mussina early this time?

Sydney (Buffalo)

Here we go. Cabrera's on w/ Manny and Ortiz coming up.

Hook (Tuscaloosa)

Buster's already on his game ... bullpens will be huge factor in both of today's contests.

Ben (New York, NY)

There is no reason why a Yankee pitcher should throw anything other than breaking balls to Cabrera

Aaron (Schaumburg, IL)

That's a big first inning hit...9 pitches to the fist two batters, a good at bat from Ramirez and Moose might finish the inning with 20 tosses.

Greg (PSU)

Get the bat off your shoulder ramirez...

Luke (Portland)

Time for Manny's bat to awaken.

Buster Olney

  (5:24 PM)

So far, the umpire is squeezing the strike zone, Mussina missing on the corners by fractions of an inch. that's not good for Mussina, because he needs to get those to be efficient...

Greg (PSU)

Thatta BOY!!!!!!!!

Greg (Woburn, MA)

The sox are in business. First and third with one out to BIG PAPI!!!

Chris (Sioux City)

Sox hitters seem to be more patient against Mussina than in game 1

Wagon (Burlington, VT)

time for a DP 4-6-3

Rick (Clara City, MN)

Difference between a game in NY and a game in Boston? The strike zone?

Buster Olney

  (5:25 PM)

14 pitches so far, one out for Mussina...

Eric (New Jersey)

are the umps trying to give this game to the sox??? The k-zone is ridiculous!!!

Buzzmaster

  (5:26 PM)

Ortiz comes through ... again ... singles in a run. 1-0 Sox.

Sydney (Buffalo)

Ortiz delivers again!

Chris (Sioux City)

WOW!!! Ortiz is the Yanks Big Daddy!

Steve (Long Island, NY)

Is there a reason that a pitch that crosses t he plate at the knees isn't called a strike? This ump needs laser surgery.

Doug (Wyoming, Ia)

Just remember both pitchers are pitching to the same zone..

Steve (Long Island, NY)

It's easy to drive in runs when you have hitters counts because the ump is afraid to call a strike.

David (Honolulu)

Didn't take long for the Yankee whiners to come out

david (boston)

this series is going back to boston

Buster Olney

  (5:28 PM)

I can't recall Jeff Kellogg, the home plate umpire, having a particularly big or small strike zone in the past, but he's going to have a major impact on this game if Mussina doesn't get strikes on the fringe pitches. That's 19 pitches and counting, and he's only got one out...

Buzzmaster

  (5:28 PM)

Um, David ... put down the Sam Adams.

Ben (New York, NY)

How was that pitch any different than some of the others that have been called balls so far? Oh, wait, it wasn't...

Jesse (Pasadena, CA)

Umpiring behind home plate has been terrible all series -- if you think only the Yankees pitchers have been hurt you're *way* too biased.

Daubach (Oakland)

They are referencing the STRIKE ZONE a lot on the radio broadcast.

Aaron (Schaumburg, IL)

It's fun to hear Yankee fans to complaining about the strike zone.

Buzzmaster

  (5:30 PM)

Bases loaded after Mussina walks Millar.

Eric (Camp Pendleton)

At work, no radio reception no TV, relying on ya'll and gamecast for updates

Buster Olney

  (5:30 PM)

Jesse -- I'm not saying Kellogg is sticking it to the Yankees. I am saying that Pedro, as a power pitcher who can challenge hitters in the strike zone more than Mussina can, doesn't need the fringe pitches as much as Mussina. And that definitely favors Pedro, because of his stuff...

Hook (Tuscaloosa)

I guess the Boss should've allocated some of that $200 million to the umps.

Steve (Long Island, NY)

I'm not asking for a strike on every pitch. Consistancy is a must though. Pitches in the same spots to Ramirez and Ortiz were balls while they were strikes to Millar.

Buzzmaster

  (5:31 PM)

Trot grounds into the 3-2 forced, two outs and the bases still loaded.

Chris (Sioux City)

If Olerud is there, do they turn 2 there. Joe Morgan on the radio says he would have.

Kevin (Brookline Ma)

Man I think I can throw harder than Clark

AG (Chitown)

Good play by Clark....take the one out and now two outs. If Mussina cannot get it done...well that is a different story

Mitch (Cincy)

Varitek is having a great series, he'll deliver here

Buster Olney

  (5:33 PM)

I bet mussina will try to finish off Varitek with a breaking ball away, because as a switch-hitter turned around, he hasn't seen that before, a breaking ball moving away from him.

Peter (Portland (OR))

If the yanks get out with only 1 run, they're real lucky.

Greg (Woburn, MA)

What is the pitch count at right now?

Buster Olney

  (5:34 PM)

28, after the 3-1 pitch to Varitek...

Sydney (Buffalo)

Full count.

Buzzmaster

  (5:35 PM)

Mussina walks in a run, 2-0 Sox.

Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)

Moose has nothing today. That where is that devastating curve?

Eric (Camp Pendleton)

Moose is barely missing

Aaron (Schaumburg, IL)

WOW! Meaning Mussina will throw more than 30 pitches and maybe more if Mueller is patient.

Preston (Richmond)

Posada's not doing Mussina any favors - his framing on these borderline pitches has been pretty bad

Tom (New York)

Great umpires are the one's you don't notice. This game is a joke already. I haven't seen a pitcher get this squeezed all year.

Buzzmaster

  (5:38 PM)

All right, Yankees get out of it allowing just two. Not bad compared to what it could have been, right, Yankees fans?

Buzzmaster

  (5:38 PM)

Unless you just want to keep talking about the strike zone ...

James (Chicago)

Don't count out Mussina yet. He's great at adjusting as the game goes on.

Marco (San Francisco)

Depends on what Mussina does in the second inning. 2 down isn't a great place to start after last night's ending..but he needs to settle down first.

Jon (Queens)

I dont think Yankee fans should be worried, nor should Boston fans feel that great. Mussina isnt missing by 3 feet. And Pedro will only be as good as his pitch count.

Ross (LI, NY)

With Moose's 34 pitches already, Yanks have to be patient and run up Pedros count

Tim (Herndon, VA)

The Red Sox really needed to get 4 runs in that first inning. They have to take those break out innings when they present themselves

Buster Olney

  (5:40 PM)

End of the first inning: As Mussina walked off the mound after striking out Mueller, he turned to Kellogg and said, C'MON! Thirty-four pitches. It was the worst possible kind of inning for the Yankees and Mussina, following Saturday craziness and extra innings last night. Mussina typically will max out at 110 pitches, so he used up almost a third of his pitches in that frame. The Yankees are equipped for long relief, but not necessarily with good quality relief; Gordon has pitched three innings the last two days, Sturtze worked two innings last night, and everybody knows Rivera is taxed. And Torre is not going to easily trust Quantrill. A bad inning and bad situation with the ump, if you are Mussina.

Eric (New Jersey)

Minimize damage. I said this was the key too who ever wins the series.

Buzzmaster

  (5:40 PM)

And Bernie blasts a home run off Pedro, and it's 2-1.

Greg (Woburn, MA)

Well that was quick.

Zach (Montezuma,IA)

Williams answers! Plan that golfing trip, Boston!

Hook (Tuscaloosa)

Bernie says "Take that Carlos Beltran! I can still play a little."

Aaron (Schaumburg, IL)

That didn't take long. The Yankees usually tie the game right after Boston scores in this series...will they get another run after Bernie's blast?

Kirk (Chaska, MN)

Pedro needs to settle back down in a hurry.

Rich (NY)

Yankees need to start taking some pitches. Get Pedros count up and give Moose some time to rest

Buzzmaster

  (5:44 PM)

Two outs with Cairo coming up and a runner on first.

Buster Olney

  (5:45 PM)

Five outs, 20 pitches for Pedro so far...

Jon (San Diego, CA)

NY not showing much patience at the plate through three hitters, that'll help pedros pc

Rob (Stamford)

Pedro still looks good. With a 2 run lead he challenged Bernie. And Bernie always comes through... I hate to admit.

Buzzmaster

  (5:46 PM)

Inning over, 2-1 Sox with Bellhorn coming up.

Dave (Ft. Lauderdale)

poor ab for cairo

Eric (Canton, NY)

The Sox have to put the pressure on again. They can't let Moose get settles. But with Bellhorn coming up that might be hard to do.

Buster Olney

  (5:47 PM)

Middle of the second: After two innings, 22 pitches for Pedro; he threw 46 pitches in the first two innings in Game 2, and his stuff is clearly better, the command of his breaking stuff and fastball much superior so far. The Yankees swung and missed once in his first 60 pitches in Game 2 -- and they swung and missed twice in his first 18 pitches in this game.

Kate (Mansfield)

Any guesses on whether Bellhorn will actually get a hit?

Jay (NY)

Bellhorn.... hahahahaha

Clint, Columbus, IN

Hey Buster, surprised to see Bellhorn in instead of Reese?

Brian (Harford, CT)

Is it just me or shoud Bellhorn be pushed under a moving bus?

Buzzmaster

  (5:48 PM)

A little harsh, but that pretty much sums up the popular opinion on Bellhorn right now. The guy can draw walks, though.

Paul (Portland, OR)

Be awfully nice for Bellhorn to do something to boost his confidence a little.

Stan (L.A.)

I just don't understand Francona's insistence on playing Bellhorn. He's not hitting, he strikes out a lot and he's a defensive liability. If he's batting in the nine-hole, they might as well use Pokey instead.

Kirk (Chaska, MN)

Has anyone been more due for a hit in the history of mankind than Mark Bellhorn in this at-bat???

jason (wethersfield)

hey give bellhorn some credit, he had a good year

Buster Olney

  (5:49 PM)

Absolutely... You stick him ninth in the lineup, you might as well go with the defense. But it's interesting -- you don't mind seeing Bellhorn coming up now, if you are the Red Sox, because he'll take pitches in this at-bat and keep Mussina's pitch count climbing. He strikes out a lot, but he does see a lot of pitches, and it's a war of attrition today. Still, I would've gone with Reese...

Will (Washington, D.C.)

He may actually break the regular season record for strikeouts in the postseason.

Howard (Atlanta)

Red Sox always need a scapegoat. Guess they found Bellhorn. That would be like Yankees fans blaming Cairo

Buster Olney

  (5:50 PM)

Absolutely... You stick him ninth in the lineup, you might as well go with the defense. But it's interesting -- you don't mind seeing Bellhorn coming up now, if you are the Red Sox, because he'll take pitches in this at-bat and keep Mussina's pitch count climbing. He strikes out a lot, but he does see a lot of pitches, and it's a war of attrition today. Still, I would've gone with Reese...

Buzzmaster

  (5:50 PM)

Bellhorn hits it hard, but Cairo makes the play. One out.

Joe (Oklahoma City)

Bellhorn made contact!!!

Sam (Northport NY)

What's the over/under on Bellhorn outs before he lays down on the field and just starts crying?

Matt (LA)

Moose's complaining seems to have worked...calls coming much more easily now

Steve (Long Island, NY)

Mussina's fastball in Game 1 was at 90-92. Now he's at 87-89. If his juice doesn't come back, it's going to get late for the Yanks early.

Buzzmaster

  (5:51 PM)

1-2 on Damon, Mussina is getting ahead this inning.

Matt (Gainesville, FL)

As much heat as Bellhorn has been getting, Damon hasn't been doing any better this series.

Steve (Long Island, NY)

That's because he's throwing strikes.

Buzzmaster

  (5:52 PM)

Damon strikes out, 1-20 in the series.

Todd (Detroit)

Good second inning for Mussina so far.

Buster Olney

  (5:52 PM)

Steve -- more the reason that he needs the fringe strikes.... At this point, do you think Damon might have adjusted to the fact that the Yankees are throwing the ball at him down and in. Big hole there in Damon's swing...

Buzzmaster

  (5:53 PM)

And Mussina gets an easy 1-2-3 inning. Red Sox might have needed to get more off him early.

Jose LA CA

1-2-3. Great D, Mussina says thank you.

Mitch (Cincy)

We hit like the Bad news bear that inning

J.P. (NYC)

Moose threw 9 pitches that inning...

Buster Olney

  (5:53 PM)

End of the seconde: Nine pitch inning for Mussina, 43 pitches in all. Another couple of innings like that and he would have his pitch count back in control...

Ivan (Puerto Rico)

Here comes Jeter

Joe (Oklahoma City)

Buster: How big is this game to Pedro's free agency?

Dave (Atlanta)

Mussina just isn't as dominant as he used to be with the Orioles... oarty because he doesn't have his old fastball. I remember when he would get it up to 94-96 and then throw that nast curve.

Greg (PSU/NH)

I dont understand why Francona doesnt throw Kaplar into the game in center, mix things up a little. Then again i dont understand why francona does anything.

Ed (Salt Lake City, UT)

Jeter needs to step up, he has the lowest average in the line-up for this series.

Buzzmaster

  (5:55 PM)

But he doesn't have the lowest OBP by a long shot.

Buster Olney

  (5:55 PM)

It could be a factor. One Boston exec said before the playoffs started, the team was facing a trim of their payroll if the REd Sox failed to win the World SEries. But what if they win? "All bets are off," he replied. They would re-sign Pedro if they win the World Series because he would be one of those who slew the curse... And we know George Steinbrenner will be watching this game with interest, as well...

Jason (Rome)

Jeter should at least make sure to have a good at bat, we need to get Pedro's pitch count up.

Owen (Valdez, Alaska)

If I were managing the Sox, I would definitely have Roberts/Kapler in center and Reese at 2nd.

Ben (DC)

Good old Pedro! Trying to take back the inside of the plate!

Buzzmaster

  (5:57 PM)

And he goes outside for the K on Jeter.

John (Boston)

Excellent pitching by Pedro... although that foul was scary

Nick (Atlanta)

Another backwards K

Logan (Englewood, CO)

If the Yanks hit and get on base, not only will it take out Pedro, but the Fenway crowd will be out as well

Daubach (Oakland)

Pedro NEEDS to stay aggressive just like he did with Jeter. Go after these guys and stop pitching like they're the best (even though they are).

Buzzmaster

  (5:58 PM)

3-1 on A-Rod.

Mitch (Cincy)

The count is full...

Todd (Detroit)

AROD working the count...

Jerry (Chi-town)

Buster. Are you drunk? Why would Boston resign Pedro if they won it all? Because he slew the curse? Why not re-sign Mendoza then with the same logic?

Buzzmaster

  (6:00 PM)

Nixon with the sliding catch in right, I sure didn't think he'd get there.

Ben (DC)

GREAT CATCH BY TROT! The heart and soul of the Sox!

Jacob (Washington DC)

Who said they would play Gabe Kapler for Trot!?!?

Christian (Providence)

great catch trot!!!

Buster Olney

  (6:01 PM)

Jerry: Of course hits pitching would have something to do with it, but the point was that if the team won the World Series, they would have more available cash and be more inclined to go the extra mile to keep him. Drinking diet coke by the way, not rum and coke.

Buster Olney

  (6:03 PM)

17 pitches this inning for Pedro (plus the two wave-offs, 39 in all...

Buzzmaster

  (6:03 PM)

Sheff walks, bringing up he-who-shall-not-be-named for Sox fans (Matsui, for everyone else).

Owen (Valdez, Alaska)

16 pitches so far for Pedro with Matsui up...yikes.

Jake (MExico)

GODZIllA!!!!

Ben (DC)

Buster. If Trot and Sheffield were in a steel cage death match, who would win?

Jon (Queens)

Somewhere in Boston, Simmons's 5 hour heart attack just started with that 2 out walk

Eric (Canton, NY)

please beam matsui, please beam matsui, please beam matsui, please beam matsui

Buster Olney

  (6:04 PM)

Ben: I'd have to take Sheffield; he is unbelievably strong. Throw a couple of chairs into the cage, then Trot would have a shot....

Buzzmaster

  (6:04 PM)

Eric - You want them to get him drunk?

J.P. (NYC)

40+ pitches now for Pedro...

Buzzmaster

  (6:04 PM)

2-2 on Matsui.

Ivan (Puerto Rico)

Thats a strike?

Matt (DC)

I'm so sick of this obsession with pitch counts...just let Pedro go until he's losing his stuff

Buzzmaster

  (6:05 PM)

Matsui into the gap, Sheffield to third.

Ross (LI, NY)

Matsui comes through again

Howard (Atlanta)

Matsui getting a hit? Big surprise

Ross (Missoula, MT)

Oh how I hate the 2 out walk

Matt (NY)

Lets Go Bernie

Jose LA CA

Bernie's done his heroics for the day, here comes the soft grounder. And I'm a Yanks fan.

Buster Olney

  (6:08 PM)

Pedro tends to change and shift strategy as he's pitching, and maybe he's saving something, but his velocity on the fastball has gone way down this inning...

Greg (Woburn, MA)

Pedro is really getting squeezed this inning. Its horrible. Its despicable.

Buzzmaster

  (6:08 PM)

Pedro gets it by Bernie to end the inning, still 2-1.

Carlos Beltran (Houston, TX)

I can't wait to take Bernie's spot in centerfield - how much do you think NY is willing to pay me next year?

Mike (Plymouth, MA)

Bernie, you left your hip at home plate, please come get it...

DH (Chattanooga, TN)

Petey's handling it just fine...it's reminding me of that Anaheim game vs. Colon

Todd (Detroit)

The Yanks don't score, but they work Pedro well.

Buster Olney

  (6:09 PM)

Middle of the third: He was saving something, apparently. Bernie was sitting off-speed there, looking for a breaking ball, and it looked like he started to swing at about the time Varitek was halfway back to the Boston dugout. For those who hate pitch counts, ignore the following: He threw 28 pitches in the inning, and has 50 in the game...

Hook (Tuscaloosa)

Sorry Buster, not sure what a fastball is, haven't had our Scooter lesson yet.

Ian (New York)

At least Pedro caught up to Mussina's pich count..

Buzzmaster

  (6:11 PM)

Manny leads off with a single.

Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)

Oh good, let's put runners on for David Ortiz.

Jacob (Washington DC)

Buster, how many hall of famers do you think this Yankee team currently has? Bernie, A-rod, Jeter, Rivera, Mussina?

Howard (Atlanta)

Ortiz is the Red Sox version of Matsui.

Buster Olney

  (6:12 PM)

Rivera's in right now. A-Rod's got a little more work to do, Jeer has to build up his numbers for another four or five seasons, Bernie is not a Hall of Famer, Mussina needs to get 250 victories and do something extraordinary -- he doesn't have a Cy Young Award yet, or a 20-win season, or a signature post-season moment...

Buzzmaster

  (6:13 PM)

Ortiz missed badly on one and then took strike two to go 1-2.

John (Irmo)

Ortiz is Mothra....

Buzzmaster

  (6:13 PM)

Give that battle to Mussina, strikes out Ortiz on the offspeed pitch.

Jay (West Texas)

That's the Minnesota Ortiz I remember

Tom (New York)

Hall of Famers on the field today: Jeter, ARod, Rivera, Manny, Pedro, with Sheff and Moose on the bubble.

adam (andover, ma)

Mussina= no chance at the hall

Buzzmaster

  (6:15 PM)

Wow, a big error on Jeter. First and second when it should have been a DP.

Kate (Mansfield, MA)

Nice Kick Save!

Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)

Jeter has been VERY unclutch this postseason. What the hell is that?

John (Irmo)

Look the ball into the glove...not the glove into the ball

Rob (Vegas)

Wow even Jeter (NY's God) makes mistakes what will happen next?

Howard (Atlanta)

Jeter is not having a very good series. If the series were 3-1 Boston, he would be getting killed by the fans and media

Buzzmaster

  (6:17 PM)

Another big AB for Trot Nixon, looking bad at 0-2.

Buzzmaster

  (6:17 PM)

Count goes to 0-3, as Mussina fans him for the second out.

Buster Olney

  (6:18 PM)

I don't know if Mussina went back out for the second inning angry with the umpire or whatever, but he is attacking the strike zone now, pounding strikes; no nibbling.

Daniel Barnes (Baltimore)

HOW MANY TIMES has NIXON not come through???

Pete (Indianapolis)

No batter has ever come back from an 0-3 deficit in post-season history...oh wait....

Buzzmaster

  (6:19 PM)

Mussina erases Jeter's error, striking out Nixon and Varitek to end the third.

Matt (DC)

How many times has anyone not named Manny or David not come through in this series?

Tim (San Diego)

That was nasty, even though he missed his spot.

Will (Washington, D.C.)

He's gotta get that knuckle-curve working like that. It's tough in the cold air.

Buster Olney

  (6:20 PM)

End of the third: Mussina at 57 pitches after three, only 23 the last two innings. He's got the same kind of durability as Pedro -- 100-110 pitches, and then he starts to tire and his breaking stuff loses its sharpness. The bullpens are going to decide this game, again, it appears...

Ben J (Farmington, CT)

108 pitches through 3 innings, we should be in for some late inning fireworks!

Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)

Which bullpen has the advantage at this point? They're b oth winded as heck.

Jay (West Texas)

Good baseball game, real October feel to it

Bruce (New Jersey)

So who's in the bullpen tonight for the Red Sox? Because if the Yankees wear out Pedro, even if he leaves with the lead, that may be what decides Boston's season.

Buster Olney

  (6:22 PM)

Jay: Completely agree with you -- the tension building slowly but steadily in the first three innings...

Buzzmaster

  (6:22 PM)

Leadoff single for Posada

Dave (Memphis)

Very key inningfor Pedro. Needs a quick, low key inning before the lineup turns over again.

Rich (NY)

Again a hit but why are they swinging early

Todd (San Diego)

I'd say the Yankees have the bullpen advantage. They didn't have to use Loiza or Heredia last night...did I just type that?

Greg (NYC)

Buzz, what are you thinking right now?

Buzzmaster

  (6:24 PM)

That Pedro had a lot of adrenaline in the first inning, and while he's still pitching well, it's going to take a lot more than two runs for the Sox to win.

Ben (New York, NY)

Pedro looks like he's starting to miss his spots a little. That last pitch to Sierra could have been a real problem...

Dan (Charleston, WV)

The question is--do you go with a tired Pedro, or a tired bullpen. Big decision for Francona.

Buzzmaster

  (6:25 PM)

Walks Sierra, first and second with nobody out. Fenway goes silent.

omar (miami)

BUZZ THIS IS THE INNING

Nick (Albany, NY)

This feels like a Pedro coming unraveled inning, an early hit and then a walk

Mitch (Cincy)

Not looking good for Boston here

Andrew (Binghamton, NY)

Here comes Tony Clark, Boston's best rally killer

Buster Olney

  (6:26 PM)

I mentioned this before, but it might be worth repeating again, on the condition of the Boston bullpen: Leskanic is apparently very sore, and there was doubt as to whether he could get loose last night. Embree is stiff, and there was doubt about how long he could last in Game 4. Myers and Mendoza have been terrible, Timlin threw 37 pitches last night and Foulke can give them an inning. From what I was told, Francona is prepared to use Arroyo in middle relief tonight... he didn't throw many pitches the other day before having to come out... Meanwhile, Pedro is throwing a lot more slop than he did last week... he's got to get Clark here....

Jose LA CA

Is it me or does Clark just look uncomfortable?

Buzzmaster

  (6:27 PM)

Not just you, as Clark goes down without much of a fight.

Mitch (Cincy)

That strikout was huge

Asad (NY)

Tony Clark should be cut on spot.

Tom (Worcester, MA)

Anybody in here going to give Pedro Martinez any credit......Theres a K right there

Sam (New Jersey)

Not really, the Yankees have two more outs to get the guy home. Not a hard thing for a team like them to do...

Buster Olney

  (6:28 PM)

It's a relatively minor change in the Yankees' lineup, but still major -- Clark for Olerud. Clark is awful now, his at-bats are terrible, and even whe nOlerud wasn't hitting, he'd still put a good at-bat out there. There is no reason to give Ruben Sierra anything to hit with Clark hitting behind him; that wasn't the case with Olerud...

Ryan (NJ)

I'm not giving Pedro credit...he's SUPPOSED to strike out Tony Clark.

Tom (New York)

Pedro throwing all junk now.

Buzzmaster

  (6:29 PM)

Goes 3-1 on Cairo. You can't put Cairo on base with Jeter coming up.

Ryan (Allentown, PA)

If Cairo gets on, this would be Jeter's moment to redeem himself. And he usually does in the postseason.

Howard (Atlanta)

Pedro messing around with bottom of order.

Ben J (Farmington, CT)

Buster, any word on Olerud's status beyond today?

Greg (Woburn, MA)

Buzz make it stop. MAKE IT STOP!!!

Buzzmaster

  (6:30 PM)

Full count ...

Buzzmaster

  (6:30 PM)

Ciaro pops up, leaving it up to Jeter for the Yankees.

Tom (Nashville)

Jeter's line: 2 k's and an error today

conrad (cape cod, ma)

from a yankee standpoint this game is starting to shift their way.game on.

Mike (Kalamazoo)

Here's Jeter's chance to do some damage.

Buster Olney

  (6:31 PM)

He's better, Torre said, but Torre also indicated that they were a little worried and might have him go through some more testing if he doesn't make more progress in the next day or two. I don't know for sure, but I'd bet Olerud will not play if there were tobe a Game 6...

Matt (DC)

Wow, great job by Pedro pitching out of 3-1 hole, that was HUGE

Buzzmaster

  (6:31 PM)

Jeter swings at the first pitch and grounds out to first. Going to the bottom of the fourth.

Sam (Northport NY)

Mr. October!!??

Mason (Washington)

Got out of that jam...that was huge!

David (Seattle)

Jeter didn't strike out. Does that count as clutch?

will (palo alto)

not only did jeter ground out, he made pedro throw only ONE pitch

Buster Olney

  (6:32 PM)

Middle of the fourth: I've got Pedro for 67 pitches, 18 in that inning.

Daniel Barnes (Baltimore)

You gotta love this drama........and its only the 4th inning!!!!

Greg (NYC)

Buzz throw me pitch counts

Buzzmaster

  (6:33 PM)

As always, Buster's all over it, Greg.

Buzzmaster

  (6:34 PM)

Mueller, Bellhorn and Damon ... this could be quick for Mussina.

Matt (Detroit)

Coming up for Beantown - Mueller, Bellhorn, and Damon. I didn't know Bellhorn and Damon were still using bats in this series.

Ryan (NJ)

Buzz, you trying to jinx moose?!?

Buzzmaster

  (6:35 PM)

Me? Jinx Moose? The greatest pitcher who ever lived and will obviously never give up a run here? No, wouldn't dream of it.

Tom (Nashville)

With A-Rod, Sheff, and Matsui coming up for the Yanks the Sox could use another run here

Buster Olney

  (6:35 PM)

Pedro and Mussina are both smart guys and they know, undoubtedly, that their respective teams need more than the norm from them in this game, because of the state of the bullpens. It'll be interesting to see if they hold back a little with their fastballs to save some energy in the middle innings; maybe that's what both guys are doing, and maybe that's why their velocity (velocities) is down...

Jacob (Washington DC)

Bellhorn should do his best just to take every pitch, and with 2 strikes, foul off every single pitch

Jay (West Texas)

Bellhorn needed to step in front of that one

Scott (Schenectady)

Buster, can you help me out here? I am a diehard Red Sox fan, what is Francona thinking allowing Bellhorn to continue to play?

Buzzmaster

  (6:37 PM)

Quickly, two away.

Brett (New York)

Why is Belhorn still playing? Couldnt any random guy from the stands hit better than him???

Jacob (Washington DC)

Bellhorn has gotten two good hits and has been unlucky that Cairo has been in the exact perfect position both times

Steve (Long Island, NY)

Bellhorn hit the ball well twice today. Maybe you Sox fans should give him a little break.

Mike (San Francisco)

Play-by-play still shows Jeter at bat. Heck with this, I'm going home. Any ideas to sneak by the boss?

Buzzmaster

  (6:38 PM)

Depends what floor are you on?

Adam (NH via NJ)

We need Damon to do something, it all starts with him.

Mike (Kalamazoo)

Johnny Damon really needs to work the count. Or give up his leadoff spot. You have got to be kidding.

Brandon (Medway, MA)

I still don't trust in Schilling. Boot or no boot, its a torn tendon. There is no way you can be at playoff level with that injury.

Jay (West Texas)

If Schilling pitches tomorrow Steinbreber will have the Yankees boycott Rebook

Jon (Queens)

Is the president of Reebok a Red Sox fan?

Buster Olney

  (6:40 PM)

The Red Sox are into the Moneyball stuff, feeling that his walks and his high pitch counts and his occasional power offset the downside of his strikeouts and defensive deficiencies (although the Boston writers, who see Bellhorn every day, say that Bellhorn is adequate, not bad). Reese has a terrible on-base percentage, short at-bats; he can run when he gets on base and he's obviously much better defensively...

Buzzmaster

  (6:40 PM)

Damon fans and we head to the fifth.

Chu (Ridgewood, NJ)

Wow Damon is not even close right now

Andrew (Binghamton, NY)

what does 1 for 21 work out to be as an average?

Buzzmaster

  (6:41 PM)

.048. Well below the Mendoza line. Well below the Ramiro Mendoza line, actually.

Buster Olney

  (6:41 PM)

End of Four: Mussina is at 71 pitches now, 37 in the last three innings... Damon still hasn't adjusted to the fact that the Yankees are throwing offspeed stuff down and in. He and Varitek have had the exact same problem in their recent at-bats...

Ravi (London)

Has anyone told Damon, he doesn't have to go after everything???

Jim (Pittsburgh, PA)

Most questionable management decision of the series: why hasn't Tim McCarver been pulled yet?

Mike (Bridgewater, NJ)

The longer the game wears, the more I would have to say this game favors the Yankees. You'd have to think that after two major outings, the Sox bullpen won't be at 100%. Plus, Pedro will probably be getting tired soon, if the Yankees continue to work the count against him.

Preston (Richmond)

Buster, is Wakefield available in relief tonight?

Buster Olney

  (6:43 PM)

Preston: Yes, he is. I was told Arroyo will get the call before Wakefield if they need serious middle relief, but I'm not sure if I believe that... Thanks for asking, because I neglected to mention him before...

Alex (DC)

will i ever get anything posted? who do i have to bribe?

Buzzmaster

  (6:44 PM)

Buzz forgot dinner, so a sandwich might work.

Buzzmaster

  (6:45 PM)

A-Rod staying alive against Pedro.

Ben (Rochester, NY)

Come on Varitek!!!!!!!!! Squeeze that

Chu (Ridgewood, NJ)

Now its Varitek's turn to play drop the ball

Buzzmaster

  (6:46 PM)

Martinez walks A-Rod to start the inning.

Tom (New York)

Wow. Awesome AB by ARod there.

Rob (NY)

Its about time the Yanks pushed a lead-off walk across the plate

Ryan (Allentown, PA)

Leadoff walk with Sheff and Matsui to follow. This could be the inning!!!

Chu (Ridgewood, NJ)

Mark my words...Varitek just costed the Sox the game

Nick, Syracuse

Leadoff walks KILL... You can't do that so many times to this lineup

Chris (New Hampshire)

is beltran a lock to go the yankees next year? hopefully not

Buzzmaster

  (6:47 PM)

Huge DP, as Sheff grounds to third.

Scott (Schenectady)

HUGE HUGE HUGE

Buster Olney

  (6:48 PM)

There is an assumption around baseball offices that Beltran will sign with the Yankees.

Buzzmaster

  (6:48 PM)

And down goes Matsui on the brushback

Tom (Nashville)

FINALLY!

Alex (Boston)

GET OFF MY PLATE MATSUI!

Abel (Tijuana, Mexico)

Nice purpose pitch

Dan (Rochester, NY)

Good to see the Boston faithful can still cheer for a 90 mph fastball at somebody's head

Ryan (Allentown, PA)

Sox fans clap at Pedro almost hitting Matsui...and they say we don't have class.

Adam (NJ via NH)

Good move by Pedro because now Matsui won't be as comfortable at the plate.

Buzzmaster

  (6:50 PM)

Matsui lines it hard, but Millar makes the grab. Pedro gets through the heart of the order and it's 2-1 going to the bottom of the fifth.

Nick (Chicago)

Pedro comes through in back-to-back potential trouble innings.

Buster Olney

  (6:51 PM)

Middle of the Fifth: Wow -- Pedro arrived officially with that pitch to Matsui. I've been wondering for his first 10 innings of this series when he was going to bust somebody up and in. Must say, though, Matsui looked completely unphased.... One thing, though -- Mussina is not a retaliation guy; can only remember one instance in which he threw inside at somebody purposefully. He doesn't like doing it, and the one time he did do it, he became very distracted and unraveled. I can't imagine he'll answer... Somebody else might come back and take a shot at a Boston hitter next year; there tends to be carry-over with that kind of stuff. Pedro 15 pitches in the inning, 82 overall.

Daniel Barnes (Baltimore)

Pedro though is playing with fire with all those walks....and he's eventually going to get burned

Daubach (Oakland)

Buzz - ESPN is in CT, where people root for NY or Boston... but secretly all the employees at the worldwide leader are Sox fans - RIGHT???

Buzzmaster

  (6:52 PM)

Acutally Daubach, I'd say it's about 50/50 between the Sox and Yanks fans here in Bristol, with plenty of support for other squads as well.

Buzzmaster

  (6:53 PM)

Cabrera quickly down 1-2 to start the 5th.

Nick (Albany, NY)

Moose looks great now, 2 more runs may get the yanks a victory tonight.

Troy Hobbs (Augusta, Maine)

Getting to the point where Mussina broke down in game one.

Buzzmaster

  (6:54 PM)

Cabrera lines it into the gap, but Sheff holds him to a single.

Joe (Jersey)

Buzz if you believe its 50/50 then you believe there were WMD's in Iraq, try 90/10 in favor of Sox.

Buzzmaster

  (6:54 PM)

Ok, Joe, because you'd know better than me ...

Brent (Atlanta)

Haha. Scooter teaching the kids how to brush someone back.

Travis (Toronto)

Did we just see Scooter drunk?

Ross (Missoula, MT)

That was the first scooter appearance that was actually kinda enjoyable... did i really just say that...wow

DH (Chattanooga, TN)

I can't believe Scooter condones that sort of nonsense.

Tony (Jersey)

Finallly a decent scooter

Buzzmaster

  (6:57 PM)

0-2 count on Ramirez, Mussina could come up big with this AB.

Buster Olney

  (6:57 PM)

Boy, that looked ugly with Posada. I might think about looking to run, if I'm Cabrera, at some point in this inning, depending on the ball-strike count. 1-2 to Manny and I would run...

Jon (Queens)

Catchers are taught to always have their throwing hand behind their leg for that exact reason. But so many just leave it out in the open and get hit

Alex (Rochester, NY)

Cabrera needs to run now that Posada's hurting.

Rob Neyer

  (6:58 PM)

Didn't Johnny Bench figure out, 30 years ago, that you're supposed to keep your meat hand behind your back when the pitch is arriving?

Dave (Atlanta)

Hey! It's Rob!

Rob Neyer

  (7:00 PM)

Any word on the availability of Keith Foulke tonight? Seems to me the bullpen's going to be seriously tested in the eighth and ninth innings, at least.

Matt (Brentwood, Cali)

How scared is Mussina of Ortiz??? I think he wants to crwal in a hole right now.

Buzzmaster

  (7:00 PM)

Not quite as scared at 0-2.

Dan (New York, New York)

Why does it seem like each pitch is taking so long? Seems he's waiting forever between tosses....

Buzzmaster

  (7:01 PM)

Ortiz down on strikes. So Ramirez and Ortiz come up empty for the Sox.

Mitch (Cincy)

Is this De Ja Vu all over again? Ortiz lookin bad early, but delivering late?

Buster Olney

  (7:02 PM)

I've got Mussina at 82 pitches...

Kevin (Oneonta)

Millar is due

Bruce (Duluth, MN)

Rob--I could hear you cackling all the way over here in Minnesota when Jeter booted that ball, and followed that up with the two-out screamer to first base to end the fourth.

Buzzmaster

  (7:03 PM)

Jeter gets Cabrera at second on Millar's grounder, 2-1 heading to the sixth.

Michael (Sacramento)

It's not the Pedro in the first inning you need to worry about if you're a Sox fan it's the Pedro in the 6th inning that you should worry about...

Jay (West Texas)

Foulke said he could go three innings, maybe just a lttle excited after the win, or maybe sleep deprivation

Dietter (UConn)

There is no one more overated than Jeter and Matsui is the most underrated

Peter (Portland, OR)

Given the amount of baserunners and the firepower on both sides, its been a great job by both starters pitching out of jams at keeping the score 2-1.

Buster Olney

  (7:04 PM)

Jay: Agree with you; they've got a lot of guys saying they could a lot of things today, after last night's emotional win. Francona mentioned that before the game, that they would press the pitchers to be completely honest about their condition...

Alex (Boston)

Millar and the Rest of the Lineup are Due, The Sox are Due, 85 years due, this Due thing hasn't been working for us.

Jared (Raleigh)

Looks like we'll see if Posada's hand is bothering him when he comes to bat.

Max (New York)

To me, you hope Pedro lasts the 6th and then you put in Wakefield, Timlin and Foulk. If Pedro doesn't last the 6th I guess you put in Wakefield and pray.

Ross (LI, NY)

If Pedro has a tough innning here, next inning the Sox will need relief

Kyle (Boston)

Can Pedro hold a one-run lead against the Yanks for the first time in his life? He needs a quick inning here to be able to pitch in the 7th. The Boston bullpen is already fatigued enough...

Rob Neyer

  (7:06 PM)

I didn't exactly cackle, because there was nobody around to hear me. But you know what amused me more than the boot? Within seconds of the error, both Buck and McCarver were falling all over themselves, explaining that this (what looked to me like a) routine grounder took a bad hop. Maybe so. But would those guys have rushed so quickly to the defense of any other shortstop? When it comes to Jeter, too many broadcasters just aren't a part of the reality-based community.

Buzzmaster

  (7:06 PM)

Manny with the running catch -- as only Manny can -- to get the first out.

MH (Doha, Qatar)

Jorge must be so tuckered out. Why did Torre leave him in the blowout game Sat night?

Josh (Boston, MA)

manny flashing his bronze glove

Buster Olney

  (7:06 PM)

Jared: Hitters say that the worse injury they can have is something to their hands; it affects everything they do. They can deal with body bruises, all kinds of stuff, but injuries to the hands are brutal for what they do...

Buzzmaster

  (7:07 PM)

Sorry, got a little ahead of myself. Posada singles as the second batter in the inning.

Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)

Sierra needs a big hit. It's been a while.

Buzzmaster

  (7:08 PM)

Two on again for the Yankees but Posada holds at second on Sierra's single. Is Pedro about out of gas?

Ross (LI, NY)

He got it, but Posada should of went to 3rd with Damon's arm

John (Irmo)

Run...Damon has no arm

Buster Olney

  (7:08 PM)

The loss of Olerud really is big in this spot... Pressure onto Clark...

Howard (Atlanta)

If Clark gets a hit, that tells you Pedro is losing something

Adam (NJ via NH)

Huge AB here for Pedro.

Buzzmaster

  (7:10 PM)

Goes to 2-2 on Clark.

Mike (Kalamazoo)

Dont forget, Tony Clark was let go by the Tigers.... Do you really expect him to look good in this spot?

Buzzmaster

  (7:11 PM)

Pitch no. 94 and Clark missed a fat one, hooking it foul to keep the count full.

Asher (NY,NY)

man that was close

Rob Neyer

  (7:12 PM)

Hey Mike, Curtis Leskanic was released by the Royals and he did okay last night. Sometimes they'll surprise you. (But not this time.)

Buzzmaster

  (7:12 PM)

Clark down looking, two out with Cairo up.

joe (ny)

clark is horrible!

Mitch (Cincy)

That was huge, NICE JOB PEDRO!

James (Bronx)

This ump is all over the place

ARI (New York)

that call could have gone either way.

Buster Olney

  (7:12 PM)

What a pitch by Pedro -- off-speed (84 mph) nails the outside corner on 3-2. But he's got to get Cairo, who can be a pain in the rear hitter...

Greg (Woburn, MA)

Pedro has to get through 7 in this game.

Asher (NY,NY)

this is probably last inning

Buzzmaster

  (7:13 PM)

Pedro hits Cairo to load the bases for Jeter.

Hunter (Santa Cruz, CA)

Get the pen ready

Todd (Detroit)

Again... Jeter with a chance to be a hero or a... Bellhorn

Bill (beantown)

this is pretty much the season right here....

Tom (Nashville)

swung at ball 2

Buzzmaster

  (7:15 PM)

Three-run triple for Jeter, Cairo just gets in there.

Buzzmaster

  (7:15 PM)

4-2 Yankees.

Ari (New York)

Nice slide by Cairo!

Bruce (Duluth, MN)

Good night, Sox. Can't wait to hear how great Jeter is.

Nick (Chicago)

Point Set Match

Derek (NY)

That is one of the best slides you will EVER see.

Aaron (Schaumburg, IL)

Gotta question how Nixon played that ball at his home park, allowing three runs to score.

Joe (Jersey)

Told you guys that purpose pitch to Matsui was a mistake, very next inning and...

Buzzmaster

  (7:17 PM)

Yes Joe, there is an obvious cause and effect there. Or not ...

Buzzmaster

  (7:17 PM)

A-Rod takes the HBP and it's first and third with two outs.

reverse the curse (houston)

PEdros is so bush league..and dont tell me that wasnt on purpose

Tom (Nashville)

Matsui has nothing to do why the runs scored

Buster Olney

  (7:18 PM)

Reverse: I think Tim McCarver is listening to you...

Rob (NY)

Thats why Pedro will never be a Yankee, he is a punk

Mitch (Montana)

Typical Pedro . . .

Tom (New York)

Typical Pedro Martinez. If you can't beat them, hit them out of frustration. *yawn*

Jon (Queens)

Buzz, or Buster, What is that spray? Is it supposed to minimalize swelling or something?

Daubach (Oakland)

4-2... not a big deal YET...

Buster Olney

  (7:19 PM)

Joe: It's a local anaesthetic... deadens the nerves a bit...

Josh (Boston, MA)

sadly, i'm not smelling another sox comeback...gotta hand it to the yanks

Chris (Houston)

Walk and grandslam

Buster Olney

  (7:21 PM)

I think he's going to yank Pedro right now, Myers against Matsui...

Buzzmaster

  (7:21 PM)

You got the walk. Now Matsui will work on the second part. Dire times for the Sox.

john (new york)

pedro still pitching!!!!!

feisal (boston)

dont let him pitch to matsui!!!

Adam (NYC)

Francona is an idiot. Why is Pedro still in there?

Mitch (Cincy)

WHY IS HE STILL IN?!?!?!

Gus (MN)

are they going to let Pedro pitch to Matsui? I hope not

Ian (New York)

Bases loaded for Matsui and Pedro is STILL IN....

Jose LA CA

If Francona leaves Pedro in, he should be fired by the time the AB is over.

Scott (Schenectady)

he has to make the MOVE what is he doing!

Jose (Wellesley, MA)

AK! I know Myers looke dhorrible last night, but isn't this what he's in the pen for?!

Owen (Valdez, Alaska)

No. I think Francona would rather pitch to Matsui himself than send Myers out there.

Rob Neyer

  (7:22 PM)

Uh, I'm not an expert or anything . . . but why on earth is Pedro still in this game? Isn't this how Grady Little got fired????

Buzzmaster

  (7:23 PM)

Nixon keeps the game in reach, making a sliding catch on yet another hard-hit ball from Matsui.

Medler (Long Island)

Nice slide/crash catch by Trot

Aaron (Schaumburg, IL)

Well, if Pedro comes out for the 7th inning, Francona can hand in his resignation at the same time.

Zack (Los Angeles)

Trot Nixon saves Francona's job

Keith (Maine)

Is that Pedro's last pitch in a Sox uniform, I think so

Seth (L.A.)

Sorry no Grand Slam - don't get excited yet Yankees fans. If we broke thru against Rivera yesterday, we can do it on a day when his arm is tired.

Vince (Wichita)

2 runs isnt insurmountable with those bats....this is going to be a fun finish

Brian (NJ)

so how much longer does Torre keep in Moose before going to Gordon/Rivera?

Travis (Rochester NY)

Remember when everyone was so concerned about Mussina's pitch count after one inning?

Buster Olney

  (7:25 PM)

Middle of the sixth: Pedro's got 109 pitches and he's done for the night, for sure... So now you are Francona, and you have choices. Seems pretty clear there that he's going to call for Timlin to throw the seventh inning, based on who was just throwing in the 'pen. This is not the night to warm up people for no reason...

Kevin (Oneonta)

the way the yankees were celebrating, they look like they think it is over, maybe the Sox can capitalize on that

scot (philly)

good things happend against moose in the 6th in the first game....

Mary (Hoboken)

Would Francona do something stupid like put Pedro out to start the inning so he could get the Fenway Ovation when he pulls him?

Buzzmaster

  (7:27 PM)

Nobody up in the Boston pen anymore.

reverse the curse (houston)

no one throwing in the sox pen?..this is getting good

Daubach (Oakland)

Boston bullpen is sitting down now - Pedey will come out for the next inning... guaranteed.

LT (Los Angeles)

Yanks pen is just as taxed as the Sox. This is a hitter's ballgame now. Who'll step up?

Buzzmaster

  (7:28 PM)

Problem is Mussina doesn't look like he's ready to leave yet.

Buster Olney

  (7:28 PM)

i can't believe they're thinking about sending him out there for the seventh, but I guess they are... Meanwhile, with the count full and Nixon at hte plate, Mussina's about to throw his 90th pitch...

Greg (New York City)

Benie with his 3rd nice catch of the ALCS.

drew (nyc)

wow, bernie's showing the moves tonight.

Greg (New York City)

Unless I'm wrong, Mussina has allowed just 2 hits and a reached on error since the first (0 walks).

J.P. (NYC)

Timlin warming up now...

Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)

Mussina needs to end this AB now.

jay (baltimore)

As long as the Yanks can keep Mussina through 7 innings there lead should be safe

Brandon (Medway, MA)

Keep fouling those pitches, get Moose outta there.

Andrew (Binghamton, NY)

Haha, best Web MD yet

Chu (Ridgewood, NJ)

Worst WebMD report EVER

jay (baltimore)

nice webmd broken hearts - red sox fans. classic

Bryce (New Orleans)

Is Rivera available tonight?

Ravi (London)

I think Torre will pull Moose at the end of this inning and put in Sturtze especially after that last at bat...

Buster Olney

  (7:34 PM)

Bryce: Rivera available tonight for 3-4 outs, according to Torre, but Joe might extend him to 5 outs if he had a two-run lead...

Buzzmaster

  (7:34 PM)

1-2-3 for Mussina. 4-2 going to the 7th.

TG (NYC)

Rivera should be available, but not for more than 1 inning.

steve (ft myers)

rivera is always available - THE BEST EVER!!!

Ari (New York)

I say bring mo in after 8. He'll get lots of rest wating to see who hes facing in the WS

Tom (New York)

Time to give the underrated Mike Mussina all due credit. After a terrible first inning, he's been lights out, outdueling Pedro Martinez.

DP (Jersey)

Mo can go as long as needed. He's Mo.

Rob Neyer

  (7:36 PM)

Okay, can I just say here that if Pedro comes out to pitch the seventh, somebody should be fired? I know the Red Sox don't care if he hurts his arm; I wouldn't, either (well, maybe a little). But this is still a winnable game for the Red Sox, and they can't just give the Yankees any more runs.

Tom (Boston)

If Pedro comes out for the seventh, I'm turning off the game..

Thomas (Seattle, WA)

Timlin Time!

Buster Olney

  (7:37 PM)

End of the sixth: i've got Mussina for 103 pitches, which means he's got only a little bit left in the tank. Incredible recovery by Mussina, after that rough first inning; 69 pitches in the last five innings, great command. I suspect that the Yankees will have their bullpen going if anybody reaches in the seventh inning; Gordon will get the first call, I'm sure... We're headed into some gray area with both teams, both bullpens...

Buzzmaster

  (7:37 PM)

And Timlin takes the mound for the 7th.

Mike (Kalamazoo)

I would be more afraid of Timlin... him being rested wasnt good enough last night... now that he is tired, he is the good option?

Max (New York)

Well, as a former Yankee once said, "It ain't over till it's over." Don't give up hope Red Sox fans!

Buster Olney

  (7:39 PM)

Alert: Timlin has absolutely nothing on his fastball, at first glance...

Buzzmaster

  (7:39 PM)

Bernie flies to right for the first out.

Dan (Toronto)

As a long time Timlin watcher, I can assure you it will be 6-2 by the time this inning is over.

Eric (Chicago)

Sometimes it's better for guys like Timlin to be tired. He's a sinker-baller, so his pitches might have a little more sink to them.

Buzzmaster

  (7:40 PM)

Two quick outs, but Timlin's pitches aren't exactly impressive.

Doug (Wyoming, Ia)

Timlin looking decent so far...2 outs

Buzzmaster

  (7:40 PM)

Ruben Sierra beats out an infield hit. Hard to believe.

Ross (LI, NY)

Sierra turned on the jets

Buster Olney

  (7:41 PM)

Interesting matchup coming up: Guy with a slow fastball against a strong guy with a big, slow bat, in Clark.

Freak (Boston)

orlando, here's an idea, MOVE FOWARD AND DON'T WAIT FOR THE BALL!

Kevin (Oneonta)

did Sierra just beat out a throw, did Cabrera underhand it?

Buzzmaster

  (7:42 PM)

Timlin wins the battle, as Clark grounds into the force at second.

Ari (New York)

9 more outs to he WS.

Mitch (Cincy)

Timlin looked surprisingly strong there

Buster Olney

  (7:42 PM)

Middle of the seventh: I don't know what's going to happen the rest of the way, but Timlin should get some credit for that inning. He had pure garbage, and held the Yankees at 4-2.

Brad (Detroit)

The Red Sox need to get a run in the bottom half of the seventh while Mussina's tired. I don't really think they'll get the two runs off Gordon/Rivera

Buzzmaster

  (7:44 PM)

The consensus in the room seems to suggest lip synching. No comment here ...

Josh (San Antonio)

Nothing like leading off with Bellhorn and Damon when you need to start a rally.

will (la)

It's Bellhorn and Damon's chance for redemption

colin (tacoma)

bellhorn needs a solo blast for redemption. takes some notes form JETER,

Buzzmaster

  (7:47 PM)

With pigs landing at Logan, Bellhorn slaps one down the line and takes second when Sheff has problems with it.

Brian (Beacon, NY)

Bellhorn...HIT? Huh? What's next, the Dolphins WIN?

Josh (Storrs)

who knew bellhorn had a hit in him?

TG (NYC)

Here we go. Should have had someone up already.

matt (ny, ny)

actually, he had almost the same hit as jeter.

AP (Hell)

It's freezing down here.

Mac (Columbus)

bellhorn... he was due!!!! he was due!!!! FINALLY!!!

Andy (Reading, PA)

My word did Mussina have a short leash there...

Doug (Wyoming, Ia)

Moose is gone... Here we go....bull pen battle

Go Sox (Williamsburg, VA)

Here comes Sturtze. Just what the Sox need.

Buster Olney

  (7:49 PM)

One thing about this matchup coming up, with Sturtze versus Damon: The Yankees have been wrecking Damon with off-speed pitches down and in, and Sturtze is mostly hard stuff up in the zone. Maybe he'll try to change his own patterns and go down and in... Maybe not...

Vince (Wichita)

So....Now the Passion of the Damon has a chance to drive him in...I suppose he's 'due' too

Nick (Chicago)

Damon should drag bunt...Worst case scenario one out with runner on third.

Buzzmaster

  (7:51 PM)

Damon pops out to Jeter, one out.

bill (wilkes-barre, pa)

damon continues to CHOKE

Keith (New York)

Is there a reason Damon hasn't attempted a bunt? He couldn't hit a beach ball.

Buster Olney

  (7:51 PM)

Wow. That almost looked like Damon jammed himself. He was looking away, dove a bit, and got jammed...

Kevin (Westbury, NY)

HUGE at bat for the OC

Conrad (Syracuse, NY)

Cabrera has hit fastballs all series

Kevin (Westbury, NY)

cabrera's a dead fastball hitter, wouldn't be surprised if he made some noise here, scares me a little

Ross (Missoula, MT)

Why does Cabrera hack so much in these situations, hes way to anxious

Angel (Caracas)

If Bellhorn does not score the game is over...... You can't loose that effort

bill (wilkes-barre, pa)

please throw him a splitter again.. moose got burned w/ 2 fastballs w/ 2 strikes

Tim (Sydney (Aus))

NY have to get past Manny this dig and also Ortiz - the sox have to make some noise now!

Buster Olney

  (7:54 PM)

Surely Posada knows that, Bill, but Sturtze keeps shaking him off...

Doug (Los Altos, CA)

Keep throwing that junk to him please!!!

reverse the curse (houston)

sturtze has never allowed less hits than IP until this year..another reason to hate the yankees

Andy (Reading, PA)

Cabrera cant catch up to the high heat. Keep throwing it if Cabrera keeps chasing up there.

Keith (New York)

I wouldn't throw him a strike. Cabrera will get himself out in this spot.

DH (Chattanooga, TN)

what a slow AB...the tension is awful

Adam (Chicago)

If you're right Buster, Posada should go out there and samck him.

Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)

What is going on here? Throw a splitter.

Buzzmaster

  (7:57 PM)

Cabrera takes a close one to run the count full.

Buster Olney

  (7:57 PM)

Sturtze's problem, it seems, is that he doesn't really have a good breaking ball, and Cabrera has had some good swings on his splitter and fastball. He's going to go up and in with a fastball on fullcount...

MH (Doha, Qatar)

Jeez how many pitches in this at-bat?

Buzzmaster

  (7:58 PM)

Almost as unexpected as Bellhorn getting a hit, Cabrera draws a walk after starting in an 0-2 hole.

Kevin (Westbury, NY)

wouldn't chase the split...now they're in trouble

Buzzmaster

  (7:58 PM)

Gordon comes in to face Ramirez with two on.

Alex (Boston)

1.5 =the over under on fingernails still on my hand by the time gordon throws his first pitch

Mike (Auckland, New Zealand)

Can this get any better? The season on the line and Manny and Ortiz to hit!

Dave (Los Angeles)

Okay, that's it. Payroll waits until tomorrow. I'm going home to watch this.

Buzzmaster

  (7:59 PM)

Hopefully you live 90 second away ...

Kevin (Westbury, NY)

Now its Man-Ram and Ortiz again. Time to get back in the fetal position. If i go to hell i think its going to consist of watching these two hit with men on base for all of eternity.

Buster Olney

  (8:00 PM)

MH -- I had eight pitches in that at-bat... It just seemed longer, because of the shake-offs... Now, the Yankees have done well against Ramirrez moving inside and outside from pitch to pitch, and Manny seems to be guessing (unsuccessfully) on the location, so far. Gordon's been really erratic in this series, so Manny's got to think he's going to get a fastball to hit to open the at-bat... Gordon will try to jam him, I bet...

Jerrod (State College)

haha, gotta love the Tension

Ben (New York, NY)

Gordon doesn't have his usual velocity--and that pitch was right down the middle.

Eric (Canton, NY)

I loathe the tension. I feel like my heart is gonna explode.

dan (new haven)

baseball has got this dramatic pause thing down

Buzzmaster

  (8:02 PM)

Manny swing through strike two, count goes to 1-2.

Brad (Detroit, MI)

That was Manny's pitch

JT (Lynchburg, VA)

Got away with a high hanger

Buster Olney

  (8:03 PM)

Something else to think about here: Gordon pitched an inning Saturday, two innings last night, and now he's going maximum effort right from the get-go; Gordon has got to be tiring...

Buzzmaster

  (8:04 PM)

Fouls it off to keep it at 2-2 ...

Mitch (Boston )

Manny needs to foul off some pitches and tire him some more for himself, and the hitters behind him

Buzzmaster

  (8:05 PM)

Double play, Yankees get out it.

Patrick (Albany, NY)

DOULBE PLAY - no ortiz, thank god

Mike (Boston)

good season guys.

Brad (Detroit, MI)

Double Play....Manny chokes in the clutch

Anyone but the Yanks (Rochester)

dOUBLE PLAY, game's over.

Conrad (Syracuse, NY)

Heartbreaker for Boston fans

Denny Doyle (Springfield)

Manny for MVP??? Anyone still feel like defending him?

Joe (Los Gatos, CA)

I am surprised at how little attention has been given to Manny's lack of production this series.

Mike (Ithaca)

Can't believe it. Just like last year when Manny blew it against Wells. No redemption for him this at-bat.

Jack (NYC)

Cairo hung on there with a great throw, then got bowled over. Smart game for him so far, with that slide into home as well.

Nick (Albany, NY)

That was a pretty cheap shot at cairo there too.

Buster Olney

  (8:07 PM)

End of the Seventh: So you are Torre and you need six outs to clinch the series, with a two-run lead. My guess is that he will send Gordon out there for the bottom of the eighth for at least one out. Once there are five outs to go, I think he'll give Gordon a one-baserunner leash; as soon as somebody reaches after there is one out, he'll call for Rivera. But the Red Sox have to worry about the top of the eighth now -- Timlin, having sat for a long time in the dugout, now coming out against Cairo, Jeter, A-Rod, etc.

Buzzmaster

  (8:07 PM)

Also known as a hard slide.

Mac (Columbus)

Who wouldve guessed Manny would hit into a double play and waste Mark Bellhorn's double before this inning started? ... Man baseball is great

Buzzmaster

  (8:08 PM)

Ciaro doubles to lead off the 8th.

Kevin (Westbury, NY)

MIGGGGGGGGGGYYYYYYYYYYYYY

Brad (Detroit, MI)

Cairo leadoff double....watch how the Yankees actually capitalize and knock him in

Michael (San Mateo, CA)

Why is Timlin still pitching? They were lucky they got one inning from him.

Max (italy)

Let's go to bed. it's 2.10 am and last night I went to sleep at 7.30 am. It' all over, again...

Buzzmaster

  (8:09 PM)

Jeter moves Cairo to third with the bunt.

Andrew (Binghamton, NY)

Why is Foulke warming? I think he is still warm from yesterday

Kevin (Westbury, NY)

a-rod's been brutal with RISP, he's just gotta get a hit here, or at least a run-scoring out

Joe (Jersey)

If the Yankees win today, I think Jeter redeemed himself just fine today.

Aaron (Jerusalem, Israel)

Look for the long fly RBI sacrifice

Buzzmaster

  (8:12 PM)

Timlin gets A-Rod for the second out, taking the sac fly out of play.

Eric (New York)

horrible AB by Arod

chewie (jersey)

Nice job of making me sound stupid AROD....

Francisco (Mexico)

Poor AB by A-Rod

Mike (Vegas)

Timlin is showing a lot of heart the last2 days

Buster Olney

  (8:13 PM)

Again, Timlin deserves big credit; what a gutty outing, and supposedly he was pretty sore this afternoon. Impressive... Coming inside on A-Rod and Sheffield...

Buzzmaster

  (8:14 PM)

Count goes full on Sheffield ...

Keith (New York)

Stop whining!

Bobby (NJ)

How unoriginal Boston, with the "whos your dealer" chant. Replace the word daddy with dealer. Boo.

Todd (Detroit)

I shudder to think what happens if he walks Sheff.

Buzzmaster

  (8:15 PM)

We're about to find out, as Timlin leaves and Foulke comes in.

Mitch (Boston )

Wow Foulke comin in after pitching 2+ last night, he has to be exhausted

Jared (Paramus, NJ)

Matsui can buy a shelf for his ALCS MVP trophy with a hit here

Greg (NYC)

Look who's up. Any better way to put a stamp on his LCS than the nail in the coffin against Keith Foulke?

Buster Olney

  (8:16 PM)

Foulke did a good job against Matsui last night with his changeup, keeping him way out in front. You wonder if Matsui will be more attuned to the change tonight, and try to shoot it the other way and dump it in front of Manny...

Doug (Wyoming, Ia)

Foulke ate his Cherrios today..he is ready to go...

Angel (Caracas)

Here we eill se the difference between the Yanks and the Sox, the inning has been pretty much alike the Sox 7th and will end in a different way. Matsui will drive in Cairo for sure....

Craig (Baltimore)

Gotta be happy about that performance from Timlin...but where's Myers? Is Foulke the answer here?

Jon (Queens)

"Matsui AB's just make me catatonic and my central nervous system shuts down. I can't feel anything." -- Bill Simmons

Dan (Davis, CA)

These games have really carried on a little too long. The last two were excusable what with the double digit scoring and extra innings respectively...but a 4-2 ballgame already over 3 hours long and only in the 8th inning?

Todd (Detroit)

If Bill Simmons Central Nervous System really shut down, he'd die.

Buzzmaster

  (8:19 PM)

Hey, you should be on "House"

David (Oakland)

Foulke throws an 85 MPH fastball. Looks tired to me

Buzzmaster

  (8:19 PM)

1-2 as Matsui swngs through the pitch.

Brian (Montville, NJ)

I think Foulke's right arm might come flying towards home plate on one of these pitches

Neil (West Hartford)

what is Matsui chasing?? a 79 mph high changeup.

Mike (Vegas)

That's been a strike all night!!!

Owen (Valdez, Alaska)

That was strike 3.

Conrad (Syracuse, NY)

Good eye

Buzzmaster

  (8:20 PM)

Way inside on Matsui to run it full.

Buzzmaster

  (8:21 PM)

Manny gets the out in left, Sox escape the inning.

Francisco (Mexico)

Buzzmaster, youÂ're pretty boring...

Buzzmaster

  (8:22 PM)

Yeah, but you can't even see the soft-shoe routine I'm doing while typing.

Patrick (Albany, NY)

Nothing has been a strike all night....the strike zone's only consistency is that it has been inconsistent

kevin (cali)

use dave robers!!!!

Bobby (NJ)

Torre better not pull a Francona and put in Rivera right now. Gordon in the 8th until he struggles or ends the 8th, then Rivera

Buster Olney

  (8:23 PM)

Middle of the eighth: The Yankees have been giving Ortiz problems throwing him breaking balls, but Gordon might be a bit weary and he's been sittign and the worst thing for him to do is walk Ortiz; you figure Gordon will be coming after Ortiz with fastballs. If he hits a home run, you still have a one-run lead...

Buzzmaster

  (8:24 PM)

Rivera warming in the bullpen ...

Buzzmaster

  (8:24 PM)

Ortiz crushes it over the Monster. If only there were runners on base?

Rooster (Minot, ND)

Oritz playing hero AGAIN!

Eric (Columbus, OH)

Good call Buster

Ross (Missoula, MT)

BIG PAPI! can he bat 3 times in a row

Willy (Uruguay)

well, it was bound to happen, now we get Rivera

Jacob (Washington DC)

THAT is why that Manny double play was so huge. Woulda been 5-4...

Buster Olney

  (8:25 PM)

OK, now Torre has a serious decision. When will he get Rivera? He needs an out or two from Gordon, desperately...

Tom (New York)

It's official. I hate David Ortiz more than anyone on the planet. (he bumped Pedro from the throne!)

Aaron (Jerusalem, Israel)

We don't want Rivera to have to get 6 outs

matt (ny, ny)

I think if it were last inning, Gordon would not have thrown Ortiz 2 fastballs.

Buzzmaster

  (8:26 PM)

Very valid point, Matt.

Buster Olney

  (8:27 PM)

Millar's going to be sitting on a fastball right here... Gordon can't walk him...

Buzzmaster

  (8:27 PM)

Count goes full on Millar ...

Rob Neyer

  (8:27 PM)

Anybody else notice how similar this game is to last night's? Last night, I predicted the Red Sox would get to Rivera for at least one run, and I was right (hey, even a blind pig occasionally finds a truffle). Tonight I'm not so sure. But it'll certainly be interesting, especially if the Sox can get a couple more baserunners, and thus get back to the meaty part of their order.

Mike (Blacksburg, Va)

Heres the question; Why not risk using a starter? Lieber could shut the Sox down, but if they lose this game, its a big goof.

Buster Olney

  (8:28 PM)

Gordon's not sure what he wants to do. If he's got big Cajones, he'd throw his curve...

Keith (New York)

He walks. And we will see dave Roberts again.

Buzzmaster

  (8:28 PM)

Sac bunt coming?

Buster Olney

  (8:28 PM)

Now Torre has to take a chance; he's got to go for the jugular right here, with six outs to go... He can't leave Gordon out there

Mitch (Boston )

Nice job Millar, Roberts steal a base, and come on BOSOX baby cmon

Eric (Canton, NY)

Roberts better not be caught. That's all I have to say.

Matt (Anchorage)

steal, then sac bunt ....

Justin (Baltimore)

Interesting if Posada's hand is still hurting, a Roberts SB is even more likely

Nick (Chicago)

No way you steal Roberts, do you? Gordon isn't exactly slow to the plate.

Buster Olney

  (8:30 PM)

Gordon leg kick huge; Roberts should be running... on the next pitch..

Buzzmaster

  (8:30 PM)

Nixon's 0-3, I still say bunt.

Dave (Fairfield)

Can't bunt, you should steal and then with no outs, you have a lefty to pull the ball, and hopefully get him to third

Keith (New York)

Money ball says nothing about Bunts.... don't expect to see one.

Greg (PSU/NH)

Roberts can fly tho, he was what 35 for 37 during the year.

Buster Olney

  (8:31 PM)

I don't know if he's going to get thrown out, but wow, you look at Roberts's expression, and he's sure he's not going to get thrown out...

Kevin (Virginia)

It's amazing to me that outside of Rivera, the Yankee bullpen is worth over $12 million, and Torre trusts only Gordon.

Matt (DC)

Is everybody else pacing around the room?

Mitch (Boston )

Come on pitch the ball

holmes (hopkinton, ma)

this is the most tense i've been during baseball.

Chris (Louisville)

Fetal position here

Rob Neyer

  (8:32 PM)

Gordon might be more likely to throw a fastball, and if he does Mueller should take a whack.

Justin (Baltimore)

A good throw might get hime over there one of these times, but he'll eventually need to make a pitch

Mary (HOboken)

No, I'm keeled over clutching my stomach.

chewie (jersey)

These last two games have taken years off my life

Rob Neyer

  (8:33 PM)

Nixon, I mean. Theory still holds, though. Nixon can't just take a pitch to let Roberts steal, because the count is paramount.

Buzzmaster

  (8:33 PM)

Roberts got crossed up on that one, but it's a ball for 2-1.

Buster Olney

  (8:33 PM)

2-1 count; Torre's a bit of a gmabler, and I wonder if he would gamble and pitch out here. I know Zimmer would...

Eric (NY)

What's Roberts waiting for?

Rich (Boston)

See now it's distracting Gordon and hes missing the strike zone

Buster Olney

  (8:34 PM)

Now he's definitely running, with a 3-1 count...

Mike (Kalamazoo)

He is waiting for Nixon to walk.

Buzzmaster

  (8:35 PM)

First and third no outs, as Nixon singles.

Buzzmaster

  (8:35 PM)

Tell me Roberts didn't ponder, just for a split second, heading home. And you know Sveum thought about sending him.

john (portland)

little better than a bunt or steal attempt no?

Go Sox (Williamsburg, VA)

do you pinch run for nixon?

Buzzmaster

  (8:36 PM)

Francona decides to go thay way, as Kapler runs for Nixon.

Buster Olney

  (8:36 PM)

What a bind for Torre: First and third, nobody out, Gordon dying out there, six outs to go -- and he's going to Rivera... Incredible.

Willy (Uruguay)

I never thought IÂ'd see Joe Torre manage this bad, maybe the Boss told him he wants to celebrate in front of the home crowd

Bobby (NJ)

Redemption time for 'Mo

lj (Charlotte, NC)

so if rivera gets knocked out, who doyou bring in?

Jeremy (Miami)

if only roberts had stolen second, he could've made it home...

John (Irvine, CA)

There we go baby! Now instead of giving away a precious out for a better chance to tie, we've got an even better chance to take the lead without giving away a precious out.

Buster Olney

  (8:37 PM)

LJ: Quantrill would follow Rivera, and Loaiza would follow Quantrill...

Seth (L.A.)

Tom Gordon is just not scary anymore.

Tom (Boulder, CO)

I think, after last night that Rivera will be even more ready to go against Boston. He needs a strikeout here in the worst way though.

kevin (hell)

sveum holds the runner!!!! its below zero here!

Rob Neyer

  (8:38 PM)

Buster, any chance here that Kapler tries to steal? He's not super-fast but he's got a pretty good career success rate, and a DP here would be a killer.

Tom (New York)

True story: I spent the entire day muttering the same thing to my self, over and over and over, maybe a thousand times. "How can you walk Millar in that spot". Seems I won't need to change my Mantra for tomorrow, eh? I think I'm gonna be sick.

Travis (New York)

torre didnt manage bad at all, he had no other decision but to keep gordon out there, you have to think gordon can get at least one out, riveria is tired and showed it last night

Mac (Columbus)

"Torre.... Youre risking your team's life!!!"

Max (italy)

Going to put on some cofee...

Buzzmaster

  (8:38 PM)

That's what we like to hear, Max. Who needs sleep?

Matt (Los Angeles)

As incredible as Mo is, it's gonna be tough to keep Roberts from scoring w/ no one out, which would put a ton of pressure on the Yanks to score in the 9th knowing it's Mo's last inning and Gordon is already out of the game.

Buzzmaster

  (8:39 PM)

Rivera starts 2-0 on Varitek.

Buster Olney

  (8:39 PM)

Wow. First pitch from Rivera might be a clue: 92 mph, high and away on a pitch he tried to bury on Varitek. Now 2-0...

Andy (Reading, PA)

I almost cannot watch this....it's giving me a headache.

Buzzmaster

  (8:40 PM)

Varitek ties it with the sac fly.

Tim (San Diego)

OH THE DRAMA

Keith (Red Sox Nation)

TIE GAME!

Kevin (Pittsburgh, PA)

This is an injustice. You cannot possibly credit him for a blown save.

Matt (DC)

Does that count as a blown save? Seems cheap if it does

Toby Blatt (Richmond, VA)

This is sports at its finest! This is why we all watch!

Buster Olney

  (8:41 PM)

When was the last time Rivera blew back to back saves on back to back days? I'd be willing to bet: Never.

Mike (Kalamazoo)

Should Gabe Kapler steal?

Buzzmaster

  (8:42 PM)

Mueller grounds to first, runner on second with two outs and it's ... Mark Bellhorn. Goat or hero?

Doug (Austin)

can bellhorn sing a redemption song?

Tom (Nashville)

what a spot for bellhorn

Buster Olney

  (8:42 PM)

Question: You know you are going to put Mientkiewicz in the game at first; would you pinch-hit him here?

Toby (Richmond, VA)

What if Bellhorn got a hit here. He would be loved again by Red Sox Nation!

Rob Neyer

  (8:42 PM)

Sure it's a cheap blown save. But closers pick up plenty of cheap saves, too.

Bobby (NJ)

Predicition: Strike out

Francisco (Mexico)

Is this the first time TorreÂ's bullpen has blown consecutive games?

Ross (Missoula, MT)

Give Bellhorn a chance, this has been what he's been waiting for

Buster Olney

  (8:43 PM)

Francisco: From 1996-2003, the Yankees' bullpen had four blown saves in 99 games in the postseason. They've got three blown saves in htis post-season...

Rob Neyer

  (8:43 PM)

I wouldn't pinch-hit for Bellhorn; give him enough swings and he'll hit one over the fence (though probably not against Mo).

Buzzmaster

  (8:44 PM)

Count goes 2-2 on Bellhorn, close pitch.

Andy (Reading, PA)

Ok, where was that?

Buzzmaster

  (8:45 PM)

Bellhorn strikes out swinging. But it's tied after 8.

Alex (Rochester, NY)

Gotta bring Pokey Reese in for Bellhorn. He'll bat 9th, and you need the defense with the tie game.

Buster Olney

  (8:46 PM)

End of the eighth: Foulke is tired. Rivera is exhausted. The freshest relievers available are guys who either have pitched badly in this series (Arroyo) or guys who have not pitched at all (Loaiza). What a game...

John (Boston)

Crazy idea... put Roberts in CF, Kapler in RF, Pokey at 2B and Doug at 1B... have Doug bat first for Damon to lead off the bottom of the ninth.

Matt (West Hempstead, NY)

When's the NLCS gonna start....... midnight!??! They pushed it back to 8:20, then to 8:30, then to 8:42, and now to 8:50- are they ever going to start they game before everyone goes to sleep?!?!

Rob Neyer

  (8:47 PM)

Okay, I'm flipping over to FX, because I'm "NL guy." But I hope you'll pardon me for switching back to the other game every few seconds. . . About the Cards and Astros, I'll be absolutely shocked if the Cardinals don't put six or eight runs on the board tonight. They'll knock out Backe early, and then it'll be Big Fun Bullpen Time.

Buzzmaster

  (8:48 PM)

And Reese isn't at second base. That's tough to figure.

Buzzmaster

  (8:48 PM)

Bernie pops to first on the first pitch.

Jay (Boston)

c'mon Foulke!

Buzzmaster

  (8:49 PM)

Rob will be checking in with NLCS updates and we'll flip The Show over to the Astros and Cards when this one ends, but for now. It's drama in Boston.

chriscr123 (Scottsdale)

if Foulke gets out of this, I will be amazed...he is on fumes

Buzzmaster

  (8:50 PM)

Pretty sure Millar could have made those plays, but Mientikiewicz gets a lot of early action. Two outs ...

Geoff (Penn State)

Foulke is so lucky Posada didnt hit that outta the park. Kind of hung there...

Keith (Pittsburgh)

Keith Foulke is a GOD!

Steve (Detroit)

I think if Foulke gets this next batter with no more than three pitches that he could go one more inning.

Matt (Boston)

millar drops both of those pop ups...great call francona!!!

Mitch (Boston )

Is anyone warmin up in Boston's pen? This may go extra innings

Rob Neyer

  (8:52 PM)

Not to step on anybody's toes because I can't remember where I saw it, but somebody recently wrote that of the four teams left in the playoffs, Foulke is the worst of the closer. Is that true, though?

Buzzmaster

  (8:52 PM)

Sierra walks with two outs to bring up Tony Clark.

Buster Olney

  (8:52 PM)

The stakes keep increasing for the Yankees. Win here and everything's fine, they get four days off and play the NL. But if they lose -- they'll have to play Game 6 tomorrow night with Rivera, Gordon, Sturtze all having worked like crazy, the momentum at least beginning to shift. It's getting really interesting...

Buzzmaster

  (8:52 PM)

Don't shoot the messenger, but the Cards and Astros are underway ...

Eric (NJ)

I never thought I'd be terrified of Ruben Sierra

Aaron (Jerusalem, Israel)

Tony can make up his goof from the other night - right here

Rob Neyer

  (8:53 PM)

NLCS5 just started, Tony Womack with a can of corn to short left field.

Todd (Detroit)

Struggling Tony Clark. This series may be about who's worst player is best. Bellhorn and Damon have choked, let's see what Tony does.

Buzzmaster

  (8:54 PM)

Ground-rule double for Clark. Sierra isn't fast, but that might have saved a run by going into the stands.

Francisco (Mexico)

Lucky Red Sox

Chris (Louisville)

Thank goodness that bounced over the wall

Bruce (New Jersey)

d'oh! Ground rule double! The run doesn't score!

Buster Olney

  (8:55 PM)

Cairo is not someone Foulke wants to see now. He has trouble against hard throwers... Soft throwers, he's much better...

Rob Neyer

  (8:55 PM)

Hey, do the Yankees really have nobody on the bench who can hit better than Cairo???

Buzzmaster

  (8:56 PM)

Foulke gets all three outs on pops to first -- with a litte drama in the middle. Now it's the top of the order for Boston.

Rooster (Minot, ND)

how do you spell redemtion??? D-A-M-O-N

Tom (Nashville)

why wasn't lofton pinchrunning for sierra with 2 outs

Chris (Memphis)

Where's Kenny Lofton?

Mike (Vegas)

Manny can make up for last at bat

Buzzmaster

  (8:58 PM)

With the top of the order up for NY next inning and Foulke surely done, do the Red Sox have to get it done in the bottom of the 9th to have a chance?

Claire (Saline, MI/New Ulm, MN)

I don't think the Sox can pull it off in one inning

Jeff (Fairbanks)

I don't think my heart can take this. I know it can't handle extra innings. I just love baseball right now.

Buster Olney

  (8:58 PM)

Middle of the ninth: So consider the logic of using Schilling now. You're not sure how much he's going to give you in a GAme 6 start, how long he's going to last. And, with Jeter, A-Rod and Sheffield due to bat, he would be Boston's best chance to get through the 10th, if the game is still going. You could start Wakefield in Game 6 (or Arroyo), all hands on deck. Biggest thing in Francona's mind right now: Get through the 10th (if you don't score in the 9th). It makes sense...

randy (sarasota ,fla)

rivera will not walk damon leading off. no way. not after last night.

mike (syracuse, ny)

probably not...this has to be rivera's last inning too

Buster Olney

  (8:59 PM)

But Schilling is not throwing now, anyway... Arroyo is...

Brian (Chicago, IL)

hmmmmm, I guess this game is everything for the Red Sox. There goes the entire pitching staff to the pen.

Chris (Minneapolis)

This is a K waiting to happen PINCH HIT

Buzzmaster

  (8:59 PM)

It wasn't pretty but Damon reaches on the infield single.

Willy (Uruguay)

Oh no, not the broken bats again!

Keith (Pittsburgh)

YEA DAMON! Bunt? Steal? Pray?

Buster Olney

  (9:00 PM)

They will bunt Cabrera here, for sure...

Mike (Vegas)

I can't believe Damon actually did something!

David (Curacao)

MUST BUNT NOW!!!

Brian (Chicago, IL)

Do you gamble and steal with Damon first before you bunt him to third?

Ak (Piscataway, NJ)

HUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUGE OUT

Toby (Richmond, VA)

What are they thinking!

Bill (Wilkes-Barre, PA)

that is why Posada is the best catcher in baseball his hand still hast o be killing him

Steve (Detroit)

Posada just broke speed records with that throw...jeeez.

Buster Olney

  (9:01 PM)

Posada with the gun -- and it wasn't even the best pitch to throw on, because he had to reach to his left and gather himself...

Greg (PSU/NH)

why send him..get the bunt down

Ben (Rochester, NY)

Way to take the bat out of Ortiz's hands

Matt (Minneapolis)

it's a good call....you have to be aggressive, it just didn't work out.

Matt (Brooklyn)

That's just ignorant. Even if Cabrera botches the bunt... Damon just being on base means Ortiz would've batted this inning...

Mike (Blacksburg, Va)

I am getting more uncomfortable by the minutes here. Why are we not hearing about who Torre has up in the 'pen?

Max (New York)

Bad call by the ump, but I'm not complaining...

Geoff (Penn State)

Are you kidding me? That's a swing..

Mike (Kalamazoo)

WOW... that is a horrible call.

Steve (Long Island, NY)

That might be the worst call of the entire ALCS.

Buzzmaster

  (9:04 PM)

Extra innings ... again!

reverse the curse (houston)

if that wasnt a swing then im buster olney

Ross (LI, NY)

Who's going to pitch, Arroyo?

Buster Olney

  (9:05 PM)

Reverse: A swing...

Eric (NJ)

Great, top of the order for the Yanks...its over

Daubach (Oakland)

Buster, Rob - SOMEONE - what's next for both teams' pitchers???

Hugh (LA)

if you're going to use schilling you MUST use him here. This is the highest possible leverage inning imaginible. Get Rivera out of the game and bring in Ortiz to lead off the 10th

Buster Olney

  (9:06 PM)

Daubach: Arroyo is in for the Sox (as you see), and I'm figuring that Quantrill is next for the Yankees; it's either him or Loaiza...

Rob Neyer

  (9:06 PM)

Heading to the second inning in Houston, and Backe looked great in the first. His only chance is to hit nearly all of his spots, thus keeping his pitch count low and allowing him to pitch six or seven innings. Doesn't seem all that likely . . . but that's why they actually play the games, right?

Rob Neyer

  (9:08 PM)

About using Schilling in the "high-leverage" inning . . . Yes, but you're assuming that Schilling is actually the best pitcher available, and we don't know that's the case, do we? He certainly wasn't the best available in Game 1.

Buster Olney

  (9:08 PM)

Felix Heredia, warming up... I'm sure Steinbrenner is feeling very secure with that sight -- let alone the other Yankees... Three straight lefties coming up, but I'm stunned that Joe would give Heredia this situation.

Ronnie (RSN)

Imagine the crowd's reaction if Schilling does come in... they will carry him through

Toby (Richmond, VA)

I'll take my chances with Arroyo against what's left of the Yankees bullpen!

Buster Olney

  (9:09 PM)

Wow, Jeter had a pitch to hit... And he popped up...

Buzzmaster

  (9:10 PM)

Better start to things for Arroyo this time around, but now the really big bats.

Rob Neyer

  (9:10 PM)

Backe brilliant through two innings: six batters, three punch-outs, and the crowd's euphoric. I'd love to see him pitch a shutout -- remember Johnny Kucks in 1956 -- but they just don't make pitchers like that any more...

holmes (hopkinton, ma)

if he makes it through this inning, arroyo is the best pitcher the red sox have.

Buster Olney

  (9:10 PM)

That was Jeter cursing aloud, by the way... Four letters, starts with an 'F'.

Robert (Redmond WA)

Well Arod can hit with no one in scoring position..

pete (Syracuse)

he certainly seems to be throwing better than saturday . . . at least so far

Kevin (Westbury, NY)

maybe he was yelling foulke?

Jay (Boston)

This ump is killing me, I need and antacid

Buster Olney

  (9:12 PM)

Yeah, yeah, that's it...

Buzzmaster

  (9:13 PM)

Arroyo gets A-Rod swinging, wow. He's gotten ahead of both guys so far, with Sheff up ... and 0-1

Buster Olney

  (9:13 PM)

Two days ago, A-Rod couldn't miss. But now he's getting back into that big, long swing again, like he's fatigued from playing the last two days... For him to miss that pitch...

josh (houston)

i need a beer

George (New York)

I think Pete from Syracuse is trying to jinx Arroyo. I'm marshalling my psychic energies to counter that jinx...

Steve (Detroit)

Arroyo looks good. Coming strong at the batters.

Jeff (PA)

For crying out loud....WHAT IS THE SHEFFIELD CHANT?

Buster Olney

  (9:14 PM)

Will Arroyo have the guts to throw a fastball inside now? High and inside? Or will he frisbee him...

Buzzmaster

  (9:14 PM)

Jeff -- "Who's your dealer?"

Buzzmaster

  (9:14 PM)

Count goes full ...

Buzzmaster

  (9:15 PM)

And wow ... just wow. Arroyo fans A-Rod and Sheff back to back.

David (Curacao)

WOW! Bronson!!!

Mike (Blacksburg, Va)

Thats it. Its decided. This is going to kill me.

Jeff (New Bedford, MA)

Arroyo owned the heart of the order

Mike (Towson)

Where was that on Saturday

Buster Olney

  (9:15 PM)

Jeff: the fans in Fenway are chanting to Sheffield, "WHO'S YOUR DEALER?"

Rob (LA)

Arroyo is possesed or something

matt (ny, ny)

umpiring these last two games is abysmal, both sides. No consistency.

Rob Neyer

  (9:16 PM)

Mike, it's easier to pitch when you don't have to pace yourself. I suspect Arroyo would be a great reliever, except he's too valuable (for now, at least) to the Red Sox as a starter.

Kyle (CT)

awful umpiring... WHos in for the yanks?

Dan (Charleston, WV)

Poor Monday Night Football...is there any bar or resturant with the Bucs-Rams game on now?

Buster Olney

  (9:17 PM)

Heredia is coming in. And Ortiz is going to be looking for a fastball early in the count, undoubtedly...

Mitch (Cincy)

Can Big Papi repeat last nights heroics off of Felix?

Bobby (NJ)

This game is over Heredia is terrible

TG (NYC)

Too bad they can't just walk this guy.

Ronnie (RSN)

Can Ortiz do it two games in a row?? That would be greatest postseason performance EVER

Jay (Boston)

What's the thought process here.....Lefty Lefty matchup?

Bryce (New Orleans)

Why would you throw anything remotely near the plate to Ortiz

Buster Olney

  (9:19 PM)

Jay -- Gotta be. Mientkiewicz on deck, another lefty, and then Kapler, and that's when we'll see Quantrill...

Buzzmaster

  (9:20 PM)

Wow, rough call on Ortiz.

Eric (Canton, NY)

Horrible, horrible call.

Neil (West Hartford)

there is a makeup call for manny

Jerry (Great Falls, MT)

Make-up call?

Joe (Lexington)

well....theres your worst call of the series

Aaron (Tulsa)

Wrists broke. Good call.

Rob Neyer

  (9:21 PM)

Agreed. The men in blue usually get that one right, but that call was absurd.

Buster Olney

  (9:21 PM)

What is Posada telling Heredia? Fill in the thought balloon...

danny (boston)

mankeiwitz is this year's brett boone...

Buzzmaster

  (9:21 PM)

I honestly have no idea what that means ...

Bobby Meacham (Okla. City)

Ball 3 -- Heredia is back to himself

colby (st louis)

Heredia telling him about Geico

Michael (Sacramento)

he's telling him that he's risking a patients LIFE!!!

Rob Neyer

  (9:23 PM)

Meanwhile, another perfect inning for Backe in Houston: nine up, nine down. But Woody Williams has been nearly as good, so it's still scoreless in the Juice Box.

Jim (San Fran, Ca)

What was the call that was against Ortiz?

Buzzmaster

  (9:23 PM)

Jim - Check-swing third strike.

Buster Olney

  (9:24 PM)

Mientkiewicz is getting a better and better swing, and he's looking at hte Pesky pole...

Buzzmaster

  (9:24 PM)

Ground-rule double for Mientkiewicz, over Sheffield's head.

dan (new haven)

sheff could not have played that worse!

Buzzmaster

  (9:25 PM)

Anyone else reminded of the ball Sheff lost in the roof of the Metrodome? Some defensive adventures this postseason.

Robert (Redmond WA)

Well another misplayed ball by Sheffield - Felix is still a bum....

Buster Olney

  (9:25 PM)

You've got to think, affter watching A-Rod's swing and Sheffield's pursuit of that fly ball that the position players must be getting as tired as the relievers right now.

Landon (WA)

He broke the rule: your first step is alwasy back

Dan (NY, NY)

Sheffield ran the wrong way! He'd have had it otherwise... Another Yankee fielding mistake. HOpe there'll be more

Dave (Calgary, AB, Canada)

when Mientkiewicz hits a double off of you, you know it's time to go...

Matt (Brooklyn)

Paul Quantrill... why don't they just set up a tee at this point?

Ak (Piscataway, NJ)

does ANYONE have any faith in Paul Quantrill at this point besides Joe?

Rob Neyer

  (9:26 PM)

I know this is un-American, but I actually feel sorry for Felix Heredia. I mean, he clearly has no business pitching in a series like this, because he just isn't good enough. Yes, I know he enjoys spending his paychecks, and he's a professional athlete so he can handle the occasional (or in his case, frequent) failures . . . but still, I feel bad for him.

Brian (Chicago, IL)

Rob, you're getting soft in your old days.

Tom (NJ)

buster, is torre just playing the odds here and setting himself up for game 6 by not using a starter in this spot?

Matt (DC)

Can you say biggest AB of Gabe Kapler's life?

Rob Neyer

  (9:28 PM)

Buster makes a good point about the players being fatigued. That's got to be tiring, being out there for more than four hours. Thrown in last night's game and the mental stress, and I don't think we should expect particularly sharp play at this point.

Buzzmaster

  (9:29 PM)

Two down, runner on third for Varitek after Kapler grounds out.

Mitch (Cincy)

Come on Varitek, base hit wins the game

Chris (Chicago)

Varitek can become a God in Boston if he can get a base hit.

Buster Olney

  (9:29 PM)

ITom: 'm sure Joe is holding back, feeling that no matter what happens tonight, he'll still have a fully rested Lieber going in Game 6 in Yankee STadium, against an ailing Schilling... I don't think he feels the need to go for it and forget about tomorrow the way Francona does...

Matthew (Philly)

Just heard a comment on Boston's radio station that Boston has never lost a postseason extra inning game at home. Can anyone verify?

Buster Olney

  (9:30 PM)

Matthew: I think that's wrong. They lost the Ed Armbrister game in the '75 World SEries, in the 10th innig, I think...

Daubach (Oakland)

Someone tell Tek that if he singles we have 4 years at $40 million on the table for him.

Rob Neyer

  (9:31 PM)

Astros threaten, with a runner on first base, one out, and Biggio batting...

Buzzmaster

  (9:31 PM)

Variterk pops out and we're going to the 11th. Matsui leads off for NYY.

dan (new haven)

swung at a bad pitch

chris (mesa az)

another stranded opportunity

Mike (Vegas)

The Sox have never lost one, tied once...they just talked about it on Fox

Buster Olney

  (9:32 PM)

At home... OK, that Armbrister game was in Cincinnati...

George (New York)

That giant sucking sound you hear is all the air going out of Fenway all at once.

Aaron (Jerusalem, Israel)

Has anyone seen Hagler/Hearns fight? This is the same deal, one feels exhausted between each round...

Buster Olney

  (9:33 PM)

Aaron -- Nice analogy. Haymakers all over the place, the two fighters leaning against each other. this is going to turn into Rocky II...

Buster Olney

  (9:34 PM)

I second Joe Buck's opinion: How can you possibly bring Myers into this game, recalling how pathetic he was last night with that four-pitch joke... Arroyo looked fine. And man, if he can go, you've got to get as much out of everybody as you can.

Bobby Meacham (Okla. City)

why pull arroyo? the guy pitched lights out and is a starter? and Matsui hits Mike Myers well.

Francisco (Mexico)

They took out Arroyo?

Nick (Winnipeg, MB)

Is Francona INSANE, Myers in for Arroyo, this guy should not be pitching in the series, EVER

chewie (jersey)

Rocky II sucked, its most like Rocky IV

Greg (Woburn, MA)

Hmmmmm another first guess of Francoma. Arroyo who can go deep into the game is out for a one batter myers.

Buster Olney

  (9:35 PM)

Chewie: Picked Rocky II because of how it ended, with both fighters on the canvass trying to drag themselves up on the ropes...

Joe (Lexington)

Matsui has homered and walked the last two times against myers. Arroyo looked so good, why pull him?

Rob Neyer

  (9:35 PM)

Beltran's batting with two outs and a runner on first base . . . When the Yankees and Red Sox finish up, I'll have a longer note on Beltran . . . He just hit another shot, but right to Walker in right field. Still no score after three innings in Houston.

Buster Olney

  (9:36 PM)

tip of the cap to Myers: nice job.

Buzzmaster

  (9:36 PM)

Only one batter for Myers, but at least he gets the job done tonight.

Jimmy (UMassDartmouth)

Who comes in after Embree?

Jason (Scarsdale, NY)

Embree = Heredia. both suck

Rob Neyer

  (9:37 PM)

Al Leiter, who does a great job in a limited role, made the point that with Myers it's all about getting ahead in the count. And this time he got ahead in the count.

Neil (West Hartford)

ok... I admit I was incorrect that Myers would handle Matsui... but I still think they are over managing this

Dave (Calgary, AB, Canada)

anyone else wondering why Francona is burning pitchers like the Sox and Yankees burn money?

Buster Olney

  (9:37 PM)

Jimmy: You got your glove ready? Wakefield, Schilling, Leskanic, Mendoza, Lowe still available.

Joel (Auckland New Zealand)

Does that officially make him a specialist? How's that...I'm on the roster so I can pitch to this ONE guy only.....

Jim (San Fran, Ca)

Yea Buster, who is in both bullpens who the managers can count on right now?

scott (nyc)

Boston fans are so funny. You just CAN'T stop second guessing your managers.

Neil (West Hartford)

Bernie is 2 for 17 against Embree according to espn.com

Ross (LI, NY)

I know it has been rough but Bernie is due up Buzz

Buster Olney

  (9:38 PM)

Jim: The Yankees have Quantrill until he drops, Loaiza.

Buzzmaster

  (9:38 PM)

Right, my mistake Ross. Just topped off the coffee and I'm good to go.

Jimmy (UMassDartmouth)

Do you actually expect to see Lowe used in tonights game Buster?

Rob Neyer

  (9:39 PM)

Top of the fourth in Houston, and Backe continues to pepper the strike zone with each of his pitches. Basically he's mixing his low-90s fastball with an effective curveball, and to this point the Cardinals haven't figured him out.

Buster Olney

  (9:40 PM)

Jimmy: For one batter, maybe. Remember how Randy Johnson pitched in Game 7 after starting and pitching in Game 6 in 2001 WS. Same kind of situation right now: Whatever it takes. Although he might place a call to Scott Boras before taking the ball.

Mike (Vegas)

why not bring in lofton to run here?

Aaron (Jerusalem, Israel)

He has to advance the runner at least

Buzzmaster

  (9:41 PM)

Or not, as Posada goes down swinging. Nice location from Embree on that pitch.

Jason (Scarsdale, NY)

this is nuts. really.

Mike (UNC)

embree has great movement tonight

Francisco (Mexico)

Terrible AB by Posada, just terrible

Doug (Wyoming, Ia)

Cuz then you have to play him on defense...if you were in Yankee Stadium you would see Lofton on 1st..

Greg (PSU/NH)

They would bring in Lofton, but no one can get the massive fork out of his back, so he is stuck on the pine.

Angel (Caracas)

First time in my life I can say properly that Joe Torre it's managing REALLY bad.

Buster Olney

  (9:43 PM)

Before the game, sometime told me that Embree was tired yesterday, and there was some question about whether he could get loose to pitch in Game 4. And now he's pitching in Game 5. Foulke, Rivera, Timlin, even Heredia, Embree showing some cajones here... Although the Yankees' hitters are starting to get into the END IT NOW swings, looking to hit a bomb rather than just having quality at-bats...

Doug (Wyoming, Ia)

Sierra is looking like Sosa here...

Alex (NYC)

not having Olerud available has killed the yanks.

Rob Neyer

  (9:43 PM)

Wow. Twelve up and twelve down for Backe, and the encouraging thing is that he's thrown so few pitches that he does have a realistic shot at going seven or eight innings.

Buzzmaster

  (9:44 PM)

Down goes Sierra on strikes, and we go to the bottom of the 11th.

Joe (Lexington)

Embree showing some guts there, the guy must be exhausted by now, just clutch pitching

Matt (DC)

The much-maligned Sox bullpen has been clutch these last 2 games

Steve (Detroit)

Yankees are swinging at everything now...getting impatient??

Ross (Missoula, MT)

Here comes Mueller followed by the two batters who have been looking to redeem themselves for five straight atbats now

Rob Neyer

  (9:45 PM)

Over at Baseball Prospectus today, Joe Sheehan made the case that Joe Torre hasn't employed his bench players all that well in this series. Don't you have to get Bubba Crosby into a game, sometime?

Jimmy (UMassDartmouth)

I'm to the point where I'd rather see Pokey Reese up at bat than Mark Bellhorn

adam (andover, ma)

I'd love to see Bellhorn end it. Sox fans are forgiving.

Buster Olney

  (9:46 PM)

Middle of the 11th: Bill Mueller is a clutch player -- personally, my favorite Sox player to watch...

JR (Billerica, MA)

Bellhorn has hit the ball pretty well tonight, unfortunately for the Sox right are Cairo twice.

Buzzmaster

  (9:47 PM)

Mueller drops one in over Cairo's head and in front of Sheffield.

Buzzmaster

  (9:47 PM)

And again the question: bunt?

kenman (sydney, austalia)

....and the table is set

Medler (Long Island)

Bill jammed his hand sliding back to first

Buster Olney

  (9:47 PM)

OK, what are you doing: Bellhorn's at-bats have been so bad -- would you guys bunt him? I would, being an old NL guy...

Mike (Vegas)

bunt him over!!

Keith (Red Sox Nation)

Belhorn can never put the bat on the ball, I dont think he could bunt

Buzzmaster

  (9:48 PM)

That was the ugliest bunt attempt I've ever seen.

Mike (Kalamazoo)

Maybe he is horrible. He cant put a bunt down.

Brian (Chicago, IL)

ok, after that attempt I change my mind, SWING AWAY!

Toby (Richmond, VA)

Bellhorn can't even bunt!!!! C'mon do something!

Claire (Saline, MI/New Ulm, MN)

Get your bat DOWN on a bunt

Buster Olney

  (9:48 PM)

Take the BUNT OFF. Good lord, that was awful. I saw him do that earlier this year and thought it was an abberation. This is the biggest problem with not playing that style all season -- when you finally need it in the postseason, the players can't execute...

Buzzmaster

  (9:49 PM)

Bellhorn down 0-2 after two foul bunts.

Greg (PSU/NH)

Bellhorn cant bunt, he cant do anything...i cant take this.

Tim (San Diego)

Ugh, Belhorn is a statue up there trying to bunt.

JR (Billerica, MA)

now it's an automatic strike out

Mike (Vegas)

why not bring in pokey for the bunt?

Jeff (New Bedford, MA)

ok, that'll work

Buzzmaster

  (9:50 PM)

Bellhorn lines the 0-2 into right, Mueller stops at second.

Buster Olney

  (9:50 PM)

Now Damon can give you something -- and BUNT. Right now... Then you take your chances with Cabrera against Quantrill...

chris (Salem MA)

friggin Damon better be able to lay one down

Aaron (Schaumburg, IL)

Now you bunt with Damon no?

Buzzmaster

  (9:51 PM)

Unbelievable, Damon pops it up to Posada.

Abel (Tijuana, Mexico)

Nice choke job

Rob Neyer

  (9:52 PM)

Brilliant strategy this inning. Let's ask Bellhorn and Damon to do something they rarely do...

Josh (Princeton, NJ)

quantrill looked like he hurt his leg on that

kevin (los angeles)

damon - least clutch player ever in post season history

Matt (DC)

Nice bunt, Johnny Buckner

Buster Olney

  (9:52 PM)

Quantrill injured his knee on opening day, for those who don't follow the Yankees, slamming into A-Rod. He's been playing with it hurt all year, and it's gotten worse and worse...

Michael (Tomball, TX)

i dont think many people realize how so few people in the league really are good at bunting

Buzzmaster

  (9:53 PM)

Good is one thing ... competent is another.

Matt (Boston)

johnny damon.....most disappointing performance i've seen in a long time....the guy was arguably the mvp for the sox, choke job all the way

Jared (Paramus, NJ)

I never imagined I'd hear the phrase "the hopes of Yankee fans lies on Esteban Louiza"

Rob Neyer

  (9:54 PM)

By the way, for those of you who are watching the Astros and Cardinals, Woody Williams' cap is not really blurry; that's just an illusion, the result of a certain TV network's naked greed. Morgan Ensberg just got hit in the helmet, giving the Astros runners at first and second with two outs, Jose Vizcaino batting next.

Zach (Wilton)

Buster, how long can we expect this game to go?

Matt (DC)

It's too bad, Damon had a career year, if it ends like this, I feel really bad for him

Neil (West Hartford)

according to espn.com Cabrera is 2 for 9 and Manny is 10 for 38 with 3 HRs against Loaiza

Buster Olney

  (9:55 PM)

Zach: Maybe Loaiza will do great. I doubt it. I think the game ends here; he looked scared to death or disinterested at the end of the season, depending on the situaiton...

Rob Neyer

  (9:55 PM)

Vizcaino, weak grounder. Still scoreless after four in the Juicer.

Leslie (Cornwall, NY)

this has been one sloppy game--what a buzzkill.

Doug (Austin)

cabrera should just not swing just to make sure Manny gets to the plate

James (Saint Paul)

This has NOT been a sloppy game...nice try leslie

John (Irvine, CA)

maybe sloppy, but exciting as h___

Buster Olney

  (9:57 PM)

What a DP turn by Cairo, nice job by Jeter, nice scoop. What a killer. Loaiza lives to pitch another inning...

Buzzmaster

  (9:57 PM)

Inning over, as Cabrera grounds into the 6-4-3.

J.R. (Whitman,MA)

NO!NO!NO!NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Steve (Boston)

This sucks. Red Sox don't deserve to win the game. Bad fundamental baseball. They really turned it around in the second half of the season but they've reverted back to early season form.

dan (new haven)

well if you can't play small ball, then you will wait for a homerun to end this game

Mike (Blacksburg, Va)

6-4-3; The biggest rally killer since Damon....

Rob Neyer

  (9:58 PM)

Good suggestion, Doug! Actually, I thought his real mistake was in trying to pull the ball; none of his swings gave the appearance of trying to drive the ball to right field.

Steve (Detroit)

It appears that with Loaiza in that the Yankees now have the upper hand.

JR (Billerica, MA)

everyone in Boston needs to take a deep breath. They haven't lost (yet)

Seth (Irvine, CA)

Wakefield in, the question now is who will be this years Aaron Boone?

Ross (LI, NY)

Remember what happened last time Wakefield came into the game in the 12th?

Rob Neyer

  (9:59 PM)

Wakefield against the Yankees in the 12th inning . . . not to sound like a Red Sox fan or anything, but is there even a remote chance he'll shut down the Yankees? And I'm one of Wakefield's biggest fans...

Buzzmaster

  (10:00 PM)

Wakefield against Clark, Cairo and Jeter.

Buster Olney

  (10:00 PM)

Part of the reason why it's stupid for teams like Oakland and Boston to never bunt during the regular season is that eventually, as good teams, they will be in close games in the post-season, and they will ask their players to bunt and manufacture a run. It's a joke that Bellhorn and Damon couldn't get a bunt down.

chriscr123 (Scottsdale)

Ross - it was the 11th, but whos counting

Steve (Detroit)

Doesn't Wakefield's knuckleball get more active in cold weather??

Buzzmaster

  (10:01 PM)

Clark down on strikes, here's Cairo.

Buzzmaster

  (10:02 PM)

Cairo singles and Manny gives him a bonus base by ... being Manny Ramirez.

Jeff (Miami)

Nice defense Manny....

David (Sao Paulo, Brazil)

I am so sick of this @#$!. There is a better series in Houston going on right now and all I'm seeing is Yankees/Sox comments.

Buzzmaster

  (10:02 PM)

David -- It is an extra-inning game, with one team facing elimation. There will be plenty of time for the NLCS. And you've still got Rob Neyer giving updates.

Buzzmaster

  (10:03 PM)

Kapler makes the play, two down but A-Rod up.

chewie (jersey)

Jeter has been doing that all year, hitting the ball on the screws and getting nothing for it

Buster Olney

  (10:03 PM)

Amazing that Kapler was that shallow. The Red Sox positioning on defense is the most aggressive on any team outside of Atlanta, with players taking chances (excpet Manny, of course...)

Buzzmaster

  (10:04 PM)

A-Rod flies out on the first pitch, 3-4-5 up for Boston in the bottom.

Claire (Saline, MI/New Ulm, MN)

Bottom of the 12th! Bring it on, Baby!

dan (new haven)

wow huge inning, but they are drilling wakefield

leena (new orleans)

manny's butt is saved. this time, at least

Rob Neyer

  (10:05 PM)

Yeah, David; I'm multi-watching! Wakefield did retire the Yankees, and Backe just gave up the first St. Louis baserunner of the game. Top five, man on first, Renteria batting...

Ryan (Madison, WI)

Again, with Ortiz coming up, I ask...what's the record for most walk-off HR in a given post-season?

KB (Springfield, MO)

Perfect Game over for Backe, walk to edmonds with one out in the 5th.

Blake (Tremont, IL)

backe just lost the perfect game

Justin (Syracuse)

I'm convinced that this game is never going to end

Mike (Gloucester,MA)

Good question Ryan Buster you got anything?

Ryan (NJ)

I'll bake everyone here cookies if Loaiza somehow gets through this inning

Buster Olney

  (10:07 PM)

Ryan -- I didn't see your question -- can you post it again?

Mac (Columbus)

these are the exact same hitters as the 12th last night.....!!!!!

Buzzmaster

  (10:08 PM)

Ramirez can't get it out of the infield, pops out to A-Rod.

Rob Neyer

  (10:08 PM)

NEWSFLASH: Backe's still got a no-hitter through five innings! (Hey, Don Larsen wasn't exactly a world-beater...)

Jeff (New Bedford, MA)

there should be a rule that anyone who sits on the monster and has lame signs gets thrown off

Joe (Lexington)

Manny had a pitch to hit, just missed it

Matt (DC)

Hey Manny, we're playing a baseball game here, it would be nice of you to wake up for it

Buster Olney

  (10:09 PM)

Loaiza throwing 91-92, for whoever asked...

Marc (Portland, OR)

Ryan (Madison, WI) Again, with Ortiz coming up, I ask...what's the record for most walk-off HR in a given post-season?

JR (Billerica, MA)

Ortiz is getting jobbed with these calls.

Steve (Boston)

Ortiz has been barking at the home plate umpire all night.

Tom (New York)

I don't like how Loaiza is going after Ortiz here.

Buster Olney

  (10:10 PM)

Ryan -- I think I read somewhere that Ortiz is the first to have two in the same post-season...

Buzzmaster

  (10:10 PM)

Pinch run for Ortiz after the walk?

Amol (Charleston, SC)

Pinch run for Ortiz?

Greg (Woburn, MA)

do NOT pinch run for ortiz. we need his bat should the game be extended.

lj (NC)

That's okay. Ortiz on base doesn't hurt us.

Rob Neyer

  (10:11 PM)

Wow, Ortiz took some extremely close pitches to get that walk. An inch one way or the other, he strikes out. And on such fractions history is made.

Buzzmaster

  (10:11 PM)

And Ortiz stays in the game.

J.R. (Whitman,MA)

It's Mientikweiczsdhjgpd time.

Rob Neyer

  (10:12 PM)

Who's still on the bench for Boston?

Buzzmaster

  (10:12 PM)

Um ... Ortiz caught ... stealing??

Mark (Albany, NY)

Ortiz RUNNING? Grady Little is in the building.

Buzzmaster

  (10:13 PM)

And he was actually safe

Jon ((Pittsburgh))

He was safe

Brian (Chicago, IL)

He was safe

Neil (West Hartford)

oh.. come on... he never touched him..

Joe (Lexington)

Jeter never touched him, the game-changing calls just always go to the Yanks

Doug (Wyoming, Ia)

BAD BAD BAD call..

Mike (Vegas)

he was safe...but what the hell was he thinking??

Francisco (Mexico)

Clearly tagged him on the back, CLEARLY

Buzzmaster

  (10:14 PM)

After his hand was on the base.

Rob Neyer

  (10:14 PM)

If you watch the replay, you'll see the umpire had no way of seeing whether or not Jeter actually tagged Ortiz.

Buzzmaster

  (10:14 PM)

Mientikiewicz strikes out, so we're going to the 13th. Sheffield, Matsui and Williams.

Buster Olney

  (10:14 PM)

This is now the longest championship series game ever -- breaking the record from last night.

Anthony (Morristown, NJ)

Loaiza pitching well. Who would have thunk it.

Buster Olney

  (10:16 PM)

Anthony -- Not me, that's for sure. The game is made for a small name to find stardom...

Rob Neyer

  (10:16 PM)

We're through five innings in Houston, and the Cardinals and Astros have combined for the grand total of one hit. Doesn't it seem like just yesterday that everybody thought you couldn't hold down either lineup for long? I just hope when the dam does break, the Fenway festivities have finally finished.

Tommy (Woodside, NY)

This is the inning, Sheffield time

Justin (Syracuse)

is anyone behind Loaiza?

Kyle (CT)

Wakefield is about to get POUNCED on....

Buster Olney

  (10:17 PM)

Justin: It's Loaiza until his arm falls off... Maybe El Duque, if we got into the 18th or something...

Joe (Fords, Jersey)

If the Yanks pull it out, I'm never going to hear the end of it with these calls going to the Yanks from the Boston Fans. They have an argument tonight though.

Chris (Belchertown MA)

I don't like Wake in this situation at all...

Buzzmaster

  (10:18 PM)

Sheffield strikes out but reaches when the knuckler gets away.

Ross (Missoula, MT)

Talk about bad luck

Mitch (Cincy)

Weell thats our luck, strike out and the guy gets on base

Steve (Boston)

Strikes out. Still gets on. Shoot me.

Angel (Caracas)

That's it. the turning point!!!

Chris (Memphis)

Why wouldn't Joe go with Brown if Loaiza gets in trouble? He should be pretty fresh.

Bobby (NJ)

Should the sox bring in Mirabelli to catch Wakfield after the past ball??

Rob Neyer

  (10:19 PM)

Now I'm watching every Cardinal plate appearance until Backe gives up a hit. Matheny leads off the sixth . . . and grounds out to Jeff Kent.

Buster Olney

  (10:20 PM)

Chris: You're probably right, but I think they are many innings from thinking about that. Loaiza for the forseeable future...

Joe (Lexington)

No because you need Tek's power, Mirabelli only hits lefties

Bryce (New Orleans)

with the knuckleballer, why doesn't Sheff steal 2nd?

Brian (Chicago, IL)

man Varitek looks scared back there

Buzzmaster

  (10:22 PM)

Matusi grounds into the force at second, too slow a roller to get two.

Matt (DC)

Hey, I'm surprised he didn't call Sheffield safe there....just for old time's sake...

Rob Neyer

  (10:22 PM)

Woody Williams up next . . . line drive . . . right to Kent. Sweaty brow, but no-hitter intact.

Warren (Raleigh, NC)

Nice play by Bellhorn getting the lead runner.

John (Ft Huachuca, AZ)

Should have sent Sheff. Yankees usually play more agressive than this. I'm surprised.

Buzzmaster

  (10:23 PM)

Williams flies to Kapler for the second out.

chewie (jersey)

Bernie JUST missed that one...

Greg (PSU/NH)

Kaplar gets amazing jumps on balls, he was all over that one in the gap.

Buster Olney

  (10:24 PM)

One thing about Sheffield that surprised me this year is that he didn't run that much; I thought he was more aggressive. Maybe he had some nagging leg stuff and didn't feel great, or didn't want to slide because of hte shoulder...

Jason (Scarsdale, NY)

I'm amazed no movement by matsui or sheff prior. these guys must be exhausted

jaymes (chi)

they need to get mirabelli in there

Bobby (NJ)

I just realized the yankees have no small names to become heroes tonite...they need to have bubba crosby pinch hit...

Buzzmaster

  (10:25 PM)

Passed ball, Matsui takes second. Varitek is really struggling.

Matt (Boston)

Mirabelli anyone

Buster Olney

  (10:25 PM)

Would Enrique Wilson do it for you? He's probably the smallest name left on either roster now...

Buster Olney

  (10:25 PM)

Would Enrique Wilson do it for you? He's probably the smallest name left on either roster now...

Rob Neyer

  (10:25 PM)

Womack's up, and Backe's looking a bit shaky. After wasting all those pitches on Williams, Backe threw four straight balls to Womack . . . but fortunately, Womack swung at two of them. Here's the fifth pitch . . . line single to right, just past diving Bagwell. So now we're all even, both pitchers throwing one-hitters. But Backe's facing Walker and he's on the ropes.

Buzzmaster

  (10:26 PM)

Intentionally walking Posada to get to Sierra. Didn't the Twins try this?

Joe (Jersey)

Didn't this NOT work last night?

Greg (New York City)

Why are they doing this AGAIN. Don't walk Jorge

Dustin (Maryland)

Buster: Should the yankees bring in lofton who hit the homerun off of wakefield the other day?

Dan (Rochester, NY)

Another intentional walk to face Rueben Sierra. Odds are he cant do the same thing twice, right?

Ben (DC)

Sierra scares me

Buster Olney

  (10:27 PM)

Dustin -- Good thought, but I think Torre is saving Lofton for the perfect PR situation... Maybe in the 29th inning...

chewie (jersey)

The Yankees are getting great swings off Wake, but theyve yet to capitalize

Buzzmaster

  (10:28 PM)

Passed ball sends Matsui to third. Three in the inning.

Johan (Sweden)

Put Mirabelli in the game NOW!!!

Todd (Columbia, MO)

They cannot let Varitek catch Wakefield another inning. One has got to go.

Dan (RI)

Another errant knuckler... a huge difference should there be a hit.

Matt (Memphis)

God, is Veritek blind in his left eye or something?

Buzzmaster

  (10:29 PM)

And Sierra whiffs ... and Varitek catches it!!!!

Rob Neyer

  (10:29 PM)

Backe walked Walker, Pujols is due next, and here comes the pitching coach...

Chris (Chicago)

I dont blame Varitek. That ball is all over the place tonight.

Kenneth (Sydney, Australia)

it's not like Mirabelli hasn't contributed offensively - he has great numbers this year

Jamila (Boston)

Varitek isn't a knuckball catcher, but they need his bat more.

Ian (Houston)

Has anybody in this room ever tried to catch a knuckle ball.......I didnt think so!

Dave (Oklahoma City)

Varitek due up 2nd in the 13th. Hope it pays off!

Rob Neyer

  (10:30 PM)

Wow. (And yes, I know I've said that too many times tonight.) Pujols popped out on Backe's first pitch. I don't know if Backe can go another inning, but he'll probably have to try.

Ian (Houston)

Backe pulls a Houdini escaping from Pujols with two on and two out.

Dave (Chicago)

one of pujols' worst at bats i've ever seen--swing on first pitch?

Roger (Austin, TX)

And I definitely felt that sigh of relief from Houston

Devin (Durham, NC)

Rob, I think Pujols is shaving points...he never hits like this against Hou

Buster Olney

  (10:31 PM)

this game is ridiculously absurd. Holy sh... if the Red sox don't score here -- Varitek bats in this inning -- then Mirabelli should come out and catch the top of the 14th. Varitek has to be wasted physically, and the knuckler is so good you need Mirabelli...

Buzzmaster

  (10:31 PM)

Kapler - Varitek- Mueller against Loaiza.

Brian (Olathe)

Buster ... who is this game hurting more in terms of depth and bullpen?

Jeff (Boston)

gabe kapler - random hero?

Rob Neyer

  (10:32 PM)

Assuming that Wakefield's in there for the duration -- scary as that sounds -- shouldn't Mirabelli replace Varitek if this thing doesn't end in the 13th?

Buster Olney

  (10:33 PM)

Brian -- I think it's pretty equal at this point, both teams relying on starting pitchers who have worked a couple of innings... yankees have Brown, but I think he wouldn't use him for along, long, time.

Buzzmaster

  (10:34 PM)

Two outs as Varitek grounds out to short.

Mike (Vegas)

no way marabelli bats any worse than veritek right there

Justin (Syracuse)

3 passed balls in order to get a ground out...great move by Francona

Rob Neyer

  (10:35 PM)

Beltran led off the sixth, got the green light 3-0 and ripped one down the first-base line. But Pujols snagged it, and Williams beat Beltran to the bag by half a step. I know this one can't compare to what's happening in Boston, but a lot of people are missing a great game.

Buzzmaster

  (10:35 PM)

Jeter and Matsui almost collide, but Matsui makes the third out. To the 14th for Clark-Cairo-Jeter.

Eric (NJ)

That was waaay to fast

Travis (Rochester NY)

What the hell has gotten into Esteban? Someone check for sandpaper.

Johan (Sweden)

Putting Mirabelli in the game is the logical thing to do, but ask yourself this. Has Francona ever been Spock like?

Eric (Houston)

Theyre leaving in Varitek to catch?!?!?!?

Buster Olney

  (10:37 PM)

Wow, Varitek still in there...

Buzzmaster

  (10:38 PM)

As Clark scares all of Boston with a long foul shot.

Buzzmaster

  (10:39 PM)

And strikes out looking.

Buzzmaster

  (10:39 PM)

Whoever asked about Loaiza's pitch count. It's at 28.

Buster Olney

  (10:40 PM)

Let's list all of the pitchers who have been pretty damn clutch: Timlin, Foulke, Rivera (even though he got charged with a blown save, 2 innings), Myers, Embree, Quantrill, Heredia, Loaiza... Amazing stuff.

Ak (Piscataway, NJ)

getting good swings on the ball

DP (Jersey)

They're starting to time Wakefield.

Buzzmaster

  (10:41 PM)

Cairo flies to center and it's Jeter up with two outs.

Justin Zeth (Altoona- PA)

is it that the pitchers are clutch or the hitters are all pressing way too hard?

Freak (Boston)

I remembeer, one day, a long time ago, when Pedro Martinez pitched in this game...

Buster Olney

  (10:41 PM)

Point taken, Justin; no doubt, a contributing factor....

Buzzmaster

  (10:42 PM)

Wakefield gets them 1-2-3, going to the bottom of the 14th four Bellhorn, Damon and Cabrera.

Dave (Chicago)

boston needs to do something now before facing yanks 2-3-4 again

Jeff (PA)

WHAT A CATCH BY BELTRAN!!!

Brian (Chicago, IL)

Beltran is unreal

Bryce (New Orleans)

What a catch by Beltran

Dave (Chicago)

and now beltran is making unbelievable diving catches...guy is, like steve lyons says, "filthy"

Rob Neyer

  (10:43 PM)

Meanwhile, down in Houston, Beltran just made the greatest defensive play of the postseason -- yes, he's more than just a bat -- and it's still scoreless heading to the home seventh. What a night to be a fan.

Buster Olney

  (10:43 PM)

Middle of the 14th: In theory, the matchup between Damon and Loaiza should be perfect for the Yankees -- Loaiza will pound him with cutters down and in, where Damon has that big hole in his swing. Maybe it's a reverse lock situation...

Nick (Harrisburg, PA)

Bellhorn would be the unlikeliest of heroes.

Buzzmaster

  (10:45 PM)

Bellhorn Ks again.

Ak (Piscataway, NJ)

buster, you wouldnt be trying to curse the yanks would you?

Dan (Orange County)

I have 3 exams tommorow that I havent studied for and I dont care. I will fail them all probably but thats ok. Its October and baseball takes precedence

Buster Olney

  (10:47 PM)

AK -- I probably have the most peace of mind of anybody in this chat room -- I don't care who wins, just enjoying the absurdity of it...

Buzzmaster

  (10:47 PM)

Damon draws the walk with Cabrera up and Manny lurking.

Anthony (Morristown, NJ)

Damon wanted no part of swinging the bat.

Ryan (NJ)

Buster, in saying that, may I ask who your favorite team is?

Drew (Norristown, PA)

Now THAT is a bad play. Walking a guy who's hitting half his weight.

Doug (NYC)

Maybe Damon can run the sox out of another inning

Rob Neyer

  (10:49 PM)

Buster's right; most baseball writers root for "the story" more than anything else. Me? I want the Red Sox to win the World Series. But you already knew that.

Buster Olney

  (10:49 PM)

Ryan -- Rabid Dodgers' fan into my '20s, met Tommy Lasorda on the set of Hee Haw in Nashville in 1988, stopped being a Dodgers fan, stopped rooting for any particular team...

Tom (Philly, originally Boston)

While I'm thinking of it... how impressive have Posada and Varitek been, just withstanding all this punishment?

matt (ny, ny)

Buster, you said that before, never told us what Lasorda did...

Buzzmaster

  (10:50 PM)

Cabrera fans, bringing up Ramirez.

Rob Neyer

  (10:50 PM)

Prediction: if Ramirez doesn't drive in Damon, the Red Sox lose this game.

Jimmy (UMassDartmouth)

Earn your paycheck Manny

Buster Olney

  (10:51 PM)

matt: Not exactly the classiest of people...

Jeff (State College, PA)

I agree with Rob. I can't see NYY going another scoreless inning. Though, I said that the last two innings as well.

Buster Olney

  (10:52 PM)

I think if Damon had thoughts of running, he might not because he's got to be exhausted. They all have to be drop-dead tired by now...

Rob Neyer

  (10:52 PM)

Here we go in Houston: top of the eighth, and Backe defies all expectations by taking the hill. First batter is Reggie Sanders . . . and he hits one halfway up Tal's Hill . . . where Beltran corrals it, routine-like. This game.

Bill (Wilkes-Barre, PA)

Those 2 inside pitches were in the same spot

David (Oakland)

Loaiza threw the exact same pitch twice in a row. Ump calls it a ball, then a strike.

Rahiem (NYC)

Loiza is as impressive as I've ever seen him as a Yankee. This is the reverse Weaver I guess.

Buster Olney

  (10:54 PM)

Damon running on full count, if ball is hit into the gap...

Buzzmaster

  (10:54 PM)

Runner in scoring position for David Ortiz after Manny walks. Can he be a hero yet again?

Joe (Lexington)

Ortiz is back and now he's pissed, he wants to show up that umpire

Dan (State College, PA)

Papi... can he do it this time?

Rob Neyer

  (10:55 PM)

Ensberg throws out Matheny for the second out in the eighth, leaving La Russa with an interesting decision: remove Woody Williams (who's throwing a one-hitter), or pinch-hit? La Russa's going with a pinch-hitter, John Mabry. Can't say I disagree, though Mabry's power this season was a bit of a mirage. The Cardinals do have a good bullpen, though, and Williams can't last forever. I like the move, but just marginally.

Brandon (Medway, MA)

UGH all he needs is a single DONT SWING FOR THE FENCES!

Liam (Boston)

Have you ever seen Ortiz swing for a single?

Jason (St. Louis)

isn't this the Red Sox way - going for the 3-run homer? Just put the ball in play....

jaymes (chi)

i thought that was it

Paul (Dallas)

JUST FOUL

Mitch (Cincy)

Oh man so close!!!! :(

Buster Olney

  (10:57 PM)

They just announced this is the longest game in postseason history...

Nick (Chicago)

What an at bat. Talk about building the tension...

Jim (CT)

Ortiz will never hit another, it's in his head now....

Chris (NYC)

he is hanging tough....

Joe (Lexington)

wow these guys are battling each other

Buster Olney

  (10:59 PM)

Boy, you can tell Ortiz is getting tired during this at-bat... His swing gets a little longer and longer... I bet he would've crushed that last pitch in the first nine innings.

Jim (San Fran, CA)

is it posible to start a wave in a chat room?

Buzzmaster

  (11:00 PM)

And we'll have a GAME 6!! Ortiz comes through with the single.

Dan (NY, NY)

SOX WIN! SOX WIN!

Sapien (San Jose)

Walk-off - three games this postseason!

Buzzmaster

  (11:01 PM)

All right, great game, but let's move to the NLCS wher eit's 0-0 in the 8th. One out,

Buzzmaster

  (11:01 PM)

Palmeiro pinch-hitting for Backe.

Nick (Winnipeg, MB)

Finally I can watch the other game, aw Backe is out

Buster Olney

  (11:02 PM)

Wow. What a game; my hands hurt from all the typing. And now the pressure is really shifting onto the Yankees in this series. Jon Lieber is fully rested and there are no limitations, as there might be with Schilling, but I'm sure the Red Sox aren't complaining. And Lieber must go very deep, with Gordon and Rivera wasted physically. I would imagine that Arroyo will follow Schilling, Wakefield available thereafter, maybe Lowe, before the short relievers. Folks, thanks a lot, enjoyed it very much. Headed back to New York...

Claire (Saline, MI/New Ulm, MN)

I thought the Houston-St.Louis game would be done first

Buzzmaster

  (11:03 PM)

Biggio up with two outs and nobody on.

Rob Neyer

  (11:04 PM)

I love La Russa's move, using Isringhausen -- he pitched a perfect eighth -- in a non-save situation. You have to use your big guy in a big game in this spot, because if somebody else blows the lead in the eighth, you never get to use your big guy in the ninth.

Rob Neyer

  (11:06 PM)

Lidge pitching the top of the ninth for the Astros. Question: is tired Lidge better than rested Miceli (or whoever). Yeah, probably. But he's pitched four innings in the last two days, and I don't see him going two again tonight. (Then again, I didn't think he'd be available for two yesterday, or for even one tonight. So what do I know?)

Rob Neyer

  (11:07 PM)

Ah, Tony Womack . . . first-pitch swinging, first-pitch out-making. Gotta love his approach.

Dave (Chicago)

why swing at lidge's first pitch? isn't this guy supposed to be tired?

chris (the Loo)

Cards need to take pitches to wear down Lidge.

Doug (Wyoming, Ia)

Lidge looking good on his 3 pitches..

reverse the curse (houston)

Lidge is still throwing 96..is he human?

Buzzmaster

  (11:08 PM)

And Walker fans, bringing up Pujols with two outs.

Buzzmaster

  (11:09 PM)

Down goes Pujols, Lidge gets the K.

Vishal (Philly)

BRAD LIDGE!!!

Tim (Greenbelt, MD)

Well, so much for Lidge being too tired to pitch effectively.

Rob Neyer

  (11:10 PM)

Scratch what I said about Lights Out Lidge being good for just one inning; he needed only eight pitches to dispose of the top of the St. Louis order, so presumably he'll be back for the 10th (if there's a 10th). And he just made Pujols look sick.

Dan (Wichita)

Lidge is just FILTHY!

Noah (Charlotte)

This is one of the great days of baseball ever.

Bryce (New Orleans)

How do you make Pujols look that bad? Is there any other pitcher in the game that can do that?

Craig (Austin)

Beltran is due up first in the bottom of the 9th...the game should be over soon.

Buzzmaster

  (11:12 PM)

Beltran leads off with a single ...

dan (new haven)

nice play by walker to keep it to one

David (Oakland)

Beltran is the best basestealer in baseball. He'll definately bee on second.

Rob Neyer

  (11:14 PM)

You know, in its way this game is better than the other one. It's 0-0 in the ninth, and two of the best closers in the game are now the pitchers of record. And who just ripped a single to right? Beltran, of course. He also happens to be the greatest percentage base-stealer of our time, and he should be going here. Then you can bunt him over if you want, though probably not with the heart of the order due next.

Chris (Nashville)

Berkman is Mr. Clutch...despite what Baggs does, Berg will end this for sure

Roger (Austin, TX)

Beltran is great, but NOT the best basestealer in baseball!! try Crawford, or Pierre

Buzzmaster

  (11:15 PM)

Roger -- Depends on how you look at it. Pierre and Crawford are the most prolific, but Beltran is a better baststealer, looking at percentages (and no lack of quantity).

Matthew (Boston)

What is this? Tropicana field? Rafters coming into play?

Jason (St. Louis)

Again, another reason why Minute Maid is a gawd-awful park. This belongs in a minor league city, not Houston.

Rob Neyer

  (11:16 PM)

Izzy throws to first, Beltran glides back easily. He doesn't have a real lead. Wow! (Yes, again.) Bagwell popped up, but it hit the roof in foul ground so Bagwell's still alive!

Mike C (Midland Park, NJ)

Beltran is 28/28 stealing bases with Houston - he's amazing.

Rob Neyer

  (11:17 PM)

Beltran finally going, but Bagwell fouled it off. Beltran's getting an incredible jump -- typical when a closer's pitching -- and he'll be going again here.

Rob Neyer

  (11:17 PM)

I was wrong, he was not going. With the count 1-2, maybe afraid of the pitch-out.

Buzzmaster

  (11:18 PM)

Bagwell flies out, leaving Beltran at first.

Devin (Durham, NC)

tough to take a pitch with 2 strikes

DP (Jersey)

You think Pujols can feel Beltran stealing his spotlight in this series?

Rob Neyer

  (11:18 PM)

Bagwell flies out; postseason demons still hanging around. With one out, now Beltran has to be stealing.

Ian (Houston)

Problem is here, that if Beltran steals, they walk Berkman

Bobby (Atlanta)

but with the RBI threats in Berkman and Kent coming up, Beltran has no choice but to go, give him the green light... even if he gets thrown out, you still got HR threats in Berkman and Kent

Doug (Wyoming, Ia)

They are going to pitch around him anyway..if he swings then he will get himself out..if he doesn't then they will pitch to Kent and go for the DP

Rob Neyer

  (11:20 PM)

Beltran's now gone three times, and all three times the pitch was fouled off. I wonder if he's getting tired...

Buzzmaster

  (11:22 PM)

Beltran takes second without a throw.

Brian V (New Brunswick, NJ)

Now they walk Berkman

Dingo19 (Astoria)

As an Aussie, this is what i always imagined baseball to be. Amazing stuff.

Hook (Tuscaloosa)

I'm more scared of Jeff Kent's mustache than I am his bat.

Sean (Boston)

Now would you pitch around Berkman and hope he chases like he did for the first two strikes or IBB him? I would have seen if he chased.

Buzzmaster

  (11:24 PM)

Houston leads 3 games to 2! Kent ends the game with a three-run homer.

Rob Neyer

  (11:24 PM)

Good gravy, Kent just absolutely destroyed Isringhausen's first pitch. I'll be back in a minute with what all this means...

DP (Jersey)

What a rip! That looked like the old Jeff Kent.

Eddie D (Toronto)

This just kind of puts into perspective just how damned good Lidge is.

Dan (Dallas)

ONE OF THE BEST NIGHTS IN BASEBALL HISTORY EVER

matt (huntsville)

its amazing that there were a total of four hits in this game. more amazing is that BACKE held them to just ONE ALL NIGHT.

Phil (Cincinnati)

Let's hear it for the underdogs. This is just crazy...

David (Oakland)

Two great games and I got into the show three times!!(hopefully four) What a day!!

Sean (Katy,TX)

Backe was huge. What a game for him to step up and dominate the cards.

Ali Nagib (Wilmette, IL)

Does Houston save Clemens to pitch game 7 on full rest now? Or is he definitely going in game 6?

Buzzmaster

  (11:29 PM)

Just to add to the fun in the ALCS: forecast calls for rain and thunder during the day and t-storms at night in the Bronx.

Wayne (Beatrice, NE)

Save Clemens. IF you win Game 6...then the Series rotation is set and Garner suddenly looks like a genius...

Steve (NY (NY))

You save Clemens. If you win, he goes in game 1 of the WS. If not, you got him and Oswalt in Game 7. No brainer.

JayD (Nyc)

I think rain helps the sox. The biggest wildcard in the game is Curt's ankle. If it goes early they could use a rested pen.

Jeremy (Vancouver)

Is Schilling at 75-80% healthy with all of his grit worth the risk of pitching game 6 down 3-2 in the series?

Matt (LA)

Boston doesn't want this rainout. yes, it gives an extra day for schill, but his injury isn't better in a day, it's better because of a boot and eventually surgery. the extra day gives a boost to the yankees bullpen that could mean, combined with home field advantage, the difference between these blown games and clinching the series.

Matthew (Boston)

However, any rain DELAY could be disasterous for either team. If the starters can't go back in after a delay, then it's back to the bullpens. Oi.

Jeremy (Seattle)

Another big question is Lieber...You think he can pull a repeat performance in Game 6?

Rob Neyer

  (11:33 PM)

What a night. Not that long ago, both the Yankees and Cardinals were prohibitive favorites to win their LCS. Now the Astros are favorites, and the Red Sox have . . . well, at least now they've got a fighting chance. Backe's peformance tonight has to rank as one of the more unlikely in postseason history, and I'm sure it hasn't even occurred to him yet that he didn't get the Big W. With Brad Lidge barely pitching tonight -- only eight pitches -- he'll be competely rested for Game 6, which means the Astros need only six good innings from Clemens, one good inning from Wheeler, and then two from Lidge. And if they can't get six good innings from Clemens, the whole thing starts over again the next night, but this time with Oswalt's six. About the Red Sox . . . yes, unless Schilling can pull a Willis Reed they're still toast. But at least now it's interesting. And you know what? That 25-series streak (teams down 0-3 losing) has to end someday, right? I'll see you Wednesday (if not earlier).

Bryce (New Orleans)

You don't want a rainout if you're the Sox with Rivera and Gordon likely unavailable

frank (baltimore)

i think that boston needs to play tomorrow to keep the yankees on their heels.. schilling is a gamer and will do his best.. one day won't make that much difference

Jim (Haledon)

Jeremy, I think he can!! The 2 starters tomorrow night are the key!! Both will be relied upon to go deep into the game!! I actually think that Schilling is not going to be able to pitch effectively!!

Wayne (Beatrice, NE)

Then again, what would a cold moist damp enviroment do to Schilling's ankle?

Geoff (Chicago)

Last year they went back to NY down 3-2 and took it to 5 outs away. This year their down 3-2 and have Schilling and momentum. This is how you break a curse!

jonathan (Savannah)

i just have to say, this game hs made me a baseball fan, definitely a Boston fan, and that is something pretty incredible. All I've ever liked is soccer and rugby, so to get me into baseball took something pretty amazing.

Mike (West Hartford)

I think schilling is going to go no more than two innings no matter when the game is played.

Justin Zeth (Altoona- PA)

I agree with the sentiment that a rainout favors the Yankees. Schilling's well rested if nothing else, Wakefield has a rubber arm... the Sox don't need Rivera having an extra day's rest, especially.

Rob (Gainesville, FL)

Can't you just see Schilling pitching 8 solid innings? The stage is set for a Game 7 win (unfortunately) for the Yankees making this year even more painful for us Sox fans.

Sal (Knoxville, TN)

Good question, will Schilling be able to plant in the mud and if a bunt is laid down will he be able to plant in the wet grass to wheel and throw? Seems like that situation may aggravate that injury further. Either way, it looks like both series will end up much more entertaining than anyone thought about three days ago.

reverse the curse (houston)

momentum is so overrated in baseball...if the cardinals score 6 in the first we're not talking about momentum anymore same with the sox..where was this momentum talk when the sox were 6 outs away from losing tonight?

Rick (Winthrop, Ma)

Dave Roberts hasn't gotten his much deserved props from anyone

Buzzmaster

  (11:40 PM)

There you go, Rick, he got them from you.

Dan (Syracuse)

I think the Yankees were a little to confident the last two games. I mean no clutch hitting (minus Jeter's three run hit). I think going back home, with their fans cheering them on will get a spark going again.

Dave (Chicago)

Same with the Cardinals, no patience at the plate and they're shut down a la Jose Lima

Buzzmaster

  (11:43 PM)

How about the NLCS? The Cardinals need two in a row, but they're going home. Will they do it?

Tim (Houston)

I am a lifelong Astros fan. If someone asked me before the season started, "How would you feel about Roger Clemens starting Game 7 on the road in the LCS for a chance to get to the World Series?" I would take it every time. Could he lose? Yeah. But I would rather have Clemens in Game 7 on full rest than any other scenario. I say pitch whoever in Game 6. Let's get our best pitcher out there for Game 7. Go Astros!

Matthew (Boston)

They will end up just like the Mariners a few years ago. Best record in baseball, and nothing to show for it.

Aaron (Knoxville)

Everybody that does not know how good Lidge is just found out that he is better than Smoltz and Gagne and has been since he took over the closer role.

Rick (Conneaut,OH)

I don't think they can beat both Oswalt and Clemens - Wow what an upset!!

Phelan (East Lansing)

Doesn't much matter who wins the NLCS the real world series is right now in the ALCS.

Jeffrey (Athens, Oh)

It's a mistake starting Clemens on Wednesday. Take your chances with Munro. If it works, you have Clemens-Oswalt to start the series. If not, you've still got Oswalt, with Clemens in Game 7.

Amol (Charleston, SC)

I know that most people got tied up in the Red Sox-Yanks game, but the Astros-Cards game was a great pitching duel between Backe and Williams, and the difference was the closers: Lidge was awesome, Izzy didn't do the job. Kent's homer would have been a homer in any park in the majors, he blasted that ball.

Justin Zeth (Altoona- PA)

no, you have to put your two best pitchers out there in these two games. It won't be easy to take even one game out of two from the Cardinals in St. Louis. No way in the world do you put Munro out there in a game you need to win. Lose game 6 and the momentum all belongs to the Cardinals.

Jeffrey (Athens, Oh)

It's a shame the Sox-Yankees game went a week; I would've like to have seen that. Looked like a classic.

Brandon (San Mateo, CA)

Just a reminder: pitchers on 3 days rest have done horribly in postseason play, Josh Beckett removed.

steve (saint cloud )

i say that you gotta go with your big guns because you can't EVER think about the next series before the current one is completely over. Gardenhire took out Santana after 5 innings in game for of the ALDS because he wanted to rest him in case they made it to the ALCS. ridiculous! GO with Clemens, you can't argue with all those cy youngs. also, when did pitch counts come into effect? i hate them.

Stan (Durham, NH)

I think the Cardinals, even with their backs against the wall, have a decent chance in this series. Both teams now enter game 6 with rested bullpens, and this game could offer andother possible pitching duel. The Cardinals, obviously, need to get their bats going again.

Buzzmaster

  (11:50 PM)

All right, it's been a long, memorable, amazing day of baseball. Anyone have closing thoughts on what we saw and what's still to come in a pair of Game 6s?

Jason (Knoxville, Tn)

I think you've got to forget about it being 3-0 Yankees. The fact is it's 3-2 Yankees and I have yet to see anyone on Boston hang their head (even Damon who scored the winning run tonight) or act like they were scared of the Yankees. The fact is I don't think the Sox have the sense to know that they're supposed to be done by now. They think they can actually win this thing. Will they do it--probably not but then I don't think these guys look at the odds too much.

Mr. Ortizzle (Cape Cod, Ma)

Can Curt Schilling be effective tomorrow night? I'm dying to find out, and if things don't work out I'd love to see Wake in there again, that ball was really dancing tonight.

Rick (Conneaut,OH)

Schilling to the rescue in the ALCS and we'll see you for Game 7 in the NLCS - even though Clemens is amazing at any age.

reverse the curse (houston)

Rainout tomorrow and we do it again on wednesday..anyone up for that?

Buzzmaster

  (11:52 PM)

Buzz wouldn't mind a day off to rest the arm.

Patrick (City of Angels)

We saw Brad Backe put in an amazing performace tonight. Can we find another Astros starter not named Clemens or Oswalt that can do the same? I can't wait to see!

Joe (Boston)

I believe Lieber will pitch seven solid innings and the Yanks will prevail. Schilling will only last five innings, giving up five runs. Yanks 7 - Sox 3

Justin Zeth (Altoona- PA)

Closing thoughts: 1. No way should Bellhorn play in game 6. 2. Schilling needs to be on a really short leash, and Wakefield should be ready. 3. I think the Cardinals' pitchers might surprise us in games 6 and 7.

Joe (New York)

To sum up this series it is best to quote a sign I saw during Game 4. "I can't believe we fell for it again." That is exactly what is going on with Boston fans right now. The team gives them a little chance of hope only to be snuffed out by the Yankees. Boston has the gimp goin in Game 6 and the way I see it is just a replay of Game 1.

Mike (College Park)

For everyone who thinks Yankees have blown two games, they have actually been very good, and consistent. Starting pitching was excellent in both games. Except for Gordon, the bullpen held up very well. Rivera's blown save in game 4 and "blown" save in game 5 notwithstanding. Jeter finally getting some good swings, and Matsui, ARod, and Sheffield haven't batted many runs in, but their OBP is way up there. A 3-2 lead back at The House that Ruth Built, with the solid Lieber on the mound, against a more than questionable Schilling, with an exhausted bullpen. I would have to take the Yankees in 6, which was my pick before the series started. You gotta remember what Jeter's said to Boone last year, "The ghosts will show up eventually." (perhaps the phrasing was different)

Tony (Boston)

All I know is that I'm exhausted from 11 hours of baseball in the last 27 hours. But both teams have to be mentally and physically wasted. Whichever team proves that they can handle all of this will win tomorrow, assuming they don't get rained out.

Mike (Atlanta)

Not enough is being made of the heroics of Ortiz.....

Buzzmaster

  (11:56 PM)

Huh? Is anyone getting more pub than Ortiz right now?

Frank (Eastie)

Ortiz for president

davis (houston)

What a story of a night! Very silently Carlos Beltran had a major effect on the outcome of the game. The diving catch and stolen base were huge, just like his future contract!

Sean (B lo)

We will be watching tapes of Ortiz in 25 years the same way we see tapes of Fisk now

Brandon (San Mateo, CA)

Ortiz is getting more pub than Beltran right now. How is that even right?

Jerod (Seattle)

Buzz: not in the ALCS, but Beltran and Lidge rightly get all the pub in the other series...

bobby (los angeles, ca)

what an unbelievable night for baseball. its great to see some clutch hitting in October!

Buzzmaster

  (12:00 AM)

Agreed, Bobby. It was a night to remember on the diamond. And as much as we could all use a breath, here's to hoping the weather allows for more fun tomorrow night in the Bronx. Thanks everyone, and we'll see you back here for Game 6 in both leagues!