The Oakland Athletics have started the second half of this season, following the All Star break on fire, winning their last 5 of 6, beating the New York Yankees, 4-3, Thursday night in Oakland in front of 23, 382. Nick Swisher did his part to rally the team late in the game, hitting one deep to bring the tying run to the plate with 1 out in the 9th inning. But it was to no avail, as Ibanez and Martin struck out and grounded out to end the inning and the game.
Freddy Garcia went only 5.2 innings and was roughed up a bit, giving up 9 Hits, 4 Earned Runs (with one homer to Cespedes in the 1st), Walking 2, and Striking Out 6. David Phelps was a bright spot, coming in from the bullpen and pitched brilliantly in the remaining 2.1 innings, Striking Out 4, and not giving up even a hit, or baserunner for that matter. Phelps did his job, but the bats could not answer loud enough to take the lead from these scorching hot Athletics.
The Yankees lead in the East is still 9 games, and there is nothing to worry about. They are still hitting on all cylinders, and will undoubtely put in a good bid to take the series from the Athletics anyways, when it is all said and done. Ivan Nova (10-4) takes the mound tonight against Tommy Milone (9-6). Game time is 10:05 EST.
