As the Yankees take Monday off, they prepare for a three game set with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Darrell Rasner, the 6’3 righthander from Carson City NV, will make the start for the Yankees. Rasner is 4-4 this season in eight starts, with an ERA at a respectable 3.64. Rasner has never faced the Pirates, and the only two Pirate hitters that have seen him are Jason Michaels, who is 1-2 in his career, and Adam LaRoche, who is 0-1. Rasner is 1-3 this year on the road, so it will be a huge test to see if he can shake the road woes, and find a way to get the Yankees another win. The Yankees as a team are 19-18 on the road, while the Pirates have played good ball at home, going 23-16 in their 39 home games.
For the Pirates, lefthander Tom Gorzelanny gets the start. Tom, a 25 year old from Evergreen Park Illinois will be making his 15th start of the season. Gorzelanny has had a rough go of it in 2008, going 5-6 on the year, but a high era mark of 6.59. His problem thus far has been walks, as he has allowed 50 free passes in 71 innings. Gorzelanny is 21-22 in his career. He has made one start against the Yankees in his career getting a no decision, and going 6.1 innings, allowing 6 hits and 4 runs. Gorzelanny is 4-1 this season at home. Hideki Matsui has had the most success against the lefthander, going 2-3 with a 2 run homerun.
Should be a good pitching matchup, and if the kid Rasner pitches well, I like the Yankees chances. We will try to have the lineups for you, before the game on Tuesday! Until then, hope you enjoy the offday, and GO YANKEES!