There’s usually a pivotal series in baseball that turns momentum and propels a team into a hot-streak the weeks heading into the October playoffs. The Sox sweep of the Yankees over the last 3 games at the Cell looks to be the perfect catalyst. Pitcher Chris Sale’s incredible performance last night helped lead the Sox to their 1st sweep of the Yankees in 21 years. Could this sweep be the tipping point that sends the Sox on a continuous tear as we head into the last regular month of the baseball season? Let’s hope, because the Sox have a tough schedule down the stretch and will need all the Yankee-ass-kicking momentum they can get to maintain their lead in the division.
What You Need To Know:
- Chris Sale had one of his most dominant performances of the year striking out 13 batters for his 15th win of the season. In his 7 2/3 innings of work, Sale only gave up 3 hits and one walk in his first game pitching against the Yankees. This is only the third time the Yankees have been swept this season.
- New York’s Derek Jeter homered for his third straight game on Wednesday night. This is the first time he has accomplished this in his 17-year career. Jeter already has 13 home runs this season after only recording 6 in all of last year.
- The White Sox have their long ball game working! So far, the White Sox have 38 home runs in the month of August, the most in the major leagues! The Sox have 164 home runs so far this season which is second only to the New York Yankees.
Kevin Youkilis
- Some brag-worthy milestones and records have been reached in the last couple days for the Sox. Only a few days after recording his 1,000th hit, Sox third baseman, Kevin Youkilis played in his 1,000th game Wednesday night. Youk recorded his 4th triple Tuesday night, the most in his career. Addison Reed recorded his 23rd Save Wednesday night, one day after setting the White Sox rookie record for most saves in a season.
Your Take Away Piece: “The Yankees seem to bring out the best in the Sox as they were able to take the series 5 out of 7 games this year. The only time these teams could meet again this year would be in the playoffs! With the Sox still on top of the AL Central for the 83rd day and the Yankees with a 3.5 game lead over the Tampa Bay Rays, this matchup may not be too far fetched!”
What’s Next: After a day off on Thursday, the White Sox will play host to the visiting Seattle Mariners. Luckily for the Sox they will not have to face their star pitcher, Felix Hernandez who pitched baseball’s 23rd perfect game last week!
