The Phillies had packed for a two-day stay in the Bronx. By about midnight, those bags were being loaded on the first train back to 30th Street station. Alex Rodriguez finally has his elusive ring. Cole Hamels can finally start his offseason.
The Phillies were reduced to spectators, just as the Tampa Bay Rays were a year ago, as the Yankees beat the defending champs, 7-3, and claimed their 27th world championship.
Andy Pettitte severely outdueled Pedro Martinez in a battle between two “old goats.” Martinez surrendered four earned runs in four innings, with Hideki Matsui accounting for all four RBIs. Matsui’s six RBIs in one game set a new World Series’ record.
Meanwhile, Pettitte baffled the heart of the Phillies’ lineup, especially Chase Utley. The Game 5 hero struck out twice and grounded into a double play against him. Pettitte ended up giving up four hits and three runs over 5 2/3 innings to earn the win.
Before the game expectations were high. Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said the clubhouse was relaxed and as loose as he’s ever seen it. Everyone fully expected to be playing today in a decisive Game 7.
“We came to win [yesterday[, and you know what, not only did we come to win [yesterday], but we plan on playing [today],” Manuel said.
Tomorrow will still come for the Phillies, they’ll just have to wait until spring training.
