RAIN DANCE

Tonight's ALCS Game Six was postponed due to storms in the area, which leads to thoughts on pitching match-ups for the final two games of the series. There are some that believe that the Angels could start John Lackey in Game Seven on short rest. Obviously, this would have to mean a Halos win in Game Six first, but it could happen. The Angels have the pitching depth to make that work and still have Jered Weaver to start Game One of the World Series should they climb that mountain. The Bulldog Ace could be a huge factor in deciding the outcome of this series, which is why a Yankee win is imperative.

An all-out attack on Joe Saunders is very important, and a great performance by staff veteran Andy Pettitte is equally as important. Some thought was most likely given to start CC Sabathia on Sunday no matter what given it would be his normal rest. While many have argued against this as a slight to Pettitte, I actually think it's the highest compliment and would have favored such a move.

To me, we are now getting into a danger zone with CC. He pitched Game Four masterfully on short rest, and while the extra time could help him, he's now reaching an innings total that's hurt him in the past. He's a horse, no doubt, and has not even given any flags to make me think he'll struggle, but why not be cautious? If he pitches Game Six, and has a bad outing, then you still have Pettitte, a guy who's been here before and succeeded, pitching as your last hope. As a Yankee fan, putting the final reins of the season in his hands gives me more comfort. If CC fails in Game Seven then things like money and past failures creep back into the limelight. With Andy there, its more like "oh well, you beat us with one of our boys on the mound, what can you do." If CC continues his mastery in Game Six, then you're going to the World Series anyway, so it doesn't matter. Pitching CC in that possible Game Seven also eliminates him from being used three times in the World Series, and takes him out of the running of pitching that tone-setting first game.

That all said, I'm still fine with keeping it all the same. I do fully trust Andy to get the job done, so this all just conjecture, but these type of thoughts pop into your head when the rains fall, and there's no baseball to watch.