The name brings out more emotion from Red Sox fans than any other (even more than J.D. Drew):

Yankees!

Now that the Yankees have closed to four games in back of Boston, it is time for the Red Sox to retreat to the friendly, air-conditioned confines of Tropicana Park (a.k.a. home of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays).

Tim Wakefield pitches tonight and much is made of Wakefield's dominance over the Rays. But Scott Kazmir goes for Tampa Bay. And he's been a left-handed pain in the Sox batting average.

The Yankees go to Anaheim. The Angels are tough at home. But the Yankees have the big Mo. And they are getting quality relief pitching for a change. Joba Chamberlain and Edwar Ramirez combined for three innings yesterday, allowing no hit or walks, striking out five.

Relief pitching is suddenly a concern for Boston, although Okajima and Papelbon are solid. Eric Gagne is in need of a quick fix, although he did strike out the side yesterday.

It makes you wonder if the Red Sox have plans for Clay Buchholz in September?

Yankeefan made some interesting points on the last blog, but I don't go for the "will September continue to haunt them?" line. That is similar to the "curse" silliness before 2004.

And remember, the magic number is 34 to tie, 35 to clinch,

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