Bullpen Makes Sure Another Comeback Falls Short

C.C. Sabathia was very strong through six innings, before eventually losing his command and dominance during the seventh.

The relief did not provide any of what their name insinuates, and allowed the Angels lead to stretch to 8-1.

The deficit was too much to overcome, even for a suddenly stimulated Yankees comeback campaign.

After a two-run blast from Jorge Posada, New York inched closer. Unlike last night's miracle, however, the Angels never had to truly concern themselves with thoughts of a collapse.

The loss dropped Sabathia's season numbers to a disappointing 1-3 with a 4.85 ERA. He has pitched much better of late, though his box score performance does not support this idea.

Sabathia is still performing at a higher level than virtually the entire Yankees bullpen, as Albaladejo (7.30), Veras (8.03), and Robertson (5.40) helped to stop any hopes of continuing the team's four-game winning streak.

Phil Hughes will square off against Joe Saunders tomorrow afternoon in attempts to capture a 3-1 series victory over the Angels.

If Hughes can build off of his impressive 2009 debut, the Yankees will feel much better about heading into a four-game battle with the Red Sox and Rays.

It appears as though this team is following the pattern of one step forward, one step back.

They will have to begin playing consistent baseball in all facets of the game in order to reach the top of their division.