[NYCVirago]

I thought Varitek was a big wuss for fighting A-Rod with his mask on, and loved Sturtz going after the thug Kapler. A-Rod surely endeared himself to the Yankee faithful (myself included) by choosing to mix it up.

Same here, of course.

But at the end of the weekend the "brawl" was the last thing on my mind. Mariano blowing a two-run lead in the 9th took precedence, along with the team's overall pitching incompetence. If Brown and Mussina don't come back strong, we're in big trouble. I'm convinced that Contreras just doesn't have what it takes to pitch in big games.

I'm amazed at how good the Yankees' record is, considering all the problems we've had with starting pitching (like El Duque's hamstring bothering tonight). Not to mention Giambi's woes. Hopefully, The Boss will be reeling in Randy Johnson soon.

[Mr. Mojo]

I'm amazed at how good the Yankees' record is, considering all the problems we've had with starting pitching

I hear ya, and am just as amazed. Timely hitting and good closing has been the secret, I suspect.

El Duque's line last night was noteworthy -- 2 in, 3 BB, 3 K. Showed his stuff was working, at least. Any word about how serious his hammy is?

I just hoid that the Unit could very well be in pinstripes by week's end. We'll see.