Strange game here to open the series. If the Yankees win this one, they probably sweep. If the Red Sox win, the pressure on the Yankees will increase dramatically, as the next two games are pretty close to must wins, at least as much as a May game can be a must win (NY cannot lose this series at home with such favorable pitching matchups). Three Sox hitters (Hinske, Ortiz, Ramirez) flat out own Wang:
Hinske 10-19, 4 2B, 2 HR, 1 BB, 0 K
Ortiz 9-20, 2 2B, 2 HR, 3 BB, 2 K
Ramirez 10-16, 2 HR, 4 BB, 2 K
But, Wang is generally untouchable at Yankee Stadium, and none of the other Sox hitters have had any success against Wang, except Youkilis in limited appearances (4-11, 1 2B, 5 BB). So can he limit the damage against those three?
Wakefield has had pretty good success at Yankee Stadium. Despite a 5-6 record, he's had a 3.26 ERA, a 1.33 WHIP, and a 2.08 BAA. None of the Yankees hitters hit him particularly hard, though some have had limited success.
Both bullpens are pretty good as long as the long and middle relief aren't involved, which should be the case here with two guys who are almost locks to go at least 6 innings.
I know I'm rambling, but is there even a play in this game? Maybe under 9.5 at even odds?