Boss...This One Is For You

The Yankees played their first game at home since the All Star Game and the sudden death of George Steinbrenner. The team knew that their return to the Bronx would be filled with commemorative tributes to both Steinbrenner and Bob Sheppard thus; they didn't disappoint.

Mariano Rivera placed two roses on home plate one for Mr. Steinbrenner and one for Mr. Sheppard. Following this gesture came the speech by the captain Derek Jeter who poured his emotions into his farewell speech to the two men who had the greatest impact in his life. After a moving performance of the National Anthem, it was time for baseball.

The Rays came swinging early to take an early lead to 1-0. Then, after pouring on the muscle power, the Rays took a 3-1 lead. Just when it seemed as if the emotions of losing the boss would take over, Robinson Cano hit a solo shot to make the game 3-2. Right after that blast, Jorge Posada hit another solo shot to tie the game 3-3. The stadium was in an uproar.

However, the play of the night would come from Nick Swisher who hit hard into the upper deck to tie the game 4-4. Think the Yankees were trying to make the boss proud? Hold on for the final cap off of the night.

In the bottom of the night with 2 on, Derek Jeter came to plate and it would only be fitting for the captain, the man whose heart is torn into pieces, to win the game. Sadly, he struck out.  But, here's the kicker. George Steinbrenner was a native of Ohio and besides loving his family, he loved the Yankees and the Buckeyes. Now, Nick Swisher attended Ohio State and this sat well with Steinbrenner so can you guess who won the game?...NICK SWISHER! As an appropriate goodbye to "The Boss", Swisher hit a shot in the outfield as Granderson scored at home. Mr. Steinbrenner definitely oversaw tonight's victory. Yankees win 5-4.

Way to make George and Bob smile guys.

XOXO,
Whitney