The top of the first inning proved to be little problem for C.J. Wilson, as he needed just 12 pitches to get Derek Jeter to ground out, Nick Swisher to strike out, and Mark Teixeira to ground out. Wilson got off to a quick start in front of a loud, vocal crowd, and the 1-2-3 should help calm any nerves that might've been an issue coming in.
Rangers Vs. Yankees, ALCS Game 1: Josh Hamilton Three-Run Homer Gets Things Started Early
CC Sabathia's first inning has gone a little different. First, he fell behind Elvis Andrus and walked him on five pitches. Next, he fell behind against Michael Young and served up a 3-1 single that put runners on the corners. He then managed to get ahead of Josh Hamilton 0-2 - the only lefty in the Texas lineup tonight - but he let a slider get a bit too much air and a bit too much plate, and Hamilton ripped it for a line drive to deep right that just barely cleared the wall. The three-run homer gave the Rangers a big early lead, and while it wasn't a mammoth blast by any means, it's a homer that leaves both this stadium and New York's, and it's a hell of a confidence boost. For Hamilton, for Wilson, and for the rest of the team.
Sabathia’s still working in the first, and he’s already well behind.
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