Game 6: Change Of The Guard

Today, Joba Chamberlain takes the hill while the Yankees look to sweep the Royals in Kansas City.

Not too long ago it seemed that Phil Hughes was the one in the Yankees system who was destined for the top of the rotation. As Hughes was regressing, Joba made the transition from electrifying reliever to a major league starter which culminated with a sparkling performance under the lights at Fenway during which he struck out 9, and gave up only 4 baserunners in 7 innings.

Of course, two starts later in Texas he left the mound clutching his shoulder and took any remaining hope that the Yanks would sneak it to the postseason with him.

I'd love to think that Joba can handle the workload of a starting pitcher for a full Major League season, but it's one of those things you can't believe until you see it. Will Joba be just another tantalizing tease so fantastically talented that he just can't stay healthy, or will the Yankees have two bona fide aces in him and Sabathia?

Only time will tell, but I can tell you what I'm hoping today's start represents:

If you listen you can hear it,
It's the laughter in the street,
It's the motion in the music,
And the fire beneath your feet,
All the signs are right this time,
You don't have to try so very hard,
If you live in this world,
You're feelin' the change of the guard.