Posted By:
Al C.risafulliGood point, David. A few years back, before the Yankees won a World Series, I remember reading an article somewhere that said "It's time for another unexpected player to become a World Series hero." The author of the article contended that it was always a bit player that came up big in the Series, and made some key contributions that helped his team win. Even if a monster player won the MVP, it was a little guy who contributed an unexpected hit, play in the field, whatever. And, true to form, that year Luis Sojo made some big plays for the Yanks.
Even in 1978, when Bucky Dent won the World Series MVP, Brian Doyle (filling in for an injured Willie Randolph) hit .438 for the series, leading all Yankee batters.
So I agree with the "little guy" concept.
As far as ARod is concerned, he went 2-for-4 last night and scored a key run, but it doesn't matter. The Yanks won by 4. He could have gone 4-for-4 with four home runs, and his detractors would have said "He only hits when the Yankees win big."
To escape this stigma, it won't be enough if the Yankees just win. ARod has to actually win a big game. He has to be Joe Girardi, Jimmy Leyritz, and Scott Brosius, all rolled into one. He needs to hit a grand slam in the bottom of the ninth to tie the game, and hit another one in the 11th to win it. Maybe he needs to strike out the side in the top of the inning, too. I don't know. MVP awards are clearly not enough in this case.
-Al