Game 86: Yankees Look for Third Win in a Row

Jul 3, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter (2) gets ready to throw the ball to first base after fielding the ball in the fourth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

After defeating the Twins 6-5 on July 4^th, the Yankees look to pick up their third win a row on Saturday afternoon. David Phelps (3-4, 4.26 ERA) will make his 12^th start of the season. He has received no-decisions in his last two starts against the Rays and the Blue Jays. Yohan Pino (0-2, 6.32 ERA) is on the bump for the Twins, making just his 4^th start. The Twins will be without Joe Mauer who was put on the 15-day DL on Wednesday and the Yankees could be without Brian McCann who is day-to-day with a foot injury.

Derek Jeter is supposed to be honored by the Twins before the game. The Yankees have won their last 7 games in Minnesota and they look to get more offensive production like Friday.

Game Notes:

Phelps has been struggling:David Phelps has given up as many home runs (3) in his last two starts as he has all season. He’s given up 12 hits and 8 runs in his last 10 IP. The Yankees desperately need a good outing from him to help the ailing rotation.

No Mauer: Joe Mauer has been on a little bit of hot streak but that has come to an end due to an oblique injury that has landed him on the 15-day DL.

Hot-hitters: Brian Roberts exploded last night going 4 for 5 with 3 doubles and a triple and was praised by Joe Girardi. Brett Gardner continues to be on fire and has now reached base safely in 20 straight games heading into Saturday’s contest.