MLB / Nick Shiambouros / 29 October 2009 / Leave a comment

Nick Shiambouros selects the best bets as the Yankees aim to hit back in the biggest game on Earth...

"It will be a high scoring affair tonight as both teams will swing the bat. Over 8.5 runs is the way to go."

The Philadelphia Phillies beat the New York Yankees 6-1 in a dominant performance at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday night. The home crowd were silenced as Philly starter Cliff Lee pitched one of the finest post-season games I have ever seen. Lee gave up just six hits as he painted the strike zone with the accuracy of a surgeon.

The Yankee hitters were left frozen at the plate as Lee struck out Mark Teixera, Alex Rodriguez and Jorge Posada in the fourth inning. Believe me, that is no mean feat.

On the hitting side for Philadelphia the middle order came through with flying colours. Chase Utley hit two monster home runs and Ryan Howard grabbed a couple of hits.

CC Sabathia had a fair evening but he was a little short of his best.
　
On Thursday night the Yankees start A.J.Burnett in a critical game. It is essential that this experienced pitcher starts well as he can be a little wayward. He has made mistakes against Philadelphia in the past and they have been severely punished so the pressure on him will be enormous.

The Phillies start veteran Pedro Martinez who has lost a little power over the last couple of years. I must admit, I am slightly surprised by the decision to start him in Game 2 as I expected Cole Hamels to get the assignment.
　
The Yankees are in a must win situation now - a defeat would leave them with a mountain to climb. I think it will be a high scoring affair tonight as both teams will swing the bat. Over 8.5 runs is the way to go.

I am amazed that the Yankees are still odds-on to win the World Series after what I saw last night. I will be taking the [2.06] on offer on Philadelphia as I think they will be very difficult to beat.

Recommended wagers:

Thursday back over 8.5 runs at [1.83]
Back Philadelphia to win the World Series at [2.08]

Tags: Baseball betting odds, New York Yankees, Nick Shiambouros, Philadelphia Phillies, World Series Betting Odds