Journeyman Gordon helps Yankees sweep

Yankees 3, Rangers 2

June 17, 2011|By Ben Walker, Associated Press

NEW YORK — Journeyman Brian Gordon kept the Yankees close in a most unlikely start, then Brett Gardner hit a winning single in the 12th inning that sent New York past the Texas Rangers, 3-2, yesterday for a three-game sweep.

New York won for the sixth time in seven tries and sent the Rangers to their season-worst fifth straight loss. Plucked this week from the Phillies, Gordon, 32, made his first big league appearance since 2008 and drew a no-decision for his 5 ⅓ innings. He earned a spot, for now, in a patched-together rotation.

“Maybe stick around and help the Yankees,’’ Gordon said. “It sounds crazy saying that.’’

Needing another starter, the Yankees reached into the grab bag and found Gordon, a converted outfielder whose only prior big league experience came in three relief appearances for Texas three seasons ago.

Gordon actually belonged to Philadelphia and was 5-0 for Triple-A Lehigh Valley with a 1.14 ERA that led the International League. His contract came with a catch, however: He could instantly opt out if any major league team wanted him.

When the Yankees came calling a couple of days ago, Gordon chose to put on pinstripes. Asked whether he was worried the Phillies would be upset at his maneuvering, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman answered: “Hey, they got Cliff Lee, I got Brian Gordon.’’

Gordon pitched effectively enough, allowing two runs on seven hits and three walks.

“He has definitely evolved,’’ Texas manager Ron Washington said. “I don’t remember him being able to move the ball around like he did today.’’