Folks, I think you all owe me a debt of gratitude.


Carl Pavano's performance yesterday, during which he allowed a mere 6 hits and 2 runs and required just 79 pitches to get through 7 complete innings, was something of a miraculous event. Not only was this his first regular season win in nearly 2 years (his last win came on May 22, 2005 against the Mets, a game that the Yankees Chick was at!), but with his 7-inning win he became the first Yankees pitcher of the year to last past the 5th inning, an accomplishment the worn-out bullpen surely appreciated. Factors like the controlled atmosphere (no cold, snow or wind in that dome, much to the Yanks' collective delight) and the morale-boost of the 8 runs the Yankees offense put up over the first 6 innings may have contributed to his success, but the bottom line is that Pavano was dialed-in yesterday and, for the first time in his career as a Yank, did not disappoint his team or the fans.

The reason I believe the fans and the team owe me a hearty "thank you!" (and perhaps some tickets to see Pavano's next home start, that would certainly indicate gratitude) is because, if you recall, the Yankees Chick took it upon herself to let bygones be bygones and made a concentrated effort to support Pavano 100% during his comeback. I even went so far as to replace the label I usually use to mark Pavano-related posts ("pavano must die") with one that more accurately describes my newfound CP support: "pavano must LIVE". My unwavering support for dear Carl got him through his first rocky start of the year (when he lasted just 4+ innings and gave up a run per inning), and I feel it was my dedication to reign in the Pavano puns that gave him the confidence to get out there yesterday and give it his all without worrying about his past or the pressure to perform well. Imagine Carl Pavano getting ready for the game in the clubhouse, feeling very anxious and alone, because no one believes in him and everyone is annoyed with this endless injuries. Then, like a lightbulb going off above his head, he remembers that there is one person that believes in him, the Yankees Chick! He jumps out of his depression and runs to the mound and pitches decently for the first time in years.

After seeing such positive results from my "I Support Carl Pavano" attitude after just 1 week, I am eager to see what the kid can do if I keep supporting him. Another start where he gets past the 6th inning? A couple month stretch without a missed start? I'm pulling for you, Carl!!!