. UP NEXT
Yankees
Tonight-Wednesday
What's new: The Yankees have been on a tremendous roll, 22-7 through Sunday, but their true test may be coming. They had to put starters CC Sabathia and Andy Pettitte on the disabled list last week, and their rotation depth will be severely tested. The bullpen, led by ex-Ray Rafael Soriano, has thus far covered the loss of Mariano Rivera, but it also may be a concern. Ex-Ray Chad Qualls was added Sunday. The key to the Yankees' success has been offense. They lead the majors in homers (124 through 78 games, 23 in their past 11) and are on a team-record pace. All-Stars 2B Robinson Cano, OF Curtis Granderson and SS Derek Jeter have been hot.
Key stat: The Rays have won seven straight home games against the Yankees, never having won more than three in a row before that.
Connections: Yankees pitching coach Larry Rothschild was the first Tampa Bay manager; relievers Soriano and Qualls are former Rays. Cory Wade played at Triple-A Durham. Rays RHP Kyle Farnsworth, OF Hideki Matsui, C Jose Molina wore pinstripes.
Series history: Rays lead 5-4 this season; Yankees lead 154-93 overall, 69-54 at Tropicana Field.
Marc Topkin, Times staff writer
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