While they're winning

Mike Mussina continues his resurrection tour, giving up 10 hits in six innings but double plays and strikeouts when he needed them. He's been the one bright spot in an otherwise dismal season for the Yankees. Well, him and Johnny Damon who's having a great season.

Derek Jeter has begun to salvage his his as he climbs ever higher on the Yankees' all-time lists - he's six hits away from second, nine from first. He's with Lou Gehrig, Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle and Bernie Williams on that list. Amazing, and when he's done, those other guys won't be close.

You have to figure Jeter for about a decade more, half of which will be at his normal offensive output, with a decline beyond those years. So, at least another 1,000 hits, probably closer to 1,300, which will put him in the 4,000-hit range and chasing Pete Rose. Assuming health and desire are there, as well.

I tried burying my head in the sand these last few days, but it's tough when you keep hitting yourself with the shovel. The YES guys tried to assign some level of importance to this series with the Rays. It could have been pivotal, but at this point, it's more about honor and dignity than any realistic chance of making the post-season.