By Michael Ventura
DNAinfo Senior Editor
MANHATTAN — First the Yankees got their World Series rings, then they outslugged the Los Angeles Angels, 7-5, for their first win at home this season.
Yankee Captain Derek Jeter provided some fireworks with a solo shot in the third to give the Bombers a 2-0 lead. Veteran pitcher Andy Pettitte tossed six scoreless innings and catcher Jorge Posada added three hits in the win. Closer Mariano Rivera shut down the Angels in the ninth to save the game.
That foursome got their fifth World Series rings in a ceremony before the game.
“Everyone talks about how long we’ve been here,” Jeter said, the New York Times reported. “In our minds, it’s like we’re just little kids. We just want to come out here and contribute and be consistent.”
Ex-Yank Bobby Abreu made things close by hitting a one-out grand slam in the ninth.
Some of the biggest cheers at the stadium were for former Yankee outfielder Hideki Matsui, who now plays for the Angels. But the love didn't extend to his bat — Matsui went 0-for-5 in the game.
Meanwhile, third baseman Alex Rodriguez vowed to wear his World Series ring every day.
“This means the world to me, that’s why you play baseball,” Rodriguez told the New York Post, referring to the white gold ring. “I came to New York and changed positions and certainly there have been ups and downs, but it’s all been worthwhile.”
