By Adam Nichols
DNAinfo News Editor
Manhattan — With a four run lead in the eighth inning, Texas could be forgiven for thinking it was all over.
But the opening game of the American League Championship Series Friday was the perfect signal that the Yankees mean business.
In one explosive inning, the Bombers turned in five runs — and watched as the Rangers' fans' celebrations turned into shock.
The game ended in a 6-5 Yankees win.
"They were huge," CC Sabathia, who shouldered much of the blame for the Yankees' early slump, said of his teammates.
"That's no excuse for the way I pitched. These guys were great tonight," he said, according to the New York Post.
"CC is not going to be perfect all the time," said Derek Jeter.
"We still have to do our job. It feels good to pick him up."
The second game in the best-of-seven contest will be played Saturday.
