AL East Round Up: Big Surprises Edition

New York Yankees

Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

BIG SURPRISE: Brandon McCarthy

After compiling a record of 3-10, an ERA of 5.01 and a WHIP of 1.377 I scoffed a bit when the Yankees picked him up. The Bronx Bombers were in desperate need of pitching help and they hoped a change of scenery would be good for the 31 year old McCarthy. Man, I hate to admit it, but they were right. Since joining the Evil Empire, McCarthy has had a reversal of fortunes. Currently, he sits at 4-1, holds a 2.21 ERA and a WHIP of 1.282. He has compiled 8.8 K/9 and 1.5 BB/9.

With the Yankee rotation being decimated by injuries, picking up McCarthy looks like a genius move by Brian Cashman. Considering it only cost them Vidal Nuno, the deal looks even better.

I would be remiss if I didn’t throw in an obligatory Derek Jeter mention. Yesterday, Jeter passes the great Honus Wagner for 6th place on MLB all time hits list. 6th. ALL TIME. Hate the Yankees all you like, but you have to respect the legend of Derek Jeter.

PS: His 3431 hit came on a hit where he busted it down the line. Just saying.