Yankees Back to the World Series for the 40th Time

It wasn't always easy, but the Yankees are back to the World Series for the first time since 2003, but the 40th time in their illustrious history. They Yankees won in 6 games behind the starting pitching of Andy Pettitte and 6 outs of Mariano Rivera, the combination of old.

Rivera gave up his first run at home in the postseason since Game 2 of the 2000 World Series but got some insurance runs in the 8th and wrapped up his 37th postseason save. CC Sabathia is the ALCS MVP though that designation could have gone to--or been shared with--Alex Rodriguez.

Robinson Cano had a great game, Nick Swisher delivered on Joe Girardi's confidence, Johnny Damon continued his hot ALCS, and Andy Pettitte became the all-time leader in postseason series clinching wins.

It's now on to the World Series and the Philadelphia Phillies. Much more to dissect, but just pure jubilation on a night where the Yankees are once again champions of the American League. Four more wins to complete the goal set out in Spring Training. Four...more...wins!

Update 12:45 AM: How about this for a stat? @jaysonst It isn't true that ARod reaches base every time up. Only 12 times in his last 15 trips. That's all.