Despite the combined efforts of Derek Jeter and the all-too human Mariano Rivera in the 9th inning, the Yankees managed to hang on for a 7-6 win over the Twins today, the decisive blow coming on a 2 run bomb off the bat of Hideki Matsui in the last of the 8th.

Said bomb was served up by Minnesota reliever Pat Neshek, who immediately announced he’s removing his name from consideration for the final remaining AL All-Star spot, the Republican Presidential nomination and the 2008 Plug Awards.

Adam LaRoche has bravely requested that Pirates fans cut the slumping Jason Bay some slack.  Huh. LaRoche will never become captain of the New York Yankees with that sort of attitude.

Orlando Cabrera tells the LA Daily News’ Doug Padilla he’s a little ticked off at being omitted from the AL All-Star team, and while I think he’s got a valid gripe, it would also be useful to know which invited player he’d leave off the roster.