Yankeeland

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- " Randy Johnson came up small, and we're not talking Aaron Small. He flushed a three-run, second-inning edge."
-"The highest-paid and tallest No. 3 starter in history cannot beat the Devil Rays. Randy Johnson, imported to return the Yankees to the Canyon of Heroes, currently falls behind Shawn Chacon and Aaron Small in the rotation.

Johnson might be behind Mike Mussina, as well, but Mussina is hurt. In fact, Mussina's achy elbow actually feels worse now than a week ago, further dimming his chances of pitching again in 2005."
-"They don't only play us well," Johnson said, "they play Boston well."

Johnson was as good with his facts as he was last night with his slider. Tampa Bay is 4-12 against the Red Sox. The Rays opened their current 10-game trip by losing four straight in Fenway. The Yanks, meanwhile, are 4-10 against Tampa."
-"...another small achievement as a Yankee for the Big Unit."
- "This win just wasn't supposed to happen, I guess," Torre said.
-"Pavano turns focus to 2006"

Meanwhile in Metland:
"His signing was about credibility, about a new Met television network starting next season. Also, about $13 million overblown in the eye of the franchise indebted to Martinez for its first World Series championship in 86 years.

Regardless, the Mets forked over the fourth year Martinez became insulted Boston wouldn't, paying the premium for a pitcher entering twilight because they had been out of contention and close to the edge of the radar screen.

It was a signing reflecting desperation as much as commitment. Pedro has re-energized Shea. But in his first Met stretch drive, he looks like he could use some of that energy returned."