World Series 2009: "This is All About Control"

When your back's against the wall, what measures needs to be taken to reverse the tide?

Yeah, the Philadelphia Phillies were down a game and the momentum is over at the New York Yankees' dugout - but, does that mean anything? Even as Citizens Bank Park polishes up after the Eagles' victory across the way over the New York Giants, no one felt any pressure. No one knew who would take control of the Series.

Desperation? Ask the Green Bay Packers about that! They almost tripped up the Minnesota Vikings on Brett Favre's homecoming to Lambeau Field. Too bad they didn't! Or, rather, I'm glad they didn't. Boo Favre all they wanted - they simply blew it! The Vikings simply took control of the NFC Central Division.

Would it be the same situation in Game 4 of the World Series? If so, who will take control of the Series? I already recapped Games 1 and 2 from the New Cathedral and Game 3 from South Philly. Here's how tonight's festivities went down...

GAME 4 - NEW YORK (AL) 7, PHILADELPHIA 4: As Hallow's Eve/Samhain became All Saint's Day/Dia de los Muertos, with an extra hour to spare, a debate rages on. The Phillies decided to go with a four-man rotation with Joe Blanton on the mound as Numero Quattro, while the Yanks recycle C.C. Sabathia on a short rest situation. Certainly, Joe Girardi could've added Joba Chamberlain to match up against Blanton, but the stage was set to test of Charlie Manuel's solution to his pitching staff problem as they face a game behind the Yanks in the Series.

As Janet Jackson once said: "This is all about control." The Yankees proved once and again that control is the key to the game. How do you control the Phillies bats? C.C. Sabathia had to take the high road after giving up two runs early in the game. When the relievers took the mound, both teams simply traded runs until they were tied after eight. The Yankees finally took control off the Phillies' closer Brad Lidge. Three runs made the difference between a tied series and a Yankees advantage. Now, the Phillies will have to loom for answers on how to get the series back to the Bronx and save their lives at the same time. NEW YORK (AL) LEADS 3-1.

And, what answers will the Phils need to have for tomorrow night? With A.J. Burnett set to return to the mound, Charlie Manuel needs to make some decisions to stay in the Series. If not, the Yanks will raise their 27th World Championship flag on Phillies' turf. Not exactly a scene you'd want in Philadelphia.

If that happens - at least Mitch Williams have been exonerated for 1993. They'll have to find another scapegoat to burn in effigy at City Hall - or, carry D-cell batteries to toss onto the field when the Yanks win.