Anatomy of a Game 7.(Closer)(New York Yankees-Boston Red Sox game)

In our particular case, Game 7 came about because we did not win Game 5 home. We lost Game 5 to go down, 3-2, with the series going to New York. I guess there was just too much Mariano Rivera. He had two 2-inning saves, then the win in that gut-wrenching, numbing Game 7.

Headed to New York for Game 6, we knew that if we could piece together a win we would have who we wanted on the mound in Game 7.

After trailing for much of Game 6, we came back. At that point, we felt like we had a shot.

The games took on a different life in Boston. The fans were guardedly optimistic--and rightfully so with the whole 1918 thing looming over their heads. So when the Yankees scored in Fenway, widespread panic took over the stadium. I'd turn to guys and say, "Wow, I can't believe how quiet it is." In New York, the feeling around the park was different. The Yankees knew we could play with them, but the fans looked as if they were there to see the big party.

We won Game 6--no big deal. Heck, we'd already played three elimination games against the A's, and we won all those. After the Game 6 win, we all headed to a restaurant for dinner as a team. Guys were relaxed. We were all caught up in the Marlins-Cubs Game 7.

For our Game 7, Pedro was going, and all year our thought was, "In Pedro We Trust."

Few starters mean more to their club than Pedro means to ours. If you beat us with Pedro on the hill, it tips our swagger.