Chamberlain Shows Skills

Joba Chamberlain matched production with potential in Cleveland Monday night. The Yankees' phenom bounced back from two disappointing performances to shut down the injury depleted Indians. Chamberlain showed off his dazzling stuff while adding a new weapon to his impressive arsenal--defensive skills. The burly hurler snared a popped up bunt in the 5TH, using a unique belly-flop technique, that resulted in a rally snuffing double play. Chamberlain punctuated his potent play with a fist-pumping exclamation point while teammates cackled with glee. Joba is a talented piece of work.

Chamberlain's brilliance combined with The Great Rivera's 11TH save kept the Yankees' fatal flaw in the bullpen--mission accomplished. First place is a fit 51 games into a turbulent season.Girardi has melded a flawed, unbalanced roster into a cohesive team. Production meets potential, onward and upward.

PHOTO/NEWSDAY