PHILADELPHIA - The first instant replay call in World Series history did more than turn a double into a home run. It changed the whole game for Alex Rodriguez and the New York Yankees.
Rodriguez's disputed shot started a big comeback, and those powerful Yankees bats finally broke loose, backing Andy Pettitte in a rain-delayed 8-5 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday night that gave New York a 2-1 Series lead.
After pitching dominated the first two games in the Bronx, the Yankees and Phillies showed their muscle, combining for six home runs. Jayson Werth connected twice for Philadelphia.
Rain affected the Series schedule in Philadelphia for the second consecutive year, delaying the start by 1 hour, 20 minutes. Once they hit the field in front of their boisterous fans, the Phillies took a 3-0 lead - but it was squandered by a struggling Cole Hamels.
The left-hander, who was 4-0 with a 1.80 ERA in the postseason last year, fell to 1-2 with a 7.58 ERA in four outings this time around.
Game 4 is tonight - Joe Blanton will pitch against Yankees ace CC Sabathia.