MLB: Pettitte crowing over his batting prowess

PHILADELPHIA — If the New York Yankees have any money left over after the World Series, they might consider buying a bunch of earplugs. Because Derek Jeter predicts they're going to hear it all winter from Andy Pettitte.

The winningest pitcher in postseason history hung on for another victory Saturday night. It was Pettitte's bat, however, that he'll crow about.

Minus the DH at Citizens Bank Park, Pettitte had to swing for himself. He did fine, delivering a tying single that helped the Yankees beat the Philadelphia Phillies 8-5 on Saturday night for a 2-1 Series lead over the defending champs.

The fifth-inning looper marked the first RBI by a Yankees pitcher in the World Series since Jim Bouton in 1964. While a batboy ran a jacket to Pettitte at first base, Jeter stepped into the batter's box.

"We're going to have to listen to Pettitte now," the Yankees captain told plate umpire Brian Gorman in a conversation replay on Fox. "He's been bragging about his hitting all year."

Pettitte later hustled home on Johnny Damon's double. Well, the ol' left-hander did the best he could on the bases — Jeter almost caught Pettitte after rounding third.

Quite a run that Handy Andy has been on for quite a while.

Hoping to add a fifth championship ring, Pettitte earned his 17th postseason win and evened his Series record at 4-4. He overcame a rare, bases-loaded walk, worked around early trouble and left after the sixth inning with a 6-4 lead.

Pettitte was at his best against Chase Utley and Ryan Howard — the Phillies' big boppers were hitless in six at-bats against Pettitte, striking out four times.

"He closed off our left-handed hitters," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said.