Sitting 7 1/2 games ahead in the AL East, the Yankees have the luxury of resting their players in anticipation of October. And luckily for them, their lead is big enough to give extra rest to Andy Pettitte, who will play a major role in the Yankees' postseason plans.
Manager Joe Girardi told the media prior to Tuesday's series opener against the Blue Jays that the Yankees will skip Pettitte's next start on Wednesday to give the veteran lefty's fatigued shoulder some rest. Right-hander Chad Gaudin will start in Pettitte's place against the Jays.
In 29 starts this season, Pettitte is 13-6 with a 4.14 ERA. Known for his second half dominance, he is 5-1 with a 3.06 ERA since the All-Star break.
