The aura of the Big Apple was shaken to its core last night.

The magic and mystique of the Yankees and Yankee Stadium must have been next door, at the rusting hulk of their original home.

Their ace didn’t get the job done. Their fans deserted them early.
There’s panic in the streets of Gotham.

But for the Phillies, there is only the cool, calm collected skill of the assassin who dismantled the powerful Yankee machine.

You can call him General Lee.

All the talk going into last night was about how the Yankees would be able to throw C.C. Sabathia three times vs. the Phils. Anyone intimidated by that prospect this morning?

On the other hand, the Yankees likely are dreading the thought of facing Lee two more times in this Series. If they’re that lucky.

All Lee did was throw a complete game gem in Game 1. He struck out 10.
Take away a 9th inning error and Lee shuts out the mighty Yankees.

But it was none of those things that really stuck a dagger in Gotham’s heart.

Instead it was a little bloop pop-up that made its way to the mound. Lee nonchalantly snagged it like he was having a catch with his son in the back yard.

Later on, he made a bit more flamboyant behind-the-back stab of a one-hopper headed back up the middle.

There is no boasting today in the Big Apple. There are only frowns. And the gnawing worry that this Yankees team does not have the magic of its predecessors.

Last night, all the magic was wearing red pinstripes.

And Cliff Lee, General Lee, was in full command of the troops.

Tonight there will be more dread for Yankees fans. An old nemesis will take the hill for the Phils.

Pedro Martinez is back. Let’s just say that he is not the apple of the Big Apple’s eye.

Start spreading the news indeed.

One down, three to go.