Nov 5
LHP Damaso Marte may have solidified his chances at reclaiming the setup spot next season with a stellar postseason. Marte had originally been brought to the Yankees to set up Mariano Rivera, but a combination of injuries and ineffectiveness kept him from claiming the role. Marte thrived in the postseason and was the Yankees' most reliable reliever other than Rivera. Manager Joe Girardi so trusted him he kept Marte in to face Phillies lefty slugger Ryan Howard to start the eighth inning when he had initially said he would go to Rivera for the final six outs. Marte struck Howard out before Rivera came in.