Re-Pete Performance? Phils Pitcher Martinez Goes Again In Game Six

November 4, 2009 3:04 p.m. EST

Bronx, NY (AHN) - Phillies pitcher Pedro Martinez has been fading the last couple of years, but this postseason he has given Philadelphia two strong playoff starts.

Can he shut down the Yanks Thursday, and shut up N.Y. fans and push the World Series to a seventh game?

To amend the president's campaign slogan: Yes, he can!

After winning just 13 games combined over the last three seasons, Martinez has turned back the clock in this postseason, allowing just eight hits in 13 innings.

Although the Phils lost both games he started, Martinez has allowed opponents a .160 batting average against him while posting an impressive 2.08 ERA.

"Petey' has been a mix of speed and control, fanning 11 batters while allowing just a pair of walks.

If he can avoid giving up the long-ball, Mark Teixeira and Hideki Matsui blasted solo shots off him in game two, Martinez could come up a winner.

It's a scenario the Phillies would love.