The maddening New York Yankees

Another game, another night of missed opportunities for the Yankees, who fell to the awful Royals in the opener of a four-game series at Yankee Stadium. Blurg.

Terrible job by the offense, which followed up Thursday's dramatic victory with another poor showing. Jason Giambi was robbed by home-plate umpire Ed Montague on a bogus check-swing call in the eighth inning, but it should've never gotten that far against a last-place team. Then again, the Yankees are a last-place team as well, so what do I know.

Meanwhile, the karmic curse of Darrell Rasner continues. Since being anointed the 2008 version of Aaron Small, the Raz has lost his last three starts. This shouldn't be the case, however, as the disappointing Yankees offense has deserted their No. 5 starter. The right-hander has lost his last three games despite giving up only seven runs over 19 1/3 innings.

It should be noted that No. 5 starters are typically matched up against the opposing team's No. 4 or No. 5 starter. Have I mentioned this lineup is driving me nuts?

Andy Pettitte on the mound today hoping to even the series. Bombers need to do their job today.