The 2011 season has thus far been a rough one for Nick Swisher, who is dragging around a .215 batting average. Wednesday, however, was a good day for the New York Yankees right fielder. Swisher hit a three-run home run in the fourth inning to give the Yankees their margin of victory in a 4-2 victory over the Oakland Athletics, allowing the Yankees to sweep a three-game series.
A.J. Burnett (6-3) gave up a two-run homer to Josh Willingham in the first inning, but was otherwise strong for New York. He allowed three hits, walked three and struck out five, and also pitched seven innings for the first time since May 11. The right-hander hadn't lasted more than 6 1/3 in any of his previous three starts.
Alex Rodriguez went 2-for-4 with an RBI double for New York, which recorded its first three-game sweep of the season and has won a season-high four in a row overall.
When Swisher homered in the fourth inning he had twice been given the bunt sign by Yankee manager Joe Girardi, but Oakland starter Gio Gonzalez missed the strike zone both times. On the third pitch Swisher swung and ripped a ball into the left field seats for his fourth home run.