After an exciting Game 3 come from behind win that saw the New York Yankees up to their usual heroics, the team will look to land another victory against the Baltimore Orioles and advance themselves into the ALCS.  While the first three games were predominantly dominated by strong pitching, Game 4 of the series should more than likely turn into more of a slugfest.  The Yankees will send Phil Hughes (16-13, 4.23 ERA) to the mound and veteran southpaw Joe Saunders (9-13, 4.07 ERA) will make the start for the Orioles.

Saunders is coming off a high-quality start against the heavy-hitting Texas Rangers in the AL Wild Card Game.  However, he hasn't fared too well against New York overall.  In six career starts, his ERA is 5.82 with a 1.53 WHIP.  In order to better keep his team in the game against the Bronx Bombers, the lefty must prevent the Yankees from an early rally, which could give them the momentum they need to break the game open.    

 Phil Hughes' career numbers against his opponent have been shaky as well.  The 26-year-old sports a 5.10 ERA and a 1.44 WHIP in 17 starts against the team.  To top it off, the right-hander hasn't been very consistent as of late either.  In his last three outings, Hughes has let up a minimum of four earned runs. 

Pitching aside, another key factor in the game will be the play of New York's Alex Rodriguez.  The struggling third baseman was uncharacteristically pinch hit for in a key spot on Wednesday night.  Although he'll make the start in Game 4, Rodriguez's spot as a starter may be in jeopardy if he can't start pulling it together in the clutch.  On a positive note, A-Rod has hit extremely well against Saunders (7-for-16, 2HR) over the course of his career. 

While Buck Showalter's team has had an incredible run this year, the Yankees will still look to put the final nail in the Orioles' coffin for the 2012 season tonight at Yankee Stadium.

CLICK HERE to watch the New York Yankees vs. Baltimore Orioles in Game 4 of the ALDS.  Coverage will begin at 7:30 PM ET.

Tags: mlb television