MLB This Week

The camera never blinked, but it did play a role in the two-run homer by Alex Rodriguez when video technology was used to reverse a call for the first time in World Series history. A-Rod hit a disputed drive in the right-field corner that clanked off the lens of a TV camera above the wall at Citizens Bank Park, sparking the Yankees to an 8-5 victory Saturday night and a 2-1 Series lead.

The Philadelphia transit system's largest union agreed Saturday not to go on strike as contract talks continued hours before the start of Game 3 of the World Series, Pennsylvania's governor and the city's mayor said. Gov. Ed Rendell and Mayor Michael Nutter told reporters late Saturday afternoon that a 6 p.m.

CC Sabathia actually likes starting on three days' rest. "I hate to throw bullpens," the New York Yankees big man said. "I don't have to throw a bullpen when I pitch on three days' rest." Sabathia will throw on short rest for the second time this postseason when he starts Game 4 of the World Series on Sunday night against Philadelphia's Joe Blanton.

Sooner or later, some of these big bats are bound to break loose. Alex Rodriguez is 0 for 8 with six strikeouts in his first World Series. Mark Teixeira's only hit in seven at-bats is a solo homer. Ryan Howard is hitting .222, also with six strikeouts. Maybe a change in venue will get them all going.

The Seattle Mariners have hired Mike Brumley as their new third base coach, completing the team's 2010 staff. He replaces Bruce Hines. General manager Jack Zduriencik announced the hiring of the former big league utility player on Friday. The 45-year-old Brumley spent the 2009 season overseeing all aspects of instruction in the Los Angeles Dodgers' minor league system.

Blue Jays manager Cito Gaston has signed a four-year consulting contract with the team that will begin when his managerial deal expires at the end of the 2010 season. The Blue Jays announced the deal Friday. Gaston is expected to advise the team in all areas, including spring training, minor league operations and scouting.

Freddy Sanchez wanted a chance to make a better impression on the San Francisco Giants. That's why the three-time All-Star infielder was quick to sign a $12 million, two-year contract extension with the Giants on Friday. "I'm glad I got it done early enough in the offseason so now my focus is on getting stronger and getting better," Sanchez said.

The Houston Astros added several coaches to new manager Brad Mills' staff Friday, hiring Brad Arnsberg as their pitching coach, promoting Al Pedrique to bench coach and adding Bobby Meacham as their first-base coach. The team also declined the 2010 option on right-handed relief pitcher Doug Brocail and re-signed third baseman Geoff Blum to a one-year, $1.5 million contract.

Cole Hamels grew up watching Andy Pettitte pitch important playoff games and still tries to imitate his icy glare on the mound. When the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees play Game 3 of the World Series on Saturday night, Hamels will try to beat one of his boyhood heroes. The young kid vs. the old October pro could be another classic pitching matchup.

Joe Blanton was picked to start Game 4 of the World Series for the defending champion Philadelphia Phillies. Manager Charlie Manuel said Friday he will go with Blanton against the New York Yankees rather than ace Cliff Lee on short rest. Lee, who has never pitched on three days' rest, is slated to start Game 5.