With World Series win on line, A.J. Burnett takes early exit

PHILADELPHIA — And on the fourth day, A.J. Burnett(notes) wilted.Charged with taking the ball on three days rest and carrying the Yankees over the threshold to their 27th championship, the pitcher wasn't up to the challenge during Monday night's Game 5. The $80 million righthander gave up six runs — including a three-run homer to Chase Utley(notes) in the first inning — over just two innings of work against the Phillies. Burnett was masterful against the Phillies in his big Game 2 win last Thursday and was the owner of a three days rest record that was a bit reassuring to Yankees fans. But neither was enough to guarantee great command or a compliant Phillies lineup the next time out. It's hard not to applaud Burnett's willingness to be handed the ball with a championship on the line, but he just didn't have enough to lock it down early in Philadelphia.Andy Pettitte(notes)? You might be next.