It's been said that it is impossible to quantify "clutch" and that the term, in and of itself, is a misnomer. But as Jeter's home run sailed into the cloudless New York sky, one would be hard pressed to explain his constant success in these situations with any other adjective.

Derek Jeter is the embodiment of "clutch," and has been since the day that he took over for an injured Tony Fernandez back in 1996. Whether driving in game-winning runs or executing unbelievable relay plays, Derek Jeter always finds a way to unburden himself from the pressure and weight of a situation, and simply do what he does best. In fact, upon consistent observation one could easily believe that the pressure only serves to heighten Jeter's senses and abilities. The go-ahead home run was Derek's only hit in a 1-for-5 day, but it was the most important of the Yankees' eight hits, and it occured at the most necessary time.

The game saw another troubling start by a Yankees pitcher, this time featuring Joba Chamberlain. Lasting only 4 2/3 innings, Joba walked five batters and gave up five earned runs. Chamberlain was consistently wild, seemingly afflicted with the same condition that has recently infected both CC Sabathia and Chien-Ming Wang.

His early exit left a tough task for the Yankees' young bullpen that had been largely ineffective to that point. But on this day, the pen was nearly unhittable and more than prepared for the lengthy task they faced. Phil Coke, Jonathan Albaladejo, and veteran Brian Bruney covered 3 1/3 innings, allowing only one hit, no walks, and no runs. Mariano Rivera did struggle slightly in the 9th, giving up two hits, but inevitably "The Sandman" finished the first game at the new stadium the way he completed so many others at old Yankee Stadium -- with a nasty cutter and a thunderous strikeout.

The Bronx Bombers unleashed their strongest artillery on Monday, with Johnny Damon, Mark Teixeira, Melky Cabrera, and Robinson Cano contributing long balls, but it was Derek Jeter's smash in the eighth that was a pure demonstration for a Yankees squad made up predominately of players with no World Series victories of what is necessary to bring a 27th title to New York. The remaining question is whether the team will continue to follow the lead of it's captain.

Injury Note: Reports are in that Xavier Nady may miss the entire season after injuring his elbow on Tuesday. Nady is facing a second Tommy John surgery, and the possibility that his chance to fulfill his once vast potential may be passing him by. In the meantime, the Yankees may look to the market for a righthanded outfielder, should Melky Caberera fail to seize upon the opportunity to move up the depth chart in the outfield.

A writer who still believes that words can make a difference. Anthony also writes for Ultimatesportsranking.com.Newstex ID: CRIT-0006-34223176