Zito’s Problems Continue in 10-7 Loss to Yankees

Although Jason Giambi had a front-row seat for much of Barry Zito’s development into last season’s Cy Young Award winner, he didn’t recognize the struggling left-hander who got pounded by the New York Yankees.

Giambi hit a three-run homer and Bernie Williams had four hits and two RBIs as the Yankees tagged Zito for eight runs in a 10-7 victory over the Oakland Athletics on Saturday.

It was the shortest start of the season for Zito (8-9), who still has one of the best earned-run averages (3.30) in the league.

He has been hurt by poor run support at times this season, but Zito did himself in this time. Falling behind in the count to almost every hitter, he yielded eight hits and two walks in only three innings.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen Barry as wild as he was today,” said Giambi, his teammate in Oakland until last season. “He’s one of those guys that you’re normally down 0-2, 1-2 in the count every time.

“He’s a Cy Young winner, and everybody gets up to try to beat him. He’s not a secret any more. You get those awards and accolades, and it makes everything tougher for you.”

Zito had a 3.12 ERA against the Yankees before falling apart on a hot day at the Coliseum. The left-hander is 0-4 with a 3.86 ERA in his last six starts.

“Everything was flat today,” Zito said. “I was also behind the count. Of course I’m not happy not getting a win in a month. You just have to keep on grinding, and try not to get down on myself. The team needs the normal Barry, not someone else.”

Zito’s problems were underscored by another prolific effort from the Yankees, who won for the 11th time in 16 games.