Al Downing pitches during a game in 1964 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. Getty Images So these Yankees seem to be at an inflection point — similar to what occurred beginning in 1965. Something ...

Prior to 1960, Whitey was 5-4 in the Series, though with an excellent 2.81 ERA, but had not won a World Series game in more than three years.

The Pirates jumped out to a quick 4-0 lead and by the third inning, the Yankees were on their third pitcher. Meanwhile, Law was in control of the game and took a 4-1 lead into the sixth inning.

In 1960, the Yankees dominated the Pirates in three games, winning by scores if 16-3, 10-0, and 12-0, but they lost three close ones. The Pirates won their games by scores of 6-4, 3-2, and 5-2.

The Yankees set numerous offensive records while outscoring the Pirates 55-27, winning by scores of 16-3, 10-0 and 12-0. Yet they lost every close game, including 3-2 in Game 4 and 5-2 in Game 5 ...