NEW YORK, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- A stunning six-RBI explosion by Hideki Matsui Wednesday carried the New York Yankees to a 7-3 win over Philadelphia for their 27th World Series title.
The Yankees' designated hitter was named series MVP after clubbing a two-run homer into the right field seats in the second inning, a two-run single to center in the third and a two-run double in the fifth.
The 35-year-old Matsui's six RBI tied a World Series single-game record set nearly a half-century ago by Bobby Richardson of the Yankees.
"It's awesome, it's unbelievable, I'm surprised myself," Matsui said.
Matsui batted 8-for-13 with three homers and eight RBI in the six-game series.
Mark Teixeira singled in the other Yankees run.
Yankees starter Andy Pettitte earned his second win of the series, allowing four hits and three runs. Mariano Rivera picked up another save.
Phillies starter Pedro Martinez was the loser, giving up three hits, including Matsui's homer and single, and four runs over four innings.
Ryan Howard slugged a two-run home run and Jimmy Rollins sent home a run with a sacrifice fly for the Phillies, who were trying to repeat as World Series champions.
New York ended the series before a rollicking crowd of more than 50,000 at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees have won more championships than any other major sports team in U.S. history.
The Phillies won the series opener Oct. 28 but the Yankees came back to win four of the next five.
