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Game 161: Yankees at Orioles

September
29

Here are the lineups:

YANKEES
Cabrera CF
Betemit 3B
Abreu RF
Giambi DH
Cano 2B
Posada C
Duncan 1B
Sardinha LF
Gonzalez SS
Pettitte LHP (14-9, 3.81)

ORIOLES
Roberts 2B
Mora 3B
Markakis RF
Tejada SS
Millar 1B
R. Hernandez C
Payton LF
Redman CF
L. Hernandez SS
Cabrera RHP (9-17, 5.36)

Pregame chatter: The coaches met with Torre before the game to put together the postseason roster. Here is what we do know: There will be 11 pitchers and Phil Hughes and Mike Mussina will be on the roster. Mo Rivera, Kyle Farnsworth, Luis Vizcaino and Joba Chamberlain are on. That leaves four players for two spots: Ross Ohlendorf, Ron Villone, Edwar Ramirez and Jose Veras. It sounds like they haven’t made up their minds yet. The position guys are who you would expect it sounds like. Shelley Duncan will be there and probably a pinch runner type, likely Bronson Sardinha.

Sorry for the delay with the lineups. We had a extended interview set up with A-Rod and there was a long session with Torre in the dugout. Lots of information to gather for preview stories over the next few days.

UPDATE, 8:18 p.m.: I think the lineup the Yankees are using tonight would win the NL Central. …Big hit there for Melky Cabrera, who was a grim 6 of 62 (.096) before smacking a double off the wall. … Kind of a spring-training outing for Andy Pettitte, who is throwing to keep his arm in shape. I would suspect he was pitching not to show the advance scouts to much.

UPDATE, 8:34 p.m.: That was Shelley Duncan’s first road home run. The Yankees are sitting their stars and have 11 runs on 13 hits in four innings.

This entry was posted on Saturday, September 29th, 2007 at 6:46 pm by Peter Abraham.
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238 Responses to “Game 161: Yankees at Orioles”

  1. jonathan

    If mike mussina ever sees a playoff start the yankees braintrust should have their head examined. Phil hughes gives the yankees a MUCH better chance to win. isnt that clear to everyone?

  2. beavis

    Villone and Veras should be the two. I’m glad theyre taking Sardinha as a pinch runner.

  3. Vader

    I would be suprised if one of the two were Ramirez.

  4. Dr. Acula

    We had a extended interview set up with A-Rod

    Gee, people treat ARod like he’s the MVP or sometime.

  5. Titan

    I think the 2 spots left in the bullpen are gonna be taken by Ohlendorf and Veras.
    I really don’t like what I’ve seen from Ramirez lately and Villone is not effective enough to be on the roster.
    The Moose should start Game 4 (if there is one), but Hughes is gonna be there ready if anything goes wrong with the Moose.

  6. Sherri

    What about Mientkiewicz? Will he be 1B?

  7. Dr. Acula

    Mets receive Reprieve

    Phills lost.

    Oh the pins and needles, se grande mañana

  8. Spags

    Thanks as always Peter.

    Hey everyone! I’m bummed about the Mets win/Phils loss.

  9. Sherri

    I’m talking about Minky for the playoffs…not tonight’s game. Do we know?

  10. Spags

    Sheri I gotta believe Minky is in for sure. his bat is HOT right now, and never been a question about his D. I dont think he has ever been this good at the plate.

  11. Jeremy

    Titan, I think Villone will get a spot simply because he’s left-handed. Although I don’t like any of the other guys enough to be upset about this.

    If Edwar hasn’t pitched himself out of a playoff spot, he has some incriminating photos of Torre.

    Ohlendorf is intriguing but there’s no telling what he’d give us. Bad in the minors -> decent in the playoffs just doesn’t compute.

    Veras, meh. Nondescript. But it will be him and Villone.

  12. Sherri

    Thanks, Spags! That’s my thinking, too. I also think the friendship between he and A-Rod is good chemistry for the team.

  13. BBB

    See I think Villone & Ohlendorf should be the two. Veras is unreliable and hittable, IMO. Ohlendorf has looked better than Veras and should get another chance to show it before the season is over. And Villone has been effective – he is really fine when he isn’t overused/overtired, and with the time he spent on the DL with that “injury” a few weeks ago, he is rested now. Plus I wouldn’t feel comfy not having a lefty in the pen, esp. w/the Viz having struggled a bit lately.

    Villone & Ross FTW! and Let’s Go Yanks!!!

  14. Spags

    Sherri: Indeed, that helps too.

  15. jason

    Quick Starting Pitcher Quiz:

    The following are the earned runs over the last 10 starts for the Yankee starting pitchers (most recent starts listed first).
    Understading there are lots of other factors for quality starts: innings, opponents, wins/losses etc. but, boiled down to how many runs one has given up, consistency, and avoiding blowouts which ones do you want starting in the playoffs:

    A) 1 3 2 1 2 4 5 5 2 1 = 26
    B) 0 5 1 6 2 1 3 4 2 1 = 25
    C) 2 1 5 3 1 0 1 3 5 8 = 29
    D) 3 0 0 2 6 7 6 2 2 3 = 31
    E) 3 1 4 2 5 3 1 1 2 3 = 25

    A = Hughes
    B = Clemens
    C = Wang
    D = Mussina
    E = Petitte

    Great start by Hughes last night. But over the last ten games, he has been as consistent as any other starter, has avoided pitching the team into a hole they cannot battle out of … coming back from an injury that saps power pitchers of velocity, at 21, as a rookie, in a do or die penant race, in a town that makes other veterans wilt.

    I think the kid will be ok.

  16. Sherri

    Giambi gets a hit…but wait…out at 2nd… :(

  17. BBB

    Grrr I hate when Jason does that!! :(

  18. Stuart

    who is a dumber base runner Giambi or Posada???

    They are both slow but there decision making is ridiculous.. I bet Jorge got thrown out 10 times this yr trying to take a extra base.

    it does not matter but maybe giambi can use his brain…........

  19. jason

    Slow night with the comments.
    Someone please chime in on the starting pitcher question above.

  20. Cheesyhoboe

    I hate the knee jerk reactions in this thread.

    Anyway, Duncan up to the plate, let’s go.

  21. Spags

    Jason: I would want Pettitte, Wang, Hughes, Clemens, Moose, in that order. But hey, thats just me.

  22. Cheesyhoboe

    Damn you defense…

  23. Sherri

    Jason, my only concerns with Hughes were his early inning runs allowed, and the need to get “warmed up.” I understand they adjusted some things with him. He seemed better with the last game, but I have no problem with Hughes in the rotation.

    Cheesyhoboe – Can you plz explain what you mean by the knee jerk reactions?

  24. Giuseppe Franco

    I think you’ve already pushed your trivia enough on Kat’s blog:

    http://weblogs.newsday.com/sports/baseball/yankees/blog/2007/09/uhoh_on_mussina.html#comments

  25. Sherri

    Spags, I would tend to agree. Had Clemens not had recent injuries, I would be more inclined to move him ahead of Hughes. However, current circumstances being what they are, I agree.

  26. yankees143 - - 27 in '07

    I don’t think Robbie Cano would know what to do with himself if he were to get a day off!

  27. jason

    Thanks.
    I saw someone ask on another board to show runs allowed in the last several starts. I think this is in part to calm those that are ready to say that Hughes is a bust. He has been remarkably consistent and has done an excellent job in the heat of a penant race. He clearly is missing a little something since the injury. Next season with more experience, added strength in his legs and refining his mechanics he will be outstanding. He clearly has the makeup to thrive in NY and the stuff to become a 1, 1A or 2 in the rotation for years to come.

  28. Todd

    Anybody know when teams have to announce playoff rosters??

  29. fleas (scared..)

    I’m tired of people using the excuse that “Mo is human”. I mean how many saves do you have to blow before people start saying he has lost his edge.

    So I second that, “Mo is human, and his age is showing”.

    P.S. Andy needs a rest. I think I remember Joe saying 60 pitches tonight max.

  30. jason

    Giuseppe – By the way, not me on the other post. Although that is a little more detailed and more in favor of Hughes given the selected time frame. But it does reiterate my feelings that Hughes is, even in his slightly below par state, as good as anyone on the staff the last month and a half.

  31. Spags

    Whats the score?

  32. Sherri

    I found this:
    “The deadline for submitting the postseason roster to the league office is 10 a.m. local time on the day of Game 1. Changes can’t be made after that unless Game 1 is postponed because of rain.”

    NYY 1 BAL 4

  33. Spags

    shazbot! Glad this game dont count.

  34. Dr. Acula

    Neato Math

    In the last 20-years, the Sox have won the divison 3-times.

    Each time, they were swept in the playoffs !!

    1995 – 0-3 Indians

    1990 – 0-4 Oakland

    1988 – 0-4 Oakland.

    Ah, the Red Sox – even when the win, they lose ;)

  35. Sherri

    Dr. A – Poetry to my ears!! :)

  36. MMF

    Roger Clemens last start was Sept 15, before that it was sept 3.

    He is a MAJOR quesion mark AT BEST.

    Giambi should never start in the playoff. His best, above average, and average days are behind him. He is fully entrenched in his below average days.

    Is there any chane he will just retire or get indicted?

    I just dont see why anyone is hot for him any more. He is NOT the same player as when he was on roids or even a couple years after. His skills are greatly dimished.

    My wife wants to know who packs the players’ uniforms when they travel? any thoughts? She also wants to know how they keep track of all the laundry?

  37. '07 Gabriel ( #27 in '07 )

    Dr. Acula…thanks for that….Remember, too…we were 2004 AL East Champions and what did that get us ? The “other team” will get the same satisfaction out of that “crown” only and it will be nice to hoist the Championship Trophy for the 27th time. Have a great weekend, Yankees Fans !

  38. MMF

    As far as hughes v. clemens or mussina.

    I think it can be summed up to this:

    the likely hood of a bad start for all those guys is about the same.

    The likelyhood that hughes pitthes 7 good innings is much higher than clemens.

    Is everyone here comfy with hughes int he rotaiton next year?

    How come we are are not so comfy with him in the playoffs.

    The kid is ready.

  39. Limey Yankee

    this is 2 shaky starts in a row from andy. god i hope this is just getting kinks out now before the post season.

  40. fleas (scared..)

    Arods numbers this year (steroid-free) are just flat out amazing!!!

    C’mon people, bonds, sosa, mcguire and the rest of the steroid boys have nothing on this awesome season that Arod is having.

    You know, I kinda think it stinks that the Maris *61 is not longer.. I mean Arod has shown us with is power numbers this year just how hard it was for Maris to achieve 61. Must have been an awesome season! In my book Maris is still the HR king.

    Oh and Arod really means it when personal accolades don’t mean as much as the team winning the WS, if it did he would be playing still.

  41. MMF

    FYI—ROGER CLEMENS is injured. Bad elbow, bad hamstring.

    Why is this even a question?

    And, “its roger clemens” is not a good answer.

    Sorry.

  42. Dan

    I have a feeling that the day Clemens is pitching, they will have Hughes ready to go just in case Clemens can’t go, or he cant get out of the early innings

  43. Dan

    I have a feeling that the day Clemens is pitching, they will have Hughes ready to go just in case Clemens can’t go, or he cant get out of the early innings. ditto for Mussina

  44. Todd

    Sherri, thanks for info

  45. KQ

    Is anyone worried about Pettitte? Question. Does everyone on the team get a world series ring or players have to be on the playoff roster to get a ring?

  46. MMF

    Dan—thats pretty much what i see happening too.

    This whole clemens thing may just be a shield to keep the newpaper geeks from asking probing questions to hughes/kennedy like “how does it feel to start in the playoffs for the 200 million dollary ny yankees, and to boot, how does it feel to replace a legend like roger clemens?”

    look—folks—rocket was awsome—its exciting hes pitching for the yanks—he’s nto the same pitcher he was evena few years ago.

    also he’s lucky he really wasn’t needed down the stretch since he’s pretty much had one start this month.

  47. Spags

    Fleas: Add to that one thing many leave out about Arod vs. those others. he’s a RIGHTY, facing righties 8 out of 10 times.

  48. MMF

    KQ—eveybody gets rings. michael kay, clubhouse atendants, its kind of ridiculous.

    any idea about the laundry?

    this game seems a bit like a grapefruit league game

  49. MMF

    Still—I watching to see Shelley Duncan hit.

    He’s awesome

  50. KQ

    MMF,

    Even Pavano?

  51. Giuseppe Franco

    I’m tired of people using the excuse that “Mo is human�. I mean how many saves do you have to blow before people start saying he has lost his edge.

    Why don’t you check the stats because Mo only has four blown saves all season—which is outstanding for any closer.

    Three of those four blown saves on the season are against AL East opponents (Boston once and O’s twice) and the other was the HR in OAK way back in April. It’s no surprise at all that the teams who have hit him hardest this season are the teams that have seen him the most over the last several years.

    True, he’s not as dominating as he was in his prime because he was simply in another league. However, he’s still more than capable of dominating an opponent.

    Yankee fans have just been so spoiled over the years that any sign of being human is viewed as an indication that he doesn’t have it anymore.

  52. MMF

    Good question. I know for certain he’s getting a FULL playoff share.That would be about 300k if they win the series.

    I guess as far as rings go, its all up to magement. it seems they are pretty generous.

    i cant imagine he would be invited on a parade and he prob would not get a ring. but i think a lot of these support people would get rings. i figure guys like kennedy and andy phillps would get one—maybe even guys like bruney—prob not pavano.

  53. MMF

    Folks—dont worry about Marianno – Giuseppe is dead on.

    Lets be concerned about how joe torre feels oligated to use clemens, giambi, villone and farnsworth in the playoffs.

  54. fleas (scared..)

    to point out just how bad Mo has been this year and why his humaness should be a concern..

    (all excludes his rookie year)

    1)Highest ERA of his career
    2)2nd most runs (only by 1 or would be most career)
    3)Most Hits given up since ‘96
    3)most earned runs
    4)2nd time to have more losses than wins
    5)More hit batters than any other year
    6)highest ERA (3.15) First time over 3.00

    Okay, so I panic… but those statistics are for those people that think Mo is still in his prime.

    Let’s see if post season Mo can fire it up one more time.

  55. jason

    Shelley hits the ball as hard as anyone.
    His first at bat out was drilled to Mora.

  56. pat

    In the time it took me to unload groceries from the car, the Yankees scored 7 runs! What happened?

  57. hugstable

    Why are they inlove with Sardinhia? Has anyone seen our AAA cf, Brett Gardner, i heard he is very fast and might be better for strictly a late inning baserunner…..

  58. MJL

    Fleas, no one said Mo is still in his prime – nobody is in his prime at 37 years old. But you’re a fatalist and need to relax.

  59. Spamkee

    Hello Yankees,

    I’m writing to tell you what the fans said. So you think the length of your post season doesn’t matter. Well, the fans told us how short your post seasons have been recently, leaving them unsatisfied. But you can make them happy again!

    With our product, you can give them long post-seasons, and you can last from three to nineteen games! Wow!

    That’s right, just order our product, Wangvizjobamo and you will see instant results! Don’t hesitate! Your ecstatic and satisfied fans will probably give you a parade!

  60. Spags

    yeah, WHAT HAPPENED!!!>???? Whats the score? I hate not being able to watch or listen.

  61. '07 Gabriel ( #27 in '07 )

    2004 Final Standings:
    .
    Yankees 101-61 ( Division Champs )
    .
    Bstn 98-64 ( World Series Champs )
    .
    and now Boston Fans are rubbing it in that they won the division for the first time in 12-13 years ? I am going to be so happy after all is said and done and it will be 2004 all over again, just switching places. It does sound SO good 27th Championship in 2007 ! The Boss is going to be so proud !

  62. '07 Gabriel ( #27 in '07 )

    I can see the Yankees going 3-1 against the Indians, and IF Bostn makes it…then 4-1 against them and 4-1 in the World Series. An 11-3 postseason will be simply awesome.

  63. Joeysdadjoe

    The reason Gardner(and Nieves) arent here is the 40 man roster.This team has so many good pitching prospects that you dont want to DFA anyone.Next move wouldve been Andrew Brackman to the 60 day DL and that wouldve started his service time.

  64. murphydog

    With Shelley Duncan every day is like Christmas morning. Man, he hit that one a looong way.

  65. Cheesyhoboe

    Shelley was long due for a HR.

  66. pat

    11-6 Yankees

    Lots of hits I didn’t see and a Duncan homer I did see.

    Yanks batted for 30 minutes and scored 10n runs

  67. BBFan

    Fleas,

    You are right Mo is not as effective as he has been in the past.

    He might have not have blown a save since April 28 until yesterday, but many of his saves have been an adventure. Too mnay people on the base before he completes the save. In the playoffs we face better offenses and it will not be that easy.

    We all love Mo, he is the greatest releiver ever and without him we would not have won the four WSs in the past decade.

    It is difficult for some on the blog to accept that MO’s effectiveness is diminished. Like you I also worry that he may not be as successful in this post season. I only hope he will not have a high profile blow up.

    Cashman will have tough decison this off season. He will probably offer only one year to Mo and it will be contentious negotiation. I think one year with an option for the second year is the rihgt thing to do.

  68. Spags

    need input….
    Score? What happened?

  69. Sherri

    Okay, I have 3 kids here tonight (2 not mine) and I was trying to untangle a web of wires so they could play a video game, and I come back in here and it’s——NYY 11 BAL 6…..WTH???? What happened???

  70. Spags

    wow, nice.

  71. Sherri

    pat – I just saw your post – thx! So Shelley was involved in all those runs – no surprise there!

  72. VTyankeefan

    Mo’s ERA was 10.57 in April. He gave up 9 of his 25 earner runs that month. His ERA was 2.02 for the rest of the year.

    I’d say he had a bad month (five months ago) not a bad year.

  73. pat

    I saw Cano get 2 RBI with a basehit and Duncan get 3 with a HR. They got the other 5 somewhere between my driveway and kitchen so I don’t know how they happened.

  74. Jimmy the Saint

    Is Bobby A. gonna get his 100th RBI? He better watch out cause Robbie is on his heels.

  75. VTyankeefan

    Duncan doesn’t have many ABs but he has an HR every 10.14 ABs. A-Rod by contrast has one every 10.76 ABs.

  76. Spags

    Hey it’s Jimmy The Saint!
    Boat Drinks Jimmy.

  77. kim

    for anyone asking, in that 10 run 4th inning, there were three singles, a throwing error into the stands, a melky double off the wall that scored two, single, walk, giambi double off the wall, cano 2-run single, and a duncan 2 run home run (his second hit of the inning)

  78. Cheesyhoboe

    Why is Ramirez warming up? He’s pitching pretty much every day now.

  79. jason

    The better question is why is Pettite still in?

  80. docthomp

    Hey in regards to Mo. Look at his stats, he may not be as effective as he’s been in the past, but he’s still rockin’!!!! Gimme Mo as a closer and Joba as his set up man and we can go all the way!!! BTW I picke up my “In Joba we Trust” tee yesterday at Modell’s, and will wear it proudly at the first post season game at the stadium! Go Yankees!

  81. Sherri

    What’s Pettitte’s pitch count? I thought he was only going 50 or so pitches tonight?

  82. Spags

    ty Kim! Nice. Gotta love Shelly, the duffy SOB.

  83. pat

    Thanks kim

  84. Sherri

    I’ll take Mo as a closer over anyone, anytime.

  85. BX 12 Fordham Rd

    Andy is tossing BP….

  86. VTyankeefan

    Andy must be really grooving his pitches. He has given up 8 runs with only 79 pitches!

  87. BX 12 Fordham Rd

    Marcus Scutaro…Jay Payton banging you around is not Big Papi and Manny….

    I hope Mo is happy with a two year deal, toss in the lifetime achievement bonus and retire gracefully…

  88. YankeeJosh

    Anyone else see this on Foxsports? Typical Sox fans if you ask.

    http://community.foxsports.com/blogs/Rackman/2007/09/27/It_Just_Doesnt_Ring_True

  89. Bx is burning

    Beachball head-

    Yes. J.D. Drew is awesome.
    I lose sleep over what he’ll do in the postseason.
    I drink Nyquil for the problem.

    You dumb drip….

  90. Sherri

    Spags – can you not watch the game?

  91. Cheesyhoboe

    1-2-3 for Edwar.

  92. Spags

    Sherri: No :-( I am at work. Most internet sites with sports are blocked, this is one of the few not blocked by the company firewall. And Yahoo sports, which only gives final scores. The live feed of scores are even blocked. I can read the “after” stories though. It kills me when I have to work during the games! But hey, gotta make a living.

  93. Sherri

    YankeeJosh – That’s just crazy! 1904??? Seriously!? Wow.

  94. catya

    I don’t believe it our “Yoda” aka(Edwar)got 3 outs and didn’t give a run.

  95. Spags

    Plus I am an explosion proof building which means no radio reception.

  96. Sherri

    Is sopcast.org blocked?

  97. Spags

    yeah, blocked.

  98. Dr. Acula

    O/T

    College Football:

    4 of the top 10 teams lost today: OK, TX, W.V., Rutgers.

    and another two are losing: USC and UF :(

  99. Jeter's future wife

    oh god, Villone! Is this playoff tryouts?

  100. Sherri

    Spags – that sux!! Well, it’s still NYY 11 BAL 9. Villone is in now to pitch.

  101. Sherri

    USC is tied – 7 all.

  102. Spags

    ty Sherri! I gotta go to a meeting, BBIAB.

  103. docthomp

    JFW – Yeah, looks like tryouts for post season. But lets rest who we can count on for the games that count.

  104. Jeter's future wife

    CLE is losing to KC in the 7th, 3-2

  105. YankeeJosh

    With the playoffs starting Wednesday or Thursday, I would like to see some regulars play tomorrow. Not Posada or Jeter as they’ve been hurting. Still, you don’t want the regulars getting too much rest where they are stale. It’s different from when the playoffs started on Tuesday and the last day of the season was much needed rest.

  106. Scooter

    Hey, this isn’t a football blog!

    ...

    But while we’re at it…FSU just knocked Alabama out of the Top 25!!!!! Woohoo!

  107. VOIII

    Hey Beachball Head, are you Don’t Blow this Thing from last night’s thread? and if so R U Best Team in BB from a few weeks ago? had to change the name a few times eh? No longer Best Team? got scared didn’t ya???? Sh!t head…

  108. mel

    Jeter’s future wife,

    Did you see Jeter’s interview with Jeter? He talks about what kind of woman he wants to marry. It’s on the mlb site under “lineupcard”. I had the links up in one of yesterday’s threads.

  109. catya

    Looks like Joe told them,”If you want to be on the post season roster produce,” it’s working so far.

  110. docthomp

    I see your point Josh, but they shouldn’t be playing full games. Just enough to keep em in tune then pull them. Keep them limber and active, I can only imagine Torre’s speech prior to the first game. the BOSS must be pacing the floor.

  111. Sherri

    While I realize No. Texas is nobody really, Arkansas is beating them 52-7 in the 3rd quarter. Darren McFadden ROCKS!!!!

    I’d like to see the links on Jeter’s interview with Jeter? Did you mean to say that? He interviewed himself?

    USC 14 WASH 7

  112. Jeter's future wife

    i wish I knew CLE normal lineup to see if these guys are B guys are a mix…

  113. Bx is burning

    Beachball head-

    Now that’s personal!

    Answer the charges, though, won’t you?

  114. VOIII

    Hey! I am not the one trolling enemy territory looking for a fight. You Trolls should all be on the self help blogs getting therapy for your collective problem….you know rooting for the RedSox….

  115. Jeter's future wife

    mel,

    actually, I haven’t read that,but I did meet him in Vegas last year. I was at a club in the VIP section, compliments of a former teammate of Jeter’s that I’m friends with. he is everything that everyone thinks he is.

  116. YankeeJosh

    docthomp

    That would work fine for me. One or two at bats each. I just worry about the whole team being rusty. Monday and Tuesday are guaranteed off days and Wednesday could be too.

    No harm in giving Damon, Abreu, A-Rod and Cano some playing time.

  117. Dr. Acula

    Three down days until the playoffs is a little strange. It’s gonna make the All-Star break feel like recess.

    I wonder if the writers will take a Playstation with them?

  118. Jeter's future wife

    just ignore them! don’t feed them anything, they will leave. I know it’s easy to fall into, I’ve done it too – but you’re giving the trolls what they long for!

  119. Jeter's future wife

    Dr. A – i’m sure the writers could use the break, unless there is just too much pre-series to write about…what could that be that hasn’t already been written?

  120. Jeter's future wife

    i just love how everyone has their own personal crystal ball! this is why we play the games my friend!

  121. docthomp

    Josh, sounds good – you going to the games? Is anyone going?

  122. Jeter's future wife

    CLE tied it up (I know this all doesn’t matter, just something to type)

  123. Dr. Acula

    Scooter-

    Oh Gawd, not a ‘Nole!

    What do UF and FUS students have in common?

    They were all accepted to FSU

  124. Dr. Acula

    Jeter’s future wife-

    CLE tied it up (I know this all doesn’t matter, just something to type)

    yes it does. If Cle gets home field, we play on Wednesday, instead of Thursday.

  125. Brandon

    thank god if Villone makes it it’s just vs LHBs

    WTF Britton warming up ?

  126. VOIII

    You know I wouldn’t mind a little healthy debate or even a little razzing once in awhile. But they never have anything to offer other, than some stupid off color remark. They disappear for two weeks when Boston was falling from their perch and then comeback only when the Sox clinch a division that means nothing as long as the Yankees are in the play-offs to take them down….I don’t know if I can take the drama of another Yankee-Redsox ALCS. However, I would love to watch the Yankees celebrate yet another pennant on the pitcher’s mound at Fenway :)

  127. YankeeJosh

    Did Michael Kay just say “It’s 3-3 Cleveland over Kansas City?”

  128. Peter Abraham

    Folks:

    Please stop responding to or debating with Red Sox trolls. Invariably when I search their IP address, the same one dope posts assorted nonsense under two or three different names. These are lonely, twisted people and you responding to them only feeds their need for attention.

    Please, don’t feed the trolls. Thanks.

  129. pat

    Regulars are supposed to play tomorrow. Probably because of the long layoff. I read that Cleveland has a full squad workout lanned for Tuesday afternoon at the Jake. Might be a tip-off that they would take the Wednesday option if they make the call.

  130. YankeeJosh

    docthomp

    I’m not going yet, that could always change. I enjoy going but it’s just as fun watching at home.

  131. Eric Young

    If Torre is still on the fence re Villone, Villone sure isn’t helping himself tonight.

  132. Jeter's future wife

    Cleveland fans are saying , “We’re back”

    how long of an absence from the playoffs? 10 yrs?

  133. docthomp

    I would think any team given the opportunity would take the 8 day schedule. Even if the Yanks pitching gets the rest the sarters are questionable.

    BTW indians leave the bases loaded still 3-3

  134. Jeter's future wife

    Yankee Josh,

    yes, the Royals and Tribe are tied at 3. talk on the STO network is they are afraid of their own bullpen.

  135. pat

    Some “experts” say that Boston would take the shorter schedule cause they think their 1-4 is stronger than the Angels but their 1-2 is about the same.

  136. Dr. Acula

    CLE tied it up (I know this all doesn’t matter, just something to type)

    An additinal point – Boston wants home field, which means they can’t rest tomorrow.

  137. Jeter's future wife

    Dr. A, ok, you’re right, I guess I didn’t realize that about the homefield adv is still up for grabs. CLE pen is on mound with one on and no outs….KC just bunted over

  138. Brandon

    so I think Edwar is in , but on the bubble is Veras and Ohlendorf , remember you can’t have 2 of the same type of pitchers in this pen , tough decision coming up for Torre

  139. docthomp

    Boston gets home field regardless. Cleveland and boston have 2 best records.

  140. Jeter's future wife

    KC manager, Bell,just got the heave ho!

  141. Jeter's future wife

    KC runners on 1st and 2nd, 1 out, bottom of 8th

  142. Jeter's future wife

    docthomp,

    i think what he means is home field adv in the potential ALCS, right Dr. A?

  143. Eric Young

    Brandon –
    How can we justify Edwar with an 8.14 ERA?

  144. Green Tea Torre

    um, pete…why do you think only villone, edwar, veras, and ohlendorf are being considered for the final 2 spots? what about britton? i know you hate him (and so does joe…surprise, surprise), but weren’t you preaching earlier this season about how we shouldn’t be judging young pitchers in a few innings work? now you’re the biggest cheerleader for ohlendorf!! ohlendorf has thrown all of 4.2 innings this season, and all of a sudden you think he should be on the post-season roster? me confused.

  145. BBB

    :::wondering why Ohlendorf isn’t pitching right now!:::

  146. Eric Young

    Four straight balls to Roberts…Veras isn’t making a case for himself, either.

  147. docthomp

    aaaahhhhh, that is a possibility, but we won’t let it get that far.

  148. docthomp

    Royals take lead 4-3

  149. Jeter's future wife

    KC scored, 4-3 Royals lead in bottom of 8th

  150. BBB

    Ohlendorf > Veras

  151. Brandon

    Eric Young
    September 29th, 2007 at 10:05 pm
    Brandon –
    How can we justify Edwar with an 8.14 ERA?—————————————————————————
    simple, in the playoffs you can’t have those hitters gearing up for the same type of speed, Edwar is a change of pace guy that can screw up batter’s rythmn. Veras and Ohlendorf are the same type of pitchers and Edwar had mechanical issues before this which justifies that 8.14 ERA.

  152. Sherri

    BBB – agree. What is it about Ohlendorf that we don’t see him as much? He looked good when I’ve seen him!

  153. Jeter's future wife

    nice pitching there, have they any pride?

  154. Brandon

    Sherri Ohlendorf probably pitches tomorrow in a tough spot if he makes it than he beats out Veras.

  155. docthomp

    Did anyone get the 07 wild card hat? I actually like the look but really dont know it I want a WC hat.

  156. Jeter's future wife

    Brandon, now can u translate that in english? I don’t understand

  157. Sherri

    Brandon – one can only hope!!!!

  158. Brandon

    Jeter’s wife, which part :D

  159. Jeter's future wife

    wonder if Markakis is FA after this season…he’d be a nice pickup for the outfield not to mention his bat and bionic ARM!!

  160. Peter Abraham

    Green Tea:

    I watch the games as it turns out. Ohlendorf has a 96-mph four-seam fastball he throws for strikes and a sinking 94-mph two-seamer he throws to get grounders. He also has a hard slider that is a strikeout pitch to righties. The coaches and his teammates have been raving about his stuff.

    The kid also seems to go about his business calmly and works prety dilgently preparing for games.

    Britton is a mop-up kind of pitcher. I’d rather have a guy like Ohlendorf who can come in and get somebody out with good stuff. He has weapons. I don’t see Britton having weapons.

    Why are Britton’s 11.2 innings somehow more significant?

    I like to evaluate players by watching them play. Give it a shot.

  161. Sherri

    Honestly, I am not wanting to see extra innings.

  162. Dr. Acula

    Jeter’s future wife-

    home field adv in the potential ALCS

    yes. Also, the winner gets to pick whether to start on Wed or Thur.

  163. Jeter's future wife

    “simple, in the playoffs you can’t have those hitters gearing up for the same type of speed, Edwar is a change of pace guy that can screw up batter’s rythmn. Veras and Ohlendorf are the same type of pitchers and Edwar had mechanical issues before this which justifies that 8.14 ERA”

    I am a true blonde, so go easy, not dumb, but this one seemed to go over my head a bit.

  164. Brandon

    that was a big pitch Veras ..Ohlendorf is on the brink tomorrow :)

  165. docthomp

    Cleveland top 9th 1 out Royals lead 4-3

  166. BBB

    Sherri: Beats me! Ross has looked good basically every time he’s pitched. I would hope he’s getting strongly considered for a spot – it slightly scares me that Joe seems to pitch Veras more often as if he is the favorite. I definitely think Ohlendorf’s the way to go!

  167. Brandon

    YES DAMMIT !!!

  168. Eric Young

    Brandon – I appreciate your thinking, but I’m personally doubtful that Edwar’s two pitches can be enough against CLE or ANA. My sense is that ML hitters have seen the reports on Edwar and have the patience to either let the change through or wait for it and cream it. I think Edwar could still make it to the bigs, but I really think he needs to develop a quality third pitch before he comes up again…IMHO.

  169. pat

    Sorry folks, that inning just sent Veras to Cleveland

  170. Sherri

    THE YANKEES WIN!!!!!!!

  171. BBB

    theeee Yankees win!!!! woo hoo!

  172. Andrew

    Where does Michael Kay get this “batters hit .100 points better” with the infield in? I mean, batters obviously hit better, but where’s he getting that number from? Or does he just think it sounds nice?

  173. Jeter's future wife

    Green Tea: Britton will not be anything BUT a mop-up guy, actually, I think he and Brian Bruney had a tee-time together today to golf at Turf Valley GC!

  174. Andrew

    Pat, you could say the 6 feet to the right on Markakis foul ball sent Veras to Cleveland, too.

  175. mel

    That’s about an ugly as a win as you can get. Still congrats to Andy for getting 15 wins.

  176. docthomp

    Royals win! RS win home field through out AL playoffs

  177. Jeter's future wife

    CLE Lost! BOS clinched home-field adv and they have one hour from now to decide if they start Wed or Thurs.

  178. Sherri

    pat – don’t be so sure. Maybe, but really, have you guys been watching Ross? He has some impressive stuff!

  179. A Tampa Yankee in King George's Court

    Andrew

    Kay has been using that for years now. He has no statistical evidence, just that players have told him that you hit 100 points better. I dont think he would understand the concept of statistical analysis because he is always talking about the “Moneyball” way of doing things with obvious disdain.

  180. mel

    Olie and Villone for the last two spots.

  181. BBB

    With Veras having gotten those 3 outs now it is gonna be a “tough task” to decide who gets that last spot (assuming Villone will get one, which he will.) It’ll be between Edwar, Ohlendorf & Veras. Personally, I’m leaning toward Ohlendorf, although aren’t the Indians’ hitters fairly impatient? That makes me think Edwar might be likely to have success against them.

  182. A Tampa Yankee in King George's Court

    Does anybody have an update on the up to date people who are on the playoff roster?

  183. Brandon

    Jeter’s future wife, what I meant is they have to keep the hitters off thier rythmn

    if I put say

    Proctor than Farnsy , (same speed, same results, more likely a batter doesn’t have to adjust by stay back or jumping out his shoes for a swing.)

    Joba and Edwar worked before because the timing in the batters swing were thrown off, after I see 97 mph then someone throws 91 it effects my swing no matter what or vice versa if someone throws a slow as hell change up then I see 98 mph it is difficult to adjust especially in the playoff atmosphere.

    I hope that explains it enough. :D

  184. Jeter's future wife

    so maybe before we go to sleep, we find out who is playing Wed or Thurs?

  185. Andrew

    Thanks Tampa. That’s what I thought.

  186. Jeter's future wife

    Brandon,

    yeah, better, but I guess I’d have to have been in the batters box a few times with a 90+ mph pitch coming in to really be able to understand….

  187. catya

    This was a weird game.
    Is thre any use for Giambi on our team? He’s a shell of himself.

    Great to see the B team do what the A team couldn’t yesterday,WIN!!!!!

  188. pat

    I included the 6 feet to the right as well as the strikeout, that’s why I said inning. Personally I don’t want to see the 9th, 10th or 11th pitcher in a post season game.

  189. A Tampa Yankee in King George's Court

    Brandon

    I agree with you completely on the change of speeds idea but the problem is Edwar has to be able to throw strikes for it to be effective. And I think he is very reluctant to throw in the strike zone and I think he is content to nibble and hope for bad swings.

  190. Andrew

    Brandon

    That’s fine reasoning assuming a batter will see Proctor and then Farnsworth, but it’s really not supposed to be an issue with guys that throw one inning. Batter #1-5 would see Proctor, then 6-9 would see Farnsworth. If things go badly one or two of the opposing team might see a ‘similar stuff’ pitcher, but not enough to make a big difference.

    The bottom line is that the Yankees would and should take pitchers who can throw strikes and not get behind in the count over trying to get some “different stuff” matchup.

  191. Green Tea Torre

    pete,

    i understand. i’ve evaluated players on their performance for a long time now. i was just curious as to why you seem to have changed your tune with regards to young pitchers in waiving ohlendorf through even though he’s only pitched a few innings. whenever folks here are raving about a young/new guy, you’re always preaching about how we should wait until they’ve had time in the majors to see what their true worth is. now all of a sudden you’re beating the ohlendorf drum.

    and for the record, i’m not advocating for britton to make the postseason roster, but if veras and ohlendorf have a shot, i’d think britton should be at least considered as well.

  192. Sherri

    I hate to say it, really, but it’s been bugging me. I’ve always liked Giambi, but like Catya says, he’s not the same. Are we just now seeing Giambi minus the juice? If so, and I hope not, but it’s sad.

  193. docthomp

    We’ll tomorrow I go to Modell’s get all my stuff and get ready to kick some Cleveland… I love the post season! Arrrrrgh! No sleep either.

  194. pat

    I think Boston has until an hour after tomorrows game to announce their decision

  195. Lawnmower

    C’mon Theo, clock is ticking. Take the long series. Give us the short series because Cleveland’s 1-2 starters are their only shot at taking the series. We want to feast on Byrd & Westbrook at the stadium and win in 4.

  196. A Tampa Yankee in King George's Court

    Pat

    They have an hour after the AL playoff seeds have been determined, whether it happens on Sunday or last Thursday. So it has to be an hour after the Cleveland game ended since that was the official time the AL seeds were determined.

  197. '07 Gabriel ( #27 in '07 )

    The Silly Nation gets to pick its poison about when the playoffs start. Having them and the dreaded Angels go the full 5 games and then like 16 innings in the last game with lots of injuries throughout the series would suit me just fine. Nice win by the B team tonight. I wonder if they really let A-Rod manage the last game. I think that would be the right thing to do after all he did this season to ensure the Yankees even had a postseason to look forward to.

  198. Spags

    I love Giambi too, but yeah, its sad. At least last year his OBP was league leading, and he could really work a count. He still can better than most, but when he’s slumping, he doesn’t. We NEED that from him, Damon and Abreu, since so many of the young guys have no patience (ie cano, melky). Gotta get to the middle relievers to do some damage somtimes.

  199. A Tampa Yankee in King George's Court

    What day do the playoffs start? Is it still Tuesday or did they move it back to Wed?

  200. Lawnmower

    Playoffs start Wed or Thurs. We’ll know within the hour.

  201. A Tampa Yankee in King George's Court

    I mean just the first playoff game for any team, AL or NL?

  202. Jeter's future wife

    taken from Cleveland newspaper, Cleveland.com

    New York went 3-0 at Yankee Stadium and 3-0 at Jacobs Field. They out-hit the Indians, .348 to .228. They outscored them, 47-17. Tribe pitchers had a 8.19 ERA.

    The Indians shrugged their shoulders Saturday afternoon at such stats and said, “What, me worry?”

    “The Yankees probably feel confident,” said Indians shortstop Jhonny Peralta. “They know they went 6-0 against us, but we’re different and so are they.”

    Peralta is glad the Indians are playing the Yankees.

    “The Yankees are famous in the Dominican Republic,” Peralta said. “I know a lot of people will be watching me. It’s going to give me a lot of energy.”

    Said Indians relief pitcher Rafael Betancourt: “This is a different situation than the regular season. We weren’t playing our best baseball when we played them. There are four great teams in the postseason and we’re one of them.”

    The Yankees pounded starters Jake Westbrook and Jeremy Sowers in the first two games of an April series in New York. They scored six runs with two out in the ninth against closer Joe Borowski to complete the sweep.

    They beat starters Fausto Carmona, Paul Byrd and Westbrook in an August sweep at Jacobs Field.

    The matchup for Game 1 this week is expected to be C.C. Sabathia (19-7) vs. Chien-Ming Wang (19-7).

    “We haven’t faced Wang this year, but they haven’t faced C.C.,” said first baseman Ryan Garko. “We had a lot of different guys on our club in April and Travis Hafner was hurt when we played them in August.”

  203. pat

    Wednesday is first playoff game for NL or AL

  204. Brandon

    Andrew, that is when matchups can go wrong notice Mendoza, Nelson, Mo… completely different type of MRP, doing it the other way just takes away from thier scouts helping us, the report on Edwar is he doesn’t throw strikes and has a tough change up

    Ohlendorf and Veras ..hard throwers nasty slider (this just cancels out worrying about the other one in the report & in the playoffs you need to keep them guessing)

    All I know is I’d go w/ change of pace in order to disrupts some swings. Fastball and sliders don’t really throw you into slumps unless they are the Joba Chamberlain type. This is why I’d say it’s between Veras or Ohlendorf.

  205. Jeter's future wife

    go to this link to get an idea of what CLE players and media are saying about our ALDS.

    http://blog.cleveland.com/sports/indians/

  206. Dr. Acula

    Okay

    There may be multiple one-game playoffs on Monday for the NL (don’t ask)

    the regular playoffs begin on Wednesday for some teams and Thursday for the balance.

    Boston gets to choose if whether they want to start on Wed or Thur, and we start on the opposite day.

  207. pat

    Posada is supposed to have tomorrow off. Maybe that means he’ll get the nod to be guest manager

  208. Dr. Acula

    Thanks Mrs. Jeter!

  209. catya

    Every time I see Tony Larussa,it angers me.He allowed a young Giambi to be lead by Mark Macguire,into” steroidom”
    AND LOOKED THE OTHER WAY!!!!

    According to Conseco in Juiced,”Jason looked up to Mark,” and Mark took him under his wing.

  210. Jeter's future wife

    Tito still hasn’t decided yet?

  211. A Tampa Yankee in King George's Court

    Every time I see LaRussa I get angry with how he allowed his 105 win team in 2004 lay down for a 4 game sweep against the Red Sox in the World Series.

  212. Sherri

    Have you guys checked out Rebecca’s Blog today?

  213. Jeter's future wife

    that is sad about Giambi, but don’t think anyone was holding a gun to his head, he knew right from wrong and he chose wrong…that’s it

  214. pat

    For the non YES of you out there. Matsui on his way back to NY to have his knee drained. IF he is available for the post season, probably only as DH.

  215. Jeter's future wife

    you’re welcome, Dr.A!

  216. Lawnmower

    Matsui reduced to DH in opening round per YES.

    I fear Giambi & Matsui will be victims to CC’s looping curveballs in Game 1. How about Betemit at first and Shelley at DH in Game 1?

    Joe won’t do it because he won’t bench Matsui but I’d still play Betemit at first in opener.

  217. catya

    Tony Larussa was the mgr for the A’s at the time. He had Mark, Jason and Conseco before George bush traded for Conseco to the Texas Rangers. All 3 roiders together.

  218. Lawnmower

    Ha, Shelley says sometimes he forgets his own birthday. He is hillarious!

  219. Sherri

    Lawnmower – How about Mientkeiwicz at 1st? I think he’s earned it.

  220. peter

    Edwar ramirez will prove all you doubters wrong once again!!! Just wait and see….........

  221. Lawnmower

    Yeah, Minky has played great but we already have a lot of lefties in the lineup against CC so it’s a tough call.

  222. YankeeJosh

    My Sox fan friend tells me the Sox will play game 1 Wednesday (8 day series). If true, that’s probably good for us since we’ll get to see the back end of Cleveland’s rotation.

  223. catya

    Let’s all say Yoda!! Yoda!! Yoda!! come on guys.

  224. Bob

    So Damon in LF, Minky at first and Giambi at DH.

    Unfortunately I think we’re better off without MAtsui anyways if he’s gonna be playing like he has lately. I still think giambi has a hot streak in him here if he can start getting reg. at bats.

  225. Sherri

    I think we def need Minky’s defense at 1st. The more runs stopped at 1st, the less we have to make.

  226. Lawnmower

    According to Boston Globe, we get the short series and start Thursday. Good!

    http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extra_bases/2007/09/playoffs_to_sta.html

  227. Spags

    ty lawnmower, good news. Well, good except I gotta wait until Thursday now!!!

  228. pat

    Thursday it is. Pete confirmed it.

  229. Sherri

    Lawnmower – Definitely good news!! Thx!

    This is what the link states:

    September 29, 2007
    Playoffs to start Wednesday
    By Amalie Benjamin, Globe Staff
    The Red Sox will begin their 2007 postseason on Wednesday, choosing the eight-day Wednesday-Friday format instead of the seven-day Thursday-Friday format. They were granted the decision by virtue of having the best record in the American League.

    So that means Game 1 will be Wednesday at Fenway Park, with the Red Sox facing the Angels. New York will take on Cleveland on Thursday at Jacobs Field.

    Game times have not yet been determined.

  230. Jeter's future wife

    the Gators are still playing and no Sportscenter…any word yet on Wed or Thurs?

  231. Jeter's future wife

    ok, so this means that CC and the other guy can’t pitch twice,right?

  232. Spags

    And then it should be:
    NY @ Boston 2 games
    Boston @ NY 2 games
    NY @ Boston 1 game, if nescessary
    Boston @ NY 1 game, if nescessary (I got tickets!)
    NY @ Boston 1 game, if nescessary
    correct?

  233. Sherri

    Pete has posted new blog entries covering this.

  234. Lawnmower

    Spags – format is 2-3-2 in ALCS

  235. Spags

    oh ok, thanks. I wasnt sure. I think my tix were for home game # 3 if needed.

  236. Spags

    So I gotta hope for a split in beantown, and a sweep in NY, to REALLY enjoy that game. :-)

  237. Brandon

    there is no chance in hell Minky touches Sabathia, I’d go Betemit at 1B and pray we knock CC out in the 4th inning to turn him loose on the left side.

  238. Gunawan

    I’m curious Ramirez performed much better today with Molina than his last two appearances with Posada. I am also curious with the facts that Posada was catching in the two games that used up so many relievers recently.

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Peter AbrahamPeter Abraham is the Yankees beat writer for The Journal News and LoHud.com. E-mail me at pabraham@lohud.com

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