Game 3: Blue Jays at Yankees
Posted by: Peter Abraham - Posted in Misc on Apr 03, 2008 
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YANKEES
Johnny Damon DH
Derek Jeter SS
Bobby Abreu RF
Alex Rodriguez 3B
Jason Giambi 1B
Robinson Cano 2B
Hideki Matsui LF
Jose Molina C
Melky Cabrera CF
Phil Hughes RHP
Notes: Thanks to Sam Borden for texting this to me from the clubhouse. … Matsui will make his 2008 debut in left field as Damon gets a day as the DH. … Posada (stiff right shoulder) remains out. … This is the 2008 debut for Phil Franchise, the noted right-hander and blogger. Hopefully he gets off to a good start and disposes of all the Johan Santana talk.
UPDATE, 5:16 p.m.: Sam just called with a few updates. Matsui is playing left because that’s where he’ll have to play once Melky is suspended. The hearing is supposed to be sometime early next week, perhaps Monday. Why MLB has taken so long to deal with this is a mystery. … Posada is expected to play tomorrow, probably as the DH. … Girardi talked about the importance of having a quality backup in Molina. … The manager also said he thinks the bad blood with the Rays is over and that the weekend should be peaceful. Speaking of which, did you know that Eliot Johnson made that team? Interesting.
UPDATE, 5:24 p.m.: Further word from Sam is that McGowan is pitching despite his flu-like symptoms of a day ago.
UPDATE, 8:13 p.m.: I’m listening to the game at home while doing some work and just heard Suzyn Waldman give a lengthy defense of Joba Chamberlain and criticize those reporters who asked Frank Thomas about the fist-pumping reliever on Wednesday.
Then she said that “nobody reported” that Joba had a poster of Thomas in his room when he was growing up.
Well, it was reported on this blog yesterday
and in The Journal News today.
The New York Times had it, too. Now that I check, so did the Star-Ledger.
UPDATE, 8:46 p.m.: Nice job by Phil Hughes tonight. He’s given up three hits. One was in the infield and the other was a pop-up double that landed in no-man’s land. Yet he’s down 2-0 as the Yankees struggle again offensively.
Hughes so far: 6 3 2 2 1 4. The only real mistake he made was walking Marco Scutaro with two outs in the fifth inning. Hopefully the Yankees can get him off the hook.
UPDATE, 9:01 p.m.: The Yankees scratched for two runs and tied it up. Be interesting to see whether Girardi leaves Hughes in to face 6-7-8. They’re 0 for 5 against him tonight. This could be where the innings limits have an impact on the game.
UPDATE, 9:03 p.m.: Hughes is out and it’s Billy Traber against the lefty Overbay. Nice outing for Hughes.
UPDATE, 9:36 p.m.: 2nd and 3rd, one out with Abreu and A-Rod up. You have to take the lead now. When’s the last time the Yankees had two bunts in a row?
UPDATE, 9:47 p.m.: First and second, no outs. The Yankees played for one run with the second bunt and that’s what they got. Now we’ll see if Mariano can make it stand up.
Commenting guidelines:
1. Ignore the trolls. Every blog has them and in our case they’re mostly Red Sox fans. Just don’t respond, period. They will go away.
2. Do not write “first!” if you’re the first person to comment on a post. This isn’t second grade.
3. If the Yankees give up a run or lose a game, please refrain from declaring the season is over. You just look stupid. Or did you forget what happened last year and the year before that and the year before that? One pitch or one game does not a season make. Just relax.
4. Writing, “Yesssss!!!” after somebody gets a hit is a not a quality post.
5. Don’t post in ALL CAPS or in bold to make your point. Try writing something intelligent instead. That works better.
6. I’m all in favor of you referencing a story from another paper or web site. Just please note your source so the writer gets proper credit. And don’t post entire stories, post a link.
7. If there is a persistent knucklehead or two, please send me an e-mail letting me know who the person is, an example of their idiocy and the time of their post and I’ll see what I can do.
It sucks that I am working, I am going to miss Phil’s 08 debut tonight… Enjoy your days off Pete.
wow the lineup so early! that’s great, Thanks Pete, I love your blog.
They will need more then 6 runs to win this game
“wow the lineup so early! ”
seriously. i already had my coat halfway on, ready to go home, then realized it wasn’t even 4 PM….
Hopefully our bats get it going tonight.
I hoped Posada would be back but I guess playng it safe is the right way to go so early in the season.
Do we know yet if McGowan is on for tonight??
I wish that Shelley had served his supension these first 3 games. The Yanks are facing 3 right handers nd it wasn’t likely that he’d be in the lineup. Of course, that’s easy for me to say. I’m sure Shelley feels he was unished too harshly and wants his day in court.
gayle,
McGowan may not pitch?
What’s the weather going to be like for the game from any of the New Yorkers out there?
Thanks for the line-up. One if Cashman’s key moves last year was picking up Molina. As least now when Posada is out we have a very capable catcher offensively and defensively.
Drive:
McGowan has been reported to have the flu and may not make the start tonight.
McGowan was sick yesterday…
I would have thought that Shelley would get into a game soon, just to avoid rust. Show’s what I know.
Right now its overcast in midtown, but im not sure if rain is in the forecast. IMHO, Cano, Giambi and Matsui have to start having better ab’s. I will even take a few fly outs to right from Matsui tonight.
Drive–
You better hope he does for your fantasty team lol. You already lost 2 players today due to injury a 3rd may secure my win lol.
Dustin McGowan will take the ball today.
http://www.tsn.ca/mlb/news_sto.....38;hubname=
OT: First person to use the words “Detroit” and “chemistry” in the same sentence gets a cookie.
Yesssss!!!
Sorry, I just couldn’t resist.
The chemistry department at the Detroit Institute of Higher Learning received a grant from The Bill Bixby foundation. Cookie please.
The Detroit Tigers are a chemistry experiment gone horribly wrong.
I like white choc./macadamia nut…thanks.
gayle,
VERY funny! lol
I tried a different tact from the other fantasy league I’m in. I went for offense with my first picks. I’m learning to regret it lol
It’s turned overcast, but according to good ol’ accuweather.com it seems rain won’t come until after after midnight. It’s sure gonna be cold though! Good thing I brought something warm to wear to the game tonight.
Gotta say I’m excited to see Phil tonight, and hope he’s sharp. It’d be nice to see the Yankee bats wake up just a bit more….
Hmmm, wonder how Jorge’s shoulder is actually feeling….
sometimes i listen to Detroit Rock City while i play with my chemistry set.
Gitmo,
You get a stale oatmeal cookie.
Im hoping Mcgowen pitches today and not some no namer. As our recent history sugests. Rookies and first timers give us fits. So bring on Dustin!!
Yesssss!!!
Sorry, I just couldn’t resist.
NOOOO!!!
Drive when I realized that you get more points for a win or save (10) versus if you go 4-4 with singles you only get 4 I realized pitching means more
With potential rainouts Friday and perhaps Saturday, should the Yanks skip IPK in the rotation this time around? They could save some of his innings for later in the season.
The Posada situation is bigger news than anyone seems to think. A balky shoulder for a catcher is very bad, obviously, and the problem usually lingers for a while. This is not good at all.
Is it going to be a rainout tonight? It is coming down in buckets in our nation’s capital.
First!!!
How long before this is played out on Law & Order?
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/.....id=3326985
My leagues have always had a cap on starts per week so thats why pitching gave you more points.
Thanks for the weather updates.
previous
mel,
Damn mel. That was 2 threads ago. Keep up will ya. You dont want Denver. Anyone else but them. Thats why id almost prefer being a 3 or 4 seed. As i think 7 and 8 are going to give the top seeds fits.
Phil had a strong spring and looks ready to go
sad to see that Posada is out again… I don’t like that one bit!
also, i’ll be doing a live blog of the game on my site if anyone wants to join the fun
GO HUGHSIE! I’ve got a good feeling about his season debut; he started to really get focused towards the end of ST.
Not for nothing, but Shelley could have served his suspension by now.
Hideki Balboni…
Good thing we have a serviceable back up catcher in Milona. one of the best moves made in the off season. The Yankees havent had a decent back up catcher since Jorge was Girardi’s back up.
Hugh,
We got Molina mid-season last year. It was a good move signing him though.
Fernando,
Good point. You would think the Yankees knew what the pitching matchups were and would have had him serve already.
About my elbow/tricep injury. I took your advice and went away from scull crushers and did closed bench and dips. Aint working. Ill just do what iv done for years and deal with it. Thanks for the advice anyways.
Somehow, it’s ok that Posada is resting with Molina as his backup. I feel ok.
fatso and fruitloops are STILL talking about Joba’s fist-pump.
With this cold damp weather resting Jorge is the smart way to go we have a lot of game with minimal rest
Fernando
I thought the same thing about Shelley’s suspension.
It also would have eliminated the chance that the Yankeess would have to play with a 23 man squad for a few days if one of the guys served it while one appealed it.
S.o.S.27,
There goes my career in sports medicine.
It was his first opening day. He opened at single A last year. The Blue Jays didn’t care, why should they? Shut it M&MD.
Mike–
if I have learned one thing from listening to those two over the years is once they get a bee in their bonnet about something they will not let it go and no matter what anyone says to try and convince them otherwise they are always right.
Doesnt matter that Frank Thomas and Vernon Wells had no problem with it.Doesnt matter that if they had been paying attention at all last year they would realize that Joba did the same thing not everytime but I certainly saw it a few times.
Pat,
Yeah, I mean even if Shelley gets it knocked down to one game the fact that he could have served all three in these games he’s been benched makes it a moot point.
Andrea what are you talking about? (They?)
i can’t handle M & M anymore just too damn arrogant, now i’m listening to Kaye he’s no bargin better than those 2 idiots.
you’re so right gayle…i don’t even know why i let it bother me.
yankees Ben, Andrea was responding my remark about mike and lapdog
I think just to piss off the media and critics. The next time Joba strikes out a batter to end the inning. He should do a fist pump,scream followed by grabbing his jersey with both hands and pull it out show who he plays for. Hell just beat the bat boy to the bat and do a Clemens(throw it back at the hitter).
After all that is said and done. Make an announcement that your no longer going to do celebrations.
Fernando Alejandro (Respect Jeter’s Gangster)
April 3rd, 2008 at 4:41 pm
S.o.S.27,
There goes my career in sports medicine.
Dont give up quite yet. Start recommending b-12. I heard it helps cure everything.
SoS,
I know imagine if those 2 could put it together for a season? Hollinger said, “Nobody else’s games look more ragged. Is this the NBA or the Rucker League?”.
BTW, who else thought that Philly had this game lost in the 2nd?
Poor Tom Gordon. Worked a scoreless inning to bring his ERA down to the low 30′s.
Does anyone else find it impossible to read a NL box score? Hieroglyophics and sanskrit are easier to read.
I know I said it earlier, but I really dont like Giambi batting behind A-Rod. Until Giambi proves he is a threat again, I wouldnt have him in that slot. I see the following sceanrio alot with Giambi in back of Alex instead of w alk off hit.
Bottom of the ninth, Yankees down by one run, 1 out. Rodriguez at the plate…intentional walk….Giambi grounds into a 7 man shift ending the game on a double play.
Last night the Jays had the ENTIRE infield on the right side of second base and he hit right into it once again. I mean seriously, I have no idea how you pay somebody 23 million dollars and he cant even hit the ball to a part of field where NOBODY is playing. I dont care what you people say about his OBP and OPS, Giambi sucks
Mike thanks I got it by now, just tuned in to these idiots
“I dont care what you people say about his OBP and OPS, Giambi sucks”
seriously.
if you’re going to bring facts into the argument instead of basing your judgement on one AB, there is no place for you here.
“The Yankees havent had a decent back up catcher since Jorge was Girardi’s back up.”
not true.
Hugh, the Jays didn’t have the entire infield on the right side. They just moved Scutaro over. Eckstein stayed in the SS position, where the 3B usually is in the Giambi shift. The idiot Kay got it wrong. On the replay you can barely see Eckstein on the SS side of 2B
One at bat???? I guess you havent watched Jason Giambi for the past couple of years.
This is the play by play:
Jimmy Rollins singled, Victorino out on sacrifice to third (Rollins to 3rd), Utley IBB, Howard IBB, game over on a 4 pitch BB to Werth.
Doh!
hmm, who was the decnt back up catcher sice Jorge was Girardi’s? and by decent I mean a guy who could hit over 220
“One at bat???? I guess you havent watched Jason Giambi for the past couple of years.”
When healthy, there is no reason to keep him out of the lineup.
Joe, I didnt see the replay, but I did see Eckstein directly in back of second base…doesnt really matter, thoguh, the point is Jason Giambi can only hit one pitch, in one location to one part of the field. Whens the last time you saw Giambi hit a ball to the left of second base?
Hugh,
Never thought about that scenario before. Hell he was the most expensive bench warmer in the end of last year. I say make him the most expensive bunter. That would make them due away with the shift.
Cashman is on 1050ESPN people !
“hmm, who was the decnt back up catcher sice Jorge was Girardi’s? and by decent I mean a guy who could hit over 220″
John Flaherty in 2003 and 2004.
Girardi on WFAN !
Flaherty DUH!
Since the lineup has been struggling to score runs. Why not have Baby Huey get some at bats? More energy is good.
thanks Brandon
“One at bat???? I guess you havent watched Jason Giambi for the past couple of years.”
i watched him put up excellent numbers in 2005 and 2006 while being injured last year.
not sure what you mean. last year? yes, he wasn’t great.
last couple of years? gotta disagree.
What about the mighty Arsenal. Are there any rules about talking about them?
Anyways, come on Franchise. Let’s get the the 27 train back on track.
Girardi lied to him straight up
Girardi: to tell you the truth Mike I didn’t see it
Brandon,
What was the question?
SOS, its ridiculous that a guy making the money he does cant lay down a bunt or slap a ball to a part of the field where nobody is playing. Look, I really like Giambi as a person (ive had the pleasure of hanging out with him and he’s a great guy)…but not as my number 5 hitter in back of Alex. Until he proves he can be a force once again, he should not be in that slot.
I think the lineup’s struggling because they’ve been facing great pitching. Five runs in two games against legitimate No. 1 starters is no cause for concern.
“Since the lineup has been struggling to score runs. Why not have Baby Huey get some at bats? More energy is good.”
They’re struggling to score runs after 2 games? Facing 2 of the best pitchers in the game when they’re on? Baby Huey would have struck out 3 times if he had played yesterday, seriously.
Clare, refering to Joba’s fist pump
hmmm,
Good to see you posting more than once on a thread. Hey,i read your comments on posting on some other sites. I didnt really understand what they meant(abbreviated). But hopefully the trolls dont have hybernate away from this blog. Keep bringing it. Enjoy what you bring to the table.
“SOS, its ridiculous that a guy making the money he does cant lay down a bunt or slap a ball to a part of the field where nobody is playing.”
I forget that all of those bunt base hits in Oakland is what got him his contract. *Yawn*
John Flaherty??? I guess that lone hit he had against the red sox in jeters catch game made him a decent hitter. You guys are crazy, he was horrible
ray, I know he wasnt paid to bunt, but at this stage he shouldnt be hitting 5th behind the greatest player in the game.
I’m sorry but in reference to Flatherty he sucked at hitting worse than Will Nieves
no he didn’t.
and ray, he actually went the other way when he was in Oakland
“John Flaherty??? I guess that lone hit he had against the red sox in jeters catch game made him a decent hitter. You guys are crazy, he was horrible”
You do realize we are talking about a backup catcher right?
If you look at his production in limited ABs compared to other backup catchers, he was pretty solid.
Heck I wish we could get those type of numbers year in year out but we don’t. Haven’t since.
Stop using the term “Phil Franchise.” It’s silly… and pretty stupid. Wait until he produces before giving Phil a silly nickname.
Baby Huey would have struck out 3 times if he had played yesterday, seriously.
Raymag-come on. Give me some slack here. I know we faced to top notch pitchers and all. But Matsui and Damon havnt looked quit right yet. Im not so sure that he would have struck out 3 times either. He was one of the most patient and best hitters in spring(i know its just spring). I just like the energy he brings and the power threat the he is. I just hate to see him rott on the bench. Hopefully he’ll get his chance soon and Girardi not do what Torre did last year to young bullpen pitchers. Sit them a couple weeks till they were ice cold. Were on the same side.
Heck he even outproduces Girardis best years here and Girardi had more AB’s as he was splitting the job.
Do a little research please.
Flaherty was the man.
ok Global, whatever you say…and when did I ever say Girardi was good?
Stop using the term “Phil Franchise.†It’s silly… and pretty stupid. Wait until he produces before giving Phil a silly nickname.
How about HUGHES YOUR DADDY.
Have you guys forgotten Kelly Stinnett? Best hitting catcher since Mike Piazza.
Since when is Shawn Chacon a starter with Houston!! I thought he was still at Pittsburgh?
Did anyone listen to Cashman – did he say anything interesting? Girardi on the FAN was pretty vanilla.
John Flaherty with the Yanks. I have to admit its not as bad as i initially thought.
2003 Yankees 40 105 16 28 8 0 4 0 14 4 1 19 5 1 1 6 .267 .297 .457
2004 Yankees 47 127 11 32 9 0 6 1 16 5 2 25 2 0 1 5 .252 .286 .465
I would hope that if the hearing is on MOnday and that they uphold the 3 games that at least for Melky he can start to serve MOnday as would hate to have him miss any of the Sox series
For some reason when I try writing here it takes a while to get posted on the good days, on other days my posts don’t get posted at all. All other LoHud blogs the post gets posted right away. Can it be that I am somewhat blocked from this blog? Is there a way to change it? I’m a Yankees fan and never bothered other blogers here. Please fix it if you can. Thanks Pete, Hope you read this. Best blog on the planet LoHud Yankees.
“and by decent I mean a guy who could hit over 220″
2003 – 267 (OPS+ 97)
2004 – 252 (OPS+ 93)
he stunk offensively in 2005.
kelly stinnett, bwhahahahahaha…that doesnt say much for my boy Brian who was actually sent back to AAA in favor of Stinnett…who the cards pulled off of his couch….last season….OUCH
McGowan’s under the weather? Then the yankees must go for the jugular… None of that… lets not bunt cause his ankle’s bloody nonsense. They gotta wear this guy out tonight
Good for Girardi if he lied about it. He was probably given a heads up on their opinion. He doesn’t need to get into a tussle with two clowns over it, especially since it didn’t bother Toronto.
If there’s a problem with Joba’s fist pumps, it’ll be addressed privately.
Evening everyone! My presentation went great–it was a moot court thing and I got to be the judge, so I got to yell at people and get class credit for it!
Anyway, let’s see what the Yankee offense does tonight against a pitcher not named Halladay or Burnett, shall we?
Oh, and my personal philosophy: As long as you aren’t down more runs than outs left, no reason to get all mopey.
And Chacon is pitching well for god’s sake…
all I can say about Flaherty is, sometimes numbers do lie.
Wow, I’m nervous for Phil. lol
Hope he does well tonight.
“all I can say about Flaherty is, sometimes numbers do lie.”
Numbers say nothing
Interpretations of the numbers on the other hand, do all the talking
Flaherty’s two good years as a Yankee had lower OBP but better slugging than Girardi’s years as a Yankee
HUGHES YOUR DADDY I like that, that’s a wrap
Backup catchers are like backup QBs. If they could start, they would be.
That being said. I really, really like Molina. I feel comfortable knowing he’s in for Posada. As Goldmember used to say, “He’s a keeper.”
Forget Chacon, former Yankee Tim Redding is pitching shutouts. Tim Redding!
I swear they just said on WFAN that McGowan is NOT starting, but I may have misheard.
Now that we’ve solved the better hitting catchers dilema. All i want to know is which one of Stinnett,Nieves,Flaherty,the one with the pornstache from philly and Molina would win in a foor race?
IMO
1.flaherty
2.nieves
3.stinnett
4.pornstache
5 Molina
Can we all agree that Molina would finish last?
I’m not over the Whatever Rays. While I don’t want to see violence, I do want to witness some kick arse baseball, with the Yankees reducing the Rays to rubble.
I don’t like the Rays.
That’s part of my season, and I’m sticking to it.
First! Just kidding. I wasn’t first anyway. I’m more excited for this game than the past two games because Phil Hughes is pitching and he’s from the farm.
Darkhorse – Sal Fasano
SoS,
Sal Fasano (w/ the Jays now) would finish dead last and would be lapped by Molina.
I think Bengie’s slower than Jose, but none of those Molina brothers are particularly fleet of foot.
Pornstache=Sal Fasano thanks Jimmy!!
Molina’s got to be the most common name in baseball.
mel,
Unless Salstache has a broken leg today. Its hard to believe any of the Molina’s(accept maybe the one in st.louis)would finish second to last to anyone. Instead of last.
I don’t which one of them would win, but I know all of them would probably lap me. Multiple times. Yeah, it’s not a particularly pretty site. Oh well.
Anyway, I’m with Sean. Can’t wait to see Phil pitch.
Mel–I would argue Cabrera.
Changing the subject a bit.
Whats worse than an athlete speaking in third person? Chad Johnson has to learn the word “I” or “Me” can be used in place of your name.
Rabecca,
I guess P.E.in high school stopped you from getting that 4.0 GPA. I would have loved to trade you Social Studies for p.e. You do my work, while i run that mile.
Thanks for trying to help me on that computer problem. Went with the original instead.
“Last night the Jays had the ENTIRE infield on the right side of second base and he hit right into it once again. I mean seriously, I have no idea how you pay somebody 23 million dollars and he cant even hit the ball to a part of field where NOBODY is playing.”
He has a point lol.
But you give a guy an outrageous contract like in hopes he will produce well above his cost in his early, prime years of the contract. You think we will be looking for video-game type numbers when A-Rod turns 42 and is making 28mil/year? Then again, we are paying A-Rod for his homerun chase and the attendance/attention that will bring.
SoS: It certainly didn’t help! However, the work I had to do in my history classes nearly killed me on its own, I don’t think I could take on another student’s load! Anyway, when I got to do Yoga and sleep for an hour…that was heaven, especially senior year when I had gym first.
And you are very welcome.
Mel,
The majority of the Molina’s are all brothers…and all catchers. There’s another Molina whose also a catcher but not related to them…yet.
Goin to the game tonight-hope its not too cold.
Phil will be great.
Go Yanks!
Hopefully Hughes can keep his pitch count down and mix in all his pitches. I want to see more then fastball and curve.
Fernando,
Im not sure if your talking about the Yadier. He is related to Bengie and Jose. If not,than i know the reason for the common last name. They know having a last name of Molina will give them the best chance to make the bigs. So they change their name in High School and the rest is history.
Note to self. Go to the courts tomorrow and change name to Rodriquez.
Is it me or is there something VERY not right about the phrase “and the Royals sweep the Tigers”?
OK…so THIS is the game that the Yankees beat down the Jays 12-2 !!!
Fernando,
I noticed there was another catcher.
That’s why I wanted Bronson Sardinha to stick. I think that it’s pretty cool to have 3 brothers in baseball, even if it’s in the minors.
6 Molina’s. Only the 3 brothers are in the majors. And yes, there’s a Gustavo who catches, a 2B, and a LF.
Rebecca, 10 Cabreras! 6 on MLB team, 2 are pitchers for the O’s.
“all I can say about Flaherty is, sometimes numbers do lie.”
hilarious.
Flaherty sucked.
no, he didn’t.
yes, he did.
here are some facts.
the facts are wrong.
Only 6 of 16 Joneses are on rosters.
Only 2 of 23 Smiths are on rosters.
Rebecca, are you serious ? The Royals sweep the Tigers is music to my ears. The Tigers are one of my least favorite AL teams…..I don’t ever feel sorry for the dang Tigers…
Mel: I wonder if we can name them all?
Melky
Daniel
Orlando
Regarding Flaherty, I can’t say a player with a sub-.300 OBP is an adequate hitter, even as a backup catcher.
His SLG certainly took me by surprise though.
Rebecca,
I’m not to swift myself, but I’m pretty sure I could beat Fasano.
Now I’m picturing the sausage races as the Brewers game. I can see Fasano losing that race, too.
Hey. Who was that who hit the hot dog girl in the race with their bat? It was so bad at the time, but it’s pretty hilarious thinking about it now.
The Tigers are one of my least favorite AL teams…..I don’t ever feel sorry for the dang Tigers…
I have to say i never thought twice about Detroit till Sheffield got there. Now i hope they never make the playoffs till he retires. I guess i look at it as at least im not hoping he gets hurt.
Umm. S.o.S. You do know that Sheffield got hurt tonight, right?
Flaherty sucked.
no, he didn’t.
yes, he did.
here are some facts.
the facts are wrong.
continuing the future of this arguement.
stats are wrong.
no thier not.
your just a stat geek.
your just blind.
i call it like i see it.
numbers dont lie.
your wrong.
no your wrong.
forget it. agree to disagree.
Ill stop now.
don’t forget the Guillen’s – they been confusing my friend the Royal’s friend all day…
I heard on the radio that Sheffield got hurt in the game. He was 1 for 3, but tore a something in his finger and exited the clubhouse wearing a splint. This was reported on XM MLB, the Dibble and Kennedy Show.
Hey, the Tigers are probably going to figure it out. I wouldn’t start gloating just yet.
But I will say it is “nice” for other favored teams to get off to a slow start.
Hope Jorge’s back soon…but Molina is much better than the likes of Stinett, Fasano, Nieves, etc.
Mel – I spoke to my niece about NYU and got some information. If you are still interested send your email address to me at Fran0322@aol.com and I’ll email you what I found out.
Hey. Who was that who hit the hot dog girl in the race with their bat? It was so bad at the time, but it’s pretty hilarious thinking about it now.
Thats the only way that molina beats fasano.
rebecca-are you serious. Sheffield got hurt? How bad and how long? Now your probably think i did vodoo or jinx him sub contiounsly someway.
Time to switch computers. I sure hope the rain holds off until after the game. Bad enough that it’s coldish and raw feeling out there. I would guess that McGowan is not as bad as we may have wanted to hope, flu-wise. Yankee bats need to start heating up, though.
S.o.S. Tendon on his finger. Don’t know how bad or for how long but I imagine they’ll mention it during a game break tonight.
Doreen – I heard the weather should be fine for tonight (rain after midnight). Tomorrow nights’s game may be a problem weather wise.
It’s a torn tendon but Sheff says he can play through it. It’s apparently pretty swollen though. I predict 15 day DL.
Oh I cant wait for the game to start. I love Hughes, and when he was put into an offer, I was ready to go down to Tampa and curse out Hank. It would have been a disgrace to deal Hughes, IPK and Melky for Johan. An absolute disgrace. If we really wanted Santana, we could have gotten him for much less. Just look at the Mets deal. Im anxious to see Phil this season, he pitched great in the ALDS. I cant wait to see him pitch!
If I hear one more person say that, “Joba was out of line (i.e. fist pumping)” …
I guess they would rather people only have enthusiasm in big games..
Joba is obviously an emotional person, and when I saw him do it, I said to myself that he really IS emotional .. wow. However, I loved see a yankee showing some emotion.. I’ve been saying that they don’t have fire for a long time..
Please JOba, continue to fist pump all you want.. and bring it on..
Could someone please explain to me the Joba inning situation.
I know the Yankees want to build up his arm slowly, and they also want him for the whole season, which seems to be why starting in the bullpen makes sense. But I don’t understand how many innings they want him to get to or when it would make sense for him to transition to the rotation.
Thanks.
Fleas: amen
you know – if he’s fist pumping striking out like Tony Pena Jr (no offense – just the first name I thought of) in a 6-0 game, then I get it – but Frank Thomas in a close game… GMAB – he should be pumped
oh dear
Girl named ‘Alexa Rodriguez’ attacked by hawk at Fenway
http://tinyurl.com/2kovd5
A lot of times in MLB flu-like symptoms = hung over. I wouldn’t be surprised if that was the case with McGowan.
Does anyone know what finger it was? Right or left hand? If not, i guess we’ll all find out tonight. If its anything other than pinky and on his left hand. It might cause him some problems at the plate.
Jaewon,
This might be a blind leading a blind here. But if im not mistaken they are trying to limit him to around 140 innings. He would make the move to the starter role sometime in July.
Jaewon,
the yankees won’t reveal the innings limits for their young starters. There is a general idea that you don’t want them to pitch more than 20 innings than they did last season (but minor league innings aren’t technically = MLB innings). I am sure the Yanks have a # and an est date in mind but won’t reveal it and its prob not set in stone.
someone like SJ44 may have a more complete or informed answer to that one
Patrick: In college sports, too. At least, at Syracuse.
Jaewon: I have no idea, since the Joba rules are no longer in effect, but I think the idea is that he will come in the eighth inning when the Yankees are winning a close game (unless the starter has a no no or whatnot). He’s certainly not for mop up duty.
Sheffield injured left ring finger. I just checked their website.
One interesting note about the Detroit Tigers (and hurrah… they got swept by the Durham Royals. They started spending some coin on the team when the NHL implemented a salary cap. The owner couldn’t blow all of his money on the Red Wings, so he started to pour it into the Tigers. It makes me sick the teams that don’t spend, but can (ehem… Seattle Mariners owned by Nintendo), and complain about the Yankees. Its also a travesty that ARod makes more than the Marlins, and not from A-Rod’s side. If you can’t afford a baseball team, sell it to someone who can for the fans sake.
Did anyone just the pre-game show on YES, with the highlight of the 3 Amigos? It just makes you want them to succeed even more.
Rebecca,
Cuse basketball? Was that why Scoop Jardine was suspended for a few games this season?
Phil,
That is wild. Why would they release the girl’s name?
At least our squirrels are tame. Unless someone named Kevina Lookatus, Justina Papelbaum, Davina Ortiza, or Carina Laptoza bothers their nuts. Then they might go crazy.
Girl named ‘Alexa Rodriguez’ attacked by hawk at Fenway
This takes the Yankee/redsox hate to another level. Ridiculous!
Doreen – I saw that. Did you also hear Kim promote Phil’s website and blog? She said she visits often.
Fran -
Yes, I heard her say that. I thought that was pretty neat.
My earlier post-Note to self. Go to the courts tomorrow and change name to Rodriquez.
Forget it. Im good.
Patrick: Scoop was suspended because he let his cousin use a stoled college ID card to pay for a meal.
True story: my friend was the one that delivered the meal.
And, dude, 55 is NOT freezing. Seriously, I walked back from class without a coat today.
SoS,
LOL. Some things just weren’t meant to be.
Holy crud… Ken Griffey Jr. has 593 HR for his career (AROD is second on the active career HR list). For a guy that has been injured the entire second half of his career, that is a ton of taters. Is he a first ballot HOFer?
Gitmo: Yes. (Sorry Pete)
Yes, Griffey is Absolutely a first ballot HOFer.
Junior would challenging Bonds numbers if he had a few more healthy years.
Rebecca,
Thanks for the insight on Scoop. Half of my family lives near Syracuse and I used to live there so I’m a huge fan. I watched a lot of the games this season but the announcers never really said why Scoop got suspended. Anyways, back to YANKEES!
If anyone is interested, I have two Tier Box MVP seats for Saturday. They are 7 rows from the railing behind home plate. I would like to just get some of my money back, so I’ll sell them for a lot under face.
Anyone interested?
First strike out of the season for Phil! Whoo!
Can Hughes survive the 1st inning with less than 25 pitches?
Nice K from Phil.
Anyone want 2 tickets for Saturday?
how i like a first pitch strike…
UGH!! WHY IS PHIL NOT UPDATING HIS BLOG?? WHAT IS HE GOING TO THROW 1-2?? (another curve though)lol
Hey all! Happy 3rd game of the season. I had a whopper of a day so probably won’t be around all so much tonight. So here are my predictions. Hughes will be great. The Yankees are great. Life is great. It’s a marathon and not a sprint. Not a question in my mind that we’re on our way to #27!
Enjoy the game, no matter what happens in it. You can always find positives, even when they don’t jump out and hit you in the eye!
Go Yankees!!!!!
Oh yeah – I definitely see why Hughes was our top prospect!
Dominant inning for Hughes. Safe to say Hughes is a first ballot HoFer?! ;0
I think Phil threw what, 15 pitches, that inning?
If he pitches every inning like the first we’re going to have a great game tonight!
He writes blogs, he strikes out two of the first three batters? Is it too soon to say Johan who?
damn that curve looks good
I think Bill Smith just threw the remote at his big screen tv
Half my posts never get posted. Does anyone else have that problem?
Betances got 2 K’s already.
No Jeff…. it is NEVER too soon for that! lol
well it is apparent that Phil is MUCH better than Moose !
13 pitches that inning
Clay – I have the same problem sometimes…it’s weird how that works
What an airhead Kay is. ‘They didn’t do the Hughes chant last year.’ Was he watching Game 3 of the ALDS?
I know Phil Franchise is known for his great variety of off speed pitches, but didn’t he used to throw faster than 88-91 mph before his hamstring injury? What happened to his velocity? When I first saw Phil pitch live in the 2006 Futures Game in Pittsburgh, he was throwing 95-97 mph.
Clay -
It happens to me at times, but there doesn’t seem to be a rhyme or reason. Sometimes if I refresh the page it turns up, but not always.
It’s early, once the year progresses, he’ll hit 95-96, but will sit at 92-94.
Yanks4Life: I think he was throwing mostly breaking balls.
Dustin McGowan has terrific stuff and gave the yankees a lot of problems last year.
They only hit .205 against him with a .320 OBP and a .273 Slugging Pct.
His record against the yankees last year was very stilted because he threw two games against them in September when he had a tired arm.
When he is on he has shut down stuff.
This game is going to be very, very difficult to wing. He is a yet another terrific pitcher on the Jays staff.
If they yankees don’t score this isn’t an issue of them just not getting the job done. This will be an issue of a very good pitcher having a good game.
Not saying this is going to happen – but McGowan has the ability to put up a game similar to the one Burnett threw yesterday.
that didnt take long to critize kay if you dont like him dont listen you have the power of the dial
It’s 42 degrees out. I wouldn’t worry too much about his velocity.
Has anyone evr sat in Tier Box MVP seats behind home plate?
McGowan looks pretty good too. The cold weather is contributing to the velocity for both pitchers. If memory serves, McGowan was throwing 95-96 last year against the Yanks and is only hitting 91-92. Could be another pitcher’s duel, a la Game 1.
Is anyone having problem with Gameday? It doesn’t want to load for me.
That was a little close!! Didn’t seem like Robbie and Bobby say each other.
2 quick outs… gotta love the pace.
Clay yes I did 4 rows from the field. Why do you ask?
so far so good this inning – 3 pitches and two outs…nice!
Dj I missed that. They did the HUGHES chant his first start!
Also I think we should all write to one of the yes broadcasters. I hate the name “generation trey”.
Hughes looks very good tonight. Lets hope we can give him a few runs to work with.
That was a seven pitch inning. 13+7=20.
Yeah, he’s got the pitch count working for him tonight.
To: Blue Jays
Thanks for the quick inning.
Phillip
O/T
I just read the Canseco Bathroom article, Mel linked above.
Isn’t beyond strange that the Mitchell Commission never contacted Canseco during their investigation. Perhaps canseco wouldn’t have cooperated, but they didn’t even try.
The only thing I can think of, is they were afraid he would open a big, steroid sized can of worms.
Jennifer, I have two for Saturday, and can’t make the game.
McGowan hit 96 in the first.
Hughes looking great so far.
Who’s Santana? That singer?
just a thought…
if McGowan is still sick and Hughes has some quick innings, it could tire out McGowan pretty quickly. The Yanks need to make him work here. I imagine McGowan has less energy/stamina than normal.
just an optimistic idea.
Jennifer,
I’m trying to answer your question, but my post keeps getting deleted.
Yeah i just popped on to comment on the 88-91 myself… McGowan has hit 96 a couple of times…. I wonder if Phil just isnt an 88-91 guy…. we’ve seen those numbers pretty consistently and i LOVE the guy anyway. Nobody seems to get a good at bat against him.
EY,
A pitcher who shut down the Twins today.
Score? This on any major channels… ESPN? I know they ran last nights game and are doing Monday versus Tampa (get to see Moose again…yaaah !)
Good eye Giambino.
bronxbomber,
MLB Extra Innings is still on a free preview if your cable company offers that.
if not, no luck.
I have to say, I hate those mutton chops on McGowan.
RobNY,
dont put too much stock into Hughes mph so far.
why are we still swinging at the first pitch – please help me understand – I’m not watching live (following on gameday), but I mean dont you want to at least see one first?
yeah no…crappy time warner
Thanks though Boston Dave…
You ever hit the Pour House on Boylston Street, or Whiskys, the next block down? Fun bars… used to bartend there while in college a few years back…
Full of Sox fans though. :shock
Dont hate the mutton chops mel… maybe he has my problem where the “bars” from the mustache to the chin just wont grow in and so he doesnt wanna look “really stupid” lol
with those sideburns, McGowan looks like a Civil War reenactment actors.
You know how .300 it sort of a benchmark when it comes to batting average?
what would you guys say is the equivalent benchmark for OBP?
Clay are you trying to get those seats?
I appreciate that these are good pitchers. That said, the Yankees are plently capable of beating up a good pitcher for an inning or so. I’d really like to see some of that.
It’s such a pleasure to watch crisply-pitched games in the AL. I mean, I want the Yankees to win, but I just love these kinds of games.
Yeah Dave i have been a Hughes Velocity apologist for a while now and im starting to think that he isnt ever gunna be a 93-95 guy… he was 88-91 his first start last year against toronto and 88-91 in Texas… he’s 88-91 tonight…. could still be a horse at those speeds just not the same as if he was living in the 94 range.
After 2 innings, Scranton Wilkes-Barre is up 2-0 on a Jason Lane solo hr and an RBI double from Nick Green. Sunglasses Igawa has pitched 2 perfect innings with 3 K’s. He is an excellent AAA pitcher.
LOL DJ, oh yeah, that’s right.
Rishi,
I think the logic is to be very aggressive with these last three pitchers. Because they throw a lot of strikes. Hard to be patient because you’ll find yourself behind 0-2. Sucks, but that’s how it goes.
You know, whoever made that comment last night about Toronto all looking like they’re related, I think you might have a point.
Anyway. Back to baseball.
Andy Sonnanstine?
I like our chances tomorrow.
Hughes is probably throwing a lot of 2 seamers which is low nineties. Which is the velocity is low.
Doesn’t really matter he’s pitching well.
RobNY, he was throwing 92-94 in Spring Training. He was throwing 92-94 last October. And he’s thrown 92-94 since high school.
Is there really a good reason to expect this not to change?
That is a great 3 innings by Hughesy. Lets go get a couple of runs… anyone smelling some Melky magic?
Whoever it was that brought up that extra innings is still free … thanks to you because i dont have to watch the game on my lap top.
As for the “really good” OBP benchmark…I’d say about .360-.380. I think there are a lot more .300 hitters than .400 OBP guys.
DJ: Sonnanstine gave us fits last year. Still, though, he’s a far cry from AJ Burnett or Roy Halladay.
We need them to give him some runs to work with.
I completely agree with you Jax. I think that you may be right about it being his 2 seamer because it’s moving quite a bit. Like i said i dont really care whether its 94 or 90 because nobody seems to have gotten a good, comfortable at bat off of him tonight.
On another note if this is McGowan with the flu i wouldnt want to see him at full strength.
it’s just so annoying – he walked Giambi, he’s not throwing that much fire up there…just 1!! It’s a hollow plea, i know
is shelley duncan serving his suspension right now?
Sonnanstine isn’t in the same stratosphere as any of these guys. His ceiling is that of a back-of-the-rotation starter.
Jorge who?
I can’t say enough how great of a pickup Molina was by Cash.
Anyone else think Molina’s been putting up some great ABs?
I was really surprised when they were announcing the lineups on YES that Giambi has a career .992 fielding percentage.
Frunkis: No idea. Best ask Pete.
Jose looks good early.
That wasn’t a pitchout, right? They do know that Molina’s are genetically modified to be the slowest humans on the planet, right?
Has anyone ever said how they are going to limit Kennedy and Hughes innings? I may be off, but I believe Hughes would top off at 160 innings and Kennedy at 180-190. Assuming healthy (knocks on wood), will Hughes spend some time in the pen later in the year or will he be skipped in the rotation at times? Anyone have any idea? Maybe when Joba joins the rotation (which I am skeptical will happen if he continues to dominate in that role), Hughes or Kennedy will go to the pen? Sorry for the rambling.
Ugh, Generation Trey. Print guys are using The Big Three.
get some runs
I just got in. Have I missed much so far?
lol @ michael kay…. 2 straight walks eh?
Where is SJ44?
I’m goin to the game on Saturday. Gonna be there real early, like 1030 or 11. Where should I park?
Bunt?
YanksFanLV
Which is why fielding percentage is one of the most useless statistics in baseball. Errors are subjective things, and the product of random luck more often than not.
Polanco’s “errorless” streak was extended yesterday on a play that was without question an error. It works like that.
Boston Dave
April 3rd, 2008 at 7:27 pm
just a thought…
if McGowan is still sick and Hughes has some quick innings, it could tire out McGowan pretty quickly. The Yanks need to make him work here. I imagine McGowan has less energy/stamina than normal.
just an optimistic idea.
I like your idea Boston Dave…lets keep this rally going here
Can’t see the game .. how good does Phil look?
Just good?
Pretty good?
Very good?
Glad we didn’t trade him for Santana good?
Unhittably good, like the game he got hurt in last year?
Joba good?
That was a huge steal on Cash’s part! I think Jose is more relaxed here. He knows his job is just to catch. He doesn’t need to be offensive on this team.
Betances now has 6 k’s in 3 innings. He’s good.
The inning limits won’t be announced to the public, but Chamberlain is expected to be topped off at 140 or so, Kennedy at 190-200, and Hughes at 170 or so.
at the very least, this is great for the all important pitch count. How does Damon look on those swinging strikes – is he anywhere near close?
Hey guys, is it me or is Paul O’Neill really good in the booth?/ I am really ejoying listening to him.
Hard hit by Johnny, just, at some one. Good sign though. We’ll get our runs.
No bunt by Damon?
Darn. Johnny crushed that.
Ron
Also some fielders will get to balls that others won’t. Say a fielder gets to a ball but miss plays it. It becomes an error. Another fielder doesn’t get to it, and no error.
dp???
Yes. If Jeter was charged an error for every ball he failed to reach last year that the average shortstop could be expected to field…gah, I don’t even want to think about it.
Damon was making a few half swings. Jeter GIDP
Well at least we worked him.
Captain Double play at it again.
mel,
considering how many high upside arms the Yanks have in the minors, it may be The Big Four, Five, Six…. in a couple years.
I think we need a nickname that’s a little more scalable
Hmm maybe we should have bunted in hindsight.
Does anyone know how long they signed Jose Molina for? Also, I know Giambi, Abreu, and Moose are gone after this season, but what about Damon or Matsui? Is it this year or next?
Dang it Jetes
Hate to say it, but does it seem like DJ is the only one not hustling down the line to beat out a DP ball. Abreu hustled to beat one out last night, and Cano today. Jeter loafed it down the line.
what a surprise derek choker grounds into a DP.
jeter will lead the league in DPs this year.
Fred McGriff?
Since when has Jeter become the king of the DP? It seems like he’s always grounding into DP’s…
ANSKY – first off, good throw back name I love it… and Phil Franchise, so far/knock on wood, looks dominating, why did we even think about trading him good
Hughes looks great, for those asking. Jeter with ANOTHER double play is frustrating. I know it’s early, but I don’t think I’m alone when I say I was hoping for a good, clean quick start to this season. Seeing slow starts, or poor at bats early in the season just brings up too many bad feelings.
Also, I hate it when the announcers present the cop-out of “well, it’s cold. It’s hard to hit in the cold.” It’s cold for the other team, too.
Okay, I know that Benji Molina is slower than molasses on a winter morning, but is there any reason that Johnny Damon couldn’t have bunted him over to third base?
A man on second and third and with 1 out is a much better position than allowing Jeter to ground into a double play.
Unreal.
I believe Molina’s is a 2-year contract
Before you guys start dumping on Jeter, we’ve been grounding out all night. There just hasn’t been anyone on base to double up.
Hope Phil’s not affected by that “long” inning.
“I was really surprised when they were announcing the lineups on YES that Giambi has a career .992 fielding percentage.”
Fielding percentage is a really bad statistic and not taken seriously as a statistical measure of defense.
There are several other defensive statistics that show that Giambi has been an awful fielder – not just bad but really terrible.
It’s partly hard to predict what Giambi will do defensively because he hasn’t played in the field regularly.
But if Giambi had played say 130 games at first base in 2006 (last time he played any meaningful games at first – played 54 games) he would have been around 25 runs worse than a league average first baseman.
That is a staggering number of runs for a first baseman to give up given that the position is often thought to be the easiest defensive position to play.
If Giambi stays healthy and plays 120-130 games in the field he will have to be much, much better in the field for him to be better than a league average first baseman. His defense could cut into solid offensive production that much.
I think they signed Molina to a two year deal this past off season.
Damon would have had that….
Softly hit. Eckstein got lucky.
I think Damon could have gotten to it. We are seeing why Matsui shouldn’t be playing the outfield anymore.
Wow…Matsui looked very awkward there and took a long time to get to the ball.
Wonderful. Gritty gutty albino dude gets a double.
Our left-handed attack so far:
Damon – 1 for 10 w/ 3 K’s
Abreu – 3 for 8
Giambi – 0 for 7
Cano – 1 for 8 w/ 2 K’s
Matsui – 1 for 7 w/ 2 K’s
Aside from Abreu, it hasn’t been good. This is what killed us last spring. Let’s hope they get it going quicker…
CB,
what is your source for the Cano and Giambi fielding stats you’ve mentioned? just curious – Id like to read up on it.
thanks.
Molina was signed over the winter to a 2/4 mill. Damon and Matsui are in the middle of 4-year contracts. I think it’s the year after next.
When Matsui first got here, he was a pretty good outfielder. It seems like he has gotten worse year after year.
mel,
No one is getting on Jeter…I think this would have been more on Girardi.
Move the players over and give guys like Abreu and A-Rod a shot with guys on base.
Its just one play, but even so.
lol yeah Jennifer i shot a text message to my mother as soon as Matsui made a mess of that play saying exactly that “Damon would have gotten to it.”
Matsui looks really stiff out there…. can we trade him to the giants please?
Hughes looks okay. Not incredibly sharp, especially with his breaking ball.
I don’t think Carl Crawford would’ve gotten to the ball Eckstein hit
Realistically Phil throwing fastball and curve ain’t gonna cut it. He threw 2 of the nastiest changeups to Texiera last year, but I don’t think I’ve seen him throw more than 3-4 since, what gives?
DJ: It’s game three And we’ve faced perhaps the best 1-2 punch in our division. If we do this against Tampa, you *might* have a case.
Alex Rios is beginning to bother me.
what happend between the last few inning and this one…he was “on” and now not so much – though I consider that a Matsui run and not a Hughes run
Matsui, like Giambi, seems to be uncoordinated and awkward. The knee injury seems to have slowed him down a bit, too…so that doesn’t exactly help. But if JD is going to be productive he needs a blow in left every couple of days to prevent the nagging leg injuries he usually gets. Cano was too nonchallant there.
WTF CANO?
come on Phil
unbelieveable throw by Molina
RobNY – San Fran or Yamuri? (sorry for the spelling)
Oh boy. Rios gets to move to third.
wtf Robbie
Cano is really annoying me so far this year
I’m really far more irritated with our position players than our pitching at the moment.
Hughes needs to start throwing something other than a curve/fastball.
Going through lineups 3,4 times you need that third pitch.
JoeT,
I agree
Rishi: 2nd time through the order.
What a beauty of a curveball to sit down Vernon Wells.
That was a nasty curveball. Get Frankie.
Hey guys,
Quick question. I can’t watch the MLB.tv at work because my media player is missing:
WVC1 codec
Can anyone help me as to how I can d/l, safe and free?
hey Joe how about we trade Matsui and Kei Igawa to Hokkaido Nippon Ham for Yu Darvish? lol sound good?
Hughes seems to have no confidence in his change, even though it’s not a bad pitch. His slider is very good and used to be his out pitch, but the Yanks told him to ditch it in favor of the curve and in fear of arm problems. Once his arm strength is up his fastball will be less hittable. But yes, I would like him to showcase a few more pitches.
I tell you – I could do without that Alex Rios…
didn’t think about the second time through the order issue…good point
Hughes is throwing lasers and getting no help from the ump.
Finally.
Oh come on! Call that… Ring him up!!
That pitch was in the same spot. He called it a strike the first time!
Thomas should be out.
He hung that one…we got lucky there.
Hughes may be behind 1-0, but watching it on MLB I can see that his breaking ball is pretty damn good. K’d Wells on one. Frank is next.
Oh man. What command of that fastball.
Sit down, Frankie. He’s out of the game. Gets a big part of their offense outta there for us.
Thomas wake up!! Throw him out. That was such a strike! That was perfect!
This hasn’t been a good couple days for Frankie, eh? Joba and Phil showing his butt up.
Geeze, Frank. You should have fallen flat on your back. Maybe that would have sold it.
I’d say Frank should learn to control his temper, but nah…
Thomas is throwing a hissy fit over nothing. The 3-2 pitch was over the plate.
Gotta go, but I just had to stay and follow that AB. Huge K’s in the heart of the lineup.
Let’s go Yankees. Pick Phil, up.
Well at least they got Thomas out of the game. You could see that coming.
Nice recovery by Hughes
Magic man Kei Igawa is destroying people in the minor leagues.
Watch out Mussina.
“jeter will lead the league in DPs this year.”
“Since when has Jeter become the king of the DP? It seems like he’s always grounding into DP’s…”
Despite what people think they are seeing with Jeter – double plays are not a major issue with him.
Last year 88 players had higher net double play rates than Derek Jeter.
Amazing how your eyes can deceive you.
Has anyone driven to the stadium this year? I am going Sunday and don’t know how I should go, car, train or ferry. car going would take 20 minutes. Train 2 hours, ferry 2 hours.
Ha, Frank was scared, he did that on purpose so Hughes wouldn’t buckle his knees anymore.
Yeah Frank looked PISSED … he was none too happy about getting called out despite the fact that he should have struck out for the previous 2 pitches so I cant really hear about it from him.
Or not. Be nice if he called it earlier in the count.
So why could that not have been Rios!!
In a word, WOW
A bloop double created a cheap run. Then the Blue Jays were on the verge of another cheap run with Rios getting to third on a perfect throw em out that Cano turned into an a free pass to third.
What does Hughes do? Bares down and strikes two in a row to end the inning. As Bill Raftery would say, “ONIONS”
Global, problem is he gets up to the majors and stinks.
Wow Bobby lost a lot of weight. Looks much trimmer this year.
Nice to see Bobby right on the ball.
Boston Dave – Baseball Prospectus. Their fielding stats aren’t the most advanced but they’re fine. Hardball times has very good zone rating data. Bill James fielding bible is also good.
It’s okay now for Hughes to use his slider. They took it away from him in the minors so he can concentrate on developing other pitches.
He does have a good slider but never uses it.
boy you guys are rough on Phil. He’s looked great tonight…….he IS just 21 years old. Maybe he and Molina didn’t want to fool around with some of his other pitches, knowing that his FB and curve are his strongest pitches. There’s time to work the others in and he just had a really good inning, despite giving up a run. He buckled down and didn’t give him – that’s a sign of a good pitcher (and he didn’t make any bad pitches after being squeezed by the ump)
I think Frank is suffering from ‘roid rage
I hate when players get tossed because the replacements always seem to come back to haunt us somehow.
thanks CB…
when people use fielding % (Sox fans always tell me about how good Ortiz is) I want to tell them how it’s an overrated stat but I never have any alternative.
Mcgown looks like he can be had. These last two innings he has not been sharp.
Nice Bobby!
Heads-up play by Bobby, moving over to third!
Don’t say that about Frank, he’s a classy guy. He just didnt believe he struck out on a ball… On a side note, I don’t understand how it’s only this year that people are realizing that third base is a ghost town when the big G is batting.
The shift bit them. Hopefully we can get a run out of this.
Countdown:
I don’t think The Big Hurt took or needs roids. That’s kind of like Wolverine taking iron pills or The Hulk lifting weights. totally unnecessary..
not saying it isn’t possible, just unlikely
Cold air is letting everything hang up. That is the second one.
Ach, not this time, but that was some great baserunning by Bobby.
I know what O’Niel said makes sense (having Zaun cover 3rd there) but I can only think of the play opening day a few years ago with that Jeter play at 3rd
Hopefully Cano can bring Bobby home. Well, looks like he can’t. Flies out to Stairs to end the inning.
Can we please actually see some help for Phil? On either side of this game?
“Despite what people think they are seeing with Jeter – double plays are not a major issue with him.”
I don’t totally disagree, but the numbers are starting to show the contrary. Last year, he grounded into a career high 21DPs, and an additional 3 in the ALDS vs. the tribe.
Yeah, seriously. Giambi could get away with bunting down the third base line every single time he comes up to bat. He’d always beat the shift.
oYYY!
1-0
Game over!
Cmon yanks wake UP!
Get it going offense. We’re going through the motions, ugh!
Bronx Liaison – Congratulations, you win the comment of the day award.
Has Giambi ever been asked why he doesn’t at least once attempt a bunt on that shift?
I mean seriously, whats the deal?
I’m guessing Giambi doesn’t remember how to bunt anymore.
Update from the farm:
The “One Who Wears Shades” through 5 : 0H 0R 0ER 0BB 6K
Jason Lane – Solo HR
Eric Duncan – 2 for 2, triple, run, rbi
3-0 Scranton leading Lehigh Valley
haha JoeT
thank you, thank you,
Still missing those big clutch hits, like the ones the Sox are still getting this season.
so just my opinion obviously – and I know it’s early, and I know we’ve faced 2 real good pitchers so far (plus today) but I don’t think it would hurt to throw in a few hit and runs, open up some holes and make the batters stop thinking. The H&R takes so much pressure off the batter, it’s just find the ball, hit the ball, and hopefully find a hole.
Anyone know Phil’s pitch count?
If I were Giambi, I’d probably try bunting down to third a couple of times, especially if I was in the middle of a slump and needed something to boost my confidence.
Phil’s going to be throwing pitch #65 soon. Pretty economical outing.
Phil’s at 62…looks like they had some discussions during the bottom half of the last inning…he’s looking much better.
Jennifer, where are you coming from? I drove for to the stadium for opening days round #1 and #2. Round #1 was awful, the second one wasn’t nearly as bad.
I don’t put much stock in how Igawa does in the minors.
If a pitcher wanted to wear a ski mask on the mound, would they be allowed too?
Forget it, M. Kay told me.
These games have been very fast. That’s how you know the Yanks aren’t working the count. Usually the Yanks work the count and make the pitchers work and the games are over 3 hours. C’mon Yanks. Lets score some runs.
Sorry but I’m going to have to pull a Michael Kay.
The Magic man Kei Igawa is _____ through 5.
Gitmo – please, only give us serious updates from the Farm – no one believes you that Igawa hasn’t given up 6 homeruns on high curve balls by this point lol
ok actually i’d love to see stuff like that, and thanks for the update
It’s pretty amazing for a young pitcher to be missing by so little.
Does every young pitcher need to get squeezed?
“Clay are you trying to get those seats?”
Jennifer, no, I am trying to give away those seats.
Kat from Bergen county. I am about 15 minutes from the bridge.
he better watch it here. 2 runs will result in an automatic loss because of our powerhouse offense.
Give away? And can’t find someone? What day?
Because this offense has been so damn pathetic, Hughes really can’t afford to give up a hit here. I’m really sick of these lousy starts.
Michael Kay loves to inform the audience that pitchers are allowed to blow on their hands because of the cold weather.. mindblowing insight
The Yankees need to let Kei Igawa wear the Scranton Yankees jersey if/when he ever contributes to the big club again..
Jax, only Yankee pitchers.
It does look like the zone is shifting each batter, doesn’t it?
Wow so just an inning ago those curveballs were strikes, and now he isnt getting a damn thing. Anybody else think that the zone has changed a bit?
This umpire has no clue what’s a strike and what isn’t. He’s making it up as he goes along. That curveball was more of a strike than several of the ones he’s given Phil this game.
These are the important ones. Great outing versus mediocore
This just in: Yankees promote LHP Kei Igawa to AAAA Stony Brook.
I really hate that hobbit.
That 2 out walk always comes back to haunt them.
It is still very early. It is only two runs.
Hughes can’t seem to catch a break anywhere. Infield single score Scutaro.
changeup?
Would it be a crime to manufacture a run here and there?
Yanks seem built to devastate the lousy pitchers in the league and they get handcuffed by all the good ones.
3 inning — 1st and 2nd no outs
4 inning — man on first no outs,
result = no runs
gotta get minimum 1 run in from that
Theres the first changeup Hughes threw and it was nasty.. needs to use it more often
This ump really is annoying me
Giambi’s bunted on the shift a few times before. Usually in situations when he’s leading off late in the game, and the team is down by 2 or more.
Our defense is awfully mediocre…Arod looked slow on that play. I think he’s much better going to his right.
The Jays have gotten two very cheap runs. We are due!
This all started with an f’ing 2-out walk involving several borderline pitches.
This is just maddening to watch.
ok, Yanks, that offense? let’s put it to work.
Ouch. I came from LI both days but had friends from from Jersey. The bridge was backed up badly both days. Budget extra time.
Pete
Guess Suzyn unlike Cash isn’t a loyal reader of your work.
remember that photo of igawa dressed as the monkey from the wizard of oz when the team “hazed” the rookies last fall.
they should make igawa wear that… all the time.
Anybody have that photo?
Is it true he really pitches better without the sunglasses? wierd dude.
So basically I probably should just take the ferry?
I won’t be able to go to Yankee Tavern before the game or after.
hopefully the bats will wake up soon..like now?
Matsui singles…let’s make it count.
Matsui is very good when he goes the other way…His struggles always happen when he’s overly pull-conscious.
Nice Hideki… Way to start it off. Can we play some National League style baseball here please?
alright, time for the daily DP
Should Jose lay down a bunt?
Jays have a good 123 in their rotation IF they can keep them healthy.
Where is the ump’s zone? He called that a ball earlier!
Will Shelley Duncan ever get a chance to play?
Matsui looks ancient. nice hit. Molina should bunt! 0-2 now, oh well.
Does anyone like Bobby Abreu anymore?
Whoa that was a call he wouldn’t give to Hughes, and he gave it to their pitcher?!
This ump is awful tonight. Can we have to ump who worked Tuesday game back?
Bill Miller is garbage. I’m surprised he didn’t call that a strike.
Our offense is so feast or famine… not good at all… i think its going to be a dogfight for the WC between us and DET.. very similar teams…
but so very encouraging to see Hughes…
infield fly rule with 1 on? kay’s an idiot
Just had a flashback to last season… remember Josh Phelps catching. LOL.
put on a play girardi
The offense still can’t get it done. Melky GIDP
DP again. This is exasperating. May have to pour myself a tasty adult beverage soon.
Blue Jays have great pitching, three first class starters in the first three games. Mussina does not play in that league anymore. Wishing will not make it
Oh my goodness Magic man Kei Igawa is so ridiculous. He’s just embarrassing people now.
I’m so glad I’m watching this and not YES as I just saw another DP roll by.
This guy is going to bring us a championship……..in AAA!!
This is just pathetic. They aren’t even having good at-bats anymore.
my jaw will drop in shock if we either get an extra base hit or NOT ground into a DP in an inning.
By the way, 6 IP of _________ball for the Magic Man.
Yikes. Need to make something happen, somewhere. I’ll give them a pass on Burnett last night, but McGowan doesn’t look unhittable.
Another perfect inning for the beaver and he has 7 k’s….. why does he suck so bad in the bigs and dominates the AAA? He’s like the Andy Phillips of Yankee pitchers.
Hmm this game is starting to annoy me. It’s too early in the season to get annoyed so I’m gonna go take a shower and let things play out. I’ll catch the final score later.
This team looks carbon-coby like they did last spring, only a year older. There were maybe 2 well hit balls by the Yankees so far, one of them a line out by Damon. Lifeless start was at the top of the list of things I wasn’t going to miss about the Torre era. Yes, I know it’s early, but I’ve already got that “well april is gonna suck” feeling.
I don’t think I’ve read anyone say that Mussina is a #2, or 3. Mike is a very good 4-5 pitcher. Match him against Bostons number 5. Or even Baltimore’s number 3. Mike will be fine!
anybody know if wcbs has an internet broadcast that i don’t have to go through mlb.com to get?
Rocco – it can be called an infield fly as long as the umpires judge that it was a catchable ball/dropped it on purpose…. Mike Lowell tried it last year with a man on first, a line-drive was hit at him, he intentionally dropped it and turned the double play, they ruled the batter was out and the runner returns to first base.
This is a discouraging game. The Yankees are not able to capitalize on the few opportunities they have had. Hughes is pitching well and the Blue Jays have been able to get the hit when they need it.
It’s game 3. The Yankees will hit, of this I’m sure. But they were clicking on all cylinders, this offense, all spring. I know these pitchers are good, and I know it’s a lot harder than it looks, but it sure seems like they haven’t changed their approach any at all. Maybe they haven’t had the opportunity to? It still looks like they’re trying to hit homeruns instead of that “small ball” concept we were all waiting for.
If I was as bad at my job as Bill Miller is at his, I would have been fired a while ago.
I say Girardi should get bold tomorrow. A mass-benching. Betemit at 2nd, Ensberg at 1st, Duncan in left, and Joba DHing!
How to get Alex Rios out: Get behind 3-0 and then throw him a meatball.
Jennifer,
Tickets are for Saturday.
McGowan looks very hittable. We keep letting him off the hook. The Jays have been able to take advantage of cheap hits. We have not. that is the story of this game.
Jennifer,
Saturday’s game.
Why’d they pull Igawa?
Here is the issue with DJ’s new found DP penchant. Its not a problem for guys later in order but for a 2nd in order guy that’s a rally killer right? I mean the lead off guy needs to get on base and #2 either moves him or gets a hit. DP’s and strikeouts are the cardinal sin for a #2 hitter.
To Be honest I’d rather they use Abreu in the 2 hole and move Jeter elsewhere (maybe 3rd or lower). Bobby never had more than 13 GIDPs. Their Ks and Power are actually more similar than we’d care to admit and Bobby has a better career On Base %. I think it’s something to consider.
Hughes just hit 95.
That was at 95. Maybe cranking it up a notch for his last inning.
Jennifer,
Saturday.
Just got in , can someone tell me how Toronto scored
Scott Patterson? The magic man had a perfect game going…. why exactly wouldnt you let him keep going?
Mussina is very hittable not McGowan, too bad we could not switch
What a great 6 innings so far by Hughesy! Let’s support him with some runs. How bout just one in the bottom of the frame?
Phil deserves a win. But I’m afraid he won’t get one unless we do it now…
Hughes was talking to the ump. “Give me some calls dammit” is what he said.
they pulled Mr. Sunglasses??
6 very good innings from Hughes. Time for the offense to wake up.
Jennifer,
Sorry. I’m trying to answer you, but my posts aren’t posting.
Did they seriously just pull Magic man Kei Igawa on 60 pitches through 6 with a perfect game?
Hellllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllo!!!!!!
That was the only good thing I had going tonight!
The question is why is Jeter hitting into more dp’s. Is his bat slower, so he is just rolling over the ball? Is he slower and isn’t beating it out like he used to?
I know everyone is saying when Ichiro loses a step he will lose a lot of his infield hits.
What is the story with Jeter?
Phil Hughes looks great.
Too bad the hitters are doody.
Hope the Yanks get something started this inning.
Clay email me. yanksjenn@optonline.net
What worries me is that there are a lot of teams in the AL that have excellent 1-2 pitchers, if not 1-2-3, that will be matched up to pitch against the Yankees. At some point the Yankees need to hit good pitching, not just mediocre pitching.
Don’t know if that last reading was legit, but it had Hughes at 95mph. The reason why it seems to be correct is b/c Hughes never throws as hard as he can and rarely dials it up. Even his delivery looked maxed out, which would help result in a bigger fastball..
He’s got the gas, just doesn’t use it till he needs it
Matteo
try
http://www.sportsradio620.com/.....index.html
Mlb has the tech to take my money fine but can’t deliver audio
I get it for free here
So does anybody have any info on why the magic sunglasses man got pulled for Scott Patterson when he was throwing a perfecto through 6? I know he isnt really that good but taking him out seems, to me, just mean.
YES radar gun is unreliable. They always have Wang at 94-96 and everyone else (including the stadium gun) has him at 92-93. Wouldn’t take much stock in that.
Nice outing by Hughes – now if only the Yankees could give him some support.
Toronto is going to Boston next. Hope they pitch this well against the Red Sox this weekend.
Damon’s battling. Good.
Wow finally!! We have a man on second. Do you have Jeter bunt? (at least we know he can’t hit into a dp.) :lol
Maybe now that we’re out of DP range, we can get a rally going.
Way to lead off the inning JD!!! Double over the right fielder’s head! DJ needs to move him to third at the least.
Finally, another hit for Damon. And no DP for Jetes this time.
If he manages another DP here – I just give up…
well, i don’t give up, but you know what I mean
Best part: Unless Johnny does something stupid Jeter can’t GIDP here! =D
I imagine they have Patterson in to give him some innings because they want him up in NY pronto.
Jennifer, that’s a good question. I think its his bat not the slowness thingee. He hits a lot of tailor made DPs. His last 4 years 19, 15, 13 and 21 GIDPs its clearly not getting better and we all know what happened in the last years playoffs. Just saying that a #2 guy can’t be a high GIDP guy…its a key for that position.
Heh, Paulie got ‘sucks’ past the censors.
Jeter is lunging at everything! C’mon DJ stay back!
Someone tell Jeter that the right side is the other way…. he’s better then this
don’t boo that was a good thing
That’s the way to take one for the team Jetes!
Oh yuck. Better than getting hit in the hand. And I almost wrote gitting. I’m watching too much Paul O’Neill
Think Abreu bunts?
we’ll take the HBP!
Does Bobby swing away now? Hopefully one swing is all we need.
Buttermaker: Hey Jeter, next inside pitch, I want you to lean in to it.
Jeter: Ah coach, I don’t want to get hit.
Buttermaker: You want to win, don’t ya kid.
Jeter: Plunk!
McGowan looks good except for his burns…silly looking things
McGowan loses the zone and Jeet gets plunked. Gotta get something out of this!
It was a breaking pitch, he wasn’t trying to hit him. He also just set up his dp.
2-1… good time for a hit and run.
Very hittable pitch there.
Now Bobby don’t GIDP and make me look bad. Double here!?
i dont understand why they didnt bunt here.
Well, he’s throwing the ball at Abreu’s feet, so maybe he can walk another one and bring up A-Rod.
How many pitches does Phil have? Does he come back out for the 7th?
He didn’t bunt because he’s the number 3 hitter.
“i dont understand why they didnt bunt here.”
They’ll walk alex.
I think Phil’s at 86 pitches
Phil is at 87…I think it will be Joe’s feel for his matchups here.
Boy, how did that ball miss Abreu that time?
Yeah! Abreu walks and the bags are juiced for A-Rod!
and Your Daddy steps up to the plate
Let’s go A-Rod (don’t publish that, it might not meet the Peter rules)
Now we have to do something here. Bases juiced for MVP! We have to take advantage. Get Hughes on the right side of this game.
oh boy here we go
All we need is a fly ball to score JD, don’t need to get greedy here.
OK – runs now are critical…you do not let this chance pass you by
Abreu has some kind of eye. Although many of those weren’t especially close.
Just a nice fly ball to deep right field. Score the run. Advance the runner from second to third.
McGowan is tired. The velocity is there but the location has gone.
Alex needs to be patient here.
His changeup is FLAT
Go, Yanks!!!
Heck, I wouldn’t mind if he walks A-Rod. Just got to get a run across here. But I’d prefer for A-Rod to empty the bases, of course.
I’m surprised he’d still in CB
Here comes Pay-Rod…
ok i agree with not bunting… thanks!
Yeah lets not be greedy. A deep fly ball. Lets score the run from third.
That’ll do!!!
I’ll take it.
Good hustle by Damon.
Whoo! One run and now 1st base open! It starts with one run!
wooo we stoled a run
A Rod almost cost them a a run there telling Damon to stay at 3rd.
Why did they leave him in there? His control has been off since the start of the inning.
What the heck is AROD doing…this guy can’t locate the empire state building…don’t just keep swinging.
Yeah! 2-1 Jays now as the ball gets away from Zaun.
I’ll still take a fly ball.
It’s about time we got a break. Ok I can finally cool off from seeing the Magic Man pulled with sixty friggen pitches and a no no.
I really hope they can at least tie. Sac Fly would be nice.
a free run – I will take it happily…
thanks dale d.
arod told damon to hold cause he wanted the grand slam. i dont blame him.
His changeup sucks. Midseason Alex crushes that.
He was trying to get Alex out down and away all the pitches were down and away.
can’t put the shift on now…let’s go!
“Because this offense has been so damn pathetic, Hughes really can’t afford to give up a hit here. I’m really sick of these lousy starts.”
Will you guys relax? Wait a week or two before losing all hope. Jeeze.
Poor at bat by ARod. The infield was back. They would have scored on any kind of contact.
Wow thats a surprise… A-rod…
Some clear the ducks already !!
stop trying to yank it outQ
What in the hell was that…..
(well, at least we tied it)
Dang, Rios has a gun. At least the Yankees tied!
whatever works
Ah! Bad Abreu!
Another hanger! I’ll take it, but Giambi’s gotta do more with that.
OH, YES!!!
Oh Bowa…. how I miss you
Funny, I always thought of Abreu as a good baserunner.
Glass half full: Tie game and Hughes doesn’t have to suffer a loss when he pitched well enough to win.
As good as McGowan was last year he looks even better now.
McGowan didn’t have a great change up last year.
This year – it looks like a real weapon.
He’s maturing as a pitcher – he’s going to be a force if he stays healthy.
Good rip by Giambi to get the tying run in. What happened to Abreu getting picked at third!? At least we tied the game, but can we play a little crisper please?
Good evening all,
The Yanks have had some poor base running decisions so far this year. Maybe it’s the cold weather and they are anxious to get back into the dugout where it’s warm. Ha!
Innings limit !!
Giambino is 0 for 8 so far this season – does that count as a mini slump?
Funny, I always thought of Abreu as a good baserunner
did any of you guys catch the modells joba ad? i was a bit surprised by that
Meacham really hasn’t done too well as the 3rd base coach. We’ve just got to hope that he improves as the season goes on.
McGowan’s changeup is farrrrrr from a weapon. It’s actually been really flat, and the Yankees are just so far out in front and flailing at it. The first one to A-Rod, the 2-2 to Abreu, and the last one to Jason were particularly bad. I like McGowan, but he was very hittable today.
Why do they have Posada in the pen? To warm up pitchers?
This is the first real test for the yank’s pen. Let’s see what Traber has.
Hughes pitched a terrific game.
It’s hard to believe Hughes is the second youngest player in all of baseball even this year.
nice Billy
Welcome to New York, Billy Traber.
Nice curve ball by Traber.
Alright, so Traber gets his out. Bruney better hold on.
I love Billy Traber.
Wow… a K – who is this Traber?
Welcome to the Yankees Billy
JoeT – You are right on. Our biggest loss of the offseason was not Torre or Donnie it was Larry Freakin’ Bowa. I’m telling you, we will be shaking our heads all year about Meacham (just like the old days). I live in florida and saw alot of marlins games on TV and Joe Girardi won the manager of the year in spite of Bobby’s coaching. He must have incriminating photos of Joe G or something.
Anyone else think that it would be very easy for a runner on 2nd to pick up Traber’s pitch?
This is the first time I’ve seen Traber pitch. i see what they mean about the quirky delivery. He kind of holds the ball a long time then flips it across his body.
“I love Billy Traber.”
can we hold off on this ?
I think someone should inform Mr. Abreu that he didn’t get a ticket for this game, he’s actually playing in it….
The war between the bullpens is ON…
DJ
I don’t think so. I went back on my TIVO and looked, and he seems to hide the ball pretty deep in his glove.
there’s the brian bruney we know and love…
you kidding me right
How can you hold off on the “I love Billy Traber”‘s? He’s got a 27 K/9. That’s pretty good, Brandon.
who’s this pitcher wearing Brunney’s old number??
Bowa didn’t want to be here. I don’t care what he said. He was talking with Seattle, while he was saying he wanted to stay with the Yankees. I’m sure if he wanted to stay here he would still be here no matter who Joe wanted for his third base coach.
“McGowan’s changeup is farrrrrr from a weapon. It’s actually been really flat, and the Yankees are just so far out in front and flailing at it. ”
That is what a good change up is supposed to do – it gets hitters out in front and has them flailing at pitches.
Most pitcher’s change ups don’t have a lot of movement to them (there are exceptions like the Pedro of old).
So, yes it looks like a real weapon because it’s doing exactly what a change up is supposed to do – disrupt the hitter’s timing.
It also speaks volumes about a young pitcher like McGowan that with the bases loaded he has enough confidence in his change to throw it to the best player in baseball.
That’s all you need to know about how good that change is.
McGowan already had a terrific fastball, slider and curve.
Him adding even an above average change up makes him all the more devastating.
If he’s got a patient, disciplined team like the yankees off balance and flailing the change is doing it’s job.
That was a very nice pitch by Traber. Anyone else kind of scared to see Bruney coming in? I guess Traber is a specialist, but it’s not like righties have a terrible time getting lefties out. Seems somewhat pointless to have someone there to get a single out and then bring in another pitcher.
One more to go!!!
Boy…the Yankees are not a graceful team at all.
Alright! Bruney did his job!
Right now, Jeter’s going “… amateur”
OK – one more run so we can see what who we want to see out there…let’s go…
“I think someone should inform Mr. Abreu that he didn’t get a ticket for this game, he’s actually playing in it….”
Good thing you said that JUST in time lol
and Bobby thought the wall was the only obstacle in Yankee Stadium
Let’s get one run on the board and go home (joba in the 8th and Mo in the 9th).
I remember when the Yanks first got Bruney and he had something like a 0.81 ERA. He’s always had the stuff, but his problem is always going to be control. He gets the Yanks out of the inning there-good play by Abreu.
Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the 2008 NY Yankees bullpen!
the new improved brian bruney
I like that!
jennifer – I never said we fired larry or that we didn’t want him only that we will miss him because he is the best 3rd base coach in MLB and he really helped Robby Cano come into his own in the field. He really was a presence.
Wow, KC swept Detroit? Not bad at all.
wanna see 5 runs scored now.
pete, in regards to suzyn’s comment. the espn2 broadcast of the game last night reported it as well.
Joba sighting!
This year’s bullpen looks great. A lefty specialist who actually gets lefty out. Joba. And others. No more blowing early leads like last year.
CB…
I do like that McGowan has the gumption to throw his change, in fact, that’s Hughes’ main (and only) real problem at this stage in the game. However, the Yanks in midseason form will clobber that changeup. When it’s that flat, it WILL go far. McGowan wasn’t really all that great tonight, his fastball had lots of movement, but it was all over the place. Look at the pitchers with great changeups…Santana, Pedro, and even Ian Kennedy and Edwar Ramirez to a certain extent…those things DANCE.
McGowan’s changeup is very hittable, the Yankees were sitting on his fastball for some reason even though it was not anywhere near the zone.
Joba?
Man..these Blue Jays have some great arms in the pen and BJ Ryan is hurt…wow….we could use 1 or 2 of these guys…
Detroit can’t like this….
“Already missing Curtis Granderson because of a broken hand, the Tigers played without Miguel Cabrera, who is day to day with a quadriceps strain, then saw designated hitter Gary Sheffield tear a tendon in his left ring finger on a play at second in the eighth inning” from ESPN’s recap of tonights game.
Thats a lot of cash getting hurt.
IT’S JOBA TIME !
Here comes Joba for the 8th.
It’s Joba Time!
Yikes Melancon left the game. Hope he’s not hurt.
Wow, the Tigers are really hurting…if Sheff’s got a tendon injury, that’ll keep him out for a couple of weeks at least if it’s severe.
I like how Girardi is working everyone in from the bullpen.
One of my biggest criticisms of Torre was bullpen management, and I think he would have gone to Hawkins (this years Viz) or Joba in the 7th. Girardi is willing to give everyone a shot, and it’ll pay off by giving them confidence and saving the arms from burnout.
Just three games into the season and I believe everyone in the Yankees bullpen has pitched. Sometimes when everyone pitches it is not so good – but so far so good for the bullpen.
Teddy,
By mid-season McGowan’s change up will be even better.
And your not seeing how the change up fits inside of McGowan’s arsenal.
The change up is Santana’s second pitch. It was Pedro’s second pitch. It is Kennedy’s best pitch. Same for Edwar.
The change up is McGowan’s fourth pitch! Fourth – not second.
The important thing with it for McGowan isn’t how good it is in a vacuum but how good it is in the context of his existing repertoire.
That’s the function of a fourth pitch – it should complement and fit in with the existing pitches.
McGowan already throws 3 plus pitches – adding even a league average 4th pitch is enormous for a young pitcher.
Independently his change up may be hittable. But when you mix it in with how good his fastball, slider and curve are it’s an entirely different story.
did anyone think Sheffield would not get hurt this year…funny Leyland on Mike and the Mad Dog last year said he thought the Yankees had too many stars when the Tigers beat us in the ALDS…now they look like they have too many stars and and are basing their success on what they look like on paper…..just an interesting note…
Joba’s 1st K…
Joba K’s somebody…there’s a surprise there!
Uh, that’s called breathing, Kay.
Keith,
good point
Joba’s 2nd out…
his son is freakin green
K-Rod is more obnoxious than Pappelbon, Joba, and Howard Dean combined.
nailed that curveball…
Not Yankee-killer Rios, again!!!
his tongue is freakin green…
That’s really devastating news for the Tiger’s. Quadriceps strains can take a while to completely heal. And that ruptured tendon won’t completely heal without surgery. Sheffield can play through it as he tried to a few years ago (also had a ruptured tendon) but it’s not easy, especially with the force he generates on his swing.
CB
Very true…I know that it is just his 4th pitch. But I cannot seem to ignore the fact that Abreu, Arod, and Giambi all had three very easy pitches to hit with men on base and could not do so. With a straight-change like McGowan’s, it should go very far when it is not located well. Just look at what happens to Tom Glavine when his change is an inch off target (I think Met fans know, pretty well). Although, like you said, that is Glavine’s go-to pitch. But still, a straight, fat change should be turned around by 3 perennial All-Stars.
Nice Joba.
Anyone know when we have the Tigers on the schedule? Soon, I hope…
Prospects update
Dellin Betances single A debut
5.0 IP 3 H, 2 ER, 2 R, 2 BB, 8 K’s
no word yet about what happened to Melancon
Okay, let’s get two here.
Time to score the go ahead run or runs here. How about a crooked number to give Mo some breathing room?
And Joba retires the Jays. Yanks have got to get a run for Mo to work with.
And Joba pumps his fist, thrusts his pelvis at the opposing dugout three times, and then punches the Jays batboy in the face.
dude, his son’s tongue is freakin’ green?
what a surprise melancon is injured!
We need some runs now… Go Yanks!!!
The Yanks face the Tigers at the end of the month.
stop sucking up to mcgowan, cb. he sucks just like the blowjays.
really, why did Joba kick the batboy??
Brandon,
I saw that as well – absolutely fantastic new with Betances. His season was so disappointing last year with the elbow.
I’m still concerned about him not repeating his motion consistently and that putting strain on his elbow.
But that’s a good start.
And also – if you want to see an impressive line by a young pitcher check out what Rick Porcello did against Tampa tonight.
It’s rare for a high school pitcher to start in high A. Porcello could be very special if he stays healthy.
MELKYYY
I only watched the McGowan’s last three inningS…My first observation is that he’s taken the next step in his development and he’s only going to get better, and his change for a 4th pitch is going to make him extremely effective as the word gets around the league…..Toronto will be nipping at everyone’s tail all season…
Hehe, well if frustrating Melky makes him take it out with a hit, I’m all for it.
Has anyone tried to get gameday? It doesn’t seem to load.
i’m not watching the game – who’s son’s tongue is green? and can someone send me a pic??
sorry anti-mussina i meant tongue not son.. something wrong with my mind right now.. long day…
but yeah when he licked his hand his tongue was very clearly green… creepy
Downs against Damon, or Downs against Shelly??
Downs against Damon, or Downs against Shelly??
http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday.....de=gameday
Thats the site i’m using.
I’m on gameday right now – here’s the link… http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday.....b_nyamlb_1
Not a good game for Bill Smith or Twins fans to watch.
Hughes pitches very well and the guy who they claimed was nothing better than a 4th OF (Melky) looks like he’s improved his plate discipline and at least so far, looks like a .300 hitter (plus a couple nice defensive plays).
CB, Porcello has always been special to bad the Tigers snatched him. I heard somewhere Dellin’s goal is to throw 100 innings this year and then they might shut him down is this true ?
I just tried Gameday…it loaded for me. I’m doing a live blog if you want to follow the game and can’t get gameday to load.
wow cb you like to suck up to other teams pitchers? porcello blows just like the team he plays for (detroit kittens)
Ditto on Porcello, he’s a special kid.
Now, THAT’S how you bunt.
Alright!!!
Well, there’s smallball for you!
Excellent bobble by Downs! 2 on and no out!
nice bunt play Joe!
Teddy – again, I’m not disagreeing with you at all.
But I really think the way the yankee hitter’s were unable to handle that pitch tells you how hard it is for a hitter when a power pitcher like McGowan adds even a semblance of a decent change.
It’s too hard to have to gear up for that 93-95 mph fast ball with plus movement and then get the change – even if its not great.
The other thing I’d add to this – I don’t think the yankee hitters were prepared at all for McGowan to throw so many changes. I doubt that was in the scouting report. Next game they will be very aware of it.
This is also why, as you said before, Hughes needs to add that change. Even more than the slider, Hughes total potential is going to depend on developing a change. If he does – lights out.
SWEET! Bunt and make things happen…. JETER BUNT AGAIN!! Set it up for Abreu and A-Rod
Verlander and then Porcello
could be scary
Jeter, lay out it down. No DPs.
Lets bunt them over.
he was safe !!! good consecutive bunts !
He looked safe…
Well, this is really good to watch. Let’s see Bobby and A-Rod get it done.
Good bunt by Jeet! Bring them home, Bobby!
Now let’s score!!!
now we’re playing baseball…. he’s gotta give Abreu something to hit now
(replay shows Jeter is safe btw)
There’s another blown call. Love these umps.
Well thats the only way to keep Captn Jetes out of the DP. I’m fine with it.
CB
Betances is a pretty delicate kid, it could be true. He would really benefit from putting on 20-25lbs. He hasn’t pitched a lot in his pro career, and I think he’s kind of a project for the Yankees. I would be surprised if he gets to 100, actually.
OMG!
we bunted a runner into scoring position!!
God Almighty, small ball!!
this ump really needs to get his head out of his ….
YEH BABY !!!
BOBBY ROCKS!!! awesome…c’mon a-rod, let’s get some insurance…
Damon didn’t advance? He didn’t read that very well.
Good job, Bubby. The only lefty who’s hit in this series.
Bloop by Abreu brings home Melky!
WHOO! Yeah Bobby! Just exactly what we needed!
Bobby Abreu is playing tonight,,,
Nice Joba looking at a W.
sorry Pete, I know the rules, and I know I won’t be the only one… with that being said: YESSSSS!!!!
sorry back to intellegent posting – Lets go A-Rod lets get some insurance….
I call a double steal to keep the double play off.
Time to warm up Mo.
Joe Girardi just MANUFACTURED two runs!!
That was a bad swing on a bad fastball.
C’mon A-rod!!!
Blue Jays had ARod beat tonight.
CB
Hughes changeup is actually pretty good in the very few times I’ve seen him use it. I just wish he’d get some guts to use it, especially late in ballgames and with guys on base. Hughes would also benefit from the explosive fastball that I’ve seen him have before he was called up. I think the hammy and ankle injuries did have an impact on his fastball. I saw him pitch in Trenton two years ago and it was scary. He was mostly 88-91 tonight, but that could just be the cold and the fact it’s early. But then again McGowan was throwing 94-95 and Joba 97. But we’ll see.
Aiyee…hopefully Giambi gets his first hit here.
Jason, really good time for your first hit.
Teddy,
Have you seen Betances recently? He’s put on a lot of muscle weight – a lot. He’s not there yet but he is filling out his frame well.
When you first saw him you were kind of worried that he could be one of those tall lanky kids who is just going to stay thin. But he’s put on weight.
My concern with him are his mechanics and repeating his motion.
Maybe be big G will improve to 1-8…
Giambi gets plunked and loads the bases
Come on Robbie. Let’s get some insurance!
Ah Mr. Cano, time to earn that big raise.
Cano, really good time for your first decent AB for a while.
Did you see giambi say “that hurt” – I’m watching live now
This will be a nice win to get with A-Rod on an off night. With this lineup,,,,he does NOT have to carry the time each and every night….This is going to be a nice series win.
Hughes has a better than average change…It’s about confidence and solid command at this stage……
No way Torre bunts twice in a row if he were here. He would have let Jeets swing away.
these umps are horrible. MLB really needs to do something about these crappy little blue men!
CB
Glad to hear Betances bulked up. And yeah, you’re right, mechanics and repeating a motion is tough when you’re like 6-9…which is why RJ was a late bloomer. Has anybody heard anything on JB Cox?
Didn’t see anyone else make mention of this. But someone posted earlier that melancon is injured. Any truth to this?
Also either we are very smart or very stupid. Listened to a few innings on the radio Suzy and John were carrying on about how Joba should stay in the pen. You know even the Jays players said how can you move him. I’d like to ask Suzy or John if they think Beckett or Santana should be in the pen. I wonder what they would say to that.
Go Robbie!!!
Laura, I totally agree with you.
!@#$@#$!!#$@#$…
“I just wish he’d get some guts to use it, especially late in ballgames and with guys on base. ”
But that’s the thing – that’s the hard part with developing a change. It’s a context pitch – it’s not a good pitch until you’re willing to use it.
Pitcher’s know what pitches are weapons – if you’re not willing to throw it at a key time it’s just a show me pitch.
That’s why I was so surprised and impressed with McGowan tonight. I was just really surprised that all of a sudden he’s got the confidence in that pitch to throw it to ARod with the bases juiced.
It’s a feel pitch. That’s hard for a young pitcher. Hughes missing so much time last year set back his development of that change.
It’ll come. He really doesn’t need a 95+ heater – his fastball has terrific late life.
Oof. Hope Mo is sharp tonight.
Oh well…Mo time!
Dang it
Someone said JB is doing very well so far. I can’t recall who, maybe CB or Sj44.
jays are going to sweep the sux… you heard it here first.
GO, MO!!! We need you right now!!!
tim Donaghy is available to be an ump. Maybe Selig should look him up.
I am sure the Twins are so happy about not taking Melky and Hughes right now
Let’s go Mo, get your nose cleared out and throw some cutters and bring this game to close!
Joba, please fist pump as often as you like.. did anyone see Burnett fist pumping yesterday? Why is that not a big deal? People are so lame sometimes!
JB Cox was throwing very well down in Tampa. Nardi was very happy with what he saw of him.
He’s going to get to AAA very quickly. The jump to the majors – who knows but I think he’ll move through the system quickly as he was so good in AA even before he got hurt.
if John and Suzy say Joba should be in the pen, then the Yankees should stretch him out and put him in the rotation ASAP lol
Personally I want him as the future closer…. we’ve taken MO for granted the past 13 years, those last 3 outs are the toughest to get. Watch a team like the Rays, they’ll be ahead all game, then those last three outs they can’t get and lose a lot of ball games that way.
God, I remember that walk-off.
WHHHAT?? see what I mean about the umps!
You know what ticks me off about the umps. If you are going to have a small zone, at least have the same zone throughout the game. Don’t change it depending on who is pitching.
According to John they gave the Jays a letter high strike. Well if they gave the letter high strike the entire night, Hughes would have been perfect.
JoeT
It’s not even close. Teams lose games because of bad starting pitching far more often than they lose them in the ninth.
C’mon Mo.
Time for a DP. Better to face Stewart than Thomas, hopefully.
Do you ever notice how when Michael Kay says some guy on the opposing team is having a bad night — they get a hit…how does he do that? and how can we get him to stop…
I remember Harold Reynolds was talking about Craig Hansen and JB Cox right after they were both drafted saying how they would both be up helping their clubs in the pennant race that year. How off base was that?
I think Hansen was shell shocked and JB wasn’t really given the chances early on and has been injured the last year or so…
How big was Frank Thomas getting ejected?
Joe, we might have a future closer in the minors. Joba is believed to be our future Johan.
JB Cox had TJ surgery. He was pretty damn good when he did pitch. He’ll contribute next year for sure.
Mo, don’t do this to me.
come on Mo!
It’s speculation that Melancon is hurt. He did leave the game though.
One more for Mo to nail this one down.
Please don’t let the rotting remains of Shannon Stewart tie this game, Mo.
LAST ONE TO GO…
Check that, it’s Hill. Don’t let him do it either.
comments here much better than nyyfans
Jax just cause he left the game? Was it early on?
Aron Hill is a dangerous hitter in this spot. He’s not going to try to do a lot.
One more strike to go… Go Mo!!!
YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAH
Hill K’s and the Yankees win!
Nice game everyone! Got to go get some work done, catch you all later!
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Bill, if you’d called that a ball I might have killed you.
This was a good game. It was one we almost let get away with the dp. It was a well pitched game, shame Phil didn’t get his first win of the season. but the team got his second.
Nice. Like the old Joe used to say … if we win every series, we’ll be a 100 win team.
Ok we won the first series. Our arch nemesis the Tampa Rays come to town tomorrow.
where are all the trolls tonight?
3 down, 170+ to go.
We have won it the Angels’ way… I will take it!!!
“It’s speculation that Melancon is hurt. He did leave the game though.”
he was called into the game and then taken out no one knows what the hell happened yet
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Wait…the season isn’t over yet?
I can’t wait to hear postgame coaches corner
Abreu doesnt even know who the Blue Jays SP was tonight (McGowan)…
“Halladay, uh uh uh Burnett, and, uh, the guy who pitched tonight.”
Jennifer – very true, and I hope we do because i’d LOVE to have Joba as a starter, without a doubt he can help us out more as a starter… but i’m a firm believer that the 9th inning is a lot harder to pitch then people give closers credit for… hopefully we do have a dominant arm that can do it as well as Joba can
Daaaaaaaaaaaaaaa COMEBACK KYDS!!
Nice Win.
On the boo scale, how bad will Johnson get it? I guess if it is very loud, it will prove that most Yankee fans are very knowledgeable, since they watched st.
As nice is it was to see that we might have the pitching this year to win low scoring games, I’d like to see some offense against the Rays.
Whoever those pitchers are that the Yanks sent out in the 8th and 9th innings — they seem pretty good
Melancon is viewed internally as the Yanks successor to either Mo or Joba, eventually. Ross O may be a setup guy, and JB Cox will be a very, very tricky middle reliever at some point.
Brandon did he throw a pitch or anything?
I hope the Yanks don’t do anything stupid, regardless of what Johnson did. We don’t need anyone else to go and get suspended in the regular season. Johnson will definitely hear it from the crowd, though. I expect the umps might warn the benches prior to the game.
Another great pitching performance by Hughes and the bullpen.
Boston Dave – you are right. Winning keeps the trolls away!
After all the close losses last year, it’s nice to see two one-run victories so early in the year. This team, in a small sampling, has found ways to win, even though they haven’t yet started hitting the way they can.
I assume this is tongue and cheek
http://emedia.thetimes-tribune.....fault.aspx
Top first: Don’t have this confirmed, but I’m pretty sure Kei Igawa is the first Japanese pitcher to strike out the side in the first inning on opening day in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre franchise history.
I also hate all those stupid stats.
As long as the Yankees are leading in the score, there won’t be trolls. When they’re down in a game, the trolls will be here. If they lose, it’s going to be overrun by trolls.
The Jays outscored the Yankees this series 9 runs to 6.
Despite that the yanks took 2 of 3.
For the yankees to take 2 out of 3 this series given how fantastic Halladay, Burnett and McGowan were this series is great way to start the season.
Taking 2 of 3 with the way they pitched says a lot. That was brutal facing those arms.
I don’t think they take 2 of these 3 games last year.
Last year the yankees simply wouldn’t have had the pitching (both starters and the pen) to match up with the jays.
What a strong start by Phil. Second youngest player in the majors and he gives Toronto nothing while McGowan is shutting out his offense.
Have to give the pen an enormous amount of credit. They were huge again tonight.
And finally you have to give Girardi a lot of credit. He brough Joba in with the score tied – a lot of managers (not just Torre) would only bring Joba in with a lead, especially with the innings limit.
Girardi brought in Joba and then tried to manufacture a run. They scratched out that third run just like they did against Halladay.
So the Yankees win a series 2 out of 3, scoring a total of 7 runs. That’s certainly something we aren’t used to.
Well if he was brought in the game then taken out then maybe the manager changed his mind in who he wanted in the game?
Nice game.
I’m kind of lost not being able to say YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! In my parlance is says exactly what it has to. Not everything has to be intellectual discourse! Especially in a fast-moving game.
Anyway, I got to say it all I wanted to. Just not here…
Another win. I guess the ghost of Joe Torre is now gone.
other pitchers who would make great closers:
Verlander
Beckett
Peavy
etc.
enough with the Joba staying in the bullpen talk before he’s given a shot to start.
The Yankees won’t do anything. As far as they are concerned it is over. the Rays, well they are another story. They have nothing to lose, well except more games.
I think it will be over, but it would be nice to hear a shower of boos raining on Johnson.
Anyone see if Joba pumped his fists? If not, what else are Mike and the Mad Dog going to talk about for 5 hours tomorrow?
CB,
who is the youngest pitcher?
Sorry bad math – the jays outscored the Yanks 9 runs to 8 and the yanks still took 2 out of 3….
One of the big knocks last year was the Yankees couldn’t win the low scoring close games. We’ve had 3 so far this year and won 2.
I’m not going to make it through a season of 3-2 come from behind wins.
Hughes is tremendously poised, mature, and effective.
He is also the second youngest player in the majors.
Girardi is a fabulous manager in my estimation.
Life is good. Now let the Sux deal with the Jays!
BD,
Phil Hughes is the youngest pitcher in the majors and the second youngest player overall.
The only player in the majors younger than phil is Justin Upton on the D’Backs who is only 20.
We’ve heard Phil’s name for so long its hard to remember how young he is and how much better he’s going to get.
How many 21 year olds go out there against a division rival and throw a game like that?
Anyone know if web gems have started yet? If so Bobby definitely got one.
Paul O’Neil said he thinks the Jays have the top three pitchers in the majors.
the Sux avoid Burnett and McGowan but Marcum should be tough, Halladay is Halladay, and Litsch actually gave the Sox some trouble last season
Actually the best 1-2-3 in the majors.
Great game tonight
Let’s go Yanks!
trisha,
go with si!
“Brandon did he throw a pitch or anything?”
no one reported him throwing a pitch that is the good news
Jeff,
After a Yankee win? Hmm. What’s happening in the NHL nowadays?
Hughes just proved tonight that it was a right decision for the Yankees not to trade him for Santana.
trisha,
im assuming he meant the top 1,2, and 3 combo in the majors right?
not the three best individual pitchers
They had this over at RAB – Peter Gammons and Keith Law both picked Phil Hughes as a sleeper pick for the Cy Young.
They both also picked McGowan as a sleeper Cy Young candidate.
I wonder if Joe puts Phil on the hill at Fenway next weekend? That’s going to be a big test …
Burnett is basically in a contract year. wouldnt surprise me if its his best season.
Ed, good idea!
“How many 21 year olds go out there against a division rival and throw a game like that?”
My sentiments exactly. 1 walk for 6 innings of work for someone his age, pitching in an atmoshphere like the Bronx. I hope this is an indication of what Phil can/will be in the future.
GO YANKS!
Is the way to follow the thread just hitting the refresh button or can someone give me advice.
thanks
Shirley,
dont be hasty. if it was the right decision, one game doesnt provide proof.
i am gonna try to get into the Yanks @ Sox game April 13th… Hughes against Daisuke… should be fun.
Boston D, that’s what he meant. Not the top three but the best 1-2-3 combo.
CB,
LAw had to pick someone who had less than 10 wins last season so its not like he picked Phil out of the entire pool of pitchers.
“Peter Gammons and Keith Law both picked Phil Hughes as a sleeper pick for the Cy Young.
They both also picked McGowan as a sleeper Cy Young candidate.”
CB that is an extreme sleeper
Color me unconvinced that Toronto has the best 1-2-3 in the majors. 1-2 maybe.
trisha,
they have to be up there.
throw in Marcum as the #4 – pretty impressive
BD,
True – but part of the reason whey I find that great is that Law has said over and over that he doesn’t and never has seen Hughes as having the potential to be a true #1. He sees Hughes ceiling as a #2.
They he goes out and picks him for a cy young sleeper.
There are a lot of good young pitchers in the AL who didn’t win 10 games last year.
Sabathia, Carmona, Westbrook ?
Peavy, Young, Maddux?
Webb, Haren, Unit/Owings?
Wang, Pettite, Hughes
who else am I missing?
I think the Jays are up there – when you add Marcum as the 4, its a strong argument that they are the best.
It’s a shame that he lost nearly three months last season….I still say he wins 15 games this year…..I believe we Yankee fans are watching the start of a very special career…Regardless of what Proctor Pete says….This kid is special…..
A J still has to get thru a year without going on the DL. rest of staff still unproven
This and Tuesday’s games are the type of games we’d struggle mightily last year, when one-run-games or tie-games were our bane. Not anymore this year. Our bullpen is looking tremendous this year.
Red Sox have a good lineup, hopefully Hughes mixes in his pitches (change-up,slider) against that lineup more.
CB,
I saw that Law went to harvard.. does he have a Red Sox bias?
was he one of the writers who said Buchholz was better than Joba?
I thought it was a pretty good interview – def interesting that he’s already changed his mind on Hughes despite Hughes not really being able to showcase himself fully in 07.
The Better question Pete is when have the yankees had 2 bunts in a game?
Pat M,
Hughes may only start 23-25 games so 15 might be tough. I don’t know if the Yanks will incorporate potental playoff innings into their limits (they should).
Horne debuts tomorrow in AAA
Didn’t know Girardi was sick – he does not look well at all…
Not sure if he does live blogging everyday, but he did it for this game
http://emedia.thetimes-tribune.....fault.aspx
Jax,
Sox lineup seems to be off right now but they always wakeup for the Yanks. If Hughes has his control, he should do just fine. It will be interesting to see how he handles the intensity at Fenway (if he has any nerves or loses some command)… I am guessing he’ll be just fine, especially if he handles it like ALDS Game 3.
He does look green!! I think he might have just got all the beat writers sick. Pete was smart to stay away. Now they’ll all get sick, and he’ll get the scoop!
Keith Law has changed his opinion on Hughes so many times. One minute he’s a potential number 1 now he’s a potential 2?
I pay little attention to him and Jim Callis.
Not picking up a W in a game like tonight is a rub of the green..However there’ll be many a 5 inning outing and taking a shower with a 9-2 lead….
The dynasty teams knew how to manufacture runs, and had balanced scoring blending home runs and small ball timely hitting.
Starting around the time Giambi joined the team, the Yankee hitters seemed to depend more and more on an all-or-nothing home run hitting style. Which served them very well during the regular season, but left them stranded come the playoffs when they faced much better pitching and the home runs dried up.
It’s early yet, but there are encouraging signs in these first three games that they are returning to the balanced hitting approach of the dynasty years. Now the question is whether they will have the mental discipline to keep that up – and with Girardi on the case I suspect they will – and whether the pitching will be there.
Damon’s “phew!” when he realized that Hughes has turned 21 was priceless.
Several things left a positive impression upon me tonight. Hughes looked sharp, even with the fluctuating strike zone.
Curve ball was effective for the most part, and some nice late movement on his fastball. Bullpen looked really solid, nice to see Bruney throwing strikes, and the Joba/Mo combo delivered again. Most important (IMO) is the fact that even with a sputtering offense, they found a way to win. Some smart baserunning and timely bunts put a few runs on the board. Good to see everyone not swinging for the fences.
So excited to see the small balls, the hustle, the Billy Traber move tonight and leaving Wang on the mound to get the out before pulling him the other night…lots of good signs with this team. I miss Torre and am secretly rooting for the Dodgers (until october) but am super psyched about the new era.
On another note I feel bad Moose didn’t get a win last night, would have been nice to shut the critics up. Moose was throwing strikes consistently and there are times tonight when Hughes was really struggling with his locations (and the moving zone didn’t help). Imagine if it was Moose with the strike-zone trouble last night if even for just a couple of innings people would have been calling for his head. Also when Matsui was fumbling with the LF catch tonight people were calling him old and rusty and screaming to trade him. But when Cano drops balls all the times it’s just b/c he’s not paying attention. To me, the results are the same. There definitely is ageism in baseball.
Whenever Joba in the 8th, and Mo in the 9th leads us to a win………….
……………it’s a MoJob!
2nd MoJob this season. Waiting for so many more
We’re only three games in, but I must say I like Girardi’s managing style.
He has been pretty aggressive at times, played some small ball, and I think it has been a nice mix.
It is also good to see a guy up and moving around during the game (even when battling a cold).
I liked Torre, but sometimes I thought he was going to fall asleep in the dugout as he sat there with Jeter’s bat.