Game 91: Rays at Yankees
Posted by: Peter Abraham - Posted in Misc on Jul 09, 2008 
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YANKEES (48-42)
Gardner LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
‘Stache 1B
Posada DH
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Ponson RHP
RAYS (55-34)
Iwamura 2B
Crawford LF
Upton CF
Pena 1B
Longoria 3B
Floyd DH
Navarro C
Hinske RF
Brignac SS
Jackson RHP
Sidney Ponson (5-1, 4.19) vs. the Tampa Bay hitters.
Edwin Jackson (5-6, 4.08) vs. the New York hitters.
Notes: Thanks to Mike Dougherty for calling in the lineup. … Don’t be too deceived by Sir Sidney’s record. He has a 5.44 ERA in his last six starts (46.1 innings, 65 hits, 19 walks, .887 OPS against). He faced the Rays on May 26 and allowed five runs on 12 hits over five innings. Joe Girardi said yesterday, however, that Ponson “is one of our starters” and didn’t necessarily need to pitch well today to keep his spot. … The Yankees are 4-4 on their homestand, which ends today.
In case you missed it (and shame on you if you did) the Yankees will be giving away fake mustaches today in support of Jason Giambi’s All-Star candidacy. You have until tomorrow at 5 p.m. to vote. Click the widget over to the right.
SOMETHING’S GOING ON AROUND HERE: This marks the fifth straight game Jose Molina has caught. Jorge Posada hasn’t caught since Thursday. Girardi claimed yesterday that Posada’s shoulder is fine and improving and that he just wants Molina in the lineup.
Molina is a terrific catcher and controlling Tampa’s running game is a good idea. With Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui out, DH’ing Posada makes sense. But it’s getting a little hard to believe that Posada is fine given that he hasn’t been behind the plate for six days.
Back later with updates.
UPDATE 12:36 p.m.: Girardi acknowledged that as usual, Molina will catch Mike Mussina tomorrow. So that will be a full week for Posada not catching. If he doesn’t catch on Friday, we’ll know something is up.
Meanwhile, one of the Steinbrenner brothers held a closed-door meeting with Girardi and Brian Cashman this morning. But – surprise! – it was Hal Steinbrenner.
Said Girardi: “We have these bi-weekly talks when we’re at home, and we just stated how we’re doing and what we’re doing. There’s nothing magical in that room. We just talk about the club and all the players.
“Hal’s been the gentleman that’s come down with Brian, and we’ve had nice talks. I think we did it two weeks ago in the office. Maybe it was three weeks ago, but we try to do it on a regular basis. Sometimes I’ll go upstairs if Hal’s out of town we’ll do it on a conference call.
“It’s very much a discussion. He’s great. I’ve enjoyed it. We just talk about our club and how we’re doing and things we need to do to improve.
I don’t know if it was Hal’s idea or Cash’s idea, but it’s something that’s kind of taken place since spring training.”
Hmm, very interesting. So much for the idea that Hank is running baseball and Hal the business side. It would seem that Hal is quite involved with the baseball.
UPDATE, 12:43 p.m.: Hideki Matsui is heading to Tampa later today or tomorrow to continue his rehab. Brian Bruney will move up to Trenton this weekend and needs at least one more game before he’s activated. Looks like we could see him after the break. Does that spell the end for LaTroy Hawkins or would they option out Giese or Robertson?
UPDATE ON DON MATTINGLY: Word out of sunny California is that Donnie Baseball will join the Dodgers as their hitting coach after the break. That was originally the plan before some family issues forced a change.
Oh, and the Dodgers are a game out of first despite assorted injuries and underachievers. Seems Joe Torre knows how to manage.
(3 … 2…. 1… Cue the Torre haters. “The division stinks. It has nothing to do with him.” Of course. We know, it’s a complete coincidence that’s been happening since 1996. It’ll drive people crazy if the Dodgers make the playoffs.)
UPDATE ON BOB SHEPPARD: The Star-Ledger is reporting that Mr. Sheppard will not work the All-Star game. That is a shame.
Enjoy the game.
UPDATE, 1:23 p.m.: Fittingly, Giambi drives in a run. So go vote for him.
UPDATE, 1:53 p.m.: Sir Sidney is dealing. Dave Eiland said yesterday that they had ironed out a mechanical issue that was leaving his pitches flat. It seems to have worked.
UPDATE, 3:13 p.m.: Given that Sidney Ponson and Jose Veras have held the mighty Rays to one run over seven innings, the Yankees might want to score a run or two here, no?
Meanwhile the Rays have one run in 16 innings in this series.
UPDATE, 3:53 p.m.: Well, 1-1 in the bottom of the ninth. Win the game and hit the road. That’s the plan.
UPDATE, 3:57 p.m.: Cano can’t bunt. Does this makes sense?
UPDATE, 3:59 p.m.: Hey, look at that, Cano finally got a bunt down. Now it’s in the hands of Melky and Molina. Or Melky and Betemit.
UPDATE, 4:08 p.m.: The Yankees 1 for 10 with RISP. Just brutal. But that’s what they do. Now Posada is out and the bench is Betemit and Moeller.
UPDATE, 4:16 p.m.: It would seem Mo has solved that little issue of not pitching lights out in non-save situations. I predict Brett Gardner will ground out to second but be awarded first because he is such a grinder and so scrappy. Then he will steal second, third and home to win the game.
UPDATE, 4:28 p.m.: Slumping Bobby Abreu has done it, driving in the Captain with a double. Another impressively pitched game for the Yankees.
That’s a grand total of one run on nine hits in 19 innings for the Rays in two games in the Bronx. They advanced four runners past second in the series.
See you in September.
Meachem better smarten up coaching third!!! If that punk keeps sending Posada from second on a base hit im gonna smack him!
http://thefinalseason.blogspot.com/
Doesn’t necessarily need to pitch well today to keep his spot? That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard. McCutchen is knocking on the door at AAA–ditto Karstens until he got bombed in his last start.
Why should Sidney be entitled to a rotation spot? Ditto for Rasner–shouldn’t they have to pitch well to keep their jobs? I don’t understand this bluster that comes from Girardi pretty regularly when pressed on under-performing back-of-the-rotation pitchers.
Andrew, relax. Its just Girardi posturing. Of course Ponson is on thin ice.
Andrew – “That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard.”
Just wait awhile, Andrew. If you hang around the comments section long enough, someone will top it.
Should I be worried that I find myself scrolling down to look at Kim Jones with a mustache every time I go to the web page?
Both Ponson and Rasner have one more start before the All-Star break so there’s no reason on earth to put added pressure on them. Joba, Pettite, Mussina in some order will be the first three after the break so there’s time to find replacement(s) if needed.
I will worry about Posada IF he doesn’t catch tomorrow… Pittsburgh is not a big time running team. Molina’s presence behind the plate is a nicew weapon against teams that want to run.
(how’s that CM?)
“I don’t understand this bluster that comes from Girardi pretty regularly when pressed on under-performing back-of-the-rotation pitchers.”
What should he say? That Ponson is pitching to keep his spot?
It’s no big deal that he said Ponson is one of his starters. Tonight Ponson is one of his starters. He said that Ponson didn’t necessarily need to pitch well which is coach 101 speak for if he gets hammered he’s gone.
The Red Sox and Rays have some fast runners on their teams. Given Jorge’s troubles throwing out runners as it is, these two teams would have been really tough on him. He would be tested far more than Molina gets tested.
Agree that tomorrow will be more telling.
The best lineup for right now is Jeter SS, Abreu RF, Rodriguez 3B, Giambi 1B, Posada DH, Cano 2B, Melky CF, Molina C, Gardner LF (or I guess gardner at leadoff). With Damon and Matsui out we can keep good defense at C while making sure Posada gets his at bats. It also makes sure Posada doesn’t use his shoulder too much.
Regarding the pitching. I think that we will see some type of move after the all-star break. Whether it be a callup (McCutchen pls) or a trade.
I don’t think Posada will catch tomorrow because Molina is pitching. I hope he catches Joba on Friday. I think Joba does better with Jorge.
It does not seem alarming at all that Molina is catching his fifth straight. We all know that Posada is getting surgery in the offseason (at the latest). I think that each time he hurls the ball to second base it puts more strain on his shoulder as well. Given that these last five have been against the Rays and Sox (each of which has a solid running game) I think that in addition to stopping their running games, it is also to protect Posada’s arm from the strain he would have making so many throws.
Would be great to pick up a W today. Harden was traded yesterday, hope we are going to make a move soon. The last two games, Red Sox win and Tampa win its all about starting pitching that keeps them close and in the game
Hopefully Cashman will pick up two quality guys to send us on our way
Are you allowed to bring a full broom for a two game sweep, or does it need to be a dust pan broom? Ha, jk. Rays are overrated anyways.
And by “Molina is pitching” I of course mean, Mussina. Please don’t let Molina pitch.
I am glad that Molina is behind the plate since the Rays are a running team.
Tomorrow night Mussina is pitching and Molina has been catching Moose lately. It will be interesting to see if that continues tomorrow or if Posada is behind the plate.
You’re gonna smack Meacham upside the head if he makes a mistake, and HE’S the punk?
Molina’s now filling in a pitching spot? Who’da thunk the Yankees would have to pitch Molina?
People read far too much into what Girardi, Cashman, and Hank say. We should all know by now that most of their statements to the press should not be taken literally. If the Yankees find a replacement for Ponson they will jettison him from the rotation in a heartbeat.
We should also consider that maybe Girardi thinks that his words will have a positive effect on Ponson. Who knows. But if nothing else, Girardi’s words don’t hold the team back in any way.
As for Posada, considering he’s locked up for 4 years, Molina is such a good defensive catcher, and the DH spot is wide open, it makes perfect sense to put Molina behind the plate for as long as possible. We can’t afford to take any chances with Posada’s health.
Cashman is going to pick up more than 2 quality guys. Unfortunately for fans who want to change the team a lot, they’re names are going to be Damon, Matsui, and Hughes.
I sure do miss Bowa coaching 3rd.
For those of you voting to add the ‘Stache to the A.L. All-Star Team, keep in mind as you pick your N.L. choice that Corey Hart is currently first ahead of David Wright. I’ve been voting for Hart with the G-Man to keep Wright out.
Molina would be a BEAST pitcher. I mean, he can throw strikes to second base so why can’t he do it from the mound???
“I’ve been voting for Hart with the G-Man to keep Wright out.”
Wright is having a MUCH better season than Hart. Are you voting for Hart strictly because you hate the Mets?
DLev
Frail Phil has yet to prove that he is a quality guy. Potential yes, proven? No.
And at least he is not the psychological bowl of jelly that IPK has turned into.
“I’ve been voting for Hart with the G-Man to keep Wright out”
That is weak. I HATE the Mets, but I respect Wright. He has almost than 20 RBIs more than any player on the Yankees.
I think that right now the Yankees line-up is stronger with Molina behind the plate and having Posada DH. With Damon and Matsui on the DL, the DH spot is open anyway and give the Yanks the strongest defensive and offensive line-ups.
And with Mussina pitching tomorrow night I would expect Molina to catch again since he has been working really well with Mussina this season.
Ponson is definitely on the spot today especially after we beat Kazmir. I think the Yankees would have considered Karst3ens but the dude is as inconsistent as lump oatmeal. Another quality start and McCuthen is seriously considered. He looked rgeat the other night in the late innings.
so I guess harden wouldnt have cost us nearly as much as people here seemed to believe. would have loved to have gotten him.
Ray, Yes.
bdog, you can call it “weak.” I really don’t like the Mets, and I don’t want to hear about Wright being an all-star from my Met fan friends.
i agree tint…
Anyone see Kennedy’s line from yesterday?
4.0 5 2 2 3 4 0
The three walks really stands out to me.
So, its OK to vote for Giambi because he is a Yankee, but not OK to vote against the NY rival team member?
Yeah, that makes sense.
Andrew:
Karstens was “knocking on the door”? Thank god you’re not the GM. He allows 1.5 HR/9 IP. That’s because he’s not very good. It’s really telling that his two worst outings of the year have come against teams he recently faced.
He faced Pawtucket on May 20, and pitched decently with a bit of bad luck. Six days later, he allowed six runs on seven hits and three walks in 3.2 IP.
He shut down Toledo on June 22, scattering two hits and a walk in 6.2 IP. On July 7, he drew the Mud Hens again, and allowed 6 runs on 8 hits and 3 walks in 5.1 IP.
He very easy to figure out. And because he’s not overpowering, it’s a bad combination.
Wright is probably the only thing left on the Mets that I like. I’ve been giving my votes to the G-Man and David Wright.
Yeah, Meh!, I guess I misjudged the mood of the room. Most of my Yankee fan friends hate the Mets.
Or, people just like to attack posters.
One or the other.
Of course Posada’s not fine. I’m sure he can catch but do we really want his noodle arm in there until surgery? It is no surprise that Molina is in there against Boston and Tampa Bay who will try to steal.
Rest Posada’s arm as much as you can while Matsui is out. Because when Matsui is back he will be the full time DH and Posada won’t have much time there.
“Wright is probably the only thing left on the Mets that I like. I’ve been giving my votes to the G-Man and David Wright.”
Out of spite toward the Mets I have been voting for Lee lol
Since when is Kennedy a psychological “bowl of jelly”? Whatever the hell that means. He finishes USC, and gets called up to the Yankees. He pitches well in a couple of games (matching a pattern established by thousands of no-account pitchers).
This year, he has control problems and because of them, doesn’t pitch effectively.
This would not be out of the ordinary unless delusional Yankee fans had anointed him the savior on the basis of 30 good IP last year.
He was born in 1984. Give him another 18 months before you pass final, panicked judgment.
“so I guess harden wouldnt have cost us nearly as much as people here seemed to believe. would have loved to have gotten him.”
i figure a comparable package would have included IPK, with either Gardner or Melky, Alberto Gonzalez, and a low level A-baller with some marginal upside.
if it were IPK, Melky, Gonzalez, and a PTBNL, would you have pulled the trigger?
“This would not be out of the ordinary unless delusional Yankee fans had anointed him the savior on the basis of 30 good IP last year.”
hadn’t, btw
Karstens is still at AAA because hes a AAA pitcher. With all the Yankees pitching issues anyone at AAA that is not in the bigs is either not ready (needs more experience) or not good enough
Russell, Hart is first, Wright is second, so the most effective way to direct your spite is to vote for Hart.
Besides, how can you vote against the “Sunglasses at Night” guy?
Hey, why not vote for Wright? Support your fellow team the Mutts, err, Mets!
News on the original ‘stache…
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/.....id=3479584
I thought the fake votes of confidence were saved for the front office towards managers, not managers towards players. Apparently Coach Speak 101 isn’t still offered at most colleges and universities, especially when it involves frequently saying one thing and doing another a day later (which will happen if Ponson gets torched this afternoon, followed by his DFA/demotion to the bullpen).
That said, I think the idea of words having a positive effect on Ponson sounds nice and very Zen on Girardi’s part, but I also don’t think it’s going to effect how many hits Sidney gives up (probably too many) and how much confidence the other players will have in his ability to keep Tampa from scoring runs (probably very little).
It’s not looking too much into what he’s saying, it’s just, why lie? If you, me and everyone knows it’s B.S. that he’s “one of our starters and will be”, then don’t say it.
i figure a comparable package would have included IPK, with either Gardner or Melky, Alberto Gonzalez, and a low level A-baller with some marginal upside.”
No way. Gallagher > IPK and the rest of the Yanks AA/AAA starters. Younger too. Long way down from Joba/Hugghes to the AA/AAA gang. Gallagher fits in between.
Turn two…well IPK and Gonzalez I would have given up in a heartbeat for harden…I wouldnt include Melky because we dont have any outfielders left after him. If Johnny was healthy, done deal.
“if it were IPK, Melky, Gonzalez, and a PTBNL, would you have pulled the trigger?”
If I’m Beane? No
If I’m Cash??? Yes a million different ways.
meybe de joe girardi tis thinkin dat the ponson be having trade values an hes gots de hold the valuables ups
Andrew:
Uh, the same reason that you downplay injuries. Because if you want to make a personnel move externally, you want to convey as little desperation as possible. If you decide that you need Damaso Marte, Neal Huntington may start negotiations on the basis that he needs Austin Jackson. If you’re “just browsing,” Huntington might decide that Claggett is all he really wants. Hypothetically. And some GMs are dumber than others, so mileage varies.
But once again, another reason I’m glad you’re not the GM.
“That said, I think the idea of words having a positive effect on Ponson sounds nice and very Zen on Girardi’s part, but I also don’t think it’s going to effect how many hits Sidney gives up (probably too many) and how much confidence the other players will have in his ability to keep Tampa from scoring runs (probably very little).”
I’d agree if the ‘Jedi mind trick’ that Girardi has performed on Farnsworth wasn’t showing such good results. It is hard to argue that the happy talk hasn’t worked on Krazy Kyle.
and they got a very serviceable chad gaudin in the deal as well.
“No way. Gallagher > IPK and the rest of the Yanks AA/AAA starters. Younger too. Long way down from Joba/Hugghes to the AA/AAA gang. Gallagher fits in between.”
maybe fits in between, but they are practically the same pitcher. both really are 4/5 guys that can ascend to a #3 guy if he reaches his full potential.
i was just noting a comparable package, as far as the yankees would be concerned. they couldve sweetened the pot a bit by including a 4th player better than the low-A catcher the cubs threw Oakland’s way.
John_Halfz
The only panic is from IPK himself and his loss of nerve, and also your somewhat hysterical response.
I am not trying to hate on the Mets-hating, but one of the things I love about being a Yankees fan is not having to hate other teams players, but just their fans.
B/c the Yankees have had some real good teams the past 14 years, I do not really feel the need to hate on another team for having good players. For example, let them have their Wright, we still have A Rod.
Nothing is more pathetic to me than Boston fans still clinging to their Yankee-hating ways. They have won two WS series and still resort to hating the Yankees more than enjoying their own team. I buddy of mine was at the Sox-Rays game last week, and he said that at the game the Rays swept the Sox, the Sox fans were chanting ‘Yankees suck’ on the way out. I mean how pathetic is that? They continually plug (bad publicity is still publicity) our team due to a culture of losing they are so used to.
I will never wear any shirt that has the word Boston or Red Sox on it because I do not even want to acknowledge them.
Anyways, I understand not voting for Wright, but Corey Hart? At least vote for Burell or Lee. They are having much better seasons than Hart.
“and they got a very serviceable chad gaudin in the deal as well.”
apparently, according to Olney, Gaudin was Harden insurance to ensure the Cubs they wouldnt be at a total loss if Harden went down.
Beane had no incentive to trade Harden to the Yankees unless he got a package that was extremely better than what he got from the Cubs.
Why would he trade Harden to a team that’s fighting with his club for the wildcard?
Harden’s still too risky for my liking. He has to prove to me that he can pitch for a year without any more arm problems before I take a look at him.
dere es a rehson whys the girardi yapping workeed wit krazy kyley… hes be karazy doncha no?
John_Halfz: The reason I said he’s knocking on the door was because I was under the assumption that they were calling up whoever was the hottest hand at Scranton when the need dictated it–which Karstens was recently during a 6-start stretch where he pitched well, “up until recently (7/7) when he got bombed (5.1 8H 6ER)”. I understand he’s not very good, but I also believe that the back end of the rotation will be a revolving door for the rest of the year until someone steps up, and I think that Karstens still might get at least one shot.
Also, I’m glad I’m not the GM either.
Turn Two:
Kennedy possesses neither Gallagher’s stuff nor upside. Not a huge gap. But there’s a gap. Don’t see Melky/Gardner comparable to Murton/Patterson either…….unless the ability to hit doesn’t matter to the A’s.
Doreen
“Wright is probably the only thing left on the Mets that I like. I’ve been giving my votes to the G-Man and David Wright.”
Great minds think alike, me too
“I understand he’s not very good, but I also believe that the back end of the rotation will be a revolving door for the rest of the year until someone steps up”
True – it is going to “Open Mound Night” every fifth day for the foreseeable future. I wonder if the Wanger can come back by September and solidify things.
I hope Giambi gets to the All-Star but I would still get rid of him next year.And either Mussina and Pettitte.
“Kennedy possesses neither Gallagher’s stuff nor upside. Not a huge gap. But there’s a gap. Don’t see Melky/Gardner comparable to Murton/Patterson either…….unless the ability to hit doesn’t matter to the A’s.”
again, not saying its an exact match for match going down each player. i was just throwing a similar package of players: you have a young, serviceable back of the rotation guy, 4th OF, utility IF, and a low level prospect.
It was Pete who said that Karstens was knocking.
Kid’s got heart, but if he’s knocking. Turn off the lights and pretend no one’s home. You’ll see the other kid first, McKutchen? Or not. He’s not on the 40 man. Why is Chase Wright still on there?
bdog,
I only voted for Hart because he’s winning. Clearly, Wright, Burrell and Lee are more deserving. But if the idea is to block Wright, than Hart is the vote.
As for our larger point, I 100 percent agree. I am an Islander fan, and I hate it when fans at Islander games do the “Rangers suck” chant (if the Rangers aren’t there). It only proves that I root for a second-class team, since we’re thinking about the Rangers when they’re not even there. (It’s only small consolation that the Ranger fans chant Potvin sucks when the Isles aren’t in MSG.)
And your 100 percent right about Sox fans hating the Yanks. They’re the champs. Be bigger. It’s funny, I don’t even really hate the Sox, because when I was growing up in the 1970s, we always beat the Sox. It was the Orioles that always beat us. I grew up hating the O’s, not the Sox, who I felt a bit sorry for.
But, because of everything you wrote, that is why I hate the Mets so much. Their fans are like the Sox fans you describe, only 10 times worse. And I know it will upset them if Wright doesn’t make it (and Wagner, who they have a love-hate relationship with is their only All-Star). So, I would enjoy the Met fans being upset over Wright’s snub.
I have nothing against Wright. In facat, I know this is a very, very unpopular opinion on the board, but if some mythical world existed in which the Mets offered me the chance to trade Wright for A Rod straight up, I’d do it.
John, this time, I don’t even understand what you’re talking about. I don’t think what Joe Girardi says about Sidney Ponson or Darrell Rasner has anything to do with making some great trade that you’re alluding to. It’s an internal thing, not an external thing–a trade for a lefty reliever is completely irrelevant in talking about Ponson/Rasner and replacing them with people at AAA.
Apparently, you have really stepped up from this blog and taken the reins re: player personnel moves in the Bronx. Glad to hear it, you seem extremely qualified.
yea i would be all for dropping giambi with the money he expects, however there arent many options out there unless we get teixeira (+ cc is a lot of money). Then again we could stick jorge at 1st and pick up a big time outfielder.
I’m glad to know that my response in re: Kennedy was “hysterical.” I do not recall summoning such passion or emotion. Yankees fans have a terrible history of proclaiming every home-grown talent to be the next HOFer. And overestimating the abilities of marginal players.
It was general consensus on this board that Shelley Duncan (old, broken-down Shelley) would be a strong candidate for a starting job this year.
Brett Gardner is the fastest player since Chuck Carr and Vince Coleman had a son together and his presence will vault the Yankees into competitive hyperdrive.
Bubba Crosby and Andy Phillips were credible MLB hitters who only needed “a shot.”
So, yeah. The realistic view is that Kennedy might be a pretty good pitcher. But expectations were super inflated last year on the basis of a tiny sample set.
Sorry for being hysterical.
eyes ben hatrifying the mets fur a longs time
woont eve gone vote fur un o dere players eveer
Andrew:
The Yankees might as well convey satisfaction with the roster as is. You’d be pretty dumb to think that they don’t need help. But anything that serves the impression that the Yankees are frantically working a revolving door of mediocre pitchers will be picked up on by opposing front offices.
btw, Andrew, I chose a hypothetical player at a random position.
bdog,
I wrote a long reply to your email, but the site seems to have eaten it.
Short story: I agree with everything you wrote about the Sox. I want Wright not to make it as a slam on Met fans, not on Wright himself. And, clearly, Burrell, Lee and Wright are more deserving than Hart. I’m only voting for Hart because he’s in first and the guy keeping Wright out.
sorry,
email = post
Doing two things at once. Never a good idea for me …
Sorry,
email = post
I’m doing two things at once. Never a good idea for me.
“It was general consensus on this board that Shelley Duncan (old, broken-down Shelley) would be a strong candidate for a starting job this year.
Brett Gardner is the fastest player since Chuck Carr and Vince Coleman had a son together and his presence will vault the Yankees into competitive hyperdrive.
Bubba Crosby and Andy Phillips were credible MLB hitters who only needed “a shot.—
Overstate much?
wrights bees wronge
mitches bees doublemint
Andrew:
I have no desire to be a general manager. If I were, the Yankees infield would have E. Wilson and Sojo up the middle, and Fasano behind the dish.
Could you imagine Big G at 1st and Fasano behind the plate on the same field? talk about your ‘satche overload.
Mitch, I hear you. No biggie, just giving my side. I am a closet David Wright fan, but I hate the Mets – well not really, just there fans. Last September was truly a great time to have any friends who are Mets fans.
The ransom for CC was said to be Hughes and Jackson the Yankees kindly said no, never did any such attempt for Rich Harden happen. How many times have we said don’t expect any big moves Rich Harden has yet to finish a season healthy, your not investing prospects for him , if anything you wait for FA and net AJ Burnett who is less injury prone then Harden. Anyway Hughes is said to return later this season so for you he stinks fans live w/ it.
As for the Gardner reapers can the kid get more than 50 AB before anything is hated on him. I said this last night you don’t reward 3 K’s and not knowing how to do a sac bunt as I look at this lineup Girardi thinks the same way. I’m glad for that.
bdog,
I roadtripped to the season-ending O’s-Yanks series in Baltimore last year, and after the Marlins put up a big crooked number in the first inning of the last game of the year, all the Yanks fans were laughing. It was fun.
BTW, Hart was actually leading the voting as of yesterday. ITS ALL YOUR FAULT MITCH. Haha, jk.
I think the National League should be allowed to have all of those players in the game b/c they are going to need all of the help they can get.
Mitch,
Yeah, when Glavine was yanked in the first inning I think I cried I was laughing so hard. Even Dontrelle Willis could (and did) win that game!
Just saw the Posada out at home play on the replay of the game. I wonder it was Gabe gross out in right NOT johnny Gomes. With a 5-0 lead might it be a case of not really knowing what kind of arm he has, give it a try, worst case scenario you are still up 5-0 and have now seen how Gross throws so you can know that for the future??
This is from the NYTimes blog – it is time to bring Bernie back into the fold:
At the baseball writer’s dinner on Sunday, one of Williams’s friends told Cashman that Williams would like to speak with him this week. Williams has had a chilly relationship with the Yankees since they decided not to re-sign him last season. Cashman said that he would like to talk to Williams, too.
Since this is the final year of Yankee Stadium, the Yankees will probably consider honoring Williams with his own day. Williams has not officially said that he is retired, but he has already completed songs for a second album.
If the Yankees make a deal for a big name the farm will be devoid of throughbreds. Yes there is a ton of pitching depth but those types of players don’t net a Harden or CC. There are bigs bats at AAA, Ajax is really it at AA, and Tampa has nothing. Charleston is a long away from the bigs.
At some point Girardi has to decide to use Chad Moeller in spotted times so he doesn’t get rusty sitting on pine.
With Jorge’s ailing flipper, Moeller’s roster spot has to be justified.
*no big bats at AAA
Meanwhile Fatcessa can’t stop hitting the refresh button
bdog,
I didn’t vote for Hart until AFTER he was in first! So, I’m not solely to blame for him winning so far … LOL
I like Meachem’s aggressive style at 3B. I mean, lets face, we are one of the worst teams in the league with RISP. If some is at 3B they are likely going to stay there. That is unless Jeter is at the dish – leading the team with a whopping .330 w/ RISP.
Lefty,
Most managers won’t DH the second catcher if there is no third catcher. So, even if Moeller doesn’t play a game at all, his roster position is justified as allowing Jorge to DH.
But I agree with you. You can’t bury guys on the bench and then expect them to perform. You have to find a way to get them a game.
Don’t hate on Meachem. He’s a little rusty with guys even crossing third.
gayle you are correct. Gomes was not in rf in the 8th.
Meachum is a bad 3rd base coach.
good morning all…. anyone know when they’re going to update the voting again?? GO BIG G!!
“.215 average, 16% CS = AL ALL STAR!!”
I love it!
retire 51!!!
“good morning all…. anyone know when they’re going to update the voting again?? GO BIG G!!”
according to MLB.com this morning, Longoria still held a slight lead over Jermaine Dye, who was 2nd, and the Big G, who was third.
330 with risp isnt good enough for you?
Pete, any corroboration of the blurb in Page Six this morning about John Sterling’s manhandling of the press buffet? Apparently he eschews utensils. As long as he isn’t dragging Charley over the cold cuts, to paraphrase Bouton, I think you’re OK, but would be interested in more tales from the press box.
There are bigs bats at AAA, Ajax is really it at AA, and Tampa has nothing. Charleston is a long away from the bigs.
And this is why I say don’t expect any big moves. The mindset is at we’re the 5th deepest farmsystem in the ML, yes this is true but the ML ready prospects are not at the amount we would like it to be. You don’t deal a haul of prospects unless you have prospects waiting to be promoted in your system, another words once Jackson is gone who replaces him in AA ? and instead of having your next CF in your system your forced to go FA for another money contract for a player that usually doesn’t live up to it. These are the type of deals the Yankees can’t continue to make, your filling the system just because it’s 3/4 full doesn’t mean you go into selling it off, you fill it for your benefit and then when you have depth in AA and AAA that’s when you listen to offers.
Sterling is a buffoon, is anyone surprised by that story?
Meachum is a bad 3rd base coach.
No he isn’t.
Totally agree Brandon. The bats in low-A don’t get you squat. Minor league baseball.com has a preview of the US outfielders for your enjoyment:)
“330 with risp isnt good enough for you?”
Well, he was over .400 for most of the season last year, but no, .330 is plenty good. Now if only the rest of the team could hit that…
text message voting is too easy, especially when addressed to the same # 10 times and i keep hitting resend. few hundred votes today, already.
the worst part is deleting the responses, but i’m getting better at that too.
Minor league baseball.com has a preview of the US outfielders for your enjoyment:)
This year I’m not cheering for the JV USA team.
this according to mlb regarding the voting: In the American League, the three leaders, Longoria, Jermaine Dye of the White Sox and Jason Giambi of the Yankees, all have more than two million votes each and are separated by just over 10 percent.
saucy -
Do you delete the as a block, or individually?
mixed feelings on Meachum. i think he’s agressive sending runners home, but is that always a bad thing? and has he questionably sent anyone in a critical situation? close and in the 9th?
thanks turn2 and migames – I think with Saucy voting about 2 million times via text and the efforts of everyone else on this blog alone, the Stache might have a comfortable lead already
Doreen, it’s a blackberry pearl and only allows me to delete them one at a time (i think). but i went into the settings and was able to turn off the “confirm delete” option. and i realized i could use the backspace as delete, so now it’s just one click to get rid of each.
mixed feelings on Meachum. i think he’s agressive sending runners home, but is that always a bad thing? and has he questionably sent anyone in a critical situation? close and in the 9th?
we’ve won many games because of Meach’s greenlight at 3B, I think people need to stop lieing to thierselves he’s actually doing a very good job there.
saucy–
you can delete them en mass
hold down the alt key and move the clicker and it will highlight all of them then click to delete
if anyone has an iPhone that would be the best for voting – it shows text messages as an IM conversation so you just keep sending A2 and the thank you for voting just pops up above and u never have to delete it…. too bad i can’t use mine where i am
Brandon, I can just imagine the cries here if we had an overly cautious 3B coach, only sending runners if he’s 99.999% sure they’ll make it.
sending Jorge last night? i felt like he must have had dinner reservations watching that
“we’ve won many games because of Meach’s greenlight at 3B, I think people need to stop lieing to thierselves he’s actually doing a very good job there.”
Nobody notices a good job by a 3rd base coach – only the screw-ups. When a player scores they always credit the athlete, but if he is out it is the coach’s fault.
It isn’t fair – but that is the way it seems.
It’s a scam, major league baseball will not let the Big G win this. Every vote for Dye and Longoria are also taking votes away from Jason. It’s rigged.
thanks gayle
now there’s 0% chance i get work done now. at least until my battery dies. already planning a trip home at lunchtime to pick up the charger…
We should all realize, as someone noted, that Posada isn’t close to 100% and wont be until he gets surgery. He just doesn’t want to bail-out on the year. Why do you think Moeller is still here? The Yanks know that Posada’s shoulder is iffy, at best, and frankly, he has looked pretty bad throwing the ball. If he’s behind the plate, he may be a liability. Injuries to Matsui/Damon should keep him in the DH spot, despite his probable protesting.
The third-base coach and hitting coach are those most thankless jobs on the team. Kevin Long worked his ass off helping A-Rod get out of his funk and he gets no credit on here. A-Rod gets hot and it’s his talent and Long gets no credit. Guys don’t hit and Long’s head is on the chopping block. It’s insane.
Game number 91 already?
Wow.
Anyone depressed that Mattingly is going to be LA’s hitting coach? Not that I didn’t expect him to get out of coaching…it’s just too weird to see him in that uniform.
Posada deserves credit for nutting it up. Many other guys would have packed it in and had the surgery already. He doesn’t care that his throwing numbers are suffering. Think a catcher like Pudge would be doing the same in Jorge’s position?
“Anyone depressed that Mattingly is going to be LA’s hitting coach? Not that I didn’t expect him to get out of coaching…it’s just too weird to see him in that uniform.”
A couple weeks ago there was a mention that Kevin Long called Donny about Cano – Donny was happy to give Long some ideas which I thought was really cool.
If the big G gets into the ASG he should invite saucy to the game.
According to MLB.com 24,000,000 votes have been counted, and the top three have at least more than 2,000,000 that means that the bottom 2 have around 3,500,000 votes between them, that leaves 20,500,000 and if the leader has a slim lead over 2nd place and leads Giambi by 10 percent that means that the leader (langoria) has at least 7.6 million votes (35%) Dye 7.5 million (34%) and Giambi has 5.4 million (25%)….time to but our voting on steroids (no pun). He is down around 2 million votes.
JOn–
He was already named hitting coach when Torre went over there no suprise. It is just he had to take a leave at the beginning of the year when he had some family issues.
Good to know that those have been resolved enough that he can get back to doing what he loves to do
billy- how do you know kevin long worked his ass off getting arod out of his funk? For the sake of argument, lets assume he did. Does that mean he was a lazy bum with Cano through mid-june?
“Anyone depressed that Mattingly is going to be LA’s hitting coach? Not that I didn’t expect him to get out of coaching…it’s just too weird to see him in that uniform.â€
Apparently Bug Eyes must be off the bottle enough for him to go cross country?
Last night should have been Posada’s catching night if any. Pettitte controls the running game better than any other pitcher in the league with his pick-off move.
Posada should have started last night to give Molina a break since he is behind the plate again today and most likely tomorrow with Mussina pitching.
Come this weekend, we’ve got Toronto and they have a pretty good runnning game as well with guys like Rios (who is always on base when he plays the Yankees with his 20 something consecutive hits against us) and Scutaro.
Honestly, I think Posada’s shoulder is a lot worse than we are led to believe. How stupid would the organization look signing a 36 year old to a 4 year deal and have him look useless in the very first year?
yeah I thought Giambi was 10% behind Dye, but still hoping they meant Dye and Giambi were both 10% behind
TL- I think I saw his wife on an episode of COPS last week
saucy it is holding down the cap button NOT alt button sorry about that
I vote for Hart because I hate the Mets and I want the NL team to have the worst roster possible given our realistic choices. You bet I voted for Griffey! lol
Again, Meachem is doing what he should be doing b/c our team clearly is not hitting with runners in scoring position. If we were the Twins, for example, and leading the AL in that stat, then I think he could (and should) be much more conservative sending runners from third. That is obviously not the case.
Hey Doris,
Go back and look what A-Rod said. He attributed his success greatly to Long’s work. There’s no assuming. It’s a fact. Talk with anyone associated with the team. Long did everything he could with Cano. Calling Donny shows that.
that was me using logical reasoning, its like the SAT or the GRE all over again….
At the halfway point of the Monster 2008 All-Star Game Final Vote, Milwaukee outfielder Corey Hart and Tampa Bay third baseman Evan Longoria were holding slim leads while baseball fans were on the brink of destroying last year’s four-day record of 23.2 million votes in exclusive balloting on MLB.com.
In the American League, the three leaders, Longoria, Jermaine Dye of the White Sox and Jason Giambi of the Yankees, all have more than two million votes each and are separated by just over 10 percent.
Ever since seeing how he handled the questions in his interviews back when he was first having his arm problem, I’ve been assuming Posada’s throwing arm is smoked. So it’s no surprise if Molina will be behind the plate pretty much the rest of the year. Posada at DH makes sense since Giambi (for lack of better defensive option) will be at 1B most of the time.
Besides, Molina is a good defensive catcher with a good arm. Why not?
We’ll have to see if Posada might catch against teams that don’t run too much but as soon as word gets out that David Ortiz could steal as many bases as Jacoby Ellsbury off him, then Girardi has to get him out of there.
Even if it feels good again after taking a week off, whatever’s been hurting him will probably flare up once he starts throwing again.
Has anybody thought of a Yankees-Mets truce?
Might make sense to run a Giambi-Wright campaign and double their votes for the next day.
JR Yankees: “Pettitte controls the running game better than any other pitcher in the league with his pick-off move. ”
Yes, but Pettitte is very slow to the plate, so if a runner guesses right, he can walk to the next base. And the way the Rays run, they would have run wild on Pettitte/Posada.
Billy- understood. I dont doubt that he has helped arod. that being said, the yankees have been DREADFUL hitting w/RISP and its logical to look at Long.
Mike, you’re an appeaser. Ha ha.
I have been voting for the big G, and also adding a vote for Wright each time (after all, he does play for a New Yawk team!)
“We’ll have to see if Posada might catch against teams that don’t run too much but as soon as word gets out that David Ortiz could steal as many bases as Jacoby Ellsbury off him, then Girardi has to get him out of there.”
We can put Gardner at catcher and he can use his superhuman speed to run to 2nd base
“We can put Gardner at catcher and he can use his superhuman speed to run to 2nd base”
TKinDC, that might be one of the five funniest comments I’ve ever read on this blog.
I laughed at “‘Stache, 1B”
Anybody know where I can find stats of ER per games for catchers calling games ?
” that being said, the yankees have been DREADFUL hitting w/RISP and its logical to look at Long.”
You want A-Rod to regress? You could have Charlie Lau out there and it wouldn’t be much different. He can’t swing a bat for him the last time I checked. Doris you just proved my point about the hitting coach being the most thankless job. You understand that Long’s work helped A-Rod but no credit for him?
I just hope Ponson can keep us in the game and the bats are awake today..
Time to vote some more for the Big G
anyone know how to delete more than one text at a time on a blackberry pearl? I don’t think i have an ALT key..
I wish there was a way to count how many of the ‘staches votes came from people on this blog…. probably around 60% lol
“I am not trying to hate on the Mets-hating, but one of the things I love about being a Yankees fan is not having to hate other teams players, but just their fans.”
You don’t hate other teams players, you hate the fans, and you consider this a healthier, more mature response? Interesting concept you have there.
For the record, read any thread here on any night, pap, youk, beckett, schilling, pedroia… yankee fans hate these players. So please stop with the ‘we don’t hate the sox’ rhetoric. Nothing worse than hypocrisy.
I think someone said use the CAPS key Chris
I just hope Ponson can keep us in the game and the bats are awake today..
I just hope he remembers if he’s leaving a pitch over the plate direct it at LF not RF
Chris-
Click on the cap key
then click your trackwheel
and move it to all the messages you want to delete
then click trackwheel to delete
then hit delete
chris you should have an options button, when you are in your text window, than a delete all.
You folks might be setting your sights too high with Ponson today. It’s a day game; just hope that he sobers up enough to get to the ballpark on time.
Seems to me that the only way to judge a hitting coach, in the long run, is if hitters in general perform above expectations on that coach’s watch. Last year Posada and possibly A-Rod were the only hitters to exceed expectations, with Cano, Jeter, Damon and Melky doing worse. This year Giambi and Damon and maybe Matsui are up, while Cano, Jeter, Melky and Abreu are down.
I have no idea whether this means that Long is a good coach or not. There are a whole lot more reasons than the coach why someone does or does not hit. Was it Long’s fault that Cano couldn’t hit until a couple of weeks ago? Is it his hard work that has turned Cano around? All we can say, from the little we have to go on — mostly statistics — is that it looks like more Yankees are not responding to Long than those who have responded to him.
You folks might be setting your sights too high with Ponson today. It’s a day game; just hope that he sobers up enough to get to the ballpark on time.
Billy- not looking to fight with you. relax. And somehow, someway Arod managed to put up fairly decent numbers with seattle and texas. was his hitting coach there as well? i dont buy that for a second.
“yankee fans hate these players” – Speak for yourself pal.
If I hate a player it is because of the player, not the team. Maturity has nothing to do with this, but mind set instead. Someone says they hate Jeter, why, ‘b/c he is overrated’. So should they hate Jeter b/c his fans are ‘overrating him’ or the should they hate the fans who are overrating him? Last I checked it is not Jeter’s fault people think he is a superb player.
Bwt, the word hate is used quite lossely hear. But if it were to be used in a more literal sense I think it would be much more prudent to hate a fan (someone you actually know), than a player (someone you have never met). Then again, I am not quite sure what your definition of maturity is.
“just hope that he sobers up enough to get to the ballpark on time.”
Nick, that might not crack my top five like TKinDC’s Gardner comment, but that was very funny!
“You folks might be setting your sights too high with Ponson today. It’s a day game; just hope that he sobers up enough to get to the ballpark on time.”
I don’t know… David Wells was pretty banged up on the day of his perfect game.
got it, thanks Gayle. I didn’t realize I even had a caps key, I usually just hold down the letter to get it to caps.
DMan – I was going to say that same thing, then I realized that Wells was a great pitcher and Ponson well…. like Nick said, hopefully he makes it to the ball park
Actually, if Ponson comes in hammered he might be effectively wild.
As a follow up, it seems pointless for a fan to care more about their team then the game itself. I love the Yankees, but I love baseball even more. If you cannot respect another players talent just because they wear another uniform then baseball seems like a boring game to watch. Of course, if you don’t respect a player like Youk because he cries like a little girl (time after time again), then that makes a lot more sense.
Girardi is going to need to chhoose between Posada and Molina tomorrow. No DH being it’s an NL park.
I don’t know… David Wells was pretty banged up on the day of his perfect game
Except Wells could hold his liquor not so sure about Sidney
wow, just thought of a good nickname for Youck…. stupid terms and conditions, I’ll have to keep it to myself
If Dock Ellis can throw a no-hitter while on LSD, then anything’s possible
Hopefully there’s no bar at the hotel Fat Sid is staying at. If there is he might still be there. You think Hank or Hal would yank him out?
Brandon-you want CERA stats? I can’t find them per game..
Haha good points guys.
Oh well lets just hope he can hang in there for a few innings.
We’re gonna see a whole lot of base runners today with Ponson on the mound.
The only question is whether he gets really lucky (again) and mixes in a few GIDP in between all the walks and hits he’s going to surrender today.
“If Dock Ellis can throw a no-hitter while on LSD, then anything’s possible”
That might be one of the most underrated baseball achievements ever. How many batters did he hit in that game?
When Ponson is pitching just focus all of your energy on voting for the Stache – it will take the sting out of all the walks and baserunners
“In the American League, the three leaders, Longoria, Jermaine Dye of the White Sox and Jason Giambi of the Yankees, all have more than two million votes each and are separated by just over 10 percent.”
Migames I think your math is a little off.
If each of them have over 2mil votes and are separated by 10% that means that Longoria has something like 2.4 million and Giambi has something like 2.2 million.
200,000 is 10% of 2mil.
http://www.nj.com/yankees/inde.....be_at.html
Bob Sheppard, whose deep and unmistakable voice has announced the action at Yankee Stadium for 57 years, said yesterday that he is not feeling well enough to announce the upcoming All-Star Game in the Bronx.
Great post Nick…didn’t even think of that.
Mitch: Great point, however, if there was one night we had to choose for Posada to catch, I probably would have chosen last night.
Amazingly, he only hit 1 batter that game. He did issue 8 walks though.
Catching Molina and DH’ing Posada is an acceptable band-aid for a short time.
When and if Matsui comes back, the key to the whole season is whether Posada can catch 75% to 80% of the remaining games. If he can’t, the Yanks are dead.
If Matsui doesn’t come back and the Yanks can’t find a real replacement for him at DH and go back to using Posada at catcher, the Yanks are dead.
IMO, no way can the Yanks make the playoffs with Molina as the full time catcher for the rest of the season.
Why are car services so darn expensive??? UGH!! I am trying to book a service from Newark and it is near 100 bucks!!
raymagnetic ®™
mlb would like you to believe that, but they stated that there has been a total of 24 million votes. That means that of the 5, the top three have more than 2 millions, but it could be 2.1 million or 22million….
i would love to see footage of that game – was he freaking out on the mound?
I think that BOTH something may be up with Posada AND DHing him is the smartest thing with both Damon and Matsui out. if you’re going to be thin in one spot offensively, you might as well have someone in the lineup who helps you out defensively. We’re a better team with Posasda DHing and Molina catching than, say, Abreu or Giambi DHing and Betemit or Christian in the lineup.
I’d say Ponson on a shorter rope than Rasner, but what do I know…
“IMO, no way can the Yanks make the playoffs with Molina as the full time catcher for the rest of the season.”
Molina himself wouldn’t be the issue, though. It’d be the absence of other players that led to his being there every day. Jose Molina is a superlative defensive catcher.
Speaking of Bob Sheppard. I was watching a documentary of the Apollo missions and they showed a clip of Bob Sheppard announcing at Yankee Stadium that we had landed on the Moon. It was pretty unreal to hear him to that and it must have been a great day at the Stadium to actually hear him say that it was “Attention ladies and gentleman Apollo 11 has safely landed on the moon” then on the scoreboard they had “they have landed on the moon”
Great quote from Doc Ellis
“The ball was small sometimes, the ball was large sometimes, sometimes I saw the catcher, sometimes I didn’t. Sometimes I tried to stare the hitter down and throw while I was looking at him. I chewed my gum until it turned to powder. They say I had about three to four fielding chances. I remember diving out of the way of a ball I thought was a line drive. I jumped, but the ball wasn’t hit hard and never reached me.”
I hope Bruney is locked in like he was before he caught the yankee DL plague….
Jorge, Molina is a good defensive catcher, I agree, but his bat is not strong enough to play the position full time at a playoff level given our other problems.
“mlb would like you to believe that, but they stated that there has been a total of 24 million votes. That means that of the 5, the top three have more than 2 millions, but it could be 2.1 million or 22million….”
Right. But it said that the three are separated by 10%. That leads me to believe that there’s a 10% margin between Longoria and Giambi. Therefore if Longoria has 7 million votes Giambi would still have to have at least 6million votes.
Besides why would they say each of them has at least 2mil votes if each of them actually has at least 5mil votes?
Humberto Sanchez looks better than Bruney in the GCL.
IN terms of Bruney. I think we need to keep Giese, we need a long man unless Hawk has now been relegated to that rolw. Also Robertson has pitched pretty well I would like to see him stay.
“For the record, read any thread here on any night, pap, youk, beckett, schilling, pedroia… yankee fans hate these players. So please stop with the ‘we don’t hate the sox’ rhetoric. Nothing worse than hypocrisy.”
I have a ton of respect for Youk, Pedroia, and Beckett. Papelbon’s shtick annoys me, and he’s not the GREATEST CLOSER EVER like some folks on here like to say when they want to be down on the Yankees. Can’t say I “hate” him, though. The only guy on that list who approaches that level of dislike for me is Schilling, and it has nothing to do with what he does on the field, but more to do with how he used the 2004 Championship as a talking point for political campaigning right before the presidential election.
I dislike a certain portion of the Red Sox fanbase, just like I dislike a certain portion of the Met fanbase. I also have wonderful baseball conversations with other fans of both those teams.
Apparently he didn’t freak out enough for people to notice
And here’s Ellis’s account:
“I can only remember bits and pieces of the game. I was psyched. I had a feeling of euphoria. I was zeroed in on the (catcher’s) glove, but I didn’t hit the glove too much. I remember hitting a couple of batters and the bases were loaded two or three times. The ball was small sometimes, the ball was large sometimes, sometimes I saw the catcher, sometimes I didn’t. Sometimes I tried to stare the hitter down and throw while I was looking at him. I chewed my gum until it turned to powder. They say I had about three to four fielding chances. I remember diving out of the way of a ball I thought was a line drive. I jumped, but the ball wasn’t hit hard and never reached me.”
But Molina is not meant to be an everyday catcher.
My concern would be his health and I have no idea why they don’t give him a breather once in awhile when they’ve got a third catcher in Moeller collecting dust and cobwebs sitting on the bench.
They don’t have to use Moeller today against the Rays, but it might be a good idea to use him with Rasner on the mound since they worked together in Scranton early in the season and Rasner was pitching lights out.
Not saying Rasner will be lights out again, but it wouldn’t hurt to shake things up since Rasner hasn’t pitched well in over a month.
puhleeeeeeeze let bruney be the end of hawkins.
Like I said before the season even started….all of you will be wanting Hawkins off the team by the All-Star break…ba-bye LaTroy !
It would seem like a no-brained that they release Hawkins. It’s like “Who do we get rid of? Giese who has been a weapon out of the bullpen, Robertson who has been pretty good and will only get better, or the guy with a 5.94 era who is declining?”
Come on, they better do the right thing.
Is this A-Rod business any of our business?
That’s the question at:
http://faceoff.lohudblogs.com/
Robertson needs to stay up. He’s really the only viable option among the bullpen kids in the minors. JB Cox has been hyped for so long but his stuff has been less than mediocre.
being as though Giese has turned into the long man, and Robertson has shown some success at the MLB level since his promotion, i think we can all say good bye to LaTroy Hawkins after the break.
Read Ellis’s wikipedia page:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dock_Ellis
One of the most amazing things I found was when it talks about how he tried to hit the entire Reds lineup. But it is not that he tried to hit the lineup, but instead that he hit the first five batters and it was his own manager that pulled him, not the ump!!! Wow, how baseball has changed. He would be gone after hit two batters back-to-back today.
i’m rooting for the two big fat guys today- sidney and livan.
wow. espn has red sox at 71% chance of victory.
no love for livan.
i’ve just talked with my red sox friends on main st street on cape cod and their consensus is they they don’t know how the red sox will do against hernandez because they don’t know of any other pitcher as slow as livan.
there is however a warning issued on the mass pike for when manny is at bat.
Can we get anything for Hawkins on the trade market?? If the answer is yes perhaps you do not DFA him and just try and make a trade for something that may be a viable part
Flaherty should not repeat not have had that mustache anywhere near his face
no love for livan because he’s awful. More importantly – STACHE UPDATE AT 3:00. From MLB.COM:
The amazing volume of votes made it impossible to discount anyone whose name was not listed first in the latest voting updates announced at the halfway point on Tuesday. The next voting update is scheduled for roughly 3 p.m. ET on Wednesday. Winners will be announced on MLB.com shortly after the ballot closes Thursday.
In the AL, the three leaders — Longoria, Dye and Giambi — all had more than two million votes each and were separated by just more than 10 percent. They were followed by Brian Roberts of the Orioles and Jose Guillen of the Royals.
Yeah. Robertson should stay up. He’s looked decent. Giese over Hawkins, though not because he’s more talented.
Ohlendorf and Hawkins are the worst offenders.
Based on the fact that Girardi now only uses Hawkins in blowouts, one would think he is next to go. I wouldn’t be shocked if it was someone else though. The yankees have done dumber things… like continuously calling up billy traber.
cant believe he pitched while on acid. thats amazing. i took acid a few times in college (univ of colorado-boulder) and thought there was a small, african-american leprechaun named willis trying to douse me with house paint. no joke.
“Jorge, Molina is a good defensive catcher, I agree, but his bat is not strong enough to play the position full time at a playoff level given our other problems.”
Perhaps, but lighter-hitting catchers with less upside are wearing rings. I also think that Molina is more than capable of getting a runner over and setting the stage for the others to drive the run in. He’s a damn smart baseball players.
Again, if he’s the starting catcher on this team, it’s a sign of a bigger problem, not him being the problem necessarily.
Will this be one of the games where Edwin Jackson kills us, or we kill Edwin Jackson? there seem to be two types of Edwin Jackson versus the Yankee games.
That picture of Robinson Cano behind them on YES was HILARIOUS.
Anyone
If I have a choice of upper level tier seats or sitting in the bleachers for the All Star Game, to get the best view if that’s even possible in those seats which one would you pick? Tier or bleachers?
Thank you.
My co-worker just came in, said it is going to pour!! I am in midtown.
Is Joe wearing a ‘stache today?
“Ohlendorf and Hawkins are the worst offenders.”
I understand the frustration with Ohly – but seems to me the front office was smart to send him down to work on his secondary stuff as a starter so he can improve.
They tried him in about 4 different roles before they said uncle and decided to retool.
I think Hawk will be the odd man out. Robertson is doing well, and Griese is doing well in the long relief roll.
i find it a little odd that people are still taking shots at Ohlendorf, and he’s been off the roster for a couple weeks now. let him get his work in down in Scranton, and hope that he can figure out his secondary pitches and work on his control a bit.
was he as good as most hoped he’d be? no, but that also doesnt mean if he gets some work in, and improves his location, that he cant be back up when the rosters expand in sept to help out.
Can’t Bob do the game from his home? Work something out.
so sad!
I wish I could watch this..lol
We playing the drinking game today ?
OK GUYS!!! time to support TBG. please take a minute during the game to vote Giambi at least a few times. you can easily vote 5 times in under a minute, so its not like its pressing or something you’re going to get caught doing at work. if all of us vote now, we can throw a few thousand more votes in the staches favor. i’d really love to see our great teammate liven things up at our own stadium in both the all star game and the home run derby. tat longoria kid has a lot of time to make all star squads. this is Jason’s time.
“cant believe he pitched while on acid. thats amazing. i took acid a few times in college (univ of colorado-boulder) and thought there was a small, african-american leprechaun named willis trying to douse me with house paint. no joke.”
i had to be stopped to walking into the middle of the ocean because i saw a floating stadium, thought i was walking on lava all night, and lost a chance at getting with a girl because i wouldn’t shut up about how purple she looked.
then again, the others who had actually done it before seemed more able to control what was going on. maybe a guy who’d done a LOT of acid in his life could have pitched a no-hitter.
Oh, come on pete…that’s completely disingenuous. The Dodgers aren’t even a .500 team. Is it Torre’s managing that makes the rest of that division suck?
“Robertson needs to stay up. He’s really the only viable option among the bullpen kids in the minors. JB Cox has been hyped for so long but his stuff has been less than mediocre.”
Less than mediocre? Except for a few bad outings, Cox has been really good. I don’t think he’s been overhyped at all, really.
wow, ponson is a fat mess. lets just hope he can pitch. or maybe we’ll have to slip some LSD under his cap between innings.
FYI (not sure if this was already posted):
“The next voting update is scheduled for roughly 3 p.m. ET on Wednesday.”
And apparently some guy in Chicago has voted for Dye about 1,000 times…
Jorge- LOL
The “How many runs Ponson gives up” Drinking game? Good thing all I have near me is diet coke.
LOL..Russo is cranky about his precious Lincecum and SF Giants
“Oh, come on pete…that’s completely disingenuous. The Dodgers aren’t even a .500 team. Is it Torre’s managing that makes the rest of that division suck?”
Torre brought the Yankee Mystiqueâ„¢ with him to LA. The other teams are blinded by his legendary managing skills.
Well, that wasn’t so bad.
Looks like Jeter’s locking in (when was he not?).
Doris From Rego Park
you ‘re a guy and go by doris and you make fun of me.
where’s my bucket of paint?
I voted so much that I feel like I just participated in a Zimbabwe election!
“wow, ponson is a fat mess.”
is that anything like a “hot mess?”
Doris – that story is sad, but 100% true. no embellisment. that really is what i remember.
I hate math but.. Maybe the 24 million is for the 10 players- 5 AL and 5 NL comnined. The 3 AL leaders have at least 2 million votes and the other 7 players make up the rest of the 24 million. Did they give rough totals for the NL leaders?
“Less than mediocre? Except for a few bad outings, Cox has been really good. I don’t think he’s been overhyped at all, really.”
He hasn’t been very good in AAA at all. Lately he’s been awful. Could be he’s not entirely healthy, but whatever it is, he’s been ineffective. Doesn’t strike hitters out. K/BB ratio is week. Throwing as many fly ball outs as ground outs. Doesn’t appear to be anyone who will contribute this year.
Anyone
If I have a choice of upper level tier seats or sitting in the bleachers for the All Star Game, to get the best view if that’s even possible in those seats which one would you pick? Tier or bleachers?
Thank you.
Willis- i havent seen you since we last met a a grateful dead concert at the Silver Bowl in las vegas in 1994. How ya been?
“I voted so much that I feel like I just participated in a Zimbabwe election!”
…or a Miami mayoral election…
Please don’t let these tricky mathematical calculations get in the way, just vote for Giambi and the math will take care of itself.
“He hasn’t been very good in AAA at all.”
17 IP to a tune of a 1.59 ERA, and a 1.00 WHIP.
yeah, thats awful. send him back down.
twins up 1-0
beckett is shaking in his spikes at the thought of getting beat by livan.
Also, the Twins lead 3-0 in the 1st after a 2-run Morneau homer. Livan is getting hungry.
… really shaking now.
3-0 twins.
morneu 2 run bomb.
“Joe Torre knows how to manage”
I was waiting for the rest of the statement
manage to get in a division where the division leader is sub .500.
Girardi would be leading the NL West. The fact that Torre’s team is only 1 game back speaks more to the poor quality of the NL West than to his ability to manage.
If Cox doesn’t strike anyone out, then you’d have to assume his K/BB ratio is going to be bad. I don’t think those are two separate knocks on him.
Yeah, that Torre is really something. Fantastic job in inheriting the best young core in many years (sound familiar?) and yet still remaining under .500 in what is possibly the worst division in baseball.
Both Colletti and Torre owe everything they have accomplished this year to DePodesta. Honestly, it’s quite incredible what his farm system has become in the last few years.
Twins up 3-0 with 1 out in the 1st…
“17 IP to a tune of a 1.59 ERA, and a 1.00 WHIP.
yeah, thats awful. send him back down.”
Talking about Cox, Turn Two. Those numbers you reference do NOT belong to him.
Tier versus bleachers depends where in upper tier it is I have sat in both and I actually liked bleachers better
Twins led in both other games too.
Thanks for the help on the tickets.
How scary is it that Waldman looks better with a ‘stache?
its actually fun listening to russo when fat ass francessa isnt there
Gayle can you really see what’s going on in the game if you’re in the bleachers? I’ve never been to Yankee Stadium. They just look so far away on the television anyway.
The power of randy l love working in Boston.
stache power!
Believe in the ‘stache
The power of the ‘stache working in the Bronx.
mel- and she would sound better with a ping-pong ball stuffed in her mouth
@Mark’s cousin
i’d probably go with the tier seats. you’re far, but its mostly high up. bleachers are just way out there. also no beer in the bleachers… lame. the tier corridor is crazy small and be prepared to wait a while for the bathroom.
That’s how you help your All-Star bid!
I think Giambi’s biggest problem is that folks in Chicago are already well-versed in voting multiple times, which will help Dye. Meanwhile, Longoria might get support from all the Boston fans and both the Tampa fans.
Giambi’s making his case
oh crap
just blew my cover.
that’ll teach me for using another username.
sorry willis .won’t happen again
Fredo, my apologies, those stats dont include the last couple appearances from JB. but even so, lets get real here. he’s gone thru a little trouble since he hit the DL, but to say he’s been totally ineffective at SWB isnt true.
Hmm, Livan’s mojo got Beckett up to 34 pitches after one inning
Anyone else think Susan Waldman’s ‘stache isn’t one of those stick-on kind??
mark i could I guess it depends on where each of hte seats are. I have sat in the last row of upper deck right field and could not see anything in rf as it was so high you can see down.
I sat opening day in the lf bleachers and had no problem seeing anything now it is not like you can see balls and strikes all that well but you wont see that in the upper tier either.
that actually looked like a manufactored run
Are the coaches wearing a ‘stache?
“it is not like you can see balls and strikes all that well but you wont see that in the upper tier either.”
but you can still boo the umps for squeezing our pitchers. cause you just know they are
“that actually looked like a manufactored run”
Aren’t all runs manufactured? I’ll take a run “manufactured” by a homer any day.
Come on Sir Sidney – channel your inner Livan!
Strikes man. Strikes!
Is Sir Sid getting squeezed?
Come on Ponson, throw strikes.
only his waistband
Sidney isn’t sober today
just dropped in another 30 or so big g votes. everybody should have mlb open and keep voting for the big guy!
watching livan pitch to the red sox is very scary. you can tell he does not want to throw strikes to youkillis. but he gets him to ground out weakly. uh oh , he comes manny.
Did Flash dye his ‘stache?
Pena forgot that Damon was not in LF.
Get out of this Sidney
If Sir Sidney is going to hit a batter – he should aim at Longoria (just kidding)
Walk to drive in a run incoming..
“Fredo, my apologies, those stats dont include the last couple appearances from JB. but even so, lets get real here. he’s gone thru a little trouble since he hit the DL, but to say he’s been totally ineffective at SWB isnt true.”
Fair enough. He’s been fairly disasterous in the three weeks since being off the DL, but was doing quite well before that. Some of those stats bother me though. K’s, GO/FO ratio, etc.
Time will tell.
Sir Sid = Tubby Houdini
Not pretty, but effective
a good move to put Hinske on.
Sidney “Treading Water” Ponson.
Gardner willed the rookie to hit the ball to him.
HBP worked. Hinske looks like a good guy. Not like that other ex-Sox Fart Nixon.
Livan scoreless through one in Beantown. Dominant.
can’t believe i have so little faith.
manny hits a dribbler to livan.
3-0 twins end of 1st
“Some of those stats bother me though. K’s, GO/FO ratio, etc.”
surely. for a ground ball pitcher, youd really want him to approve on that thru his development here. unfortunately, it tells me that maybe he’s not finishing his pitches, or just simply leaving pitches up in the zone… and if he comes to NY, those fly balls can be turned into HRs, especially if he isnt throwing it by MLB hitters.
battery dying… good thing i don’t have many friend’s who actually call me
ugh
Ouck, strike out looking… Never good..
i just dropped maybe 50 votes and am going to take a break. we need to get that filthy mustache in the all star game. moose got snubbed. 7 lousy sox players got in. we need to represent our own stadium.
oh no! If Saucy’s battery dies, then the whole backbone of the operation goes down!
Gardner when he gets use to his swing is going to be one tough out. Hopefully he learns to use his legs too.
id say iv voted about 100 times today, unfortunatly i have to go to work but ill drop in another hunred when i watch the rest of the game on tivo when i get home!
Fat Sid is dealin’!
Weren’t the Yanks up 3-0 with Moose pitching in that Pittburgh rainout? Losing that (potential) win might have been the difference in not making the All-Star game. Or maybe Francona has seen a lot more bad Moose than good Moose lately and it wouldn’t have mattered.
Back to back K’s? What? Who is pitching again?
LOL@ Singleton, “Close enough!”
even though gardner has been striking out too much. we’ve seen some pretty decent at bats. hes right in with the yankee philosophy of working the starter into throwing a lot of pitches. the yankees have been great at this for years. hell even cano hit a single on a 2-2 count that was the 12th pitch of the at bat.
as we proved last night, the best way to deal with a great starter is to work him out of the game. hopefully gardner will figure out how to deal with ML pitching soon. though i will say, even though his avg and SO are awful, he has found ways to be usefull with RS, SB, BB, and Sac Bunts
“Gardner when he gets use to his swing is going to be one tough out.”
When he gets used to his swing? He’s been playing ball for how long, now? And he’s always been prone to the K. Not particularly surprising for someone who also takes walks, but you want to see some SLG in that package too…or MLB pitchers are just going to take advantage of his propensity to take pitches and put him in the hole early.
I dunno. I’m just not convinced that Brett is going to be a super useful player…pitchers can just go after him, and in the bigs they have the stuff and the command to strike him out a lot more than they do in the minors, and no one’s going to nibble.
take that sean casey!
mighty mad casey strikes out
called strike three.
I think it was 3-1 Nick – but you are right that if Moose was tied for the AL lead in wins it would have been a no-doubter
“Losing that (potential) win might have been the difference in not making the All-Star game. ”
I don’t really think so. He said he fought with himself over the Moose decision quite a bit. He only had a couple spots to play with…I think he maybe chose Navarro (having a really nice season, and the rays only had one other guy) over Moose. It’s pretty reasonable.
Livan continues his dominance through two. Registered his one and only K for the day as well.
end of 2nd
3-0 twins
livan is still ticked off at being snubbed by francona for the all star game.
Ponson and Livan are going neck and neck. Who will end up with the better line?
@ nick in SF. i’d have to take a look more closely at how the rosters fit the selection rules, but i’d have to say that the fans voting in so many red sox killed moose. francona was limited in who he could select because every club has to be represented.
Sir Sidney, striking out the side? Wow.
Gardner is in there for now.
After Matsui or Johnny come back… Eh…
He’s got to start hitting, or he could end up back in AAA. He does a lot right, but he’s got to hit, especially if they’re going to bat him leadoff.
I think they’d keep Christen for a pinch runner possability, and send Brett back so he could play every day.
“Aren’t all runs manufactured? I’ll take a run “manufactured†by a homer any day.”
But don’t you know that, for every bunt involved in the creation of a run, an angel gets its wings??
Also, you get an extra third of a run to be tacked on for your league at the all-star game.
Wow..Sidney.
Not pretty, but getting the job done…so far
I was at Ponson’s start at Shea a couple of weeks ago and after a high blood pressure inducing first few innings he actually settled in quite nicely. Hopefully, he can channel some good karma here and get us through 5-6 with little damage. Would be great to take 2 from Tampa (and have Boston lose as well – although it looked that way last night as well).
randy l
July 9th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
“take that sean casey!
mighty mad casey strikes out
called strike three.”
Randy, I don’t like to always blame the ump but the replay on that play showed that it was a bad call on the third strike.
whozat – isn’t there a fixed number of pitchers and fielders or is there flexibility on that?
But don’t you know that, for every bunt involved in the creation of a run, an angel gets its wings??
Are we sure it’s wings..maybe a mustache?
“But don’t you know that, for every bunt involved in the creation of a run, an angel gets its wings??”
LMAO
anybody else having problems loading mlb’s gameday?
“but i’d have to say that the fans voting in so many red sox killed moose. ”
Honestly, it was the wonky way they deal with the player vote that really did it, I think. Mauer ran away with the player vote at C…Varitek was, I believe, a distant second. But…when the fans and players agree, the next guy gets automatically included. I figure if Francona had that slot to play with as well, he’d have put Navarro on as the other catcher and maybe could have gotten Moose on there too. Though, the fan inclusion of Ichiro meant that he couldn’t really find an OF slot for Markakis, which meant that he needed to take Sherrill for the Orioles; no one else on that team is really deserving. That’s another place that Moose could have gotten in.
“Gardner when he gets use to his swing is going to be one tough out. Hopefully he learns to use his legs too.”
Don’t see it. Knows the strike zone well enough, but his bat is SLOW.
“whozat – isn’t there a fixed number of pitchers and fielders or is there flexibility on that?”
There’s flexibility, but the manager does need to roughly balance things across positions. He can’t wind up with one 3B and six catchers, or ARod has to play the whole game and each C plays one and a third.
You also can’t have TOO many pitchers. How many can you use, really?
So…a glut at one position from the fan and player voting can force the manager’s hand in other ways. Like the fans voting for almost all the “wrong” OFers put 5 or 6 on the roster to start with. So, Tito can’t really add many more, so he can’t take Markakis so he has to take Sherrill so that’s another pitching slot taken up, etc etc etc.
Can’t see the game so have to listen to Sterling and Waldman. Wish she didn’t have a comment after everything. Could you imagine being married to her, nag, nag, nag…
Anyway, how does Ponson look?
Don’t see it. Knows the strike zone well enough, but his bat is SLOW.
slow bat fouling off 97 mph off papelbon the other night ok …
“anybody else having problems loading mlb’s gameday?”
yes. freezing up all the time.
Hey Pete, do you really think Giambi’s an All-Star? It’d sure be cute if the ‘Stache Campaign succeeds, but c’mon, let’s be serious. Please.
I’m pretty terrible at ‘evaluating’ prospects, or whatnot…
But it seems like in general, if a player isn’t hitting HRs in the minors, there bat is probably not quick enough to even hit for avearge in the majors.
Gardner looks like a baseball player and plays with heart and grit… But he has looked overmatched in most ABs..
Who knows though? Maybe he’s still adjusting.. What do I know? =]
Happy with the year Moose has had, but there were other guys who were more glaring omissions, led by John Danks. Last 5 years, Moose’s 2nd half ERA has been at least three quarters of a run higher than his 1st half ERA. In the spirit of changing that, I just assume he have the three day vacation.
Who was chasing Alex? Cynthia’s lawyers?
The only problem with gameday is they’re not showing pitch speed and stuff.
slow bat fouling off 97 mph off papelbon the other night ok …
Exactly. He was always late. Papelbon could have thrown 40 fastballs and Gardner wouldn’t catch up. He’s looks nothing like an MLB hitter.
“Randy, I don’t like to always blame the ump but the replay on that play showed that it was a bad call on the third strike.”
ray-
that’s livan’s sleeper pitch .
it takes so long for the ball to get to the plate both the hitter and umpire fall asleep.
when the ump wakes up he has to flip a coin, so livan gets the call half the time.
“Hey Pete, do you really think Giambi’s an All-Star?”
He is the most offensively potent 1B in the majors. So…I’d say there’s certainly an argument.
“He is the most offensively potent 1B in the majors.”
Actually, revise that to the AL…Berkman or Pujols is probably better in the NL.
I really would like to know why Edwin Jackson is so good against the Yankees and plain horrible against everybody else.
Posada is such a loser.
haha! who called that hit on longoria!! props to you, sir
IDK – Moose seemed pretty jazzed about that Demolition Derby at the county fair (you can take the Stanford grad out of rural PA, but . . . )
Exactly. He was always late. Papelbon could have thrown 40 fastballs and Gardner wouldn’t catch up. He’s looks nothing like an MLB hitter.
This just like that Dustin Pedroia issue right ? people said he didn’t have any real major league power than all the sudden he learned to use his legs.
I’m beginning to think that Sid really is drunk.
Berkman or Pujols (oh What I would give)
ahh ‘Stache
Hey Brandon Son of God goes yard again. Betances may never find the strike zone.
mel you just began to think that ?
uh oh
red sox up
1st and 2nd no outs
does livan have en where he wants em?
the little runt is up. double play?
“Betances may never find the strike zone.”
Betances made a start on the 4th that was pretty good. Only one walk, 5 K’s. He’s still young. Let him develop.
nope, little runt couldn’t hit it hard enough.
1out.1st and third.
Jeter almost just secured Giambi or Dye a spot on the all-star team.
“But don’t you know that, for every bunt involved in the creation of a run, an angel gets its wings??
Also, you get an extra third of a run to be tacked on for your league at the all-star game.”
Whozat,
I’d forgotten about the extra third of a run that bunts produce.
Brandon,
The second HBP did it.
Livan walking a fine line here.
useless strikes out with a runner on third and 1 out.
so embarrassing.
uh oh manny again
5.0 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 5 BB, 6 K’s
If Betances could just throw strikes he’d be unhittable, he reminds me of how Volquez and Feliz and Cueto were.
ugly start sure, but if we get one or two more innings like this from ponson i’d be pretty impressed. even for him to go five innings without giving anything up against this team would be fantastic. hopefully our bats will wake up a little and give him/the pen some more breating room.
I am all for waiting on Betances but whatever way you look at it 45 walks in 65 innings is reason for alarm. It’s nice seeing him come back but I wouldn’t mind seeing the strikeout numbers fall if it help his control.
Sir Sidney is abusing the poor rookie –
That is NICE!
“But it seems like in general, if a player isn’t hitting HRs in the minors, there bat is probably not quick enough to even hit for avearge in the majors.”
Maybe. Maybe not. Don Mattingly was not a home run hitter in the minors whatsoever.
Robi stop aiming for CF not the guy you want to hit it to.
Mike Lowell….3-3
“I really would like to know why Edwin Jackson is so good against the Yankees and plain horrible against everybody else.”
He has a low four ERA. He’s been doing something right.
Wheels coming off in Boston?
Shame Spencer
Ugly start? What game are you watching?
4 innings, 3 hits, no runs.
I am all for waiting on Betances but whatever way you look at it 45 walks in 65 innings is reason for alarm. It’s nice seeing him come back but I wouldn’t mind seeing the strikeout numbers fall if it help his control.
a/ a kid that shows sparactic improvement at times and hits 100 mph on the gun I wait as long as I can.
damn, those sox wont go away, but i cant even worry about what they or anyone else does – as long as we keep winning we’ll be around in october.
These Minnesota pitchers are not helping our cause. Very irritating.
I restarted my computer and now the gameday works fine (along with mlbtv.com). Must have been a bandwidth issue.
“Wheels coming off in Boston?”
that’s ok, livan has a spare tire.
Go Livan!!!!
4-3 Sox
The Twins suck.
“Wheels coming off in Boston?”
For the moment, yeah. 4-3 Boston.
sorry, the ugly comment was just directed at ponson not his actual pitching
I think Lincecum’s loss last night finally unhinged the Mad Dog.
When is the Sports Doctor back in the house?
Ponson is a really solid #4.
Stupid Livan …
How is Livan going to eat his fill of innings at this rate?
Did he eat a few innings for breakfast at the hotel buffet?
Opponents are hitting in the .100s off of Betances. If he can get his mechanics and control in order he is a top of the rotation guy. Being so tall will take some time, but you gotta like that when he gets the ball over the plate it is an out or a strikeout.
It makes no sense at all. How can he be so damn good against the Yankees and just mediocre against everybody else.
“I am all for waiting on Betances but whatever way you look at it 45 walks in 65 innings is reason for alarm. It’s nice seeing him come back but I wouldn’t mind seeing the strikeout numbers fall if it help his control.”
Dellin Betances is about 12 and in the low minor leagues. Let’s not worry about what he is or isn’t going to become just yet.
Shame Spencer
true, undeniably true.
Oh com’on BLUE !
Ok the way Pettitte was pitching yesterday I felt pretty good with the 2 runs, but with Ponson I don’t feel too great about 1 run… we need to score!! AND VOTE!!
Umps on crack. Just great.
“This just like that Dustin Pedroia issue right ? people said he didn’t have any real major league power than all the sudden he learned to use his legs.”
Pedroia still doesn’t have any power. He’s slugging percentage is 70 points lower on the road.
But let’s not compare one small player to the next. Pedroia has never struck out a lot. He makes contact all of the time. Gardner on the other hand…..
I have a bad feeling about this inning. 3rd time through the order.
I’m a troll, la dee da dee da da. I’m a troll, don’t listen to what I type!
terrible call
tsk tsk Livan
randy l,
He has a couple of spare tires from all that inning-eating.
Thanks for the help with the game tickets. I am going to look through the posts later to see the comments!
How sad that Minnesota can’t keep a lead.
Let ‘Em On Hernandez gives up four in the third. Not so much dominant.
He did help the cause to lower Varitek’s average to increase the AS game embarrassment though.
“How is Livan going to eat his fill of innings at this rate?”
nick in sf-
now he has the red sox overconfident. this usually gets him two to three shut out innings to get to the 6th or7th.
you’re not rooting against good old livan are you?
At least Ponson is being efficient with his pitches.
“These Minnesota pitchers are not helping our cause. Very irritating.”
Minnesota is also a playoff contender at the moment so as long as the Yankees win it’s all good.
Good afternoon,
Have a little time to watch the game. I like what iv seen the last few games. It has to be credited to the meeting factor.
I know that these Rays have good young talent. But i still think they will fall back in the second half and it will be sox and us on top of the division once again.
Question.
Who got the better end of the Cubs/A’s trade yesterday? Did Beane do a number on a team again?
give gardner a break, does anyone not remember how horrible Cano was when he came up for the first 2 months? errors and offense non-existent..
oh and BTW Cano’s first game was at the trop against the rays.. he replaced T. Womack
Livan will eat you all for breakfast.
Chris Russo is totally loosey goosey today on the radio..lol
“He has a couple of spare tires from all that inning-eating.”
yeah ,well, sometimes more than one wheel falls off.
you can’t have too many spare tires.
but it’s a one run game after three innings .
livan pitches to the score.
Bruney returning could be very big deal to this team before the injury he was one of (along with Joba and Mo the best pitchers in the pen). His fastball was high 90′s and his off-speed stuff looked real good I am anxious for the 2nd half. Veras, Bruney, Robertson and Mo sounds like a good pen not great but solid.
“you’re not rooting against good old livan are you?”
I’m on the Livan bandwagon today. After today though I’ll find another bandwagon to join.
Minny has to get one in beantown I dont see the Sux sweeping.
“Question.
Who got the better end of the Cubs/A’s trade yesterday? Did Beane do a number on a team again?”
I actually prefer the Cubs here, though, understandably, the As wanted to sell Harden ASAP.
Is anyone besides me listening to the game? Sterling sounded like he was having a sexual moment when Jose threw out Upton trying to steal. Sterlin is so hard to listen to.
HOSE-ay
I don’t think he’s too soon to mention this. I had a guess that the Ponson we saw against the Mets was the one we’d see again and Texas was his bugaboo because of it was his former team.
See what Molina just did? That’s why I didn’t want Jorge in either game and hoped Moeller would take one. But if Molina can take both, right on Hosie!
I haven’t seen a catcher on a roll like this since seeing Pudge on ‘roids for the rangers.
“Minnesota is also a playoff contender at the moment so as long as the Yankees win it’s all good.”
Not sure I’m buying that. They were 18-3 in the 21 prior to this series. That suggest to me some fattening up on the National League. They have some things going for them, but offensively they aren’t terribly strong.
Defense, pitching.
Yankees
don’t run on Molina! man Sidney is getting luuuuuucky.
Well it looks like good ol’ Sir Sid will get another start.
He needs to fly out to Cali after the game to help with putting out the fires over there since he’s so good at it.
Ray and Randy,
I think the prudent thing to root for is a 11-10 Twins victory, after Livan gives up 10 earned runs in five innings!
Well, I guess I shouldn’t have been nervous about the 5th, but I am still nervous about the sixth.
Just saw Beckett is at 80 pitches in the 4th. The Twins should be able to score some runs against the boston bullpen.
Sterling sounded like he was having a sexual moment when Jose threw out Upton trying to steal.
Oh ew. :O
I am totally rooting for Livan.
Maybe he needs some A1 Inning Sauce to make it through the 5th.
Molina should remain our starting catcher for the remainder of the season. Posada could rotate with Giambi at first and dh. This man is possessed. Rickey Henderson/Vince Coleman wouldnt be able to swipe a base on him right now. Teams have become a station to station team with him behind the plate.
raymagnetic,
Yes, a Twins’ loss helps us as well. But the same guy who came here yesterday thanking us for the win will be back. “Thanks for the win! Only 2 games back!” Booo!
it’s too soon to mention this. Anyway I did say it when Ponson was pitching against Texas. He is a major league pitcher and he has pitched very good games.
I keep liking Gardner more and more. No need to mention that everyone runs on Damon and nobody’s running on this kid.
Speed kills!
I just don’t get why Edwin Jackson is so dominant against the Yankees. Baffles me. The guy is more inconsistent than the Yankee offense yet seems to be able to control them. go figure.
“They were 18-3 in the 21 prior to this series. That suggest to me some fattening up on the National League. They have some things going for them, but offensively they aren’t terribly strong.”
Not saying they’re likely to stay in contention but I root against everybody that’s in front or near the Yankees in the playoff race.
cj = ER
“livan pitches to the score.”
That was some mighty fine pitching he did to the 3-0 score!
5 shut out innings from Ponson?! Come on Yankees score some runs!
Livan pitches to the score?! I love that train of thought. Randy, you are the best!
“Rickey Henderson/Vince Coleman wouldnt be able to swipe a base on him right now”
Gardner could.
The It’s All A-Rod’s Fault, Even Global Warming bandwagon is always looking for more members
Livan’s mojo at least got Beckett up to over 80 pitches before the 4th is done
…
…
Scratch that; it’s Livan’s mojo and A-Rod working together.
And the 4 runs Boston got? A-Rod had a hand in that too!
I bet the Braves go all out to sign Teixiera. They way that deal is going for the Rangers is nowhere but good.
S.O.S. 27— You do remember what happened to Molina when he played every day earlier this season right? What was it, a mildly strained hammie?
His numbers are better when he’s not catching every day. He’s just built that way.
We’re going to need to figure out how to get Montero up here next season!
man – Gardner’s just getting in ahead of these throws to 1st…
Okay, how did Sterling sound on that basehit for Gardner?
Molina couldnt hit a beach ball thrown by Kei Igawa but boy can he defend and throw.
“But the same guy who came here yesterday thanking us for the win will be back. “Thanks for the win! Only 2 games back!†Booo!”
I missed that guy. I usually stay far far away from game threads.
“Just saw Beckett is at 80 pitches in the 4th. The Twins should be able to score some runs against the boston bullpen”
Maybe. Francona will let Beckett go to 120 because he won’t pitch again til the 17th or 18th (same as Lester last night). Doubt Papelbon is available (pitched last three days), but the rest of them have thrown only 2 innings combined in the series. They won’t be tired. They may be ineffective.
“cj = ER”
I don’t get it. Who / What is ER?
Molina is the best defensive catcher in baseball.
4 pickoff attempts! What’s the record?
Damn Jete just K so Gardner could get the SB.
Speaking of Sterling..I hope he washes his hands a lot..since he is sticking his fingers in ice cream
Gardner despite the low AVG has been producing. Just turned that into a double.
Extra run here could be huge.
Man, if Gardner can get on base at any semblance of the pace he was on at AAA he will be huge for the Yankees. I don’t care if they are all bunt singles, but Jackson has thrown over about 10 times during the last two batters. That has to keep the pitcher off balance and the hitter a bit more in control. And while I am typing he up and steals second anyway.
has Gardner attempted a steal here? im not watching, just following along on ESPN GameDay… seems like Jeter and Abreu were taking a lot of pitches, so they were doing their part..
ER is the biggest Pain in the @$$ to ever come on this blog – I don’t know what you said but I’m sure you don’t deserve being called that lol
Anybody got a guess of how many SB’s Gardner could get if he played 120 games? Im saying 70.
“S.O.S. 27— You do remember what happened to Molina when he played every day earlier this season right? What was it, a mildly strained hammie?
His numbers are better when he’s not catching every day. He’s just built that way.
We’re going to need to figure out how to get Montero up here next season!”
Yes i do remember. Its different this time. We have Gardner up now. It takes all the pressure off Molina stealing bases. So his hamstring should be safe for now.
Has Montero even reached puberty? I think its too early to expect him here in 09.
come on Alex..Kabbalah the ball
“We know, it’s a complete coincidence that’s been happening since 1996. It’ll drive people crazy if the Dodgers make the playoffs.”
I agree that people often give Torre too much of a bad rap, but your conclusion does not follow your statement. How does Torre’s success with the Yankees (in a tough division) prove that he’s a miracle worker in L.A. (bad division)?
“I think the prudent thing to root for is a 11-10 Twins victory, after Livan gives up 10 earned runs in five innings!”
no way. livan will go 6-7 innings to save the bull pen.
2010 at the earliest for Montero. prob closer to 2011 if everything goes right.
A-rod has Lenny Kravitz on his mind I guesss.
Maybe Garnder can steal home too. That would be a manufactured run – infield singe, stolen base, advance to third on infield out, steal home.
Dang it
Rays starters are good pitchers. Can’t fault the Yankees offense if a good pitcher shuts them down.
What would it take for a big hit?
another wasted runner in scoring position. i hope it doesnt come back to bite us.
Too bad the Yankees still suck with RISP.
Cue the Torre haters?
His team has a losing record and they’re not in first place. What a “genius” he is.
looked a little sick
Folks, let’s concentrate on the YANKEE game and not the Red Sox game…
Putting a little pressure on Sid here. He’s exceeded expectations by a huge margin but is still life and death in this game.
Rory(Sacramento): Not one Yankee prospect question. What is the main thing that keeps Gardner from being an everyday player?
Jim Callis: (2:35 PM ET ) Lack of power. There’s concern that he’ll get the bat knocked out of his hands in the majors, and he hasn’t done anything yet to dispel that.
“ER is the biggest Pain in the @$$ to ever come on this blog – I don’t know what you said but I’m sure you don’t deserve being called that lol”
It can’t be me then. I don’t post nearly enough for that.
A-Rod on cue with the whiff
“Maybe. Francona will let Beckett go to 120 because he won’t pitch again til the 17th or 18th (same as Lester last night). Doubt Papelbon is available (pitched last three days), but the rest of them have thrown only 2 innings combined in the series. They won’t be tired. They may be ineffective.”
Im hoping that the rest of the guys are ineffective. Didn’t realize Lester threw 120 pitches last night. Oh well, so much for my theory.
This is getting bad. Edwin “Cy Young” Jackson.
What is the deal with ARod, he is swinging like Molina.
Anyone else feel like they’re living on borrowed time??? This game is nerve-wracking.
>
More like he had a runner in scoring position.
Oops. That’s what I meant.
Ahh and there we go.
FYI, just got Slingbox for my office, watching the game on the 2nd monitor….
Its sick
Mitchell {NYC}: Do the Yanks sign both Texiera and CC this winter? They should have $70MM coming off payroll with Giambi, Arbreu, Mussina, Pavano, Hawkins and Farnsworth all leaving. And maybe $85MM if Pettitte leaves.
Jim Callis: (2:43 PM ET ) Sounds like Sabathia is headed back to Cleveland or back home to the West Coast. An agent told me Sabathia told his former Indians teammates he wouldn’t be playing east of Cleveland next year. Texeira is a better bet for the Yankees.
——————————————————————————–
George (NY): So if the Yanks do sign both CC and TEx, who gets the 1st round pick?
Jim Callis: (2:44 PM ET ) Depends on which player comes out higher in the Elias rankings. It doesn’t matter who signs first.
__________________________________________________
Ben (New York, NY): Gardner of Melky?
Jim Callis: (2:48 PM ET ) Melky.
effing Pena great the yankees gave him a shot
Once again, the Yankees can’t hit. Super duper.
i just knew it!!! UGH
damn it….
Sid returns to form with the bomb.
well, they scored a run..bound to happen
Jesus I step away it’s 1-1 WTF did I miss ?
Al from BK -
Not fair to knock Sid in this game. He’s pitched really well…
Get angry at the Yankees bats. Seriously, 1 run? Come on…
he’s given 1 run up in 6 innings, wha tthe hell you crying about
Ponson is what he is. One run in 6 innings from him is more than you could hope for.
Pena is all or nothing. 6 IP 1 run from Ponson will keep him around longer, for sure. He actually gave up less hits than IP today, too…a minor miracle.
raymagnetic-
work calls.
pick me up for the 5th with livan.
nick in sf -
you’ve got the 6th.
thanks guys.
Give Sid a break. he’s pitching his ass off. The bats needs need to nut it up.
nice recovery – a freaking run would be good right about now
Where is SJ when you need him – it is the offense stupid. Ponson 1 run through 6 against the Rays is much more than can be hoped for.
How is the slingbox working??
I bought one a couple of years ago but it didn’t work too well because my parents house has DSL and not a cable modem
So far Ponson has been all we could ask for as a bandaid.
“Sounds like Sabathia is headed back to Cleveland or back home to the West Coast. An agent told me Sabathia told his former Indians teammates he wouldn’t be playing east of Cleveland next year. ”
I’ll see this and then I’ll believe it. He’s not turning down 40 more million if he makes it all the way to free agency.
“A-rod has Lenny Kravitz on his mind … ” ???
Nah … I really don’t think A-Rod would want to hop in the sack with Lenny Kravitz.
Unless it would be to create a diversion that would prevent Canseco’s skank wife from hopping in the sack with him.
Does he pitch the 7th? Nice finish to the inning, but a couple of hard hit balls to Melky and the HR makes me thing it could be Veras time
Nice recovery by Ponson.
Hey, how about a little run support, guys?
5 hits, 2 BB, 1 run. Same story as always.
Get to work bats
“Ponson is what he is”
or is he?
If CC wants a ring he’ll head east either the Yanks or (cringe) Bahston. If he just wants to kick it with his boys in California he’ll go to LA or SF/SD. Who he signs with will depend on his sentiments he could be the Yankees ace in a brand new ball-park on the biggest stage in the world, or he could hang out for the rest of his career on the west coast.
this is what drives me crazy, our starter going 6 strong with giving up only one run and we could still lose this game even with our bullpen performing well. people get on rasner for being a weak starter but even a few of his loses should have been wins with this lineup. its terrible that we cant get runners home when they are on second and third constantly.
A HR from the ‘stache on ‘stache day would be appropriate
Fastest guy on the team on second, with 1 out, and he get stuck at third… Talk about frustrating.
Ponson is doing fine. One run against this team is excellent. It’s the Yankees who’ve squandered a couple of opportunities, and then have done nothing at all. The offense has to step up and take advantage of an unexpectedly stingy pitching performance.
Whatever you think of him, Ponson has earned the right to stay in the rotation. Sometimes he walks that tightrope, but this is 2 starts with 1 run or less.
Why did Gardner not steal during Jeter’s at-bat?
Jeter’s fly ball would’ve moved him to third base with Abreu and Arod up, then, 1 out.
Just dont understand why you wait around for the kid to grab a bag.
“I’ll see this and then I’ll believe it. He’s not turning down 40 more million if he makes it all the way to free agency.”
CC needs to eat.
“its terrible that we cant get runners home when they are on second and third constantly.”
Yeah, I could have swore I saw Damon pitching a tent on second base with all the times he’s been stranded there.
Yep, the situational hitting sucks. And the best player on the team is one of the biggest culprits.
“Where is SJ when you need him – it is the offense stupid. Ponson 1 run through 6 against the Rays is much more than can be hoped for.”
Yes true. The only thing that bugs me is that he had Pena at 1-2 and gave him a FAT pitch to hit. Other than that one mistake he’s been good, now its time for the bats to wake up.
I wasnt ripping Ponson he has been good today. The Yanks must lead the league in pop-outs and lazy fly balls.
as much as I like Edwin Jackson because he is a black baseball player, and a pitcher at that, he really isnt that good to shut us down every time we face him. I hope the yankees win the game 2-1 with a tampa relief pitcher getting the loss, not Edwin.
The post steroids era where every hitter better learn to play team ball in order to get runs.
Why hasn’t Cano been told to never swing at the first pitch!!!!!!! He shouldn’t be allowed to swing at it. UNBELIEVABLE!!!
How about Cano taking maybe 7 pitches total today against Jackson? Taking more pitches throughout the game by Cano would almost guarantee Jackson now doesn’t come out for the 7th. He’s just over 100 already.
Instead, he’ll be back for the bottom of our order, likely.
this team wastes more risp than any other yankee club ive seen in a while.. hey, maybe it’ll be the opposite deal if we end up making the playoffs. usually we score a ton of runs all season then our bats go dormant for the fall but maybe since this year we decided we were going to suck all season we can actually score some runs in the first round (again, assuming we do some magic and make the playoffs).
Johnny Damon should take a little gazebo out to second with him and get some shade. You know the Yanks never get a ball out of the infield when there are RISP.
Francis you as racist a pig. Why don’t you go drop acid with your boy Doc Ellis.
Another pathetic showing from our offense. When a scrub like Ponson gives you 6 innings while allowing just 1 run, you better win that game. Especially if that game is against the team you’re chasing in the division.
When does Livan start pitching to the score again?
6-3 Sox.
“Why did Gardner not steal during Jeter’s at-bat?”
To keep the hole open for the ‘jeterian’ inside out swing.
Tom (NJ): Jackson or Tabata? Also, will both be in the Yankees OF?
Jim Callis: (2:57 PM ET ) Jackson. Beginning to have a lot of doubts about Tabata.
um, why cant he like a player for being black? how is that racist?
Nice day by the dynamic duo of Romine and Montero – 2 hits a piece. Homerun and 2 walks for Montero.
Cano is another guy who is what he is. He’s not going to wake up one day and become a player who works counts. Good or bad, he’s pretty consistent this way.
I like Ryan Braun for being jewish… does that make me racist?
Is there a player who isn’t what he is?
randy l
July 9th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
“I think the prudent thing to root for is a 11-10 Twins victory, after Livan gives up 10 earned runs in five innings!â€
“no way. livan will go 6-7 innings to save the bull pen.”
You just might want to reconsider that prediction!
I noticed only 3 pitchers on the 25-man have an ERA over 4: Rasner 4.94, Hawkins 5.94, Traber 5.06 and all the rest are sub-4.
That being said, it’s hard to believe this team is only a little over .500.
This untimely hitting (or lack of hitting) is almost as lethal for the Yanks now as timely hitting was for Yanks’ opponents 10 years ago.
Just guessing (on another subject) but at first glance it looks like PEDs helped offenses for about a run per game. Well, at least the ones they test for now.
TK – thanks for an intelligent response.
Normally, questions about baseball strategy on this board are ridiculed for their supposed stupidity.
Makes perfect sense.
“When does Livan start pitching to the score again?
6-3 Sox.”
At least the Minnesota bullpen can relax today. Livan can go his 7 innings and give up 10 runs.
tough no decision for Sidney…
“m, why cant he like a player for being black? how is that racist?”
What if John Kruk said on Baseball Tonight “The Cubs did a great job trading for Rich Harden. I’m a big fan of his, because he’s white.” ? He would probably get fired.
Hmm, Livan’s full already
Is he the type who eats more innings for dinner than lunch?
“Is there a player who isn’t what he is?”
Good point.
Courtesy of Merriam-Webster.com:
Racist
1 : a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race
2 : racial prejudice or discrimination
No racism, Rodney.
It is not racist to support a player because of race especially since Jackson is black there are not many black baseball players anymore I can understand that logic. I like Jonathan Sanchez with SF because he is from the same town as my family in PR, I dont consider myself racist at all.
I’m going out to buy a Veras jersey, right now.
ANSKY – yeah and the fact that only Arod has a batting average above .300 in the lineup today. I know BA is not everything, but obp is way down and if you are hitting the ball only 25% of the time it better be timely to generate runs and we all know that that is not the case.
Nice inning by Veras. Come on offense a run, another inning by the pen and then Mariano.
Whatever the reason, run scoring is definitely down across baseball.
Sidney Pontoon gives you 1 run over 6 and all this line up can manage is 1 run against the Rays #5? Pathetic. Lose 3/5th of your rotation during the season and it’s the lack of offense everyone will remember. Who would have thought Matsui would be missed so. Completely changes this line up.
I AM NOT BLACK…jackasses. Now who’s the racist?
Our hitting makes me want to cry a little.
obviously, AROD has his mind on other things these days!!!
“Is there a player who isn’t what he is?”
All I think we can authoritatively say is that Ponson is what he is – I think this is known as the Reflexive Ponsonitudian Property.
Oh – and the Bears are who we think they are too.
obviously, AROD has his mind on other things these days!!! Damn that Kaballah religion!
Pete:
Relax Pete Ponson isn’t wainning the CY Young after ironing things out.He has only three starts.Remember how Rasner looked in he’s first 5 games before imploding.
He will implode and in a week or 2 he will be DFA’d.Dave our pitching coach isn’t special.
Why did Livan have to go on a diet today?
Beckett at 100 pitches going into this inning, this should be it for him.
“At least the Minnesota bullpen can relax today. Livan can go his 7 innings and give up 10 runs.”
Livan already got taken out in the fifth inning.
also, i feel as though I now relate better to arod since he converted to jusiasm
Melky couldn’t buy a hit now
Bet the yankees retake the lead in the seventh… right after Ponson came out…giving the win to Veras… happens all the time to our SP’s…
my god even that was a bad AB…but I’ll take the hit
As I said the other day, the team OBP is down, but only about half what the team slugging average is. They were still third in the league in OBP the other day. They should be scoring more runs, but they suck situationally.
Also, this is not the a lineup. This lineup has Gardner, Molina and Cabrera. They don’t strike fear in anyone.
so glad I was wrong there!!!
Let’s go Gardner!
Lets take a quick recap of some first half trends the Yankees have displayed this season:
Robinson Cano – more first pitch outs than anyone I’ve ever seen, and continues to swing at the first pitch. They should say, “I dont care what it looks like, don’t swing until you get a strike. PERIOD!”
Derek Jeter has grounded into more double plays than I can remember from past seasons
Not only can we not HIT with RISP, we barely put good wood on the ball. It’s not like we are getting robbed, we ground into double plays, K, and hit lazy pop-ups.
Don’t bunt, steal, or send the runners in any conventional way.
If anyone can think of more, i’ll be pleased to hear them.
Wow huge spot here…
check out the small ball…. now BG or DJ will drive him in..
I like Molina.
good bunt with molina. I hope melk man was watching that.
lets see what the white boy can do here (kidding)
I hate NESPN just thought I’d get that out there. They should call “Baseball tonight” “What the Sox did tonight and also Yankees suck”. It is the biggest Bahston smooch fest in the world Steve Phillips, Gammons, Kruk, Olney that is the all-star team of Yankee haters.
“Livan already got taken out in the fifth inning.”
Thanks Ray. So much for Randy’s innings eater. lol
Small ball run here would be real nice.
Again, perception. This team does steal. Hell, Gardner steals everytime he gets on.
“Melky couldn’t buy a hit now”
How silly do you feel right now? he he he
6-4 Sox, Beckett is out, leaving a man on 2nd with no outs.
I guess he wasn’t all that hungry either.
Here comes the out dressed as a ballplayer.
Kruk and Olney are actually yankee supporters… they are just hedging there bets this year… the other two? yeesh..
So is A-rod really a Kaballah follower now?
I like Ponson also, so am I allowed to go to Aruba for vacation, or would that be racist?
MoBoy(aka McLovin) – The difference between Ponson and Rasner is stuff. He’s a world-class d-bag (according to many sources) but he has always had great stuff. His 2-seamer is nasty.
joeyA – we also have had injuries to 3 starters, 2 of, 2 if and a catcher.
your not gonna get that call Brett
told ya!
Who is this Ump he is an NESPN approved ump I guarantee it.
Gotta swing the lumber kid…
another 2 out opportunity with RISP today – what’s that now, 3 times we’ve had this scenario?
sidney ponson reminds me of joran van der sloot
6-5 in Boston.
“I like Ponson also, so am I allowed to go to Aruba for vacation, or would that be racist?”
LOL.
yea twinnys!
AL- Not sure what you mean about Buster Olney. While not a fan of any team he is consistently subjective and thorough in his analysis. He is also fair in his assessment of the Yankees.
The only real problem I have is with Phillips, because he is an idiot.
If I may quote the movie Stripes – “lighten up francis”
Jeter needs the hit here.
Abreu + Howell = OUT
None of Gardner’s hits have been driven, 2 ground balls a bunt and a bloop!
why don’t we get word to Pete to get Girardi stirred up and argue, get thrown out and then wha-la, Yankees win.
Howell looks like Popeye in his gameday pic…
Give Gardner time man. He’s been up like a week.
what an at-bat here
mlb.com said the voting update would be around 3:00 but still not up there
ah we’re F***d
Where in the world is Phil Hughes? Likely having the country kitchen buffet lunch special with his “idle” Carl Pavano. This ump has his check from Peter Gammons in the mail.
Massive strike zone today..
THAT WAS BALL 4!!!
Its OK Gardner. Jeter has been up far longer and he too can strikeout with runners in scoring position.
The pitch looked like it might have been high on gameday. Was it?
true story: steve phillips’ first wife is suzyn waldman’s sister
That’s ridiculous. Yankees’ offense by themselves are pretty bad with RISP. Add bad umpiring to that, and it’ll be impossible for us to score another run.
This ump is a joke. The pitch to Gardner crossed the line of the righty batter’s box and the pitch to Jeter was way up above the belt.
Also, Iwamura was out by a STEP at first base a few innings ago and called safe.
The umpires are a freaking joke this year.
Bbbb-b-b-b-but I thought Gardner destroyed LHP? This is what I learned on the LHBLOG!!!!
Ponson is much better than Rasner.
here comes Kyle…
I think we’d all take 1-1 into the 8th with Ponson going today.
Hands on the rails everybody!
“true story: steve phillips’ first wife is suzyn waldman’s sister”
Doris you made my day Suzyn must have disowned her sister for marrying Steve “Yankee-hater” Phillips.
Huge inning for Kyle – keep Crawford off the bag, please.
Huge inning for Kyle – keep Upton off the bag, please.
Farnsworth against Upton and Pena = scary.
Kyle’s gotta face ex-yankee Pena…
AL- and Suzyn was the “looker” of the two
TK…I am very light hearted, but I take extreme offense to being called racist…which I have been called numerous times by numerous people here for saying I liked black baseball players. Now I dont know what their issues are with black baseball players or if they have any at all, but they seem to have a problem with me saying that I like them. I guess they would ike me more I said I hated black baseball players.
I am seeing Pena jacking one Farnsy is even worse against LH power guys.
Huge inning for Kyle – keep Pena off the bag, please.
A loss here will tell us all we need to know about the 08 version of the Bombers. NEED a big hit.
AYYY
Gameday makes that third out look really deep.
Ok I will repeat offense 1 run and then Mariano.
“AL- and Suzyn was the “looker†of the two”
Gee whiz that is hard to imagine. Only the best for the worst GM to ever live.
Heart of order=1 Run……..PLEASE… JUST ONE XBH OR HIT WITH RISP..
Francis, you doth protest too much. If you spent less time making gratuitous references to the racial makeup of players, you would get less grief here. I’m sure you’re aware of this already.
don’t fear the wall…don’t fear the wall..ahhhh! oh, just the warning track
John Sterling said Abreu made a leaping catch at the wall. Is that possible?
6 outs to score to their 3
Farnsworth just loves to keep things exciting, doesn’t he?
Most kids learn in Little League that if it’s close you need to be swinging and not leave it up to the ump. I guess are guys need to go back to Little League to learn that:)
Abreu would rather fight a bear than get close to the wall.
We really need another bat. STAT
Its now pouring in Central NJ, so they better score a run here, or they might get stuck in a rain delay soon enough.
Abreu would rather fight a bear than get close to the wall.
Sad but true
Abreu would rather fight a bear than get near the wall.
LOl sorry for my duble post there it was inadvertent.
Al from BK
Given his last catch, both of your posts were wrong
I LOATHE STEVE PHILLIPS!!
Man, that Tampa Bay outfield plays shallow. Even for Rodriguez.
Swing from your toes, ‘Stache
I dont see us winning today I get this ad feeling in the bottom of the 9th the dregs of the order are up.
who pitches the 9th
I hope Giambi hits on into the African American seats in center.
(dont want to say the b word, I might be called racist)
Vrsce- He made the catch but looked petrified doing so. It is not up for discussion it is a fact.
Francis-LOL
DC Labrum- MO
sun-uv-a
I’m not gonna lie I’m petrified of this upcoming inning
“I hope Giambi hits on into the African American seats in center.
(dont want to say the b word, I might be called racist)”
Lmao. My favorite pair of slacks are African-American with a nice straight cut.
LONGORIA STILL LEADS:
Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Evan Longoria continues to hold off the charges of his closest two competitors in the American League, Jermaine Dye of the Chicago White Sox and Jason Giambi of the New York Yankees, as each has totaled more than 3.75 million votes. Brian Roberts of the Baltimore Orioles and Jose Guillen of the Kansas City Royals round out the current standings in fourth and fifth place, respectively.
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/press_.....8;c_id=mlb
trouble…Mo in another NON SAVE Situation…and we keep doing this because ????????????
raymagnetic-
what did you do to livan?
never ever take him out before 15 hits.
the 5th was yours.
i leave for two innings and look what you do.
that’s it. you’re off the bandwagon.
the good news is it’s still a ball game.
beckett wilted under the pressure of pitching against livan and gave up a run an inning and didn’t last 6 innings.
even when livan stinks, just watching him screws up the other pitcher.
it’s like in golf where it’s best not to look at ugly swings.
Al from BK
Very lame.
He makes a great catch against the wall, but you presume to read his body language and pronounce him afraid.
That is pure drivel.
I have a bad feeling.
Francis- thats some funny stuff
IMO, I think it comes down to the fact that the guys on this team, when it comes to scoring runs, mentally revert to hitting home runs. They try to crush the ball, particularly in tied and 1 run games to be the preverbial “hero”, but end up pulling a ground ball or popping out, particularly A-Rod, Giambi, & Abreu. Other guys flat out hit like garbage in situations, but it seems like everyone is swinging for the fences in close games. Has anyone realized yet that Tampa Bay has their record with nobody except their catcher batting above .285. If thats not amazing situational hitting, IDK what is.
Evan Longoria, LOL. I cant get past the name I always think about the desperate housewife not a ML ball player.
He definitely jumped several feet in front of the wall. He didn’t go all the way back to it. I’d say that Bobby has shown himself to be a bit leery on a bunch of occasions.
what do you all think about using Rivera in the 9th when game is tied?
you can watch the Abreu catch on gameday
be ready Molina
Vrsce- I am allowed my opinion and my opinion is that Abreu is a good defender whos has one weakness and that is playing the wall. I am not saying ever player should be Aaron Rowand but Abreu is a bit extreme in his apparent wall-fear.
“what do you all think about using Rivera in the 9th when game is tied?”
should they wait til they have a lead
?
Where’s that huge strikezone now? Those umps blow.
Don – you put Mo in because you’re the home team and there’s no chance of a save situation today. You go to your best reliever and hope to hold the rays down and give yourself a chance to win on a walk-off
“pretend it’s a save situation…pretend it’s a save situation”
Bobby on your toes
You’ve gotta go to Mo (har har) here. He’ll usually do the job. Sure, he hasn’t recently, but regardless, he’s the best pitcher in the bullpen and hes the most likely to give them a chance to win it in the bottom of the inning. It’s a no brainer.
Mo makes me nervous in non-save situations!!
I think that people are just trying to read reasons into what the problem is. I don’t think Bobby Abreu is going more for homers with RISP than any other time. He’s actually okay with RISP at least compared to his overall average.
Arod or Giambi can get an RBI with a single with RISP whereas the only way they can do it with nobody on is to homer. Wouldn’t this mean they’d be going more for homers when nobody is on?
I don’t think there is some deep seeded psychological reason for the failures. For whatever reason, they’re just not hitting.
Saucy,
I meant b/c as of late, he’s been an almost disaster if it’s not a save situation
I’m feeling a Cano walkoff..
Mo 2-1 not 1-1 !
Wow ump stinks he is an NESPN employee he is getting box seats to the all-star game for this.
RUNS PLEEEEEASE !
nice, Mo!
Twins have bases loaded, 1 out with Mike Lamb batting.
Twinkies bases loaded top of 7 one out, down 7-5.
This is a must win in the bottom of the ninth.
Cant blow that one ump! Try to cash that check before Gammons watches the highlights tonight.
JFW, i know. i was kidding you. hence the
Is it just me, or has farns been really good lately?
Oh, but Lamb is facing the best setup man in the bigs. 2 outs now. Still 7-5.
Wonder if they are stupid enough to use Mo a second time.
Larry-
point taken, but they don’t need to hit a homer. Get on base, let the next guy do what he is paid to do. small ball, i believe it is called.
Craig Gammons pitching with the bases juiced against Minny.
Bad job by Mike Lamb. Maybe he should be a Yank?
“raymagnetic-
what did you do to livan?
never ever take him out before 15 hits.
the 5th was yours.
i leave for two innings and look what you do.
that’s it. you’re off the bandwagon.”
Randy,
I did about 3 chants and used a set of prayer beads and unfortunately nothing worked.
“Twins have bases loaded, 1 out with Mike Lamb batting.”
Be nice if they could ‘pick up’ Livan!
ugh, Twins get nothing. Weak!
Al- calm down. jeez
“Oh, but Lamb is facing the best setup man in the bigs. 2 outs now. Still 7-5.”
I still cant believe Gammons said that his Bahston smooching is ridiculously apparent.
“Is it just me, or has farns been really good lately?”
farns has been good. i haven’t seen you throw in a while though…
Pinch run for Posada here? Got to hope Cano can find a way to get a big hit.
Is it possible that Cano can extend this AB long enough for Christian to steal second?
Doris- I apologize, I am just so offended by what has become of ESPN especially since 04.
i swear to the Lord if this guy swings before they throw a strike i am flipping over my desk at work
bunt with cano?
hit-and-run girardi!
good BUNT Robi !
Don’t know how much I like bunting with Melky and Molina coming up.
Robbie getting down a bunt everyone circle this day I think it is his first successful bunt in a big situation.
play the hero please Melky
Generally you don’t want to sacrifice in a 2-1 count with 3 sub-.250 hitters coming up behind you.
“good BUNT Robi !”
But now Melky or Molina needs to get a hit. Eek.
Robi bunt? wow the yanks better pull it out
Robbie’s been hot lately and I would’ve let him hit but great bunt for him
The thing about this game that is different from games like this in the beginning of the season is that now you don’t think “Oh, if this game goes on any longer, the Yankee bullpen won’t be able to hold them”. Now, you feel pretty comfortable with the Yankee bullpen being able to shut the opposing team down. Even if the Yankees don’t get it done here, you still like your chances.
“Don’t know how much I like bunting with Melky and Molina coming up.”
If they’d stolen 2B first, I’d have liked it more.
Yeah. The more I think about it, bunting was an absolutely terrible decision.
Sacrafice a guy hitting .407 this month to get to Melky and Molina?
We’ll see.
seems like a better percentage would have been for Cano to swing away, especially with Melky and Molina following. Maybe I’ll be proven wrong (I hope).
Molina and Melky I would rather watch pee wee leaguers hit.
Yeah, think they over-coached there. Pitcher was approaching 40 pitches- looking wild and Cano is your best shot at a game winner. I hope I’m wrong but don’t really like the timing on that bunt.
we’ll win this game…but only gain on the team ahead of us that is SURE to be fading out when it is crunch time…THE PUNK RAYS….Minnesota is so sad…..They’ll lay down for the BoSux…then they will play US like it is for the World Championship…but isn’t that the case with ALL teams ?
Don’t F this up Melky
“Sacrafice a guy hitting .407 this month to get to Melky and Molina?”
But it was a Good Baseball Play. Just because it reduced their chances of winning, that doesn’t matter. It was good Olde Thyme Baseball.
that’s the Justin Christian I know !
I’m sure Betemit is going to hit for Molina… ugh
saucy, Im retired. I tore some ligaments in my shoulder in May when I was boxing….I slipped on the sweat on the floor of the mat when I went to throw a punch and I wound up punching the ropes a weird way…the whole thing was just weird….and now I cant throw a baseball more than 30 feet at about 11 mph wihtout excrutiating pain.
Nice SB!
Wow huge steal there.
YES! Clutch steal.
Wow, ARod was PSYCHED.
well that changes things
To the 10th we go!
what the hell was christian doing?!?!
Melky is as worthless as usual…
Thanks, Melky!!
What’s Bernie Williams up to right about now?
Imagine last years hitting with this years pitching…
Nice job getting the run in w/ less than 2 outs Melkman.
Melky is horrible.
can’t even get a ball in the outfield!!!!! Good for nothing Cabrera
melky, melky, melky.
[sigh]
Would have changed things- but Melky couldn’t get it in play…again.
Hold off on that Melky Cabrera Yankeeography.
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH !!!!!!!!!!!
Melky is such a bad hitter..
Gross
wow, who saw that coming?
OK…so we win in 10 ! NO WORRIES, MATES !!!
“If they’d stolen 2B first, I’d have liked it more.”
Ill take stealing third as well.
For a guy thats named Bal-four. He sure has alot of control.
Melky once again cannot get it done in the big spot. Christian steals 3rd and he can’t even put it in play! What a joke!
Melky almost lost us the game with his inability to lay down a bunt last night, and could have lost us this one with his weak AB there after Christian stole 3rd.
Oh man Molina stinks he should thank God everyday that he has a rocket for an arm.
Great call Joe! Way to play the percentages!
I can’t name many players with a .310 OBP who continue to play every day
it’s a shame that the Yankees have such little depth that they have no other option
they are just f’in awesome with risp
and the Melkman fails to deliver
Yankees offense as worthless as usual..
Dont hate on Melky. One bad ab.
your 9 hitter has to take till he gets a strike in a two out winning run on third scenario…. come on Jose!!
ughhhhhhhhh
wow pop out strike out. AWESOME!!!!! they deserve to lose man. these guys are f*ckin abismal. that was pathetic. Melky need to be sent down. I’ll take every piece of flack for saying this, but that was garbage. If there was ever a better situation to prove you belong on this team, idk what it was!
Francis that sucks. I had a shoulder injury in December and it’s still painful. especially on humid days.
please be careful with your melky comments, alot of people here see big things for him …. BIG
We officially suck.
Melky is a terrible situational hitter – flailing away as usual – he’s incredibly lucky to be playing CF for the NY Yankees.
Absolute downpour in northern NJ now. Fitting.
Good thing they called up Gardner. He’s lighting a competitive fire under Melky Cabrera. It’s something to behold.
When will Austin jacskon be ready an OF who can REALLY rake. I am sick of these lightweight OF’s coming up to the majors and not delivering.
This has to be the end of Melky. I continue to believe in him, all the while knowing he is perhaps the biggest loser major leaguer there is. I’m done. This guy has to be put underneath a very big semi and run over until all of the fat in that worthless piece of garbage is stained all over the the concrete.
any news on what is happening? can’t see a TV or hear the radio…
Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Evan Longoria continues to hold off the charges of his closest two competitors in the American League, Jermaine Dye of the Chicago White Sox and Jason Giambi of the New York Yankees, as each has totaled more than 3.75 million votes. Brian Roberts of the Baltimore Orioles and Jose Guillen of the Kansas City Royals round out the current standings in fourth and fifth place, respectively.
V,
one bad AB? more like 100 or so this season. he’s the weakest offensive player in the lineup apart from Molina, who is only playing because of injuries.
the really pathetic thing is that Melky would be playing even if we had our team 100% healthy. just goes to show the organization’s level of intelligence
Melk dud K’s as usual.
two questions:
1) why bunt with one of your hottest hitters? when last week you didnt bunt with a guy who was 0 for 20? just be consistant either bunt both times or dont bunt at all.
2) why not use betemit for Molina? Why have 3 catchers?
When will Austin jackskon be ready an OF who can REALLY rake. I am sick of these lightweight OF’s coming up to the majors and not delivering.
Why put MO again.He is just 38 years old why not put him in 2 inning non-save situations.
John_Halfz,
by Gardner lighting a fire, were you referring to his .100 average? can’t really give someone competition if you’re even worse than them in all aspects of the game apart from speed.
I cannot believe the Yankees employ Melky Cabrera. IF they dont care enough to get rid of him and replace him with the bagboy from Publix, then I shouldnt care enough to be a fan of this Cashman run team. Please Dear Lord fire Cashman after this year and put a bullet through Melky’s down syndrome brains. This team is a patheticly put together team that should be named the New York Cashmans.
In the 5th Gardner leads off with a hit. Girardi doesn’t put on a hit and run with Jeter or attempy a steal. If you’re not going to put your fastest runner in motion on one of the rare occassions he reaches base with no one out, what is Gardner’s value?
In the 9th, he sacrifices the hottest hitter on the team to bring Melky up to the plate.
Very curious managing indeeed.
No worries fellas. Botton of the 10th. Gardner steals second and third and Jeter brings him in.
Wow people, calm down. They couldn’t get the job done there. OK, they can still very much win this game… You would think Rivera can pitch a scoreless 10th, and then we can take our chances with the TOP of the Yankee order…
it is unbelievable how much O we are sacrificing for D. I mean you can’t play posada against the Rays, but Melky doesn’t deserve to be on this team right now. bench him till after the ASB. let Christian split time with Gardner. idc anymore, i can’t take a guy that shows no progress. i never got on cano’s case, and rightfully so, cause hes heating up now. Cabrera just looks complacent. I think, in the back of his head, he banks on his arm and thinks we will play him for that sole reason.
Melky is becoming increasingly predictable…just put the ball in play, anywhere, and Christian has a chance to score.
Two nights in a row…
Why did Joe Girardi bunt with his best hitter and then proceed to steal 3rd base?
Why didn’t he just steal 2nd and have Cano hit?
I won’t say Torre is a better in game manager than Girardi but Joe G hasn’t been the X’s and O’s master everybody claimed he was.
I find a lot of you to be quite ridiculous blaming the #9 hitter if the Yankees lose.
That’s just me though. When your 3 through 7 hitters look terrible on the day of course you’re going to lose.
Mike Mineo, not the organizations level of intelligence, Brian Cashmans and it also speaks to how out of it Mr. Steinbrenner must really be.
“When will Austin jackskon be ready an OF who can REALLY rake. I am sick of these lightweight OF’s coming up to the majors and not delivering.”
Austin Jackson is hitting .274 in AA
“2) why not use betemit for Molina? Why have 3 catchers?”
Molina is actually a lot more likely to put the ball in play than Betemit.
Wow. The only thing worse than Melky’s AB is the comments on the blog. Abysmal?
Listen, the Rays scratched out a run against Ponson, Veras and Farnsworth.
We’ve had to face Jackson, Howell and Balfour. Not a bad trio.
Fans like you should root for the Globetrotters. Or pro wrestlers.
This would be a hard loss if we do lose, for some reason just feels like a really important win for us.
DFox,
I think you are missing the point. When you say, “they couldn’t get the job done THERE…” you really mean to say “they NEVER get the job done in that situation”. these are major league players. they should be able to lift a ball into the outfield, and have the common GOd damn sense to not swing at the first pitch in that situation! make the damn pitcher work!
They have got to score in the bottom half. Mo deserves the win enough is enough.
“He’s lighting a competitive fire under Melky Cabrera. It’s something to behold.”
Have you checked out Melky’s stats since Gardner has been up?
“Mike Mineo, not the organizations level of intelligence, Brian Cashmans”
Yeah, look at all the serviceable CFers that are changing hands out there! Cashman is an idiot for not grabbing one of them!
Melky’s been terrible at the plate. I know. Add in his defense and he’s about a wash in terms of contribution. It’s not like guys better than him are freely available right now.
MoBoy – because you have to win the game what are you saving mo for? he could pitch two innings every day, he has that type of an arm.
Damn, if only Mo could pitch in a tie game…
Gardner, Jeter, Abreu…Mo done for the day. Now or never.
Give freaking Matt Carson a shot if Melky continues to suck. The dude is a gamer and is hungry. Melky has been handed every thing on a silver platter. That platter is very tarnished now.
Mo will probably spend the second half of the season on the DL.
Opportunity is knocking once again.
I have no confidence they’ll even get a hit in this inning. Too weak of an offense.
Molina can’t hit but has a rocket for an arm.
Melky can’t hit but plays great defense saving runs.
Abreu can hit, but can’t.
A-Rod sure can hit, but usually in meaningless situations.
Betemit can’t hit and can’t field.
Gardner so far, can’t hit but sure is fast.
Jeter sometimes hits, but when he hits he can’t field.
Damon and Matsui can hit, but can’t play.
Posada sometimes hits, but can’t throw.
Giambi can hit, but only if fielding and with the stache.
Who did I leave out??
And we wonder why we score so few runs!!
Gardner will set the table here. Watch.
jeter bunt him over, Giambi strokes him home for the win.
is it that terrible to ask melky to put the ball in play from the outfield, yeah i havent seen arod do much either today, but why not blame melky there, hes a very nice guy, but i think we would of all liked him to at leaset put it in play
Hey Mike, give me one move Cashman should have made to replace Melky?
Maybe they should have traded Hughes, Kennedy, Melancon, McCutcheon, Betances and Robertson for Beltran.
Man, Yankee fans should be on their knees thanking Cashman for rebuilding a barren organization. I hate to see the short-sighted criticisms of him.
Balfour is going to just throw straight gas by Gardner….
We need a run.
People have been complaining about Meachem sending guys too much. At this point I do not care if there are 0 outs and the top of the lineup is coming up, I hope he sends anyone in a close situation. We just clearly cannot hit the ball with RISP.
The Red Sox are starting to run away with their game. I’m counting on the Yank’s to win, they better come through!
Go Sox!
Austin Jackson is hitting .270 in AA. Melky was hitting above .300 in AAA when he got called up. Lets give these kids time to develope.
JoeyA, they do get the job done sometimes. You can’t be an above .500 team and never get the job done… If they win a game like this it shows much more than when they blow a team out 8-2. I’d rather see good starting pitching, great relief pitching, and then the manufacturing of a run to win a game.
Well i check on the game and come to find out that Melky still sucks, buisness as usual i guess.
I know Molina went down in two pitches, but Melky actually worked the count. Sure, he ended up striking out on a foul tip, but he saw quite a few pitches there.
…and I’m by no means a Melky apologist, but people should at least get their facts straight before they post anything.
Nj in Tampa- In a year or two AJAX will be the best offensive prospect in the bigs. .274 is not awful and he was hitting over .300 for a while.
Mitch…would have taken a Beltran signing over that big broken down redneck Randy Johnson….
Yankee Trader, you made me laugh and want to cry … all at the same time.
I dont know if anyone noticed this about Molina but since Damon and Matsui are on the DL, the real choice is which is the bigger defensive upgrade Betemit over Giambi at 1st or Molina over Posada at Catcher. Considering Jorge’s shoulder isnt completely healthy I see nothing wrong with putting Jose at catcher until at least Damon or Matsui are back.
Mike Mineo:
That was the point. Everyone was hyping the “competition” that Gardner would bring Melky. Both of them look overmatched at the plate, so the theory is stupid.
Little bit of sarcasm, bud.
Why didnt Mo get those calls!!???
saucy…my doctor said that I will have pain for about a year and even after that it will never be the same. I also tore my mcl last season and came all the back from that just to get injured again. I feel like Phil Hughes
“I mean you can’t play posada against the Rays, but Melky doesn’t deserve to be on this team right now. bench him till after the ASB. let Christian split time with Gardner. ”
Replace him with two guys who have done nothing so far? Makes sense.
Can’t believe the focus is still on Melky. It’s comical to say the least.
Time to take the freakin bat off your shoulders Bret…
Garder is getting screwed by BS called 3rd strikes. That pitch was further outside than the ball in that AB.
Beyond pathetic. Why don’t you swing your bat, Mr. Gardner?
Hey Yankees…got offense?
Sox winning 13-5
Gardner is just an out dressed as a ballplayer!
BX, I hear you, but two things.
1) Johnson was a Steinbrenner deal, pre-Cashman control.
2) I would vote for NEITHER. Beltran is a nice player, but he’s not a $100 million player.
But your point is well-taken.
“Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Evan Longoria continues to hold off the charges of his closest two competitors in the American League, Jermaine Dye of the Chicago White Sox and Jason Giambi of the New York Yankees, as each has totaled more than 3.75 million votes.”
Sounds like the RS fans are rallying around Longoria. As if the legions of Rays fans around the country are rushing to vote for him …
Anyway, I was stunned when I heard Cano showing bunt. If we don’t win this one, that’s the dumbest move since the Manny non-walk. What is he hitting, .600 the last week? When Cano gets it going, he’s damn-near impossible to get out. You don’t sacrifice him for Melky Cabrera and Jose Molina.
This Gardner vs. Melky Battle for Centerfield is turning into a real humdinger.
“Give freaking Matt Carson a shot if Melky continues to suck. The dude is a gamer and is hungry.”
Melky Cabrera has put up average CF numbers during his age 21 and age 22 seasons in the bigs.
Matt Carson is 26 and this is the first time he’s put up acceptable numbers in the minors. He’s a career minor leaguer.
“Gardner is just an out dressed as a ballplayer!”
What? were you even watching the game? those stikes he called were a foot out of the zone
Boston now leads 26 to 5 over Twins.
Billy Crystal is better than Gardner! At least Billy hits a foul!
Hey Mitchy, do you remember the days when we had Carlos Pena sittin in our minor leagues. Hmmm. Why no bring him up. We have Jason Lane in our minor leagues. Anybody, even a retard, ought to better than Melky. His defense does not make up for his offense either to the other shmuck that said that.
I’m a big Gardner supporter but swing the bat rookie. You aren’t getting the calls.
to get on the case of a 24 year old rookie is just senseless its his 1st week in the majors
I wonder is cash is going to look to trade for a right handed outfield bat by the deadline…not sure if there are even any decent ones available…but its a glaring need.
Oh, and for all the people hating on Molina, he’s a back-up catcher. How many back-up catchers bat .300? Molina had a big hit last night. We have to be realistic. We can’t have Russell Martin as our back-up catcher.
way to set the table, brett
Too bad Jeter doesn’t steal anymore!
I am SO sick of this arbitrary strike zone….ALL of those pitches were off the plate….So if you are a rookie pitcher…you have to throw MEAT down the middle to get a strike called….If you are a rookie hitter….pitches WELL OFF the plate are strikes…..WHAT THE HALE Happens if a rookie pitcher faces a rookie batter…I KNOW…WHAT IS SUPPOSED TO HAPPEN ALL THE TIME….The ump calls balls and strikes AS THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO BE CALLED….I am serious…we need to take the ball/strike call away from the ump with technology….The hell with them and the way they think THEY can change the rules of the game…TOTAL BS…TOTAL B S !!!
The Red Sox had the bases loaded up 7-5, now its 13-5……………..wonder why, No Melky Cabrera aka strikeout maching, aka rally killers in their lineup. We field 3 or 4 nearly every day
July 9th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
Nj in Tampa- In a year or two AJAX will be the best offensive prospect in the bigs. .274 is not awful and he was hitting over .300 for a while.
For what, a couple of games?
April .268
May .280
June .270
July .286
Don’t get me wrong, I hope he becomes one of the best hitting prospects in the bigs for sure but I am kind of amazed how everyone assumes he is automatically going to rake.
that abreu for dye rumor last year sure would have looked good this year.
Go look at MLB Gameday and check out the called strike calls on Gardner. I hate these “oldschool” umpires who think its their job to make bad calls on rookies. Its a bunch of bull**** if you ask me.
That said, Gardner should know the deal and protect the plate at all costs. Three backwards K’s in one game is unacceptable for anyone, especially the leadoff man.
Great at bat by the Captain
Sure the Sox are up 14-5, but the Twins are deep into the Boston bullpen.
Can anyone besides the Yanks beat the sux at home? It seems like it never happens unless the Yanks are in town.
If Matt Carson is a career minor leaguer than Melky Cabrera is a no career minor leaguer. If this guy went back to AAA he would never make it back to the bigs. I wouldnt trust him not to strike out against little leaguers.
Its a shame Gardner cant hit a lick. The Yankees could use a hardnosed speedster like him in the lineup everyday.
You don’t give up on someone with Melkys talent. He is a future all star.
“His defense does not make up for his offense either to the other shmuck that said that.”
Do you have any facts to back up your nonsense?
Mitch-
Agree with your 4:18 post about Cashman.
Glad you enjoyed my sad, sarcastic attempt to lighten up the day with my 4:17 post.
Steal with Jetes? I say yes
They better score soon.. Rain is coming.
All i’m going to say is that Gameday is not 100% accurate when showing balls/strikes…
Giese or Robertson in the 11th?
Mike, Pena was released by the Sox and Detroit. It’s not like the Yanks didn’t have company. The guy didn’t get it done. When he hit for Tampa last year, it was a shock. And what is his BA this year? Please.
And you can’t be serious about Lane. Lane is a CAREER .241 hitter (even Melky is better than that) who is batting .236 in AAA now. In other words, he has a lower BA in the MINORS than Melky has in the majors.
Wow, it’s amazing how unrealistic people can be.
“Matt Carson is 26 and this is the first time he’s put up acceptable numbers in the minors. He’s a career minor leaguer.”
I respect Chad Jennings’ opinion a lot and he thinks Carson can play in the majors. It’s really forward thinking to hold someone back because of his age. Many people call the Eastern League a tough hitter’s league. Carson didn’t hit for a great average last year in Trenton but 16 homers and 77 RBIs was productive.
“I wonder is cash is going to look to trade for a right handed outfield bat by the deadline…not sure if there are even any decent ones available…but its a glaring need.”
I like Juan Rivera. The Angels have a really crowded outfield with contracts they can’t unload. His D is probably kind of middling, but he’s been a solid bat. His value probably hasn’t had THAT much time to build after coming back from that broken leg last year. I’m sure it wouldn’t be a steal, but you could likely get him. And then they can let Bobby go. You can probably offer arbitration without too much concern, because I’m sure his agent will think (probably correctly) that someone will offer 2 years. And, if he accepts it…oh well. It’s a one year deal. Fine.
it must have been tough coming up as a pitcher with the name ball four
who would you trade for matt holiday? I would love to see him in the rotation.
i meant outfield
Outfield assists dont tell the whole story. Watching every career game of this fat down syndrome turd, I see the pathetic routes he takes to balls *he almost screwed one up today*
Melky’s offense is so putrid that his gold glove D is not even worth it.
THANK YOU !!!
BOBBYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I say we bring him back next year.
Yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes!!!!
Bobby didn’t mind the wall that time!
Never mind
How freaking great is that?
Big hit- big win!
Resign Abreu to a 5 year deal
BOBAY
Yankee Trader- That was so funny bc its so true… YES ABREU!!!
ballgame
Atta boy, about time somebody got a hit off a FB. Great job Bobby!
THAT A BOY BOBBYYY!!!!
A SHORT SERIES SWEEEEP
Whew…
Thanks, Yankee Trader.
The Cashman bashing is my pet peeve.
nice win by yanks!
EL COMO DULCE
ok, maybe dye for abreu wouldnt have been good =)
I think they doused the wrong person! You’ve got Kim Jones right there!
“If Matt Carson is a career minor leaguer than Melky Cabrera is a no career minor leaguer. If this guy went back to AAA he would never make it back to the bigs.”
Yet when he was in AAA the first time he had an OPS over .900. He’s been seeing major league pitchers for the past 3 years, who do you think his numbers would look like now?
Anyway, who cares. The #2 and #3 hitter in the lineup did their jobs.
The overrated captain and the man afraid of the all came through.
girardi stinks. Why bunt Cano?? Steal a base!!
Hip Hip Bobay!
So i see everyone banging on Melky. Let me be the devils advocate and say
Gardner = Podsednick
“In a year or two AJAX will be the best offensive prospect in the bigs.”
?? I guess its true what they say. Fans over hype their players. He hasnt shown any signs of being THE BEST. Im just hoping he hits above league average and helps the team in the future.
Typical A-Rod…he always let’s someone else get the big hit.
bobby: “thats good! thats good!
Take that you Rays!!!
wow. look at tony soprano in the front row!
Awwww…the umps have to be SO pissed that the Yankees won….JERKS !
tampa coming back to reality..
long season
“It’s really forward thinking to hold someone back because of his age.”
The guy was 26 and started his 3rd season in AA. He’s never shown plate discipline. He’s a minor league slugger with holes in his swing. Maybe he’s a complementary part, but thinking he should start? Absurd.
Good hit, Bobby
why does YES keep showing the fat kid in the stands?
Melky, how about you stop worrying about dumping Abreu and Cano’s girlfriend with water and start focusing on just even mediocre baseball?
oh god Melky and Robi are so evil
Nice job Come-duuuulce!! Now off for Jobamania International!
See, this is what people don’t understand when they say “they never hit with runners on or runners in scoring position”. When you get guys on base like the Yankees consistently do, it’s only a matter of time until the quality hitters start to have quality at bats and get quality hits. It’s not rocket science. You don’t all of a sudden forget how to hit… That’s why this Yankee offense is going to be fine. Like we just saw, it was only a matter of time until a good Yankee hitter got a big hit.
yeah!!
Thanks Yanks!
I voted 800 times for Longoria.
Take a look at the Sox game if you really want to see an offense!
“but thinking he should start? Absurd.”
Show me where I said he should start? Another option off the bench perhaps. What harm does that do? We are not getting a big bat in a trade. We don’t have the talent in the farm system to garner that (*or at least what we are willing to part with).
They ought to give Bobby a save for picking up Girardi’s terrible bunt call in the 9th.
Way to go Yanks!
I don’t know why the hell Sterling calls him this, but I’ll say it anyway….
EL COMEDULCE!!!!!!
great win. maybe some of us (me included) might eat some crow with this team.
Melky is not a future all star, to whatever cool aid drinker said that. He’s been in the bigs for 3 yeahs now, this is what he is. A serviceable centerfielder who should be pinch hit for in big spots, but the Yankees are hamstrung because they want to carry 13 pitchers and 3 catchers.
“When you get guys on base like the Yankees consistently do, it’s only a matter of time until the quality hitters start to have quality at bats and get quality hits. It’s not rocket science. You don’t all of a sudden forget how to hit… That’s why this Yankee offense is going to be fine. Like we just saw, it was only a matter of time until a good Yankee hitter got a big hit.”
Sure. There’s nothing in using 10 innings to score 2 runs. They are absolutely great.
big knock bobbo. how to stroke.
“Thanks Yanks!
I voted 800 times for Longoria.
Take a look at the Sox game if you really want to see an offense!”
That hot air you feel on the back of your neck is the Yankees remaining three games behind you. And history shows that the Yanks are a better second half team while the Sox are a better first half team. If you get it, enjoy the division lead while you can.
Oscar, take a look at the Yankee game if you really want to see what a major league bullpen looks like that can actually win a close game.
great 2 games for the yanks, but tampa is really loaded with pitching, they’re not going to go away
“Give freaking Matt Carson a shot if Melky continues to suck. ”
So, by this you meant “give Matt Carson a shot off the bench sometimes”?
Sure.
Wow, I was just reading the Rays blog site http://www.draysbay.com. I could not make much out b/c every other word was profanity. I have a bit of a sailor’s mouth myself, but WOW, thats all I have to say.
Pedro, so because the Yankees couldn’t beat up on the first place team and abuse a very good bullpen, it makes their offense bad? All this game showed was the Yankee bullpen can compete with any team, and overall, at this point it is probably better than the Rays bullpen.
“When you get guys on base like the Yankees consistently do, it’s only a matter of time until the quality hitters start to have quality at bats and get quality hits. It’s not rocket science.”
The team offensive production is below league average with runners in scoring position, and certainly FAR below the level they produced at in the last couple years.
Cashman knows and admits it’s a problem…but you think he’s wrong?
Oscar – take a look at the Yankees if you want to see a HISTORY of winning
Wait, broke the blog rules, didn’t ignore the troll. Sorry Pete.
“A serviceable centerfielder who should be pinch hit for in big spots”
Who would they pinch hit him for?
do you guys a-rod is the only active yankee to hit above .300 ! wow! this murders row team is long gone!!!
Matt
Matt Holliday would be a terrific pickup, and the Rockies apparently might look to move him because they can’t afford the extension. Yes he hits in Colorado, but he hits lefties and righties equally well, is a right handed bat, has speed and would allow us to trade Abreu. He’s as close a 5-tool player there is
We would have to give up one really good prospect. Colorado would still have Taveras, Spillborghs and Hawpe in the outfield so might not need an outfielder in return who can play right now in the majors.
He would be my #1 choice, over Teixeira, who would only cost money, because Posada/Matsui/Damon/Others will have to share 1B/DH next year, especially if they let 37 yo Giambi and his 22M contract walk at the end of the year.
Nice win by the Yanks on very few hits, and great pitching two days in a row!!
Aceves is slated to start tonight guys.
Yanks are 4-2 against Sox and Rays in this homestand.
Still people doubt we can not make the playoffs?
Also, Sir Sidney shoul be promoted to Lord Sidney. He will help this team as a fifth starter.
I wouldn’t want it any other way but the Sox and Yank’s in the end. Let the Ray’s fall into place, LAST!
Don’t care if we take the Division or Wild Card, We know how to win the Series both ways!
With 3 guys from the rotation out of spring training down with injuries, it’s great to see pitching can still win games … when we do win.
It would be great to see the hitting help out some more.
The gung-ho spring training attitude aside (I still think Maddon was too over-the-top for March) Tampa has pulled it together pretty well this year and they have some talent coming up in the near future. NY & Boston better watch their arses.
Aceves comes back strong and Cutch keeps rollings gives us some more options for Rasner, etc.
Rays bullpen 2nd in AL before a short 2 game series. Now 3rd in AL.
whozat, did you even read what I wrote? I never said they have been good with RISP. I said it’s only a matter of time before a lineup consisting mostly of stars who have always hit for average, with RISP, etc, start hitting with RISP. A lot of people are under the impression that all these players just forgot how to hit all of a sudden. It’s not the case. This lineup will start scoring more runs, and they will start hitting with RISP. Like today, what happened? Did Bobby Abreu close his eyes and swing and get lucky? Uh, no. He’s a great hitter, he always has been, and it’s only a matter of time before he starts hitting even more. The same with Jeter, Cano, Posada, and when they get Matsui back…
Oscar- By a real offense, do you mean the one that got swept by Tampa Bay? Oh, thats right, the Yankees just beat Tampa Bay, twice.
Sox fans can have all the fun they want in 1st place but remember we coming for ur behind NEXT!
“Don’t care if we take the Division or Wild Card, We know how to win the Series both ways!”
do all Sox fans like it both ways?
Good news. Aceves back from the DL. Will be interesting how to adjusts to AAA especially against a team full of vets in Toledo.
Let’s not get too excited – this team has a lot of holes.
Still, it’s been a great 4 games in aa row for this team. The best baseball they’ve played all year, and the small ball of guys like Gardner is having an impact.
WE still need a consistent fifth starter!
EL COMEDULCE! is Abreu’s nick name from home.It means “The candy eater or the candy man”
I regret responding already but….
When your pitchers give up 5 with your ace on the mound you need gawdy offense. We’ve been there, we understand.
2 runs or 16 runs today still only count as 1 in the win column.
Aceves=Aaron Small
“Let’s not get too excited – this team has a lot of holes.”
Please list these holes. I see one, they need another starter. Other than that, I don’t see the many holes you speak of.
Alfredo could be that guy.
whats russo talking about with gatorade after the game? what happened?
Hitting with RISP is no different from hitting with no one on. Each season is a small sample set. Look at how wildly A-Rod’s situational numbers fluctuate from year to year. Look how every MLBers situational numbers fluctuate from year to year.
No, I don’t think this team is built to go the distance and, no, I don’t think we’re one starting pitcher away.
However, I think it’s very possible this team can be carried by its veterans to go farther than we think, and that the past four games have been an example of that.
You don’t sell the farm to win this year, but you don’t stop believing that the guys we’ve got can be resilliant and get the job done.
It may be both.
Girardi rockin the stache on the post game show.
Oh god the ‘Stache
How about that gaping hole in centerfield? Or the offensive hole at catcher with Posada out. No bench to speak off, no lefty reliever. Poor defense at short. etc etc. That enough holes for you to see with those rose colored glasses on?
Cano and Melky dumped the Gatorade tub of ice water on Abreu while Kim Jones was interviewing him on TV
Aceves axctivated for tonight? Interesting development.
The Twins are playing a dangerous game of rope-a-dope right now. I’m not entirely convinced it’s going to work today.
I agree with Jorge. Clearly, the team has holes. No leftie in the bullpen. Questions in the bullpen (other than Mo). Not enough offense, especially from the right side. I mean, as someone said above, we sent out a lineup today that involves Melky, Molina and Gardner batting in a row. No wonder we only scored twice.
But, Jorge is right. No team is perfect. You never know …
whozat,
The other day, Cashman was quoted as suggesting that hitting with RISP will balance out over the course of the season. I have to agree with him. If you look at other team with bad RISP numbers, they don’t have the Yankees’ offense. If we keep sending out good hitters, our RISP numbers will rise to approximate our non-RISP numbers.
The problem, of course, is whether we can keep sending out good hitters. Without Damon and Matsui, and Posada taking the DH spot, the lineup is extremely shaky unless Melky, Cano, and Jeter rise to the task of replacing their offense. If not, we will see poor RISP numbers because the weaker bats in the lineup won’t be able to get hits, period.
Interesting… nice to see the yanks have some fun for once
“A serviceable centerfielder who should be pinch hit for in big spotsâ€
Who would they pinch hit him for?
Like I said in the sentence immediately after that statement, the Yankees have no bench because they’ve decided to carry 13 pitchers and 3 catchers, If they could run their roster more intelligently this wouldn’t be a problem. But instead we get deadweight like Hawkins and Traber clogging up a roster spot.
Melky and Cano always celebrate like it’s Game 7 of the WS. Act like you’ve been there before. Maybe they should be taking extra BP.
tim boat, let’s name holes the Yankees have that cannot be found in every single other team in MLB. Offensive hole at catcher? Posada can still catch, and you’re not going to find a better offensive catcher than him. Boston has a backup caliber offensive catcher (or lower) playing for them every single day… And stop with the poor defense at short already. It’s getting boring. Jeter is a fine short stop. Just look at his work from yesterday…
If those are the “holes” then the Yankees should feel very good about their chances. But yeah, Jeter has made some throwing errors so I guess he’s a defensive liability now…
I don’t mind the extra pitcher but DFA Traber and Hawkins for Strickland and Bruney (when he’s activated).
Those replica ‘staches gave out at the stadium are made of real human hair btw.
“Like I said in the sentence immediately after that statement, the Yankees have no bench because they’ve decided to carry 13 pitchers and 3 catchers, If they could run their roster more intelligently this wouldn’t be a problem”
Who is being blocked from being of the bench because of 13 pitchers and 3 catchers?
By the way if you haven’t noticed the Yankees pitching staff isn’t exactly a bunch of horses going 7 innings and better ever night. You need a lot of pitchers on a team with multiple starters who don’t go past 7 innnigs.
The Yankees do have holes. I disagree that one of them is the pen, which has been stellar. Sure there’s no lefty, but I’d rather have the pen in its current form (minus Hawkins) than with a default LOOGY who isn’t any good (such as Traber or Myers).
A win is a win. Yay!
“How about that gaping hole in centerfield? Or the offensive hole at catcher with Posada out. No bench to speak off, no lefty reliever. Poor defense at short. etc etc. That enough holes for you to see with those rose colored glasses on?”
know what’s weird? while i agree the team has holes, none of those are the actual holes i think this team has.
how about the fourth and fifth starter slots being dicey propositions? how about the overabundance of fragile veteran OF/DH types which cannot be trusted to stay healthy in a stretch run? how about an abandonement of the philosophy of smallball, or players at the bottom of the lineup patient enough to successfully implement it? those are our holes, my friend. you’re listing commenter talking points.
“The Yankees do have holes. I disagree that one of them is the pen, which has been stellar. Sure there’s no lefty, but I’d rather have the pen in its current form (minus Hawkins) than with a default LOOGY who isn’t any good (such as Traber or Myers).”
somewhere, Wayne Franklin is out there and seeking employment.
Depending on who’s writing the comment, there’s a fatal flaw with every aspect of the team!
Another hole is lack of consistent hustle by everyone. Some are more guilty than others, some more often than others.
But every team has holes. The Red Sox have millions of them … just look at their fan base.
Until further notice, Ponson is gold.
This meeting is adjourned!
Glad some folks agree with my point: this team still has holes. Some fine examples were cited.
I bet all of these holes could have been managed well by Joe Torre, right (as it sounds like Peter is suggesting)? Maybe we can realize that Torre would have used 2 relief pitchers this entire year, and given up on everyone else.