Today in The Journal News
Posted by: Peter Abraham - Posted in Misc on Jul 21, 2008 
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The Yankees rode a big effort from Andy Pettitte and swept Oakland.
Johnny Damon says he’s ready to play. This notebook also has updates on Jorge Posada, Mike Mussina and Hideki Matsui.
Go yankees
Joba vs beckett friday
I think the Yankees are hesitant bringing Damon back also because they have not yet decided what to do about the Melky/Gardner situation. Gardner hasn’t been all that great but honestly, his first year after being called up AT EVERY LEVEL of the Yankee minor league system has been a down year. It has been the second year that he started raking (just check the statistics). Why not let this year be that experimental year? He has played solid defense and is only improving. We need a slap and run guy and this offense will be EXPLOSIVE once he becomes an on-base machine. But I digress.
Maybe the Yanks are shopping Melky. Maybe an extra three days of Damon resting lets Melky showcase his trade value. Or maybe the Yanks just want to give Gardner a few more days before they send him back to the minors.
But I do believe sending Gardner back down will be detrimental. He has the mentality of a major leaguer. He belongs with the big league club in some respect.
lol Dick Vitale just said he thinks Joba’s done a good job but he still would rather see him in the pen!
With Jorge unable to catch they need Damon to be able to play LF. That’s why they are holding up on activating him. I’d keep Gardner over Christian because he’s faster and can play CF if need be. But someone needs to take a bat to that kid’s head every time he pops up ir strikes out. His only “plus” big league tool is speed, so he MUST put the ball on the ground.
To me there’s no decision, Cabrera plays and Gardner backs up.
Russell:
I think the readers of the LoHud blog have not decided what to do yet about the Melky/Gardner situation, but the Yankees have. Gardner stays in the bigs as a late-inning replacement and pinch-runner. Melky starts.
I’d, honestly, be more than pleased with that. Gardner has shown, at this point, that he can at least be quite the late-inning weapon on the basepaths for this team.
I am sure Gardner has had his adjustment period in the minors, etc. The reason he doesn’t get an “experimental year” is because he’s Brett Gardner. Half the fanbase on here wouldn’t even give an “experiemental few starts” to Phil Hughes or Ian Kennedy.
If Damon comes back gimpy, the Yanks get yet another DH.
It should be Melky’s job until someone outplays him, so far it’s not even close.
I am surprised that Gardner doesn’t try to (drag) bunt his way on base more often. He definitel has the speed to be successful with this. Unless he forces his way on base, unfortunately, all that speed goes to waste.
I think the situation for him is what it is right now. He’s not going to replace Melky because Melky will hit. And Melky, even though he’s experienced perhaps the worst slump of his career, has shown he can succeed in the majors, so does deserve the benefit of the doubt right now.
I know Damon is frustrated at not going right back into the lineup on his say-so, but the Yankees have really got to be cautious here. As Pete stated, Girardi and the team were burned twice this year when Posada and ARod tried to come back too soon after injuries. Not to mention Jeter’s relative ineffectiveness while playing through his hurt hand (even though that’s not official because Jeter never admits to being hurt). The Yankees will do better to wait a few more days, even though there is no doubt that they can use Damon’s bat at the leadoff spot immediately!
I am so happy the Angels swept the Red Sox. However, I’m not looking forward to the Yankees having to play them pretty soon. But it’s a new year, so maybe some new results, right?
If nothing else, I’m hoping the Yankees will make this next half exciting. (Of course hoping for more, but don’t want to get ahead of myself, you know?)
It’s also nice to win those close, close games, even if it means the offense was a little scant. Although, yesterday I don’t know what else one could have expected going against a pitcher with a sub-2 ERA. Now, Saturday was just a nail-biter that didn’t have to be. But yesterday was just good pitching, good baseball. Hurray for Andy Pettitte.
Whoever thinks Joba still belongs in the pen needs to have their head examined to see if there is a brain in their.
And Warner Wolf with his obession about pitch count said Joba was taken out after 92 pitches and guess what the PEN BLEW THE LEAD. He fails to realize that it was as hot as hell. He goes on to say some pitcher from 1920 pitched until the 20th inning. um yeah lets do that. This guy needs to retire already.
“I am sure Gardner has had his adjustment period in the minors, etc. The reason he doesn’t get an “experimental year†is because he’s Brett Gardner. Half the fanbase on here wouldn’t even give an “experiemental few starts†to Phil Hughes or Ian Kennedy.”
I don’t know about that. With pitchers it is different because they have the potential to destroy a game every 5 days. Unless an offensive player is giving up runs with poor defense, I think the Yanks and their fans will be a little more patient with Gardner.
Gardner is in a slump right now… but I don’t think the Yankees will use him as a late-inning-anything. He needs to play.
Since Melky has come up full time in 2006, he has hit .280, .273, and .245 thus far. He won’t be our CF (or even left or right) of the future. Who knows if Gardner even will be with his lack of power. But a single for Gardner is a double. A double is scoring position. So every time he gets on base he is in scoring position (unless someone is blocking him). I’ll take a .245 hitter with his patience over a .245 hitter who rarely steals.
Everyone who plays centerfield in the American League has out-played Melky.
You guys are talking like we’ve got Josh Hamilton in center.
It’s Freaking Melky Cabrera. He’s expendable. Stop building him up for more than what he is. A FOURTH outfielder.
“I’ll take a .245 hitter with his patience over a .245 hitter who rarely steals.”
Let Bret prove first that he is a .245 hitter.
So far, he did not do much except for comeing through in a couple of key situations. Melky has proven to be better than that as of now.
lol Dick Vitale just said he thinks Joba’s done a good job but he still would rather see him in the pen!
Shocking that a Tampa Bay Rays fan would think that.
“It’s Freaking Melky Cabrera. He’s expendable. Stop building him up for more than what he is. A FOURTH outfielder.”
Except that the suggestion by many is to replace him with a fifth out fielder
pat- I thought he was a Yankee fan.
Resist the urge to go on manic highs and lows with this team.
They had a good series this weekend but they need to continue to have good series to be contenders. There will be set backs along the way but that doesn’t necessarily mean the sky is falling.
Brett Gardner is hitting .163 and he only has 4 walks. Now, 7 rbi on a .163 BA is a pretty good return; and 5 stolen bases not too bad, considering he’s not on base all that much. But .163 is terrible no matter which way you cut it. Melky’s season is not over at .245. Let’s see where it ends up. His previous two seasons he was at .300 going into September, but slowed down considerably down the stretch. Not a good thing, to be sure, but Melky’s done okay. No, he’s not a superstar, but he doesn’t belong on the scrap heap, either. And Brett just does not get on base enough yet. Will he? I guess we’ll have to wait and see.
pat -
I agree. It’s a one-day-at-a-time mindset. If start extrapolating and analysing pitching match-ups going forward, even one game forward, you can drive yourself crazy. And the way this team has played this year, you can also set yourself up for a few let downs. I’m just going to enjoy the fact that they did just sweep the A’s, though.
jennifer
He usually speaks well of the Yankees but he’s a Rays fan.
pat- I didn’t know they had fans.
Finally his real friends speak up ! There are two sides to a story and I believe this one because too many things just don’t make sense w/ the other. Alex my advice stay away from this woman you are better off as far as I’m concern after reading that the only joy she gave you were the kids keep your head up.
I have faith in Brett. Zero faith in Melky.
There’s no point in being greedy. Taking 2 of 3 vs. the Twins and the same in Boston should be enough to keep fans happy.
I would be very happy to see the Yankees win 2 of 3 vs both the Twins and Red Sox, but I wouldn’t turn down sweeping them both.
Why does it always have to be either or? Why pit Gardner and Melky against each other? If you ask me i’d rather trade Damon and let Melky and Garner grow with this team. I can’t believe the impatience of some people. They brand players a certain way without giving them a fair chance. It shouldn’t be surprising though based on the what have you done lately mentality of so many fans here.
Even though we have our 2 stiffs on the mound for this Twins series….( we really need to put a good pitcher between them as soon as we can OR just get rid of these 2 very soon )….these are the TWINS, folks. Let’s sweep them as well ! With Boston getting their butts handed to them in LA and us sweeping the A’s, I’ll wager that was the final straw in pushing the Yankees to make a REAL move in the next 10 days for a good starting pitcher AND possibly another bat to replace Matsui. The Rays are done. Really, anyone that thinks they can make the playoffs this year is completely nuts. EVERY year, they stink after the All-Star break and they started early this year….losing 7 straight before the break and they are 2-8 in their last 10 games….they are NOT a factor….Chasing down Boston is our daily task and with some “non-slugs” as our #4 and #5 pitchers, we can BLOW THEM AWAY !
Brandon, good story thanks for the link. Obviously Alex isn’t the only one at fault but I don’t think Cynthia is all to blame either. Like almost every break-up, both are to blame. The media has been unfair to Alex, but I think he’s tough enough at this point to ignore it.
TIDROW-
Damon has another year and is one of our most productive hitters. Gardner and Melky aren’t the CF/LF tandom of the future. A-Jax will be out there fulltime in a couple of years. Damon helps us win NOW. I wish we pulled the trigger on a Matsui deal earlier this year, i.e. the Giants.
What pitcher is out there that the Yankees can get that would have a positive impact? For that matter what bat? And what would be the cost in terms of prospects/players?
While I don’t think the Rays will stay in the lead, they are going to give troubles this whole season.
I just don’t think there are all that many moves that the Yankees can make that won’t have them giving up future talent that the Yankees will need, or give them a big edge.
With Mastui being hurt like this, and possibly out for the season, I wonder if the Mariners would do a deal swapping Matsui for Ichiro. Ichiro isn’t going to mash like Matsui, but he would be a good bat in the lineup. It gives back to Seattle a very popular Japanese player to keep the owner happy.
Just a thought.
I say just hold on until the cavalry comes ( Wang, Hughes, Kennedy) and then make a charge to the finish line. I think Bruneys’ recovery bodes well for Wang being that they had similar injuries and the prognostication that Bruney was out for the year was highly exaggerated.No need to overpay for overrated talent.
fuhgoobagz-
A thought is about all that will be. Ichiro for Matsui? How about Moose for King Felix? seems about as equivalent? why would they ever do that, other than to rid themselves of a hefty contract. Ichiro has become the face of that organization, and, in all liklihood, is the sole reason people show up for the games (it sure as sh*t ain’t Bedard or Beltre). I would get rid of Matsui for a lefty reliever. We have enough DH types and the guy is plain old and worn out.
Here are my 2 questions of the day:
1. Do we have any credible reports saying when Wang will be back? I would really rather not rush him, but an ace pitcher can only help the staff.
2. Being that Phil is coming back late into the year off an injury, how many starts do we give him? Say, perhaps, he comes back the middle of August and stinks his first 2 or 3 starts, do we give him the benefit of the doubt for the remainder of the season. As a Yankee fan, I would hope we are in the thick of it come early September and, therefore, cannot have the added burden of a bad starter. So, will there be a point that if Phil can’t get it together this season, we just throw in the towel with him, as far as starting THIS season is concerned?
I believe Cynthia molded Alex’s mind, since he does seem to be a pretty weak minded person. He seems to be very easily led.
Don Vito you’re a complete Ã¥ssh01e. Just go away already!
Regarding Gardner and Melky, Gardener still is hitting the ball in the air instead of the ground and striking out way too much. He is no where near as valuable as Melky right now. They could hold him as a fourth outfielder pinch runner type. I think they need to give Melky the rest of this year. Gardner will “maybe” turn into a player but right now he cant steal first base
I believe Cynthia molded Alex’s mind, since he does seem to be a pretty weak minded person. He seems to be very easily led.
I’ve been wondering about that too because lets all be honest here before Cynthia Alex was not this outside and loose liped w/ the media, I’ve always wondered if she was the real problem.
One thing that always stuck out to me like a sore thumb was the S.I. article about Alex 2 years ago when Giambi couldn’t keep shut and well we know what else….
Rodriguez maintained eye contact while Torre spoke and nodded repeatedly. His only sign of discomfort was that he kept twirling his wedding ring around his finger. When Torre was done, he asked A-Rod if he understood what he had just told him. “Yes, 100 percent,” Rodriguez said firmly.
I always thought it was more than just the pressure of being a Yank.
I have no inside dope, but it looks to me that Matsui is out for the season. Unless Wang has an unusually good response to his injury, he is also done for the year. Hughes may come back, but considering his early problems and that he will be rusty, again, aside from being very lucky, I can’t see him having too much impact this year. Unless he is immediately better then Ponson or Rasner, he will not be in the rotation.
Cashman has a history of pulling off a big trade at the last minute. Let’s hope he can pull a rabbit out of his hat this year also.
You might be right Old Yanks Fan: according to NJ.com Cash is talking to the pirates about Nady (and possibly Marte or Grabow). The pirates are scouting Austin Jackson, Jose Tabata and Ian Kennedy…
http://www.nj.com/yankees/ledg.....038;coll=1
If Rasner gets bombed today, is he replaced in the rotation?
Or, a better question would probably be: At what point does Rasner get replaced? What would be the final straw? And if/when he gets replaced, who will replace him? (who is the #1 name in Scranton right now? Aceves?)
We’re slowly getting all of our starting pitching together (without Wang, even!), yet every time Rasner’s turn in the rotation comes up, I cringe a bit. He’s been staying in games until about the 5th/6th but has been grueling through those innings..He lets a lot of guys get on base and he needs to bear down almost every inning. All of his starts seem as though he’s walking a tightrope, and more often than not, those runners are going to score.
PS– It’s crazy to think that Sir Sidney has been the answer. We plugged him into the rotation and although everyone said “Alright,I guess he can fill out our rotation for the next few games”, he’s actually done very well. Keep it up, Sir Sidney!
You may be right OYF:
According to NJ.com, Cash is looking to acquire Xavier Nady from the Pirates for prospects. According to the article, the names that have been discussed are Austin Jackson, Jose Tabata, or Ian Kennedy.
For any of those, I’d expect Jason Bay over Nady. But then, maybe I’m overvaluing the Yankees’ prospects…?
The article can be found here.
I really hope they don’t trade AJax.
According to NJ.com, Cash is looking to acquire Xavier Nady from the Pirates for prospects. According to the article, the names that have been discussed are Austin Jackson, Jose Tabata, or Ian Kennedy.
I strongly doubt this is true. Again media is buttin’ in, Cashman said it they are not selling the farm. Jose Tabata, Austin Jackson immediately are off this list. I wouldn’t deal them and Cash would be an idiot to deal them for Nady or Bay (these 2 aren’t anything special for that price)
Tabata and Kennedy I could live with, but Jackson would be a mistake, and I wouldn’t believe his name is in the mix.
I am one who has very little faith in our “prospects” I think they are over rated, however, I am not in favor of trading them for Nady, who is just a slight upgrade over Melky. If we have to trade the guys that Cashman feels are “his blue chips” I want to see us get more than just Nady.
The sad thing is, they might be special because the lack of productive OF’s, especially FA OF’s.
I would gladly give up Kennedy and an OF prospect for Nady. If there were a year we needed Kennedy, it’s this one. Past this year, there isn’t much use. IF we get CC, there REALLY isn’t a use. Either way, Ian & an OF would be a good deal for Nady. Possibly Kennedy/Christian? or Kennedy/Tabata. Anybody but A-Jax. I really like what he brings. Tabata is too young to have any feel as to what he could become. Nady gives us a +300 BA. definite upgrade from Melky or Gardner.
Tabata isn’t going anywhere I swear Cashman trades him that deal will come back to bite him in the face. RISP Jason Bay’s numbers are near Jose Molina territory.
Nady is having a great year, hes hitting 325, with the AL exchange rate maybe he can hit 300 here?
Good morning, just a few things:
1. What did Don Vito ever do to deserve that, A8?
2. We don’t need a doctor to tell us that Matsui’s lost for the season.
3. Prefer Jason Bay over Xavier Nady.
4. Austin Jackson? Really? Doubt that.
5. All the ladies here knew that Cynthia was controlling Alex. Alex was raised by a strong mother and men almost always marry their mothers.
6. Billy Wagner’s has tightness in his shoulder and is going to get it examined today.
7. Looking forward to Hughes. He looked good in the fall, the spring, now it’s summertime.
8. Yankees playing with urgency. Just because they’re not hitting well w/ RISP, doesn’t mean they’re not trying.
9. I don’t care what the offense is doing, big ups to the pitching, especially to the top of the rotation and bullpen.
10. Boston sucks on the road. Gotta love that.
I am not in favor of trading them for Nady, who is just a slight upgrade over Melky.
Although I share in your sentiment to not trade Ajax/Tabata for Nady, I think that Nady is not only an upgrade over Melky, but is a very similar player to Matsui. At a younger age, they’re relatively the same.
Yankee Lover-
Let’s be clear, Nady is much more than a slight upgrade over Melky. .323 with 12 home runs, Slugging .526 and 56 RBI’s on the Pirates. Imagine if he was protected in a lineup, or provided a guy like Cano protection. Instead, we have Melky or Molina bating behind Cano, so he sees a lot less strikes. Nady would be a huge upgrade over Cabrera. Kennedy and any OF prospect aside from A-Jax is worth Nady.
Yeah, A8..What’s your problem?
11. Brent: Ponson today, Rasner tomorrow.
Ponson > Rasner (prove me right, Sir)
“You may be right OYF:
According to NJ.com, Cash is looking to acquire Xavier Nady from the Pirates for prospects. According to the article, the names that have been discussed are Austin Jackson, Jose Tabata, or Ian Kennedy.
For any of those, I’d expect Jason Bay over Nady. But then, maybe I’m overvaluing the Yankees’ prospects…?”
Ugh, any of those are too much for Nady.
Nady will be a Craig Wilson in New York. I guarantee it.
Nady will be a Craig Wilson in New York. I guarantee it.
Really? Nady did fine with the Mets, and he has much better numbers than Craig Wilson ever did (before/during/after the Yankees).
“Yankee Lover-
Let’s be clear, Nady is much more than a slight upgrade over Melky. .323 with 12 home runs, Slugging .526 and 56 RBI’s on the Pirates. Imagine if he was protected in a lineup, or provided a guy like Cano protection. Instead, we have Melky or Molina bating behind Cano, so he sees a lot less strikes. Nady would be a huge upgrade over Cabrera. Kennedy and any OF prospect aside from A-Jax is worth Nady.”
And is your classic first half hitter (check his splits: http://www.baseball-reference.com/n/nadyxa01.shtml)
Career .812 OPS in the first half and .744 in the second.
For example, in 2007, he hit to a .291/.344/.504 line in the first half, .255/.303/.425 in the second. In 2006,
Nady will be a Craig Wilson in New York. I guarantee it.
Yup. I’d rather target Milton Bradley then any of the 2 and just give up low pitching, if not check w/ Atlanta for Frenchy and Gonzo since they may be out of it.
Yeah, I don’t have a lot of faith in Rasner. Ponson is questionable, but he has gotten the job done. Supposedly his mechanics were off some, we will see.
I think Rasner is on a very short leash, these next couple of weeks are critical in telling how this team will do. Rasner just doesn’t seem a fit in the grand scheme of things.
Of course its hard to project, but Nady has had two strong years in Pittsburgh. He is 30 years old. He projects out to maybe a 20 homer 75 RBI guy with about a 300 average?Mleky last year had 8 homers hit 273 and drove in 70-75 runs? But Melky is is 6 years younger, has a better arm, and Nady is not a base stealer either
What do you guys think it will take to trade from Nady/Marte? I think the Yankees try to pry both. But, it’ll take, in my mind, Kennedy, Jackson, plus another pitching prospect at least.
All of you ready to sell Ian Kennedy short – check out that Blanton trade.
Ian Kennedy can become a Joe Blanton. Nothing extraordinary. But look at what the As landed for Blanton!!
11. Brent: Ponson today, Rasner tomorrow.
Ponson > Rasner (prove me right, Sir)
Haha oops. Apparently I got a bit ahead of myself.
My prediction for Sir Sidney: 5.2 IP, 6 hits, 2 ER, 1 BB.
My prediction for Blackburn: 6 IP, 7 hits, 4 ER, 3 BB.
(Both of those predictions literally came from nowhere)
If we could get Bay for Tabata and Jackson I’m sure Cashman would pull the trigger immediately. If Tabata lived up to his full potential he would be similar to Jason Bay’s production. Jackson is a little bit different because he is a legit fielding CF but I doubt his bat will ever be better than Bay’s. Unfortunately I can guarantee that the Pirates will ask for more than just Jackson and Tabata. Probably Jackson, Tabata, Hughes as a baseline. Maybe Cashman can get a good deal but I don’t see how.
I’m not too interested in Nady, he’s having a good season but he’s not worth the cost we’d have to pay IMO.
But Melky is is 6 years younger, has a better arm, and Nady is not a base stealer either
Melky only has 7 SB this year. Nady has 1, but it’s not like Melky usually has 30/30 seasons as a hitter.
Players do not ‘break out’ at 30 years old and sustain said break out. Just a warning. Nady is bound to crash – I don’t want the Yankees to be the team holding on to the hot potato.
Someone else-
Good point. All i can really say to that is, maybe being on a winning team in contention can light a fire. We know he has talent. All i can ssay to back my arguement is that playing on the Pirates can have sort of a lack-of-motivation effect on a player. Jason Bay or Xavier Nady would both, IMO, be well worth Kennedy and a low-level OF prospect. Bay/Nady would give us much more than said prospect and Kennedy can give us this year, or next year for that matter.
Side question: Where does everyone stand on Bobby Abreu. I really can’t explain, statistically, why I like the guy, but I do, especially in the #3 spot. He gives A-rod protection, walks a ton, and grinds out AB’s. He isn’t worth any type of monster contract, but given whats available for the OF, i would like to keep him if it makes sense economically. Where do you guys stand?
Probably Jackson, Tabata, Hughes as a baseline.
Our top 2 OF prospects and Hughes for Jason Bay? As reluctant as Cashman has been to trade the farm away, you would almost guarantee that this trade wouldn’t happen with those names involved.
If it WAS made, I could see Tabata, Kennedy, lower prospect.
Remember that the Twins were going to trade Santana to the Yankees for Hughes/Melky/lower prospect (one of the last proposals they made before the Yankees said no and he was traded to the Mets).
If that’s what Santana could have cost, then the Pirates aren’t going to get Hughes, Tabata, and Austin Jackson for Bay.
Yankee Lover,
So that must mean that Nady never steals. Melky hardly ever steals. It has to be an open invitation.
I’m all for getting OF help, but Jackson should be off-limits. I’m sure that part’s not true because he’s one of the few true position players that will be ready in the not to distant future.
Cashman said on the radio that the old days of buying instant championships are gone. We’re holding on to the young talent. It may hurt now, but it’ll pay off. And that we’re still going to contend.
Now, if everyone did they’re job reloading wouldn’t be a problem.
BTW, before last night’s Angels win, no team in the majors had reached 60 yet. The Yankees with 53 wins are right in the thick of things. They just need to win series and see where the chips fall.
“Probably Jackson, Tabata, Hughes as a baseline.”
That’d be too much to pay for Holliday, let alone Bay.
I swear, for every person who overrates the prospects, there are 10 who underrate them. Jackson, Tabata, Hughes would be enough to get Sabathia AND Harden, lol.
*their job
Yikes!
Jackson, Tabata and Hughes wouldn’t even be close to getting CC and Harden. I know we like to think our players are going to be great, but the reality is that they haven’t been yet. Tabata has had a bad year at AA and Hughes has been injured two years in a row (besides being bad at the beginning of this year). We do have a ton of prospects to trade if that’s what happens, but don’t fool yourself into thinking that a team will take Tabata and give us their best player.
Joey,
Bobby’s good, but has been better.
His defense is wearing thin on me, and his offense is not what it was during Alex’s last MVP season.
Plus teams know that the Yankees are desperate for OF help so they don’t exactly have any leverage in negotiations.
Side question: Where does everyone stand on Bobby Abreu. I really can’t explain, statistically, why I like the guy, but I do, especially in the #3 spot. He gives A-rod protection, walks a ton, and grinds out AB’s. He isn’t worth any type of monster contract, but given whats available for the OF, i would like to keep him if it makes sense economically. Where do you guys stand?
Most people here want to see him leave, but I don’t quite understand who they want the Yankees to replace him with (both on defense and offense). Granted, the Yankees could find a better defensive OF. But Abreu isn’t costing them games out in right. He’s better than Sheffield and nobody had a problem with him out there. Offensively, he’s great to be in front of A-Rod, and I really like his plate discipline and ability to grind out at-bats.
What are some names that people would want to replace Abreu with?
According to Cot’s Baseball Contracts, these are the free agent OF’ers for 2009:
Bobby Abreu NYY
Moises Alou NYM
Garret Anderson * LAA
Rocco Baldelli TB
Willie Bloomquist SEA
Emil Brown OAK
Pat Burrell PHI
Endy Chavez NYM
Carl Crawford * TB
Adam Dunn CIN
Jim Edmonds CHC
Juan Encarnacion STL
Cliff Floyd TB
Brian Giles * SD
Ken Griffey Jr. * CIN
Vladimir Guerrero * LAA
Raul Ibanez SEA
Jacque Jones DET
Mark Kotsay ATL
Rob Mackowiak WAS
Kevin Mench TEX
Jason Michaels * CLE
Craig Monroe MIN
Jay Payton BAL
Scott Podsednik COL
Manny Ramirez * BOS
Juan Rivera LAA
Rondell White MIN
EricVA-
I don’t think teams see Phil as an injury issue. I mean, he pulled a hammy and broke a rib. Those two injuries aren’t usually reoccuring for a young pitcher. If he had shoulder or elbow problems, it would be a different issue. And A-Jax is regarded as an up-and-comer in the ML. he would be a nice OF prospect for any team
“Jackson, Tabata and Hughes wouldn’t even be close to getting CC and Harden. I know we like to think our players are going to be great, but the reality is that they haven’t been yet. Tabata has had a bad year at AA and Hughes has been injured two years in a row (besides being bad at the beginning of this year). We do have a ton of prospects to trade if that’s what happens, but don’t fool yourself into thinking that a team will take Tabata and give us their best player.”
Tabata alone? No way. But he has way too much upside (19 yr old at AA) to trade for… Nady? You don’t trade that upside.
Say what you will, but Hughes would have been enough to land Sabathia (with two other prospects). His injuries have not been the ‘OMG, his arm is close to blowing’ type, and he’s a higher level prospect than LaPorta.
Jackson is better than any of the guys the Phillies dealt for Harden. 21 at AA is a feat.
“Jackson is better than any of the guys the Phillies dealt for Harden. 21 at AA is a feat.”
Lol, Cubbies, not Phillies.
“Our top 2 OF prospects and Hughes for Jason Bay?”
First of all, the Pirates won’t get that much for Bay but its what they will ask for. Secondly, the Pirates are notorious for asking for the moon in trade talks. I doubt a trade for Bay will be done, the Pirates can get a LOT more for Bay than Kennedy, Tabata, low level prospect. Maybe if that low level prospect is Montero they would go for it.
“That’d be too much to pay for Holliday, let alone Bay.”
Well yeah but thats what the Pirates will expect to get back for him. Also, some would say that Bay is more valuable than Holliday. Do you realize the Phillies just traded their second best prospect for a #5 starter? Established players are a LOT more valuable than prospects.
“I swear, for every person who overrates the prospects, there are 10 who underrate them. Jackson, Tabata, Hughes would be enough to get Sabathia AND Harden, lol.”
No, this is not true.
Jackson and Tabata are good prospects but lets put it this way. It is VERY likely that Jason Bay is a better hitter right now than either Tabata or Jackson will ever be in their career.
Brent-
Great post. I would have to say that if Abreu isn’t completely unreasonable in his salary expectations, we should resign him. As a i said earlier, his numbers don’t translate what he brings to a lineup. 6-8 pitches an at-bat. he still is a force to worry about at the plate. I would say Vlad or Burrell could have a case made for them. The rest of that list doesn’t do ti for me.
Xavier Nady for Austin Jackson, Jose Tabata, or Ian Kennedy? Somebody’s got heat stroke.
X is cheap at about $3.5 mil this year, but – correct me if I’m wrong – it’s a one year deal with the Pirates and thus he is a potential rental as a FA at the end of the year. Do I give up top prospects to get potential rental RF Nady who may or may not stay this hot?
X is turning 30, and is having a career year at the moment
Nady Career: Avg: .280; OBP: 335; SLG: 454; OPS: .789
(for comparison: Abreu right now: 272; 346; 431; 778).
Nady right now: .323; 377; .526; .903
(for comparison: Abreu career: .299; 405; 496; 901).
Is X on the rise or does he regress? I agree that most players don’t “break out” at 30.
According to NJ.com, Cash is looking to acquire Xavier Nady from the Pirates for prospects. According to the article, the names that have been discussed are Austin Jackson, Jose Tabata, or Ian Kennedy.
************************************************************
These are not necessarily names [offered]by Cashman and more like names Pittsburgh is talking about.
The Pirates have good young OF’s in their system which is why Nady can be offered. Their real need is righthanded pitching and a deal can start with Kennedy and see what Cashman feels can be expendable other than A-Jax with Tabata closely behind as OF’s that are untouchable.
It’s a delicate balance. In the past 2 years good arms have emerged in the Yankee farm system but position players have been slower to develop.
Geez Brent,
thats quite a list of mediocre has beens for sure
I would say Vlad or Burrell could have a case made for them. The rest of that list doesn’t do ti for me.
For some reason, Pat Burrell doesn’t do it for me either. A few years ago, the Phillies wanted to unload Burrell’s monster contract along with Cory Lidle and the Yankees wouldn’t do it. I don’t seem them letting Abreu (the guy they wanted over burrell) and then signing Burrell.
I think Abreu knows that he isn’t worth the 16 million dollar option the Yankees picked up this season. He won’t get that on the FA market if his numbers continue to dip a bit each year.
Murph -
Nady is not a free agent after this season, thus he would not be a rental.
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/.....ree-a.html
Thus they don’t have to under sell him either that’s why Nady is a No. Bay is overrated I’ve been saying that for awhile RISP he sucks, he’s not eaxatly a GG OF, I’d rather go after a Raul Ibanez or Milton Bradley before any of these names atleast they wouldn’t require us dealing Tabata or Jackson.
Brent-
I think we can all agree Vlad would be the only upgrade in that whole list, thus answering the Bobby Abreu question. So, all in agreeance Bobby should be resigned, unless his demands far exceed his worth?
“First of all, the Pirates won’t get that much for Bay but its what they will ask for. Secondly, the Pirates are notorious for asking for the moon in trade talks. I doubt a trade for Bay will be done, the Pirates can get a LOT more for Bay than Kennedy, Tabata, low level prospect. Maybe if that low level prospect is Montero they would go for it.”
Yes, the Pirates will ask for the moon. But they won’t get it.
Geez Brent,
thats quite a list of mediocre has beens for sure
Exactly! That’s what I thought when I read that list. The only way I can see the Yankees not re-signing Abreu is if Matsui is fine next year and if they make a trade for Nady/Bay/other OFer. That way, it would be Damon, Melky, and Nady/Bay in right with Matsui as the full-time DH. That also assumes that the Yankees get Teixiera to play 1st and that Giambi is gone. If giambi stays, you can’t have Matsui be the lone-DH, as Giambi will likely require some time there as well.
If the Yankees could get Jason Bay for Jose Tabata and Ian Kennedy they’d be stupid not to do that trade.
They’d be embeciles not to do it to be honest.
I would personally trade Tabata and Kennedy for Nady if that’s what it would take to get him.
Brandon you keep pointing at BA with RISP but that is very likely just bad luck on Bay’s part.
For his career Jason Bay hits .281/.376/.515.
For his career with runners in scoring position Jason bay hits .280/.394/.513.
Those two lines are about the same, Jason Bay has no problem with RISP.
Brent-
BOTTOM LINE: We CANNOT have Matsui & Giambi on our team next year. Has to be one or the other. as shocking as it sounds, in my perfect world, i would trade Matsui and sign Giambi to a 1 year $6-8 mill. he brings so much to the clubbouse and to the team. Matsui has become a serious concern with those knees. forget about LF, Matsui hustling into 2nd for a double could result in another DL stint with those knees. Matsui is great when he’s healthy, but that is becoming exceedingly less and less common with each year that goes by.
I personally would lock away Jackson and Tabata from talks, unless the name is Josh Hamilton I don’t want those kids going anywhere.
“Yes, the Pirates will ask for the moon. But they won’t get it.”
If you continue reading the post you were quoting you would notice that I said exactly the same thing.
Those two lines are about the same, Jason Bay has no problem with RISP.
This season he stinks w/ RISP, he over valued and overrated.
he’s over-valued*
A8…you could try that yourself, FA !
“This season he stinks w/ RISP, he over valued and overrated.”
So you ignore his lifetime stats to focus on what he’s done this year?
You do realize that RISP stats tend to fluctuate from year to year right?
For his CAREER he has a .900 OPS with RISP. This is his sixth season. So for 5 years he’s been phenomenal with RISP.
Brandon ;
Raul Ibanez hits left and Cashman would prefer a RH hitter.
Bradley would be OK if his head is on straight and he can be locked into a 2-3 year deal seeing as he’s a FA after this year.
Nolan Ryan is on record as saying the emphasis is on pitching with the Ranger organization. Maybe a Kennedy, Marquez, and ? will get the deal done if a Nady deal goes south.
“This season he stinks w/ RISP, he over valued and overrated.”
Way to ignore the evidence completely. For his career he has no problem with RISP. You think he all of a sudden forgot how to hit with runners on base? Do you trust 96 plate apperance sample size this year or 868 PA with RISP over his entire career? How is he overrated, he has a career 130 OPS+??
The entire free agent class for 2009 pretty much blows. You can count on one hand the guys under 30 who are any good. Among the older players, the Yankees already have the best ones who are free agents to be.
Glenn that’s what I’m thinking.
raymagnetic the fact is Bay has underperformed for Pittsburgh that’s why he is on the market. Ask yourself why are they trading him and requesting Jose Tabata or Austin Jackson as a return price, they want 2 grade A prospects for this guy, I wouldn’t touch him w/ a ten foot pole.
Where is Brian Bruney? he is not listed on the scranton roster is he on his way up?
Brandon,
In what world are you in where a guy with an OPS on the season of 136 in underperforming?
Bottom line if the Yankees can get him for Tabata, Kennedy, and a lower level prospect not named Montero they would have to do it.
I’m positive that there’s no way that’ll happen however. I would even think about trading AJax and Kennedy and a lower level prospect for Bay.
Bay is a proven commodity and he’s still in his prime. He’s also still cheap and he’d be on the team for the rest of this year plus all of next year.
We don’t know what AJax or Tabata will be if anything.
Brandon,
Why does any crappy team trade good players? They are trading him because he is getting close to being an FA and they know they can’t contend in the near future. Bay has not underperformed for Pittsburgh. Last year he had a down year but this year he’s playing up to his career numbers.
I agree with everything ray says with respect to Jason Bay and he keeps beating my posts so I’ll shut up and let him talk
I wonder if Pittsburgh would deal Ryan Doumit. Switch hitter, can catch and play rf.
Milton Bradley has a lifetime OPS+ of 116 in 9 big league seasons. This year his OPS+ is 175.
One of these things is not like the other.
Bay has not underperformed for Pittsburgh. Last year he had a down year but this year he’s playing up to his career numbers.
Because it’s his contract year. No one in Pittsburgh would weep if he left. The fans have even been ripping him left and right through Philly radio.
Not to add feul to this trade speculation fire (which I started) now CBS Sports is speculating that the Yankees are interested in Toronto’s AJ Burnett:
“Yesterday, CBSSports.com’s Danny Knobler wrote:
Blue Jays general manager J.P. Ricciardi told Toronto reporters that he now doesn’t expect to trade A.J. Burnett. But Burnett’s Friday night start at Tampa Bay attracted more than a dozen scouts, including two from the Yankees. Several of the scouts in attendance didn’t stay for the rest of the weekend series, a clear indication that they were in town strictly to watch Burnett.
So while we have nothing concrete, there are signs that the Yankees are looking at Burnett. He and Justin Duchscherer are the two best remaining starters who could conceivably be pried loose via trade.
————-
Personally, even tho the cost would be higher, I’d trade for the Duke over Burnett… (except if the Burnett deal was salary relief only).
“
There isnt a positon player on the yankees not named Alex that I wouldnt trade for Jason Bay….minor leaguers included. He is a beast.
Point is I’m not trading especially a 19 yr. old in Jose Tabata and a 21 yr. old in Austin Jackson for him. Ian Kennedy and Colin Curtis I’d do but Tabata goes nowhere you don’t give up on that type of kid.
Sorry, my feeling is a healthy Matsui is better than all the mentioned escept Vald. He hits in the clutch, and proven he can play in NY
Giambi? Sorry, but for me, hes the ONLY guy I`d like to see up with the game tied or on the line. So I`d keep him around. I realize that keeping our two top clutch hitters (Giambi and Matsui) means one too many DH`s but those guys are valuable in clutch situations on a team that has trouble in clutch spots
I’d prefer Milton Bradley myself, but that’s expressly because he is a nutcase.
Screw Milton being a nutcase the man since 05 has become a dangerous hitter
“Because it’s his contract year. No one in Pittsburgh would weep if he left. The fans have even been ripping him left and right through Philly radio.”
Its not Bay’s contract year. He isn’t a free agent until 2010. Philly radio does not equal Pittsburgh radio, and lets be honest Philly radio rips EVERYONE. I don’t see how Bay is playing over his head considering his OPS+ this year is about what his career OPS+ is. Brandon I think you seriously need to rethink your dislike of Jason Bay.
“Point is I’m not trading especially a 19 yr. old in Jose Tabata and a 21 yr. old in Austin Jackson for him. Ian Kennedy and Colin Curtis I’d do but Tabata goes nowhere you don’t give up on that type of kid.”
Brandon,
This is chess it ain’t checkers. You aren’t getting a corner outfielder who’s cheap and doesn’t hit free agency for another year for Ian Kennedy and Colin Curtis.
Right now AJax and Tabata are just suspects. You have no idea what any of them will do. We do already know however due to a rather large sample size what Jason Bay is. Jason Bay is 29, not 39. He solves a problem now and in the future if the Yankees decide to extend him.
There really is no downside on the part of the Yankees.
Derek Jeter, Ian Kennedy and Jose Tabata for Jack Wilson and Jason Bay………..where do I sign?
I think Duchscherer would cost a ton though. Burnett is a health risk, but a very good pitcher.
Duchscherer reminded me a bit of Mussina. Not over powering stuff, but he has great command and knows how to pitch. How long can that hold up?
Burnett is a risk because of his opt out, he might be gone for the BJs this year and with as far back as they are now, they might like to get some return on him other than draft picks. There is no guarantee that he will remain with any club that trades for him, unless he goes down to injury. That might keep his “cost” lower, but its a decent risk.
I don’t think I’d trade Kennedy, Jackson, Tabata for Bay but I’d give up one of Jackson and Tabata if the rest of the package wasn’t too insane. I think the Pirates will ask for Hughes, Tabata, Jackson but I think a more fair price would be Tabata, Kennedy, McAllister.
Those of you out there that keep saying that Melky will never be the Yanks future CF, have you researched the stats on Bernie W. and J. Damon in their first 3 years of MLB?
Melky’s stats are right in there with both of them about the same. Damon maybe has a little more speed, but Melky’s throwing arm is much better than either Bernie or Damon ever were.
Look at Ray going Alonso Harris on Brandon. LMAO
“Why is Roger my friend, cause he knows my name?”
The Baseballthinkfactory has Abreu as the worst outfielder in the AL. His OPD is -20.4 for all of you who want him back.
http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/
There really is no downside on the part of the Yankees.
Tabata figures it out and becomes a 20 HR 90 RBI guy, Jackson becomes a GG that hits above .290 and sprinkles in 15-20 and 80 RBI, while Bay regresses back to .247/.327/.418 and striking out at a 26 % rate
Duchscherer reminded me a bit of Mussina. Not over powering stuff, but he has great command and knows how to pitch. How long can that hold up?
For Mussina – about 17 years.
I would think that AJ is a short term solution. As in, not much given, not much recieved. Perhaps a PTBNL on whether or not he opts out and how far the Yankees go because of his acquisition? The better the result, the higher the return for Toronto? Is that doable?
Dan,
Yeah I think whozat posted that late last week. Abreu is having a down year for sure and his defense is really bad. Maybe Nady would be a good pickup if we also trade Abreu. I’m not so sure about that though, I think Abreu will have a good second half.
Big Sexy shut up and hit leties like your suppose to.
Dont see Oakland parting with Durch, hes their ace, and besides he doesnt throw hard, don`t we have enough of those types of starters that need pinpoint control to be effective?
Regarding Gardner I`m still more in favor of Melky, Gardner speed and def looks good, but the guy was hitting what 280 in the minors not 330, so maybe he needs more Minor league at bats?
Gotta admit that there’s a lotta hope in your speculation Brandon. There’s no proof that either Tabata will figure it out our that Ajax can perform at the highest level. But I’m not saying your wrong either.
The Baseballthinkfactory has Abreu as the worst outfielder in the AL. His OPD is -20.4 for all of you who want him back.
It’s simple to say that, but the important question is “Who is going to replace him?”. Look at all the FA’s for 2009 that I posted above. The majority of them are worse than Abreu, and the ones that aren’t will most likely be picked up by their current club (e.g. Carl Crawford). I’m sure Sheffield was one of the worst outfielders a few years back as well, but nobody called for his head.
Dan-
Tell the baseball think factory thanks, but i watch Yankee games and see what the guy gives us. Name 5 outfielders we could concievably get if we let Abreu go that would be an upgrade. Vlad is the only one. like i said, as long as he doesnt demand a ludicrous salary, we should keep the guy.
brandon, I cant hit anyone or anything these days….I struck out 5 times off a tee yesterday.
“Tabata figures it out and becomes a 20 HR 90 RBI guy, Jackson becomes a GG that hits above .290 and sprinkles in 15-20 and 80 RBI, while Bay regresses back to .247/.327/.418 and striking out at a 26 % rate”
Or Tabata doesn’t figure it out and never amounts to anything and AJax becomes no better than Melky.
Brandon, you really do overvalue the Yankees “good” prospects. If you want the Yankees to get good players some of the better youngins have to go.
raymagnetic,
I have to disagree with your sentiments on Bay.
I agree with what you say about Tabata and Jackson being “suspects” and I would trade Tabata in the right deal w/o thinking twice. Jackson, however, I would hang on to.
I simply see no reason to trade for an OF right now. I’ve said it a hundred times: the Yankees’ current offense is underachieving and as we’ve all learned, pitching wins in the postseason.
If we’re going to trade prospects for anyone, it better be a starting pitcher. I guess if we can get a guy like Bay for Tabata, Kennedy, and some other schmuck, you pull the trigger, but otherwise, I’d scour the pitching market for anyone not named AJ Burnett.
Ultimately, I’d work with what we have and see where it gets us.
Whose to say we can’t package some of these prospects for a stud starter in the offseason?
Ofcorse Ray because this the real Tabata not the one who hit .307 last year in High A, this one who was adjusting to AA ball this season is the real one. Come on man these are the type of deals that make a GM look like retard when he makes it.
Or Tabata doesn’t figure it out and never amounts to anything and AJax becomes no better than Melky.
I know that not all prospects end up becoming amazing superstars, but if you had to choose one player in the Yankee’s minor league system to bet on, wouldn’t it be Austin Jackson? Hasn’t that been the consensus?
raymagnetic ®™-
Everybody here overvalues these prospects.Thats why we should have traded Kennedy,Melky and Tabata when there stock was high and most were healthy.
The only untouchables are Melchon,Montero,AJAX and Hughes.Don’t see the problem.
This point amuses me:
raymagnetic – We don’t know what AJax or Tabata will be if anything.
——————–
Hey, what’d we get for Dioner Navarro? Guess it’s a good thing the Yankees traded him, isn’t it, because they didn’t know if he would turn out well.
If I could choose only one player to acquire it will be Ryan Spilborghs. He can play any outfield position. He hits left handed pitching very well as a right handed batter. He is the Rockies 4th outfielder. The Rockies have both Seth Smith and Dexter Fowler coming up or in the case of Smith already up. Also Taveras makes for a better 4th outfielder for them with his superior speed. The Rockies might and this is just speculation on my part take back Hawkins and add in JB Cox for him? Maybe Veras for him?
Brent/Brandon,
I think Raymagnetic’s point is that a lot of people overvalue the prospects we have.
If its the right trade and one of these guys has to go, you pull the trigger. I want to see the Yankees develop hitters just as much as the next fan, but hanging on to these guys when someone proven and legit is available is just a bad business decision.
I am not supporting going after Bay/Nady, but if they can be had for a reasonable price, then its not necessarily a “bad” move.
As a sidenote, I don’t think enough is said about this team and what they’re doing given their current situation. Girardi has done a great job with this club and the atmosphere around the team. We have lost our Ace for the season and our catcher can’t throw a pebble. our best clutch hitter is out for the season and our bottom half of the rotation consists of Darrel Rasner and Sidney Ponson. forget about the short term injuries (a-Rod and Damon), any other ballclub would have become sellers at this point. We still are in the thick of things, despite all of this AND an underachieving offense.
The reason to trade for a Bay or another young outfielder is simple – to be able to let Abreu go and be able to afford Texeira and Sabathia. I’d like to avoid trading Jackson or Hughes but anyone else in the system would IMO be fair game.
Mad Prince,
I’m not advocating that the Yankees make a trade. What I’m saying is that if the Pirates offer the Yankees Bay for a package of Tabata and Kennedy or even Ajax and Kennedy the Yankees should make that trade. I’d prefer a trade for a pitcher as well but there aren’t any good ones available in a trade right now I don’t think.
I will say, though, that if the prospects are traded, I hope it isn’t for a rental. I guess that is why Bay would be of more interest than others.
I had a creepy dream last night that landed Manny Ramirez in pinstripes next season as a DH. I am surprised I didn’t wake up in screaming in the middle of the night.
I’m getting tired of people calling Mark Melancon Mark Melchon. It’s pronounced Muh-lance-in but looks like Melon-cone. Where does Melchon come from?
the yankees traded navarro for a hall of fame ace pitcher coming off of a year in which he threw a perfect game and lead the league in strike outs…and had a great era and whip.
As a sidenote, I don’t think enough is said about this team and what they’re doing given their current situation. Girardi has done a great job with this club and the atmosphere around the team. We have lost our Ace for the season and our catcher can’t throw a pebble. our best clutch hitter is out for the season and our bottom half of the rotation consists of Darrel Rasner and Sidney Ponson. forget about the short term injuries (a-Rod and Damon), any other ballclub would have become sellers at this point. We still are in the thick of things, despite all of this AND an underachieving offense.
And we’re in one of the toughest divisions in baseball (especially with the Rays this year).
“Hey, what’d we get for Dioner Navarro? Guess it’s a good thing the Yankees traded him, isn’t it, because they didn’t know if he would turn out well.”
We are talking about trading a potentially good outfielder for one that is good now. One who solves a problem now and in the future. Unless you want to bring Abreu back.
When are we calling up Mark Cougar Mellencamp?
Ray,
If the Yankees can get a guy like Bay who is tied for a few years for Tabata and Kennedy, then I would probably pull the trigger too. All indications have the Pirates asking for a lot more than those two and that is where I am skeptical.
I am not quite ready to give up on Hughes. If he faces more issues next season (with injury or performance), then I start gauging interest in him at the very least.
Hey, what’d we get for Dioner Navarro? Guess it’s a good thing the Yankees traded him, isn’t it, because they didn’t know if he would turn out well.
——————————————-
Funny thing about all of those trades involving Randy Johnson and Javier Vazquez is that supplemental pick Jeremy Bleich is the last piece. If he works out the Yankees in the end through all the permutations could end up very well.
Randy Johnson was a beast the season prior to trading for him. He had a whip under 1 for the season and had like 300 K’s. Who knoew he would have struggled so much in NY….he was arguably the best pitcher in baseball at the time of the trade. For what we were supposed to be getting in RJ, we gave up peanuts for him.
Many teams have won in the post season with big time starting pitchers and average offenses. The Yanks probably have enough offense if Damon returns and Cano stays hot. Pitching? Who would have thought Petitte would have done that yesterday? understand the A`s are like a average NL team offensively, but it was a great performance. I agree, we need a high end starter to keep them in the game. The debate on “prospects’ my feeling is this, if they are tearing up the minors then they are probably going to be impact players, if they are not after given enough time, then they probably wont. Many fans find the “minor league prospect” some special gifted hyped player. Law of averages are not in their favor. Its a tough road to the majors and its not like college where players graduate and underclassman just replace them. Looking not at just the Yankees but many teams when winning big, have always added players via trade/FA. There has to be a balance, if the Yanks were out of the race right now, I`d be in favor of trading none of our minor leaguers, let them play here, or get some time with the varsity and see what happens. However, now that the Yanks are in striking distance, a move or two needs to be made. If we lose a prospect or two thats the risk.
RE: Abreu,
I’m not quite sure I am ready to throw the towel in on this guy unless some solid alternatives are available that don’t require the yankees to hand out a $100 million contract (Teixeira). These massive contracts are just insane.
And regarding Sabathia, don’t hold your breath. He will get a lot of interest and I am not so sure he really wants to play in NY.
Bay’s contract runs through ’09; like a cheaper Matt Holliday.
I can’t really bring myself to worry so much about the hitting, to be honest. Even if you “fix” the outfield problem, you’re still stuck with several long term contracts of aging players. I would rather work on the farm system until those contracts can be gotten rid of.
Those that keep saying that Melky will never be the Yanks future CF, has anyone researched the stats on Bernie W. and J. Damon in their first 3 years of MLB?
Melky’s stats are right in there with both of them about the same. Damon maybe has a little more speed, but Melky’s throwing arm is much better than either Bernie or Damon ever were.
We are talking about trading a potentially good outfielder for one that is good now. One who solves a problem now and in the future. Unless you want to bring Abreu back.
It took 4 years for Navarro to hit his stride, Tabata would be an even shorter time span.
I got a question fielding baserunning and hitting
Milton Bradley or Jason Bay
hitting this season
Milton Bradley or Jason Bay
they are around the same age one is cheaper and actually hits in tight spots while the other has not been able to handle the pressure. But hey again I gues Bay is the next coming of Mark McGwire in his prime. This guy is ridiculously overrated I have my fingers crossed that another team over buys on him.
Navarro was in the Randy johnson trade, and last year he hit 227. He was expendable because we already had Posada
Blue Jays general manager J.P. Ricciardi told Toronto reporters that he now doesn’t expect to trade A.J. Burnett. But Burnett’s Friday night start at Tampa Bay attracted more than a dozen scouts, including two from the Yankees. Several of the scouts in attendance didn’t stay for the rest of the weekend series, a clear indication that they were in town strictly to watch Burnett.
from: (www.mlbtraderumors.com)
I would have to say that they were probably scouting him for when we play against him next time. If the yankees went after him after what happened with Pavano it would be a stupid move! To give up prospects for a pitcher who usually can’t pitch an entire season. Sports writers have no clue about is going on with the yankee organization. they just want to start meaningless rumors to sell papers….
I’ll be back in a few, you can tell I’m pissed off when I miss letters at work.
“I wonder if Pittsburgh would deal Ryan Doumit. Switch hitter, can catch and play rf.”
You think the Pirates are going to trade a switch hitting catcher with power, who’s cheap for several more years?
Try Hughes+Tabata+Jackson+Montero.
What are you smoking?
And yeah, I would rather get a starting pitcher than another outfielder. The past years have shown me that good pitching will shut down good hitting more often than not.
The memories.. the memories
Yankee Lover,
By and large, I agree.
As someone else pointed out, though, the available starters via trade that would be effective are scarce. Why trade for Burnett with his injury history and player option for 2009? If he can be had on the cheap, so be it, but that is highly doubtful. Dukesherer (sp?) would be nice, but I’d prefer to keep Billy Beane’s undercarriage out of Cashman’s back door because that is what it will take to bring that guy over.
Injuries are a bummer because if Wang was healthy, we wouldn’t be having this conversation. With Wang in our rotation, we are solid 1-4. This is why we might need to work with what we have, see where it gets us, and look to 2009 and 2010 to get where we all want to be: The World Series
“Milton Bradley or Jason Bay
they are around the same age one is cheaper and actually hits in tight spots while the other has not been able to handle the pressure. But hey again I gues Bay is the next coming of Mark McGwire in his prime. This guy is ridiculously overrated I have my fingers crossed that another team over buys on him.”
This is getting ridiculous. We have proven that over their careers Bay is the more consistent hitter. We have also proven that Bay is fine with RISP over the course of his career and that he’s just getting unlucky this year. Nobody ever said he’s the next Mark McGwire. You are embarrassing yourself.
This is getting ridiculous. We have proven that over their careers Bay is the more consistent hitter. We have also proven that Bay is fine with RISP over the course of his career and that he’s just getting unlucky this year. Nobody ever said he’s the next Mark McGwire. You are embarrassing yourself.
I said the way people talk about this guy, (I’m being sarcastic in comparing him w/ Big Mac !) this isn’t ridiculous moves like this either hold you back 3 to 4 years or set you forward. Jason Bay is currently over priced, Milton Bradley is currently reasonable I don’t see anything wrong w/ this discussion !
Milton Bradley?
Wow.
Headcase.
Bad news.
Mad Prince Headcase that can hit.
Bradley is having a career year, however I think the NY media will eat him alive
Bad fit for NY
Isn’t A-Rod a Mad Prince Head case who can hit.
Milton would be a great on this team.
don’t need mitlton bradley in the yankee club house. we have enough drama as it is! Didn’t you hear about him going after a reporter? what would happen if we booed him? would he throw bottles at us like he did in LA?
Didn’t you hear about him going after a reporter? what would happen if we booed him? would he throw bottles at us like he did in LA?
he has issues but my guess is he would behave here.
Bradley vs NY media will be immortalized on YouTube for our viewing pleasure
Trade for Bradley while he’s lucid. Quick!
Still can’t get over him going after the KC broadcaster when he heard something he didn’t like because he was listening to the game while DH’ing.
he has issues but my guess is he would behave here.
If he could behave maybe ur right. But me personally I wouldn’t take that chance. I look at his personality the same way I look at Jose Guillen. Scary and lack leadership
Still can’t get over him going after the KC broadcaster when he heard something he didn’t like because he was listening to the game while DH’ing.
He won’t pull that stunt here although….Michael Kay
When are we calling up Mark Cougar Mellencamp?
You just had to do it, didn’t you?
Milton Bradley … 6 teams in 9 seasons. He might reign himself in if he’s traded to NY. (7 teams in 9 seasons?!?) But his past history doesn’t seem to agree with that.
Contreras did say that Horne will throw to live hitters Monday, take a day off Tuesday and then throw a light side on Wednesday. “Then we’ll go from there,” Contreras said. That obviously makes you wonder if Horne is the guy for Thursday, which seems possible, but the Yankees minor league starters usually throw their light side two days before they start. Horne said he only knows he’s throwing the equivalent of two innings Monday.
Ian Kennedy said that he hasn’t been told he’s not starting Thursday. As far as he knows, he’s still on every fifth day and will be starting Thursday in Scranton. He also aknowledged that could easily change.
I also asked Contreras about Phil Hughes. Contreras said Hughes last threw a 35-pitch bullpen session. Next up is a 45-pitch session then two batting practice sessions against hitters. After that, assuming all goes well, he should be ready to pitch in a game, probably in the Gulf Coast League or Florida State League. He won’t jump straight to Triple-A.
“We had to start over, spring training and everything,” Contreras said.
Who said Bradley is even on the market right now.
I’m not opposed to him in any way, he could be a good choice to replace Abreu. But right now hos knee doesn’t seem able to sustain regular OF play, so we’d be ading another OF/DH to the mix. For now. By next season he could be the right fit. But he’s also a FA next season, so to qoute your past discussions about CC – why trade for him now when you can just write a check in the offseason.
I do believe we could use a RH OF bat – but the need after this year is for a RF first. That’s not Bay. And Bay is pricier than Nady. And Nady can also play 1B. The fact is Pitt has no real need for A-Jax, so he doesn’t have to go in that deal. They make ask for him, but NY can say no. They have McCutchen performing well in AAA in CF at all of 4 months older than Jackson. He’s why they want to move Bay or Nady. Another OF isn’t their real need – they are desperate for pitching in depth, and a 3B would be nice. Plus Marte is on an option for ’09 for $6 mil! Do you think the Pirates will be picking that up? Or anyone else for that matter? So their leverage in this deal isn’t unlimited either.
I think 2 SP’s (say Kennedy and McCutchen) plus perhaps Brad Suttle and another decent prospect (maybe a 2B) land both Nady and Marte. Interestingly, McCutchen’s turn at Scranton today is being skipped, and they haven’t announced their Thursday starter despite it being IPK’s turn. Could easily be coincidence.
It might actually take a bit more for those 2, but I still don’t see that A-Jax has to be in that deal. Their big need is pitching, pitching, and more pitching.
Our big supply is pitching, pitching, and more pitching. With 17 starting pitchers aged 23-25 in our top 4 minors levels most all performing well, it seems we could afford to part with more than a few – unless we plan to introduce the 8 man rotation in the near future – and / or with some RP’s which they also need. Just seems there’s a fit there – it’ll come down to cost.
I don’t understand how people just want to give Kennedy away without giving him a chance. Nady and Bay are not impact players. Why the desire to rush into a trade for those guys. I’d be willing to bet that if either guy came to the Yankees they’d be afflicted with the same malaise all the other hitters in this lineup have. Listen up people; the Yankees have enough hitting. They just need to get going and i would bet almost anything that when the dust settles they will be a good hitting team. Their offense; just like water will reach its level. Just be patient.
somebody tell Posada to stop crying about playing behind the plate. You can’t win games if teams are going to steal to get RISP. If he wants to play in OCTOBER, he should worry about hitting and maybe help from that role. Because everyone in the league knows he has a bum shoulder.