Game 121: Yankees at Twins
-
- August
- 13
YANKEES (64-56)
Damon LF
Abreu DH
A. Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Nady RF
Cano 2B
I. Rodriguez C
Betemit SS
Cabrera CF
Rasner RHP
TWINS (66-53)
Span CF
Harris SS
Mauer C
Morneau 1B
Kubel RF
Young LF
Buscher 3B
Ruiz DH
Punto 2B
Slowey RHP
Darrell Rasner (5-8, 5.28) vs. the Minnesota hitters.
Kevin Slowey (8-8, 4.07) vs. the New York hitters.
Notes: The lineup was delayed as the Yankees were waiting to see if Derek Jeter (bruised left foot) could play. He fouled a ball off his foot last night and left the game in the ninth inning. More on his status later.
The Yankees are 3-6 on a road trip that mercifully ends today. They have been outscored 55-40. They were 5.5 games out of first before the trip and are eight games out starting today. … The Yankees are 16 of 75 with RISP on the trip (.213) and have grounded into 16 double plays. … Rasner is 1-1, 3.71 in three starts against the Twins in his career.
THIS GUY SHOULD PLAY EVERY DAY: Johnny Damon has had six straight multI-hit games. He is 16 of 38 on the trip with 7 runs scored and 5 RBI. He’s up to .325, which leads the AL.
THE BEST XAVIER SINCE McDANIEL: Xavier Nady is 21 of 61 (.344) with 11 runs, 17 RBI and 11 extra-base hits in 17 games as a Yankee.
BUT THE TRADE WASN’T ALL GOOD: Damaso Marte has pitched nine games since coming over. 7.1 innings, 9 hits, 9 earned runs, 5 walks.
ALL OR NOTHING AT ALL: Alex Rodriguez is having an interesting road trip. He’s 6 of 32 (.188) with six GIDPs and eight strikeouts. But three of the hits are homers and two are doubles.
OH NO MO: Mariano River since July 1: 14 games, 16.2 innings, 17 hits (2 HRs), 6 earned runs, 2 walks, 19 strikeouts. That’s a 3.24 ERA.
MOOSE ON THE ROAD: Mike Mussina’s last eight road starts: 6-0, 2.68.
COME BACK KRAZY KYLE, ALL IS FORGIVEN: The relievers on the road trip: 26.1 innings, 32 hits (6 HR), 12 walks, 25 earned runs. They’re 1-3 with an 8.54 ERA.
STOP SIGN: Bobby Abreu has been caught stealing eight times in 22 attempts.
Back later with lots of updates.
UPDATE, 12:34 p.m.: Girardi said that Jeter has a bruise but could pinch hit today and should be able to play on Friday. We haven’t been able to speak to Jeter yet. But be assured that he will say he feels fine, he always does.
Phil Hughes will start for Scranton on Sunday, so it’ll be Dan Giese on Tuesday unless he’s needed in long relief before then.
So the rotation at the moment:
Friday: Pettitte
Saturday: Ponson
Sunday: Mussina
Tuesday: Giese
Wednesday: Pettitte
Thursday: Ponson
Friday: Mussina
UPDATE, 12;39 p.m.: The clubhouse opens to the media 3.5 hours before first pitch. So today that 8:40 a.m.
I showed up around 9:05. The only Yankees in the house were Damaso Marte and Pudge Rodriguez. Based on what I’ve seen so far, Pudge gets after it. He’s always at the park early doing something. Film, BP, studying scouting reports, etc.
Most of the players arrived around 9:45 a.m.
Jason Giambi was in a good mood given the early hour and was excited about playing first base. “The Big G is running loose,” he said.
Meanwhile, the conditions at the Metrodome are so cramped that Darrell Rasner was do his pre-game stretching routine in the hallway outside the clubhouse on the dirty floor.
UPDATE, 1:13 p.m.: And we’re underway with two pops to shortstop by Damon and Abreu. Not a bad crowd, lots of camp groups. Nice to see a team give the Yankees a day game on getaway day for a change.
UPDATE, 1:17 p.m.: Well, The Big G did say he was loose. He smoked that ball off the baggie. 1-0 lead for Rasner.
UPDATE, 1:31 p.m.: Good start for Rasner. That error was not Giambi’s fault, the webbing of his glove broke.
UPDATE, 1:52 p.m.: You have to love the Twins, the DH bats eighth and it’s Randy Ruiz, who looks like a softball player. Ruiz is listed at 6-3, 235. He left 235 behind a long time ago, trust me. He also just got doubled off first.
Ruiz is a 31-year-old rookie who has played with a bunch of teams including the Yankees. This is the 12th game he has played. He’s 5 for 12, so he can hit.
UPDATE, 2:00 p.m.: Harris was out for running out of the base-line. Nice call by Mike Winters.
It’s 1-3 if you’re scoring at home. And if you’re scoring at home, good job.
UPDATE, 2:12 p.m.: Cano makes a lot of careless plays. He was totally off the bag there. Would the Dodgers take Betemit and Cabrera in return for Larry Bowa?
UPDATE, 2:21 p.m.: Delmon Young has two homers and 10 RBI in 10 games against the Yankees. In his 102 other games he has five homers and 42 RBI.
UPDATE, 2:26 p.m.: Slowey has retired 11 straight since Giambi’s RBI single.
Cano is now 13 of his last 61 with six RBI over 17 games.
UPDATE, 2:45 p.m.: Cabrera is now 3 of his last 26 and is down to .242. Damon needs to play center and Nady left on most nights if they’re serious about making the playoffs.
UPDATE, 2:48 p.m.: There they go again, running into more outs. Abreu is 14 for 23 and that’s just not good enough with the guys he has hitting behind him.
Rasner was just pulled after five innings and 92 pitches. His line: 5 4 3 2 1 4. He did his job. If Cano makes a simple play it’s 2-1.
UPDATE, 3:00 p.m.: Dan Giese came into the game despite having started and thrown 83 pitches on Saturday. He loaded the bases and was taken out of the game with an apparent injury after 15 pitches.
UPDATE, 3:04 p.m.: No word yet on what is wrong with Giese. Rasner has retired the final five batters he faced. But he was at 92 pitches, the most he has thrown since July 29.
Meanwhile, home plate umpires Mike Winters is leaving the game after being hit in the head with a foul ball. Is it me or have a lot of umpires been injured this season?
UPDATE, 3:10 p.m.: This hot news from PR dude Jason Zillo: Hideki Matsui will play for either the GCL or Florida State League team tomorrow.
UPDATE, 3:19 p.m.: The game was delayed for about 13 minutes. Good job by Robertson limiting the damage. But it’s 4-1 and the Yankees seem to be in a rush to go home.
UPDATE, 3:24 p.m.: Another “let’s get this over with” game for the Yankees. They’ve had one hit since the first inning.
UPDATE, 3:28 p.m.: That’s a new one. Usually Melky and Robbie play poorly individually. They teamed up there.
UPDATE, 3:34 p.m.: Since this game is so brutal, here’s a photo of lovable Twins mascot T.C. The Bear to brighten your day. I’m guessing it’s not going to work.
UPDATE, 3:38 p.m.: Dan Giese has a stiff shoulder. That’s a medical term I really can’t explain. I’ll look it up and get back to you.
Now the Yankees will need a starter for Tuesday. Phil Hughes, come on down.
UPDATE, 3:41 p.m.: Sexson for Melky. Good move.
UPDATE, 3:42 p.m.: He struck out. But at least they tried something.
UPDATE, 3:46 p.m.: Like always, it’s come down to Alex. Yankees down 4-2, runners at first and third, two outs. Jesse Crain coming in to pitch.
UPDATE, 3:50 p.m.: A-Rod 1 for 6 against Crain.
UPDATE, 3:52 p.m.: Maybe Abreu should try and steal again. That always works so well.
UPDATE, 3:53 p.m.: Pops up a 3-1 pitch to center. Three outs left and they’ll be against Joe Nathan.
UPDATE, 3:59 p.m.: Morneau just broke his bat and the biggest piece sailed about 20 rows over the Yankees dugout. It doesn’t appear anybody got hurt, thankfully.
UPDATE, 4:03 p.m.: Seriously, what is going on with this team? Mauer steals second and both Betemit and Cano cover the base and nobody catches the ball.
The careless mistakes have been mounting lately, especially on defense.
UPDATE, 4:13 p.m.: Yanks have had five hits as we head to the ninth, four of them singles.
UPDATE, 4:18 p.m.: And that’s the road trip, a 3-7 stumble across America. They were outscored 59-42 and were 17 of 80 with RISP.
There are 41 games left, so the Yankees aren’t done. But 12 losses in the last 18 games doesn’t lead you to believe they’ll get in the postseason mix. This team is too injured and inconsistent. They play tight.
Back later with some reaction.
This entry was posted
on Wednesday, August 13th, 2008 at 11:25 am by Peter Abraham.
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wow didint know his baserunning was that poor, thats truly stinkitude….ha had to use that
I defended him in another thread, coming around to the other side now
Lets play with a lead today fellas, get through it and come home for the weekend!
momentum
Like to see Irod hit today also
oh noez not melky
At least Bobby can steal. Cano exemplifies stinkitude on the basepaths.
Suckitude’s more like it.
WHY IS MELKY PLAYING JESUS
Anyone else counting the days until Carl Pavano leads us to the Holy Land?
I just saw Alex’s post-game interview last night. A lot more “we” talk from him lately, almost as if he’s trying on the “leadership” hat. While it’s welcome to see him try this, will that hat ever fit him, and will players even see him as a leader….ever?
Yankees Magazine profiling when Kevin Maas hit the scene? proof i’ve been home sick for too long. time to get to work.
I see Tricia’s got a cold too. Wonder how she feels sharing a cold with the mental health professional she wouldn’t refer someone too. Never got to respond to that comment, but that was pretty uncalled for. Bush-league comments like that cancel out anything good a person might have to say here otherwise.
Anyways, days old, but needed to be said.
i wonder how many cought stealing on Abreu have come on payoff pitches, he always keeps looking back I think thats why they keep getting him, at times he looks so foolish.
STOP SIGN: Bobby Abreu has been caught stealing eight times in 22 attempts
the reason is because he doesnt run as well as he used to.
The bottom 3 of U.S womens softball team that played in the olympics yesterday will be better than this bottom 3… Another 0fer day for melky…
Pass on Krazy Kyle, but thanks for the thought.
hey melky fans (not), whom would you rather see playing Center field today?
“WHY IS MELKY PLAYING JESUS”
I know – he looks nothing like Jesus.
is it game 120 or 121?
Forget about Melky, i’m not sure I like Giambi hitting fourth.
Why do we constantly have to switch the DH, I think we need more consistency. I understand the whole idea of rest but at this rate, our guys are going to get plenty of rest in Oct.
How many CS are because of A-rod?
Not to make excuses for Melancon, but I read earlier that the two hits were Mariana style (not including last night) bloops just over infielder’s heads and the passed ball may have been the result of not being on the same page with the catcher.
At any rate, it concerns me a bit to push this guy so hard after surgery. I know he is further along because he had the surgery earlier then the other TJ four, but wait until Sept. when rosters expand. If we have closed the gap maybe you roll the dice, if not let him prepare for next year.
Same with Joba – if by Sept the Yankees are close to a berth and he his fully healed bring him back. If the gap is still quite wide, then let him get prepared for next year.
Same with Hughes – buy some time. I really would like to continue to see him work on his additional pitches. I don’t know if he will be able to do that in the big leagues. Like Kennedy he can absolutely dominate the minor leagues, but he can still refine his game there.
“But three of the hits are homers and one a double.”
2 doubles.
27,
Do you realize that Bobby’s a great DH? And the fact that it keeps him off the field is just a bonus.
“Bobby Abreu has been caught stealing eight times in 22 attempts.”
Another reason not to resign him. Molina has been caught less times.
(mel – just wrote this to you below and noticed the jump up!
)
Mel – he he he. I SWEAR that I didn’t stay home purposely because there’s a day game on. Heck that’s what MLB.TV is for!
But of course it doesn’t hurt to be able to be home and watch a day game.
Mel, how is the economy out there? RI had the dubious distinction of being the first state in the US to officially be in a recession. As a consequence of that, a very busy office in the summer months, (and add that to being the financial victim of “one of those kinds of buildersâ€), I find that vacation for me means taking a day out of work as opposed to flying off to exotic locales – or even not-so-exotic locales! So I probably would have turned this into a vacation day to watch the Yanks anyway! But their on-going dubious play really caused it to be a sick day!
“I know – he looks nothing like Jesus.”
they can do wonders with makeup and special effects now.
Melky needs to be there for defense. I seriously doubt we are losing games because out number 9 hitter has been struggling. Have him bunt, lean into a pitch or something. I agree with consistency though. Same lineup the last 40 games. Giambi at first, damon can dh, melky in cf. When Matsui comes back, then you consider damon back in cf, nady in left, and matsui dh.
Yea Bobby is a good DH but is he really that bad on defense? Only when the ball gets close to the wall does he fall apart. He has pretty good speed and a good, but sometimes inaccurate arm. I think he is adequate on defense especially since he can hit.
Melky is a young Bernie. He’s just going thru a tough stretch.
Melky is playing because Jeter is out and Betemit is playing SS so all the OF are playing (Abreu, Nady, Damon, and Cabrera – with Abreu DH’ing)
Not thrilled about it, but it’s Melky or Christian…
“Same with Hughes – buy some time. I really would like to continue to see him work on his additional pitches. I don’t know if he will be able to do that in the big leagues. Like Kennedy he can absolutely dominate the minor leagues, but he can still refine his game there.”
Only, Hughes’ curve ball and change-up are far ahead of Kennedy’s curve ball and slider. His additional pitches are more major-league ready than IPK’s, on top of his far superior heater. I don’t think he really needs to refine all that much—but I do understand taking a wait and see approach before saying who will pitch on Tuesday in Toronto. If Ponson or Pettitte get spanked by K.C. this weekend (Andy did give up 10 runs to their world-beating offense already this year), you can stretch Giese out and use Hughes on Tuesday in Toronto. If they get through the weekend in one piece, Phil gets another AAA start to get him close to or at 100 pitches and then, depending on how he comes through it, maybe ascends for the weekend series in Baltimore.
Ideally, that series in Baltimore could feature Hughes and Matsui returning to the mix. That would be interesting.
“melky is a young bernie”
oh great. now we get to have this argument again for the 100th time this year.
I heard on ESPN this morning Arods HR was his first go adead hit in the 7th inning or late all year, if true WOW that is bad.
Brain surgeons Melky is playing because it is either him or Christian so shut your yaps, Jeter cannot play today retards…...
We have a double-edge sword with the Melky situation. Taking him out of the lineup definitely has disastrous implications in terms of defense. We saw that last night with Johnny in center (runs scoring and runners running who wouldn’t have thought to run on Melky.) On the other hand, Johnny’s bat is so hot that it washed out the negative effects of people running on him. That may not always happen.
The reverse is true, in that Melky might help to keep runs from scoring, but not everything is hit to center. So other runs will score. And Melky is struggling so mightily at this point that his AB end up hurting us.
What’s a mother to do? Pray for the wisdom of Solomon and hope that you play him on the “right” days and sit him on the “right” days.
You know you’ve had a rough season when Wilson Betemit gets this much playing time.
27,
I didn’t check it out, but in the last thread there’s a link about Bobby’s defense.
I know Nady’s not very fast, but at least he’ll lay out for a ball.
I think that DH frees Bobby’s mind.
I’d rather have Nady hitting behind A-Rod.
And Farnsworth being here wouldn’t mean a thing.
At least today will be a chance to see how this lineup does without Captain GIDP in the 2 hole.
Hopefully it wakes Girardi up to the fact he should not be there anymore.
Plus I always think it’s better to have your best hitter batting 3rd. Better chance of him having one more AB each game.
“melky is a young bernie”
I don’t see him as a young bernie… more like a young Willie Mays (except with a better arm of course)
Anybody else think that not only are we going to make the playoffs,but we are going to catch the banged up Rays? They play the Rangers this weekend who’s offense might be too much for Tampa to handle. While we play the Royals. 5 1/2 games back by monday. Come September, we get some important players back and make the last strong push.
Who’s with me!!!
Andrew,
Sorry, my point about Hughes vs Kennedy was unclear. I think that Hughes is already the far superior pitcher and will be going forward.
I meant that like Kennedy, they both just dominate the minor leagues but need to work on things. Kennedy – fastball and overall command; Hughes – changeup and slider. I just feel that working on these pitches in AAA and building confidence is greater than coming to the majors giving up working on these pitches and losing confidence.
trisha,
A broadcaster said that Jeter should’ve played further out so that Johnny could make the relay throw.
Anybody else think that not only are we going to make the playoffs,but we are going to catch the banged up Rays?
Isn’t it awfully early to be drinking already?
Melky is not a young Bernie. Even when he was inexperienced, Bernie had plate discipline and a clue. Unlike Melky, Bernie adjusted and learned.
As for the Mo struggles—after his reaction to coughing it up last night, I think he’s going to refocus. There’s a degree to which he seemed to be on cruise control in previous outings. He was VERY upset—Mo usually does not get that emotional after a bonk.
I remember how in ‘99 he blew a game against the Braves at the Stadium right after the ASB on an Andruw Jones dinger for his fourth blown save. He was 23 of 27 at that point.
He finished 45 of 49.
He went 6-for-6 in saves in the postseason, including 2-for-2 against the Braves. He was the World Series MVP. Count it up—that’s 28 straight.
I’m not too worried about Mo.
I’d rather have Nady hitting behind A-Rod.
Not when Big G and his trusty mustache w/ his under .200 RISP AVG are roaming the dugout.
Drew,
Looks like the last time they tried it, Xavier went 0-fer. They may be trying to do the L-R-L thing, which I understand, but I hate.
SOS – If we are within 5 games of the Rays on Sept. 1 we catch them. They are without Crawford who opted for surgery and is done for at minimum the regular season. They are without Longoria with a wrist injury – so even if he comes back he will be at less than full strength for awhile. Many of their pitchers are beyond their past experience with innings. Their schedule is brutal. They play the Yanks and Red Sox 6 times each. Play a good chunk of their games on the road.
All that being said, the Yankees just need to keep winning and building momentum. As of today, I have no confidence that this can happen.
“Anybody else think that not only are we going to make the playoffs,but we are going to catch the banged up Rays?
Isn’t it awfully early to be drinking already?”
it is 12 noon on the East Coast, so he’s all clear.
IMO, i do see the Rays falling back and the Saux taking over before the season is thru. but that could be just me.
“Isn’t it awfully early to be drinking already?”
Its never to early to rid myself of the pain. Join me!!
“Melky is a young Bernie.”
I agree. When Bernie was like 14 or 15, he probably couldn’t hit major league pitching too.
“Melky is a young Bernie. He’s just going thru a tough stretch.”
Yes,He is struggle for whole season this year,then hurt the team.To tell the truth,I didn’t think he really did his best toward every games.
jason,
I definitely understand where you’re coming from. I guess the point I would stick with is that I think Hughes at this point requires less time to work on his game, and now that he’s healthy his stuff alone can make a difference at the big league level and help the rotation. He seems to not only have just the pure stuff advantage on IPK, but he also seems like he’s got a better grasp of how to pitch and how to get big league hitters out, at least in the limited exposure us fans have had to him. Plus, I think he’s moved away from the slider again in favor of the cutter which he’s been throwing at least in his 2 most recent rehab starts. That said, the real interesting thing will be to see if he relies on that pitch a lot in the bigs when he gets recalled, or if he sticks with his bread & butter fastball/curveball/occasional change-up formula.
Melky is a good fourth outfielder, not a young Bernie.
“Its never to early to rid myself of the pain. Join me!!”
unfortunately, this pesky thing called work doesnt allow me to, but please, have a couple for me while you’re at it!
“Who’s with me!!!”
Of course I’m with ya!
Wouldn’t be surprised to see Jeter make an appearance if Betemit stinks up the place.
jason,
That is exactly why i think we have a good chance to comeback. Even the Sox are banged up. I think Lowell got hurt yesterday. We just need another good winning streak(7/8) and everything will fall into place.
27 this year, i agree with you on Abreu. I hope they can keep him… somehow.
Abreu absolutely has to go after this season. He has been terrible in the field this year (see previous thread, he is -20 runs below replacement level and worst in the league), his stolen bases are down, and his hitting has declined the past 2 years. He is clearly on the downside of his career and will continue to trend downward in the future. The Yankees need to be more like the Red Sox in this regard and get rid of players too soon rather than too late…
“We just need another good winning streak(7/8) and everything will fall into place.”
now is as good a time as any, with the Royals coming to town, to rip off 3-4-5-6 in a row going into next week.
“Wouldn’t be surprised to see Jeter make an appearance if Betemit stinks up the place.”
Derek Jeter??? You KNOW he’s got an Edge!!!!!!!
First off the rotating DH is a by product of the rotating lineup.Makes sense to rotate the DH since you don’t lose much between Abreu/Nady,Giambi/Betemit.As I’ve said the opportunity to make up ground is there….we need to capitalize.
“it is 12 noon on the East Coast, so he’s all clear.”
Ummm Turn Two. Im in the West Coast.
“unfortunately, this pesky thing called work doesnt allow me to, but please, have a couple for me while you’re at it!”
Who said so? Im at work as we speak. Take one for the team. Your boss will understand. I would.
Thanks Trish. I knew i could count on ya.
The thing I can’t stand about Giambi being the #5 hitter is that he stinks w/ RISP just like our #4 hitter who won the game yesterday but even worse. The only reason I can find for Giambi batting 5th is that the Yankees want to be able to drive pitchers pitch count up early. Now here’s what gets me batters are habit hitters they follow someone’s lead why not bat Giambi #6 so that the #7 Robi can see more pitches or pick up Giambi’s habit ?
I mean RISP Nady is the guy that can get the hit more than not. IDK maybe it’s just me.
Everytime I see Betemit at SS I wonder why would we trade Alberto Gonzales…
......I heard on ESPN this morning Arods HR was his first go adead hit in the 7th inning or late all year, if true WOW that is bad.
Not defending him, because he hasn’t been good with RISP, but you can make stats sound anyway you want them to and we know how ESPN is. I’d like to hear the other half of the equation…. how many opportunities has he had….. if the Yanks are losing 3 to 1 and he comes up with no one on, well he can’t very well put them ahead.
now is as good a time as any, with the Royals coming to town, to rip off 3-4-5-6 in a row going into next week.
It was like pulling teeth to even get one win last night, and you think this team can go on an extended winning streak?
Based on what?
Certainly not on what we’ve seen on the field.
“Ummm Turn Two. Im in the West Coast.”
well, then you fall under my “it’s 12 noon somewhere” policy. you’re still good to go in my book.
Name the Top 5 players on the actie roster who shoudn’t come back.
COME BACK KRAZY KYLE, ALL IS FORGIVEN: The relievers on the road trip: 26.1 innings, 32 hits (6 HR), 12 walks, 25 earned runs. They’re 1-3 with an 8.54 ERA.
nevermind that Farnsworth has a 6.35 ERA in 5.7 IP and has given up 3 HRs since being traded.
Melky
Abreu
Melky
Buttemit
Melky
I am ready to rant, so I apologize in advance….
1) PLAY DAMON EVERYDAY.
2) BENCH MELKY. I DONT CARE IF THE DEFENSE STRUGGLES AND THE OF IS ABREU, NADY AND DAMON. MELKY FLAT OUT STINKS. FACE IT.
3) ABREU, PLEASE DO NOT TRY TO STEAL BASES, YOUR DAYS OF 3O+ SB’S IS OVER
4) BOBBY MEACHAM HAS GOT TO GO. WE NEED A MORE EXPERIENCED 3B COACH.
5) GIRARDI-PLEASE DONT MAKE EXCUSES. WHEN YOU BENCH DAMON AND GET ALL SURLY OR TRY TO JUSTIFY IT, YOU JUST COME OFF LIKE AN IDIOT
6) YEAH, NO SANTANA, WE DID NOT WANT TO GIVE UP THE PROSPECTS OR PAY THE $$$. I GET IT. THESE “UNTOUCHABLES”, I.E. MELKY, HUGHES, JOBA, KENNEDY, ETC. REMIND ME OF THE DAYS WHEN THE YANKS WOULDN’T DEAL HENSLEY MEULENS BECAUSE HE WAS GOING TO BE THE NEXT BIG THING. IF YOU CAN GET QUALITY AFFORDABLE EXPERIENCED PLAYERS FOR MINOR LEAGUERS, SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO GET WHAT YOU CAN. KENNEDY IS WORTH CLOSE TO ZERO.
7) REALIZE GIVING POSADA A MULTI-YEAR DEAL WAS A MISTAKE. NOW WE ARE GOING TO HAVE A GUY WHO CANNOT CATCH AND YET WE ARE PAYING HIM BIGTIME $$$$.
9) I AM SICK OF HAVING A $200+ MILLION PAYROLL AND HAVING GUYS LIKE CHRISTIAN, MOLINA, SEXSON, BETEMIT PINCH HIT. WE NEED A BETTER BENCH, ESPECIALLY WHEN HE HAVE ONE OF THE OLDEST TEAMS IN MLB.
10) ITS VERY SAD TO ME THAT IN THE LAST YEAR OF THE STADIUM, WE WILL BE HOSTING NO PLAYOFF GAME (LIKELY).
11) INJURIES ARE NOT AN EXCUSE.
SORRY TO VENT AND SORRY FOR ALL CAPS, BUT I AM A HUGE HUGE HUGE FAN AND SAY THINGS THEY WAS THEY ARE. I AM VERY UPSET AT HOW THIS YEAR IS TURNING OUT.
“August 13th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Everytime I see Betemit at SS I wonder why would we trade Alberto Gonzales…”
ditto….
Let’s start with a 2-game winning streak.
It’s really tough when you realize that you now need a 5 game win streak to hit your season high 13 games over .500.
But, we’ve been in every game we lost on this trip. Except the Texas blowout? So, it’s not impossible to get some wins. Let’s see how Boston and Tampa do. They’ve faded down the stretch in the past and the Yankees typically finish strong.
There’s too much season left to be talking about ‘09. Yeah, I’m talking to you, Mr. Steinbrenner.
hmmm –
How dare you introduce facts into this discussion! We try to serve our angst hot here on the blog.
Giambi,Abreu,Pettitte(sign Moose instead),Matsui(too many dh)and Pavano.
“Name the Top 5 players on the actie roster who shoudn’t come back.”
1. Jason Giambi
2. Bobby Abreu
3. Wilson Betemit
4. Richie Sexson
5. Ivan Rodriguez
Sexson
Betemit
Traber
Giambi
Abreu
“I’d like to hear the other half of the equation…. how many opportunities has he had”
one example i can think of off the top of my head was earlier in the year against KC.
came up with a man on and down 2-0, he jacked one out to tie the game.
that stat doesn’t capture that.
“Name the Top 5 players on the actie roster who shoudn’t come back.”
IROD
Sexson
Giambi
Abreu
Ponson
Melky
Mr.Cabrera
Giambi
The Melk Man
&& Melky.
I don’t understand why Girardi isn’t resting Nady or A-Rod today?
Slowey is tough right-hander and they’ve “played a lot lately.”
Let’s hope they can series first before talking about the playoffs.
They haven’t won a series in over two weeks. The Rays can fall off the map but, if the Yankees don’t win their games, it won’t matter. They won’t be going to the playoffs.
I notice some folks are upset about Hank’s comments. I don’t know why folks take what he says so literally. As if what he says has any bearing as to whether or not they win or lose games. It doesn’t.
The thrust of his comments were intended to take the heat off Girardi because Hank can read. He is already reading the drumbeat about the managerial “problems”.
He pointed out, correctly I might add, that injuries have significantly impacted the team this year. That’s not an excuse. That’s an undeniable fact.
Now, should they be playing better? I think they should be hitting better. Its pretty inexcusable, despite the injuries, they should be such a consistently poor hitting team in game changing situations.
Pitching? I may be in the minority on this but, I happen to they have overachieved BIGTIME with their pitching this year.
Who had Mike Mussina at 15 wins by August 12 in the pool going into the season?
Who had Mariano with ONE blown save by August 12?
Who predicted Hughes and Kennedy would be winless for the season on August 12?
Who correctly predicted Wang would miss the rest of the season from June on?
Who correctly predicted Jose Veras and Edwar Ramirez would become solid options in the bullpen this year?
Who correctly predicted Dan Giese would pitch some important innings for this team this season and do quite well?
Who had Sidney Ponson as the #3 starter by August 12?
Some kill Girardi for every move he makes in here. Some criticisms (like not playing Damon Monday night) are legitimate. Some are nonsensical and some are in between the two extremes. However, you also have to give him props (along with Dave Eiland) for the work he has done with the pitching staff and making it much more representative than we could have ever envisioned, given what’s transpired this year.
In essence, that’s Hank’s point in talking about the team.
In terms of him predicting next year, call me crazy but, I’d much rather have an owner of my favorite team tip off (to CC’s agent) he is will to do whatever it takes to “win it all” next year, than talk about how they are “limited” in what they can do.
If you live in South Florida, and see how the Marlins run their franchise, you will know what I am talking about.
“nevermind that Farnsworth has a 6.35 ERA in 5.7 IP and has given up 3 HRs since being traded.”
hmmm,
Maybe he is talking about needed someone for mop up work.
Giambi and Pavano need to go. Abreu should stay, but only on a short contract. I’d keep Petitte and Moose. I most certainly would keep Matsui. His absence is being felt throughout the lineup. Clearly, we need him.
“COME BACK KRAZY KYLE, ALL IS FORGIVEN: The relievers on the road trip: 26.1 innings, 32 hits (6 HR), 12 walks, 25 earned runs. They’re 1-3 with an 8.54 ERA.
nevermind that Farnsworth has a 6.35 ERA in 5.7 IP and has given up 3 HRs since being traded.”
not for nothing, and i could be wrong, but i think Pete was just having a little fun with the recent bullpen woes. everyone knows the bullpen is just fine without him here.
Matsui and Pavano aren’t on the active roster…
I don’t know that I’d take Moose over Pettitte. I’d probably sign them both to a 1 year deal. Which Andy would do, not sure about Moose. I wouldn’t give Moose a 2 or 3 year deal though. Maybe 1 with team option for second year.
New Bullpen configuration:
Rivera – Closer
Veras – SU man
Edwar – 7th inning/fireman (middle of inning, runners on)
Robertson/Bruney – 5th-7th inning flexible; 1+ innings; mop up
Marte – lefty-lefty guy only; mop up guy (Hawkins role)
Giese/Rasner – Long man (starter lasts less than 5)
Top 5 (realistically)
Giambi
Betemit
Marte
Melky
Rasner
Sure you don’t want a Top 10?
“Giambi and Pavano need to go.”
Pavano has been gone 4 years now.
1. Jason Giambi
2. Bobby Abreu
3. Wilson Betemit
4. Richie Sexson
5. Ivan Rodriguez
“Name the Top 5 players on the active roster who shoudn’t come back.â€
Hmmm.
Well I know I want Bobby Abreu back.
The Bobby I’d discard is not Abreu, provided he’d return on a short-term contract at Damon and Matsui’s salary.
As far as I’m concerned, he’s the second-best corner outfield option for next year. Until A-Jax is ready to assume CF, the Yankees need seriously to consider moving Damon into CF next year and using Nady and Abreu in the corners. BTW, if the Yankees can’t improve at 1B via free-agency, Nady also can play first base, although the Yankees would waste his arm.
The Bobby the Yankee need to dispose of is the Bobby who played short-stop for them in the 80’s and whose incompetence haunts them still.
Oooh. Forgot about Bruney.
Who goes down when Hughes comes up?
not for nothing, and i could be wrong, but i think Pete was just having a little fun with the recent bullpen woes. everyone knows the bullpen is just fine without him here.
oh yeah, i know.
wasn’t trying to pull a “gotcha” on Pete. just pointing out that Farnsworth wouldn’t really be helping much either.
Traber.
Man there are a lot of Abreu haters here…and I dont think he deserves it. He has been a workhorse producer for the team all season, just look at his offensive numbers (most hits, most rbi’s, most doubles, most assists) since the all star break he is hitting over .345 for BA and over .406 in OBP. The man produces so sure get rid of him!
“5. Ivan Rodriguez”
So – we’re sure that Posada will be able to catch and throw out base runners next year?
Unless you want him ending the season on the DL, there is no way that Damon should play every day.
What are we so far on the trip? 3-6?
This is from mlb.com:
Yankees’ bullpen is 1-3 with a 8.54 ERA in 26 1/3 innings, allowing 32 hits, six homers and 12 walks in nine games.
Did the bullpen forget how to pitch once the calendar flipped pages?
2 of A Rod’s hits were doubles Pete, just thought I’d give the correction.
Abreu is on a fairly steep decline. His defense completely wipes out any value his bat provides.
He projects to be 2 runs worse than a league average right fielder next year overall (defense and offense). Two runs worse than average.
“Trading” Abreu for two draft picks over the winter would be selling relatively high on him. That’s what they need to do, IMO.
Awesome. Jason Giambi is batting cleanup. I can see Joe really wants this team to win today.
Marte is not a mop-up guy, nor should he be relegated to just to a situational lefty role. and he shouldnt be going anywhere after the season.
top 5 players i think could be gone are (in order):
1. Abreu
2. Giambi
3. Cano
4. Melky
5. Matsui
i dont consider Sexson or IRod, because they were just rentals in the first place.
I think Pettitte and Moose are almost assured to get one year contract offers they’ll both accept.
i wouldnt say Melky’s definately gone, bc he can still be useful off the bench, and to spell Damon once and a while. and without a real CF option right now, who knows who the everyday CF will be in the Bronx next year just yet.
i think if there is an outside chance the Yankees could get back something for Matsui, they’d think about moving him. he’s really just a DH now, albeit a good option and offensive weapon to have, but with Damon and Posada lined up to use DH ABs next year, they could serve themselves well by not locking up the DH spot to just one player.
i used to think Damon would be a prime candidate to move this offseason, with the offensive season he’s having, but i think he’s depended upon too much by this lineup to be up at the top, so he’ll play his contract out, and move on from there.
The pitching has been the strength to the club this season, even with all the loss of Wang, and the unreasonable expectations ( I’m guilty ) of Hughes and Kennedy….Had the offense not slipped to the tune of 200 runs they very well could be leading the division and not looking back…..I still maintain that the loss of Matsui is thge singular most devasting loss for the team this season….His return to the DH , and with Hughes and Joba returning in a week or two, they have the components to make their run for October…..I fully expect this to happen…The Stadium will not be dark come October…..
CB, wasn’t Abreu’s defense much better earlier in the year? I remember a conversation we had where you were pointing out how many balls he gets to compared to other outfielders… What happened that he’s gone from that to 2 runs worse than league average so quickly?
I know I am in the minority on Abreu but I still feel he should be brought back.
Read this on the mlb.com blog
Um isn’t also a little dangerous. Couldn’t it fall on someone in a lower deck?
Turn Two,
I agree with everything but the Matsui argument.
I just can’t see the Yankees moving him. Just can’t see it.
And I’ve said over and over, when he’s healthy he’s been our most consistent player other than A-rod.
1. Jason Giambi
2. melkey cebrera
3. Wilson Betemit
4. Richie Sexson
5. Ivan Rodriguez
mel,
All bullpen go through rough stretches. The Yankees bullpen rough stretch coincidences with several short inning starts in a row from the starters. Guys get overused and that’s when you get into trouble.
If the starters can string together several 7+ inning starts in a row, they can avoid extra inning games, and this team actually hits well enough for consecutive days to get a couple of blowout wins, the bullpen can get back on a regular rotation.
When you are struggling and your starters aren’t going too deep into games, bullpens get out of sorts. That’s what happened to the Yankees on this roadtrip.
For all the numbers crunching we do on the blog, the game still boils down to starting pitching. You get guys that can go deep into games and pitch well, its amazing how “good” your bullpen and your team looks.
Awesome. Jason Giambi is batting cleanup. I can see Joe really wants this team to win today.
this is such an unbelievably stupid comment.
it makes sense on no level.
seriously, give it up with the idiotic Girardi bashing.
stick to criticizing him when it’s actually warranted. the other night, it was warranted.
given that Jeter’s out, the batting order today is PERFECT.
1. Bobby Abreu
2. Ivan Rodriguez
3. Jason Giambi
4. Bobby Mecham
5. Richie Sexson
“And I’ve said over and over, when he’s healthy he’s been our most consistent player other than A-rod.”
yeah, i dont disagree. and he’s only got one year left, so i think they can let him play out his contract and move on after 2009.
but if they can get younger and more athletic, or get a big time arm for his services (especially in this FA OF market which is awful), im just saying it wouldnt surprise me.
Awesome. Jason Giambi is batting cleanup. I can see Joe really wants this team to win today.
you know, given the amount of negativity on this blog, i just assumed you were being sarcastic.
if you weren’t, i completely take everything back and apologize.
Yanks had a shot in every game they lost on this trip. the two one-sided losses to the Angels were 10-5 and 11-4. They were 6-5 in the 7th in the first one and tied at 3 after 7 innings in the other.
It’s the little things that have this team wallowing in mediocrity… RISP is the main culprit on offense and allowing opponents a high RISP on the mound.
Word?—- I hate to limit it to five who wont be back, but I’ll go with Giambi, Sexson, Pudge, Christian and Betemit.
Gayle made an excellent point in the other thread about Abreu’s defense. She said that she (correctly) noticed how many balls drop in front of him in RF.
Its hard to tell if those are balls that should be caught by watching on TV.
I spent most of the July home schedule at the stadium. I was shocked at how many catchable balls dropped in front of him.
In a couple of starts, I noticed Moose and Andy weren’t happy about it either. They shot several nasty looks to RF after a few particularly gruesome plays out there.
For whatever reason, he seems to have problems reading the ball off the bat. He gets some very bad jumps on balls and balls drop in RF that have no business dropping in the OF.
Kind of like Bernie at the end of his career. Balls dropped in CF that Bernie had in his hip pocket a year or two earlier. The same thing has happened to Abreu this year.
Its not like he’s not trying. He’s just not the OF he was in the past.
And the replacement for the Yankees three-hitter next year if they let Abreu leave would be whom, exactly?
All of you who want to dispose of Abreu and Giambi should ask yourselves how the Yankees will replace their bats at what has become an already deficient offense.
And if you think the Yankees are going to sign both Sabathia AND Teixiera, a Boras client, asking for $200+ million, you’re indulging in wishful thinking.
Letting Abreu and Giambi go means the Yankees will lose two of their most consistently productive bats all season at 6.0 and 8.0 RC/G and 15.5 Win shares and 11 win shares, respectively,
SJ44,
Yes, I suddenly realize that. And you can’t totally dismiss the subtraction of Farnsworth (yes, he was worth some holds) and the addition of Bruney (my renewed unfavorite) and Marte (who’s making the transition with mixed results).
Did you see my Phil Coke question from the last thread? Could Coke be seeing some time up in the Bronx since Melancon’s every pitch is being counted?
And who goes down when Hughes comes up?
I’d love to see giambi and abreu go and then trade kennedy plus fringe prospects for a rf or 1b and put nady at the other position. and for the record, I’m generally against trading away our young pitching, but I think this would make us a better team.
I am compelled to answer back to something I saw written. Where I can I find quickly Mo’s blown saves and who’s games we blew?
Someone stated that Mo has blown more of Mikes games than any other Yankee starter since 2001.
1. reason might be cause he is the only pitcher here since 01’. But I am just curious to see who’s games he blew in the 60.
TurnTwo,
They’ll find other ways to get younger and more athletic. I think that the Yankees consider him a true Yankee and he won’t be traded. I don’t think the Japanese advertisers are willing to support Igawa. Not yet, anyway.
Jason Giambi was in a good mood given the early hour and was excited about playing first base.
He’s probably still drunk.
Chris NY, you posted in the previous thread about being in Pawtucket last night. It sounds like you thought Phil looked very good. Was he really working mostly on his change instead of throwing the FB a lot? Some posters on another website are getting rather frustrated that Phil didn’t have a particularly good ball to strike ratio and that he had a tough time putting hitters away. What did you think?
SJ44, why do you think that Phil is not part of the Yankees plans next year? IMO, if he pitches decently when he comes back up, he’s here to stay. I don’t expect the Yankees to keep him in AAA . I think they believe he’s now healthy and ready to show glimpses of the pitcher they expect him to be.
“this is such an unbelievably stupid comment.
it makes sense on no level.
seriously, give it up with the idiotic Girardi bashing.
stick to criticizing him when it’s actually warranted. the other night, it was warranted.
given that Jeter’s out, the batting order today is PERFECT.”
No I’m sorry. You’re right.
It’s an absolutley brilliant move to have a guy who’s batting worse than Arod with runners in scoring position to bat clean up.
I’d love to see giambi and abreu go and then trade kennedy plus fringe prospects for a rf or 1b and put nady at the other position. and for the record, I’m generally against trading away our young pitching, but I think this would make us a better team without really sacrificing anything for the future (I don’t see where kennedy adds a lot of value with Wang, Joba, maybe CC, maybe Moose, Hughes, Brackman, Betances, Horne, Marquez, etc)
With Jeter out, I wouldn’t mind if Girardi had just slid the righty’s up.
Damon
A-Rod
Abreu
Nady
Meanwhile Nady is hitting .327 with runners in scoring position.
Brilliant move.
Is it strange that I know Jason Giambi has this great personality, etc… yet I just CANNOT imagine him saying “The Big G”? Anyone else having this issue?
I would also agree with TurnTwo on the players who need to go for the exception of Matsui.
Not sure how much value the Yanks would get in return for a guy with really bad knees.
He and Damon will have to go after 2009, though. That’s for damn sure.
Kill,
Nady could replace Abreu in the #3.
Ideally:
Damon
Jeter
Nady
Alex
Teixeira
Matsui
Posada
Cano
Rent-a-Center-Fielder
But I wouldn’t be opposed to bringing back Bobby. 1-year DH type of deal.
And the replacement for the Yankees three-hitter next year if they let Abreu leave would be whom, exactly?
i am not saying this will happen, but you know, there will be severak impact bats available this winter.
Burrell
Dunn
Teixeira
Manny
maybe Matt Holliday will be available.
i’m not anti-Abreu, but this makes it sound like there are NO other options.
if the money was similar (and it might be for everyone except Teixiera) i’d rather get younger.
i would rather give 3-4 years to Burrell than Abreu, while collecting 2 picks.
now, if Abreu was open to a short contract, that would be a different story. but i think he’s played well enough this season to get at least 3 years from someone.
i’d pass, i think.
A Melky sonnet
2006
The dawn twas a bit rough, a Trot fly did fall
run round milk man run, in circles did he
scram back to ohio, to shag many more balls
laugh did the fans emphatic, almost to pee
2007
Godzilla man lay flat with wrist mangled in pain
come hither to Melk man, with skills more sound
a bomb robbed from ramirez, so very INSANE!
and the milk arm strike fear from runner abound
2008
the power illusion of spring,a la Spencer looked he
But as milk often sours, our CF falleth from grace
No player of month beckon/ No All Star game glee
The melk man appeareth to fall flat on chub face
The winds reek of change, the season quite done
do the melk man returneth, or do leche they shun
“wasn’t Abreu’s defense much better earlier in the year? I remember a conversation we had where you were pointing out how many balls he gets to compared to other outfielders…”
Chris,
The first month or so of the season Abreu at least statistically was fine on defense – he was basically performing close to what he did last year and over his recent career.
Now that looks like an aberration related the limited number of chances/ small sample issues that always affect the beginning of any season.
I’m honestly amazed at how he’s playing in the field. I can’t remember a player fall apart so quickly on defense while not being injured (I assumed last year Jeter was so bad defensively because of his knee).
I was mostly basing my assessment of his defense based on what he did last year and making a reasonable estimate for how he might decline as a player one year older. His defense was fine last year – and its been fine over his entire career. It’s possible this year is an aberration – but as the season’s gone on he’s looked worse and worse. This happens with older players some times – one of their skills just collapses (see jason varitek’s bat speed). I didn’t want to jump to any snap conclusions based on a few instances of him not wanting to run into the wall, etc. to start the season.
But so far this season it looks like Abreu’s been the worst defensive player in the AL this year. He’s truly been that bad. As of this week he’s been 20 runs worse than an average right fielder this year. Baseball think factory has been doing a nice ongoing analysis of defense based on zone rating. Here’s what they had to say about Abreu:
“Bobby Abreu (-20) was a good fielder not that long ago. Old age is hell. He’s also seeing more chances than average, so that isn’t helping at all. Abreu’s defense is the worst in the AL. That’s not going to get the Yankees to the post-season. ”
And:
“So there you have it. These are two-thirds of a season, so they are still a little small on the sample size, and some are really low. Try not to focus on players with few innings or chances. Now, Abreu’s stinkitude is real, so don’t discount that either. ”
Again – this is astonishing that he could be so bad so quickly. But the numbers are really backed up with what we’ve seen over time – he’s looked awful in the field this year. It’s really an amazing decline.
Speaking of guys going deep into games… With all the innings that CC Sabathia pitches, not just this year but last year too, is it a concern or an asset? Are we to be impressed he can handle such a big workload, or worried that they’re wearing out his arm?
Or both….?
“And the replacement for the Yankees three-hitter next year if they let Abreu leave would be whom, exactly?”
hmm, well you could go Damon, Jeter, Arod, Matsui, Nady, Posada.
or Damon, Jeter, Nady, Arod, Matsui, Posada.
or Damon, Jeter, ARod, Teixeira, Nady, Matsui.
the future of the yankees organization does not hinge on bringing back Abreu bc he’s the current #3 hitter.
people couldnt imagine where the 200 innings and 17 wins that Randy Johnson pitched in 2006 were going to come from for 2007. who was going to fill those shoes?!?!?
magically, someone took those innings, and the yankees managed to move on just fine.
KS,
You (teams) can’t get attached to 35 and over players at the end of their contracts in today’s baseball. Teams are finding that out the hard way this year. Especially when their skills have waned. As is the case with both Abreu and Giambi.
Who takes their place? They have several options. If they keep Cano, he will have a larger role in the offense. Meaning, he will hit either 3rd or 5th next year.
If he is as a good hitter and advertised, there is no reason why he can’t handle additional responsibility in the lineup.
They can go into the trade market and get a player or two.
They can move Matsui up in the order. They have options.
For example, if they kept Damon, Matsui and Cano, you could see a batting order such as:
Damon
Jeter
Matsui
Arod
Cano
Nady
Posada
Whomever plays first
Austin Jackson or somebody else in CF
Not exactly a chopped liver lineup. If they get a good glove at first, it would be a markedly better defensive lineup than they have now.
They don’t need to have all the answers now for next year. They need to have options. By letting Abreu and Giambi go, they will have numerous options to replace them.
They may not be “names” but, if they are productive players, and help the team win (and are younger) that’s all you can ask for.
1.GIRARDI
2.MEACHAM
3.BETEMIT
4.SEXSON
5.GIAMBI
Mel, I’m not as sold on Nady as this blog seems to be. One prolific year does not a career make.
Even still, I don’t care for Nady’s plate discipline (3.5 vs. Abreu’s 4.3 P/PA) or the 3 walks he’s had in 61 ABs as a Yankee (25 in 327 for the Pirates), or his .340 career OBA.
Nady impresses me as a very good six hitter; someone akin to Mike Lowell in Boston’s lineup.
The hitter in front of A-Rod needs to see a lot of pitches and get on base more often.
Bronx Bard,
Sorry, no happy ending for the Melkman.
He’s done something to earn a spot in Girardi’s doghouse. Probably along the lines of Kennedy. They’ve given CF back to Johnny “Top-Ramen” Damon. I don’t think that’s because of Melky’s offense.
i have to give big props to astats for a huge, clutch homer last night (and the would-be single that became an out b/c abreu was stealing) hoping arod’s about to light up and carry the offense for a while
if you play damon every day you are gonna get alot less out of him down the stretch.
Abreu has always been a guy who has shown ability to get to balls sometimes, and a seeming lack of desire to others… At least that has sometimes appeared to be the case. I’m not discounting the age factor, that is probably the cause. But, could it also be he just doesn’t feel like running down balls lately and the “lazy” rep he had in Philly was more than just a reputation?
Either way, Nady in right next year…...
It’s an absolutley brilliant move to have a guy who’s batting worse than Arod with runners in scoring position to bat clean up.
remember a few weeks ago when we were talking about people who have no idea how to use statistics?
congrats, you are one of them.
there is a difference between using statistics to measure what HAS happened and what WILL happen.
Giambi’s 2008 numbers with RISP are important to note because it explains why the team has struggled.
it isn’t really enough of a sample to say that is how he WILL continue to hit with RISP. same goes for Nady.
but if you DID want to do that:
Giambi has a .358 OBP with RISP.
he’s getting on base. a lot.
which is good to have IN FRONT of the guy with the really high batting average with RISP.
gee, that was hard.
you are clueless.
“He’s probably still drunk.”
Damn bob. Not everyone has to be drunk to be happy/possitive. You heard of drugs? Or a natural high?
Betsy,
Coke may get called up on Sept 1 when rosters expand.
As far as Hughes for next year? He will still be on an innings limit (as will Joba) and that may affect how much he pitches in NY in 2009 more than anything else.
Regardless of how he pitches in Sept., I don’t think he has a rotation spot penciled in for himself for next season.
Especially true if they sign CC and both Moose and Andy are back.
Personally, I hope the Yankees load up the truck and pay CC whatever he wants. I also want both Andy and Moose back next year.
You can never have too much pitching and this team is going to need some guys to eat innings next season.
If not, the bullpen will be cooked by June.
If the scenario I want comes true, Phil will still have plenty of chances to pitch in NY (if he pitches well) next year.
As we see this year, guys get hurt, are ineffective and stuff just happens to where you always need more than 5 good starters going into a season.
Chris,
I’m not worried about Sabathia’s workload because its not much different than it was last year. He’s not getting abused in Milwaukee.
I like the idea of Matsui hitting in the 3-hole. He doesn’t have the same speed that Abreu does (despite the caught-stealings, Abreu does get infield hits) but Godzilla sees a lot of pitches and has been a great situational hitter throughout his days as a Yankee.
A lot of people who are stacking Jeter, Nady and A-Rod are ignoring the fact that it opens up the team against RHP’s. Not a great move imo.
kill,
I can see your concerns. But I love the 21 hits (11 XBH). Let’s put it this way. Having Nady bat in front of Alex actually takes pressure off of Alex!
“But, could it also be he just doesn’t feel like running down balls lately and the “lazy†rep he had in Philly was more than just a reputation?”
Fans jump all over this notion of a player being lazy. It’s just not true. Abreu is not lazy.
This year he seems to have lost a lot of range. That’s it. It happens with older players. And it very well could be happening with him.
He’s been an above average fielder his entire career. You don’t do that by being “lazy.”
He’s done something to earn a spot in Girardi’s doghouse.
something = play terribly for 3 months straight
So I still bring Abreu back. But here’s another way to look at it –
In terms of the players who are absolutely and realistically moveable pieces (in other words Jeter, Arod, Jorge are not going anywhere), who are the top 5 that you absolutely DO want back next season?
1. Mussina
2. Abreu
3. Nady
4. Veras
5. Molina
Sorry, SJ44, I don’t have your faith that Cano can handle the responsibility of hitting 3 or 5th in the lineup. Not at this juncture in his career. He exercises zero plate discipline and he never walks.
And for my money, Matsui, has become an albatross. He has the knees of a 40 yr old man. He can’t play the outfield anymore. If you think Abreu is bad, remember what Matsui was like in the field. He was terrifying. Matsui, accordingly, affords the Yankees little flexibility because he ONLY can DH.
I’m not attached to either Giambi or Abreu (by the way is no older than Damon, Matsui, or Jeter, for that matter.)
To the contrary, I just think it makes sense rationally to re-sign Abreu to a two year a contract and to explore the prospect of re-signing Giambi for one year. Until the Yankees can promote players from within to assume their offensive production, each still strikes me as the best option in their respective positions.
Did anyone watch Yankee highlights from yankees.com (from MLB.com)? They had the Twins TV announcers doing the calls, and it really showed me something remarkable.
For all the Yankee highlights (A-Rod, Nady HRs…), the announcer spoke in a disappointed monotone. It was like he was announcing the death of the president or something. I wondered if this was just the way that this guy spoke. Then I heard his call for Delmon Young’s 3-run HR, and he was literally screaming at the top of his lungs.
My point is, I’ve heard a lot of people absolutely RIP on the Yanks TV and especially radio announcers, for being bad, annoying, for being blatant home-ers… But if you ever watch Michael Kay announce an opposing team’s HR- he’ll show almost as much excitement as for a Yankees HR. Regardless of who gets the big hit, it is still important for either team, and we should appreciate that we have announcers that truly appreciate the game, and don’t just silently mope when the opposing team comes through.
So, as we have less and less to root for this season as our team makes its way to the dumps, let’s at least give our broadcasters a bit of a break, and appreciate some of the good things they do.
Oh, yeah. The L-R-L thing. I hate it. Being chained to that logic sacrifices the best possible lineups.
I will argue that all 3 hit righties very well.
Is anyone else watching the Olympic baseball on MSNBC.Good game so far but can someone please tell them that having a camera shoot from behind the plate where it is blurry beacuse of the netting or fence is totally lame.
cb
“Fans jump all over this notion of a player being lazy. It’s just not true.”
yesterday you explained how there are no dumb players
today you say there are no lazy players.
aren’t these guys human?
I see my Sox held on last night. How come it would have been a good win for Texas as some of you stated but it was not a good win for the Sox? Are you guys biased?
Anyway Yanks are going down today, after all you can’t win with Rasner pitching. LOL
“I’m not worried about Sabathia’s workload because its not much different than it was last year. He’s not getting abused in Milwaukee.”
Last year he was useless in the playoffs and he struggled similarly in April ‘08. That was all about the innings load IMO.
what was marte up to at 905?
Fair enough, CB.
SJ, that’s my question though. With 241 + playoffs last year, and on his way to well over 200 this year… Do you think we should be impressed and expect he can handle 200+ every year.. or worried what 2 consecutive years of 220, 230+ innings might do to his arm?
Is what you’re saying, the fact that he did it last year, and is doing it again this year, indicates his body can handle it?
Last night Abreu reminded me of Babe Ruth running around in RF. It was a nice throw from his tuckus though.
From a story by John Heyman at cnnsi.com:
It’s clear what consumes Cashman now. When it is suggested that no one could have foreseen all the injuries and no victories from touted rookie pitchers Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy, Cashman said, “That has nothing to do with it. It’s our … offense. We can’t hit with runners in scoring position.’‘
Oh, yeah. The L-R-L thing. I hate it. Being chained to that logic sacrifices the best possible lineups.
the “best possible” lineup really depends on WHO is in the lineup, not WHERE they are in the lineup.
studies have shown that as long as you generally put your better hitters near the top and your worst hitters near the bottom, the actual order has VERY little impact on runs scored.
sometimes i think if this very basic idea were accepted, this blog with be 1000 X’s better.
the amount of time bitching about the batting order could be much better spent.
like on bitching about Bobby Meacham.
I’m running a special at the chinchilla ranch today. 2 for 1 special at the doublewide, Come on down!
Bunny:
Were you medicated as the Rangers turned a 12-2 deficit to a 16-14 lead? Somehow you were not able to post.
No such thing as a bad win but there is such a thing as a poster who lacks in testicular fortitude. You’d be one of those.
I HATE JOHN STERLING!! Made me think it was a two run homer!!!
oh snap Jason got a hit w/ RISP
Every single time I get on Giambi.
He should pay me to hate him.
Pete has said in the past that if loser trolls show up just to be act stupid, he will block them from posting.
Hopefully BUNNY will post a few more times today because I will immediately email Pete. The last thing we need is trailer park Sux fan interference with our game blogs.
Bobby Arbreu defensely is on the back 9 of his career…Hole 15 I’d guess…
Sterling blew the call again – he went into his HR call.
“studies say” so you cant dispute it…..
how did that happen ?
Whoo Hoo. I think that just broke some kind of scoreless first inning streak for Slowey.
Damn!! Giambi made hmmm look good. Brilliant!!
““studies say†so you cant dispute it…..”
feel free to dispute it.
make up a study and back up your argument.
in the absence of anything more than your opinion, i’ll stick to the “studies”.
wow, pat your observation that a 37 y/o outfielder is on the back end of his career is really insightful, thanks for that!
wow – how quickly all the commentary on the 3-4 hitters comes into play
I told you I had clients knocking at my door, A girls got to do what a girls got to do, right Trish?
“Made me think it was a two run homer!!!”
The baggie fools him everytime.
washbourn cleared waivers where did he go?
“aren’t these guys human?”
No that’s not what I’m saying. Of course there are some “lazy” players and there are some “dumb” players.
My point is this – the evidence that people often use to draw the inference that a player is “dumb” or “lazy” often does not support drawing that kind of extreme conclusion.
People were saying yesterday Kemp is a “dumb” player based on the fact that he makes mistakes.
I’m not disputing Kemp makes mistakes – he does. All of the time.
But the issue is why? The fact that he does make mistakes does not support the conclusion that he is dumb.
Kemp was rushed through the minors. He’s still learning the game. That most probably has a much bigger impact on him making those mistakes that people observe than him being “dumb.”
People observe a certain kind of play or mistakes a player makes and jump to imputing the worst possible cause for that play or mistakes while ignoring a simpler, more likely cause for that mistake.
So sure it is theoretically possbile Abreu is just “lazy.” But given his sustained level of strong performance over a long career how plausible is that conclusion? Is it really more plausible than the fact that he is slowing down physically and has lost range making it more difficult to get to balls other players can?
So it’s not that players can’t be “dumb” or “lazy” it’s just that people jump to those conclusions all of the time without evidence that supports those specific reasons for the way someone plays.
It has to be tough going through little leagues as a pitcher named Slowey – ooh the ridicule
I bet he’s tough!