Game 124: Royals at Yankees
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- August
- 17
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YANKEES (65-58)
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Nady LF
Cano 2B
Molina C
Gardner CF
Mussina RHP
Mike Mussina (15-7, 3.30) vs. the Kansas City hitters.
Brian Bannister (7-11, 5.36) vs. the New York hitters.
Notes: Thanks to Josh Thomson for calling in the lineup. … The Yankees start the day 9.5 games behind Tampa Bay in the division and six games behind Boston in the wild card with 39 games left. … This is the final game of a brief three-day homestand. They play at Toronto on Tuesday.
MUSSINA FOR 20: By my calculations, Mussina has eight starts left. He has never won 20 games in his career. A win today would tie him with Bob Feller for career victories with 266. Moose is 17-7, 2.96 against Kansas City in his career.
LINEUP LOCKED IN: With the exception of the catchers, Joe Girardi has stuck with the same lineup for three days in a row. This seems to be a new direction and is likely the result of feedback from the players. It’ll be interesting to see what happens when next they face a left-hander.
I am not at the Stadium today but will pass any news updates along. Enjoy the game.
UPDATE, 11:10 p.m.: Hideki Matsui had 15 ABs in a simulated game down in Tampa this morning, 11 against a RHP and four against a LHP. If his knee holds up, he could be back with the Yankees as early as Tuesday.
He will be limited to DH the remainder of the season once he does return. His knee will need surgery at the end of the season. You have give Matsui credit, a lot of players would have shut it down with all the issues he has had with his knee this season.
Having Matsui back can only help. Wonder who would get cut?
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on Sunday, August 17th, 2008 at 10:25 am by Peter Abraham.
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Chad Jennings
Sam Borden
Josh Thomson
At least I can root for Mussina to win 20. It’s all I have left.
Go Yanks.
from previous thread, Murphydog,
I agree with your premise, that is why the loss of Posada isn’t just felt on the field but in clubhouse too.
The question is how do they get that back?
One thing is for sure Hank needs to keep his big trap shut. At least George got on his team to play better. Hank just wants them to give up.
Why the hell is Girardi keep putting the Big G in the #5 spot, that belongs to Xman
88-74…
Wow..you guys give up to easy…plenty of baseball to be played. 6 more games with the Red Sox. Making the postseason is doable. Don’t put it past the Yanks to come back and win the Wild Card. I like today’s lineup, and with Mussina on the hill..hopefully they can win the game. Go Yankees!
Vader, didn’t I see Posada in the dugout during the last game? Hopefully he can peddle some of that influence just by hanging around the team. If he’s not too broken up about being on the DL.
Moose for 20 is my new rallying cry. Its frustrating watching this team find new ways to lose games (Seriously, a pinch runner getting picked off of first? That’s a new one…), but I’m pulling for Moose as hard as I can.
For the record, I haven’t given up on this season. I’m just tempering my expectations…
Who else thinks Nady should be batting 5th over Giambi?
cant count them out yet. 6 games out and 6 games with boston left.
When Matsui returns they should DFA Giambi & his moustache.
Let’s hope this one goes better played than yesterday.
Moose will go 19-9.
Get a win for Mooooooooooose
6.5 GB with 6 weeks to go
I DONT CONCEDE!
6.5 GB with 6 weeks to go
I DONT CONCEDE!
Yanks need to go into September two games out in the WC at least.
Posada was in the clubhouse this weekend. If they feel his clubhouse presence is needed, nothing is stopping the Yanks from having him travel with them the rest of the season.
“With the exception of the catchers, Joe Girardi has stuck with the same lineup for three days in a row. This seems to be a new direction and is likely the result of feedback from the players. ”
from the players that are playing , that is.
Jorge may travel from this point forward. That surgery had to heal a bit before travelling would be adviseable because he was in a sling.
Matsui will be back in a couple of days and will hit 5th with Nady 6th, Giambi 7th (I hope). Gardner will back up Damon in CF until Melky returns. Look at that lineup and add Matsui and Posada for Molina and Gardner and the Yanks are at least 8-10 games better.
No one should give up on this year… discussing off-season options and strategies is not giving up… it’s just looking ahead a little
YA KNOW!
I know that this has been a pretty disappointing season for us all around – how many Yankees are having their anti-career years at once this year!
But I did NOT need to see some ESPNzone program this morning with that google-eyed Lupica Sux-suckup and the always dashing Michael Kay predicting that yes, the Rays probably WOULD make it into the postseason but certainly not as the division leader. That honor is set aside for the Sux.
I’m with every Yankee fan who has said that until we are mathematically eliminated, we’re in the postseason. And though we look pretty beat up, you never know what can happen. We’ve defied odds before, as we all know.
But I guess while I expect Lupica to say anything he can antiYankee in order to get through every day and night, it was at least a little bit disappointing to hear Kay come out and call the Yanks out of it.
Just for that, we’re gonna come up and kick ass and take numbers, and we are going to turn everything on its head, and nobody is going to believe these are the same Yankees who have looked so lifeless for the last month or so, and…and…and…
Well anyway, GO YANKEES!!!
(Gotta do some errands. See you game time)
Pete am I mistaken or weren’t Gardner and Molina switched in the line up a few days ago?
In any case, I’m glad Girardi fixed that.
Good news on Matsui. Hope that he is ready to come back on Tuesday. That would be a big boost for the line-up since he always seems to get runners in.
You guys..check this link out…my Phil Hughes story got into Beckett Baseball:
http://i202.photobucket.com/al.....stscan.jpg
Kevin
That’s cool Kevin!
There have been warnings of a possible Godzilla attack in Toronto!
Vader:
I think they get it back by ruthlessly cleaning house for 2009 and re-stocking with less extreme talent and better attitude and habits.
Everyone raves about Pedroia and Youk, neither of whom, IMHO (and no disrespect to Sox fans) is HOF material. Why the raves? Intangibles – - that word that always provokes derisive laughter when it is used about Jeter. I mean, in no particular order: Guts, desire, baseball intelligence, barroom pride, every game.
On the Yankees, look no further than Jeter, Po, Mo, Pettitte and even Moose now the he loves the game again. They find a way to win, first, by digging within themselves and then producing on the field. Thus, they can keep Cano if they choose to. Maybe he’s giving 100% of what he has to give. But, IMO, he is a prime example of what’s wrong: high ceiling, low “intangibles.”
I would rather watch a team on which every player played the game the right way and lost than watch the way some of the current Yankees play and have played for the last 6 or so years.
I agree with you Trisha – keep rooting until it’s mathematically impossible – but I said this the other day, I want the Rays to keep winning… We’re 9 games back from first and with our injuries/offensively challenged line-up, that’s just not going to happen – let the Rays take the division, we come back for the Wild Card – WC still = playoffs
and Go Matsui!! that’s a huge bat to get back in the line-up
If and when Matsui comes back, I’d DH him and sit Giambi. Put either BeteStrikeOut or Ransom at 1B.
This is probably the worst Yankee team since the early 90’s.
I honestly think the Rays will take the East. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Wild Card comes from the Central, either (White Sox or Twins).
Randy,
From the other thread…..
After watching everything unfold this season, I believe the Yankees need a complete evaluation of their organization, from top to bottom, by an outside party.
I recommended Showalter but, it can be someone else. John Scheurholz, if he retires from the Braves, Pat Gillick, when he retires this year, are two other possible choices. Both are longtime baseball men who have built organizations from the ground up and aren’t PC. They will tell it like it is and if feelings are hard, so be it.
I like Buck because he’s been there, knows the terrain and, while he is a hard ass, he’s a hard ass in the right way. He has pride and passion for the Yankees. Not just for the paycheck. Too many guys on this team define “Yankee Pride” by the size of their paychecks. A BIG problem with this group.
You know what the #1 problem with this team is? They don’t play the game the right way. They really don’t. They didn’t play the game the right way last year either. They just had better results. Until the playoffs, of course.
I have great respect for Johnny Damon. That said, I couldn’t believe what I heard when he said he wasn’t “comfortable” bunting in that situation yesterday.
Is he kidding? He’s not “comfortable” bunting in that situation, even though its the right thing to do?
That’s coming from one of the few gamers on the team. I can only imagine the attitude of the non-gamers. To me, that’s the problem with this team. They don’t play the game the right way. That’s why they aren’t good in game deciding situations and that’s why they are where they are this season.
Brian Cashman MAY be the best person for the job. Damon Oppenheimer MAY have just had a bad draft and is the right person for the job. Billy Eppler MAY be the best choice to oversee major league scouting, etc.
OR, these guys, and everybody else in the organization under review, may not be the right people to rebuild this team.
OR, the organization may need more hands, or a right hand man for Cashman, to go forward. OR, they need more scouting, better coaches at the minor league level, etc.
Without a full review of the organization from top to bottom, the Steinbrenners don’t have any idea what they need, how to get it and (most important) WHO makes the decisions to get what they need.
Too much has happened this year to just make the assumption you have the right people in place to fix what’s broken.
How do you explain the draft? How do you explain screwing up the Iona signing? Which BTW, has now cost 3 guys their jobs down there and climbing.
How do you explain the lack of player development this season throughout the organization, with the exception of the Charleston team, Zach McAllister, Austin Jackson and Mark Melancon?
How do you explain the injuries throughout the organization? Not just at the major league level, its also hit them hard at the minor league level.
How do you explain the slides of Cano and Cabrera?
How do you explain the failures of Hughes and Kennedy?
How do you explain the selfish attitudes of the veteran players who won’t bunt, won’t move guys over, won’t change their approach with RISP, etc?
It can’t just be the manager or the coaching staff. It can’t just be because he’s not the favorite of the beat writers, everything I described above has happened.
Have they done their jobs well this year? Yes and no. Are they the sole reason everything throughout the organization has been a train wreck this year? No.
Are they part of the solution going forward. I’d think Girardi, Long and Eiland are but, that should be evaluated by an outside party at this point, IMO.
Is it bad luck? Bad business? A combination of the two? I don’t know.
I do know that if I owned the Yankees, I’m not yet ready to have the people currently holding positions in the organization given the mandate to fix what’s broken until I am certain they are the right guys for the job.
IMO, you have no way of knowing that without outside help, given what’s happened this year.
You get too emotional when you have had long term relationships with people you have had success with for a long time. It makes it tougher to objectively evaluate them when deciding their futures.
The Yankees will have this same dilemma after next season with Derek Jeter. His contract runs until 2010. However, after next season, its going to be a very tough call whether or not you extend him and keep him at SS.
Are the people currently in place in the organization to make that tough call? I think that question is unable to be answered at this time until a full review of everyone is complete.
If the Yankees can’t pull something out of their collective hats, I’m rooting for the Central Division to take the WC. No doubt! Anyone but the Red Sox. And I believe the Rays are taking the division. They’ve had set-backs and have seemed to withstand them. The only question for them will be the head-to-head against the Sox down the stretch.
SJ44 –
I feel like I should print your last post!
The part about the emotional attachments is right on, in my opinion.
Off to my Sunday, but rooting for Moose (and the Yankees) to notch another win.
This week could vry well be the turning point of the season. If the bats can wake up slightly today and get Mussina win number 17…oh wait that’s right, they blew number 16 for him last time out…and then get Matsui back on Tuesday, we will be in good shape.
Next, assuming Toronto doesn’t change their rotation with their day off tomorrow, it’ll be Rasner/Burnett, Pettitte/Purcey, and Ponson/Litsch…no Halladay.
Now here’s the wildcard…Mussina will be ready to go on Friday against BAL. But, we’ll need a 5th starter on Saturday (which cannot be Joba or Geise at this point) to keep everybody on regular rest. Phil Hughes could be that man. He starts today and if all goes well, I could see him getting the extra day of rest and then pitching for us on Saturday.
Like I said, this week could bury us, or keep us afloat just in time to get Godzilla and Hughes back for the stretch run.
And don’t forget…we’ll have Joba ready to get back soon too assuming all goes well with his shoulder rehab.
Matsui – wow, what a difference that can make down the stretch if he’s the #5 hitter and taking the ABs Gardner/Christian/Melky/Betemit have been taking.
i wonder if Matsui’ll play every day, or 2/3 of the time so Damon can DH a bit.
“Having Matsui back can only help. Wonder who would get cut?”
Either one of those no name guys we just brought up… or Betemit. That’s my guess.
Moose must go for a complete game
don’t let the bullpen rob another Moose’s W
That’s right about the number 5 spot, George. Matsui will be protecting Arod instead of the fearsome Giambino. And if Girardi wants to keep his ridiculous lefty/righty thing going on that would move Giambi to the 7 spot (with Nady 6) and then Molina/Pudge (both righties) and then Cano.
The only issue is that Damon would have to play center. So, we’ll be giving up some defense/arm in order to try and spark the offense.
Mr. Moose will probably get within one strike of 20 wins before leaving with an injury.
DH Matsui, bench Giambi and put either BeteStrikeOut or Ransom at 1B.
SJ, great post.
The only thing is, I wouldn’t want to overreact based on a bad year.
Phil Hughes had only a few starts this year and he was likely feeling the effects of his injury at the time, despite what he’s said. I don’t think his struggles are part of the organization failures this year. His whole tenure with the Yankees, Phil has been injured or rehabbing from injury. Now that he’s apparently healthy, we can see what we’ve got. It’s too bad he was rushed up last year due to the big club’s pitching injuries, but he can pitch up here. Kennedy, I think that was a mistake. He only had 3 starts in September and he just whizzed through the minors. He probably should have had more time in AAA. He’s not a failure yet, though, as he’s still just a kid. I don’t think we can label anyone as a bust after one year, even a bad year.
I think Cash is the right man for the job and I think the Steinbrenner boys think so too. I have no clue what happened with the draft, etc……..or why the Yankees got cheap this year. If you want to bring in an evaluator to figure that out, that’s fine. As you agreed with me in another thread, people just don’t go stupid overnight. In that regard, Damon Oppenheimer just didn’t lose his scouting ability overnight. For whatever reasons, the Yankees seemed to go off-course this season, but I trust them to figure out why.
Would be huge to get Matsui back.
Would be even nicer if the Yanks can go on a 20 game winning streak.
When Matsui gets back, you have to think that Garnder gets sent back down, dince they want him to get his ABs in
I heard a story once about a team that was 7 games back with 17 to play that went on to win the division. So the Yankees are 6 back with 39 to play, you do the math.
As for when Matsui gets back, I get rid of Justin Christian, let Ransom stay awhile.
Oh, and also, I completely agree with your Damon comments. That’s ridiculous. You’re right – the team does not know how to actually play the game of baseball. They don’t do the little things (that doesn’t mean I expect A-Rod or Giambi, sluggers, to bunt; that’s ridiculous)….I guess this is an epidemic in baseball, but IMO, it all starts with education. The youngsters in the minor leagues all ought to take some kind of refresher course about the game when they first enter into the system and then they need to be constantly taught the right way to play the game all through their minor league careers. Get them started young and you have them for life. These older players are all set in their ways – it’s almost impossible to teach old dogs new tricks. This is part of the reason having Cano on the team scares me. When Jackson eventually comes up, and then some other youngsters, is Cano really the guy we want them to model their careers after? Not on your life.
Should Matsui come back soon, Betemit is the logical DFA with Giambi a close 2nd.
Why not Cody Ransom ? He’s a versatile infielder with something to prove.
There’s only a month left of Giambi’s $22M contract to pay.
I was not comfortable with Damon striking out in the 9th yesteday with runners on 1st and 2nd and nobody out. How about for $10 million a year you do your homework and learn how to bunt(that is, “play the game the right way”)?
so Matsui comes back, that’s a HUGE boost to the line-up – but I think Christian HAS to stay because we need a pinch runner for Matsui late in the games, no sense in having him run if he’s not going to bat again. I guess Ransom would go down until Sept 1st…. or of course Britton lol
Jorge may travel from this point forward. That surgery had to heal a bit before travelling would be adviseable because he was in a sling.
Matsui will be back in a couple of days and will hit 5th with Nady 6th, Giambi 7th (I hope). Gardner will back up Damon in CF until Melky returns. Look at that lineup and add Matsui and Posada for Molina and Gardner and the Yanks are at least 8-10 games better. Christian should go back down.
No one should give up on this year… discussing off-season options and strategies is not giving up… it’s just looking ahead a little
i dont understand why nady doesnt bat behind arod. giambi is trash
As to SJ’s comments, I don’t think there’s a need to throw out the baby with the bathwater. Period.
As to who gets caught when Matsui gets back, cut Sexson (even if he’s no longer with the team). It’s fun!!!
i don’t get why so many people want to DFA Giambi. who’s gonna play first? Betemit? jeez.
Giambi’s not a #5-quality hitter on a good team, too inconsistent. he hasn’t been a great hitter since 2002. but still, he can slug and get on base, and is quite capable of going on a hellacious tear. in a good lineup, he’s a nice #6-#7 hitter. reminds me of Daryl Strawberry at the end of his career.
All kidding aside, it’ll probably be Ranson, who’ll come back after September 1st.
Betsy and SJ:
Agree with you both. Answers and Change are needed, but let’s not throw the baby out with the bathwater.
The outside consultant idea is intriguing, but outside consultants are a very touchy subject. Cash may be humble enough to placate ownership’s request, assuming they make one, or he may feel he could use the help. But he will demand to pick the consultant and determine the scope of his work, which, unless Cash is completely nuts, will not include a critique of Cash’s work as GM. Anything else will be a slap in the face and if I were Cash, the last thing I would accept is slap in the face from George’s sons at the same time they are telling me they want to renew my contract.
[[[ I heard a story once about a team that was 7 games back with 17 to play that went on to win the division. So the Yankees are 6 back with 39 to play, you do the math. ]]]
Did The team in that story did it AGAINST the Reigning World Champions?
They will send down ranson. .they are not dumping Betemit.
I don’t like the way Betemit plays but he is a decent bench player..
If Gardner goes to the bench with matsui DH’ing then Christian can get sent down and gardner can pinch run..
This is a moot arguement Sept 1 they can add to the roster…
Just read Matsui could be back as early as Tuesday in Toronto!!
OOps never mind, I see Pete posted it in his update.
Mickey Mantle used to bunt every now and then. He said it added 10 points a year to his average and kept defenses honest.
Funny how Damon, Gardner, Giambi etc, none of whom are worthy of carrying the Mick’s jockstrap, are above such mundane skills.
“Is he kidding? He’s not “comfortable†bunting in that situation, even though its the right thing to do?
That’s coming from one of the few gamers on the team.”
sj-
that it was damon who said it shocked me too.
how to turn around a ship as big as the yankees is the question. i do think that here on the blog we’re starting to get the glimmer of a consensus as to what’s wrong, and the damon quote may be a key to figuring out what’s wrong with the team.
a total overview by an outside party who has the power to make changes makes sense to me. showalter is not crazy.
Godzilla is a warrior! Can’t wait for him to be back… No matter what he always gives 110%…
I have to tip my cap to Matsui. What a huge lift it will be when/if he returns on Tuesday.
Matsui has never been given enough credit for his contribution to the team. He has been our best clutch hitter, always has good ABs when it counts, & has been the glue of the batting order. The whole team hits better in the clutch with him setting the tone.
I am so tired of watching these overpaid guys not only not produce when it counts, but have horrible non productive ABs while doing so.
It is painful watching A-Rod become clueless when it counts. Takes what he should be swinging at & swings at what he should let go.
Murph,
If definitely agree Cashman may not like if Hank and/or Hal brought someone in to evaluate his job. However, if he wants to remain with the organization, he doesn’t have a choice but to accept it.
If he chooses not to, and wants to leave, that is certainly his option.
He’s a hard worker and overall, has done a good job. However, he, like everybody in the organization, from Randy Levine, to Derek Jeter, to the Equipment Guy, nobody is bigger than the Yankees.
George Steinbrenner, who WAS the Yankees for the last 30+ years, is not bigger than the Yankees. If he isn’t, nobody is.
You do what’s right for the organization. Whatever that may be.
If Hank and Hal want Cash back, and want to hire Buck (or another wise hand) to work alongside him, I’d go for that too.
As most who read what I write on this blog are aware, I am a Cashman fan.
However, too many things have gone wrong this year to just accept that, “it was one of those years” for my tastes.
The draft was the last straw for me. The Yankees are putting a LOT of their bullets into player development and the draft.
For it to be the cluster#$#$ it became, along with the Latin American mess, that was my breaking point.
That’s when I realized this team needs the kind of help only someone from the outside can give them.
Whether its doing an overall review, or bringing back Cashman and hiring a “right hand man” from outside the organization, someone has to come in from the outside to help.
Too many things have gone wrong under the current regime this year to be satisfied with their explanation as to why certain things happened.
Bottom line is… this off-season will set the tone of the Yankees franchise for the next decade. You will never find a more opportunistic situation to be in.
We are moving into a new stadium, we have $80+ million coming off the books, we will likely coming off our first non-playoff year since 93, this happens to be a very good FA class, and the farm system (though regressed from last year) is still good enough to make trades– and we also have an asset like Cano you might be willing to shop. More importantly, pretty much all of the mistakes/contracts from the 04 season on will be gone and from a karma standpoint, that may be good as well.
The organization finally has the flexibility to re-shape the team. This is a very important off-season and everyone needs to be on board with the plan of transforming this team back into a legit WS contender. No conservative shopping in the FA/trade market, no attachment to prospects, and no blind faith in the veterans…. the team needs a complete overhaul.
An outside party like SJ recommend would be an excellent idea. However, that presents two problems. First, Cashman may feel threatened by that and walk away. Secondly, Hal may be the one holding this team back, not Cashman, and if thats the case there is nothing we can do but pray that Hank has enough influence this offseason to spend.
It is time to send Girardi and Cashman packing and get a more experienced manager with experienced staff. The expt. with Girardi, cost us the season and this is the price you pay for dumping on Torre who I am sure would have motivated this team to perform better and taken them into post season.
Agree 100%, this draft/international signing period was such a disaster, it doesn’t exactly instill faith in me that the organization knows what it is doing.
How do you deviate so far from your strategy that has brought the farm back to a level of prominence, and instead go back to the early 2000’s method of taking the safe, low-upside picks? How does the Inoa thing get so botched? And as compensation, they go after 3-4 “B/C” level prospects. Totally against everything they stood for. It’s not that the organization isin’t allowed to have down years, but their philosophy this year completely changed and reverted back to what got us the barren farm we had a few years ago.
Thats to bad really. I think Brett would do better higher in the lineup to be honest.
brett should be hitting cleanup
Today I predict:
Mussina complete game
Giambia bases loaded double
Arod goes deep
Brett today 0-4 3k
Yes I agree. I feel personally insulted when he sits at the bottom and has Molina on top of him! He is much better then Molina. Heck, put him in the 1st 2nd 3rd 4th but not last!
Ransom was used at 1st base and Nady is also available. No need for Betemit when Matsui returns. He’s no help, just a hinderance. Send Betemit packing.
SJ44-
Agree wholeheartedly that the Yankees need an experienced consultant to come in and objectfully evaluate the current team.
As far as bunting is concerned, everone on the team should be able to lay down a bunt, especially Giambi, who should bunt down the 3rd base line, against that shift, instead of trying to uppercut all the time. But in about 7 weeks Giambi will be someone elses problem.
And lastly as for Nady batting 5th, I disagree. Why? He should bat cleanup for a while with A-Rod batting fifth!!!
Watching Halladay pitch masterfully last evening against the Sox was a remainder to me just how long that it takes for a pitcher to reach their true potential. Halladay broke in in 1998 at the age of 21.In only his second start he took a no-hitter into the 9th inning.
However the following season 1999 Halladay was 8-7 with a 3.92 ERA. Not bad but a little short of expectations. But 2000 was a disaster, 4-7 with a 10.64 ERA. People were wondering what had happened to him and whether he would ever make it as a big league pitcher. It wasn’t until 2002 that Halladay finally arrived with a 19-7 record. In 2003 he won the Cy Young award.
But there were also the demotions back to the farm system and even a stint at “A” ball between the 2000-2001 seasons before he got back on track.
I still believe that both Hughes and Kennedy will be effective MLB pitchers and wonder how the tone on this thread might be a bit different if they had stayed healthy and given us a bit of inspiration this season with everything else that has gone awry.
Game over. Yankees aren’t coming back from this.
This might not be good
c’mon Moose
3-0. well there goes all the good feeling from yesterday.
Hey Moose, it’s a must-win. Thanks.
As one who has made a living as an organizational consultant, with ‘brand names’ you would recognize on the list, let me tell you what any skilled and honest consultant would admit: the real successes are few. They can be spectacular when they happen, but they are few. And they do not happen when there is no ‘buy-in’ by crucial leaders in the organization. ‘Like it or lump it’ is not an approach that works, especially in a large, complex organization with multiple power centers.
This was not the start the Yankees needed. Already down 3-0. Well at least they have nine innings to come back!
The over / under line is set at 2 for A-Rod whiffing with runners on base. He’ll continue to swing for the fences no matter what.
hopefully the offense can get to bannister, if not another loooong day
I think we will come back and win, but man… what an unlucky inning. None of the balls were hit hard. Just solid singles.
Wish A-Rod had made that throw, but he at least made the stop.
How sad that you spend your time in a Yankees board. Isnt there a Red Sox place for you to post at?
I also agree that an outside man should come in and evaluate the team from top to bottom. And I also agree Buck Showalter would be a great guy for that job.
But that doesn’t mean it’s going to happen. And I’m not convinced the organization is going to go that route – as much as I think it is needed.
I guess we’ll find out soon enough if Hal and Hank are wise enough to make that happen.
Only 91 responses. either people are doing something on a Sunday or it is now proof that Yankee fans realize the season will end on September 30th.
But not to be too negative, it is only 3-0. Yanks scored 4 runs yesterday so it is possible for them to pull this one out.
I think the biggest thing with the Yankees is that they are run almost like a mom-and-pop operation by the Steinbrenners, despite the enormous amount of revenue invovled. And, from what I can see throughout baseball, they are not unique in running their team this way (anyone look critically at the Mets, for instance?).
Like in any industry, bringing in an outside consultant, someone who has no axe to grind, is not unreasonable. However, it should probably be someone who is universibly respected, retired (so they don’t have that axe) – a retiring Pat Gillick might be ideal.
The catch is, the team/Steinbrenners have to be amenable to change. If not, then it’s a waste of time and money.
RR WROTE:
“The expt. with Girardi, cost us the season”
PLEASE EXPLAIN HOW GIRARDI COST THE YANKEES THE SEASON
Everything bad that can happen is now called = Yankeed.
when you girlfriend breaks up with you = Yankeed
When you get a speeding ticket = Yankeed
when the Jets, Giants, Knicks, lose = Yankeed.
When a computer virus eats your hard drive = Yankeed.
August 17th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
The over / under line is set at 2 for A-Rod whiffing with runners on base. He’ll continue to swing for the fences no matter what
I will take the overs before he actually connects.
23-110 – after that hit. .211 with RISP. Breakfast of Champions.
JD is sooooo lucky.
The game just started…its far from over. These bandwagon fans make me sick..you have to take the good with the bad. I suppose if they win today..you will jump back on the bandwagon? 3-0 is nothing with this lineup. Sure..they haven’t shown it, but we all know they are capable.
Kevin
Double steal. Good chance that this ball ends up in the OF.
We may not hit well with RISP, but we lead the universe with hits that don’t advance runners ISP.
Whiff,
Breakfast of Champions=Cocoa RISP. This team needs more energy.
AROD 3-3!!
wooohoo
TIE GAME AROD!
Was that ‘clutch’?
23-111
Was that clutch enough?!! Alex!
And a hit with RISP!
That’s how you make a statement that you’re not the biggest bum in the world and your team isn’t totally dead. It helps to have a Bannister pitching too.
go arod! brett has energized this team today to!
A-ROD!!!!!
Someone Else- “Game over. Yankees aren’t coming back from this.”
Spoke to soon..how do you feel now?
Kevin
I hope this starts an ARod Hot Streak (TM).
A ROD!!!!!!!!
Damn, took the overs and lost again.
Thank you, Alex. That was pretty clutch.
How sad is it when you are absolutely shocked when the best player in the game does something good?
AN AAAAAAAAA-BOMB……..FROM AAAAAAAAAA-ROD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
man… they needed that home run like a homeless man needs a joint
XAVIER NADY!!!
Trolls aplenty.
C YA NADY!! 4-3 Yanks! Cha Ching
Kevin
The X-MAN COMETH!
If A-Rod gets hot, and we make a run at the Wild Card, how does he not got MVP?
He hits 15 HRs down the stretch and ends up with, say, 120 RBI, it’s a lock. There is one thing that is for sure, without A-Rod getting hot, we cannot make the playoffs. So here’s to hoping *raises glass*
Man, as bad as Marte has been, Nady has made that trade more than worth it.
And he’s a Yankee in 2009, and possibly beyond.
X-MAN!!!!!!!!!
What is it about Leiter that sounds creepy when he says things like “good looking young player” or “Alex is so strong”.
X MARKS THE SPOT!!!!!!!!!!!
Is this for real? Multiple runs?
X-Man!!!
Brett Gardner had nothing to do with the homerun. That was all Alex.
Easy folks, before you start calling ARods hit as clutch, it was a bad pitch from a AAA pitcher, who is basically throwing BP right now.
And one hit does not make a $30 million player clutch. 6-10, 5-10, 10-18, that is clutch.
1 for your last 8 games, um, no so clutch
LETS GO!!!!
Rmemeber a few weeks ago when some people here thought trading for Bannister was a goood idea? lol
How quick things change.
Moose deserves the Cy Young.
Okay, so my mlb video freezes up. But I could tell that it was a HR by Nady because the guys to the fair side of the foul poul have their hands in the air trying to catch the ball. So I knew that it was a HR before Kay. LOL.
Ian Kennedy is pretty much gonna be just like Brian Bannister as a pitcher…and they both went to USC
“1 for your last 8 games, um, no so clutch”
Huh?
Including today, he’s 9 for his last 31. Not spectacular, not horrible.
Who gets cut?? Are you kidding me? His name starts with a B, ends with a T–and was traded for Proctor.
15 Arod homers down the stretch? That would be something indeed.
When does “down the stretch” start? Tuesday? Sept. 1? Now?
“Ian Kennedy is pretty much gonna be just like Brian Bannister as a pitcher…and they both went to USC”
Kennedy, last year, had better stuff than Bannister’s ever had.
This year, not so much. No idea where his breaking stuff disappeared to.
Turtle-Like (Pedroia’s face)
August 17th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
Trolls aplenty.
Define a troll specifically for this site.
Did anyone notice Kay said the Yanks will be facing Halladay? I thought the Yankees were getting Burnett, Purcey and Litsch.
KEvin
Someone else,
I don’t know what Mets fans thinks, but I’ll bet the front office gets sick seeing Nady succeed as a Yankee.
WOOHOO!!!!
AND MEACHEM WITH A SMART SEND!!
5-3 as the rats (trolls) abandon ship.
Nice Molina! Doubles machine!
mel, I thought it was creepier when Kay was talking about ‘brushing up’ against Arod in the hallway.
Blech, I just ate.
Whoo Hoo, Mr. Doubles!
GARDNER! HUSTLE TRIPLE!
BRETT THE FLASH GARDNER!!
Nice job Brett!
Did the Angels trade uniforms with us and play for us today?
This is great. I haven’t seen us do this in a long time. I guess Girardi told them Matsui might be activated on Tuesday.
WOW are these the yankees? When is the last time they batted around in an inning?
If the shoe fits, etc.
“Define a troll specifically for this site.”
I love that phrase, “A rbi triple by Gardner”.
ain’t this a b****
Wow. 10 batters, 6 runs. Can we have this EVERY day?
I could get used to this.
Whiff (Cano’s bat)
August 17th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
“Easy folks, before you start calling ARods hit as clutch, it was a bad pitch from a AAA pitcher, who is basically throwing BP right now.
And one hit does not make a $30 million player clutch. 6-10, 5-10, 10-18, that is clutch.
1 for your last 8 games, um, no so clutch”
Hush, they haven’t even been hitting bad pitches lately!
1-8 … small sample size much?
Clutch – most. overused. word. ever.
6-3 in a NY minute.
I told you yesterday they can hit this guy look it up.
Yanks love guys who throw 88.
Bannister stinks, but that did not stop about 20 posters on this site to want the yanks to get him.
rasner, bannister, karstens, they are the same guys..they are 5th starters at best..
Michael Kraye just said the Yankees face Burnett AND Halliday in Toronto.
However, the pitching matchup doesn’t list Halliday among the starters for the Yankees series; they have Burnett, Purcey, and Litsch.
I realize the Yankees could pitch Halliday if they skipped one of the foregoing three.
Have the Jays announced they plan to do so?
BTW, few GM in baseball detest the Yankees more than J.P Riccardi. I don’t know why. But it’s a widely known secret.
We need more innings like that
Including today, he’s 9 for his last 31. Not spectacular, not horrible.
With RISP?
Same thought Zell, Same thought Zell
“Including today, he’s 9 for his last 31. Not spectacular, not horrible.
With RISP?”
I don’t have game logs with RISP separate. Do you?
Now we need Moose to settle down and the Yanks to keep this offense going.
Is the out of town scoreboard at Fenway electronic?
It wouldn’t surprise me if they did, KS.
Remember they rearranged their pitching lineup last series?
Riccardi somehow gets some kind of warped satisfaction, out of thinking that even if the Blue Jays ended up last, well at least they spoiled the Yankees season.
Hey, Zell, you have great photos on your blog.
Josh Beckett has loaded the bases with 1 out in the first…
they should give buck that ball
mlb.com says Burnett, Purcey, Litsch. However, TOR has a day off tomorrow so they can opt to move Halladay to Thursday against Ponson. That would not be good.
I’m praying that they give Halladay the extra day of rest with their day off and that would line him up against the Sox again.
A leadoff double is not the way to start the inning after the Yankees just gave Moose a 3 run lead.
I was reading an interview with Mussina, and he said he hasn’t thrown the ‘knuckle-curve’ in about 10 years, though people keep referring to it as that.
fran, be quiet. moose has 15 wins. he can take a dump on the mound for all i care as long as we win.
Bases loaded, two runs in, 1 out by Beckett. First inning
come on Moose
Has Brett played enough games to be MVP of the American league?
-Kill-Schill(ing)
I think they are going to pitch both I remember in July before the all star break we had a series with them and Halladay and Burnett were scheduled to go the series before and they held them both up to start against the yanks
1-8 … small sample size much?
Clutch – most. overused. word. ever
Agree most overused word next to “you know” which all NBA players and NFL players must use no less than 30 times in a 2 minute or less comment.
When the bats finally wake up our pitching goes back to sleep. This is why this team is nothing more than a .500 team.
“Agree most overused word next to “you know†which all NBA players and NFL players must use no less than 30 times in a 2 minute or less comment.”
That made me laugh.
4-0 Jays off Beckett!! Still only 1 out in Boston. Moose better get his act together today.
Beckett’s getting smacked around in the first inning.
“4-0 Jays off Beckett!! Still only 1 out in Boston. Moose better get his act together today.”
Beckett = ACE!! He’s on my fantasy team, and I couldn’t care less
(I’m losing WHIP and ERA this week anyway).
:rofl:
yanks have a chance still. rays play laa and cws the next 6 games.
wow everyone saying arod is gonna strike out and have a terrible game. then he hits a home run and everyone is on his good side.
chill out lol
Josh Beckett is not an ace?
double play!
Just tuned in….I’m bummed I missed Gardner’s triple and there is no video for it on Gameday, only the homeruns. A triple for Brett is just like a homer for Alex, what gives?
Meanwhile, clearly this is not gonna be a pitchers duel, but hopefully the Moose can settle down a bit and hold em here.
….just like that! Go Moose!
Crumbs for the trolls.Eh,eh,eh,eh.
“A leadoff double is not the way to start the inning after the Yankees just gave Moose a 3 run lead.”
I’m sure it will be either Traber or Britton getting sent down for Matsui.
That was huge!
Get more runs
6-0 Jays, 2 outs in the 1st.
lol kC turn into the yankees thatinning
6-0 Jays..Love it.. Maybe Beckett is hurt??
Damn, I should have started Vernon Wells on my fantasy team today. Oh well, he has my permission to keep piling it on anyway
Good job by such a terrible team.
6-0 jays.
They should send Britton down he never does anything!
Beckett definitely like ace-like so far today.
A crying shame.
Crumbs for the trolls.Eh,eh,eh,eh.
“A leadoff double is not the way to start the inning after the Yankees just gave Moose a 3 run lead.â€
I am not a troll. I am a long-time Yankee fan. I want the Yanks to win and that’s why I want Moose to hold the lead. I am glad he got out of the inning with no runs scored.
Beckett just doesn’t have it today. He’s pulling a Bannister.
Bekett giving up hits by the bucket.
Fran,
There’s nothing wrong with coaching the pitcher. It’s like Rebecca and her “throw strikes” mantra.
get more runs boys
Season ARod – RISP – 27-115 = .235 – for $30 mil, I need a stimulus refund check.
Man on 2nd – 5-35 = .143
Man on 3rd – 7-17 = .412
Man on 2/3 – 2-7 = .286
Bases loaded – 1-8 = .125
Month of August – 11-55 = .200 and only 7 RBI’s
RISP – 2-17 = .118
awful throw there good base running by derek
Damon/Gardner CF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
AROD 3B
Matsui DH
Nady RF
Giambi 1B
Irod C
Cano 2B
Wasn’t referring to you Fran, responding to your comment.
Relax, enjoy the Yankee victory in the making.
Where have I seen this scenario before?
TOR batted around while scoring 6 runs and then the leadoff man made the final out with another runner in scoring position. Deja vu.
Get Jetes home somehow
lets go arod
base hit a-rod thats all!!
Of course mlb kids have a greater chance. The name factor enhances the resume.
Nick in SF,
In the last inning, you can tell that Leiter and Kay are really comfortable with each other. They go off into their own world and forget that millions of people are eavedropping.
Shouldn’t someone let the KC manager know that their pitcher is dying out there?
The guy needs a cut-man at this point, not a pitching coach.
Turtle-Like (Pedroia’s face)
August 17th, 2008 at 1:54 pm
Crumbs for the trolls.Eh,eh,eh,eh.
Only a troll knows who the real trolls are on this site.
OK, there is STILL no Gameday video of Brett’s triple so can someone indulge me: How close was it? Was there a play at 3b or did he get there so quickly that they didn’t even make a throw? Would it have been a triple for your garden variety baserunner w/above average speed, say someone like Abreu?
lol!! Whoever thinks the Yakees arent getting to the playoffs is plain stupid.
Al Lieter sometime is soo repetitive i cant take it..
when he describes a pitchers he always says it starts with command and location..then you have to feel for your pitches..
Never changes how he says it either.. geese he needs some new vocab
Shouldn’t someone let the KC manager know that their pitcher is dying out there?
i believe 5 of their bullpen guys were used yesterday. so bannister is gonna have to keep going.
bases loaded no outs…
giambi SO or GFDP
Is 6 runs the magic number that saved our season? The Yanks’ most reliable pitcher, the Moose, gives up 3 in the top of the 1st, and our season again looks like it’s on the brink of extinction.
Then, bam, the offense comes back and scores 6 and the Yankees have life. Meanwhile, in Boston, the ace of all aces, Josh Beckett, gives up 6 to the Blue Jays. Now we have more than life; we have hope?
Could that dual-sequence have been the moment we can look back and see where our season was saved?
I do not endorse the above optimism, but I know some of you go in for that kind of thing…
here we go jason
pedriora double play.. yea!!!
the only thing better than seeing Beckett get lit up is seeing Kevin Youklis get hit by a Joba fastball.
Maybe since the skies are clearing in Colorado, the Red Sox are on their way to being Yankeed.
‘giambi SO or GFDP’
way 2 have confidence…
Kill-Schill(ing)- Hey, Zell, you have great photos on your blog.
- Thanks a lot. I get them from various places. Google, Flickr, Yahoo..I put them together and photoshop them. I do it to make it different than most other blogs. I put a picture with every post and instead of just plain photos…I add effect and change them around.
Kevin
No bbb. It was a triple because of Brett’s amazing speed and talent. It would not of been a triple for any other player. That is why Brett is such an assett.
grandSLAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
YEA NOW WAT!
BBB,
They (Kay or Al) mentioned that the ball was cut off and he still made it. Just alluding to the fact that he’s amazingly fast.
Grand Slam GIAMBI!! 10-3. Game Over!
Kevin
wow… giambi producing with risp?!?!
giambi .062 with the bases loaded
Like I said ain’t this a bi***
I SAT FOR 6 HRS AND GOT 3 RUNS A STELLER PITCHING PERFORMANCE BY THE BP AND TODAY THEY ARE JUMPING ON THEM LIKE THEY SMELL BLOOD, THE ONE SWING ALEX HITS OUT THE PARK WAS A PROTECTION SWING,FREE AND EASY..WHAT’S NEXT !
Would it have been a triple for your garden variety baserunner w/above average speed, say someone like Abreu?
No. But he benefited from a lazy retrieval of the ball by Jose Guillen.
‘giambi SO or GFDP’
im sorry, what was that?
way 2 go jason!
BBB, is that really you or did brettisgod take over your name?
Gardner, though he does have blinding speed, would probably not have made it had Jose Guillen quickly got the ball back in. Once it was fielded in the gap, Guillen seemed to take his time throwing it back in as he was probably surprised that Gardner was going for 3. The play was close but Gardner slid to the outside of the bag. An average runner would not have made it.
Wow the Yanks are pouring it on now! 10-3 and it’s only the second inning. It’s about time they broke out.
Somebody must be wearing his golden thong today!
Big G FTW!
Kinda feel bad for Bannister at this point.
Only a troll responds to troll-bait.
“Only a troll knows who the real trolls are on this site.”
BTW, Turtle face Pedroia just GIDP. Life in wonderful.
i am not dreaming am i? the yankees have awaken!!
10-3 Yanks…
What does this mean?????
1. Yankees are finally hitting bad pitching rather than turning the pitcher into Cy Young.
2. If this group of Yankees ever joins a slow pitch softball league, they will rake.
Darn it, Yankees. Don’t give me hope now. I have just managed to peacefully surrender this season.
Brett SUCKS?
What a laughing stock you will be with a name like that.!! Look at the boy!
Only a troll responds to troll-bait.
Um isn’t troll bait a felony? Dude you are sick.
okay…whatever lol
they have to take bannister out at some point, right?
cano!
We might see Tony Pena Jr. pitching today!
So when the Red Sox lose today, the Yankees will be 5 games back. But guys, don’t think about the playoffs, because according to Pete that would be very unrealistic.
thank you brian bannister. you were exactly what we needed lol
Wow he only lasted into the 2nd inning! These yankees hitters are brutal!
Big wiff by whinny mellon-head Youkilis to end the inning.
I won’t believe this is a turnaround game until it happens for another week. This is mostly on Bannister so I’m not about to say playoffs.
AND MOOSE WILL GET #16 BABY!!
obviously I hope brett does well, but I don’t understand all the fan fare he gets and all the disdain for melky..to this point they have been very similar. It makes me think of that stereotype that white players are smart and hardworking while latin players are talented, but lazy.
Thanks Bannister – we needed that!
1) where has this offense been all year?
2) I kind of feel bad for Bannister
Brandon
that sucks, thats the kind of luck I’m gonna have when i come to N.Y. in September.
I feel bad for ya brother!
Since ACE only need to pitch well in playoffs, Beckett is an Ace.
I agree with Kay, you got to let Bannister off the hook. Jeez. 10 runs off 10 hits in 1+ innings? That’s cruel. Kay’s right. Should’ve took him out after Giambi.
I feel bad for Bannister too, bad that he lasted to the second inning.
Hey Dennis, you are correct, one game does not a trend make. However, at least the Yanks made a bad pitcher look like a bad pitcher for a change.
Do you think they were yukking it up at Fenway when the 3-0 KC score went up on the scoreboard?
Dfox –
Be prepared to hear the terms ‘Dead Cat Bounce’ and ‘Sucker’s Rally’
Saw your optimistic post this morning – keep the faith
DFA Giambi…where are all these posters!?
Really, it would be pointless to DFA Giambi at this point, but he should be removed from the 5 spot. Or maybe I am just POed that hes sitting on my bench on my fantasy team.
Dfox,
The reality is that Minny is playing well now. But as long as the Yankees don’t give up, that’s good for me.
Frogged-legged hillbilly ace Beckett back out for the 2nd inning.
TK,
Is there a buzz in DC this morning?
nice job cano.
Robbie being Robbie.
You mean ‘your boy’ Colt’s 4th quarter heroics? Or is there another Congressman under indictment?
Cano just dedicated that boneheaded move to his pal Melky.
Timmy Lupus
Robbie being Robbie.
Robbie being Manny.
Who’d have thought the Yankees would play a long game because the other team couldn’t get them out?
Thanks, all, for the info. on Brett’s triple. I think this is the first of many for him at the big league level! I’ve been following his progress since his Trenton days and I am excited for him. I *knew* he would hit up here! Knew it!
And just to clarify…yes, this is really me lol. And I still like Melky too, but I am all about Brett getting his chance to show what he’s got as the starter for the rest of the year. He’s earned it and it looks like he is going to be taking it and running with it – literally and figuratively
If you were at the game yesterday (I was). I am really jealous that the game was 13 innings and the Yankees already tripled their run total of yesterday…in 2 innings.
Well, at least Gardner is driving the ball.
Brandon
that sucks, thats the kind of luck I’m gonna have when i come to N.Y. in September.
I feel bad for ya brother!
I’m betting the whole team went to SCORES
Brett seems to be making solid contact and hitting some liners these past 2 games. That spells good news to me.
However, I do agree that the Melky bashing is a little ridiculous. He needs to get his head together and find his batting stroke again. It makes no sense to wish bad luck to him because every player in our system is an assett in one way or another.
Cano is a terrible baserunner.. You notice Nady did not get doubled up?
Cano is just not a smart guy. Bad teams make mistakes like that..
Is the out of town scoreboard at Fenway electronic?
****************************
No. In Boston they do all they can to keep themselves acquainted with their horrible past. It’s hand operated.
I hate Robinson Cano almost as much then stinky Melky!
A whiff by Manny-lite Jason Bay to go with his error, having a fine game so far.
Giambi-terian?
LOL giambi with the athletic play!
“Be prepared to hear the terms ‘Dead Cat Bounce’ and ‘Sucker’s Rally’
Saw your optimistic post this morning – keep the faith”
Heh, well, people can say that, but then what do they want the Yankees to do? NOT beat up on bad pitchers? I’m SURE they were facing bad pitchers during that bad stretch, and doing nothing against them. Today you saw he was bad because they actually strung hits together.
“The reality is that Minny is playing well now. But as long as the Yankees don’t give up, that’s good for me.”
Yeah, they are playing well now. But I believe if the Yankees can go on a streak, Minnesota will not be a factor. I don’t think they are good enough to go on any sort of extended winning streak.
TK,
Yes. Saw it on the box score, but when I saw the highlight he was very lucky it wasn’t picked off. He’s got that Favre recklessness for sure.
I know it’s against third stringers (or worse), but it’s still cool because he had surgery around draft time.
Brandon
Yeah that would do it.
Kinda helps to get a rise out of the team.
Giambi just solved our problem with Jeter’s declining skills at SS. That was definately a Jeteresque play. Giambi looks like a ballerina out there today.
When Matsui comes back, my guess is they’ll send Christian down.
lol. Did Giambi just try Jeter’s patented spin throw?
NICE PLAY MOOSE!
MOOOOOSE!
Hahaha.
That play by Giambi was funny. I’m really glad I’m watching this game. Get through 5, Moose. We NEED you to get a win. If you don’t keep winning, how will you get the Cy Young?
giambi thanks for showing up.
where were you in july
-When Matsui comes back, my guess is they’ll send Christian down.
Im hoping Betemit goes
Moooooooooooooooose
mel -
They were interviewing him on the field and he kept on looking around – He wanted to meet Brett Favre who I guess was his role model growing up.
He is a lock to make the team – and w/ the 2nd string guy struggling to learn the system he could even end up as the #2 going into the year.
Moose is energized now! I love it. I once again renew my vow to order a full case of Moose bars if he gets to 20 wins and/or the Yanks make the post-season.
JD Drew doubled off of second to end the Sux scoreless inning.
“But I believe if the Yankees can go on a streak, Minnesota will not be a factor. I don’t think they are good enough to go on any sort of extended winning streak.”
So the Twins aren’t good enough to go on any sort of extended winning streak, but you think the Yankees are? How does that even begin to make sense?
Now that Giambi has proven how flexible and athletic he is this game, he can be our backup infielder. So, when Matsui gets back we can get rid of our present backup infielder, Betemit.
These are the YANKEES NOT THE TWINS! The Yankees will not disapoint. Look we have new talent now. One player has changed this team so much! When Joba comes back well be better. My only question is when Matsui comes back WHAT happens to Brett?
Jetah with the heatah creeping towards .300.
Bye Bye Beckett the ace just served up another down by the Pesky pole, 7-0 Blue Jays.
It would be a mistake to disregard Minnesota.
Brett will probably move to the bench and johnny damon will move to center, because the DH spot is reserved for Hit-Deki
The power hitting Adam Lind just hammered one off Beckett…7-0 TOR.
“So the Twins aren’t good enough to go on any sort of extended winning streak, but you think the Yankees are? How does that even begin to make sense?”
What doesn’t make sense to you? We are all well aware the Yankees had a BUNCH of under performing hitters for the entire season. What if they start performing now? It’s not like they are unknown players who were under performing, like Cano, they are all stars. And then you have the rotation. If they get Joba and Hughes back, their rotation would be Mussina, Joba, Pettitte, Hughes, and Ponson, You don’t see how that can be a very effective rotation?
And then you look at Boston and you can’t help but think what they are without a Beckett who’s actually good. What’s their rotation? A troubled Beckett, Dice-K, Lester, Paul Bird, and ??
Moose is the man!!! And he is still the best fielding pitcher in the AL, and has been for at least 10 years now.
I can’t help but smile now when I think back to his nationally televised start vs Detroit on Monday Night Baseball last August. He was really struggling then and got hit hard, and the d-bags on ESPN were basically eulogizing his career…one of them even said he was an old man who couldn’t field his position anymore!
Cant field his position huh?
Well look at him now, ESPN! In the immortal words of Big Pun – “how do you like them apples, a-hole?”
MOOOOOOOOSE!!! He better get a Gold Glove this winter too. He SHOULD have almost as many as Maddux by now!
Even when the offense is doing good they manage to hit into a bunch of DP’s.
Marlins Fire sale
But what’s to say that Hughes will be effective when he comes back? Or that all of a sudden, when the entire team has been underperforming for 4 and half months, that we’ll just get it figured out and start scoring 6 runs a game. We’re behind 3 teams effectively, because the White Sox are there too. I’m not saying the Yankees can’t do it, but it’s a silly notion to just disregard Minnesota.
It will probably be Christian that goes down. Rosters expand in 2 weeks anyways.
DO YOU REALLY THINK THAT CHRIS? Or maybe Brett can stay in center and Matsui and DAMON can switch at DH?IF Matsui is coming back to take Bretts spot he can just stay whereever he is!!
Beckett exits the ballgame to a rousing applause from the Fenway faithful after giving up a double, Sox down 7-0.
Thanks for the 3 innings Josh.
“Even when the offense is doing good they manage to hit into a bunch of DP’s.”
Yes, but does that ball that Abreu just hit actually worry you?
First of all, it was hit extremely hard, second the fielder made a good play, and third, he was safe at first.
BBB, I couldn’t agree more. I never wrote him off coming into this year. Similar too Maddux, he’s doing well even in old age.
We all knew what Gardner was capable of. He is known to walk a lot, have patience at the plate, and has tremendous speed. With those tools..you should succeed. I think Gardner can leave his mark this year. I still have faith in him.
Kevin
The Twins have it pretty easy for the rest of August. 3 more vs. Seattle and 7 vs. the AAAA’s. But also 4 @ Los Angeles of Anaheim.
In September they have 6 vs. KC, 3 @ Baltimore, 3 @ Toronto, 3 vs. Detroit, 3 @ Cleveland, 3 vs. CSW, and 4 @ Tampa.
TK,
Thanks for the tidbit. Too bad Colt doesn’t have a higher number like 54 b/c he’s a real gunslinger. I think that the coaches will want him to dial it back a bit. Like Favre did last year.
We’re going to hope that the White Sox fall off.
I just checked out the Scranton site, for the probablepitchers its saying TBA-could it be that Hughes is being called up and pitching on Tuesday?
if Olsen, Willingham or Hermidia are on the market we better listen
Mark how many players come when rosters expand? Does that mean Melky will come back to?
Note all the trolls in denial now silenced.
Interesting stuff on the Marlins, Brandon. Cashman should take a flier on Jacobs. (Is his defense any good though? I know he can rake) Hopefully Florida would do a reasonable deal with us w/o imposing a Girardi tax.
8 to nadda
hate them sox
Mark how many players come when rosters expand? Does that mean Melky will come back to?
40. And no he needs to earn it again.
When’s the last time the #4 and #5 hitters for the Yankees each had 4 runs batted in?
Bobby’s GIDP was good sportsmanship.
You can say that again, best pitcher never to win 20 games.
Abreu was safe.
It is amazing how many calls the umps BLOW..
the yanks GIDP situation is absolutely a concern.
Minny is not going away guys.. There pitching is good and that is obviously the key.
The sux and the Yanks may not make the playoffs, it can happen.
The teams that have a chance for the playoffs in my opinion are; tampa, yanks, sux, white sox, minny, angels, and maybe even the Jays.. That is it.. Obviously the Angels are in.. 6 teams for 3 spots that is the bottom line…
Yea it can be as many as 40 players, but the Yanks usually wont have all 40 players up, and Scranton is headed for the playoffs as well.
Dennis: You and me both. Now we just have to hope that the HOF voters will eventually see it that way too!
“When’s the last time the #4 and #5 hitters for the Yankees each had 4 runs batted in?”
2007?
BBB now is when they should be thinking about what 09’s roster will be unless Cashman isn’t returning. I said this for awhile I’d take Mike Jacobs and Olsen or Willingham or Hermidia for Ian Kennedy plus a Colin Curtis something like that.
Jacobs can be the interim 1B until MOntero gets warmed up to 1B in the minors. Another scenerio is go after Lastings Milledge again just because IPK is starting to get it doesn’t make him untradeable.
Brandon,
I think Jacobs would be a good backup plan if Teixeira signs somewhere else or his contract demands are out of control.
I really wanna thank people for answering all my questions sorry for asking so many. I dont think melky will EVER earn his way back to the MLB does anyone else agree?
MOOOSE FREAKING DEALING!
I’m gonna be in tears the day he reaches 20 and if they can win the WS behind his spectacular season.
Very funny video of Yankee batting stances. Check it out.
http://claybuchholzloveslaptop.....world.html
Hah at Kay, he’s all, “Oh, I was [right]!”
It doesn’t matter, anyway. Gardner & Melky are just holding a spot for Austin Jackson.
JR Yankees I’m starting to get the feeling that Teixeira is not only a no but it may be an emphatic no. His price he’d be the 1B, Jesus Montero right now is questionable for C, some of the Yankees faction believe he can play 1B and it would keep him strong and healthy, this kid is a man amongst boys and I’m also thinking there is no use in wasting his talent at catcher when you got Cervelli and Romine and Kyle Higas… (I’m not even attempting to finisht that name) I think the want era is gone..they’ll definitely persue CC Sabathia but I don’t see Tex.
Yanksfanmc, that’s puzzling. I hope Phil is ok – the Yankees belive he needed at least one more start in AAA, so there’s no way (IMO) that they would be bringing him up to the big leagues now
someone tell me Nady’s OPS as a Yankee
I agree Jacobs would be a good pickup. He’s an indian and not a chief which is exactly what we need. Teixeira is expensive, a chief, and could possibly block Montero down the line. I’m not all that interested in acquiring him and really hope the Yankees go the trade route instead for a 1b. Jacobs is a great fit or I like Saltalamacchia too.
Melky might become a player/coach/cautionary tale in Scranton.
An Icarus for our time.
Wouldn’t it be great to see Montero/Miranda as the 1b/DH combo a few years down the line? I’m not totally convinced yet that Miranda will make it in the majors but he definitely intrigues me so I hope he gets a good long look. Starting this year when the rosters expand.
Brandon,
It’s XXX.
IT’S OFFICIAL! WE’RE BRING EM ALL BACK!
So just stop it anyone who wants to get rid of any of these titans!!!
I did one of those “I need to go and buy a few things for a cookout” – and just got back with a very few things for the cookout – buy boy didn’t I just need birthday cards, and folding tables and enough gift bags to buy world series rings for everyone of this forum, etc. etc. etc. My dad had the best and most sage sayings in the world, but “a bargain is only a bargain if you need it” just never took hold!
Anyway, I lost track of time and came out of the store at 2:00. I was positive I had missed at least 5 innings. Well wasn’t I pleasantly stunned that we were still in the 2nd.
Noticed that our friendly Sux are on their way to lose two in a row (8-0 Jays right now thank you.) So this is why you play the games; and all it takes is one to turn it around; and where there is life there is hope; and every dawn is a new beginning; and do the math, we’re still in it; and TAKE THAT LUPICA AND YOU TOO MICHAEL KAY.
Okay, so we still have some ground to make up. One step at a time.
GO YANKEES!!!
“I really wanna thank people for answering all my questions sorry for asking so many. I dont think melky will EVER earn his way back to the MLB does anyone else agree?”
He will probably be back when the rosters expand.
Besides, if Melky comes back it will be because he has earned it and can help the team. Why would you be against that?
I like Saltalamacchia too.
I’d love some Salt on this team in 09′ and if you move him to 1B he might become an even better hitter, remember we also have Georgy who will have to DH/1B a bit. Another interesting possibility is Georgy in RF.
Where’s LaTroy Hawkins when we need him? This will be his kind of game soon.
I guess there’s always Britton, he should be hungry.
“I agree Jacobs would be a good pickup. He’s an indian and not a chief which is exactly what we need. Teixeira is expensive, a chief, and could possibly block Montero down the line. I’m not all that interested in acquiring him and really hope the Yankees go the trade route instead for a 1b. Jacobs is a great fit or I like Saltalamacchia too.”\
Can somebody please explain to me how Mike Jacobs would be a good fit? He’s a .240 hitter and has a .287 obp. How is that a great fit?????
Yeah Josh Beckett. Better than any of the Yankee pitchers.
What a joke.
Wouldn’t it be great to see Montero/Miranda as the 1b/DH combo a few years down the line? I’m not totally convinced yet that Miranda will make it in the majors but he definitely intrigues me so I hope he gets a good long look. Starting this year when the rosters expand.
I keep forgeting about Miranda, that kid can hit. He needs to hit LHP.
“I guess there’s always Britton, he should be hungry.”
Does he stay in the bullpen or at the airport?
Can somebody please explain to me how Mike Jacobs would be a good fit? He’s a .240 hitter and has a .287 obp. How is that a great fit?????
He’s a young and cheap run producer. I know Teixeira is god. I don’t see it not w/ Miranda in AAA, Georgy undecided, and Montero down the line.
Because Brett is 100 times better then Melky I think. Now I have to worry about some loser creep Austin Jackson? Austin doesn’t just deserve to get to be centerfielder for no reason!!! He should have to earn it like Brett did!!
Austin Jackson is a while away from making the team. Absolutely silly to worry about it now.
Moooooooose!!
You also got the possibility of Matsui having to play 1B…you see how Tex is not a given ?
1B possibilities
Matsui
Posada
Miranda
Ehlers
Jesus
Catcher
Molina
Pudge ?
Moeller
Cervelli
Romine
Montero ?
Moose is super psyched about all the run support.
“Does he stay in the bullpen or at the airport?”
I’m happy to say that I have never been to the airport at Scranton – but I can’t imagine that the food options go much farther than cheez wiz and ritz crackers.
“He’s a young and cheap run producer. I know Teixeira is god. I don’t see it not w/ Miranda in AAA, Georgy undecided, and Montero down the line.”
I understnad that he’s not even 28 yet, but a .240 average and a sub .300 obp is not good. Giambi produces just as much as him, but has an obp 100 points higher, and yes Giambi is 9 years older than him, but would it be the worst thing if the Yankees signed Giambi to a 1 year contract at a reasonable price? People complain about Giambi often, but Jacobs would be a lesser player compared to what Giambi could give them.
lay down a bunt!!!
“someone tell me Nady’s OPS as a Yankee”
Brandon, right now, it’s 1.067.
I thought X could play 1B (but Joe G. doesn’t know this)?
9-0 with Toronto threatening again.
Wow, seems like everyone has an opinion on next year.
The biggest problem I see is there is no Yankee mystique anymore. When they came to town you upped your game because you knew they would bring it. And the Yankees scratched and clawed their way through road trips like last week.
But, in the last THREE years I’ve seen them roll into town and if it’s not given, they don’t take it. This is a team with no fire or guts and the league knows it. Locker room leaders like Giambi are doing all their talking in the clubhouse and you can see the all talk attitude growing on some of the young guns.
Not everyone needs to be a leader, hit .350 and homer in the bottom of the ninth. We need role players. Guys who will take some pitches, hit for contact (not power) and play some defense.
Give up the “sign the All Star FA” movement and let Cash build some depth and chemistry (if he can).
Just got a phone call from my mom.
Verbatim: “I’m very upset about Melky… now what do you do with your shirt?”
“But not to be too negative, it is only 3-0. Yanks scored 4 runs yesterday so it is possible for them to pull this one out.”
Good job Whiff.
4 hits in the 5th inning…
Boy, is Jeter really turning it on.
There’s the power you were looking for from Jetes Brandon
“Can somebody please explain to me how Mike Jacobs would be a good fit? He’s a .240 hitter and has a .287 obp. How is that a great fit?????”
A guy like Jacobs, his job would not be to hit for average, it would be to hit for power and drive in runs. And I think he’s pretty adept at that. His avg and OBP this year are career lows, his career marks are .262 and .317 respectively but I wouldn’t be surprised to see both numbers rise a bit from playing in a less cavernous ballpark and hitting in a lineup with more experienced and disciplined (hopefully) hitters. Florida is a pretty young team and I imagine theyre a bunch of hackers. I know Uggla is.
“BBB now is when they should be thinking about what 09’s roster will be unless Cashman isn’t returning. I said this for awhile I’d take Mike Jacobs and Olsen or Willingham or Hermidia for Ian Kennedy plus a Colin Curtis something like that.
Jacobs can be the interim 1B until MOntero gets warmed up to 1B in the minors. Another scenerio is go after Lastings Milledge again just because IPK is starting to get it doesn’t make him untradeable.”
Brandon. Brandon. Brandon. Brandon.
You are absolutely, and totally, delusional.
1) Jacobs is not good.
2) IPK will not get you anything in either of those trade ‘offers’. They’re both blatantly one-sided in favor of the Yankees. You have to give to get, and in both of those, the Yankees are getting without giving. Stop it. Please.
at this point… i think the “CRACKAAA JAAAAACKS” guy at the stadium is just as famous as freddie sez.
You should throw your shirt out Nick seriously. I dont think Melky is coming back to the MLB. Buy a gardner one do they sell those yet?
In other news, even Brett’s outs are hard hit today, and Jeter really wants me to win the batting avg battle in my fantasy matchup this week.
“Very funny video of Yankee batting stances. Check it out.”
No. It isn’t funny. And PLEASE stop spamming the blog every few hours with the SAME LINK.
Get additional content, and people will view your blog. As is, please stop pimping your garbage.
“Wow, seems like everyone has an opinion on next year.”
Yeah and I’ll tell you mine:
Sha-la-la-la-la-la, live for today
Sha-la-la-la-la-la, live for today
And don’t worry ’bout tomorrow, hey, hey, hey
Sha-la-la-la-la-la, live for today.
There is plenty of time to think about next year – it’s called the off season. Today I want to think about this year’s team. Same with tomorrow.
“In other news, even Brett’s outs are hard hit today, and Jeter really wants me to win the batting avg battle in my fantasy matchup this week.”
I sure hope Brett 2.0 is here to stay.
Austin Jackson is a while away from making the team. Absolutely silly to worry about it now.
Definitely, last night I came back from outside BTW Gardner is starting to hit the ball w/ authorite credit to Butch Wynager…anyway on WFAN Lori Rubensein was ripping Cashman for not having the sack to call up Austin Jackson and then I asked myself who the hell sits for AJAX ? WHO ! X ? (nope), Damon ? (nope), Bobby ?(nope), Gardner ? (not right now) Matsui ? (hell no)so why is bringing up Jackson suppose to be an option ? because the Mets rush thier guys and to compete w/ the Nick Evans and Daniel Murphys ?
It was quite commical and then the village idiot Jerome from Manhattan basically spewed his verbal diahrea over the airwaves, the only point he made that I agree w/ is that Darrel Rasner should not be a SP.
it is 11-3, arod will hit a 3 run HR
Bad at bat by Giambi. He’s trying to hit Grand Slam #2.
I found out the perfect comparison! Brett Gardner is THE NEXT RICKY HENDERSON! Fast and hits all the time. That makes more sense then my comparison to A-rod. Do you guys agree with it?
Someone else Jacobs is a throw in, he doesn’t have that much value as a FA. Ian Kennedy plus a Colin Curtis/Kevin Whelan can land him and Hermida if the Marlins are willing to deal.
brettisgod slow downnnnnn……..
brettisgod, I have a serious question for you. Is this your first season watching major league baseball?
Until Brett Gardner gets his first home run, Ricky Henderson comparisons, even in jest, should be off limits.
SOmeone please tell me I’m not buggin’, and my plasma isn’t on the fritz. Does it seem that the camerawork is a little shaky for YES HD today?
HEY GUYS, if you still don’t want to count the Yankees out of the playoff race just yet, if you have been watching the scoreboard outside the AL East, and if you’ve been following the TWINS with as much worry as I have, Check this out.
I compared the Twins and WS schedule’s this morning for the remainder of the season. The TWINS have an infinitely easier schedule. It’s a joke actually. Like half of their remaining schedule consists of games against the A’s, Mariners, Royals.
If one of those two could challenge the Yankees for the WC, it’s far more likely to be the Twins with their schedule.
Start rooting for the Twins then to win the AL Central and the White Sox to implode.
I guess it’s probably best to root against both of them, but Minnesota isn’t going away alas.
Brett doesn’t even refer to himself in the 3rd person – that a 100 SB’s and we can talk.
Petefunk – jerky motion with camerawork. Yes – YES
Trisha,
I have a serious question for you ..
Do you not realize that bettisgod is a troll; making outrageous comments just to get a response?
Also, do you still want Brett Gardner to fail (in your heart) as you said late last night?
“Bad at bat by Giambi. He’s trying to hit Grand Slam #2.”
Indeed, which is part of the reason I’d rather trade for a 1st baseman than bring him back next year even at a greatly reduced rate. He’s just so bullheaded at the plate and will never change his approach. Not that we’re in huge need of insurance runs here but I’m just so sick of the veteran stubornness and ego, thinking they know better than their coaches – although in this case Giambi likely does know better than Long, haha. but still.
The only problem with getting rid of Giambi is if we get rid of Abreu too, then we lose 2 of our 4 good eye/OBP guys. I would much rather keep Abreu than Giambi on a 1 yr deal, but then you have too many OF/DH types and have to trade Damon or Matsui, and I’m not really feeling trading either one.
Or, there is always the possibility of dumping both and signing Milton Bradley. I wonder if he would want to play here.
Well, isn’t this a nice Sunday afternoon game? Hope it stays this way, and Moose gets his win.
In the meantime, back out again to see our Charleston team play down in Lakewood.
Enjoy the rest of the game, guys!
KS –
The Twinkies don’t play nearly as well on the road and their remaining schedule is 24 road, 15 home if I counted right.
They are built for that hard carpet and their young pitchers haven’t proven anything yet.
Petefunk – jerky motion with camerawork. Yes – YES
Must be David Cone
Doreen recaps when you return.
Moooooooooooooooose
I love at the stadium when newbies ask why theyre booing the pitcher
No I don’t want him to fail. I was just trying to “explain” to brettisgod that even if you have a favorite Yankee player and want that player to succeed, your fandom should help you find your way to wanting them all to succeed, and the best suited to make his way into the lineup, even if it means it isn’t your guy. I love Melky like the living daylights and want nothing more than for him to live up to all that promise – but I wouldn’t want him back if someone else was getting the job done and he wasn’t.
As much as I like Brett, I absolutely idolized Rickey as an ADHD ridden youngster. So no way can I abide those comparisons. Not even “a homeless man’s Rickey Henderson”. Can’t do it.
Thank you Trisha – I thought I was going crazy. I watch almost all the games on HD. Seems like yesterday and today the have the B team running the HD camera’s.
“Having Matsui back can only help. Wonder who would get cut?”
Put the following naes in a hat. It wont mater which one is pulled – Cody Ransom, Justin Christian, I Rod and Brett Gardner.
If I Rod stays, it should only as Molina’s backup. Let the Yank’s record with each behind the plate speak for itself.
Don’t let 2 games against the royals fool you.Gardner is totally overmatched against good pitchers. He’s a AAAA player if there ever was one.
I wouldnt have a problem if Joe Girardi’s name is in that hat as well.
Hey guys went to the Lakewood games last night, and posted a couple of things, but it was late, and I am sure not everyone saw them so here is a re-post.
Just got back from Lakewood, and all I have to say is Betances was a man among boys tonight. The first batter he faced hit a line drive off his leg, but stayed in the game. He struck out 12 guys, and would get to two strikes and throw a nasty breaking ball. His fastball was constantly hitting 90-91, and got it up to 94 tonight. The kid was dealing. He only should of given up 1 er, but the rf made a bad play, and the ball got past him allowing 2 runs to score. The kid has lots of swagger. I can’t say enough about his performance.
Betances was topping out at 94, nothing higher then that. Breaking stuff was just nasty putting it in the dirt. The Lakewood kids never had a shot. They didn’t have 1 hard hit ball tonight. He also had several k’s on pitches he would just blow right by them. Now I know the Sally hitters are still young, but very impressive for a 19 year old to k 12 batters over 6 innings of work. I am assuming he is coming to his innings limit soon as he is now at 103 or 104.
I broke it down a little while ago on this forum:
The Twins have it pretty easy for the rest of August. 3 more vs. Seattle and 7 vs. the AAAA’s. But also 4 @ Los Angeles of Anaheim.
In September they have 6 vs. KC, 3 @ Baltimore, 3 @ Toronto, 3 vs. Detroit, 3 @ Cleveland, 3 vs. CSW, and 4 @ Tampa.
This isnt my first season watching baseball I guess I dont pay enough attention to the complicated things. I just pay attention to hits and runs and stuff. I really like Brett please dont think I am not a true fan. I hope to meet Brett Gardner one day and post the picture here!
As for the Central, I think Minnesota is better than Chicago. If it comes down to us fighting it out with one of those teams I’d much rather go down to the wire with the Pale Hose. We still have 3 (or 4?) home games left with them too and we won the first series there without A-Rod in the lineup.
Uh oh. Sux got a run. (He he he). 9-1.
lol. For a second there, I thought Tek was going to make it 9-5.
Thanks Mark!
“Don’t let 2 games against the royals fool you.Gardner is totally overmatched against good pitchers.”
Like Jonathan Papelbon? Just sayin
Having Matsui back can only help. Wonder who would get cut
Traber, Britton, Rasner
Wow we are winning and winning big. This kind of discredits all the Yankee bashing I had planned this afternoon. Boston is losing as well hmmm what do I do for the rest of the day, I should sleep for an obscenely late hour more often.
Wow we are winning and winning big. This kind of discredits all the Yankee bashing I had planned this afternoon. Boston is losing as well hmmm what do I do for the rest of the day, I should sleep until an obscenely late hour more often.
*Sorry for duplicate post.
But how do you know Brett cant become Ricky Henderson? Dont doubt Brett because all the Brett haters ate there words last time. He has done so so good so far in such a short amount of time. He gets more comfortable with each game and has hit against EXCELLENT pitchers.
Colloege Football Preseason Top 25 AP Poll:
1. Georgia
2. Ohio State
3. U$C
28. California
41. UCLA
47. Notre Dame
48. Hawaii
Unranked:
– Maryland
– Vanderbilt
“Having Matsui back can only help. Wonder who would get cut”
I think that they would send Justin Christian down.
Mark the way Betances is throwing I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets to 125 – 130 IP this year.
Nick in SF –
Longhorns?
btw, dunno if this has been mentioned but just saw an update on Gameday that Nancy Drew had exited the game w/some sort of tightness or stiffness. Not that he’d been doing much anyway but hmm, no Lowell, no Drew, no Manny.. guess theyre about to find out what Jason Bay is really made of!
Oh yes:
11. Texas
Drive 4-5, I assume you were just kidding with I-Rod on your list of who might go when Matsui comes back. If not, think about it.
wisconsin!!!!! yea lets go badgers!!!
“But how do you know Brett cant become Ricky Henderson? Dont doubt Brett because all the Brett haters ate there words last time. He has done so so good so far in such a short amount of time. He gets more comfortable with each game and has hit against EXCELLENT pitchers.”
I am still not sold on Brett. Of course his speed is very attractive but his K numbers and slap-away style of hitting makes me a bit uneasy. I have said this before and I’ll say it again the hit off of Papel-bum was a 20 hopper and it barely got through he didn’t hit a majestic drive or a screamer into the gap it was basically an infield single that got through.
Ricky Henderson is arguably the greatest lead-off man in the history of baseball. It isn’t an insult to say BG can never do that.
Check Henderson’s stats some time. You’ll understand.
I think that they would send Justin Christian down.
Why he’s actually useful. I’d send down Traber or cut ties w/ Bet since Ransom is up. IDK tough one on a team having issues w/ RISP most of the time. We’ll see one thing I know is Christian is a good baserunner and defensive replacement when needed.
Saltalamachia, Milledge, Hermedia, Willingham, Ethier/Kemp, Wandy Rodgriguez, Jonathan Sanchez, Cain, etc.
No stone should be left unturned this off-season in the trade market. That is where we will really re-shape the team. Getting CC is nice, but he is not the only problem we have. How Cashman fixes the team, and more specifically the lineup, will dictate how much we improve.
So Matsui is going to be entrenched at DH, I guess thats good because Giambi and Betemit wont be able to play on the same days.
Okay Al but isn’t that what Derek Jeter does Slapping the ball?
“Saltalamachia, Milledge, Hermedia, Willingham, Ethier/Kemp, Wandy Rodgriguez, Jonathan Sanchez, Cain, etc.
No stone should be left unturned this off-season in the trade market. That is where we will really re-shape the team. Getting CC is nice, but he is not the only problem we have. How Cashman fixes the team, and more specifically the lineup, will dictate how much we improve.”
Jon Sanchez has been my man crush for a few years now, he needs to wear the pinstripes do the Giants need a 2B?
Brandon -
We’re leaving in about 5 min. Anyone in particular I should keep my eye on (in Lakewood)?
With all the negative stuff that’s been swirling around (and I just mean, talk about what’s lacking in NY this season), I just want to say one thing. In Toronto and in Cleveland, there were so many empty seats. So many sections of the both stadiums (stadia?) that were completely empty. In Toronto, the Jays had swept the A’s and were doing quite well, but you could not find their game in the sporting section of their paper without a microscope and there were no MLB standings, no boxscores, no nothing. Cleveland was better than that and the fans were great, though smaller in number than NY. But the Cleveland game we saw had a rookie starter going who started shakily but ended up doing a great job. When he was taken out of the game mid-inning NOT A ONE OF HIS TEAMMATES STOOD UP TO GREET HIM AND CONGRATULATE HIM ON A JOB WELL DONE.
For all of the things surrounding our Yankees this season, I have not witnessed in a single game I’ve watched where there was not support among teammates. The fans are still turning out – even if it is just to say good bye to the Stadium, and they are still news in this city.
All is not bad.
“btw, dunno if this has been mentioned but just saw an update on Gameday that Nancy Drew had exited the game w/some sort of tightness or stiffness. Not that he’d been doing much anyway but hmm, no Lowell, no Drew, no Manny.. guess theyre about to find out what Jason Bay is really made of!”
AWWWW!!!!!
None of the pitchers are going to get sent down for Matsui. Rasner is here to stay – at least this season.
Britton or Traber will go down when Hughes comes back.
It will probably be Christian or Ransom going down when Matsui is activated.
Rickey is the best player of his type (speedy leadoff man) that ever was or ever will be, IMO. Plus he had great power for a leadoff man. I can’t imagine another baseball player ever comparing with him. He should get into the Hall unanimously this year but I am afraid Gammons and ESPN are gonna F him over like they did Ripken Jr. and give all their 1st place votes to Rice. Bunch of clowns over there, they should lose their votes if they do that!
Jete is closing in on 2500 hits. I think 2494 right now.
OUCH
Okay but now Im still confused. When Matsui comes back you have Nady Abreu Damon Gardner Matsui all playing outfield positions! Thats just to much! Do you think they might sit out Abreu?
“Okay Al but isn’t that what Derek Jeter does Slapping the ball?”
Yes and no, Jeter has a bit of power not alot but a decent amount. Of course now that he is older he is not doing as much but he always had the ability to pull his hands in and jack one out or hit it the other way into the short porch. BG has barely showed the ability to hit it to the outfield.
AZ I love that thinking. I definitely believe that no stone should be left unturn in getting younger and making trades.
OF options
Milton Bradley
Josh Willingham
Matt Kemp
Lastings Milledge
Jeremy Hermidia
SP
Wandy Rodriguez
Scott Olsen
Dontrelle Willis (yes I would think about him since the BP coach knows him well)
Jonathan Sanchez (he had a scare the other day one could wonder)
Matt Cain (again for what price)
C
Salty ?
internal
The only thing I’d lay off is relief pitching.
““btw, dunno if this has been mentioned but just saw an update on Gameday that Nancy Drew had exited the game w/some sort of tightness or stiffness. Not that he’d been doing much anyway but hmm, no Lowell, no Drew, no Manny.. guess theyre about to find out what Jason Bay is really made of!â€
AWWWW!!!!!”
This information pleases me. I really don’t care if we make the playoffs I just want Boston kept out of the playoffs.
That A-Rod, padding his damn stats again!
oh baby.
HAHA Cody Ransom.
WTF Arod ?
ransom just jacked one. lol
“Milton Bradley”
Brandon I thought our boy Bradley was an FA?
Cody Ransom: “Send me down? Yeah, right.”
Ransom for president!
Congrats to Cody Ransom on hitting his first career major league HR.
Kevin
I heard myself thinking, “He’ll hit a homer”, and what do ya know? Cody baby.
Anybody else see Meachem trying to hold Ransom at 3B during his homerun trot?
Ahhh, apparently Cody is a stat padder too!
He’s right at home then! lol
With Giese on the DL, we need Rasner up here as the long man… even with Hughes comes back. Britton and Traber can go.
Brandon –
Milledge isn’t going anywhere – where are you getting that?
HaHa, Brandon.
Jeter’s dedicating today’s line to you. Minka must’ve told him about your snide little comment about him hitting singles in your postgame rant.
Clay Bucholz is 2-8 with a 6.32 era, and is pitching down 10-1. Wow who would of thought other young prospects struggle as well.
It’s decided. Cody Ransom stays when Matsui comes back .Betemit will go to AAA. They will not put him on waivers.
That’s not Ransom’s first home run.
And the discussion about Brett Gardner and Rickey Henderson is ludicrous!
Um, unless Matsui is going to pitch Tuesday night, we probably need to keep Rasner around.
Joba sighting in the dugout!
I feel like theres just to many great people on this team and it will be hard to decide who to send down.
I cant believe there is even a discussion on who is getting ent down when Matsui returns. It is so painfully obvious it is not even funny.
It is of course the king of the scranton – new york shuttle Chris Britton.
UNLESS of course he is now considered the long man.
Butch Wynager for Yankees hitting coach next year..although it was a lollipop pitch.
Anyone listening to the radio. What was Sterlings call?
mel he’s still hitting singles
Jennifer, Sterling said Nady hit the home run. Nice job by the voice of the Yankees.
mel: My sources on the team say that Jeter is flying back to Austin after the game to get his lucky Frappe at the Starbucks.
“This information pleases me. I really don’t care if we make the playoffs I just want Boston kept out of the playoffs.”
I agree with the Sux being kept out. I care about the Yanks making the playoffs but no matter what I do want the bosux to go bye bye.
Final score prediction: NY Giants 21, KC Chiefs 3. A-Rod scores one more TD (stat-padder
) but Tynes misses the PAT.
Why not just have Giambi retire and become the hitting coach?
Get Wilson Betemit outta here at least Ransom will give 110%.
did he just say offensive orgy ?
Gameday is posting Ransom’s 1.000 avg.
Nice
jennifer – Sterling was so confused that he thought Giambi hit the bomb. Sterling really needs a better spotter or he needs to hang it up ASAP.
LOL Traber batting.
BBB
34 – 12 GMEN
Justin Christian in right field: someplace he can’t get picked off.
“Get Wilson Betemit outta here at least Ransom will give 110%.”
Based on what, exactly? One at bat?
Never let anyone confuse NYY fans as geniuses, lol!
If Britton gets sent down and Traber stays that will be some serious BS. Great Britton is hungry for a chance, dammit! He wants to eat some innings!
travis- he is supposed to be our eyes, what a joke he is.
yeh I’m voting Arod on this. Down 3-0 and he started this orgasmic offense that Micheal Kay described.
I”m voting Moose.
It’s official, Kay just said Ponson vs. Halladay. Not good. So, TOR trying their best to screw us up.
“jennifer – Sterling was so confused that he thought Giambi hit the bomb. Sterling really needs a better spotter or he needs to hang it up ASAP.”
Wow, that’s bad. You know, Giambi’s a lefty, and Ransom’s a righty. You’d think it’d be difficult to confuse the two if, you know, you were paying attention to the game.
LaTroy Hawkins: hey, Traber doesn’t look so bad.
It’s decided. Cody Ransom stays when Matsui comes back .Betemit will go to AAA. They will not put him on waivers.
No, it won’t be Betemit. Girardi and Cashman both like him for whatever reason and they would have to DFA him.
Not gonna happen with two weeks to go until the rosters expand.
the only way this Matsui thing works is if they put Damon back in CF.
Damon, Jeter, Abreu, Rodriguez, Matsui, Nady, Giambi, Cano, Rodriguez
that should be the prime lineup. Giambi probably wont be moved that far back but worth saying….
how does a fan reach over there ? don’t we have screens ?
anyway WTF how the hell does Carl Pavano get a nod before Chase Wright ?
Throw that fan out!! Stupid idiot reaching and picking up the ball.
“When Matsui comes back you have Nady Abreu Damon Gardner Matsui all playing outfield positions! Thats just to much! Do you think they might sit out Abreu?”
When Matsui comes back, Brettisgod, there is no question about what is going to happen. We’re still in the hunt. You don’t put in someone who made the trip up because the guy in there wasn’t get the job done in place of your tried and true big guns. Sorry but your boy will be riding the pines if he doesn’t get sent down. NOW – here’s the good news. When the rosters expand in September, I would think he will be part of the callup. And they will probably let him take a few innings here and there, bring towels to the big guys when they need to towel off, and maybe even pinch run! Not a bad deal brettisgod.
““Get Wilson Betemit outta here at least Ransom will give 110%.â€
Based on what, exactly? One at bat?
Never let anyone confuse NYY fans as geniuses, lol!”
Are you 6 “Lol” get a better name. I’m just assuming any guy who spent 10 years or more in the minors would always give 110% in order to stick with a club but then again what do I know.
I’ve just heard it all. Pavano has a chance to pitch next weekend if he pitches well today. Him or Hughes, whoever is more ready.
It better not be Pavano over Hughes.
KAY “offensive orgy”
hahaha
Unless Hughes stinks up the joint, he’ll be up. Pavano got smacked around last time. He wasn’t ready.
Hasn’t Pavano been shaky in his most recent starts?
I agree that Chase should get a sniff before the Rajah – it sounds like spotty defense was the only problem for him last night.
Brett Gardner is not getting sent down when Matsui returns.
Gayle – you are so right. I forgot that Britton was here.
Chase Wright must have looked at someone wrong. Or spit on thier score sheet.
“I’ve just heard it all. Pavano has a chance to pitch next weekend if he pitches well today. Him or Hughes, whoever is more ready.”
Ughhh! When the Yankees area actually going to be 5 games out of the card they are considering the American “idle” for starts? Wow this organization is run by a pack of idiots, bring up Franchise if he looks ready at least we know he is our future Pavano is going to be begging some team to sign himto the minimum come the offseason.
Guiseppe-Why would Betemit have to be DFAd. He hasn’t been in the majors any longer than Melky.
“Unless Hughes stinks up the joint, he’ll be up. Pavano got smacked around last time. He wasn’t ready.”
exactamundo
Jennifer, it really is outrageous that the greatest sports franchise in history has John Sterling behind the microphone. It’s awful to have such distrust of what I am hearing when I tune in to Yankees’ broadcasts.
I want Pavano to come up and pitch really well, so we can put him on waivers and hope someone claims him, to eat the rest of the contract!
Um how about this? Pavano is being paid a billion dollars a game, Chase Wright $2/game. Chase should be around for a while, Pavano not much longer.
All other things being pretty equal, I will let you do the rest of the math.
Nick,
I don’t even know what Minka looks like, is it worth the effort to look her up? In my mind none of them are good enough for Jeter. Alba was the one.
What’s happening in Minny? 8-0 is now 8-4.
“Brandon (FIRE LONG ! clapclap clapclapclap, Ian Kennedy for Lastings Milledge give me the piece I’ll pull the trigger) August 17th, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Chase Wright must have looked at someone wrong. Or spit on thier score sheet.”
He might have pinched Cashman’s wife on the tush or stole a pack of Hank’s Marlboro’s.
Did Brett slap that one? He can slap is way to .400 avg every day for all I care.
“Brett Gardner is not getting sent down when Matsui returns.”
Ha ha ha! Nick what’s the matter do you only have a one-way sense of humor????
It says on their website Ponson vs Litsch
http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com.....p?c_id=nyy
if they don’t win AT LEAST 4-5 games on this 6 game road trip coming up….THEY ARE DONE…..Blowing out the Royals in ONE game at the Stadium counts as ONE WIN,,,,and NOTHING MORE !….They have still not PUT UP ANYTHING….When Boston comes to town, they need to be 2 games or closer to the Sux, or they are just the mirage they have been all year…
“It’s awful to have such distrust of what I am hearing when I tune in to Yankees’ broadcasts.”
Travis – you mean you don’t enjoy ‘It is HIGH, mm It is FAR, it is . . . Caught!’
me neither
anyone wanna bet Britton gets sent down after today ?
We are never making the playoffs if the frickin Twins keep winning! They certainly didn’t help the cause last week.
A travesty that Alfred E. Newman and Igawa got more opportunities than Chase Wright.
7-9 is their August 2008 record so far….and that is NOTHING to be proud of…
yeah i agree, this is a great win, but one they SHOULD win, and is no indication of a big turnaround. we’ll see if it can continue into the toronto series, but its a start, and a step in the right direction
There’s really no question. They’ve got to be playing with the scouts. No way that Pavano is pitching better than Phil. Don’t showcase Pavano. Make him have to make a team as a non-roster invite.
Travis exactly, I was listening to the game earlier and I couldn’t figure out what base our runners are on. Or when he starts laughing,I’m like what the heck is the count! You’re not that funny!!
Betemit isn’t going anywhere either. First of all, as Giuseppe pointed out, he is a favorite of Cashman and Girardi. Secondly, if you can force yourselves to be even semi-objective for a quarter of a second, Betemit hasn’t done a bad job for a utlityman and bench player. Although he doesn’t roll over and fetch on command, the way many of you think should happen any time a Yankee player is at bat or in the field, people don’t seem to pay enough attention to some of the great plays the guy has made in the field (see what I mean? Yes he has) nor to some of the hits he has gotten that have either ignited something or helped to win something (see what I mean? Yesd he has).
Just my opinion of course.
I wouldn’t be surprised in the least if a helicopter flew over the stadium, dropped a ladder, and Britton climbed up only to be whisked away back to Scranton.
This just confirms my earlier posting it will be Britton no doubt about it
Oh Britton you shouldn’t have done that.
“anyone wanna bet Britton gets sent down after today ?”
The guy should have a Greyhound tattoo.
Damn Britton’s awful even in a blowout…
Tough for Britton to be effective when he spends most of his time travelling!
mel: I’ve never seen that show that she’s on, but from what I gather, she’s very easy on the eyes. But I object to your cynical suggestion that Jeter isn’t truly a fan of the Austin Starbucks.
trisha: No, I didn’t realize you were joking. Good one.
Britton could pitch in relief of Hughes today. He has a few hours to get there haha.
Britton looks slimmer. Has he been running between assignments?
The whole Britton thing would be funny if it weren’t so damn cruel.
He’s not helping his own cause here, though.
“Just got a phone call from my mom.
Verbatim: “I’m very upset about Melky… now what do you do with your shirt?â€
Nick,
You didn’t tell her that you designated your shirt to your bottom drawer? I’m wondering though, have you made any corresponding wardrobe decisions as of yet?
Britton probably placed on waivers as we blog.
TKinDC, what I think John Sterling is trying to say on his near-home run calls is, “I am high…” It’s the only excuse.
OK GREAT BRETT WONT BE SENT DOWN BUT WILL HE BE PLAYING EVERYDAY?
Anyway think this Chase Wright in 20 GS has a 38 ER in starts and relief.
Should have dove Gardenhoser
…cont. That means he is averaging 1.9 runs per start yet PAvano is ahead of him
YAWN!
I think I will let all of you (and the Yankees of course) worry about who gets the call and who doesn’t. I so know that I couldn’t possibly have enough information to make that call that it actually hurts my head to think about pretending that I do!
Britton will be a 40-man roster casualty this offseason.
Al,
Sounds like you have a glimmer of hope about the Yankees. I thought you said this team was dead. Done. Ovah.
“A travesty that Alfred E. Newman and Igawa got more opportunities than Chase Wright.”
Wright ain’t ready yet. Rushing pitchers = not good.
Pavano as a possibility is a smoke screen (so whoever Hughes would face isn’t 100% certain it’s him, so they can’t just study his film). I’d say the chances of Pavano starting this year are slightly higher than Eric Milton and Victor Zambrano.
Carl Pavano gave up 5 earned runs on 7 hits in his last outing for Trenton.
“OK GREAT BRETT WONT BE SENT DOWN BUT WILL HE BE PLAYING EVERYDAY?”
Nobody can guarantee you that Brett won’t be sent down. See these are just posters? People who come here and like to talk about the Yankees? But they aren’t the front office! So see they TRULY can’t know what is going to happen.
If you’ve watched a flippin day of baseball in your life you should know that the answer to your question is – THERE IS NO WAY TO KNOW! SO JUST CHILL AND WATCH IT PLAY OUT WITH THE REST OF US!
Geesh!
If we don’t make the playoffs, there’s at least a chance that Boston won’t make them either, so that’s kinda nice I guess.
Do you think if we secretly switched Victor Zambrano for Carlos Zambrano, Lou Pinella would notice?
-Yankee Trader
I think Betemit is out of options so he would have to go through waivers to be sent to the minors.
Gardner’s average slowly climbing up to .200, he is at .192 now.
This was a big day for Britton and I am proud of him. How many games has Britton been able to shake the catcher’s hand after the final out?
lol. Britton tried his best to earn a save.
What did Cano do on the victory congo line? Does he look lost?
Todays MVP is the same as yesterdays…. Brett Gardner
Indeed it is a great time to be a Yankee fan.
I hope Pavano pitches a perfect game and he is released the next day.
Based on Pavano’s outing, I am guessing Hughes is coming back!
“I wouldn’t be surprised in the least if a helicopter flew over the stadium, dropped a ladder, and Britton climbed up only to be whisked away back to Scranton.”
-Somehow Pavano would get hurt during this operation.
trisha Melky was sent down w/ the intention that Brett would be the everyday CF, It’s almost a lock that he stays in CF for the rest of the season. He’s here to play. Matsui is a DH right now. Nady a LF/DH/RF, Damon a DH/LF….I doubt he goes anywhere this season.
What has happened to the Tigers?
Feel a little better if we didn’t have to face Burnett and Halladay in the next series.
Back to the lifeless bats for sure.
And you are worried that Wilson would be picked up?
“Britton looks slimmer. Has he been running between assignments?”
I think he’s been running between the Bronx and Scranton!
raymagnetic: I had a good “Evil Empire” shirt that I would like to call up to the rotation, but I gave it to a Yankee fan pal in Taiwan last year. So the roster spot is still open.
TK,
If Victor punches someone in the clubhouse, that just might work.
Wow Brian Bannister is still sitting on the bench.
and who exactly would claim Betemit on waivers? I don’t see it happening.
Good win today NY. Build off this and get the ship back on course.
Nick,
How many calories do you think he burned between Scranton and LA?
“Al Leiter’s tabulating the votes”
Now THAT was funny.
Yankees win and the Sox losing 12-2 in the bottom of the 7th. Looks like a good day.
Kevin
I count seven starts left for Moose…so he’s got to win four of them!!! Let’s go Moose!!!
“I think he’s been running between the Bronx and Scranton!”
Coincidentally, people in the area reported smelling bacon – go figure!
Trader, at this point there is barely anything left on the contract. It is a non issue, we already paid him like 37 or 38 mil for the four years, he just has to do nothing for another month and half for another 2 or 3 mil.
If we want to go through everything he probably could have already been at 19 wins.
Brandon, IT WAS A JOKE! I figured the towel boy part of it might have given it away??? I was Yanking littel brettisgod’s chains.
That said, I will guarantee you that if we get Matsui back, Brett will take a distant back seat to the big boys if we are still in the hunt. Not everyone can be the DH. My guess is that the hottest hitter in the AL, Damon, would find his way back to the field if Sui ends up being the DH.
Personally I could care less, seriously, where they all play. Logic tells me Gardner is going to be the odd man out if you have to play Abreu, Matsui, Damon, and Nady. You probably won’t catch Giambi sitting out too many games.
My opinion.
“And you are worried that Wilson would be picked up?”
Hey he sucks but he is cheap and can play a number of positions, im sure some team might be desperate enough to claim him
“sent down w/ the intention that Brett would be the everyday CF, It’s almost a lock that he stays in CF for the ”
That makes me feel GREAT! So I guess bye bye Bobby Abreu lol.
“It’s official, Kay just said Ponson vs. Halladay. Not good. So, TOR trying their best to screw us up.”
Nope. Toronto is closer to NY than they are to Bos. If the Yankees still feel as though they can make the playoffs I’m pretty sure the Blue Jays feel the same way.
Doesn’t matter who the Yankees have to hit against. “They play today they win today, that’s it.”
pavano and hughes pitch tonite
You guys won big and my Sox are getting pounded at home. Beckett allowed six runs in the first inning!
Just goes to show you that this season is not over yet……anything can happen in the month and a half that is left.
Mel,
It depends, any good restaurants that passby?
Wow Brian Bannister is still sitting on the bench.
He wanted to win this game badly. Alot of the Royals did.
why not just play matsui at 1st and abreu at DH with a outfield of…
nady in left
gardner in center
damon in right
“brettisgod
August 17th, 2008 at 4:16 pm
Todays MVP is the same as yesterdays…. Brett Gardner Indeed it is a great time to be a Yankee fan”
YOU ARE A CRACK HEAD
manny goes yard lad 3 mil 0
That makes me feel GREAT! So I guess bye bye Bobby Abreu lol.
Huh ? he’s the best hitter w/ RISP
“Wow Brian Bannister is still sitting on the bench.”
He was making sure he couldn’t be credited with a win somehow.
steve I’d say he now is a PH/DH
“That makes me feel GREAT! So I guess bye bye Bobby Abreu lol.”
See what I mean? This kid says some of the most idiotic things I have ever seen – and that’s going some on this forum!
brettisgod – ABREU IS GOING NOWHERE PAL. Your boy may end up riding the bench. Deal with it.
Win #16, yeah baby!! 4 away from baseball immortality. Let’s go MOOSE!!! Please help this happen baseball gods, PLEASE, he so deserves it!!
And indeed, $20 says Great Britton gets sent down now. Boo. I would also like to see Chase Wright get a 1 start audition in the bigs before Pavano. If Hughes pitches well replacing Rasner and Wright pitches well replacing Giese, then why do we need Pavano? I don’t want to help him get a contract for next year unless it’s absolutely crucial to the team’s success/depth for him to be up.
There is no way they are going to have Matsui play the field at all. They don’t want him to do anything to have his knee blow up again.
Matsui will only DH if he plays. With Nady on the team, the only way you get Matsui in the lineup without sitting Damon or Abreu is to have Damon play center or Nady play first and sit Giambi. As far as I can tell.
jr- I think he was in shock!! Considering the number of runs scored it was a pretty quick game.
I dont do drugs and you are just taking things TOO FAR! People are trying to confude me on purpose! They say Brett will not be sent down and trhat he will play every day in center field. Well OK THEN so that means either Nady, Damon or Abreu or Matsui will have to BENCH WARM!
Don’t the Blue jays realize that dominating Boston would be more fun for them adn the way the Yanks are playing, the best strategy to walk the bases loaded and then watch as the Yanks collapse hitter by hitter.
Jenn, all the more reason that we’ll likely see Damon back in center.
Nick- I’m sure Joe can’t wait to have that problem to figure out.
trisha BIG is a bit nutty but Brett ain’t riding the pine.
brett- or it means that Brett is sent back down.
The question is if you want to replace Giambi with Gardner.
Because Nady can play 1B and you can keep Damon-Gardner-Abreu in the OF with Matsui at DH.
I say forget about Tex and let Nady man first next year. Then, Damon can take left, resign Abreu for right and let Gardner or whoever play center and give the DH to Matsui. then, with days off you manage around but then we will be a better team having Damon, Matsui, and Abreu all who hit with RISP and generally have .300 BAs rather than having Giambi.
It’s too bad the Yanks blew win # 16 for him last time out in Minny. Then he would only need to win 3 more after today’s win. Oh well.
Oh, and Damon will not play right field. Left or center. Nady can play right if Abreu isn’t playing.
On and as for when Matsui comes up, why on earth would Gardner go back down? Who would play CF then? Not Damon, not every day. Girardi has already said he’s trying to preserve him this season, so that certainly isn’t happening.
Plus, I’m still really not extremely optimistic that we will make the playoffs. The Yankees need to see what Brett has for the rest of the year. Now is the time. Let him prove himself.
“People are trying to confude me on purpose!”
People are not trying to confuse you. You have to grow up and realize that there are the New York Yankees and they are there to win, not to powder your boy’s butt. They will play their winning hand and they will NOT sit their best because Gardner has gotten a few hits! SMARTEN UP.
He also lost a game or two only giving up a run or two.
In order to get to 92 wins and a possible playoff spot I calculated on an earlier blog that KC should be swept. Now we’ll just have to sweep Toronto or Baltimore to get back on track. We essentially need to win almost every series, from here on out.
Seattle-win 3
Detroit-win 1 of 1
Baltimore win 5 of 6
Tampa win 4 of 6
Boston win 4 of 6
Chicago win 2 of 4
Anaheim win 1 of 3
Toronto win 6 of 9
Chicago and Minnesota would have to lose 6 more games than us, Boston 7, and Tampa 11.
Joe said on the pregame that when Matsui comes back it will be as a DH only and he will rotate the OFs on the days Matsui is the DH.
I gotta say, Jeter has been really turning it on lately. You heard it on the postgame, 12 hits in his last 17 ABs. He’s gonna be a big factor if this team makes a run.
And what more can I say about Moose? Words cannot describe his spectacular performances and he is their MVP. If he can pitch like this at 39, I can see him going a few more years. The guy’s a HOF and who knows? 300 wins maybe? I can only dream.
You can argue that he could have 4 more wins, so he’d be at 20 now.
Jenn, all the more reason that we’ll likely see Damon back in center.
Johnny can’t play CF anymore that’s not productive for his stamina. You got to remember trish we know he’s a hitter but you can’t trot him CF at his age.
Then you get a lineup something like
Damon LF
Jeter SS
Nady 1B
Arod 3B
Matsui DH
Abreu RF
Cano 2B
Posada C/Molina/ maybe Pudge depending on Posada’s rehab
Gardner CF
Maybe tweak it for lefty righty mixing
Ok so we’re looking at a 5 game deficit with 38 to play including 6 vs. Boston. This race is far from over. Remember that team that had a 7 game lead with 17 to play.
“trisha BIG is a bit nutty but Brett ain’t riding the pine.”
Brandon, I don’t know if you have already grown so fond of Brett that you are having trouble seeing straight, but Brett from AAA will never get the nod over Nady, Abreu,
Damon, Matsui, and Giambi playing the game. These are tried and true, the Yankees are still in the hunt. You play your best hand. If it comes between sitting Damon and having him in center, I have him in center.
Great win. Now if they can just keep on winning…
Joe said on the pregame that when Matsui comes back it will be as a DH only and he will rotate the OFs on the days Matsui is the DH.
Which means Matsui is a regulated late innings PH or a day to day DH. He’s not playing everyday he will likely play 3 times a week remember he is not 100 %.
Nady needs to get more practice at first, he hasn’t played there in 2 years.
Not an easy week coming up. Toronto and the Orioles have given the Yankees fits. No time for a letup. This is the week to go full throttle.
Boston goes to Baltimore for 3 games then to Toronto for 3 games before coming to the Bronx.
The Rays are at home for 3 with the Angels and go to Chicago for 3.
Why do people want to bring back Andy over Mussina?
Is it because some people feel this year may be a fluke and he’ll revert back to 07 Mussina and get figured out? Or because they feel Andy can add more as a 210 innings guy and a lefty?
If both would accept a 1 yr deal, who would you take?
“You can argue that he could have 4 more wins, so he’d be at 20 now.”
I can’t even think about how many he would have if only the offense had hit better! It pains my soul, lol. The hardest to swallow are last week vs Minny and the Reds game – if only Girardi had let him pitch to Jay Bruce! Those hurt.
27 this year you mean to say that they dont like GIAMBI anymore?
“brettisgod
August 17th, 2008 at 4:38 pm
27 this year you mean to say that they dont like GIAMBI anymore?”
CRACK
HEAD
27,
Well, of course he’d have to check out Route 66 (not realizing it goes through Death Valley).
Let’s see:
1. Phoenix-Pizza
2. Vegas-showgirls, all you can eat buffets, and a stop at the Ranch
3. Texas for some brisket
4. Kansas City for some BBQ
5. Cincinnati-chili spaghetti
6. Chicago-deep dish pizza
7. PA for the Primanti sandwhich
8. Memphis for some BBQ
9. N’oleans for some gumbo and jambalaya
10. New York for some pizza, pastrami, and pitching
11. Then he’ll swim to Hawaii for some kalua pig
Wait, that’s Michael Phelps’ diet.
Brett will be traded in a package for Miguel Batista this offseason.
Brandon, I don’t know if you have already grown so fond of Brett that you are having trouble seeing straight, but Brett from AAA will never get the nod over Nady, Abreu,
Damon, Matsui, and Giambi playing the game. These are tried and true, the Yankees are still in the hunt. You play your best hand. If it comes between sitting Damon and having him in center, I have him in center.
Trisha it’s not going to come down to Damon that’s what your missing. Listen who said I’m a 100 % Gardner fan. I like him I’m not overly impressed but he’s not up here to sit and play from the bench, he changes the offense when he gets on base. It’s not going to be about him or Matsui, point is Matsui can’t play every day not even as a DH so that decision is not going to come down to MAtsui being an easy penciled in 4 AB per day. He is now a DH/PH..Bobby is there for his lineup presence, Damon and Nady same story, Gardner is going to be needed because of his range in the OF, it is going to be needed.
“Joe said on the pregame that when Matsui comes back it will be as a DH only and he will rotate the OFs on the days Matsui is the DH.”
Of course he will. Anyone who thinks that Gardner is going to be the permanent CF is absolutely not thinking clearly, in my opinion.
And by the way Brandon, if Melky suddenly had an epiphany experience in Scranton, you can bet your boots he’d be back up. Girardi told him that when he came back was up to him. None of this is rocket science. There were reasons Melky got sent down, and some of them had to do with the Melky-Robby problem. That’s no surprise to anyone. If Melky had been doing the job, he’d still be in center.
I don’t think anyone should get too attached to Gardner at this point. He’s here because we had a problem in center. Sui comes back, Johnny’s bat is what takes priority, not his (lack of ) D.
Brandon, Damon is definitely not going to suddenly move to CF for the rest of the season, but he’s played there more than once just in the last few games. I think we’ll see him there a bit down the stretch.
“Brett from AAA will never get the nod over Nady, Abreu,
Damon, Matsui, and Giambi playing the game.”
We have a manager who sat Damon and gave Justin Christian a leadoff spot. So who the heck knows.
Also, first let’s see Matsui a) actually come back and b) show he deserves playing time.
SJ44,
I was reading your post from earlier. I completely disagree with that the Yankee farm hasn’t done anything with regard of development this year. You mentioned the whole Charelston team which is full of prospects. Austin Jackson, Melancon and Mccalister. There are a bunch of other guys that had great years this year. Coke, Wilkens De la Rosa, Eric Hacker, Aceves, Chace Wright.. How many more prospects do you expect? Also I’m dissapointed with the draft but if they would of signed Cole I think the draft would of been decent. I would of liked to of seen them go over slot a be more agressive like they did the last 2 years but there seems to be some nice prospects in the bunch. I really like Bliech and Marshall. Last thing seems like they signed some nice position prospects in the international market.. they are only 16 so how can you cast judgement yet. and throw in the towell. I can’t believe that you’re ready to evaluate the whole originization when they’ve done great in the draft and inter market the past 2 years. There’s not much you can do when the players drastically underperform (Cano, Jeter, Melky) and you have horrific injuries which would bring any team to there knees… I mean think about it all the injuries.. Jeter and Arod out for an extended period of time… damon on the DL… and Posada and your #1 Wang gone for the year not to mention Joba now on the DL.. it’s amazing they are where they are.
Showalter: If I had to pick, I would be inclined to take Moose over Andy. I don’t think Moose’s season is a fluke, I think he could have had this success a few years back had he started pitching inside then, and I think he will have it as long as he pitches inside effectively.
I don’t think Andy’s tank is empty yet either though. I would like to have both back on 1 year deals. Especially if we can’t sign Sabathia, then we really need Andy’s left handedness. (heh, I love that word).
“Why do people want to bring back Andy over Mussina?”
It is because Andy would retire if we do not resign him, Moose would go to another team and we would get draft picks as compensation. Also Moose probably wants a 2 yr deal.
Brandon, I am the original D in the outfield proponent. But I think I know how the Yankee management thinks, and Gardner will take second place to Damon (when it comes to using Sui to DH). And you can bet that Sui will be doing a ton of DHing when he’s back up. I wouldn’t be surprised if you see him almost as the permanent DH if he is getting the job done. So that leaves you with needing Damon in the lineup. I agree that he is either in left or center. Gardner will likely be used to rest outfielders, the way Melky did when he was the fourth outfielder. (I don’t know if he can play more than center).
Toronto now leading 15-3.
Nady played a little first base today, there’s your practice!
They’re drowning their sorrows in the college cowtown. The Jays have plastered Bahhstin pitching for 22 hits already.
Let them get it out of their system so they’re dry vs. the Yanks.
Finally, this is a team today I recognize, it’s been a while. The world was right again if only for one day (hopefully more to come).
I’m really excited about Hideki’s return. I hope he bats 5th even though Giambi got a grand slam today. Gozilla is more consistent and he always finds a way to get on base. Whereas Giambi is either homer or nothing.
I’ve been away most of the summer on vacation/work…who’s this Brettisgod poster?? He/she’s hilarious.
Finally, so happy for Moose. He proved so many critics wrong, including moi. If this keeps up and he wins 20 which I have no doubt he will, he should definitely open the new stadium next April 16.
We need to bring back both Andy and Moose. In addition I think we should bring in CC, Manny and a good 1B below Teix level. Also hoping A Jax forces his way on the team. I’d take my chances with that group.
15-3 Toronto in the 8th.
Andy and Moose will both be invited back.
Even if you get CC, you park Hughes in Scranton because we all know you can never have too much pitching.
CC
Joba
Wang
Pettitte
Moose
or:
Joba
Wang
Pettitte
Moose
Hughes
And I don’t think they’ll let Joba pitch 200 innings next season.
I kind of like Sidney, too. Looks like he’s thriving here.
I think Moose would be fine with a 1 year deal. I think he fervently does not ever want to be known as one of those “can’t give up the ghost” guys (ie Boomer, RJ) and only wants to pitch if healthy and effective. He doesnt want to be out there running on fumes so will probably want to go year to year.
Plus if the Yankees offer him 1 year and some cross country team offers him 3, I bet he picks us.
The Yankees will be within 5 and will have picked up 2 games in 2 days. This is a big roadtrip coming up for the Yanks.
Trisha I guarantee Matsuisan is not going to play more than 2 or 3 times a week and Gardner is going to be in CF. If you know Girardi you must know he values defense over offense it’s why Christian got a few starts over Damon and it is probably why Gardner will be in CF.
I don’t think Mike would want a 2 year deal. He has already stated, he wouldn’t want to go through a year like Tom Glavine is. He’ll go year to year.
I hope the Yankees dont make a stupid deision and TRADE BRETT this winter! I can imagine that teams are probably in love with this guy and probably trying to get him.
Papelbon in the game, Francona doesn’t want the score to get out of hand.
BBB,
I agree about Moose, but ask RJ about the lure of 300 wins.
M’s are now down 10-8 with 2 on, 1 out in the 8th.
Miggy Cairo at the plate!
Why in the world is he using Papelbon.
Mussina is a TYPE A FA nothing is etched in stone that he will be back, Pettitte also undetermined.
Nice Cody got the ball back.
Well the yanks are gonna offer arbritation we’ll see if he takes it. He did want a two year deal last time
Say what you want about Seattle, but they battle back even when their crappy pitching digs buries them. 10-8, still one out in the 8th.
The fan probably could have gotten more.
Reminds me of a game that Jorge hit a double, it was a milestone and the fan wanted a few grand from him. Jorge told him to keep it.
Papelbon is in the game? why?
I wonder if something was wrong physically with Beckett
Brandon, actually I know that Girardi values winning over losing and I know Girardi knows that at this point in the season pain takes second place to worrying about whether or not someone feels achy, and I KNOW that he wants Damon in his lineup.
So I will guarantee you back, just as Nick from San Francisco pointed out to you, that you will see Damon spend time in center.
I will also guarantee you that if Sui comes back and is torrid, there won’t be many games that he misses.
I’d take the draft picks no sense in over valueing Moose, he’s been great this season but it is a contract year.
And he whiffs. Up to Ibanez now.
speaking of CC, here is a question for all.
Obviously he is the best FA on the market (though Milwaukee is freaking me out, quit letting him throw 120+ pitches every start!) If he does end up opting to sign w/a West Coast team, which 2nd tier free agent starter would be the best option? Minus CC I think the best available would be, in this order: Sheets, Burnett (he will opt out, book it) and then Oliver Perez.
I don’t want Perez on the Yanks. Even though he wouldnt have to pitch against us anymore, haha, I have a feeling he would drive us all crazy considering he drives Met fans crazy and theyre so much more accepting of mediocrity than we are!
I think I’d take Sheets over Burnett, I know he’s a NL pitcher but it’s a bandbox and I think he has a better attitude than Burnett. Anyone else? Am I missing any FA’s here?
Jason,
Injuries are a poor excuse. Look at the Red Sox and Angels injuries and get back to me about the Yankees injuries. Have they hurt? Yes. Is it the reason they are where they are? No.
Coke is a 27 year old pitcher whose only major league upside is being a lefty specialist. Even that is in question.
That’s not “development”. That’s like saying they “developed” Justin Christian. Coke, like Christian is a career minor league guy. They didn’t “develop” him this year. The guy just had a nice year.
De La Rosa, even though he was just promoted to Tampa, is one of the guys I mean when I talk about the Charleston team.
Hacker? Not a prospect. Had a nice year but, like Jeff Marquez, an organizational arm and nothing more.
Aceves? Another guy who got hurt this year and hasn’t pitched well in AAA. Did well in A and AA. Then again, he’s 25, older than most of the guys in A and AA. Its a little early to say whether or not they have something with him.
Chase Wright? Ok, nothing special.
Alan Horne and Jeff Marquez were supposed to close to the majors this year. How did that work out? Both were hurt and ineffective this year.
Like I said, a big step back for organizational development.
Bleich? Second round pick who needs TJ Surgery. They could have gotten him a round or two later and picked a player (Melville, Westermorland to name two) in that slot who could be ready to play in the minors next year. Bleich will not.
Hard to say how, “that’s a good pick” if the guy isn’t going to be able to pitch until 2010 and wasn’t on anybody’s Top 75 list this year.
I agree with Trisha, Damon will play more CF if Matsui can come back.
Sorry Brett Gardner fans but, they aren’t going to sit Abreu, Damon or Nady for Gardner and try and make the playoffs.
If the veterans don’t hate Girardi by now, there would be a mutiny if he did that.
I’m sure he will spot Gardner in spots but, Damon will play the bulk of the games in CF if Matsui is a go at DH.
The good baseball decision is to bring BOTH Andy and Moose back on one year deals. Both will go year to year and it would be nuts for the Yankees not to do it.
Please don’t tell me how it will “hurt” the young pitchers. You know what “hurts” more? Young pitchers on innings limits, who are either too injured to take the ball, or can’t get outs at the major league level.
I would LOVE for the Yankees to have the “problem” of having too many young pitchers “stuck” in AAA because Wang, CC, Moose and Andy are throwing the ball so well.
You sign Moose and Andy and say goodbye to Abreu and Giambi and begin rebuilding the offense.
The pitching is fine. Especially if they sign CC and get Wang back healthy. The offense, despite today’s game? Not very good and needs to be changed.
“Papelbon is in the game? why?
I wonder if something was wrong physically with Beckett”
S.A., other than Beckett didn’t make it through 3 innings, and there were about 5 relievers in between, they probably wanted to get Papelcrap some work since they lost yesterday too and he probably didn’t get to pitch.
Meanwhile, Okejima is really not having the kind of year that inspires confidence in your setup guy!
trisha when we see Damon breaking down and not hitting the cutoff man or reaching home plate w/ his throws you’ll remember this convo. if that indeed happens. I know one thing Matsui is not superman w/ a bat, he hits here and there but he certainly ain’t no guarantee offense.
brandon and you give him another 1 year deal, he’ll be in another contract year.
If the Yanks can sign CC, then you only take one and I would vote for Pettite because he’s left, three years younger and shares my birthday (June 15th)!!!
If no CC, I’d bring them both back on one year deals… maybe $ 13M each. With Wang, Joba and Hughes (I’m a believer) that’s pretty solid.
Look for the Yanks to play the A lineup every day until they are out of it. That means Damon in CF, Matsui DH, Giambi 1B and Gardner late inning bareunning/defense.
If Nady is a future 1B option, that might open a door or two to deal for a good, young outfielder. We shall see.
I would take Moose back in a NYC heartbeat.
Brandon, it may be that you and I are just not on the same page. Let me guess – you hated Farnsworth and wanted Ponson dumped almost immediately!
“trisha when we see Damon breaking down and not hitting the cutoff man or reaching home plate w/ his throws you’ll remember this convo. if that indeed happens. I know one thing Matsui is not superman w/ a bat, he hits here and there but he certainly ain’t no guarantee offense.”
Brandon. Matsui isn’t a superman with the bat????
Okay, now I know you played too many drinking games this season when you were having trouble with Yankee losses.
Gardner will take his proper place on the bench when the big bats are needed in the lineup. Matsui is one of the Yankees best bats and most clutch hitters.
I’ll let you look up his stats from last year to see how many runs the guy had.
I would take Moose back in a NYC heartbeat.
Brandon, it may be that you and I are just not on the same page. Let me guess – you hated Farnsworth and wanted Ponson dumped almost immediately!
To pass up a chance at getting a supplemental pick for Moose ? really I know he is having a great year but don’t over value it.
Mel: Well if RJ sticks around past his prime to get that elusive 300th win, that is just all the more incentive for Moose not to do so! I mean, he is pretty much the complete antithesis of the Unit – and thats why we love him!
And hey Brandon, if you want to talk about Brett staying in center, I know someone here who probably thinks exactly the same way! His name is brettisgod?
Later.
Brandon, did you spend too much time in the sun yesterday?
I don’t think anyone is saying that Damon will be in CF from here on out to get Matsui into the lineup every day, but given that Damon has played a little center in the last week even with Matsui off the roster, it’s just common sense that Girardi will give Damon a litle time in CF to get Matsui in at DH. Not a lot. A little.
Also, do you really think Moose is doing it this year because it’s a contract year? Moose doesn’t even know yet if he’ll retire or not but you think he’s just turning it on for a contract? The Yanke would be crazy not to offer him a contract for next year given that they have ZERO starters signed for next year who are either coming off an injury or on an innings limit or both.
Does Gaston think it’s 5-3? BJ Ryan is in there in the 9th, giving up runs.
“To pass up a chance at getting a supplemental pick for Moose ? really I know he is having a great year but don’t over value it.”
Actually I don’t know that you could overvalue it. Moose reinvented himself when Hank suggested he pitch like Moyer. I only hope Moose wants more time with the Yanks.
Another thing about Moose, yeah we could get a supplemental pick – IF he was willing to sign with another team. Personally, I’m not at all convinced that he would. Location is important to him so his only two choices are Phillies and I can’t see Moose signing up to pitch in that bandbox. I wouldn’t be surprised if, like Andy, it is either the Yankees or retirement for him.
Okay, out to go broke buying food for the squirrels and birds.
Nice Yankee win.
Okay, now I know you played too many drinking games this season when you were having trouble with Yankee losses.
No I’ve actually watched Matsui this season and he also was part of this offense not scoring unless you forgot. IDK what’s wrong in having a guy earn his spot back.
Gardner will take his proper place on the bench when the big bats are needed in the lineup. Matsui is one of the Yankees best bats and most clutch hitters.
Matsui was. We haven’t seen that Matsui and don’t even know how he reacts after 1 week or even 1 game. He is this close to needing a scalpel on his knee. He is not playing every day.
I’ll let you look up his stats from last year to see how many runs the guy had.
I don’t have to, I saw him this season and he also was caught in the rolling over to the 2B for an easy out deptartment.
Brandon,
The supplemental pick is meaningless to the Yankees.
They aren’t going to let Moose go over that. If they do, whomever makes that decision should be fired.
The guy has been one of the 5 best starters in the AL this year. They aren’t letting go over a supplemental pick.
Besides, off their “stellar” drafting this year, you really trust them with a supplemental pick in a down draft year?
Moose, like Andy, will go year to year. If the young pitchers can pitch, you will have 6-8 starters you can use over the course of the season.
That not only keeps everyone fresh, in case folks haven’t notices, due to injuries and inconsistent performances, you need 8 starters over the course of the season.
“Location is important to him so his only two choices are **the Pirates, who suck and won’t pay him anyway, or the** Phillies and I can’t see Moose signing up to pitch in that bandbox…”
fixed
Make that zero starters signed for next year who AREN’T either coming off an injury or on innings limits or both.
Next season, Moose is more valuable than the pick, sorry.
86w – So if the Yanks don’t sign Sabathia, you would rather bring both Moose and Andy back than sign a guy like Sheets or Burnett?
I’m not saying you are wrong, just interested in gauging where everyone stands on this. There is a lot of talk about CC here but I’m also curious how people feel about signing one of the “consolation prizes.”
“No I’ve actually watched Matsui this season and he also was part of this offense not scoring unless you forgot. IDK what’s wrong in having a guy earn his spot back.”
Brandon,
When you think you’re right about something you really go all out don’t you?
But for the record since you LOVE to use RISP averages as the basis for all of your arguments, Matsui has a .910 OPS with RISP this year.
Does a .910 OPS with RISP mean he’s a part of the problem, or part of the solution?
SJ44: As much as I agree that underperformance is as big or bigger of a reason why we are where we are right now as injuries are, I really don’t think the Red Sox, Angels or Rays have had injuries that are even close to as decimating as the Yanks’ injuries have been. The only team in the AL that has suffered like us is the Indians and they were out of it months ago.
ray I’m not saying that he can’t, that must have come out wrong, but Matsui is not going to play everyday. Again he’s a guy that definitely has to earn his place on the lineup. he’s not just a pencil in. I love that we’re getting him back but I also value defense in that OF.
The Lure of 300 wins is not only strong for Moose, but for the Yankees as well. I really don’t think the Yanks would let him walk, and get 300 wins with another team after he spent 8 seasons in the bronx. They want him in the HOF with an NY on his cap, and I’d bet he’d like to go in with one as well.
For Mussina, Pittsburgh is much further from home, so if he didn’t stay it would be to join the Phillies. Yes, the park is small, but there is the joy of facing National League lineups and poor hitting pitchers. There’s no doubt in my mind the Yanks will protect themselves and offer arbitration to both veteran starters.
SJ— I agree with you a lot of the time, but you’re way too cranky over the draft. Bleich is a risk, but they’ve taken a number of risks that may well pay off… remember two years ago Joba was a risky pick. They got several guys who are way better than where they were drafted who should turn out just fine. I’m glad they didn’t sign Bittle, not a good pick there.
Brandon, of course Matsui will have to produce AND stay healthy to get serious playing time. But that’s what we all want, right? Our best (or one of our best) situtational hitter in the lineup as much as possible on the team that can’t hit with RISP or do the little things that win games?
Ofcourse Nick I’m not denying that.
When Matsui gets returns, Damon must play centerfield in almost every game.
Giambi at first, Nady in left, Damon CF, Abreu RF and Matsui at DH – that’s what they need to do in every game remaining this season if they are still pursuing a playoff spot.
Matsui didn’t have surgery this season so he could come back and help the team make a playoff push. He didn’t do this rehab so he could sit on the bench for the last 38 games and play a couple of times a week depending on how his knees feel.
They need to play matsui as much as his knees tolerate – that means he has to be in the line up every day as long as his knees aren’t getting more swollen.
Why is that?
If the yankees are going to make the playoffs they will need to win around 70% of their remaining games.
That’s an enormous tall order for a team that’s been so bad for so long this year. But it’s possible. Do pull that off they will need to go on an incredible run. That run will have to lead by the offense. There is no way around that. The offense will have to catch on fire.
In order to win 70% of its remaining games the yanks will need to average scoring around 8 runs per game. That’s right – 8 runs per game. Their team ERA is around 4.3. If you assume that’ll continue to be their team ERA for the remaining 38 games (an optimistic assumption perhaps) they’re going to give up around 165 runs.
If you give up 165 runs over a 38 game stretch you’ll need to score around 300 runs over those same games in order to play .700 baseball.
There’s really not much you can shave off the team’s expected runs allowed to make their winning percentage go through the roof – team ERA of 4.3 is not bad. Even if they miraculously decreased that by 10% for the rest of the season they’ll still need to score a huge number of runs in order to play .700 ball over the remainder of the season.
It’s been the offense this year that put them in risk of making the playoffs.
If they are going to make the playoffs, the offense is going to have to score 8 runs a game. To do that you need all of your best hitters playing everyday and playing at a high level.
If you want to see what you have for next year you play Gardner. But if you’re serious about trying to make the playoffs you play Damon in CF as much as Matsui’s knees allow. That’s a must.
Bleich doesn’t have the upside Joba and Brackman has. Not even close.
You can’t take 3 guys in the first 65 picks in the draft and have nothing to show for it. Its not being cranky. Its a bad job. The Yankees will admit that themselves. There is no other way to spin it.
Bleich may turn out to be a good pick. However, he was a guy who would have been available to them later in the draft.
Lefties who throw 87-90 are available in the middle rounds of the draft. He was overvalued by the Yankees and now he’s out for a year.
Boston hasn’t had injuries as bad as the Yankees? No Dice-K for a month. No Ortiz for two months and he’s still not healthy. No Schilling all year. No Lowell for the first 5 weeks of the season and now he is out again.
Youkilis has missed time due to his back injury.
Those aren’t serious injuries?
The Angels: No Figgins to start the year. No Lackey (their ace) for the first two months. No Escobar (their second best starter) all season. Both SS’s have been hurt all year. Vlad’s back is a mess and has been all year. Napoli missed 5 weeks with injuries. Those aren’t serious injuries?
Every team has had injuries this year. Using injuries to make excuses for the Yankees poor play is just that…..an excuse.
Their top 7 hitters in the lineup are still better than most teams in the AL this season and they still haven’t hit for much of the year.
If you are a championship calibur team, you find ways to win games despite injuries.
I think Moose would go to the Mets if he doesn’t retire and the Yankees don’t re-sign him (although I’m almost certain he would accept arbitration since he stands to get a nice raise). They flirted with him a bit in ‘06 and have Pedro and O. Perez as free agents who may not re-sign. They would probably love to stick it to the Yankees so that Mussina collects 300 with them. Moose wouldn’t have to buy a new house in a new city, and he is all about being comfortable. Moyer is planning to play next year, so if the Phillie re-sign him, I can’t see them going with two 40+ pitchers in the rotation.
The yankees draft this year was a categorical disaster. It was awful. Absolutely inexcusable what happened.
In certain ways the draft debacle was among the most concerning things that happened to the organization this year.
If you’re going to commit your organization to player development you cannot draft two guys you don’t sign and then pick a third who has limited upside and is hurt.
So, I’ve been busy this afternoon after the game, paying my bills and such.
And now I come back to this blog, after a much needed win where the offense beat up on somebody (Ok, Brian Bannister and the KC Royals ‘pen ain’t the greatest). And I see a whole lot of negativity.
Why? The issues with the roster makeup, injuries, some MINOR league pitchers getting injured and not performing as some thought they might…Draft problems (I thought the draft was not so predictable, what happened all of a sudden?)….
What, these issues didn’t exist before? They just sprung up in the past two hours? We didn’t know this stuff already? This season isn’t over yet, and from reading some of the recent posts, the next 2-3 seasons plus – and maybe the future of the franchise! – are in jeopardy because Gerrit Cole didn’t sign and somebody else is hurt. Give me a break!
Maybe a dose of an anti-schizophrenic drug is needed.
Excuse me, an anti-depressant might be more apropriate.
Can’t we enjoy the here and now?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BV-js9OtLY
michael kay the genius.
damn these last 2games have been exiting i was in yesterdays game and i enyoyed it i didnt move at all and i had awsome seats behind homeplate
i heart godzilla!
kay’s questioning of girardi’s strategy in not having damon (team’s best hitter with RISP) bunt with runners on 1st and second with no outs was inexcusable. he inferred that girardi had no clue b/c he passed up the bunt to have damon and jeter hit away. they are his two best hitters in that situation this year and showing confidence in thier ablility may have not been by the book but it wasnt some kind of crazy hunch either.