Sheppard hopes to call final game
-
- September
- 5
Newsday’s Jim Baumbach (a former Yankees beat guy) spoke to Bob Sheppard, who told him he hopes to return for the final game at the Stadium. Mr. Sheppard’s health, fortunately, is improving.
A few other things need to happen that day:
- Mo throws the last pitch, a cutter that strikes out somebody looking. Somebody like Kevin Millar.
- Jeter does something Jetery. A jump throw maybe.
- A-Rod drills one into the black seats.
- Yogi and Whitey throw out the first pitch.
- Bernie shows up in some capacity.
- The Yankees win, of course.
But having Mr. Sheppard back would be a good start.
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on Friday, September 5th, 2008 at 9:05 am by Peter Abraham.
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Amen to THAT, Peter
Pray that the final home game isn’t started by Ponson.
You got that wrong Peter. What A-Rod really needs to do is ground in to four double plays killing any rallies we have that day. After all, those are our memories of him so far.
Rich:
As the Yankees have no off days between now and 9/21, the day of the last game, it should be Pettitte starting the final home game.
Has there been ANY word from the Yankees as to what’s scheduled for The Final Game?
for Fred Coreleone,
The Yankees are either 3rd or 4th in team defense and fewest errors
The Yankees have too many pitchers who are the same. The type that do not throw hard enough to make their breaking balls impactful.
Wright, Ponson, Rasner, Aceves, Britton, Kennedy, Giese,
Bob Sheppard has been sorely missed this season, and I’m very glad to hear he’s been feeling better. Let’s all hope that he can be there one more time this year.
The Yankees are off on the 11th, so the rotation gets an extra day, and Andy would start on the 10th, 16th, then the 21st to get the last game at Yankee Stadium.
the last game should be the cap on a 9-1 homestand following an 8-2 road trip. something like that to make the last week of the season meaningful.
The rotation could be changed to give Mussina a shot at enough starts to try for 20 wins.
Pettitte would the perfect starter, it’s too bad Posada won’t be catching him.
Agreed on the A-Rod comment above. If A-Rod puts one in the black seats, most likely the Yanks are down by 8 runs, so I would rather have a win than an A-Bomb from A-Rod.
Could it also be possible for Torre to be our honorary manager?
The Yankees are off the 22nd as well so it doesn’t matter whether Mussina pitches the 12th/17th or 13th/18th, as long as he pitches the first game in Toronto on the 23rd to get him in line to pitch on the last day of the season.
Toy Cannon:
Have a look at this. Ain’t about the number of errors. It’s about the number of balls they just don’t get to. It’s a bad defensive team. Nevermind the stats, you should be able to eyeball it just by watching.
http://www.replacementlevel.com/
Please…NO YOGI OR WHITEY (or Reggie for that matter)! They seem to throw out every first pitch for every big game.
If he’s healthy, it should be Steinbrenner.
Love the “fans” who constantly rag on A-Rod. I guess some schools haven’t started yet and these are kids who keep complaining.
That’s a good list, but notice how Arod really doesn’t feel like a natural fit to be on it. For whatever reason, Arod just isn’t a true Yankee. And he never will be.
You don’t measure team defense by errors made. Its a common mistake many fans and broadcasters make. Yankee broadcasters in particular make that mistake all the time.
You measure defense by zone and range ratings. In other words, its not about the errors. Its about getting to balls and making plays on them.
You can make few errors and be a below average defensive team. because you don’t get to balls, and make plays on those balls, that good defensive teams get to. The Yankees fit that catagory.
All you have to do to is watch the games. Taking out the games Molina catches and Moose pitches (two above average defenders), the Yankees don’t have a single defensive player on the field who is above average and several who are below average at their positions this season.
In fact, the latest team zone defensive ratings I saw (10 days ago) had the Yankees ranked 28th out of 30 teams.
That ain’t good and that has to change next season.
Stephen:
Hmmm, I think it has something to with the fact that they’re some of the most famous and beloved living Yankees legends?
I love love to see Andy go that day. It would be perfect.
MooseCall: That’s a good list, but notice how Arod really doesn’t feel like a natural fit to be on it. For whatever reason, Arod just isn’t a true Yankee. And he never will be.
Amen to that.
would love*
What happened to the editing system?
Just checked on yankees.com and the game is a night game on espn. The last game at yankee stadium should be a day game. Not fair as I am currently residing out of the country (5 hours ahead) and will have to stay up all night to watch the game. I already feel sorry for my workmates on that monday.
I love the first goal that Peter lists: Mo striking out Millar. It wouldn’t make up for a losing season, but it would definitely make me smile!
Fredo –
I just googled zone rating and read this link:
http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/files/dialed_in/discussion/what_is_zone_rating/
I’m not saying it is mumbo jumbo, but it seems a little bit like a nfl passer rating where you can’t really get your mind around the formula or the real meaning of the info.
That said, I’m totally comfortable saying that our outfield defense is sad and has been exposed this year. I’m hoping AJax is ready as soon as possible, but I think we’re going to have to have a 2 year CF who can go and get the ball if we’re going to have Damon and Nady in the corners next year.
Were any of you spouting that mindless, “Arod will never be a True Yankee” nonsense last year? He only carried the team on his back to the playoffs. Aside from Posada, its not anybody else had a year worth remembering, or contributed as much, as Arod did to making the post-season last year.
The only people who aren’t “True Yankees” are the people spouting that nonsense.
Of all the problems on this team, Arod is the least of them. Its too bad some fans hold such hatred for the guy that logic escapes them when this stuff comes up.
SJ44 –
Can we read anything positive into the fact that Bleich is pitching? You mentioned some concern that he elbow was suspect and I remember he missed some time during Stanford’s season.
How about Igawa throws a no-hitter and strikes out 21 breaking Clemens record or for that matter Joba kills two birds with 2 back-to-back fastballs breaking Randy’s record or for that matter Mussina pitches with 2 bloody socks breaking Schilling’s stupid record or for that matter Shelley swings and misses and his bat goes flying all the way into the black… (can tell you this something will happen but probably from the other team against us).
It is sad to say that it is practically all we have left to look forward to this season.
Even though I am a Sox fan I would like to go to a Yankee game at the old stadium before it closes.
I’m not really finding any tickets on the Yankee site, and was wondering if I am better off just getting a ticket off something like Stubhub? Would that be a wiser choice than taking my chances with a scapler the day of the game.
I just want to go to a game there and I’m not thinking of the last series because I know those tickets will be in most demand.
Any suggestions from you guys on how I should proceed? Thanks.
Does anyone know if there is a plan in place to pitch Joba in the AzFL or winter ball?
And if not, why?
Wish I could be there. Nice to think about though Ike is on the mind right now.
Good post by Pete.
On another note, does anyone know what role Gene Michael has in the organization? And I don’t just mean his official title. Rather, how much real input does he have into decision making on things like player development and direction to go w/r the major league roster.
Thanks in advance.
Maybe Bernie can come out of retirement and show these kids how to play CF. Man, Gardner is awful. And he’s 25! How much better is he going to get?!
Ray you could definitely go to a site like Stubhub or Razorgator and get tickets but be prepared to pay.
If you want to roll the dice, you could always try your luck with scalpers on gameday. If you have the guts to wait it out until the 2nd inning then you may actually get a deal.
Any true baseball fan would want to be there the entire game, and in that case I would say Craigslist is the way to go because then you’re probably buying from an individual, most likely a fan.
Regarding zone rating, here’s a link to a blog post I wrote about how I use it to calculate the defensive numbers, it may be a little clearer than Chris Dial’s article:
http://www.replacementlevel.com/index.php/RLYW/direct/top_mlb_defensive_players_by_zone_rating_through_aug_4_2008
Please be aware that there are limitations to any defensive metric, and that a single season’s data probably has error bars of at least 5 runs either way. Zone rating does not include arm ratings for OF, and does not include a first baseman’s scooping ability on throws. It’s strictly balls hit into a player’s typical defensive zone that are converted into outs. Positioning can also impact zone rating somewhat, so keep that in mind as well.
With those caveats, I’m fairly comfortable that zone rating is reasonably close to the truth about the 2008 Yanks, their defense is awful.
ray-
ebay or stubhub or even craigslist is the way to go. ebay & stubhub both give you protection in case you don’t get your tix.
The Yankees clinching a playoff berth would be nice too.
Thank you Miggs and Buddy.
ray-
I actually prefer the “Buy it Now” option on ebay, no waiting for the auction to end.
i would be amazed if bernie doesn’t come back once in the final season. the last game would be fitting.
Miggs:
From MLB.com:
The eligibility rules to play in the AFL are simple.
The roster size is 30 players per team.
Each Major League organization is required to provide six players subject to the following requirements:
All Triple-A and Double-A players are eligible, provided the players are on at least a Double-A level roster no later than Aug. 1.
One player below the Double-A level is allowed per Major League team.
One foreign player is allowed, as long as the player does not reside in a country that participates in winter ball, as part of the Caribbean Confederation or the Australian winter league.
No players with more than one year of credited Major League service as of August 31 are eligible, except a team may select one player picked in the most recently concluded Major League Rule 5 Draft.
To be eligible, players on Minor League disabled lists must be activated at least 45 days before the conclusion of their respective seasons.
I believe Joba is disqualified because he went over 1 year of MLB service prior to 8/31.
Will somebody please enlighten me as to when it is appropriate for A-Rod to homer? Apparently a home run in the ninth to bring the game within two is not good enough, is he only supposed to hit them to tie the game or to go ahead? Is he also supposed to hit a home run EVERY time he is batting when a homer will tie the game or put the Yanks ahead. I would also like to see some instruction as to how he should conduct his at-bats when the team is more than 2 runs ahead/behind.
Fredo thanks for that info…. good stuff. So I guess the Arizona Fall Leagueis out of the question.
Are there similar rules regarding winter ball?
Mark in Tampa –
Right on!
“Will somebody please enlighten me as to when it is appropriate for A-Rod to homer?”
Sure, I can help you with that.
Yankee Stadium a week ago Tuesday. Bottom of the 7th. Boston 7 New York 3. Bases loaded, one out and rookie Justin Masterson on the hill. That would have been a totally appropriate time to hit a homer.
“I believe Joba is disqualified because he went over 1 year of MLB service prior to 8/31.”
ive actually read elsewhere that he does qualify for the AzFL, because he hit exactly 1 year of service, but did not go over, and was not on the active roster before Sept 1 of this year.
Last-game-in-the-Stadium wishlist?
Mussina pitches, wins his twentieth.
Jim Kaat is ‘surprise guest analyst’ in the booth.
Doreen/Mark
I am not one to criticize A-Rod and I am glad he’s on the team. However since you asked –
22 of his homers have been solo shots.
The whole team has struggled with RISP, but A-Rod’s non-clutchness is hard to debate. Last year he was great in clutch opportunities, this year? not so much.
Turn Two:
He’s been on the MLB roster since 8/7/2007. I don’t know how DL time is factored into it, but he has not been on a minor league roster since 8/6/07.
If DL time does not count, then I suppose he’s OK. I thought the Yankees had already named their 6 guys.
The mindless ARod-bashing (which is encouraged by our blog-host) is so pathetic.
The man is the greatest player alive today – and maybe the greatest ever.
He tries hard every day. Even his detractors say he works harder than anyone else in the game.
He never says anything bad about a teammate. Ever.
The game is a game of failure. Even he will fail 7 out of 10 times at the plate.
And yet we have this debate practically daily. Even when he’s currently having one of his best weeks of the season. As I said – pathetic.
“The game is a game of failure. Even he will fail 7 out of 10 times at the plate.”
Except for when the bases are loaded….then Arod fails 9 out of 10 times.
“If DL time does not count, then I suppose he’s OK. I thought the Yankees had already named their 6 guys.”
yeah, i believe the DL time this year doesnt count against his MLB service… at least from what ive read.
i thought as of this morning or yesterday they still had 2 pitchers spots and 1 position spot to fill for the AzFL team.
how far DID that Home Run go last night anyHoo ? I am guessing at least 500 feet !
“i thought as of this morning or yesterday they still had 2 pitchers spots and 1 position spot to fill for the AzFL team.”
Just checked Baseball America and it appears only spots have been filled. I guess he may still be in the running.
Clare…it is pathetic but don’t let it get you down. Most fans are ignorant and don’t realize what this guy has done over the years. Most of these fans are spoiled and think that it’s a given that the Yankees should be in the playoffs every year.
“I am not one to criticize A-Rod and I am glad he’s on the team. However since you asked – 22 of his homers have been solo shots”
It’s not his fault if he leads off an inning – does that mean he is not supposed to hit a HR? I guess that’s what Mark in Tampa was talking about in his “rules post”
If the Yankees had 25 players who cared, worked and played as hard as ARod, a playoff spot would have been clinched a long time ago. Even a bad year for Alex is a great year for almost any other player.
Let’s have Mattingly play 1B and Girardi do the catching. O’Neill in RF. Maybe Chad Curtis in LF (whatever happened to him?). Mariano Duncan at 2B…point is, I’m thinking all these guys can play better right now in a game than their current positional counterparts (except for Nady, even though he was bad last night).
“Even when he’s currently having one of his best weeks of the season.”
I think some are troubled that it came in a week when they are already dead and buried.
“It’s not his fault if he leads off an inning – does that mean he is not supposed to hit a HR? I guess that’s what Mark in Tampa was talking about in his “rules post—
Fran –
Again, I am not flaming A-Rod, but his performance this year with runners on base has not been good – if you asked him he would probably say the same thing.
It doesn’t make him a bad guy – it just means his head hasn’t been screwed on as tightly this year as it was last year. The numbers are pretty clear.
I also realize he can’t be on base and hit a homer simultaneously – I blamed the whole team in my post. Hopefully next year will be better.
If the bases are empty what else can he do besides a solo shot? As to last week in the 7th, is he supposed to homer every time in a key spot? Yes, he has performed below expectations in key spots this year, but I expect that next year he will hit closer to his career norms and get more than his share of key hits.
“Most fans are ignorant and don’t realize what this guy has done over the years. Most of these fans are spoiled and think that it’s a given that the Yankees should be in the playoffs every year.”
Sweeping generalizations are always stupid and wrong.
Thankfully Rob, we have you to stand up and keep all of those ignorant Yankee fans accountable. Get over yourself.
They could have Bernie play God bless America live on his guitar.
“They could have Bernie play God bless America live on his guitar.”
ha! you know, either GBA or the National Anthem prior to the game, thats actually a pretty cool idea…
TK – good points. I do agree with you.
“As to last week in the 7th, is he supposed to homer every time in a key spot?”
That was sort of in jest, Mark. Naturally you can’t expect him or anyone else to come up big in every big spot. The team in general has had a very tough year in that regard. With Arod being the most polarizing figure on the team, it’s not surprising to see him take the most hits from the press and fandom.
Clare says:
“The mindless ARod-bashing (which is encouraged by our blog-host) is so pathetic.
The man is the greatest player alive today – and maybe the greatest ever.”
Clare, put the pipe down honey,get yourself some help.
Ronan Tynan needs to sing God Bless America
re: bbgate
YES!! Ronan Tynan > Kate Smith recording
A-rod is also the player that I am most disappointed in when he doesn’t come through—I guess it is the $300M, or that he is one of the two or three best players in the game, but sometimes you have to take a step back and realize that it just isn’t that easy to hit the ball hard every time just because you want to.
As the ‘08 Yankee motto goes—sometimes you just have to tip your cap to the pitcher.
“It doesn’t make him a bad guy – it just means his head hasn’t been screwed on as tightly this year as it was last year. The numbers are pretty clear.”
Hitting with runners in scoring position is a fluky stat. Just because his numbers are down in that category this year doesn’t mean he’s not trying as hard as he did last year.
I’ve been a Yankee fan for over 45 years …every time I hear this “true” Yankee garbage I cringe. If a player is playing on the team he’s a Yankee and Alex will be playing for another 9 years. All the naysayers will be fawning over him if he has another ‘07 season next year. Sometimes I’m embarrassed by the Yankee fan base and the way they turn on a player when they are struggling. Alex is struggling with RISP …just like most of the team this year. I think almost any player out there would love to “struggle” like Alex being in the top 5 for homeruns, average and top 10 in rbi’s even after missing 3 weeks on the DL. He hits a homer and the negative comments are a riot about when he should have hit it. The mentality of some fans is amazing. These same fans at one time or another even booed Mo and Jeter..they booed a 21 year old in Hughes who is just starting out…nice encourgement for the kid. I guess that speaks for itself about these so called fans. I nave never believed in booing any Yankee player …he’s on OUR team. All the armchair GM’s & Managers who sit at home and THINK they know it all about the team is just too funny.
I’m a fan with the team through the good and BAD times. I’m not just there if they win. Believe me I have seen VERY BAD too (80’s anyone???). As a Yankee fan we are fortunate that if the team doesn’t win when we say “wait till next year” ..we mean it because we are lucky enough to always field a competitive team. Imagine being a Pirates fan …
I’m hoping for a miracle but if it doesn’t come I’ll look forward to a fresh start next year and much better results.
I just wish people would think before they write the comments that I read on here. There are some very good ones while others border on stupidity with a whole lot of inbetween.
If the Yankees are your team …stand behind them in their struggles and know it will get better even if it means next year. A fan isn’t just there when the team wins…a fan is there for it all ..good and bad. That’s called loyalty. Go Yankees 2008 !!!
“Hitting with runners in scoring position is a fluky stat. Just because his numbers are down in that category this year doesn’t mean he’s not trying as hard as he did last year.”
I agree – which is why I didn’t question his effort. I think A-Rod does everything he can to be a great player.
To be specific – I think he tries too hard, or puts so much pressure on himself in high-leverage spots that he turn the bat to sawdust. At least that is my dimestore psychoanalysis.
i hope that Freddie Sez throws out the first pitch at the final game.
Is Pavano scheduled to pitch that day?? that would be very funny…..
“Fran –
Again, I am not flaming A-Rod, but his performance this year with runners on base has not been good – if you asked him he would probably say the same thing.”
Maybe this is more of a function of the pitching they are facing this year.
While I hate the BS tipping your hat crap that they say every losing game, the pitching across the league has been generally pretty good this year.
Some pitchers respond well to having the pressure of pitching with men on base. A-Rod also has pressed, which adds to the problem.
As rough a year as Alex has had with RISP he is hitting .270 now which is not that bad. With men on and two out he’s hitting .298. There are those who wont give him any credit for the last week or so, but best I can tell the Yanks have not been eliminated, have they?
My last game wishes….
1. Pettite starts and wins, Joba hits Millar in the ass and Mariano gets a save. Jeter sets the Stadium record for hits A-Rod goes yard and Melky goes 4-for-4.
2. The ESPN production truck catches fire due to an electrical short. No one is hurt but the whole nation gets the YES feed instead.
3. Bob Sheppard does the introductions, Bernie plays the anthem on his guitar with Billy Joel singing and Ronan Tynan sings God Bless America (so I can go shopping and not miss a thing).
4. A pair of screaming line drives fly into the radio booth, rendering Sterling and Waldman unconscious. They recover but suffer amnesia and are reassigned to narrating on Circle Line Tours.
5. The boss throws out the first pitch
Now THAT’S a full day!
One thing to consider re
Arod: last year he also had Posada, a healthy Matsui, and Giambi behind him in batting order. Teams had to pitch to him more so than this season, I think. And obviously when you are seeing better pitches you are getting more hits.
86w183 –
)
That was pretty funny. Thanks. (Especially Waldman and Sterling doing Circle Line Tours –
For Fred Corleone,
Wow never saw that before. Thanks for the link.
Good post Fred
These defensive formulas that Bill James and other stat freaks have invented are so full of holes and subjective interpretations that they are virtually useless.
They don’t take into consideration things like:
1. condition of the field (wet/chewed up by baserunners)
2. pitcher on the mound
3. hitter at the plate
4. type of pitch thrown
5. position of the player in given situations
6. speed of the runner/runners on base
7. speed of ball hit
8. size of outfield
There are more factors than just giving defenders their turf to cover.
Bill James and other idiots that sell this crap discovered that you can always find fools that will buy anything. He changes his forulas on everything every year because it makes him money and he and others know there will always be idiots stupid enough to shell out $25 and up a year to buy this crap because it’s labeled UPDATED.
“Bob Sheppard worked the Giants game last night.”
Are you sure? Many fans don’t realize he’s not doing the announcing at Yankee Stadium this season as they have an “impersonator” filling in. It’s sort of creepy.
Although I believe they use a recording for Jeter’s at bats.
i know it’s a tall order, and maybe impossible, but how great would it be to see a-rod hit one out of the park before it closes? i had a dream about that last night.
I think there’s no question that ARod has been pressing this year. But I also think that was because for very long stretches this year he was the only one in the line-up batting over .300. There were plenty of times when he took his walk with 2 outs and Giambi then either struck out or grounded into the shift.
I think another reason for his RISP numbers this year is that it’s a smaller sample than usual. Until recently, all three batters in front of him were having down years. Damon has been the best, but he started the season very poorly. Now Jeter and Abreu are finally at or approaching .300, and ARod’s RISP numbers are improving as well.
Mr. Sheppard has a son who sounds a lot like him who has taken on some of his old assignments and would like to succeed him at the Stadium. Could it be Sheppard Junior doing Giants games?
The best way to judge defense is with your eyes, I don’t see how a formula can possibly make that judgement. I can tell you without stats that Ozzie Smith and Vizquel are the two best shortstops(defense) ever, and it isn’t even close. Roberto Alomar is probably the best second baseman, and Brooks Robinson at third. Center is Mays, catcher is Johnny Bench or Pudge Rodriguez. Right and left field are so dependent on the park that it is almost impossible to compare. First base—Mattingly. How about Bill James rigging a stat to back those opinions?
Does anyone read Dale Beaverman’s site? What’s with all their overt and petty hostility toward Pete?
I don’t think they realize they appear guilty of the very vendetta they accuse Pete of harboring toward Girardi.
Their parodies can be outrageously funny.
Still, their recent mockery has degenerated into malicious and juvenile schoolyard taunts—too bad because it diminishes their credibility as legitimate baseball analysts.
In any event, how seriously can you take a site where its founders aren’t even courageous enough to list their names?
Also: AR is an asset to the team every year. His personal style is not Yankee-esque and to many NYY fans he is not very likable. BUT—he wears our laundry and he plays plenty well enough to do so, even if you don’t buy the hype that he’s the best baseball player in the history of the game. Even if you gripe that he’s just average at third and threatens to go into a nervous breakdown under pressure, you have to notice that he’s a great slugger and his average is nothing to sneeze at. I can deal with this ‘problem’ for another nine years and only pray that this is the worst Yankee ‘problem’ facing us as we go forward.
Saucy, the only way a baseball will be hit out of Yankee Stadium to left field is over the tunnel that separates the Upper Deck from the old bullpen or maybe over the parking lot where the buses and ambulance is parked. Right field was the only place there was ever chance. The biggest problem has always been that the stands and roofline was so close that the balls that Mantle hit, and there were quite a few, never had the chance or time to get that high to clear the roof.
“Could it be Sheppard Junior doing Giants games?”
That would be cool but it’s some guy named Jim Hall doing both team’s PA work.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Hall_(announcer)
killschill weren’t you ridiculed off those very forums?
A lefty is going to get up, bottom of the ninth, down one, two outs, and is going to hit the perfect shot, threading the needle and getting the ball to leave the park.
So – the official artist of MLB, Mark Waitkus, just painted two prints of Yankees Stadium, for anyone interested – he’s incredible. For less than a half a tank of gas you can grab a print at his store and remember the greatest stadium ever built, forever. Check it out: http://www.markwaitkus.com
Good morning guys. To tack on to your conversations:
1. Check out Ashmore’s Trenton thread. Lots of quotes about Piliterre (sp?) and his clutchness. One guy gushed that he’s batting 1.000 in those situations.
2. Alex has hit a HR 3 nights in a row at the Trop? You don’t think the Rays and the Yanks would…? Nah…Maybe Kazmir? Just a thought…
3. I would love to see our defense get better, but you might have to sacrifice some offense. Those kinds of players don’t grow on trees.
4. All the talk about the last game makes me sad for so many reasons. For one, the last game will probably be played in September.
Kill-Schill, I think a lot of the Pete hatred on that site has to do with Torre being gone. That was their schtick. Now bashing Pete has replaced that (I’m pretty sure this blog is the most popular Yankee website other than Yankees.com)
But like mel said recently, they really haven’t said much that hasn’t been written in the comments section here, other than a funny photoshopped pic or two…
How’s that Gardner in CF experiment working out?
Pretty pathetic in my humble opinion.
I am sorry but I think I take a .242 hitter with decent defense and a arm that make runners think twice over Gardner hitting .182 and/or a weak armed Damon any day.
Pitcher and defense wins a lot more games than offense does.
Being solid defensively up the middle always has been and always will be a formula for solid winning baseball.
To wit: A solid defense in CF, SS, 2B and catcher.
Catcher is a real question mark for next year and not easily fixed if Posada doesn’t return to some semblance of his former self. Can’t count on Molina to be the everyday catcher IMO and doesn’t hit enough in any event.
Cano: They have to figure out a way to fix whatever it is that ails him in the off season.
Jeter: You just have to live with the results till the contract is up (not that the results are anything to sneeze at but the range is obviously diminished) and they must HAVE done the homework in the meantime to have a successor in place when they are needed.
Melky: Till Ajax or someone else is ready I think you live with his offensive results in order to be better defensively.
3B is set despite his personal demons and peccadillo’s. lol
That leaves LF, RF 1B and DH that HAS to get better defensively and more athletic. (Yes I realize DH is not a defensive position).
Damon: Good hit, average fielder and below average arm. IMHO you just can’t have him in the field and allow the other team to run wild on the bases. DH or trade?
Matsui: Good hit, bad knees. DH or nothing. Trade?
Giambi: Good hit, below average defense, no speed on the bases, an arm that can’t be depended on to make the necessary throws around the infield in must make play situation. Time to move on this off season.
Abreu: Decent hit, below average field, average arm, average speed. Tough call, may or may not be back. Depends on the dollars.
Pitching: They have to do everything possible to pick up two stud pitchers in the off season. Obviously, easier said than done.
5 to 7 major pieces need to be replaced within the next year or two. Can they do it? That’s 2 pitchers, CF, 1B, LF,RF and catcher.
They have the resources that other teams just don’t have but as we have seen that doesn’t mean as much as it used to as the game has changed in the areas of trades and FA. The team has to improve it’s minor league system and player evaluations.
I like A-Rod, but lets be clear. He may be the best home-run hitter, not the best player. Best player has to be consistant and you just never know when you can count on him and when you cant. I mean you cant be the best player and hit .240 with RISP and 11 DPs in a crucial month for your team, and be incapable of hitting in the playoffs.
A-Rod is a great, no doubt, but the best ever?
“I can tell you without stats that Ozzie Smith and Vizquel are the two best shortstops(defense) ever, and it isn’t even close”
I think Ozzie the top dog, but I’d give a real hard look at taking Mark Belanger over Vizquel.
Doesn’t Mo usually WALK Millar? I seem to remember one BB in particular.
“Doesn’t Mo usually WALK Millar? I seem to remember one BB in particular.”
I bet you do.
In 22 career regular season plate appearances vs. Mo, Millar has drawn exactly ZERO walks.
Don’t forget Pedroia. You can toss his name into the greatest defense SS ever. I know. Technically, he’s not a shortstop, but his eye-hand coordination is so awesome, he could definitely do it.
Pedroia can also be in the greatest player conversation as well. The aforementioned eye-hand coordination, RISP average, and MVP numbers in only his second season.
Mel:
Couple large coffees with milk and sarcasm this morning??
It would be wonderful for Bob Sheppard to close out the Stadium. Whenever I heard his voice in the remodeled version (1976-present) it always reminded me of the original Stadium. I can still hear him introducing names like “Mel Stottlemyre” and “Mickey Mantle” and “Tony Oliva”. Stay healthy Mr. S. and be with us!
Mel, PJ Pilittere has been around for awhile, but, this year his bat came out of nowhere. He doesn’t have much power, but, he’s a solid defensive catcher, just not a Molina type arm…more Posada type, which isn’t bad. Age (26) and the kids coming in behind him are against him, but, he’d make a good backup catcher about mid season next year. He doesn’t strike out much. If he hits well in Scranton, he may be up. Cervelli is another young catcher…again no power, but good average. He has youth on his side, but, really are probably backups and/or trade bait in the next year or so.
“Don’t forget Pedroia. You can toss his name into the greatest defense SS ever. I know. Technically, he’s not a shortstop, but his eye-hand coordination is so awesome, he could definitely do it.
Pedroia can also be in the greatest player conversation as well. The aforementioned eye-hand coordination, RISP average, and MVP numbers in only his second season.”
Yeah, forget the fact that he is not a SS, how about the fact that “technically” this is his sceond season!
How can you dare say he is the greatest ever? Was your comment meant to be a joke?
Fredo,
No coffee, but I try to wake up with a large cup of Sarka Green Tea.
GB7,
Did you read the postgame? I guess he hit the game-winner last night and they sounded like little league kids who just won a big game. It was big, they’ve got a 2-0 lead now.
Did you just happen to have that stat handy at your fingertips, Fredo?
Tell me how many regular-season home runs Mark Bellhorn has hit at Yankee Stadium.
PRIOR to August Alex had 4 dp!!! Yes he had an AWFUL August. But he only had 4.
“Did you just happen to have that stat handy at your fingertips, Fredo?”
Baseballreference.com
Even you could find the info there.
get off the Melky kick, no way are the Yanks teaming up the 2 gay cabrellaros again. Melky’s going to be the fall guy on the Cano decline. heard from a very reliable source
But to answer your question, Bellhorn hit no regular season homers in Yankee Stadium.
“a few other things need to happen that day”??
More likely, Pete, they will get blown out 12-0 by the Orioles behind a near no-hitter by their starting pitcher (Cabrera?).
Kevin Millar will probably hit 3 home runs. Couple of Yanks will probably get injured. A-Rod will pop out twice and strike out twice, and Jeter will GiDP twice.
Geesh, I wonder if any of these predictions will come to fruition.
you don’t need fancy
Stats to proove Yankee defense stinks..
Just watching them is all the proof needed to prove they just don’t get to balls….
Totally agree ,, errors made are superficial..
Cracks me up that this thread degenerated to a level where the anti-ARod crowd took control. I don’t think I heard any of you BOO in 07. How would you have liked the Mark Lamb option at 3rd this year that was considered? ARod can plain rake, and we’re lucky to count him as a true Yankee.
Why not respect Mr. Sheppard and applaud his efforts to get back to the Stadium for one last game? He’s another fellow we’re lucky to consider a true Yankee. I can’t tell you how much I’ve personally missed his voice this year.
For the 21st… bring all the living Yankees back, legend or not. It should be made a spectacle which makes Old Timers Day pale in comparison. Remember each for their greatest contributions on the video screen and trot ‘em out in uniform to their old positions on the field.
Then and only then should we have the McCartney/Springsteen concert.
The more I think about it, the only way that you bring Abreu back is to DH. I know that’s for Matsui. If Posada can’t throw, he’s gotta suck it up and earn his money playing 1B.
Too many over the hill guys already.
I love Bobay, but offer him arbitration and go from there.
And I know Ransom’s old, but he really sees the ball well at this level, huh? Utility infielder next season.
no, I didn’t read the post game comments, Mel. I was busy with other issues after I left this board last night. I’ll pull it up in a minute. I just remember Pilittere from the Tampa games that I saw. I figure that either he or Cervelli will back up at the catcher’s spot next year until Posada’s ready. To his credit, he does make a lot of contact and is fundamentally sound. Cervelli has an advantage in youth and being a switch hitter, though. Something about Pilittere that I like, though.
JASON LOSES BOUT WITH BATHROOM DOOR
By GEORGE A. KING III
September 4, 2008
ST. PETERSBURG – Jason Giambi wishes he had a sexier story to explain the gash on the corner of his right eyelid that cause discoloring and swelling.
“I would like to have something to tell you, something like a fight or anything else,” Giambi said. “But it was nothing like that. I walked into the bathroom door at the hotel and split it open.”
The cut resembled a gash a boxer would get during a fight, but didn’t keep Giambi out of the lineup.
“There was so much blood the maid probably was wondering where the body was hid,” said Giambi,
Axel,
Mr. T will be back for a visit someday, but I think he’s busy for September. His team is doing a classic JT-style stretch run (okay, jog in the Dodgers’ case) and, at I think it is one game back in their Division, not expecting him to take off any nostalgia-days this month.
Am I the only one who thinks that it’s pretentious for George King to tack the III on to his byline? Would he put Jr. if that were the case? It’s not like Xavier has “NADY VI” on his jersey.
I mean you cant be the best player and hit .240 with RISP and 11 DPs in a crucial month for your team, and be incapable of hitting in the playoffs.
A-Rod is a great, no doubt, but the best ever?
Are you saying that other greats Ruth, Mantle etc.. never struggled? You are talking about stats of one season of a career that spands 13 years and say he’s not one of the best. Are you really claiming that none of his 547-9? home runs mattered? Are you and other bashers saying that if a person hits a sole home run that it shouldn’t coun’t? Is that only for A-Rod or is it for others as well?
The drama (from the fans and the media) is just outrageous you sound like little school girls whine this and that instead of sucking it up, take your lumps and move on.
Melky to join team in Seattle
Looks like Bobby Abreu’s jammed left wrist will be enough to keep him out of the lineup. Melky Cabrera will join the team on Friday in Seattle. Melky went 1-for-8 in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre’s two playoff games so far but batted .333 (19-57) with two doubles and five RBIs since being optioned to Triple-A on Aug. 15.
http://bombersbeat.mlblogs.com/
*whining
It makes sense to sit Abreu tonight. Morrow throws 97-99 MPH and pitches inside a lot. That would be painful and could do more damage. I’d sit Abreu one more day. The though of having Gardner playing is more painful than watching Cabrera.
YankeeDiva,
It’s just teasing, having fun at Alex’s expense. Of course we appreciate Alex and his contributions.
He’s just such an easy target. For instance, I went to the Cot’s site, and there it was in bold: Alex’s quote, “I love being the highest paid player in the game.” That kind of stuff makes him the guy with stone feet, while everyone breezes past him for layups. Too easy.
mel, that doesn’t make it right nor justified.
I’m good with Cabrera coming back. But he plays much better when he’s not on the hot seat. When there’s competition, he tries too hard and fails at times.
It’s hard to believe that Giraid seem has arranged for Rasner to start to against Angel.Giraid’s management often makes pitchers’ ERA keep up and awful in this season.When happened to some player was in a bad condition,he often couldn’t make the decision resolutely to take him out of the game immediately and the team got a hurt.
If Cash, Hank, and Hal each have a pulse, then there is no way they can’t be affected watching the Mets become the talk of the town, get all the backpages, and have the city bleeding orange and blue and dominating October while we fade into the oblivion.
During the 80s Cashman was just getting his career started, Hank was on the horse farm, and Hal was in high school… they have no idea what we are in for.
Mac Nut,
No, but you wonder why he’s not embraced by his peers? You don’t think that it snowballs into the media and to the fans? You don’t think he’s got so much stuff swirling in that brain of his, that it sometimes gets in the way?
Look, I’m not going to get into an Alex debate. But people should know better than to ask why he’s not liked. That’s not a layup, that’s a slam dunk. Alex fans get offended by any criticism so I’ll just zip it.
To ignore the other stuff and intangibles means that you might as well be cheering for a machine. Not going to happen, so we have to take the good with the bad.
“Don’t forget Pedroia. You can toss his name into the greatest defense SS ever. I know. Technically, he’s not a shortstop, but his eye-hand coordination is so awesome, he could definitely do it.
Pedroia can also be in the greatest player conversation as well. The aforementioned eye-hand coordination, RISP average, and MVP numbers in only his second season.”
Not to mention the grit factor
Off-topic, but does anyone remember approximately when schedules for the 2009 season start to trickle out? I know the Yankees schedule is usually one of the last published, but we’re going to Orlando in May, and we were thinking of taking a side trip to Tampa. If the Yankees are there, great; but it’s sort of becoming a thing with our family to visit ballparks, even if the Yankees aren’t in town.
This may seem like a silly question, but the Tampa Yankees play at Legends Field (Steinbrenner Field), right? Would we be able to see a game there? Or at least see the facilities if they’re not in town?
I’ve never been to Tampa and I think I visited St. Pete once when I was a teenager or pre-teen (had an aunt and uncle who lived there).
Thanks.
(I’m “opting out” of any further ARod discussions – for me, there’s really nothing more to be said
)
Didn’t mean to kill the thread.
How about projecting Opening Day rosters?
Doreen,
Wow. Way to back me up! j/k. “opt out” Good one. Looks like Cynthia’s opting out, too.
Doreen – re: Tampa –
My wife and I went to Tampa for ST this past March and loved it. It was a very nice break, weather-wise, from the Northeast, and we went to 5 games in 7 days. Legends Field is a nice, small ballpark, with players and coaches very accessible for autographs and photos. Nobody seems to worked up about anything, which is the great part about ST.
I would highly recommend it.
Yes, the Tampa Yanks play at Legends(Steinbrenner)field. There is a gift shop that is open year round, but I don’t know about touring the stadium if they aren’t playing. The website is Legendsfieldtampa.com
Thanks, Joe. We’ll be going in May, though, after spring training. But I’d love to at least visit the place to see what it’s about.
I’d love to try for spring training one year, though.
mel –
I’d just feel redundant if I said anything else. And I’m already redundant in my own home with my own kids! (Broken record, hitting head against wall, talking to myself, in one ear and out the other – you know – the selective hearing of one’s progeny. 
)
Sorry!
Thanks, Mark. I’ll have a look-see at the website.
(One last thing about ARod – he is not perfect. Duh.)
Marte has 21 Ks in 13.1 IP as a Yankee.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/05/sports/baseball/05pitchers.html?_r=1&ref=baseball&oref=slogin
Talking about IP and workhorses. They mention a couple Yankees and talk about future Yankee great Sabathia.
It’s inevitable that the Mets will take up the spotlight in the New York papers. The Yankees are on the west coast for the next week. So we might actually get some Hank quotes out of Tampa. Something to watch for.
Bob … Sheppard
Only he can announce the last game at the stadium. Depending on how he feels about working the new stadium, maybe he makes a retirement announcement at the end.
First pitch from Whitey to Yogi is a great idea Pete. Make it so.
Any living Yank of significance should show up just to be seen in the crowd, if not to wave goodbye during the (last) first pitch. Bernie? Yeah definitely. Rickey Henderson? Munson’s family? Of course. Do the Dodgers play that day or not? Torre/Mattingly would be nice to see if it works out. George? Damn straight, yo. Hensley Meulens? Raul Mondesi? Ahhhhh …. maybe not.
Mo has to get the last out. Hopefully the Yanks are winning when the top of the 9th comes along, and Mo can get the last out (whether a save situation or not) w/o the Yanks having to bat.
If the Yanks DO have to bat, the place has to be closed with a walk-off win. That could be a walk-off HR (most dramatic) a walk off base hit, a walk-off E, a walk-off BB or even a walk-off HBP or wild pitch. As long as it’s a Mo or a walk off .
Oh … one more idea … bring on the five guys from the 1998 ANSKY commercials. In “uniform” of course.
Mel-
Some I get are in jest but others post people seem a little too angry at the man.
I love that quote by him…people want him to be honest. Yeck I would love to get paid $30 mil a year to play my fav sport too
:)
Only now did it dawn upon me that the Yankees are actually 7.5 games out of the WC with absolutely no hope left.
RIP 08’ season … RIP consecutive postseason streak … RIP House that Ruth Built … RIP WS ring … RIP Andy (Pettitte) ... RIP Ponson—am I missing something?
...AND GOOD RIDDANCE PAVANO!!
Typing and talking on the phone are clearly two things I can’t do at the same time lol *in other post and *heck
Well this evening I get to watch some of the up and coming players for both the Yankees and the Sox.
I’m going to go watch the Trenton and Portland Sea Dog playoff game this evening.
Abreu has been the teams best player this year. Hope they are smart enough to hold onto him.
4. A pair of screaming line drives fly into the radio booth, rendering Sterling and Waldman unconscious. They recover but suffer amnesia and are reassigned to narrating on Circle Line Tours.
Can it happen and then Micheal Kay is locked into a crate sent to some abandoned Island.
ray,
What the heck was Clay doing in a AA playoff game? Trying to steal one from the Yankees?
i really hope all of that happens. and maybe the yankees end up clinching the wild card. oh what a day that would be!! very low chance on that
but i will be there.
“What the heck was Clay doing in a AA playoff game?”
pitching mediocrely in AA
why does the font on ‘Sea Dogs’ look like the same font from the ‘Sea Monkeys’ logo?
Opening Day roster (subject to change)
Starters:
1B Posada
2B Cano
3B Rodriguez
SS Jeter
LF Damon
CF Cabrera
RF Nady
C Molina
DH Matsui
Bench:
1. Ransom
2. fill-in-the-blank catcher
3. fill-in-the-blank outfielder
4. fill-in-the-blank super utility guy
Rotation:
Sabathia (you can wish, right?)
Wang
Joba
Mussina
Pettitte
Bullpen:
1. Rivera
2. Marte
3. Melancon
4. Coke
5. Aceves
6. Veras
7. ??
-A lot of the “fringe” players have only one year contracts. Bruney, Britton, Betemit, Veras, J-Alba, et al.
-Does Wang have to go to arbitration again? Will they knock him for not knowing how to run the bases?
-What happens with Nady? Do they come to terms to avoid arbitration?
-What’s Melky’s status?
More questions than answers. Not too many changes can be made. The big purchases are easy, but are the Yankees willing to go out of their comfort zone and shore up the defense? I can also see a purging of the bullpen with inhouse replacements.
Changes to be made, maybe not as splashy as Hank and others would like, but it’ll definitely look different. After all, we are in transition.
“pitching mediocrely in AA ”
he did strike out 9 in 6 innings….
“1B Posada”
And mel, how exactly do you propose the Yankees convince Posada to play 1B? And where is Abreu on your roster?
At that closing ceremony they have, how about Bernie performing a song with Sir Paul? Could it get any better than that?
Bernie needs to find his way to the stadium before it closes. If he doesn’t, he’ll regret it for the rest of his life.
Friend in Chicago says Carlos Quentin’s arm is broken. Done for the year. This per ESPN 1000.
“Friend in Chicago says Carlos Quentin’s arm is broken. Done for the year. This per ESPN 1000.”
I just heard this too. When did he break his arm? I don’t think it was during a game.
Laura,
If Jorge’s shoulder isn’t right, he’ll do what’s right. He’s getting paid a lot of money, and it’s not to let baserunners go crazy. Jorge came up as an infielder so I don’t know what the problem is. But I think being away from the game for a year will change his perspective. If his shoulder’s good, no big deal. But I don’t think he’ll be ready in the spring.
Bobay? He was offered arbitration, turned it down and signs 3 years somewhere else. I like him, his eye, his bat, and his clutch. But I can’t sign him to multiple years. Not with him in the field. He’s not horrible, but I’ve seen enough. There’s not even a spot for DH, as we’ve got Matsui, Jorge, and Damon taking turns there. At his age, he deserves one last “big” contract. It’s one of those if you love them let them go kind of things.
Laura:
He leads the world in getting hit by pitch. Including six games in a row fairly recently. My friend in Chicago is blaming Boston.
Haven’t seen this comfirmed anywhere else yet.
“My friend in Chicago is blaming Boston.”
I like your friend already.
This would be the second playoff contender to suffer a major injury so close to the end of the season (The Cubs being the other team). This could change the Central race dramatically.
“Congratulations, Dustin. How does it feel to follow up your ROY season with the MVP award?”
“Ah, you know, it’s no big deal. Go out there, work hard, keep it going. I’d like to thank my parents for giving me some wicked good eye-hand coordination. Couldn’t have done it without them!”
Mel…. other than Sabathia you make no changes? I don’t see Posada at 1B and can’t figure out why everyone else thinks it’s going to happen. Once his shoulder heals he should be able to catch. Until then he can’t do anything else.
I expect the Yanks to try and move Matsui or Damon and letting the other be a full time DH and just an occasional OF. Moving Matsui makes more sense, though his bat would be missed. A big bat much be added be it a FA (Teixiera? Dunn?) or through a trade (Holliday?). I think there will be several significant changes with Cano, Cabrera and some young relievers as potential trade chips.
“It’s one of those if you love them let them go kind of things.”
I don’t know, mel. I don’t think Bobby wants to go. Does he want a big payday more than he wants to be a Yankee? We’ll see. I’d sign him to a two year deal. I know that people thinks he sucks in RF, but I don’t think he’s that bad. He’s not great, but he’s not horrible either.
As for Jorge, it will all depend on that shoulder. If it heals well enough for him to catch, that would be his preference. But he seems to loathe being at first. The look on his face when you even bring it up is very telling.
It is going to be a VERY interesting off season.
mel
September 5th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
ray,
“What the heck was Clay doing in a AA playoff game? Trying to steal one from the Yankees?”
mel,
When the Sox sent Bucholtz down they sent him directly to AA Portland Sea Dogs.
And as someone already mentioned he hasn’t been particularly impressive at AA level.
“I expect the Yanks to try and move Matsui or Damon and letting the other be a full time DH and just an occasional OF. Moving Matsui makes more sense, though his bat would be missed. A big bat much be added be it a FA (Teixiera? Dunn?) or through a trade (Holliday?). I think there will be several significant changes with Cano, Cabrera and some young relievers as potential trade chips.”
Well, unless you are picking up a 100+ RBI guy, you don’t move Matsui. I think we’ve seen how lacking this lineup is w/o his bat. You’ve got to replace that production or we are going to have the same kind of season as we did this year.
Damon is a hard working guy, a gamer who brings a lot to the team. I don’t want to move him either. In my ideal world, I’m keeping Matsui, Damon and Abreu. How I pull this off, I don’t know. The issue is CF. I can make Matsui a permanent DH, but I need somewhere for Damon. I really don’t want him in CF, but I can’t put him in LF because the extremely gorgeous X-Man is there. I may have to do a platoon situation with Damon/Cabrera in CF.
86,
Sabathia is a big change. It’s seismic according to the people here. Wang coming back is huge! I’ve contended all along that Pettitte and Moose will be welcomed back with open arms. Who else are you going to add? You can’t add Sabathia AND Burnett. Would love a Halladay, but I can’t see Toronto trading him to us for any bounty.
Posada @ 1B is temporary. I’d add Millar, just so we wouldn’t have to play against him.
If Teixeira’s enjoying his time in LA and Moreno’s willing to pay, I can see him staying there.
I don’t see them being successful with moving Matsui. I think they value him in other ways. He’s been our most consistent producer when healthy. And now that he’s not, who’s going to take him? Look at what he’s done to the lineup since he’s been back.
Damon’s actually been our best (or 2nd bet) hitter and he’s still running with the wind. I can them keeping him. Just keep him out of CF.
I don’t think there will be as many changes as people are having visions of. Hank’s talk is cheap at this point. There’s a lot of variables in doing trades and acquiring FA. Players aren’t flocking here because other teams have opened up the checkbooks, too.
“And as someone already mentioned he hasn’t been particularly impressive at AA level.’
That no-hitter was the worst thing that ever happened to that kid. Kinda like how winning Best New Artist at the Grammys ruins your career.
I think CC ends up with Yankees and Sox sign Burnett to keep up with the Yankees.
I noticed that next Monday, September 15th they will be taping a segment of CenterStage that features Jorge Posada. Perhaps Michael Kay will use the opportunity to ask Jorge about “what if” his catching days are over or, at the very least, what if he can’t catch every day?
To tell you the truth, I can’t see Jorge as a DH – he’s too intense. And after being a catcher for so many years, being in the middle of literally every pitch of the game, to become a DH could be a very, very difficult adjustment.
I think you are right Laura. The no hitter messed him up. Will be interesting whether it is Bucholtz, Hughes, or Kennedy that will get their act together first.
ray,
I vote Hughes. Sigh, young pitchers.
And who’s Bucholtz?
Worst case scenario for the last game in Yankee stadium.
Yankees lose the Saturday 1 PM September 20th game, and become officially eliminated from the postseason. Cabrera wins game -Millar with 2 homers.
Field Championship Section 37 RowK behind Yankee dugout have cost you $4,002 for 2 tickets bought thru stub hub, for the final game against the Orioles.
Kei Igawa is pitching followed by Chase Wright Ian Kennedy and Chris Britton, in a game we fall behind 14-0 by the fourth inning when all our starters are removed.
Total Cost for the 2 of you for the day including air fare, hotel, food and transportation $6,000.
Final Game at Yankee Stadium- Priceless!!!!!
“And as someone already mentioned he hasn’t been particularly impressive at AA level.”
I thought I read he was doing well on Olney’s blog last week.
Those that think that Nady can play better defense than Abreu are wrong. He’s been below average in left field, so far and his speed is low. NYY can’t afford to convert the team to strictly right handed hitters, and, other than Cano, Damon and Matsui, that’s what you end up with. You then need to depend on Matsui and Damon being healthy and staying that way.
Confirmed: Quentin has a broken wrist. Surgery Monday to put a pin in.
They’ll basically replace Quentin w/ Konerko and let Swisher, Griffey and Dye be the outfield. They still might alright.
And since when are K’s in the minors an indication of big league success? IPK had 29 in 3 games. Just means he’s smarter than the hitters.
Really looks like Hughes and Clay are in the same boat. I don’t expect either to be a bust. They’ve both dominated in the minors and had a taste of big-league success.
IPK is more complicated. Really difficult for a young pitcher who relies on location. Other issues complicate it further.
“Confirmed: Quentin has a broken wrist. Surgery Monday to put a pin in. They’ll basically replace Quentin w/ Konerko and let Swisher, Griffey and Dye be the outfield. They still might alright.”
Only if those guys step it up. Konerko had been dreadful this year; I haven’t checked how he’s performed lately.
That’s really too bad. CQ was having an MVP type season.
“Those that think that Nady can play better defense than Abreu are wrong. He’s been below average in left field, so far and his speed is low.”
Wow, I thought that I was the only one who noticed that while Nady is wicked hot, he is a tad bit slow in the field. And to think that people were calling for him to play CF!
GB:
You suggesting the Yanks should make a bid to keep Abreu for next year??? Wouldn’t necessarily disagree but I can’t see him settling for anything less than 2 years plus an easy to reach set of incentives to kick in a 3rd year.
i think the yankees get both burnett and cc a leave joba in the pen and i think abreu comes back but ma gut feeling they trade matsui
Nady’s a right fielder. I would miss Bobby, but I could wouldn’t mind watching X in right field.
So, we are bringing back the same collection of losers that got us 3rd place, except we are adding Sabathia?
Cabrera who lost his job, in CF?
Molina .200 hitter at C?
Nady in right will be a disaster too BTW if you’ve seen him this year.
The offense that is going to score 200 less runs and not even be top 10 in baseball, and which has been responsible for our demise this year, is going to lose Abreu AND Giambi in the same year? who is going to replace those 50 HRs and 200 RBIs? Not to mention Damon and Matsui are never healthy.
If Cashman brings that team to ST next year, in a new stadium after losing $88 million, and after enduring the toughest season in a decade…. then I don’t see how anybody can feel confident about the future of the Yankees franchise. Sabathia does not answer all of the problems. Cashman lacks creativity, and creativity is something that will be needed severely this offseason.
Redding,
LOL. Give us your lineup. Realistic, not fantasy.
Make it happen, Mr. GM.
What were Melky’s numbers in AAA?
Laura, it’s not just that he’s not very fast (where he could outrun his mistakes), he takes bad routes and misjudges too many balls…both over him and in front of him. You almost never see him catch the ball with his glove in front of him, always off to the side and usually moving the glove at the last second. He does have some power and he drives in runs, but, he still strikes out nearly at the same pace as Abreu, but, doesn’t walk as much (no more than Cano does). At first base, I’d look for Nady, Damon, Posada or even Matsui getting a shot at it with one of them as the main DH, though from what I’ve seen, Posada probably won’t be ready until May.
Bench players get overlooked when we have so many flaws and weaknesses to correct, but I think a strong bench could have saved us a significant number of games this season. I know, not a flashy item, but I’m looking to see what Cashman does to correct this deficit in the off-season.
BTW, the following OF bats have options: Garret Anderson, Vlad, Manny, Carl Crawford, and Griffey, Jr.
Jay Payton, Baldelli, Podsednik, Cliff Floyd, and Ibanez are available though.
Dunn might work for you. Don’t know about his defense, but I do know about his strikeouts.
Need to find more guys like Damon in the off-season… guys who are proven winners and gamers. Someone who has played in big games and knows how to handle pressure.
That should be Cashman’s objective… target gamers, winners, and leaders. Re-shape the chemistry of the team.
And can we finally find a REAL 1st baseman? If not Teixeria, trade for somebody young and up coming. Stop making it our 2nd DH.
I can’t see it working very well with Damon and Matsui both back. Maybe Damon can be a fulltime LF, but I’ve gotta question that. They have to find a significant RH bat (or switch) for 1B. I guess they could try a Millar/Miranda platoon there but that’s far from a gran way to open the new Stadium and reward those ponying up the cash…
I can see Cano and Matt Kemp or Andre Ethier as the principles in a Yankees/Dodgers trade.
What I can’t see if no changes to the every day lineup and one FA pitcher… that is unless another 88-74 season is all we’re hoping for.
“BTW, the following OF bats have options: Garret Anderson, Vlad, Manny, Carl Crawford, and Griffey, Jr.”
Vlad and Crawford will almost certainly be picked up. Crawford’s is realtively cheap.
Manny’s option is history. Part of the trade was an agreement that the Dodgers would NOT pick up the option years.
I’d count on Anderson ($14M) and Griffey being on the market.
Steve,
http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Melky%20Cabrera&pos=OF&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=466320
Amen to that Mr. Sheppard belongs in that booth especially or this final game. Unfortunately I bet he thought he had til mid October to get back for the final game!
Angels will keep two of Guerrero, anderson and Teixiera, but, not all three. Remember the long term contract of Hunter and they’re still stuck with over 30 million dollars worth of gary mathews. Factor in F. Rodriguez and Lackey’s option and somebody goes.