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A New York Yankees blog by Chad Jennings and the staff of The Journal News


Girardi ready for free agency

Posted by: Peter Abraham - Posted in Podcast on Nov 13, 2008 Print This Post Print This Post | Email This Post Email This Post

Yankees manager Joe Girardi conducted a conference call with reporters today. There were some technical glitches at first but it got rolling after a bit.

Here is the audio. It starts with his responding to a question about Damaso Marte:

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The key points of the call: Girardi is prepared to help recruit free agents and if the Yankees don’t get CC Sabathia, they’ll just have to move on. He is OK with letting Brett Gardner and Melky Cabrera compete for the job in center and doesn’t plan to use Johnny Damon there. He also talked about the danger of signing pitchers with injuries in their history like Ben Sheets and A.J. Burnett.

————

Girardi also did the call to promote a charity event on Wednesday. He, Michael Kay and Jim Nantz of CBS will be at the Grand Central Oyster Bar to benefit several charities for research into Alzheimer’s disease.

Tickets are priced at $250 per person, while tables of 10 are priced at $5,000 and $2,500. There are 30 tickets remaining. Cocktail hour begins at 6:30 p.m. with the dinner and program starting an hour later. For information and ticket purchase, contact (212) 490-7108 or (800) 622-7775 or e-mail info@oysterbarny.com.

My grandmother had Alzheimer’s disease before she passed away in 2005 and was tragic to see such a bright and funny woman change the way she did. So if you have it in your means to help out this event, I urge you to do so.

 
 

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287 Responses to “Girardi ready for free agency”

  1. EDUB November 13th, 2008 at 12:09 pm

    Realistically CC won’t sign tomorrow but he’s just delaying the inevitable. We’ll blow any offer out of the water so if its really about the money then he should start his housing search in the tri-state area

  2. Ed - looking forward to 2009 (slacking in class now) November 13th, 2008 at 12:09 pm

    starting tonight at 12:01 AM will be really hectic. gonna feel sorry for you Pete, with all the rumors posting.

  3. Tom November 13th, 2008 at 12:15 pm

    Is it 12:00 EST? Or could CC go to Fiji and get a 12 hour jump on this…..

  4. Ed - looking forward to 2009 (slacking in class now) November 13th, 2008 at 12:19 pm

    Tom,

    since CC lives in Cali, I’m guessing he will go by Cali time. Making the GMs anxiously waiting. :wink:

  5. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 12:31 pm

    With our luck this time it wont be about the money. C.C. you have to feed your children. Go for the quan.

  6. Brandon (TEIX IS NOT WORTH IT, GET CC !)..."Don't trade Robi !" November 13th, 2008 at 12:32 pm

    According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Yankees will “aggressively extend a proposal” to C.C. Sabathia tomorrow. He believes the Yankees will go to “a financial region that no other franchise would even consider” to lure the ace. Sherman’s guess is an initial bid in the six-year, $150MM range (and that may not be the final offer).

  7. meacham is faster than berra November 13th, 2008 at 12:32 pm

    love reading the great posts here on a daily basis
    But I have one request, I am flying into the city
    The day before thanksgiving with my mom on her
    60th birthday and the rest of my family, we only have about 4 hours before we have to fly back
    Out…..where would you guys/gals suggest for
    A great lunch and maybe a great touristy experience? Tia.

  8. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 12:34 pm

    if Jim Nantz doesn’t show up, the charity event may be worthwhile.

  9. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 12:35 pm

    “Yanks have interest in Varitek”

    These rumors are seriously getting ridiculous. Next we’ll here Schillings name floated around.

  10. NY5 November 13th, 2008 at 12:35 pm

    I’m sure CC’s agent told him to say that he would prefer to stay in Cali, just to make the Yankees think they have to go all out in order to get him. Not like they weren’t going to anyway. But now they have to give him an offer that he won’t even have a choice to refuse, even if it means he is farther away from his hometown and family.

  11. NY5 November 13th, 2008 at 12:36 pm

    SOS

    Where does it say the yanks have interest in Varitek?

  12. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 12:38 pm

    Newark star ledger

  13. saucY November 13th, 2008 at 12:38 pm

    http://www.mentalfloss.com/quiz/quiz.php#quizDesc

    this quiz is hard (but fun)

    i only got 3 of the 10 right :(

  14. Joey's Poodle November 13th, 2008 at 12:39 pm

    CC will be snoozing happily at that hour. So will his agent, who has flunkies to keep people ‘anxiously waiting’ on his convenience.

    It’s a sellers’ market. No need for them to disrupt their schedules. Buyers might feel the need, but not them.

  15. saucY November 13th, 2008 at 12:40 pm

    the yankees do have interest in Varitek. they’re interested in the red-sox signing him for 3/45 ;)

  16. CB November 13th, 2008 at 12:42 pm

    Sorry didn’t see the new thread. This was picking up on KRod and the save statistic being over rated:

    “Most overrated stat in baseball is the SAVE.”

    It really is. Last year you could basically break relief pitchers into two groups. Mariano Rivera and the rest.

    There was simply no comparison between Mariano and anyone else. None.

    If you adjust for the defense and ball parks each pitcher pitched in, Mariano’s predicted ERA based on the number of line drives, ground balls, strikeouts, etc. they gave up was around. 1.11. No one else was even close. Second best was Kuo – 1.75. For comparison, Papelbon’s was 55% higher (2.03). KRod’s was 350% higher at 3.59.

    If you factor in how important the situation they pitched in was and their performance (i.e. the leverage of the situation) Mariano looks even more impressive.

    Mo saved 60 runs compared to a league average reliever. The next highest was Brian Fuentes – 44 runs saved.

    KRod – only 29 runs better. (Papelbon only 36 runs better).

    So that means if Mo and KRod had pitched in identical situations last year Mo would have saved around twice as many runs as KRod.

    Mo was as valuable to the Yankees last year as Jonathan Broxton and Kuo were combined to the Dodgers. That is just amazing.

    http://www.beyondtheboxscore.c.....s-crazy-go

  17. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 12:43 pm

    –Where does it say the yanks have interest in Varitek?

    In a newspaper published in the Twilight Zone.

  18. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 12:47 pm

    Im going to play the devils advocate here. We are going all in on C.C. What if he starts his first 4 games as bad as he did last year? What if he stinks it up in the playoffs like he has the last 2 year? Is he worth spending our life savings on? Is he really our savior? I wonder if the boos would come out after his first 2 bad starts?
    I know alot of what ifs. But its not like it hasnt happened before.

  19. jennifer November 13th, 2008 at 12:48 pm

    If the Yankees go after Fairy I will stop being a Yankee fan.

  20. vin November 13th, 2008 at 12:51 pm

    “Where does it say the yanks have interest in Varitek?”

    Source: The Scott Boras Tribune.

  21. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 12:52 pm

    As usual cb. Awesome stuff.

    Let the off season games begin!!

    Best 5 80′s cartoons
    1.Thundercats
    2.Voltron
    3.Transformers
    4.He man
    5.GI Joe

  22. Boston Dave November 13th, 2008 at 12:52 pm

    “Is he worth spending our life savings on?”

    huh?

    unless you are spending your life savings on season tickets next year, i have no idea what you’re talking about

  23. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 12:58 pm

    Boston Dave,
    I was exaggerating. My point was is he worth a blank check even though he has shown some kinks to his armor in the recent past?

  24. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 12:59 pm

    SoS:

    don’t know about 80′s. My list.

    1) Bugs Bunny/Looey Toons
    2) Histeria!
    3) Woody Woodpecker
    4) Hanna Baberra Laff-olympics
    5) Hong Kong Phooey

  25. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 1:01 pm

    correction:

    Tom & Jerry (remove Hong Kong Phooey)

  26. vin November 13th, 2008 at 1:04 pm

    all-time cartoons:

    South Park
    The Simpsons
    Bugs Bunny
    Road Runner
    GI Joe

  27. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 1:06 pm

    vinny,
    never heard of 2,4,5.

  28. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 1:06 pm

    I feel like today is Christmas Eve

  29. 86w183 November 13th, 2008 at 1:08 pm

    SOS —

    In his “recent past” CC’s one of the top pitchers in baseball. The Yanks need one (or two) of the top pitchers in baseball. Of course he’s worth a major deal.

    Johan Santana got about $ 23 M a year. Common sense says that’s the starting point. Yanks can start by offering a record six years @ $ 24 M and see what the reaction is. That’s about what they spent on Mussina and Pavano last year.

    What pitcher anywhere doesn’t have questions about him? CC has fewer questions than the rest of the FA pitchers on the market this year — Sheets, AJ, Lowe, Perez et al.

    By rule all MLB deadlines are Eastern Time.

  30. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 1:09 pm

    vin,
    Southpark
    Simpsons
    But no Family Guy?

  31. Tom November 13th, 2008 at 1:09 pm

    S.o.S. That’s been one of the problems in recent years. Every player that has been bought in-Alex, Johnson, Hughes, Joba, ect.-in recent years have been regarded as a savior.

    The fact of the matter is that this is a team sport. CC would be a piece of the puzzle. A healthy Wang, Posada, Matsui, Joba, ect. and rebound seasons from Jeter and Cano will help this team return to October.

  32. mel November 13th, 2008 at 1:12 pm

    SoS,

    What’re you talking about? CC has never gotten off to a bad start.

    O/T, but Selig needs to implement something similar to the NBA rules about fighting.

    MLB needs to fine/suspend players that leave the bullpen and maybe even the dugouts.

    Just let the principals get their frustrations out and let the coaches break it up to protect the outnumbered guys. If guys know they’ll be outnumbered maybe they won’t be chirping so much.

    Stern took a lot of heat for enforcing the rule during the playoffs 2 years ago, but it worked. The benches never cleared in the Rockets/Suns fracas last night. The assistant coaches and refs were able to de-esculate it pretty quickly because it was manageable.

  33. Tom November 13th, 2008 at 1:12 pm

    No Dangermouse\Bananaman?

  34. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 1:13 pm

    My fav 80′s cartoons (I have more than 5)

    -CareBears
    -Voltron
    -She-Ra
    -Rainbow Brite
    -He-Ma
    -Strawberry Shortcake
    -Smurfs
    -My Little Pony
    -M.A.S.K.
    -G.I.Joe
    -Muppet Babies
    -Thundercats
    -Transformers

  35. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 1:13 pm

    ** He-Ma=He-Man

  36. Tom November 13th, 2008 at 1:13 pm

    Oh, and The Simpsons is the greatest T.V show of alltime.

  37. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 1:14 pm

    SoS:

    ‘Histeria’ was unbelievable. It ran 2 seasons (circa 1998). Basically, it recounted events in history (the Vikings, Revolutionary War, the Renaissance, famous inventors etc) It was done via Warner Brothers (a Bugs Bunny type of style).

  38. gayle November 13th, 2008 at 1:15 pm

    Never thought the day would come when I actually missed these conference call operators. Leshawn unfortunately not one of the better ones we have heard lol. Looking forward to a few more of these conference calls moving forward.

  39. Rock Smoother November 13th, 2008 at 1:17 pm

    I’m surprised noone asked about Andy….I wanted to hear Joe speak on Pettitte

  40. Tom November 13th, 2008 at 1:18 pm

    vinny-b:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jcsknr1Komo

  41. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 1:21 pm

    mar 31 5.1 inn 5 earned
    apr 5 5.1 inn 4
    apr 11 3.1 inn 9 earned
    apr 16 4 inn 9 earned

    oct 2 playoff 3.2 5 earned

    2007 playoffs
    5 inn 3 earned
    4.1 8 earned
    6 4 earned

    Im all for going after him. Who ever said that they all have question marks and risks. I agree. He is the best free agent pitcher. But these rumors of over paying by 30 to 40% is scary.

  42. vin November 13th, 2008 at 1:23 pm

    SoS,

    I always watch Family Guy when its on… its pretty good, but not all-time good. I get the feeling that they try a little too hard sometimes.

  43. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 1:23 pm

    Anyone remember Wheeled Warriors or G force?

  44. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 1:26 pm

    Tom:

    lol.

    didn’t know Histeria was on youtube. I have viewed the cartoon (entire episodes) for free on AOL video. Had been hoping it would be released on DVD.

  45. Oldscut70 November 13th, 2008 at 1:27 pm

    Glad to see M.A.S.K. getting some well deserved recognition.

  46. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 1:30 pm

    take it easy, Francessa

    the AFC isn’t ‘that’ wide-open. Tennessee is strong

  47. Patrick November 13th, 2008 at 1:31 pm

    Anyone remember Dino-Riders? Awesome 80′s cartoon.

  48. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 1:32 pm

    Tennessee is a scary good team. Francesa needs to try and remember that

  49. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 1:39 pm

    I cant believe no one has mentioned GO BOTS and Pac man.

  50. Spyder November 13th, 2008 at 1:40 pm

    This is going to be a CRAZY winter

    Giants and Jets both very good at the same time, Yankees and Mets expected to be very active in free agency.

  51. Mike from CT November 13th, 2008 at 1:41 pm

    anyone here interested in sheets? can the yanks offer him an incentive heavy deal, maybe a 2 year deal? or do the injuries make him carl pavano-esque and should be avoided like the plague? Thoughts?

    1.CC
    2.Wang
    3.Pettitte
    4.Joba
    5.Sheets
    6.Hughes
    etc

  52. 24 Cano November 13th, 2008 at 1:41 pm

    “He also talked about the danger of signing pitchers with injuries in their history like Ben Sheets and A.J. Burnett.”

    Thank God that Girardi has some perspective. The players can want AJ all they want, it is not a smart investment.

    Get Lowe instead.

  53. Joey's Poodle November 13th, 2008 at 1:42 pm

    I see I’m not the only one who has spare time for other forms of entertainment once baseball season is over. Have you tried looking for your favorites on Netflix? I don’t know what they carry in terms of cartoon DVD’s because that’s not my fix, but November is the time of year when I update my queue and the postal traffic between Netflix and my house approaches gridlock after being pretty dormant April-October.

  54. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 1:42 pm

    “Im all for going after him. Who ever said that they all have question marks and risks. I agree. He is the best free agent pitcher. But these rumors of over paying by 30 to 40% is scary.”

    I wonder a little bit about the 30 to 40%. If the Yankees go 6/$150M, that’s $25M per. Santana is at $23M per and was not even a free agent when he signed the deal. $25M is less than 10% greater than Santana’s salary and as I think about this realistically, can any team legitimately expect him to sign for any less than Santana? To me $23M has to be viewed as the low water mark. I suspect a few teams come in around $20M-$21M per and the Yanks come in at $25M. That’s only a 25% bump up, but I’m not sure $20M-$21M offers can be viewed as serious in light of Santana’s contract.

    Caveat here is what if the Angels come in at Santana money and years? Does topping that offer by less than 10% enough to get CC to the Yankees? Or do they have to go higher?

  55. t-rock November 13th, 2008 at 1:43 pm

    Mike,

    If Sheets actually will accept a 2 yr deal, we should be all over that. That is a low risk, high reward move.

    But some idiotic team like Houston will give him his 4 years when the market dries up. If he is willing to take 2 years though, then sign me up.

  56. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 1:44 pm

    “Giants and Jets both very good at the same time”

    Giants are light years better than the Jets. Giants are very good. Jets are decent.

  57. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 1:45 pm

    T-rock:

    Agreed. Someone will offer Sheets better than 2 years. Probably a lot better.

  58. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 1:45 pm

    All 80′s cartoons
    http://www.tripletsandus.com/80s/cartoons.htm

  59. saucY November 13th, 2008 at 1:46 pm

    in no particular order

    -simpsons (best show ever, hands down)
    -southpark
    -woody woodpecker
    -heckel and jeckel
    -looney tunes
    -tom-n-jerry
    -jetsons
    -ren and stimpy
    -beavis and butthead

    p.s. – either none of you took the quiz i linked to, or you did but did worse than me and are too ashamed post your score…

  60. Frontier November 13th, 2008 at 1:47 pm

    The question is

    Should we really go after a player who will only come here if we pay 30-40% more than the next highest bidder?

    I mean, not even Boras is that crazy to demand that. He will take his client to the highest bidder, even if its by a dollar, he won’t say a team has to pay 30% more to get a certain player.

    Seems like a very shady strategy. Desperate is an understatement.

  61. Doreen November 13th, 2008 at 1:47 pm

    saucy -

    The link isn’t working for the quiz; I tried it earlier.

  62. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 1:49 pm

    saucY-your quiz link isn’t working for me. :(
    Which quiz is it n that mental floss site..I’ll take it!

  63. Mr. Exceptional November 13th, 2008 at 1:49 pm

    I like Sheets. They could get Sabathia and Sheets and still make a play for Tex.

    If Mussina comes back (which I think he’s leaning towards now)you could have some real options. You’d have Sabathia, Wang, Mussina, Sheets, Pettitte and Joba. You could bring Joba along slowly as a starter because one of those guys is sure to spend some time on the DL.

    As has been said, high risk, high reward.

    I like Sheets at less money then Burnett. I’m not a Lowe fan either, just something about him.

  64. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 1:50 pm

    “If Sheets actually will accept a 2 yr deal, we should be all over that. That is a low risk, high reward move.
    But some idiotic team like Houston will give him his 4 years when the market dries up. If he is willing to take 2 years though, then sign me up”

    yup.

    to tell the truth, i’d prefer Sheets (only at 2 yrs) over a long-term contract to Burnett/Lowe.

    all for not. Like you said, an idiot team will offer Sheets 4yrs

  65. vin November 13th, 2008 at 1:52 pm

    my prediction – Sheets will get 4 yrs / 75 mill… from an NL team.

  66. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 1:52 pm

    Mr. Exceptional:

    understand, you cannot sign Sheets long term however.

    a 4yr deal to Sheets would not be exceptional

  67. PAT M. November 13th, 2008 at 1:53 pm

    Burnett knows the AL East cluhouses, so I’m leaning towards him…Sheets has tremendous upside if he can stay out of the nurses office……

  68. saucY November 13th, 2008 at 1:53 pm

    oops. here’s a link that should work

    http://www.mentalfloss.com/qui.....0&p=1

  69. vin November 13th, 2008 at 1:54 pm

    saucY, good call on the beavis and butthead. Love the frog baseball and couch fishing.

  70. pat November 13th, 2008 at 1:54 pm

    Hong Kong Phooey! Great cartoon. Haven’t thought about that in years.

    Used to love The Wacky Races and SchoolHouse Rock too. They weren’t really cartoons but the Sid and Marty Kroft shows- HR Puff N Stuff, The Banana Splits, The Bugaloos, Sigmond and the Sea Monster- were fun as a kid and probably would have been even better viewing if you were older and in a slightly altered state.

  71. X-Mann November 13th, 2008 at 1:54 pm

    Fredo,

    Once you are in that universe of Santana money, then the offers are interchangeable for the most part. He will have his $150 million or so and might be more inclined to take a discount. Then we might need to go to the $175-180 plateau to get him to reconsider us.

    If LAA offers $145ish and we offer $160, I don’t think that is enough for him forgo the WC and come here.

    Of course, this is all highly speculative. Does he really love the WC as much as portrayed or is it a plot by his agent? Will he come here if we give him an extra year rather than more money?

    So many smokescreens at this time its hard to know whats really up.

  72. Tom November 13th, 2008 at 1:55 pm

    Futurama is just a great show. Sealab 2021, Space Ghost.

    Korgoth of Barbaria only had 1 episode, but, it was great.

  73. YankeesBen November 13th, 2008 at 1:56 pm

    Just get me CC and Tex and my team is set..

    Damon-lf
    Jeter-ss
    Tex-1b
    A-Rod-3b
    Matsui-Dh
    Nady-rf
    Cano-2b
    Posada-c
    Gardner-cf

    Molina-c
    Ransom-if
    Cabrera-of
    You name him…

    Sabathia
    Wang
    Joba
    Pettitte
    Hughes/Aceves

    Rivera
    Marte
    Bruney
    Veras
    Giese/Aceves
    Coke
    Ramirez/Robertson/?????

  74. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 1:57 pm

    Before we start fitting CC for pinstripes, keep in mind that CC could be that rarest of players who will leave money on the table so that he can play where he wants to play (i.e. NL or Cali team). Now, I would be shocked if he leaves 20mil or more on the table, but it could happen. So don’t start partying just yet!

  75. Mr. Exceptional November 13th, 2008 at 1:57 pm

    Yeah, no 4 years for Sheets. But I would go high dollar for 3.

  76. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 1:58 pm

    lol
    4 out of 10 on that quiz

  77. Tom November 13th, 2008 at 1:58 pm

    6\10

  78. vin November 13th, 2008 at 1:58 pm

    7 out of 10 on the quiz… looking for uni numbers and lefty/righty-ness is helpful. I got screwed on 2 of them.

  79. YankeesBen November 13th, 2008 at 1:59 pm

    ok maybe an other starter aka Garland or Lowe but not on a long term deal,

  80. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 1:59 pm

    Something else to keep in mind is what happened to Randy Johnson. He wanted to come to the Yankees, got here, didn’t like it and was shipped back to AZ. If CC comes here and doesn’t like it, he will be stuck as no other team will be able to pay his salary. That’s something else he has to take into consideration.

  81. Johnny Boy November 13th, 2008 at 2:01 pm

    How about bring Abreu back? and let abreu hit 3rd and let tex bat behind AROD….. that will be a sick line up. I like Abreu. I love the way he bat. abreu Arod Tex…. that will be crazy~~~~ but if we bring abreu back, Defense might be a problem for outfield. Nady,Damon, and Abreu??

  82. vin November 13th, 2008 at 2:01 pm

    Laura,

    CC doesn’t seem to be the cranky old man that RJ is. How could a young, wealthy man not love living in NY and playing for the Yanks?

  83. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 2:01 pm

    pat:

    ever check Laff-olympics?

    the same dog from Wacky Races, is in the cartoon. And i love to hear him laugh :)

  84. pat November 13th, 2008 at 2:01 pm

    6/10 and feeling foolish over missing Damon.

  85. Doreen November 13th, 2008 at 2:02 pm

    saucy, I got 4 right, passed on 3 and got 3 wrong.

    Those pictures were very difficult to figure out.

  86. Doreen November 13th, 2008 at 2:02 pm

    pat -

    I missed Damon too. :( It didn’t look like him at all! :lol:

  87. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 2:03 pm

    Ah! SchoolHouse Rock

    Conjunction Junction, what’s your function?

  88. saucY November 13th, 2008 at 2:04 pm

    i only got bonds, sheff, and damon :|

  89. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 2:04 pm

    confession:

    I purchased the SchoolHouse Rock CD, a while back.

    you may take my man card

  90. 86w183 November 13th, 2008 at 2:04 pm

    If you can get guys to sign for two years good for you.

    I think Sheets is very risky long term as is Burnett although both are tremendous talents.

    Lowe just isn’t good enough long term, I’d rather take a chance on superior talent rather than hope Lowe will be good coming back to the AL when his last two AL seasons were ugly until some great starts in the ’04 post-season.

    Fredo is right on the money. If the Yanks go $ 2 or 3 M a year more and guarantee one more year than the anti-Yankee pseudo socialists who write about baseball can claim they paid 30 % or 40 % more than the next best offer.

    Six years @ $ 25 is $ 150 M. Five years @ $ 23 is $ 115. Thus the six year offer is 30 % higher even though the annual salary is just 9 % higher.

    However if he’s still good that last year it turns out to be a great contract, though none of those blowhards would ever acknowledge that.

  91. Mr. Exceptional November 13th, 2008 at 2:04 pm

    I got 9 out of 10 on the quiz. I only missed #8.

  92. pat November 13th, 2008 at 2:04 pm

    vinny-b

    Muttley had a great laugh.

    I don’t remember Laff-olympics.

  93. Guard November 13th, 2008 at 2:06 pm

    Laura,

    I’m sure CC is considering that as well. Does he really want to commit 7 years to a place he may not like when he can stay in his comfort zone and still get paid enough to set himself up for generations?

    Sure, he may not get the $170-180 that we could offer, but $140-150 is more than enough especially if it enables him to be with his family in an environment he enjoys. And unlike in the past when our selling point was our ability to win…. the Dodgers and Angels can offer that as well and can offer even a better chance to win considering the weak division they play in.

  94. Joe I November 13th, 2008 at 2:09 pm

    Mo finished 5th and Mussina 6th in the Cy Young voting. Lee, Halladay, K-Rod and Dice-K finished ahead of them in that order.

  95. YankeesBen November 13th, 2008 at 2:09 pm

    Jhonny Boy Thats exactly my problem i relly think Abreu is a valuable offensive player, but than you either have a weak outfield, or one has to sit.

  96. pat November 13th, 2008 at 2:10 pm

    I still know all the words to The Preamble to the Constitution because of SchoolHouse Rock but I have to sing it. :smile:

  97. speading the news November 13th, 2008 at 2:10 pm

    Jermaine Dye is available . . . .

    http://www.chicagotribune.com/.....?track=rss

  98. YankeesBen November 13th, 2008 at 2:12 pm

    so where should we place dye?

  99. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 2:13 pm

    “I still know all the words to The Preamble to the Constitution because of SchoolHouse Rock but I have to sing it”

    lol

  100. YankeesBen November 13th, 2008 at 2:13 pm

    the yankees do not need an other corner outfielder nor a DH,
    the only positions they should be looking at is 1st base and maybe Center field

  101. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 2:14 pm

    “I still know all the words to The Preamble to the Constitution because of SchoolHouse Rock but I have to sing it.”

    Hahaha
    Same with me

  102. Outlawz November 13th, 2008 at 2:14 pm

    RJ was old, cranky, and stubborn. He didn’t get along with anyone and hated the spotlight. He just wanted to ride our cottails to a title for his own satisfaction.

    I don’t think CC has “disdain” for NYC, I think he just prefers to go West. If he comes here, I think he would get used to it. He is a guy who loves the spotlight and is revered as a great teammate who will do whatever to help his team win. He looks like he will get along great with the guys, he already has enlisted the help of Jeter.

    Not everyone is RJ – Giambi wasn’t an East Coast guy either when he came here but he learned to love it. He fit in the clubhouse well and he became a media favorite. CC reminds me more of Giambi than RJ, IMO.

  103. saucY November 13th, 2008 at 2:14 pm

    Pete, you had an AL Cy vote, right?

    who’d you vote for? spill it!

  104. Quilvio Imposter November 13th, 2008 at 2:16 pm

    Move Nady to 1st and let Dye play RF

  105. YankeesBen November 13th, 2008 at 2:16 pm

    Pete spilled it caughed it already several times, he voted for Cliff Lee

  106. YankeesBen November 13th, 2008 at 2:16 pm

    i’ll only move nady to first if i miss on Tex

  107. mel November 13th, 2008 at 2:17 pm

    flossy,

    I got 2 of the first 3 and it was all downhill after that.

    I got Damon wrong, but looking back it did like Damon.

  108. saucY November 13th, 2008 at 2:18 pm

    YankeesBen, i know. i’m more interested in who he voted for 2nd and 3rd…

  109. Patrick November 13th, 2008 at 2:20 pm

    Matsuzaka and K-rod got votes? What a joke…

  110. Reacher November 13th, 2008 at 2:21 pm

    Laura,

    If the Yankees had Pedroia and Youk in 08, there is a very good chance they would have won the AL East, if not gone all the way. These guys are grinders with great stats who elevate the play of everyone around them. They could easily have fit in with the 96—00 NY gang. Does Pedroia have more talent than Cano?…..absolutely not, is he a better complete baseball player?..not even close!!! He can be on my team anytime. Youk??? He does a fantastic job with limited ability…every AB is a grind..he is top gun also..better than what we had at 1B last year? It’s absurd to even ask the question. I should add that I dislike the Red Sox and virtually everything about them…but these two guys are good, without question and one must give them their just due.

  111. 86w183 November 13th, 2008 at 2:21 pm

    Matsui for Dye makes a lot of sense. With Thome a FA the Chisox need a LH bat/DH and the Yankees could use a better RF and a righty stick. Let Damon/Dye/Nady handle LF/RF/DH.

    Okay with you guys? The money is about equal and they are about the same age. If the Yanks don’t get Tex they could pursue Dunn for DH and play Nady at 1B.. at least he’s done it.

  112. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 2:28 pm

    I got 9 of 10!! Even though i guessed on ray lankford. Wanted to put Coleman. I did include on my correct list answer #1 of Ryan Sandberg. It wouldnt allow me to change Grace on that. Without that one 8-10. I grade on a curve.

    Can we add GUMBY to the 80′s cartoon list?

  113. Patrick November 13th, 2008 at 2:29 pm

    Cashman already said they aren’t going to put a non first baseman at first. Nady isn’t going to be this team’s starting 1B.

    Dye is a really bad fielder but I wouldn’t mind him as a full-time DH. I’m not sure if he is all that much better than Matsui though. If they are both healthy they are fairly equal, Matsui has a higher OBP, Dye has a higher SLG. I doubt the White Sox would do that trade.

  114. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 2:35 pm

    Can we please get a real first baseman. Id trade Nady before i put him at first. That experiment has never worked. From Sheffield to Damon to Giambi. Id prefer Tino to grab a first base glove and go back out there before we do that. If all else fails look to bringing back Nick.

  115. CB November 13th, 2008 at 2:37 pm

    For anyone who thought the yankees had overpaid for Marte…

    The Cubs just traded Jose Ceda for Kevin Gregg.

    Year in and out mediocre relief pitchers become the most over valued asset in the game come winter.

  116. NY5 November 13th, 2008 at 2:37 pm

    Do you think Jeter will change positions in 2011?

  117. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 2:43 pm

    CB,
    Can you forsee our bullpen(which is our asset)landing us a center fielder or first baseman? Assuming Tex stays put. What players would you think are doeable?

    NY5,
    The question i would ask is if Jeters production drops these next 2 years. Will he hang em up? Will the Yankees pay him for who he is and not his present numbers at that time? I still think center field would be a perfect fit for him.

  118. 86w183 November 13th, 2008 at 2:43 pm

    Switching Nady isn’t be first preference. I want Teixiera over there. But there has to be a plan-B.

  119. kd November 13th, 2008 at 2:45 pm

    CB,

    What’s Jose Ceda’s upside?

  120. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 2:46 pm

    “Can you forsee our bullpen(which is our asset)landing us a center fielder or first baseman?”

    No. Not a very good one anyway.

  121. Ed - looking forward to 2009 November 13th, 2008 at 2:48 pm

    **I want Teixiera over there. But there has to be a plan-B.**

    trading for Garko, Davis, Blalock to say the least. or just give Miranda a shot at 1B.

  122. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 2:49 pm

    –CC doesn’t seem to be the cranky old man that RJ is. How could a young, wealthy man not love living in NY and playing for the Yanks?

    I’m not saying he’s RJ. I’m just using RJ as an example of a player who wanted to come to NY, but found out later that it didn’t suit him. I find it hard to believe that CC wouldn’t like it here. I’m just trying to add a little something for people to think about. Everyone on here is assuming that CC is going to take “our” money and run. I’m just pointing out that he has more than just money to think about.

  123. CB November 13th, 2008 at 2:49 pm

    SoS,

    As part of some kind of package I do think the yankees can use their bull pen depth to acquire a decent CF or 1b. Not a star but an average to above average player.

    kd,

    Ceda is still very raw but throws very hard and is huge. He’s one of the Cubs top 5 prospects. Now the Cubs system is horrible so top 5 is relative.

    But he’s got potential. Throws in the upper 90′s.

    Kevin Gregg is just not very good.

  124. Tom November 13th, 2008 at 2:49 pm

    “Can you forsee our bullpen(which is our asset)landing us a center fielder or first baseman?”

    It would have to be a package deal. 1-2 bullpen arm(s) and SP prospect or two to get anything of real value.

    Bullpen arm on its own will likely net a non-tender candidate-a Chad Tracy type player.

  125. jessidog November 13th, 2008 at 2:50 pm

    I scored 9 out of 10 – was surprised as I had guessed on a few – cute quiz…thanks for posting it.

  126. SJ44 November 13th, 2008 at 2:53 pm

    No interest in Dye. You can’t keep taking away lefthanded hitters from this team. The new ballpark will have the same dimensions as the old stadium.

    The Yankees can’t be too righthanded a ballclub. If you lose Abreu, Giambi and Matsui, it becomes very unbalanced offensively. Not the way to go.

    Not everybody that hits the market is suited for the Yankees.

    You have to look at the overall team before fitting everybody into pinstripes.

  127. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 2:55 pm

    CB:

    Not sure I agree. Suppose it depends on how we’d identify an abaove average 1B or CF. I don’t believe, for example, that the Dodgers would trade James Loney for bullpen arms. Nor would the Reds with Joe Votto or Bruce. What level of 1B or CF are you talking?

  128. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 2:55 pm

    CB,
    Laroche? Dejesus?

  129. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 2:56 pm

    –I should add that I dislike the Red Sox and virtually everything about them…but these two guys are good, without question and one must give them their just due.

    I know what you are saying, but I think I dislike the Red Sox more than you do so I can’t be so generous. The Hobbitt gets more credit from me than Pukelis. I think that Pukelis is a whiner. I’m looking foward to more Joba/Pukelis confrontations next season.

  130. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 2:58 pm

    Lee named Cy Young. No surprise there.

  131. S.o.S. November 13th, 2008 at 3:02 pm

    “You have to look at the overall team before fitting everybody into pinstripes.”

    Yeah but SJ. If we buy everyone in the league. It will finally gaurantee us that #27 thats been evading us. You cant beat em. Buy em.

    BREAKING NEWS!!
    I just took the quiz for ONLY the second time and scored 100%!! I wonder if it is linked in some way to I.Q. test?

  132. CB November 13th, 2008 at 3:02 pm

    “Not sure I agree. Suppose it depends on how we’d identify an abaove average 1B or CF.”

    Fredo,

    I’m not speaking about someone on the Votto/ Loney level. No way. Forget about Bruce.

    I’m talking about a Mike Cameron, Hank Blalock, Chad Tracey type. Something along those lines.

    Do you really think Kevin Gregg is better than Veras? And Gregg was in demand as a closer on the trade market.

    Kevin Gregg’s career walk rate is 4.5/9. Kyle Farnsworth’s career walk rate – 4.0/9. Think about that. The Cubs gave up their 4th best prospect – a guy who profiles to be a legit bull pen arm in the very near future (perhaps this year) for Gregg.

    Relief pitching gets grossly overvalued every winter.

  133. saucY November 13th, 2008 at 3:04 pm

    the voting results are up at mlb.com. i’m glad to see only lee and halladay got 1st place votes…

  134. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 3:05 pm

    “I think that Pukelis is a whiner.”

    So was Paul O’Neill. If they bring talent to the table, who cares? Kind of like Bill Laimbeer, Isiah Thomas and Danny Ainge from 80′s NBA. Bunch of whiney bastards who people loved to hate…….unless they happened to be on your favorite team.

  135. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 3:06 pm

    Francesa actually remembers the TV Show Providence? I am shocked

  136. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 3:09 pm

    “Do you really think Kevin Gregg is better than Veras?”

    I think “Gregg” translated to Spanish probably is “Veras”.
    I don’t think either of them are anything special. Don’t much like that trade for the Cubs. Don’t think it means the end of Wood as a Cub as much as it means the end of Howry as one. Still a pretty iffy deal though. You’d think they could have paid less.

  137. Patrick November 13th, 2008 at 3:10 pm

    Yeah as much as I dislike Youkilis he’s the exact kind of player I wish the Yankees had at first base. Good fielder, good OBP, some power, grinds out at-bats, etc.

  138. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 3:13 pm

    wonder how many times Francessa uses the word “I”, on any given day ?

    9,000?

  139. mel November 13th, 2008 at 3:18 pm

    You guys are going to love this article:

    *Yes, baseball’s free agent supermarket officially opens Friday, but that’s true only in a technical sense.*

    *No one — not a player, not another team — is going to do much until the Yankees are finished. Once general manager Brian Cashman is done, every other team can get to work.*

    http://www.sportingnews.com/yo.....p?t=485774

  140. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 3:19 pm

    –Bunch of whiney bastards who people loved to hate…….unless they happened to be on your favorite team.

    Much truth here…except that I’m 100% that I would still hate Pukelis if he were on the Yankees. I’d pull for him to succeed, but I wouldn’t enjoy it.

    And for the record, I don’t see Paulie as a whiner. He’s just very opinionated. :)

  141. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 3:21 pm

    –Once general manager Brian Cashman is done, every other team can get to work.

    So let me get this straight: The other teams are just sitting around on their hands, waiting around for us to grab up CC and Tex so they can get a crack at what’s left over? Are we really the center of the baseball universe? Somehow, I doubt it.

  142. Jerry from Queens November 13th, 2008 at 3:22 pm

    Pay CC the big bucks.

    Pay AJ big bucks for 4-years tops. If not, look into Sheets for a 2-3 year deal.

    Stay away from Lowe. He has the heart of a Champion. However, he does not have the stuff to win consistently in AL East. He is also 35 now.

    If Yankees are serious of playing Gardner in CF, Yankees must sign Teix.

  143. saucY November 13th, 2008 at 3:23 pm

    Paulie got mad/whined/threw fits… but it was more directed at himself than anyone else. I don’t see that in Mr. Yuk

  144. mel November 13th, 2008 at 3:27 pm

    It’d be a rough transition for Yuk to play in NY. But once he gets over being mad about the case of Ex-Lax left in his locker by an anonymous teammate, I think it’d work out just fine. :)

  145. harwood November 13th, 2008 at 3:28 pm

    http://www.nydailynews.com/spo.....yan-1.html

    “I’m still kind of up in the air,” -Mussina

  146. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 3:28 pm

    –Pay CC the big bucks.

    Within reason. This 30-40% more than the next guy talk is ridiculous!

    –Pay AJ big bucks for 4-years tops. If not, look into Sheets for a 2-3 year deal.

    Here’s where you lost me. No way should we even look at Sheets. The guy is a walking Disabled List. He finished the season injured. Didn’t we just get rid of Pavano? We don’t need to fill his spot on the DL.

    –Stay away from Lowe. He has the heart of a Champion. However, he does not have the stuff to win consistently in AL East. He is also 35 now.

    Lowe should be a “we can’t get anybody else” option. He wants to play for BOS. Let him go there.

    –If the Yankees are serious about playing Gardner in CF, Yankees must sign Teix.

    The Yankees must sign Tex regardless of who is playing CF if they are letting both Giambi and Abreu go.

  147. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 3:30 pm

    “wonder how many times Francessa uses the word “I”, on any given day ?”

    Possible drinking game for tomorrow? Though, I might run out of alcohol..

  148. harwood November 13th, 2008 at 3:32 pm

    “So let me get this straight: The other teams are just sitting around on their hands, waiting around for us to grab up CC and Tex so they can get a crack at what’s left over? Are we really the center of the baseball universe? Somehow, I doubt it.”

    CC and Tex are setting the market for the FA’s this season. No others will sign before these two.

  149. ray (sox fan) November 13th, 2008 at 3:34 pm

    “Lowe should be a “we can’t get anybody else” option. He wants to play for BOS. Let him go there.”

    Laura, it will be interesting to see where Lowe ends up. I know he has indicated he would like to go back to Boston but in my opinion I don’t see that happening.

    I do expect that your Yankees will eventually get CC even if they have to back up the Brink’s truck to do it.

    I wouldn’t be surprised if Boston pursued Burnett to keep pace.

    In any respects things will get interesting soon.

  150. Nick in SF November 13th, 2008 at 3:36 pm

    Nick Swisher traded to Yankees?

  151. Broseph (Brightside '09: Giambi won't bat 5th!) November 13th, 2008 at 3:37 pm

    Nick Swisher to the Yanks?

    Where have I been?

  152. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 3:37 pm

    Yankees acquired Nick Swisher?

  153. Broseph (Brightside '09: Giambi won't bat 5th!) November 13th, 2008 at 3:38 pm

    The New York Yankees have acquired center fielder-first baseman Nick Swisher in a trade with the Chicago White Sox, a baseball source tells ESPN.com.

    Minor league pitcher Jeff Marquez is headed to Chicago in the deal, the source said. It’s uncertain if any other players are involved.

    Swisher, 27, hit .219 with 24 home runs in 153 games with Chicago this season.

    Jerry Crasnick covers Major League Baseball for ESPN.com.

    http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/.....id=3700869

  154. harwood November 13th, 2008 at 3:38 pm

    What?! links?

  155. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 3:39 pm

    Bye Bye Jeff Marquez

  156. pinstripes November 13th, 2008 at 3:39 pm

    nick swisher!

    honestly, i love the move

  157. mel November 13th, 2008 at 3:39 pm

    Wow. What a deal.

  158. Moneyball November 13th, 2008 at 3:40 pm

    Swish!

  159. Nick in SF November 13th, 2008 at 3:40 pm

    Wait, we had to give something up for Nick Swisher?!?!??!

    Wait, we had to TAKE Nick Swisher??!?!?!

  160. pinstripes November 13th, 2008 at 3:41 pm

    swisher is a solid move..

    not a bad contract either. i dont think so anyways??

    can play some first, can play some outfield…

    has some pop.

  161. mel November 13th, 2008 at 3:42 pm

    lol @ the Giambi-type stats.

    How good is he in CF?

  162. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 3:42 pm

    swisher ?

    what an underwhelming choice

  163. RhapsodyInBlue November 13th, 2008 at 3:42 pm

    Swish Nicker a Yankee?

  164. Reacher November 13th, 2008 at 3:43 pm

    Looks like it. http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/.....id=3700869

  165. mel November 13th, 2008 at 3:43 pm

    I like it in that he’s a hard-nosed player.

    Anyone know what he looks like without the beard?

  166. Bobby November 13th, 2008 at 3:43 pm

    Awesome deal for the Yanks. Great buy low move an an off year for a very good player. Marquez has no future and Swisher can fill either the 1B or CF vacancy, whichever we need.

    Even as a Cashman hater, I have to give him his due here. Heck of a job. This could be a huge steal.

  167. Doreen November 13th, 2008 at 3:43 pm

    So, he’s a role player guy? Bench guy? What does this deal mean?

  168. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 3:43 pm

    I bet it was Marques and Melky

  169. kd November 13th, 2008 at 3:44 pm

    swisher hit .208 last year.

    i guess marquez was below alan horne on the depth chart, but if swisher is the 5th outfielder, backup 1st baseman, then good. if they intend him to be a starter, we’re in trouble

  170. RhapsodyInBlue November 13th, 2008 at 3:44 pm

    “Anyone know what he looks like without the beard?”

    Chuckie.

  171. joee November 13th, 2008 at 3:44 pm

    not bad. I’m liking the trade.

  172. Kill.Schill(ing) November 13th, 2008 at 3:44 pm

    Eh, good bench player.

    He’s insurance against Brett Gardner sucking and the Yankees not being able to find a 1b, but beyond that, he hardly thrills me.

    His greatest virtue is that he walks, even when like last year, he can’t hit.

  173. kd November 13th, 2008 at 3:44 pm

    sorry, .219

  174. ray (sox fan) November 13th, 2008 at 3:45 pm

    So basically you guys have filled your first base needs?

    Right? Right?

    Good, then the Sox can pick up Tex! :) :)

  175. Jeff NJ November 13th, 2008 at 3:45 pm

    Man the anticipation of the free agent signing period is now about the same as the anticipation of opening day. Let’s hope the Yankees fill their needs and get the team back where we all want it go.

  176. RhapsodyInBlue November 13th, 2008 at 3:45 pm

    The best thing about him is his girl friend.

  177. mel November 13th, 2008 at 3:46 pm

    Definitely an insurance move. I like it.

    I know Kenny Williams gets a lot of credit for building that WS club. But since then, his moves have been puzzling to say the least.

  178. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 3:46 pm

    “I guess marquez was below alan horne on the depth chart, but if swisher is the 5th outfielder, backup 1st baseman, then good. if they intend him to be a starter, we’re in trouble”

    what this person said ^^^^^

  179. Nick in SF November 13th, 2008 at 3:46 pm

    I’m told that Swisher wears a zinc thong for good luck.

  180. Ed - looking forward to 2009 November 13th, 2008 at 3:46 pm

    Jeff Marquez. damn! :(

  181. RhapsodyInBlue November 13th, 2008 at 3:47 pm

    Good bye Wilson Betemit.

  182. Mike November 13th, 2008 at 3:47 pm

    that’s a great deal for the yankees. last year might have been an aberation. giving up marquez isn’t very much

  183. pinstripes November 13th, 2008 at 3:47 pm

    yea.. swisher didnt swing the bat great last year..
    but he was solid in years with oakland..
    hopefully it was just him trying to get used to new teammates.

    swisher is an everyday player.. and im surprised the sox would trade him already.

    swisher will hit 20+ hr.
    switch hitter..

  184. Doreen November 13th, 2008 at 3:47 pm

    mel -

    He’s got a website

    http://www.nickswisher.net

  185. Reacher November 13th, 2008 at 3:47 pm

    Cashman has his backup plan in place if he can’t get Tex at his price.

  186. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 3:47 pm

    Swisher is sgined thru 2011 folks. He’s coming here to play.

  187. Doreen November 13th, 2008 at 3:48 pm

    Is he the guy who cut his hair and donated it while he was with Oakland?

  188. Ed - looking forward to 2009 November 13th, 2008 at 3:48 pm

    I think Swisher is plan B just in case they failed to acquire Mark Teixiera.

  189. mel November 13th, 2008 at 3:48 pm

    Nick,

    No, it’s a Phiten thong. They use platinum in their material.

    The best part is that it keeps everyone guessing.

    Let the games begin!

  190. Jeff NJ November 13th, 2008 at 3:48 pm

    YANKEES GOT SWISHER PER FAT MIKE

  191. Nick in SF November 13th, 2008 at 3:49 pm

    “The best thing about him is his girl friend.”

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RsON86DWss

  192. Mark (Brett is back) November 13th, 2008 at 3:49 pm

    For Marquez.

  193. Ed - looking forward to 2009 November 13th, 2008 at 3:49 pm

    Doreen,

    Yes. Swisher purposely cutted his hair for charity.

  194. RhapsodyInBlue November 13th, 2008 at 3:49 pm

    How about a shot of his girlfriend?

  195. knudsen November 13th, 2008 at 3:49 pm

    Sends a message to Boras tho I’m not sure what.

  196. late report November 13th, 2008 at 3:49 pm

    The Sux will not be making any deals of significance. John Henry’s hedge funds are in dire trouble.

  197. Kill.Schill(ing) November 13th, 2008 at 3:49 pm

    I’d still prefer to see Teixiera at 1B and give Gardner a shot at CF.

    Acquiring Swisher likely means Abreu is gone too, which doesn’t please me at all.

  198. gayle November 13th, 2008 at 3:50 pm

    Doreen yes he donated it to locks for love

  199. mel November 13th, 2008 at 3:50 pm

    Oh, Doreen. He loved his granny. Thanks for that.

  200. Brandon (TEIX IS NOT WORTH IT, GET CC !)..."Don't trade Robi !" November 13th, 2008 at 3:50 pm

    WOW Yankees landed Swisher ?

  201. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 3:50 pm

    Guys, I’m in Chicago and I’ve seen Swisher a few times this year. I have no idea where we plan to play him, but he cannot play CF. He was horrible for the WS out there. Maybe Cash knows that we’re not getting Tex for 1B and this was plan B?

  202. bardos November 13th, 2008 at 3:51 pm

    the thing is “blow away” CC with an offer does not make sense when we are talking a hundred million dollar plus contract. how much difference can there be between $130 and $160 million? Is this a blow away offer? how much money can a guy spend in a lifetime? how many houses can a guy live in at one time?

    CC is riding a lucky streak, what with his Milwaukee finish, his age; just the right moment for him top cash in. I think he goes where he wants to play and live. if anyone can leave money on the table CC can this year.

    a blow away offer in this situation would be 10 yrs / $300 million.

    and no one is going there.

  203. Jeff NJ November 13th, 2008 at 3:51 pm

    Sorry for the caps, I love this deal. Swisher will help tremendously and let’s the Yankees tell Boras they don’t need Tex as much.

  204. Jonathan November 13th, 2008 at 3:51 pm

    Espn reports yanks acquire Nick Swisher

  205. Rob L. November 13th, 2008 at 3:51 pm

    He played 70 games last season as a centerfielder. that means bye bye Melky.

  206. Brandon (TEIX IS NOT WORTH IT, GET CC !)..."Don't trade Robi !" November 13th, 2008 at 3:51 pm

    Marquez was traded not bad.

  207. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 3:52 pm

    –Good, then the Sox can pick up Tex!

    Nice try there, ray!!!

  208. gayle November 13th, 2008 at 3:52 pm

    Oh it gets better Wilson Betemit may also be in the deal

  209. S.A.-Looking forward to 2009 and show CC the money (and food)! November 13th, 2008 at 3:52 pm

    Does Francesa give this move his holy blessing?

  210. pat November 13th, 2008 at 3:52 pm

    Deal could include Betemit or another minor leaguer per Heyman

  211. Russell NY November 13th, 2008 at 3:53 pm

    NICK SWISHERRRRRRRRR

  212. Mark (Brett is back) November 13th, 2008 at 3:53 pm

    22 million owed over 3 years.

  213. Kill.Schill(ing) November 13th, 2008 at 3:53 pm

    Heyman says they’re planning to play Swisher at 1B. Not good, that means no Teixiera.

    Also, Betemit is probably part of the deal.

  214. Doreen November 13th, 2008 at 3:53 pm

    mel -

    You’re welcome.

    Ed & Gayle, thanks. Ed – did he grow it long specifically to cut it? I seem to remember that.

    (Hey, who cares how he plays? :lol: )

  215. Ed - looking forward to 2009 November 13th, 2008 at 3:54 pm

    Vinny B,

    wanna know something funny? I was playing MLB 08, and wanted to create Justin Christian since the Yanks want him to play the infield during winter ball and transitioning him to a super utilty player. As I was browsing through the White Sox roster, and the fake people to see who plays the infield and the outfield. I then decided to take a break, went over to MLBTR, then saw Yanks acquired Swisher. I was like “wow, karma!”

    …lol

  216. pinstripes November 13th, 2008 at 3:54 pm

    who says swisher will play CF?

    he can play right, he can play left.

    this does not mean abreu is gone. nor does this mean we will not go after tex.

    we wont be resigning giambi. so why not get swish?

    its a bargain for marquez.

  217. ray (sox fan) November 13th, 2008 at 3:54 pm

    Laura – Ready for ’09
    November 13th, 2008 at 3:52 pm
    —Good, then the Sox can pick up Tex!

    “Nice try there, ray!!!”

    Laura….you can’t blame a guy for trying. :)

  218. pat November 13th, 2008 at 3:54 pm

    Swisher’s contract

    09:$5.3M, 10:$6.75M, 11:$9M,
    12:$10.25M club option ($1M buyout)

  219. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 3:54 pm

    Doubt Swisher is the CF for the Yankees. He’s not very good at it. I think he’s their 1B and that’s that. Perhaps Cashman wasn’t bs’ing people when he said he was looking to bring the ’09 version of the Yankees in at somewhere around the $180M range.

  220. rconn23 November 13th, 2008 at 3:55 pm

    “No way should we even look at Sheets. The guy is a walking Disabled List. He finished the season injured. Didn’t we just get rid of Pavano? We don’t need to fill his spot on the DL.”

    Sheets is a far superior pitcher than Pavano. Pavano has always been nothing more than a middle of the rotation starter, who was signed to a bloated contract after having one good year.

    Sheets is a front of the rotation type when healthy, and obviously his health is the big sticking point. In terms of quality on the free agent market, Sabathia is No. 1 and Sheets is number two. Everyone else, the overrated Burnett included, is in the middle of the pack.

    The question is, what kind of offers is Sheets going to get. Three years? Four? That’s when you don’t consider Sheets.

    If the Yankees can get Sheets on a two or possibly a three-year deak with incentives, that’s something the team should consider.

    That’s better value in my mind than signing a pitcher like Burnett to five years.

  221. mel November 13th, 2008 at 3:55 pm

    Swisher struck out 30% of the time in ’08, but the good news is he only GIDP 3.2% of the time.

  222. Ed - looking forward to 2009 November 13th, 2008 at 3:55 pm

    Doreen,

    no, he had it for a long time.

  223. zach November 13th, 2008 at 3:57 pm

    i don’t like nick swisher as our starting 1b, i’d rather have giambi frankly. i only like him as an insurance policy considering his .219 average last year.

  224. Blackdragon905 November 13th, 2008 at 3:57 pm

    so thats it no tex, since heyman said swisher will play first most of the time?

  225. Kill.Schill(ing) November 13th, 2008 at 3:57 pm

    stupid move if they think Swisher is playing 1b and Gardner is playing CF.

    That lineup sucks.

  226. Reacher November 13th, 2008 at 3:57 pm

    Swisher is not really a centerfielder…more comfortable in either corner. IMO, Cash acquired him for his flexibility and as Plan B….i.e., can’t sign Tex, and won’t re-sign Booby, nor G, of course. He does play a decent first, though not a Tex of course.

  227. Bobby November 13th, 2008 at 3:57 pm

    Obviously the Yanks would prefer to play Swisher at 1B but I highly doubt this shuts out Teixeira. I think Swisher was acquired for the reason that he can play the OF as well. I believe Cashman/Girardi’s “we’ll give Gardner and Melky a chance in CF” story as much as I believed the “Bubba Crosby is our CF” story from a few years ago. I’d be shocked if one of them is playing CF opening day.

  228. Brandon (TEIX IS NOT WORTH IT, GET CC !)..."Don't trade Robi !" November 13th, 2008 at 3:57 pm

    Ok versatile player good plate discipline a blue chipper.. now who’s the other minor league player.

  229. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 3:58 pm

    the NYY system will not miss Marquez. Basically, didn’t have room for him.

    Swisher for the bench, is ok (if he is able to play CF)

  230. jason November 13th, 2008 at 3:58 pm

    Horne is coming off of shoulder injury. The White Sox probably don’t want to take the risk.

  231. pinstripes November 13th, 2008 at 3:58 pm

    well if the yankees did get swish to play first..
    then that does worry me..

    with reports that the yanks could offer CC 6 years 150 as a starting point.
    i think CC has us right where he wants us.

    ha
    im afraid we will over pay for Sabathia.. by ALOT

    there are other great starters out there.. which.. you would think.. should drive CC’s worth down..
    Peavy -thou he wont come to the yanks

    but Sheets? Burnett?

    they are dominate when healthy

  232. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 3:59 pm

    “stupid move if they think Swisher is playing 1b and Gardner is playing CF. That lineup sucks”

    royally.

    (even tho i like Gardner)

  233. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 3:59 pm

    “stupid move if they think Swisher is playing 1b and Gardner is playing CF.

    That lineup sucks.”

    KS:

    Name me three better lineups in baseball.

    Hint: You won’t be able to do it.

  234. Nick in SF November 13th, 2008 at 3:59 pm

    Can’t really judge the Swisher move in isolation, but I hope those other shoes to drop are good ones.

    Maybe we’ll find out that Swisher is buddies with CC?

  235. vince November 13th, 2008 at 3:59 pm

    Great deal, very low risk. Swisher a high OBP guy despite low average, and only 27 and a reasonable contract. No lose, let Texeira and his $200M contract go somewhere else.

  236. Reacher November 13th, 2008 at 4:00 pm

    If this means they are not going after Tex, and are not going to re-sign Abreu, they are still lacking that one big, big, bat to provide protection for A-Rod. So who does that leave? Care to speculate?

  237. mel November 13th, 2008 at 4:00 pm

    Were people still holding on to the belief that Bobby and Giambi were coming back?

    We’re trying to trend younger and better defensively.

  238. Brandon (TEIX IS NOT WORTH IT, GET CC !)..."Don't trade Robi !" November 13th, 2008 at 4:00 pm

    “The Yankees have acquired first baseman Nick Swisher and Class AA right-hander Kanekoa Texeira from the White Sox, according to major-league sources.” – Rosenthal

  239. harwood November 13th, 2008 at 4:00 pm

    This is a Boras deek. Swisher is going to play CF.

  240. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 4:00 pm

    “Ok versatile player good plate discipline a blue chipper.. now who’s the other minor league player.”

    Somewhere, Brandon sits and bites his nails until it’s comfirmed that Wilkins De La Rosa is NOT the other minor leaguer.

  241. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 4:01 pm

    “Name me three better lineups in baseball”

    well, i’ll take Boston and Tampa’s lineup. The only 2 which matter.

  242. raymagnetic November 13th, 2008 at 4:01 pm

    Swisher saw something like 4.5 pitches per AB last year and he’s a decent not great first baseman. Maybe Long can fix him. If Swisher even hits .260 his OBP will be close to .400.

    It’s a gamble but aren’t people here always wanting Cashman to trade minor leaguers and take some gambles?

  243. PETER rabbit November 13th, 2008 at 4:01 pm

    I know Swisher used to be a big time name for Oakland, but his numbers don’t jump out at me at all. Is this Cashman’s trying to lower Boras’ asking price for Texeira? Is this the Yankees waving Melky goodbye? Is this a sign of the Yankees signing a Girardi-type player?

  244. John November 13th, 2008 at 4:01 pm

    A lineup with Swisher, Nady, and Gardner at the bottom may be the worst in baseball.

    I seriously hope Cashman isin’t going to war with that lineup.

  245. Jeff NJ November 13th, 2008 at 4:02 pm

    WE GOT TEX! Kanekoa Texeira

  246. Kill.Schill(ing) November 13th, 2008 at 4:02 pm

    Hmmn-

    1) The Red Sox
    2) The Phillies
    3) The Chisox (Quentin healthy)
    4) The Angels (with Teixiera)
    5) The Tigers

  247. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 4:03 pm

    –Sheets is a far superior pitcher than Pavano

    I was comparing them in terms of their injuries, not their pitching talent. Clearly, Sheets is better than Pavano on the mound. In the injury department, they are pretty close. But so is Burnett so there ya go!

  248. Stephen November 13th, 2008 at 4:03 pm

    So long, Wilson.

  249. Kill.Schill(ing) November 13th, 2008 at 4:03 pm

    I mean, Fredo-

    1) The Red Sox
    2) The Phillies
    3) The Chisox (Quentin healthy)
    4) The Angels (with Teixiera)
    5) The Tigers

  250. Matt from LI November 13th, 2008 at 4:03 pm

    Swisher could also slide into RF, but that would mean Damon in center. Not sure how most people feel about that. If we land Tex, I don’t think too many people would care.

  251. Doreen November 13th, 2008 at 4:03 pm

    Just looking at his stats, Swisher does walk a lot – but he doesn’t steal bases. He has played every outfield position, plus DH and 1B. I’m assuming he’s not fast. What happened to more athletic? I guess he’s more athletic than Betemit or Giambi.

  252. Russell NY November 13th, 2008 at 4:03 pm

    I don’t mind Swisher at 1B. Agree with Francessa… we cant have him and Gardner in lineup. But with him at 1B we definitely do have payroll flexibility which I like :D

  253. vinny-b (Hank Blalock for 1st base) November 13th, 2008 at 4:04 pm

    Kill Schill:

    add Tampa to the list. At least, i would

  254. Ed - looking forward to 2009 November 13th, 2008 at 4:04 pm

    “The Yankees have acquired first baseman Nick Swisher and Class AA right-hander Kanekoa Texeira from the White Sox, according to major-league sources.”

    there goes our Texeira. lol, seriously im guessing he’s like a C prospect?

  255. vtred November 13th, 2008 at 4:04 pm

    “Kanekoa Texeira”

    So we got Swisher AND a Texeria :)

  256. Tom November 13th, 2008 at 4:05 pm

    Swisher will make $5.3MM in ’09, $6.75MM in ’10, $9MM. Cost effective (cheap) and versatile? Good move.

  257. lineups? November 13th, 2008 at 4:05 pm

    yeah.

    damon/melky/garnder – cf
    jeter – ss
    arod – 3b
    nady – lf
    damon/melky/garnder – rf
    swish – 1b
    cano – 2b
    posada – c
    DH ????

    that lineup is not that impressive.
    ha

    5+ teams have a better lineup then that

  258. Reacher November 13th, 2008 at 4:05 pm

    Per Ken Rosenthal of Fox:

    “The Yankees have acquired first baseman Nick Swisher and Class AA right-hander Kanekoa Texeira from the White Sox, according to major-league sources.

    Swisher, a switch-hitter, likely will play first base for the Yankees, replacing Jason Giambi, who is a free agent.
    The exact players going back to the White Sox are not yet known, but sources say the White Sox will be receiving two minor leaguers and one major-league reserve. ESPN.com is reporting that Yankees Class AAA right-hander Jeff Marquez is in the deal.”

    Who is the one reserve? Melky or Betamit?

  259. pat November 13th, 2008 at 4:05 pm

    Swisher becomes a back-up if Tex is available. Don’t look at this move in a vaccuum.

    “The Yankees have acquired first baseman Nick Swisher and Class AA right-hander Kanekoa Texeira from the White Sox”

    Cashman got a Texeira just not the one you were expecting.

  260. harwood November 13th, 2008 at 4:05 pm

    If Swisher is CF

    CC
    Tex
    Moose
    Andy
    Roll Dice on Sheets

  261. Ramon November 13th, 2008 at 4:06 pm

    Does Swisher still have the long hair and facial hair?

    Damn, he won’t be happy about this trade lol

  262. Kill.Schill(ing) November 13th, 2008 at 4:06 pm

    Oh, and perhaps, Texas, too.

    1) Damon
    2) Jeter
    3) Matsui’s Knee
    4) A-Rod
    5) Posada’s Labrum
    6) Nady’s .330 OBA
    7) Canoe
    8) Swisher
    9) Gardner

    That lineup sucks and it relies far too much on Posada and Matsui, both of whom are returning from injuries, Posada, a major one.

  263. Patrick November 13th, 2008 at 4:06 pm

    Swisher is a good move. He’s a league average 1B which is a LOT better than Giambi. 2008 was the worst year of his career and he’s just entering his prime so we have to assume its an outlier. He’s a high OBP guy with some power.

    I think its very likely that he bounces back in 2009 and puts up numbers more in line with 2006 and 2007, something like .260/.380/.450. Add in a pretty solid glove at first and versatility to play one of the corner OF spots and its a good pickup.

    Depending on what we gave up I like this move a lot. Marquez is expendable at this point but he can’t be the only guy we gave up for Swisher.

  264. Bryan November 13th, 2008 at 4:06 pm

    http://www.baseball-reference......ni01.shtml

  265. Ed - looking forward to 2009 November 13th, 2008 at 4:06 pm

    Vinny,

    check your email.

  266. Matt from LI November 13th, 2008 at 4:06 pm

    DH ????

    You forgot some guy named, Matsui.

  267. Laura - Ready for '09 November 13th, 2008 at 4:07 pm

    We need to hear from Cash what his plan is with Swisher. I’m telling you, he is not a CF. We might as well throw Damon, Melky or Gardner out there. They are all better fielding CFers (even with Damon’s girly arm). Swisher plays a decent 1B. Most certainly an upgrade over Giambi. I still want Tex though.

  268. SJ44 November 13th, 2008 at 4:08 pm

    Tampa’s lineup is not that good.

    For those complaining about this deal, go back and see what Scott Brosius hit the year prior to the Yankees acquiring him from Oakland.

    This is a smart move. Swisher is probably coming here to play first base. That’s his best position and he isn’t bad defensively.

    He has some pop, is a SH, and is a grinder. Very good guy in the clubhouse and has a good rep from other players in the game.

    He has a friendly contract.

    They aren’t going to field an all star at every position team anymore. Those days are done.

    He fits what they are trying to get back to, good OBP, solid defensively, tough guy/grinder type of player.

    Considering they didn’t give up anybody who has a future in NY, its a no lose deal for the Yankees.

  269. joee November 13th, 2008 at 4:08 pm

    update

  270. Reacher November 13th, 2008 at 4:08 pm

    Kill.Schill,

    don’t do your lineup in ink…it’s only the beginning. There will be a new “big bat” in the starting lineup…

  271. rumor monger November 13th, 2008 at 4:09 pm

    Giambi or Betemit didn’t go from IF to OF, they just plodded around the infield poorly. Swisher may not be a base stealer or lightning-fast, but he gives Girardi options/versatility. If one of the corner OF’s goes down, he can fill in. If someone else is playing first full-time (which is still possible, regardless of all you goons yelling “OH NO THIS MEANS WE CAN’T SIGN TEIX”), you have a great bench player that you can use to pinch hit, say, if you have Brett Gardner in your everyday lineup and need someone who might connect and go deep late in a game. I just hope the other prospect isn’t someone crazy, although I don’t worry too much since Swisher’s value is pretty low.

  272. lineups? November 13th, 2008 at 4:09 pm

    sox also get betemit and jhonny nunez

  273. mel November 13th, 2008 at 4:09 pm

    LOL. I knew that Kanekoa Texeira was from Hawaii right off the bat. Hawaiian first name and Portagee last name. Sure enough he’s from Maui.

    2.01 ERA in AA this season.

  274. Reacher November 13th, 2008 at 4:10 pm

    SJ 44,

    Good points.

  275. Ed - looking forward to 2009 November 13th, 2008 at 4:10 pm

    update —–>

  276. Fredo Corleone November 13th, 2008 at 4:11 pm

    KS:

    The White Sox??? The team which has no leadoff hitter? They don’t even have a decent #2. We talkin’ bout the DeWayne Wise-led White Sox????

    Red Sox??? Who’s their bottom three right now??? Lowell, Varitek, Lowrie? That worse than Cano, Swisher, Gardner???

    Phillies? I’m giving them the DH and they bottom out with Feliz, Coste, Ruiz.

    Detroit? Thames, Santiago, Inge???? C’mon.

  277. jason November 13th, 2008 at 4:12 pm

    Looks like Texeira has pretty good numbers as a reliever. He is only 21 and has a mid 1 ERA and and about .200 avg against.
    Unfortunate to give up Nunez as he seemed to be a find.

  278. Reacher November 13th, 2008 at 4:13 pm

    SI reports it’s Betemit.

  279. Yankee Trader November 13th, 2008 at 4:13 pm

    Swisher for Betemit, Marquez and Jhonny Nunez, according to Rosenthal

  280. Kill.Schill(ing) November 13th, 2008 at 4:14 pm

    There better be, Reacher. I only hope you’re right.

    SJ44, I don’t mind the Swisher move, if they upgraded the offense either in RF or in CF.

    DO we all forget so easily how poorly the Yankees lineup performed last year. And rather than improve it, they’ve made it worse.

    They lose their two best OPS guys in Mustache and Bobby and replace them with two injured guys and two guys that don’t hit.

    Swisher’s fine if Gardner isn’t in CF and they upgrade Nady in RF. Otherwise, it’s more Cashman arrogance and presumption at work.

  281. Kill.Schill(ing) November 13th, 2008 at 4:19 pm

    I’d take the Red Sox lineup with Pedroia, Ellsbury, Youklis, Bay, Ortiz and Lowell to the Yankees’ lineup any day.

    The White Sox have Quentin, Dye, Konerko, Thome, and Alexei Ramirez.

    I’ll take Detroit’s lineup of Granderson, Polanco, Cabrera, Orodonez, if they don’t trade him, and Guillen and Thames, as well.

    Let’s keep in mind, the Yankees LOST BOTH THEIR 3 and 5 HITTER and plan to replace them with TWO GUYS RETURING FROM INJURY.

    You really think a 36-year recovering from labrum surgery is going magically to regain his power the very first year back. Come on.

  282. Yankee Trader November 13th, 2008 at 4:27 pm

    Sabathia everyone’s first choice, then it’s lukewarm on Burnett and Lowe and Sheets. Kerry Wood is now not going to be pursued by the Cubs.

    Long shot here-but any possibility he could start again?

  283. ASH November 13th, 2008 at 4:28 pm

    I like the move…give up nothing. I won’t mind Swisher spelling starters at 1B and all three OF positions..

    Makes the bench much stronger.

  284. ASH November 13th, 2008 at 4:30 pm

    “Long shot here-but any possibility he could start again?”

    I don’t think so. Do you?

  285. Yankee Trader November 13th, 2008 at 4:34 pm

    Swisher hit .385 with 2 homers and 19 of his 69 rbi’s, with the bases loaded.

  286. Reacher November 13th, 2008 at 4:42 pm

    Add CC, one of the other FA hurlers, and Manny and we’re good to go!!!

  287. kk November 13th, 2008 at 4:51 pm

    Listen CC and Manny are our top priorities right now. A lineup with arod third manny 4th and swisher 5th is great,but we need pitching and lots of it. Let me start with CC he is a must have and burnett would make it an allstar team. We need Pudge back and Abreu can go. Here we go(in yet another blog) 1 gardner center 2 jeter short 3 a-rod third and this is where it gets tricky. 4 manny DH 5 Swisher first 6 Nady Rf 7 matsui left 8 cano second 9 pudge catching rotation 1 CC 2 Wang 3 Sheets 4 Burnett 5 Mussina. There we go.

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