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


Game 78: Mariners at Yankees (updated with Girardi audio)

Posted by: Peter Abraham - Posted in Misc, Podcast on Jul 02, 2009 Print This Post Print This Post | Email This Post Email This Post

YANKEES (45-32)
Jeter SS
Damon LF
Teixeira 1B
Rodriguez 3B
Cano 2B
Swisher RF
Matsui DH
Cabrera CF
Cervelli C

Pitching: LHP CC Sabathia (7-4, 3.55).

MARINERS (39-38)
Suzuki RF
Branyan 1B
Lopez 2B
Sweeney DH
Gutierrez CF
Johjima C
Langerhans LF
Woodward 3B
Cedeno SS

Pitching: LHP Jason Vargas (3-3, 3.79).

TIME/TV: 7:05, YES.

STATE OF THE ‘STRIPES: The Yankees have won seven straight and are 30-15 in their last 45 games. They trail Boston by 2.5 games in the AL East. The Red Sox are idle today.

BRONX BUMMER: The Yankees have won nine of their last 11 games against Seattle. The Mariners have dropped 10 straight in the Bronx, last winning here in 2007.

RELIEVERS ON A ROLL: Check out these stats (IP, H, R ER BB K):

• Mariano Rivera over nine appearances: 9.1 2 1 1 1 12

• Phil Hughes over eight appearances: 13 5 2 2 3 16

• Alfredo Aceves over nine appearances: 12.1 9 1 1 2 8

• Phil Coke over 15 appearances: 13.1 5 1 1 3 15

CC BACK ON THE HILL: Here’s where pitching depth comes into play. The Yankees won the first two games of the series, maybe the sweep will be tough to get. Instead Seattle has to deal with Carsten Charles. He is 6-1, 2.82 in his last 10 games and has a 2.95 career ERA against the Mariners.

JOE GIRARDI IS A GENIUS, I TELL YOU, A GENIUS: The Yankees have scored 49 runs in the 57 innings since he was ejected in Atlanta on June 24.

THE O IN CANO IS FOR RBIs: Robinson Cano has done 11 games without an RBI. His last one came on June 17.

JOHNNY’S MILESTONE: Damon has 198 homers. He is 10 of his last 24 with seven RBI and five extra-base hits.

THE COMEBACK: The Yankees have a 4.44 ERA, 11th in the American League and getting lower all the time. They are second in the AL in strikeouts with 588. Boston has 589. They are also second in opposing BA at .252. Seattle leads at .250.

HOME COOKING: The Yankees are 23-14 at home.

SCOTT BORAS NEVER MENTIONED THIS: Mark Teixeira has gone 61 ABs without a home run. His last blast came on June 12 off Livan Hernandez.

Back with more later on.

UPDATE, 4:41 p.m.: Yankees confirmed signings of Sanchez, Arrendondo and Cabrera.

UPDATE, 6:04 p.m.: Joe Girardi was asked this afternoon why Cano is hitting fifth given his .213 average with RISP and the fact that he hasn’t had an RBI since June 17. Girardi said it was because he hit “two rockets” against the Mets the other day with runners on base.

At any rate, here is the manager:

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Not much else going on. Here is the plan for Jose Molina:

Tonight: 5 innings for Scranton.

Friday: 5 innings for Scranton.

Saturday: Day off.

Sunday: 7 innings for Scranton.

Monday: 7 innings for Scranton.

Tuesday: Join Yankees in Minnesota if he feels good.

Back later with more. If you’re interested in voting for the All-Star Game, you have until midnight. Go to MLB.com.

UPDATE, 6:59 p.m.: Jack Nicholson is sitting right behind home plate wearing a white Yankees hat. When they showed him on the scoreboard, he stood up and waved to the crowd and extended his arms. Gotta love Jack.

UPDATE, 7:05 p.m.: We’re looking at a delay here. The bases are not in and the mound and plate are covered up. The grounds crew is also standing around. We’ll keep you posted.

That they’re playing Billy Joel’s Storm Front Coming also seems like a clue.

UPDATE, 7:07 p.m.: It’s official, game is delayed. Thunderstorms coming.

UPDATE, 7:19 p.m.: This is odd. It hasn’t rained, the tarp never went down and now they’re saying a 7:40 p.m. start. CC is warming up.

Probably some scam to sell more beer.

Meanwhile, the scoreboard keeps showing Disco Stu, who is some old man who dances around wearing sunglasses. Sophisticated entertainment here in the Bronx.

UPDATE, 7:43 p.m.: We’re underway after a 36-minute “it might rain” delay.

UPDATE, 7:58 p.m.: Yankees down 2-0. First time they have trailed since June 24.

UPDATE, 8:05 p.m.: 3-0 as CC isn’t fooling anybody to this point. He has already allowed four hits.

UPDATE, 8:14 p.m.: Yankees are in business with runners and second and third with no outs for Swisher. Down 3-0, they can get right back in it.

UPDATE, 8:19 p.m.: There you go, 3-2 on two sac flies. Ichiro lost Matsui’s fly ball and his countryman is on first base.

UPDATE, 8:24 p.m.: Ichiro is hilarious. Cervelli popped to right and the crowd was hooting after his previous error, trying to get him to make another error. After he caught the ball, Ichiro went to flip it to the crowd and instead held onto it.

UPDATE, 8:38 p.m.: Backup catcher Jose Molina was 0 for 2 with an RBI and caught five innings for Triple-A Scranton in his first rehab game. Molina has been out since May 8 with a torn left quad.

UPDATE, 8:57 p.m.: Wait a second, I thought Francisco Cervelli was infallible? How has CC allowed six runs on eight hits in four innings?

Once again, just goes to prove that basing opinions on a handful of games is really quite silly in baseball, along with the idea that catcher’s ERA is a worthwhile stat. The pitcher has to execute the pitch and he has the final say on what pitch is thrown. The idea that Posada had somehow lost the ability to call games was just ridiculous.

At any rate, Yankees trail 6-2.

UPDATE, 9:11 p.m.: Godzilla goes deep and the Yankees trail 6-4. First one for Matsui since June 14. CC needs a quick inning or two to give the sticks a shot.

UPDATE, 9:13 p.m.: Russell Branyan is 1 for 10 in the series with nine strikeouts. He has whiffed seven straight times.

UPDATE, 9:17 p.m.: This can’t be true. Cervelli has one hit in his last 12 at-bats? I thought he had enough energy to light up a small town?

It’s a long, long season folks. I love Cervelli and I think he’ll be a good player down the road. But like Pena, he has developing left to do. He has barely played in AAA. Those who wanted him to be the catcher RIGHT NOW !1!1!!! got a little carried away.

UPDATE, 9:21 p.m.: Teixeira should have handled that ball like The Big G. Just pretend he didn’t see it.

UPDATE, 9:29 p.m.: He walked Branyan? Really? See ya, CC.

UPDATE, 9:51 p.m.: The Yankees are down 6-4 and people are mindlessly doing the wave.

UPDATE, 10:03 p.m.: Let the record show that Jack Nicholson, who is still here, is too cool to do the wave. Good for Jack.

UPDATE, 10:16 p.m.: Aceves is giving them a chance to get back in the game but the Yankees haven’t cashed that so far. What a pickup that guy has been.

UPDATE, 10:22 p.m.: First error in 106 games for Teixeira. Then Branyan goes boom and it’s 8-4. People are fleeing the Stadium. The winning streak appears to be kaput.

 
 

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1,128 Responses to “Game 78: Mariners at Yankees (updated with Girardi audio)”

  1. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 3:34 pm

    Lets get #8!

  2. Kelvin Ace July 2nd, 2009 at 3:37 pm

    Lets go Yankees!!!

  3. Mackenzie July 2nd, 2009 at 3:37 pm

    “Scott Boras never mentioned this”

    Nice one.

  4. CountryClub July 2nd, 2009 at 3:37 pm

    Like Pete said, you can never expect a sweep. But with CC on the mound it would stink if they didnt figure out a way.

  5. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 3:38 pm

    Teixeira did look a bit better at the plate last night.

  6. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 3:39 pm

    So with a day game tomorrow, should we expect to see Cervelli behind the plate tonight?

  7. Dave C July 2nd, 2009 at 3:41 pm

    It’s going to be fun laying in a Isolated Tornado.

  8. IrishCarBomb July 2nd, 2009 at 3:41 pm

    Will A-rod get a day off here? Or was last night as the DH his day “off”?

  9. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 3:42 pm

    If the M’s are having trouble with the bottom of our rotation…

    Watch CC get trounced now.

    He will have a bad game eventually.

  10. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 3:42 pm

    Pete,

    You gotta get a comment from Cashman, even if its a no comment, re: Chapman.

    Its the story of the day in baseball.

    I just want to hear him say, “Its a process”! lol

  11. Every year is a world series year July 2nd, 2009 at 3:42 pm

    What does Girardi’s ejection have to do with them scoring runs?

  12. Don 342 July 2nd, 2009 at 3:43 pm

    Larry Jones IS clean. Why would an All American guy take steroids?

  13. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 3:44 pm

    A manager sometimes gets ejected purposely to “fire his team up”. In Girardi’s case, he basically asked the umpire to eject him in that game

  14. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 3:44 pm

    “You gotta get a comment from Cashman, even if its a no comment, re: Chapman.
    Its the story of the day in baseball.
    I just want to hear him say, “Its a process”! lol”

    lol

  15. IrishCarBomb July 2nd, 2009 at 3:48 pm

    Is Chapman the kid from Cuba?

  16. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 3:48 pm

    The Yankees have to be going nuts in the player personnel office today.

    They will play it cool publicly. I have to believe they are going to go all in for him.

    I may be putting the cart before the horse but, I don’t see any way the Yankees don’t do what it takes to sign this kid, regardless of the price.

  17. rconn23 July 2nd, 2009 at 3:48 pm

    Bullpen has been one of the best in the league since reconfigured.

    The biggest number, if my math isn’t fuzzy, is only 9 walks in 47 2/3 innings.

  18. Scott July 2nd, 2009 at 3:48 pm

    Griffey and Chipper don’t look like guys who took steroids. Some guys you can just tell did it.

    Those guys are clean. You just get a feeling

  19. G July 2nd, 2009 at 3:48 pm

    I really think if Joba loses weight hell become a better pitcher. Look at Matt Cain, and King Felix. Since theyve shed weight theyve been able to go longer in games and have been phenominal. Even Bruney has been better since he lost weight. its something the Yankees should think about. He aint CC. He aint a big horse who throws 96.

  20. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 3:49 pm

    “Larry Jones IS clean. Why would an All American guy take steroids?”

    all-american, or all red-neck ?

    personally, when i think of an all-american guy i think Joe Dimmagio or John Franco

  21. PruBelongs July 2nd, 2009 at 3:49 pm

    Gritty, gutty, not starting

    So after tearing it up for the better part of a month he sits out an entire series?

  22. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 3:50 pm

    Cano back in the five hole, ow.

    SI’s power rankings for this week:

    New York Yankees
    Mariano Rivera recorded his 500th career save on Sunday, and the best part about it was that he celebrated exactly the way he did after saves 1 through 499. I touched on this in a previous PRs in reference to the Brian Bruney-Francisco Rodriguez controversy, but I think Rivera is the gold standard not only as a closer (check out Joe Posnanski’s excellent column this week on that topic) but also as someone who wins with class. On the eve of his milestone, Rivera was asked about his lack of gesticulations and the demonstrative behavior of other pitchers like K-Rod, Jonathan Papelbon and teammate Joba Chamberlain and said, “I go home. Simple as that. I have nothing to say against them, because that’s their personalities. My personality is just different. I try to finish and go home. I don’t want to waste any time. That’s the way it is.” All closers should be that way, if for no other reason than it seems to send a much more demoralizing message to the opponent than wild acts of celebration, however genuine and personal they may be. That message seems to be, as it was when Barry Sanders would score a touchdown and flip the ball to the referee, that you expect to succeed, and that no one can stop you. Eventually, as we’ve seen with those many, many teams Rivera has vanquished over the years, the opposition starts to feel the same way.

  23. Al July 2nd, 2009 at 3:51 pm

    Pete,

    Any report on the weather at the stadium or what the Yankees are saying? The forecast seems to be getting better as the day goes on, but one can never be sure….

  24. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 3:51 pm

    So let’s see…..

    We go from the “Posada can’t call a game” controversy, to the now, “Arod needs a day off everyday” controversy.

    Weren’t they off on Monday? Wasn’t Arod only the DH yesterday, a half day off?

    How many days off do people in the media want to give him?

    He will probably DH one of the Toronto games and will have a day off on the carpet in Minnesota.

    I’d say that’s pretty good.

    Man, I’d just like one day, especially when they are winning, that we don’t have these manufactured controversy.

  25. benfica356 July 2nd, 2009 at 3:51 pm

    no hinske again, i hope he starts tommorow

  26. G. Love July 2nd, 2009 at 3:52 pm

    What I love about the timing of Chapman hitting the market is it’s precisely the time that the Yankees will be shedding a ton of payroll & it’s precisely the time that the Red Sox will be taking on a ton of payroll.

    In order to keep Bay, they are going to have to pay large dollars.

    Then they have the negotiations with Beckett and Papelbon.

    Then they need a DH or a 3b or a 1b to replace Lowell/Ortiz etc.

    They need a catcher to replace Varitek.

    They are actually going into next season focused on repairing their major league team and needing to spend dollars on it.

    Meanwhile, all we need to do is put Phil in the rotation, promote some bullpen arms and find a new LF next year.

    Pena and Cervelli will definitely be on the bench next year. I’m assuming Melky/Gardner will be playing similar roles. If Ajax is ready he’s a low cost replacement.

    If Cashman plays this like he played the CC & Tex negotiations, this guy should be a Yankee come next spring.

  27. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 3:52 pm

    This Chapman thing is pretty crazy. Most fans have never heard of the guy but it’s basically like if David Price became a free agent as a 21 yr old.

    If Olney is right the bids for this guy are going to be out of control. What is more valuable than young starting pitching with ace potential?

  28. betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 3:53 pm

    I don’t understand why Joe insists on batting Cano 5th. Can someone give me a good explanation? The guy is a DP machine and has left a small village of men on base recently. Exactly what is Joe seeing that the rest of us are not? He’s giving Alex absolutely ZERO protection.

    Speaking of Alex, Michael Kay thought that if he was going to be rested ,today would be a good day because CC is on the mound and the Ms are not a particularly good offensive team. He thinks that Alex would be more need against the Jays…..and I can’t disagree with him.

  29. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 3:53 pm

    Lefty going tonight. That’s why no Gardner.

  30. vito b July 2nd, 2009 at 3:53 pm

    Why wouldn’t Monday count as Arod’s weekly day off?

  31. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 3:53 pm

    has gardner not played this series because its 3 lefties?..i want to see the guy play…and dont tell me hes 0 for his last 7…big deal!

  32. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 3:55 pm

    Gardner is playing well recently but Melky has had some nice hits in the past few nights. You can’t bench him now.

  33. CountryClub July 2nd, 2009 at 3:55 pm

    Check out this terrific article on Mariano:

    http://sportsillustrated.cnn.c.....ref=sihpT1

  34. Hokiehill July 2nd, 2009 at 3:55 pm

    from the last post…relevant here since so many are heaping on the love for Chipper…read the article, he’s the one with all the comments on how the ban of “greenies” will affect baseball…doesn’t necessarily mean he was using them, but he seems to know a lot about it…

    on amphetimines…

    “Greenies, a nickname coined by ballplayers because of the color of the pills, were introduced to the game in the 1940s. These amphetamines speed up the heart rate and have been proven to fight fatigue, increase alertness and sharpen reaction time. Athletes have used them to challenge the limits of endurance — and mask the accompanying pain.”

    Sounds like a PED to me…the quote came from this article from 2006…pretty recent considering I don’t recall nearly the same stink being brought up about “greenies” as as been with steroids and other PEDS

    http://www.palmbeachpost.com/s....._0402.html

  35. mikeboston July 2nd, 2009 at 3:55 pm

    What does Girardi’s ejection have to do with them scoring runs?

    The team needed a spark big time. Right after he got tossed Cervelli hits a HR and they haven’t stopped scoring since then. That’s what he means and I 100% agree.

  36. CountryClub July 2nd, 2009 at 3:56 pm

    From the above linked article:

    Here are the greatest ERA+ in baseball history (more than 1,000 innings pitched):

    1. Mariano Rivera, 198
    2. Pedro Martinez, 154
    3. Lefty Grove, 148
    4. Walter Johnson, 147
    5. Five pitchers tied at 146

    Look at that — Rivera’s ERA+ is more than FORTY POINTS higher than anyone else in baseball history.

  37. BBB July 2nd, 2009 at 3:56 pm

    “We go from the “Posada can’t call a game” controversy, to the now, “Arod needs a day off everyday” controversy.”

    Here’s to the “Chapman should be the no. 2 starter, not the no. 3″ controversy in a year’s time!

  38. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 3:56 pm

    It’s not like Cano is just rolling over on the ball and grounding out weekly. He’s been putting hard hit balls into play. Does he swing too early in the count? Absolutely. But then again, so does Jeter. It doesn’t take away from the fact he’s an immensely talented kid and those hard hit balls he has with risp are going to eventually find grass.

    That being said, I think Posada or Matsui should be hitting 5th in the lineup, because they take their walks.

  39. KO July 2nd, 2009 at 3:57 pm

    PA u can keep going on and on about Tex not hitting any homers lately but he’s still 2nd in the whole league, so nobody cares. Shut up

  40. rconn23 July 2nd, 2009 at 3:57 pm

    Robertson will be fine.

    He’s way too young for people to write him off as a viable late inning option down the road.

    The kid is only 24. You don’t ignore that strikeout rate.

    This season, he’s your last option out of the pen next to Tomko, who is the mop up guy. I think a lot of teams would like to have that quality at the end of the roster.

    No reason to give up on him unless you can include him in a package for a proven reliever like Street.

    And “proven reliever” does not mean a gas can like Jose Valverde.

  41. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 3:58 pm

    “Can someone give me a good explanation?”

    Because he rarely strikes out, puts the ball in play on a consistent basis and can hit for a very high average. He is also adding power this year and is a doubles machine.

    Theoretically he should be a great RBI guy. Unfortunately it hasn’t really worked out whether it be DP’s or bad performance with RISP, etc.

    My guess is Joe is banking on him snapping out of it and hitting like we know he can hit. If he does that he’s a prototypical 5 hitter.

  42. Toll July 2nd, 2009 at 3:58 pm

    Y’all are getting your hopes up way too much.

    Red Sox will get him. Theo does not miss out on guys like this. We will sniff around, but will bow out once it reaches absurd levels (30+ million). After Igawa and Contreras, Why would Cashman decide to invest exorbitant sums of money in this project?

  43. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 3:58 pm

    Beckett has an option year for 2010 @ 12 mil.

    Paps has 2 more years?

  44. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 3:58 pm

    G. Love and others:

    Re: Chapman: He just defected yesterday. He hasn’t even come close to establishing residency somewhere, which can take up to a year.

    Even if the Yanks signed him today, we might be looking at an ETA of 2012.

  45. Someone Else July 2nd, 2009 at 3:59 pm

    “If Olney is right the bids for this guy are going to be out of control. What is more valuable than young starting pitching with ace potential?”

    Young, left-handed, starting pitching with ace potential.

  46. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 3:59 pm

    He’s had a day and a half off so far this week and its only Thursday. He will DH one of the games against the Jays. That’s two full days off.

    He will sit out one of the Twins games on the turf. That will be 3 days off in about 8-9 days.

    How much time do folks want the best hitter on the team to sit out?

    Gotta stop falling for manufactured controversies.

    GLove,

    Completely agree. The timing is perfect for the Yankees to make a big run at him and I believe they will.

    Patrick,

    I think Buster is a tad late to the party on this one.

    CB and I said last night in the game thread that if the rumors of his defection were true, the bids would be off the charts.

    He’s that rare a talent and is a complete free agent. Those are rare birds these days.

  47. Hokiehill July 2nd, 2009 at 3:59 pm

    it’s a tough call with Melky hitting pretty well lately too…I would imagine that if Hinske wasn’t here we would see the Damon/Gardner/Melky OF a little more.

    I don’t think Joe will wait too long to get Hinske in the game, whether he starts one soon or comes in to DH or sub in the OF

  48. pat July 2nd, 2009 at 4:00 pm

    “Why would an All American guy take steroids?”

    Didn’t Giambi’s explanation tell you that?

  49. haiku-man July 2nd, 2009 at 4:00 pm

    I mentioned last night on the game thread that Tex,should start hitting home runs,and was told he’s not the whole team and can’t do it all.

    What is this love affair Joe has with Cano behind Arod?Talk about creature of habit,geesssh!

  50. Someone Else July 2nd, 2009 at 4:00 pm

    Cano hits the ball HARD. The only problem is that he hits the ball HARD on the ground, which, in DP situations, makes the turn easy.

  51. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 4:01 pm

    I’m starting to like the bullpen a lot. Rivera, Hughes, Coke and Aceves are pretty dependable at this point. You expect Bruney to turn it around and knock the rust off. When healthy he is great in the 8th inning. Robertson is coming along nicely. Not a big fan of Tomko but he doesn’t get many innings anyways.

    I’d like to promote Melancon but if they did he wouldn’t have a big role in the pen. He is probably better served staying in AAA so he can continue to pitch on a regular basis.

  52. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 4:01 pm

    not trying to start anything, went the last time posada caught cc

  53. Manson July 2nd, 2009 at 4:02 pm

    Yeah… because Swisher has been tearing it up with RISP and should bat in the 5 hole….

  54. Someone Else July 2nd, 2009 at 4:03 pm

    “not trying to start anything, went the last time posada caught cc”

    You need to give Posada days off. Start with that assumption. Posada’s #1 asset is his offense.

    There are five pitchers. One of whom is the best of the five. And thus, needs the added offense of a Posada the least.

    If you’re going to rest Posada, doesn’t it make sense to rest him when you have your best pitcher on the mound?

  55. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:03 pm

    Rebecca,

    His residency will be set in a month and it will be 5-6 months before its approved by MLB.

    He didn’t defect on a whim. Its been in the works for awhile and the wheels are now in motion.

    He will be available for bid this off-season, will sign with somebody, and be in ST in 2010.

    I don’t know if he will be ML ready next year but, he will be signed to a ML contract this off-season.

    When he gets to Miami this weekend, he will probably hold a press conference where, at that time, we will know where he will establish residency (probably Costa Rica), and who will represent him.

  56. Hokiehill July 2nd, 2009 at 4:04 pm

    good points Someone Else…

  57. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 4:05 pm

    SJ44,

    He is indeed late to the party when compared to you and CB but he’s the first mainstream guy I’ve heard talk about Chapman.

    To say that he’s a can’t miss player, so good that a down market won’t affect his contract, is the main story of the offseason, etc, is HUGE hype. He makes it sound like the guy will get even more than $50 mil if he’s more coveted than Bay/Holliday.

    Crazy story, can’t wait to see how it pans out.

  58. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 4:05 pm

    Anybody know how many innings a year Chapman has typically pitched in Cuba?

  59. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:05 pm

    Didn’t Posada catch CC his last two starts? He caught him in the game in Florida I was at when he left early and he caught him against the Mets, didn’t he?

  60. Dave C July 2nd, 2009 at 4:05 pm

    The difference is that Giambi is a likeable. He is a standup guy who is always honest, and is genuine. Whereas A-Rod is a phony and just abnormal.

    It is pretty easy to see why Giambi is liked in the media and A-Rod is not.

  61. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 4:06 pm

    “and who will represent him”

    *sigh* is there really any doubt?

  62. haiku-man July 2nd, 2009 at 4:06 pm

    Pujols was the biggest defender of Bonds,and it makes me see him differently.I have family is in Mo and they think Pujols the best thing since Bob Gibson,pitcher the ace.

  63. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 4:06 pm

    posada just hadmonsay off, but want him for toronto or cc the one doing the complaing about jorge

  64. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 4:07 pm

    SJ: Good stuff, thanks for that.

    The Yankees have four straight day games coming up…tonight is the perfect night to rest Posada.

  65. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 4:07 pm

    i check that on the met game, he caught him in florida

  66. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:08 pm

    Chapman probably pitches 100-120 innings a year in the Cuban Industrial League, their highest level league.

    Throw in another 10-25 innings of international play/exhibitions, and he’s probably pitching 100-140 innings a year. Perhaps less in an Olympic or WBC year.

  67. Fly Ball July 2nd, 2009 at 4:08 pm

    Melky has been red hot… Gardner shouldn’t be in the lineup over him.

    And Swisher is a better player than Gardner.

    When Melky cools off, Gardner will be back in. Not brain surgeon folks

  68. tommy h July 2nd, 2009 at 4:09 pm

    Just chiming in on the last thread- I hate Ken Griffey Jr. I respect him, don’ think he’s on steroids, and think he is the greatest all around player I have ever seen (when he was in his prime).

    I still hate him and would never cheer him- that’s what sports is about. I realize Michael Jordan is the greatest of all time, but I hate him. Sports in my opinion is about latching on to a side and rooting for it- KGJ gave many yankee fans their worst defeat ever in the 1995 series- for many of us it was our first glimpse into playoff baseball and heart break- he also has made several inflamatory comments about the team, history, stadium, etc-

    I don’t think it makes us bad fans that we don’t want to chear Griffey- I won’t be kicking any dogs tonight-

  69. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:09 pm

    “The difference is that Giambi is a likable. He is a stand-up guy who is always honest”

    Anyone else find something wrong with this sentence? lol

  70. Frank and Beans July 2nd, 2009 at 4:09 pm

    I love how we all fall in love with a news story. WEEI has fans calling in requesting that the Sox sign Chapman. The NY media wants chapman. This guy had a bad record in a 3 aaa type league, he strikes out 8 australians and the world has him as the greatest cuban pitcher of all time. Do we even know how old this guy is. Did he pitch with Contreras? We fall in love with the news cycle every year.

  71. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 4:09 pm

    cervalli caught cc on the met game

  72. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 4:09 pm

    Tonight is one of those nights where the value of a deep starting rotation becomes such a big deal.

    The mariners came into this series playing good baseball in the NL west.

    They’ve lost the first two games. And what do they have to show for it? Getting to hit off of CC.

    This pitching staff has the capacity to become an absolute bludgeon that beats down opponents one game after another.

    It’s starting to come on. Given where the team was and how badly they started for them to have their team ERA down to 4.44 is impressive. Teams ERA start to cluster around 4.2 – 4.3 in the AL so even though the yankees are 11th in team era right now they aren’t all that far from being 5th.

    Big comeback from the staff – both the rotation and the pen.

  73. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:10 pm

    “If Peter were not so busy kissing Posada’s ace at every opportunity, he’d mention this.

    But it makes Posada look bad, so he ignores it instead.”

    As SJ pointed out above, Posada has caught CC in his last two starts.

  74. RMEL July 2nd, 2009 at 4:10 pm

    “Red Sox will get him. Theo does not miss out on guys like this. We will sniff around, but will bow out once it reaches absurd levels (30+ million). After Igawa and Contreras, Why would Cashman decide to invest exorbitant sums of money in this project?”

    totally agree…. 10 million is one thing but for a guy you have never seen 30+ million is a lot of money… I can see the Rays, Red Sox, Mets and Angels all being players on him

  75. Gates July 2nd, 2009 at 4:10 pm

    Olney was talking about how Chapman will be the most desirable commodity this winter… even more than Holliday, Bay, or Lackey.

  76. #23 Hitman July 2nd, 2009 at 4:11 pm

    Come on Cano! Prove everyone wrong you can do something @ 5!!!

    Cashman…..get on a plane to Miami. NOW!!! :)

  77. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:12 pm

    Patrick,

    Boras doesn’t have a lot of Cuban contacts. Usually, Jamie Torres handles a lot of these guys these days.

    Years ago, two guys pretty much owned the Cuban market. Joe Cubas and Gus Dominquez. Gus ended up getting arrested for embezzlement and is currently in federal prison. Cubas got out of the business because he thought the Cuban government put a hit on him for getting so many guys to defect. lol (True story, BTW)

    I’ll try to make some calls as I monitor my nephew’s game tonight to see if I can find out who Chapman is close to in Miami.

    One thing about all these guys……they all have contacts in Miami. Who those contacts are give you insight as to who is in their inner circle.

  78. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 4:12 pm

    Yanks need a stable of willing brides-to-be just for situations like this Chapman thing.

    He could have a work permit in no time.

  79. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 4:12 pm

    ““Red Sox will get him. Theo does not miss out on guys like this. We will sniff around, but will bow out once it reaches absurd levels (30+ million). After Igawa and Contreras, Why would Cashman decide to invest exorbitant sums of money in this project?”

    totally agree…. 10 million is one thing but for a guy you have never seen 30+ million is a lot of money… I can see the Rays, Red Sox, Mets and Angels all being players on him”

    the rays are gonna outbid the yankees?….the rays?…outbid the yankees?….the rays?…yankees?…yea right..

  80. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:12 pm

    Posada has caught CC in his last two starts.

    Well in one of his last two starts, my mistake.

    FrankBeans-

    I think what you are getting at is why people turn on hyped prosects/players so quickly. The media all jumps on a story at the same time, hence the fans raise their expectations to astronomical levels. And when said player can’t deliver immediately on such hype, he’s labeled as a bust by the fans.

    See Phil Hughes for example. Or take Contreras’s case. You’d think the guy’s career ended after he left NY. But he’s actually gone on to have a pretty decent career in Chicago. Not a HOF, but very respectable none the less.

  81. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 4:13 pm

    CB-

    Seattle can’t hit. They’ve got Ichiro and Branyon, after that it goes downhill fast. The bottom end of their order last night was like watching Jose Molina come up over and over.

    It’s amazing they are over .500 and a tribute to their pitching staff. But we are missing two of their best pitchers, and should beat them because our pitching will dominate their bats.

  82. Irrational Thinker July 2nd, 2009 at 4:14 pm

    Chapman = Daniel Cabrera. Great stuff, subpar control, immature.

    People need to stop looking at the radar gun. Starsburg is 10x more polished than this guy.

  83. CompassRosy July 2nd, 2009 at 4:14 pm

    Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 3:42 pm
    If the M’s are having trouble with the bottom of our rotation…
    Watch CC get trounced now.
    He will have a bad game eventually.
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~“
    I’m hoping that Vargas has a good road game sooner than eventually ~ like today would be good ;-)

    Congrats on the series, Yank fans.

    Based on the pitching match ups, I thought yesterday’s game was the one the M’s might have a shot at. But, as per usual (with the exception of his last start vs. the Padres) Jarrod got little help from his offense.

    I’m hoping against hope that my M’s can eek out a win today but Jason’s road numbers don’t make it too bloody likely…

    ROAD: 1-3, 5.86 ERA, .333 BAA
    HOME: 2-0, 1.67 ERA, .223 BAA

    He’s given up a homer in all but one start (one start he gave up two) but of those 9 homers, 8 were solo shots.

    Com’ on, Jason, surprise me (and you too, bats – got your work cut out for you with CC!)

    I’m thinking that Russell’s overdue for one of his moon shots…

  84. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:15 pm

    The Rays and Mets won’t even come close to matching the money the Yankees will put on the table for Chapman.

    This will be a Yankees, Red Sox, White Sox and Angels battle and the other 4 teams don’t have the cash if the Yankees decide to go all in.

    If you are going to comment on Chapman and not be a troll, at least come up with logical premises.

    A team like the Rays, whose owner isn’t even allowing them to carry an extra 5-8 million in payroll right now, is not going 50+ million for Chapman. Ain’t gonna happen.

  85. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 4:15 pm

    >Mark Teixeira has gone 61 ABs without a home run.
    >His last blast came on June 12 off Livan Hernandez.

    Mark Teixeira June 13th – July 1st:
    15 for 63, 6 RBI, 10 BB, 9 SO, .238/.351/.317/.669

  86. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:16 pm

    “Chapman = Daniel Cabrera. Great stuff, subpar control, immature.”

    That’s some hard hitting analysis.

  87. pat July 2nd, 2009 at 4:16 pm

    If you are heading to the stadium tonight by car, give yourself extra time. Traffic on the Deagan and Cross Bronx is a bear today.

  88. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 4:17 pm

    SJ44,

    Yeah honestly I have nothing to base my Boras guess on other than he seems to be the agent for every good young player.

    Interesting info about Cubas and Dominquez. Maybe you should make some calls to Chapman’s people and get in on this feeding frenzy :)

    How much do agents get nowadays? Maybe you could get a new beach house … or 3 :)

  89. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 4:17 pm

    I still think there’s no basis to the $$ speculation on Chapman. The fact is, there’s never been anything to compare to him. You can say Price or Strasburg would get this or that amount if they were free agents, but you don’t know because they never were free agents. No pitcher of Chapman’s talent level and age has ever been a free agent.

    If you actually had the job of bidding on the guy, that would make you stop and think.

  90. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:18 pm

    Chapman is not Daniel Cabrera. Not even close.

    Daniel Cabrera has never been rated by some scouts as the “best pitching prospect I’ve ever seen”.

    One of Keith Law’s best sources, a ML scout for over 40 years, made that statement to Keith this morning.

    That statement has never been uttered when the name, “Daniel Cabrera” comes up.

    You gotta do better than that if you are going to troll in here tonight.

  91. G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:18 pm

    a yankee source has already said they would be interested in Chapman

  92. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 4:18 pm

    Patrick,

    When I saw over at RAB (and they had the story first that I saw… before even MLB Trade Rumors) that Chapman had defected I almost fell out of my chair as I knew that this was going to be the story of the off season.

    It was great to get SJ’s take on it as I figured he’s have quite a lot to say about the player and the situation given his relationships in Miami. I didn’t know the kid was partial to the yankees. So it was good to hear.

    This is a huge deal. It will be the story of this winter. It will be a brutal bidding process – unless the Yankees just dictate and decide that they will not lose this player and just prevent a market from developing as they did with CC.

    Just imagine the John Henry twitter feeds!

    I’m still very surprised that Mark Newmann has made any public comment on this. Newmann rarely says anything. The yankees are the most tight lipped organization out there.

    For him to say something on day one after the defection speaks volumes for how important the thinks this is.

    Notice – he gave the comment to Jorge Arangure. That’s not an accident. He’s become the most widely read guy on Latin American baseball in the U.S. due to his position at ESPN.

    There’s no doubt the Yankees were sending a message to Chapman and his people in Miami.

    And to the rest of baseball.

  93. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 4:18 pm

    SJ44 why won’t the Mets be in on this? What about the Dodgers, Tigers?

  94. Dan 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:19 pm

    Ortiz is just having a bad yr… like Cano and Swisher did last year. Ortiz is not performing poorly because of post-steroid effects.

    Ortiz doesn’t even look like the type of guy to take steroids. He is such a loveable guy and one of the faces of baseball and very popular with the fans. Why would he risk ruining his image to hit a few extra HRs?

  95. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 4:19 pm

    “I’m still very surprised that Mark Newmann has made any public comment on this. Newmann rarely says anything. The yankees are the most tight lipped organization out there. ”

    For them to say anything, they must be absolutely GIDDY right now that Chapman is soon to be available.

  96. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 4:20 pm

    “He is such a loveable guy and one of the faces of baseball and very popular with the fans. Why would he risk ruining his image to hit a few extra HRs?”

    Funny. That’s how I’d describe Giambi when he was in Oakland.

  97. Vader July 2nd, 2009 at 4:21 pm

    You have to wonder, when the Chapman bidding process gets underway in 5-6 months, will Bobcat return from parts unknown to give daily updates?

  98. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 4:22 pm

    the mets won’t, they wouldn’t go after abreu or dunn. they not in it. i bet boras is his agent and he always the final opportunity to his guys

  99. Hinske is Christ July 2nd, 2009 at 4:22 pm

    Sabathia needs to hit Griffey. We must send a message to the Mariners.

  100. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:23 pm

    I’d guess the Mets won’t go in on Chapman because they never seem to spend big money on non-MLB talent. Just look at how they conduct their draft, they rarely go over slot.

    If they won’t pony up a few million for a college or high school player, I have a hard time seeing them spend 50+ million for Chapman.

  101. roger(live from amsterdam) July 2nd, 2009 at 4:24 pm

    If the yankee do sign chapman,will he pitch this year?

  102. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 4:24 pm

    pat: People actually still take the Deegan and the cross Bronx to the Stadium?!?!

    People are idiots.

  103. CENTRAL CT YANKEE July 2nd, 2009 at 4:24 pm

    Less than 8 hours left of all star voting, let’s put Tex through…I just voted 75 times….

  104. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:25 pm

    “pat: People actually still take the Deegan and the cross Bronx to the Stadium?!?!

    People are idiots.”

    Shhh Becca, don’t give away the shortcut, lol

  105. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 4:25 pm

    roger: No. Aside from needing to establish residency somewhere, which will take the rest of the season, he’s also too unpolished and needs time in the minors.

    The potential, however, is astounding.

  106. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:25 pm

    Wave,

    You overestimated the marketplace for Pettitte’s services in the off-season and you are underestimating the market that will form for Chapman’s services in this market.

    There are similar market instances:

    Jose Contreras got 32 million dollars when he hit the open market and that was almost 7 years ago. Even though it was a posting system, Dice-K got 52 million. Those are starting points and neither guy was 21 years old, LH, and threw 100.

    There is a starting point and the numbers being thrown around today are from baseball executives who are looking into what its going to take to sign him.

    He is going to get a contract north of 30 million and, I think at least, topping 50 million dollars over 6 or 7 years.

    Only way that doesn’t happen is if he is hurt and there is no evidence he is hurt.

    If you don’t believe, its ok. Buster Olney just said he’s going to be the #1 free agent on the market this off-season.

    When was the last time the #1 FA on the market signed for under 30 million?

    CB and I said it last night and it holds true today. This is a huge, huge story and its going to get bigger and bigger in the coming months.

    That kid is going to break the bank (if healthy) when its clear to bid for him.

  107. Hokiehill July 2nd, 2009 at 4:25 pm

    “Whereas A-Rod is a phony and just abnormal.

    It is pretty easy to see why Giambi is liked in the media and A-Rod is not.”

    Personally I see ARod as being a guy who is extremely vain and cares way too much about what people think of him, so he tries to hard…that makes him come across as phony…and while the media may not like A-Rod, personally I do…I’ve never met the guy but I’ve told the story of a friend’s (Red Sox fan) who met him and talked to him for a long time and said he was very polite and didn’t come across as some big-time guy…that’s the ARod I choose to see, right or wrong. BTW, who the media likes and dislikes should not be anyone’s compass, just my opinion

  108. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 4:25 pm

    “pat: People actually still take the Deegan and the cross Bronx to the Stadium?!?!”

    Actually, no one drives on the Deegan or the Cross Bronx any more. They’re too crowded.

  109. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 4:26 pm

    “It’s amazing they are over .500 and a tribute to their pitching staff. But we are missing two of their best pitchers, and should beat them because our pitching will dominate their bats.”

    True. It’s probably a game that they should have given Alex a complete day off for. They could have paired that with his DH off to give him an near two day break. But whatever.

    It’s interesting – a big reason why seattle has been much better this year has been neither their offense or pitching – it’s their defense. They’ve been one of the biggest defensive improvement club in the majors this year.

    But the yankees obviously should beat them. Just the idea alone of facing CC after losing the first two games of the series has to be deflating for them.

  110. J-Boogie July 2nd, 2009 at 4:27 pm

    I will be shocked if Tex doesn’t get voted in over Youkilis. The lead seems to change based on who was at home the week before. With the Sox on the road and the Yanks at home for the final few days, I think it’s in the bag. Pedroia will lose out to Kinsler for the same reason. Rangers were at home. The fewer Sox that get voted in the better.

  111. #23 Hitman July 2nd, 2009 at 4:27 pm

    Hopefully the Yanks have had a plan in place for Chapman even before he defected. Assuming that he would. If not get the war room going already Yanks!

    SWEEP TONIGHT YANKS!!!!

  112. roger(live from amsterdam) July 2nd, 2009 at 4:28 pm

    Chapman seems to be in the netherlands right now…In rotterdam I heard.Maybe I should scout this guy!haha.It’s a 40min drive from here

  113. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 4:29 pm

    “Those are starting points and neither guy was 21 years old, LH, and threw 100.”

    Neither guy was 21. Exactly my point. They were much older with a track record. When push comes to shove teams will discount for that. The risk is much greater.

    $30MM – $50MM are just numbers being thrown around in the excitement of the moment. Why not $15MM? Why not $70MM? It’s all just excited speculation at this point.

  114. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:30 pm

    Patrick,

    The Tigers have money issues and aren’t going to go this high for Chapman. The Dodgers won’t spend the money either.

    The Mets? Not after Madoff.

    Mark Newman made a strategic play today. He sent the message to Chapman and his people the Yankees are in on this.

    No BS, no ambiguity.

    JMO but, I think the Yankees are going to be super aggressive on this one and are going to sign him.

    Like I said last night, 99% of the Cuban baseball players who defect want three things:

    1. They want to play for the Yankees.
    2. They want to make a lot of money.
    3. They want to live in Miami.

    Its almost universal when you talk to people in and around the Cuban baseball scene.

    Obviously, the Yankees can’t sign every Cuban defector.

    However, when somebody like Chapman comes along? Frankly, I would be shocked if they don’t land him when all is said and done.

  115. CM July 2nd, 2009 at 4:30 pm

    Rebecca – Awesome Power Ranking quote.

    My man crush in Mo has been getting stoked all week. It was great to have my first trip to The Stadium be the night he throws out the first pitch, and the last. I’m hoping to finally post pics from it on my blog as soon as my hangover’s gone.

  116. Dan 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:30 pm

    DeCaster > Chapman

  117. BBB July 2nd, 2009 at 4:30 pm

    Gaaah, not more talk about Giambi’s superior likeability over A-Rod’s. I heard enough meaningless debate about that when Giambi was on the team, and this past offseason, to last me 2 lifetimes. No more, please! I’d rather hear about why Posada’s higher CERA makes him inferior to Cervelli, and THAT is saying a lot :)

  118. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 4:30 pm

    Roger: Was in Rotterdam. Highly doubt he’s still there as that’s where the Cuban team is playing.

  119. CompassRosy July 2nd, 2009 at 4:30 pm

    Looks like the new guy gets to make his M’s debut at the Stadium…

    Ichiro 9
    Branyan 3
    Lopez 4
    Sweeney DH
    Gutierrez 8
    Johjima 2
    Langerhans 7
    Woodward 5
    Cendeno 6

  120. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:31 pm

    “Neither guy was 21. Exactly my point. They were much older with a track record. When push comes to shove teams will discount for that. The risk is much greater.”

    Personally I think you have it backwards. Greater risk yes but also greater reward. He doesn’t have the mileage on his arm, is very raw thus making his ceiling much much higher. Just wait til he gets some intelligent coaching. You pay for upside, and you usually pay a ton.

  121. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 4:31 pm

    SJ: The Mets took that big of a hit from Madoff?

  122. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:32 pm

    Wave,

    I’ll make a friendly bet with you. I’ll bet, as long as he is healthy, he gets at least 50 million for at least 6 years, and its a major league contract when he does sign.

    That’s how confident I am he will cash in this off-season.

  123. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 4:32 pm

    “Mark Newman made a strategic play today. He sent the message to Chapman and his people the Yankees are in on this.”

    Tim Brown also had a story today affirming the yankees interest.

    “A Yankees source said the club would be very interested in signing Chapman. Of course, said one general manager with a laugh, “I’m sure all 30 teams will be interested to some degree.”

    http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/ne.....;type=lgns

  124. Dan 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:33 pm

    Bottom line – It would be simply inexcusable, a fireable offense, if we miss out on Chapman.

    You don’t let money stp you from acquiring a once in a lifetime talent that we normally would have no shot at.

  125. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 4:33 pm

    I’m just getting caught up here at The LoHud…..Folks, SJ & CB’s ranting about Chapman are to be taken very seriously…I know a few baseball guys how watched him during the WBC ( and he wasn’t at his best in San Diego )…They’re comment was that he has Nolan Ryan in his left arm…..His mechanics are a mess, but there is electricity in his arm…..Ken Griffey Jr., maybe the best player I’ve ever seen play….Playing in the Kingdom was worth at least an extra 100 hr’s, but man was he pure brillance….I only saw Mantle from 1960 / 1961 and his best years were gone…Willie Mays peaked in the 60′s, but Griffey was as good as there was….Injuries much like Mantle’s will always have baseball historians ask, what if….Chapman is for real…..

  126. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 4:34 pm

    Joe G-

    Wouldn’t you pay more for CC than for a guy you thought could be CC someday?

  127. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:34 pm

    Rebecca,

    The rumored hit taken by the Wilpon’s in financial circles is 500-600 million. That’s a big whack.

    DeCaster > Chapman. Try again.

    Comedy hour usually starts after the game begins, not before. lol

  128. Bret the Hitman July 2nd, 2009 at 4:34 pm

    If they sign Chapman this offseason, they could trade Chin Ming Wang in the offseason.

  129. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 4:35 pm

    “totally agree…. 10 million is one thing but for a guy you have never seen 30+ million is a lot of money… I can see the Rays, Red Sox, Mets and Angels all being players on him”

    It’s NOT alot of money, when considering the multitude of major league proven scrubs, signed to the same contract.

  130. PruBelongs July 2nd, 2009 at 4:35 pm

    Fly ball –
    “Melky has been red hot…”
    No he hasn’t. He’s 4 for his last 14. And that’s during his “red hot” streak. It’s nice that he shows up late in the game though.

    “Gardner shouldn’t be in the lineup over him.”
    Yes he should.

    “And Swisher is a better player than Gardner.”
    Swisher has more power. Gardner has the other 4 tools.

  131. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 4:36 pm

    “If they sign Chapman this offseason, they could trade Chin Ming Wang in the offseason”

    I’m missing the connection

  132. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 4:37 pm

    “Rebecca,

    The rumored hit taken by the Wilpon’s in financial circles is 500-600 million. That’s a big whack.”

    Ayay-freaking-ay

  133. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 4:38 pm

    “$30MM – $50MM are just numbers being thrown around in the excitement of the moment. Why not $15MM? Why not $70MM? It’s all just excited speculation at this point.”

    But market’s have to form some way. Often it is excited speculation that does. And a market will form and be executed for Chapman.

    Will it be rationally motivated? No. It will be to some degree arbitrary. But it still will form.

    Look there’s an entire school of thought in auction theory that every “winner” of an auction is actually a loser long term because by the definition of its structure, the person who wins the auction has misread the market. They’ve set themselves up as the outlier in the market – almost by definition that’s what’s required to “win” the auction.

    Alex Rodriguez’s two contracts are good examples of this.

    And that’s why on a large scale the free agent market produces poor value.

    So chances are Chapman will be overvalued and over paid.

    But those are the kinds of things that always happen with scarce commodities.

    And in baseball a guy like Chapman is as scarce as it gets.

    So in that situation you either decide to go to the dance or stay home.

    But for the yankees, the music is always playing so they are going to dance.

  134. Tom in N.J. July 2nd, 2009 at 4:38 pm

    “Actually, no one drives on the Deegan or the Cross Bronx any more. They’re too crowded.”

    Yogied?

  135. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 4:38 pm

    SJ44-

    It’ll be interesting, I grant you.

    I don’t think he’ll get that much. One of us will have to be wrong later, I guess, but I’ll take the ribbing in good spirits IF it’s the Yanks who sign him AND they don’t have to compromise replacing Damon, Matsui, Nady and Pettitte next year to do it.

    How’s that?

  136. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:38 pm

    Wave,

    Yes but we are talking international free agents here. I’d pay more for CC than any international free agent, because he has succeed in MLB.

    But we aren’t comparing Chapman to CC. We are comparing him to Contreras and Dice-K, or at least in terms of the money they got. Both had a proven track record, but no in MLB.

    If I had a choice of Contreras or Chapman, I take Chapman because he’s younger (especially when you factor in the scouting reports on him). A better comparison would be Darvish and Chapman, and again I take Chapman here because he’s raw and coachable.

    So if Contreras got 32 million, imagine what Chapman will get. I hope I got my point across here and didn’t confuse you…

  137. BBB July 2nd, 2009 at 4:39 pm

    I wouldn’t mind trading Wang at some point for maybe a Jayson Werth type of corner OF, but not sure next year would be a good time to do it even if we do get Chapman; if Pettitte retires and he and Wang are both then gone from the rotation, that’s a lot of innings gone and replaced by Hughes and Joba with their innings caps, and Chapman as an untested MLB rookie…especially with Burnett being injury prone, that would make me too nervous.

    Maybe next year at the deadline, or next offseason or something.

  138. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 4:40 pm

    The way CB and SJ are going after Chapman makes him sound like his value would be higher than the lovechild of Roy Halladay and Albert Pujols.

  139. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:40 pm

    You know what’s going to happen this off-season? Teams will tell “sources” they are in on Chapman just to make their fans happy they are “trying” to sign him. That’s how big the hype will be.

    In the end, the “big boys” will be the last guys standing because the dollars will be so large, most teams, especially in this economy, won’t be all in on him.

  140. Bret the Hitman July 2nd, 2009 at 4:42 pm

    I guess they could start Chapman in AAA and go with a rotation of CC, AJ, Wang, Hughes and Chamberlain.

  141. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 4:43 pm

    “Folks, SJ & CB’s ranting about Chapman are to be taken very seriously…I know a few baseball guys how watched him during the WBC ( and he wasn’t at his best in San Diego )…They’re comment was that he has Nolan Ryan in his left arm…..His mechanics are a mess, but there is electricity in his arm…..”

    Have we been ranting….? Well only in the proud Lohud tradition.

    So look – forget what SJ and I have been saying. Pat M is level headed and knows his ball. And he has friends who are scouts how really know their stuff.

    “Nolan Ryan in his left arm…”is as big a complement as a kid can get.

  142. bodhisattva - Destiny Wears Pinstripes July 2nd, 2009 at 4:43 pm

    CountryClub
    July 2nd, 2009 at 3:55 pm
    Check out this terrific article on Mariano:
    http://sportsillustrated.cnn.c.....ref=sihpT1
    =====

    Hey my friend, that was a great read and a great gift to this forum.

    A thousand thank yous – the most well-written piece I’ve read in a long time, and a great tribute to a transcendent artist.

  143. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:44 pm

    CB
    July 2nd, 2009 at 4:18 pm
    Patrick,

    When I saw over at RAB (and they had the story first that I saw… before even MLB Trade Rumors) that Chapman had defected I almost fell out of my chair as I knew that this was going to be the story of the off season.

    It was great to get SJ’s take on it as I figured he’s have quite a lot to say about the player and the situation given his relationships in Miami. I didn’t know the kid was partial to the yankees. So it was good to hear.

    This is a huge deal. It will be the story of this winter. It will be a brutal bidding process – unless the Yankees just dictate and decide that they will not lose this player and just prevent a market from developing as they did with CC.

    Just imagine the John Henry twitter feeds

    ————————————————————

    I’m guessing that the first thing Henry told the new Mrs. was, “Honey…something just came up any we have to economize.”

    Honey said, “Oh Hell no. I didn’t sign up for this economize crap, Kemosabe.”

    His twitter to Gammons was, “Pete, get on the horn and NESPN and tell The Nation to organize can drives to raise some extra cash. We’re in for a fight against The Evil Empire.”

  144. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 4:44 pm

    “A better comparison would be Darvish and Chapman, and again I take Chapman here because he’s raw and coachable”

    yup. Having watched the WBC, Darvish did not impress me

  145. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:45 pm

    “yup. Having watched the WBC, Darvish did not impress me”

    What didn’t you like?

  146. BBB July 2nd, 2009 at 4:46 pm

    “Just imagine the John Henry twitter feeds”

    Maybe Mrs. Chapman won’t like the stores in Boston any better than Mrs. Teixeira did! :P

  147. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:46 pm

    Certain guys come along in sports that set their own markets.

    If last May, someone said that Steven Strasburg would set a signing bonus record, which he will, folks would have thought you were crazy.

    Alex got his deal with no other suitors in the marketplace.

    Sometimes, market forces come together and that sets the market.

    A 21 year old, free agent, LH pitcher who throws upper 90′s.

    Hasn’t been abused physically.

    Great personality, making him easy to like and fit in.

    Major market team (the Yankees) having over 40 million coming off the books, are in a new stadium (more revenue being produced) and are already openly salivating at the prospect of bidding for him.

    In other words, they aren’t looking to hold down the market, they are looking to blow it up.

    ESPN will be, “All Chapman, all the time” this winter, further building the hype machine.

    Sometimes, all of those market forces come into play and when they do, a chartbusting contract takes place.

    I think that’s what we will see with Chapman, as long as he is healthy.

  148. pat July 2nd, 2009 at 4:46 pm

    I was looking at some stats:

    Jason Bay 2 for his last 30. 1 BB, 14 Ks, 0 RBI. That’s a slump of A-Rod proportion without the PR.

  149. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 4:49 pm

    RT @BloggingBombers: Jorge Posada out with a bruised left thumb. He is available off the bench and should be back in the lineup tomorrow.

  150. CRHIS July 2nd, 2009 at 4:49 pm

    “My guess is Joe is banking on him snapping out of it and hitting like we know he can hit. If he does that he’s a prototypical 5 hitter.”

    Cano snapping out of a career long slump with RISP, don’t count on it. He should never,m ever sniff the 5th spot in the lineup.

  151. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:52 pm

    “Cano snapping out of a career long slump with RISP, don’t count on it. He should never,m ever sniff the 5th spot in the lineup.”

    Some believe hitting with RISP can be fluky, and thus so are the stats. Look at Alex Rodriguez in that regard. One year he can’t deliver with men on, and other years he’s Mr. Reliable.

    Not saying that philosophy is right or wrong, but its something to consider. If it is right, then there is no reason to say Cano should never hit 5th again.

  152. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 4:53 pm

    “What didn’t you like (Darvish)?”

    His overall package. His delivery, the stuff/movement on his pitches, didn’t really impress me. Despite being billed as an untouchable, he was very hittable.

    not saying he doesn’t have solid MLB potential. However, based on his WBC play, he looks like another overhyped Japanese pitcher, to me

  153. Glenn July 2nd, 2009 at 4:53 pm

    Let’s hope Ardolis Chapman is not represented by Scott Boras who has no awareness or consideration of how the economy weighs in during negotiations.
    Even though Boras has been civil toward the Yankees with other clients, he’d want a king’s ransom for Chapman.

  154. michelle b. in the ghetto's of oakland July 2nd, 2009 at 4:54 pm

    GB,

    that was hysterical – mountain dew shot out of my nose.

  155. stuart a July 2nd, 2009 at 4:56 pm

    yea cano hitting 5th again tonight…………

    head scratcher and I hate bitching about the lineup.

    Also Gardner sitting 3 straight games, why? Sit swisher on occasion he is not
    Paul O’neil if you have not noticed…

    CC please dominate.. 8 in a row would be great………….

  156. stuart a July 2nd, 2009 at 4:56 pm

    yea cano hitting 5th again tonight…………

    head scratcher and I hate bitching about the lineup.

    Also Gardner sitting 3 straight games, why? Sit swisher on occasion he is not
    Paul O’neil if you have not noticed…

    CC please dominate.. 8 in a row would be great………….

  157. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 4:56 pm

    “Maybe Mrs. Chapman won’t like the stores in Boston any better than Mrs. Teixeira did”

    line of the day

  158. Observer283 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:57 pm

    Question on Chapman:
    If his mechanics are a mess, won’t he need sometime in the minors?

    Based on what I’ve read, this guys is Chuck Norris’ brother. I definitely think the Yanks should go all out to get him.

    BUT, if he “has a lot of projection” left and has terrible mechanics; I think he should spend some time in the minors with Nardi Contreras to work them out if the Yankees win the bidding war. The last thing this kid will need will be immense pressure to perform like Randy Johnson before his mechanics are all sorted out.

    Another note: isn’t this one of those moments when its nice to be a Yankee fan? I mean it doesn’t seem fair or right, but who on this board DOESN’T think the Yankees will win the bidding war if they want to?

    I mean seriously, if this guy truly is what SJ and CB and Olney says he is; I would be shocked if he wasn’t a Yankee next year.

  159. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 4:57 pm

    michelle b. in the ghetto’s of oakland
    July 2nd, 2009 at 4:54 pm
    GB,

    that was hysterical – mountain dew shot out of my nose.

    ————————————————————

    My sympathies and apolgies to your nose. That had to burn like Hell.

  160. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:57 pm

    vinny-b:

    Fair enough, although I personally thought he had great movement on his slider. His fastball was good, not OMG did you see that, but its at least average.

    Also consider the guys age and look at what he’s capable of doing. Is he worth Dice-K money? Maybe, maybe not, but I definitely think he’d be an above average MLB pitcher. Unfortunately by the time he gets here (if he ever decides to come) he’ll have some serious mileage on that arm. Which is what makes Chapman so valuable to me, his youth and inexperience.

  161. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 4:58 pm

    And they slide into first…again…

  162. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 4:58 pm

    “Let’s hope Ardolis Chapman is not represented by Scott Boras who has no awareness or consideration of how the economy weighs in during negotiations.”

    I’d say Boras has a better understanding of the economy than the people he negotiates with.

  163. Brandon...Joba = Rick "The Vild Thing" Vaughn according to some here LOL July 2nd, 2009 at 4:59 pm

    K-Rod blows another save.

  164. Lammer July 2nd, 2009 at 4:59 pm

    I think it’s a great idea to bat our worst hitter with RISP behind Teix and A-rod, brilliant.

  165. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 4:59 pm

    Adam LaRoche ties PIT/NYM game, K-Rod blows game

  166. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 4:59 pm

    Observer:

    Chapman will definitely have to spend time in the minors. Despite his skills in the WBC, he did look raw.

    whether he projects as a starter or RP, i defer to others

    ?

  167. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 5:00 pm

    poor mets

  168. pat July 2nd, 2009 at 5:00 pm

    Mets are snake bit as K-Rod blows a save.

  169. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:00 pm

    “Maybe Mrs. Chapman won’t like the stores in Boston any better than Mrs. Teixeira did”

    Really that is phenomenal. And to think Peter Gammons still considers himself a serious journalist after that remark.

  170. Vince July 2nd, 2009 at 5:00 pm

    I’m guessing that the first thing Henry told the new Mrs. was, “Honey…something just came up any we have to economize.”

    Honey said, “Oh Hell no. I didn’t sign up for this economize crap, Kemosabe.”

    His twitter to Gammons was, “Pete, get on the horn and NESPN and tell The Nation to organize can drives to raise some extra cash. We’re in for a fight against The Evil Empire.”
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    Tell ya what GB, I’m guessing you’re right. Coin cans will be seen at the counters of all Dunkin’ Donut outlets in New England.

  171. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 5:01 pm

    hah kfraud blows it

  172. Brandon...Joba = Rick "The Vild Thing" Vaughn according to some here LOL July 2nd, 2009 at 5:02 pm

    BTW imagine being the Yankees 40 + million coming off the books and Chapman already let it known that his dream is to be a Yankees. Starving dog meet piece of chicken.

  173. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:02 pm

    Here is why the Yankees have a huge advantage in signing Chapman.

    They can sign him to a huge contract AND keep him in the minors to develop him properly.

    Not every team can afford to do that.

    Most teams sign a guy to a 50+ million dollar contract have to keep him on the ML roster and use him because of the financial commitment made to him.

    The Yankees could sign Chapman and, if he needs a full year in the minors, so be it.

    They are doing something similar with Brackman this year. There is no pressure on them to use him at the major league level because of his contract.

    Its a huge advantage the Yankees have over just about everybody in baseball.

  174. TIME FOR #27 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:03 pm

    Teix is so due to hit a home run and go on a monster streak… cant wait to see tex and a-rod destroying opposing pitchers… A few hours left to vote tex past youk, stop bloging for a few minutes and go vote!!!

  175. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 5:05 pm

    “His fastball was good, not OMG did you see that, but its at least average”

    Joe G:

    yes his FB is definitely good. However, from my “unskilled” eye, his skill-set did not match the hype (put out by Bobby Valentine and others). Contrasted by Dice-K 3 years before, who really dominated the entire WBC tournement

  176. eric July 2nd, 2009 at 5:05 pm

    Chapman is very raw but def talented, anyone who sits at the top of the 90′s, touches 101/102 and is a left is going to be on an exceptionally long leash. The kid’s got exciting stuff, should be interesting to see how he translates.

  177. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:05 pm

    When you think you have baseball figured out, it just finds a way to flip you on your head.

    Take the Mets, can barely score one run a game yet had been getting decent pitching. Then today they finally muster up 8 runs and yet they still might not win. Just crazy.

  178. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 5:06 pm

    ““Maybe Mrs. Chapman won’t like the stores in Boston any better than Mrs. Teixeira did”

    BBB,

    That was great. What a comment… perfect.

  179. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:07 pm

    Vote for Tex even though he is batting .238 in the month of June and he doesnt have any homeruns in 61 at bats. Amazing. Go ahead and vote for him and lose home advantage when October rolls.

  180. Brandon...Joba = Rick "The Vild Thing" Vaughn according to some here LOL July 2nd, 2009 at 5:08 pm

    what are they heckling to Frankie ?

  181. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 5:08 pm

    roid chant krod withour proof, that messed up

  182. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:08 pm

    “yes his FB is definitely good. However, from my “unskilled” eye, his skill-set did not match the hype (put out by Bobby Valentine and others). Contrasted by Dice-K 3 years before, who really dominated the entire WBC tournement”

    I’m too lazy to look up the WBC stats, but if my memory serves me correct, didn’t Darvish pitch really well accept in the first inning during the first game against Korea? I believe he gave up 4 runs in that inning but finished strong.

    Either way this discussion/argument is kind of pointless, the guy has made it clear he has no intention in coming to the US anytime soon if ever.

  183. Brandon...Joba = Rick "The Vild Thing" Vaughn according to some here LOL July 2nd, 2009 at 5:08 pm

    it’s clearly bugging him.

  184. Brandon...Joba = Rick "The Vild Thing" Vaughn according to some here LOL July 2nd, 2009 at 5:10 pm

    Pirates fans are getting in K-Rod’s head w/ the K-Roddddddddddddddd chants.

  185. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 5:10 pm

    “Take the Mets, can barely score one run a game yet had been getting decent pitching. Then today they finally muster up 8 runs and yet they still might not win. Just crazy”

    Joe: thank you for the word. Had turned the game off (thinking it was over) when it was 8-5.

    considering their roster the Pirates are tough, this year

  186. michelle b. in the ghetto's of oakland July 2nd, 2009 at 5:12 pm

    GB,

    no prob — i like to feel that kind of a burn every so often. LOL

  187. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 5:14 pm

    “Vote for Tex even though he is batting .238 in the month of June and he doesnt have any homeruns in 61 at bats. Amazing. Go ahead and vote for him and lose home advantage when October rolls.”

    all star voting is not based on 1 month…sorry

  188. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:15 pm

    michelle b. in the ghetto’s of oakland
    July 2nd, 2009 at 5:12 pm
    GB,

    no prob — i like to feel that kind of a burn every so often. LOL

    ————————————————————

    LMAO. Well, in that case, enjoy your buzz, Michelle.

  189. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:15 pm

    “considering their roster the Pirates are tough, this year”

    I’ll tell you that team is one front line starter and one or two decent back end guys away from being dangerous in the NL Central.

    Notice I said NL Central, because if they were in the AL they’d be the Royals (a team who if were in the NL Central would be battling for first).

    I like what Huntington is doing there now. Moving out the players not currently needed for guys with high upside (ala Milledge). They also are starting to build a nice foundation in their minor leagues. I may have to adopt them as my NL team to root for, lol.

    Of course they also have Lohud’s adopted son Tony Sanchez.

  190. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 5:17 pm

    I’ve said this time and again, Tex shouldn’t be on the all-star team this year. There are 3 guys who are having much better seasons than him. People who deserve to be there should be voted in, not just because he’s a Yankee. It’s a shame that it’s simply a popularity contest

  191. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:19 pm

    Ramsey’s right, last time I checked the numbers Youkilis, Morneau and Branyan were ahead of him. Personally I really don’t care. It’s an entertaining show where I get to see some different players. I get to watch Tex play everyday. If he makes it then good for him. If not he can take some time off to go shopping with his wife :)

  192. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 5:20 pm

    “Vote for Tex even though he is batting .238 in the month of June and he doesnt have any homeruns in 61 at bats. Amazing. Go ahead and vote for him and lose home advantage when October rolls”

    John Henry busy on twitter today

  193. Brandon...Joba = Rick "The Vild Thing" Vaughn according to some here LOL July 2nd, 2009 at 5:20 pm

    Joe G you forgot Pedro Alvarez

  194. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:21 pm

    Branyan’s numbers aren’t better than Tex’s. Tex has more HR’s, more RBI, I believe a higher Slugging %, higher OBP and is a much better defensive player.

  195. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:21 pm

    “Joe G you forgot Pedro Alvarez”

    What did I forget about him?

  196. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 5:21 pm

    Joe G:

    So I’m reading a book on Byzantium, wherein you come across lines such as “fortunately, dysentery struck”, and i have to say, being an adopted son, at least in the royal family, is really not all it’s cracked up to be.

  197. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:24 pm

    “Branyan’s numbers aren’t better than Tex’s. Tex has more HR’s, more RBI, I believe a higher Slugging %, higher OBP and is a much better defensive player.”

    Branyans higher in slugging %, OBP & OPS+.

    Tex is the far superior defender however.

  198. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 5:24 pm

    Actually, Tex has 1 more homer and 20 more rbi than Branyan. But Branyan has a higher average, obp, slugging and ops than Tex. I don’t think Branyan should be an all-star either though. Morneau and Youkilis should be the all-star first baseman. It’s no slight on Tex, but he isn’t having a better year

  199. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:25 pm

    Lets see. Tex had one good month and you think he deserves to be in the All Star game? Players who are consistent should be able to go not who they are playing for. Its not about Red Sox and Yankees. I can understand if Tex was playing really good up to this point and he went in to a funk.

  200. Ed H. July 2nd, 2009 at 5:25 pm

    Thanks to all who have participated in the very enlightening discussion about Chapman this afternoon and especially to SJ and CB. It’s been one of those times when I’ve been very happy to keep my mouth shut and just read and learn. It’s been Lohud at its best.

    I’ve been thinking about the team’s projected cash flow situation next off season and am wondering about the impact that moving into the new stadium will ultimately have on the Yanks’ financial freedom to go all out after Chapman and make other necessary moves.

    Folks are assuming that revenue is up this year based on the financial benefits of being in the new stadium. I’d be curious to know how that is working out, given disappointing sales of premium seats and the expenses involved in moving into the new place, mortgage costs, etc.
    On the other side of the equation, the Yanks must be making a mint from selling off memorabilia from the old stadium through the Steiner partnership.

    I think that I remember reading that a financial benefit that the Yanks get from the new stadium is that, under MLB rules, they get to charge enough depreciation against their bottom line that they will not be paying revenue sharing to the other teams. Early in the planning stages for the new park I read that the elimination of revenue sharing payments would essentially get those other teams to pay for the new ballpark. Costs of the new stadium escalated and so I’m sure that this is no longer the case, but I’m wondering how these “new stadium factors” will impact the team’s off season financial flexibility. Ideas?

  201. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:26 pm

    “So I’m reading a book on Byzantium, wherein you come across lines such as “fortunately, dysentery struck”, and i have to say, being an adopted son, at least in the royal family, is really not all it’s cracked up to be.”

    After reading some of the game threads here I would say this probably isn’t a family you’d want to around a lot.

  202. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 5:26 pm

    rebecca,

    I caught your post on Monter and comparing him to other superstars at the same age. Nicely done.

    And thoughts post analysis on Montero?

    BTW the point you brought up about his strike outs is a pretty central one. His strike zone command and ability to make hard contact at that age are simply amazing. That’s not something that can be taught quite honestly. Not to that degree and at that age.

  203. CompassRosy July 2nd, 2009 at 5:26 pm

    oh brother … Vargas has the flu

  204. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:27 pm

    Vinny b,
    I wish I was John Henry with all his money. Then I didnt had to worry about paying credit card and hospital bills.

  205. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 5:27 pm

    capps gags it up after getting the first 2 outs

  206. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 5:27 pm

    Joe G: Never read the game threads after the game starts.

  207. Brandon...Joba = Rick "The Vild Thing" Vaughn according to some here LOL July 2nd, 2009 at 5:28 pm

    No way K-Rod chokes twice right ?

  208. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 5:28 pm

    Christina,

    That’s exactly what I said yesterday and I was told that I must be a member of Red Sox nation because no Yankee fan would ever vote for a Red Sox player under any circumstance. And that’s exactly what the problem is with having the fans vote on the roster. The people who deserve to be there, don’t always get voted in because of who they play for, or they aren’t “a big name”

  209. We Miss Paulie July 2nd, 2009 at 5:28 pm

    Love Mariano:

    http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/

  210. Brandon...Joba = Rick "The Vild Thing" Vaughn according to some here LOL July 2nd, 2009 at 5:29 pm

    “capps gags it up after getting the first 2 outs”

    More like McCutchen throws it away.

  211. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 5:29 pm

    Brandon: No, but Parnell might. Don’t think K-Rod comes back out.

  212. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:29 pm

    “Joe G: Never read the game threads after the game starts.”

    You’re a very wise person. I only glance threw them after a win, lol

  213. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 5:30 pm

    yea that was an awful thrown

  214. RS July 2nd, 2009 at 5:30 pm

    Wow…has anyone ever had a BS and a save in the same game?

    Then again, Krod could have 2 blown saves today.

  215. Laura July 2nd, 2009 at 5:31 pm

    “It’s a shame that it’s simply a popularity contest.”

    It is a shame. But there’s nothing we can do about that. MLB isn’t going to take away the fan vote; that would be a PR nightmare. Since it is what it is and can’t be changed, I would think that Yankee fans would want their guy in there instead of a BOS player, particularly when their results and the votes are so close. You can go on and on about how Morneau should be there. It doesn’t matter; he doesn’t have the votes. Tex and Pukelis do. Since that’s the situation we are faced with, Tex should get the nod because…here it comes…..he’s a Yankee.

  216. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:32 pm

    The game threads should come with a disclaimer:

    “Reading the game threads when the Yankees are tied or trailing in a game can be hazzardous to your health”.

    Please contact your physician before taking on such an exercise.

  217. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:32 pm

    RS…it’d be a blown save and (sadly) a win.

  218. Joe(Living in Texas) July 2nd, 2009 at 5:32 pm

    Whoever said that Chapman will start at AAA is mistaking. He will start in A ball, then move up like any other prospect. AAA is better than what he was pitching at in Cuba.

  219. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:33 pm

    “Reading the game threads when the Yankees are tied, trailing OR WINNING BY FEWER THAN 10 RUNS in a game can be hazzardous to your health”.

    /fixed

  220. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 5:34 pm

    to say tex should not be an all star is crazy…

    al 1b ranks:
    doubles :1st
    homeruns: 2nd
    rbis: 2nd
    walks: 3rd
    obp: 5th
    slugging: 4th
    ops: 4th

    all while playing stellar defense and having a bum wrist for 2 weeks…prbly not all star starter worthy but cant argue with him being a reserve…

  221. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:34 pm

    Tex should get the nod because…here it comes…..he’s a Yankee.

    At least your honest :)

  222. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 5:35 pm

    As long as Pujols and Rivera are in the all star game I have no complaints.

  223. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 5:35 pm

    “Wow…has anyone ever had a BS and a save in the same game?”

    he wont get a save..hell get a win

  224. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:36 pm

    Ralph:

    No denying he’s having a very nice season, however in some of the categories you have posted he’s 4th, which is behind Youkilis, Morneau and Branyan.

    Clearly you can make a strong case for Tex, but IMO he just misses.

  225. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 5:36 pm

    Besides the time that will be required for Chapman to properly become a Major League pitcher, he’ll also need time for the transition to living away from Cuba but a more difficult task awaits him, adjusting to life in the USA….At least one full year in the farm system at the veary least…..This is all academic at this time, but SJ is right about the magnatism that is the NY Yankees……I’ve been looking at video of him, man what we see is just the tip of what really could be…..

  226. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 5:37 pm

    The voting between Tex and Youkilis may be close, but the numbers aren’t that close. Tex may have a few more homers and a dozen more rbi, but Youk’s average, on base percentage, slugging percentage and ops are tremendously higher than Tex’s. Even if it comes down to a Yankee or a Red Sock, the player that deserves it more, should be there. And in this case, it’s Youkilis without question

  227. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 5:37 pm

    and the Mets announcers act like they just won the World Series

  228. Every year is a world series year July 2nd, 2009 at 5:38 pm

    “That’s exactly what I said yesterday and I was told that I must be a member of Red Sox nation because no Yankee fan would ever vote for a Red Sox player under any circumstance. And that’s exactly what the problem is with having the fans vote on the roster. The people who deserve to be there, don’t always get voted in because of who they play for, or they aren’t “a big name”

    It’s gonna take a whole lot more than a complaint on a blog to change that. It’s just the way it is…

  229. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:40 pm

    “and the Mets announcers act like they just won the World Series”

    They have to give their fans something to be excited about. It’s been a long month for them.

  230. Laura July 2nd, 2009 at 5:41 pm

    “Tex should get the nod because…here it comes…..he’s a Yankee.”

    “At least your honest ”

    Hey, there’s no shame in my game. The day I put a BOS player over a NYY one is the day the devil is wearing a snow parka and boots. :P

  231. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:42 pm

    I’ve long stopped caring about the ASG since Bud destroyed it.

    I would rather none of the Yankees make it and use the ASB to rest up and get ready for the second half.

    Its a wasted game to me. Used to be great until Bud destroyed it.

  232. jpb1973 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:42 pm

    I guess they could start Chapman in AAA and go with a rotation of CC, AJ, Wang, Hughes and Chamberlain.

    ————————————————–

    Is there any chance that Chapman could become a reliever and eventually replace Mo?

  233. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:42 pm

    Jerry Manuel appears to be managing for his job. 98 game pitches for Rodriguez in three games since Sunday.

  234. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 5:43 pm

    “The day I put a BOS player over a NYY one is the day the devil is wearing a snow parka and boots”

    ….If all the wet weather in the northeast continues, I could definitely see the Devil wearing a ski jacket come winter. Anything is possible at this point with mother nature

  235. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:44 pm

    SJ:

    What would you change?

    Personally I’d like to see 25 man rosters but allow players to re-enter. 33 is just far to many guys imo.

    I don’t really care either way about home field advantage.

  236. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 5:44 pm

    “Hey, there’s no shame in my game. The day I put a BOS player over a NYY one is the day the devil is wearing a snow parka and boots”

    you don’t lie. When filling out my all-star ballot, i looked at Jason Bay’s name for a minute. Then told myself, yeah RIGHT

  237. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 5:45 pm

    GB: I think we’re way past “appears”

  238. Joe Monte July 2nd, 2009 at 5:46 pm

    The Jesus is continuing to rake in AA. 4 HRs in his last 3 games and he raised his OPS to .937 at Trenton.

    My guess is he will be in the top 3 for Baseball America’s top 100 prospects for 2010.

  239. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:46 pm

    “you don’t lie. When filling out my all-star ballot, i looked at Jason Bay’s name for a minute. Then told myself, yeah RIGHT”

    I have no problem with a deserving Redsox player making the all star team. However when it comes to voting…as you said YEAH RIGHT. I do only vote once (if at all) that is, and not 20+ times or whatever you’re allowed.

  240. Richie July 2nd, 2009 at 5:46 pm

    This would have been a good game to rest A-Rod.

  241. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:47 pm

    26 man roster.

    Get rid of the fan vote.

    Get rid of the, whichever league wins hosts the World Series.

    Get rid of the fallacy that every team must be represented. Some years, a team doesn’t have an all star.

  242. Every year is a world series year July 2nd, 2009 at 5:47 pm

    “you don’t lie. When filling out my all-star ballot, i looked at Jason Bay’s name for a minute. Then told myself, yeah RIGHT”

    A minute is too long if you ask me…

  243. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 5:47 pm

    Joe Monte:

    Check out the piece I did on Montero today (click my username). I compared his stats with what Pujols/Cabrera/Piazza/Andruw Jones did at the same age and/or level.

  244. TIME FOR #27 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:47 pm

    Ok lets finish this BS! TEX needs to be in the all star game bec he’s a YANKEE!!!

  245. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:48 pm

    “The Jesus is continuing to rake in AA. 4 HRs in his last 3 games and he raised his OPS to .937 at Trenton.”

    I like the nickname “The Jesus”. I can just picture Montero storming into Girardi’s office after the lineup is posted and he isn’t playing yelling “What’s this day of rest bull…t”

    /Big Lebowski

  246. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 5:49 pm

    SJ,

    Do you think interleague play has helped diminish the all-star game because both leagues playing one another isn’t a one time a year thing outside of the world series anymore?

  247. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 5:49 pm

    “My guess is he will be in the top 3 for Baseball America’s top 100 prospects for 2010.”

    I don’t think they’re going to have him close to that high unless he really does put up a .950+ OPS season for the rest of the AA year.

    They don’t like him that much do to positional issues. Most of the major guys at BA have said that he will not be a catcher long term (including jim callis yesterday). As long as they don’t think he has a position he won’t be ranked as highly as he could.

  248. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:50 pm

    Rebecca, that’s just brutal. Add in 8 pitches per inning game, per game is 32 and at least 25 in the bullpen eacg game. Imagine if that was being done with Rivera, what this board and the media would be saying. Or any other closer, for that matter. Another 46 pitches, two inning game.

  249. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 5:51 pm

    SJ, thanks for your response to my earlier post. I hope you’re right and that the Yanks are all in on this kid. It’s just $$ – as you said, the Yanks drafting position will never allow them to sniff an arm like Chapmans, so you take a chance. That Cash quote after AJ’s signing, about how you don’t shrink from making bold choices despite some bad results, is a great quote. However, he’s not the owner. I was a tad dramatic with my hands and knees description, but Cash absolutely had to convince Hal that signing Tex was vital to the Yankees’ present and future success. I also tend to be skeptical of players who claim they want to be Yankees. They want to be Yankees if they get paid……

  250. pat July 2nd, 2009 at 5:51 pm

    Christine25

    So if it’s not about Yankees or Red Sox, do you think Bay has no business being an All-Star too?

  251. Joe G July 2nd, 2009 at 5:51 pm

    “26 man roster.

    Get rid of the fan vote.

    Get rid of the, whichever league wins hosts the World Series.

    Get rid of the fallacy that every team must be represented. Some years, a team doesn’t have an all star.”

    Agree with you on point #1.

    I can see your point on #2, however players and managers have shown us at times they are no better at picking the all-stars (see Varitek last year or some of the manager picks for gold gloves in the past).

    #3 just doesn’t bother me either way. It’s better than alternating leagues I guess. I rather just the team with the best record host Game 1 of the world series.

    I’m indifferent to point 4.

  252. Chris July 2nd, 2009 at 5:53 pm

    Mo is loaded with class but let’s hope he has a sudden memory lapse if Papelgoof approaches him on how to throw a cutter during the All Star break.

  253. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 5:53 pm

    GB: That’s why we’re past the “appears” part.

    CB: Would you not agree, however, that as long as Montero can hit like he’s been hitting, that the Yanks would find room for him, even if they don’t have a solid position? I know his value is THAT much greater if he can stick at catcher, and that he is holy shnikes slow, but when you can mash like that…

  254. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 5:56 pm

    Christina25
    July 2nd, 2009 at 5:27 pm
    Vinny b,
    I wish I was John Henry with all his money. Then I didnt had to worry about paying credit card and hospital bills.

    ————————————————————

    I wish you did, too. At least you would be too busy to be here, spouting non-sense every night. You’d be out shopping…..in New york.

  255. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 5:57 pm

    Rebecca as always you’re column is excellent and very insightful….Always a plaesure to read your daily’s….

  256. Joe Monte July 2nd, 2009 at 5:59 pm

    You put The Jesus at 1B or OF, he still stacks up against the top prospects due to his power and ability to hit for average at the age of 19 in high A and AA ball.

  257. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 5:59 pm

    Pat M: Thanks.

    If only I could have similar luck with this darned cover letter.

    I am so never getting a job…

  258. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:01 pm

    Rebecca,

    I’m having the same trouble with finding a job. It’s a complete headache. What is your degree in?

  259. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 6:04 pm

    Ramey: It’s in history.

    So, of course, I’m looking for a job in sportswriting.

    Like I said, I’m screwed.

  260. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:05 pm

    Pat,
    At this rate Jason Bay shouldnt be on the All Star team. He looks terrible at the plate.

  261. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:06 pm

    Rebecca,

    I’m in the same boat. I got my degree in history and am looking for a job in sportswriting as well.

    We’re both screwed

  262. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:06 pm

    Arod had a full day off Monday and a half day off last night.

    He will DH again in the Toronto series and have a day off in Minnesota.

    That’s 3 days off in a little over a week. More than enough.

  263. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 6:06 pm

    Rebecca,

    It’ not an issue of them not finding room for him. It’s the uncertainty. If he’s deemed only a DH his perceived value will fall.

    My sense is that this perception of his defense and body being so bad has become over blown.

    Trenton is a well covered minor league team with a nice following by fans. If Monter were simply unacceptable and horrible that would have come out by now.

    GB7 has this before – he’s thrown out nearly 30% of the guys trying to steal against him. And lots of guys have tried to go on his arm so they must have heard that he can’t catch. 30% is a very respectable % for the minors given how bad pitchers are in holding guys on.

    But BA and BP will ding him significantly because as part of their assessment they seem to feel while his bat is developing he’s wasting time defensively in some ways because he’s not at the position he needs to play in the future.

  264. Vince July 2nd, 2009 at 6:06 pm

    The fan vote has got to go. Stuffing ballot boxes is child’s play.
    Nobody knows the strengths of the players better than the managers and coaches. Their decisions should comprise the All Star rosters, not popularity contests.
    Representation by every team is earned – not a token thing.
    Have the high paid so-called Commissioner come up with something better than the HR hitting contest. It proves nothing.

  265. Jerkface July 2nd, 2009 at 6:07 pm

    Its like wow, people realized throwing Jason Bay a belt high fastball isnt going to get him out because he comes from the national league, and now everyone is busting him down and in and he can’t hit anything.

  266. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 6:09 pm

    Remey: Don’t take my job =P

    CB: Good stuff. Isn’t 30% something like we usually see in an average year from Posada?

  267. m July 2nd, 2009 at 6:10 pm

    How’s the weather?

  268. G July 2nd, 2009 at 6:11 pm

    vote for tex … no one wants to see da bum play 1st

  269. G July 2nd, 2009 at 6:11 pm

    ish sunny is queens noww….. afta all dat rain

  270. m July 2nd, 2009 at 6:12 pm

    SJ,

    Who are you talking to about resting A-rod?

  271. BBB July 2nd, 2009 at 6:13 pm

    “I like the nickname “The Jesus”. I can just picture Montero storming into Girardi’s office after the lineup is posted and he isn’t playing yelling “What’s this day of rest bull…t”

    /Big Lebowski”

    “You said it, mang. Nobody [messes] with The Jesus!”

  272. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:14 pm

    Rebecca,

    I mean we could share the job. You can do it monday, wednesday, friday. and i’ll take it tuesday, thursday, saturday. Sundays we alternate. Split the pay evenly at 50 – 50 and then it’ll just take us a little longer to become well known. haha

  273. m July 2nd, 2009 at 6:14 pm

    Anyone listen to postgame? Looks like Jerry’s kid Ryan Church had the eventual game-winning hit.

    You think Santana and K-rod hate the mets? Of course I’ve no sympathy for either one, but this isn’t what they signed up for.

  274. Kelvin Ace July 2nd, 2009 at 6:14 pm

    Gogogo Vote for Mark Texeira!!

  275. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 6:16 pm

    Ramey

    “Rebecca,

    I mean we could share the job. You can do it monday, wednesday, friday. and i’ll take it tuesday, thursday, saturday. Sundays we alternate. Split the pay evenly at 50 – 50 and then it’ll just take us a little longer to become well known. haha”

    That would be awesome. I’ll take the Christian holidays and you can take the Jewish ones and we’ll split the secular ones.

  276. 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:16 pm

    The problem with fan votes is China and Japan. There should be a weighted avg for Americans. The far east loves the Red Sox.

  277. BBB July 2nd, 2009 at 6:16 pm

    I wish there was no fan voting, it’s an annoying waste of time and a distraction during games, but as long as there is, I feel compelled to represent our Yankees. I’m not ashamed at all to say that I voted for Damon, Cabrera and Swisher too. haha.

    But anyway, by the logic that Tex doesnt deserve to start the ASG, then Jason Bay certainly doesnt deserve to start r be in it at all really. I mean, 1+ red hot month, ok, but now crashing rapidly back down to earth. At least Tex really is All-Star good!

  278. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:17 pm

    One thing about Montero’s strikeouts to walk is that since his Tampa Rookie League debut, his overall disparity isn’t as great as it would seem seem. He wore down a bit late last year and his strikeouts rose late in the season. That was a lot of games even though he DH about half the year. Last year was an especially hot and humid year here in the South. I expect to see his endurance to increase this year.

    His pro caught stealings were really hurt by that Tampa staff, where nobody held runners on. Oddly, though, as far as catching base stealers, Romine was tettible last year and has really improved on the caught stealings where he’s now at 38% over last year’s 20%.
    http://www.baseball-reference......nter001jes

  279. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 6:17 pm

    Posada is around 30% this year. Forget what his career rate is. 30% and up is fine.

    To me the big thing is that even with advanced competition its not like Montero’s defense has been noticed. No one’s really commented on it. Which is a very good thing.

    For instance, I don’t remember Mike Ashmore saying anything in particular about montero’s defense. If he was truly bad or just grossly out of position it would be evident well within 20 games. There would have been talk about it.

    But the yankee AA pitchers seem fine with montero and there’s been no coverage about him being incompetent.

    And he doesn’t need to be good. He needs to be competent behind the plate.

  280. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:18 pm

    Ramey,
    I voted for players that can help the team. It doesnt matter who they are playing for. I voted for Youk, Pedroia, Jeter, Longoria, Bay(when he was hitting),Ichiro,and Hunter.

  281. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 6:18 pm

    On Long Island, it’s thundering – we’re going to get some heavy rain, no doubt. Yesterday the winds were so strong that they knocked a tree over in my backyard….

  282. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:18 pm

    and Mauer

  283. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:19 pm

    I think if Montero is in AAA at this time next year, and is mashing the way he is mashing, there is going to be a big temptation to call him up and get him AB’s.

    A bat like his gets you on a big league roster quickly.

    He can DH some against lefties, back up Jorge, lots of options.

    You hit like that, PT finds you and not the other way around.

  284. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:19 pm

    Rebecca,

    “That would be awesome. I’ll take the Christian holidays and you can take the Jewish ones and we’ll split the secular ones”

    Sounds perfect to me. I guess in this economy and job market, it takes a little team work to succeed! Hopefully the team chemistry we exhibit is that of the 2009 Yankees and not the Gary Sheffield/Randy Johnson angry Yankees of yester year.

  285. 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:19 pm

    Does anyone have a stat on Mike Piazza’s last year in the bigs in regards to throwing out base runners? Was he above 10%? I remember it was awful.

  286. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 6:21 pm

    Ramey: I’m easy to work with, I’ve been told.

    “I think if Montero is in AAA at this time next year, and is mashing the way he is mashing, there is going to be a big temptation to call him up and get him AB’s.

    A bat like his gets you on a big league roster quickly.

    He can DH some against lefties, back up Jorge, lots of options.

    You hit like that, PT finds you and not the other way around.”

    Miguel Cabrera and Albert Pujols skipped entire levels of the minors.

  287. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:21 pm

    BBB,
    How do you figure that Tex is an all star when he had only one good month? Did you forget that he was hitting .180 in the month of April?

  288. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:22 pm

    Is there any concern that Jesus Montero may eat himself out of a position like Miggy Cabrera did?

  289. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:23 pm

    He’s definitely competent behind the plate. He’s not Pudge Rodriquez in his prime. Nor is he a stiff.

    With his bat, even if he is below average behind the plate (which he’s not, IMO) he will play because his bat is so advanced.

    Nowadays, with a lot of teams, the DH spot is not just reserved for aging vets.

    I’d be real tempted to DH Montero 50-60 games and play him another 30-40 behind the plate.

    350-400 AB’s in his first year in the bigs and I bet he hits 20 HR’s and helps the team win games.

    He’s a special, special talent with a bat in his hands.

  290. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:24 pm

    Piazza was 14 and 12% in his last two years and 23% in his career. Only one year over 30% @(35%).

    http://www.baseball-reference......mi01.shtml

  291. Terry from NH July 2nd, 2009 at 6:24 pm

    Knicks offer Kidd 3 year deal from Marc Stein.

  292. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:25 pm

    Christina,

    You and I voted for roughly the same players, the only difference being that I voted for Aaron Hill instead of Pedroia

  293. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:26 pm

    I think Cano has 2 weeks to show he is able to handle hitting 5th.

    After the ASB, if he still not hitting in that spot, he will get moved.

    I can’t see Joe keeping him there for the entire year when he hasn’t driven in a run in over 2 weeks.

    I can see giving him (as well as Bruney in the 8th inning) until the ASB to find it. After that, you put your guys in the best possible positions to win games unless you like losing.

  294. 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:27 pm

    Thanks greenberet for being regarded as one of the greats in modern eyes he sure wasn’t a catcher

  295. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 6:28 pm

    So is it wrong that as I am voting for Tex until I am tired of clicking- that for the NL ballot, I vote for the players I think are cutest?

  296. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 6:28 pm

    If you can hit like Piazza hit, you play.

  297. vb03 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:29 pm

    “BBB,
    How do you figure that Tex is an all star when he had only one good month? Did you forget that he was hitting .180 in the month of April?”

    And Youkilis is barely breaking .240 in his last 100 PA. Goes both ways.

  298. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 6:29 pm

    “I’d be real tempted to DH Montero 50-60 games and play him another 30-40 behind the plate.”

    Agreed. I think this is what they’re going to wind up doing. He’s going to DH and catch in controlled situations (e.g. against slow teams that don’t run and with pitchers like CC who know how to run a game).

    I don’t know how much time his bat will need in AAA if he continues to dominate AA. He hits breaking pitches very well – to the point where he hits better against RH pitchers than LF. The marginal improvements in breaking pitches he’ll see in AAA aren’t going to phase him if he’s alread shown he can handle AA. He’s got amazing strike zone command. So the enhanced pitchability guys he’ll see in AAA aren’t going to bother him too much.

    This year in AA is the big challenge for him. If he continues to rake in AA then he’s going to be in NY very quickly.

  299. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:29 pm

    Erica,

    that depends, do you think Albert Pujols is the cutest first baseman in the NL?

  300. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 6:30 pm

    Ramey-

    No, I have a soft spot for Lance Berkman

  301. 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:30 pm

    I admit I don’t like Cano batting 5th right now, but idk who I would like to see there. The top of our lineup is playing really well, so I wouldn’t want to see any of them moved. Melky is an option but Swisher no.

  302. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:30 pm

    21
    July 2nd, 2009 at 6:27 pm
    Thanks greenberet for being regarded as one of the greats in modern eyes he sure wasn’t a catcher

    ————————————————————

    My pleasure. Piazza got ragged a lot for not being a good catcher, but, the only thing he couldn’t do was throw. Other than that, he was pretty good and got much better after his first 3-4 years.

    http://www.baseball-reference......mi01.shtml

  303. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 6:31 pm

    “So is it wrong that as I am voting for Tex until I am tired of clicking- that for the NL ballot, I vote for the players I think are cutest?”

    lol. anything goes.

    I voted for Brian Roberts at 2nd. Have no idea what he’s hitting this year, however he receives a “career” vote

  304. 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:31 pm

    Rebecca – I admit he was a great hitter, but play him somewhere else you know

  305. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:32 pm

    Erica,

    Elvis fan? Or a fan of Puma’s? haha

  306. 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:32 pm

    He could stop balls and call a game but being run all over is never good. Produces a lot of runs.

  307. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 6:33 pm

    Second base on the NL, I go with either Dan Uggla (he should have a chance for redemption after all of those errors last year) or Chase Utley. I think Utley is hot and his potty mouth makes me laugh.

  308. 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:33 pm

    In fact I wonder if there is a stat (I’m sure there is) of runs scored on a certain catcher. It would be interesting to see where he ranked. I know the catcher doesn’t give up runs but he contributes.

  309. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 6:34 pm

    Ramey-

    I do love Pumas. They are my favorite sneakers. But I also have a good friend from Houston who loves the Astros and Berkman is his favorite. So I do it to honor him

  310. derekT July 2nd, 2009 at 6:34 pm

    The problem with fan votes is China and Japan. There should be a weighted avg for Americans. The far east loves the Red Sox.

    Wow. So Asia is Bandwagon for the Red Sox?

    That really disturbs my zen.

  311. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:34 pm

    Erica – newly OPPC
    July 2nd, 2009 at 6:28 pm
    So is it wrong that as I am voting for Tex until I am tired of clicking- that for the NL ballot, I vote for the players I think are cutest?

    ————————————————————

    You might as well vote like that. Most guys here vote for whoever has the hottest wife/girlfriend/both.

  312. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 6:34 pm

    If Montero can be anything close to being a Mike Piazza be very very happy…..

  313. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:35 pm

    So I’m guessing Erica that you went with David Wright at third base?

  314. m July 2nd, 2009 at 6:35 pm

    I voted for markakis. :shame:

  315. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:35 pm

    I agree CB.

    Honestly, if he continues to hit like he is the rest of the year in AA, I’d call him up in September when the rosters expand.

    He could be a weapon off the bench for the month.

    In the off-season, I’d give him a little corner OF work, just to see if he can do it. That type of flexibility could give them the opportunity to have both he and Cervelli on the roster next year if he can play a little LF or RF.

    Overall though, I can’t see this kid spending much time in AAA next year. He’s too good.

    If the Yankees sign Chapman, look at the young players they are assembling for the future:

    Hughes, Coke, Chamberlain, Pena, Jackson, Gardner, Cabrera, Cervelli, Montero, Melancon, Robertson, McAllister and Chapman.

    That’s 13 kids with the talent and skill to help the team win games. Some with enormous ceilings. Its amazing how quickly they can go from having few prospects to having a boatload of them.

  316. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 6:36 pm

    “Produces a lot of runs.”

    Not even remotely close to as many as his bat produced compared to a league average catcher.

    His bat dwarfed that of any other catcher in history. He was so much better that any deficiencies he had defensively were more than made up for.

    Hanley Ramirez isn’t a particularly good defensive SS. Would you move him from SS? No because on net he’s a huge positive.

  317. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 6:37 pm

    Ramey
    July 2nd, 2009 at 6:35 pm
    So I’m guessing Erica that you went with David Wright at third base?

    ***
    No. LOL. I went with Ramierez on Chicago cause I thought I recognized his name. I don’t really follow NL baseball. I would never vote for a Met cause Mets fans irritate me too much. LOL.

  318. 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:37 pm

    derekT – Haha I’m just speculating I’d like to blame them for any Red Sox all stars.

  319. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 6:38 pm

    Is Joe kidding with his response about Cano? If he’s not, he’s got a bright future as a comedian…..

  320. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:39 pm

    Pat M.
    July 2nd, 2009 at 6:34 pm
    If Montero can be anything close to being a Mike Piazza be very very happy…..

    ————————————————————

    I’m like you in that I hate hanging a “He’s the next_______”. It’s just easier to explain to someone that who he reminds you of to use a familiar name. Basically I see that POTENTIAL.

  321. 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:39 pm

    Pam – If Montero is anything close to Piazza I’d be real excited….. when he is our DH

  322. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 6:39 pm

    “Hughes, Coke, Chamberlain, Pena, Jackson, Gardner, Cabrera, Cervelli, Montero, Melancon, Robertson, McAllister and Chapman.”

    Dude, SJ, that’s not fair. My reaction isn’t appropriate for a public place.

  323. m July 2nd, 2009 at 6:40 pm

    Betsy,

    You can’t get too excited about manager speak. Read between the lines. “We know he stinks there, but I’ll say something about what he did last week so you’ll stop asking me about it.”

  324. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:42 pm

    “No. LOL. I went with Ramierez on Chicago cause I thought I recognized his name. I don’t really follow NL baseball. I would never vote for a Met cause Mets fans irritate me too much. LOL”

    Fair enough reasoning. I have a friend who was filling out a ballot and asked why Barry Bonds wasn’t on it…And she wasn’t kidding

  325. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 6:43 pm

    GB, I’m with you on your All-Star voting premise,,,That’s why Derek Jeter is on the team all these years….We’ve been stuffing the ballot box

  326. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:43 pm

    Betsy,

    If you haven’t figured it out by now, Joe Girardi is never going to throw his players under the bus. He’s always going to look for the silver lining publicly. Especially if the guy is trying hard (as Cano is) and is just not getting the results.

    When asked the question, he’s not going to go Ozzie Guillen on him.

    Its why you focus too much on what these guys say.

    When they talk to the media, its not like they are just shootin’ the breeze with their buddies in a bar. He knows whatever he says is going to be printed for all, including Cano, to see.

    So, he is going to accentuate the positive and not go negative on the guy.

    Eventually, probably after the break, if he doesn’t hit, he will change the lineup.

    In the meantime, he’s going to try and be as positive as possible.

  327. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 6:44 pm

    Ramey
    July 2nd, 2009 at 6:42 pm

    Fair enough reasoning. I have a friend who was filling out a ballot and asked why Barry Bonds wasn’t on it…And she wasn’t kidding
    ***
    Hahaha. In 1998, while we were in the car going somewhere my mother randomly asked my father 1) Who is Mark McGuire and 2) What is the big deal.

    Although, my mother did predict the name change of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in 2001 so I guess we can’t make fun too much

  328. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:44 pm

    21
    July 2nd, 2009 at 6:39 pm
    Pam – If Montero is anything close to Piazza I’d be real excited….. when he is our DH

    ————————————————————

    Have you ever seen Montero play? Read what has been said by those that have. His defensive issues are way overstated. At worst, he should be no worse than average. It’s his bat potential that is top of the line.

  329. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 6:45 pm

    I am bored of all-star voting. I did my best Tex. Good luck

  330. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 6:46 pm

    “Honestly, if he continues to hit like he is the rest of the year in AA, I’d call him up in September when the rosters expand.”

    Yesterday I wrote that I could see Montero in the major leagues before Jackson and I think some people thought that was nuts.

    It’s still very, very early in his AA career but in many ways I’m becoming more confident in Montero’s bat than I am in Jacksons. Even though Montero is much younger and he’s just starting out in AA I think not only is his ceiling higher but that his floor is higher also.

    I don’t see what he’s going to get out of AAA. A player like Jackson really needs AAA. I think Jackson may need a good chunk of next year in AAA.

    But that’s not Montero.

    One of the best parts of RH hitting prospects is that you can generally be much more sure of them. They can’t hide from the breaking ball like LH hitters can. I’ve always thought there’s less risk with them. You’re less likely to get a RH Alex Gordon who you only figure out in the bigs that he can’t hit breaking pitches.

    Interesting idea on bringing him up. I don’t think they’ll do that because of the 40 man roster crunch. Tough to do unless you think he’ll stick for the playoffs as he doesn’t need to be protected for the rule V draft and their spots on the 40 man are scarce.

    But who knows. I wouldn’t put it past him.

    And you’re right – the young talent in the organization – even with Brackman and Betance having disappointing seasons is really at a tipping point now. Very impressive.

    Autine Romine’s year this year would be the story of most organizations. What he’s doing in terms of hitting for power in the brutal FSL is very impressive. To do that as a catcher even more so.

    But that’s just another story with the yanks.

    Throw Chapman into the mix and it only becomes that much better.

  331. 21 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:47 pm

    CB – Hanley doesn’t put runners in scoring position like Piazza did. Hanley actually has a .965 career FLD% which isn’t bad. Now I’m not knocking Piazza as a player I’m knocking him as a catcher and just wondered how many runs were caused by him. I’m sure runs in the positive were caused by him in mass amounts just wondering the other way around.

  332. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:47 pm

    Pat M.
    July 2nd, 2009 at 6:43 pm
    GB, I’m with you on your All-Star voting premise,,,That’s why Derek Jeter is on the team all these years….We’ve been stuffing the ballot box

    ———————————————————–

    While we’re stuffing the ballot box, Jeter’s been stu…..nahhhh…better not go there.

  333. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:49 pm

    “Hahaha. In 1998, while we were in the car going somewhere my mother randomly asked my father 1) Who is Mark McGuire and 2) What is the big deal.

    Although, my mother did predict the name change of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in 2001 so I guess we can’t make fun too much”

    That’s hysterical! I was the biggest fan of McGwire in ’98 when I was 12 and now I find myself absolutely enthralled with Albert Pujols. I guess I should point out that I was the biggest Jason Giambi fan on earth (maybe it should tell me something that 2 of my 3 favorite baseball players have used steroids…Not a good telling sign for Pujols. I’ve got a bad track record with this)

  334. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 6:49 pm

    Why Jason Bay will never bother the Yankees again

    http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/.....id=4302191

  335. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:49 pm

    BBB,
    Youk maybe batting .240 but as of today his average is much higher than Tex.

  336. m July 2nd, 2009 at 6:50 pm

    Rebecca,

    So, technically, Jason Bay is now a yank?

  337. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 6:51 pm

    The Astros-Padres game is in a Bee Delay….

    unreal.

  338. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 6:51 pm

    I don’t think anyone here will get the “THAT WILL GIVE YOU BEES” reference…

  339. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:51 pm

    CB, I can see Montero getting called up this September…just to give him a taste of the city and the big club. However, I don’t expect to see him being activated….just hanging around the team and getting personal instruction from Tony Pena, Girardi, Jeter and others as well as meeting his future pitching staff.

  340. five iron from fenway July 2nd, 2009 at 6:52 pm

    SJ and CB – since you are both here – do the Yankees sign one or both of the Cuban defectors to open the door for Chapman. I would imagine their dollars are nowhere as high. But Miranda and one or two more Cubans in the fold might open the eyes and pave the road for Chapman.

  341. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 6:54 pm

    GB7,

    I think that will happen. He’ll be one of the guys called up but perhaps not activated.

    Like it or not the yankees are going to have to think about how they will incorporate him into the big leauge club next year.

    It might not happen. But at this point it could. Everything we’ve seen from him suggests he’ll be one of those guys who is in the majors by 20.

  342. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 6:54 pm

    I think one of the defectors is friends with Chapman but not sure.

  343. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 6:54 pm

    Ramey-

    As the Meatloaf song goes, “2 out of 3 ain’t bad”. Maybe you’ll get the last one right :-)

  344. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 6:55 pm

    DT – OPPC member (it’s in our blood)
    July 2nd, 2009 at 6:51 pm
    The Astros-Padres game is in a Bee Delay….

    unreal.

    ***
    Please tell me the players were actually running around the field in a panic

  345. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:56 pm

    I don’t think signing the other guys will have any impact up or down in terms of signing Chapman

    I don’t think he will give anybody a break because they signed other available Cuban defectors.

    I don’t even know if he has a relationship with the other two guys.

    I think his negotiations are going to take on a life of its own over the next 6-8 months.

  346. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 6:56 pm

    Never had a doubt that Austin would hit, I’m surprised with his power though….The only HS kids I saw that had a better stick than him in the past 8 years or so would be Ian Stewart and Hank Congers…..Congers ( Angels ) has had some real set backs physically….

  347. Richie July 2nd, 2009 at 6:57 pm

    Terry from NH

    Knicks offer Kidd 3 year deal from Marc Stein.
    __

    Sad.

  348. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 6:57 pm

    I could tell you guys about the radar and what I’m seeing, but you wouldn’t believe me.

  349. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 6:57 pm

    Erica,

    “As the Meatloaf song goes, “2 out of 3 ain’t bad”. Maybe you’ll get the last one right ”

    I think at this point if I make it 3 out of 3, I’m just going to root for every Red Sox, Angels and Mets player who has talent, so I can put my gift to the proper use.

  350. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 6:57 pm

    “Please tell me the players were actually running around the field in a panic”

    The left fielder ran off the field, the umpire went and checked it out and stopped the game.

    Now there is a bee keeper on the field. It’s nuts.

  351. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 6:58 pm

    Rebecca–Optimist Prime
    July 2nd, 2009 at 6:57 pm
    I could tell you guys about the radar and what I’m seeing, but you wouldn’t believe me.

    ****
    I don’t believe you. It never rains in New York. Ever

  352. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 6:58 pm

    CB
    July 2nd, 2009 at 6:54 pm
    GB7,

    I think that will happen. He’ll be one of the guys called up but perhaps not activated.

    ————————————————————

    Yeah, activating him in September of this year is silly. It would burn one of his option years, needlessly and also start his FA time a year ahead of schedule.

  353. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 6:58 pm

    “I think at this point if I make it 3 out of 3, I’m just going to root for every Red Sox, Angels and Mets player who has talent, so I can put my gift to the proper use.”

    This is a plan I could get behind :evil:

  354. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 6:59 pm

    Lets go Yankees! CC go out and Dominate with a 10k plus performance!

  355. five iron from fenway July 2nd, 2009 at 7:00 pm

    Thanks SJ.
    I have no idea how these things work.
    Just comparing apples to oranges with the Celtics. They had an image of not signing African American players and KG did not want to come partially for that reason. They signed Ray Allen and then KG a short while later.
    I can’t imagine it would hurt to pave the way to the Yankes to show an inclination for Cuban players – Hernandez, Miranda etc.
    Of course sending a blank YANKEE check down to Costa Rica in an unmarked envelope probably helps even more.

  356. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 7:01 pm

    SJ, I really am dense sometimes, lol…….For what it’s worth, I would never want Joe or any manager to throw his players under a bus. I am most definitely not a fan of the Ozzie Guillens of the world. No doubt I find too much to pick on…..

  357. Tom in N.J. July 2nd, 2009 at 7:02 pm

    Is Bud Black wearing a beard of bees?

  358. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 7:02 pm

    five iron,

    It seems like the yankees like both kids from cuba so it wouldn’t surprise me if they sign one or the other.

    That said either one of them will likely come up very slowly and would likely never play with Chapman.

    And the Chapman deal is going to get so big that those kinds of outside factors aren’t going to be major factors.

    For instance, recently the White Sox have a number of Cuban players. There’ll be a lot of speculation how this will help them.

    But in the end when dollars get this big it’s going to be the dollars that count. If the Chapman does already have a positive feeling for the yankees than that’s enough.

  359. Joe Monte July 2nd, 2009 at 7:03 pm

    RISP (AB’s in RISP situations):

    Cano .213 (94)
    Teixeira .265 (83)
    Damon .313 (80)
    Jeter .299 (67)
    ARod .274 (62)
    Swisher .211 (57)
    Matsui .204 (54)
    Cabrera .250 (52)
    Posada .273 (44)
    Gardner .273 (33)
    Pena .375 (16)

  360. Ramey July 2nd, 2009 at 7:03 pm

    “This is a plan I could get behind”

    If I have to do it, I’ll do it. It’s the sacrifices I’ll make as a Yankee fan. Maybe I’m subconsciously singlehandedly responsible for the steroid era? I mean I never liked A-Rod when he was a member of the Mariners or Rangers…God I’m depressing myself now haha

  361. m July 2nd, 2009 at 7:03 pm

    After seeing that Kidd deal, and knowing that Cuban wanted to give $27/3, whatever they give Chapman is not enough.

  362. Tom in N.J. July 2nd, 2009 at 7:05 pm

    Here’s the Padres new unforms:

    http://www.native-english.pl/b.....05_BEE.jpg

  363. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 7:06 pm

    m: You see the deal Hossa got from the Blackhawks?

  364. m July 2nd, 2009 at 7:07 pm

    No, but it probably can’t compare to the deal that soccer player will get from man/u

  365. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 7:08 pm

    “Never had a doubt that Austin would hit, I’m surprised with his power though….”

    What he’s done in the FSL has been very impressive and very surprising.

    The FSL is brutal to hit in. For him to be having a breakout year in terms of power playing in that league and in tampa is really something.

    I do wish he’d draw a few more walks and show more patience at the plate. He really likes to swing the bat.

  366. m July 2nd, 2009 at 7:09 pm

    Didn’t Romine struggle in winter ball?

  367. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 7:09 pm

    Are they doing one of those ridiculous preemptive rain delays??

    JACK!!!!!! No one is cooler than Jack Nicholson- bet if it rains he doesn’t get wet

  368. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 7:09 pm

    Rain delay :( Whyyyyyyyyyyy!

  369. m July 2nd, 2009 at 7:10 pm

    Yes, Pete. As a Laker fan, I love Jack Nicholson. :)

  370. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 7:11 pm

    Go Yanks! Go CC!

  371. Greg D July 2nd, 2009 at 7:12 pm

    another rain deeeelay

  372. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 7:15 pm

    Harder to hit in: FSL or EL?

  373. Buddy Biancalana July 2nd, 2009 at 7:16 pm

    m-

    Heard a rumor on the radio today about Artest becoming a Laker.

  374. michelle b. in the ghetto's of oakland July 2nd, 2009 at 7:17 pm

    thank god aceves has a good day job, because he was very off key there… No american idols in pinstripes this year…Yikes!

  375. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:18 pm

    Rebecca,

    Better pitching in the EL, bigger ballparks and the ball doesn’t carry well in the FSL.

  376. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 7:20 pm

    SJ: If you’re a hitter and, pretend for a moment both leagues are an equal level, which do you choose?

  377. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 7:20 pm

    LOL – nice pic Tom.

    actually most of the bees converged on the SD jacket of the ball girl in left field. (the jacket was wrapped around the back of her chair)

    maybe she had some fancy fragrance. The announcers said they only saw a delay once before in ST.

    In ST, Bees chased Jose Lima off the mound because of his hair gel.

  378. m July 2nd, 2009 at 7:21 pm

    Buddy,

    Really? Yuck. Good player, good locker room guy, but he’s crazy!

    Looking more and more like they’re not going to be able to keep Ariza and Odom, and they’re squeezing Ariza.

    Lots of moves, the landscape will be totally different next season.

    San Antonio will be a force. Detroit looks improved. The C’s will be healthy, and had their key players sit in on Rasheed’s Wallace’s meeting with the Boston front office. The Cavs are two players away from being really, really good.

    Should be an exciting season.

  379. Harold July 2nd, 2009 at 7:22 pm

    Start time is approx. 7:40 per Sweeney’s twitter

  380. Tom in N.J. July 2nd, 2009 at 7:24 pm

    DT, wow, Lima-time would get chased off the field by bees.

    Thanks for the update on the Bees. I love absurd stories like these…

  381. Changster July 2nd, 2009 at 7:25 pm

    Pete – just as an FYI: it just started storming here in Forest Hills, so the weather people were some what accurate :-)

  382. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 7:25 pm

    CB, In those lower levels pitchers are learning to throw strikes and are encouraged to get ahead in the counts…A real good and agressive hitter will feed off of this….The real test comes when you get to AA ball….As a HS Prep player he was very aggresive and just drive the the pitch where ever it was thrown….Patience will come to him as a matter of survival when he gets to AA ball….However seeing what Montero is doing since his arrival who knows….AA ball is ussually a pitching dominant level of baseball

  383. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:25 pm

    Rebecca,

    Different level leagues but you always choose the league that’s one level closer to the majors! lol

  384. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 7:27 pm

    “DT, wow, Lima-time would get chased off the field by bees.”

    if the bees didn’t chase him off, the hitters would have. ;-)

    SD game is now over. 52 minute bee delay is in the books.

  385. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:28 pm

    Romine is still swinging a hot stick. So far tonight, he’s 2-3 with a double, homer and 1 RBI, 2 runs scored with a stolen base. Sublett is playing center field tonight and is 1-3 with a homer, 2 runs scored. Laird is also heating up with a 1-3 and RBI double.

    Noesi pitched 5 innings, 6 hits, 3 runs (earned), 1 walk and 5 strike outs.

  386. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 7:29 pm

    Some crazy loud thunder here in the Fordham area, but no rain.

  387. MaineYankee July 2nd, 2009 at 7:30 pm

    m

    I have mixed emotions about the C’s signing Wallace.

    Sounds like Ariza is upset with the Lakers.

  388. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 7:32 pm

    How long have Michael Kay and Kim Jones been dating?

  389. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 7:33 pm

    Pat M,

    Agreed that AA is the key. But that florida state leauge – the ball just doesn’t carry there. Guys just don’t have breakout power years in the FSL all that often.

    What Austine is doing down there as a power hitter is really of note.

    Great thing about the blog – I still remember you telling us about how much you liked Austin when the drafted him.

    No one really knew who he was as he was hurt for a good chunk of his senior year. He was off the map of baseball america and prospectus as not as many scouts got to see him play.

    But you vouched for his ability and as usual you were on the mark (as you were on Cole and Matzek and hopefully on Kyle – who is off to a nice start in staten island).

  390. DET x 2 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:33 pm

    Why do people keep referencing the fact that Giambi is hitting .197?

    The fact of the matter is he is an honest, stand-up guy who is very popular and has a genuine personality.

  391. pat July 2nd, 2009 at 7:34 pm

    Really good piece on Jane Heller on the Yankee Magazine show.

  392. Tom in N.J. July 2nd, 2009 at 7:34 pm

    M, per realgm.com :

    Ron Artest has told Ken Berger of CBSSports.com that he will sign with the Los Angeles Lakers.

    http://realgm.com/src_wiretap_.....th_lakers/

  393. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 7:35 pm

    I met Jane a few weeks ago, great woman.

  394. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:35 pm

    Kay and Kim aren’t dating and never.

  395. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 7:38 pm

    pat
    July 2nd, 2009 at 7:34 pm
    Really good piece on Jane Heller on the Yankee Magazine show.

    ***
    I am happy I caught it. I love her books. I have read every one of them. It was so cool to know that she is a Yankee freak like me (or us).

    I didn’t know she is so skinny. LOL

  396. Uke July 2nd, 2009 at 7:39 pm

    I guess pete abe doesn’t visit other baseball parks? “sophisticated entertainment here in the bronx?” Hey pete, wake up, they supposed to be goofing off and having fun, hypoctitical to think the yankees should lighten up etc, and then crack on them for fun

  397. michelle b. in the ghetto's of oakland July 2nd, 2009 at 7:40 pm

    who was the guy in the stands they showed before Nicholson. He is an athlete – but i couldnt place him. Anyone know?

  398. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 7:41 pm

    “Kay and Kim aren’t dating and never.”

    Are you sure, I heard they were a cute couple.

  399. billy Walter July 2nd, 2009 at 7:41 pm

    disco stu is from the simpsons

  400. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 7:41 pm

    Lets go CC!!! 10k plus game baby!

  401. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 7:42 pm

    hmm, good start…..

  402. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 7:42 pm

    “How long have Michael Kay and Kim Jones been dating?”

    each other – never.
    in general – probably since junior high school. Grade school valentines don’t count.

  403. Christina- pictures from AAA Yanks game July 2nd, 2009 at 7:42 pm

    Why do people think Kay and Kim are dating?

  404. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 7:42 pm

    Tex :(

  405. Chris July 2nd, 2009 at 7:43 pm

    Regardless of the year he’s having, it’s difficult to think that Cashman would start the 19 year old Montero’s arbitration clock this year.
    Possibly when Trenton’s season is finished or if he advances to AAA, he can come to the Bronx to get reacquainted with players he spent spring training with and get acclimated to big league life, the Stadium, and a couple of road trips.
    2010 is a different thing. If he’s tearing up AAA by June, he absolutely should be called up.

  406. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 7:43 pm

    EEk

  407. Berk32 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:43 pm

    It was pouring in Manhattan at 7pm (and Queens as well)… thats probably why they waited – rain juuuuust missed the Stadium..

  408. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:44 pm

    Greg,

    Positive.

  409. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 7:44 pm

    Nasty breaking ball

  410. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 7:44 pm

    http://espn.go.com/sportsnatio.....eith%20law

    Anthony (NYC)

    Is Mark Melancon a future closer?

    Keith Law (1:54 PM)

    I don’t think so. That’s some scary arm action there.

  411. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 7:44 pm

    Rumors Montero jacked anothre one.

  412. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 7:44 pm

    I still can’t believe Kay had to mention on his radio show yesterday that he was not dating Kim Jones. Who in the world actually thinks they are dating? :?

  413. KO July 2nd, 2009 at 7:45 pm

    Not a very intimidating lineup CC is facing, let’s hope he goes 7 or 8 strong

  414. DYNASTY IS DESTINY! July 2nd, 2009 at 7:45 pm

    CC in sweep mode…

    Tearing off Teixeira’s glove…

    Ichiro ignites…

  415. KO July 2nd, 2009 at 7:45 pm

    Ugh. 2 steals of 3rd by Ichiro in one series.

  416. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 7:45 pm

    “Kay and Kim aren’t dating and never.
    Are you sure, I heard they were a cute couple.”

    why does this interest you Greg?
    Which one do you have an eye on? Kay or Jones?
    Maybe Pete will put in a good word for ya….

  417. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 7:46 pm

    Ick……..

  418. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:46 pm

    Ichiro’s ball was a rocket. Properly scored a double.

  419. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:46 pm

    Montero and Malek homered back to back in the second….2-2 scored.

  420. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 7:47 pm

    CB, My only issue with Austine was if his skills behind the dish could translate at the professional level…More specifically at the higher levels ( AA / AAA )…GB & I have had discussions about where he’d prosper defensively….I originally thought 3rd, but GB could be right about him as a corner of…He has a very good arm and moves well….I have not seen him since the summer of 07 so I’m out of the loop…GB would have the most current updates I suspect…..He does have his eye on the ball when it comes to the farm…..Kyle has all the tools to be a real good catcher, he’s the sleeper ….

  421. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 7:47 pm

    Guys, Montero has 5 HR in three games. At AA.

    You think maybe he wants to play in the majors or something?

  422. joe. July 2nd, 2009 at 7:48 pm

    good start for CC, looks sharp.

  423. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 7:48 pm

    Another homer for Montero…Jesus!

  424. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 7:48 pm

    cc got nasty stuff tonight. cheap run, lets go offense

  425. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:48 pm

    Troll alert. Yankees are losing 1-0.

    CC is not an ace! lol

  426. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 7:49 pm

    CC!

    13 pitches 10 strikes, 3 balls

  427. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 7:50 pm

    This is a technicality, but shouldn’t Kay wait until the Yankees have an at bat before he says they are trailing for the first time in a week?

  428. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:50 pm

    Pat M.
    July 2nd, 2009 at 7:47 pm
    CB, My only issue with Austine was if his skills behind the dish could translate at the professional level…More specifically at the higher levels ( AA / AAA )…GB & I have had discussions about where he’d prosper defensively….I originally thought 3rd, but GB could be right about him as a corner of…He has a very good arm and moves well….I have not seen him since the summer of 07 so I’m out of the loop…GB would have the most current updates I suspect…..He does have his eye on the ball when it comes to the farm…..Kyle has all the tools to be a real good catcher, he’s the sleeper ….

    ————————————————————

    Love Romine’s bat and arm. he also has good speed and is a smart runner. 6-0 in steals this year. Would like to see him in right or left. He could cover the big left field.

  429. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 7:51 pm

    SJ44
    July 2nd, 2009 at 7:48 pm
    Troll alert. Yankees are losing 1-0.

    CC is not an ace! lol

    ***
    Obviously the Yankees are supposed to have the lead already. The fact that they haven’t had any at bats yet is totally irrelevent

  430. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:51 pm

    What Montero is doing is unbelievable.

    He doesn’t even know the pitchers in AA yet.

    Just seein’ it and crushin’ it. Amazing.

  431. KO July 2nd, 2009 at 7:51 pm

    Jeter has not been NEARLY patient enough leading off games lately. He’s gotta take some more pitches so the other guys can get a look

  432. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 7:51 pm

    Jeter has Canoitis

  433. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 7:52 pm

    remember when Jeter leading off used to work the count?

  434. Mehdi also in SF wishing he was in Iran July 2nd, 2009 at 7:52 pm

    What the hell!! Is Cano leading off? What’s with all these one pitch outs from Jeter?

  435. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 7:52 pm

    Tex needs to hit a bomb. Its been too long.

  436. Mehdi also in SF wishing he was in Iran July 2nd, 2009 at 7:53 pm

    I hope this isn’t going to be another typical boring game where we suck so bad cause we have never seen the pitcher before. It’s boring and makes me want to turn the game off. Having said that it’s only two outs in the bottom of the first so some might say I’m over reacting.

  437. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 7:54 pm

    jeseus is not to be messed with it

  438. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 7:55 pm

    11 pitch inning for Vargas

  439. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:56 pm

    Typical yankee fan. No patience whatsoever. Its the first inning for goodness sake.

  440. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 7:57 pm

    At some point it stops getting early… What Montero is doing in AA is just stunning.

    I don’t think baseball has seen his since Miguel Cabrera just went silly in AA.

    And Montero is only 19. Cabrera was 20.

    At this rate Montero’s biggest problem is going to be that they are simply going to stop pitching to him. Trenton is a bad team. I guess they’ll have to have Jorge Vazquez hit behind him at some point.

    He might not be the best prospect in baseball but he’s absolutely in the conversation as the single best bat in the minors.

    To see something like this at age 19 in AA you almost need to go back to ARod who was unbelieveable in AAA at 19.

  441. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 7:58 pm

    Def con 5 for a troll alert now!

  442. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 7:58 pm

    Damn! HR

  443. Mehdi also in SF wishing he was in Iran July 2nd, 2009 at 7:59 pm

    Good to see CC has brought his A game tonight.

  444. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 7:59 pm

    I hope CC’s arm is ok.

  445. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:00 pm

    Def con 5 for a troll alert now!

    =======================

    lol :lol:

    Run to the hills

  446. jennifer July 2nd, 2009 at 8:00 pm

    SJ- Jumping right to the highest alert huh?

  447. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:01 pm

    I wonder if this Cervelli’s fault?

    Kidding folks.

    Just tryin’ lighten the mood for when the Debbie Downers arrive.

  448. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 8:01 pm

    throw breaking pitches

  449. Josh July 2nd, 2009 at 8:01 pm

    everything is high again. no surprise

  450. jennifer July 2nd, 2009 at 8:02 pm

    You know this wouldn’t have happened if Jorge was behind the plate! ;)

  451. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:02 pm

    You would think he would go to a breaking ball 1-2 but whateva

  452. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 8:02 pm

    Just think, Montero is eating up AA pitching…This is the same class of ball that Pena & Cervelli were playing at just 6 weeks ago…..Yikes….

  453. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 8:03 pm

    Okay, whassup with Mr. CC ???

  454. James (one of the many) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:03 pm

    Looks like cervelli forgot how to call a game, some lose it faster than others perhaps

  455. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 8:03 pm

    DT -

    No good or bad word needed for me from Peter. thanks for thinking of me.

  456. Trevor July 2nd, 2009 at 8:03 pm

    Might want to start throwing some off speed stuff.

  457. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:03 pm

    come on CC

  458. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:03 pm

    two strike hits and all up, so far. He’s been a flop so far. I knew he wasn’t worth that contract and I said so. What a bum. This what happens when he doesn’t face all AAA teams.

    Did I miss any of the clever remarks?

  459. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:04 pm

    Jennifer,

    No question. We will be told soon it’s a must win game, CC is not an ace, and Eiland should be fired.

    Definitely Def Con 5 alert. I hear the sirens now.

  460. run to the hills, ha July 2nd, 2009 at 8:05 pm

    that was funny

  461. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:06 pm

    SJ44-

    Obviously, the Yankees are a terrible team because they HAVE to beat teams like Seattle. If they can’t beat Seattle theyw ill never beat Boston.

    Btw- I do not mean one word I just wrote. I just thought I would preemptively attack before the trolls

  462. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:06 pm

    GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:03 pm

    two strike hits and all up, so far. He’s been a flop so far. I knew he wasn’t worth that contract and I said so. What a bum. This what happens when he doesn’t face all AAA teams.

    Did I miss any of the clever remarks?

    Hes too big!

  463. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 8:06 pm

    CB: You should see the post I wrote earlier on my site, comparing some of the stats with some of the other hitters at the same point in their development as Montero.

  464. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:06 pm

    Personally, I think it’s all Posada’s fault. He’s intimidated Cervelli so much he no longer can call a game.

    That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

  465. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:07 pm

    The Yankee suckatude has spread throughout the system. Montero made an out.

  466. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:07 pm

    hmmmm…. positive… positive…. let’s see… umm…

    It’s nice that the Mariner bats are waking up before they head to Fenway this weekend… that’s all I got.
    Oh yeah, it’s still early in the game too.

  467. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:07 pm

    lol over-slid the bag.

  468. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 8:08 pm

    lets go cc, runs please, btw the yanks are winning this game

  469. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 8:08 pm

    “Looks like cervelli forgot how to call a game, some lose it faster than others perhaps”

    In all seriousness, if Posada happened to be catching this game there’s no doubt that people would be attributing CC looking bad to Posada.

    There’s no doubt that posada would be to blame for the letter high fastballs. His game calling skills and his lack of ability to “frame” the pitch would be blamed for CC’s results.

  470. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 8:08 pm

    That’s why you keep the tag on! Nice.

    Let’s hope CC finds his mojo before the next inning, and maybe the Yankees can play a longer inning, ‘kay??? :)

  471. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:08 pm

    Lets go A-Rod!

  472. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 8:08 pm

    CC will settle down. The Y’s need to hit this AAA pitcher, Vargas

  473. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:08 pm

    33 pitches for CC 25 strikes, 8 balls

  474. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:09 pm

    Erica,

    Great points! Also, it’s all the offense’s fault!

    That’s always popular on here when the pitcher struggles.

  475. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 8:10 pm

    “Meanwhile, the scoreboard keeps showing Disco Stu, who is some old man who dances around wearing sunglasses. Sophisticated entertainment here in the Bronx.”

    Dude don’t even talk bad about Disco Stu that guy rules

  476. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:11 pm

    Steal a base Alex

  477. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 8:11 pm

    “Looks like cervelli forgot how to call a game, some lose it faster than others perhaps”

    rebecca,

    I read it and wrote you a post about it earlier in this thread.

    Very nicely written. You hit on the right issue – his command of the strike zone and his K:BB ratio. When you look at it in that context its mind boggling.

    That part of why I’m so high on him. What he’s doing in AA is more impressive than what legends have done.

    And I asked you a question – how did that analysis of Montero change your opinion of him?

  478. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:11 pm

    Jackson is 2-3 with 2 singles, a run scored and a steal. one strikeout.

  479. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:12 pm

    CB,

    No doubt. That’s why I’m posting what I’m posting.

    It’s the lunacy of blaming all pitching mistakes on the catcher. Any catcher.

  480. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 8:12 pm

    Sorry my post at 8:11 was in resonse to rebecca’s post:

    “You should see the post I wrote earlier on my site, comparing some of the stats with some of the other hitters at the same point in their development as Montero.”

  481. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 8:12 pm

    Cano needs to break the RBI drought

  482. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:14 pm

    Robbie!

  483. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:14 pm

    nice going robbie!

  484. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 8:14 pm

    nice job cano, runs please

  485. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:14 pm

    Double for Cano! Good boy robbie

  486. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:15 pm

    give Cano some love.

    he worked the count. nice hit from the 5 hole.

  487. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:16 pm

    SJ44-

    You are absolutely right. The offsense is supposed to score. It doesn’t matter if the starter gets in to trouble in the top of the 1st. The offsense was still supposed to provide run support. How is the guy supposed to pitch without a lead?

  488. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:16 pm

    It’s really, really impressive what’s happening in the system.

    Cash deserves to take some bows. An impressive group of kids are knockin’ on the door.

  489. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:16 pm

    Sac fly where are you Pel!

  490. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:16 pm

    nice job swish!…good baserunning robbie!

  491. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 8:16 pm

    Poor Robbie -

    Coulda had an rbi if Alex was in normal shape.

    Nice sac fly by Swish!

  492. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:16 pm

    heads up play Cano!

  493. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 8:16 pm

    “It’s the lunacy of blaming all pitching mistakes on the catcher. Any catcher.”

    In the whole Posadagate lunacy there became some perception that people saying that the pitchers performance wasn’t posada’s fault were somehow criticizing Cervelli.

    And that was never the case.

    CC giving up those rusns was on him. Cervelli had basically nothing to do with it.

    It’s not the catcher – no catcher would direct CC to keep throwing pitches up and out over the plate.

  494. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:16 pm

    oh what is this? sac fly :shock:

  495. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:18 pm

    For those that complain about Cano’s lack of RBI, that double is apart of it. A normal running Rodriguez would have scored on that. That’s happened more than once.

  496. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 8:18 pm

    CB: Sorry I missed your reply before!

    “And I asked you a question – how did that analysis of Montero change your opinion of him?”

    The strike out/walk thing is what really got me. It’s not just that he has more BB than K in a small sample size but that he started with such a great disparity and has virtually eliminated it, and that all of the other hitters at the same level struck out a lot.

    It’s, as you said, mind-boggling.

    My one worry–that he hits too many DPs–was assauged when one of the Cardinals’ bloggers I follow via Twitter assured me that Pujols was among the leaders in GIDP for the Cardinals.

    I really can’t get enough of Montero.

  497. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:18 pm

    Matsui!

  498. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 8:18 pm

    i take it. lets go melky

  499. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 pm

    Ichiro makes a mistake????

  500. Mo July 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 pm

    Well, Ichiro is obviously not an everyday player.

  501. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 pm

    I also think the success of Montero and the other kids make it a lot easier to ask Hal for the money to sign Chapman.

    Always easier to ask for money when you see tangible results of the “develop from within” plan.

  502. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 pm

    Wow.

    A rare miscue from Ichiro.

    Don’t see that too often.

    Wasn’t Vargas the name of the bizarro Newman?

  503. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 pm

    Rare mistake by Ichiro. Nice! :)

  504. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 pm

    Some “Japanese English” on the ball hit to Ichiro by Matsui?

  505. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:20 pm

    “UPDATE, 7:19 p.m.:
    Meanwhile, the scoreboard keeps showing Disco Stu, who is some old man who dances around wearing sunglasses.”

    hey Pete. You sure that wasn’t Matsui’s dad?

  506. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 8:20 pm

    “Cash deserves to take some bows. An impressive group of kids are knockin’ on the door.”

    He really does. This was a critical year. This was year 4 with Cashman completely directing baseball operations. And 4 years is enough to turn around a minor league system and to start getting guys up to the majors.

    It’s very impresive what he’s done. And he deserves a lot of credit.

    He’s finally gotten the franchise to direct it’s resources in productive ways – by concentrating on developing young talent at premium positions in the minors and by making the big league club a pitching first team.

  507. James (one of the many) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:20 pm

    Would have been fun to see ichiro uncork that throw, but sign me up for the drop

  508. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:20 pm

    Btw- I thought I heard them say in the pregame that the Yankees never faced the pitcher before.

    How can that be true? They are hitting him :shock:

  509. jennifer July 2nd, 2009 at 8:21 pm

    Michael Kay: He’s not happy with some of your comments about him. (He’s a very dedicated reader of this blog.) Can’t we all get along and be nice and be the one blog in the world where people aren’t unnecessarily nasty to each other? Please?

    http://kimberlyjones.mlblogs.com/

    Thankfully apparently he doesn’t read this blog. :lol:

  510. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:21 pm

    Mo
    July 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 pm
    Well, Ichiro is obviously not an everyday player
    ***
    The Mariners should trade this Ichiro guy. he obviously sucks. Or send him to Triple A. No wait, put him on the DL

    being a troll is actually kind of fun

  511. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:22 pm

    Bronx Jeers
    July 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 pm
    Wasn’t Vargas the name of the bizarro Newman?

    close Jeers. It was Fargas.

  512. Mo July 2nd, 2009 at 8:24 pm

    Erica, being a troll? You obviously missed the point of my statement.

  513. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:24 pm

    42 pitches for Vargas

  514. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:25 pm

    Mo
    July 2nd, 2009 at 8:24 pm
    Erica, being a troll? You obviously missed the point of my statement
    ***
    I kind of thought you were being sarcastic. Weren’t you?

  515. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 8:26 pm

    Speaking of Brian Cashman…..Where’s Randy I ( The Original Tin Cup )….

  516. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 8:26 pm

    go cc

  517. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 8:27 pm

    “but that he started with such a great disparity and has virtually eliminated it, and that all of the other hitters at the same level struck out a lot.”

    rebecca,

    No your insights were the right one in that analysis. The strike zone command is ridiculous. I don’t even think Alex when he was 19 was as good on that.

    One thing to remember when your looking at a K:BB. It’s a ration so if that ratio is “high” it could either be because the K’s are high or the BB are low.

    Now Montero’s K:BB has actually always been good given his age.

    But the reason why the ratio wasn’t better is that he hasn’t walked that much. That’s why.

    The most important thing is that he has never struck out much. You get kids at that age in low A and high A they strike out a ton. I mean they strike out 25-35% of their at bats. That’s not that unusual. Montero was never close to that.

    And absolutely forget the GIDP. That’s irrelevant.

    Do you know why guys like Montero and Pujols hit into DP’s? Of course neither runs well but besides that they are always making hard contact so the ball gets to the infielders systematically quicker when its hit on the ground.

    Again, these are the reasons why I posted what I did about him yesterday.

    It’s astonishing – and it’s not primarily the HRs.

  518. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 8:27 pm

    “close Jeers. It was Fargas.”

    I’ve been challenged on a Seinfeld reference?

    A little help here please.

  519. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:28 pm

    Btw- One more thought about the new stadium

    I thought it was kind of odd that in the ladies room there were like 10 sinks and paper.

    However, I did enjoy there not being 30+ years worth of graffiti on the walls

  520. Mo July 2nd, 2009 at 8:28 pm

    Ok, I may have missed your point, lol. I hate explaining a line, but it was more than sarcasm, it was very tightly directed sarcasm at those who believe only certain rightfielders make fundamental errors.

  521. DYNASTY IS DESTINY! July 2nd, 2009 at 8:28 pm

    Swisher with the sac…

    Ichiro drops one–really?!!!

    We’re trailing by one…

  522. Yankee Trader July 2nd, 2009 at 8:28 pm

    “Btw- I thought I heard them say in the pregame that the Yankees never faced the pitcher before.

    How can that be true? They are hitting him ”

    Yes they are! They have one hit!

    It’s about time they took Posada out of the game and had Cervelli pinch hit for him. Posada was calling such a bad game for CC!!!!!!!!!!!!

  523. luis July 2nd, 2009 at 8:29 pm

    Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 8:27 pm

    “close Jeers. It was Fargas.”

    I’ve been challenged on a Seinfeld reference?

    A little help here please.

    i think it was vargas

  524. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:30 pm

    That was strike 3 twice!

  525. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 8:30 pm

    Nice fundamentals that inning…….

    Love talking about the kids. It hasn’t all been good news, with Garcia and Kontos needing surgery, but the system looks to have settled down after a rough year last year. How fantastic that the Yanks may have found their Randy Velarde-type in Pena and a backup catcher in Cervelli. They have been impressive, not just in the quality of their play, but their enthusiasm and desire to learn. The vets have really taken to them….. The best news is Phil finding his mojo. Imagaine a rotation with Phil and Joba anchoring it for years to come? Drool-worthy…. They have terrific veterans to learn from as well – and I don’t think the importance of that can be underestimated.

    Question, though – aside from Montero and Jackson, who do the Yankees have in their system that project to be at least good major leaguers (position-player wise)? What kind of pitcher does McCallister project to be and what other pitchers can we say should be major leaguers? I don’t count Brackman – he’s too far away.

    Thanks!

  526. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:30 pm

    Yankee Trader
    July 2nd, 2009 at 8:28 pm
    “Btw- I thought I heard them say in the pregame that the Yankees never faced the pitcher before.

    How can that be true? They are hitting him ”

    Yes they are! They have one hit!

    It’s about time they took Posada out of the game and had Cervelli pinch hit for him. Posada was calling such a bad game for CC!!!!!!!!!!!!

    ****
    No silly. Cervelli is starting tonight. I have it- Cervelli should pinch hit for Cervelli!!!!!!! Obviously Posada was giving the homerun sign from the bench.

  527. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 8:31 pm

    “I also think the success of Montero and the other kids make it a lot easier to ask Hal for the money to sign Chapman.”

    Cash can just point to this years team. How much money have Joba, Hughes, Robertson, Coke, and Aceves saved this team in payroll? And that’s on the staff alone. That’s not even counting Melky, Gardner, Pena and Cervelli.

    Hal just look at our staff – these young guys saved us $60M this year alone…

    That’s a pretty compelling argument for chapman.

  528. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:32 pm

    Squeezed

  529. Thomas July 2nd, 2009 at 8:32 pm

    That was messed up what Ichiro dead haha…. not funny!

  530. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 8:32 pm

    Kim Jones – hard not to root for Griffey? I sure don’t. I don’t boo him and I feel sorry that he’s had a ton of injuries wreck his HR chase, but Junior has held a grudge against the Yankees since he was a kid and that’s just ridiculous to me.

  531. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 8:33 pm

    CB

    “And absolutely forget the GIDP. That’s irrelevant.

    Do you know why guys like Montero and Pujols hit into DP’s? Of course neither runs well but besides that they are always making hard contact so the ball gets to the infielders systematically quicker when its hit on the ground.”

    I learned this very quickly last night, haha.

    But I mean, for me it’s not just that Montero puts the ball in play. So does Robbie, so does Matsui, etc.

    It’s that he does that AND he takes his walks, too. He’s got Nick Swisher’s eye, Bobby Abreu’s discipline and Pujols’ power.

    I mean, THAT is crazy good.

  532. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 8:33 pm

    Sweeney is still scary

  533. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:34 pm

    Betsy
    July 2nd, 2009 at 8:32 pm
    Kim Jones – hard not to root for Griffey? I sure don’t. I don’t boo him and I feel sorry that he’s had a ton of injuries wreck his HR chase, but Junior has held a grudge against the Yankees since he was a kid and that’s just ridiculous to me.

    ***
    I completely agree. Thats why I was so insistant that Donnie should meet Griffey under the O’Neill banner instead of Ichiro. It’s been almost 14 years and 1995 still hurts me.

  534. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:34 pm

    Last year at ST, a Yankee player told me after watching three rounds of Montero’s BP, “he could be in the majors in 2 years if he tajes that swing into games”.

    He may not be far off.

  535. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:34 pm

    Bronx Jeers
    July 2nd, 2009 at 8:27 pm
    “close Jeers. It was Fargas.”
    I’ve been challenged on a Seinfeld reference?
    A little help here please.

    you were right Jeers. I’m sorry.
    Maybe, I was thinking of Feldman. It was Vargas.

  536. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 8:34 pm

    Vargas!

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIMra-7MsgM

  537. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:35 pm

    50 pitches for the big guy

  538. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 8:36 pm

    We need 6 runs this inning

  539. Steve B July 2nd, 2009 at 8:37 pm

    “Hal just look at our staff – these young guys saved us $60M this year alone…

    That’s a pretty compelling argument for chapman.”

    You’re lucky we’re not paying $270 Million is the argument?

    I’m certain there’s a better one than that.

  540. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:37 pm

    Boston gets to face Felix nice :)

  541. NYY626 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:37 pm

    jeter is still hacking up a lung out there

  542. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:38 pm

    NYY626
    July 2nd, 2009 at 8:37 pm
    jeter is still hacking up a lung out there

    **
    But the flu agrees with him so its all good.

  543. Uke July 2nd, 2009 at 8:38 pm

    In regards to Chapman, Cashman can remind them about the money about to come off our payroll with the exits of JD and Matsui, a collective 26 million in cash

  544. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:39 pm

    Nice Jetes

  545. randy l. July 2nd, 2009 at 8:39 pm

    “Speaking of Brian Cashman…..Where’s Randy I ( The Original Tin Cup )….

    pat m-

    i’m laying in the weeds.

    cashman is still a moron.

    who could spend what he did on pitching his year and have the 11th worst pitching in the league?

  546. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 8:40 pm

    This is the first time I’ve read this blog, was a refreshing change from most of the others. I’ll try to be a good contributor…

  547. RDM July 2nd, 2009 at 8:40 pm

    How do we know for sure that Griffey is on the “clean home run list”????

  548. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:41 pm

    Betsy,

    Eduardo Nunez, SS at Trenton, Austin Romine, C at Tampa and Kelvin DeLeon, an 18 yr old OF who just hit this country, are 3 more guys to follow. All have the talent to grow into everyday ML players.

    I like Zach McAllister a lot. He’s another kid who could be major league ready by this time next year.

  549. Yankee Trader July 2nd, 2009 at 8:41 pm

    Pujols made the Cardinal team at age 20, so Montero might be ready to play next year when he turns 20 in November.

    Anyway we need Montero desperately!!!! Then we can trade that awful game-calling Posada and his enormous contract!!!!!!!!!!!

  550. Fez July 2nd, 2009 at 8:42 pm

    Caught stealing! Jeter H Christ!

  551. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 8:43 pm

    “You’re lucky we’re not paying $270 Million is the argument?

    I’m certain there’s a better one than that.”

    Not if you want Alex, Derek, Jeter, Tex and CC on your team there’s not.

    If it wasn’t for those younger players they would either can’t sign those big name players or you fill the team with retreads that are nothing more than replacement players making league minimum.

    You want that big name, high priced core to make sure you can fill your new stadium it’s a $250M roster to fill out the roster without young cost controlled players..

  552. tampayank July 2nd, 2009 at 8:43 pm

    is Chapman on his way to the Bronx yet;)?

  553. Uke July 2nd, 2009 at 8:43 pm

    Don’t hate on Cashman, the guys he signed both have sub 4 ERA’s Pettite is at 4.10, Wang is the reason the ERA is horrible

  554. Mo July 2nd, 2009 at 8:45 pm

    Randy l, I wonder what the numbers on the pitching would look like if you looked t the players currently on the roster? Meaning, some of the awful numbers are coming from guys no longer with the team. So he built a deep roster that adjusted when certain guys faltered.

  555. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:45 pm

    Laird has his 5th homer, a 3 run job in the 2nd game in Tampa. He’s heating up. Raised his average 20 points in 2 weeks.

  556. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 8:45 pm

    “This is the first time I’ve read this blog, was a refreshing change from most of the others. I’ll try to be a good contributor…”

    There are others?

    DT,

    No problem. I couldn’t remember what I had for breakfast yesterday but dammit I know my obscure Seinfeld characters.

  557. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 8:46 pm

    don’t give Guiterrez a ball up

  558. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 8:46 pm

    CC looks like he’s throwing pretty well, the Mariners are just hitting them. Gutierrez just singled off 97 mph heat down.

  559. Terry #1 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:46 pm

    “Ichiro is hilarious.”

    Ichiro is a widely known prick around baseball.

  560. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 8:48 pm

    Bronx, go read the Daily News and Post blogs sometimes but make sure you do it on an empty stomach lol

  561. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:48 pm

    Vazquez just hit a 3 run homer for Trenton.

  562. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:49 pm

    cc definitly has good stuff…location might be a little off and prbly is resulting in him getting hit so hard…get a dp here CC!

  563. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:49 pm

    didn’t think Melky was gonna catch that. exhale

  564. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 8:50 pm

    Guittierez is on his way to becoming one of the best CF in the AL. He can really play, especially defensively. He’s going to be one of the best CF gloves for quite some time.

  565. Jay July 2nd, 2009 at 8:50 pm

    CC doesn’t look too good today. hes being hit hard by the mariners.

  566. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 8:51 pm

    Guitierrez and Vargas have so far worked out for Seattle.

    As of now, they made out the best from the Putz deal.

    Zduriencik was a great choice for them. You gotta figure he’s going to do some good when they deal Washburn.

  567. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 8:52 pm

    jeter made a bad read on that.

  568. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:52 pm

    Jeter runs back he catches that

  569. James (one of the many) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:52 pm

    “Ichiro is a widely known prick around baseball.”

    I don’t know about widely known or how true that is, his pre allstar game speeches seem to go over great with all the players (make them laugh and get them pumped up) and he and griffey have a special relationship of some kind.

    http://deadspin.com/5292752/gr.....cy-armpits

  570. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 8:52 pm

    “Vazquez just hit a 3 run homer for Trenton.”

    Vazquez can hit. I could see him having a shot to be on the team next year if they want to go with a low cost guy to DH part time as they also rotate the veterans through the DH spot.

  571. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:53 pm

    4-2 seattle
    Run to the hills! Now!

  572. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:53 pm

    damn jete..why did you come in on it :( …prbly couldnt of had it anyways

  573. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 8:53 pm

    CC just doesn’t have good command tonight, the Yankees will score more runs so he just needs to shut the Mariners down for a few innings.

  574. stuart July 2nd, 2009 at 8:53 pm

    woodard wuth 2 rbi’s.. jojima..

    do not have the game but CC must not have it……..

  575. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 8:53 pm

    cc still struggling

  576. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 8:54 pm

    I’m so glad Girardi didn’t read the comments here and give Alex the day off.

  577. stuart July 2nd, 2009 at 8:54 pm

    4 runs and 6 K

    CC is not on tonight………

  578. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:54 pm

    That pitch to Woodward was a rookie catchers mistake.

    Woodward hasn’t had a good swing on CC’s fastball all night.

    Instead of attacking and finishing him with the fastball, he tried to trick him with a changeup and it sped his bat up enough to stay in the zone and pop a bloop single.

    The lesson to learn is, you don’t have to pitch Chris Woodward as if he is Manny Ramirez. Attack him with the heater and finish him.

  579. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:55 pm

    just keep it here CC….they are gonna score runs

  580. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 8:55 pm

    The LoHud seems incomplete without a Randy I comment….I just knew the praising of one Brian Cashman could entice a quote from you…..Although I think he’s done a good job since taking over……Igawa will shadow him forever….I still want him to find another good arm for the pen….

  581. stuart July 2nd, 2009 at 8:55 pm

    Ichiro is hitting about 500 against him, big AB to keep it close…………………

    may want to walk him, risky…

  582. Yankee Trader July 2nd, 2009 at 8:56 pm

    Are we still doing Seinfeld episodes, or just bashing Posada?????

    Here’s one-was her name Delores, Mulva, or something that rhymed with Mulva??

    Enjoy these famous Seinfeld lines.

    http://www.stanthecaddy.com/seinfeld-videos/

  583. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 8:56 pm

    Melky with impeccable defense.

  584. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:56 pm

    Are you serious melky?

  585. igotid88 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:57 pm

    Time for Hughes

  586. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 8:57 pm

    there goes the winning streak

  587. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 8:57 pm

    Oh dear

  588. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:57 pm

    i think melky should of had that…tough break

  589. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 8:57 pm

    How long do you leave CC out there? He’s obviously struggling tonight…….Do you take him out early to conserve his arm?

  590. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 8:57 pm

    “As of now, they made out the best from the Putz deal.

    Zduriencik was a great choice for them. You gotta figure he’s going to do some good when they deal Washburn.”

    They really have done very well on that Putz deal. And most people thought they didn’t get enough back.

    Zduriencik did a great job finding bats with the brewers. The question people have on him is his eye for pitching. Brewer pitching prospects and drafting was very underwhelming under his tenure.

    I’ve been impressed with his emphasis on improving defense. He clearly understands the value of what it brought to Tampa last year. He’s a big stats guy and it shows.

    He’s also now crowd sourcing personnel moves. He’s asking fans for recommendations on guys to target in trades.

  591. stuart July 2nd, 2009 at 8:57 pm

    yech..
    SJ ..Cervelli does not know that???

    Trick stars woodard cannot catch up to the pitch and that is why he is a scrub, how complicated is it.

    Ichiro kills CC>…

  592. Terry #1 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:58 pm

    Melky looks like he’s slowing down.

    Is he slowing down on purpose in order to make shoestring catches on purpose?

  593. James (one of the many) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:58 pm

    Are yankee trader’s posts real or jokes? 8:28 was a gem

  594. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 8:58 pm

    Ichiro loafing?

    What was up with Melky on that play?

    The ball carried but it looked like he made a bad choice on the break.

  595. Maria July 2nd, 2009 at 8:58 pm

    CC seems done. Not a good night for him. Bring in Hughes, he wasn’t used at all last night. Don’t let the big guy strain himself and let’s look forward to his next start which I am sure will be great.

  596. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:59 pm

    Another bad pitch call. Can’t call a curveball on that count.

    Again, you speed up his bat and it puts you in a hole.

    This inning is where Cervelli’s inexperience shows.

    On a night your starter doesn’t have his A List stuff, you have to go to more fastballs and not try to trick guys.

    That’s the difference between the majors and the minors. In the minors, you can trick guys.

    Not up here. Bad hitters in the majors are still better than good hitters in the minors.

    Another reason why those who want Molina off the team for Cervelli are wrong. Molina massages CC through this game in ways Cervelli is not yet experienced enough to do.

  597. igotid88 July 2nd, 2009 at 8:59 pm

    7k’s in a row.

  598. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 8:59 pm

    We will win this game

  599. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 9:00 pm

    It’s up to the offense to get the win.

  600. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 9:00 pm

    ugh

  601. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 9:00 pm

    This is what ALWAYS kills me about Girardi. He always goes too long with pitchers when it’s obvious they are done. This is inexcusable with such a rested bullpen. I guess he’s happy with 2 out of 3.

  602. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:00 pm

    CC didn’t do a good job with Ichiro – that was pretty well hit. Why should Melky have had that? It’s just not CC’s night – the dude’s not been good, it happens.

  603. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 9:01 pm

    its weird to see CC struggle like this….this could easily be 4-2 though…if melky got a better jump or was faster he would of had that ball

  604. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:01 pm

    carl
    July 2nd, 2009 at 8:56 pm
    Are you serious melky?

    ————————————————————

    suzuki’s hit was smoked. You don’t play left handed hitters in left center. Suzuki can pull any pitch any time he wants. There wasn’t anybody on the field that was going to catch that with the exception of the guy that hit it.

  605. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:01 pm

    melky has to cach that ball. he really not a cf and it showed tonight. give tomko up or taxed cc

  606. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:01 pm

    81 pitches for cc
    56 strikes 25 balls
    4IP 8H 6R 6ER 1BB 7SO so far today

  607. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 9:02 pm

    need 2 runs this inning

  608. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:02 pm

    I wouldn’t use Hughes tonight. Why would you use him in down 6-2?

    You save Hughes for games you are ahead, not behind.

    This is a night for Tomko and Robertson.

    You save your big bullets for game with leads, not 4 run deficits.

    They have a 4 game series coming up with the Jays. Save their best arms for them unless they make a comeback here.

  609. Yankee Trader July 2nd, 2009 at 9:02 pm

    James (one of the many)
    July 2nd, 2009 at 8:58 pm
    “Are yankee trader’s posts real or jokes? 8:28 was a gem”

    Yes James they are jokes! I can’t understand why Cervelli isn’t calling his own game, but is getting the signals from Posada!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  610. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 9:02 pm

    Wouldn’t the Posada Truthers be blaming this on Posada by now?

  611. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 9:03 pm

    lol this guy blows a 88 MPH fastball right by Alex.

  612. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 9:03 pm

    Funny how all the usual suspects come out of the woodwork when the Yankees are behind, lol.

  613. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 9:03 pm

    So, what’s happened with our “Ace”?

  614. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 9:03 pm

    Honestly? The Yanks have won 7 in a row. You throw a clunker on occasion. As long as it doesn’t become habit it’s not a big deal.

  615. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:03 pm

    SJ, thanks! It’s always exciting following the kids …….

  616. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 9:04 pm

    “This inning is where Cervelli’s inexperience shows.”

    Oh no you didn’t just say that. Them’s be fightin words in these parts. :lol:

    Come on offense. Pick up your starter! (and Cervelli)

  617. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 9:04 pm

    suzuki’s hit was smoked. You don’t play left handed hitters in left center. Suzuki can pull any pitch any time he wants. There wasn’t anybody on the field that was going to catch that with the exception of the guy that hit it.

    The ball deflected off his glove and he slowed down. He should have caught it.

  618. Sean Serritella July 2nd, 2009 at 9:04 pm

    SJ44, just think, if Posada was catching, the Yankees would be losing 10-2 instead of 6-2.

  619. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    You aren’t looking to pull CC in the 4th and blow out your entire bullpen for the weekend.

    That ball Ichiro hit was smoked.

    Melky gave that a good try but that was not a ball that is supposed to be caught. That would have been a great play if he caught up to that.

    Sometimes, your starter has a bad night. It happens. Its baseball.

  620. bryan July 2nd, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    CC is not struggling. This is actually one of his best starts of the year when you look at the peripherals. He’s simply regressing to the mean, as was expected. His BABIP was unsustainable, period.

  621. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    I blame Jack Nicholson for CC’s performance tonight. :P

  622. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    SUI!!!!!!!!!!!!

  623. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    SJ, good point – it’s just that this would be a good game to get Phil innings (they can stretch him out). He’s hardly pitched and as long as he’s yoked to Wang, it’s going to be difficult to find him spots (unless it’s one inning at a time).

  624. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    THANK YOU, HIDEKI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  625. G July 2nd, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    6-4. GODZILLA!!!!

  626. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    yep rebecca , lets go offense, where not dead yet

  627. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 9:06 pm

    This guy doesn’t reach 89 MPH, you should be crushing this schmuck.

  628. Terry #1 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:06 pm

    ****James (one of the many) July 2nd, 2009 at 8:52 pm

    “Ichiro is a widely known prick around baseball.”

    I don’t know about widely known or how true that is, his pre allstar game speeches seem to go over great with all the players (make them laugh and get them pumped up) and he and griffey have a special relationship of some kind.

    http://deadspin.com/5292752/gr.....cy-armpits ****

    Poor Mariners fan.

    Griffey was brought in specifically because morale in the clubhouse was at an all-time low due to Managemtn and Ichiro issues.

    As for his curse-fest in the All-star game: another media hype of the supposed greatness of Ichiro that wasn’t.

    Ichiro is an albatross around the neck of the Mariners. Why do you think so many stars avoid signing with them despite their $100 million bankroll. Getting good (non-Japanese) players to sign with the Mariners is impossible without including MAJOR premiums to take the edge off the “suketto” attitude of the organization.

  629. G July 2nd, 2009 at 9:06 pm

    CC got to think 2-0 right know and pitch 2 scoreless innings.

  630. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 9:06 pm

    Melky has reservations.

  631. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:06 pm

    Niiiiiice Matsui. Let’s get a few more

  632. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 9:07 pm

    Good perspective there, Rebecca. Thats pretty much how I look at it.

    Nice to see you around a bit more. Grad school given you a breather for the summer? :)

  633. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 9:07 pm

    this is such a weird game lol…i think the yanks are gonna pull through

  634. jfinfonsfosnf July 2nd, 2009 at 9:07 pm

    Bad job by Melky he had to make that catch.

  635. Yankee Trader July 2nd, 2009 at 9:07 pm

    The Yankees will find a way to win this game, as long as Posada doen’t play!!!!!!!!!! Joke.

    Actually I gotta go now and turn off the game, which will be a sure sign the Yankees will come back!!

  636. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 9:08 pm

    Beckett gave up 5 runs off the bat in his game yesterday. Boston’s offense came back and won that game when their front line pitcher faltered.

    Yankee offense needs to do the same tonight and pick up CC.

    New game now.

    CC’s command had been poor this game. Hopefully he settles down.

  637. Terry #1 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:08 pm

    Matsui >>> Ichiro

    Because unlike Ichiro, not only is Matsui good, but he’s also a class act that doesn’t engender cancer in the clubhouse.

  638. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 9:08 pm

    Scoring runs after the other team scores is always a good thing, now they’ve done it twice tonight. CC will probably get through 6 or 7 innings without giving up more runs, he’ll probably start dealing from here.

  639. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:08 pm

    I don’t get blaming Melky, either – CC’s just not pitching well, that’s all.

  640. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:09 pm

    Sean,

    Or, more accurately, they would probably be winning because Posada knows the league well enough to know you don’t need to fool bad hitters with 2-2 curveballs.

    What happened with our “ace”?

    He’s had an off night so far. It happens to everybody in the game.

    He’s still an ace though. This game doesn’t define his “ace-ness”.

  641. Andrew OH July 2nd, 2009 at 9:09 pm

    So basing opinions on a handful of games is silly but not disregarding those opinions after ONE bad game is ok?

  642. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 9:10 pm

    duh Lorenz – the beekeeper was a guy with a ponytail.

  643. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:10 pm

    1 away

  644. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 9:10 pm

    Seattle could easily not score another run. Not CC’s best game but no reason to take him out. I see another come from behind win.

  645. Maria July 2nd, 2009 at 9:10 pm

    Come on CC quick inning and maybe pitch some of the 6th! Good quick 1st out.

  646. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:10 pm

    Of course we hope CC settles down, but if he doesn’t, we still want to keep the game close…….

  647. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 9:11 pm

    Angel: No, not really, but I’m pretending it is and taking one anyway.

    It’s not so much grad school giving me a breather as my family has both stopped a) dying and b) giving birth.

  648. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:12 pm

    Gutierrez is red, red hot. 12 of his last 19.

    He’s a really good young player. Can’t believe the Indians traded him.

  649. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:13 pm

    betsy

    cc not pitching well, but melky has to catch that ball

  650. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 9:13 pm

    Nice bounce back inning

  651. Terry #1 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:14 pm

    ****Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:08 pm

    I don’t get blaming Melky, either – CC’s just not pitching well, that’s all.****

    Melky clearly slowed down going after that fly ball that Suzuki hit (it wasn’t hit that hard and you can tell by Ichiro’s reaction that he knew it), violating the first rule of outfielding that you never stop running until you get BEHIND the ball.

  652. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 9:14 pm

    SJ, I don’t think he ever found his nitch with the Indians…..I agree he’s a good ballplayer who is only going to improve…

  653. Joe from Long Island July 2nd, 2009 at 9:14 pm

    I saw where the Great Santana got knocked around the other day. The Mets’ offense was not good enough to comeback and make a game of it. Let’s see what the Yankees’ offense can do.

    CC did have a nice inning there. As Jim Kaat says, let’s see if CC can be his own relief pitcher. It’s still early.

  654. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:14 pm

    Gutierrez would look great playing center or right field in pinstripes. Not great power, but could be a Rios type player. Great defense. solid bat and very good speed. In a trade, that’s the type of player Cashman needs to look for. Seattle has no reason to trade him, though.

  655. Sean Serritella July 2nd, 2009 at 9:14 pm

    SJ44, I was busting your chops. I have no idea anymore about the catching situation. First I thought it was Posada, then I thought it was the wind tunnel affecting the pitchers but then Posada caught Pettitte great yesterday in the Bronx.

    Also, why not fool batters with 2-2 curveballs? If you throw a fastball for a ball and then it’s 3-2, you have to throw another fastball.

  656. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:15 pm

    That was a tough play for Melky. You don’t play Ichiro to Death Valley in left center.

    Melky had to come across the field for a ball that is tailing away from him.

    That’s very tough catch. BJ Upton may be able to make that play but, very few others can.

  657. igotid88 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:15 pm

    SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:02 pm

    I wouldn’t use Hughes tonight. Why would you use him in down 6-2?

    You save Hughes for games you are ahead, not behind.
    _——————————

    I just wanna see Hughes get a win to get him even for his career. I hate seeing him 1 game below .500

  658. flaggthecat July 2nd, 2009 at 9:16 pm

    So this is completely out of place, being in reference to comments from before the game started, but I just started reading this thread. Just in case the people who were asking about A-Rod’s day off before are still reading, the doctors said to give him one game off per week, not just one day.

  659. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 9:16 pm

    “Wouldn’t the Posada Truthers be blaming this on Posada by now?”

    Wave,

    We were talking about this before. It’s really amazing. The Poada Truther completely melt into the woods when the pitcher throws a clunker with Cervelli behind the plate.

    Nada.

    Catching dictates pitches only when it’s convenient to make a ludicrous argument.

  660. haiku-man July 2nd, 2009 at 9:16 pm

    The Ace has a 3.87 Era,90 pitches in 4 innings.

  661. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 9:18 pm

    Tough outing for CC, not really sure what’s wrong tonight. His fastball is good, guess he just doesn’t have good control.

    CC has been great for us, now the offense has to do him a favor and pick him up. We have 6 innings of Mariner bullpen, there is no way this game ends with the Yanks only scoring 4 runs.

  662. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 9:18 pm

    He’s still an ace though. This game doesn’t define his “ace-ness”.
    ………………………………

    No, this game doesn’t define his “ace-ness,” but I’ll reserve that designation when he pitches like an ace against Boston, Anaheim, Detroit, and Tampa Bay.

    Until them, I remain skeptical. He’s a very good pitcher, but an “Ace”? not yet.

  663. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 9:18 pm

    4th best bullpen ERA.

    good luck.

  664. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 9:19 pm

    Great inning

  665. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 9:19 pm

    9 pitches.

    womp womp womp wommmmmmmmmmmmmp

  666. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:20 pm

    Word has it that Ichiro hated Choo because he was from Korea and that was the reason why they traded him to the Indians for Gutierrez. I cant stand Ichiro. He is a good player but he is such a showoff.

  667. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 9:21 pm

    GB, You expressed exactlty what I was thinking since the opening game of the series….

  668. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:22 pm

    where tex defense

  669. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 9:22 pm

    Ok now it’s time to yank Sabathia. Get him out asap

  670. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:22 pm

    Sean,

    The whole crux of the Posada argument was those who were “sure” it was Posada’s fault don’t understand catching.

    They took the results and transferred them to the catcher.

    They also took a stat nobody in the sport uses to evaluate catchers (catchers ERA) and decided it “showed something”.

    They then looked for “quotes” from pitchers to validate a position.

    Problem is, the relationship between pitcher and catcher is supposed to be a bit grating. Think of it as “creative tension”.

    You don’t lose the ability to call games with age.

  671. Terry #1 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:22 pm

    Defense sure has sprung a leak this game.

    Yes, they’re hit hard, but this is the Major Leagues.

  672. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:22 pm

    that was a bullett though

  673. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 9:23 pm

    “He’s a really good young player. Can’t believe the Indians traded him.”

    Indians are a real head scratcher. Shapiro was an i think still is widely respected.

    But year in and out they make moves which are rational and appear to be sound but never work out.

    They just gave up on Guitierrez because they had Sizemore in CF and thought they could get more for him in a trade to a place where he could play CF than the value he’d have for them keeping him.

    In the meanwhile they have Ben Francisco playing LF and Sizemore is hurt and really should call it a season.

    That franchise seems to me to have become lost in ideas and haven’t gotten too far away from evaluating talent.

  674. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 9:25 pm

    “Matsui >>> Ichiro”

    you’re nuts.

    and i love Matsui

  675. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 9:25 pm

    should of tex had that ball..no way…im not even sure he could of…considering he had no time to move…his only chance was to pick it like that….it took a verrrry high hop

  676. jfinfonsfosnf July 2nd, 2009 at 9:25 pm

    Ichiro >>>>>>>>>>>>> Jeter

  677. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:25 pm

    If you don’t think CC Sabathia is an ace, you don’t know anything about baseball.

    You can “reserve” all the judgment you want.

    There isn’t anybody who makes their living in the game who doesn’t see him as an ace. You are on an island on that position.

  678. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 9:28 pm

    SJ44,

    This is a case where you should simply say “I’m right and you’re wrong, argument over.” Because honestly, saying that Sabathia isn’t an ace is so absurd it doesn’t even justify a response.

  679. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 9:28 pm

    Paulie O in the booth is just a blast…..Love his banter with Kenny Singleton and Kay

  680. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 9:29 pm

    I think SJ44 nailed it when it comes to the Posada Truthers’ argument.

  681. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 9:30 pm

    If you don’t think CC is an Ace you are crazy. Thats like saying Roy Halladay isn’t an ace because he lost to Tampa. Or Johan isn’t because he lost to the Brewers.

  682. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:30 pm

    Patrick,

    Good point.

    Pat M,

    O’Neill is this generations Scooter. He’s a blast.

  683. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:30 pm

    Montero is now 2-4 with a homer and two RBI

    Laird is 2-4 with a homer, double and 4 RBI. Romine is 0-1, 2 runs scored, 2 walks.
    Sublett is 1-3 with an RBI. These are the 2nd game of a double header.

  684. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 9:30 pm

    0-2 to a walk.

    things are getting better all the time

  685. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 9:30 pm

    Oh man that’s nonsense. That’s a strike on the corner, come on blue open your eyes

  686. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 9:31 pm

    really? take him NOW?!!??!!?

  687. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:31 pm

    That was close, but that was not a good job by CC – losing Branyan after being up 0-2 in the count.

  688. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 9:31 pm

    Bring in Hughes. Is he even warming?

  689. Maria July 2nd, 2009 at 9:31 pm

    I thought that was a strike.

  690. jfinfonsfosnf July 2nd, 2009 at 9:31 pm

    That last pitch to was a strike tough break for CC.

  691. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 9:31 pm

    Cervelli has been dropping and missing a lot of balls tonight. Not sure if he’s having an off night or if CC is missing his spots

  692. haiku-man July 2nd, 2009 at 9:32 pm

    Pitching change please Joe be smart,CC is not brining his A game.

  693. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 9:33 pm

    CC got squeezed on that one – too bad – if the Yanks score this inning, might have cost him a win.

  694. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:33 pm

    Where was that pitch? That’s pretty bad umpiring to miss that pitch.

    Its really something to watch so many games, I’m talking about ALL games not just Yankee games, and see just how bad these guys are calling balls and strikes.

    Its really embarrassing.

    As a player, if you are struggling, you are either released or have to go to the minors to find your game.

    When an umpire is struggling, he just moves on to the next big league city and continues his work.

    Just terrible.

  695. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:33 pm

    You can do this Alfredo sauce

  696. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:34 pm

    Aceves instead of Hughes? Hmm……

  697. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 9:34 pm

    What CC did last year for the Brewers down the stretch was one of the greatest indivdual season performances in recent baseball history.

    To put that team and all the hopes of that small market franchise on his back and pitch one game after another on three days rest was remarkable. To do that and just dominate over and over was just amazing.

    That he risked his own health in a contract year when he was nothing more to the Brewers than a rental player was one of the most selfless acts in modern baseball history. He had to talk his own agent into letting him throw that much for a team that was using him with no regards to his future.

    If CC’s not an ace then there aren’t any aces in baseball.

  698. JAMES July 2nd, 2009 at 9:34 pm

    I love CC.
    But Roy Halladay >>>>>>>>>>>>> CC

  699. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 9:34 pm

    SJ44 I agree with that. Just horrible.

  700. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 9:35 pm

    Sick change by Aceves. He has no fear, I love it

  701. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 9:35 pm

    I just love Aceves’ confidence, he’ll throw any pitch regardless of the count. I would not be surprised to see him in the rotation next year.

  702. SFYanksFan July 2nd, 2009 at 9:36 pm

    Guess Cervelli’s magic pitch framing skills must have gone with his game calling this evening.

  703. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 9:36 pm

    “If CC’s not an ace then there aren’t any aces in baseball”

    thank you. I started to type that, and then figured what’s the use…

  704. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 9:36 pm

    CB: Well said.

  705. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 9:36 pm

    “I love CC.
    But Roy Halladay >>>>>>>>>>>>> CC ”

    Halladay is better but their both aces.

    Both Pujols and Teixeira are all-star caliber 1B but Pujols >>>>> Tex

  706. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 9:36 pm

    That was golden and a huge asset to have coming out of the bullpen. Aceves is the key to the playoffs.

  707. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    RALLY TIME

  708. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    Great job, Ace!

  709. James (one of the many) July 2nd, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    That’s a strike out you rally behind

  710. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    Putting a batter away when you have to. So glad to see that.

  711. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    That was HUGE.. YAY Ace!!

    We score now

  712. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    In the 2nd game of the Tampa Yanks DH, Humberto Sanchez had two perfect innings with 2 strikeouts. The best part is 4 ground balls and 0 fly balls.

  713. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    Aceves

    notice the first three letters in his name. He is pitching like one

  714. haiku-man July 2nd, 2009 at 9:38 pm

    Ace keeps the game in reach,whew!

  715. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:38 pm

    Well done Alfredo sauce

  716. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 9:39 pm

    The Yankees must have a great scout in Mexico, first Aceves, then Pena and isn’t Vasquez another signing from the Mexican League?

    Teix is due to hit one out…

  717. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 9:39 pm

    Geez with 3-4-5 you gotta figure they score at least a run here.

    Not a good start by Tex, he’s been pretty crap lately.

  718. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:39 pm

    Aceves is another Cashman/baseball department find. A great signing out of the Mexican League.

    IMO, I would only use Hughes from the 7th inning on, in games they are tied or (preferably) ahead.

    I wouldn’t waste him in games they are trailing because they will need him to protect leads in games rather than trying to keep them in games.

  719. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 9:39 pm

    “Humberto Sanchez had two perfect innings with 2 strikeouts”

    forgot about him.

    either way, he’s 1 injury away from Christian Garcia non-prospect status

  720. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 9:40 pm

    “But Roy Halladay >>>>>>>>>>>>> CC”

    I love Halladay. He’s the best pitcher in baseball. I’ve said that for a long time.

    It’s neck and neck between Halladay and CC as to who the most valuable pitcher in baseball is. It’s very close. If you want to go Hallday better than CC fine. But it really isn’t that big a difference.

    And if you do think Halladay is that much better than CC than you’d have to say

    Halladay>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Santana/Lincecum/ Webb/ etc.

  721. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 9:41 pm

    If you don’t think CC Sabathia is an ace, you don’t know anything about baseball.
    You can “reserve” all the judgment you want.
    …………………………………

    I have been a baseball fan for 45 years, I think I know a little bit about baseball. You know zip about me, and what I know, so shove your elitist attitude.

    I did not know there was an official completely objective designator of “Ace” pitchers these days. Perhaps you’d like to give us his name.

    When Sabathia performs like an ace, I will gladly agree with you that he is an ace. But, except for his brief stint with Milwaukee last year, the guy has not been an ace. He is an excellent pitcher, but an ace for me, is someone who completely shuts down another team on a consistent basis, especially come playoff time. Josh Beckett is an ace, so was Randy Johnson, so was Curt Schilling, so was Jack Morris, so was Bob Gibson, so was Sandy Koufax.

  722. haiku-man July 2nd, 2009 at 9:41 pm

    When did Tex go on vacation?

  723. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 9:41 pm

    “The Yankees must have a great scout in Mexico, first Aceves, then Pena and isn’t Vasquez another signing from the Mexican League”

    good call.

    and you’re forgetting Banuelos, who will prolly turn out to be better then all of them

  724. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:42 pm

    did cano just walk

  725. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:42 pm

    O’Neill makes me laugh. :lol:

  726. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 9:44 pm

    is it me or does Batista always kill the Yankee hitters ??

  727. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:44 pm

    Josh Beckett shuts teams down consistently? I don’t think so……..

  728. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 9:44 pm

    “I wouldn’t waste him in games they are trailing because they will need him to protect leads in games rather than trying to keep them in games.”

    Have to disagree with you there. Aceves worked out, but I’d throw Hughes into game crucial situations and let him keep growing.

    Seattle can’t hit – they’ve scored some runs but they could eaxily not score any more. We can easily rally. Hughes could have gotten that out and pitched the seventh too.

    But, it all worked out anyway, Aceves was great.

  729. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:44 pm

    teddy
    July 2nd, 2009 at 9:42 pm
    did cano just walk

    **
    Actually, I believe he jogged down to first base after 4 balls :-)

  730. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    Pepitone I don’t care how long you’ve been a fan. If you don’t think CC is an ace you either haven’t been paying attention or don’t know what you’re talking about.

  731. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    He won a Cy Young Award in Cleveland and was an ace of that staff from his early 20′s on.

    He is one of the 4-5 best starting pitchers in baseball.

    Its not an elitist attitude, its the truth and sometimes, the truth hurts.

    You don’t know aces if you think CC Sabathia is not one.

    Try again another time.

  732. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    Tex is very good, but he’s not great…..and he really needs to get going again.

  733. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    That’s a pretty awful performance by the middle of the lineup against Miguel freaking Bautista… yuck

  734. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    Do you realize Branyan is in the #2 hole for Seattle and has struck out in his last 7 at bats. 4 last night and 3 tonight. Ouch

  735. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:46 pm

    Phil needs innings – I don’t think the Yankees can afford to pick and choose his spots. The 1 inning stints aren’t good enough at this point, not even close.

  736. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 9:47 pm

    this game is a long way from being over and the lineup turns over one more time.

  737. smith July 2nd, 2009 at 9:47 pm

    so an “ace” has an ERA around 4?

  738. joe. July 2nd, 2009 at 9:47 pm

    is it me or does Batista always kill the Yankee hitters ??

    his #’s against them don’t support that.

  739. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:47 pm

    Wave,

    My point is, those crucial situations are when they are tied or ahead. That’s when you really need him and that’s when he gives them a big advantage late in games.

    For example, if you use him for 1 or 2 when they are trailing tonight, you lose him for the start of the Blue Jays series.

    They have already won this series. I’d rather save him for the Jays becuase if they can take 3 of 4 from the Jays, that could be their knockout blow because they are starting their fade.

  740. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 9:47 pm

    Walter Johnson was the last ace. Since then they’ve all been acelets.

  741. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 9:48 pm

    Aceves is such an unusual weapon out of the pen.

    Usually relief pitchers will throw 2 pitches max. Often they’ll really rely only on one and sprinkle in the secondary pitch.

    In the at bat Aceves struck Lopez out on, Acevens threw 4 different pitches. He threw his fastball, cutter, change up and curve.

    And he threw those 4 different pitches with no room for error – the bases were loaded.

    But Aceves has that kind of command. He’s able to throw 4-5 different with command.

    I’m not sure if there are any other non-long man relievers in the game who profile like that.

  742. tampayank July 2nd, 2009 at 9:48 pm

    Ron Artest signs w/ the Lakers, they just got more talented

  743. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:49 pm

    GB7-

    I noticed that lousy Brandon is not around tonight. Is he hiding because he stole your rain jacket?

  744. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 9:49 pm

    CC is an ace by the textbook definition but a true ace IMO has a ring or two from ships that he has steered to championships.

  745. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:50 pm

    Betsy,

    The game isn’t about getting Phil innings. Its about putting him in the best situation to win.

    Its not about “working him in”. He will get plenty of innings. Its about saving him to win games.

    Believe me, as the season goes on, you will soon be “worried” they are using him too much.

    Phil Hughes is just fine and will be in his new role for right now.

  746. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 9:50 pm

    Tampayank this could be a great move, similar to when the Bulls signed Rodman.

  747. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:50 pm

    SJ, what happens if the Yankees never have a chance to use Phil in those games? Rememeber that game in Boston when Joe didn’t use Mo in the 8th inning? The game got out of hand and Mo was never even used in that game…..nor in that series. There’s no guarantee that the Yankees will be leading or tied late in the game……..and what happens if AJ goes 7? Bruney will go in the 8th……

  748. DET x 2 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:50 pm

    Relax… Burnett will pick us up tomorrow.

  749. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:50 pm

    The Ghost
    July 2nd, 2009 at 9:49 pm
    CC is an ace by the textbook definition but a true ace IMO has a ring or two from ships that he has steered to championships.

    ***
    That would omit Halladay as an ace. I believe he is a true ace

  750. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 9:50 pm

    D see your point SJ44, but I’m convinced we are going to rally for some reason. Call it a hunch. Plus, I don’t think Seattle will score any more. Plus, I want Hughes to have experience in melt down pressure situations, not just coming in to start an inning clean. Plus, I want to build his innings.

  751. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:51 pm

    Betsy-

    You need to worry about winning the game right now and not about pitching matchups that may or may not occur tomorrow.

  752. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:51 pm

    Roy Halladay has zero playoff wins and zero WS rings. Is he an ace?

  753. Frank and Beans July 2nd, 2009 at 9:51 pm

    guys lets vote Texeira in to the All Star game.

    you get 25 chances.

    LETS GO YANKEES!!

  754. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:52 pm

    This reminds me-

    Nick Foley (aka Mankind) was at the game last night. They kept showing him on the scoreboard and during the 7th inning stretch he was the “Fan of the Game”

  755. Joe from Long Island July 2nd, 2009 at 9:52 pm

    Who is this umpire behind home plate? I’m not expecting perfection, but this is ridiculous. He cost CC striking out Branyan, and now he missed a call for Aceves on Gutierrez.

    Do these guys get reviewed in the off season? Is there any reward or penalty for poor performance?

  756. Mark July 2nd, 2009 at 9:53 pm

    Tex had one good month… no way he should be in the ASG over Morneau, Youkallis, or Cabrera.

    He is just too streaky. Good player, but very streaky. Carry you for a month, disappear for another.

  757. jennifer July 2nd, 2009 at 9:53 pm

    I hate the wave! What the heck is wrong with those people. They cheer for the wave going around the stadium but not for the game! Geniuses!

  758. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:53 pm

    The thing is, SJ – I don’t disagree with you. I’m honestly not trying to make this all about Phil – I agree, the Yankees need to win games and that’s what the focus should be. It’s a tightrope the Yanks are walking with this kid – I hope you’re right about him getting sufficient innings. I guess I’m thinking too far ahead, lol.

    On to a subject other than Phil, Aceves has just been an unbelievable addition to the pen. Is he really this good? Boy, if he is………He’s just so darn versatile, just like Ramiro Mendoza.

  759. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:53 pm

    SJ44-

    Stop stealing my thoughts please and see my 9:50 post. Great minds think alike :-)

  760. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    Erica, there are always exceptions to the rule and Halladay has never played on a team that was good enough to even make the playoffs so he gets a pass until then. CC has been on playoff teams and has not performed the way a true ace would performs in those situations.

  761. charlestonchew July 2nd, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    What are the chances that Aceves wins Rookie of the Year in the AL?

  762. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    Aceves reminds me of Ed Figueroa in many, many ways…

  763. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    If this crowd is dumb enough to do the wave, when not go all the way – have a lobotomy and then do the macarena.

  764. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    Erica-

    Hope you enjoyed your first game in the Stadium last night. The weather turned out fine, didn’t it? How were your seats?

  765. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    Betsy,

    You worry way too much about Phil Hughes. I don’t think his family worry as much about him as you do! lol

    Wave,

    He’s in tonight if they tie or take the lead. If not, he’s available fresh for the Jays.

    To me, its the best of both worlds and why he is such a weapon out there.

    Girardi doesn’t have to force it because it will come naturally as the season unfolds.

  766. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    Joe from Long Island
    July 2nd, 2009 at 9:52 pm
    Who is this umpire behind home plate? I’m not expecting perfection, but this is ridiculous. He cost CC striking out Branyan, and now he missed a call for Aceves on Gutierrez.

    Do these guys get reviewed in the off season? Is there any reward or penalty for poor performance?

    ***
    Yankee Stadium is a Questek (I may have butchered that spelling) park. Questek actually reviews balls and strikes and will grade the umpires

  767. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    Pepitone’s points are of note, however Pepi those are Hall of Famers that you mentioned….I think the title of Ace has changed somewhat over the past 5-6 years….CC is an Ace by today’s standards, where a pitcher would have to prove for years of worth in order to achieve such a lofty title….

  768. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:55 pm

    Erica, I agree – that’s my point…

    Aces automatically have rings? Does it follow then that all pitchers with rings are aces? That’s, um…….rather silly.

  769. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:56 pm

    Montero has hit homers in each of his last 4 games played (5 total). 14 at bats, 6 runs scored, 8 hits, 1 double, 5 homers, 8 RBI, 4 walks and 3 strikeouts. He might get 1 more at bat.

  770. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 9:56 pm

    LOL SJ – I won’t deny that. I don’t do anything halfway – I’m very passionate about my likes and dislikes, my favorites and not-so favorites. I need to relax, though……undoubtedly.

  771. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 9:57 pm

    Patrick
    July 2nd, 2009 at 9:45 pm
    Pepitone I don’t care how long you’ve been a fan. If you don’t think CC is an ace you either haven’t been paying attention or don’t know what you’re talking about.
    …………………………………….
    If you think CC is an ace you either haven”t been paying attention or don’t know what you’re talking about.

    There, I can play the game too. You’ve proved nothing.

    SJ I have a lot of respect for your overall baseball acumen, but your arrogance is starting to show. I have as much right to establish my criteria for what is an ace as you. My criteria is coming up big in huge games against major rivals, and coming through in the playoffs. CC Sabathia has a 2-3 record with a 7.92 era in the playoffs. That is not ace material in my estimation. You are more impressed with his Cy Young award in 07, and his performance with the Brewers last year. Fine, I ‘m not.

    I have not labeled you a know nothing baseball fan for disagreeing, don’t label me.

  772. haiku-man July 2nd, 2009 at 9:57 pm

    Ace-strikeouts!!!

  773. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 9:57 pm

    SJ: Halladay only pitches once every five days for an otherwise extremely mediocre team that plays in baseball’s best division.

    He may not have been to the playoffs or won a WS ring, but I don’t really think that’s his fault.

    If I build a dream rotation with pitchers pitching right now, it’s:

    Halladay, Lincecum, Sabathia, Felix Hernandez and Cliff Lee.

  774. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 9:57 pm

    Erica,

    What can I say, great minds think alike! lol

    I’m not into seeing the wave at Yankee Stadium.

    That’s just not good.

  775. pat July 2nd, 2009 at 9:57 pm

    Johnny needs an RBI or 2 this inning.

  776. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:57 pm

    Wave Your Hat
    July 2nd, 2009 at 9:54 pm
    Erica-

    Hope you enjoyed your first game in the Stadium last night. The weather turned out fine, didn’t it? How were your seats?

    ****
    I was way upstairs directly above home plate. I LOVED the new stadium. It was a bit of a wind tunnel where my seat was, but I was really blown away by the new stadium (unintentional pun).

    My biggest complaint of the night was that my ice cream melted all over me before I could make it back to my seat. LOL

    And I control the weather. It didn’t rain because I brought my rain jacket, thus preventing any storm

  777. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 9:57 pm

    Hey does anybody know if there going to hold batting practice tomorrow.

  778. G July 2nd, 2009 at 9:58 pm

    Roy Hallady is one of the few true pitchers out there. Not calling him an ace, or even the best pitcher in baseball is crazy. Hes better than any pitcher the Yankees have had for a years now.

  779. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 9:58 pm

    Notice how Aceves didn’t make any rash moves when he saw the runner taking off.

    He held the ball and waited for Jeter to get to the base.

    Many pitchers would have taken the ball and fired it to the bag as a reaction to the runner going. That happens not too infrequently.

    A year ago he was in AA. The guy really learned how to play the game in the Mexican league.

    But Aceves is so collected out on the mound.

  780. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:59 pm

    I am indifferent to the wave. And I know I am in the minority for this. And I might lose all of my LoHud blog credibility, but I am going to confess anyway….

    I love the YMCA :oops:

  781. jennifer July 2nd, 2009 at 9:59 pm

    I blame Kim Jones for the Yankees being behind in the game. She had to point out to everyone that the Yankees hadn’t trailed in a game since Joe got tossed. It is ALL HER FAULT!

  782. Isaac July 2nd, 2009 at 9:59 pm

    I’m with you pete. I hate the wave. Take it back to Shea and watch the game.

  783. G July 2nd, 2009 at 9:59 pm

    Dream rotation:

    Halladay
    Lincecum
    Felix
    Greinke
    Haren

  784. JK July 2nd, 2009 at 9:59 pm

    A-Rod is mashing the ball… whta is Tex’s excuse? I thought if A-Rod hits, Tex will and when A-Rod doesn’t Tex wont?

  785. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 9:59 pm

    Matsui!!!!!!!!!

  786. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 10:00 pm

    oh thank you hideki

  787. NYY626 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:00 pm

    Matsuiii is looking beastly tonight

  788. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 10:00 pm

    Yes!!

  789. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:00 pm

    “There, I can play the game too. You’ve proved nothing. ”

    Except for my point was correct and yours… is not. CC is an ace by any definition. You seem to be alone in your opposition of this fact.

  790. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:00 pm

    Small playoff sample sizes don’t determine whether someone is an ace. They are just small sample sizes.

    David Wells has an excellent post-season record. He played for over 15 years. He was never considered an ace of a staff. Never.

    An ace of a staff carries a staff and does so for years.

    Halladay carries a staff. CC carries a staff. Santana carries a staff.

    Three guys, no rings, all aces.

    David Wells, 3 rings, never was an ace.

    Its not about the rings, its about the responsibility these guys take on and how they handle that pressure.

  791. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 10:00 pm

    “You are more impressed with his Cy Young award in 07, and his performance with the Brewers last year. Fine, I ‘m not”

    you weren’t impressed with CC’s performance with the Brewers last year ?

  792. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    Ok it’s time to pinch hit Posada for Cervelli.

  793. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    Erica – newly OPPC
    July 2nd, 2009 at 9:49 pm
    GB7-

    I noticed that lousy Brandon is not around tonight. Is he hiding because he stole your rain jacket?

    ————————————————————

    I’ll bet he’s wearing it now and is down in the Villege. watch him come in to the blog and say that it was stolen.

  794. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    G
    July 2nd, 2009 at 9:59 pm
    Dream rotation:

    Halladay
    Lincecum
    Felix
    Greinke
    Haren

    ****
    I actually cheered when Haren went to the NL

  795. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    The Ghost
    July 2nd, 2009 at 9:54 pm
    Erica, there are always exceptions to the rule and Halladay has never played on a team that was good enough to even make the playoffs so he gets a pass until then. CC has been on playoff teams and has not performed the way a true ace would performs in those situations.
    ……………………………………..
    Thank you, Ghost, that is all I am saying.

    Some of you need to get over yourselves, not everyone has to agree on every single issue, or be considered outside the mainstream of what constitutes a “true baseball fan.”

  796. NYY626 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    Erica – newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 9:59 pm

    I am indifferent to the wave. And I know I am in the minority for this. And I might lose all of my LoHud blog credibility, but I am going to confess anyway….

    I love the YMCA
    ______________________________________________________________
    Me too. IMO, a yankee game is not complete without the YMCA, Cotton Eyed Joe, and Enter Sandman.

  797. Vin R July 2nd, 2009 at 10:02 pm

    Seattle has a good bullpen… can’t expect to rally every night.

  798. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:02 pm

    Boo Melky terrible job

  799. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 10:02 pm

    was Christy Mathewson an ace ?

    i’m confused

  800. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:03 pm

    GB7-

    We will interrogate Brandon when he finally shows his face. Or whatever

  801. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:03 pm

    Hrmm this is a pretty stupid move. Cervelli is looking like a AA player at the plate right now because *SHOCKER* that’s what he is

  802. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:03 pm

    Tom Seaver lost the 1st game of the 1969 WS. Was he an ace?

    And was Randy Johnson done being an ace by the time he got to the Yankees, because he sure didn’t perform like one here?

    No one person is going to be perfect every time. An ace is still going to have down games, including in the playoffs.

    It’s a ridiculous argument.

    An ace is a pitcher whose team feels like on the day he pitches they have a very good chance to win.

  803. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 10:03 pm

    come on giradri

  804. Mo July 2nd, 2009 at 10:03 pm

    By those criteria, pretty much nobody is an ace. I would say 5-7 pitchers in all of baseball have the regular season performance + great playoff numbers.

  805. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 10:04 pm

    Come on Jeter

  806. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:04 pm

    NYY626-

    I actually played Enter Sandman on my computer when Mo entered the game on Sunday night in honor of his impending 500th save

    I am also known to play New York, New York after playoff games.

  807. Vader July 2nd, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    Clemens wasn’t an ace until he came here…wait, bad example.

  808. stuart July 2nd, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    Posada has a sore finger.

    how about a productive out Melky?

    Who is more frustrating Swisher and his endless K’s or Cano and his terrible hitting with RISP?????

  809. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    Charles Lindbergh was an ace.

  810. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    this Mariners pitcher throws hard, doesn’t he

  811. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    “Clemens wasn’t an ace until he came here…wait, bad example.”

    Uh oh… can open, worms everywhere

  812. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    SJ44, maybe you were in a coma in ’98 and ’00 but Wells was the “ACE” of the Yankees staff both of those years and was also arguably the ace in 2003 until he broke down in the WS.

  813. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    To classify Beckett as an ace and not Sabathia is stupidity and/or ignorance at it’s worst. Go look at their career stats, they might surprise you.

  814. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    Erica – newly OPPC
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:03 pm
    GB7-

    We will interrogate Brandon when he finally shows his face. Or whatever

    ————————————————————

    He’s gonna look pretty stupid with that raincoat and red vinyl rain boots.

  815. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    I’m guessing Posada’ thumb is not 100% or he would have PH in that situation.

  816. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    nothin :roll:

  817. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    How do you waste a leadoff double? Ugh, pathetic.

  818. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    nasty pitch, oh well

  819. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    :(

  820. jennifer July 2nd, 2009 at 10:07 pm

    Anyone consider that Jorge’s thumb hurts too much to catch or ph? Maybe that is why Cisco hit for himself. Oh and now all of a sudden the catcher who should catch all time time should be ph for. Jesus this place is so bipolar.

  821. OKI/DAVE July 2nd, 2009 at 10:07 pm

    Nicholson didn’t do the wave….but Jeter sure did.

  822. mark July 2nd, 2009 at 10:07 pm

    horrible

  823. stuart July 2nd, 2009 at 10:07 pm

    more clutch AB’s with men in scoring position.

    man at 2nd no outs, he did not move 1 foot………

    that is losing baseball……

  824. jennifer July 2nd, 2009 at 10:07 pm

    SJ- I’m guessing you are right. :lol: But the bipolar people on here can’t figure that out.

  825. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:07 pm

    Did you guys see the pic of Jeter on the back of the Daily News today. Great face

    http://www.nydailynews.com/spo.....pages.html

  826. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 10:08 pm

    >Charles Lindbergh was an ace.

    Baby was a bust.

  827. James (one of the many) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:08 pm

    “If I build a dream rotation with pitchers pitching right now, it’s:

    Halladay, Lincecum, Sabathia, Felix Hernandez and Cliff Lee.”

    I could never pick cliff lee because of who he was before last year

    fun game though:
    Lincecum
    Santana
    Halladay
    Felix Hernandez
    Sabathia

    the young gun rotation:
    Joba
    Josh Johnson
    Yovani Gallardo
    David Price
    Chad Billingsley

  828. Steven July 2nd, 2009 at 10:08 pm

    I just voted 325 times for mark teixeira and ian kinsler, do i have no life? probly

  829. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:08 pm

    David Wells was never, and I repeat never, the ace of the Yankees staff.

    Don’t take his results and determine he’s an ace.

    He was never the ace of the Yankees pitching staff.

  830. haiku-man July 2nd, 2009 at 10:08 pm

    Gardner should have lead off,this line up is sluggishly today.

  831. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 10:08 pm

    “Charles Lindbergh was an ace”

    good call. And i believe that other German also. Red Baron or somethin rather

  832. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 10:08 pm

    Except for my point was correct and yours… is not. CC is an ace by any definition. You seem to be alone in your opposition of this fact.
    …………………………
    Look, Patrick, what you are arguing is not “fact” it is opinion, period!

    Your opinion has no greater or lesser worth than mine, it’s just different, that’s all.

    Like I said previously, let’s see how he performs against the Red Sox, Angels, Tigers, Devil Rays, etc. I may change my opinion.

    Look, SJ, we are not going to agree on this so do me a favor and drop it, thanks.

  833. Harold July 2nd, 2009 at 10:08 pm

    Just not our night

    When your ace gives up 6 runs to the worst offensive team in the AL, you don’t have much of a chance. Can’t expect this team to score 10 runs every night.

  834. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 pm

    even riding a 7 game win streak people whine like little children…this team better go 162-0 next year! = =

  835. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 pm

    An ace is a pitcher whose team feels like on the day he pitches they have a very good chance to win.

    ============

    Would you have ever considered Mussina an ace for the Yankees? If so, then the definition of ace is nothing more than a winning pitcher.

  836. tampayank July 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 pm

    “Erica – newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:07 pm

    Did you guys see the pic of Jeter on the back of the Daily News today. Great face

    http://www.nydailynews.com/spo.....pages.html
    ha ha

  837. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 pm

    GB7-

    Can’t look any sillier than my white jacket with bright red, yellow, and blue butterflies… LOL

    Good news- I found a picture of it.. :-)
    http://www.landsend.com/pp/Sto.....=IDX_00007

  838. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 pm

    Trenton lost as Montero struck out on a 99 MPH fastball to end the game. what a bum.

  839. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 pm

    Patrick,
    Beckett is an ace when he pitches in the playoffs. Did you know what his ERA is in the postseason. CC is a very good pitcher during the regular season but he is not so good in the postseason.

  840. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 pm

    It’s the debate that knows no end.

    One man’s ace is just another man’s face.

  841. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 pm

    Well since my opinion is “right” it is by definition a fact.

    The fact that you are alone in your false opinion should tell you something.

  842. Portal July 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 pm

    Unless someone jacks a couple of HRs to right field… we don’t score.

  843. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 pm

    Damon!!

  844. pat July 2nd, 2009 at 10:11 pm

    Damon with the strong throw.

  845. NYY626 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:11 pm

    Erica, I was trying to figure out why they used that pic of Jeter all morning. Nevertheless, it is funny.

  846. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:11 pm

    Damon showing off the cannon! lol

  847. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 10:11 pm

    when was Johnny Damon’s last assist? Great throw, though…

  848. Trevor July 2nd, 2009 at 10:11 pm

    “Good throw” and Damon in the same sentence is rare.

  849. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:11 pm

    My pretend boyfriend, Johnny Damon just gunned someone down. YAY!!!

    We are winning this game now. That throw cannot be wasted

  850. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:12 pm

    Erica – newly OPPC
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 pm
    GB7-

    Can’t look any sillier than my white jacket with bright red, yellow, and blue butterflies… LOL

    Good news- I found a picture of it..
    http://www.landsend.com/pp/Sto.....=IDX_00007

    ————————————————————

    Mine is better….more subdued. It’s clear plastic with red, blue and yellow butterflies. The classic look.

  851. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    NYY626
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:11 pm
    Erica, I was trying to figure out why they used that pic of Jeter all morning. Nevertheless, it is funny.

    ****
    I think the face Jeter made when they were pitching to him Sunday night with Mo on deck was more classic, but this picture really made me laugh

  852. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    I hate to go all free market on this, but if the highest paid pitcher in baseball is not an ace, who is?

  853. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    hate to see thia brilliant pitching by Aceves go to waste

  854. MG July 2nd, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    Damon’s throw had the velocity of a Tim Wakefield knuckler but was right on target.

  855. Mo July 2nd, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    Pepitone, why not name some aces? Just so we know who you are talking about. I would love to see more than 5-6 names.

  856. tampayank July 2nd, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    Aceves is a stud

  857. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    SJ44, Wells won 5, count them, 5 post season games in ’98. If that’s not an ace, then tell me your definition?

  858. haiku-man July 2nd, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    Ace is a young MO, Solid!!

  859. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:14 pm

    GB7-

    One of my friends at work frequently tells me (in all seriousness) that she thinks the butterflies should be brighter. Like neon

    Cause I am pretty sure you can’t see them from space the way they are now

  860. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:14 pm

    By the way, Pepitone, I want to see you on this blog the next time Sabathia throws a gem saying how he isn’t an ace. It’s funny how I haven’t heard this “Sabathia isn’t an ace” nonsense prior to today.

  861. Greg July 2nd, 2009 at 10:14 pm

    Damon does throw like he is really right handed

  862. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:14 pm

    Erica – newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:11 pm

    My pretend boyfriend, Johnny Damon just gunned someone down. YAY!!!

    We are winning this game now. That throw cannot be wasted

    ===============================

    LOL :lol:

    Let’s get those rally caps on!

  863. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 10:14 pm

    Patrick
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 pm
    Well since my opinion is “right” it is by definition a fact.
    The fact that you are alone in your false opinion should tell you something.
    ………………………..

    Hey, smart ass, why don’t you try reading the posts, I am not alone, and even if I was that does not prove you are right.

    It’s like arguing chocolate ice cream is the best ice cream because it’s more popular than vanilla.

    You are one arrogant ass!

  864. Colorful July 2nd, 2009 at 10:14 pm

    The team did score 4 runs for our “ace”… don’t know what else they need to do. This Mariners pen is good. The Ms can’t hit a lick (which makes CC’s performance even more dreadful), but their pitching is pretty good.

  865. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:15 pm

    Mike Mussina was never the ace of the Yankee staff.

    Roger Clemens was the ace of the staff from ’99-03. Prior to that, it was David Cone.

  866. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:15 pm

    “Mine is better….more subdued. It’s clear plastic with red, blue and yellow butterflies. The classic look.”

    geez GB – I figured you more for a camouflaged slicker man.

  867. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:15 pm

    I hate to go all free market on this, but if the highest paid pitcher in baseball is not an ace, who is?

    ============

    Burnett makes more money than probably 70% of the “aces” in baseball. Is he an ace? The free market is basically just about timing and supply and demand.

  868. stuart July 2nd, 2009 at 10:15 pm

    Aceves ERA is 2.00

    bad situational hitting kills. man at 2nd no outs, he needs to score.. he can without a hit……..

    yanks stink at that…

  869. PJH July 2nd, 2009 at 10:15 pm

    why does the Yankee stadium crowd insist on doing the wave? Its ridiculous. If you pay good money to watch a baseball game, watch the game. Dont do the wave.

  870. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:15 pm

    Look, I’m too tired to formulate a good statement, and I probably should not have even gotten myself involved in the discussion.

    When you’re ace is on the mound, there is a big chance you are going to win that day. And if you’ve lost the day before, you feel confident the losses stop there. It doesn’t always work out that way, because pitchers are human beings and not machines.

  871. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 10:16 pm

    am pretty sure Bob Feller was an ace. Then again i could be wrong

  872. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 10:16 pm

    I don’t think you become an ace by success in a series or two. You don’t become ann ace by winning in the World Series or winning the big game. Lots of pitchers do that.

    You need sustained excellence. CC has had that over a long period of time.

  873. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:16 pm

    Snoopy was an ace.

  874. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:16 pm

    Erica – newly OPPC
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:14 pm
    GB7-

    One of my friends at work frequently tells me (in all seriousness) that she thinks the butterflies should be brighter. Like neon

    Cause I am pretty sure you can’t see them from space the way they are now

    ————————————————————

    Your friend is wrong. Neon would be garish. I refuse to look silly wearing that.

  875. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:17 pm

    PJH
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:15 pm
    why does the Yankee stadium crowd insist on doing the wave? Its ridiculous. If you pay good money to watch a baseball game, watch the game. Dont do the wave.

    ***
    Do you also frown upon getting up to buy beer and using the bathroom? It does take away from game viewing

  876. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:17 pm

    Careful Pepitone, you breaking the rules on this blog. You can’t call other people names.

    I’ve been very careful not to insult you or call you a name. I’m sorry you are so hurt.

    Everyone is wrong sometimes, try not to be so sensitive big guy.

  877. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:17 pm

    SJ, if Cone was the ace in ’98, why did Wells start game 1 of the division series? I don’t seem to remember that year coming down to the wire…

  878. stuart July 2nd, 2009 at 10:17 pm

    TEx is ice cold again…

    man when he is cold he is frigid…

    going down like lambs to slaughter at least battle….

  879. Dave C July 2nd, 2009 at 10:18 pm

    I wouldn’t consider CC an “ace”… he is a winning pitcher, like Mussina. Going to keep you in the game most of the time, dominate on some nights, and have his fair share of “ehhh” performances.

    What he did in the NL doesn’t interest me. Jeff Karstens did well in the NL too.

  880. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:18 pm

    DT – OPPC member (it’s in our blood)
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:16 pm
    Snoopy was an ace.

    ***
    Snoopy destroyed the Red Baron.

    I still want my Yankee Snoopy this year. I always manage to just miss Yankee Snoopy night

  881. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 10:18 pm

    naturally

  882. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    Just missed it :(

  883. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    Hmmmm pretty pathetic performance by the Yankee offense. You can’t expect to win with only 4 runs.

  884. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    Kay has to learn this stadium, he was giving his “no doubt” call.

  885. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    dam you YES camera angle!!…that should only result in a homerun

  886. Maria July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    He just missed it! Ahh! Come on boys!

  887. NYY626 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    Darn :( Good AB Alex

  888. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    Sometimes, it just ain’t your night.

  889. vinny-b July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    “Snoopy was an ace”

    is it Snoopy or the Red Baron, or are they the same person?

  890. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    so that sucked.

  891. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    GB7-

    I actually called my dad before I left for the game to ask him if it would embarrass him to be seen with me if I wore my rain jacket with bright butterflies

    He said no. Smart man

  892. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    DT – OPPC member (it’s in our blood)
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:15 pm
    “Mine is better….more subdued. It’s clear plastic with red, blue and yellow butterflies. The classic look.”

    geez GB – I figured you more for a camouflaged slicker man.

    ————————————————————

    if I wore a camoflague raincoat in the city, the cars couldn’t see me because I would look like a building and a street.

  893. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:20 pm

    just missed it.

    ok, looks like the Yanks will have to win it in the 9th against Aardsma.

  894. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 10:20 pm

    The Ghost=

    You misinterpreted my post. I didn’t say all highly paid pitchers were aces, and I didn’t say all aces were highly paid.

    But CC just got the highest pitcher contract in history. He’s an ace.

    I thought ARod’s fly was going out for sure.

  895. Ian July 2nd, 2009 at 10:20 pm

    Nice to see Tex earning his money.

    Is he going to give back his paycheck for April and June?

    What a frustrating player to watch, incredibly streaky,,,,,,,

  896. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    arod just missed too bad no jet stream

  897. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    Careful Pepitone, you breaking the rules on this blog. You can’t call other people names.
    I’ve been very careful not to insult you or call you a name. I’m sorry you are so hurt.
    Everyone is wrong sometimes, try not to be so sensitive big guy.
    ……………………………

    Hey, don’t worry yourself, Sport. It’s not name calling when it’s the truth.

    I’m not hurt, I just hate seeing such ignorance parading about as intelligent thought, then patting itself on the back as if it did something really, really cool.

  898. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    Not feelin’ the vibe tonight. :)

  899. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    How many times have the Yanks lost a game this year when Boston had a day off?

  900. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    Is Melky due up in the bottom of the ninth? Yes? I think I’ll stick around…

  901. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    “CC has been on playoff teams and has not performed the way a true ace would performs in those situations.”

    Everyone is entitled to their opinion on this, however I’d ask people to take this fact into account when interpreting CC’s post season performance.

    Each year he’s been in the playoffs he had to throw over 240 innings just to get his team into the playoffs.

    Two years ago the threw 240 innings for the Indians. Last year he threw 253 innings. 253 innings and put up an era of 2.70 over those 253 innings.

    By the time he gets to the playoffs, CC has thrown far more innings – far more – than any of the current pitchers considered to be an ace who have pitched in the playoffs.

    People are always talking about Josh Beckett. The most innings he’s ever thrown in a season is 204. 204. Is that an ace?

    And it seems to me that a guy who throws 250 innings has contributed much more value than a guy who throws 204 max.

    But at the same time throwing that many innings is definitely going to affect how much a pitcher has in the tank to pitch in the playoffs.

    I watched CC’s game against the Phillies last year – he was dead. His arm was just hanging. He was exhausted.

    So to speak about his posseason era etc. is misleading. He had to put his teams on his back for them to even make the playoffs in the first place.

    Have Josh Beckett throw 250 innings in the regular season and then let’s see how much of a legend he is in the post season.

  902. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    First error

  903. Kyle CA July 2nd, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    Aces don’t lose to teams like Seattle

  904. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:22 pm

    Tough night for Tex

  905. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 10:22 pm

    tex playing awful defense tonight, oh well

  906. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 10:22 pm

    Game over

  907. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 10:22 pm

    Yankees suck.

  908. igotid88 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:22 pm

    what happened to the jetstream with ALex’s flyball.

  909. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    ……Too much energy being wasted on one’s interpretation of what an Ace is……Whitey Ford was the Ace…The best pitcher on the best team and won in October more than anyone ever has….

  910. teddy July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    is sea night, oh well

  911. Trevor July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    Wow off the Mohegan Bar.

  912. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    Erica – newly OPPC
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 pm
    GB7-

    I actually called my dad before I left for the game to ask him if it would embarrass him to be seen with me if I wore my rain jacket with bright butterflies

    He said no. Smart man

    ————————————————————

    Was he choking when he said it?

  913. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    I’m not too sure why Girardi tried to stretch Aceves to 3 innings. Doesn’t make much sense to me.

  914. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    Ask Joe Torre who the ace of the ’98 staff was and he won’t say David Wells.

    Wells started Game 1 for matchup reasons.

    Post-season wins don’t denote an ace. Again, that’s a small sample size.

    Over the course of his career, David Wells has never been an ace of a staff.

    You gotta stop looking at small sizes or decide the only month that matter is October because that doesn’t determine an ace.

  915. igotid88 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    Crap. You knew Branyan was due

  916. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    :cry:

    Just one of those games

  917. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    Umm- does that mean the 9th inning comeback will be even more dramatic?

  918. rconn23 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    Ugh. Not a game Tex will want to put in the ol’ time capsule.

  919. Kangaroo July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    We haven’t had a rally win in over a month have we? That Mets game doesn’t count.

    The last one we had was that Sunday game against Tampa

  920. Maria July 2nd, 2009 at 10:24 pm

    For all the times Tex has saved our butts with his incredible defense, I will take an error that only results in a single. Unfortunately Branyon had to homer right after it. That’s baseball.

  921. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:24 pm

    GreenBeret7
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 pm

    Was he choking when he said it?
    ***
    hahaha. No. He was on another call and rushing me off the phone :lol:

  922. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:24 pm

    Shucks.

    Is Tex feeling okay?

    Did Aceves actually fun to first faster than Tex anticipated?

    It doesn’t matter now, ’cause Aceves threw one bad pitch and wow, that was a shot.

  923. Horace Clarke July 2nd, 2009 at 10:25 pm

    Michael Kay is the TV version of John Sterling. With every fly ball hit by a Yankee, he starts his HR call. His play by play is getting worse by the game.

    Now Branyan hits one and he barely acknowledges it as it’s hit. And only gets into it since it hit the restaurant.

  924. haiku-man July 2nd, 2009 at 10:25 pm

    This game is on Joe,he left CC in too long,and Ace came in the 6th. Bad game mgmt. RS back to 3

  925. rconn23 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:25 pm

    And dat’s dat. Oh well, nice to have a day game tomorrow.

  926. Cameron July 2nd, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    This guy is not worth $180 million

    Manny (suspension aside) would have been a much better allotment of money. Atleast he doesn’t go through terrible slumps and can hit in the clutch.

  927. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    That ball by Branyon has nothing to do with jetstreams. It was in the black seats in the Old YS.

  928. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    I watched CC’s game against the Phillies last year – he was dead. His arm was just hanging. He was exhausted.
    So to speak about his posseason era etc. is misleading. He had to put his teams on his back for them to even make the playoffs in the first place.
    Have Josh Beckett throw 250 innings in the regular season and then let’s see how much of a legend he is in the post season.
    …………………………………

    Thanks, CB, for a well-reasoned, and respectful, argument. You make some very impressive points. But, like I said, I want to see him perform like an “ace” against the teams we need him to be an “ace.”

    We, just disagree on this, but that’s no reason to be disagreeable, and I appreciate your tone.

  929. SJ44 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    “Aces don’t lose to teams like Seattle”.

    Once the idiots come on, and this is an example of idiocy, that’s my out cue for the evening. Night all.

    Def Con 5 Troll Alert on here now.

  930. joe. July 2nd, 2009 at 10:27 pm

    ahh he was due after 7 straight k’s

  931. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 10:27 pm

    I’m almost wishing I could see Erica’s much-discussed, bright butterflied raincoat, lol.

  932. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:27 pm

    “This guy is not worth $180 million

    Manny (suspension aside) would have been a much better allotment of money. Atleast he doesn’t go through terrible slumps and can hit in the clutch.”

    thanks for the info…i thought you red sox fans dont like manny anymore?…oh sorry…you just hate tex more because he signed with us

  933. kerouac July 2nd, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    screw cervelli. get montero up here. the kid homered again tonight.

    i jest for now but this kid must be some kind of hitter for age 19. that’s how old mantle was when he joined the yanks in 1951.

    maybe next year instead of 2011.

  934. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    It was a good run while it lasted, SJ. :D

  935. jennifer July 2nd, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    Glad to see everyone came out from under their rocks. This team just won 7 in a row! They aren’t going to win every single game.

    CC had a bad game, case closed. That doesn’t mean he is no longer the ace. He had a very good streak going and didn’t have it. SO WHAT!

  936. Horace Clarke July 2nd, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    “Michael Kay is the TV version of John Sterling. With every fly ball hit by a Yankee, he starts his HR call. His play by play is getting worse by the game.”

    I meant to add that those fly balls hit that he is set to call as home runs are typically caught on or near the warning track.

  937. Vader July 2nd, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    Def Con 5 Troll Alert…lol

  938. Stew July 2nd, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    Who would have thought that Burnett would earn his money this month instead of Tex and CC? This team just can’t get it together at the same time.

  939. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    Angel-

    You can!!! Look at 10:12. I posted a link. LOL

  940. jennifer July 2nd, 2009 at 10:29 pm

    SJ- Is it possible to raise it higher? My god, you’d think the Yankees were on a 7 game losing streak.

  941. Someone Else July 2nd, 2009 at 10:30 pm

    “Who would have thought that Burnett would earn his money this month instead of Tex and CC? This team just can’t get it together at the same time.”

    They’ve won 7 straight.

    But if they don’t win 162 straight, it’s because they suck.

    Wow. Yankees fans = idiots.

  942. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 10:30 pm

    “”Snoopy was an ace”

    is it Snoopy or the Red Baron, or are they the same person?”

    Snoopy wasn’t an ace. The Red Baron was an ace. He made the big bucks. Snoopy was a plucky flyboy just trying to do his best for home and country.

    Kinda reminds me of old GB7…

  943. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:30 pm

    hmmmm….

    1) many new user names appearing tonight.
    2) many of those posts are ragging on Teixeira.
    3) the Red Sox aren’t playing today.

    1+2+3 = trolls.

  944. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:30 pm

    CB, Jack Morris threw 240 innings in 1984 and had one of the most dominant post seasons in history. I just don’t buy it. I think some players just thrive in high pressure situations and others thrive all the other times. Arod is a good example of this as well. This is not to say CC is not an ace or that Alex is not an MVP because there is definitely great value in players that are consistent performers that keep their teams in contention – but an ace – in my opinion is a pitcher that puts their team over the top. It’s a special title and should be reserved for the players that are consistent in the RS and can perform well in the most high pressure, must win situations.

  945. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:30 pm

    Pepitone, you need to relax. Don’t get yourself so worked up. Throwing around these ridiculous insults is pretty unacceptable. I’m sorry that I’m more intelligent than you and can logically come to the conclusion that CC Sabathia is an ace. Relax and accept the facts, don’t lash out chief.

  946. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 10:31 pm

    Maria
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:24 pm
    For all the times Tex has saved our butts with his incredible defense, I will take an error that only results in a single. Unfortunately Branyon had to homer right after it. That’s baseball.
    …………………

    Absolutely, Maria, the guy has probably saved us more games through his terrific defense than most guys do with offense. I have zero worries about Mark, he will come through when it counts. He is going through a slump, just like all players.

  947. Yanks 192 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:31 pm

    CC has an ERA of almost 4 this year. He has not been THAT good…

    His value is his innings, not necessarily his dominance.

  948. jennifer July 2nd, 2009 at 10:31 pm

    DT- LOL

    Tex has his first really bad game and the idiots come out and complain. Where were they when he was on fire?

  949. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:32 pm

    Johnny Damon made the Play of the Game!!!

    Has that ever happened before???

    Please note: I tease because I actually love Johnny

  950. Rebecca--Optimist Prime July 2nd, 2009 at 10:32 pm

    If the Sox can blow a 10-1 game against the Orioles, we are allowed to lose to the Mariners once in a while.

    And four runs is not a blow out.

    And the game isn’t even over.

  951. tampayank July 2nd, 2009 at 10:33 pm

    hey they won the series…..they’re in good shape, just can’t go on losing streaks w/ the Sox and Rays right there

  952. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:33 pm

    Erica -

    That is a cheery raincoat! :)

  953. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:33 pm

    jennifer
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:29 pm
    SJ- Is it possible to raise it higher? My god, you’d think the Yankees were on a 7 game losing streak.

    ————————————————————

    Only if they go to Melt-Down and then Nuclear Winter 5.

  954. XD430 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:33 pm

    Why do Sox fans need to rag on Teixeria? They have a 1B who is better and 10x cheaper.

  955. Boston Dave 2.0 - the kinder gentler version July 2nd, 2009 at 10:33 pm

    “Jack Morris threw 240 innings in 1984 and had one of the most dominant post seasons in history. ”

    ———–

    that’s one example.

    CC, from what I’ve seen, would get to the playoffs and try to overthrow.

    He put so much pressure on himself to be perfect that he pitched differently than he did in the regular season.

    I think it’s only a matter of time before CC has stellar postseasons (starting in 2009, I hope).

    Still, the idea that a pitcher has to pitch well in the playoffs to be an ace seems ridiculous to me.

    Pitching well in the postseason can vault a pitcher into elite status, hall of fame, etc.

    But just to be an ace? That’s easy. CC’s done it.

  956. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:34 pm

    Doreen!!!

    I know!!! It actually cheers me up when I wear it on dreary rainy days. You can’t be sad when you are wearing bright butterflies. It’s not medically possible

  957. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 10:34 pm

    Perhaps CC is an ace who did not pitch like an ace tonight…

  958. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:34 pm

    SJ, I don’t have to ask Torre who was the ace of the ’98 staff because he not only had Wells start the DS but the ALCS and the WS as well. I watched every game that year and probably read every article, Wells was the ace of that staff and not only that it was arguably the best pitching staff top to bottom in baseball history.

  959. Cellar July 2nd, 2009 at 10:35 pm

    The team did score 4 runs today… if CC had decided to show up, they would have won.

    We scored 4 yesterday and won. We scored 4 against the Mets and won.

    This team shouldn’t have to score 10 runs every night.

  960. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 10:35 pm

    Patrick, you’re losing credibility by carrying this way too far….

  961. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 10:35 pm

    Just a bad night overall for the team, but they still have a good pitcher going tomorrow in AJ so that gives them a chance. The offense is what it is – inconsitent and bad (for the most part) with RISP – and it’s not going to change.

    Tex is very streaky himself – he had a torrid stretch, but outside of that he has been a disappointment offensively and I’m inclined to agree that he should not start the All-Star game.

  962. Boston Dave 2.0 - the kinder gentler version July 2nd, 2009 at 10:35 pm

    “but an ace – in my opinion is a pitcher that puts their team over the top”

    ——

    so Halladay is not an ace then?

    He certainly hasn’t put Toronto over the top.

  963. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:36 pm

    one at a time… everyone hits…. come on… just singles.

  964. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:36 pm

    Actually, one important fact is being overlooked in this ace debate.

    In order to MAKE the playoffs, you need to pitch consistantly well for your team and be dominant in your starts. If you aren’t dominating in your 30 starts, you team is not making the playoffs. Which makes the rest of the argument rather moot

  965. Boston Dave 2.0 - the kinder gentler version July 2nd, 2009 at 10:37 pm

    “The team did score 4 runs today… if CC had decided to show up, they would have won.”

    ———

    true.

    This Seattle lineup shouldn’t be scoring 8 runs.

    Still, CC has been pitching well for the most part. Even the best have a dud start every once in a while.

  966. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 10:37 pm

    Poor Aceves – he’d done such a good job, too, but one bad pitch. Still, the guy has been just terrific for us…….a real lifesaver for the pen

  967. Maria July 2nd, 2009 at 10:37 pm

    No GIDP boys! Let’s bring them home!!!

  968. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:37 pm

    there is another… come on… OPPC believes!

  969. Boston Dave 2.0 - the kinder gentler version July 2nd, 2009 at 10:37 pm

    ““The team did score 4 runs today… if CC had decided to show up, they would have won.””

    ——-

    p.s. be careful saying “would have”

    they still might

    Let’s go Comeback Kids!!!!

  970. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:37 pm

    “Patrick, you’re losing credibility by carrying this way too far….”

    You’re right I am. I should probably stop right now. Sorry, I’m just a little ticked I was called a smart ass, arrogant ass, etc. I thought that was against blog rules?

    You’re right though, enough of this silly argument.

  971. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:38 pm

    Can we maybe agree that there’s such a thing as an “Ace” and and “ace of a staff?”

  972. Joe from Long Island July 2nd, 2009 at 10:38 pm

    With all this talk of who’s an ace….We’ve got a rally going.

  973. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:38 pm

    Wow, Hideki is totally the guy you want up right now, if he doesn’t get a hit it just isn’t the Yankees night.

  974. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:38 pm

    hhhhhmmmmmm

  975. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:39 pm

    Doreen, I’ll agree to that, but I think we should keep arguing for the sake of the rally ;)

  976. Danny Boy July 2nd, 2009 at 10:39 pm

    No Gardner = No win

    Bench Swisher this weekend and play Gardner and we will see this team play with an edge and with a spark

  977. Trevor July 2nd, 2009 at 10:39 pm

    Yanks teasing again.

  978. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:39 pm

    Come on Godzilla.. I am totally playing Godzilla by BOC for him

  979. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 10:40 pm

    Also, was that Aceves 4th inning? That’s a lot…….was it necessary to use him for that long? He’s now no good for the next few games……

  980. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:40 pm

    Boston Dave, I already gave Halladay a pass way upthread.

  981. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:40 pm

    I liek that idea. ace ace ace ace ace… argue people :mad:

  982. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 10:40 pm

    SJ44
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:26 pm
    “Aces don’t lose to teams like Seattle”.
    Once the idiots come on, and this is an example of idiocy, that’s my out cue for the evening. Night all.
    Def Con 5 Troll Alert on here now.
    …………………………………………..
    If this is the SJ44 from last year, he either has had a brain transplant, or someone is trying to impersonate him.

    SJ44 never called posters names, and he never wet his pants over posters who disagreed with him like this dude does.

  983. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:41 pm

    good AB Matsui! hang in there!

  984. Boston Dave 2.0 - the kinder gentler version July 2nd, 2009 at 10:41 pm

    cmon Matsui!! draw the walk

  985. RalphieD (OPPC) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:41 pm

    “Also, was that Aceves 4th inning? That’s a lot…….was it necessary to use him for that long? He’s now no good for the next few games……”

    he pitched 2.1 innings

  986. Maria July 2nd, 2009 at 10:41 pm

    Come on Hideki! Make him walk you!!!!

  987. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 10:42 pm

    Patrick
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:30 pm
    Pepitone, you need to relax. Don’t get yourself so worked up. Throwing around these ridiculous insults is pretty unacceptable. I’m sorry that I’m more intelligent than you and can logically come to the conclusion that CC Sabathia is an ace. Relax and accept the facts, don’t lash out chief.
    ………………………..

    What are you, some sort of sick stalker, or something? Get your nose out of my butt, and go play outside, read a book, breathe the fresh air, get an education.

  988. Bob(the original) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:43 pm

    They always seem to tease don’t they?

  989. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:43 pm

    Umm- can you stop with the nastiness??

    You can have your opinion, but don’t be mean

  990. Peter Abraham July 2nd, 2009 at 10:43 pm

    I have to say, it’s very funny how some of you decide to judge a player based on one night in July.

    Tonight was .06 percent of the season. Calm down.

  991. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:44 pm

    it’s still not over…. bloop and a blast here.

  992. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 10:44 pm

    I hate it when they tease us :(

  993. Trevor July 2nd, 2009 at 10:44 pm

    Where was Posada in the 7th inning with Matsui on second?

  994. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:44 pm

    down to the last out

  995. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 10:44 pm

    Ralphie, thanks – I have no clue why I thought he pitched 4 innings. I think I need a good night’s sleep, lol…….

  996. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:45 pm

    Now I’m an arrogant ass, a smart ass and a sick stalker. *Sigh*

  997. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 10:45 pm

    LOL. I’m afraid I’m going to have to join you in the Fashion Hall of Shame, because I think its really cute.

    Its practical too.. no one is going to run you over in a rainstorm wearing that!

  998. Boston Dave 2.0 - the kinder gentler version July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    “I have to say, it’s very funny how some of you decide to judge a player based on one night in July.

    Tonight was .06 percent of the season. Calm down.”

    ——–

    such is life at the LoHud Yankees Blog.

    except I think it’s 0.6 %

  999. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    I thought Aceves was in longer, too, but realized it wasn’t really – just one out in the 6th.

    Anyway, Halladay as an ace is the key to the argument here. I think you have to leave the playoffs out of it. A guy can be an Ace without being in the playoffs.

    And established Aces, like Tom Seaver, have lost playoff games/WS games.

    I think playoffs/WS should not be what you base whether a guy is a great player or not (position players included), because they are short series situations, where anything can happen and usually does.

  1000. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    I like the way the Yanks are battling to the end. This is how the championship teams used to end games. Making them earn it.

  1001. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    Wow, and I thought I was prickly.

  1002. James (one of the many) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    “Its practical too.. no one is going to run you over in a rainstorm wearing that!”

    /adjust voice/ Bruno might

  1003. carl July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    That was a horrible at bat :( oh well

  1004. Pat M. July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    Pepitone I believe knows the game as well as anyone here, and has probably seen more baseball than most here…He has a higher standard when tossing out aculades around…I tend to agree with him on this…There was a time when baseball had only a few true Ace type pitchers who over the years would consistently be one of the top guns in baseball….Jack Morris was sited earlier, and for a few years he was an Ace type pitcher….Much is open to interpretations today, it’s just the tossing around of big money now a days….

  1005. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    Thank you Angel!!!

    And it keeps me dry!!! LOL.
    To anyone who would see me on the street, I probably look like a crazy lady. But if you know me and my personality, it goes perfectly.

    I also got it 30% off :-)

  1006. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    Oy. No vibe tonight. Oh, well. They did take the series. Start a new streak tomorrow.

  1007. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 10:47 pm

    Pretty weak performance for anyone not named Robinson Cano or Hideki Matsui

  1008. haiku-man July 2nd, 2009 at 10:47 pm

    CC was a dud tonight.

  1009. Steve B July 2nd, 2009 at 10:47 pm

    “Now I’m an arrogant ass, a smart ass and a sick stalker. *Sigh*”

    I don’ think you’re arrogant. :)

  1010. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:47 pm

    This team just has not been the same since they sent Pena down.

  1011. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:48 pm

    The Ghost
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:47 pm
    This team just has not been the same since they sent Pena down.

    ***
    Is this a joke? They won last night and Pena was no longer ont he roster.

  1012. Steve B July 2nd, 2009 at 10:48 pm

    Every so often the ace, and Sabathia is an ace, just doesn;t have it. Not his night tonite. He’ll be back and so will he Yankees.

  1013. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 10:49 pm

    Long arguments get both side’s back up. Patrick is a good guy, and I’m sure Pepitone is a good guy too.

    But CC is an ace, IMO. He just lost tonight.

  1014. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:49 pm

    The Seattle bats wake up, in time for Boston.
    Keep playing well Mariners. Don’t stop now.

  1015. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:49 pm

    Oh, God!!! Life is over as we know it. NASA has just announced that the Earth has spun off of it’s axis and that dizzy feeling you have is the Earth spinning off in space. My guess is destination sun.

  1016. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:49 pm

    DT – OPPC member (it’s in our blood)
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:49 pm
    The Seattle bats wake up, in time for Boston.
    Keep playing well Mariners. Don’t stop now.

    ***
    Amen to that

  1017. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:50 pm

    can’t win them all :(

    Afternoon delight tomorrow

  1018. Mike July 2nd, 2009 at 10:50 pm

    horrible/ fail / :(

  1019. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:50 pm

    Erica, I was just kidding. But if they start losing when Cervelli gets sent down…

  1020. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:50 pm

    DT -

    That is a good attitude. We get the series, and still send Seattle away feeling good and ready to take on the Sox! :lol:

  1021. Bronx Jeers July 2nd, 2009 at 10:51 pm

    The Hinske streak is over?

  1022. Steve B July 2nd, 2009 at 10:51 pm

    “My guess is destination sun.”

    Anywhere we can get a couple days without rain is cool with me.

  1023. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:51 pm

    S.A.–The sun will come out tomorrow; I’m down with the OPPC
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:50 pm
    can’t win them all

    Afternoon delight tomorrow

    ***
    Ooh- afternoon baseball on a Friday. I like it. Goes perfect with the beach on my last day of vacation

  1024. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:52 pm

    The Ghost
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:50 pm
    Erica, I was just kidding. But if they start losing when Cervelli gets sent down…
    ***
    I thought so. But I am rather gullible. I don’t always catch on.

    Okay. No losing streak when Cervelli gets sent down.

  1025. Banks July 2nd, 2009 at 10:52 pm

    I consider Burnett more of an ace than CC

    AJ’s numbers are skewed by the Boston starts, the Philly start, and the Toronto start. Take those out and he has been better than CC.

    I have more confidence in AJ pitching a big game than I do CC, especially this month.

  1026. jfinfonsfosnf July 2nd, 2009 at 10:52 pm

    The Teixeira error hurt because it would of been only a 3 run game with Branyan homer.

    Cant really complain that Aceves was still in the game he was rolling. When they were playing the marlins everyone was complaining that Girardi took Aceves out too quickly after he threw 40 plus pitches you cant have it both ways.

  1027. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 10:52 pm

    Angel (OPPC) – A tale told by idiots – full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm
    Wow, and I thought I was prickly.

    ————————————————————

    I suppose it would be safer not to comment on this.

  1028. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:53 pm

    So if this is Matsui heating up, that’s another good thing to take from this game, right? And Cano might be feeling good, too?

  1029. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 10:53 pm

    Most aces have had plenty of bad games in their careeres…..this game will not go in CC’s personal archives, but so what? He’s human. The rest of the team didn’t pick him up – not a good game for them at all. The key is to bounce back tomorrow. I admit that I don’t love the offense, but if AJ can pitch like he has been pitching, we’ll have a good chance to win. I would just like to see him be more consistent at home……maybe he should throw more 2-seamers and go for the ground outs.

  1030. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:53 pm

    So how many girls out there just ordered butterfly rain coats?? (Men, don’t be embarrassed if you did too :lol: )

  1031. The Ghost July 2nd, 2009 at 10:54 pm

    Seattle totally deserved that game today, but it was good to see the Yankees hang in there during a game where they were totally outplayed.

  1032. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:54 pm

    Banks, are there any starts left after you take those out? :lol:

  1033. jfinfonsfosnf July 2nd, 2009 at 10:56 pm

    Steve B
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:48 pm
    Every so often the ace, and Sabathia is an ace, just doesn;t have it. Not his night tonite. He’ll be back and so will he Yankees.

    —————————————-

    Exactly Sabathia had a bad night people cant expect him to throw a shutout every game. Anybody that says Sabathia is not an ace is kidding themselves, he is a top 10 maybe even top 5 pitcher in baseball.

  1034. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 10:56 pm

    Erica =

    Not yet, but I’m seriously considering it, if not for me, then for my daughters. (Older one is away at school, so no danger of dressing them alike far after it’s “cute” to do so.) :lol:

  1035. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:56 pm

    Doreen
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:54 pm
    Banks, are there any starts left after you take those out?

    ****
    Hahaha, yes Doreen. The two he pitched like a stud

  1036. Mark July 2nd, 2009 at 10:56 pm

    We haven’t had a rally win in weeks…. we emptied our tank early by winning all those come from behind games and it is coming full circle now.

    Over the past month, it has been mostly failed attempts (Boston game, Nationals games, Marlins games, tonight, Mets pop-up game should have been a loss etc.)

    These things always even out over the course of the year. We won those games early in the year consecutively, now are coming up short in every attempt consecutively. You didn’t think we would win 50 games in the 8th-9th, did you?

  1037. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 10:57 pm

    Cute and a bargain! A shopper after my own heart, Erica. LOL

  1038. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:57 pm

    Doreen
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:56 pm
    Erica =

    Not yet, but I’m seriously considering it, if not for me, then for my daughters. (Older one is away at school, so no danger of dressing them alike far after it’s “cute” to do so.)
    ***
    That’s awesome. I wore it to work on a rainy Saturday during busy season. As I was modelling it for a friend, a partner that everyone is scared of walked in and looked at me. He goes, “oh, you look so cute. My daughter used to wear the same coat. When she was 5″

  1039. DT - OPPC member (it's in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:58 pm

    The last time GB wore a rain jacket with bright butterflies, we had to take up a Lohud collection for bail money.

    Who knew Savannah had flasher laws? ;-)

  1040. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 10:59 pm

    DT – OPPC member (it’s in our blood)
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:58 pm
    The last time GB wore a rain jacket with bright butterflies, we had to take up a Lohud collection for bail money.

    Who knew Savannah had flasher laws?
    ****
    I would donate to the cause right now if we could get a pic of him in that get up

  1041. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 10:59 pm

    Angel (OPPC) – A tale told by idiots – full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm
    Wow, and I thought I was prickly.
    ————————————————————
    I suppose it would be safer not to comment on this.

    ********************************************

    What I wouldn’t give for an emoticon that shows a smart-assed smiley face raising its middle finger right about now.

    :lol:

  1042. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 11:00 pm

    Oh, Erica – that person sounds so charming.

  1043. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 11:00 pm

    Oy, now I see on my other fav board that fans are whining about this being a fragile, weak team. I think the Yankees are very flawed, but they are not weak.

  1044. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 11:00 pm

    Oy, now I see on my other fav board that fans are whining about this being a fragile, weak team. I think the Yankees are very flawed, but they are not weak.

  1045. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 11:00 pm

    “So if this is Matsui heating up, that’s another good thing to take from this game, right? And Cano might be feeling good, too?”

    I hope so Doreen. I think everything depends on how his knees feel that particular day.

    The past couple of days he looks much more stable and his swing much better.

    It’s a very different line up when he’s hitting.

  1046. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 11:00 pm

    Pat M.
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm
    Pepitone I believe knows the game as well as anyone here, and has probably seen more baseball than most here…He has a higher standard when tossing out aculades around…I tend to agree with him on this…There was a time when baseball had only a few true Ace type pitchers who over the years would consistently be one of the top guns in baseball….Jack Morris was sited earlier, and for a few years he was an Ace type pitcher….Much is open to interpretations today, it’s just the tossing around of big money now a days….
    ………………………….

    Thanks, Pat M. I guess we both have experienced this “you’re not a true baseball fan”/”you have no knowledge of baseball unless you agree with me,” nonsense enough to know it’s childish and arrogant.

    Patrick: A word to the wise, don’t play little miss innocent on this, nothing would have escalated if you hadn’t started calling me (and by the way I never attacked you, I used a word to accurately describe your attitude – arrogant. And “ass” can mean more than one’s posterior), and everyone who disagreed with you a baseball ignoramus. It was, also, the height of arrogance for you to characterize your opinion as “fact” and any other opinion as simply objectively “wrong.”

    Your condescending tone was nauseating.

    Learn a little humility and you will go far.

  1047. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:00 pm

    DT – OPPC member (it’s in our blood) July 2nd, 2009 at 10:58 pm

    The last time GB wore a rain jacket with bright butterflies, we had to take up a Lohud collection for bail money.

    Who knew Savannah had flasher laws?

    ============================

    Aw hahahaha :lol:

  1048. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 11:01 pm

    LOL DT. Now that was quick!

  1049. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 11:01 pm

    DT – OPPC member (it’s in our blood)
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:58 pm
    The last time GB wore a rain jacket with bright butterflies, we had to take up a Lohud collection for bail money.

    Who knew Savannah had flasher laws?

    ———————————————————–

    I figure that I’m safe on that front. The beat cops are too busy arresting the vice squad to bother with me.

  1050. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:02 pm

    Doreen
    July 2nd, 2009 at 11:00 pm
    Oh, Erica – that person sounds so charming.

    ***
    No, he was laughing when he said it. It was actually really funny. He stops by my desk every day to talk Yankee baseball with me. For some reason he is grumpy with everyone but me. I think its cause I am cute and loveable

  1051. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 11:03 pm

    YES post-game Booth Report:

    http://www.zshare.net/audio/6215892199e5d453/

  1052. DC 212 July 2nd, 2009 at 11:03 pm

    Toronto is a very good team and we face their 2 best pitchers, Romero and Halladay.

    Not going to be easy.

  1053. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:03 pm

    Angel-

    I never heard from you.. did you want my copy of the Jane Heller book?

  1054. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 11:04 pm

    There is a special level of Dante’s Inferno reserved for snide partners who insult awesome butterflied raincoats.

    His 5 year old should be LUCKY to have that much taste! LOL

  1055. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 11:04 pm

    CB -

    The irony is, if he gets hits, he has to run. So, he beats up his knees on the basepaths. I don’t know if maybe the answer is not letting him even DH everyday, but as you said, when he’s hitting it’s usually a much better line up.

    Now, I hope Tex comes around soon. His play in the field wasn’t great tonight, and I’m wondering if he’s a bit under the weather.

  1056. HiBETSY!! July 2nd, 2009 at 11:04 pm

    hi betsy! what other website are you talking about that you go to?? Please tell us so we could all go there!!

  1057. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 11:04 pm

    Angel (OPPC) – A tale told by idiots – full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:59 pm
    Angel (OPPC) – A tale told by idiots – full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm
    Wow, and I thought I was prickly.
    ————————————————————
    I suppose it would be safer not to comment on this.

    ********************************************

    What I wouldn’t give for an emoticon that shows a smart-assed smiley face raising its middle finger right about now.

    ————————————————————LMAO. : )~~~~~

  1058. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 11:05 pm

    Did you offer it? I’m sorry if you did I didn’t see you post that. Umm yes, I might be interested – if you’re offering, that is.

  1059. Doreen July 2nd, 2009 at 11:05 pm

    Erica -

    Ahh. Okay. :)

  1060. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:06 pm

    Where is the butterfly raincoat from? I think I missed it

  1061. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:07 pm

    Angel-

    Absolutely! Its not really a book you read more than once, but its really cute. My bookshelf is overflowing and it actually lives on my floor next to the bookshelf. So if you want it, its yours. My e-mail address is gypsyelmo@yahoo.com
    If you send me your address, I will mail it tomorrow

  1062. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 11:07 pm

    I think it’s important we win tomorrow. Saturday is brutal – sorry, but Wang v. Halladay?

  1063. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:08 pm

    SA-

    I own a butterfly raincoat. I love it, but its pretty ridiculous looking. But I still love it. I posted a link to it.. scroll up to 10:12 and you’ll see what all the hype is about.

    I have fabulous taste :-)

  1064. Troz July 2nd, 2009 at 11:08 pm

    How could we have lost? Cervelli was catching and we all know how amazing of a game caller he is, not to mention his grit and just plain awesomeness!

    O wait…

  1065. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 11:09 pm

    Oh now see I AM prickly. I missed that he was teasing you.

    I take back the Dante’s Inferno comment. *sigh*

    I blame GB7.. i’m feeling somehow emoticon-deprived.

  1066. bru July 2nd, 2009 at 11:09 pm

    everybody loved cc & tex when they were on fire.
    i heard we might not ever lose again once or twice.
    no pitcher in history is vimmuned to a pounding.

    look at santanna & many other pitchers out there.

    we won this series & we will pick it back up against toronto with our hottest pitcher burnett.

    the funny thing about all the complaining is if the yankees came back & won or win the complainers will say i am glad i was wrong or i don’t mind being wrong because we won.

    3 games back with a nice pitching staff is not a bad place to be.within striking distance unlike last year when i had the feeling we could not catch boston.

  1067. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 11:09 pm

    Pepitone,

    Yes I was arrogant and condescending, I won’t deny it.

    The fact is, calling someone a smart ass, arrogant ass, sick stalker, etc is against this blog’s rules and is taking the argument a step too far. I don’t really enjoy that junk.

    I never called anyone a baseball ignoramus. I simply commented on your baseball knowledge as someone who doesn’t accept that CC is an ace. I don’t want to dig that stuff up right now but I never said anything abusive or insulting towards you.

  1068. Sean Serritella July 2nd, 2009 at 11:09 pm

    Troz, don’t forget, Posada was behind the plate for some big time blow outs this year.

  1069. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 11:10 pm

    Girardi’s YES post-game reaction:

    http://www.zshare.net/audio/62159087a6568ee9/

  1070. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 11:11 pm

    Angel (OPPC) – A tale told by idiots – full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.
    July 2nd, 2009 at 11:09 pm
    Oh now see I AM prickly. I missed that he was teasing you.

    I take back the Dante’s Inferno comment. *sigh*

    I blame GB7.. i’m feeling somehow emoticon-deprived.

    ————————————————————

    Hey, in my life, I’ve been blamed for everything but the Blessed Mary’s unfortunate condition.

  1071. Sean Serritella July 2nd, 2009 at 11:12 pm

    Hey Pel, you rule, thanks for these audio links.

  1072. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 11:12 pm

    Okay! Thanks Erica, thats awfully nice of you. Send an email in a few.

  1073. m July 2nd, 2009 at 11:14 pm

    Was the game that bad? You guys spent the whole thread talking about aces.

    Is it possible to be an ace, but not always pitch like one?

    Is it also possible to not be an ace, but sometimes pitch like one?

    And postseason-ness doesn’t make or break an ace. Some aces don’t see the postseason thanks to circumstances beyond their own control.

    The ace is the guy you would lineup first in a series, season, or postseason. The one the team feels will give you a chance to win.

    There are different degrees of ace-ness. Just because someone is not named Halladay, Sabathia, Santana, or Beckett doesn’t mean they’re not an ace.

    Greinke, Verlander, Hernandez, Cliff Lee, Lincecum, Hamels, Kazmir, and numerous other pitchers would also be considered aces.

  1074. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:14 pm

    Okay, found the link for the jacket.
    Erica-it’s cute! I would wear it.

    Looking around at some of the other jackets on that site, I miss winter. :cry:

  1075. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 11:15 pm

    CC’s YES post-game reaction:

    http://www.zshare.net/audio/621591570f8622bf/

  1076. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 2nd, 2009 at 11:15 pm

    Oh now see I AM prickly. I missed that he was teasing you.
    I take back the Dante’s Inferno comment. *sigh*
    I blame GB7.. i’m feeling somehow emoticon-deprived.
    ————————————————————
    Hey, in my life, I’ve been blamed for everything but the Blessed Mary’s unfortunate condition.

    *****************************************

    *Starts backspacing furiously.*

  1077. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 11:16 pm

    This loss wasn’t a huge deal. All I care about is winning series. In a 4 gamer, breaking even is ok, but one of those two losses would normally be winnable and that’s the one I want.

  1078. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 11:16 pm

    >Hey Pel, you rule, thanks for these audio links.

    I had to do something constructive to get my blood pressure down. You’re welcome.

  1079. bru July 2nd, 2009 at 11:17 pm

    Mark
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:56 pm
    We haven’t had a rally win in weeks…. we emptied our tank early by winning all those come from behind games and it is coming full circle now.

    Over the past month, it has been mostly failed attempts (Boston game, Nationals games, Marlins games, tonight, Mets pop-up game should have been a loss etc.)

    These things always even out over the course of the year. We won those games early in the year consecutively, now are coming up short in every attempt consecutively. You didn’t think we would win 50 games in the 8th-9th, did you
    ————————————————————

    a win is a win & a loss is a loss.

    we are heading in the right direction.

    in the al east you want to get to 10 games over,then 15,then 20.

    if things are going so wrong why are we more games over 500 than at any point & just won 7 in a row?

    does not sound like failed attempts to me & please don’t say i was talking about come from behind wins because like i said a win is a win & a loss is a loss.

  1080. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 11:18 pm

    Angel (OPPC) – A tale told by idiots – full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.
    July 2nd, 2009 at 11:15 pm
    Oh now see I AM prickly. I missed that he was teasing you.
    I take back the Dante’s Inferno comment. *sigh*
    I blame GB7.. i’m feeling somehow emoticon-deprived.
    ————————————————————
    Hey, in my life, I’ve been blamed for everything but the Blessed Mary’s unfortunate condition.

    *****************************************

    *Starts backspacing furiously.*

    ————————————————————

    Just reading that and having a slight chuckle will cause lightening strikes….beware.

  1081. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:19 pm

    S.A.–The sun will come out tomorrow; I’m down with the OPPC
    July 2nd, 2009 at 11:14 pm
    Okay, found the link for the jacket.
    Erica-it’s cute! I would wear it.

    Looking around at some of the other jackets on that site, I miss winter
    ****
    Thanks SA-

    I am actually a huge fan of their clothes lately. I am very pleased with everything I have gotten from them from jackets to bathing suits to tank tops to sweaters.

    I am pretty sure I have an e-mail from them with a free shipping and a summer sale offer, so if you decide to buy something let me know. My conscience will not allow someone to pay uneccessary shipping charges

  1082. CB July 2nd, 2009 at 11:22 pm

    “And postseason-ness doesn’t make or break an ace. Some aces don’t see the postseason thanks to circumstances beyond their own control.”

    By the definition of post season success there is simply only one ace in all of baseball. Josh Beckett. That’s it. There is no one else.

    And the irony is that Becket hasn’t been particularly dominant in any regular season in his entire career. He’s never really been a particularly strong Cy Young candidate.

    If your criteria is sustained success in both the regular season and post season there is no pitcher pitching today who is an ace. None. No one has the credentials needed if you expect both regular season and post season success.

  1083. S.A.--The sun will come out tomorrow; I'm down with the OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:22 pm

    I am pretty sure I have an e-mail from them with a free shipping and a summer sale offer, so if you decide to buy something let me know. My conscience will not allow someone to pay uneccessary shipping charges

    ===========================

    LOL! Thanks!

  1084. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 11:24 pm

    Under CB’s criteria that other’s have set, that takes it back to Guidry, Gibson, Hunter and Koufax.

  1085. GreenBeret7 July 2nd, 2009 at 11:26 pm

    Add Jim Palmer to the last “real aces”.

  1086. Pel July 2nd, 2009 at 11:26 pm

    Damon’s YES post-game reaction:

    http://www.zshare.net/audio/6215943102c24a26/

  1087. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 11:26 pm

    I still think Walter Johnson was The Last Ace. I still think no pitcher since the Big Train has been better than an ace-lette.

    I also think the boo-boo of calling an anonymous internet poster an idiot is only exceeded by said anonymous internet poster getting his nose out of joint about it.

    Let’s all join hands and sing Kum-ba-yah.

  1088. miggs July 2nd, 2009 at 11:27 pm

    Hey Patrick and Pepitone you guys want to start texting each other or maybe just talk it out on the phone or something?

    I think you both have good things to add to the blog, but no one really wants to read along to this pissing match any longer. You’re both beating a dead horse here.

    You both made good points on the original CC argument. You also both were fairly accurate in assessing your actions during your cat fight. (Patrick as smug and arrogant, Pepitone calling some names). Seriously though Patrick, calling it out as a violation of blog rules is pretty silly. Pepitone didn’t curse or refer to anything vulgar.

    Either way, I’d much rather be reading about Cano’s 3 hits, CC’s below average start, or the way our guys in the minors are tearing it up.

    And hey, the team plays again in less than 14 hours. Quick chance to get back on the winning trail.

  1089. Richie July 2nd, 2009 at 11:28 pm

    When Molina is 1-12, I hope he is called out as well.

    Even nerds should be too cool to do the wave.

  1090. D-Town July 2nd, 2009 at 11:32 pm

    Burnett can have a bad game tomorrow, just like CC did tonight. Or the offense can fall asleep like it seems to do often.

    You just never know.

  1091. m July 2nd, 2009 at 11:32 pm

    Okay, since all the old-farts are out tonight, trivia question.

    Whose bat did Mickey Mantle use to hit a homerun in Don Larsen’s perfect World Series game?

  1092. stuart July 2nd, 2009 at 11:33 pm

    0 for 6 wih RISP tonight.

    anyone suprised by that???

    abreu on fire tonight. he was not worth $15 mill and he is petrified by the wall but man he is a much better hitter then mr K(swisher)….

    swisher strikes out so much it is a joke…

  1093. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:34 pm

    “Whose bat did Mickey Mantle use to hit a homerun in Don Larsen’s perfect World Series game?”

    Mine :lol:

    Sorry, I think I am funny and that’s all that matters :grin:

  1094. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 11:35 pm

    I never called anyone a baseball ignoramus. I simply commented on your baseball knowledge as someone who doesn’t accept that CC is an ace. I don’t want to dig that stuff up right now but I never said anything abusive or insulting towards you.
    …………………………………

    Now, you’re just lying to cover your back.

    I responded to SJ44 with this:

    Pepitone
    July 2nd, 2009 at 9:18 pm
    He’s still an ace though. This game doesn’t define his “ace-ness”._………………………………
    No, this game doesn’t define his “ace-ness,” but I’ll reserve that designation when he pitches like an ace against Boston, Anaheim, Detroit, and Tampa Bay.
    Until them, I remain skeptical. He’s a very good pitcher, but an “Ace”? not yet.
    …………………………………….

    It was an argument between SJ44 and me, then you had to stick your nose in it:

    Patrick
    July 2nd, 2009 at 9:28 pm
    SJ44,
    This is a case where you should simply say “I’m right and you’re wrong, argument over.” Because honestly, saying that Sabathia isn’t an ace is so absurd it doesn’t even justify a response.
    ………………………………..

    In my next reply to SJ44, I responded to you offhand:

    Pepitone
    July 2nd, 2009 at 9:18 pm
    He’s still an ace though. This game doesn’t define his “ace-ness”._………………………………
    No, this game doesn’t define his “ace-ness,” but I’ll reserve that designation when he pitches like an ace against Boston, Anaheim, Detroit, and Tampa Bay.
    Until them, I remain skeptical. He’s a very good pitcher, but an “Ace”? not yet.

    (the following was my response to you)
    If you think CC is an ace you either haven”t been paying attention or don’t know what you’re talking about.
    There, I can play the game too. You’ve proved nothing.
    …………………………………….

    My goal was to give you a little hint to butt out, but you decided to get personal, and yes, you called my knowledge of baseball as “stupidity” or “ignorance.”

    Patrick
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:00 pm
    “There, I can play the game too. You’ve proved nothing. ”
    Except for my point was correct and yours… is not. CC is an ace by any definition. You seem to be alone in your opposition of this fact.

    Patrick
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:06 pm
    To classify Beckett as an ace and not Sabathia is stupidity and/or ignorance at it’s worst. Go look at their career stats, they might surprise you.

    Patrick
    July 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 pm
    Well since my opinion is “right” it is by definition a fact.
    The fact that you are alone in your false opinion should tell you something.

    Careful Pepitone, you breaking the rules on this blog. You can’t call other people names.
    I’ve been very careful not to insult you or call you a name. I’m sorry you are so hurt.
    Everyone is wrong sometimes, try not to be so sensitive big guy.
    ………………………………….

    I don’t know you, but I suspect you are a young person, probably in his 20′s, maybe early 30′s. Be that as it may, you came on here spoiling for a fight, and now you whine because the guy fought back. Please, grow up.

  1095. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:35 pm

    How much did Abreu wind up signing for? I know it was far less than what he wanted, but I don’t remember the number

  1096. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 11:36 pm

    Erica, I was going to say that, lol – great minds think alike!

    Phil Linz? Billy Martin?

  1097. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:38 pm

    Haha. Absolutely Betsy! But I think you definitely love Phil Hughes more than me :-)

  1098. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 11:38 pm

    Pepitone, give it a rest. You didn’t cover yourself with glory either.

  1099. Christina25 July 2nd, 2009 at 11:40 pm

    Abreau got 5 million.

  1100. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 11:41 pm

    “Whose bat did Mickey Mantle use to hit a homerun in Don Larsen’s perfect World Series game?”
    ………………….
    Yogi Berra’s?

  1101. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 11:41 pm

    “abreu on fire tonight. he was not worth $15 mill and he is petrified by the wall but man he is a much better hitter then mr K(swisher)….”

    Sure, let’s blame tonight on the Swish. Yeah, that sounds good…

  1102. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 11:41 pm

    Erica, I think I love Phil more than I do myself, lol……sure would be nice to see him tomorrow as it’s fun to watch him pitch. Go AJ!

  1103. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:42 pm

    I wonder what happened to Abreu’s power. He used to have it. Only 4 HRs this season sounds crazy for him

    Btw- on;y 15 minutes left for all-star voting. Don’t make me root for Youkilis people!

  1104. Giuseppe Franco July 2nd, 2009 at 11:43 pm

    Abreu is 36 years old and can’t play the field. They didn’t need another DH.

    That’s why Abreu is gone and it was the right move.

  1105. miggs July 2nd, 2009 at 11:43 pm

    I take back my earlier post, this Patrick/Pepitone tussle is extremely amusing.

    Pepitone just laid down the gauntlet. Basically by pasting together a few comments he completely destroyed Patrick’s argument.

    Pepitone I think I remember Patrick saying he was around Joba’s age yesterday on the blog. FYI.

    Waiting for Patrick’s reply….. come on man, you know you’re reading this.

  1106. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:44 pm

    Betsy-

    I do enjoy watching him pitch. I think I get how you feel- kind of like how I used to about watching Joba pitch. Unfortunately, now watching Joba kind of bores me and makes me change the channel.

  1107. m July 2nd, 2009 at 11:44 pm

    Nope, keep trying. Apparently if you told the mick that you had a good bat, he’d try it.

  1108. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:45 pm

    Giuseppe Franco
    July 2nd, 2009 at 11:43 pm
    Abreu is 36 years old and can’t play the field. They didn’t need another DH.

    That’s why Abreu is gone and it was the right move.

    **
    It wasn’t that he couldn’t play the field. He was just very very very afraid of walls. Almost like he was traumatized by a big scary wall as a little boy.

    I have no regrets about the loss of Abreu

  1109. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 11:45 pm

    miggs, don’t encourage them.

  1110. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:46 pm

    Whitey Ford??

  1111. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 11:46 pm

    miggs,

    You are right as usual, this argument is just silly. Pepitone wins, congrats Pep.

  1112. Giuseppe Franco July 2nd, 2009 at 11:47 pm

    Hard to believe people are ripping on Teixeira and Sabathia tonight.

    But that’s why spoiled Yankee fans are the worst baseball fans in baseball.

    They could learn something from the Red Sox fans at Fenway who supported Ortiz with standing ovations every time they guy went to the dugout after another rough at-bat.

    It’s both sad and pathetic and these “fans” make all Yankee fans look like jackasses.

  1113. miggs July 2nd, 2009 at 11:48 pm

    Wave I know I shouldn’t have said anything. But it is amusing.

  1114. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 11:48 pm

    Miggs -

    Pepitone I think I remember Patrick saying he was around Joba’s age yesterday on the blog. FYI.
    ……………………….

    I’m not the least bit surprised, Miggs.

    By the way, Wave is right, it’s beating a dead horse now, I made my point and I’ll leave it at that. But, when someone comes after me like that kid did, I will call him on it, as I’m sure you would too.

    Anyhow, on to bigger and better things for the Yanks! Let’s take 3 of 4 from the Jays.

  1115. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:49 pm

    New thread :arrow:

  1116. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 11:50 pm

    m
    July 2nd, 2009 at 11:44 pm
    Nope, keep trying. Apparently if you told the mick that you had a good bat, he’d try it.
    …………………………

    OK, m, now you’ve got my curiosity up!

    How about, Don Larsen’s bat?

  1117. Giuseppe Franco July 2nd, 2009 at 11:51 pm

    Erica – newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:45 pm

    It wasn’t that he couldn’t play the field. He was just very very very afraid of walls. Almost like he was traumatized by a big scary wall as a little boy.

    ————–

    That fear of the wall morphed him into becoming one of those three or four worst outfielders in baseball.

    Having that fear of the wall is one thing if you’re playing in a huge ballpark because not nearly as many balls are hit that far.

    But when you’re playing half your games at the Stadium with a short porch – that fear becomes much more glaring because there are a lot more opportunities to collide with the wall.

  1118. Betsy July 2nd, 2009 at 11:51 pm

    LOL, Erica….I’m sure I’ve felt that way about Phil as well. Ah, such is the life of a young pitcher. It’s exciting to watch our youngsters develop, but we have to deal with their growing pains (and Yankee fans are not exactly known for their patience). I just know that when the kids turn out to be studs, it’s going to feel all the sweeter because we saw them when they were just starting out.

  1119. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 11:52 pm

    Yes Pepitone, miggs did just that one day and completely destroyed me too. There is one key difference though; miggs was right when we argued. You, however, are on the wrong side of this one.

  1120. Wave Your Hat July 2nd, 2009 at 11:53 pm

    I really thought we were going to rally tonight. Less so after Banyan’s dinger, but until then I thought we’d come back.

  1121. Erica - newly OPPC July 2nd, 2009 at 11:53 pm

    Can’t you guys agree to disagree???

    Group hug!!!!

  1122. Pepitone July 2nd, 2009 at 11:57 pm

    Patrick
    July 2nd, 2009 at 11:52 pm
    Yes Pepitone, miggs did just that one day and completely destroyed me too. There is one key difference though; miggs was right when we argued. You, however, are on the wrong side of this one.
    …………………….

    Are you happy now kid, you got the last word.

  1123. Patrick July 2nd, 2009 at 11:58 pm

    “Are you happy now kid, you got the last word.”

    Funny, this.

  1124. Wave Your Hat July 3rd, 2009 at 12:00 am

    Patrick, IMO you were on the right side of the argument but you goofed when you told Pepitone that you were more intelligent than he was…That got his back up (it would tick me off too) and let him claim the high moral ground…next time you’ll avoid that classic trap.

    Good Night and Good Luck.

  1125. Angel (OPPC) - A tale told by idiots - full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. July 3rd, 2009 at 12:02 am

    Okay. I’m torn between starting a group Kum-by-ah chant, and dodging the lightning bolts that suddenly showed up outta nowhere.

    Erica – email sent. :)

  1126. Patrick July 3rd, 2009 at 12:03 am

    Yep you’re right WYH. Perhaps I’ll learn one of these days to keep my mouth shut.

  1127. Wave Your Hat July 3rd, 2009 at 12:04 am

    Patrick, don’t do that. We’d all be the poorer.

  1128. vinny-b July 4th, 2009 at 3:39 pm

    wang injured

    do you remove Hughes from the bullpen? :)

    could McCallister be a #5 right now?

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