Pitching matchups for the Boston series
Posted by: Peter Abraham - Posted in Misc on Sep 24, 2009 
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Friday: LHP Jon Lester (14-7, 3.33) vs. RHP Joba Chamberlain (8-6, 4.73), 7:05, My9/TBS
Saturday: RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka (3-5, 6.80) vs. LHP CC Sabathia (18-7, 3.31, 4:10 p.m. FOX
Sunday: RHP Paul Byrd (1-2, 6.04) vs. LHP Andy Pettitte (13-7, 4.15), 1:05, ESPN
———-
Boston plays at Kansas City tonight. It’ll be Clay Buchholz against Anthony Lerew. I do this for a living and I try and pay attention, but I have no idea who Anthony Lerew is.
One would suspect the Red Sox are not overly thrilled with the idea of playing a night game in Kansas City and then showing up in NYC around 5 a.m. to play the Yankees that night. To which the Yankees would reply, “Tough noogies, we just made another West Coast trip.”
Meanwhile, doesn’t some HGH maker need to get commercials on ESPN for that game on Sunday?
It has been a great year in Yankeeland:
The team will win in excess of 100 games
The team has gotten some payback and excorsized demons at Fenway and Anaheim.
Around the horn – coming back from injury a very nice year for Posada, Tex earning all of his money and then some (he is a spectacular player on defense day in day out), Cano except for risp had a bounce back year and will be in the top 5 in hits in the AL, Jeter has been resurgent and is at least in the discussion for MVP, Arod anyone have .290, 30, 100 when we learned he was going to need hip surgery, Swisher is probably the transaction of the decade, Melky/Gardner have been a very serviceable tandem, Damon has flashed the power stroke particularly at the stadium, Matsui had another professional hitter year.
Pitching – CC is a CY Young candidate, Burnett has had some ups and downs but hopefully builds off his last few starts to a dominant post season, Pettite earned all of his incentives and gave them innings, Joba pitched a full season (I will be the first to predict a huge year for him next year), Mo is the greatest ever and continues to perform at that level, Hughes has reclaimed his status as one of the better pitching prospects in the league, D-Rob & Coke give the team a cost effective and very productive middle of the bullpen, Melancon can hit opposing players (next year will be a big step forward for him as well).
AAA went to the league championship and contributed useful pieces to the roster in Pena and Cervelli. Jackson hit .300 and continues to develop. Corona and or Russo might be in NY as utility infielders next year. Nova took it to the next level and is getting closer to NY.
AA ended up the year out of the playoffs but with some big time prospects. Montero is probably top 5 in the entire league. Nunez had a big step forward. Macallister was really solid.
A won their league. Romine had an excellent year and will move to Trenton next year. Phelps, Heredia, are pitchers to watch.
Lower levels – Manny Banuelos stepped up big time and will be one of the top prospects in the organization. Brackman pitched the whole year. Staten Island has some nice players including top picks from this years draft like Warren.
The draft was pretty good and the team now has two high end high schoolers in Heathcott and Murphy.
They signed Gary Sanchez who now that Mateo is out of his contract may be the top catch on the IFA market. Guys like de Leon and Duran and Sosa (down year numbers wise) and Pena and Ramirez showed outstanding potential.
Aroldis Chapman is soon to be a free agent.
They opened a magnificent new ballpark.
They have an amazing number of come from behind and walk-off wins.
My biggest concerns were Joba’s lack of production, injury to Wang and general injuries to minor league pitchers (Kontos, Betances, Heredia)
Someone in the other thread asked why the switch?
Girardi said it was to give CC an extra day of rest and to line CC up to pitch the first game of the playoffs. He said they’ve been thinking about it since early September.
I don’t usually make predictions, but I think we can win this series. We’re favored in two of the matchups, but that means squat.
Let’s get ready to rumble!!!
Reggie says players lives different from when he played
11:17 AM09.24 Posted By: Andrew Perloff SHARE COMMENTS (1)
Reggie Jackson
AP
Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson joined the show to discuss the Yankees and more. Here are some of his takes.
– Jackson said that baseball coverage isn’t like what it used to be. “The media attention has come from the money,” Jackson said. “It makes these guys bigger than life.”
Jackson said it’s ridiculous that guys fly home on an off day on private jets to spend time with their families.
“We even flew commercial when I played with the Oakland A’s.”
– Jackson thinks that Mark Teixeira is a huge addition for the Yankees. Jackson said that he’s very professional … he calls him “Pro.”
– Jackson said he’s only focused on the team he works for, the Yankees, and wouldn’t talk about their potential opponents. But he said that pitching is the key to the postseason. He said he saw the Tigers’ Justin Verlander hit 100 mph twice in the ninth inning.
Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.c.....z0S2qE0JG8
“I do this for a living and I try and pay attention, but I have no idea who Anthony Lerew is.”
Not sure KC does either.
“Meanwhile, doesn’t some HGH maker need to get some commercials on ESPN for that game on Sunday?”
It could be a combo of HGH maker / Bible Salesmen co sponsorship.
I guess it shouldn’t matter, but Francesca opens his show talking about the AL Central race and not the Yankees beating the Angels 2/3 in their home park? The same guy who reiterates all the time how the Yankees can never beat the Angels now conveniently chooses to ignore when the Yankees do?
I like Reggie, but give me a break – he’s upset at what? That the players fly home or that they have private jets? They have earned the money, let them spend it the way they want to.
m,
Totally agree with us having a good shot at winning this series. The pitching match ups favor us in game 2 & 3.
I’d love to see the team get to Lester tomorrow night though.
In all likelihood, Lester would pitch at Yankee stadium in an ALCS in one of the opening 2 games.
I’d like the taste in his mouth to be a bad one going into the playoffs.
I’d love to see us clinch the division this weekend at home vs. the Sox.
As for Joba’s start, if he gets lit up tomorrow night and goes 3 innings how on earth can Girardi and Cashman allow him to start a playoff game?
“The same guy who reiterates all the time how the Yankees can never beat the Angels now conveniently chooses to ignore when the Yankees do?”
Betsy, if you listen to him regularly, you shouldn’t be surprised. When Francesa is wrong about something, it gets pushed to the back burner. But, if the Angels get a hit off of Kennedy in the 8th inning to take the lead, then hold on for the win, we’d hear all day about how the Yanks can’t beat the Angels in a big spot.
fiveiron,
I think you need to have your own blog with a post like that….too much for me to read.
I will when I get a chance though.
Getting back to the Sachin thing, what would more raise awareness for Autism?
A. A random guy who throws out the first pitch because he raised the most money for Autism?
B. A Yankee fan who raises the most for Autism so he can throw out the first pitch in Fenway?
Marketing is about exposure. Even negative publicity is good publicity.
The dude needs to wear the Hat.
As for Joba’s start, if he gets lit up tomorrow night and goes 3 innings how on earth can Girardi and Cashman allow him to start a playoff game
__
They won’t start him. they can get 5 GOOD innings from Gaudin as a 4th starter and then let the pen do it’s thing. Sure Gaudin starts to go after 5, but the 5 he pitches are usually good. better than what joba puts out there at this point.
To be fair, the Yanks and the Red Sox rarely get the midweek getaway game because small-market teams want to squeeze as many people in the seats as they can for those premium games. It’s a courtesy extended to every other team, but when there’s extra money to be made, screw the Yanks and the Sox.
Not appreciating the dig at Andy, Pete.
I am appreciating the fact that I get to see CC pitch on Saturday instead of Joba though ( and I like Joba but….)
The ONLY way things get interesting is if the Sox sweep. Just one win by the Yanks over the weekend should do it – how sweet if we can beat Lester in the first game.
Does anyone thing Joba can go back to that shut down, 1 inning guy for the playoffs? His location’s been pretty bad, but even as a starter, when he was pitching well, he’d dial it up to 96+ in his later innings to get a big out.
I think he could be great as the 7th inning guy, but we should put him there now so he can get his mojo back.
DB
September 24th, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Getting back to the Sachin thing, what would more raise awareness for Autism?
A. A random guy who throws out the first pitch because he raised the most money for Autism?
B. A Yankee fan who raises the most for Autism so he can throw out the first pitch in Fenway?
Marketing is about exposure. Even negative publicity is good publicity.
The dude needs to wear the Hat.
____________________________________________________________
Well you definitly passed marketing 101. I agree with you 100% – This thing will get A LOT more exposure if he wears it.
I’ll certainly be checking Petes site at the globe, but will he take these sublte digs at the artist formally known as Big Papi when he flys out a few times to the track … hgh related of course … time will tell
I am going to die laughing if Anthony Lerew comes out looking like Cy Young.
I am also guessing Francona won’t send out the “A List” line up
This Week:
Pete, the Paul Byrd part of the joke was a laugh riot.
The Andy Pettitte part of it was unfunny and showed your bias.
Next week: Petah, The Andy Pettitte paht of your joke was wicked funny, Sully, Mic and I loved it.
The Paul Byrd part…
Sterling Audio was hilarious.
Erica -
It will also be interesting to see how Buchholz pitches tonight against a non-Orioles, non-Jays team. He seems to be pitching really well, but I’d like to see how he performs against a team that is a)playing well and b)still trying.
Loving this line from Yahoo! Sports re: yesterday’s game
Yankees 3, Angels 2: Ian Kennedy 1, aneurysm 0.
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/bl.....ng-content
Nice schedule we have here. Thanks for Bud Selig and his assistants for making the sox play a night game in k.c. 1 day before a game in The Bronx.
I’m thrilled we are missing beckett. Lady luck might be on our side.
Darrin
September 24th, 2009 at 1:31 pm
Erica -
It will also be interesting to see how Buchholz pitches tonight against a non-Orioles, non-Jays team. He seems to be pitching really well, but I’d like to see how he performs against a team that is a)playing well and b)still trying.
*****
My guess is the Sox will be in some sort of pre-Yankee letdown mode (if that makes any sense). I would not be surprised if they lost this game
Didn’t Reggie have a teammate who flew home to see his family?
Hey, I grew up looking up to Thurman Munson – and Reggie – and Nettles – and Sparky Lyle – my sister LOVED Roy White… on and on…
and Aug 2, 1979 was a terrible day… The worst ever for an 11 year old kid. I couldn’t understand… maybe I still don’t… (when I read the Munson book, I kept hoping that the ending would turn out differently…)
But I find it amazing when:
1. Players from the past say “It’s all about the money today.” (Reggie, the players from the previous past said the same thing about you…)(and I’m sure Cap Anson said the same thing about Babe Ruth…) (as some Civil War veteran who played in between battles said about Cap Anson…)
2. Players from the past criticize players from today for the same things they did (money, Jim Rice talking about hairstyles today – yo, Jim, ever see Oscar Gamble?, private jets…)
Did S. Duncan ever serve his 3 game suspension?
By the time they hear the appeal – the season will be over.
Joe I, true….
I didn’t know Paul Byrd took HGH.
What are you warming up for the new gig?
I’ll be surprised if the Yankees don’t win at least 2 out of 3 this weekend. The Sox have let up in the past few days since they have virtually clinched the widl card and have to be tired after a late arrival from KC. CC vs. Dick K is a big advantage for the Yankees as is Andy vs. Byrd.
scott
September 24th, 2009 at 1:20 pm
“Meanwhile, doesn’t some HGH maker need to get some commercials on ESPN for that game on Sunday?”
AHAHAHAHAHA that is so funny!
no, no, it isn’t. its uncreative and boorish.
AHAHAHAHAHAHA you said boorish on a baseball blog
“My guess is the Sox will be in some sort of pre-Yankee letdown mode (if that makes any sense). I would not be surprised if they lost this game”
————-
I would be a little surprised if they lose tonight – but very happy. That would allow the Yankees to clinch this weekend with only 2 wins.
“I didn’t know Paul Byrd took HGH.”
It was conveniently reported by Gammons in ’07. Just when Byrd was about to take the mound against the Sox in the ALCS.
I need scenario help so I know how to set my DVR for postgames while I am away. Please let me know if I am incorrect in the following:
If Boston loses tonight, the Magic number goes down to 4. The Yankees can then clinch on Saturday (soonest) if they win Friday and Saturday
If Boston wins tonight, the Magic number stays at 5. Then the Yankees can clinch on Sunday at the earliest???
As cool as it would be to clinch against the Sox, I’m hoping for Monday — I’m going to that game!
My only game of the season.
Looks like Anthony Lerew definitely has gone through the mill. He came up for 3 cuppas of coffee with the Braves from 2005-2007. Had TJ surgery in Apr 2007. Then he went down as far as Rookie League in 2008.Then he was released and signed by the Royals in March. He just came up from AA.
Interestingly enough, his very last Major League start was against the Red Sox in May 2007. He got PULVERIZED.
“I’ll be surprised if the Yankees don’t win at least 2 out of 3 this weekend”
Nothing surprises me anymore.
Would Boston be so kind as to lose tonight so Yanks could clinch by winning 2 out of 3? Please!
Mark Texeria is the best everyday player, i have seen play for the yankees, since i’ve been a yankee fan.
the yankees became my team in 1998
“I like Reggie, but give me a break – he’s upset at what? That the players fly home or that they have private jets? They have earned the money”
I don’t think anyone “earns” 10 million per year. Baseball players are blessed
Erica yes you are correct.
That’s how I would figure it under that scenario, Erica.
that is correcct erica
We should be nervous about these games against the RS. They just brought up Yankee killer(per Francessa) Hunter Jones.
The alphabet is 25 lett-ahs in bahston, Lest-ah vs Job-AH tonite . Go New Yawk
Jake
Joba will be much more valuable out of the pen in playoffs. Wouldn’t you rather see him 2-3 times vs once as a 4th starter?
Thank you all for the verification.
Btw- The Mamas and the Papas just came on my iPod. Mackenzie Phillips has officially ruined their music for me.
if they clinch a tie, i think they go by head to head. anybody?
what did mackenzie phillips do to earn your ire.
vinny-b
September 24th, 2009 at 1:51 pm
“I like Reggie, but give me a break – he’s upset at what? That the players fly home or that they have private jets? They have earned the money”
I don’t think anyone “earns” 10 million per year. Baseball players are blessed
****
I have been doing rich people’s tax returns all week. Trust me, people earn 10 million dollars a year
mick
September 24th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
what did mackenzie phillips do to earn your ire.
****
This is a family blog. You can go to any entertainment website and find out.
try http://www.people.com
“Meanwhile, doesn’t some HGH maker need to get some commercials on ESPN for that game on Sunday?”
HGH maker is probably holding out for a game people will watch. With the Jets and Giants on at 1 on Sunday, ESPN viewership will be sparse at best.
Broadcast & Cable
September 24th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
“Meanwhile, doesn’t some HGH maker need to get some commercials on ESPN for that game on Sunday?”
HGH maker is probably holding out for a game people will watch. With the Jets and Giants on at 1 on Sunday, ESPN viewership will be sparse at best.
****
That Patriots are also playing an early game
Erica – always OPPC
September 24th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Thank you all for the verification.
Btw- The Mamas and the Papas just came on my iPod. Mackenzie Phillips has officially ruined their music for me.
———————-
Mackenzie Phillips saga gives a whole new meaning to The Mamas and the Papas – gross. That and One Day at a Time.
“Interestingly enough, his very last Major League start was against the Red Sox in May 2007. He got PULVERIZED.”
3 runs in 2 innings is ‘pulverized’? It’s certainly not good, but ‘pulverized’??
At least it wasn’t him:
http://tinyurl.com/nst4ov
Teixeria > Donnie Dodger
Erica
why don’t you set your DVR to automatically record the post games, then you wont have to worry about which one you want.
Anything but a sweep by the Sox and the Yankees will be in great shape.
Big start for Joba tomorrow night. He will either get back on track and solidify his position as the #4 starter, or he will earn himself a reduced role in the postseason.
“Mark Texeria is the best everyday player, i have seen play for the yankees, since i’ve been a yankee fan.
the yankees became my team in 1998″
Aren’t you happy they signed him instead of waiting a year to sign Matt Holliday?
Pete-
Anthony Lerew is a minor league journeyman. 27 yrs. old. Came up in the Braves organization. I coached him in little league
Why don’t they start Mitre and get Chamberlain used to the bullpen if that’s how they are going to use him?
upstate kate
September 24th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
Erica
why don’t you set your DVR to automatically record the post games, then you wont have to worry about which one you want.
***
The only problem with that is that the games always run over and the postgames start later than they are supposed to. My DVR is not smart enough to automatically adjust.
I will be home by the end of Sunday’s game. I am sort of selfishing rooting for the Sox to win tonight (just this once) so I don’t have to worry about them clinching while I am gone with weekend
Jay, are you the same Jay who said the Yankees wouldn’t win a World Series with Jorge Posada as their catcher?
This is why I love Keith Law…From his chat today.
Bones (Boston)
When Brad Penny went to SF, he said he liked Molina calling more breaking balls early in counts. Obviously, many Boston writers either fainted on the spot and/or were outraged. Is it possible the Captain DOESN’T know everything?
Keith Law (2:11 PM)
Varitek is a lousy game-caller and has been for years. I’m pretty sure he lost his thumb, middle, ring, and pinky fingers on his right hand, since he calls for so many fastballs.
It’s pretty simple. If Joba gets lit up again and only lasts 2-3 innings, he’ll be sent to the bullpen for the postseason and Chad Gaudin will start Game 4 of the ALCS. Even then I’m not even sure he’s trustworthy in the bullpen at this point.
They’ll make some excuse about his innings limit about his reduced role, and that will be that. I haven’t lost faith in Joba as a starter in the future, but as for this postseason Girardi and company need to do whatever it takes to get #27. Even if that means burying their chosen one.
“Why don’t they start Mitre and get Chamberlain used to the bullpen if that’s how they are going to use him?”
Has that been established? The Yankees will need a #4 starter in the ALCS. Joba may well still be that guy.
Because winning the series yesterday isn’t going to suddenly give us some “psychological” advantage over LA if we meet them in the playoffs. Just like a loss wouldn’t have meant they were in our heads and they had some kind of curse over us.
The Twins/Tigers are in a legit pennant race. We are not and haven’t been for a while. Despite the panicky fans, the division was never in doubt.
I would never say that!
Speaking of The Mama’s & The Papa’s, could this be an earlier incarnation of “Generation Trey” ?
Joba’s the one in the middle.
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/i.....AA240_.jpg
IPK is instantaneously more valuable than Brian bruney….
Anywho… RE the series. I see two outta three… Lester is always tough on the yanks… Dice Walk and Paul Byrd will get rocked….
“Obviously, many Boston writers either fainted on the spot and/or were outraged. Is it possible the Captain DOESN’T know everything?”
Looks a lot like Francona agrees with Law. Martinez catching Beckett last night would seem to be more evidence that he will be their catcher in the playoffs.
BTW, anyone else think Girardi did the crowd a service by not sticking them with a Joba/Matsuzaka matchup? Something like that could last for hours.
Erica-
yeah, that is true. If it is a game I really want to see, or think will go long (like all the Yankee-Sox games), I record the next show or 2 as well.
Glad to hear it, (good) Jay.
I wonder if the other Jay will ever return and update his thoughts.
No one is talking about it BUT –
the Red Sox could clinch the a playoff berth while at Yankee Stadium.
Their magic number is 5 – both Boston and Texas play tonight – it could be 3 going into tomorrow.
I really don’t want to see the Red Sox celebrating in NYS. Yuck.
It’s even possible for the Yankees and the Red Sox to both clinch on the same night. It could be a dual celebration… like one of those Christmas parties in No Man’s Land between the trenches in WWI.
It’s so hard to imagine that Pete will have totally opposite opinion about the schedule next year.
Its time for CC to break the curse of the Saturday FOX game
“BTW, anyone else think Girardi did the crowd a service by not sticking them with a Joba/Matsuzaka matchup? Something like that could last for hours.”
He also did the viewers a service since it’s a FOX game. I don’t know if I could put up with McCarver for a marathon game that those 2 pitchers would provide.
Erica – always OPPC
The only problem with that is that the games always run over and the postgames start later than they are supposed to. My DVR is not smart enough to automatically adjust.
————
Erica – when you set the DVR, most of them allow you the option to set the stop time. such as “on time” “one minute later” etc. I think you can even set it for 2 hours later. That should generally be enough, except for those crazy extra inning games.
would i be a bad person if i wish the redsox/royals game goes about 22 innings today – with the sox having to use up all of their bullpen and a few of their starters as well (and nick green) – only to lose in the 22nd inning when all world dustin pedroia makes a chuck knoblachesque throw to first allowing the winning run to score from second……at 3:30 in the morning?
No room for Bruney or IPK. Rivera, Hughes, Ace, Marte, Coke, Robertson, and Gaudin or Joba.
sab, I’m all for it, and I’m not a bad person – at least I think so.
Actually, I would prefer Pedroia running into Youkilis on a popup which drops, but that’s just me.
Meanwhile, didn’t CC already win us a Sat. FOX game – against BOS?
“BTW, anyone else think Girardi did the crowd a service by not sticking them with a Joba/Matsuzaka matchup? Something like that could last for hours.”
And by “that”, Rex means “the first two innings”.
“Aren’t you happy they signed him instead of waiting a year to sign Matt Holliday”
Tom:
yes. On many levels. I had the incorrect take on Texeria. If it is ok, would like to take my crow curried
Well if we sweep the soxs, they won’t be able to clinch at YS. I agree I don’t want to see them celebrate in our stadium. I was already sick enough from 2004.
sab
September 24th, 2009 at 2:35 pm
would i be a bad person if i wish the redsox/royals game goes about 22 innings today – with the sox having to use up all of their bullpen and a few of their starters as well (and nick green) – only to lose in the 22nd inning when all world dustin pedroia makes a chuck knoblachesque throw to first allowing the winning run to score from second……at 3:30 in the morning?
*****
No, that does not make you a bad person at all
“It’s even possible for the Yankees and the Red Sox to both clinch on the same night. It could be a dual celebration… like one of those Christmas parties in No Man’s Land between the trenches in WWI.”
should we do an intervention with nick in sf to try to convince him he”s not as funny as a military aficionado ?
or maybe we could go the other way and chip in for a prussian helmet:
http://www.ssa.gov/history/pics/ottoengrave.jpg
( yeah, yeah, i now it looks like gb7 but it was the best i could do )
I’m hoping for an extra inning game myself. Either way the Yankees should be nice and rested for tomorrows game. While I’d like a sweep 2 out of 3 would be fantastic. That would wrap up the division (just about). Than they would have 6 games to give guys rest.
“It’s even possible for the Yankees and the Red Sox to both clinch on the same night. It could be a dual celebration… like one of those Christmas parties in No Man’s Land between the trenches in WWI.”
Hmmm…. what a scene that would be.
Theo and Cash embracing, Hank Steiny passing out ciggies to everyone, John Sterling warbling Silent Night, little Dustin P. on the shoulders of giant Shelley Duncan saying “God bless us every one!”
IF they clinch the same night I wonder if they’ll spray champagne on each other.
btw I made a prediction yesterday but no one replied
I said when the Yankees clinch AJ will throw a banana cream pie in Joe’s face. If you saw the Joe G show you know what I am referring to.
Vinny B, I couldn’t disagree with you more about players earning their money….but then, I’m not one to begrudge anyone.
We should be nervous about these games against the RS. They just brought up Yankee killer(per Francessa) Hunter Jones.
————————————————–
Isn’t that, future Hall of Famer, Hunter Jones?
This should be good …
Dave: My opinion on the schedule was that both the Yankees and Red Sox had hardships at different times. How will that opinion change exactly?
It’s amusing that some people think a journalist is rooting for the team he or she covers. This is my job, this is how I support my family. I would treat my job the same way whether I was covering the Yankees, Red Sox or the Phoenix Suns. My job is to hopefully provide the kind of info people want to read in the newspaper and on line. If the Yankees win, the players are in a better mood. That’s pretty much the extent of my interest in the result. It’s better for me professionally if a team wins as I get to cover the postseason.
But the idea that journalists are fans is pretty ridiculous. I’m a fan of the game and I work for my newspaper. Do you think I graduated from UMass and went to Connecticut to cover UConn because I wanted to be a fan of the Huskies? That was where the job was. I needed to be employed.
Now I have a chance to be employed as a much larger paper, make more money and live closer to my family. I’d have taken the same opportunity if my family lived in Texas and the Dallas Morning News wanted to hire me to cover the Rangers. It’s really not that complicated.
I don’t get why one start, if it’s a good one, will wipe away all the terrible starts Joba has had. If he pitches well tomorrow, then that’s all that matters? Why should I believe that one good start tomorrow means he’s good to go in the post-season?
jennifer -
I didn’t see that prediction, since I wasn’t here most of yesterday. I think that would be SOOOOOOO cool. Really, really cool!
AJ usually pies the guy on camera, though, after a walk-off, and Girardi’s interviews are always in the press room. Do you think he could arrange it so he’d be able to sneak in there? Oh! Wait! I forgot – it’d be in the clubhouse during the champagne shower!!!! It would be awesome. I am fully picturing it.
oh L to the 2nd you are right, I was thinking CC pitched
the Sunday game.
Pete –
Good luck in Boston. This is a fantastic career move, in my opinion.
“Now I have a chance to be employed as a much larger paper, make more money and live closer to my family. I’d have taken the same opportunity if my family lived in Texas and the Dallas Morning News wanted to hire me to cover the Rangers. It’s really not that complicated.”
That really does seem like a no-brainer.
All the same, I am still really sad to see Pete go!
What do you guys think about this offseason trade?
The Yankees get King Felix from Seattle for Joba Chamberlain, Ian Kennedy, Mark Melancon, Austin Jackson, Eduardo Nunez and Jorge Vazquez.
A pitching staff of CC, AJ, Andy, King Felix and Wang sure would be unbeatable.
The Yankees get King Felix from Seattle for Joba Chamberlain, Ian Kennedy, Mark Melancon, Austin Jackson, Eduardo Nunez and Jorge Vazquez.
–
more doesn’t = better
“All the same, I am still really sad to see Pete go!”
erica-
see now that’s an old attitude.
a young attitude would be”hey cool, something new”
I’m still looking for Jeter and the other Yankees to reach some more milestones this year.
Jeter + 6 RBI = 70 + 3 HR = 20
… He needs a bit of a hot streak to accomplish these milestones. Hasn’t had an HR since Aug 28 (had 6 HR’s in August). Only 4 RBI’s so far in September (previous 5 months- 12, 13, 7, 11, 17).
If you want to carry this a little further,
Cabrera + 5 RBI = 70
Teixeira + 2 RBI = 120 + 3 HR = 40
Rodriguez + 1 RBI = 90 + 3 HR = 30
Matsui + 2 RBI = 90 + 2 HR = 30
Swisher + 1 RBI = 80 + 3 HR = 30
Posada + 1 RBI = 80 + 3 HR = 25
Cano + 1 RBI = 80 + 2 HR = 25
Damon + 3 RBI = 80 + 1 HR = 25
I’m hoping for a team with 8 players with 20+ HR’s and 70+ RBI’s.
I think 7 of the RBI milestones are quite likely, barring any injuries. Jeter and Cabrera will need a little luck and/or a high scoring game or two to reach their milestones.
The HR milestones are a little less likely.
Wouldn’t that be amazing if they had 9 players with 70 or more RBI’s, and 7 with 80 or more??
Doreen, Joe was asked if he would accept being pied. He said something like he told AJ he wanted banana cream pie, and he’d eat it. So if the soxs lose today, I’m sure AJ will be sending a clubbie to the store Saturday to buy a pie and have it at the ready to pie Joe. I would absolutely love to see that. It is going to be one wild celebration and I will be glued to my tv watching!
In the same breath, why should Chad Gaudins awful starts in the NL give him an edge over Joba because he has been serviceable for a month. He hasnt got out of the 5th inning, and he has no rules that are prohibiting him.
The Yankees get King Felix from Seattle for Joba Chamberlain, Ian Kennedy, Mark Melancon, Austin Jackson, Eduardo Nunez and Jorge Vazquez.
–
more doesn’t = better
——————————————————
Seattle can’t sign King Felix and faces the prospects of losing him in free agency. Who else could make a better offer? And waht would that offer be? And would the addition of Zach McAllister be enough to overcome a better offer?
“I don’t get why one start, if it’s a good one, will wipe away all the terrible starts Joba has had. If he pitches well tomorrow, then that’s all that matters? Why should I believe that one good start tomorrow means he’s good to go in the post-season?”
I don’t think you should believe. If he makes two good starts, tomorrow and next week, at least he has a positive to build on. Either way, he or Gaudan (sp) will be the 4th starter. You can’t feel great about either.
But I wouldn’t feel great about Dice-K, Byrd, or Wakefield if I’m a Boston fan. I wouldn’t feel great about anything beyond Verlander if I’m a Detroit fan. I would feel ok if I’m an LAA fan, until I go to the pen in any game.
And with the Yankee offense, they should be able to slug wins against any teams 4th starter.
I like the fact that Joe is giving CC extra rest for the postseason. I think CC will show that he is a big game pitcher this Ocotber.
Seattle can’t sign King Felix and faces the prospects of losing him in free agency. Who else could make a better offer? And waht would that offer be? And would the addition of Zach McAllister be enough to overcome a better offer?
–
Maybe seattle wants a currently established young player? You can’t just add a ton of marginal prospects and say its a good deal.
Joba CHamberlain + Austin Jackson, ok that is a pretty good start. They might want another major league ready prospect, or else we’re including guys like Jesus Montero.
73 –
Are you serious or being trollish? I can’t tell.
Pete – I get it. I think most of us do.
I think the perception problem is this – people are lumping you in with “the media”in general.
Many “media” members ARE rooting for a team. The “homers” in the broadcast booths across America, for example. What people fail to realize is these people are EMPLOYED by the team. (usually).
Bloggers see the antics of ESPN talking heads and think they hate the Yankees too. (never mind if you ask Sox fans they think the bias goes the other way) Again “the media” takes the fall for being biased.
Writers are employed by the newspapers they work for. There lies the difference.
The only conflict I see is newspaper entities that own baseball teams. But that’s a tale for another day…..
I also think that all the beat reporters and tv reporters should walk in the clubhouse in ponchos, that is if they don’t want their clothes ruined.
King Felix is one of the few players that i would trade Joba for, but you need to include, Joba, Ajax, Montero, and prolly a Cano type player to swing that deal.
Pete,
I meant no offense. We love you so much and it really is very tough in the beginning to see you leave. If I were you, I would probably do the same move though.
check out espn’s baseball home page – 3 “october” pitchers — no yanks listed and they’re the only one’s that have clinched! bulletin board material!!!
http://sports-ak.espn.go.com/mlb/index
The plan is not to do these trades so much — remember. Cultivate the young folks and otherwise wait for FAs to come along.
Okay. I am now officially kicking myself. Have been procrastinating on the DVR. It’s the darn $15.95 per month that Comcast will be charging us (on top of the ridiculous amount we already hand them every month). Even if I order it right now, there is no way we’ll have it installed in time for Saturday or Sunday games.
This would not usually be a problem. But as I’ve alluded to before, we have lots going on and baseball is having to take a back seat.
S/he who hesitates is lost.
I am going to hope, pray and assume that if the Yankees clinch the division versus the Red Sox this weekend that (a) YES is going to have a post-game show; and (b) there will be an encore of the entire post-game show.
And just for the record, I hate that if the Yankees clinch this weekend the games themselves (Sat & Sun) will not be broadcast by our YES guys (even Michael Kay!).
Which brings up a question. The Yankees have their “classic” games and I would think that a division clinching game is an automatic classic. If that game was not broadcast by YES, but by Fox or ESPN, can the Yankees purchase the rights to include that game in their catalog. Hey, these are no small matters here!
Why not do the trade for Geinke? You people make no sense.
Pete can you pass the word to the YES people to run the rally monkey bits they do at Anaheim stadium..I’m dying to see it..o rmaybe someone on this blog has a connection to Youtube or something..I gots to see this.
Sorry, I meant Greinke, of course.
Joba was having a very solid year before the new rules began. in fact he was 8-2, 3.73 on August 21st. I don’t think that’s a coincidence. That’s why a strong start would mean more than Paul Byrd having one.
Gaudin warrants consideration because over the last four weeks he’s the Yankees fourth best starter, plain and simple.
Six or seven of the top ten young (under 25) players in the organization for one guy? Glad you are not having any meaningful input.
Doreen
September 24th, 2009 at 3:10 pm
Okay. I am now officially kicking myself. Have been procrastinating on the DVR. It’s the darn $15.95 per month that Comcast will be charging us (on top of the ridiculous amount we already hand them every month). Even if I order it right now, there is no way we’ll have it installed in time for Saturday or Sunday games.
This would not usually be a problem. But as I’ve alluded to before, we have lots going on and baseball is having to take a back seat.
S/he who hesitates is lost.
****
Doreen-
Is there a center by you that you can visit and pick up the DVR and then install it yourself? I have Cablevision and optimum and I hooked up my new DVR box all by myself. It was easy
Here’s the “Psycho Rally Monkey thing”….
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWZI9X5vbqU
mg -
I just checked out that link. What an effrontery! What can you expect, though?
Seattle can’t sign King Felix and faces the prospects of losing him in free agency. Who else could make a better offer? And waht would that offer be? And would the addition of Zach McAllister be enough to overcome a better offer?
–
Maybe seattle wants a currently established young player? You can’t just add a ton of marginal prospects and say its a good deal.
Joba CHamberlain + Austin Jackson, ok that is a pretty good start. They might want another major league ready prospect, or else we’re including guys like Jesus Montero.
=====================================================
You are missing the point!!! Seattle is facing the prospects of losing King Felix to free agency…and getting NOTHING in return. The offer that gets him need only be better than what anyone else might offer. The Blue Jays found that out with Roy Halladay. There was a certain minimum that they wanted…but couldn’t get because no one was willing to offer it. The market is going to dictate what Hernandez is worth…not the Mariners.
In what universe do you think the Mariners can’t afford to sign King Felix?
Their owners are worth a combined 10 BILLION dollars.
They can afford to sign him.
You also aren’t trading a bunch of guys who have done nothing at the ML level for him. That’s a fantasy trade that has zero chance of happening.
You want Felix? Start with Hughes, McAllister, Montero and Jackson and maybe you get your phone call returned.
Notice I said “start”.
The Mariners aren’t giving away King Felix.
If they wanted to do that, they would have taken the Red Sox offer of minor league players who haven’t done anything at the ML level.
“Wouldn’t that be amazing if they had 9 players with 70 or more RBI’s, and 7 with 80 or more??”
7 with 80+ has been done. In fact, Boston had 8 with 85 or more in ’03……but nobody with more than 105.
9 with 70 has not been so far as I can find and we have Johnny Damon getting to only 67 RBI in ’03 to thank for it. This Yankees team has a very good shot at it.
Erica -
Yes, there is a Comcast office not far from here. I don’t know if I could hook it up myself though. We had our whole system put together by an outside contractor and I’m afraid of messing everything up. Plus the universal remote would have to be reprogrammed.
Doreen-
I thought I heard that YES would have pre and post game shows this weekend.
ArtieA-
there were some rally monkey links yesterday and Christina’s Al Leiter’s Bullpen Catcher blog has some links to.
Happy Birthday Betsy…………
Erica I was just going to ask Doreen that. If Comcast has “stores” you can just swap your box out. there isn’t anything to set up besides connecting the usual wires.
That Psycho Rally Monkey clip was fantastic!
SJ,
I said the same thing…it would take Joba/Hughes, Montero, Jackson, and prolly Cano.
In what universe do you think the Mariners can’t afford to sign King Felix?
—————————————————–
Then why haven’t they???
Its because his agent has already informed them that his client intends to pursue free agency when his time is up. At that point things like money will be important to land him, but so will a winning heritage. You don’t think he wants to waste away in Seattle like Halladay is wasting away in Toronto, do you?
Jason Stark rates the Postseason rotations:
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/.....BHeadlines
Outrage in 3, 2, 1….
Plus, Seattle will get 2 1st rounders if they lose him. That is better than 13 marginal prospects.
I have an HD box that would be switched out. But I just checked it out, and while I think I could easily disconnect most of the wires, the one that is attached to the outlet (the plug) will be difficult to do without making a total mess. The wires are all neatly bundled with a plastic tie thingie that’s not a twist tie, but probably comes out of some sort of “gun” if you know what I’m talking about. The type of plastic fasteners that attach children toys to the boxes that have to be cut with a machete.
Wondering if there’s a way I can record the live chat today, Im at work and will be in a meeting at 4. Any suggestions?????
Doreen
September 24th, 2009 at 3:16 pm
Erica -
Yes, there is a Comcast office not far from here. I don’t know if I could hook it up myself though. We had our whole system put together by an outside contractor and I’m afraid of messing everything up. Plus the universal remote would have to be reprogrammed.
****
I can assure you, I am not an electonics expert, but I was able to swap out the box pretty easily. But if you have a more complicated system than I can see why you are hesitant
I heard Nintendo is lowering the price of Wii thru the end of September. If this is true I am going to buy one and that will be my next installment project. I will just have to uninstall my old Nintendo 64. I refuse however, to give up my old school NES system
Plus, Seattle will get 2 1st rounders if they lose him. That is better than 13 marginal prospects.
————————————————–
The only problems with 1st rounders is that you can’t always sign them and if you do…they don’t always work out. When the Yankees drafted Jeter he was the 6th guy picked in the first round…none of the others drafted before him really made it big.
http://community.post-gazette......24-09.aspx
This is sad.
Probably a combo of the team being awful and the stupid G8 summit.
For anybody that really cares :
http://kansascity.royals.mlb.c.....38;c_id=kc
“In what universe do you think the Mariners can’t afford to sign King Felix?
Their owners are worth a combined 10 BILLION dollars.
They can afford to sign him.”
As I understand it, most, if not all, owners limit the money they use to run a baseball team to the revenues it generates (gate, concessions, TV/radio, revenue sharing, etc), rather than tapping into their personal fortune.
Is this the way you understand it to be? Steinbrenner is nowhere near the richest owner in the game the way I hear it, but he has by far the laregest revenue streams and thus the highest payroll. If they’re all operating based on team generated revenue, is it really a stretch to assume Hernandez could end up elsewhere?
Erica, the WII is the best thing I ever bought. Plus, you can buy just about every old NES, SNES, N64, Gamecube, genesis, well you get the point. Buy the WII.
I wouldn’t disagree with Stark.
Beckett/Lester, Carpenter/Wainwright, and Lee/Hamels are all scarier than CC/AJ… mainly because we have no idea what to expect form AJ. The other #2 starters are much more consistent. CC can outduel any of them though. The question is with AJ, not CC.
Doreen- Don’t quote me call and ask, But i think you can just remove the electrical wire from the back of the box. It might be the same for a HD and HDDVR. So all you’d bring to them is the box and remote. Call first to check.
Erica I bought one two weeks ago and will head to bestbuy Sunday to get my price adjustment.
The Wii is fantastic! We’re probably getting my daughter the Wii-Fit for Christmas to add to the system.
jennifer
September 24th, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Doreen- Don’t quote me call and ask, But i think you can just remove the electrical wire from the back of the box. It might be the same for a HD and HDDVR. So all you’d bring to them is the box and remote. Call first to check.
Erica I bought one two weeks ago and will head to bestbuy Sunday to get my price adjustment.
****
I checked Best Buy and ToysRUS online and the lower price is not being reflected. But I definitely heard them say it. I am going to try to investigate further
Wish we could have seen a CC vrs Leister on Friday. I wonder what JobaJoba’s excuse will be this time.
//would i be a bad person if i wish the redsox/royals game goes about 22 innings today – with the sox having to use up all of their bullpen and a few of their starters as well (and nick green) – only to lose in the 22nd inning when all world dustin pedroia makes a chuck knoblachesque throw to first allowing the winning run to score from second……at 3:30 in the morning//
If it comes down to that. I’m sure they’ll let Delcarmen pitch in the 10th and throw the game, get on the plane and get ready for the play-offs. The Sox are in as the wildcard. This weekend means nothing to anybody. If you get by Verlander and Detroit. The Sox will be waiting to choke you out of the ALCS! No pitching = no Championship for the Yankees this year…..much to your dismay!
Five Iron,
Good post.
We are clicking at all levels of the organization, not just having a good year, as per your thorough post.
Did you see DeLeon with the No. 2 ranking by BA for GCL?
Joba will rise to the occassion.
Wow, Can’t say I really blame the Pirate fans for not showing up.
I remember going to old three river stadium as a kid (I have family in Pittsburgh) and ‘catching’ about 3 foul balls a game. That is, waiting for the ball to land then walk over and pick it up when it stopped rolling.
“Wish we could have seen a CC vrs Leister on Friday. I wonder what JobaJoba’s excuse will be this time.”
In fairness, Joba may have too optimistic a view of some of his recent efforts, but he has NOT been making excuses.
jennifer -
This is comical, really. I just went to check. Not only is the electrical cord hard-attached to the HD box (not removable), but the way all the wires are so neatly bundled, I can’t even follow it into the power strip. I don’t know where to unplug it. So, it’s too late for this weekend, but I better plan for next month NOW!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glNjsOHiBYs
Happy Birthday, Betsy!
Has anyone received notification that they can buy postseason tickets? Waiting all day for this email is agonizing..
If you get by Verlander and Detroit. The Sox will be waiting to choke you out of the ALCS!
I think Kazmir is going to get you guys just like he has all year. I think neither team is assured of getting to the second round. There is always a danger in looking ahead.
Carpenter/Wainwright is all the rage.
Beckett/Lester, not bad.
But the truth is all he postseason teams will have pitching. Whoever squeezes out the most of their starters, lineup, and bullpen will take it all.
We may not have the deepest, best starting rotation, but the team overall is pretty good.
Two things.
The AL is better than the NL. I know Philly won last year.
But we’ve seen that pitchers look a lot better facing NL hitters.
Secondly, do you think any team out there WANTS to face the Yankees? Be honest now, suppress those worries and fears that have taken over you.
Do you think any team wants to face CC & AJ? Have a game be over by the 7th? Face a circular lineup like we have?
PNC Park, just —- wow
A beautiful new park, great location, historic (100 year +) baseball town, horrendously mismanaged team.
SJ44: If this doesn’t improve, would you hope your nephew gets traded out of the organization (although staying would probably be his quickest route to the majors)?
I haven’t gotten an email either. A friend received an email from the Phillies, saying they weren’t chosen. I assume we’d get one too, if we weren’t chosen for ours.
“Did you see DeLeon with the No. 2 ranking by BA for GCL?”
BA’s mini scouting report on DeLeon:
When DeLeon signed for $1.1 million two years ago, he gave $100,000 to his signing scouts, Carlos Rios and Ramon Valdivia. The Yankees since have fired the scouts, but DeLeon is making good on the investment so far. He ranked fourth in the Rookie-level Dominican Summer league with nine homers in his 2008 pro debut and third in the GCL with seven homers this summer.
DeLeon has a short, quick swing and is making strides with his strike-zone discipline, a point of emphasis for him. He has obvious power to his pull side but can drive the ball the other way as well.
“He knows how to hit,” Blue Jays manager John Schneider said. “He hunts for his pitch. If it’s a fastball count, he doesn’t miss. I didn’t want any part of him.”
A lean, athletic 6-foot-2, 180-pounder, DeLeon runs well. He has average defensive tools with a strong arm in right field, though he’s still learning to harness his arm strength and align his throws with the cutoff man.
At the end of the day, Joba still throws 100 MPH with a nasty sweeping slider and a god durveball, all with good command.
That is going to be a handful for any team to face and he is more than capable of pitching a good game, just based on his raw stuff.
Doreen
September 24th, 2009 at 3:31 pm
The Wii is fantastic! We’re probably getting my daughter the Wii-Fit for Christmas to add to the system
****
I really want one. I have been eyeing it for a while. However, I am trying to cut down on my spending and I also really want a Kindle. And I am trying to teach myself that I can’t just buy everything I want. Between my concert tickets, trips to AC and Vegas, and the new car I bought this year even though my old one was still very functional… I wonder why I can’t seem to get my savings together to renovate my bathroom.
So I will definitely keep my eye on this Wii price thing though
Holy Canoli –
I just noticed the not a single one of these games this weekend is being broadcast by YES. I assumed Friday night was a YES game. At least it’s YES announcers on My9, but still…
In fairness, Joba may have too optimistic a view of some of his recent efforts, but he has NOT been making excuses.
Really I have never heard Jobs talk in the negative about his performances. I think pitchers like Andy give you a fair assessment. With Joba it’s always something, I had good velocity, I was spotting the ball well, my curve was breaking. Then why are they tearing the cover off the ball?
I’m in the camp where I think he can be a very good reliever, perhaps even a dominant one.
L to the 2nd
September 24th, 2009 at 3:38 pm
PNC Park, just —- wow
A beautiful new park, great location, historic (100 year +) baseball town, horrendously mismanaged team.
SJ44: If this doesn’t improve, would you hope your nephew gets traded out of the organization (although staying would probably be his quickest route to the majors)?
****
His best bet it to come up thru the ranks, play really well and then get traded for prospects like every other decent player on the Pirates does
Guess so, Erica – toil in Baseball Purgatory for a while, I suppose.
Joba still throws 100 MPH
I’d sure like to see him do that again, but this year he hasn’t gotten anywhere near that.
Erica,
I want a Kindle also, but I’ve got to figure if it’s cost effective. I used to read a lot more than I do now, and I’ve been wanting to read more, but I hate going to the library (they never have the books I go in for) and while I don’t mind buying books, I hate discarding them. You can’t always easily donate them.
It’s so hard to balance wants vs. needs. That’s why the procrastination on the DVR as well. You save money on one thing, and then something else comes along and eats up the savings (something not fun – like an algae problem in the pool this summer).
Wii and products like that don’t often have price breaks. that would be great if it is true.
When these guys are traded from PIT, the reactions are priceless – you would think they were just released from prison early for good behavior. The guys who remain are all “shoot, when is it my turn?”
Pretty sad for a once proud franchise.
Erica I read online that the price change goes into effect Sunday.
http://www.cnbc.com/id/32999515
worse are the Marlins fans, they at least have a fairly decent team most of the time. I remember seeing the highlights of Griffey Jr hitting his 600 HR and there was no one in the stands.
Doreen
September 24th, 2009 at 3:44 pm
Erica,
I want a Kindle also, but I’ve got to figure if it’s cost effective. I used to read a lot more than I do now, and I’ve been wanting to read more, but I hate going to the library (they never have the books I go in for) and while I don’t mind buying books, I hate discarding them. You can’t always easily donate them.
*****
I am kind of hoping the Kindle will come down some more. I saw a woman reading on it at the beach this summer and I kind of fell in love (with the kindle, not the woman). Anyway, I buy a lot of books. I have a B&N discount card, but they are still pricey. The library doesn’t work for me because it smells weird in there and I hate having to worry about when they are due back. I either lend my old books to people (maybe eventually getting them back) or I donate them to goodwill. But I still have a bookshelf that is so at max capacity that some books are on the living room floor NEXT to the bookshelf.
The kindle to me is beautiful cause there is no carrying heavy books around if you go somewhere and they are cheaper to download than buy. So we will see. I need to somehow tame the mess of my bookshelf though
Let’s see how FLA reacts when they get their new stadium in 2012. It’ll be a nice new toy, at least for a little while.
But look at the Nationals….
FYI- Friday’s game is on TBS too for the non My9′ers.
New stadium + crappy team = empty stadium
jennifer
September 24th, 2009 at 3:46 pm
Erica I read online that the price change goes into effect Sunday.
http://www.cnbc.com/id/32999515
****
Now it sounds official. I will buy a Wii on Sunday when I get back from Atlantic City
L to the 2nd
September 24th, 2009 at 3:48 pm
Let’s see how FLA reacts when they get their new stadium in 2012. It’ll be a nice new toy, at least for a little while.
But look at the Nationals….
****
Thats the exact reason I think the Twins are a lock to resign Mauer. They are getting a new stadium too
Doreen September 24th, 2009 at 3:44 pm
Erica,
I want a Kindle also, but I’ve got to figure if it’s cost effective.
Perhaps you are using Kindle as the metaphor? I like the Sony it has a nice look and feel. You mnay want to take a look at that model also.
If someone can go back and check out the schedule maker the day before the red sox play the Yanks they always have a day off. So Peter you are thinking like a red sox beat writer good for you and complaining about everything. But you did not complain you just brought up a point the the other writers and fans will bring to the 3 game series.
Rex,
Good info. I posted this on another site where there’s a little more interest in the prospects. Five Iron, though, really keeps up with the kids.
There are also quotes floating around out there that KDL has improved when facing offspeed pitches, but that remains the great challenge for him, as it does for others like Melky Mesa, who also rose in estimation by some critics this season.
The Mariners have a very profitable team. Their TV and Radio deals are among the best local market deals in baseball.
Nobody signs players, especially in this economy, 2 years out from free agency.
All of these fantasy trade proposals aren’t worth writing because the Mariners aren’t going to take a lesser package to trade Felix.
They are better off taking the 2 draft choices. They always sign their draft picks and if you follow the Mariners, you would realize they often sign them above slot.
Its not a poor franchise by any stretch.
The Kindle is great. I tell my students to buy an ebook reader and head over to “project gutenberg” to download the books for free.
our closest stadium used to be the Expos. They used to have great deals like $5 seats and $1 hot dogs and even at that the place was empty.
One last point on this…..
The Mariners went the fantasy trade way when they acquired Eric Bedard. That deal became a disaster for the franchise.
There is no way the new GM is going to make the same mistake Bill Bavasi (the former GM) made with the Bedard trade.
If you want Felix, be prepared to give up Hughes, Cano, Montero, etc.
If not, don’t bother because the Mariners aren’t getting hosed again as they did in the Bedard trade.
Reports of Joba’s velo are constantly misrepresented.
He never has SAT at 98mph, for instance.
Joba will be amped to make a contribution tonight, and the adrenaline will be pumping, after seeing his bud IPK walk that tightrope yesterday.
Weekend games should be a blast, especially with us sitting so pretty!
Kate:
A few big problems with Montreal:
Olympic Stadium was a TERRIBLE baseball stadium
The team was basically the AAA system for MLB contenders
Once the ’94 strike hit (when the Expos were in 1st), that was the beginning of the end for fans up there.
Here’s my take on the Yankees’ playoff rotation.
There’s no pitcher in the playoffs that has an advantage against CC. Even if the other team’s #1 can match CC, the Yankees have a better offense and Hughes and Mariano in the bullpen.
I haven’t read what Girardi plans on doing for the #2 starter. It’s an important decision because the #2 starter pitches game 5 in a short series. Pettitte is more reliable to give 6 innings with 3 or less runs. Burnett has a better chance of going 7 innings without giving up more than 1 run. The problem with Burnett is that he could also blowup and lose the game.
The other factor in who pitches game 2 is the home/away splits. Burnett has been better at home than away by more than 1 ER/9 innings. Pettitte is the opposite, with an away ERA 1 run lower than his home ERA. If Girardi puts any weight into these splits, he’ll have Burnett pitching at home in game 2.
Either way, I’ll say the Yankees have an advantage in game 3 against any of the #3′s in the playoffs. Game 2 has the best chance to be favored toward the team we are facing.
I also think the Yankees have the best long relief options with Aceves and whoever isn’t the #4 starter, most likely Gaudin.
Most interesting is that CC and Pettitte are going back-to-back. Maybe the rotation for the post season? Not sure if we have seen the 2 lefties go back to back all year.
Good point (Bedard) on King Felix, SJ44
No way they trade him (although I’m sure you’ll hear tons of misinfo. from NESPN about BOS making an “all out push” to get him).
They’ll try to sign him, and if not, wish him good luck.
It is a rich club, but that doesn’t necessarily translate into them making the big investment, even if it is a homegrown guy.
“The Mariners went the fantasy trade way when they acquired Eric Bedard.”
That one was a beat down. Tillman, Sherrill, and Adam Jones for Bedard, right? That was UGLY for the M’s.
WHOA – i just read that Pete is now going to be the beat reporter for the Phoenix Suns AND the Texas Rangers…wow he didn’t last long in Boston (just like the rest of the HOF players they employed)…
…just kidding of course….
Plus the M’s recent forays into FAs (Beltre, Sexson) have been, I would say, putrid?
I watched Joba make his way through the minors bod.
He sat at 97-98 consistently in his starts in the minors in 2007.
One particular start I saw in Jupiter, FL, he was hitting 100 on the gun in the 8th inning.
His fastball in 2007 was consistently sitting 96-98.
His slider was also more consistent in the strikezone.
Now, he sits 91-92 and he has trouble throwing the slider for strikes. Or, more accurately make it look like a strike leaving his hand.
That’s why hitters have adjusted and lay off the pitch. Especially late in counts.
Pov -
I will check out the Sony, but I’d heard very good things about the Kindle and I liked that it was associated with Amazon.com, which is one of my sources for books.
Erica -
You sound just like me, with regard to returning books to the library. I’m just not good at that!
(I may be wanted in the State of New Jersey for an album I took out 25 years ago!) I also saw some people using the Kindle (or Sony?) while on the airplane this past week. It looked so convenient.
An off season club mandated conditioning problem is a must for Joba…As for his mental makeup, well that’s going to be the challenge…..
Doreen
September 24th, 2009 at 4:08 pm
Erica -
You sound just like me, with regard to returning books to the library. I’m just not good at that! (I may be wanted in the State of New Jersey for an album I took out 25 years ago!) I also saw some people using the Kindle (or Sony?) while on the airplane this past week. It looked so convenient.
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I won’t tell the library cops! LOL
I remember when I was in college, when I came home for breaks I used to drag all my textbooks home with me (and then never opened them, but different story). I can’t believe how much easier it would have been if I had a Kindle then. I really do want one. That may be a Christmas time gift to me
When we did the Petco Park tour, we learned something of some interest to me about the scheduling. Each team submits a list of dates that are a conflict for them to be at home. He used San Diego as an example. He said whenever there is something going on downtown, at the convention center, say, they try not to be in town because of the limited parking. They try to coordinate events.
This probably isn’t much of a problem for the Yankees.
But it just gave some insight into some of the variables that go into the construct of the schedules.
Erica – always OPPC
September 24th, 2009 at 4:13 pm
I remember when I was in college, when I came home for breaks I used to drag all my textbooks home with me (and then never opened them, but different story). I can’t believe how much easier it would have been if I had a Kindle then. I really do want one. That may be a Christmas time gift to me
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Now THAT sounds like plan!
“hgh maker”
your ‘jokes’ have gone from semi-charming to just plain not funny since you announced your move to the dark side.
OK, they need to play 100% against Boston, then they can relax a little until playoff.
A few things.
Yes, the Pirates are bad, but poor ownership and 15 years of idiocy of GMs have a way of doing that. The team has been blown up, and every trace of Dave Littlefield is gone.
Neil Huntington and Frank Coonnely are pros, and will do everything they can to make the franchise reasonable by 2011. If not, Ogden Nutting (the owner) will be forced by the fans and the city to sell the team in shame if they don’t get better, likely to Mark Cuban, who grew up in suburban Pittsburgh and has tried to buy them several times already.
By the time SJ44′s nephew is ready for the bigs, the team should be competitive and he will be their first string catcher. Given that the Pirates are in the NL Central, it shouldn’t take too much to get competitive.
In terms of tonight, the area for 10 blocks around the convention center (about 5 blocks from PNC Park) is closed off by the Secret Service for the G20, so it’s hard to get to the game. Plus, from the upper deck you could get off a shot at the convention center, so my guess is that the Secret Service is nervous.
These are the reasons the upper deck is closed. So Lohud bloggers, chill out on Pittsburgh.
The game Saturday night is close to sold out, by the way.