Some things are bigger than a rivalry
Posted by: Sam Borden - Posted in Misc on Oct 22, 2009 
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Today is a big day for baseball and we’ll have all the coverage from Angel Stadium, starting with Flash Points (John Flaherty’s pitching match-up analysis) in a few hours, but first I wanted to pass along a story that my editor, Susie Arth, brought to my attention. It’s about a rabid Red Sox fan donating bone marrow to a Westchester boy with a rare illness … who just happens to be part of a family of serious Yankees fans.
Thanks to Susie for letting us know about this and an even greater thanks to the Red Sox fan for what he did to help a child in need.
8 hours and 44 minutes until Game 5!!!!!
One of my friends underwent a marrow transplant in January. If it was up to me, no one would have to undergo such a thing, ever.
My thoughts are with both donor and recipient.
Rebecca-how is your friend doing?
In retrospect, announcing that CC was pitching Game 4 and letting him psyched up for it was a great decision. Better than waiting until after the Game 3 loss and making it seem like a ‘do or die’ moment. It allowed everyone to stay loose. And if they won G3 … then CC probably would had clinched the series
Great story and good luck to both of them. I’ve donated bone marrow before and it’s not fun. That being said, I’d do it again-it beats being the recipient.
Not to denigrate at all what the guy is doing, since it’s an incredible sacrifice for another person, but I really don’t think the Red Sox-Yankees thing should come into it as far as making it a bigger sacrifice. I think the fact that some people might even consider that as noteworthy reveals a bit of sickness in that person. In the end, it’s just a game, we are just fans, and nobody should take this “rivalry” that seriously. I have plenty of friends who are Red Sox fans, Mets fans, Eagles fans, whatever. We debate our sports, but at the end of the day it doesn’t change how we feel about one another and neither should it.
Really a good story… People have to understand that after all its just a game..
Anthony-agreed. I have a friend who’s a big Red Sox fan. Although she informed me that she’s not speaking to me until the baseball season is over. LOL
Erica, if you’re out there, here is my GTLU entry:
Jeter SS
Damon LF
Tex 1B
A Rod 3B
Posada DH
Cano 2B
Swisher RF
Cabrera CF
Molina C
A Sox fan’s marrow going into the body of a Yankee fan won’t convert the Yankee fan into a Sox fan, will it????
And before any of you hammer me, I’ve been gravely ill before, and found a little sarcastic humor to be very good medicine. Have to keep one’s chin up.
It takes a big person to make such a donation. God bless everyone involved.
I didn’t read Sam’s note before I posted. I realize now that my comment is now a bit off the mark.
I heard about this story about a week ago – it’s heartwarming how when it comes down to fundamentals, it’s all about how we make each person’s life better
If Jorge is the DH and bats fifth the Yankees can always move him out of DH and put him behind the plate in the seventh when AJ is out. I know the DH would then be eliminated BUT if Molina is batting eigth or ninth (I personally want to see Gardner 9th and in cf) it would mean the pitcher hits in that spot. Girardi can then pinch hit for the pitcher the rest of the game which would probably 1 or 2 at bats for the rest of the game. Keep in mind Swisher Matsui and depends on the situation Hairston (better hitter than Molina) are still on the bench available to pinch hit. Cervelli would also be still available although I doubt Joe would want to use his 3rd catcher up. Guzman is also still available to run.
Erin: All right. As well as you can do, considering, but it’s been quite a struggle. I just wish there was more that I could do besides saying, over and again “I’m here for you”.
Must get boring to hear that after a while.
Any chance, assuming the Yanks make it to the series….Girardi throws Petitte in Game 2? This would give the Yanks 2 lefty starters at Yankee Stadium, to help neutralize Philly’s LH power with that short right porch?
This would also allow Burnett to pitch on the road, where his splits have been better, and also hit?
Thoughts anyone?
i’ve been living in philly for 3 years now and rooting for the phils, its a great team, they are never out of a game, cbp is a great place to watch a ball game and only 12 minutes from my house, ryan howard led my fantasy team to consecutive championships, the phillies owners finally stopped playing small market ball and got into the big-boy pool with a multi year contract for howard and going out and getting lee.
on top of that they’ve been playing hammer to the met’s nail since i got here so overall, its been a blast rooting for the phillies for the past 3 years (excluding games vs. the yankees).
congrats to the phillies and i hope the yankees earn the right to kick thier butts in the WS tonight!
Jeff NJ-
Please repost at 3pm when i start GTLU.
I really, really can’t spend my entire day at work accumulating Yankee line ups
Great story. When it comes down to it I would do the same for a Sux fan if I were in that situation. Of c ourse if Yankees and Red Sux are playing in the playoffs that changes everything. Good job to the Sux fan that donated! I guess they are all not bad people after all.
Rebecca-I’m know it’s fustrating, but I’m sure she appreciates you being there for her. Sounds like she’s got a good friend to help get her through it.
Erica–I will shower, but I won’t mention to my wife someone named Erica suggested a shower.
This would give the Yanks 2 lefty starters at Yankee Stadium, to help neutralize Philly’s LH power with that short right porch? GOOD IDEA . And lets start Phil Coke in Game 4 backed up by Gaudin !
is “rabid” really the best word to describe the donor in this situation?
Yanks, what is your problem? The difference between Petitte and AJ isn’t earth shattering, and lefties give less of a chance of the long ball in RF at the Stadium?
“This would also allow Burnett to pitch on the road, where his splits have been better, and also hit?”
You can’t pitch AJ in the NL park because of the Molina superstition.
id like to see gardner in cf, melky in rf, matsui at clean-up and jorge as dh behind him. in the close games the yankees have had to pinch run for matsui and having swisher on the bench gives you an option when that pinch runner is behind arod in the order the next time around.
jorge gives you the same thing off the bench, but i prefer his bat in the starting lineup.
either way joe goes is fine with me though, he’s got them this far and i believe’s he’s about to take this team all the way to #27!
Rebecca-just realized I put her, when I don’t know if it’s a her or him. Sorry
Wave Your Hat- that’s if Girardi keeps the AJ/Molina battery.
“You can’t pitch AJ in the NL park because of the Molina superstition”
But he would be pitching game 5 which is in Philly.
Rebecca
I hear you. Imagine how it must be for your friend’s family.
I have a friend and office partner who had a liver transplant about 12 years ago. Late 2007 he found out that he had lymphoma and started chemo for that. The complication was that he was already taking anti-rejection medications. Before he was two thirds done with that, the doctors discovered that he also had colon cancer! They had to make very careful decisions on what the treatment sequence should be.
Thank goodness both cancers have been fought off for now and he can enjoy being with his family again. But it was really tough for me and our professor to try do something for him, to be as supportive as posssible and to handle his absences.
austinmac
October 22nd, 2009 at 11:40 am
Erica–I will shower, but I won’t mention to my wife someone named Erica suggested a shower.
****
Thats probably a very good idea
@Ham
After Melky’s big night, I don’t think Gardner will be starting although I believe Gardner should start over Melky.
AJ will pitch game 2. He pitches much better at home, Pettitte worse. AJ has said he feeds off CC You keep that going. Plus as it is pointed out, you can’t have Molina catching in an NL park.
Ham Fighters October 22nd, 2009 at 11:43 am
“id like to see … matsui at clean-up and jorge as dh ”
—
do you mean Matsui or Jorge as DH? Or Matsui in the field? Do you think Rodriguez is not sufficing for a clean up hitter?
Good luck to the bone marrow recipient…
For a little light-hearted moment…
Please be nice. He did a lot for us. Actually, the person asking the question and the person answering it both did a lot for us.
Just a little flashback…
http://mlb.mlb.com/media/video.....id=7223784
Ham-
You can’t use Jorge at the DH. Consider what happens if heaven forbid we get down 3 or 4 runs in the middle innings. You are saddled with Molina/Cervelli in trying to make up the gap.
I wouldn’t go crazy on the Posada career splits against Lackey – he’s faced him only one AB this year (0 for 1). The difference between Posada and Matsui in any particular game is minimal.
Go with Matsui at DH, and hold Jorge back for insurance.
Girardi is going to start Matsui anyway.
AJ needs to stay in slot #2 in the rotation. Hopefully CC at #1 as well. Of course the Yanks have to beat the Halos 1st!!! When AJ is right it doesn’t matter where he pitches and when he isn’t the same can be said. I like the idea of Petitte starting game 3 in Philly! I also want to see CC bat. LOL! I believe the 3 man rotation can work again.
I don’t think you can start Molina and Gardner both. I do think Gardner’s speed would be a distraction to Lackey, but he has to get on base first.
Trevor-
My guess is AJ pitches games 2 and 6, but I guess it could be 2 and 5 if Girardi decides to pitch CC on short rest twice and AJ on short rest once. I don’t think the WS has the third day off.
AJ vs the Phillies:
PA AB H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO **BA** OBP SLG OPS SH SF IBB HBP GDP G_miss YR_miss
+—————–+—+—+—+–+–+–+—+—+—+———+—–+—–+—–+—+—+—+—+—+——+——-+
Chan Ho Park 2 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1.000 1.000 1.000 2.000 0 0 0 0 0
Carlos Ruiz 3 3 3 0 0 1 2 0 0 1.000 1.000 2.000 3.000 0 0 0 0 0
Greg Dobbs 7 6 4 1 0 0 2 0 1 .667 .714 .833 1.547 0 0 0 1 0
Paul Bako 15 14 4 0 0 0 0 1 3 .286 .333 .286 .619 0 0 0 0 0
Chase Utley 23 21 6 0 1 1 5 1 7 .286 .348 .524 .872 0 0 0 1 1
Matt Stairs 12 11 3 0 0 2 3 1 4 .273 .333 .818 1.151 0 0 0 0 0
Raul Ibanez 17 15 4 1 0 0 3 1 4 .267 .294 .333 .627 0 1 0 0 0
Jimmy Rollins 50 43 11 3 0 1 4 6 12 .256 .340 .395 .735 0 1 0 0 2
Ryan Howard 12 12 2 0 0 2 2 0 6 .167 .167 .667 .834 0 0 0 0 0
Shane Victorino 6 6 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 .167 .167 .500 .667 0 0 0 0 0
Jayson Werth 9 7 1 0 0 1 2 2 3 .143 .333 .571 .904 0 0 0 0 0
Pedro Feliz 15 15 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 .133 .133 .200 .333 0 0 0 0 0
Miguel Cairo 9 8 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 .125 .222 .250 .472 0 0 0 0 0
Ben Francisco 4 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 .000 .250 .000 .250 0 0 0 0 0
+—————–+—+—+—+–+–+–+—+—+—+———+—–+—–+—–+—+—+—+—+—+——+——-+
Total 184 166 44 7 2 8 23 14 41 .265 .326 .476 .802 0 2 0 2 3
Petitte vs Phillies:
PA AB H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO **BA** OBP SLG OPS SH SF IBB HBP GDP G_miss YR_miss
+—————–+—+—+—+–+–+–+—+—+—+———+—–+—–+—–+—+—+—+—+—+——+——-+
Carlos Ruiz 3 3 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 .667 .667 1.667 2.334 0 0 0 0 0
Shane Victorino 6 6 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 .500 .500 .500 1.000 0 0 0 0 0
Ben Francisco 6 5 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 .400 .500 .400 .900 0 0 0 0 0
Pedro Feliz 10 7 2 0 0 0 2 3 1 .286 .500 .286 .786 0 0 0 0 0
Raul Ibanez 22 21 6 1 0 1 3 0 5 .286 .318 .476 .794 0 0 0 1 1
Miguel Cairo 38 36 10 4 0 0 3 1 3 .278 .297 .389 .686 1 0 0 0 2
Jimmy Rollins 18 18 4 0 0 1 1 0 2 .222 .222 .389 .611 0 0 0 0 0
Chase Utley 8 7 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 .143 .250 .143 .393 0 0 0 0 0
Ryan Howard 9 9 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 .111 .111 .111 .222 0 0 0 0 0
Jayson Werth 13 13 1 0 0 1 2 0 5 .077 .077 .308 .385 0 0 0 0 2
Paul Bako 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000 .000 0 0 0 0 0
Chan Ho Park 5 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 .000 .000 .000 .000 1 0 0 0 0
Matt Stairs 9 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 .000 .000 .000 .000 0 0 0 0 0
+—————–+—+—+—+–+–+–+—+—+—+———+—–+—–+—–+—+—+—+—+—+——+——-+
Total 148 139 32 5 0 4 12 6 26 .230 .267 .353 .620 2 0 0 1 5
The numbers for the Philly lineup appear even with AJ and Petitte…therefore, Girardi *MAY* think about giving Andy game 2.
I think the outfield stays the same. We’ll probably see the game 2 lineup.
An early lead would be nice, but those Ankles never give up.
AeroFanatic:
Link?
Swisher doesn’t hit Lackey, but I’m not confident Gardner can hit him either. Hairston has hit him a little if you believe 9 career ABs mean anything.
We’re going to be seeing Gaudin start game 4. This is not a big deal unless they’re down 0-3 or down 1-2. And that will make you nervous.
http://tinyurl.com/yh4uc6z
i agree with Andy in game 2 Aero, not being sarcastic, but my comment about starting Coke was thinking out of the box as it would give us a 3rd lefty to start but wouldnt fly
OK, so ONE of them has a heart.
Great story.
I’d be shocked if we don’t see the game 2 lineup. Posada will not DH because then Girardi won’t be able to get JoPo and Matsui in the lineup at the same time.
I’d rather have:
Matsui 5abs, Molina 2abs, Posada 3abs
than
Posada 5abs, Molina/Cervelli 4abs, Matsui 1ab
But that’s just me.
Anyone else find discussions of the World Series stunningly premature? I really wouldn’t be surprised to see this series go 7 games. Though I deeply, deeply, deeply want it over tonight. I actually had a dream in which the Yankees won, 3-1. I know: boring dream!
“The numbers for the Philly lineup appear even with AJ and Petitte…therefore, Girardi *MAY* think about giving Andy game 2.”
If they stick with Molina catching Burnett, then I would be shocked if they started AJ in Game 3.
Of course, the Yankees have to beat the Angels one more time first.
AeroFANatic,
Thanks. That’s much easier to read.
Are you guys purposely trying to jinx us? Can we please save all this for if and when we clinch a spot in thee WS.
“Anyone else find discussions of the World Series stunningly premature?”
Yes. Kind of like spending lottery winnings before the numbers are pulled.
Sigmund? Dream? Seems to fit together
Mehdi, I qualified my posts with “if” we get to the Series…no worries. Jinx avoided
I’m very superstitious, so I don’t make bold predictions. BUT, I’m learning more and more that what I type in this little box has absolutely no effect on the game or how the team does.
Having said that, I can’t think about Philly until we get through the Angels.
So, hurry up, Yankees, so I can type all kinds of bold stuff!
pat,
Or buying a wedding dress before finding a man?
What was that “you must be proud” comment? Victorino?
IF the Yanks beat the Angels in the ALCS, which is a LIKELY but not CERTAIN event (also, I believe my hidden karma-influencing powers are not powerful enough to affect the outcome of tonight’s game):
The problem with starting Gaudin in the NL park is his career OPS of .119. He’s got one single in 32 career ABs. A BA of .031. So he’s basically a sure out.
The average NL pitcher has a BA of .138 and an OPS of .355. So Gaudin is much, much worse than the average pitcher. That will hurt, especially against the Phillies who can hit the ball.
@Ham
After Melky’s big night, I don’t think Gardner will be starting although I believe Gardner should start over Melky.
___
Melky and Gardner can both start. Swish is the one who should get the start off.
WYH,
Non-issue. Chad won’t last longer than 5 innings. And even if he does, he’ll most likely be pinch-hit for and replaced by a better arm. Probably no more than 2 at-bats. But I wouldn’t object to more PA if we’re turning the lineup over like flashcards.
I agree Swisher needs a night off, but I doubt we’ll see both Molina and Gardner start.
Gaudin can bunt runners over. Looking forward to seeing CC bat in Game 5 if we dont sweep the phillies (once the yanks handle the angels i mean)
m-
Sure. But I was pretty surprised by Gaudin’s lack of hitting prowess and thought I’d point it out.
I think CC pitches WS Games 1, 4, and 7, if necessary.
CC will have all winter to rest.
I think if AJ steps up and has a big game tonight along with the bull pen having had yesterday off the Yanks are in good shape. He hasn’t lost a game yet and after CC’s dominance I think he’d like to make is mark.
The team seemed to be relaxed yet focused a lot like some of the earlier championship teams.
Swisher might get a rest with Gardner getting the nod and Posada might DH instead of Matsui. (as my wife says “it’s great to have choices”)
One thing I am sure of is that Girardi and his brain-trust will give us his best lineup as he knows his player’s better that us.
The calls for sitting guys and starting Gardner are really getting ridiculous ESP. when it comes to Melky. This is a team that won 103 games in the regular season and have only lost one game so far in the postseason with pretty much the same lineup all season. Guys slump. It happens. But guys also break out of slumps. The postseason is such a small sample size you can not really make any arguments for benching guys. I will take the 162 games in the regular season over the 7 games so far in the postseason any day.
I am so glad Joe is the manager and not you people. If not Damon would probably be on the bench right now, Tex would be dropped in the lineup, Hairston would be at 2b and the most overrated player on the Yankees, Brett Gardner would be starting.
Finally on the Melky thing. What is with you people and your love for Gardner. If all you guys are going to base all your decisions on the past 7 games, how about Gardners blazing speed and his epic failure as a PR so far. I called out people for calling the benching of Melky after his 0-5. Well even with that 0-5 Melky is at .353 AVG .450 OBP and 4 RBIS in the series. Why the hell would you take him out of the lineup for Gardner?
The pressure is all on the Angels for this one. I think AJ will have a good game, and if not, the bullpen is well rested. I hope the Yankees get it done tonight, for their fans’ sake anyway! The team probaly doesn’t worry about ’04 as much as we do, since most of them weren’t on that team.
lets go…I agree on the sit this guy for that guy arguments being made here but I think most (but not all) people are saying sit Swish, not Melky…like I said, I don’t understand why we would change anything at this point since we’re sitting at 6-1 in the playoffs so far.
ALOT of World Series talk on this board.
While imagining the Angels winning 3 straight against this team is difficult, imagining them winning tonight is not.
Which then puts alot of pressure on Andy for Saturday.
So I for one am staying focused on tonight’s game only.
m
Yes, the Victorino HR. I trust he’s gotten that out of his system now and won’t be trying that again in 2009.
My bosses exec. assistant called me this morning. She saw some of the Yankees in Fashion Island Mall last night. Didn’t know everyone by name but said people were buzzing about them being there. She refrained from calling me this time since it was after 10 pm.
“Anyone else find discussions of the World Series stunningly premature?”
Amen Sigmund.
It’s similar to when the Yankees are behind in the 8th inning of a game by a few runs – the blog is usually rampant with “Yankees suck” “it’s a loss”, “it’s over” – the positive posters try to bring balance and say it’s NOT over until 27 outs are in the book.
I feel like it’s been the opposite since the end of ALCS game 4. I’m glad the bridge and cliff jumpers are few and far between – but let’s not go crazy yet and go play in rush hour traffic.
pat
Now we know a little bit what they do on a off-day
Good Afternoon All…
First off am so excited about tonight. I think by game end we will all be celebrating a Yankees win!
P.S. I will have my lucky Yankees shirt on and I am willing to be a part of the shower brigade if necessary
***************************
Erin
October 22nd, 2009 at 7:47 am
Bronx Bombers Girl-your dinner sounded great! Did your mom like it?
****
Erin…Yes everyone enjonyed dinner. I told my Mom that the Yankees are going to give her a belated birthday gift today by winning
SS Jeter
LF Damon
1B Tex
3B Alex
DH Posada
RF Swhish
2B Cano
CF Melk
C Molina
I listened to part of the Phillies game on espnradio. That Dave Campbell/??? tandem is simply terrific. They had all kinds of insight that flew out of my mind already, but I remember these two tidbits:
1)The Phillies are an AL team in the NL.
2)Torre went with 5 different lineups in this series. No big drops in the lineups, but different looks nonetheless.
So, in light of that, I’d like to give Girardi props for (sometimes painfully) having faith in the players who are struggling. I think it pays off and has dividends later. I also think it puts less pressure on the struggling players.
pat-that’s awesome!
Bronx Bombers Girl-sounds like the perfect present to me!
But I’ll bet you wished that exec asst called you last night
Its going to be the same lineup as it was for Game 2. They aren’t taking Posada’s bat AND Swisher’s bat out of the lineup at the same time.
GTLU hasn’t really been a challenge during these playoffs. The only variation off what everyone expected was the Posada Matsui flip-flop last game. Every other game the lineup was exactly what everyone expected.
It’s all sit Swish for Gardner, Cabrera in right. He probably knows Gardner going to have chances… that’s the only time he plays well.
I want to get tickets to the WS but I’m even afraid to buy them before we clinch!
DT – OPPC member
October 22nd, 2009 at 12:23 pm
“Anyone else find discussions of the World Series stunningly premature?”
Amen Sigmund.
It’s similar to when the Yankees are behind in the 8th inning of a game by a few runs – the blog is usually rampant with “Yankees suck” “it’s a loss”, “it’s over” – the positive posters try to bring balance and say it’s NOT over until 27 outs are in the book.
I feel like it’s been the opposite since the end of ALCS game 4. I’m glad the bridge and cliff jumpers are few and far between – but let’s not go crazy yet and go play in rush hour traffic.
***********
DT, I completely agree with you. It makes no sense to jump off the deep end. I have to confess that I do alot of nail biting in tense moments though LOL
On the Sox offensive struggles on the road
Epstein: ‘“This year, for some reason, we really underperformed on the road. There are players who don’t have the pop to go out (of the park) regularly on the road that they do at Fenway and those guys performed a lot better at home than on the road, as you’d expect, but there are other players who don’t particularly have characteristics that would make them better players at Fenway who also underperformed on the road, so maybe there’s something to it where we can’t have too many guys who have swings built to Fenway Park but I also think it was mainly a fluky year where almost every player happened to play better at home than on the road.”
===================================
For more gold, try reading Theo’s postmortem at http://www.boston.com/sports/b.....tra_bases/ . The one about placing value on Drew’s contract is a doozy.
Gardner in CF
October 22nd, 2009 at 12:28 pm
It’s all sit Swish for Gardner, Cabrera in right. He probably knows Gardner going to have chances… that’s the only time he plays well.
——————————
That has been the talk SINCE Melky had a huge game on Tuesday. Tons of people on this board were calling for Melky to sit after his 0-5.
Now that Swish is really the only goat left, the talk has shifted squarely on him. Swish has gotten it done all season. 7 games (the first of which he got a huge double) is not going to change my opinion of him. He may or may or may not break out of his slump. Regardless, he is still the better option than Gardner.
What has Gardner proved or done to be starting in game 5 of the ALCS? If you are going to go by performance this series, he has only hurt the Yankees.
ONE MORE TIME-
IT IS TOO EARLY FOR GTLU
Gardner in CF –
I agree with the notion that maybe it’s time for Swisher to take a seat and let Gardner take CF tonight.
Swisher’s baserunning and inability to his with RISP has been dangerous.
However, Girardi’s team is up 3-1 with Swisher in the lineup. Do you really think he’ll risk changing that?
I’m not so sure.
Erica
You’re lucky they don’t have your email address
from morosi on foxsports.
If it is New York — and let’s face it, that’s very likely — the Phillies will face a deficit in PAYROLL, raw talent and power arms in the rotation.
=============
Was that line necessary? When is it going to stop!! ENOUGH!!
Sorry Erica, didn’t know there was a start time, but it makes sense, it would become a full time job otherwise.
Erica you might break the record for ripping GTLU rule-breakers today.
Erin – It really does sound like a great birthday present.
I don’t even mind that the WS starts next Wednesday. If we clinch tonight, it gives our boys plenty of time to rest and be prepared.
Okay, I just caught a blonde bumblebee in my kitchen. Is it an omen? Will A.J. buzz throught the Angels’s lineup?
SS Jeter
LF Damon
1B Tex
3B Alex
DH Posada
RF Swhish
2B Cano
CF Melk
C Molina
I like this line up!
Erica-must be a lot of excitement in the air today.
My predictions is that the chess master overmanager makes a subtle, yet significant move to the line up:
Jeter SS
Damon LF
A Rod 3B
Tex 1B
Matsui DH
Cano 2B
Swisher RF
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Check mate?
No way is he going to move Alex hitting as well as he is.
Bronx Bombers Girl
October 22nd, 2009 at 12:38 pm
I don’t even mind that the WS starts next Wednesday. If we clinch tonight, it gives our boys plenty of time to rest and be prepared.
*****************
I agree. I kind of enjoy the days off. It’s a nice rest from all of the drama.
I happend to catch the end of the Phillies-Dodgers game last night and after Philly clinched some guy in the stands had a sign that said from Broad St to Broadway.
I am glad they are sending the Yankees positive vibes to win.
P.S. Erica always OPPC, I know that you mentioned about the parade. It is definitely worth it to go.
Does anyone have the WS schedule handy and what day is game 7 of the ALCS scheduled for if necessary?
lets go yankees (formerly lets go twins)
October 22nd, 2009 at 12:17 pm
The calls for sitting guys and starting Gardner are really getting ridiculous ESP. when it comes to Melky. This is a team that won 103 games in the regular season and have only lost one game so far in the postseason with pretty much the same lineup all season. Guys slump. It happens. But guys also break out of slumps. The postseason is such a small sample size you can not really make any arguments for benching guys. I will take the 162 games in the regular season over the 7 games so far in the postseason any day.
I am so glad Joe is the manager and not you people. If not Damon would probably be on the bench right now, Tex would be dropped in the lineup, Hairston would be at 2b and the most overrated player on the Yankees, Brett Gardner would be starting.
Finally on the Melky thing. What is with you people and your love for Gardner. If all you guys are going to base all your decisions on the past 7 games, how about Gardners blazing speed and his epic failure as a PR so far. I called out people for calling the benching of Melky after his 0-5. Well even with that 0-5 Melky is at .353 AVG .450 OBP and 4 RBIS in the series. Why the hell would you take him out of the lineup for Gardner?
————————
Girardi will most likely start Swisher tonight because the Yankees are 6-1 in the playoffs with him contributing almost nothing. If he breaks out it’s a huge plus and there is no downside.
Mr October Sunday
http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com.....hedule.jsp
I DH Posada vs. Lackey tonight…career .414 hitter against him, Matsui is at .286.
Best part is, once Burnett gets lifted (unless he throws a CG), you can shift Posada to Catcher and throw in Matsui at DH.
Surely Girardi realizes this…
Thoughts?
lets go yankees
What has Gardner proved or done to be starting in game 5 of the ALCS? If you are going to go by performance this series, he has only hurt the Yankees.
—–
BigSix October 22nd, 2009 at 12:35 pm
However, Girardi’s team is up 3-1 with Swisher in the lineup. Do you really think he’ll risk changing that?
—–
let’s go -
Gardner batted .270 and when he was an everyday player close to .300. Swisher batted .249 as an everyday. Garnder has an edge defensively. My question all along has been what has Gardner done to not be starting over one of them? Melky has hot streaks but also cold, cold streaks and the cold ones outlast the hot. He was at his hottest when Gardner was the #1, when they were in a platoon, and when Gardner returned from injury. He was coldest right after becoming the #1, when Gardner was on the DL, and when Gardner’s postseason role was a late-innings weapon.
Big Six -
Girardi’s team is up 3-1 with Rodriguez and Jeter in the lineup, Teixeira on defense, CC on the mound, and some help from the Angels’ middle infield.
Since Posada obviously is hitting better than Matsui now, why not bench Matsui?
The Mad Prince in Pinstripes
October 22nd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
I DH Posada vs. Lackey tonight…career .414 hitter against him, Matsui is at .286.
Best part is, once Burnett gets lifted (unless he throws a CG), you can shift Posada to Catcher and throw in Matsui at DH.
Surely Girardi realizes this…
Thoughts?
——————————
it doesn’t work like that, once the DH plays a position the pitcher gets slotted into the lineup (in this case Molina’s) and would have to either hit or be pinch hit for.
Mr. October,
I think its the 7th.
same difference…i still bat Posada in this lineup as opposed to Matsui.
While Gardner is 1/4 vs Lackey, Swisher is 5/43. No risk in going with Gardner. If Gardner can be a pest tonight that’s the final nail in the coffin.
Mad Prince
I love yuor idea except once Jorge is out as DH you CANT let Matsui DH. Check out my post at 11:36 we are on the same page here with Jorge DHing.
After the last game, I also leave melky in CF, use Gardner off the bench.
Jeter 6
Damon 7
Teixeira 3
Rodriguez 5
Posada DH
Cano 4
Cabrera 8
Molina 2
Gardner 9
JZ
October 22nd, 2009 at 12:48 pm
Since Posada obviously is hitting better than Matsui
*****************
Keep in mind that Matsui does have good numbers against Lackey. Tonight may be just the thing he needs to get going again.
I’d rather have 3 AB from Posada as DH than save him for 1 shot off the bench.
m
Never heard of a blonde bumblebee. All yellow with no black?
Gardner in CF
Great job! Finally someone posted Swisher 5/43!!! I am a huge swish fan but i think he may need a mental break and when better than against a guy that he is 5/43 against. Give him a shot at coming off the bench late in the game for a heroic base hit.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.c.....ref=sircrc
Could it be that simple?
let’s go -
Gardner batted .270 and when he was an everyday player close to .300. Swisher batted .249 as an everyday. Garnder has an edge defensively. My question all along has been what has Gardner done to not be starting over one of them? Melky has hot streaks but also cold, cold streaks and the cold ones outlast the hot. He was at his hottest when Gardner was the #1, when they were in a platoon, and when Gardner returned from injury. He was coldest right after becoming the #1, when Gardner was on the DL, and when Gardner’s postseason role was a late-innings weapon.
———————————–
There are so many things wrong with this post I do not even know what to say. That is why I will just make it quick.
First off, when Gardner was the everyday CF at the start of the season he batted about .220 and was so bad he lost his job.
Second, if you judge players solely on AVG or even think it is close to the most important statistic, you know absolutely nothing about baseball.
pat,
Yes. Dirty blonde. Just like A.J. Dirty.
I do believe that Posada should DH and Matsui can pinch hit for Molina later in the game with Cervelli doing the catching. You can always pinch hit for Cervelli if you have to and Posada can move behind the plate. We lose our DH at that point but thats not a big deal as we can pinch hit for our relief pitchers as they haven’t been pitching more than an inning anyway with the exception of Mo. If Mo is in the game at that point we should be winning.
Matsui needs to get acclamated to pinch hitting duties as thats what he will be doing mostly in the WS. He will DH game 1 and after that it’s a crap shoot. He looked horrible the other night and his time in NY is just about done.
MG since you understand how the DH works. Check out my post from 11:36. Let me know what you think of my Jorge idea. P.S. not sure of your thoughts on Gardner/Swisher but keep in mind Swisher is 5/43 against Lackey in his career and thats why I have him starting in that post.
Erin October 22nd, 2009 at 12:54 pm
Keep in mind that Matsui does have good numbers against Lackey. Tonight may be just the thing he needs to get going again.
—–
Matsui vs Lackey 8/28 .286 2x2B 1xHR
Posada vs Lackey 12/29 .414 2x2B 1xHR
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.c.....index.html
And not a single Mauer Pauer line!
Andrew GTLU Bronze Medalist
October 22nd, 2009 at 12:38 pm
Erica you might break the record for ripping GTLU rule-breakers today.
****
I quit. LOL
I feel so outnumbered
Just win tonight first, then WS talk
Gardner in CF
October 22nd, 2009 at 12:59 pm
Erin October 22nd, 2009 at 12:54 pm
Keep in mind that Matsui does have good numbers against Lackey. Tonight may be just the thing he needs to get going again.
—–
Matsui vs Lackey 8/28 .286 2×2B 1xHR
Posada vs Lackey 12/29 .414 2×2B 1xHR
**************
Thanks for posting the numbers. I didn’t realize how well Posada hits him. I could see both options and I loved having Posada hit behind A-Rod the other day, but I would still start Matsui, because it’s inevitable Posada will come into the game at some point.
I heard “Shock the Monkey” on the radio just before
That HAS to be some sort of sign right?
1:00 pm – the deadline for the early GTLU game has now been reached.
Thanks to all the people who can’t read or can’t tell time for submitting your early entries. They have been safely secured in the round metal filing container on the floor by my desk.
Winners will not be notified. Good luck everyone!
(Erica will be starting her GTLU game at 3:00 pm – double your chances and join in then too)
I think we’ll see the game 2 lineup. Girardi could mess around with Posada as DH but I don’t see that happening. Matsui is bound to break out at some point and it’s nice to have Posada on the bench to PH for Molina late in the game.
DT-
LOL!!!!
I could hug you right now
Patrick
October 22nd, 2009 at 1:04 pm
I think we’ll see the game 2 lineup. Girardi could mess around with Posada as DH but I don’t see that happening. Matsui is bound to break out at some point and it’s nice to have Posada on the bench to PH for Molina late in the game.
***********
Agree 100%
Mr. October,
Ya, I see that, thanks for the clarification.
I still DH Posada.
“I heard “Shock the Monkey” on the radio just before
That HAS to be some sort of sign right?”
don’t ever invite Peter Gabriel and the rally monkey to the same party.
Fantastic article on Tex’s glove. It’s a must read.
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/.....id=4583999
“DT-
LOL!!!!
I could hug you right now ”
save that thought for when the Yankees win tonight…
it will give me incentive when I chase you around the blog in your birthday suit.
m, thanks for the link to that Posnaski piece. His article in this week’s SI that talks about the Yankees “mystique and aura” (that old stupid line again) is also good in terms of being level-headed about the NYY.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.c...../index.htm
Best line in that article is actually from a tweet by Michael Schur (Fire Joe Morgan fame), who apparently said “‘If Sherlock Holmes suspected the Yankees of murder, he’d make four crucial errors in the investigation, and they’d get away scot-free.’” Made me laugh out loud on the subway for a second, kind of embarrassing.
lets go yankees (formerly lets go twins) October 22nd, 2009 at 12:56 pm
First off, when Gardner was the everyday CF at the start of the season he batted about .220 and was so bad he lost his job.
Second, if you judge players solely on AVG or even think it is close to the most important statistic, you know absolutely nothing about baseball.
—-
.220 through April. And it was more that Melky was so hot and the team was only around .500 that Melky earned the spot. Yes I admit Melky earned it then but I think there were times where he should have lost it. He never did.
AVG is not the most important stat but one I could reference easily. Swisher as a .250 hitter brings a lot to the team. Now he’s slumping and it’s clear.
As for, “you know absolutely nothing about baseball” that’s not true and not necessary, and it doesn’t help you win an argument.
I think we’ll see the game 2 lineup. Girardi could mess around with Posada as DH but I don’t see that happening. Matsui is bound to break out at some point and it’s nice to have Posada on the bench to PH for Molina late in the game
___
still think gardner should start instead of swish. just today, not forever.
DT-
LOL. Just remember, that promise only gets used for real emergencies
I don’t expect Lackey to be affected by the ‘added pressure’. He’s a big game guy and has won a ring already, so he’ll pitch well. Some of their fielding has been suspect, so that will probably be in their minds. Hopefully AJ can keep those hitting under .200 from breaking out.
I’d love to see a rout, but I don’t think it will happen. It should be a good, close game. Both pens rested, both wanting to win this game badly. Yankees don’t need to start hearing rumblings of ’2004 all over again’ if they lose.
Keep the lineup as it has been. It’s been working. Posada brings contact and pop off the bench in the later innings and there’s no need for the ‘lose the DH’ situation. I’d like to see Gardner get the start, but JoeG won’t do it, especially with Melk driving in some runs last game.
Go Yanks!
Jeff NJ
October 22nd, 2009 at 12:36 pm
Sorry Erica, didn’t know there was a start time, but it makes sense, it would become a full time job otherwise.
******
Exactly
Blonde bumblebees and “Shock The Monkey” on the radio. Pfft, the Angels shouldn’t even bother showing up.
I’m feeling very apprehensive about the game today. The lefty bats are going to need to show up.
Erin October 22nd, 2009 at 1:02 pm
“I would still start Matsui, because it’s inevitable Posada will come into the game at some point.”
—-
Either would be a logical choice. I know a lot of our postseason games have been decided late but I really liked Tuesday’s game where we got an early lead and not only kept it but built on it. That’s my reasoning for giving Posada 3+ ABs rather than 1 off the bench. Also I could see Lackey pitching around Rodriguez to face Matsui instead. Because we have a third catcher, I think it’s smart to use Matsui off the bench, and not to look ahead but he should get used to it on the road.
MR.OCTOBER
October 22nd, 2009 at 12:58 pm
MG since you understand how the DH works. Check out my post from 11:36. Let me know what you think of my Jorge idea. P.S. not sure of your thoughts on Gardner/Swisher but keep in mind Swisher is 5/43 against Lackey in his career and thats why I have him starting in that post.
————————————
Girardi is stubborn, that’s the reason he will most likely have Matsui DH tonight, he basically said it yesterday. Your idea is just what would happen if Jorge moved from DH to catching. I would just catch Jorge tonight, of course, but Girardi is going to catch Molina because of that same stubborness. The Yankees were 64-34 in games caught by Jorge and 23-19 in games caught by Molina, that’s a pretty big disparity. I just think back to the strech in June and July where AJ was 8-2 with an ERA just over 2 where he was primarily caught by Jorge and wonder why this is even a concern. AJ’s best game of the year, against the Sox in early August, was also caught by Jorge.
Though the Phillies scored 10 runs last night, I noticed that Ryan Howard didn’t get any RBIs — meaning Alex, if (when?) he drives on in tonight, will break the all-time record. Go Alex! Go AJ! Go Yanks!
pat
October 22nd, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Blonde bumblebees and “Shock The Monkey” on the radio. Pfft, the Angels shouldn’t even bother showing up.
****
Don’t worry. There is also my shower
Andrew,
Thanks. Loving the article. The ball bounced off “cowboy boot of the ghost of Billy Martin.”?
“Just remember, that promise only gets used for real emergencies”
I know… it’s #3 on the list hanging up in my kitchen.
1) call 911
2) stop, drop and roll
3) run naked on the blog
Erica & DT
What’s going on here! Did I miss something? I’m not THAT old!
“You can’t use Jorge at the DH. Consider what happens if heaven forbid we get down 3 or 4 runs in the middle innings. You are saddled with Molina/Cervelli in trying to make up the gap.”
wave your hat-
just looked at the box scores of aj’s starts against the twins and the angels.
both games were extra innings.
posada caught joba,coke, hughes, rivera ,aceves ,marte, and robinson. molina had three at bats.
what stikes me is girardi using the whole team when molina starts.
molina and burnett in effect have shortened the games and the yankees have won when posada and the bullpen have come in the games.
everyone including burnett and molina have done their jobs.
i see no reason to change this formula. as you say, dhing posada would make no sense .
Gardner in CF-I can definitely see your point. I’ll be curious to see who Girardi ends up going with.
Frank from Chatham-
DT made me laugh when GTLU mania started to take me down
. See DT’s post at 1:03
When things look dire for the Yanks – Erica takes a shower, then she calmly writes a letter to the Yanks.
As a last resort (and usually in extra innings) she will promise to run through the blog in her birthday suit if they miraculously pull out a victory.
I do my part and promise to chase Erica around the blog if they win.
“Anyone else find discussions of the World Series stunningly premature?”
You’ve got to be kidding, right? Angels have zero chance to win this series. Even if they drag it out with a win tonight, no shot to win two at the Stadium.
mike is killing me with the 04 talk. Its the yankees time IMHO. Its time to excercise the demons dammit.
.
I consider my GTLU sumbission the “put the nail in the coffin” lineup.
DT does have a sense of humor. That was very very funny.
DT
We will do our part and watch Erica!
“I do believe that Posada should DH and Matsui can pinch hit for Molina later in the game with Cervelli doing the catching. You can always pinch hit for Cervelli if you have to and Posada can move behind the plate.”
The only problem with this plan is all the pinch-hitters are terrible. If Burnett is out of the game early you are screwed. Posada has to either catch or sit until AJ is out of the game.
I’m tired of the 2004 talk as well. The Yankees need to kill the Angels tonight so we won’t have to hear about 2004 ever again.
Frank from Chatham, NJ
October 22nd, 2009 at 1:23 pm
DT
We will do our part and watch Erica!
*****
For the record, when I have promised to run around the blog naked (there is a story behind that, it was inspired by an overheard conversation in 1996), the Yankees are 2-0
Gardner in CF
October 22nd, 2009 at 1:21 pm
I consider my GTLU sumbission the “put the nail in the coffin” lineup.
*****
Awesome. I can’t wait to see it when GTLU actually starts at 3pm
It ain’t over ’til it’s over, Steve Kline. It ain’t over ’til it’s over. I mean, the Angels aren’t the Red Sox. But still. Let’s wait until the eggs have hatched.
This year has NOTHING to do with 2004. We were up 3-0 . big difference
If the Yankees don’t win tonight that chirping about 2004 will only get louder, all the more reason to take care of business tonight. 5 players count em’ Jeter, Alex, Matsui, Posada, and Mo are left from 2004. This is not the same team. It won’t happen again, they won’t let it. But just end it tonight. I wouldn’t be able to stand listening to the 2004 talk.
DT-
Someone giving someone hell for running around!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3sX30NubTs
Erica – always OPPC October 22nd, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Awesome. I can’t wait to see it when GTLU actually starts at 3pm
—–
I’m not that patient.
“Angels have zero chance to win this series.”
they have to win three in a row.
assuming each game is about 50/50 , the odds of three in a row would be 2x2x2 or one in eight chance of winning this series.
Doug (NYC)
Hey Keith, speaking of Montero, I asked you this in your last AFL blog, so I hope you can answer it here. Does he have any realistic chance of being a viable catcher at the major league level? If not, what exactly is holding him back?
Klaw (1:29 PM)
No, I don’t think he does. Can’t play it physically – too big and slow.
jennifer
October 22nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
If the Yankees don’t win tonight that chirping about 2004 will only get louder, all the more reason to take care of business tonight. 5 players count em’ Jeter, Alex, Matsui, Posada, and Mo are left from 2004. This is not the same team. It won’t happen again, they won’t let it. But just end it tonight. I wouldn’t be able to stand listening to the 2004 talk.
***********
jennifer-completely agree. I want them to take care of business tonight for no other reason than all of the “it’s 2004 all over again” discussions that will follow if they lose.
Gardner in CF
October 22nd, 2009 at 1:29 pm
Erica – always OPPC October 22nd, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Awesome. I can’t wait to see it when GTLU actually starts at 3pm
—–
I’m not that patient.
*****
Can’t help you then. Post it again when I actually start the game or it does not count. I’d love to see you get your first GTLU win, so I strongly encourage you to play by my rules
since two of three games are in yankee stadium, the odds probably make it a one in ten chance the angels could win the series.
the yankees are in great shape, but this series isn’t over yet.
burnett threw a lot of pitches in the last game. over 110.
when that’s happened during the year , he’s sometimes had control problems.
not always, but enough to watch for it.
lets go yankees (formerly lets go twins) October 22nd, 2009 at 12:56 pm
First off, when Gardner was the everyday CF at the start of the season he batted about .220 and was so bad he lost his job.
Second, if you judge players solely on AVG or even think it is close to the most important statistic, you know absolutely nothing about baseball.
—-
.220 through April. And it was more that Melky was so hot and the team was only around .500 that Melky earned the spot. Yes I admit Melky earned it then but I think there were times where he should have lost it. He never did.
AVG is not the most important stat but one I could reference easily. Swisher as a .250 hitter brings a lot to the team. Now he’s slumping and it’s clear.
As for, “you know absolutely nothing about baseball” that’s not true and not necessary, and it doesn’t help you win an argument.
————————-
The only point in the season where Gardner was an everyday player was in April! And it was not more that Melky was so hot. It was that Gardner had a .220 AVG and a .254 OBP as an everyday player. So when exactly did Gardner hit close to .300 as an everyday player?
Why should Melky have ever lost his starting job to a rookie who had a .254 OBP as an everyday player? Sure, it would have been nice for Gardner to get a start here and there, but he got injured, so tough luck. Melky has been the CF for a 109 win team.
The only stat you referenced was AVG, so there was nothing else for me to comment on. If you are going to reference that in argument it shows me you have no understanding for important baseball statistics. If you are going to make an argument for Gardner, AVG is probably the worst one you can make.
And, finally 7 games does not make a slump. 162 is much more representative of Swisher’s far superior play than Gardner’s.
“No, I don’t think he does. Can’t play it physically -too big and slow”
lmao @ Keith Law such a Red Sox fan. Montero is the same size as Mauer and Weiters.
6 hours and 23 minutes until Game 5!!!!!!
Remember for years how the Angels have had our number. That’s changed and they are feeling the pressure. Playing from behind in the post season is never fun.
I confident that Girardi will make the right decisions on the line up. Burnett pitching well take a lot of pressure off and I think he’ll step up big.
Erica
New Thread !
The Yanks don’t want the Angels getting on a plane coming to NY tonight. If they have to travel 5 hours on a plane then they are going to be extremely motivated. Get this over with tonight!! Also Andy vs Saunders isn’t a good matchup, the Yanks didn’t touch him in game 2.
Burnett will be fine. He just needs to give the team 6 quality innings and then we have a fresh pen to close it out.
Gardner > Melky.
Just kidding.
i see some talk of gardner starting.
i think this post season is a learning experience for gardner.
he seems to take a while to adjust when he does something new.
i cringe when girardi puts him in to pinch run at this point.
now that’s totally subjective on my part, but gardner just seems tight and doesn’t seem to be much of a base running threat when he’s this tight.
his best use is probably just making the angels think he’s going to run.
if he steals three bases tonight and makes me eat my words great. that’ll be a good thing
Actually, I was a little shocked to discover that over almost 300 PAs this season, BG posted a .724 OPS.
And that in something like twice as many PAs, MC gave us .752.
I would imagine that when you’re in the .700s, a .028 advantage is pretty significant (more so, than, say, a 1.128 versus a 1.100).
But still, having watched almost every game this season, I would’ve said that Melky was clearly and indubitably the better offensive player. Now, I’m not so sure.
Then again, I don’t think you’ll see MC get thrown out trying to steal second two playoff games in a row.
“Someone giving someone hell for running around!”
Frank – that was pretty funny. Sounds like someone let the cat out of the bag.
Gardner in CF
October 22nd, 2009 at 11:42 am
is “rabid” really the best word to describe the donor in this situation?
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
those were my first thoughts, as well.