Yankees sign Dominican prospect
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- November
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According to Baseball America, the Yankees signed Dominican prospect Eladio Moronta. The center fielder, who recently had a MLB suspension for misrepresenting his age lifted, is said to have excellent speed and a strong arm.
On a side note: Suspended for misrepresenting his age? Really? Somewhere, El Duque is shaking his head and laughing out loud.
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Chad Jennings
So how old is he?
He’s 20 and he’ll be 21 in a few weeks. Said he was 17.
Geez Sam, this dude is 21 years old and isn’t worth having a separate update.:)
though he was older, the scouts all said they knew it, but his tools were great.
So how old is the dude…really?
Don’t forget about Soriano!
Whats the scouting report on this guy?
Whats the scouting report on this guy?
–
Ageless. Able to buy beer for his friends depending on the vision of the clerk at the ABC Liquour.
LOL Sherman’s reasoning for putting Jeter behind Tex makes NO sense. When Alex was out, Tex did nothing. Meanwhile Jeter was fantastic the whole year……and to penalize Yankees for being in a great lineup? How can anyone take this guy seriously?
defined as “toolsy,” and “plus-plus speed, a strong arm and projectable power.”
“He looked like he belonged in the NFL, running 6.3s (in the 60-yard dash). That’s hard to believe for a 16-year-old.”
He`s my age! a young 77
His nickname could be El Moron.
speaking of peoples age.. Isn’t Vlad supposed to be 33. He sure looks a lot older than that
What happened with Soriano?
El Moron.. That’s funny.. I like it
Watching vlad “run” the bases and bring himself to a stop made my back hurt, he’s one sneeze away from needing a backiotomy
And no one wants a backiotomy.
i love it…now we’re beginning to Horde position prospects too.
Oh that Cashman. Who needs Curt Granderson? The Yankees have El Moronta!
(Be careful pronouncing his name. Moronda means “bald”).
http://www.spanishdict.com/translate/morondo
One of the toolsiest players in Latin America is back on the market, only this time he’s using a different age.
Major League Baseball today lifted the suspension of Dominican center fielder Eladio Moronta, who MLB had suspended earlier this year for misrepresenting his age. Moronta’s agent, Charisse Espinosa-Dash of the New York-based Draft Picks Sports Agency, confirmed that Moronta is no longer suspended and is now a free agent.
Moronta, who is 6-foot-1, 183 pounds, is 20 years old and turns 21 on December 16. He is an athletic righthanded hitter with plus-plus speed, flashing a good arm and raw power potential. Aside from Cuban defectors, it is incredibly rare for Latin American players who are older than 17 to command a big bonus, which is one reason so many of them misrepresent their ages and identities. Moronta, however, has the caliber of tools that might make him an exception.
“We all knew he was older,” said an American League international scouting director. “There was just no way. He looked like he belonged in the NFL, running 6.3s (in the 60-yard dash). That’s hard to believe for a 16-year-old.”
It was not immediately clear why MLB ended Moronta’s suspension, though Baseball America will have more news from Latin America in the coming weeks. MLB began suspending players for one year for misrepresenting their ages or their identities back in May 2008.
http://www.baseballamerica.com.....68923.html
Seems like a coup to me, put him in AA and see what he can do
From Baseball America: Eladio Moronta (outfielder) is a plus-plus runner,with an above-average arm and power who could have commanded a 7 figure bonus.He’s not 17 he’s 20 until Dec 16th.
He’s a good investment. You can see a pic of him here.
http://www.i-yankees.com/?p=11599
You mean,who needs Damon!!
Dodgers passed on him,crazy.
You know what this signing could mean?
No more late night peanut parties for Melky!
We have a bunch of high upside CF’s in the low minors, this is just another one.
I like it. Maybe he won’t turn into anything, but he seems to have the tools……good luck to him and here’s hoping we see him in pinstripes one day in the future
20/21 is ancient for an International FA. They must see something there. I hope he’s really REALLY fast or he may be summering in the Dominican. It’s a lovely spot but . . .
haiku-man
November 24th, 2009 at 5:28 pm
On Oprah today.She hosted the crew of flight 1549(The miracle on the Hudson)Pilot Sullenberger(Sully) and crew,along with the first responders that helped get the people to safety.
Joe G. appeared on behalf of the Yankees,and invited all to a game next season,batting practice,and a chance to meet the Players,as the Yankees VIP guest,for their heroism!!
That Yankees organization is first class!
*********************
That’s awesome! What a nice thing to do. Thanks for the recap.
Did anyone get the WS DVD and, if so, how was it?
And here’s one more reason to dislike Michael Kay.
http://nymag.com/daily/sports/....._room.html
Erin
UR welcome!!
No Boras in the Eladio signing ,yes!!
Maybe Micheal kays nickname should be el moron
Another coup for the Yankees. Guess we don’t need Granderson afterall. I still think we should just bring back Damon (2 years $22M), Matsui (1 year, $6M plus incentives) and Pettitte (1 year $10M plus small incentives). And also Jerry Hairston, he was a good role player.
Who cares about age misrepresentation???
After this December 19th, I am going to be 29 years old for a very, very long time.
(So who misses me???)
Steinbrrenner’s should get rid of Kay,he’s not a Yankees fan.
gfd
November 24th, 2009 at 6:42 pm
Steinbrrenner’s should get rid of Kay,he’s not a Yankees fan.
********
Technically speaking, broadcasters and writers aren’t supposed to be fans
Erica – always OPPC
November 24th, 2009 at 6:40 pm
Who cares about age misrepresentation???
After this December 19th, I am going to be 29 years old for a very, very long time.
(So who misses me???)
**********************
I do! Hi Erica
Michael Kay has a little of that elbow-throwing SOB in him as part of his “sports guy” persona. I’m sure nobody on the team takes him too seriously – they really shouldn’t.
BTW, I wonder how Kay and Girardi are getting along after Kay went after him a few times this year for his managerial decisions. I wonder if Girardi remembers enough from being in the booth to realize it’s just business?
So I’m sitting at outback waiting on curbside (which is taking forever) and after seeing the NL MVP voting I was wondering if the sox would have made the Beckett/Hanley deal had they known them what they know now. I think the answer is yes because he helped them win two titles.
Which leads to a comparision with the halladay situation. If he gives you a great chance at a couple more titles in the near future then isn’t that worth it
What’s the big deal with what Kay said? Man, that’s reading into things……..
Moronta is older than a lot of the guys ahead of him on the organizational depth chart. It will be interesting to see how they try to fit him in.
Blake, as there are no guarantees……I would not make a blockbuster trade for Doc and give up Hughes (definitely not Phil) and other top prospects. Giving up a big package had better do more than give you a great chance at winning….
Erica – always OPPC:
I would give (fill in body part) to be twenty -nine again. Or thirty-nine. Or forty-nine. Oh well…
Enjoy the last year of your twenties.
Correction. I guess beckett was only there for one title but he was extrememly important to that one
any news on Chapman?
I missed you Erica!
Somebody called Damon ugly and it was like blasphemy.
Really with Johnny’s status up in the air, we need you to police the unfaithful.
——————————————-
Kay’s a big fan of the Yankees. I think he’s from The Bronx. Maybe Westchester.
He’s also very annoying.
But he’s sort of family so we accept him and all his shortcomings.
Besty. There also are no guarantees that Phil or joba for that matter will ever be anything more than middle of the rotation starters and I think the chances are slim that they will ever be as good as doc.
the championship window doesn’t stay open forever.
Erica…..Bonnie Raitt…” Love Has No Pride”….HBO will be airing that concert this weekend…..I was seated on the floor right next to the center camera platform…..What a night, what an exciting week to be in NYC…..Rock N Roll HOF Concert, World Series, NY Marathon, World Series World Champions……
Blake, there’s more than one window in this house. As long as the Yankees make wise decisions and continue to develop the farm, their window will never close. They will always have a good shot at competing for a championship.
Apparently Miguel Tejada is also not the age he initially claimed:
“On April 17, 2008, Tejada was confronted by an ESPN reporter during an interview who revealed that Tejada had been lying about his age ever since he first signed a Major League Baseball contract in 1993. Tejada had claimed to have been born in 1976 when a Dominican birth certificate showed that he was born in 1974. That birth certificate also shows the spelling of his surname as “Tejeda” rather than “Tejada”. Tejada stormed off the set, effectively ending the interview.”
blake
the championship window doesn’t stay open forever.
__
It closes a lot faster when you trade 23 year olds for 33 year olds.
As for you comment about “guarantees,” there are none about anything, including that Halladay will stay healthy.
MJR
Chapman, Mlbtraderumors says,at least one GM RAISED CONCERNED ABOUT HIM SWITCHING AGENTS.It does show a lack of commitment.
Pat M.
Erica…..Bonnie Raitt…” Love Has No Pride”…
__
You’re giving me flashbacks!
gfd
MJR
Chapman, Mlbtraderumors says,at least one GM RAISED CONCERNED ABOUT HIM SWITCHING AGENTS.It does show a lack of commitment.
__
Did those GMs put their names to those quotes? If not, their character sucks.
Who does Chapman think he is for trying to maximize his chances of getting a great contract?
MJR
Chapman, Mlbtraderumors says,at least one GM RAISED CONCERNED ABOUT HIM SWITCHING AGENTS.It does show a lack of commitment.
————————————————————–
Well, we know it’s not Cashman.
If you asked Cash about Chapman he would have said that he hasn’t talked to anybody yet and he doesn’t even know who Chapman is or if such a person even exists.
Something like that.
Bronx Jeers
November 24th, 2009 at 6:56 pm
I missed you Erica!
Somebody called Damon ugly and it was like blasphemy.
Really with Johnny’s status up in the air, we need you to police the unfaithful.
*******
Wow… clearly, there needs to be better policing!!!!! MPB Johnny Damon is not ugly.
And I stand firm that he is coming back
Pat M.
November 24th, 2009 at 7:00 pm
Erica…..Bonnie Raitt…” Love Has No Pride”….HBO will be airing that concert this weekend…..I was seated on the floor right next to the center camera platform…..What a night, what an exciting week to be in NYC…..Rock N Roll HOF Concert, World Series, NY Marathon, World Series World Champions……
******
I can’t wait to watch that concert!!!!!! There is an 8 hour DVD set coming out soon too. That will be purchased!
Erin
November 24th, 2009 at 6:47 pm
Erica – always OPPC
November 24th, 2009 at 6:40 pm
Who cares about age misrepresentation???
After this December 19th, I am going to be 29 years old for a very, very long time.
(So who misses me???)
**********************
I do! Hi Erica
******
Hi Erin!!!! You have been doing a nice job commenting in my work imposed exile
Lots of scouts and execs are willing to downgrade prospects publically in an effort to get them for less.
Erica – always OPPC
November 24th, 2009 at 6:40 pm
Who cares about age misrepresentation???
After this December 19th, I am going to be 29 years old for a very, very long time.
(So who misses me???)
——————–
I do :waves:
Thanks Erica! It’s not the same without you though. Have you started begging your bosses for internet time at work? LOL
Bronx Jeers
Cashman had a personal audience with Chapman GM 6 ALCS at YANKEE STADIUM.Were you joking?
Erica -
I miss you!
29 is such a wonderful age!
My husband bought a “question mark” for my birthday cake a couple of years ago. My daughter is under express orders to NOT disclose my age to anyone who is not a member of our family (so they “should” know anyway). No one needs to know how old person is. Once people put a number to you, they change.
Perhaps Mr. Cashman will get you another birthday present this year. Do you want the same one, or do you have something (someone) else in mind?
Erica,
For your B-day you need to ask for a really nice Iphone/blackberry type device so you can keep up with the blog during work.
I doubt you could do GTLU on it unless you were really quick handed but you could delegate and supervise.
I think it’s time to franchise GTLU anyway.
Damon’s wife may be his new agent, lol
http://www.newsday.com/sports/.....-1.1620475
I am probably the person who SHOULD do GTLU. I am an at-home mom. I don’t have an employer looking over my shoulder. I’m not fluent in Excel, but I could learn enough to do this I think. Erica, if I think about this, could you coach me a bit?
I can’t see the Yankees having a better chance to win than they do now for quite awhile. Hall of fame shortstops, closers, third baseman etc don’t grow on trees.
The Yankees have the resources to compete ever year regardless so
What makes the future more valuable than the present.
I don’t think Damon is coming back……..he wants the years and he won’t get it from the Yankees. I really love the guy, but I don’t want him back for more than a year and a team option for another
Betsy -
That’s a really, really, really interesting article.
I used to think Damon would go for one plus one deal. No longer. He’s in tune with his agent and will look at 2-plus at least.
He does have a point; he is an asset to the Yankees beyond what he does on the field.
I guess we’ll see, won’t we?
Paul c,
An individual matching Cashman’s description did indeed hold a meeting with an unidentified male at an unspecified place and time.
I could tell you more but…. the Secretary will disavow any knowledge of the matter.
Erin
November 24th, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Thanks Erica! It’s not the same without you though. Have you started begging your bosses for internet time at work? LOL
*********
Worse- I tried bribing the IT department. I am not kidding
Doreen, clearly he’s got his eyes on some #s ………after reading that, I agree. He’s going for 2 plus and I think he will get at least 2 and a team option for a 3rd from another team. The Yankees won’t do that.
His last comments? Eh – he’s a great guy, but the clubhouse won’t fall apart without him. The Yankees can’t make decisions about their future based on the fact that Damon is a good recruiter. I don’t mean to diminish how likable he is and what a presence he is in the clubhouse, but we’ve got a bunch of guys here for the longterm and I think we’ll be ok if Damon is gone.
Interesting article……
http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com.....p;c_id=nyy
Doreen
November 24th, 2009 at 7:40 pm
I am probably the person who SHOULD do GTLU. I am an at-home mom. I don’t have an employer looking over my shoulder. I’m not fluent in Excel, but I could learn enough to do this I think. Erica, if I think about this, could you coach me a bit?
********
Doreen-
Brian Cashman and the Steinbrenners gave me Johnny Damon for my 25th birthday (he was signed two days later). I have asked for the same again this year. I am very easy to shop for.
If you are really interested in GTLU, I would be more than happy to coach you in how I worked it. You really don’t need any Excel knowledge. For the first few weeks of GTLU the game was run on very pretty post-its. But as the game grew, I was starting to throw post-its around my desk and it wasn’t exactly subtle so I turned to Excel.
I literally copy and paste people’s line up submissions directly into Excel. As I got fancy and savvier, I started color coding and putting each different line up combo on a different excel tab, but that’s just be being anal
Bronx Jeers
November 24th, 2009 at 7:34 pm
Erica,
For your B-day you need to ask for a really nice Iphone/blackberry type device so you can keep up with the blog during work.
I doubt you could do GTLU on it unless you were really quick handed but you could delegate and supervise.
I think it’s time to franchise GTLU anyway.
********
Maybe, but I will not pass the reigns over to just anyone- they need to be special
Also, if all else fails- I will make GTLU an e-mail contest
Erica – always OPPC
November 24th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
Worse- I tried bribing the IT department. I am not kidding
*****************
LOL. I take it it didn’t work. I can see myself doing the same thing.
I have to start being more careful at work myself-one of my supervisors told me a couple of weeks ago that they’re “considering” monitering everybody’s interent usuage. The good news is, I actually do have to go on the net occasionally for work, so I know they can’t just take it away completely.
Erin
November 24th, 2009 at 8:00 pm
Erica – always OPPC
November 24th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
Worse- I tried bribing the IT department. I am not kidding
*****************
LOL. I take it it didn’t work. I can see myself doing the same thing.
I have to start being more careful at work myself-one of my supervisors told me a couple of weeks ago that they’re “considering” monitering everybody’s interent usuage. The good news is, I actually do have to go on the net occasionally for work, so I know they can’t just take it away completely.
**********
I used that argument too. They said they will just restrict everything and give me completely basic access.
But its not just the internet.
They have also started writing what time we enter the office in the morning and what time we leave at night. Its all very kindergarden.
I have found I am starting to rebel in other ways. Since I can’t take my necessary internet mental health breaks, I am getting up to get coffee twice an hour.
Thanks for the article Betsy.
Here’s the money quote from Johnny.
“I believe in my ability. As Scott said, I believe in my genetics to keep me being a very good player.”
If only science could isolate that rogue “throwing gene” Johnny has.
For baseball fans that remember watching Juan Mar1chal, he’s on with Costas. One of the best pitchers ever. Right there with Gibson aa a right hander.
Bronx Jeers, you’re welcome…and lol about the throwing arm.
Damon has every right to seek “greener” pastures…….at some point, his time with the team would come to an end. If he leaves, I will miss him a great deal and will welcome him back with open arms at Old Timer’s days.
Erica – always OPPC
November 24th, 2009 at 8:04 pm
I have found I am starting to rebel in other ways. Since I can’t take my necessary internet mental health breaks, I am getting up to get coffee twice an hour.
************************
I fully support this!
I wouldn’t get too hung up on what Damon and Boras are saying right now. This is just posturing and establishing negotiating position, I think.
Damon was being honest and genuine, two of this best traits (I know, I don’t know him personally, but from what you read he really is) when he said over the past couple of weeks and months that he really does want to come back. And I think the Yanks would like to have him back – he’s proven he can cut it in NY, he can still perform at a high level if given enough rest.
I can just imagine Damon telling Boras to get him the best deal, but get it done. So, Boras will do just that, but as part of the negotiating, telling Johnny to tone down the public display.
Again, the issue is terms, but if both sides want something it usually can get done.
MLB recently aired a segment on Marichal/Roseboro’s infamous fight. It was fascinating, but especially at the end. The two reconciled and Roseboro said he forgave Marichal. Marichal said that meant a lot to him – you could tell he felt terrible about what he did. In fact, I believe Marichal gave a euology at Roseboro’s funeral. I wonder if his daughter is still married to Jose Rijjo?
GB7 – I would love to watch that Marichal interview with Costas. I had been planning on it for days. But, when you’re married….We will be watching something recorded on the DVR, the Prisoner, I believe.
(Take a deep breath….)
Joe, sometimes things can’t be worked out. I absolutely believe Damon wants to come back, but not as much as he wants the years. The Yanks want him back……but only on their terms. I’m not sure the twain shall meet here.
Believe, Betsy, you gotta believe!
Raul Mondesi?
http://twitter.com/kileymcd/status/6023704797
Betsy – high on pie
November 24th, 2009 at 8:10 pm
MLB recently aired a segment on Marichal/Roseboro’s infamous fight. It was fascinating, but especially at the end. The two reconciled and Roseboro said he forgave Marichal. Marichal said that meant a lot to him – you could tell he felt terrible about what he did. In fact, I believe Marichal gave a euology at Roseboro’s funeral. I wonder if his daughter is still married to Jose Rijjo?
————————————————————
Yeah, I saw that. It was actually Roseboro that instigated that incident by throwing the ball back to Koufax as close to Marichal’s ear as he could get.
If Damon won’t accept a one year deal, I hope he signs elsewhere.
The Yankees should put Damon in front of a window, give him a baseball and say Johnny if you can break this window with that baseball we wiill give you the contract you want. If not you take what we give you. You’d just have to keep Boras from grabbing the ball..
My name is Eladio Moronta, prepare to die!
Joe from Long Island
November 24th, 2009 at 8:12 pm
GB7 – I would love to watch that Marichal interview with Costas. I had been planning on it for days. But, when you’re married….We will be watching something recorded on the DVR, the Prisoner, I believe.
(Take a deep breath….)
————————————————————
Joe, it should get a replay later tonight or later this week. I’ll check and see if I can find a schedule.
gb7 – the more i look at the prospective players for swb and trenton, the more i drool! barring clearout trades and *injuries*, i see at least 20 players with major league possibilities in the next 3 years
blake
November 24th, 2009 at 8:17 pm
The Yankees should put Damon in front of a window, give him a baseball and say Johnny if you can break this window with that baseball we wiill give you the contract you want. If not you take what we give you. You’d just have to keep Boras from grabbing the ball..
***********************
LOL. That’s not a bad idea!
GB7 – you da man!
Catch you later, the mrs. is calling…..
Joe, MLB-Network will be showing the Marichal interview at 11:00 PM tonight and at 2:00 AM. Here’s a program schedule for today forward that you can save in favorites.
http://mlb.mlb.com/network/schedule/?ymd=20091124
Comments on a few issues:
Kay is a Yankee fan–has been forever. But enough of this trying to be neutral stuff. Mikey, either they love you or hate you by now in the BBWA–nothing is going to change that. At least with the Rem Dawg we know where he stands. Be real–people will respect you more.
Michelle–you’re good looking and probably very smart. But Johnny has three teams looking at him? Great! Show us your stuff. Anyone who gives him more than Bobby A (who has a better arm, hits higher for average, and plays as many if not more games than Johhny) right now is a fool.
Cashmoney–you fool no one with your talk of “I have to wait until December 3 to talk with ownership.” Something changed suddenly? George used to call you constantly, during every holiday. Remember the piece in New York magazine? It’s quite convinient that your discussions with ownership will occur right after the arb deadline…If a yahoo like me can figure that out…We all know you’re probably trying to negotiate with Damon before the arb deadline so you don’t have to offer him arb. While you’re at it, Cash, sign Matsui please, so we can put to rest requests for Adam Dunn and Nick Johnson.
Anyone do surveys?
’ve made $5 gift card for amazon this week. But, that’s been it so far. surveyhead.com owes me so much ><
http://OpinionOutpost.com/join/7704554
is really good. make an effort and you get paid~
Adam Dunn would be a great DH for the Yankees.
Rich
So would Matsui. He would also strike out less, and cost less.
They’re not gonna spend any money on DH.
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com reports the Yankees signed Moranta for 570k,they quote baseball prosprctus as their source.Eladio cost himself millions for that lie.A 7 figure bonus was waiting for him.
Saw someone mention wanting to jettison Hideki in order to be more flexible in the DH position. Did they mean flexible as in less power?
I don’t see how the Yankees can go wrong bringing Hideki back for 1 year at $8-10M.
Meant, Moronta1
Dunn is a strikeout machine in the NL where they throw lots of fastballs. What do you think he will be in the AL where he will see a steady diet of junk. No thanks on thay one. Much much rather bring matsui back
m
November 24th, 2009 at 8:38 pm
Saw someone mention wanting to jettison Hideki in order to be more flexible in the DH position. Did they mean flexible as in less power?
I don’t see how the Yankees can go wrong bringing Hideki back for 1 year at $8-10M.
*******************
My thoughts exactly. I have a feeling Matsui will be willing to accept that kind of deal.
Didn’t Marichal knock down 8 batters in a row or something crazy like that.
There’s a statue outside ATT Park in SF honoring Marichal and when I first approached it I thought to myself “who’s that statue of?” and then when you see it’s Marichal you’re like “Duh! who else could it be!”
For all you whippersnappers out there, check out this leg kick.
http://www.insidesocal.com/sportsdesk/Marichal.jpg
Marichal threw up when Wills tried to bunt and threw up and in to Ron Fairly. Nobody was hit, but, the whole thing started a couple of days earlier.
Marichal and Spahn had nearly identical leg kicks from the opposite sides. Both were amazing pitchers.
Yankees create,and Mets imitates.Mets new home uniforms pinstripes!!
HOW badly they want to be Yankees….imitation is the highest form of flattery.
Erica -
I am seriously considering doing GTLU. I think I might go into the archives and try and practice by doing old games. Most days, I really have no pressure on me. I’m here anyway.
I will, after the Thanksgiving break, go and try it out. If I think I can do it, I will give a yell and ask for whatever suggestions might help me so no one skips a beat next season. I really think it was a worthwhile activity here, and I’d hate to see it disappear altogether or flop around from volunteer to volunteer.
Pittsburgh Yankee Fan -
I as kinda thinking the same thing about Cashman – he’s probably way ahead of where he’s willing to confess to being as far as next year’s plans go. That’s cool, though.
Wow. $23 million arbitration. Plus $1 so Tim can be the highest paid pitcher in the MLB.
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/ne.....p;expire=1
PittsburghYankeeFan
So would Matsui. He would also strike out less, and cost less.
__
Why do Ks matter?
wOBA:
Dunn: .394
Matsui: .378
Dunn is a better hitter, and we don’t know that Matsui will only sign for one year.
Quote from Albert Pujols after winning his third MVP award:
“I always make a joke. I got 10 fingers. I want to get nine more rings,” he said. “I want to get as many as Derek Jeter has so far (five). Obviously that’s hard to do.”
Pujols does have one individual goal — the Hall of Fame.
“Obviously, there is still a long way to go,” he said.
Well well well.Damon gave an interview to newsday.He wants a long term deal.His wife Michelle says at least 3 teams had expressed serious interest in signing her husband.SHE WOULDN’T NAME THE TEAMS,they dropped a bunch of his stats.
-This has Boras written ALL OVER IT!!
Pujols wants 9 more rings he’d better,get out of St Louis.That cheap ownership group won’t spend the money on players they need to get it done.
Call me old fashioned, but I do like a hitter who can make contact with a runner on third and less than two outs. Dunn type players tend to frustrate me.
Just read Berra biography. He struck out less in his career than some today in two years.
Strikeouts matter when your career avg/162 games is 180 strikeouts. (Hideki’s career avg is 86).
Haven’t we been down the lumbering first baseman road before. Matsui is one of if not the best situational hitters the Yankees have had. K’s matter because they are a completely nonproductive out. Dunn’s OBP is high because he either walks, K’s, or hits a HR.
m
Strikeouts matter when your career avg/162 games is 180 strikeouts. (Hideki’s career avg is 86).
__
I have a serious question: Can you explain why you think that is? IMO, a strike out is no different than any other out in the vast majority of situations.
Matsui’s a goner. They’re gonna get a LF and some pitching.
blake,
See the previous thread for the Dunn and Cameron argument.(I am vehemently against either of them.) There are some fans who think that baseball games are won by OBP and OPS alone.
Agreed. Dunn is basically Giambi. Like I said, he’s not a guy I want up with a man on 2nd and one out in the ninth inning during postseason play.
No Dunn.
blake
Haven’t we been down the lumbering first baseman road before. Matsui is one of if not the best situational hitters the Yankees have had. K’s matter because they are a completely nonproductive out. Dunn’s OBP is high because he either walks, K’s, or hits a HR.
__
There are a number of outs that aren’t productive: infield flies, weak fly outs to the OF, and even some ground balls. Strike outs are also less harmful than grounding into a DP.
You make it sound like walks and HRs are bad.
Dunn would be a DH for one season and probably hit 50 HRs with 81 home games at NYS.
Giambi before his decline was an excellent hitter. Unlike Giambi, Dunn wouldn’t play the field. I’m missing the negative of being like Giambi.
Lincecum’s agents are thinking about asking for a 3,500% raise?
Just how good is California chronic anyway?
I doubt they will actually ask for that but if you think about what the Giants are paying Zito?
Mark in Tampa
November 24th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
blake,
See the previous thread for the Dunn and Cameron argument.(I am vehemently against either of them.) There are some fans who think that baseball games are won by OBP and OPS alone.
====
It’s about balance. WS Game 2, that sequence where Hairston and then Melky got hits to set up Posada to drive in the run that made it 3-1 was crucial to winning that game.
I concur re Dunn and Cameron.
Doreen
November 24th, 2009 at 9:07 pm
Erica -
I am seriously considering doing GTLU. I think I might go into the archives and try and practice by doing old games. Most days, I really have no pressure on me. I’m here anyway.
I will, after the Thanksgiving break, go and try it out. If I think I can do it, I will give a yell and ask for whatever suggestions might help me so no one skips a beat next season. I really think it was a worthwhile activity here, and I’d hate to see it disappear altogether or flop around from volunteer to volunteer.
*********
I truly believe that GTLU was the Yankee good luck charm this season. I started it the game back after the all-star break. No one was better than the Yankees the second half.
Even more interestingly, I suspended it in September and that was their worst second half month. When GTLU kicked up again in the playoffs- the Yankees were fighting!
Let me know what you decide. You are certainly someone I would deem worthy to take the GTLU-Queen title from me
Again, no bucks for DH.
bodhisattva – Destiny Wears Pinstripes
It’s about balance. WS Game 2, that sequence where Hairston and then Melky got hits to set up Posada to drive in the run that made it 3-1 was crucial to winning that game.
__
That’s an awful small sample to prove any point.
Rich in NJ
November 24th, 2009 at 9:47 pm
Giambi before his decline was an excellent hitter. Unlike Giambi, Dunn wouldn’t play the field. I’m missing the negative of being like Giambi.
=====
In the sense that Giambi, especially as he became more brittle, walked, K’d, or hit a HR. He wasn’t very good at moving runners.
Phil
Again, no bucks for DH.
__
It depends on who plays LF/CF.
Rich, obviously Hr’s and walks aren’t bad things but when thats pretty much all you can do it lessens your value as a hitter especially if you can’t run.
Dunn has never been on a good team and has never played in the AL. Pitchers love to see a 180 K guy come up in a pressure spot because they know he can be gotten out.
-Damon
After reading the Newsday article on Damon and his wife dropping the info on 3 teams that have interest in him,I hope he goes.It will be the Mets for sure,because they like NY,I’ll bet.
bodhisattva – Destiny Wears Pinstripes
In the sense that Giambi, especially as he became more brittle, walked, K’d, or hit a HR. He wasn’t very good at moving runners.
__
Giambi’s fragility was at least partly a consequence of PEDs. I haven’t heard any such allegations against Dunn. If being brittle is the issue, Matsui is about as brittle as they come.
Dunn is only 30 year old and is only signed for one year.
Depending on what Damon and/or Matsui demand in terms of years, there are a lot worse options.
austinmac
November 24th, 2009 at 9:35 pm
Call me old fashioned, but I do like a hitter who can make contact with a runner on third and less than two outs. Dunn type players tend to frustrate me.
Just read Berra biography. He struck out less in his career than some today in two years.
————————————————————
You would have enjoyed Joe Sewell, then. 3 times with more than 525 at bats and only 4 strikeouts. One season with more than 600 at bats. Those are official at bats. 114 strikeouts in over 7100 official at bats. Career .314 hitter. As a Yankee, in another season, 11 homer and 3 strikeouts in 500 at bats.
I agree with Mark, I want no part of Dunn or Cameron. When you don’t put the ball in play you have zero chance of doing anything productive.
Hmmm. Mets for Johnny. Go for it. Have fun with a 10 HR season, and lots of PH time. Why would any NL team take him?
Boras, get r done, one way or the other.
ST in less than 90 days.
blake
Rich, obviously Hr’s and walks aren’t bad things but when thats pretty much all you can do it lessens your value as a hitter especially if you can’t run.
Dunn has never been on a good team and has never played in the AL. Pitchers love to see a 180 K guy come up in a pressure spot because they know he can be gotten out.
___
It may lessen his value as a hitter, but he is still one of the most feared offensive forces in MLB. It’s no like the Yankees would be investing big bucks in him.
Dunn hasn’t played in NYS either. He has the perfect swing for it. I think most pitchers would pitch around him there.
November 24th, 2009 at 9:52 pm
bodhisattva – Destiny Wears Pinstripes
It’s about balance. WS Game 2, that sequence where Hairston and then Melky got hits to set up Posada to drive in the run that made it 3-1 was crucial to winning that game.
__
That’s an awful small sample to prove any point.
=====
That was merely an example of the versatility of our lineup. You’ll remember that was one game where Girardi substituted Hairston for Swisher.
It worked well that night. Neither Melky nor Hairston are big swingers who go up there looking to hit the ball out, or look to walk. They are guys looking to make contact.
Our team is essentially power pitching and OPS. Yet we had versatility/options with our lineup and bench in 2009. I would be loath to add more gratuitous swinging.
Rich,
They’re gonna get a left fielder, and some pitching. They may also trade for Granderson. But, they’re not gonna hire anyone who can’t also play the field. That’s where they’re gonna save dough.
Juan Miranda also has the perfect swing for the Stadium, and he’s also a much better contact hitter, and he can drive the ball all over the park. You can’t play the shift on Miranda. He’s also already on the roster.
Rich in NJ
November 24th, 2009 at 9:47 pm
Giambi before his decline was an excellent hitter. Unlike Giambi, Dunn wouldn’t play the field. I’m missing the negative of being like Giambi.
————————————————————
Giambi quit being an excellent hitter after 2002. He became a .245 hitter with power and 125 strikeouts. He became Rob Deer/Gorman Thomas.
I used to think Damon would go for one plus one deal. No longer. He’s in tune with his agent and will look at 2-plus at least.
*********************************************
Yep, Doreen. I think the Yankees can thank the Angels and Bobby Abreu for that.
Phil
Rich,
They’re gonna get a left fielder, and some pitching. They may also trade for Granderson. But, they’re not gonna hire anyone who can’t also play the field. That’s where they’re gonna save dough.
__
To me, the issue is the price. If they can acquire a young OFer at a reasonable price, that would be optimal, but I would rather get Dunn for one year than overpay Damon (more than a one year contract) or overpay the Tigers in prospects for Granderson.
Rich,
To me, the issue is the policy. They’re not paying any new guy to just DH this year.
As for the Giambi/Deer/Gorman Thomas comp above, Giambi had better on base skills even when he declined than Deer and especially Gorman.
Rich in NJ
November 24th, 2009 at 9:55 pm
bodhisattva – Destiny Wears Pinstripes
In the sense that Giambi, especially as he became more brittle, walked, K’d, or hit a HR. He wasn’t very good at moving runners.
__
Giambi’s fragility was at least partly a consequence of PEDs. I haven’t heard any such allegations against Dunn. If being brittle is the issue, Matsui is about as brittle as they come.
Dunn is only 30 year old and is only signed for one year.
Depending on what Damon and/or Matsui demand in terms of years, there are a lot worse options.
=====
He’s a dinosaur with a long swing. I’ll pass.
GreenBeret7
Giambi quit being an excellent hitter after 2002. He became a .245 hitter with power and 125 strikeouts. He became Rob Deer/Gorman Thomas.
__
I would take the 2005 (.975) and 2006 (.971) version of Giambi. The problem with Giambi, beyond PEDs, is that he couldn’t play defense.
bodhisattva – Destiny Wears Pinstripes
He’s a dinosaur with a long swing. I’ll pass.
__
What’s Nick Swisher? (btw, I think he’s fine, but he has a long swing and Ks a lot).
Dunn is frustrating, but he gives you what you expect from a DH. Lots of homers and walks. A by product of that is low average and high strikesouts. It happens. I don’t mind him soley as a DH, for the right price. If Matsui weren’t so brittle, as others have already suggested, he is the no doubter. He would be MLB’s best DH.
I feel like a stranger here, lol.
Giambi did not have a bad 08′. Gimabi offensively was basically Swisher, which is fine. That’s not bad.
Phil
Rich,
To me, the issue is the policy. They’re not paying any new guy to just DH this year.
__
If they give Damon two years, they are giving him a year just to DH in all likelihood.
I’m not saying Dunn should be the first option, but there are a lot or worse options.
Rich,
I’ve wanted them to get Dunn for years. It’s just not in the cards from the go this year.
And I have a feeling the LF won’t be Damon.
Phil
And I have a feeling the LF won’t be Damon.
__
I hope you’re right.
For those who don’t think strikeouts are important, remember Ryan Howard in the World Series.
Guys who strikeout a lot, strike out even more against good pitching.
Rich in NJ
November 24th, 2009 at 10:11 pm
bodhisattva – Destiny Wears Pinstripes
He’s a dinosaur with a long swing. I’ll pass.
__
What’s Nick Swisher? (btw, I think he’s fine, but he has a long swing and Ks a lot).
=====
You’re right about that, although I’ll give him a more compact swing from the right side. Swisher really managed to turn around his defensive game in RF, though. Stopped throwing rainbows, got his head into the game, got much better jumps. He’s not just a stick.
Dunn has more power than Swisher, but the way our park is, a lefty with a little power goes a long way – see Johnny D.
“Guys who strikeout a lot, strike out even more against good pitching.”
Um, NLCs?
Guys who k a lot get cold like everybody else. Howard hit a cold streak at a bad time.
Rich, e-mail me when you have a moment.
blake
November 24th, 2009 at 10:16 pm
For those who don’t think strikeouts are important, remember Ryan Howard in the World Series.
Guys who strikeout a lot, strike out even more against good pitching.
===
How about Rivera completely tying up Matt Stairs? Classic. That was just zen, that’s what that was – Rivera used the brittle, immobile Stairs’ own power against him.
Matsui won’t be asking (or getting) $13M a year like his last contract. When Phil say “No bucks for DH”, I’m sure he means that the Yankees won’t be overpaying for someone to DH. Matsui for one year in the $8M range, with a team option for a second year, would be well worth the money.
I don’t know where Rich in NJ gets the idea that Matsui is about as brittle as they come. He was a legitimate ironman until he broke his wrist. We all know that he has bad knees, but he still managed 142 games in 2009. Great production and excellent protection for ARod…well worth bringing back.
I want the Yankees to resign Matsui for a year with an option for a second year, but with the caveat that he’ll probably only play 120 games at most to leave the DH spot open and rest his knees. Maybe to compensate you give him a larger amount of money, overpay him basically. Then sign Damon.
I’m not really a fan of any other option except resigning Damon and making him DH and putting Cameron in LF. Then when you want to open up that DH slot you put Damon in LF and stick Jorge, A-Rod, Jeet…whoever. At least that way you have an A lineup.
Damon says he knows it’s slow this time of year,the crazy thing is when you start seeing all these other teams,have interest in you.GO JOJNNY GO!!
That Newsday article shows the real Johnny.
No Howard and Dunn have long swings which make them more prone to slumps and is the reason they K so much.
BigJoe44
I don’t know where Rich in NJ gets the idea that Matsui is about as brittle as they come. He was a legitimate ironman until he broke his wrist. We all know that he has bad knees, but he still managed 142 games in 2009.
__
I get that idea from the fact that he has had two knee surgeries in two years and needs a third, and that the Yankees don’t think he can play the OF anymore without his knees blowing up.
You do realize that the only reason he stayed relatively healthy is because he was only a DH.
The ironman thing is what destroyed his knees. Playing all those games on artificial turf in Japan was not in his long term best interests.
But if you think he’s still durable, that’s your right.
Matsui has a much shorter stroke than someone like Dunn. Doesn’t have quite the power but is just a much, much better hitter.
Just re-sign him, Cash.
blake
For those who don’t think strikeouts are important, remember Ryan Howard in the World Series.
Guys who strikeout a lot, strike out even more against good pitching.
___
Are you seriously arguing that Howard isn’t a good hitter?
He had a bad series. It happens.
BigJoe44,
You’re right about Matsui being an absolute ironhorse pre wrist injury. However, this is post injury, and coincidence has it, that his knees starting failing him at about the time of his wrist injury.
I believe I read that the Doctor said Matsui heeled faster and better than expected. He also said Matsui can luckily, and if treated properly, play a few games a week in the outfield. It’s a big risk, and scary to think that you have a guy on your team that can’t play the outfield because of knee issues. I understand he won’t be doing that, but the running around the bases aspect is still there.
I’m just trying to make a point, not convince anyone as to whether Matsui should be on the team or not.
Well, if you have a lower avg. you slump more. But I disagree that good pitching affects them more.
In 08′ Howard’s OPS in the WS was 1.137. That’s insane!
In the 0l’ ALDS, A-Rod had an OPS of 205.
A-Rod does not strike out an obscene amount, and he’s a brilliant hitter. He just slumped.
Same with Howard.
Damon wants more than 2 yrs,Yankees need to move on.
If you want to give a position player a rest, put a bench player in the field and keep Matsui as DH. That way, in a close game, ARod, or Tex, or Posada, or whoever had the day off, can come in to pinch-hit and then play defence.
If they are getting a day off by DHing, then you have to pinch-hit with Matsui (or someone else from the bench), and then put another bench player in to play defense, or lose your DH by putting the DH into his regular spot in the field.
Since I believe I introduced the word ‘brittle’ here, let me clarify, at least, my use of it in terms of a player’s swing:
Matsui is not a brittle, immobile type of swinger. He can go the other way, has a more compact stroke, doesn’t really give up much for the power his bat generates. He’s also not a big hulking power guy who gets himself tied up. Despite his knees, his innate athleticism actually serves him well at the plate.
No I’m not saying he’s a bad hitter. I’m saying that he strikes out a ton and like Dunn is prone to going into these long funks where he can’t hit anything.
Phil, why do you think the Yankees are going to give Miranda a shot at DH? As I recall last year (or was it the year before?), they had plenty of chances to recall him……and they didn’t. We don’t have a clue as to whether this guy can hit major league pitching and I can’t believe the Yankees are going to put the DH spot in his unproven hands. It’s not like he’s some great hitting prospect, either.
Matsui on 1 year, with team option for another, would be ideal. Actually, I don’t think there are any ideal solutions. Matsui was dreadful up until he got to rest for 9 games during interleague; who knows how he will be this year? On the other hand, he had just come off of knee surgery…….Now, a year later, possibly his knees will be somewhat better.
I don’t want Adam Dunn.
Rich in NJ
November 24th, 2009 at 10:09 pm
GreenBeret7
Giambi quit being an excellent hitter after 2002. He became a .245 hitter with power and 125 strikeouts. He became Rob Deer/Gorman Thomas.
__
I would take the 2005 (.975) and 2006 (.971) version of Giambi. The problem with Giambi, beyond PEDs, is that he couldn’t play defense.
————————————————————
He killed more rallys because he either couldn’t or refused to hit to the right side of where the 2nd baseman was standing. They played him in medium right field and unless it went over the fence, he was usually out.
blake
Derek Jeter, the guy who Scott Brosius said has a slump proof swing, put up these stats vs. the RS in the 2004 ALCS: .200/.333/.233/.567
He slumped. It happens.
Betsy,
Cause that’s what I know.
Matsui has his own personal chiropractor and practices qi gong. He’s unusually dedicated to preserving himself. Torre never should have allowed that Iron Man crap to continue.
I complained about it at the time it was ongoing.
Eh, I don’t think the Yankees will give the DH role to someone as young and unproven as Miranda.
Rich in NJ
I agree that he is not going to play in the field because of his knees. His job is going to be at DH, and he has been able to do that quite well. The American League is full of DH’s who cannot play the field, but not every DH can match his proven production. As far as his surgeries, those are off-season, and he will be ready for 2010.
BigJoe44
November 24th, 2009 at 10:31 pm
If you want to give a position player a rest, put a bench player in the field and keep Matsui as DH. That way, in a close game, ARod, or Tex, or Posada, or whoever had the day off, can come in to pinch-hit and then play defence.
If they are getting a day off by DHing, then you have to pinch-hit with Matsui (or someone else from the bench), and then put another bench player in to play defense, or lose your DH by putting the DH into his regular spot in the field.
====
Are you Canadian?
bodhi,
a lot of us were down on his “streak.” And it has come back to hurt him during the second half of his career.
I don’t think you can put together a team by saying “what about this situation, or that situation.”
I’ll admtit it, the other day I had some thoughts about Adam Dunn – his numbers do give one cause to think.
But, Cash has put his money on a power arms and young, athletic players, with an eye to OBP (that’s been since Gene Michael was GM – and when they got away from that after 2001 it was also the end of the WS wins – until this season.)
The more I think about it, the more I think Damon is DH and 4th OF, with Granderson the CF, Melky in LF. And another arm, whether it’s Ben Sheets or Josh Johnson. Obviously, I could be wrong, but that’s where I’ll put my two bucks.
Rich, yes you can find a series somewhere that every player in baseball history has slumped. That doesn’t change the fact that guys who strikeout 180 times a year are more prone to them because they simply have less chances to get hits. I’m not sure why you are trying to argue that.
Miranda’s not that young and is entering his prime and he won’t be the everyday DH, which they are unlikely to have.
bodhisattva
Is it that obvious?
But Miranda has very, very little big league experience.
26 or 27 year old “rookies” often hit the ground running.
GreenBeret7
He killed more rallys because he either couldn’t or refused to hit to the right side of where the 2nd baseman was standing. They played him in medium right field and unless it went over the fence, he was usually out.
__
Poiint taken, but he was still productive overall.
26 or 27 year old rookies are often not in the major leagues yet for a good reason.
I don’t know what to say – Miranda is a born hitter.
Of course he will be able to hit major league pitching. It’s what he does – hit. He’s a hitter. Like someone is a piano player who knows how to play Chopin or Beethoven.
Miranda can read the music, play the notes. He may not be your ideal DH, but since I have been bugging Cashman for a year and a half to make him a DH/PH to take advantage of his bat, he obviously fits my criteria. And based on what Phil claims to know here – and I have no reason to doubt him – perhaps the Yankees agree.
The problem with previously bringing him up Betsy was that he didn’t play a position. That’s still the case, but maybe if they’re going to pass on Matsui – not what I’d have, but there yo go – they see Juan as a good low-rent, in-house solution.
I don’t think Cashman is yanking on anyone’s chain when he repeats his mantra on the Yankees turning in-house more and more. If you haven’t noticed, Melky’s the Yankee CF.
blake
Rich, yes you can find a series somewhere that every player in baseball history has slumped. That doesn’t change the fact that guys who strikeout 180 times a year are more prone to them because they simply have less chances to get hits. I’m not sure why you are trying to argue that.
__
My point was really about how good Howard is.
Dunn is flawed, I admit that. But he still has significant value as a hitter.
Yea Howard is good but he’s much better on a fantasy baseball team than a real one IMO…
BigJoe44
November 24th, 2009 at 10:44 pm
bodhisattva
Is it that obvious?
====
Pssst. Your spelling of “defence” gave you away. I’m a longtime hockey guy, so I wouldn’t miss that
.
bodhi-What team?
blake-Hitters that do good on fantasy teams almost always do good for real teams too. Production is production, however it comes.
blake
November 24th, 2009 at 10:53 pm
Yea Howard is good but he’s much better on a fantasy baseball team than a real one IMO…
====
I’d love to have Howard for our park, but I have to say, I was not that concerned about him hurting us going into the series. I was much more worried about Ibanez and Utley, as far as lefties go.
Wait,
I am a Penguin fan.
Juan Marichal just said he threw 227 pitches in a game. Can you imagine a guy doing that now. Either his arm would fall off or the pitching coach would have a heart attack from worry.
“Pssst. Your spelling of “defence” gave you away. I’m a longtime hockey guy, so I wouldn’t miss that”
I was waiting for him to talk “aboot” baseball being a game of three “oots” before I made any guesses.
Devils.
Considering all the injuries, we’ve had a great year so far.
Lamoriello may be the best GM in sports history (yeah, I’ll go there).
Wait till we do it all Over Again
November 24th, 2009 at 10:46 pm
But Miranda has very, very little big league experience.
====
Yeah, well, he can get it being protected by the best lineup in baseball. This guy’s bat is real, real good. He’s not going to be awed by ML pitching. He’ll have an adjustment period to get through, and then he’ll be fine.
I didn’t say Howard wasn’t productive. I said that he’s better in fantasyland than real baseball which he is. K’s, defense, etc.. don’t typically count in that. Wasn’t saying he’s not a good player.
“Juan Marichal just said he threw 227 pitches in a game”
There are college pitchers who come pretty close to that now. Which is probably why some drafted pitchers have constant arm problems.
bodhisattva
I was looking through my posts to see if I had written ‘colour’ or ‘neighbour’ somewhere. Never thought my hockey upbringing would give me away. I’ve been a Yankee fan for over 40 years, so I hope I can stay on the blog!!!
No Howard and Dunn have long swings which make them more prone to slumps and is the reason they K so much.
–
The most Dunn has ever gone hitless is 6 games. The most games he has ever gone without getting on base is 4 games.
Now look up .300 hitters and see how many games they’ve slumped.
This is a fallacy. Dunn gets on base nearly 40% of the time, by definition he will have less stretches of not getting on base than a guy who does so at 35%.
Howard is a very good defender.
“I was waiting for him to talk “aboot” baseball being a game of three “oots” before I made any guesses.”
Also waiting to see if offense was spelled O-ffence.
Mark,
Oh I know, first hand…
Wait till we do it all Over Again
November 24th, 2009 at 10:58 pm
Devils.
Considering all the injuries, we’ve had a great year so far.
Lamoriello may be the best GM in sports history (yeah, I’ll go there).
====
Lou is smart, I’ll give you that – but I’ll go with Slats before he left Edmonton and morphed into an idiot with the Rangers. Sather had that Oakland Raiders mentality – going after black sheep.
If you could skate, you could play for Glen Sather.
For clarification. Howard is a good player, he would be much better and more dangerous if he would make contact more often.
BigJoe44
November 24th, 2009 at 11:00 pm
bodhisattva
I was looking through my posts to see if I had written ‘colour’ or ‘neighbour’ somewhere. Never thought my hockey upbringing would give me away. I’ve been a Yankee fan for over 40 years, so I hope I can stay on the blog!!!
====
Where from in Canada?
Hey, you can’t just omit part of someone’s career. Look at the whole package, and Lou is amazing.
Love to continue the conversation, but I’m tired. Night all!
Being from Canada, I get ribbed a lot for being a Yankees fan. Apparantly a true Canadian has to cheer for the Blue Jays. I keep telling people that cheering against the Jays is a lot more fun than cheering for them. How aboot that?
Well, BigJoe44, if you’re from Toronto, you can always tell them rooting for the Leafs is enough punishment. The Leafs AND Jays would be too much for any reasonable person to bear
.
All this Adam Dunn talk has given me a headache. Gnight
bodhisattva
200 miles north of Toronto. City of 50,000 called North Bay.
Ahh, good junior town last I heard. Isn’t North Bay where the great Bobby Orr hails from? Or he played there or something?
We get about 60 Leafs game a year on TV here. Cheering against them is a whole lot of fun. Go Hawks Go!!!
blake
November 24th, 2009 at 11:09 pm
All this Adam Dunn talk has given me a headache. Gnight
===
Lol. I’ve had the same headache for 2 years running now with all the drooling over Dunn. It makes sense, because of our park, however. But I’m w/you. No thanks.
Lou is smart, I’ll give you that – but I’ll go with Slats before he left Edmonton and morphed into an idiot with the Rangers. Sather had that Oakland Raiders mentality – going after black sheep.
If you could skate, you could play for Glen Sather.
—————————————————-
No, Slats was just bright enough to know that he wasn’t, so he surrounded himself with bright people, especially Bruce McGregor and also later, John Muckler. When he got to New York he believed his press clippings. He and Mactavish are two of a kind, they sound good.
BigJoe44
November 24th, 2009 at 11:13 pm
We get about 60 Leafs game a year on TV here. Cheering against them is a whole lot of fun. Go Hawks Go!!!
====
Hawks, eh? Good young skating team. I don’t watch hockey as much as I used to – I’ve become very Penguin-centric. I used to cover it, so I became a bit saturated. But I saw some great, great games over the years, Cup clinchers, World Junior Tourneys, etc. It’s a super game – a shame it’s so poorly run.
Bobby Orr came from Parry Sound, about 100 miles from here. Back in the day we had Bill Barber who played with Philly, and more recently Darren Turcotte who spent some time with the Rangers. Watched a lot of kids come through here with the OHL team who went on to the NHL. Winters are long, and we can’t ice fish all the time.
Gary Bettman keeps trying to drive it into southern markets where the only ice people see goes into their drinks. Northern USA and Canada is where it belongs.
Also, I agree that Dunn might be able to do the job here, but I don’t like the thought of him here.
Bo Knows
November 24th, 2009 at 11:15 pm
Lou is smart, I’ll give you that – but I’ll go with Slats before he left Edmonton and morphed into an idiot with the Rangers. Sather had that Oakland Raiders mentality – going after black sheep.
If you could skate, you could play for Glen Sather.
—————————————————-
No, Slats was just bright enough to know that he wasn’t, so he surrounded himself with bright people, especially Bruce McGregor and also later, John Muckler. When he got to New York he believed his press clippings. He and Mactavish are two of a kind, they sound good.
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You’re partially right there, he had some smart people around him. But Sather had the hutzpah to go get guys like Ken Linseman and MacTavish (he was an unheralded player on those teams – a great, great penalty killer), and he plucked Reijo Ruotsalainen – who New York neither understood nor appreciated for the impeccably skilled player he was – because he wanted a power play with Reijo and Coffey on the points.
John Muckler, though, is a complete (censorable word). Good coach though, except when it came to the power play. The Oiler power play – for all its talent – was very poorly conceived. But that’s another story.
We get about 60 Leafs game a year on TV here. Cheering against them is a whole lot of fun. Go Hawks Go!!!
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Sounds like St Catharines – Hulls, Mikita and the Espositos.
BigJoe44
November 24th, 2009 at 11:20 pm
Gary Bettman keeps trying to drive it into southern markets where the only ice people see goes into their drinks. Northern USA and Canada is where it belongs.
Also, I agree that Dunn might be able to do the job here, but I don’t like the thought of him here.
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Here’s one my brother penned on that subject:
Oh, oh way down south in the land of cotton
Flames can’t skate, they are rotten
Suck away, suck away, suck away
Dixie Land
They did alright in Calgary, though, lol.
I remember my response when the Oilers sold Gretzky to the Kings. I said “Calgary just won the Cup…”….. That’s another team that never got its due.
BigJoe44
November 24th, 2009 at 11:17 pm
Bobby Orr came from Parry Sound, about 100 miles from here. Back in the day we had Bill Barber who played with Philly, and more recently Darren Turcotte who spent some time with the Rangers. Watched a lot of kids come through here with the OHL team who went on to the NHL. Winters are long, and we can’t ice fish all the time.
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Bill Barber, one of the few Flyers who actually used his stick to play hockey, rather than try and take opponents’ eyes out.
They say there’s no respect in the game now, but those Flyer teams from the mid 70’s were built with one thing in mind. Of course, they were also very talented and successful, and entertaining to a point, but there is no way any team today could (or should) try to emulate them.
You’re partially right there, he had some smart people around him. But Sather had the hutzpah to go get guys like Ken Linseman and MacTavish (he was an unheralded player on those teams – a great, great penalty killer), and he plucked Reijo Ruotsalainen – who New York neither understood nor appreciated for the impeccably skilled player he was – because he wanted a power play with Reijo and Coffey on the points.
John Muckler, though, is a complete (censorable word). Good coach though, except when it came to the power play. The Oiler power play – for all its talent – was very poorly conceived. But that’s another story.
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I was on scene with the Oilers from the WHA days. I can truthfully state that I coached Mark Messier. (He was six at the time and we called him Snotty). When you had the Oilers talent, you didn’t coach the PP. Throw them out there and let them do their thing. Only one thing I liked about Sather, his quote on Mcdonald. “Even a fire hydrant can score 40 goals playing with Gretzky”.
Seems like hockey is taking over a Yankees blog.
What’s the concensus out there regarding Wang. It would be great if he came back healthy and able to pitch, but do the Yankees take a chance on him?
Bo Knows
Do you remember Jimmy Sherret from the WHA. Brother of a good friend of mine. My buddy would come back from seeing Jimmy play with Gordie Howe autographed hockey sticks. They never lasted longer than a week on the outdoor rinks.
That should be ‘Sherrit’
Personnaly I think the Yankees can’t afford to let him go and star for someone else. They have a time frame to monitor his recovery and I think will propose some sort of incentives contract. This would bring him on scene around the All Star break. Probably a good thing. Also I really like the Gaudin, Mitre backups. I agree that LF is more important and it’s not JD returning.
I think that Gaudin did a very good job last year as a fifth starter when the Yankees needed him, and I have no problem with him in the same backup role for 2010.
I agree that Wang is worth a flyer. It’s hard to go wrong with a ground ball pitcher in NYS, as long as Wang can get back to being a ground ball pitcher. Also, he seemed to tire at the end of both 2006 and 2007, which was a little worrisome, but hopefully having all this time off will help him with that fatigue.
When Pujols career is over he’ll still have at leas 8 fingers empty. Tha’s what happens when you’re the big fish in a small pond, it’s always about him!