No. 14 hopes to be a part of No. 28
Posted by: Josh Thomson - Posted in Misc on Dec 17, 2009 
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The Yankees unveiled their new prize (Curtis Granderson) on a new stage (the Legends Club) this morning, but today was not your typical introductory press conference. First, let’s discuss Granderson, then, in my next post, I’ll move on to the news of the day.
• As you know, Granderson will wear No. 14 — not No. 28, the number he wore with the Tigers. Granderson wore 14 in high school and had a fun reason why. Just like now, his coach had already claimed the number he wanted — 22 — so Granderson donned the number worn by his father, Curtis Sr., who wore 14 in his adult softball league. Granderson originally was excited the number was available, but once he learned the back story he had no intention of pressing for No. 28 if Joe Girardi wanted it in the Yankees pursuit of their 28th World Series crown. “I thought, ‘Let me back away from that,’” he said. “I know how tradition is and superstition is (here) from an outside standpoint. I didn’t want to mess with that.” He joked about a possibly scenario many of you hope for, that the Yankees win and Granderson can get his number back in 2011.
• Granderson valued the opportunity to symbolically patrol the same grounds as DiMaggio, Mantle and Williams. But he realizes the necessity to improve against left-handed pitching. He joked that he’s bound to improve by not having to face CC Sabathia — the big man was on the dais, along with Girardi, A-Rod, Brian Cashman, Hal Steinbrenner, Lonn Trost and Jean Aftermann — but it was Sabathia himself who suggested the difference between the young Granderson and the hitter he has become.
After the press conference, Sabathia explained his pattern against Granderson. He used two-seamers inside for show, but retired Granderson on breaking stuff away. As an opponent, CC knew Granderson had grown “more pull-happy” as his power numbers increased.
Eager to get started, the new center fielder, who batted .183 vs. LHP last season, has already spoken to Kevin Long. The two plan on meeting this winter, either in Chicago, where Granderson lives, or in Arizona, where Long is located. Alex Rodriguez said hitters can expect a 10-15 percent jump in production thanks to Long, and believes he will help Granderson improve on his weaknesses.
• Granderson is widely known as one of baseball’s good guys. He has his own foundation, graduated from college despite leaving early and is considered one of the good guys in a clubhouse. He credited his upbringing for that — both parents are retired educators, and his sister is a professor at Jackson State — and said he gets along with others thanks to a diverse background. He mentioned best friends of different racial backgrounds. As for what he saw in the Yankees, the well-spoken 28-year-old said he admired the newfound chemistry in the Bronx, too, noting that something changed here last season.
“In the past, you hear about the Yankee payroll. You have a lot of guys who make a lot of money and don’t get along. That obviously wasn’t true. You saw guys having fun. At the end of the day, no matter how much money guys are making or how long you’ve played this game, it’s the same game you played since you were a little kid. Typically, the teams and the guys who have the most fun are usually successful.”
That’s all for now. I’ll have more from Steinbrenner and Brian Cashman on Damon, as well as an update on A-Rod’s health in a bit. The next post will include audio of Granderson, Steinbrenner, Girardi and Cashman.
Repost:
nick, just from what cash says, more money may go into the starter than 8-10 mil to derosa and 5-7 mil to johnson. just a guess but obviously i have a 50/50 chance to be wrong.
—–
I have a feeling there is enough left in the Yanks budget for those 3 guys (Johnson, Derosa, Mystery Pitcher). None of them break the bank. We wouldn’t be going over (if we do) for more than a couple mil.
Plus, if they are short term deals there will be room for guys like Jeter and Mo next year.
We really can’t take on a Holliday deak with the tsunami of spending that needs to happen next year to keep the core in tact. It really just needs to be small parts now.
I say Nay to Damon and Holliday.
future yankee captain book it.
I’m patiently waiting to hear Hal and Brian’s comments about Damon.
28? Heck, I’m hoping he’s part of 31!
Did CC just tell every lefty how to get CG out?
#
Ken Davidoff
Hal Steinbrenner: “We all love Johnny Damon. …But I think right now there’s a difference of opinion as to what the pay is, quite frankly.” 34 minutes ago
Is he under the O’Neil Banner!?
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/s.....t-MLB-buzz
Quote:
Giants, Mariners join Johnson chase — 12:13 p.m.
While the Yankees remain interested in Nick Johnson, the Giants have increased their offer and the Mariners remain in the mix, according to a major-league source.
Johnson, as reported by the New York Post, is discussing a one-year contract with the Yankees. The Giants, too, are offering one year, but have raised their offer to the $5.5 million to $6 million range, the source said.
The Mariners also want to sign Johnson for one year, but the level of their financial interest is not known. Johnson would prefer a two-year deal.
–Ken Rosenthal
Why did Sabathia just reveal his strategy of how to get Grandy out?
Did CC just tell every lefty how to get CG out?
—-
If only the rest of the league executed like CC.
Granderson on WFAN right now. He grew up as a Braves fan in Chicago thanks to the Superstation……….I missed most of his interview, but he sounds like a great guy.
nick i think that scenario would work just fine, and if johnson ends up on the dl, miranda will slide in.
i dont think we need a ton of 20 m players. get the best out of good talent along with the big ones we already have.
i wouldnt be opposed to johnson, deRosa and Sheets.
Did CC just tell every lefty how to get CG out?
–
Did no lefty use video or scouting reports to know it already?
So Johnson is probably going to end up more expensive than Matsui.
We’re not going to get him— one of those other teams (who need offense desperately by the way) will cave in and give him a 2nd year. Unless he takes less to be a Yankee. I doubt it though.
Looking more and more like this Damon marriage is meant to be.
Why did Sabathia just reveal his strategy of how to get Grandy out?
—–
Also, he didn’t tell them anyhting they didn’t already know. Anyone in the league could que up a video of “CC vs. Granderson” and see exactly what he did to get him out. This was some confidential thing. Every advance scout in the country already knew this.
“Why did Sabathia just reveal his strategy of how to get Grandy out?”
How many pitching coaches do you think listen to the Yankees press conference for new players? Probably not many. In any event, Long is supposed to work with Grandy so that the strategy doesn’t work anymore. I wouldn’t get too upset about it.
Granderson has to be careful of not becoming HR happy at YS either……
So Johnson is probably going to end up more expensive than Matsui.
We’re not going to get him— one of those other teams (who need offense desperately by the way) will cave in and give him a 2nd year. Unless he takes less to be a Yankee. I doubt it though.
Looking more and more like this Damon marriage is meant to be.
—-
I disagree. I think it looks more and more like a Damon divorce is entirely more likely.
Yeah… I’m sure most pitchers couldn’t figure out how to get out Granderson by watching film and reading scouting reports. They needed CC to tell them.
Nick Johnson i think is one that will agree to come to the yankees even though other teams are offering. Yankees can match 6 million.
Pete recycling old material:
PeteAbe The Dodgers signed Angel Berroa to a minor-league deal. “He taught me so much when I was rookie with the Braves in ’60,” Torre said.
Not funny here, not funny anywhere
Repost:
Bronx Jeers,
Ok take out Beckett and put in Werth
Who wore 14 this past year? Hinske? Hairston?
Whenever I see #14 on the back of a Yankee jersey, I always think of Lou Piniella. They will never retire it for him, but in my heart, he is #14.
Repost from the last thread:
The guys on WFAN were postulating the following question: If the Yankees are willing to take a risk on Nick Johnson’s health at DH, then why not Carlos Delgado?
Now the answer is that Johnson would fill the role of a number 2 hitter and that’s why the Yankees have an interest, but putting that aside. Just contemplate the power of a healthy Carlos Delgado in Yankee Stadium…YIKES
“Granderson has to be careful of not becoming HR happy at YS either…”
——————————————–
I know. Cashman talked at length about this point. And said he will talk with Granderson on the subject.
Granderson seems like a great guy. I love that CC and Alex were there!
I am showcasing a new addition to my handle
“Not funny here, not funny anywhere”
I’m on record as not being a big Pete Abe fan, but I must admit that I did find his Angel Berroa jokes amusing. The guy really does look old.
Well if we want NJ, offer him a 2nd year.
You can’t get penny-wise, pound-foolish with players who are in demand, or you will miss out on them. Same thin holds for Sheets when he starts accepting offers— if he shows his stuff is back, a lot of teams will be aggressively after him.
If we want him that badly, we’ll offer him a 2nd yr or more money. If not, we’ll move on to Plan B, which is probably Damon unless Hal lets Cash get Holliday.
Laura – So long, Matsui. You will be missed!
December 17th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
Who wore 14 this past year? Hinske? Hairston?
Whenever I see #14 on the back of a Yankee jersey, I always think of Lou Piniella. They will never retire it for him, but in my heart, he is #14
****************
Laura, Hinske had #14
Another point I want to bring up.
All those people who think the Yankees are forgoing Holliday just to sign someone big next year are in for a rude awakening.
Guess who is coming off the books next year? Jeter and Mo. Guess who the Yankees HAVE to spend big time money on to retain? Jeter and Mo.
I would love to see Joe Mauer in pinstripes…and who knows…maybe it is an option but I really think the Yankees are out on Holliday and not in a position to make any gargantuan moves other then retaining these guys next year.
Thats why we need relatively cheap but effective big leaguers now.
C-Grand wants to be part of a championship?
Sure.
I think he’s the type of player that knows what he has to do to help this team.
One of favorite moments after they won the Series is of Susyn Waldman asking CC if he thought back to a year prior when he first signed could he imagine celebrating a World Series championship.
And CC matter of factly responds ” Yeah I did”
“I love that CC and Alex were there!”
I thought that was great as well, Erin. Those are two great guys to welcome you to the club.
Cash via ESPN Radio: Hughes & Joba will have to battle it out for 1 rotation spot
Pete recycling old material:
PeteAbe The Dodgers signed Angel Berroa to a minor-league deal. “He taught me so much when I was rookie with the Braves in ‘60,” Torre said.
Not funny here, not funny anywhere
—-
I, for one, loved the Angel Berroa jokes. They never failed to make me laugh.
Delgado is off major surgery. Johnson is just ‘injury prone’, and even that is bunk. He is just a slow healer. Johnson has a better OBP and no split. Delgado is worse vs lefties. Delgado has more power potentially ,but I think Johnson is a better fit.
JK
December 17th, 2009 at 2:45 pm
Cash via ESPN Radio: Hughes & Joba will have to battle it out for 1 rotation spot
******
Am I missing something?
Sabathia
Burnett
Pettitte
Joba/Hughes
??????????
“Laura, Hinske had #14″
I thought so. Thanks.
How do we know Nick the Stick won’t take less because he wants to be a Yankee and come back home to a winning team?
If the Yanks sign Damon for anywhere near what he’s asking for, and didn’t get involved in the bidding for Cameron, the Yanks need to have their collective head examined.
Nick J. would replace Damon nicely except for the 40+ games Damon would play in the OF. If the Yanks go for Nick, they’ll need another righty OF.
ed_price
#Yankees players lobbying internally for team to re-sign Johnny Damon. But he wants $11M/yr, and Yankees not interested at that price.
Thanks, Chad! I love Granderson already and I can’t wait until he gets his first pie in the face. I think he’s going to be improved against lefties this year; he’s a hard worker and wants to improve. With that attitude, anything is possible.
I mean, Josh – sorry!
Nick D.,
Who is paying a 42 year old Mariano 15M a year? His salary will go down.
Who is paying a 37 year old Jeter 21M a year? His salary will also go down.
December 17th, 2009 at 2:46 pm
JK
December 17th, 2009 at 2:45 pm
Cash via ESPN Radio: Hughes & Joba will have to battle it out for 1 rotation spot
******
Am I missing something?
Sabathia
Burnett
Pettitte
Joba/Hughes
??????????
——-
I’d say that pretty indicative that Cash is gunna sign another pitcher then…don’t you Erica?
“Cash via ESPN Radio: Hughes & Joba will have to battle it out for 1 rotation spot”
Heard that too. Not surprising. Will be interesting to see who they get though.
Yeah, seems like the door is just about closed on Damon.
Now that doesn’t really mean anything. I mean the door was supposedly closed on Alex the day he opted out and that changed, but we’ll have to see what plays out.
I’m really unsure what to think right now.
I still believe that the Yankees are going to add one more bat and then focus on pitching. While the optimist in me hopes that one more bat is Matt Holliday, the tea leaves are all pointing at Nick Johnson.
Jeter and Mo are both gonna have to take a pay cut.
Jeter should earn 18 mil tops and Mo 7.5 mil tops.
Pettitte comes off the books (11.75).
Swisher (9 mil) is a moveable contract if they really want to spend on a big free agent next year.
1 more year of Posada @ 15 mil.
Everyone seems to think the Yankees print money. While they may bring in more revenue than all other teams they still do have expenses.
Does anyone here have an idea what the annual debt service is on $1.6 billion? I’ll give you a hint: It’s a nine digit number – before the decimal point.
Yes, they can and should have a budget, and what may seem like only 10 or 20 million annually can make a big difference when figuring overall financial projections.
So Boston’s payroll is up to $170M.
When can we start calling them hypopcrites for attacking the yankees payroll? Maybe with one more signing?
Anyway, NJ may get two years and i love his initials are NJ since i am from NJ.
The more we discuss, the more i like his +.400 OBP after Jeter’s .380 OBP and in front of Tex and A-Rod (who also has a .400 OBP) in front of granderson, who can even put up 30HR in the largest park in the world (comerica)
“Cash via ESPN Radio: Hughes & Joba will have to battle it out for 1 rotation spot”
—
Cashman obviously has a plan.
Cash has stressed in every interview how important getting another pitcher is.
We’re getting another pitcher. Cash has made that pretty clear.
Nick D.,
Who is paying a 42 year old Mariano 15M a year? His salary will go down.
Who is paying a 37 year old Jeter 21M a year? His salary will also go down.
—-
The Yankees. If only their agents thought the same way as you. And if you think the Yanks let either of them walk, you are crazy.
I bet they both make close to what they are making now even if their salaries do go down (which I wouldn’t be positive of). I heard a quote once saying that only the Yankees could cut the check for whatever Mo earns for however longer he plays.
“Cash via ESPN Radio: Hughes & Joba will have to battle it out for 1 rotation spot”
That sounds like a man who already has a player in place. Is it possible that there’s a deal in place with Ben Sheets that we just don’t know about?
Per Kay, Phil and Joba will battle for a spot in the rotation…….not a fan of this at all.
Any thoughts on who our 4th starter is going to be? (5th being one of Hughes/Joba)
Erica,
1. Sabathia
2. Burnett
3. Pettitte
4. Sheets/Escobar/Duchscherer
5. Joba/Hughes
There are not going to many many happy campers in the clubhouse if Damon doesn’t come back. I think it is pretty clear now how popular he is in that clubhouse and how important he is to the fabric of it.
I agree. Berroa jokes are funny. Personally, I would’ve gone with more of a Brooklyn Dodgers reference.
Nick D.
December 17th, 2009 at 2:48 pm
December 17th, 2009 at 2:46 pm
JK
December 17th, 2009 at 2:45 pm
Cash via ESPN Radio: Hughes & Joba will have to battle it out for 1 rotation spot
******
Am I missing something?
Sabathia
Burnett
Pettitte
Joba/Hughes
??????????
——-
I’d say that pretty indicative that Cash is gunna sign another pitcher then…don’t you Erica?
*******
That is indeed the next logical inference made from the deductive powers of reasoning…. (sorry, I felt like using big words)
I just wanted to make sure I didn’t fall asleep at my desk for 5 minutes and miss some big signing
Jeter and Mo are both gonna have to take a pay cut.
Jeter should earn 18 mil tops and Mo 7.5 mil tops.
Pettitte comes off the books (11.75).
Swisher (9 mil) is a moveable contract if they really want to spend on a big free agent next year.
1 more year of Posada @ 15 mil.
_______
Jeter i say probably. Mo taking 7.5. I dont think so. Heearn the fat check he gets. I can easily see him getting 15 again, but more likely somewhere between 10 – 12.5.
No way in hell Posada gets 15 mil and he isnt a FA until 2011 anyway and by that time, Montero and Romine will be here.
Battling for a rotation spot is not bad if the loser goes to AAA. They have options.
Good.
Nothing wrong with some competition— let both kids know that are fighting for one spot and motivate them. It was risky to go with both kids in the rotation. Looks like Cash feels the same way.
Nick Johnson is just as much a risk for an injury as Matsui without the track record of a great 5th hitter that never lets the pressure get to him.
When Matsui is healthy and raking on the Angels for $6M/yr and Nick Johnson is on the DL on a multiyear deal people will admit that Cashman screwed up in not resigning Godzilla.
work would be much more interesting if we heard an announcement of Johnson, Sheets or someone agreeing to a deal
Regarding Hughes/Joba for the 1 spot in the rotation. My guess is that Hughes sticks in the rotation and Joba heads to the pen.
Mo won’t make 15 but maybe 7.5 is too low. I’ll settle on 10.
Jeter will go down from 21 to about 18.
There’s 8 million saved right there.
Pettitte is 12 mil.
there’s 20 mil.
Swisher is moveable at 9 mil.
There’s 29 mil if they want.
Posada’s 15 mil is off the books 1 year after they’d be signing a free agent from the next class.
That’s 44 mil.
Betsy -high on pie
December 17th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Per Kay, Phil and Joba will battle for a spot in the rotation…….not a fan of this at all.
—————————————————————-
If this is the case, my hope is Joba comes to camp in shape and wins the rotation spot. Otherwise, stretching him out in 2009 was a waste.
Makes more sense for Hughes to start the season in the ‘pen with his innings limit anyway. He can stretch out and move back to the rotation when someone gets hurt, or if Joba proves he can’t do it.
Let’s face it, someone always gets hurt.
2010- Posada catches 115, DH/Sit the rest
2011- Posada primary DH/ Montero C
2012- Posada could be resigned 1-2 years as DH, if not we look elsewhere.
tex’s friend
December 17th, 2009 at 2:54 pm
work would be much more interesting if we heard an announcement of Johnson, Sheets or someone agreeing to a deal
****
The strippers walking around yesterday afternoon in skimpy Santa outfits also woke up the office of accountants considerably.
“Cash via ESPN Radio: Hughes & Joba will have to battle it out for 1 rotation spot”
——————————————-
you sure? Did he stutter?
I’m fine with the Yankees players lobbying for Damon’s return – they love their team and undoubtedly want it to stay intact for as long as possible. Unfortunately, such is the business side of sports. I just hope the relationship doesn’t end badly (if it does end) – that would be a shame. I know the Yankees love Damon, but they have to conduct business using the Scarecrow part of themselves and not the Tin Man.
Mariano is the same guy who threatened to go join Joe Torre in LA during his last contract negotiation. Pete Abe also posted that when he was cleaning out his locker (the day they fired Torre), he said “The Yanks are just one of 30 teams now.”
MO is going to attempt to get the most money, just like he should. And the Yanks are going to have to pay it.
Jeter isn’t taking a paycut. He is going to get the same contract, just extended by 5 years or so.
Again, these are not the Red Sox players. Our players take us to the cleaners. We just have to get used to it.
No way in hell Posada gets 15 mil and he isnt a FA until 2011 anyway and by that time, Montero and Romine will be here.
–
Posada is only under contract for 10:$13.1M, 11:$13.1M
Nick Johnson is just as much a risk for an injury as Matsui without the track record of a great 5th hitter that never lets the pressure get to him.
Nick Johnson wouldn’t be coming in to be a 5th place hitter. He would be a number 2 hitter replacing Damon, Granderson would be the #5 hitter.
Nick Johnson is just as much a risk for an injury as Matsui without the track record of a great 5th hitter that never lets the pressure get to him.
When Matsui is healthy and raking on the Angels for $6M/yr and Nick Johnson is on the DL on a multiyear deal people will admit that Cashman screwed up in not resigning Godzilla.
—–
What about when Nick Johnson is scoring runs all over the place for the Yankees and Matsui is having his knees drained for the 5th time and is on the DL for the Angels?
Matsui and Johnson bring entirely different skills to a club. We wouldn’t ask Johnson to be a #5 hitter. We would ask him to be a #2 hitter which he can be as an established OBP guy.
“Battling for a rotation spot is not bad if the loser goes to AAA. They have options.”
If it comes to a battle for the spot (the Yanks would have to sign a starter better than either, and they haven’t done so yet), the loser isn’t going to AAA. Get serious.
Take a look at the pen right now, there’s a need for someone to fill Hughes’ spot. If the Yanks do get that extra starter, who better than Hughes or Joba?
Posada will never be resigned to DH, he just isn’t that kind of hitter. His bat really plays at Catcher, not at 1B or DH.
I think Joba wins that spot barring a trade in which case Hughes would go and Joba would stay.
Either way, Joba in the rotation IMHO.
27, late in the day to worry about that. cash will move on to his next prize. no need to worry about whether it was right or wrong, just a waste of time.
I guess you guys are assuming a huge drop off from jeter and Mo this year. Because that is the only way that they take a pay cut after 2010.
The only question on Mo is if he wants 1 yr or 2 yrs. Hopefully he’s willing to go the pettitte route and sign 1 yr at a time.
CountryClub December 17th, 2009 at 2:58 pm
I guess you guys are assuming a huge drop off from jeter and Mo this year. Because that is the only way that they take a pay cut after 2010.
The only question on Mo is if he wants 1 yr or 2 yrs. Hopefully he’s willing to go the pettitte route and sign 1 yr at a time.
—
No, it’s the age factor. It introduces some risk which lowers the dollar amount and curbs performance projections.
“Who is paying a 42 year old Mariano 15M a year? His salary will go down.
Who is paying a 37 year old Jeter 21M a year? His salary will also go down.”
Ha!
Yanks are going to be “giving” ARod 6 mil to hit his 661st HR in 2011. As meaningless a milestone if there ever was one.
And Jeter’s taking a paycut to be the 1st Yankee to reach 3,000 hits?
work would be much more interesting if we heard an announcement of Johnson, Sheets or someone agreeing to a deal
______________________________________
Agree, C’mon Cashman and do something, or blog here and tell us you are working on something ! The Waiting is the hardest part !
Will the loser go to the ‘pen or to AAA?
No, it’s the age factor. It introduces some risk which lowers the dollar amount and curbs performance projections.
—
For any reasonable contract negotiations…yes. For Jeter and Mo…things get a little weird in terms of rational.
A competition between Hughes and Joba is fine but I don’t want to see Hughes in the bullpen again. He is a starter and he needs to be developing all of his pitching and mindset towards that goal. He needs to start so that he can learn to get hitters out as a starter (preferably at the big league level)
Ranger
December 17th, 2009 at 2:56 pm
t.
Jeter isn’t taking a paycut. He is going to get the same contract, just extended by 5 years or so.
Again, these are not the Red Sox players. Our players take us to the cleaners. We just have to get used to it.
————————————————————-
Jeter’s annual value was 18.9 million over the length of his contract. Hopefully $19 million a year won’t be perceived as a cut.
And it’s true, our players do take us to the cleaners. As they should. The Yankees make billions, mostly because people are paying to see the likes of Jeter and Mo. Why shouldn’t they get their cut?
JK
December 17th, 2009 at 2:45 pm
Cash via ESPN Radio: Hughes & Joba will have to battle it out for 1 rotation spot
************
assumed this would happen.
Granderson on with Kay shortly
If one goes to the rotation and one to AAA, looks like it’d be a combo of Marte and Robertson setting up for Mo.
If Robertson, Melancon, and co. look shaky in Spring, the loser of the Hughes/Joba battle is not going to AAA.
On the other hand, with Shetes injury history and Burnett not being the staple of health, would they be better served having the loser of the competition ready in AAA to step in? Or will Gaudin get that call?
Nick D.
December 17th, 2009 at 3:00 pm
No, it’s the age factor. It introduces some risk which lowers the dollar amount and curbs performance projections.
—
For any reasonable contract negotiations…yes. For Jeter and Mo…things get a little weird in terms of rational.
**********
Just thinking of Jeter and Mo and “contract negotiations” in the same breath makes my stomach hurt..a lot.
Brett,
A motivated Joba (assuming that his velocity returns) is not losing that battle to Hughes.
Perhaps that is the goal of this… to motivate Joba and get him back to that level he was at in 2008. He came in camp out of shape last year, so perhaps they feel he needs to be pushed. A competition would do just that.
Nick D. December 17th, 2009 at 3:00 pm
No, it’s the age factor. It introduces some risk which lowers the dollar amount and curbs performance projections.
—
For any reasonable contract negotiations…yes. For Jeter and Mo…things get a little weird in terms of rational.
—
And that is why right now, 1 year ahead of schedule, you here the Yankees stressing budget concerns publicly, out load, repeatedly, drilling it into the heads of fans. That’s all we’re hearing about is limits. Wait until Holliday signs. “Budget” will be the new buzzword heading into the negotiations with Jeter and Mo.
Arod signed his absurd contract at age 31.
Jeter will be 36.
Mo will be 40.
The risk will be factored in, not to the extent that it would be for typical players but it will be a factor and both Mo and Jete’s will take a pay cut even if it means giving each an extra year on top of their demands/expectations.
Maybe the winner gets to be the #4 and the loser #5.
But probably not.
Ranger,
I repeat who else is paying a 42 year old Mariano 15M? He didn’t even want 15M, Hank was negotiating with himself in the Newspapers. The Dodgers was also fake threat, they had no interest in him.
Bret,
If Mo was a free agent right now, you don’t think he’d get 15 mil after what he did last season?
Kay really breaking news there…. Cashman has only been saying he wants another starter for the past 6 weeks (which means both kids were never going to be in the rotation together)….
I don’t think Joba and Phil will have to battle for the 5th spot. Phil has innings limits and Joba seems to better in the pen. They both will make the team out of sprint training. I would start Joba and relieve Phil for 2-3 months and then flip flop.
Pokey
December 17th, 2009 at 3:02 pm
If one goes to the rotation and one to AAA, looks like it’d be a combo of Marte and Robertson setting up for Mo.
*************
I don’t think either one is going to AAA. Whoever doesn’t get the rotation spot will setup for Mo.
Remember… Nick Johnson is from the San Francisco area. Grew up in Sac-Town and later outside SF.
Signing Johnson and DeRosa or signing Johnson and trading for Ty Wigginton (much less expensive) would certainly strengthen this team and likely wouldn’t add half the payroll it would take to sign Holliday.
I also see no way Jeter or Rivera make less. Jeter should also get a $ 10 Million “marketing bonus” for his 3,000th hit.
I suspect Posada and Pettite will both be retirees at the end of 2011 and probably Rivera, but not Jeter.
Nick in SF
December 17th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
Maybe the winner gets to be the #4 and the loser #5.
But probably not.
*******
Maybe the loser should just give Erica $25
CountryClub December 17th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
Bret,
If Mo was a free agent right now, you don’t think he’d get 15 mil after what he did last season?
—
No. He’d get 10. He’s ours for 2 years 20 mil after this contract expires.
Wow, neat – Tex, Alex and Granderson are going to get together in January for a mini-ST. That’s fantastic and a great sign; CG is going to have a great year.
Jeff,
What if Phil is struggling and Joba is dominating? Or what if both are dominating?
I rather see them both in ST before figuring out who should fit in where.
JK
December 17th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
Ranger,
I repeat who else is paying a 42 year old Mariano 15M? He didn’t even want 15M, Hank was negotiating with himself in the Newspapers. The Dodgers was also fake threat, they had no interest in him.
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It’s a matter of pride. If he is still performing at his current level of excellence, why should he take a cut? He’ll get what he wants or he’ll retire, just like the case was with Andy this year.
I love how everyone thinks we can just pull guys back and forth from the rotation to the pen and vice-versa. That’s a terrible idea not only for them mentally, but seriously puts their arms at risk.
Nick in SF
December 17th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
Maybe the winner gets to be the #4 and the loser #5.
But probably not.
**************
LOL
Hughes and Joba are one of out top 5 or 6 arms on the team.
Neither are going to AAA. The job is to take your best 25 men up north. Not put someone like Sergio Mitre in the pen while Hughes/Joba continues to mow down AAA hitters.
Damon can whine all he wants. Nobody is giving him 13m for 4 years. It’s not like there are tons of teams bidding for his services. If you were a team and you knew that Damon really wanted to go back to NYY, would you give him more $$$ than the Yankees were offering? I wouldn’t. This isn’t Pujols we’re talking about here.
I know it probably wouldn’t happen but I would love the Yankees to humble Joba by making him spend 1/2 the year in AAA.
Mariano Rivera will retire before taking a 50% paycut.
He’s going to win the MVP
SJ44 December 17th, 2009 at 3:10 pm
Mariano Rivera will retire before taking a 50% paycut.
—
Let me guess.
You’re his cousin.
For those talking about salary in the up coming years, I believe ARod’s contract was very front loaded.
I think Robertson will be great in the pen. Interested in seeing if Melancon and Dunn can control themselves and particularly if Melancon can avoid the growing perception that he throws at people because of how wild he was.
I love how everyone thinks we can just pull guys back and forth from the rotation to the pen and vice-versa. That’s a terrible idea not only for them mentally, but seriously puts their arms at risk.
—-
I couldn’t agree more. Great great point. This is my biggest fear heading into this season is that we mis-handle these two. I really believe in both as starters in the long-term.
Teixeria is going to be in Miami for the Orange bowl (Teix’s alma mater George Tech is playing) in January.
Not talking about back and forth, just a one time move mid season. The team does it every year, in fact most teams do it many years. Joba starts, Phil relieves until mid point of the season and then flip them, one time. Come the postseason, Joba could move back to the pen if the Yankees have themselves a good #4.
BJK,
I’m not talking about a drastic cut. Mo down to 12-13M, Jeter down to 17-18M
About a week ago, I banned the term ‘Cameron’ on this blog and he ended up signing with another team.
I want to announce that I now officially ban the terms ‘Damon’ and ‘John’ or ‘Johnny’ or ‘JD’.
Use of the term will result in IP tracing and immediate deactivation of your LOHUD account.
Thank you for following the terms of use agreement.
BJK,
I’m not talking about a drastic cut. Mo down to 12-13M, Jeter down to 17-18M
—-
Agreed there, but that doesn’t exactly open the door for a Joe Mauer sized contract.
It’s not about taking your “best 25″ out of ST. It’s about taking the guys that best fit your needs to open the season.
Bret the Hitman
December 17th, 2009 at 3:14 pm
About a week ago, I banned the term ‘Cameron’ on this blog and he ended up signing with another team.
I want to announce that I now officially ban the terms ‘Damon’ and ‘John’ or ‘Johnny’ or ‘JD’.
Use of the term will result in IP tracing and immediate deactivation of your LOHUD account.
Thank you for following the terms of use agreement.
***************
FAIL
Sorry, but you may not be aware. MPB Johnny Damon and I are in a pretend relationship. I cannot curb the use of his name
Argenys,
Not with the HR bonuses in there….. another Hank special.
Granderson just got off with Kay – he sounds like such a great guy and he’s very, very well spoken. I can’t wait to see him play…….
Nobody is going to AAA. Whomever loses the competition will go to the bullpen.
Phil and Joba are 2 of the best 12 arms on the team.
That won’t make them Scranton-bound.
They were always going to add another starter.
Cash sounds like he has found his guy.
Jeff NJ
December 17th, 2009 at 3:13 pm
Not talking about back and forth, just a one time move mid season. The team does it every year, in fact most teams do it many years. Joba starts, Phil relieves until mid point of the season and then flip them, one time. Come the postseason, Joba could move back to the pen if the Yankees have themselves a good #4
———————————————————–
Except Joba won’t need to be flipped unless he pitches his way out of the rotation. No team goes through a season with 5 starters. They will both be needed, and hopefully both will pitch well enough to stay in the rotation for years to come.
Bret the Hitman,
Can you use your superior banning powers to rid us of Nick Johnson as well?
Now is not the time for shady accounting tricks.
“Mariano Rivera will retire before taking a 50% paycut.”
Or just pitch for someone else. If he puts up another Mo-like season?
If anyone needs help throwing up their lunch, picture Mo in a Red Sox cap.
Erica,
In about 10 minutes, 2 gentleman wearing black suits will appear at your door.
I am sorry.
I tried.
SJ44
December 17th, 2009 at 3:16 pm
Cash sounds like he has found his guy
*************
SJ, any guesses on who it is?
Granderson just got off with Kay
Sorry – that just sounded dirty.
Gaudin’s role on this team is basically to be the emergency starter.
Aceves is there as well. McAllister and Nova are high ceiling guys in AAA who could be ready by mid-season.
They really have no reason to send the loser of the competition to the minors as an “insurance” policy when we already have several of them. They would be much better served helping the pen. I tend to doubt any of the arms in the pen aside from Robertson/Marte.
Mark in Tampa December 17th, 2009 at 3:17 pm
Bret the Hitman,
Can you use your superior banning powers to rid us of Nick Johnson as well?
—
BANNED
Nick D.,
I think they would make Mauer fit. Plus Posada is off the books the next year.
Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon
No Bret. I understand the business of the game.
He’s not taking a 50% paycut, nor will the Yankees offer him one.
The Yankees aren’t even offering Johnny Damon a 50% paycut.
They aren’t going to do it with Mo.
Why flip them? Joba won’t have an innings limit, and you’re talking mid-late July before Hughes would be stretched enough to go 6-7 innings.
It was a mess the last 2 seasons how they handled Joba. I don’t think they make the same mistake with Phil.
One needs to start out in the rotation. If he struggles, bring up the other.
Nick in SF
December 17th, 2009 at 3:17 pm
Now is not the time for shady accounting tricks.
****
Maybe, maybe not.
But a certain CPA is growing desperate to spruce up her Vegas fund.
Remember, everyone’s favorite GTLU hostess will be celebrating her birthday on Saturday. Donations to the Vegas fund will be accepted and appreciated. In fact, I will even sweeten the deal and give those who donate preferential GTLU treatment should the game continue. I love presents!
Blake, that’s exactly why I don’t want to see a competition. Hughes in the pen will be a huge setback for his career as a starter – that is to say, he’ll be 25 in 2011, with major innings limits. Then, in 2011, he’ll be just like any other #5 starter, with his ups and downs. By the time he starts living up to his potential, he’ll be 27/28 years old……
The Yankees are locked into Mo and Jeter contracts and there’s nothing they can do about it. They’re going to have to give them big $$…. and that’s going to be a problem as far as roster flexibility goes.
Tom on N.J.
December 17th, 2009 at 3:18 pm
Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon Johnny Damon
*********
Best. Post. Ever.
SJ44,
I don’t think Joba would be sent to AAA either, but I wouldn’t mind seeing it happen.
SJ44 December 17th, 2009 at 3:18 pm
No Bret. I understand the business of the game.
He’s not taking a 50% paycut, nor will the Yankees offer him one.
The Yankees aren’t even offering Johnny Damon a 50% paycut.
They aren’t going to do it with Mo.
—
It’s still 2 years 20 million bucks, not exactly an insult to offer that to a 40 year old.
Bret,
I’ll respectfully disagree. Unless disaster strikes for one of them this yr, Jeter will make at least 19 mil (the avg of his last contract) and Mo 15 mil in 2011.
Let’s hope they both have great 2010′s so we can argue about this next off season.
Bret the Hitman
December 17th, 2009 at 3:17 pm
Erica,
In about 10 minutes, 2 gentleman wearing black suits will appear at your door.
I am sorry.
I tried.
**********
That could be okay. Are they cute??????????
The Yanks won’t let what they do with Jeter and Mo effect what they need to do for the roster.
JK
December 17th, 2009 at 3:13 pm
BJK,
I’m not talking about a drastic cut. Mo down to 12-13M, Jeter down to 17-18M
—————————————————————–
Again, it’s a matter of pride. Mariano Rivera is the best closer of all-time for the wealthiest franchise of all time. If he is showing big signs of decline and isn’t pitching like Mariano anymore, he probably won’t want to play anyway.
If he’s still pitching like Mariano Rivera, he doesn’t deserve a paycut, nor should he take one. The Yankees have the money.
btw- new thread
The yankees would be foolish if they signed a starter for the 4 spot and then had Hughes/Joba battle it out for 5 with the loser going to the BP.
IF anything all 3 should be in competition for the 4,5 spot. If the 3 are all really good in spring what happens? You’d be pissing away a starter.
Pass on Nick “The Glass Stick” Johnson
We need some power from the DH spot and a guy who can stay healthy. If we sign Holliday, fine. If we don’t, sign Vlad to DH.
CountryClub December 17th, 2009 at 3:22 pm
Bret,
I’ll respectfully disagree. Unless disaster strikes for one of them this yr, Jeter will make at least 19 mil (the avg of his last contract) and Mo 15 mil in 2011.
Let’s hope they both have great 2010’s so we can argue about this next off season.
—
Yeah. I’m not really worried about it. The Yanks will keep both and find a way to make it work.
I think the last thing a Yankees fan needs to worry about is the budget.
It is a concern, but not the main one.
Imagine being a Royals fan.
You’d start to sweat when your favorite player reaches the 2 million mark in arbitration.
Joba is the better pitcher with more experience and number of pitches. His reliable pitching in the WS just adds to that experience.
Joba will win that pitching duel. And I hope that everyone else is as tired of this as I am. What a waste for either to be in the pen.
Mo and Jeter are getting a black check. theres no way either of them will be let go.
i say hughes wins the rotation spot and joba goes to the pen. Joba had like 3 really good starts last year other than that he was bwlow average and couldnt throw strikes with consistency. he didnt do great in the Pen during the playoffs but the last 2 or 3 WS games he looked much better although he allowed that one homer.
im confident in gaudin and mitre to be the 6 and 7 starters if theres an injury in the rotation. im also confident that girardi will iron out the bullpen just as he did the past 2 years.
The Yankees are locked into Mo and Jeter contracts and there’s nothing they can do about it. They’re going to have to give them big $$…. and that’s going to be a problem as far as roster flexibility goes.
___
you may be the only person ever who considers Mo a payroll flexibility problem. If ANYONE is worth paying, it is him.
Nick D.
December 17th, 2009 at 3:12 pm
I love how everyone thinks we can just pull guys back and forth from the rotation to the pen and vice-versa. That’s a terrible idea not only for them mentally, but seriously puts their arms at risk.
—-
I couldn’t agree more. Great great point. This is my biggest fear heading into this season is that we mis-handle these two. I really believe in both as starters in the long-term.
============================================================
These two good comments do require a second posting.
“Nick Johnson wouldn’t be coming in to be a 5th place hitter. He would be a number 2 hitter replacing Damon, Granderson would be the #5 hitter.”
It’s obvious that Nick Johnson wouldn’t be hitting 5th. My point is that Matsui has proven he is a really good 5th hitter and you are replacing his spot on the roster with an injury prone 2 hitter that also can’t play the field.
There are other guys available to hit 2nd. When you have to choose between Matsui on a 1 year, $6M deal or Nick Johnson on whatever deal he’s going to end up getting, Matsui is the choice every single time. He is head and shoulders above Nick Johnson as a hitter.
Egad, Biz – surely you can count above three. Please go to Joba’s player page before making statements like that. If Phil is the winner ( I doubt it) how will he adjust to the restrictive Phil Rules. A pitcher needs continuity and the Rules just doesn’t get it.
“Nick Johnson wouldn’t be coming in to be a 5th place hitter. He would be a number 2 hitter replacing Damon, Granderson would be the #5 hitter.”
It’s obvious that Nick Johnson wouldn’t be hitting 5th. My point is that Matsui has proven he is a really good 5th hitter and you are replacing his spot on the roster with an injury prone 2 hitter that also can’t play the field.
There are other guys available to hit 2nd. When you have to choose between Matsui on a 1 year, $6M deal or Nick Johnson on whatever deal he’s going to end up getting, Matsui is the choice every single time. He is head and shoulders above Nick Johnson as a hitter.
___
it wasnt a choice. i doubt the yankees thought matsui would up and sign somehwere else so quickly. they sometimes think they can wait on people and they will wait also. (ie: pettitte before houston).
Putting the DH, LF, and SP questions aside, it would be uplifting news by itself to hear that Joba had decided on coming to Tampa in mid January to get a head start on conditioning.
If he doesn’t know by now that it would best for his career then he needs a serious reality check.