Beyond the numbers
Posted by: Chad Jennings - Posted in Misc on Mar 23, 2010 
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Two years ago, LaTroy Hawkins came into spring training with the Yankees and pitched 8.2 Grapefruit League innings without allowing an earned run. When he came to pitch in a minor league game that spring, a group of reporters asked him what he thought about his impressive numbers. His response was classic.
“Spring don’t mean sh….”
Well, spring doesn’t mean very much. That was his point. Three months later, the Yankees dumped Hawkins and his 5.71 regular season ERA on the Astros, and he actually rebounded to pitch pretty well in Houston.
This spring, it’s Sergio Mitre who’s putting up impressive spring numbers, but spring don’t mean (much), and Joe Girardi and Dave Eiland have said they’re evaluating their pitchers on other factors. It seems clear that they prefer Mitre over Chad Gaudin — even though it’s Gaudin who pitched better last season — so what might have tipped the scales in Mitre’s favor?
He’s further removed from surgery: “Last year I felt good early when I was coming back from Tommy John and toward the later months of the year, I just kind of fatigued,” Mitre said. “The offseason really helped. Nothing hurts right now.”
His sinker is moving more: “I think the pitches are the same,” Mitre said. “I think the only thing that’s different is there might be more life to it as opposed to being flatter.”
He’s throwing harder: “His velocity is better,” Joe Girardi said. “He doesn’t seem to fatigue as easily. There is a difference.”
His command is better: “He’s a different guy,” Jorge Posada said. “You can tell that he’s healthy and the ball is just coming out of his hand a lot better. He’s throwing strikes. Location, that tells you that he’s back on track… He’s putting it wherever he wants.”
That’s an Associate Press photo.
It seems clear that they prefer Mitre over Chad Gaudin — even though it’s Gaudin who pitched better last season — so what might have tipped the scales in Mitre’s favor?
Don’t forget that one of his biggest fans over the last two seasons is Joe Girardi from what saw of Mitre in Florida.
just say the wooooooooooooorrrrrd,
serrrrrrr-serrrrrr-serrgio
vinny-b, it looks like Chad was able to verify our observations about Mitre.
Ah, life.
It’s obvious the Man has the inside track.
Comet
March 23rd, 2010 at 4:29 pm
Erin hope your hands are okay. Paper cuts hurt!
***********************
Thank you Comet! I’ll live
I’m doubling down on Joba Chamerlain as the 5th starter.
The signal-to-signal ratio on Hughes is too high not to have been confirmed at this point.
Mitre is Girardi’s boy toy. He will be this years pitching version of Cody Ransom. He will have an over 5 era.
Boone Logan is the way too go.Get the extra lefty because Marte is injury prone you dont want to overwork him.
I was down on Mitre, but I looked more carefully at his 2007 Marlin stats where Girardi was his manager. In his 17 starts up to mid-July, he had an ERA of 2.82. He finished the year with a 4.65 ERA. He then had TJ surgery, and missed the following year.
http://www.baseball-reference......;year=2007
In defense of Latroy Hawkins, the poor guy was booed at home due to the #21 fiasco
That’s nice. Unfortunately, Mr. Mitre has never had any success whatsoever at the big league level before or after surgery (a 5.36 ERA in the weaker league) and his minor league record was nothing to get excited about either.
Mitre isn’t nearly as bad as everyone thinks and for less than 1M bucks he’s a pretty good bargain.
Well, I’m not a believer, but since he’s going to make the team, I’m rooting for him.
Well I hope Mitre has a good year for us. I like his stuff but he’s clearly a mediocre pitcher. Hopefully he takes a step forward this year..
Posada is the wrong guy to quote. He lost all credibility when he called Phil Hughes a young Roger Clemens. Hughes is throwing 88-91mph as a starter a young rocket he is not. Hughes will get lit up like a Christmas tree this year.
Stuckey,
Friendly wager? If Joba gets it ill put Stuckey is #1 next to all my posts for a week. If Hughes gets it you put blake is #1 next to yours.
What you think?
stuckey March 23rd, 2010 at 4:33 pm
I’m doubling down on Joba Chamerlain as the 5th starter.
The signal-to-signal ratio on Hughes is too high not to have been confirmed at this point.
————————————————————
I’ll double down on Hughes as the 5th starter. Better starter stuff and attitude. Send Joba to AAA until we need him.
Erica, thank you for pointing that out. That’s just more verification for how some people do not thrive under the pressure and spotlight of the New York Yankees. To me it isn’t rocket science to figure out that not every player has the right psychological makeup to play for a team that considers anything less than a world series win a failure. Psychology 101.
***********************
Stuckey, since I’m still from the Show Me state, the 5th spot is not sewn up until Joe Girardi announces it is, and announces the player.
And then, we all know that it is only sewn up as long as that pitcher thrives, especially because it was up for grabs for 5 individual pitchers (4 now that Gaudin is gone).
Maybe the lucky pitchers are those who do not win the lottery!
“In defense of Latroy Hawkins, the poor guy was booed at home due to the #21 fiasco”
————————–
Hawkins is trash he is a nl pitcher could not cut it in the al east. The guy never deserved to wear a yankee uniform let alone 21.
Little Big Daddy March 23rd, 2010 at 4:42 pm
“In defense of Latroy Hawkins, the poor guy was booed at home due to the #21 fiasco”
————————–
Hawkins is trash he is a nl pitcher could not cut it in the al east. The guy never deserved to wear a yankee uniform let alone 21.
——————–
Damn sir…..don’t hold anything back on account of modesty…thanks.
stuckey, do you find it cautionary in any way that Ben linus apparently knows less than was initially suggested?
I believe that was Jason Giambi that made the comment about Phil looking like a younger Clemens ..not Posada ..
Go Yankees 2010
Pat M, if Phil wins the 5th spot, I will be as happy for him as I would be for any of the pitchers. But when you talk about all the people who were down on Phil, making it seem like you and Betsy are the only two who have been in his corner – not that you are attempting to do that, but it seems to be the result of what you are saying – please don’t forget that I said from the time Phil came up that I saw him as the future face of the franchise and I have never varied from that. Because I am not crazed about when it happens does not mean that I don’t see it happening.
No me gusto Mitre! What role will he have on the team? Long man? That’s Aceves’ job. Mitre has no role.
You know, there are some pitchers who have pitched only in the NL and are in and going to be in the Hall of Fame. So calling a pitcher “Trash” because they are a National League pitcher is wrong. You lose.
GC-
In case you didn’t see it. I left you a response on the previous thread. Please read it.
Tricia, The NY Yankees will not be jerking around with Phillip Hughes….He’ll be a fixture in the rotation for many years to come…..And that will be a very good thing for all parties, including the LoHuders…..The previous Failure to launch episodes are and will be a distant memory ….Time to get on board…..
Little Big Daddy,
You are an idiot. Go away.
Never seen Lost in my life Nick, I wish I had a more wink-wink clever answer for you…
Little Big Daddy – Hawkins is trash, Hughes is going to get lit up like a Christmas tree, Mitre will have an ERA over 5, and Posada has no credibility.
Who DO you like, besides yourself that is?
Trisha-
If Mitre gets the #5 I may have to erect a shrine to your perceptive power, or possibly change my handle.
Has anybody ever sat in the Cafe Style seating on the field level?
“Friendly wager? If Joba gets it ill put Stuckey is #1 next to all my posts for a week. If Hughes gets it you put blake is #1 next to yours.
What you think?”
I’m all for the wager, but we can up with more amusing pay-off than this. I’m sorry, but being #1 round here just isn’t doing it for me… lol
It’s amazing how emotional some people are getting about the futures of the two kids.
Trade Joba if he’s not a starter this season? Really? When he’s seemingly getting back on track?
Stuckey,
What you suggest?
There is no middle ground with these 2 kids
You are either a Hughes guy or a Joba guy, but you want your favorite one to get more attention and have the better career (even if it is only slightly better than the other).
Me? I’m a Joba guy just because I think he is more marketable and will bring in more money to the Yankees with his endorsements and such.
Stuckey-
What makes you feel so confident on Joba ??????
Or are you just trying to get a rise out of everyone ?
It’s still my dream to see both Phil and Joba winning tons of ballgames for a long time……
It is not a mystery why it hasn’t been announced yet. Girardi has said all along that the target date has been March 25th. Today is the 22nd. Girardi wanted to give Joba/Hughes each 4 starts and he did.
Tomorrow is probably deliberation day (really just for PR purposes, they have probably already made their decision) and Thursday, the 24th, is probably going to be when Hughes is announced the starter.
There is no conspiracy, they are operating within their only timeframe and will probably announce the decision a day or two sooner.
Tim-
You are dead wrong on that one ! You can be GBU. Which is what I am, and will continue to be for as long as possible.
The No starter left behind program. Get with it !
Tricia Dear, My point was not about a Hughes fan club at all, but rather to point out that nobody here took the heat and cheap shots like Betsy…..And part of that is because the perception is that Betsy isn’t the type to get into some one’s face and defend herself as quickly as let’s say, myself and certainly you Tricia…..Betsy has been an easy target since 2007 when it came to Hughes, and I wanted to acknowledge her perseverance…….Very few really want to tangle with you Tricia, and if they do, it’s a select battle….Unless it’s Randy I ( The Original Tin Cup ) or Nick in SF, as I believe they view this as sport…..As for me, I could care less really….There’s a handful of folks here that I have great respect for and I’m always mindful of their constructive criticism…..Tric the dish is not one I want to spare with anymore unless it’s provoked….Even then I’ll flash the V sign, for peace not viagra
There is a middle ground with regard to Hughes and Chamberlain. You can take the “I don’t care which one starts and which one goes to the pen, as long as it helps the team win the WS” route.
I like Joba more because he throws harder. I’m sure I am not alone in that regard…
M,
if we have morons in here calling players “trash” (I often wonder if these internet tough guys would have the onions to ever say that to a players face), why are you surprised people want to trade Joba?
The blogsphere ain’t exactly a Baseball Mensa seminar.
These kids get emotional over ST games. Roster spots? Puts them over the edge.
Pat M, I pride myself on my perspicacity.
That Phil’s time will come and stay is what I have always believed. When that happens really doesn’t concern me. I cannot spin out of control over whether it’s this spring or next fall.
MTU – not at all saying that I believe it will be Mitre or who it will be. At this point I do know it won’t be Gaudin.
Just saying that I don’t know who it will be and won’t know until it is announced by the Yankees.
Nick in SF would appreciate this-
One of my coworkers just looked at me and said “HISSSSSSSSSS”
Tim,
People pretend not to care, but deep down, everyone has a preference of Hughes/Joba and which they want to win the 5th spot. Doesn’t mean you are rooting against the other (though in many cases, it appears people do), just that you have the one you favor.
Arizz
March 23rd, 2010 at 4:58 pm
It is not a mystery why it hasn’t been announced yet. Girardi has said all along that the target date has been March 25th. Today is the 22nd. Girardi wanted to give Joba/Hughes each 4 starts and he did.
Tomorrow is probably deliberation day (really just for PR purposes, they have probably already made their decision) and Thursday, the 24th, is probably going to be when Hughes is announced the starter.
There is no conspiracy, they are operating within their only timeframe and will probably announce the decision a day or two sooner.
————————————————————
You must have been sleeping for a few months. It’s Tuesday the 23rd of March today.
“Has anybody ever sat in the Cafe Style seating on the field level?”
No. But I would.
I’ve spent enough time standing around there watching the game. If someone offered me a seat? I’d certainly take it.
GB-
“You must have been sleeping for a few months.”
A sleeping beauty no doubt.
GreenBeret7
March 23rd, 2010 at 4:59 pm
There is a middle ground with regard to Hughes and Chamberlain. You can take the “I don’t care which one starts and which one goes to the pen, as long as it helps the team win the WS” route.
========================================
That’s where I land.
I figure, those guys getting paid way much more than I am to run a baseball team probably know what they are doing – especially considering they won it all in convincing fashion last year.
GreenBeret7
March 23rd, 2010 at 4:59 pm
There is a middle ground with regard to Hughes and Chamberlain. You can take the “I don’t care which one starts and which one goes to the pen, as long as it helps the team win the WS” route.
****************************
That’s the route I’m taking
“Erica, thank you for pointing that out. That’s just more verification for how some people do not thrive under the pressure and spotlight of the New York Yankees. To me it isn’t rocket science to figure out that not every player has the right psychological makeup to play for a team that considers anything less than a world series win a failure. Psychology 101.”
Trisha, I missed what Erica pointed out, but it doesn’t have to be rocket science. Logic can be as simple as 1 + 1 = 2.
That’s logic at its purest in fact.
I just don’t think anyone can name a greater numbers of players who struggled in NY than the number who didn’t.
I don’t think anyone can find a greater number of players who struggled coming to NY than against the league-wide average.
I think you’d even find a hard time finding many anecdotal examples of players who were good, struggled with the Yankees, left, and prospered again.
I think your perception is like “bad things happen in threes”. You remember the times it happens as proof of the theorem, forgetting the times it doesn’t happen.
GreenBeret7 March 23rd, 2010 at 4:59 pm
There is a middle ground with regard to Hughes and Chamberlain. You can take the “I don’t care which one starts and which one goes to the pen, as long as it helps the team win the WS” route.
********************************
I’ve taken that approach as well, GB.
How you feeling these days??
Pat M, there is not a question that Betsy has taken a ton of heat about Phil. My only point is that because people have not been as persistent or vocal about Phil does not mean that they haven’t believed in him or been in his corner. I don’t necessarily think that because people weren’t freaked out about who gets the 5th starter position means that they don’t believe in Phil.
That was my only point.
MTU (aka GBURL)
March 23rd, 2010 at 5:03 pm
GB-
“You must have been sleeping for a few months.”
A sleeping beauty no doubt.
————————————————————
I was thinking a few species lower on the evolution ladder.
GB,
that’s where I fall on it.
Personally, I think Joba would benefit by going back to the pen for now.
He needs to get his aggressiveness And confidence back and the pen is the place for that because you are forced to attack hitters.
If he has success out there, it can do nothing but help his development.
I think Hughes has earned this shot. He has to pitch well to keep it.
However, his secondary stuff is more reliable than Joba’s right now. He’s also more economical.
I don’t see this as an either or thing.
The Yankees are happy to have 2 young guys with this much talent. Fans should be too.
Gaudin’s next team will be his 7th one, and he is only 26 years old.
Guy is not a good pitcher. Every team brings him in as a stop gap to get a few starts in and then they send him packing…
Mitre’s stuff looks crisp, he gets groundballs, and he throws strikes unlike Gaudin. He is also making 900k.
Easy decision for the coaching staff. Fans may not like Mitre, but that doesn’t matter. The organization knows what they are doing.
Stuckey,
What you suggest?
========
Can i suggest if one loses theY put “S.o.S. is the BAYYYSSST!”.
Erica – always OPPC – Sesame Street Mafia and GTLU supporter March 23rd, 2010 at 4:35 pm
In defense of Latroy Hawkins, the poor guy was booed at home due to the #21 fiasco
————–
In all honesty, you could see that disaster coming a mile away.
Hawkins has always been pretty erratic and it was an obvious bad signing to begin with.
I’m actually surprised he’s still going, NL or not.
Rishi
March 23rd, 2010 at 5:03 pm
GreenBeret7
March 23rd, 2010 at 4:59 pm
There is a middle ground with regard to Hughes and Chamberlain. You can take the “I don’t care which one starts and which one goes to the pen, as long as it helps the team win the WS” route.
========================================
That’s where I land.
I figure, those guys getting paid way much more than I am to run a baseball team probably know what they are doing – especially considering they won it all in convincing fashion last year.
_______________________________________________
I’ll go ya one better. I don’t care WHO wins the 5th starter position as long as the pitcher helps the Yankees to win the WS.
Isn’t that what we should be wanting?
The yankees will throw a No-hitter this season. !
“Has anybody ever sat in the Cafe Style seating on the field level?”
======
No. But i did stay at a Holliday Inn. Also saved money on my car insurance.
BTW, Motel 6 is just as good as a 5 star hotel when the lights are turned off. Now you might have some bug freinds sleeping with you. But thats not extra.
rodg12
March 23rd, 2010 at 5:06 pm
GreenBeret7 March 23rd, 2010 at 4:59 pm
There is a middle ground with regard to Hughes and Chamberlain. You can take the “I don’t care which one starts and which one goes to the pen, as long as it helps the team win the WS” route.
********************************
I’ve taken that approach as well, GB.
How you feeling these days??
————————————————————
Doing real well, Rodg. Thanks for asking. How are things up in I-O-Way? Still concerns about the flood waters? Have been meaning to ask you. Have you been to Bob Feller’s museum in Van Meter? I really want to get there this year. Ted Williams Museum is a great place in Florida.
Ever since leaving the Yankees, Hawkins has actually put up quite respectable numbers. I was shocked as well. The second half of 2008 he gave up one earned run in 21 inning with the Astros.
That’s where I fall as well and where all Yankee fans should. You can be fans of both and still have an opinion on how each should be used. I want both of them to do well.
Pat M, thank you. I am a non-confrontational type person. It might not seem like that here because I’ve had to fight like an alley cat to defend myself at times, but I really prefer to avoid arguments. IMO, the only one who’s opinion about Phil really counts is Phil’s – if he believes in himself, then nothing else matters. I admit that the Joba love in 2007 was frustrating because when Phil came back, he wasn’t the same (and no wonder, whatwith his rehabbing his injuries). I felt like Phil was just thrown aside, that he was no longer the crown jewel of the organization – and yes, I felt badly for him. I felt badly for him when people said he was nothing more than a bad #3 – all this because (a) he was hurt and had the nerve to struggle when he came back and (b) he was compared to Joba. People still tend to think you have to throw hard or be a flame thrower to be a great pitcher and that’s not so. Trisha, I can vouch for you- I do remember you making those comments about Phil.
Did someone call Hawkins trash? Sickening.
“People pretend not to care, but deep down, everyone has a preference of Hughes/Joba and which they want to win the 5th spot. Doesn’t mean you are rooting against the other (though in many cases, it appears people do), just that you have the one you favor.”
Wrong. I don’t care which one wins it or if either one wins it.
Their have only been a couple moments in my life that I was disgusted to be a Yankee fan. Latroy Hawkins getting booed on opening day because he was wearing #21 is one of them.
S.o.S-
lol.
Maybe Girardi should stay there the night before he makes the 5th starter decision ?
“…or Nick in SF, as I believe they view this as sport…”
Shocking! I plead not guilty.
Everything I have done, I have done for this island!
Er, I mean, this blog.
SJ, don’t you think it’s important that Phil (if he wins the job) be allowed the struggles of a normal #5? If he has to pitch better than a kid or a normal #5 to keep his job, I don’t think that’s right. Unless he’s really awful, I don’t think the spectre of Joba should be hovering over him. That will show me, anyway, that the Yankees have absolutely zero patience…..and it will also tell me they have no clue how to develop a young pitcher. Joba got the entire year last year; if Phil wins the #5 spot, he should get the same. Who’s to say Phil will be the same pitcher in April than he’d be in September? We have to allow for growing pains…….
Tricia, It’s time for more Prom Pictures….I do get your point…I just wanted some vindivaction for all that she went through….It really shouldn’t even be a conversation….There are those here you go on the record,and will pony up when wromg, however that’s a minority as you well know >>>>
Bets, and I still know that Phil is going to have his day. That’s probably why it really doesn’t matter to me when it comes. I know it is coming.
I really want to see Joba have his also. Nothing says that the Yankees won’t find a way to groom both to be starters. They’re pretty creative when it comes to that stuff.
Blake-
I have the perfect wager for you and stuckey.
If stuckey loses he must give up logic for good.
If you loose……
GreenBeret7 March 23rd, 2010 at 5:11 pm
Doing real well, Rodg. Thanks for asking. How are things up in I-O-Way? Still concerns about the flood waters? Have been meaning to ask you. Have you been to Bob Feller’s museum in Van Meter? I really want to get there this year. Ted Williams Museum is a great place in Florida.
—————————————-
Good to hear, GB. Things are going well up here. The flood waters didn’t hit too bad, luckily. The rivers got out of their banks, but didn’t go over the roads. My basement stayed dry as well which is a huge plus. I haven’t been to Feller’s museum, yet, surprisingly. It’s something I’ve always been meaning to do, just never got around to it.
I want BOTH Joba and Phil to be starters, but yes, I have a preference and I admit it. It’s not wrong to root for one or the other.
“What makes you feel so confident on Joba ??????
Or are you just trying to get a rise out of everyone ?
”
Believe you me, it’s ONE of the reasons I think it will be Chamberlain that will get the rise outta people, not the lack of explanation.
- I believe the times he’s been dominant as a starter suggest to the Yankees he has a higher ceiling than Hughes. Now that’s no knock on Hughes at all, it’s a relative term. But even forgetting Boston two years ago, the 3 starts after the All-Star game last year is just too tantalizing.
- I believe Chamberlain IS a bigger headcase and they Yankees MIGHT feel (my hypothesis) that Hughes can handle the switches better.
- I hypothesize is all the seeming indications towards Hughes right now (signal-to-signal) is just another part of what this spring training competition is all about. I think they want to see how each pitch handles the situation.
[and here is the one where people are going to not like]
- The Yankee decision makers are human beings. They chose a path last year and got a LOT of heat for it. They’ve gotten a LOT of heat for their handling of Chamberlain for nearly 2 and 1/2 years now. They want to be right. I’ll give them all the credit in the world if they reverse course now, seemingly acknowledging they were wrong all along, but I think in such a case most people are going to stick to their guns until they absolutely have to give up the ghost.
I just have a hard time seeing them abandon course now, particularly when 2009 wasn’t the disaster people make it out to be.
This all said, if Hughes, you won’t here a peep of a complaint outta me. I have both my hypothesis and my preference, but it’s an unenviable position to be in and hopefully, they won’t be wrong either way.
I’ll accept immediately and move on, not even a post-mortem about how the Yankees moved on.
SJ44
March 23rd, 2010 at 5:06 pm
GB,
that’s where I fall on it.
Personally, I think Joba would benefit by going back to the pen for now.
He needs to get his aggressiveness And confidence back and the pen is the place for that because you are forced to attack hitters.
————————————————————
I’d love to see him back in the rotation with the same enthusiasm that he had out of the pen. I can also picture him stalking out of the pen in the 9th inning, walking to the mound, pawing the dirt and glaring and staring down Youkilis and blowing him away with 2 97+ MPH heaters and a jelly leg slider….like a Rich Gossage. In the end, I don’t care, as long as the Yanks win. They do have some really good young arms coming fast. Maybe in the end Chamberlain and Hughes are in the rotation with Banuelos and McAllister and Brackman closing down the 9th. I’m greedy…I want WS titles, no matter how much baseball cries.
Is it possible that some of Chamberlain’s problems is trying to rein in his emotions because of the media and baseball heat he took because of his on mound demeanor?
Some posters know only gibberish in their postings combined with guesswork, speculation, and a dose of fodder.
Others post sensibly based on facts and experiences.
The fact remains that no poster on this board is privvy to personnel decisions that are made by Brian Cashman and his manager and why they arrived at them with a common goal of securing a World Championship trophy followed by rings.
Blake, give me time, I’ll think of something….
That’s great news about the lack of flood waters, Rodg. You guys needed a break from that. I’m gunning for a trip to Illinois this summer, just across the river from St. Louis. I’m planning a trip to Van Meter. I’ll let you know. Perhaps hook up and invite Rapid Robert out for a beer.
“Nick in SF would appreciate this- One of my coworkers just looked at me and said “HISSSSSSSSSS”
Erica, as the recipient of cruel HISSSSSSing and unkind name-calling in the past, I feel your pain.
As Pat M. reiterated earlier, I remember that weekend back in May of 2009 after Hughes got hammered against Baltimore.
Some of the biggest Hughes fans right now are the same people trashing him not one year ago.
We’ll see the same thing with Joba when he turns things around, which I believe he will.
You can check out the comments back then to see for yourself. Most weren’t giving Hughes much of a chance to be much of anything.
Thanks to Pat M. for the reminder. This board needs that once in awhile.
Nothing wrong with having a preference in the Hughes/Joba battle. You are not a better fan if you don’t have a preference. Not everyone only roots for the uniform…..
Stuckey-
Thankfully this will all be over soon.
For this year at least.
Whichever one gets the nod I hope that it does not presage the end of the line for the other as a starter.
It doesn’t have to but it might.
I believe in the no starter left behind program.
I am GBU until I can’t be, and I hope I never pit one against the other (not saying you do).
GreenBeret7 March 23rd, 2010 at 5:22 pm
That’s great news about the lack of flood waters, Rodg. You guys needed a break from that. I’m gunning for a trip to Illinois this summer, just across the river from St. Louis. I’m planning a trip to Van Meter. I’ll let you know. Perhaps hook up and invite Rapid Robert out for a beer.
Definitely let me know when you’ll be in the area. In fact, you can shoot me an email at:
—————————–
Hopefully not right across the river, i.e. East St. Louis.
jrodgers35 @ gmail .com
(minus the spaces of course).
So i want some of your inputs on this discussion i had with my brother a couple days back. I have only been golfing once in my life(not including miniture). I told him that golf is more like a hobby than a sport. Its similiar to Bowling. You dont defend and are not going at someone face to face. He says that their is strategy involved and therefore its a sport. My response was that bowling/fishing/chess also has a strategy but IMO isnt really a sport. Thoughts?
“Thanks to Pat M. for the reminder. This board needs that once in awhile.”
On Tues, June 9th 2009, before the Yankees started a three game set in Boston already 0-5 for the year, someone here said the results of the series, one way or the other (including a Boston sweep), we’re meaningless and wouldn’t lock in the course of the year or be predictive in any way.
Like that you mean??
It’s not a matter of having favorites. It’s a matter of wanting one to fail so your favorite gets the rotation role and, sadly, there are too many that fall into that category.
GF, you’ve said the same thing for the last year or so and you’re still right, lol
GB-
I wouldn’t mind seeing Joba coming out there like a Bull stuck with a bunch of Pinata’s either. He can do it as a starter, or he can do it as a reliever, and IMO if anybody objects he should add to it, and flip em the bird ! :0
I think part of Joba’s problem a year ago is he was living off some new celebrity, he had the DWI, and his work ethic was in question.
He came in kind of soft according to reports and then struggled.
Understand, he has the tools and talent. there is no reason why he won’t get it together. Try and keep in mind games like the one he pitched against Beckett in Boston.
That is who he is and what he can be.
NSF,
Sorry for the Cal loss. Duke looked awefully tough that day and are going to be a tough out. I had no idea that Montgomery(i believe thats his name) was the coach of Berkley. Wasnt he the coach of Stanford at one time? I think he’s a quality coach and should keep them competing for years to come. When did he sign one?
Cinderella team that will be hard to oust? ST.MARYS
rodg12
March 23rd, 2010 at 5:29 pm
GreenBeret7 March 23rd, 2010 at 5:22 pm
That’s great news about the lack of flood waters, Rodg. You guys needed a break from that. I’m gunning for a trip to Illinois this summer, just across the river from St. Louis. I’m planning a trip to Van Meter. I’ll let you know. Perhaps hook up and invite Rapid Robert out for a beer.
—————————–
Hopefully not right across the river, i.e. East St. Louis. Definitely let me know when you’ll be in the area. In fact, you can shoot me an email at:
jrodgers35 @ gmail .com
(minus the spaces of course).
————————————————————
Alton, actually. You can see the arch from a few spots in Alton. But, yeah….East St. Louis is not prime real estate. I’ll let you know early in the season. Have to get my travel restrictions lifted first.
GB no, that’s wrong – because that means you’re rooting against your team.
“Their have only been a couple moments in my life that I was disgusted to be a Yankee fan. Latroy Hawkins getting booed on opening day because he was wearing #21 is one of them.”
That whole thing just about broke my heart. It showed me how small, trite, petty, immature, and meanspirited a group of people can be, and frankly it embarassed me that it was Yankee fans. Though unfortunately nothing exempts Yankee fans from being in that group. I had just hoped for more class coming from them. No human being deserves that treatment, especially not someone wearing the pinstripes, from Yankee fans.
“Tricia, It’s time for more Prom Pictures….I do get your point…I just wanted some vindivaction for all that she went through….It really shouldn’t even be a conversation….There are those here you go on the record,and will pony up when wromg, however that’s a minority as you well know >>>>”
I will have to try to find some other prom pictures to put up there! I have my pictures with Bill Clinton but they are truly pedestrian compared to my prom picture.
I agree with all of what you have said. Betsy did really stick her neck out on that one, and the people here who pony up to calling things wrong are in the vast minority. And I mean VAST minority.
It’s not a matter of having favorites. It’s a matter of wanting one to fail so your favorite gets the rotation role and, sadly, there are too many that fall into that category.
========
GB,
My hand is raised. I want the 25th man on the roster to be aweful so Aceves can hang in there for a few more years. That will give me enough time to think of a strategy in getting tickets and a signed Jeter used bubble gum. Its not everyday you have the opportunity to have an IN with the team. Does that make me a terrible fan?
GreenBeret7 March 23rd, 2010 at 5:34 pm
Alton, actually. You can see the arch from a few spots in Alton. But, yeah….East St. Louis is not prime real estate. I’ll let you know early in the season. Have to get my travel restrictions lifted first.
——————————-
Sounds good.
And Rodg I lost a ton of respect for Paul O’Neill over that stuff. One word from him would have shut down the whole thing, but he just sat by and watched them pillory LaTroy.
“Ballplayers know that many people, non-professional-athletes, work virtually around the clock, scrambling just to make ends meet. But of all the sports out there, baseball, along with the luxuries it bestows, has a lot in common with the idea of “getting after it” with no end in sight. We show up every day.
So this season, when you get frustrated because one of your favorite players is hanging his curve ball, or overthrowing the cutoff man, or demanding a trade, remember that he probably hasn’t missed a single game or team meeting for seven straight months. And that after that mini-vacation during spring training, it’s back to business, bright and early, every day. Until, next thing you know, you are shopping for Halloween costumes.”
http://opinionator.blogs.nytim.....ur-pocket/
Another GREAt Doug Glanville article
Over/Under fellas
A.Joba topping out at 98 mph
B.C.C. at 18 wins
C. MO 40 saves
D. Alex 44 bombs
E. Gardner and Ibanez being our left fielder for the season.
F. Gardner 27 steals
G. Yanks 101 wins
H. 2 starting pitchers are replaced during season for some dl stint.
I. Granderson 33 bombs
Betsy,
I see that you were not thrilled with my comment this morning about Hughes. I have said it several times this offseason. If Phil Hughes is never born, the Yankees still easily make the playoffs and win the WS.
He pitched 51.1 innings as a reliever last year. 20 of those after the Yankees basically wrapped up the division by sweeping Boston. In that decisive 4 game sweep that again was widely viewed as when the Yankees wrapped up the division, he pitched a grand total of 0.2 innings.
The Yankees rode into the playoffs last year with great frontline SP and great offense post All Star Break. Led by CC pitching to a 2.74 ERA and Andy with a 3.31 ERA. Tex with a .991 OPS, A-Rod with a .912 OPS, and Cano with a .922 OPS.
Phil’s performance was certainly commendable on an individual level and could very well have helped him long term. However, that performance contributed very little to a team that won 103 games last year and went 52-22 in the 2nd half. And come playoff time, they ended up winning the WS in spite of his performance.
Jorge may have made a point about Mitre’s command, location, and the way the ball is coming out of his hand. Dave Eiland surely must be seeing the same thing.
I’ve never caught Mitre so I’ll take Jorge at his word
S.o.S. over on everything, except the ibanez comment, don’t get that one.
S.o.S-
“A.Joba topping out at 98 mph
B.C.C. at 18 wins
C. MO 40 saves
D. Alex 44 bombs
E. Gardner and Ibanez being our left fielder for the season.
F. Gardner 27 steals
G. Yanks 101 wins
H. 2 starting pitchers are replaced during season for some dl stint.
I. Granderson 33 bombs”
Over
Over
Under
under
no comment
Over
Over
under
Over
SoS,
Over/Under fellas
A.Joba topping out at 98 mph
under
B.C.C. at 18 wins
over
C. MO 40 saves
over
D. Alex 44 bombs
over
E. Gardner and Ibanez being our left fielder for the season.
under
F. Gardner 27 steals
over
G. Yanks 101 wins
under
H. 2 starting pitchers are replaced during season for some dl stint. push (andy and aj)
I. Granderson 33 bombs
over
nice list
“In the end, I don’t care, as long as the Yanks win”
Yep
S.o.S; yes, Montgomery was previously the Stanfurd coach. This was his 2nd season at Cal, he replaced Ben Braun, who is a great and very classy guy, but didn’t seem to have the program going in the right direction.
This year’s team was basically Braun’s team, though, or at least the senior class. Braun is now the coach at Rice.
It’s lucky Cal hired Montgomery when they did; the Stanfurd coach, Trent Johnson, took an S.E.C. job a few weeks later and I wonder if Montgomery would’ve gone back there if he’d known.
Anyway, it’s over for the Cal team in anything resembling its recent shape, it’ll be all Monty’s people moving forward.
So apparently the Child Prodigy knows all and every other analyst in Baseball was completely and utterly wrong?
rodg,
So are you 12 or 35?
S.o.S.
March 23rd, 2010 at 5:37 pm
It’s not a matter of having favorites. It’s a matter of wanting one to fail so your favorite gets the rotation role and, sadly, there are too many that fall into that category.
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GB,
My hand is raised. I want the 25th man on the roster to be aweful so Aceves can hang in there for a few more years. That will give me enough time to think of a strategy in getting tickets and a signed Jeter used bubble gum. Its not everyday you have the opportunity to have an IN with the team. Does that make me a terrible fan?
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I really like the things that Aceves has shown that he can do (firstly was his ability to corral a beauty for a wife). I offers so much flexability in the role that he has. He doesn’t have the best stuff, but, he knows how to pitch. I have some concerns about his back and losing him for any amount of time would really hurt the team. If he does stay healthy and effective over the next 5 years, he’s going to be in big demand on the market as a starter.
As far as you figuring out a way to score free tickets..I hope you don’t get them….unless you can get me some too.
stuckey March 23rd, 2010 at 5:29 pm
“Thanks to Pat M. for the reminder. This board needs that once in awhile.”
On Tues, June 9th 2009, before the Yankees started a three game set in Boston already 0-5 for the year, someone here said the results of the series, one way or the other (including a Boston sweep), we’re meaningless and wouldn’t lock in the course of the year or be predictive in any way.
Like that you mean??
—————
Pretty much, stuckey.
Although this blog is, in my opinion, the best blog out there for a variety of reasons, it still turns into a sewer after a Yankee loss or a bad performance when the “chicken littles” (SJ trademarked this term) come out to play.
I would often avoid this place after a Yankee loss (especially against RSN) for that reason.
as long as one of Joba and Phil are in this year’s rotation, I will be happy, altho I would really rather see Phil
Trisha
I also lost a lot of respect for O’Neill over the number thing w/ LaTroy. And nobody should be referred to as “garbage”, in most cases they are trying their best.
GB
Our first dog as adults was a shepherd mix, who we didn’t regard as much of a “kid” dog until we looked back at all the pix of him cuddled up w/ our son
Comet
we are supposed to have dry weather after today’s sleet
MTU
starting to get excited about the trip
On the ibanez and Gardner. Will there be more than 2 starting left fielders? Bad question. Scratch that.
A.Joba topping out at 98 mph
Under – 96
B.C.C. at 18 wins
Over – 20
C. MO 40 saves
Under – 30 (will get a light workload in the regular season)
D. Alex 44 bombs
Under – Only hit more than 35 twice in 6 seasons as a Yankee
E. Gardner and Ibanez being our left fielder for the season.
Why would the Phillies trade us Ibanez?
F. Gardner 27 steals
Over
G. Yanks 101 wins
Under – 95
H. 2 starting pitchers are replaced during season for some dl stint.
Under – Only AJ will go on the DL. Andy might get some time off, but not a DL stint.
I. Granderson 33 bombs
Over – 35
YES called Hughes going to the bullpen one of the top 5 defining moments of the season
“And nobody should be referred to as “garbage”, in most cases they are trying their best.”
Upstate that absolutely gets me all the time. I think comments like that say more about the commentor than they do about the person upon whom they are making comment. And I don’t think it says real great things. JMO
lol. Sorry.. I meant Winn. They played on the same team at one time and right about now i wish we had ibanez.
Even (Joba will hit 98)
Over (CC will win 20)
Under (MO will get around 35ish saves)
Under (ARod will hit 39-40ish HRs)
Under (Gardner will surprisingly take over LF and do decently)
Over (35 steals)
Under (98 wins)
Under (AJ will go on the DL, no one else)
Over (Granderson will hit 36 HRs)
Little Big Daddy
March 23rd, 2010 at 4:42 pm
“In defense of Latroy Hawkins, the poor guy was booed at home due to the #21 fiasco”
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Hawkins is trash he is a nl pitcher could not cut it in the al east. The guy never deserved to wear a yankee uniform let alone 21.
While he wasn’t good by any means while he was with the Yanks, he’s one of 750 people to be on a big league roster. How close are you to being one of those 750??? Just curious.
“That is who he is and what he can be.”
Agreed. I really liked what Joba showed in that game he threw against the Phillies last week.
His fastball had a lot of late life on it and the hitters didn’t get much lift on the ball. He worked quickly and had good pace – even with runners on base.
Outside of the role (starter vs. reliever) it’s very important for Joba to get back to simply throwing the ball better.
In that regard his spring so far has been encouraging.
I don’t see Rivera picking up over 40 saves. To begin with, you have that rotation and offense. Mainly, though, I don’t see him getting a lot of three run saves, just to save his arm. also, even fewer multi-inning saves than last year.
D. Alex 44 bombs
Under – Only hit more than 35 twice in 6 seasons as a Yankee
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In 2008 he missed 25 games with a quad or hamstring. We all know what happened last year and 2006 was a sub-Alex season.
And he actually hit more than 35 three times. 2004 (36), 2005 (48), 2007 (54).
you still may be right on under 44 HR that’s not a very good explanation on why.
A.Joba topping out at 98 mph
over
B.C.C. at 18 wins
over
C. MO 40 saves
under*
D. Alex 44 bombs
over
E. Gardner and Ibanez being our left fielder for the season.
???
F. Gardner 27 steals
over
G. Yanks 101 wins
over
H. 2 starting pitchers are replaced during season for some dl stint.
under
I. Granderson 33 bombs
under
* fewer save opportunities, not any comment on Mo’s abilities
YES called Hughes going to the bullpen one of the top 5 defining moments of the season
–
Hughes to the bullpen was flashy and impressive. He dominated, but that doesn’t mean it was necessary for the Yankees to win.
My 5 would be: CC down the stretch, the Sweep, A-rod coming back, Andy Pettitte fountain of youth, and Teixeira’s post April
Under – 96, maybe a 97
Over
Push
Under –
Over – Cash will trade for someone at the deadline to replace BG
Push
Under – 99 wins
Under – Burnett will be the only starter to go on the DL
Under
Trish (LOL I once worked with a girl named Trish; our supervisor sent her an email one day, but he sent it to “Trash” by mistake!)……I couldn’t agree more regarding Hawkins. I really don’t like Yankee fans – this was an utter disgrace. It doesn’t matter why he was doing it, but he wanted to wear the # to honor Roberto Clemente. Paul really did a bad job putting it to rest – in fact, he fanned the flames by saying he was honored the fans felt like that.
Calling players names just reflects more about the person doing the name-calling than it does about the player…
As far as you figuring out a way to score free tickets..I hope you don’t get them….unless you can get me some too.
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GB,
lol. Now i know why players dont answer the phone when the playoffs start. You give one some free tickets, youll have to give the rest some. Can i get to first base on this matter before i get gready please.
First thing ill ask for is
2 Angel/Yankees tickets in Anaheim(wife)
then
Anything signed by Jeter or even a lint from some his clothes. Used shaver that was used from a Gillette commercial will do.
after that
Free tickets and plane flight for a REAL game in Yankee Stadium.
Lastly
WORLD SERIES tickets for my wife, myself and the third wheel GB7.
Hows that?
Kate, “Killer” isn’t really a big people’s kind of dog, but, for some reason, he just loved kids. He doesn’t like Morgan’s husband, though. Perhaps “indifference” is a better word, but, he loves Morgan. That poor dog gets his ears pulled, tail pulled…Sydney had “Killer’s” foot in her mouth…trying to gum him to death, I suppose. He just lays there.
1. Under – Joba will hit 97
2. Over – CC will win 20
3. Under – MO will not get overtaxed
4. Over – Alex will hit 45
5. Under – Ibanez will not be dealt here.
6. Over – Will steal 35
7. Over – Will win 102
8. Under – AJ will miss time on the DL
9. Under – 30
Over/Under fellas
A.Joba topping out at 98 mph UNDER
B.C.C. at 18 wins OVER
C. MO 40 saves UNDER
D. Alex 44 bombs UNDER
E. Gardner and Ibanez being our left fielder for the season UNDER ON IBANEZ
F. Gardner 27 steals UNDER
G. Yanks 101 wins OVER
H. 2 starting pitchers are replaced during season for some dl stint. 2 SOUNDS ABOUT RIGHT
I. Granderson 33 bombs UNDER
Thanks – I liked this.
Jerkface
I like your list. IIRC, the YES list also included the game where Girardi got tossed, which would also be a flashy choice.
I would add the bullpen in general, and Mo also finding that fountain of youth. Also the walk off wins, which gave them the confidence that they could always come back and win. That appeared to be lacking in 08.
The treatment of Hawkins is why Vazquez should brace himself for harsh treatment from the fans if he gets off to a slow start. They think he was the only one responsible for 2004.
Even here and on other boards, expect snarky comments and 2004 references in the game threads if he has a rough game or two erly.
Cervelli’s HR / Girardi’s ejection ruled , thats a top 10 moment probably.
I like everything I’ve seen from Joba this Spring.
I think he’s close to getting back to what he was.
I love that they are forcing him to work the inner half more with his fastball and stressing fastball command.
He keeps at this pace, he’s going to play a big role in the teams fortunes this year.
Under
Over
Under
Over
Over
Over
Over
Push AJ and Andy will go on the DL
Over Grandy will hit 38 HRs
GB
he sounds like a great dog, hope you get to see him soon.
I really hope last year erased all those memories of 04. What a way to clinch the east, by sweeping the red sox
Rishi, thanks for the tease! I’m going to make sure to read the article later; Glanville is an excellent writer.
The Joba debate will continue to rage until he is given some defined role, whether it be pen or starter.
I think he starts the year in pen but he wouldn’t have gone through the whole “Joba Rule” etc unless they were committed to his being a starter.
The key for him is realizing his potential, but the key I believe is his knowing what is expected. So I guess what I’m saying is the sooner they decide the 5th starter, the better for both Hughes and Joba.
Jerkface
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:08 pm
Cervelli’s HR / Girardi’s ejection ruled , thats a top 10 moment probably.
***************************
I definitely consider that a top moment of ’09
S.o.S.
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:02 pm
As far as you figuring out a way to score free tickets..I hope you don’t get them….unless you can get me some too.
========
GB,
lol. Now i know why players dont answer the phone when the playoffs start. You give one some free tickets, youll have to give the rest some. Can i get to first base on this matter before i get gready please.
First thing ill ask for is
2 Angel/Yankees tickets in Anaheim(wife)
then
Anything signed by Jeter or even a lint from some his clothes. Used shaver that was used from a Gillette commercial will do.
after that
Free tickets and plane flight for a REAL game in Yankee Stadium.
Lastly
WORLD SERIES tickets for my wife, myself and the third wheel GB7.
Hows that?
————————————————————
Nothing wrong with being a third wheel with free WS tickets, sitting next to a sweet, young lady, even if her ball and chain is close by. I’ll by you about 20 beers and get you out of the way.
Hi guys, home at last –
1. After reading the comments today, the regular season can’t come soon enough.
2. To tell the truth, I hope Phil has a grear year. I’m really rooting for him. Joba, too. I hope they each have a great year, in their respective roles. Whatever they may be. Long term, I hope they are mainstays of the rotation for years to come, but, if not, if Joba becomes a mainstay of the pen, a la Goose, then that’s great too. Goose is in the HOF, no?
3. Long term, also, I’m rooting for Colin Curtis. He still needs ABs at AAA to make his case, and going with Thames at this point is kind of a no-brainer, but longterm, I’m hoping Colin Curtis has a nice ML career. Ditto Jon Weber – the guy’s a baseball lifer. From what Chad reports, a nice guy to boot. You have to feel for these guys.
So what iv gotten so far from the over/under is
a. Joba will get back to being JOBAMANIA
b. C.C. will win the Cy Young
c. MO will have 10 saves due to all the blowout wins.
d. Alex will once again win the MVP while having more time off due to blowouts.
e. The phillies will never go for a Winn for Ibanez trade.
f. Gardner will be nicknamed flash by midseason.
g. Yanks will sport the most wins in the MLB and i will get to watch them win #28 front row seats in Yankee stadium.
h. Burnett will be Pavanoed for most of the year and everyone will want him traded for Gaudin.
i. Granderson will make us quickly forget the Caveman and Godzilla. Will be a fan favorite instantly.
Did i get that right?
I think Cashman showing up had a lot more to do with the Yankees getting on a roll than Joe getting tossed or Cervelli’s HR. Frankly, the best moment of the year was Alex’ HR in Baltimore and it’s not even close for me. Phil in the pen was a turning point, however – he was dominant. I guess it was a turning point for him, too; I believe the confidence he gained last year is the reason why he’s so comfortable with the change now.
Andy rediscovering his cut fastball and Alex’s progressive improvement after hip surgery were perhaps the two seminal events of the 2009 season because there was real uncertainty, even doubt, about whether those things would change.
Last May Andy really looked like he might be done. Almost out of nowhere he rediscovered his cutter and that transformed his season.
With Wang going down and Joba being ineffective there is no way they win without Andy’s transformation.
Ditto goes with Alex given what he went through with his hip. Before Girardi rested Alex for the 2 game stretch he looked very bad. He ended up performing at arguably the best level he’s been at since joining the yankees.
Push (Joba will hit 98)
Over (CC will win 19)
Under (MO won’t get 40)
Push (ARod will hit 44 exactly)
? Don’t think Philly is trading their LF to us
Over (40 steals)
Over (Yanks will win 102)
Under (Burnett will miss some time with injuries)
Under – (Will get off to a slow start but hit 30)
I admit I thought Andy might be done as well….
one of my favorite moments, which really had nothing to do w/ the season’s outcome, was Alex getting to 30/100 in that one monster inning vs the Rays…also enjoyed Cervelli’s enthusiam, especially after his HR and his walk off single when he kept running into the outfield
Joe,
Be careful what you wish for! LOL
If they lose the opening series in Boston, panic will take over this blog.
Every child with Internet service will be on here in full panic mode and demanding mass firings.
If they can’t keep it together in ST, they have no chance to reign in their emotions during the regular season.
Nothing wrong with being a third wheel with free WS tickets, sitting next to a sweet, young lady, even if her ball and chain is close by. I’ll by you about 20 beers and get you out of the way.
========
Note to self. Dont ever get drunk with GB prowling. And here i thought we were friends. Who are you anymore? I thought i knew you better than that. BTW, your plan will FAIL bigtime.
A. I dont drink beer. Im more of a Smirnoff Ice kind of guy. Hangover as a kid(long story).
B. Someone will have to take me to the restroom to puke and tinkle. Its either her or you.
C. Unless you have no Gut and look like Richard Gere. Why would she go from a Ferrari to a Trans am?
Erin-
Prepared to be so jealous of me-
I just was able to get tickets to the Bally’s 30th Birthday celebration in Atlantic City on Saturday Night with a cake from the Cake Boss!!!! (The Cake Boss will be there live in person)
There were a TON of Pettitte trashers on this blog as well the first half of 2009.
In fact, there weren’t a lot of good feelings at all regarding this team coming off of that three-game sweep at the hands of the Angels at the ASB.
Unfortunately, not a lot of patience in Yankee Universe.
Not sure what to expect from the 2010 team, because it depends on everyone keeping their health and not having major collapses from Rivera, Posada, Pettitte, Jeter or Rodriguez. They could be last year’s team, the ’96 or’99 version or they could blow the ’98 team out of the water. That’s the talent level. One thing is certain, though…they are better prepared in the farm system to handle a major injury than any of those teams mentioned, especially in the rotation and bullpen.
Kate, I was in the car when Alex hit the GS and just before that, I was wishing hard for it because I wanted to stick it to Joe Maddon (who showed no respect for the game, IMO). I wanted to jump up and down so BADLY, but being in the car, I couldn’t. Tex’s face after Alex hit the GS was priceless – Tex has the funniest expressions ever, to be honest, lol.
S.O.S – What do you think the Phillies would want for Ibanez? Igawa and a low level prospect maybe?
In fact, there weren’t a lot of good feelings at all regarding this team coming off of that three-game sweep at the hands of the Angels at the ASB.
=========
Maybe we should ask the Angels year in and year out to give us a regular beat down. If i can recall. The 98 season we started out 1-4 and had just finished getting man handled by the Halos. Maybe its not such a bad thing that they are the only team that has our number. Champs then and Champs now.
I have a question,
What will be the determining factors when deciding who will be the 5th starter?
While I dont possess the baseball knowledge that most of you have on the this blog, I think I’ve watched baseball long enough to at least have opinion on what the those key factors will be. Feel free to chime in.
1) Experience as a starting pitcher…
2) Pitch arsenal
3) Mound Presence…not sure if it fits but thats one thing I look at.
4) how economical the pitchers are.
upstate kate
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:18 pm
one of my favorite moments, which really had nothing to do w/ the season’s outcome, was Alex getting to 30/100 in that one monster inning vs the Rays…also enjoyed Cervelli’s enthusiam, especially after his HR and his walk off single when he kept running into the outfield
********************************
kate, I loved all of those moments too. I remember being really excited for Cervelli when he hit his HR-it seemed like he was just floating around the bases he was so excited. lol
S.o.S.
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:20 pm
Nothing wrong with being a third wheel with free WS tickets, sitting next to a sweet, young lady, even if her ball and chain is close by. I’ll by you about 20 beers and get you out of the way.
========
Note to self. Dont ever get drunk with GB prowling. And here i thought we were friends. Who are you anymore? I thought i knew you better than that. BTW, your plan will FAIL bigtime.
A. I dont drink beer. Im more of a Smirnoff Ice kind of guy. Hangover as a kid(long story).
B. Someone will have to take me to the restroom to puke and tinkle. Its either her or you.
C. Unless you have no Gut and look like Richard Gere. Why would she go from a Ferrari to a Trans am?
————————————————————
Perhaps you can get an extra ticket for Richard Simmons to help you with your trips to the john.
I don’t mess with other guys’ wives. I live by the code of never messing with a lady that doesn’t have more to lose than I do. Since they have nothing as important to me than my life (regardless of what others think of it’s value) I stay far away from them.
Do bald, fat, toothless guys turn her on?
If Sergio Mitre turns out to be another version of Aaron Small, he will have exceeded all expectations.
Erica – always OPPC – Sesame Street Mafia and GTLU supporter
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:22 pm
Erin-
Prepared to be so jealous of me-
I just was able to get tickets to the Bally’s 30th Birthday celebration in Atlantic City on Saturday Night with a cake from the Cake Boss!!!! (The Cake Boss will be there live in person)
****************************
OMG, that is awesome!! I am very jealous-I want a full report!
SJ44 March 23rd, 2010 at 6:19 pm
If they lose the opening series in Boston, panic will take over this blog.
————–
Yeah, no kidding.
Hell, people were bent out of shape after the Yanks lost 2 of 3 against the Orioles to start the 2009 season.
Check the history. The Yanks always seem to have major issues with the Red Sox in the months of April and May. That has been the trend for the last several years.
But, fortunately, they always seem to turn things around against the Red Sox as the weather heats up. Last year’s early struggles and eventual dominance of the Red Sox is as extreme as it gets.
S.O.S – What do you think the Phillies would want for Ibanez? Igawa and a low level prospect maybe?
========
Mike,
lol. I would give Igaws to them for a backup batboy. It was an honest mistake fellas. O.k. it was a mistake i could only do. I mixed the players Winn with Ibanez. Didnt they both play together in Seattle? I guess i havnt gotten past that. I meant to say Gardner and Winn would be the only 2 starting left fielders for us in 2010. Unless we can get Ibanez and backup batboy for Igawa and a player to be named later.
Benny, actually Dave Eiland enumerated the factors that would be considered.
I will try to find the article for you.
“one of my favorite moments, which really had nothing to do w/ the season’s outcome, was Alex getting to 30/100 in that one monster inning vs the Rays”
Great moment. For me, the way Alex hit over the last two months of the season was just wonderful to watch.
Given the stature of his career this might not be a fair statement – but in many ways I think Alex was at his best when he was a young player with the Mariners. When he got to Texas he became much more home run conscious. He became a less balanced hitter in certain ways. His power increased significantly, but his swing became somewhat less consistent and the hole on the inside part of the plate more pronounced. I think that’s part of why he had so much trouble in the post season.
Watching him play in 1996 was such a revelation – perhaps that’s coloring my memory. It was just unbelievable the level he played at. That was amongst the best baseball I’ve ever seen anyone play given what he could do offensively and defensively.
The way Alex finished hitting at the end of 2009 reminded me of the way Alex played when he was at his best for the Mariners. A wonderful balanced swing that produced hard contact over and over and over. It was amazing to watch.
Erin
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:30 pm
OMG, that is awesome!! I am very jealous-I want a full report!
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Yes Ma’am!!! I think I am even going to bring my camera with me
SJ – One thing I’ve learned over the years is to ignore some of the certified sub-geniuses here. I’ll stay optimistic – this team has the potential (that word, again) to be really, really good.
Erica – good for you! Have your cake, and enjoy eating it, too. (Is the Cake Boss someone I should know, like from tv or something? Or, is this a local Atlantic City thing?)
Keep it
March 23rd, 2010 at 5:48 pm
So apparently the Child Prodigy knows all and every other analyst in Baseball was completely and utterly wrong?
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What analysts?
Benny -
“When you say results, it’s not just numbers,” Eiland said. “It’s the quality of each pitch, working ahead in the count, first-pitch strikes, stuff, command. How economical are they? Are the outs hard-hit? You can go out and pitch a few innings, give up lasers all over the field but walk away up no hits and no runs. That doesn’t mean you made a lot of good pitches.”
I hate the filter.
http://yankees.lhblogs.com/200.....t-orioles/
Link to the 1st game of the season last year, that loss to Baltimore.
Good read.
Do bald, fat, toothless guys turn her on?
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GB7,
Classic!! Only if your name happens to be Dr. Phil. That guy is my home wrecker with his opinions that he states as facts. I keep telling her that a guy that looks like that doesnt need a ball and chain. He isnt going anywhere and hates good looking men.
GreenBeret7 March 23rd, 2010 at 6:23 pm
They could be last year’s team, the ‘96 or’99 version or they could blow the ‘98 team out of the water. That’s the talent level. One thing is certain, though…they are better prepared in the farm system to handle a major injury than any of those teams mentioned, especially in the rotation and bullpen.
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Can’t disagree with your overall point, especially their farm system’s ability to help them if the situation arises.
However, it would be ridiculously tough to compete with that ’98 team for the simple fact that not only is the division much tougher now but the entire league is significantly tougher now than it was in 1998.
I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone hit that many clutch HRs in my life. While he got off to a semi-slow start in the WS and people were wondering about Alex, he never lost faith and he came through time and time again. I feel good about having supported him through all the crap he’s had to deal with and I hope those that booed him in ST that year or opening day or at any time, well – I hope they didn’t cheer him when he hit the HR against Nathan, etc… Fair -weather fans, hmph.
It was worse here early in the season than people remember.
Danmon was done.
Matsui was done.
Rivera’s first week and lack of velocity was “troubling”.
Teixeira was bust.
Sabathia was a bust.
And it was even worse than that.
Erica, I will definitely want a report on the quality of the cake. For real.
Joe from Long Island
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:34 pm
Erica – good for you! Have your cake, and enjoy eating it, too. (Is the Cake Boss someone I should know, like from tv or something? Or, is this a local Atlantic City thing?)
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Its a show on TLC. This guy makes giant and unbelievable cakes. (He did one that was a full replica of the Sesame Street set). He operates out of a bakery in Hoboken
Erica – always OPPC – Sesame Street Mafia and GTLU supporter
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:34 pm
Erin
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:30 pm
OMG, that is awesome!! I am very jealous-I want a full report!
************
Yes Ma’am!!! I think I am even going to bring my camera with me
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You should definitely bring your camera!
Erica – always OPPC – Sesame Street Mafia and GTLU supporter
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:38 pm
(He did one that was a full replica of the Sesame Street set).
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Which was the coolest cake ever made
Erica,
Is the the heavy set guy that has a little goat t. Sort of a patch of hair on his chin? I watched someone with the wife a couple times. Remember him making a hockey rink cake. Amazing stuff.
trisha – OPPC member who sees, hears, and knows all. 28 is on its way!!!!!
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:38 pm
Erica, I will definitely want a report on the quality of the cake. For real.
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I will. I am so excited!!!!!!!!!!
Stuckey,
CC was a bust to the Chicken Little crowd after he got bombed in that ST game against Detroit.
By the time the Baltimore game rolled around, he was Ed Whitson! LOL
Fun times!
It seemed like every time Alex was interviewed he would say he “wasn’t trying to do too much”…maybe that was the key for him, to just relax. I also think it helped Alex to have Tex join the Yankees, both on and off the field.
S.o.S.
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:42 pm
Erica,
Is the the heavy set guy that has a little goat t. Sort of a patch of hair on his chin? I watched someone with the wife a couple times. Remember him making a hockey rink cake. Amazing stuff.
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I think this guy is more clean cut. I can’t visualize a goatee
Stuckey,
The one that hurt the most was
Cody Ransom was done.
That made us cancel all plans to trading Alex. Especially with Bettimet unloaded before the season started.
Its really amazing in how this team pulled together and brought home what was rightfully ours #27. Still hasnt really sunk in. I think once the season starts and we i here defending champs it will feel more real.
And here is one of my posts from the first game last season. Predictable I would say.
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trisha – I am panic proof.
April 6th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
“Hope I dont have to see this crap all year.”
The crap I hope I don’t have to see all year is the whining and crying that has already started on this forum. For crissake, this is the first freakin game of the season. I have asked on any number of occassions for Pete to have two separate game threads, one for people who want to puke their way through every game and one for the rest of us who actually don’t jump off bridges during the first game of the season and are not into bridge jumping at all.
If this is what is going to go on every time the Yankees have a less-than-stellar game, then I will definitely bail out of this place. The whining and worrying here during the FIRST GAME OF THE DAMNED SEASON is deplorable.
Here’s a clue. The Yankees signed the top free agents this season and there is a reason they were the top free agents. If you can’t understand them being less than phenomenal in their first games as Yankees, you’re the ones with the problems.
It took league MVP Jason Giambi into May of his first season to have a Giambi-type game (the kind of games Giambi had when he first came to the Yankees.)
Tim Brown wrote a nice story on Alex but it won’t let me post the link. Maybe it will let me post a few exerpts….
“Near the end of September, he and I had sat in front of his locker in Anaheim. When the notebook was stashed, he’d leaned toward me and said he wouldn’t say so publicly, but he believed he was in a perfect space – physically, emotionally, spiritually. He believed he would have a big postseason. He couldn’t explain it exactly, but it just felt right, that this was it after all those failures.”……
“When Rodriguez returned from hip surgery and revelations that he hadn’t always been alone in the batter’s box, he declared he would just play ball, to make baseball about baseball, the Yankees and winning.
When the championship came and he’d done more than his share, Rodriguez kept it that way. Saturday Night Live asked him to host. People from Letterman and Leno asked him to appear. Major magazines asked to do the story of A-Rod’s rebirth. He turned them all down.”
I love cake, especially chocolate. Unfortunately, as we get on in years….we have to be a wee bit more careful. Not like you young things.
Erica,
This is the guy im talking about.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duff_Goldman
Erica, AWESOME that you’re going to get to see the Cake Boss in person. I think you definitely want to go and talk to him because he always looks so approachable, and I truly believe that he’s the same way in real life! My friends and I think his stuff looks so good that we’ve threatened to actually drive to his bakery some day! That would be quite a drive.
GF, I was just saying that this 2010 team could easily top that team if they stay healthy and hit their normal numbers. This 2010 team has something the ’98 team didn’t have. Power up and down the line-up and a 5 deep rotation. It all will come down to health and consistant productivity. On;y the bench is weaker, but, with this starting 9 on offense, they can’t be touched…on paper.
Trisha,
I think youv gotten a little softer since those days. Might have to get your game face on in about a week and revert back to the old smash mouth self.
Erica – always OPPC – Sesame Street Mafia and GTLU supporter
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:46 pm
S.o.S.
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:42 pm
Erica,
Is the the heavy set guy that has a little goat t. Sort of a patch of hair on his chin? I watched someone with the wife a couple times. Remember him making a hockey rink cake. Amazing stuff.
***********
I think this guy is more clean cut. I can’t visualize a goatee
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2 different guys – Cake Boss -v- Ace of Cakes
OT. I am watching Cash Cab. At the end of the program they have a number of disclaimers.
“At no time are contestants aware that they are about to enter the Cash Cab or engage in a game show experience.”
…
“Some contestants have been pre-screened prior to their appearance on this program.”
What?????
pat
March 23rd, 2010 at 6:46 pm
When the championship came and he’d done more than his share, Rodriguez kept it that way. Saturday Night Live asked him to host. People from Letterman and Leno asked him to appear. Major magazines asked to do the story of A-Rod’s rebirth. He turned them all down.”
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Thanks pat!
Good for Alex
I have to admit though, I would have loved to see him host SNL
“Trisha,
I think youv gotten a little softer since those days. Might have to get your game face on in about a week and revert back to the old smash mouth self.”
I think I was worn down by the end of the season. Either that or I realized the sheer futility in even going there.
However, this is a new season.
I love cake, especially chocolate. Unfortunately, as we get on in years….we have to be a wee bit more careful. Not like you young things.
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Take out cake and replace it with
Pizza
Spaghettii
Ice Cream
Chocolate bars
Bread(twisty, garlic, french, any)
Cookies
Chips
Soda
Alchohol
And here i used to take 3000 calorie shakes to bulk up in high school.
I have been reading through the threads today and I have seen a number of times, that if Phil can go from the pen to the rotation this year why can’t Joba do it in 2011.
There is a serious problem with that logic though. Phil has not yet transitioned successfully from the bullpen to starting. Phil has not yet demonstrated that a year in the bullpen will benefit him in the rotation. It is all assumption right now.
Just because the Yankees name him the 5th starter does not mean that Phil has carried over his success to the rotation or even if it is the correct decision. Yes, he has looked good in ST, but that does not really mean anything. It is ST. There is hype around guys every year that end up faltering.
The Yankees are basing Hughes’ innings high on a number from 4 years ago. The Yankees also seem to feel safe letting him approach 150+ innings. However, that does not mean he can do it. That does mean he can hold up physically after pitching just 106 innings last year. That does not mean that when he gets to 110, 120, 130, 140, etc. innings his stuff will hold up and will not fatigue like what happened with Joba last year.
Phil has not yet proven that his transition from the bullpen to the rotation will be seamless and a successful plan from the Yankees. If the Yankees are at this point assuming that it already is not a problem and using this logic to plan Joba’s future then this could quite possibly become an issue.
Thanks Rishi. Is Cake Boss better than Ace of Cakes?
You people need to stop talking about this. My mouth is watering and im about to go get me some German Chocolate. I dont even care if it looks pretty. Im sure it will taste good scarfing it down.
New Post: Giving the Guide
That 98 teams had clutch hitters… don’t know if we stack up there, especially without Damon and Matsui.
People forget how clutch those guys were. They showed it in the WS.
Did Girardi slip up?
Didn’t he say that the loser between Phil/Hughes would set up Mo?
What if both lose? Sounds like a 2 horse race to me.
this is the first time I’ve read or posted on this blog in a long time but I see #28 clearly in view in 2010. This is far and away the deepest and most solid pitching staff the Yankees have had since the late ’90′s, the fact that there are 4 suitable candidates for the #5 spot in the rotation with a deep bullpen tells you everything you need to know. Left field is the only question mark but there will be a ton of outfielders available as a rental at the deadline, until then Gardner/Winn and whoever else is on the squad will be OK.