Today in The Journal News
Posted by: Chad Jennings - Posted in Today in the Journal News on Apr 30, 2010 
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Robinson Cano dazzled with both his glove and his bat on Thursday night, helping the Yankees to a 4-0 win that sent the team home on a two-game winning streak. Cano’s night partially overshadowed A.J. Burnett’s, which lasted eight shutout innings.
The game story also has an update on Jorge Posada as well as notes on Marcus Thames, Nick Johnson and Jeremy Guthrie’s tendency to plunk Yankees.
That was just a very nice, easy game to end the road trip on. Cano has been on fire and AJ continues his fine pitching. If he could keep this up the entire year…..
I ♥ Robinson Cano.
That’s all I have to say.
Erin
“I ? Robinson Cano.”
Co-signed.
i co signed too.
hopefully robbie gets credit for his oustanding defense
http://www.nypost.com/p/sports.....1gMTlLSweL
“I can see myself in him,” Alomar, a future Hall of Fame second baseman told The Post from Tampa in the middle of the Yankees’ shutout. “He has all the tools to be a great player. He can be one of the best second basemen of his era. He hits for average and power, plays defense, can turn the double play. He is one of the best right now.”
Erin
sports center had a segment on Robbie today, and he also had the #2 play in the top ten.
I loved on the post game how he gave so much credit to K Long. Also got a laugh out of AJ saying “oh man” to Kim, then apologizing for it.
Kate, that bit with AJ was hilarious; he’s such a funny dude, lol.
Hi Betsy,
If Cano does keep this up and Alex and Tex start hitting, this line-up will be unstoppable.
Hi Fran!
Well, Cano is not going to bat .400 this year; eventually he’s going to slump, like every other player does. However, if he just hits like he’s capable, he and Tex and Alex will form a truly formidable threesome. It’s time that the latter two start turning things around…
upstate kate April 30th, 2010 at 8:38 am
Erin
sports center had a segment on Robbie today, and he also had the #2 play in the top ten.
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Morning, Kate! That’s awesome-I’m sorry I missed it.
And he only came in at #2???? LOL
With Vazquez going against Danks and Hughes against Buerhle,
is tonight’s game a “pseudo-must-win” game, if we were to take the series?
So did pedoria come in with the #1 play even though he didn’t play last night?
“I can see myself in him,” Alomar”
Was that a Freudian slip or double entendre? I have heard rumors……
By the way, Robinson Cano is the man. There was one idiot poster who wanted to trade Robbie BAD a couple years ago, lol
That play Cano made was one of the best I’ve seen in a long time when you consider degree of difficulty. Making that throw is unbelievably difficult and he’s probably the only 2B in baseball with the arm strength to make that play.
ray, ray, ray…….
“There was one idiot poster who wanted to trade Robbie BAD a couple years ago, lol”
There were a lot more than one. There were some who were willing to deal him this past offseason as well.
Erin and Jim
some soccer play was #1. Robbie definitely got a lot of love from ESPN this am
Mark in Tampa April 30th, 2010 at 8:52 am
There were some who were willing to deal him this past offseason as well.
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Don’t get me started on that.
?I can see myself in him,” Alomar?
Hopefully not the low class spitting part.
now if he could only steal a base on Victor Martinez….
(Kidding)
Morning all. Great win last night by the Yanks.
I just wanted to post this info for all the Golden Girl fans on the site. This was originally posted on PerezHilton but for whatever reason I can’t get the actual link to the story. Its regarding Betty White’s upcoming appearance on SNL:
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Baddest b’, Betty White, is obviously the best person ever to be graced into existence, but that still doesn’t stop her from bringing the AMAZEBALLZ on a daily basis!
Girlfriend is FINALLY hosting Saturday Night Live on May 8th, and when she rolled onto set today, she apparently showed her gratitude by bringing the cast and crew CHEESECAKE!
LOLZ!
A source says:
“Betty is from the old school. The one thing she learned from The Golden Girls is that everything is better with cheesecake. She already has the cast eating out of her hand. They think she is one of the funniest, most talented people they have ever met — and they love that Betty has told them nothing is off limits for her.”
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Thought you guys would like that story. Gotta love Betty, always bringing the class.
Shame Spencer-
That day has been marked on my calendar since it was first announced in march. I can’t wait!!!!!!!
When Rue McClanahan was sick a few months ago, Betty White sent her flowers. The card read:
“I hope you die so I can be the last remaining Golden Girl”. LOL
Good piece from Sweeny Murti on Javy, insight into Phil’s use or not use of the change-up and a funny George story.
http://www.wfan.com/Jav-a-Little-Patience/6936705
Shame Spencer-thanks for the info. I’m really looking forward to SNL- which is something I haven’t been able to say in a while
Mark this day…Austin Jackson will be a better player than Granderson
Tampa is 9-1 on the road. That’s your 2 game difference right there.
Outside of Navarro, they’re all hitting. On any given night, it seems half the Yanks lineup is slumping. It’s like a bad cold that’s being passed around.
Colds don’t last forever.
Is the put Posada at DH stuff really happening again?
Do we honestly have to go through this every single year?
Funny how the move is never made to shift Posada to DH, yet the Yankees keep winning.
Funny how the one time in his career that Posada missed significant time the Yankees missed the playoffs.
And unfortunately Montero does not project to be a plus defensive catcher, so we may be going through this nonsense for another 15 years.
I can’t believe the Yankees only come home for 6 games than right back on the road to Boston and Detroit.
Mark this day….Unless Austin gets a handle on his K’s, he will be hitting .250 by June.
He’s never going to be as good a player as Granderson because he can’t hit for power.
Just like the Posada “debate”, too many children are fooled by small sample sizes. It happens every year.
“Mark this day…Austin Jackson will be a better player than Granderson”
Because you think that Jackson’s .492 BABIP and 35.6% LD% are sustainable?
And his K% is 34%
You really need to look at the numbers behind the numbers.
I will say this. Jackson is very, very good defensively.
“Mark this day…Austin Jackson will be a better player than Granderson”
Rick, if he does, we can trade for him in a few years when he gets too expensive for Detroit to keep, just like Granderson.
Would you say that Jesus and Jorge are pretty much the same type of hitter? I know Jesus is bigger, but would you be shocked if he ended up being the same type of catcher and hitter that Jorge is?
Gotta love Cano, hes going to have a monster year hitting from the 5 spot in that lineup, I wish I had on my fantasy team.
Yesterday I made a post in the middle of the game thread, I don’t think anyone caught it, I wrote a song “The 2010 Yankee Song” to the tune of Adam Sandler’s “The Hannukah Song”. Its pretty funny, I know all you big Yankee fans would enjoy it. Check it out on youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQzeRddNfdg
Pat, that’s very interesting about Phil’s change. I admit that I’ve been somewhat obsessed about it because we talked about it so much, about how important it was for him to develop one so that he live up to his enormous potential. I don’t believe Phil is a bag of hot air and just worked all winter on it just so he could win the job, so I’m sure we’ll see it eventually. It’s not like he hasn’t used it at all; he didn’t need to mess up a good thing in Oakland and he was struggling with all his pitches in Baltimore.
Joelsherman1 On 5/29/95, Jeter got 1st H. At that time Griffey Jr. had 998 Hs. Today both have exactly 2,775, tied for most among active plyrs.
No thanks, I don’t think I will mark this day as anything special.
Excellent defensive CF but, as Rich correctly states, has numbers right now unsustainable over the course of a full season.
He’s always struck out a lot. That’s not going to change at the ML level.
That’s why his numbers aren’t sustainable and the “Austin will be MVP” talk and all the other nonense we have been reading on here since the start of the season should be cooled down.
Curtis Granderson is an excellent player and has been in this league for quite a few years. That’s not going to change now that he is with the Yankees.
Upstate Kate/Betsy
That thing with AJ and Kim was hilarious last night! Kim didnt seem to mind at all.
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Ok everyone, we all have to pray that Andy can go 9 scoreless innings tonight. I want him to win AL pitcher of the month lol. ( I can dream right??)
It’s time to consider putting Granderson in the number two slot so he can see some better pitches. He could also attarct some attention while on base, thus benefitting Tex. Just a thought.
Jennifer, are you kidding? I’m sorry, but this schedule is incredibly unfair. Is there any point to them even coming home now? Ugh….
Erica – I remember that! I thought it was amazing. That woman has an AWESOME sense of humor!!
I have to believe Robinson Cano (who may just be one of the best looking guys to put on the pinstripes, as several people pointed out yesterday) will cool off, but I really, REALLY want to believe the guy is going to stay more consistent this season. Its not that I don’t realize how talented he is, but I have been fooled into thinking he was going to be locked in all season before only to see him string together long slumps. I know every player is going to slump, over 162 games you have to expect every batter to go through ups and downs, but my hope is that this season his downs don’t last as long as they may have in the past. I’m cautiously optimistic.. but still cautious.
If Ajax were still with the Yankees, chances are he would still be in AAA and everybody would be wishing we had traded him for somebody like Granderson. Grandy may be slumping, but what he showed in the first 10 games or so proves to me that he is a complete player who will be a major asset to this team for the next 3 years, at least.
I always knew he was a nice player, but he has better skills than all but a handful of CFs. And, while his numbers aren’t great, he hasn’t looked totally overwhelmed by LH pitching, except for a couple ABs against guys that give every lefty trouble.
SJ44,
Just because somebody disagrees with your point on a subject doesn’t mean they deserve to be dismissed as being ‘children’.
I’m as big a Cervelli fan as anyone but Posada is a near HOF player if he’s not there already (I think he should be). The Yankees aren’t the same team without him, he’s essential to the teams success.
I didn’t even get why AJ was apologizing – because he used the term “oh man”?
Erin April 30th, 2010 at 9:18 am
Joelsherman1 On 5/29/95, Jeter got 1st H. At that time Griffey Jr. had 998 Hs. Today both have exactly 2,775, tied for most among active plyrs.
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Wow. That really makes you scratch your head and wonder what would have happened if Griffey didn’t spend all that time injured
Erin- that is pretty amazing.
John- I wonder if Joe will try that. That just might help him out. We know that Nick will still see pitches no matter where he is in the lineup.
Anyone know how to stop the ad on the top of the screen from scrolling. It is very annoying when you refresh and the screen hops.
I hope this is not going to be the topic du jour; I was thrilled when Chad posted a new thread, lol.
Betsy – Hughes rules (Pleading the Fifth) April 30th, 2010 at 9:19 am
Jennifer, are you kidding? I?m sorry, but this schedule is incredibly unfair. Is there any point to them even coming home now? Ugh?.
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Betsy-
All that means is that the Yankees will spend more time home at the end of the season when it’ll be more appreciated.
At the end of the season there will still be 81 at home and 81 on the road. The rest is details
Shame Spencer April 30th, 2010 at 9:20 am
I have to believe Robinson Cano (who may just be one of the best looking guys to put on the pinstripes, as several people pointed out yesterday)
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I agree 100% with this statement.
@ SJ44: I always enjoy reading your comments when I check in here, but your habit of referring to posters who disagree with you as “children” is seriously obnoxious.
Jennifer,
They are completely different type of hitters and players. Jorge is a much better athlete than Jesus. Jorge started out as a second baseman in the Yankees system and was moved to catcher.
He didn’t become a fulltime catcher at the major league level until he was 27. Much less wear and tear on his body.
Montero has been a catcher all his life and is much bigger than Jorge. That makes it more challenging for him on the defensive front.
Even as hitters they are different. Jorge is a switch hitter, although he is a natural RH hitter.
Montero is a RH hitter who has Arod-like power for his age. Much more than Jorge has ever had.
They are different type players with different body types. Its really impossible to project where Montero ultimately ends up position-wise.
He’s struggling defensively at AAA right now. He’s also scuffling with the bat but, that will change.
He’s the youngest player in AAA and its showing so far this year.
He’s going to eventually hit his way onto a major league, preferably the Yankees.
However, where (position-wise) he plays is still up for debate right now.
I’d be happy, very happy in fact, if Montero had a similar career to Posada.
Thanks SJ
Mark
Agreed on you’re comment about SJ44.He’s knows his baseball but seems to give names to the peope who don’t agree with him..
Thanks MattyIce. Great song.
Erica, I know that – it’s just that it’s frustrating at this point. The Yankees have always been a good road team, fortunately…….but I’m sure they are tired of airplanes at this point.
Seeing how Jackson has six years to reach the stage of his career that Granderson is at now it’s perfectly reasonable to think he’ll be a better player. Time will tell.
AJ really looked like a “pitcher” last night the way he worked the edges of the zone. He can be soooo good sometimes.
A lot of us were open to trading Robbie a year or so ago, but in the right deal for an elite OF prospect like Ethier or Kemp. Doesn’t make us crazy. I’m sure the Yanks were open to dealing him in the right trade as well and probably still are… through the price keeps going up, up, up
There are few players that are ever truly untouchable in trade talks. Robinson Cano may one day be one.
LGY — As for Posada… if Montero is as good a player as Jorge I will be happy to see “Montero to DH” talk for the next 15 years.
I thought that AA was supposed to be the toughest level because that’s where all the talent is. I suppose Montero is struggling because (a) the pitchers at AAA are veterans of the MLB wars or just minor league vets period and know how to pitch and (b) he’s human.
Ask the poster how old he is. Most of the people on here making those kind of declarations are under 18. They are children.
Sweeney’s blog point makes an excellent point why the Yankees aren’t as caught up with speed in the two hole in the lineup. They don’t want to disrupt Tex and Arod while they are hitting.
Damon only stole 12 bases last year batting second.
When Tex is hitting LH, by having the first baseman hold the runner, it opens the hole for Tex, who is a pull hitter.
If NJ continues to struggle in the two hole, I could see Girardi going to Swisher to hit second before going to Granderson or Gardner.
I don’t think assuming AJax will be a better player than Granderson is reasonable. Hoping for it is, but assuming that he will be is not.
I want those people who think AJax is soo much better than Granderson (or that he will be) to say those things when Grandy comes out of his slump. Did any of those people watch him the first week and a half or so when he crushed HRs against the Red Sox and basically showed what a terrific all-around player he is?
Austin Jackson has never shown he can hit for power. Curtis Granderson has 30 HR power.
Unless Austin finds a power stroke, and cuts his K’s down dramatically, something he has never done before, its pretty tough to project as becoming a better player than Granderson.
It “could” happen. Most likely though, it won’t.
I actually like Swish in the 2 hole.
Betsy
Phil says he’ll mix in change-ups when hitters are on his fastball but so far that hasn’t really happened except with Matsui.
Using that criteria, the less you see of his change-up, the better.
blake April 30th, 2010 at 9:36 am
I actually like Swish in the 2 hole.
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I was a big supporter of this last year. This year I am on the fence
Blake-
If GGBG maintains a decent OBP I would prefer him in the 2 hole over Swish.
Though Swish always has a very high OBP, and sees a ton of pitches
IMO his power projects better further down in the lineup.
Of course, the discussion is academic since NJ is gonna be there and will be very effective out of the 2 hole.
Check this out: http://www.myyesnetwork.com/15.....yankee_fan
I don’t know where she got the 500 number from, for game 6 last year we had our best turn out ever which was around 200. For game 5 we had 100 people show up, high water mark up to that point, the Globe ran a story the next day on us and that doubled our number from the exposure, so I think the 500 is a big exaggeration but still, pretty cool nonetheless…of course I will be at the Stadium with them tomorrow! Look for our sign; one of our members is a graphic designer and created a big Boston Loves (actually a heart sign) the Yankees, which is super imposed over a map of MA, the heart being over Boston.
Pat, I guess that’s a good thing. All I know is that we had so many discussions about Phil needing a change up that now it’s almost all I can think about. I still think he should use it……if he doesn’t, he’s going to lose it. There’s nothing wrong with using it a few times a game. If he needs the pitch to live up to his potential, then I hope he throws it.
Betsy-
Whatever PH is doing thus far I hope he just keeps doing more of it.;)
Betsy,
You don’t lose a changeup if you don’t use it in games. He uses it in his bullpens.
You pitch to game situations.
If guys can’t square up on his fastball, you don’t speed up their bats by throwing changeups.
You are obsessing too much over one pitch.
Having it in his arsonal helps. Forcing him to throw it, when you don’t have to, doesn’t help.
On days guys are on his fastball, he will break out the change.
On days they aren’t, its not wise to use a pitch guys can hit because their bat speed will catch up to the pitch.
What Cano has done so far this season with both the bat and glove is nothing short of ASTOUNDING.
Pay attention Pedroia you might learn something.
SJ, I am obsessing about it, lol – I agree. I just can’t get those discussions during ST out of my mind. What you say makes absolutely perfect sense, so I will just ask one question. I’m assuming Phil is throwing it in side sessions. Is there a way to tell how good it will be in a real game without actually facing live hitting?
MTU,
I agree…….just lower the walk totals a bit and we’ll be perfect, lol.
Betsy-
I am looking forward to Phil locking horns with Laptop.
That should be fun.
I saw Cano’s play on tape last night and what struck me wasn’t so much his range (which is outstanding), but the fact that he threw so smoothly and accurately. That should have been, by all rights, a struggle, but it wasn’t. Cano got that ball off like he’d had time to set himself; AJ said he was amazed because he didn’t even have to back up first. I hope Robby gets a Gold Glove this year, but it’s hard to break into that as a first timer. Pedroia probably has that locked up – or was it Hill that won it last year?
MTU, I am NOT looking forward to that. As a matter of fact, I wish they weren’t even going to pitch in the same series.
MTU,
Only thing about Gardner in the #2 hole is that if the bottom of your lineup or Jeter gets on base with 2 outs then you’d like a guy that Can drive the ball a little to get them in..I think he’s the perfect #9 hitter as he can act as a second leadoff man.
Obviously if NJ can get going he makes a lot of sense there because he gets in base so often but Swisher sees a ton of pitches also, is a switch hitter, and has more power than NJ.
Betsy-
Why not ?
Phil is better than the Mortician isn’t he ?
Betsy – Hughes rules (Pleading the Fifth) April 30th, 2010 at 9:54 am
I hope Robby gets a Gold Glove this year, but it?s hard to break into that as a first timer. Pedroia probably has that locked up ? or was it Hill that won it last year?
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This will be Robbie’s year. Mark it down.
all Robbie has to do is get his uni a bit dirty and he is a shoo-in for the GG
MTU
The only thing that bothers me about Brett is his lack of ability to drive the ball. He fits great in the 9 hole or another option is to let him bat leadoff and move Derek to the 2nd spot in the lineup. If Nick Johnson doesn’t come around the 2 hole could be a problem for the Yanks this year.
Blake-
Swish has a lot of different facets to his game.
But the one thing I would not want to see wasted is all that power.
Anyway, the point is most likely moot because of NJ.
At least, I hope it is.
Phil C-
The whole discuusion is really gonna be moot anyway since NJ is our
Man.
Betsy,
Sure. You can see the action on it in side sessions/bullpens and know if its a good change or bad change.
Its not a do or die pitch for him. Nor will it ever be.
Its just one more pitch added to his reportoire.
The most important pitch a pitcher has is a well placed fastball. Nothing replaces that.
Hughes has been successful so far this year because his fastball command has been excellent for the most part.
Edwar Ramirez had a world class changeup. Next to Johan Santana, it may have been the best in baseball in the short time he was in the majors.
Yet, he couldn’t sustain any big league success because he had a below average fastball.
Don’t worry about the changeup. It won’t make or break Hughes as a pitcher.
Derek Jeter is now tied with Griffey Jr for the active career lead in hits. They may go back and forth for a few games before Jeter leaves him in the dust.
He just passed Andre Dawson on the all-time list, now he is 45th all-time in hits. Next up: George Sisler, Charlie Gehringer, and Brooks Robinson.
it’s amazing to me how arguments take on a life of their own on this board at times.
Has anyone tried to espouse the point that Austin Jackson is or will be a better player than Curtis Granderson?
All that I’ve seen is some posters who’ve been following AJax’s development in our farm system for the last 3 years happy that he’s having early success at the start of his career and root for him to do well. That is independant of anything that Curtis Granderson does while wearing pinstripes.
Also the argument that AJax will never hit fot the power that Grandy does and so therefore can never be as good a player is flawed in that power is only one measure of a player’s ability.
Ichiro for example is a better hitter, fielder and runner than Grandy although he never has nor will hit for the same power.
If you really know your baseball you understand this concept so really just stop.
If there are Yanks fans that for their own reasons want to continue to follow an AJax or Ian Kennedy or Romine if and when he gets traded they have the right to do so and post about their successes and failures on this blog without the fear of being attacked as children by self appointed content czars who think that they know it all only to many times appear to know far less than thought.
enough already
Polanco won the GG last year, now in the NL at Third.
“Has anyone tried to espouse the point that Austin Jackson is or will be a better player than Curtis Granderson?”
Yes.
Just in this thread:
Rick D April 30th, 2010 at 9:10 am
Mark this day…Austin Jackson will be a better player than Granderson
MTU
Hope your right about NJ. Not a hater just don’t like his start and looking at strike 1 and 2 is who he is, taking called strike 3s is another story.
It seems premature, to say the least, to try to compare AJax and Granderson as major league ballplayers. AJax is too young and has played too few ML games to draw many conclusions.
Looking at their respective minor league performances, though, you have to think AJax will not hit for the kind of power Granderson has. CG’s SLG significantly outpaced AJax’s SLG in the minors. And Granderson got on base more often, too. In the minors they both struck out at about the same rate, so I don’t think you can necessarily project AJax for more KOs than CG in the majors.
However, you have to keep in mind that Granderson was significantly older in the minors than AJax was. So that counts for a lot. If you give AJax credit for his age it helps AJax in the comparison, although I still don’t think he projects out to Granderson’s ML SLG performance.
GB7 ? that great Yankee blog site I was telling you about has the writer who played college ball at Valparaiso?maybe you know him?
http://www.stevewigdor.blogspot.com
Phil-
NJ just needs to get healthy and get into a groove then we’ll see.
If he plays to the back of his card he will be excellent out of the 2 hole.
The real question with NJ always has been and still is wether he can stay healthy not wether he can hit. He can.
It should be easier as a DH.
Tex is off to a seriously bad start this year.
Last year through April these are his numbers:
.200/.367/.371 with 3 HR
This year to date:
.139/.292/.266 with 2 HR
Hopefully this means that Tex is going to get ridiculously hot to correct for this. It is amazing how much of the season he has basically just given up.
MTU, I don’t have the ability to judge who’s better (I’ll leave that up to wiser heads than I), but I just don’t want to deal with the comparisons, especially if Phil doesn’t pitch well, lol.
SJ, thanks -that’s good to know (and good point about Edwar). Well, there’s one obsession now crossed off my list, lol; I’m making progress.
LGY, wow………Tex is a terrific player, but this is a nice sized flaw in his game.
MTU
Agreed
Watching ESPN First Take. Is there anyone more annoying than Skip Bayless? Dude gets my blood boiling.
Amazing how everyone loves Cano all of a sudden.
As if that’s the first time some of you ever saw him make that play to his right and throw across his body. He’s been doing that for years. His defense is outstanding.
People can’t gripe about his RISP average anymore. His OBP is .450. You would think from some of the comments that he just learned how to hit.
This is a guy who had 200 hits last year, along with 50 doubles. He also hit .342 in his 2nd full season, yet its like some of you just discovered him.
I have to question whether some of you even watch the games or if you just read the comments on this blog.
Cano has been a top notch player for years now, yet some of you been begging for Cash to trade him since he broke in. As if 2nd basemen who hit like him and play gold glove defense just grow on trees.
He’s rapidly developing into the best hitter on the team and he’s only getting better. In a few years the team will be built around him, not Tex and A Rod. Its only a matter of time.
A poster this AM wrote that AJax was going to be a better player than Granderson.
Read the board before getting on your minor league soapbox.
Its been pointed out by me and others why we disagree with that position.
That’s what a blog is for…..to debate ideas.
“Ask the poster how old he is. Most of the people on here making those kind of declarations are under 18. They are children.”"”
Grampa, don’t forget to take your nightly Geritol!!!!
miggs- GTLU Reigning Champion April 30th, 2010 at 10:17 am
Amazing how everyone loves Cano all of a sudden.
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I can assure you, with me it’s definitely not all of a sudden.
The beauty of our offense is that we numerous players who can literally carry the entire team on their back for weeks on end.
Right now that player is RC.
Next month it might be Tex.
The month after it could be A-rod.
And so on.
When we are firing on all cyclinders which will happen this team is gonna resemble a Monster Truck rolling over the competition.
And they are going to be flattened.
Betsy, maybe it is just your nature but you should try not to worry so much about Phil. I am a big fan of his too, but rather than worry about failure I choose to believe that more often than not he will succeed. He is healthy, talented, learned to be confident and aggressive out of the pen last year and seems to be eager to learn more (listening to Jim Palmer and Mo etc.) I look forward to him pitching big games vs tough teams and tough opposing pitchers. That is how you make a name for yourself and rise to the top of a rotation. It is only a matter of time until he gets there so sit back and enjoy!!
That’s “cylinders”. dyslexia.
Yawn, Melky moron is back with his daily dose of nonsense.
At this point, you are as boring and uninteresting as the Orioles.
“just because somebody disagrees with your point on a subject doesn’t mean they deserve to be dismissed as being ‘children’.”
It’s ok you have to have sympathy for the old chap! One of the first signs of dementia is to pretend you are best friends with Arod.
Miggs
and some of us have liked Robbie for a long time and are happy to see him finally get some recognition
NYYRoc, I’m not worried about Phil in the slightest; I’m one of those who have had absolute faith in him even during his worst struggles. I completely agree with you – I just sometimes take the media too seriously. I have to work on not letting comments by pundits bother me…..I’m getting a little better at it, but I’m not where I’d like to be, lol.
SJ
I agree with you SJ! I like Austin Jackson’s potential, but I love Granderson. The Yankees could wait another 3 yrs to find out Austin Jackson is good or a bust, but Granderson is good now. Sure he is in a bit of a slump now, but players do that from time to time. I would rather have Granderson, especially in Yankee stadium.
After 21 games last year, Teixeira was hitting .182 with 3 homers, 10 RBI, with 14 hits in 77 at bats. Tell me just how that is so much better than he has this year.
I think everything that can be said, has been said about Robbie Cano lately, and especially his stellar game last night. Heck the first thing I thought of when I woke up this morning was “Wow Cano had such a great game last night..”
I want to talk about how great A.J. has been. He’s really done a great job of using his 2-seam fastball. I’m pretty stoked that A.J. is finally pitching like a #2 pitcher in the rotation. We have 4 guys pitching lights out right now and if Vazquez can get it together we’ll have the best rotation in the majors, no doubt about it.
Miggs-
I have never waivered in my total and unconditional support of Cano.
I, like you, was amazed when there was talk of trading him.
Be thankful for the trades never made, or that might be one the Yankees would have regretted for a long time.
Just a little more patience at the plate and Robbie is already touching
the stratosphere on his way into orbit.
MTU you’re right.
Wait until A Rod and Tex get going.
Its going to be a lineup that is virtually impossible to navigate through. So many weapons.
But Cano is the rising star. I think we’ve seen how good Tex can be in his career. A Rod at age 34 is obviously not still improving. Jeter, while having a stellar 2009 season, is obviously at or past his peak. Same with Jorge.
Cano is like the really really hot girl that just blossoms before your eyes. He could supplant Tex as the #3 hitter as early as next year.
“If there are Yanks fans that for their own reasons want to continue to follow an AJax or Ian Kennedy or Romine if and when he gets traded they have the right to do so and post about their successes and failures on this blog without the fear of being attacked as children by self appointed content czars who think that they know it all only to many times appear to know far less than thought.”
Content czar lololol. Very good!
Hopefully this means that Tex is going to get ridiculously hot to correct for this. It is amazing how much of the season he has basically just given up.
—
Thats pretty weak stuff right there. Tex has given up? He’s out there giving it his all, just hasn’t had the results yet. I don’t mind criticizing him for sucking (which he has) but don’t question his effort, that’s unfair.
For someone who uses his legs, not his bat, to get on base for the most part, BG makes zero sense as a No 2 hitter.
If DJ is on first, those infield hits Gardner lives off turn will often force Jeter at 2B. Not very useful.
Let’s be happy he has been able to thus far successfully avoid the topspin off his bat that was making his speed superfluous, and hope he keeps it up. He’s not a 2-hitter.
Cano is like the really really hot girl that just blossoms before your eyes. He could supplant Tex as the #3 hitter as early as next year.
—
Pretty creepy dude
Miggs-
A new “core” taking shape before our eyes.
Can you imagine if Montero pans out ?
Boggles the mind.
Patrick, that’s so true. These guys had huge workloads last year, but they seem to be absolutely thriving…..As far as AJ, we know he can strike people out, so at this point, I would much rather see quick, easy innings. Good for him that he’s dedicated to improving himself at age 32 (or is he 33)….
bod,
Yeah no doubt about it, making Gardner #2 would be absurd. I think NJ will get it together and be a great #2 hitter for us but on the outside chance he doesn’t the Yanks should first try Swisher there. If that doesn’t work make Gardner the leadoff and bat Jetes 2.
AJ had one of those games last night that was a breeze to watch. No butterflies in my stomach, no feeling like I couldn’t watch. Even when he gave up a hit, no worries. Very, very solid game. Something I think we can look forward to seeing more.
Off-topic, but the iPad thingie is starting to look very attractive to me. (Aside from the stupid name, that is.) Anyone get one yet?
Patrick you know what I mean about Cano….
I agree with you about Burnett. He still can’t get a great feel for his curve, yet he baffled the Orioles for 8 innings with basically one pitch… that 2 seamer which he now runs to both sides of the plate. That pitch is simply devastating when he can spot it like he does. He’s got so much talent and he’s doing a much better job harnessing that ability and translating it into quality starts.
“A poster this AM wrote that AJax was going to be a better player than Granderson.
Read the board before getting on your minor league soapbox.
Its been pointed out by me and others why we disagree with that position.
That’s what a blog is for…..to debate ideas.”
What happened, you get up on the wrong side of bed this morning? I wasn’t taking a shot at you, don’t be so thin-skinned.
Patrick, I don’t think that’s what LGY meant. He meant (I assume) that by Tex struggling so badly, he has allowed a month to slip by without accumulating any #s whatsoever. I don’t think anyone questions Tex’ work ethic or desire.
“A new core before our eyes”
I want to see a new starting pitching core form as well. CC, AJ, Hughsie, Joba, Cliff Lee. Sounds like an awesome 2011 lineup.
Has anyone noticed on MLBTR there’s an ad with Nick Swisher endorsing a product called ghsport? http://www.ghsport.org advocating better sleep and PERFORMANCE. I hope this is MLB ok, the site says 100% natural
Wave,
I wasn’t addressing my post to you. I was addressing it to Champ.
Sorry for the confusion.
SJ44-
Oh, then I retract my comment. Sorry.
“Off-topic, but the iPad thingie is starting to look very attractive to me. (Aside from the stupid name, that is.) Anyone get one yet?”
I’m picking up a 3G one tomorrow. It comes out today at 5pm, but I don’t want to deal with the crowds.
Doreen I heard from some people that in actual functionality and speed its not measuring up to other similar devices.
As someone who owns both a Blackberry and an I-Phone I can see what attracts people to the I-Pad but I’m not sure it has enough distinct features to warrant a purchase.
I own the I-Touch to compliment my phones and I absolutely love that. You can get radio stations across the country and have access to a ton of audio options.
I guess I just don’t see the purpose of the I-Pad if you have any type of smart phone (or small laptop for that matter).
Betsy,
Maybe I misunderstood, thanks.
miggs,
I do know what you mean about Cano. Just thinking of him as a hot girl blossoming is creepy on so many levels.
Moving on from that mental image, you’re right that Cano is becoming a star before our eyes. However, as long as A-rod hits the way he always hits I don’t think Cano will be the centerpiece of this offense. I think hitting in the 5-hole is the best use of Cano’s skills. He hits for power, he hits for average, he rarely K’s but he doesn’t work many walks. Presumably, from the 5 hole he will have lots of RBI opportunities and with how much he puts the ball in play I think that’s the best spot for him.
Now that we are seeing what Cano is like at his ceiling, can you imagine this lineup in a year when we add Montero? That’s another guy who just mashes the ball. Potential perennial all-star. I can’t wait, this lineup is insane right now and it’s only going to get better.
Hotlanta-
That would be nice.
There are many options and combinations possible for next year’s team.
Another Dynasty is certainly possible if the Yankees keep making as many good baseball decisions as they have been lately.
It’s easy to enumerate all the positives. There are many.
My dream would be to see Joba re-emerge as a starter though I am not holding my breath as he seems destined for other things of value.
I want to see a new starting pitching core form as well. CC, AJ, Hughsie, Joba, Cliff Lee. Sounds like an awesome 2011 lineup.
___
Don’t assume pettitte wont be here next year.
The iPad doesn’t make sense until you go to an Apple store and use it for 2 minutes. After that, you can’t imagine not having one. At least that’s the way it’s been for everyone I’ve talked to (myself included).
Patrick April 30th, 2010 at 10:34 am
bod,
Yeah no doubt about it, making Gardner #2 would be absurd. I think NJ will get it together and be a great #2 hitter for us but on the outside chance he doesn’t the Yanks should first try Swisher there. If that doesn’t work make Gardner the leadoff and bat Jetes 2.
=====
Agree on NJ, but he needs to stay healthy. If Swish can stay up there with his numbers, he’s not a bad #2. I can’t see Gardner as a leadoff hitter. I don’t want a platoon guy leading off. Also not a good enough hitter and too passive as a “walk” guy.
Doreen
AJ looked great and so did WOW WOW WOW Cano. I am excited about the potential of this team. Posada’s knee concerns me so I hope he doesn’t come back too soon and actually hurt it.
I am waiting for the nights when everyone clicks.
“Don?t assume pettitte wont be here next year.”
If he has a good season, he’ll be back. We can dump Javy and sign Cliff Lee. A rotation of CC, AJ, Lee, Petitte and Hughes would be hard to beat.
“Don’t assume pettitte wont be here next year.”
He could be the Yankees Jamie Moyer. Another 5 good years coming if that’s the case.
Hello Wave! How are you doing these days?
I feel it is perhaps in poor taste to make any criticism of Cano the way he is playing right now, but the difference between his hitting with RISP and with the bases empty has gotten even larger this year.
A rising tide lifts all boats of course, by which I mean Cano’s hitting with RISP is excellent for ordinary mortals – an .883 OPS with .550 SLG, but it is way off when compared to his hitting with the bases empty – 1.508 SLG and .979 SLG, positively Ruthian.
I say bat him leadoff and just go with the flow.
Patrick I think Montero may need more time than most people think to get up here. I think the front office is firm in trying to do everything they can to groom him as a catcher since it makes his value so much higher.
Even if he was hitting well in AAA (which he hasn’t so far) they might hold him back to develop his defense.
The only way I think he gets promoted in the next year or two is if there are a rash of injuries and he’s mashing at AAA. I’m fine with that. I can wait if that means he’ll be a polished catcher when he gets here.
If I had to guess, I’d say he gets promoted sometime in the summer next year. Which would be great timing considering Jorge will be entering his walk year and I don’t think the team has any intentions of resigning him.
Pettitte working tonight on a perfect April 4-0, and he’s not the Ace, wow!!
Major Yankees becoming free agents at the end of the season: Jeter & Rivera
Free Agents at the end of this season posters are drooling over: Crawford & Lee
I just don’t see any universe, real or parallel, where the Yankees sign all four
Laura – My Pretend Boyfriend plays for BAL April 30th, 2010 at 10:50 am
The iPad doesn?t make sense until you go to an Apple store and use it for 2 minutes. After that, you can?t imagine not having one. At least that?s the way it?s been for everyone I?ve talked to (myself included).
****************
I WANT A 3G iPAD SO BADLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Before anyone goes out an spends their hard earned money on an I-pad you might want to wait a little while because HP is rumored to be readying a similiar product which will have even nore capabilities than the I-pad.
Just a thought.
Doing fine, RayVT. Beginning to get enough of the season under our belts to make some judgments that are more than just guesses so I’ll try to post more when my schedule lets me.
How’s it going with you?
Laura what makes it so attractive that everyone “can’t imagine not having one”?
I just don’t see what’s so great about it.
miggs -
I don’t have a smart phone. Just an ordinary cell.
And I don’t have my own iPod.
I have wanted an electronic reader and some sort of PDA for a while. I don’t want to pay the ridiculous rates for a smart phone that I really only need on-line features a small percentage of the time.
We bought our daughter an iPod Touch and I thought I might get that for myself. The iPad 3G – there’s no contract to get the 3G. It’s a month by month thing, and you can choose limited or unlimited. But I wonder if it’s really portable n the sense that if I need a PDA for appointments, contacts, etc., I can’t just stuff the iPad in my purse.
I no longer want to buy books or magazines – what do you do with them when you’re done??? so the e-reader feature of the iPad really also appeals to me.
I’m really torn.
I see the limitations of its size, but for non-business purposes it seems like it would/could be good for a person like me. It is portable in terms of taking on short trips – more so than my laptop.
Laura, let me know how you like it once you get it. How do you plan to use it?
“I WANT A 3G iPAD SO BADLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”
You should go buy one. It comes out today. You only live once; why not live happy?
“Laura, let me know how you like it once you get it. How do you plan to use it?”
As a book reader for my commute to work, a movie player on flights and to do my email and surf the web at work (my company has my computer on lock down).
Laura -
I did try one out at an Apple store a couple of weeks ago and, boy, I liked it a lot.
“Laura what makes it so attractive that everyone ?can?t imagine not having one??
I just don?t see what?s so great about it.”
It’s the big screen. For people who have iPhones and the Touch, it makes a huge difference. I agree that it’s not for everyone. It’s definitely a luxury item.
Laura – My Pretend Boyfriend plays for BAL April 30th, 2010 at 10:56 am
?I WANT A 3G iPAD SO BADLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!?
You should go buy one. It comes out today. You only live once; why not live happy?
**************
My thoughts exactly!
But last month I really wanted a Wii so I bought that along with the full Rock Band bundle. And since I have gone to Atlantic City three times so far this year and lost badly each time, I am pretty sure buying a 3G iPad too is not the best idea.
miggs,
You’re right about Montero’s struggles. As SJ44 said earlier, he’s the youngest guy in AAA and he’s playing like it.
However, this kid has way too much talent, he WILL mash in AAA this year. And about his fielding, this is why he’s going to be in AAA for the year. It’s only April, he has plenty of time to work on catching. That’s his main goal this year, become a better catcher. His bat could play in the majors today, despite his current struggles.
I say he makes the team out of spring training next year.
Laura – My Pretend Boyfriend plays for BAL April 30th, 2010 at 10:58 am
?Laura, let me know how you like it once you get it. How do you plan to use it??
As a book reader for my commute to work, a movie player on flights and to do my email and surf the web at work (my company has my computer on lock down).
*************
You can also get the MLB app for $15 and listen to all Yankee games.
(for those of us with mean employers who don’t let us stream at work)
I looked at the Ipads the other day at the apple store..at first I thought they were really cool. But then I started thinking about what I would use it for…its nearly as big as a laptop and its too big to carry in your pocket like a smartphone…
To me it just seems like a laptop without a keyboard or a big ipodtouch that is too big to carry everywhere….maybe I’m missing something.
I think you will Montero as a September call up, or right after Scranton finishes winning the MiLb playoffs.
Thanks, Laura.
If the 3G had a contract, I wouldn’t think of it, really. Because you can’t always depend on getting (free) wifi.
It seems perfect for what I would use it for. Though, again, you can’t strap it on your arm and workout with it, can you?
“see Montero”. Man, I gotta proofread. Too many mistakes. sorry.
Live in the moment a little.
21 games in and people are looking ahead to the line-up and rotation next year?
“It seems perfect for what I would use it for. Though, again, you can?t strap it on your arm and workout with it, can you?”
I’d like to see you try though. LOL!
If Montero played the OF he would be the Yanks’ starting right fielder next year, his hitting is so good.
As a catcher though it is going to be a very difficult organizational call for the Yanks next year. I can’t think of the last rookie who made the leagues as a DH – has there ever been one? – but the Yanks are going to have to really believe he can succeed as a catcher to forego his bat in the DH slot next year and let him continue to develop as a catcher in AAA.
Pat-
Nothing says you can’t do both.
Doreen-
I didn’t know the details regarding contracts. It sounds like what you’re saying for your needs that it makes sense.
But I’d be a little skeptical because of your point regarding the size. If its not small enough to fit in your pocket or purse then it loses a lot of appeal right there. And it certainly doesn’t offer a lot of the features of a laptop.
So its kind of a “tweener” for me in terms of both size and functionality.
I’m sure it’ll sell like hotcakes, every new Apple product does. But you also have to beware the bugs and issues that are sure to surface like with any new product’s “version 1″.
I’d wait for them to get the kinks out then buy the 2nd one they release (which will probably be within 6 months if you follow Apple’s production history).
As short as this homestand will be, it will be the difference maker of Mark Teixeira and Alex Rodriquez finding their batting strokes.
This will cause the rest of the lineup to be more frightening for opposing pitchers.
“To me it just seems like a laptop without a keyboard or a big ipodtouch that is too big to carry everywhere?.maybe I?m missing something.”
Apple will never admit it, but it really is just a very large iPod Touch. I personally don’t see anything wrong with that.
“I looked at the Ipads the other day at the apple store..at first I thought they were really cool. But then I started thinking about what I would use it for…its nearly as big as a laptop and its too big to carry in your pocket like a smartphone…
To me it just seems like a laptop without a keyboard or a big ipodtouch that is too big to carry everywhere….maybe I’m missing something.”
Exactly!
I hope that Cliff Lee playing for the Yanks next year never happens. I know he is a talented pitcher but he will turn 33 next year. A contract at 5 years for between 90-100 mil for a pitcher who does have some history of injury concerns me. Yanks have been lucky in the past few years with long term contracts. He is making his first start tonight for Seattle.
miggs -
I’d probaby wait until version two to actually buy it. I can be patient in spite of myself.
If Brett the Jet turns into an everyday player, I’d bat him lead off with Jeter 2nd. BG is really only suited to hit 1, 8, or 9; 2nd is not a great place for him IMHO.
For right now NJ is as good as any option for the #2 hole; he still has like a .380 OBP; he’ll come around.
Swish or Grandy are also good options for the #2 spot, but those 2 guy can hit anywhere in the lineup; well Swish probably should not lead off.
Don’t anyone put AJax in Grandy’s class untill he plays a full season in the ML.
MTU
Pace yourself.
“I?d wait for them to get the kinks out then buy the 2nd one they release (which will probably be within 6 months if you follow Apple?s production history).”
The iPad has been surprisingly kinks free. So far, the only issue that was reported was the Wifi connection issue. Other than that, it’s been problem free. I was going to wait for the second iteration, but I’m having a hard time waiting. I’m one of those gadget geeks who has no impulse control.
I can’t speak for anyone else but the iPad fills no need that I have. It’s completely superfluous.
I have an iPhone, a desktop computer and a netbook. There is nothing the iPad can do that one of those 3 devices don’t do better.
I’m doing good Wave! I am interested in how this season progresses as I believe it holds a huge opportunity to be very special. My Hokies may have the same opportunity this Fall, but one never knows until they play the games.
Pat-
No need.
Born to multi-task.
It is a oversized iPod touch, but the iPod touch, at least from what I can gather on the website, doesn’t have the 3G.
Because, it would be cheaper to do an iPod touch (small version is all I need) and an e-reader, I guess. But there are so many places wifi just doesn’t go, so iPod touch is limited in that sense.
Laura-
So you essentially think the I-Pad is a bigger version of the I-Touch. That’s interesting and I never thought of it that way. Doesn’t it offer features that the I-Touch doesn’t?
Maybe I’m missing something. I own the I-Touch and absolutely love it, but I though the I-Pad did things that the I-Touch did not.
Thanks for indulging me in the off-topic discussion, guys.
The iPad can get on the internet using 3g which I don’t think the iTouch can do. It’s got a bigger screen, faster processor, more battery life (i think?). Other than that they are pretty similar devices.
Doreen, I own a BN Nook. 3G and WIfi…..
miggs -
It does offer a little more than iPod Touch in terms of features, but at its most basic, it seems like it’s based off the Touch.
“Maybe I?m missing something. I own the I-Touch and absolutely love it, but I though the I-Pad did things that the I-Touch did not.”
There are a few differences, but I don’t think they are major. You can use Apple’s productivity suite on the iPad (their version of Microsoft Office). The iPad also has iBooks, but the Touch will get that with the new Apple OS 4.0 in June. Of course, I don’t know who would want to read a book on the Touch. The screen is too small.
Bwahahah,Orioles leave the Yankees, and welcome bos this weekend. Monday they are back again with the Yankees . Is this their worst week ever? They finish next with another division leader, 4 games, the Twins, this means they will play 13 straight days !!!
I’m a technology nut too.
Most of my friends think its crazy that I own both a Blackberry and an I-Phone, although one is basically for work and the other for personal use. When I pulled out the I-Touch one day, some of them just shook their heads.
The iPad’s battery lasts for over 10 hours. That’s another difference.
The first models of the I-Pad did not include a multi-tasking feature.
I do not know if that has been remedied yet but if it hasn’t that is a
deficiency that a netbook doesn’t have.
I think the I-Pad does not allow for any external storage either which is also a potential negative.
“Most of my friends think its crazy that I own both a Blackberry and an I-Phone, although one is basically for work and the other for personal use. When I pulled out the I-Touch one day, some of them just shook their heads.”
I love my iPhone, but I really do wish that it had a real keyboard like the Blackberry.
The iPad gets Apple’s version of multi-tasking in the fall. iPhone users get it in June.
Tom in NJ -
Is the 3G really free with the Nook?
“Is the 3G really free with the Nook?”
I think that it is. I have to say though that the Nook hasn’t been getting good reviews. If you are looking at pure e-readers, get the Kindle or one of Sony’s.
Laura-
JMO but I think the HP version will be more versatile than the I-Pad at a similar price.
Completely off-topic, but can anyone who lives in NY State or Pennsylvania out there direct me to a farm that sells raw, organic goat’s or sheep’s milk?
The condition is that they don’t turn the animals into livestock that they either kill for meat or sell for said purpose.
I have endless listings, but they all kill the animals. I’m thinking maybe there are smaller farms in either NY or PA that don’t bother to advertise or get on these lists? If anyone knows of anyone – or, if you know of a bootleg farmer in NJ, lol, I’d be happy to give them my business.
Thank you for any leads.
MTU
Can you imagine Cashman’s response if one of the beat writers called and asked him about September call-ups now?
“JMO but I think the HP version will be more versatile than the I-Pad at a similar price.”
But it’s going to run Windows. I’m an Apple convert. I only do Windows at work.
BryanHoch Just spotted an Escot bus in Newark with markings of ‘Service to Rays Games’ and a Tampa phone #. Now that guy is lost.
pat April 30th, 2010 at 11:27 am
Can you imagine Cashman?s response if one of the beat writers called and asked him about September call-ups now?
*************************
I’d like to hear that conversation.
Only when you’re on BN.com.
Erin -
That is too funny!!! LOL
Thanks, Tom in NJ.
Lots to think about…
Pat-
Cash would probably just spin their heads around with his glibness, and say something totally incomprehensible that shot way over their heads (which is usually easy).
Something like “It’s a process and we’ll look at that whenever our needs become apparent but it’s premature to speculate”.
Says a lot but says nothing. He has a future as a Policitician.
New Post: Pitching matchups vs. White Sox
I hate the stock market.
Joe and Evan on the fan talking about Cano hitting better now that Melky is gone. I dont think that is the case, but it is a good argument.
Every picture you see Cano at a dominican event or party Melky was with him. You never know what happend, but it might had a positive affect on him.
I looked at the i-pad the other day and it was pretty fun. My question to you all is: since it does not have a flasah player does that mean mlb.com games will not be available on one?
Dumb, Dumber, Dumbest.
.
“”"”Bwahahah,Orioles leave the Yankees, and welcome bos this weekend. Monday they are back again with the Yankees . Is this their worst week ever? They finish next with another division leader, 4 games, the Twins, this means they will play 13 straight days !!!”"”"
Playing 13 straight games is hardly a problem. The spoiled players get a per diem for food, they get their luggage taken care of by their handlers, everything taken care of by their handlers. All the players have to do is show up, practice and play ball. That’s a life we all wish for.