Yankees second-rounder part of MLB youth program
Posted by: Chad Jennings - Posted in Misc on Jun 17, 2010 
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A total of 25 athletes who played or trained at the Major League Baseball Urban Youth Academy in Compton were taken in this year’s first-year player draft, including the Yankees second-round pick Angel Gumbs, who was a member of the MLB UYA tournament team and batted .495, with 47 runs and 22 RBI for Torrance High School. It’s pretty cool when stuff like this actually plays out with tangible results.
“It is most gratifying to see so many outstanding student-athletes that have come through the Academy selected in the MLB first-Year Player Draft,” said Jimmie Lee Solomon, executive vice president of baseball development, in a press release. “While this is just a part of our work at the Academy, it is very rewarding to witness the success of these young men.”
Also from the release: Prior to the 2010 MLB First-Year Player Draft, 75 student-athletes have been drafted and 49 have signed professional contracts with Major League organizations. More than 100 Academy student-athletes have gone on to participate in collegiate baseball and softball programs.
MLB is committed to providing opportunities to play baseball and softball to young people in urban America through the establishment of the Major League Baseball Urban Youth academies. In addition to the Academy in Compton, MLB has established and is operating an Academy in Houston and has recently signed agreements to build another in Hialeah, Fla.
straight outta Compton!
I believe Chris Smith who was the Yankees fatetful 7th round pick in 2008 also played in that program. I call Smith, who is already out of the organization, fateful because it is largely because of his spectacular flop that the Yanks now have a national crosschecking program. I think he may have also gotten his area scout canned.
I believe we have a new area scout in Southern Cal and he was not involved in the Chris Smith pick.
Needless to say, GCL is starting up in a few days an it would be nice to have Angelo Gumbs there with Cito.
Hi Doreen,
Here is my post from yesterday:
Patrick from CT June 16th, 2010 at 1:32 pm
Is there GTLU today?
If so:
Jeter-ss
Swish-rf
Tex-1b
Arod-dh
Cano-2b
Posada-c
Granderson-cf
Russo-3b
Gardner-lf
No big deal Doreen. I’m going to win today too…
Thanks!
GTLU repeat from the end of the last topic:
Doreen:
Jeter SS
Grandy CF
Tex 1B
Alex DH
Robbie 2B
Georgie C
Swish RF
Gardy LF
Ramiro 3B
“Needless to say, GCL is starting up in a few days an it would be nice to have Angelo Gumbs there with Cito”
———————————————————————–
Phil:
valuable info. You seem connected
and Kevin Jordan too?
Jeter ss
Granderson cf
Tex 1b
Cano 2b
Jorge dh
Swisher rf
Cervelli C
Gardner lf
Pena 3b
Thanks Doreen
GTLU Winner
Jeter-ss
Swish-rf
Tex-1b
Arod-dh
Cano-2b
Posada-c
Grandy-cf
Pena-3B
Gardy-lf
Pettite-SP 7innings and a W…..
Thanks for the info. Phil.
Patrick from CT -
I’ll fix my records. If you posted it, you entered a lineup.
I’ll add you to the winners list.
Speaking of the draft, I wonder if Paul O’Neill’s kid is going to sign or if it was more a token move by the organization?
On Chad’s original thought this morning, about bringing up another relief pitcher, I agree that in theory it makes sense, but in practice it really doesn’t.
The relief options at Scranton are completely underwhelming. We all know what Albaladejo is and I’m starting to wonder if Mark Melancon is simply a AAAA player. He’s dominant in the minors but can’t get anyone out when he’s up here and doesn’t seem to be making any adjustments based on his lack of results at the major league level. It appears almost as if he goes back to AAA, dominates and settles into the mindset of “well I’m getting these guys out so it must just be bad luck at the ML level.”
If the Yankees want to send Logan down and call up Romulo Sanchez for a couple of days, that’s fine – but as I said, between Park, Joba, Robertson, Marte and Mo the Yankees should have enough arms to get them through the next two games by which time Gaudin and Logan will be available again.
Patrick from CT -
WAIT!!!
I’m going crazy.
I DID enter your lineup yesterday and I did announce you and “Unknown” as yesterday’s winners!!
If you click on my name, you can see the standings and also the GTLU blog entry from yesterday lists you as a winner.
Do organizations make token moves when signing players? I don’t doubt it necessarily, just curious.
“Speaking of the draft, I wonder if Paul O’Neill’s kid is going to sign or if it was more a token move by the organization?”
—————————————————
Chip: the word is, it was a token move and he will attend Michigan. No need to offer him in a trade, yet
Chip
I thought Paul said he was going to the University of Michigan the other night on the broadcast. I could be wrong.
vinny-b,
Kevin Jordan won’t be there. In fact, very few of the high school aged picks with be there from the start. And that’s because, if we do sign them, they will be signed to overslot deals. And deals cannot be finalized until the commissioners office signs off on them. Comrade Bud has the illegal habit of letting the overslot deals sit on his desk for most of the summer or until the deadline befor he signs off, as he legally must. So we lose a lot of development time that way.
In the case of Kevin Jordan, who had a strep infection that limited him this season, the Yanks are going to watch him play in a summmer league and see if he can justify the number he is asking for with his play in that league. So that one could come down to the August 15 deadline.
Chris Smith’s baseball-reference page:
http://www.baseball-reference......ith-010chr
hideous numbers in 170 PAs. I think the worst of the lot is the 8 total bases in 17 games (54 PAs) he accrued in 2008. Not good, son. Not good at all.
He was actually a 5th rounder. Yikes.
Thank you Doreen!
Excellent story in the “On Baseball” column in the NY Times today about Girardi by Tyler Kepner.
Great excerpt in talking about AJ…
“Burnett is 33 years old”. His catcher, we can say confidently now, makes no difference. he is who he is: very good or very bad. When he is bad at least, he is accountable”.
Best description yet of AJ.
O’Neill’s nephew is going to the University of Michigan. He recently had shoulder surgery and will be going to college after rehabbing it.
Chip: the word is, it was a token move and he will attend Michigan. No need to offer him in a trade, yet
——————————————————————————————
Nice one.
I’m pretty sure O’Neil’s nephew is going to college rather than signing. As for token draft picks…
This year the Tigers drafted Jim Leyland’s son, Lloyd McClendon’s son and Justin Verlander’s brother. The Mets drafted John Franco’s son, the A’s drafted Bob Geren’s son, the Cardinals drafted Andy Benes’s son, the Rockies drafted Jim Tracy’s son, the Blue Jays drafted Ricky Romero’s brother and the Dodgers drafted Andre Ethier’s brother.
Not sure all of those were token picks, but I have to think a lot of them were made largely because of the connection to the organization.
Random thought here.
Which Yankee is most like your social circle of friends that you hang out with?
For me it’s AJ Burnett. He seems like the only player on the team who’s into heavy music. He’s a trouble-maker.
Unfortunately his wild personality translates on the mound
O’Neill. Sorry.
Shame Spencer June 17th, 2010 at 1:47 pm
Do organizations make token moves when signing players? I don?t doubt it necessarily, just curious.
———————-
Sure, it has happened a few times. The Tigers drafted Jim Leyland’s kid; a couple of years ago the White Sox took Kenny Williams’ son….
Now I’m not saying these kids can’t play…just that the organization may take them late in the draft as a tip of the cap to the people with the organization.
AJ would fit right in with my friends.
I miss the days of Brandon overrating Chris Smith upon being drafted and already penciling him into the OF.
I can only imagine Tabata being up on the Pirates has sent him into a tizzy.
Bret-
Picture this.
Lee and Burnett on the same team. Two Arkansas Hillbilles.
What do you think they’ll talk about ?
I like AJ Burnett. He was a vary good aquision last year and played a big roll. He gets paid way too much for who he is, but what the heck…
I don’t see Burnett as a hillbilly.
Swisher, yes.
Burnett. He’s more anti-establishment than most conservative folks from his state.
Lee?
Strikes me as a hick.
Michael O’Neill is actually a good prospect and fit right in in that group of OF’s the Yanks took late in the draft. He did have shoulder surgery and that’s why he went so late, but he told PP he wants to sign, so it will be interesting to see what happens with his folks, who want him to go to college.
Bret-
I think they talk about being 2 of the highest paid pitchers in baseball.
And where the best fishing holes are.
Chad:
interesting list.
and: LA Dodgers selecting Tommy Lasorda’s Godson (Pizza Boy)
Phil:
thank you for the word on Kevin Jordan and the others.
would you rank these players, in terms of your own preference. And any predictions on how many NYY will sign?
Gumbs, Mason Williams, Kevin Jordan
Oddest token pick in history. In 1993 the White Sox drafted Ron Schueler’s DAUGHTER, Carey in the 43rd round. Schueler was a former White Sox pitcher, scout, pitching coach and GM.
Is that Big Canadian Lefty, Evan Rutckyj, going to sign? He sounds a bit raw, but it would be nice to get him signed and coached up.
GTLU
Jeter SS
Granderson CF
Tex 1b
Alex 3b
Cano 2b
Posada DH
Swisher RF
Cervelli C
Gardner LF
ah yes, Jose Tabata – yet another reason why I laugh when people get all geeked up about low level prospects.
“Lee and Burnett on the same team. Two Arkansas Hillbilles.
What do you think they’ll talk about ?”
———————————————————
NASCAR, crawfish, and Skoal
MTU,
I see Swisher as more of the hunter/fisherman type of guy.
West Virginia is perfect for him.
A buddy of mine is from West Virginia and his family owns like 500 acres of hunting trac in West Virginia.
I asked him about his success rate and he said “200%”
I said, “What do you mean by that?”.
He said, “Every time I go hunting I bring back 2 deer.”
Great guy but… total hick.
Vinny-
Good ones. How about the Dukes of Hazzard and of course Daisy Mae.
vinny,
I wouldn’t rank them yet. The Yanks went into this draft looking for athleticism and power arms. Gumbs, Williams and Jordan all fit the athleticism criteria.
As far as the big Canadian Lefty goes, I have a feeling he will end up signing, but like Williams he was floating a very unrealistic number to begin the draft (1.6M). And neither he nor Williams will end up getting the numbers they started out floating but had no buyers for at the draft.
My gtlu prediction:
Jeter SS
Granderson CF
Texiera 1b
ARod 3b
Cano 2b
Posada DH
Swisher RF
Cervelli C
Gardner LF
MTU (aka GBURL) June 17th, 2010 at 2:11 pm
Vinny-
Good ones. How about the Dukes of Hazzard and of course Daisy Mae.
—————–
Or they could pull a John Rocker and discuss the riders on the subway.
Thanks, Phil.
Speaking of hillbillies for a minute – if anyone’s interested in a really good summer song I would suggest the Zac Brown Band’s song Toes.
Bret-
LOL.
If he is from West Virginia he must love bungee jumping.
And by the way, I must be a hick also because I love the wilderness.
I just don’t like killing things. I’d just as soon watch Bambi as shoot her.
“Or they could pull a John Rocker and discuss the riders on the subway”
———————————————————
lol
who would last longer in a NY Bar: John Rocker or Jim Rome?
No problem, Tom.
This year, they took a higher % of Preps than they had in the first 5 Damon Oppenheimer drafts. As a result, they’re probably bound to sign a few more than usual. I both `08 and `09 they signed 4 Prep pitchers. This year I think it will be a bigger number. At least 5 and possibly as many as 7 depending on how some of the kids pitch this summer.
Vinny:
Rome.
At least he has money to buy drinks for the people he insults.
Hey any word on how Scranton is filling their open roster spots? They have three right:
Logan
Winfree
Cusack
Bret the Hitman June 17th, 2010 at 2:11 pm
MTU,
I see Swisher as more of the hunter/fisherman type of guy.
——-
I’m pretty sure he was on Yankees On Deck fishing with Bruney (before trade obviously). Swish had never been fishing before. Having a fishing rod in his hand was a new experience. For him it was all about the food in the cooler. lol
MTU,
I don’t like killing things either but I’m a huge fan of venison so…
Fortunately for Bambi, I probably suck at hunting.
“Rome.
At least he has money to buy drinks for the people he insults”
————————————————————-
yes. A fast talker
Jetes – SS
Grandy – CF
Tex – 1B
Alex – DH
Cano – 2B
Swish – RF
Cisco – C
Russo – 3B
GGBG – LF
Thanks Doreen!
Bret-
If you like venison you will absolutely love Elk.
The best steak I have ever had was an Elk steak up in Colorado.
It was so soft the weight of the knife almost cut through it.
And the taste was simply off the the charts good.
If you haven’t tried it yet you should try it sometime. you won’t regret it.
Bret,
Just an opinion, but if it wasn’t for Bambi most people would consider deer the pests that they are. Especially now that the wolf population in NY is so low.
They are to the suburbs and country what rats and pigeons are to the city. Though they do taste better.
Didn’t Chris Smith eat his way out of baseball? I believe that’s what the story was.
Still don’t see how the scout could have been that far off when looking at him play. Could his bad work ethic have led to his poor showing? I’m sure that didn’t help. No scout could be that bad, could he?
Jeter SS
Swisher RF
Tex 1B
A-Rod DH
Cano 2B
Granderson CF
Cervelli C
Pena 3B
GGBG LF
Ah, thanks guys. Its not that I don’t get the concept of a token pick but I didn’t really think it was as prevalent a practice though I did just read about Leyland and Franco’s kids.
Here’s an article from 2007 about Swisher’s workout routine:
“While many baseball players have gone new age with their training methods, Swisher opted for the oldest program he could find. He drove out to the Midwestern countryside and swung a sledgehammer until he could swing it no more.
He chopped trees. He leveled walls. He busted concrete. When there were no trees or walls or concrete left, he found a monster-truck tire, and he whaled away on that. And after he was finished, he had gained 20 pounds.”
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02.....isher.html
“MTU (aka GBURL) June 17th, 2010 at 2:17 pm
And by the way, I must be a hick also because I love the wilderness.”
—————————————————————————
the same, MTU.
you might not believe, the country which exists 2 hours north of New York City. Mountains in all 4 directions. Wildlife everywhere. Wild turkeys, ++ deer, groundhogs, coyotes. Haven’t viewed a bear yet, unfortunately
Chip,
I’m pretty sure deers consider humans pests. I mean with all the killing and everything.
Tom-
he missed doing the rocky Balboa workout in the meat locker.
he should incorporate that in next years regimen.
MTU,
I shall eat ELK!
You had me at hello.
raymagnetic June 17th, 2010 at 2:26 pm
Didn?t Chris Smith eat his way out of baseball? I believe that?s what the story was.
Still don?t see how the scout could have been that far off when looking at him play. Could his bad work ethic have led to his poor showing? I?m sure that didn?t help. No scout could be that bad, could he?
——————-
I don’t know – but there was obviously some scout who thought that CJ Henry would be a better pick than Jacoby Ellsbury or Colby Rasmus; so I don’t put anything past scouts.
Bret & MTU -
After Elk, get yourselves some Kangaroo…
I find that the cuter the animal is the better it tastes…though my cat and dog are safe; I do have standards.
Chip June 17th, 2010 at 2:25 pm
Bret,
Just an opinion, but if it wasn’t for Bambi most people would consider deer the pests that they are
***********
I disagree. They look too much like horses.
MTU-
I was going to add that Swisher seemed to go the with the ‘Rocky 4′ workout.
And vinny b – Rome by a long shot. Sometimes, I think NYers are just waiting for Rocker to show himself again so they can abuse him.
Was there ANYTHING funnier than those pictures of him up a tree in full camo??
“Didn’t Chris Smith eat his way out of baseball? I believe that’s what the story was”
————————————————————-
ray:
based on the picture of Chris Smith when he was drafted, it may have been more than just food. Chris Smith was a slender build. And 19 year old slender kinds, cannot eat themselves out of any sport.
Vinny-
Oh Yes I would. I grew up in NYC but I used to go up to the Adirondacks to hunt and get away when I was a teenager. A long time ago but I still remember the beauty.
Just like so many parts of America especially when exiting the concrete jungles.
AJ needs to be tougher on the mound. He should’ve gotten angry and drilled someone in the rear end last night. He needs to show that he is angry like halladay did the other night. AJ was too non chalant. Get angry AJ !
When I was teaching in on a Native American Reservation in Western NY, I took a side job tutoring a couple of kids. I was paid in game meat. When you’re only making 24k fresh out of college game meat is pretty sweet deal.
Tom in N.J. – sounds like the Mantle offseason regimen
Jeter-SS
Swisher-RF
Tex-1B
ARod-3B
Cano-2B
Posada-DH
Granderson-CF
Cervelli-C
Gardner-LF
Not not Swisher is another Mantle.
Chip-
I try to stay away from Roo and jumping beans. Gives me a nervous stomach.
Glad to hear your dog and cat are safe at least.
Thank goodness for small miracles.
Hey, Chip, how are the Cincinnati scout who sold them on Chad Mottola over Derek Jeter?
I guess they don’t exactly have it down to a science, lol.
Oops
Not *that* Swisher is another Mantle.
“I don’t know – but there was obviously some scout who thought that CJ Henry would be a better pick than Jacoby Ellsbury or Colby Rasmus; so I don’t put anything past scouts.”
CJ Henry is an all star compared to Chris Smith.
If AJ hadn’t pitched so well against the Yankees when he was with the Blue Jays, he probably wouldn’t be a Yankee right now.
It’s for that reason, I believe the Yankees will go after Cliff Lee hard.
He shut them down in the WS.
Heck, even Pavano shut them down in the 2007 WS.
When a pitcher dominates the Yankees potent offense, he can usually cash in when he hits FA.
The fact that AJ has stayed healthy should be the key.
When the Yanks signed him, the media couldn’t stop saying how AJ would inevitably be injured and spend half of the contract on the DL.
(knock on wood
)
MTU –
My wife’s family is from northern Vermont (we actually just got married earlier this month) and it’s amazing how in touch with the land the folks up there are. It’s amazing driving up Rte. 7 from NY and seeing, instead of giant supermarkets, farm stands selling locally grown and raised products. If it weren’t for all the Red Sox fans it would be ideal for me. I’m obsessed with hitting all the Farmers’ Markets I can and these places put the local ones to shame.
Tom-
You were a lucky Man for a number of reasons.
“Oh Yes I would. I grew up in NYC but I used to go up to the Adirondacks to hunt and get away when I was a teenager. A long time ago but I still remember the beauty.
”
Just like so many parts of America especially when exiting the concrete jungles.
—————————————————————
MTU: you definitely would then : ) The Adirondacks define wilderness
I live near the Hudson Highlands, Bear Mountain, etc. In Dutchess county
There’s actually a place up there, about 30 minutes from Burlington, called Dakin Farms where each year they have an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast with syrup that they are making right infront of you and sausage and bacon that are “donated” by pigs that the farm raises themselves.
I swear – it’s worth the drive.
Tom,
Where can I sign up for that deal
Chip-
Sounds like you married well. I’m sure she’s good looking, wealthy, intelligent, and a good cook also.
MTU -
You’re right on almost all of those things (I do the cooking though)
“Rte. 7 from NY and seeing, instead of giant supermarkets, farm stands selling locally grown and raised products”
———————————————————
Chip: congrats.
Route 7 is heaven. From Dorsett Vermont, to Middlebury, to St. Albans. And everywhere in VT
Chip-
Then what on earth is she doing with you ?
Vinny -
Thanks.
I just need someone to explain to me why about half the farms I saw on the drive had camels or llamas in addition to cows, chickens, etc…
It is really funny how that article on Nick made it seem like he braved the back woods of central Ohio. That place is about 5 minutes from where Les Wexner the owner of Limited Brands built the city of New Albany.
MTU –
She likes my trade proposals
MTU -
Also, I’m a very good cook
I have to admit, I was very disappointed with the performance from A.J. last night.
Not sure what is wrong, but something clearly was not right last night.
Could have been Jorge? Could have been A.J. did not have his “best stuff” last night?
Bottom line;A..J. was not locating his fastball at all. Does he need a slider? Would he dominate more with a change-up?
Erin-
If you are out there, it was pretty awesome for Robbie to hit a home run for you last night.
I am glad he got the memo
YES is showing the clip from the 2001 WS when the entire crowd was chanting for Paulie because they knew it was his last home game…always gives me goosebumps.
Chip-
Lol. You’re OK.
jonmorosi Antonio Bastardo to DL for #Phillies. Mathieson up. #MLB
Warning Track Power –
That’s what you’re going to get from AJ from time to time. He’s not going to be mediocre, he’s either going to be good, great or really bad.
Kim Jones was saying it, when AJ starts to lose it he just doesn’t seem to be able to get it back and things snowball.
MTU -
I must be doing something right.
Don’t let MTU fool you guys, he’s an avid hunter. He’s killed many a bottle of Wild Turkey.
any of you back yard pit masters who are looking for something to do for your fourth of july – I can attest to how great this recipe is, just stay away from babybacks – they are for people who think they like ribs but really don’t:
http://amazingribs.com/recipes.....candy.html
Vinny-
Last thing I’ll say on the subject (to the delight of many).
Does it tell you anything about me that two of my favorite movies are “Jeremiah Johnson” (shot on location in Utah, and seen about 20x’s), and “Last of the Dogmen” ?
Hick, right ?
Chip June 17th, 2010 at 2:48 pm
YES is showing the clip from the 2001 WS when the entire crowd was chanting for Paulie because they knew it was his last home game…always gives me goosebumps.
**************************************************************************
Do you realize how much I envy you right about now?
Blake-
Jack Daniels.
MTU (aka GBURL) June 17th, 2010 at 2:52 pm
Vinny-
Last thing I?ll say on the subject (to the delight of many).
Does it tell you anything about me that two of my favorite movies are ?Jeremiah Johnson? (shot on location in Utah, and seen about 20x?s), and ?Last of the Dogmen? ?
Hick, right ?
—————–
If you were a real hick “Deliverance” would be on the list.
“Bottom line;A..J. was not locating his fastball at all. Does he need a slider? Would he dominate more with a change-up?”
————-
AJ has been able to dominate for most of his life largely with 1 pitch.
When you don’t NEED to learn how to adapt, along with a bit of stubbornness, you generally don’t and can’t.
AJ claims he learned alot from Roy Halladay. I don’t see it.
Still, this is nothing new. You live with the bad starts so you can get the great ones.
Warning Track Power June 17th, 2010 at 2:53 pm
Chip June 17th, 2010 at 2:48 pm
YES is showing the clip from the 2001 WS when the entire crowd was chanting for Paulie because they knew it was his last home game…always gives me goosebumps.
**************************************************************************
Do you realize how much I envy you right about now?
—————-
Absolutely my favorite Yankee of the last 20 years. It’s a tough call between him and Donnie, but I have to give a slight edge to Paulie.
Chip-
It may not be on the list but I certainly feel as though I have been
delivered.
Chip,
zak brown band = awesome bTW.
Boston Dave –
I think the thing that AJ learned from Halladay is that you don’t have to throw every pitch as if you’re trying to break down a brick wall. It’s that new mindset that he says is the reason he’s been able to stay healthy the last few years.
Blake –
I’ve made it my “anthem” for this summer. Every BBQ, every long drive – it’ll be playing.
MTU
I didn’t know you hiked in the Adks! That is our home hiking range.
And even tho we live right in town, there are deer everywhere, often in our backyard. They are pests, but cute nonetheless.
Chip/Blake-
I am going to have to go get me some Zak Brown Band. Thanks for the tip.
Chip,
Its a good song…chicken fried was mine last summer….good boat song.
Erin should have focused on AJ performing for her birthday present, not Cano.
“Boston Dave –
I think the thing that AJ learned from Halladay is that you don’t have to throw every pitch as if you’re trying to break down a brick wall. It’s that new mindset that he says is the reason he’s been able to stay healthy the last few years.”
—————
I agree with that. But it’s a shame he didn’t learn anything else.
You can’t expect AJ to have Roy’s command, which is pretty much unparalleled. But taking some of Roy’s approach to pitching and keeping hitters off-balance would have been wise.
The fact that AJ has stayed healthy should be the key.
When the Yanks signed him, the media couldn’t stop saying how AJ would inevitably be injured and spend half of the contract on the DL.
(knock on wood )
*******************
With the way aj basketcase is pitching the last month blowing out his elbow right about now isn’t that bad a scenario – if it means cliff lee will be in NY by July
MTU –
The name of the song you want to catch from them is Toes.
Kate -
Deer are quite cute, quite tasty, and a royal pain in the area just south of the back.
“YES is showing the clip from the 2001 WS when the entire crowd was chanting for Paulie because they knew it was his last home game…always gives me goosebumps.”
Another reason why losing that WS hurt more than any other, including 2004. Paul was my favorite Yankee, and wanted him to retire a World Champion. Never forget the shot they showed of a glum O’Neill staring out at the field watching the DBacks celebrate.
Boston Dave -
I completely agree.
AJ probably has the best “stuff” of any pitcher on the Yankees. If he could control it on a regular basis he would be a Cy Young candidate year after year. But then again the same could be said for the likes of Daniel Cabrera.
“With the way aj basketcase is pitching the last month blowing out his elbow right about now isn’t that bad a scenario – if it means cliff lee will be in NY by July”
===========
that’s one way to look at it.
I still remember his great performance in the WS last year when the Yanks really needed a win.
I truly believe he’ll be just fine this season – and by fine I mean he’ll be the same as 2009.
Chip June 17th, 2010 at 2:48 pm
YES is showing the clip from the 2001 WS when the entire crowd was chanting for Paulie because they knew it was his last home game…always gives me goosebumps.
__
One of my favorites was in Bernie’s last year, he ran out to right when the RF (cant remember who) was hurt, realized he would be ok and ran back to the dugout to a standing O.
Kate-
Not that much but I have been there a few times especially when I was young. Long ago.
I do remember one particular instance when being up there in Winter and getting caught in a near blizzard.
Had to break into a guys’ house just to survive it.
I left him a note. He called and I offered to to pay for the damage and he just said no worries. Obviously I was very grateful to him for having built that cabin.
I don’t know how else to say it but I love the wilderness. I think you know that.
Erica in NY June 17th, 2010 at 2:48 pm
Erin-
If you are out there, it was pretty awesome for Robbie to hit a home run for you last night.
I am glad he got the memo
*******************************
That was pretty awesome, wasn’t it? He did not disappoint
upstate Kate:
do you have any black bears, up that way ?
GO LAKERS June 17th, 2010 at 3:00 pm
?YES is showing the clip from the 2001 WS when the entire crowd was chanting for Paulie because they knew it was his last home game…always gives me goosebumps.?
Another reason why losing that WS hurt more than any other, including 2004. Paul was my favorite Yankee, and wanted him to retire a World Champion. Never forget the shot they showed of a glum O?Neill staring out at the field watching the DBacks celebrate.
————–
Especially painful since Paul couldn’t really enjoy his last title due to his father’s death.
“Does it tell you anything about me that two of my favorite movies are “Jeremiah Johnson” (shot on location in Utah, and seen about 20x’s), and “Last of the Dogmen” ?
”
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may need to add both movies to the Netflix list, MTU. Never checked them : )
86w183 June 17th, 2010 at 2:59 pm
Erin should have focused on AJ performing for her birthday present, not Cano.
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Sorry 86. I guess AJ didn’t get the message that he had have a good game on my birthday.
Gotta run now.
wait till you see what I have planned for YMH’s tenth win tribute.
Really enjoyed talking about the back country. later.
so what is tex’s average going to look ike in October?
A.J. Burnett’s after 14 starts last year:
8-6, 4.24 in 87 IP.
2010 after 14 starts: 6-5, 4.33 ERA in 87.1 IP.
AC1
I would say .270 – .275
Seeing a mention of kangaroos earlier made me think of this-are the Yankees doing a Kangaroo court this year?
Vinny B
yes we do have black bears. I have only seen 2, once in the woods, and one ran into my car and almost totalled it.
they are a real problem now around camping areas, especially since some of them have learned how to get into bear proof containers
I would say .270 – .275
Where he is now, i think most of us would be happy with .270.
# ac1 June 17th, 2010 at 3:02 pm
Chip June 17th, 2010 at 2:48 pm
YES is showing the clip from the 2001 WS when the entire crowd was chanting for Paulie because they knew it was his last home game…always gives me goosebumps.
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One of my favorites was in Bernie’s last year, he ran out to right when the RF (cant remember who) was hurt, realized he would be ok and ran back to the dugout to a standing O.
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I was always upset Tino never had the chance to get the same treatment. Bernie was going out that year (I think) and it was like everyone forgot Tino wouldn’t be suiting up again.
Just kidding Erin… hope it was a great day
My only issue with AJ is his unwillingness to throw his changeup which I believe would make him a much more difficult guy to face. Instead or 1 or 2 a start how about 3 or 4 an inning?
Tino wanted to keep playing, but the Yanks had no room for him after signing the dancing bear to play 1B. Tino ended up signing a three year deal with St Louis. Bernie wanted to keep playing too. Not the same situations as O’Neill
86w183 June 17th, 2010 at 3:15 pm
Just kidding Erin? hope it was a great day
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I knew you were kidding-I was too.
It was a very nice day, thank you.
Does anyone think the Yankees regret signing AJ Burnett to such a huge contract? I think it was something like 5 years $75 Million. Only 3 1/2 years left on the contract of the most inconsistent pitcher in baseball.
I have the following people submitting lineups today:
Yanksfansince67
CT23
Joe from Long Island
Erin
Patrick from CT
noreaster
Fran (the original)
Ed H.
Phil Columbus
champ809
Unknown
WestchesterDave
NYY626
Erica
Warning Track Power
Please let me know if I missed your entry. GTLU ends at 3:30
Yeah in the end, I would have rather held onto Tino than waste 119 M on Giambi. Too bad Bernie is gone. There is an opening as the 4th OF.
I think more than the changeup, he has to use his two seam fastball more.
That pitch induces contact, reduces his walks, and got him through trouble early in the year.
For some reason last night, he was consumed with throwing his four seamer. He couldn’t locate it, fell behind in counts, and that killed him.
Michael Kay and the other dude thats on with him ripping AJ to shreds right now – rightly so!!
Does anyone think the Yankees regret signing AJ Burnett to such a huge contract? I think it was something like 5 years $75 Million. Only 3 1/2 years left on the contract of the most inconsistent pitcher in baseball.
__
No. They won the World Series. That was their plan.
I wonder if some crazy deal came from ATL (who sees a chance to win this year), to take Burnett and give a little back, and then we package that and something else to Seattle for Lee.
Obviously wouldnt happen, but ATL wanted Burnett, and they will be buyers this year.
Wait, wait, wait.. didn’t Tino come back after we signed Giambi though? In 2005??
AJ was booed not for his lousy pitching last night, but for not getting to first on that play Tex made. He was pulled immediately after that.
Wait, wait, wait.. didn’t Tino come back after we signed Giambi though? In 2005??
___
Yes, and had something like 11 homeruns in May that year.
“yes we do have black bears. I have only seen 2, once in the woods, and one ran into my car and almost totalled it.
they are a real problem now around camping areas, especially since some of them have learned how to get into bear proof containers”
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Kate: sad to know of that. I hope you were ok.
I haven’t seen any black bears, this way. Which is funny, because it seems they are everywhere in New Jersey
Does anyone think the Yankees regret signing AJ Burnett to such a huge contract? I think it was something like 5 years $75 Million. Only 3 1/2 years left on the contract of the most inconsistent pitcher in baseball.
Not at all. The other choice that year was Derek Lowe and that would have been a disaster.
I thought so. He never got the send off that year though, and it always made me sad. A lot was going on, so it was easy to get distracted, but I always had a soft spot for Paulie and Tino especially.
Ripping him to shreds on a radio show accomplishes what exactly?
You feel better?
Guess what? He will get the ball again in five days and life will go on.
This fixation some of you have to tear into players when they have bad nights is comical.
They aren’t robots. Sometimes, they play poorly.
Deal with it and move on.
It was 5/82.5 not 5/75.
pcaldera So, you can’t toot a vuvuzela at the Stadium. But they can blow out your eardrums nightly from the PA system? How’d security hear the horn
..and 3 1/2 years isn’t that long. I remember counting down the years until Giambi’s was up. When you find yourself thinking “God, in only 5 more seasons we’ll be done with this awful experiment,” 3 1/2 sounds like a breeze.
Even if Burnett flops from this day forward, I doubt that the Yankees will view him as a failure, as he was a big part of bringing the championship back to the Bronx last year. When you consider the $$ tossed down the hopper in the past few years on guys like Pavano and Igawa, paying $75 mil to Burnett for even just one good year and one title is not neccesarily so bad.
SJ44 June 17th, 2010 at 3:24 pm
Ripping him to shreds on a radio show accomplishes what exactly?
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The same as not ripping him with lower ratings..?
Ubaldo owning again today… about to get his 13th win
They have no regrets signing AJ.
Like chip said, if they didn’t sign AJ, they would have signed Derek Lowe. Not a better choice.
AJ Burnett won the biggest game of the year last year. Game 2 of the World Series.
Yes, he’s inconsistent. Yes, he can be frustrating.
The bottom line is, they won a WS with him in the rotation playing a big role.
They have the best record in baseball so far this year with him in the rotation.
He has not missed a start as a Yankee.
I’d say they are very happy they signed him. They, like he, want more consistency.
Time will tell if they get it.
Uhh SJ – michael kay is ripping him to shreds, (you know – the guy that does the play by play on the Yes network) maybe you can get one of your many baseball contacts to give kay a call and tell him to stop.
sj – i’ve noticed now on multiple occasions that when the catchers talk about catching Burnett, they call a “fastball” and he can throw whatever he wants. i’ve never heard of this concept, and it seems rather stupid to me for the catcher to not know if the pitch is going to go pin straight or tail almost a foot. Maybe they need to start breaking down his pitch selection and take it out of his hands?
The all powerful ESPN Michael Kay ripping A.J. apart.
Sometime within the next 5-10 days the all powerful YES Michael Kay will be saying nice things about A.J.
Roy Halladay did one good thing for us. He taught Burnett how to pitch so he didnt get hurt constantly.
From a standpoint of performance per dollar spent, yes Burnett is a bad signing. He’s vastly overpaid. But it’s not like he’s a nothing similar to Pavano or Igawa. He’s basically been an average 3rd starter since signing with the Yanks and he hasn’t missed a start (knocks on wood). Theres value in that. Not $16.5 million per year value, but value.
So what if Kay is ripping. What does that mean? Does that mean its a good thing?
Does that mean he has a call in radio show and needs children like yourself with your SN to call and cry about AJ Burnett on his show?
You know what? Players don’t care. Its schtick and children like you guys fall for it all the time.
But hey, if you feel better to hear the guy get ripped on a radio show, more power to you.
burnett and everyone has bad starts. HOWEVER, he is making 18 M / Year. the least he can do is keep his head in the game.
Tom in N.J. June 17th, 2010 at 3:29 pm
The all powerful ESPN Michael Kay ripping A.J. apart.
Sometime within the next 5-10 days the all powerful YES Michael Kay will be saying nice things about A.J.
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I am avoiding Kay’s radio show today because I just knew he
was going to “rip” A.J. apart.
No need to hear that or imagine him foaming at the mouth.
Kay saying AJ could be a closer? AJ is inconsistent. Don’t you want consistency out of a closer?
SJ44 June 17th, 2010 at 3:24 pm
Ripping him to shreds on a radio show accomplishes what exactly?
You feel better?
Guess what? He will get the ball again in five days and life will go on.
This fixation some of you have to tear into players when they have bad nights is comical.
They aren?t robots. Sometimes, they play poorly.
Deal with it and move on.
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Booing and cheering at a game accomplishes nothing, but it’s just the way things are.
Expecting fans to not rip players after poor performances on radio shows and blogs is like trying to bail out the ocean with a teaspoon.
Radio shows and blogs were created so fans can, among other things, vent frustrations.
Burnett to Atlanta for Heyward!!!
/delusion
Kay does bring up a good point I’ve heard other baseball people talk about with AJ.
Have him be the closer in the last two years of his deal once Mariano retires.
Personally, I see merit in that suggestion.
Perfect guy to replace Mariano.
He has two ridiculous pitches. Is crazy enough to handle closing, and could air it out for one inning shots.
The only question is whether or not he can work back to back days with a relief pitchers workload.
Guess the Line Up is Now Closed
Thank you all for playing today.
I actually get a kick on picturing your 70 year old head exploding when one of us children upsets you with whatever we say
Have him be the closer in the last two years of his deal once Mariano retires
_
Mo isnt going anywhere!!!!
Burnett will be gone before Rivera is.
The last pitcher I want to close is Burnett. Walk the bases loaded anyone?
SJ if that happens… I’m not looking forward to a 16.5 mill a year closer.
There’s also the fact that most of A.J.’s struggles come in the 1st inning and that he’s had exactly 1 relief appearance in his career.
SJ, first time I’ve heard of someone suggesting AJ could close. Just seems too wild and inconsistent. His motion does remind me of Eck though.
Here’s the thing about AJ that makes his contract probably one of the most interesting in baseball:
The Yankees signed him with an eye on his stuff, not his track record.
We see that happen all the time with young players and prospects, but in AJ’s case he was 32 and the Yankees (as well as other teams) just looked at that amazing fastball and devestating curve and thought, “my gosh, he gets consistant and we’ve got a stud”
As for Kay – I think sometimes he goes intentionally overboard on his show because if he goes light on the Yankees he gets accused of being a homer based on his YES gig. So when he does the radio show he tries to swing completely the other way. It’s funny though how his opinions of the Yankees change in the half hour between the time his show ends and the Yankee game starts.
A.J. as the closer? Forget about it.
This is moot. this suggests Rivera would retire after 2011 and he has said he thinks he could go 5 more years.
SJ44 -
I would imagine if that’s something they entertain with AJ, that they’d figure out how to get him to be able to work back to back days – physically speaking.
AJ Burnett’s “value” to the Yankees is very different than his value to almost any other team in baseball.
“Theres value in that. Not $16.5 million per year value, but value.”
There was probably also some value in keeping him away from competing teams. I agree Patrick, a pitcher like AJ may not be worth what he’s being paid (I’m not sure ANY of these guys are worth what they get paid), but I love being a Yankee fan because we can make those types of mistakes/decisions regardless of dollar for production value.
Actually, I’m even close to 70 and I don’t get upset at things I don’t control…..like AJ Burnett’s performance and your childish inability to accept it. Thanks for playing.
Patrick,
Obviously, it would be a transition for the guy. Plus, Mo will be making that kind of coin, or close to it anyway, as a closer.
I’m not concerned so much about the money.
I look at a guy like AJ though and I wonder how well he would age as a starter.
A max effort, inconsistent guy.
Just something to think about what it would be like for him to throw 70-80 innings in relief rather than 180-200 inconsistent innings as a starter.
When Rivera retires the erratic starter who will replace him is Joba, not AJ.
Mo isn’t retiring. why are we debating burnett as a closer?
*not even close to 70*.
I don’t get upset at children like yourself. I laugh at you because of your stupidity.
hmmm…AJ as closer…I get nervous watching Mo and I have complete faith in him
Vinny B
that was a very long time ago. I had a little red hatch back that got in 3 accidents (none of them my fault, honest). I got rid of it and decided that red was not my color!
Everybody retires. Even Mo.
I think he will play next year if he is healthy.
After that? Its anybody’s guess.
AJ Burnett’s “value” to the Yankees is very different than his value to almost any other team in baseball.
—
They can and will pay more for a win than any other team so yeah you’re right.
Actually, I’m even close to 70
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Thanks for verifying what we all knew – did you go to college with Babe Ruth?
You sure act like you get upset with us children – so that makes you senile or a liar, or both.
Everybody retires. Even Mo.
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Yes, when he is ready and he has said he thinks he can play 5 more years.
River Ave Blues is reporting that the Yankees will promote Andrew Brackman to Trenton within a month. This news plus the impressive work that Dellin Betances has had since being activated is very encouraging stuff.
AJ the closer is an interesting discussion.. but isn’t part of his problem that he can’t locate the fastball consistently? I suppose with a lesser number of innings he would have the chance to perform better, but that could go the other way just as easily, couldn’t it? Hmmmm…
Go read a book punk. You are boring.
Mo said he was playing five more years in a WS celebration. I doubt he was speaking truthfully and I wouldn’t hold anybody to that as gospel.
SJ44,
A.J. used to be max effort when he was averaging close to 96 on his fastball. Halladay taught him to be more of a pitcher and less of a max effort thrower. If he were closing I bet he could average 96-97.
I don’t mind paying Mo 15 mill a year because he’s a legendary closer. Would A.J. be as good as Mo? Not a chance. That’s why I don’t like paying him so much dough if he’s a closer.
ac1
Mo hedged on that 5-year number back at the beginning of the season, though.
Someone brought up Chris Smith earlier which had me looking at an all-time awful draft for the Yankees (2005). First two picks: CJ Henry and JB Cox (neither of whom will ever see a cup of coffee in the majors – in fact Henry’s out of baseball already)
Could have had Colby Rasmus and Chase Headley in those first two rounds…drafting is a science my rear.
sj44 – mind scrolling up a bit… i asked you a ? at 3:29 but you got distracted by morons.
Why does everything with AJ have to relate to his contract? As has been said before, they don’t give out awards for team efficiency and he’s clearly not breaking the Yankees bank. They needed two starters that year and they did what it took to get the best two out there. As a pitcher, AJ is what he is…I just don’t understand why his salary always has to weigh into the evaluation of that.
New Post w/lineup
SJ44 June 17th, 2010 at 3:46 pm
Go read a book punk. You are boring.
Mo said he was playing five more years in a WS celebration. I doubt he was speaking truthfully and I wouldn?t hold anybody to that as gospel.
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Mo is going to pitch until Mo says he doesn’t want to pitch any more and the Yankees will be glad to continue signing him.
If Joba’s still in the organization at that time, he’s the closer. Not AJ.
you say “not AJ” like its a definitive answer, like joba is ready to take on that role. neither is true.
blake – MLBers salaries are out of control and the numbers are just so big that people can’t help but focus on them. In reality, its pretty inconsequential (for us anyway) as long as the guy is going out there and pitching (and not pulling a Pavano, when bringing up yearly salary seems appropriate).
RE: Why does everything with AJ have to relate to his contract? As has been said before, they don?t give out awards for team efficiency and he?s clearly not breaking the Yankees bank. They needed two starters that year and they did what it took to get the best two out there. As a pitcher, AJ is what he is?I just don?t understand why his salary always has to weigh into the evaluation of that.
Because his performance doesn’t equivilate to the contract that he signed. For the money he makees, he needs to be a little more consistent.
Yet Socrates once said that if you easily get distracted by morons wouldn’t that make you more of one for allowing that to happen? Smart guy that Socrates.
“that was a very long time ago. I had a little red hatch back that got in 3 accidents (none of them my fault, honest). I got rid of it and decided that red was not my color!”
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: )