It’s official: Yankees sign Soriano
Posted by: Sam Borden - Posted in Misc on Jan 18, 2011 
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Apparently Rafael Soriano is in good health and, with his physical out of the way, the Yankees will introduce him at a press conference tomorrow morning.
Here’s the official release:
The New York Yankees today announced they have signed 2010 All-Star right-handed pitcher Rafael Soriano to a three-year contract.
Soriano, 31, led the American League with a career-high 45 saves in 2010, going 3-2 with a 1.73 ERA (62.1IP, 12ER), 57 strikeouts and a .163 opponents batting average for the Tampa Bay Rays. He became only the fourth pitcher in Major League history to reach those totals for saves, ERA and opponents average in a single season, joining Oakland’s Dennis Eckersley in 1990, Los Angeles-NL’s Eric Gagne in 2003 and Florida’s Armando Benitez in 2004.
His 45 saves were the third-most in the Majors behind San Francisco’s Brian Wilson (48) and San Diego’s Heath Bell (47), while his 93.8 save conversion rate (45-of-48) led the AL and ranked second in the Majors behind Bell (94.0). Among American League relievers, he ranked second in opponents batting average and third in ERA. Soriano also received consideration for the AL Cy Young Award, placing eighth in the voting – the highest finish by a reliever in 2010 AL balloting.
Originally signed by Seattle as a non-drafted free agent in 1996, Soriano has made 342 Major League appearances (eight starts) over nine seasons with the Mariners (2002-06), Braves (2007-09) and Rays (2010), going 11-20 with 88 saves (in 105 chances), a 2.73 ERA (395.0IP, 120ER) and 422 strikeouts.
A native of San Jose, Dominican Republic, Soriano has limited opponents to a .185 batting average in his career as a reliever, the second-lowest mark among all active Major League relievers with at least 1,200 batters faced behind only Carlos Marmol (.158). Right-handed batters have hit just .162 (124-for-767) against Soriano in his career, marking the lowest such average among all active pitchers (minimum 500 batters faced).
Over the last two seasons, in which he has served primarily as a closer, Soriano has allowed the seventh-lowest opponents batting average (.180), the seventh-fewest baserunners/9.0IP (8.61) and struck out the ninth-most batters (159) among all Major League relievers.
The Yankees roster now stands at 40.
* That’s an AP shot of Soriano.
Repost
From Bronx Banter:
“New York has a long tradition of great players who can stay out boozing and courting all night and still kick ass the next day – Babe Ruth, of course; Mickey Mantle, for many years; most recently, David Wells threw a perfect game while still tipsy from the previous evening. I love players like that, who do everything wrong and then perform anyway. But of course that kind of thing will catch up with most people sooner or later — and apparently caught up with Martin on the “sooner” side.”
“It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez certainly seem like they’ve enjoyed the entertainment options New York offers, so to speak, but I’ve never gotten the sense that either of them is a big drinker and certainly they both take care of themselves and come ready to play. Martin will be surrounded by stars and veterans in the New York clubhouse and perhaps a few of them can take him under their wing; I imagine that at the very least, if Jorge Posada feels Martin is not playing his best, he will club him unconscious with his own bat.”
http://www.bronxbanterblog.com/
I just love the comment about how Posada help Martin avoid distractions.
I think he’s going to have a fantastic year and he’s got the best mentor ever in Mo.
jerkface. guess I’m a pessimist and expect that if i want to go they’ll move the furthest. btw. is it an insult referring to you by name?
–
Never. I love my name and people who use it as an insult against me are silly.
jerkface thanks for the permission. finally learned how to follow you guys to the latest lo-hud post.
I want to see what Kevin Long does with Andruw Jones.
Official welcome to So’!
I thought those arb #s were fair……..If Phil improves this year, I’d guess the Yankees will try to lock him up.
The idea that Randy Levine made this move is sickening…….
Soriano will do well in serving the 2 roles of EIG and co-closer when Mariano needs a game off.
There will be games when either Feliciano or Logan will mix and match with David Robertson in the 8th inning and Soriano will close out the game in the 9th.
BoJo January 18th, 2011 at 5:41 pm
m1kew January 18th, 2011 at 5:38 pm
+++++++++++
So this site is implying that Martin has a drinking problem? Do they have any proof or are they just making up a slanderous tale?
_______
If you follow the links to the LA Times story, he says he partied a lot but didn’t want to be perceived as drinking to the extreme. Whatever that means…
Love the Coltrane connection (Dad a saxophone player). Also love that Manny who is always getting dissed was one of Martin’s role models:
“I’ve learned so much by watching Manny [Ramirez]; he does everything the right way,” Martin says. “He’s the same guy in every at-bat, doing the same routine, so it doesn’t matter who is pitching. He just puts so much into preparation, beginning early in the morning in the gym . . . ”
Martin, wear the Pinstripes proudly.
http://latimesblogs.latimes.co.....in-me.html
It is is easy to believe that the addition of Soriano will give the Yankees one of the best BP’s in baseball.
Deep, talented, and versatile.
This is good because we may need it with AJ, Nova, and Pitcher X in the rotation.
BoJo January 18th, 2011 at 5:41 pm
So this site is implying that Martin has a drinking problem? Do they have any proof or are they just making up a slanderous tale?
********
There were lots of rumors in Los Angeles about Russell Martin; about both steroids and drinking. He denied the steroid rumors strongly insisting that there was testing at the time. As far as the drinking, these are the quotes in the LA Times.
“I was having a couple drinks to help me go to bed at night, and it became a vicious cycle,” he says. “This whole L.A. thing, well, you’ve got young guys like Clayton Kershaw, and it’s like they’re immune to it. But I wasn’t one of those guys.
“I liked having a good time when I was a kid, and now that I’m 26, I was having a good time, but I wasn’t recovering like I’d like to recover. I thought going out with the guys, listening to music and having a few drinks — that was fine for me.
“I thought I could tell myself, ‘I’m feeling pretty good,’ and everything will be OK when I get to the yard even though I was really feeling banged up. I was lying to myself.”
http://articles.latimes.com/20.....p-simers12
http://articles.latimes.com/20.....simers12/2
Dombroski’s remarks on Galarraga
“Tigers ‘Confident’ In Market For Galarraga
By Ben Nicholson-Smith [January 18, 2011 at 4:58pm CST]
The Tigers believe there’s a market for Armando Galarraga, the right-handed pitcher who agreed to a $2.3MM deal one day before getting designated for assignment. Since few viable free agent starters remain and a number of teams are looking for pitching, Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski says he’s ‘confident’ the team will be able to move Galarraga.
“It’s not like I have a for sure deal, but I do have enough clubs that have asked me about him,” Dombrowski said on a conference call with reporters.
If the Tigers demote Galarraga to the minor leagues, they’re responsible for his $2.3MM salary. If they release him, they’ll be responsible for part of his contract, depending on the date of his release and whether another club signs him.”
Yanks took the full playoff package away from 46 game plan-holders. Do Mets STH’s or other big market teams STH’s get full playoff rights with any of their partial plans, specifically 40 game/half home game plans?
How bad a wife am I? I though my husband was coming home tomorrow night, but this morning he told me, no, tonight. Sigh. I really do pay attention….
Was this site just down? All our posts are registering as 6:13.
Who cares about Rafael Soriano? The Yankees made a stupid decision. Who is starting for this team? WE HAVE NO STARTERS.. WHEN ARE WE GOING TO MAKE A MOVE FOR A GOOD STARTER? THATS WHAT IM INTERESTED IN.. Its a joke that we gave up a first round pick for this guy and its even a bigger joke that the guy gets his own press conference.. the only reason he’s a Yankee is because Levine is trying to say HEY LOOK WE DID SOMETHING.. This rotation is in shambles and good for 85 wins, I’m embarrassed.
Doreen-
Too bad you weren’t able to go with him.
Just curious. What hotel did he stay at ?
At least it prevents a crazy trade for Soria.
Hello, everyone!
I like this signing. People on another prominent Yankees blog hate it, but I think Soriano will be a nice bridge to Mo’s inevitable retirement. Of course, that’s if Soriano choose to stick around.
Who’s going to complain about Soriano in the 8th? Especially if the man himself isn’t?
m-
Howdy. I like it too provided that Soriano stays healthy.
no starters?
CC and Phil say HELLO!!!
AJ says Hi
MTU -
He stayed at the Mandalay Bay. He said it was huge. We had horrible cell phone connections.
Hoping to go next time. Funny thing is, my autistic daughter is 21. We could have hung out in the casinos, right?
Hi M!!
a good day in Yankee land between So officially signing and the kids avoiding arbitration
m,
How nice to see you. I hope you will be joining us more often.
Rich in NJ January 18th, 2011 at 6:18 pm
At least it prevents a crazy trade for Soria.
_______
QFT. I still can’t fathom that we actually offered Montero for a reliever, even a reliever of Soria’s quality.
Doreen-
My Bro-in-Law is a pit boss there.
Would such a sensory overload be OK for her ?
G. Love,
Better late than never. I really enjoyed your post this morning…and I couldn’t have agreed with you more. Thanks.
Rafael Soriano is no better than Latroy Hawkins..
we could have had Rauch for 3.25 million.. which is 32 million and one first round draft pick than we gave up for Soriano.
DUMB DUMB DUMB ..
meanwhile we still have no starting pitching.
Give Andy Pettitte 20 million and call it a day.
Its embarrassing that we’re offering a Legend only 13 million and expect him to come back for that sorry amount…
seeknay January 18th, 2011 at 6:17 pm
Who cares about Rafael Soriano? The Yankees made a stupid decision. Who is starting for this team? WE HAVE NO STARTERS.. WHEN ARE WE GOING TO MAKE A MOVE FOR A GOOD STARTER? THATS WHAT IM INTERESTED IN.. Its a joke that we gave up a first round pick for this guy and its even a bigger joke that the guy gets his own press conference.. the only reason he’s a Yankee is because Levine is trying to say HEY LOOK WE DID SOMETHING.. This rotation is in shambles and good for 85 wins, I’m embarrassed.
———————————————————————————————————————-
Embarrassed? Time to put a bag over your head. I suggest plastic. It will help keep you warm…at least for 5 minutes.
MTU,
Even players with good health histories get hurt so I can’t worry too much about it. Besides, it’s not like he’s our closer.
kate,
Pretty good day for Joba & Phil. Anyway you look at it that’s quite a raise.
SAS,
Nice to see you, too.
m-
You have not been around much.
I thought you might have been lost at sea in the Northern Hawaiian
Islands, or that Pele had swallowed you up.
Good to see you back.
Hi m!
Rich,
That is a side benefit.
m, wonderful to see you back in these parts.
Hope all is well and that the reason for your sudden and prolonged absence is no longer an issue.
The Jamaican National Dominoes Team has been missing its most loyal blog advocate.
Every year during the first week of spring training the Yankees gather the media to Legends field to showcase their starting staff… you see all the guys side by side throwing.. I remember years past how excited I was to see the new staff.. clemens, wells, mussina, pettitte all on the same staff… how proud I was to have such a strong rotation..
THIS YEAR, NOTHING BUT EMBARRASSMENT.
How can anyone be excited about MEAT TRAY BURNETT AND NOVA IN YOUR STARTING ROTATION?
and dont even mention Millwood or Deuscherer or Colon or Garcia because I want to vomit!!!
Go get an ACE.. enough is enough!
DO your job, Cashmen!
Seeknay,
Who do you recommend ….(this should be good ).
Geez Cashman – “do your job” – go get Cliff Lee !!! (sheeeeeesh)
MTU,
Busy with life. Then the kids came home for the holidays. And it was weird with the stalking & trolls with their identity crises. And of course the Jeter thing & Cliff Lee debacle. I knew it would get rough in here.
Will try to pop in more often as the weather warms up. Baseball’s just around the corner.
Hi, Doreen. Any man would be lucky to have you as a wife. You are a saint and an angel.
Bullpens are notoriously fickle.. The best pen in the league on paper doesn’t always translate to the best pen in the standings.. beware of the paper tiger.. it burns just like the hopes and dreams of fans of a team watching W’s turned into L’s in a matter of one or two pitches from Firemen turned Arsonists….
Bull-pens are a dime a dozen, some look great on paper and don’t work out, some look average and turn out great statistically.
Sacraficing so much for Soriano was incredibly stupid.
Watching “Hot Stove” on MLB Network right now: Does anybody else think Ken Rosenthal sounds like a really bad actor when he talks? It’s like his segment is rehearsed, whereas all the other insiders like Heyman, Gammons, Verducci, Justice, etc sound natural on camera.
MTU -
Well, we’d play it by ear, of course. She loves the boardwalk at Point Pleasant and plays the slot machines there (such as they are).
She used to have a hard time with lots of noise, etc., but she’s come quite a long way in that regard.
When Beauty and the Beast first opened on Broadway, they had a scene with fireworks and loud noises and I had to warn her AND hold my hands up to her ears. I also had to walk her away from the Illuminations show at EPCOT when she was younger. She loved fireworks but hated the noise.
Well, we saw B&B a second time and she was perfectly fine with it. She sits through Fantasmic and all the fireworks shows at Disney and it’s no longer a problem.
Our biggest problem is she has no compunction about going up to strangers to talk, and also she seems to be particularly fond of elderly gentlemen (we think they remind her of her deceased grandfather).
It’s an interesting life.
(Seriously, though, I wouldn’t take her into the casinos, I just get a kick out of thinking they can’t keep her out!)
“…Sacraficing so much for Soriano was incredibly stupid…”
…..and this hog-tied the Yankees, how ???
m -
Thanks. Not so much a saint or angel, but not a witch, either.
Mr. Nick! Hope your “for entertainment purposes only” ventures are going well.
“Seeknay,
Who do you recommend ….(this should be good ).
”
I suggest offering a deal centered around Montero and Joba for an ace immediately!!!!! Gary Sanchez is the star catcher in the Yankees organization.. Montero is not untouchable as he is a 1 dimensional player.
I SUGGEST THE FOLLOWING
MONTERO, JOBA, BANUELOS, HEATHCOTT FOR FELIX HERNANDEZ, CLAYTON KERSHAW, OR JOSH JOHNSON.
I know I shouldn’t ask, but what did the Yankees sacrifice for Soriano besides money?
Doreen-
I just wondered about how she might handle that. Thanks for the reply.
seeknay–
Understandably, you have everything backwards.
Blake-
You were right.
Thanks, m. Quite well; I took the Packers and the Jets (and Steelers and Bears) this weekend!
Some things that should be for entertainment purposes are occasionally less entertaining than they should be, but c’est la vie.
Doreen-
Some in Yankeeland are upset about the loss of the 1st round draft pick to TB.
Seeknay,
No caps are necessary to make your point. It’s sounds like your yelling.
Watching “Hot Stove” on MLB Network right now: Does anybody else think Ken Rosenthal sounds like a really bad actor when he talks? It’s like his segment is rehearsed,
–
Yes, he has a very specific TV cadence that is annoying. Jaws on ESPN football has the same kind of thing. Listen to how he ends sentences, its always with the same rhythm. Rosenthal is such a stooge.
Wow! losing a 31st draft pick! How awful!
And just how valuable has such a pick proven to be over time?
http://baseballanalysts.com/ar.....ks_and.php
Not real valuable. The top 15 picks are typically the only ones who ever make it big.
Hi M,
Good to see you back.
Josh Hamilton would like $12M and the Rangers would like him to take $8.7M in arb..
Hamilton is winning that one so Rangers should sharpen the pencil now instead of putting up a fight.
MTU -
Oh, that.
ok, time to bundle up to walk the dog while dinner is cooking
Went back and read G Love’s guest post. I’m pretty much in his camp, it’s all about the majors. The farm system is important, too, but so is making upgrades to the team.
Hi, Fran!
GB-
Do you think Gallaraga would be any better than Mitre ?
I’m not sure he would be.
If Mitre hits the rotation we just backfill his BP role with a guy like
Duchscherer, or from within (Mitchell,AA, for example).
Seeknay,
None of those players are available…..now what? Trading for an “ace” isn’t as easy as it sounds.
Please do not criticize Ken Rosenthal. He is paid to do what he does, therefore he is beyond reproach, especially from the likes of those who merely comment on the internet. He packs more baseball knowledge into his gnome-like body than many normal-sized humans could even imagine. You are just jealous because you probably hit your head on more stuff than he does.
Does anybody know if the press conference tomorrow os on YES?
Ken Rosenthal is no John Heyman….
Just last week someone here wondered whatever became of Selena Roberts.
She’s teamed up with Jeff Novitzky again for a story on Lance Armstrong and PEDs in this weeks SI.
LOL@ Nick.
The other day I rear ended Ken Rosenthal’s car by accident. I got out to exchange insurance info, and was cool and calm. He opened his car door and jumped out from atop the yellow pages books, and huffed at me “I am NOT HAPPY!”
I just had to reply: “OK, then which dwarf are you?”
SJ-
Would like your opinion.
Who do you think will get the final spot in our rotation ?
I’m assuming CC,PH, AJ, IN for the other 4 spots.
Thanks in advance.
MTU,
I still think Andy is coming back.
If he’s not back by the end of January, then I will believe he’s not coming back.
I also think the Yankees will sign another arm to bring into camp. Nobody big, just another arm to compete for a job.
So the Yankees Roster stands at 40. Who gets kicked off it?
SJ-
Interesting.
I hope you are right. That would solve a lot of problems.
I say this without any negative intent so keep that in mind.
Were you surprised by Lee choosing the Phils over either us or the Rangers ?
I know I was. Goes to show that some things are just not all that
predictable.
It’s 7PM boys and girls and that means it’s bash the media hour! It’s just like Howdy Doody time, without the Howdy.
One the show today, Ken Rosenthal, Selena Roberts and of course the inimitable Jon Heyman!
(applause)
Looks like my post from the other day was right.
The finalizing of Soriano’s contract was indeed imminent.
SJ,
I still think he is too and I hope you’re right…..if so the Yanks are as good as anybody.
Welcome back m. Did someone mention dominoes??
I too think Andy’s coming back, but think Cashman will sign Garcia or Millwood and The Duke as well.
Don’t understand how Dallas Braden gets $3.35M and Phil Hughes gets $2.7M.
MTU January 18th, 2011 at 6:52 pm
GB-
Do you think Gallaraga would be any better than Mitre ?
I’m not sure he would be.
If Mitre hits the rotation we just backfill his BP role with a guy like
Duchscherer, or from within (Mitchell,AA, for example).
———————————————————————————————————————-
I wouldn’t give up a lot. I’d suggest swapping Mitre for him. Detroit gains about a $1.5 mil break. If they added something decent to it, Mitre and Mitchell.
GLove,
Good post. I agree with the idea the minors are one element of a successful major league team.
WCYF
Since I’m the only one who mentioned Selena Roberts, what did I say that was “bashing”?
I’ll be waiting for your reply or your retraction of bashing.
GB-
Thanks. I guess that means you think Gallaraga is superior to Mitre if you’re willing to swap them.
I’m thinking that if Pettitte returns, it would be when the weather warms up in NY. Staying in Texas before moving on to Florida and extended ST and a couple of rehab starts.
http://riveraveblues.com/2011/.....aga-41186/
Article about Galarraga, he isn’t an upgrade over Mitre.
Nobody knows what Andy will do,so why speculate? Everyone had Lee fitted for pinstripes and how did that turn out? Meche walked away from $12 million today,who would have ever seen that coming from a pro athlete??
MTU, superior is in the eye of the beholder. Let’s just say that I think Galarraga’s not as bad.
pat January 18th, 2011 at 7:18 pm
WCYF – Since I’m the only one who mentioned Selena Roberts, what did I say that was “bashing”? I’ll be waiting for your reply or your retraction of bashing.
**************
It was a joke, lighten up.
Ken Rosenthal is not the shortest human, but actually the tallest living gestalt of sewer rats.
Everybody in baseball was surprised Lee signed with the Phillies MTU.
Mainly for two reasons:
1. Nobody thought the Phillies would move their payroll to these heights.
2. He left guaranteed money and years onnthe table. He was always thought to be a guy who wouldn’t do that.
It doesn’t happen often in free agency. It did in this case though.
Tyanks,
Good question on the roster. If they sign Jones and Pettitte returns(said while looking to the heavens) that is two for removal.
I must be out of touch. Is the move to Apopka a done deal? Having grown up in Central Florida, I well recall Apopka thugs chasing after me and a couple 8th grade basketball teammates. Apopka, you have come a long way. A very long way.
Let’s say that Rosenthal makes Pedroia look like he’s wearing stilts.
Is the move to Apopka a done deal?
–
No
Q. What do you get if you cross Ken Rosenthal with Dracula?
A. A vampire that sucks blood from your kneecaps.
GB-
Thanks.
Let’s say we have an opening for a long man in our BP.
Here’s my question.
From the farm, who would pick for that role at the present time ?
Mitchell, Phelps ?
I would think you would say Mitchell.
Austinmac
I think the press conference is supposed to be for announcing that they are moving the team. I for one haven’t read anything about it because I’m in denial that they would actually move. If its out of Tampa then its too far, ill have to become a threshers fan and that won’t be pretty.
I think they’ll drop one of the many AAA outfielders we have or trade someone.
So the Yankees Roster stands at 40. Who gets kicked off it?
–
Soriano is on it, so I guess no one right now. But for Jones and another starter they’d have to kick someone off.
Turpen, Schlitter, Fish, Sanchez, Garrison, Pope are all candidates to go somewhere.
SJ-
It sure wasn’t the expected result.
Kind of blew a hole in our plans.
I was also surprised that a competitior like him would prefer the NL.
I would have thought that he would have liked the limelight, and also
want to pitch along side of CC again.
Oh well.
MTU, if there are any prospects close to NY, Mitchell is probably the best choice for the long man/swingman.
I haven’t watched one Hot Stove show yet, lol……..
GB-
With the Octopus to follow later in the season ?
Moving Romulo Sanchez in a deal is probably the best choice. all he does is throw hard, inconsistantly.
“If the Yankees did want to give Joba another go in the rotation, they could send him down to Triple-A so that he could properly stretch out. He would need to pass through optional waivers to do that because of his service time situation (explained them here), but Keith Law spoke to a front office person who confirmed that players are never plucked off those kinds of waivers. They’re completely revocable, so even if some team did place a claim in on Joba, the Yankees could pull him right back. The point is that if they want to turn him back into a starter, they have several ways to go about it. Now it’s just a matter of deciding to actually do it. · (73) ·”
http://riveraveblues.com/
GB-
Jose Veras or Brian Bruney redux.
I just pray Soriano stats healthy and does well.
Yanks are really rolling the dice with huge player options like that.
I just don’t see the upside of adding player options for TWO seasons for $25M+.
I like Soriano and glad he’s here… just maybe not at this potential cost.
The “fans” who talk about money like it’s no big deal “we’ll just sign everyone” mentality is obnoxious and frankly an embarrassment.
I just hope this turns out well. Go Soriano!
Cashman on Pettite from Was Watching:
The biggest blow to the Yankees’ pitching would be Andy Pettitte, retiring after a great 2010 season.
“Andy has talking about being home for years,” said Cashman. “Being from Texas and having to be in New York for six months out of the year can be hard because he has kids and he’s missing important time with them. He’s opting not to play right now but that might change it might not. I told him don’t ‘Brett Favre’ us. You got to be all in and fully dedicated to play. Do I need him? I need him, but I don’t want him to play if his heart’s not in it.”
http://waswatching.com/
MTU January 18th, 2011 at 7:34 pm
GB-
Jose Veras or Brian Bruney redux.
———————————————————————————————————————-
Veras.
Blake-
I’m still not sure someone wouldn’t claim him anyway.
If he is pulled back my understanding is that he can’t be pulled back again should he then be placed on waivers at a later date.
Better to have an “injury” and put him on a rehab.
I don’t think it’s happening anyway though.
MTU,
Cliff Lee will have plenty of limelight in Philly on “the Dream Team.”
They are the favorites, no?
It will make it more satisfying to beat then, I suppose, if it goes down that way.
But Lee didn’t exactly wimp out by joining te Phils. They are expected to win and they’ll be in the news for sure.
LaTroy Hawkins :: Rafael Soriano as meatloaf :: filet mignon
MTU,
Yea but they probably wouldn’t need to do it again….either it worked out or it didn’t. I’m thinking it would be a one time try. Yea I don’t think it is either but just saying……
BD-
I disagree. The level of competition he will face in the NL is nowhere near as tough as the AL East.
But they do appear to have an incredible rotation.
I’m not so sure that Mitre could not pitch as well as Galarraga, so a trade for Galarraga doesn’t seem to accomplish much.
Poor guy, has his perfect game blown by the ump on the 27th out, then gets signed and dfa’d on the same day.
Cliff Lee left guaranteed years and money on the table but he’s actually getting a higher AAV with the Phillies than he would have with the Yankees. He’s banking on his durability, health and talent which is frankly a pretty bad gamble. But the fact is, if he stays healthy and effective throughout this current deal he will maximize his earnings and probably make more than if he had signed a 7 year deal with the Yanks. Although, as I said, this is a really bad game for Lee to make because pitchers rarely stay healthy and effective into their 30′s.
Maybe Cliff has the utmost confidence in his ability, which is actually something I can respect.
The Phillies rotation is obviously great but I’m not wild about the rest of that team….lineup is getting old and is very left handed and their bullpen is very hit or miss. I think a lot of that team’s fate will rest with Chase Utley, they need him to be great again.
Is Cashman proceeding as if Andy’s not coming back? I hope so, yet if he is, where’s the other SP we need? It appears that Joba is a reliever and that’s that.
I wonder why on January 20th Pettitte can’t issue a statement on what he is going to do. I know he said move on, etc. but that’s not like announcing his retirement conclusively or saying he wants to pitch a half a year.
Nothing like …Billy Ripkin talking hitting on MLB Hot Stove.
Leiter talking pitching, sure. He does that all day, every day. But BR?
“I wonder why on January 20th Pettitte can’t issue a statement on what he is going to do. ”
maybe he will….he still has 2 days.
Patrick January 18th, 2011 at 7:43 pm
Cliff Lee left guaranteed years and money on the table but he’s actually getting a higher AAV with the Phillies than he would have with the Yankees. He’s banking on his durability, health and talent which is frankly a pretty bad gamble. But the fact is, if he stays healthy and effective throughout this current deal he will maximize his earnings and probably make more than if he had signed a 7 year deal with the Yanks. Although, as I said, this is a really bad game for Lee to make because pitchers rarely stay healthy and effective into their 30?s.
Maybe Cliff has the utmost confidence in his ability, which is actually something I can respect.
—
My guess is that he’s not banking on playing beyond the contract, he just preferred to play for the Phillies and in the NL, and the money was close enough.
I believe the latest Pettitte ever signed was Jan 26th, so let’s hope he’s superstitious.
I told him don’t ‘Brett Favre’ us
————————————————-
Yes Andy, do not text the Yankees a photo of your genitals.
My guess is that he’s not banking on playing beyond the contract, he just preferred to play for the Phillies and in the NL, and the money was close enough.
—
Maybe.
From my point of view, it is very, very important that Pettitte returns. Besides, he is a great Yankee.
All the evidence we need of the state of available pitchers is we question whether they are better than Mitre. I have my doubts Gallaraga is except he likely pitch more innings, albeit mostly dreadful innings.
Andy announced he was coming back two years ago on January 26.
Andy Pettitte wouldn’t try to upstage the State of the Union address.
A real Yankee fan would know that.
Nick-
Who said he was a Democrat ?
I just can’t see Andy coming back and at this point the Yankees need another starter. I mean it’s a month to pitchers and catchers and we have a 4 man rotation (and we are basically handing Nova a spot without him having to earn it).
LOL @ Nick!
Ok Nick. I think you were the only one who had that on their calendar. I probably should have, for several reasons, so thanks for the heads up.
SAS,
I see you are now begging and flattering Pettitte. I’m for it. Come on Andy. Do it for the team, the fans , your legacy and just cuz.
My post was strictly non-partisan!
Nick-
I don’t care if Andy is a registered Martian.
I’d just like to see him make his yearly visit to the Yankees.
No telling if Pettitte comes back that he would be healthy for a significant part of the year or pitch well for that matter.
I think barring some unexpected trade, which is always a possibility, we’re going to be depending on Nova, Noesi and Phelps. That’s something Yankee fans may just have to get used to and hope it works out.
austinmac,
You got right int he spirit.
i think andy’s only got about a 5 month season in his legs and back, i think he knows it and i think he’s going to come back in june and be great when we most need him.
SJ,
Good to have you back. You input answers many questions and offers an interesting point of view.
I also think we would be pushing good luck to the limit if we expect Sabathia, Hughes and Burnett to be healthy all year. Burnett I am especially worried about, I don’t know if he has been healthy for this long a stretch in his career.
Anyway you look at it, this season is going to be a challenge pitching-wise. It’s a shame we find ourselves in this precarious place.
Me still thinks Pettitte will pull a Clemens and start the season late. For one, maybe two years at most. Gets tough to keep it up all year when you’re a geezer ya know.
No innuendo intended there. Really.
See? All we needed was to have me pinch hit in the 3 hole and we get SJ and m back. Now where’s Rebecca?
I’d really be fine with Andy retiring if his heart is not in it. Life is a series of changes and surprises, and I look forward to seeing what the young kids (like Joba and Nova) can do when fate gives them a chance.
Just like Cano and Wang pleasantly surprised all of us, I think some of our new wave of kids will do the same.
So bring it on! I look forward to it with high hopes.
Joe
BTW–Did Pete Abe. give you any feedback on your guest thread?
“Who cares about Rafael Soriano?”
I do, I do!!!!! Man am I so psyched. I dreamed about this. Last season I so envied the Rays having him.
Here’s how observant I am. I thought “Mell” was Mel.
I too still think Andy will be back.
“So bring it on! I look forward to it with high hopes.”
I also.
My brother’s birthday is January 26th. That would be my brother who is now in heaven. Hopefully that day will bring us good luck.
Trisha, that would be a good present or on my departed sister’s on the 27th. They will be good days to enjoy our memories.
It’s my brother-in-law’s birthday too. Thankfully, he is very much alive and a big time Yankees fan.
I just got into a verbal altercation with someone at Dunkin Donuts. When I was sitting outside with my friend, I was wearing my Yankees shirt and she her Rays shirt. This guy had the audacity to say my Yankees sucked and brought up how the Rays have no money. Blah blah blah, so I asked the guy how many games he went to this past season. He said none, which is what I expected. I told him he has no place in whining to me then because I spent about 150 on Rays tickets, supporting “his team” and he spent none ugh. I hate them all.
Andy will be back.
MLBTR says Yankees and Jones close and deal may be announced tomorrow. Also, Boras will be at Soriano press conference.
trisha – true pinstriped blue January 18th, 2011 at 9:22 pm
I too still think Andy will be back.
“So bring it on! I look forward to it with high hopes.”
I also.
+++++++++=
Trisha–
A little part of me wishes Andy would retire so I get to see the kids. I’m torn.
How do you feel about it? And why?
What do you all think of signing Felipe Lopez as the utilityman/backup infielder? He can play all four IF spots and the OF corners and is a switch-hitter with some power and speed. Glove is just ok but can play everyday if something happens to any of the infielders.
I would say there’s general apathy on the Felipe Lopez issue.
On MLB Network, I heard Andy has the blessing of his family to come back, and one of the rambling jocks (actually, I think it was Gammons) said that Andy does have the HOF in the back of his mind. I also heard last week he had begun work outs. So he hasn’t announced he’s retired, his has the blessing of his family to return, and he’s working out. I mean, really, what are the chances he’s not coming back?
I pray to Mo that you are correct.
If Andy has started working out, that’s very encouraging. He would be the last big piece.
Time to get on the redeye, back to the Lord’s own timezone. Later.
Joe from Long Island , where are you ???
Joe didn’t blow his cover until, like a ghost, he was gone.
Nick in SF……If he’s taking a red eye @ 1:13 EST , it could be that he’s leaving the west coast ???? Such a mystery
I do think Joe was at some kind of conference on the west coast. San Diego? Seattle? I can’t remember. I don’t think it was in Newport.
I could be way off base here, but I thought it sounded like Andy would be coming back to pitch mid-season and that no forthcoming announcement would be made until after the season had started…
Something perhaps to do with waiting until Roger’s trial is over?
Good Morning Everyone !!
In case you didn’t see it last night . an Andruw Jones update :
Yankees, Andruw Jones Nearing Deal
TUESDAY, 9:08pm: Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports tweets that the two sides are not far apart, and it’s possible that they’ll be able to close the deal tomorrow. Scott Boras will be at Yankee Stadium for Rafael Soriano’s introductory press conference in the morning.
Good morning.
Mike,
Thanks for the update. Interested to hear what Cashman has to say today regarding the Soriano signing since he was apparently against it.
good morning all
Fran
What kind of mind game are the Jets playing? All the praise of Big Ben is a little weird.
Thanks for the update. Interested to hear what Cashman has to say today regarding the Soriano signing since he was apparently against it.
your welcome Fran –
——————————————————————–
It should be interesting today. thats for sure
Kate,
I am not sure what Rex Ryan is doing this week, but it’s pretty funny because all of the “football experts” were complaining that Rex talks too much and now they’re upset that he’s not giving them anything.
Hopefully they’ll have 2 weeks of Rex and the Jets leading up to the Super Bowl!! I am so nervous for Sunday, but I have my lucky outfit ready
Morning everyone
Don’t Bret Farve us??? What’s that all about?
While I wish and hope that Andy does come back, I don’t think anyone could ever question his dedication. The guy is a warrior. Pretty stupid thing to say in public Brian, but I guess I’m not surprised.
Papelbon signs for $12M for one year.
Gary –
Who said Pettite was Brett Farve ?
Mike Ri January 19th, 2011 at 7:02 am
Thanks for the update. Interested to hear what Cashman has to say today regarding the Soriano signing since he was apparently against it.
_______________________________________________________________________
Well clearly it would seem he has to come clean on the draft choices comments. Some creditability may well be on the line. Rafel is now a member of the team, I hope we hear nothing but positives from our GM to now a new member of the team.
Question that should be asked. So Brian were you just going to sit on your butt and do nothing before Sping Training?
Mike
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/ru.....mlb-309474
I am not a Cashman basher by any stretch, but he certainly has made a few questionable comments this off season. I didn’t like his comment to Jeter and I don’t like this one to Andy.
The disagreement over not wanting to give up a draft pick by signing So doesn’t bother me. I have differences of opinion w/ my boss all the time…usually I can get him to see things my way, but not always.
Gary thanks for the Link !
A little rain here this morning, but it’s 70 already.
Both games have the same spread right now, GB and Steelers are 3 1/2 point favorites.
upstate kate -
I have to say I’m tending toward agreeing about Cashman saying some seemingly out-of-character things this off-season, even if the out-of-character simply means he usually says nothing at all.
I’m choosing to go with the idea that perhaps his statements need to be heard rather than read. Unfortunately most of us can only read what he says and his choice of words leaves too much room for interpretation.
I’d suggest that he was joking with Andy – there’s too much of a relationship there for me to think it’s anything else. I took it that way, but I can sure understand how other people aren’t.
BTW -
Good morning, morning people.
I like Cashman in general and like the way he has placed focus on strengthening the farm system etc….but Im with you Kate, he just doesn’t seem to use a lot of tact in many of his quotes. Its tough to know the tone in which he’s speaking when you’re reading it but Ive read a few things this winter that sorta rubbed me the wrong way. Cashman may not care what people think and that’s fine, but players don’t like that stuff Im sure……total speculation but who is to say Lee didn’t look at some of the barbs that were thrown during the Jeter negociations and say …..you know if they do that to Jeter then all things being equal do I want to go there? (Not talking about the contract but the public nature of it all)
Doreen,
Your probably right, but if it’s a joke it’s between the two of them. To me joke or no joke it’s not helpful and I don’t believe Andy appeciates that kind of stuff in public.
I feel like Cashman telling Pettitte not to Brett Favre them would illicit a laugh from Andy. Funny and innocuous comment. Considering how Favre held the Vikings hostage I can see why.
Good point Doreen. As we all know from posting, sometimes comments don’t come out quite the way you meant them.
wow Jerkface, you are here early
Yea the Favre comment was probably hight hearted Id image….not sure about some of the others.
To me Cashman has spent a good part of this Winter looking like a deer caught in headlights.
I’m glad he was over ruled on the Soriano thing.
As long as Soriano stays healthy who cares if they overpaid him some.
He is gonna be lights out (hopefully), and is great protection in case Mo goes down.
We will have the best backend in baseball if all goes well.
And we still have the #44 pick. Our farm is bursting at the seams.
And then there is always the international market.
Jerkface
Maybe Yes Maybe No
Funny and innocuous can’t agree with that one. To even suggest that Andy would come back and not be dedicated to the team doesn’t say much that you know the player that played for so many years here as a dedicated player.
Again I say what’s the point, just leaving it at the we want him to play point was enough.
if Andy is going from 60-40 on coming back to 50-50 now…& he told Cash to move on without him……Andy is staying home
Good morning, morning people
I start the first day of my 2 day a week internship this morning. Hopefully its fun times today. I won’t be on here until after 3 so hopefully I don’t miss anything too big.
good luck Ty
Feb. 1st is my drop dead date on AP.
That’s when I give up hope of him returning, not before.
I still hope that we sign The Duke if he is healthy enough.
And I also hope the Mexican Gansta comes back healthy too.
Looks like Andruw is on his way soon.
Ty-
What sort of internship ?
MTU
I agree, Andy right now doesn’t look like he is coming back soon, although I still think he plays sometime this year.
Having a replacement starter signed by your timeframe I agree is critical
Blake-
Serious question.
What in the world are the Yankees doing with Chamberlain ?
They think he has more value as a back end reliever than either as starter, or packaged in a trade.
Does that make sense to you ? What a waste.
I have no problem with Cash’s comments, but what did he say to Andy?
Blake, I’ve never read about Cashman having a bad relationship with any of his players. ON the contrary, Cashman is looked at as being well thought of by playes, even by prospective free agents
Gary-
IMO we are one decent starter away from having an excellent team.
We need a # 3/4. I hope we find one at some point.
Of course, I hope that’s AP. There has not been enough available this OS I guess.
Cashman has been in your face with comments for a couple of years now.
The subject of his comments now seems to have more people taking notice.
The Farve comment? Wow, I don’t see it that way at all – IMO it’s completely innocuous. Cash has known Andy for a dog’s age and undoubtedly feels comfortable being completely honest. All he’s saying is that Andy shouldn’t come back if he’s not completely certain that he wants to put himself through a grueling 162 game season. I see nothing wrong with what he said. Poor Cash – he can’t do anything right.
Cashman- sayin’ like it is.
What a hoot. The guy could have been a politician.
Good luck with the internship ty!!!!
JCPD-
How’s Dakota ?
pat -
I noticed it more this season than last, but I do think that since he signed his new contract, he has been more “assertive.”
MTU,
I really have no idea. As you’ve said before, I think there have to be behind the scenes things that we are unaware of be it injuries risks or whatever. Based on the information we have it doesn’t add up.
Betsy,
That may be true but Jeter didn’t look all that happy a few weeks ago. I just think that to some degree that if Cash can’t be a bit more.tactful in his statements then perhaps he shouldn’t say anything at all….actually that would probably be for the best in a lot of cases. Like I said, I like him but I do wonder what he’s thinking sometimes.
Blake, that’s Jeter’s issue……..I had no problem with Cash suggesting he should go explore FA, but then I know we disagree on this.
MTU, hope she still remembers me!!!!! She’s fine, I’m thinking she’s going to be a little cranky when I get her back and have to go to work. She’s been eight weeks now, used to someone always being home.
Blake-
Maybe so. I would like to know more. He is not even a very good reliever at this point. He sure has fallen far. I would love to see a turn around of some kind. Perhaps Baron Von Rothschild can help ?
JCPD-
You mean you’re not done ?
I thought you would be back home by now.
“The Farve comment? Wow, I don’t see it that way at all – IMO it’s completely innocuous. Cash has known Andy for a dog’s age and undoubtedly feels comfortable being completely honest. All he’s saying is that Andy shouldn’t come back if he’s not completely certain that he wants to put himself through a grueling 162 game season. I see nothing wrong with what he said. Poor Cash – he can’t do anything right.”
I agree, he’s telling Pettitte to come back for the right reason which is he wants to pitch in 2011 and not the wrong reason which is the Yankees need you badly, but I really don’t want to leave my family for another season.
MTU
Agree about that additional starter. Might be just as important that AJ can pitch his way to repectability. Can’t have the guy going out there and getting shelled early, 5 or 6 respectable innings, we can piece it together after that.
What time is today’s press conference?
On the gossip side, I just heard on the radio that Minka gave an interview to a magazine (I think they said GQ but I’m not sure) and said that she and Derek have no plans to get married anytime soon.
**********
Good luck on your internship Ty.
No, I’m still up here in Syracuse for two more shifts. I’ll head home to Corning on Thursday afternoon. I did pass my final exam though with a 98….. needed a 95 to pass. Must’ve been because I stayed at a Holiday Inn Express…..(for 8 weeks).
Craw, that’s right……………completely agree.
Gary-
AJ is working hard this OS with a new PC. Hopefully that combo will
lead to better results. I think it will.
My mother keeps asking me about Jeter and Minka – I told her I have no idea and I could not possibly care less (my father agrees, lol). I have no interest in reading about players’ personal lives
By the way, I think the Brett Farve comment was just Cashman being funny as he was talking at an event.
Fran -
Speaking of Minka – looks like she’s going all out to get rid of her “girl next door” image, doesn’t it?
I kind of wish Rothschild had reached out to other pitchers besides AJ………..they could all (except CC) use some help
JCPD-
Thats great news.
Man, I bet you can’t wait to get out of there.
That’s a long stay in the frozen Tundra.
Maybe you should have stayed @ the HI before they sent you ?
That way you would have figured out a way to have avoided it.
What ‘s the plan after you return. Any time off ?
JCPD -
If Dakota gets mad at you, you might find a present waiting for you on your return home. I guess you passed your test, amasing what a few bucks to the teacher will do these days.
I agree, he’s telling Pettitte to come back for the right reason which is he wants to pitch in 2011 and not the wrong reason which is the Yankees need you badly, but I really don’t want to leave my family for another season.
_________________________________________________________________________
Somehow I don’t think Andy needs any help in making his decision. Just my opinion. Andy isn’t coming back if he isn’t dedicated, to even suggest otherwise again isn’t helpful.
Betsy-
I’m confident he will.
He gets spread around like butter. Most PC’s do.
AJ was Job # 1 this OS. Apparently they felt getting him back to being a decent Pitcher was critical. Hence the focus on him.
That’s my 2 center.
Craw/Betsy
context is everything, could be Cash was just looking for a laugh
JCPD
congrats on your exam, hope you get out of the snow belt soon
Doreen,
Certainly does look that way.
JCPD,
Congratulatioms on passing your exam.
MTU -
Gb has definately be a factor in your spelling. CENTS.
Gary,
Somehow, I don’t think you or anybody else on this forum are close enough to the Pettitte/Cashman relationship to know what Cashman said was out of turn.
MTU, as of now, it looks like I’ll be off for 5 days before I start for real. I think I might head up to Niagara Falls for a day. I leave my Cooperstown trip to correspond with the start of spring training. AL, a few bucks, my ash, it cost me an arm and a leg and an apple of course.
Crawdaddy January 19th, 2011 at 8:36 am
What time is today’s press conference?
________________________________________________________________________
Anyone care to speculate how he answers the question about draft picks?
Well you know things change as negotiations go on That was our position at that moment in time
We don’t often say exactly what we are thinking, but our intent is not to mislead anyone
I got rolled by management
Thanks Fran, thanks Kate……….. yes Kate, out of the snow belt to balmy Corning. Well, last I was there, they still had no snow.
Crawdaddy, could be is all you can do is read the words and decide on your own what the intent was.
JCPD-
Excellent. I would think you would need some time to decompress.
Good place to take some pix. Be well my friend.
JCPD -
All kidding aside, great job in the exam, and I hope the new job goes extremely well for you. I hope you have GPS, so you can remember how to get home. That’s a long time to be away. Don’t forget to pick-up a steak for Dakota.
MTU,
Joba was a really good reliever at times and a really bad one at times last year. The few really bad outings hurt his overall numbers but I still think he could be good in that role if he could repeat his.delivery better. Pitching the 6th or 7th is just a waste with him though…..its a dime a dozen role in shin there are many players available to fill every year. However, optimistically think how good the bullpen would be if he got straightened out and had a great season…..potentially 3 guys win closer ability in the same pen. If Andy retires I wish they’d start him but again I don’t think we know the whole story.
Al-
Or a few wild wings anyway.
Busy day, I’ll be back later today. Have a great day folks.
“Crawdaddy, could be is all you can do is read the words and decide on your own what the intent was.”
Actually, it’s not that important to me either way. I have enough trouble worrying about words I say to people.
Blake-
It was just a hope for something better.
Sometimes I see the old guy there and I wonder.
We’ll see.
you know it is a slow news day in Yankee land when most of the posts are about a few off the cuff comments by Cash!
next guest post coming up soon?
you know who is pretty sad…. Floyd Landis. Got caught and now is trying to bring down Lance with him. You got caught man, just take it and go away.
Decompression isn’t the word MTU……… I’m mentally exhausted, the physicality of the job is no different than any other restaurant I’ve been in. Actually, it might be a little easier and definitely a lot easier than my last job. So, I am ready to embark on the new adventure that pays me enough so that I can get back on track from the 14 months of unemployment. And to be able to have time and money to actually do some travelling will be joyous.
Now all I need is for Cash to find a serviceable #4 starter and have Andy be his trade deadline pickup and I’ll be all set.
# MTU January 19th, 2011 at 8:14 am
Blake-
Serious question.
What in the world are the Yankees doing with Chamberlain ?
They think he has more value as a back end reliever than either as starter, or packaged in a trade.
Does that make sense to you ? What a waste.
————————————————————————
Maybe they are waiting to package him in a deal because it doesn’t make sense to have him be the 4th or 5th arm out of the pen. Unless their ego is involved and moving him is not something they want to do.
ac1
I agree about Landis. Given the French dislike for Lance, there is no way (IMO anyway) he could have/would have gotten away w/ anything. Selena Roberts strikes again!
upstate kate January 19th, 2011 at 8:56 am
you know it is a slow news day in Yankee land when most of the posts are about a few off the cuff comments by Cash!
————————————————————————-
True, but it sure beats the reconvening non stop Joba, starter-reliever debate.
Good morning, Morning People,
I was up way too early, but I have the pleasure of seeing some of you who only post in the early AM.
JCPD: Heartiest congratulations….Where is you next assignment?
good morning SAS
JCPD-
I almost forgot the most important part.
Congratulations !
AOA-
I have no idea what the Yankees are doing with Joba. I’m not sure they do either.
Thanks SAS………… I’ll be working in Horseheads, NY A stepping stone to I hope warmer, gentler climates down the road
Mike Ri January 19th, 2011 at 7:02 am
Thanks for the update. Interested to hear what Cashman has to say today regarding the Soriano signing since he was apparently against it.
—————————————
Yes it will be interesting but there are ways to explain it. I’m sure he’ll bring up the grow of the farm system being one reason why giving up the pick is significant but not damaging.
SAS-
You must have broke your record.
Good morning.
It seems like we have nothing to get really excited about this off season. Filling in gaps is hardly something to get worked up over one way or the other. I just hope when all is said and done we have a team that can go all the way. As you know, we still need Cashman, etc. to get all of this straightened out.
JCPD-
Just curious.
If you could transfer anywhere you wanted with your new outfit where would it be ?
MTU.
It may he a record. I was up and about around 5:45…not my time of day.
—————————————–
JCPd,
Where the heck is Horseneck, NY?
SAS-
There have been some nice incremental moves (Martin, Soriano).
It’s just that when the Lee baloon popped there was a deflation of sorts.
Maybe it will turn out for the best ? Life is funny. Who knows.
# MTU January 19th, 2011 at 9:09 am
JCPD-
I almost forgot the most important part.
Congratulations !
AOA-
I have no idea what the Yankees are doing with Joba. I’m not sure they do either.
———————————————-
LOl, if they don’t move him in a package or he doesn’t start for the club then it’s really a head scratcher. The 4th or 5th arm out of the pen…really????? Maybe Joba will surprise us and have a great yr and if he does the starter thing will probably die down. Of course if there were viable options (Lee, Andy) in the rotation his name would not come up.
MTU,
Other than the Lee fiasco, which as you said, may turn out for the best, there has been no headline type newsl Martin makes me happy and so do Soriano. I want Andy back
SAS, Horseheads is about 60 miles due west of Binghamton, NY…… 15 miles east of Corning, NY….about 4 miles from the NY/Pa border.
MTU……….man, that ‘s a tough question. Having lived in Denver for several years on two occasions, I would have no problem going back there, but at the same time, I think I’d really like somewhere in the coastal mid Atlantic area. Yet at the same time, I enjoyed my five years in KC and would have no problem returning there.