Spring decision: Opening Day roster
Posted by: Chad Jennings - Posted in Misc on Feb 13, 2011 
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It’s one thing to list the Yankees decisions heading into spring training. It’s another to predict which decisions might present themselves in the next month and a half. Someone could be injured. Someone could become available on the trade market. Someone could emerge as a surprising candidate who forces new decisions and hard choices.
We go into spring training with expectations. And we accept that unexpected situations might change everything.
Ultimately, the Yankees most significant task this spring is to prepare itself for the regular season. That means keeping players healthy, getting everyone in game shape and putting together an Opening Day roster.
One day before camp opens, here’s my guess at the 25 players who will break camp heading for New York.
Lineup
Derek Jeter SS
Nick Swisher RF
Mark Teixeira 1B
Alex Rodriguez 3B
Robinson Cano 2B
Jorge Posada DH
Curtis Granderson CF
Russell Martin C
Brett Gardner LF
No surprises among the names listed. The most significant lineup decision is whether to keep Jeter in the leadoff spot, and I’ll guess that The Captain will show enough in spring training to earn the benefit of the doubt and the chance to prove last season was a fluke. Not certain it will stay this way — a leadoff platoon between Jeter and Gardner wouldn’t surprise me — but I think the Yankees will open this way.
Bench
Francisco Cervelli C
Andruw Jones OF
Eric Chavez 3B/1B
Ramiro Pena SS/2B
If he shows anything in camp, I think Chavez — because he’s a left-handed hitter and because he’s insurance at third base — will be given a chance to open the season with the team. It could be a Morgan Ensberg situation that doesn’t last, but a healthy and productive Chavez fits very well on this roster.
If Chavez is backing up at third base, the Yankees might as well carry the defensive-minded Pena instead of the prospect Eduardo Nunez to get very occasional starts at shortstop. My guess is that player development will be a determining factor in the backup catcher competition. The Yankees will prefer to have Jesus Montero and Austin Romine playing everyday in the minors rather than coming off the bench in New York.
Rotation
CC Sabathia
A.J. Burnett
Phil Hughes
Freddy Garcia
Ivan Nova
I really wanted to shake up the system here and predict either Hector Noesi making the rotation or the Yankees pulling off a late-spring trade for a fourth starter.
In the end, I decided to go with conventional thinking. I do think Noesi could make a serious run at a rotation spot, and I don’t think a trade is out of the question, but these five are the most logical choices given the current situation. At best, I’m 20 percent confident that this will actually be the Yankees rotation on March 30.
Bullpen
Mariano Rivera
Rafael Soriano
Dave Robertson
Joba Chamberlain
Pedro Feliciano
Boone Logan
Sergio Mitre
– Romulo Sanchez —
Assuming they’re all healthy, I can’t think of a logical reason any of the first seven pitchers listed would be left out of the Opening Day bullpen. The top six are natural choices, and Mitre is the best fit as the long man (assuming the rotation that I’ve predicted). But I also think a nagging injury could present itself, and given this bullpen depth, the Yankees could convince themselves to be extra cautious. No sense risking anything when there are this many good arms ready to fill a short-term void. That’s why I think Sanchez might sneak into the Opening Day mix if any of the above is even slightly less than 100 percent.
Associated Press photos
I agree 100% with you list.
I would rather have Nunez on the roster but Chad does make a good point about keeping him at AAA if he would mainly be used as an occasional spot starter…..playing every day at Scranton would keep his value higher than being a backup in NY.
Very logical, Chad.
I think Nunez will get a lot of play at SS. If he can handle the 2B and SS spots, he could beat out Pena. Other than that, I think the roster will likely be this – barring the unpredictable, of course.
Let’s break camp already! I absolutely love that picture of Harkey and the pitchers. Whars the context? I’m imagining something about aliens and Central Park.
Caption”
Harkey: “Hey guys…does anyone else see what Cameron is doing to ARod in the bleachers?”
“Hey! They’re showing Melky’s home videos.”
From the other thread…..
Bullpen catchers have the most thankless job among uniform personnel.
I don’t any of them who don’t do it for the pure love of the game.
Not sure why so many think that Romine will figure into the equation before September. I’ve see other writers and media mention him, too.
SJ44 February 13th, 2011 at 4:04 pm
From the other thread…..
Bullpen catchers have the most thankless job among uniform personnel.
I don’t any of them who don’t do it for the pure love of the game.
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I thank Randy for doing that job.
Imagine the state of golf if both he and I played on the same course. Ugly wouldn’t be enough.
I think that’s a reflection of what they think of Montero’s defense.
We’ll see.
Chad – how about a contest to come up with the best caption for that photo? We’ve got a couple of pretty good ones here……
# GreenBeret7 February 13th, 2011 at 4:01 pm
GF, it always surprised me how much Sean Casey drools all over the Red Sox after just a half a season and then getting dumped by them.
————
I forgot about Casey. There are others like Magrane who doesn’t seem to hide his allegiance with TB.
Then again, the Yanks have one of their own in Leiter (who I’ve always liked, whether in the YES booth or on MLBN).
GB -
I agree with you. I find it hard to believe Romine will put himself in that mix, but it’s hard to leave him out of the conversation when Cashman and Girardi have used his name so often this winter. I kind of feel the same way about Adam Warren in the rotation competition. Based on his limited Double-A experience, it’s hard to imagine Warren jumping all the talented pitchers ahead of him, but as long as the Yankees keep mentioning his name, I certainly can’t rule him out.
Montero is a better defensive C than Romine at this time.
Romine took a step back defensively last year.
From Joe In LI
I can easily see Mauer being moved to 1B/DH over the next year or so. From a team perspective, those two events – Morneau not being able to play, and Mauer being moved off C – will take a toll on the Twins, but I don’t know what they can do about it.
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Joe,
The thing that really hurts them is that they traded off their best young minor league catcher for Capps. Their best now is Butera. That’s why I think any trade for a Liriano would include someone like Romine plus a young pitcher as starters.
I agree with this roster. Barring injuries, I think the Yankees will go with experienced vets over rookies to give the young guys a chance to settle in and get more playing time in the minors. Laird, Curtis, Noesi, Montero, Romine, Brackman, etc. should all get called up eventually, but not right away.
SJ44 February 13th, 2011 at 4:10 pm
Montero is a better defensive C than Romine at this time.
Romine took a step back defensively last year.
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That’s a little hard to believe. I heard about Romine’s troubles catching fastballs on the corners, but there is a lot more to catching than just that. His pop times and throws to 2B, his blocking of pitches, his game-calling, his working with pitchers….
Do you have any sources for that conclusion?
GB – ditto. If Mauer goes on the DL again this year, they might feel more compelled to deal for a young catcher, and put that Mauer-to-1B/DH plan in action.
I think Chad is on the right track and injuries, new additions, and other surprises are certainly going to factor in the 25 man roster going north.
I wouldn’t doubt Pena making the team and Nunez going to Scranton to play everyday even though we all know that Nunez is the better player. Then again, I also wouldn’t be surprised to see both make the team with Chavez finding the injury bug again. I’d keep both youngsters for that reason.
It’s tough to put any kind of real faith in Chavez playing the entire season given his obvious injury history.
I think GB7 raised the point about trading Romine and a young arm or 2 for Liriano…makes sense from Twins perspective if Morneau can’t play and they have to move Mauer to 1B. Could be the starting point for a conversation.
Chad, completely agree about Warren, though, pitchers of his quality and college background wouldn’t totally shock me. Makes me think that Romine might be getting set up for a trade. He’s more attractive to others if he’s a catching finalist. Warren is a favorite of mine. Not so much in style, but in quality of pitches, he reminds me of Mussina. he’s a tough choice for me in chosing between him and Phelps.
Giuseppe Franco February 13th, 2011 at 4:15 pm
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I for one am going to be pulling for Chavez. I always hoped he would be a Yankee back in the early 2000s, and he would be the best player to sub for ARod if he is healthy. An excellent glove when healthy, plus a power LH bat with a swing made for YS.
A lot of Romine’s defensive problems are a lot of defensive interference calls and just catching the ball. He gets it in his glove, but, the ball always seems to pop out on the ground. A lot of steals because of this and disrupts the rhythm of the pitcher.
GreenBeret7 February 13th, 2011 at 4:19 pm
A lot of Romine’s defensive problems are a lot of defensive interference calls and just catching the ball. He gets it in his glove, but, the ball always seems to pop out on the ground. A lot of steals because of this and disrupts the rhythm of the pitcher.
++++++++++++++++++
That seems to be something easily fixable…perhaps practice…
Scouts who saw him last year in the minors and the AFL and my own eyes.
He’s not as good a defensive catcher as he can and it showed last year.
He has trouble receiving and blocking balls consistently.
He has a strong arm. As does Montero.
His overall defensive skills last year took a step back.
Most people who criticize Montero’s defensive play either haven’t seen him play, or don’t understand the context of the criticism.
By that I mean, his bat is so superior, his ceiling defensively is lower than other catchers.
Romine’s bat will never as good as Montero’s. That means he has to be a much better defender in order to overtake Montero.
He wasn’t last year.
Bojo,
Agreed. Chavez is obviously the most talented of the three and fits what the Yanks want to do.
But as far as I’m concerned, any production they get from Chavez this season is gravy simply because he’s had such a hard time seeing the field with any regularity.
SJ44–
SPECIFICALLY, do you have any reports that put Montero ahead of Romine defensively? I would be very surprised if you do–even given all the points you made.
Forget the offensive points….I am just concerned with defensive catching abilities.
BoJo February 13th, 2011 at 4:21 pm
GreenBeret7 February 13th, 2011 at 4:19 pm
A lot of Romine’s defensive problems are a lot of defensive interference calls and just catching the ball. He gets it in his glove, but, the ball always seems to pop out on the ground. A lot of steals because of this and disrupts the rhythm of the pitcher.
++++++++++++++++++
That seems to be something easily fixable…perhaps practice…
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Randy/SJ/Pat M. could answer the cause of that a lot better than I can and how to fix it. he was like that in Charleston and really hasn’t changed in Tampa or trenton so far.
GF–I remember what an incredible defensive player Chavez was. It would be a real shame if he didn’t get a second wind.
If healthy Chavez (might) make the team otherwise the versatility of Nunez gets him on the 25-man roster.
Romulo Sanchez would have the make the team otherwise he’s out of options.
If Cashman sees the need to solidify the rotation around the 3rd week of March by getting (for example) Liriano, then Sanchez will be among the pieces going to the Twins. Romine could also go in the deal pending the concussion health of Justin Morneau and Mauer getting more time at 1st base.
I’ve learned my lesson from too many times in trying to predict the exact roster leaving Tampa that to always allow for a surprise.
I would offer Betances, Romine+ for Liriano. Even if the Twins have no need for Romine, they can always flip him to another team who needs catching.
I think if the Yankees can get Liriano without giving up Banuelos, Montero, or Sanchez, they have to do it. The question is whether the Twins accept not getting back one of the Yankees top 3 prospects.
Just for the memories
http://vimeo.com/5099484
Don’t agree with the last 2 spots on the bench, Pena has a wet noodle for a bat, am going with Nunez, better runner, better power, actually uses a wood bat when he swings and not a wet noodle and is a good defender. and Montero HAS to get the starting/reserve C spot for the reason that he is an actual threat at the plate over Cervelli. I just don’t get that the media plays into the notion that the kids can’t play at this level. Come On!!!! Give this kid and the Killer B’s a chance for God’s Sake!
I would hope that Cervelli won’t make the team.
Betances has the ability of a #1 or a very good #2 type pitcher in the making. No way would I include him with Romine and others for a pitcher of Liriano’s history of injuries/inconsistant career.
I just gave you specific examples.
He blocks balls and receives pitches better than Romine did last year.
His arm is as strong, but his release is slower than
Frankie Piliere has said the same thing. Keith Law has similar viewpoints on Romine’s defensive skills.
Do I think Romine catch in the majors one day? Yes.
However, I doubt it will be this year unless he has a much better year defensively than he did last year. He’s not ready yet, IMO.
I wouldn’t trade Betances for Liriano either.
There is no way I would trade Montero, Betances, Banuelos or Sanchez for Liriano.
Too many health concerns for my tastes.
The caption in the pic of Harkey, Hughes, C.C., and Chamberlain seems like they’re looking up in the radio broadcast booth at Suzyn Waldman.
I don’t see Montero taking Cervelli’s place. He needs to play every day so if he goes north with the Yanks then it’ll be because he gave them no other choice than to find a spot for him in the lineup.
the best thing for NYYs is for Cervelli to come out smoking with the bat and getting his defense back to 2009 level, and then trade him instead of hoping he fails. Never understood the reasoning for that idea.
I would include Brackman for Liriano because of his age and concerns on whether he can remain a starter but I agree…..no Montero, Banuelos, Betances, or Sanchez.
Why does Montero need to play everyday? He can catch 60 games , DH some, and have the benefit of Pena’s tutelage by being in NY.
# SJ44 February 13th, 2011 at 4:33 pm
There is no way I would trade Montero, Betances, Banuelos or Sanchez for Liriano.
Too many health concerns for my tastes.
That’s a Felix Hernandez package imo.
Why does Liriano get dinged for his injury history, but not Betances when talking about a trade?
# Rich in NJ February 13th, 2011 at 4:36 pm
Why does Montero need to play everyday? He can catch 60 games , DH some, and have the benefit of Pena’s tutelage by being in NY.
Pena/Posada/Martin/Girardi
I would wait to bring him up so we can save a year of service time on him though.
brackman’s age should be no issue. He’d be the same age as Guidry and Rivera were when they finally stuck with NY.
I don’t read the blog much in the offseason but after skimming through the past couple of threads it’s pretty clear that ‘West Coast Yankees Fan’, the legendary troll of the Daily News Yankees blog with about 30 banned screen names, is about as well loved on this blog as Spaceman Bill Lee would be at a Yankees old timers day if he dusted of Graig Nettles just for the hell of it.
Sorry to belabor this, but specifically, are you saying this?
SJ44 February 13th, 2011 at 4:10 pm
Montero is a better defensive C than Romine at this time.
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If so, I would love to see the reports saying that. Forget about any improvements or steps back by either…looking fo r a direct comparison stating the above.
Rich,
Depends on how many ABs he can get with the Yankees. If he’s not ready to catch then he needs to work on his deficiencies so he is ready. What I meant is that I don’t see him coming to the big leagues and filling Cervellis back up role and playing once a week.
LGY February 13th, 2011 at 4:37 pm
Why does Liriano get dinged for his injury history, but not Betances when talking about a trade?
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Liriano’s had 2 injuries and the last one took him 3 years to recover.
Talking up players, in anticipation of a trade, is something that I think many fans do not appreciate/understand. GMs, when speaking publicly, realize that they have several audiences. Kind of like when politicians speak on the record.
It would not surprise me if Romine and Adam Warren are being talked as part of a deal. We’ll only know if it actually comes to happen.
“Liriano’s had 2 injuries and the last one took him 3 years to recover.”
————-
What two injuries?
He had TJ surgery.
Gb,
He’s not old per se but he is older than the ideal for where he is currently. Im not trying to ship him out of town or anything but I would consider him in a trade for Liriano because Im not sure he can stick as a starter more than anything….
Montero needs to play everyday because he still needs reps behind the plate and everyday AB’s.
Once he gets to the majors, he needs to be more of a finished product because Pena can’t work with him everyday. His bench coach responsibilities out weigh his catching coaches duties.
I think if the Yankees felt Montero could catch 60-80 games right now, they would not have signed Martin.
Montero is better served with more everyday work in the minors.
I wouldn’t trade for Liriano because I don’t get why the Twins would trade him if not for injury concerns. If I were interested, I would trade Brackman, but definitely not Betances or Banuelos
GreenBeret7 February 13th, 2011 at 4:34 pm
the best thing for NYYs is for Cervelli to come out smoking with the bat and getting his defense back to 2009 level, and then trade him instead of hoping he fails. Never understood the reasoning for that idea.
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Agreed 100%. The timing could be perfect too. Cervelli starts well, and is traded around ASB just when Montero is ready to play bigger role (and save a year arb as well). I could definitely seeing Cervelli going to Mets with some others to get Santana back if we need him.
A young player taking a step back defensively is a lot different from an older player like Pudge or Posada taking a step back defensively. If Romine had it once, I don’t think he’s lost it forever.
Joe from Long Island February 13th, 2011 at 4:42 pm
Talking up players, in anticipation of a trade, is something that I think many fans do not appreciate/understand. GMs, when speaking publicly, realize that they have several audiences. Kind of like when politicians speak on the record.
It would not surprise me if Romine and Adam Warren are being talked as part of a deal. We’ll only know if it actually comes to happen.
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I’d guess Romine, one of Warren/Phelps/DJ Mitchell along with a player like Adams or Joseph is about as high as I would go. If they want to substitute the pitcher for Chamberlain or Robertson, then ok.
Chad -
That’s my opening day lineup, too. I never play GTLU, but sometimes I’ll in my spreadsheets I’ll put a dummy lineup for Girardi and I’ve already set up my opening day GTLU, with that lineup.
I agree with the thinking on Chavez/Pena/Nunez, but it will be interesting to see what he (Chavez) can actually do.
I’m thinking Romine will have a good spring, but that he’ll leave in a trade.
As for the rotation, I do hope Garcia shows well and gets that 4th spot.
Liriano had TJ surgery in the minors and a few years ago.
He hasn’t been a consistent top of the rotation starter.
Last year was solid. However, can he back it up with another good year?
When you give up a young arm like Betances, it has to be for a more consistent top of the rotation starter with less of an injury history, IMO.
I sure hope the Yanks don’t need Santana. He’s another one I wouldn’t touch with a ten foot pole.
The Mets would also have to kick in a ton of money. Not sure how realistic that scenario is.
Pat M. saw Romine in high school and mentioned him as a corner outfielder and or corner infielder. He’s got the speed and arm to do so. Very much a Brandon Inge type of player…very athletic. And, yes, he can certainly be an MLB catcher.
Brackman has an outstanding fastball and killer curve, and is learning the chnage-up. He has already had TJ surgery and is stronger than ever. He is a very good athlete with stregth and endurance. He could be a top of rotation guy or bullpen closer. No way I give up on him so soon.
Well, I’d hate to see Robertson dealt, I’ve grown to kind of like him on the team, but with Soriano in the fold, he is more expendable. Depends on the deal. For Liriano – yes.
Guys, I’ve got to run soon – we’re having company for dinner and I’ve got to go a make nice. Catch you all later.
I agree with the 25-man also!
The one player I was ready to argue for, if you didn’t have him listed, was Freddy Garcia. Just a gut feeling but I think Garcia is going to be lights out for the Yankee rotation.
Brackman has an outstanding fastball and killer curve, and is learning the chnage-up. He has already had TJ surgery and is stronger than ever. He is a very good athlete with stregth and endurance. He could be a top of rotation guy or bullpen closer. No way I give up on him so soon.”
Considering trading him for something you need isn’t giving up on him. Id be perfectly fine having him vie for a rotation spot or role in the bullpen later in the season.
SJ,
Liriano has had 2 TJ surgeries?
Are you sure?
Doreen, you mentioned Garcia and I was wondering if Christian garcia wa back. forgot that it was Freddy Garcia. Would love to see Christian garcia come back and shake of the injury jinx. Lord, what an arm.
I just don’t like Brackman as much as I do Betances or Banuelos……I wouldn’t be trading him for garbage. In any case, I’m leery of Lirano so I wouldn’t trade anyone – just saying I’d trade Brackman before the other B’s, regardless of the deal we’re talking about.
I’ve already decided to get tickets for all of the games that Trenton plays at PAW-tucket. I’m psyched about seeing our youngins’!
Giuseppe Franco February 13th, 2011 at 4:48 pm
I sure hope the Yanks don’t need Santana. He’s another one I wouldn’t touch with a ten foot pole.
The Mets would also have to kick in a ton of money. Not sure how realistic that scenario is.
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Of course the Mets will have to kick in money….but if he is healthy ater ASB (and reports about the surgery indicate he should be stronger then 2 years ago), then his contract for next 3 years would be a bargain even at $25M per. He is still a gutsy left-handed ace who is one of top pitchers in game.
Let me be more specific…the surgery to his shoulder is like TJ surgery in that they are putting a stronger ligamnet (?) from another part of his body to repair a frayed one. The doctor reports I read say that it should fix the diminished fastball he has had and also allow him to get back to the fastball/change differential he used to have.
That’s Cy Young level quality if healthy and recovered.
I like Brackman. The guy I saw pitch at NC state looked like a monster out on the mound…..
All I am asking for is a fair and objective competition in ST.
If Martin and Cervellli win, fine.
If Montero wins, play him in NY.
Liriano had elbow surgery when he was in the Giants system.
Now that I think of it…..it may have been ligament strengthening (like Mo had in the minors) rather than ligament replacement (TJ) surgery.
Either way, 2 elbow surgeries, and shoulder issues give me pause when considering Liriano.
I’d trade for him if I could keep the Top Four prospects out of the deal.
In Reference to the Guest Post this Morning:
James living in Minnesota myself and going to see the Yankees whenever they are here, I can definitely agree with your take about how much the people in Minnesota hate and I mean with a passion HATE the Yankees.
Makes it that much sweeter whenever the Yankees beat up on them. Which as we know is ALWAYS, haha. Love it.
Garcia is projected #4. I know there’s uncertainty with AJ & Hughes, but you could really do worse than Freddie & Nova at the back end of your rotation. Individually the staff has their merits, though I can see how people would worry about it collectively.
Liriano has only had 1 TJ surgery…but had elbow problems that had him on DL before his surgery…
Sort of the same problem but only fixed once.
My concern with him would be that he continues to throw the slider over 33% of time, and it can hurt his arm.
Rich,
Id like that as well but the sample sizes and competition levels in ST just often aren’t enough to evaluate those sort of things. I would have accepted the struggles with Montero if they had just thrown him into the fire but apparently the Yanks want to be able to ease him into it…..and that’s fine I guess. What I really want to see is that if he’s destroying AAA and is clearly ready after the season starts that they get him to NY as soon as they can.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francisco_Liriano
Doesn’t mention surgery with Giants…source?
The Mets don’t have money to kick in a deal.
If they did, I’m sure they would kick it in to keep from ever trading Santana to the Yankees.
That would be a PR nightmare for them.
From the Yankees perspective, it’s also risky.
Paying a guy that much money who has finished the last two years on the operating table is risky business.
Wonder if Chad has heard any updates on Christian Garcia. Other than being right handed, his career is starting out looking like Al Leiter’s. all of that talent/stuff and all of those injuries.
Re Santana:
If think its really unlikely but if he comes back pitching well and the Mets will kick in money then I wouldn’t dismiss it. Hopefully they wont need him anyway by then.
GB7 -
C. Garcia was humming along last year, wasn’t he, before another injury? Did he call it a career, or is he still going to try for it? I don’t recall.
Minnesota would likely ask for one of David Adams or Corban Joseph in a Liriano deal. They need middle infield strength. Cashman won’t be thrilled but he’d have to part with one of Noesi, Warren, or Mitchell to get a deal done.
Liriano would become the LH replacement for Pettitte and keep things warm for Banuelos in 2012 or 2013.
Realistically, over the next two seasons I can’t think of a better pitcher than Liriano that will be available to the Yankees.
Unless Felix or Josh Johnson is made available, which to me I don’t see as realistic, what other under 30 pitcher can the Yankees end to this rotation if they seek a trade? Even if Felix or Johnson are made available that would mean basically gutting the farm system, trading multiple high end pitchers AND Montero.
Maybe Marcum or Greinke if the Brewers struggle, but they have their own issues and I don’t think they are better than Liriano. Also, you don’t get these players for the whole season. Trading for Liriano now would give you 2 full years.
Liriano would really change the complexion of this team. I think you can make the argument that they would have the best overall pitching in the AL with Liriano slotting behind CC.
It would hurt to trade Betances, but I would do it because I see this as the best realistic opportunity to improve the pitching on this team in a dramatic fashion. Especially, considering Betances has a checkered injury past of his own.
If Brackman has another leap in the improvement curve in 2011 as he did in 2010, he’ll be pitching in the bigs somewhere his summer….I just don’t understand why some have such low regard for him, especially without ever seeing him throw…….Scouts certainly like him
Liriano had some early career shoulder issues
http://www.minorleagueball.com.....co-liriano
SJ44 February 13th, 2011 at 5:02 pm
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I’m not trying to be argumentative today and I respect your POV a lot, but I disagree about Mets trading Santana. THis has been discussed here before, so I’ll sum it up quickly.
1. Mets will be looking to get out of the remaining contract of $25M per year for 2-3 years (can’t recall length)
2. As with big salary dumps of this kind, they can either Alex Rios him and give him away for nothing, or eat some salary and get prospects back
3. Alderson will want to get a few prospects back tp appease Mets fans, so they will have to eat some money
blake
I think Martin (and of course, Cervelli) has a lot to prove as well, so I think there’s a chance that Monero makes the team.
LGY
I would rather save their trade chips and see if a better/more durable pitcher becomes available. I think Liriano has too many questions, for example, his HR/FB rate, as well as health issues.
Pat M -
That’s what I can’t figure. Most here haven’t seen any of the three B’s pitch, at least not very much. To be sure, some have. But the certainty some have about who to keep and who to trade, I don’t understand.
I have <0 interest in Santana, given his contract, his health, his already declining FB, and I don't want to see former Yankee prospects succeed on the Mets.
Pat M,
I don’t have a low regard for him….I love having him and think if he stays he could be a big piece for the Yanks one day…..that said I would think.about dealing him for the chance at a real upgrade to the current rotation.
I’m not interested in Santana for the same reasons as Rich in NJ.
It’s too bad, really.
blake February 13th, 2011 at 4:57 pm
I like Brackman. The guy I saw pitch at NC state looked like a monster out on the mound…..
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True, and at 6″ – 10″ and 230 lbs., he’s real close to the hitter when he finishes his pitches and his plant foot hits the ground. Somewhat like Randy Johnson minus the snarl.
“Garcia is projected #4. I know there’s uncertainty with AJ & Hughes, but you could really do worse than Freddie & Nova at the back end of your rotation.”
Absolutely. Whether Nova or Mitre ends up in the 5th spot, I would love to see the other as our long reliever, spot starter. I think we have the makings of something very good going on, especially with the pen we have to shore up the rotation. I think it is a total mistake for a team to break ST without a bona fide long reliever. It looks like we’ll definitely have ours when it’s time to go north.
I’ve already gone on record as predicting number 28 for the Yanks.
Rich,
Just looking over the pitchers around the league, I just don’t see who they would save the chips for.
Maybe the Giants make Cain available as he gets closer to FA and if they fall in the standings?
Sandy Alderson is one of the smartest GMs in baseball, he isn’t going to give away Santana if he can still pitch. And, if he can still pitch, he would want a combination of prospects that won’t be a good fit for the Yankees.
Doreen February 13th, 2011 at 5:04 pm
GB7 -
C. Garcia was humming along last year, wasn’t he, before another injury? Did he call it a career, or is he still going to try for it? I don’t recall.
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Doreen, he had a second TJ surgery in late April or early May last year, so, he may be rehabbing now. If so, I hope the Yanks take another crack at him. He’s got great stuff and a nice, very unassuming young guy. He said that he understood getting released last May, but, he still wanted to try again. he was outstanding in his first game last year. On pitch 370, it tore. He saud that he felt a pinch in the elbow a few pitches before that, but, kept pitching until he just couldn’t. 5.2 innings, 2 singles, 0 runs, 1 walk and 3 strikeouts.
Rich,
I wouldn’t mind it if Montero did. On Sanata a lot of unlikely events would have to occur before I had interst…..he’d have to be healthy, the Mets would have to eat salary and accept non impact prospects, and the Yankees would have to really need him……unlikely but I like to keep options open.
The Mets won’t be able to do anything, in terms of kicking in money they resolve their legal issues.
Every financial move they make is going to be scrutinized by the Trustee lawyer suing them.
Especially since he is contending the Wilpons unjustly enriched themselves, and used team money, to invest with Madoff.
Assuming they got out from under, or settled, the lawsuit, if they can kick money into the deal, why would they help the Yankees? It would be as dumb a move as investing in Madoff was for the Wilpons.
Making the Yankees better hurts the Mets.
They would sell the franchise before they do that.
It would be cool if the Angels continued to suck and they made Weaver and/or Haren available.
MG February 13th, 2011 at 5:14 pm
Sandy Alderson is one of the smartest GMs in baseball, he isn’t going to give away Santana if he can still pitch. And, if he can still pitch, he would want a combination of prospects that won’t be a good fit for the Yankees.
__________
Alderson has gutted teams before due to payroll issues, and if the Mets are in a cash crunch, he’ll do it again.
outside the lines on espn this am had a segment on the mets’, well actually the Wilpons’ financial woes…what a mess
I am watching the ’00 subway series while cooking dinner, and I have to say I feel bad for Al Leiter. He is pitching so well and I just know he isn’t going to win!
Johan Santana. Yet another case that falls under the heading of, some of the best deals you make are the ones you don’t make.
Not wishing Cliff Lee bad health but he could one day be in the Santana catagory.
LGY,
It would be even cooler if the Mariners continued to really suck and.made Felix available.
SJ44 February 13th, 2011 at 5:16 pm
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Alderson moves Santana for the best package he can get…he’ll care more about positioning the team to survive and improve than whether he helps the Yankees. He is a smart guy and will realize that he can restock Mets farm with deals for Santana, KRod, Reyes, and Beltran, and he won;t care who he deals with IMO.
I really see his boss being Selig rather than Wilpons, and his marching orders are to fix the franchise for long-term health and eventual potential sale.
all of the media that attended are making the Kay wedding sound like the Rainier and Grace Kelly wedding
Rich in NJ February 13th, 2011 at 5:11 pm
I have <0 interest in Santana, given his contract, his health, his already declining FB, and I don't want to see former Yankee prospects succeed on the Mets.
_________________
If the doctors' reports are correct, he'll come back with a better fastball and stronger shoulder than he had a few years ago.
As for his contract, it is a better deal then the Lee deal. 3 years not 6…
upstate kate February 13th, 2011 at 5:21 pm
outside the lines on espn this am had a segment on the mets’, well actually the Wilpons’ financial woes…what a mess
I am watching the ’00 subway series while cooking dinner, and I have to say I feel bad for Al Leiter. He is pitching so well and I just know he isn’t going to win!
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Thank you, Kate. you just spoiled the ending for me.
haha, sorry GB. You should have figured out by now that the Yankees win all the Yankees classics
blake,
It would and obviously people see the Felix situation differently. Some think he could be made available. Personally, I don’t think so.
But in any event, even if he were to be made available do you really want to completely gut the farm system for 1 player? Montero plus a couple of the B’s and maybe more?
No one mentioned Prior? Does he start in minors and is insurance for a call up later in season if we need BP help? I think he could give us some depth in the pen and if healthy could allow us to trade Joba.
It is possible tha Montero can win the starting catching slot and Martin is the back up. Jorge will catch a bit when we want to have more lefties in the line up — that means Chavez can DH when Jorge catches.
I prefer Nunez over Pena but understand Yankee thinking that he needs to play and not sit on the pine.
For all of you who think Yanks have pitching weaknesses –you need to realize that we have a lot of arms in the system that will get the call if Garcia, Nova Mitre or Colon fail. we have at least 6-8 arms in AA/AAA that will get the audition. In many respects this is the deepest the pitching has been in years.
I like our depth better than that of the Sox.
I am liking the Chavez move. He can really help and will like the short porch in right. I see him playing 3B/1B with a little DHing duty.
upstate kate February 13th, 2011 at 5:27 pm
haha, sorry GB. You should have figured out by now that the Yankees win all the Yankees classics
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Yeah, although I’m not as old at Randy and Pat M., my memory drifts at times. this could have been a big surprise ending.
Hey!!! Jeter just homered off of Lieter.
On my way to my sister’s second annual Unvalentine Party. She holds it for a group of us who are CWP – currently without partners.
I have to admit to being deleriously happily single, though that is not to demean the unsingle state, since I’m sure I had more years of that than the other. However, the last go-round is definitely the one that got me to the “deleriously happily single” state. I decided that I should no longer be babysitting free…
Great night y’all.
No he won’t. He will do what the Wilpons tell him to and Sandy himself knows it’s bad business to deal one of your best players to you in city rival.
The Yankees also won’t touch him because it’s also a bad move for them for a variety of reasons.
It’s a trade that will never take place.
Isn’t Jared Weaver a FA at the end of next season?
Prior says that he’s strictly a reliever now, because he doesn’t think he could hold up starting. Much like Kerry Wood’s problem.
LGY,
I wouldn’t gut it…..I would have limits but would pay a big price to bring Felix on board. He’s the best pitcher in baseball and isnt 25 yet. I do think he will be made available at some point…..whether its this year or not I have no idea but if they are historically awful again in 2011 it wouldn’t shock me if they entertained what they could get for him.
Anybody hear anything about Michael Kay’s wedding? I heard they seved chicken fingers with no dips.
SJ,
Yeah. After the 2012 season he is a FA.
yeah, Weaver’s a FA. That should be interesting between Moreno and Boras, given the issues between them. surely, he wouldn’t let spite and dislike for Boras to cloud his business sense.
I’d Imagine Santana would have to be, at the very least, a year removed from surgery before any team would trade for him. I don’t see him being traded this year.
He’s 32 and comming off of major surgery on his throwing shoulder…
No doctor can predict whether anybody will have a stronger FB coming off surgery.
That’s wishful thinking.
Joba had a less serious injury than Santana, no surgery, and he hasn’t recouped his FB.
It’s folly for any Dr. to predict what Santana will be post-surgery.
I thought Felix signed an extension with Seattle? I may be wrong because I still see people trying to pry him out if Seattle’s grubby liitle hands.
No, my error. FA in 2013
I’ve never been an anti-Met guy as I’ve always rooted for all NY Teams to different degrees, however I do take delight in the Mets woos ever since they jobbed Willie Randolph, and they’ve been in a free fall ever since…….I agree with the premise that Sandy will do what ever he can to improve the organization other than trading their corner infielders………GB, cheap shot on the age issue……..For a guy who loved Betty Grable during the WW II years you should be laying off Tin Cup and myself…….
Weaver was held back just long enough in his first season to keep him tied to the Angels through 2013
Felix did sign an extension with Seattle but last winter when he did everone thought they were going to compete……instead they had one of the worst offenses in history. Im not saying they’ll trade him now……just saying that paying 20 million for one player when you’re awful isn’t very efficient and unless they improve that will be the case starting in 2012.
Pat M. February 13th, 2011 at 5:39 pm
I’ve never been an anti-Met guy as I’ve always rooted for all NY Teams to different degrees, however I do take delight in the Mets woos ever since they jobbed Willie Randolph, and they’ve been in a free fall ever since…….I agree with the premise that Sandy will do what ever he can to improve the organization other than trading their corner infielders………GB, cheap shot on the age issue……..For a guy who loved Betty Grable during the WW II years you should be laying off Tin Cup and myself…….
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Yes, but I knew the difference between Grable and gable. Not sure that you two can remember.
GB……I watched Gome With The Wind the other night, weren’t you an extra in that movie ????
catching position is something that may change, Martin has to prove he’s 100 % healthy
kuroda is a good trade target and a realistic imo.
LMAO. Yeah, I was one of the Tarlton twins, the one not played by George Reeves.
More like Gomer Pyle.
I think they should hold off on a trade for a pitcher. At least for the first couple of months. We really need to look at what we got because the external options are downright ugly.
Mike Harkey, February 13, 2011 :
” I can’t believe we will be going into the 2011 season with this craptastic starting rotation ! “
m….Lakers are downright ugly today ….
Montero’s gonna beat out Martin.
Watching the end of the train wreck right now. The miles might be adding up because the played very well since the close loss to SA.
anybody starting to notice the same phrases and amount of stupidity between Ruby and YNM? Either twins sharing a brain cell or just the same person.
SJ44 February 13th, 2011 at 5:32 pm
No he won’t. He will do what the Wilpons tell him to and Sandy himself knows it’s bad business to deal one of your best players to you in city rival.
The Yankees also won’t touch him because it’s also a bad move for them for a variety of reasons.
It’s a trade that will never take place.
+++++++++++
Time will tell.
GB,
Me thinks same person.
BryanHoch Bryan Hoch
Yankees pitchers and catchers officially report tomorrow. Joe Girardi meets the media at Steinbrenner Field at 11 a.m. ET.
blake February 13th, 2011 at 5:55 pm
GB,
Me thinks same person.
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I’m thinking the same thing, Blake. Two different people can’t possibly that annoying and that stupid.
Norman has his own web site…indicating a desire to get recognition…whereas Ruby is fairly anonymous…I think 2 different people.
But obviously they share 1 brain cell
Stated watching GWTW last night, but hubby preferred The Pink Panther, so I switched off.
GreenBeret7 February 13th, 2011 at 5:58 pm
blake February 13th, 2011 at 5:55 pm
GB,
Me thinks same person.
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you talking about me
# PhiltheThrill February 13th, 2011 at 5:51 pm
Montero’s gonna beat out Martin.
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that was one of my ST surprises other was Laird
There are a ton of FA pitchers set to hit FA after 2012
LHP:
Liriano
Danks
Hamels
J Sanchez
RHP:
Weaver
Cain
Billingsley
Marcum
Greinke
A Sancez
Not sure if I am missing anyone important.
Doreen, little known fact, but The Pink Panther is the French version of GWTW. Quality acting om serious subjects. The French version may have lost a little in translation, though.
LGY February 13th, 2011 at 6:12 pm
There are a ton of FA pitchers set to hit FA after 2012
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Hopefully by then, the Yankees won’t need to sign any of them, as their own prospects will have matured enough.
CitiField will see a serious lag in attendance unless the Wilpons have a lot of promotions to put fans in seats.
They’ll be a stark difference in the B-D-4 trains opposed to the No. 7 train for ballgame passengers.
The Subway Series will be the big event of the year for Met fans.
O/T Is anybody watching the Grammy Awards Red Carpet show? Where do they get some of these get-ups from?
108 stitches February 13th, 2011 at 6:21 pm
CitiField will see a serious lag in attendance unless the Wilpons have a lot of promotions to put fans in seats.
They’ll be a stark difference in the B-D-4 trains opposed to the No. 7 train for ballgame passengers.
The Subway Series will be the big event of the year for Met fans.
_____________________
That and the planned crucifixion of Minaya. Should be a big draw.
Fran the original February 13th, 2011 at 6:22 pm
O/T Is anybody watching the Grammy Awards Red Carpet show? Where do they get some of these get-ups from?
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Ru-Paul’s closet? Not sure where the women get theirs from. though.
BTW–I am convinced one ot the main reasons Alderson was hired to be Mets GM was because he has twice before been able to gut a roster for prospects (As and San Diego), and has plans to do so again.
We will see.
GB, I don’t even think RuPaul has anything this outragious in his closet.
Fran, you were never subjected to watching the Grand Ol Opery shows from the 50s and early 60s, but that was close to this stuff nowadays.
GB, really? I thought country music performers wore plain western garb back then. I have to look it up on the internet.
Chad’s lineup is exactly what I think Girardi will do, at least out of the gate. I’m definitely in the camp that thinks Swisher should hit second and not Granderson. Jeter will need to bounce back to stay in the lead off position and Teixeira hopefully will not be impersonating a dead person in May.
Lady Gaga in an egg ????
Doreen, you did a really nice job with your GTLU site.
Pat M,
She’s incubating. That was too much.
I didn’t even pay attention to the lineup order.
I prefer the Gardner/Jeter tandem to the Jeter/Swishanderson tandem.
But if I had to choose, I’d probably put Granderson 2, and Nick’s stick deeper in the lineup. I didn’t like the idea of Granderson in the 2-hole last season, but iirc he responded well there.
Fran, this is one of the more understated outfits.
http://www.bing.com/videos/wat.....FORM=VIRE1
Here’s a Webb Pierce suit that would go over well today. Take a peek at the announcer’s coat. Looks like it was made from Dolly Parton’s bedspread.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qIjHkHdM2w
OMG – the brownies I made are OMG – if I may say so myself!
http://bleacherreport.com/arti.....asons-left good article on hof shortstops.
GB, those jackets are quite bedazzled. Never knew they dressed like that.
Jackson -
Thanks!
***
GB7 -
the Pink Panther that we watched was the one with Steve Martin. You can’t help but laugh. It’s so silly.
GWTW, well, now when I watch it, I see it differently than I did years ago. And I don’t like the romanticism of the plantation life, so to speak.
I do still love the Rhett/Scarlett relationship though, and Clark Gable was phenomenal in that role, and that, to me, is the draw of that movie. The cinematography is incredible. But I’m Yankee through and through, I guess.
My sister-in-law is born and bred Mississippian. She couldn’t get out of the north fast enough.
Bleacher report will never create a good article.
Doreen, I guess I don’t get why it’s a big deal that maybe some hold Banuelos or Betances in higher regard than Brackman – unless the implication (which I don’t think you’re making) is that all prospects are created equal. It’s also ridiculous (not directed to you) for there to be the suggestion that if you don’t love a prospect/player it means you hate them and think they stink.
Jerkface, it really does suck and it’s also user-unfriendly.
not a big fan of bleacher either but, still a good comparison.
Fran, the women were worse.
If you like John Fogerty music, click on this. For a guy from Berkley, California, he’s as country as it gets,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v.....re=related
Doreen, I can’t imagine 2 people more suited for the roles of Rhett and Scarlett than Gable and Leigh. Errol Flynn maybe. After Hedy Lamar, Vivian Leigh may have been the most perfect looking woman in Hollywood at any time.
Face,
Was thinking about Cano in the 2 hole and noticed something interesting about 09.
Damon and Tex basically spent the entire season in the 2 and 3 hole respectively.
Tex had 222 PA with RISP and 371 PA with men on.
Damon had 177 PA with RISP and 323 PA with men on.
Betsy -
Not a big deal at all.
I just wonder, is all. I know not all prospects are equal – some are more likely to succeed than others. I just always wonder what some people base their strong opinions on. Maybe they read more, maybe they’ve seen more. That’s all valid.
But sometimes the prospects surprise you – the “can’t miss” guy misses, and the guy destined for the trash heap makes good.
I just don’t understand the VERY strong feelings people have. Like I said, based on the little I know, Banuelos seems to be the keeper, but I don’t feel strongly about ANY prospect. I like to watch them, I like to root for them, I hope they all stay and make good. But realistically, I understand that some will stay and some will go.
GB7 -
I have to agree with you. Vivien Leigh was so perfectly cast. Her face – the raise of an eyebrow – so perfect.
It’s like they were born to play those roles.
I don’t know much about Hedy Lamar. I read something recently about her – that she was more well-rounded but always kind of pigeon holed into roles. Errol Flynn might have made Rhett work. But even when I read the book, Gable fits perfectly!
Damon played less games than Tex. 128 in the 2 hole vs Tex’s 154. I’d really want to look at the overall team picture if we had that data, but I wonder if the generally high quality batters that populate the Yankee lineup would shift the dynamic.
GB, thanks for the links.
Lamar was gorgeous but, extremely intelligent. She and a friend invented a devise that scrambled the radio signals (frequency hopping) that were eventually used on topedos, back during the WWII. It was finally used on the subs used during the Cuban blockade of 1962.
Gable definately had Butler down pat. He was the first King Of Snark.
My pleasure, Fran.
Gone With the Wind is my favorite book and movie ever I think. There are others that come close, but the book itself was so awesome. I read it when I was in 7th grade and home with a bad flu. My mother handed it to me, and that was the last she heard of me until I finished it. I am a slow word for word reader, too.
GB,
Spelling lesson: definitely.
Doreen, I promised myself I won’t ever get attached to another prospect again – and I won’t. Banuelos is my favorite of these kids, but I’m not going to go gaga like I’ve done before with players – it’s just not good for me, lol
SAS, spelling was never my forte. Of course, neither was speaking properly. It still embarrasses me, but, it could be wore, I suppose. I could be in the room next to Randy at “The Home”.
Ya, it could be wore