Girardi touts Martin’s impact behind the plate
Posted by: Chad Jennings - Posted in Misc on Oct 11, 2011 
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Joe Girardi spoke for a little more than a half hour today. A lot of the conversation centered on the fact the Yankees scored a ton of runs in the regular season but couldn’t score enough during three of their postseason games to advance. There was plenty of talk about luck and sample size, and some discussion about the idea of clutch players in clutch situations.
I’ll have plenty of that to post later today.
Right now, I’m sorting through the audio and getting some things together. For the time being, here’s a comment from Giradi, who seemed to throw his support behind catcher Russell Martin. Girardi seemed to be setting the stage for Martin to return, with Jesus Montero playing a DH/C role. Girardi was clearly happy with Montero’s hitting down the stretch.
“I can’t tell you exactly what the makeup of our team is going to be behind the plate,” Girardi said. “We had a catcher that played extremely well this year, Russell Martin, and did a tremendous job with our pitching staff, I believe. But Montero is a guy that could probably do a lot of different things. DH some. He could catch some. We’ve got to see what our makeup of our team is. I can say one thing, I was very pleased with (Montero’s) at-bats in the month of September and the two that he had in October. There’s a lot of bat speed there and there’s a lot of upside there with that bat.”
“There’s a lot of bat speed there and there’s a lot of upside there with that bat.”
Yea but more importantly he has a great ability to keep a bench warm so that was more important this year
“There’s a lot of bat speed there and there’s a lot of upside there with that bat.”
So lets let it rot and not see if it could help us get into the ALCS.
Would have loved to have seen that bat speed of Montero get a chance with the bases loaded in game 5……maybe we would still be playing….
ok – here’s a question, even tho it’s never going to happen b/c of ticket prices/yes network/market, are you willing, as a fan, to let these high price FA’s go and put a more cost effective product on the field (knowing full well that the results are not guaranteed)?
Keith–FL October 11th, 2011 at 1:18 pm
Would have loved to have seen that bat speed of Montero get a chance with the bases loaded in game 5……maybe we would still be playing….
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joe girardi was a manager of extremes in game 5 – managed with urgency and creativity with the pitching…fell asleep at the wheel with the offense…
:pukes:
Joe, talk is cheap. You don’t need to sell us on Montero. You’re the one who needs to be sold, apparently.
Oh, this is sure to be a popular subject.
Why don’t some of these writers have the balls to ask “If you like the bat so much, where was it in Game 5?”
blake October 11th, 2011 at 1:14 pm
I can’t see any team trading for Soriano. He can opt out and be a closer if he wants to anyway……
———————-
Good point blake. I forgot about his opt out. I do hope he exercises it.
Free up some cash, and besides, he’ll get it elsewhere at $12M/year. With Robertson holding down the 8th, and Joba returning – hopefully to form – for the 7th, he’s not that vital a cog in the bullpen.
I hope we only see Martin next year to catch AJ and catch when Montero needs a day off or he is DHing. Girardi’s obsession with Martin is definitely going to screw Montero up.
When asked what the biggest off season issues are, Girardi said the rotation. And with the potential for CC to opt out, I understand that. But I also think that is the obvious easy answer. He seemed fairly comfortable talking about the possible pitching options.
Meanwhile most of the questions were about hitters 4-5-6. I think Girardi was a little less comfortable with these questions.
I love Martin behind the plate. He made some great tag plays at the plate to save runs. Too bad his effort is not appreciated by some fans.
dfiregirl4 CC Sabathia says he is “prepared to leave the Yankees” if he gets a better deal if he opts out of his contract.
I’m sure they’re going to resign Martin and they should.
But they should also aim to get Montero familiar enough with the staff to be able to catch in the postseason.
LockDown- I like Martin
Girardi sounded stupid when he kept talking about “luck” as far as Swisher and Tex not hitting in the post season. So luck hasn’t been on their side for 3 years now? Give me a break. I hope Cashman picks up Swisher’s option and then looks around to see if there is a better fit in RF and trade him.
Joe Girardi: wonderful man, utterly inept manager.
Who is dfiregirl4?
Girardi is Mike’D Upp for the HAHD HITTIN ANALYSIS
randy – you mean you’re even testier than usual?
Me, personally – I have no problem with CC making a business move. That’s why they always say it’s just business, nothing personal. I don’t think I’d be so cavalier about passing up an extra $20M. How much is too much? I don’t know, but I do know I’d be more than a little ticked off if anyone tried to tell me what I should do in that situation. (Not that I’ll ever be in that situation, sigh…)
I also think he’ll be back.
About Montero not playing more against Detroit, specifically Game 5? I was a bit disappointed. It would have been a great piece of drama. A great story. And, if he struck out, it would have generated the type of stories that Joe Torre got for batting Alex Rodriguez 8th – “a panic move”, and worse, with a lot of bad vibes with some players in the clubhouse, similar to what Gary Sheffield described after Torre’s move.
Now, if Montero had played more during the season, with success – that’s a different story. But, alas, the ship had sailed, also.
And, if Jeter’s 8th inning drive had traveled just another half dozen feet…….
Enough.
“And, if Jeter’s 8th inning drive had traveled just another half dozen feet…….”
I so thought that was gone…..crushing.
I don’t think he sounded stupid. I think he’s trying to get through a press conference that’s an obligation. I don’t want him or Cashman telling tales out of school, any way.
blake-no idea-it was retweeted.
Erin October 11th, 2011 at 1:34 pm
LockDown- I like Martin
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Yeah! Another fan of Martin.
A gentle wind would have coaxed that well hit ball. Alas, not a hint of a breeze on Thursday night blowing out to right field.
blakeisawesome298: Sabathia says that he and Hank are already negotiating his new contract. Its gonna be Yyyuge! #optout
It just wasn’t meant to be…..that ball usually catches the jetstream.
The forearm injury had me thinking the fates were not with us.
Like Jeter’s, I thought Jone’s was also out.
Did Girardi really sarcastically say he should have put Gardner in the cleanup spot?
Sounds like something Captain Queeg might have said.
Jones’ not Jone’s
Asking about Montero..
That graphic makes you want to cry…
Blake-
. I just saw the article that was linked-CC never actually says those words. Totally my fault for the confusion. Ignore the dfiregirl tweet, everyone!!!
I thought Jones’s was at least off the wall…..that was a laser.
Great deduction Girardi ! Martin is a fair hitting, good defensive ( not great throwing ) catcher.
Looks like he’s back for another year, hopefully won’t be asked to catch as much.
IMO Romine is ready to be here in some capacity, probably won’t be with the mentality of Joe.
Young catchers & pitchers appear to be our strength right now. ( not far away either )
Young and powerful hitters are Montero & ????????????
My most current guess on what happens this winter:
CC signs 5 years at his current salary (Yankees might even go 7 if the bidding gets high enough but I think his weight will be a factor and they won’t just break the bank for him)
CJ Wilson signs 5 years $88 mil
Carlos Beltran signs 2 years $14 mil
Yankees pick up the option on Swisher; trade him, Nunez, a prospect and Phil Hughes to San Francisco for Matt Cain and Aubrey Huff (as part of a salary wash)
Rotation:
CC, Cain, CJ, Nova, AJ
Lineup:
Jeter – SS
Granderson – CF
Cano – 2b
Alex – 3b
Tex – 1b
Beltran – RF
Montero – DH
Martin – C
Gardner – LF
Now, I am going to be sick to my f***ing stomach….Just. Don’t.
Erin,
It’s cool
His “true” colors. Says the color blind man.
Looks like Martin is coming back
Girardi seems to want to slowing break Montero in so he can eventually be an everyday type catcher. Mentioned some DH. But I think he should DH a lot, not just some.
I also want Montero to learn 1B. It will make him more versatile & give him more days, plus maybe it will motivate Teix to get his act together at the plate.
Have to re-listen to his comment on Hughes. He sounded very stern though – something to the effect of they have set goals for him this winter and he has to meet them and if he can’t break through, they have to evaluate or something along those lines.
Raved about Martin too, as usual. Said they expect his D to be even better next year and hs credits him with their low staff ERA. Gave the usual praise about Montero
# Melkmanisinhotlanta October 11th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
CC is a cheap skate plain and simple. He makes an income that he could easily afford a full-time chief to prepare healthy meals for him. He could write it off as a business expense to the tune of $200k a year.
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This doesn’t even make sense. How do you know that he doesn’t already have his own chef? If he doesn’t have one it probably has nothing to do with cost.
It’s a lot easier to watch your diet during the offseason than it is during the regular season. These guys are on the road for half the year and probably eat in restaurants almost nightly.
The more often you eat out, the harder it is to eat healthy.
Nick Swisher was commenting about this very issue a couple of weeks back.
Robinson Cano says hey.
Could Francesa be any more of a kiss ass.
I don’t where the talk of the “jet stream” got started, but the stadium is situated exactly as the old YS. If the wind is blowing out, then you have something, otherwise all that jumping out in certain areas is nonsense. When you hit it well enough, it goes.
Based on what Joe said doesn’t sound like Hughes has a locked up rotation spot/ sounded like they had some concerns on him and were down on him and he has to prove himself
He said Joba probably won’t be ready for the start of the season, not a surprise.
Francesa has asked the same question about regular season vs. postseason and how to win in the postseason like 5 different times already.
Giuseppe Franco October 11th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
# Melkmanisinhotlanta October 11th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
CC is a cheap skate plain and simple. He makes an income that he could easily afford a full-time chief to prepare healthy meals for him. He could write it off as a business expense to the tune of $200k a year.
———–
This doesn’t even make sense. How do you know that he doesn’t already have his own chef? If he doesn’t have one it probably has nothing to do with cost.
It’s a lot easier to watch your diet during the offseason than it is during the regular season. These guys are on the road for half the year and probably eat in restaurants almost nightly.
The more often you eat out, the harder it is to eat healthy.
Nick Swisher was commenting about this very issue a couple of weeks back.
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I’m not one to get on anyone about their weight, but that’s horsepoop. There are plenty of guys who play ball who don’t balloon like CC did this year.
And as he gets older it is only going to get more and more difficult for him to drop the weight in the offseason so that he can start at a lower spot. The team has trainers, conditioning coaches, any one of which, if asked, would happily give CC a list of diet dos and don’ts when eating on the road.
“Yankees pick up the option on Swisher; trade him, Nunez, a prospect and Phil Hughes to San Francisco for Matt Cain and Aubrey Huff (as part of a salary wash”
The Giants might would consider that…..but its a lot to give for a fly ball pitcher in his walk year. Nunez is probably the most interesting piece form them there.
Also …..you aren’t getting Beltran for 2/14……more like 2/25.
Francesa’s lack of analytic ability is pretty stunning.
Is Cashman supposed to meet the press or something today?
I also got the feeling that Hughes was on some kind of bubble.
If CC isn’t smart enough to see he needs to lose some weight, then the Yanks need to tell him.
Nuff said.
But if you look at a pic of CC in ST and a pic of CC in the playoffs, it is highly noticeable that he has gained weight. And not just a few lbs.
When he had such a drop in performance from August on, and it coincided with him getting heavier, any questions about a correlation are valid.
He needs to get it under control now before he hits his mid 30s.
No to Beltan
Any correlations made about CC’s weight and his performance are mere coincidence. It’s the same time he stopped pitching on normal rest, which messes up starters every time. You’ve all really gone off the deep end now.
only thing surprising from the interview was the hughes tidbit
other than that, the usual fluff, cliches, and positive portrayal
Hughes has to step up and break out as a solid top starter next year. The guy has the tools and he can do it but the ball is in his court. If Ian Kennedy can step up like he did this year then there is no excuse for Hughes.
Didn’t CC also throw a simulated game on that final Sunday, then started the postseason on short rest?
Again, the Yankees are to blame for continuing the six-man charade as long as they did, despite CC being on record saying that he didn’t like it.
They should have found a way to get him on normal rest for his final 2-3 starts.
The six-man screwing up Sabathia isn’t sexy enough to consider.
Thus, these weight comments.
Yes and CC looked great in Game 1 before the rain…..his stuff and location was very sharp. Then he started game 3 on 2 days rest and pitched in relief for the first time on his career.
The screwy schedule…..extra rest down the stretch and rain in the ALDS is much more to blame for his lack of sharpness than anything else.
So you’re saying CC’s extra weight is sexy
There is no exucse for CC gaining more weight. NONE !
the fact is that the guy is the highest paid pitcher in the game and the “ace” of the staff so he should be at the top of his game. Like I said it’s laughable that he would even consider opting out after another subpar postseason and weight gain.
What’s laughable is that you honestly seem to think you would not opt out in a similar situation.
“I’m not one to get on anyone about their weight, but that’s horsepoop. There are plenty of guys who play ball who don’t balloon like CC did this year.
And as he gets older it is only going to get more and more difficult for him to drop the weight in the offseason so that he can start at a lower spot. The team has trainers, conditioning coaches, any one of which, if asked, would happily give CC a list of diet dos and don’ts when eating on the road.”
Exactly. CC can order healthy food without butter and oil and eat very cleanly. Opening the mouth and inserting Capn Krunch is a choice. The junk food junky enablers on this board don’t get it lol.
I like CC and would like to see him back again next year. But I have noticed that when he goes up against the other teams ace during the year, the Yankees lose those games more often then they win. He dominates when he is squaring off against the other teams #2 or #3, but those games that the Yankees go up against other great pitchers is when CC needs to throw up zero’s and he just doesn’t.
That concerns me.
CC didn’t start the postseason on short rest. Don’t blame the Yankees for CC’s inability to get it done in October. Yeah you can blame them for the six man rotation but he will be held accountable for his own actions. So far two subpar postseasons in a row and a boatload of excuses. Getting paid like he is the best pitcher in the game today when he isn’t.
As long as his wife is cool with it, heyman.
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Jeremy, you have no context to analyze how CC Sabathia’s weight affects his pitching. You just don’t. If you’re that worried about his performance because of the weight, why not send him some recipe suggestions. Be proactive.
Chip October 11th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
My most current guess on what happens this winter:
CC signs 5 years at his current salary (Yankees might even go 7 if the bidding gets high enough but I think his weight will be a factor and they won’t just break the bank for him)
CJ Wilson signs 5 years $88 mil
Carlos Beltran signs 2 years $14 mil
Yankees pick up the option on Swisher; trade him, Nunez, a prospect and Phil Hughes to San Francisco for Matt Cain and Aubrey Huff (as part of a salary wash)
Has the silly season started already?
No way Beltran signs with anyone for $7m a year…anywhere. Try $42m to $45m over 3. Someone will be stupid enough to give him that.
Why would you re-sign Swisher if you pick up Beltran?
San Francisco will want either Banuelos or Bettances as part of that deal. And, in case, what would we do with Aubrey Huff. Get him to win up Joba in the dugout?
At some point the extra girth will impede his delivery. Imagine having an extra 20lbs hanging over your belt? The repetition of his mechanics all of a sudden becomes complex. This most likely explains his uneven performance.
“Wind up”
UnKnown – Not really a fair assessment. How much of that is CC’s fault, as opposed to the offense not picking him up? Bottom line is he gives them 7-8 quality innings nearly every time out. We shouldn’t lose sight of that just because he didn’t do it last week
If CC “didnt get it done in October”, guess what? Neither did Verlander. But you know, CC’s fat, he’s sooo greedy blah blah blah
I like Martin just fine, I just want him catching fewer games/innings next season, and Montero getting significant time behind the plate (not just once per week).
jacksquat – What you “should want” is for the Yankees to play their best option behind the plate, whether it’s Montero or Martin is not your decision.
Actually I wouldn’t opt out. Unless I performed up to top expectations. The guy is already making more money than any starter and has performed subpar in two consecutive postseason where the Yankees count on him the most.
JonLaneNYC Mark Teixeira eager to improve performance vs. left-handers http://bit.ly/nnwuf2 #Yankees
J. Alfred Prufrock
I never said that the weight gained is the reason behind his performance. I just said that there is no excuse for the highest paid pitcher in baseball to gain weight as the season was moving along.
Irreverent Discourse October 11th, 2011 at 2:24 pm
jacksquat – What you “should want” is for the Yankees to play their best option behind the plate, whether it’s Montero or Martin is not your decision.
—
That’s what I want because I believe it is the best option. They have to see if Montero can be acceptable behind the plate. And Martin might benefit from more rest.
Glad Tex realizes he has some work to do.
heyman_sux October 11th, 2011 at 2:21 pm
If CC “didnt get it done in October”, guess what? Neither did Verlander. But you know, CC’s fat, he’s sooo greedy blah blah blah
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Yep. This kind of fan logic is NY Post comments section worthy. Sorry to see this sh&t in here.
heyman sux
If you take a look at CC’s starts this year he did not fair that well against postseason teams like the Tigers and Rangers. And he was getting beat down by the Red Sox over and over again.
You can blame the offense in some cases but he was average or terrible against contenders and he has not been that good when facing off against top of the line pitchers
Aubrey Huff…………..LMAO ! Him and his red man thong he wore many times when the Giants won the WS. What a hit he would be in NYC.
JM- K-Long will work his magic on Tex.
jacksquat – Montero played all year at AAA for just that reason. That Romine was called up to catch should tell you that Montero is not considered to be ready.
There will be plenty of DH at-bats for Montero next season.
Jeremy October 11th, 2011 at 2:29 pm
J. Alfred Prufrock
I never said that the weight gained is the reason behind his performance. I just said that there is no excuse for the highest paid pitcher in baseball to gain weight as the season was moving along.
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Well if you can’t pin the weight on performance, why do you give a royal bleep whether he lives at Dunkin’ Donuts? Focusing on Sabathia’s weight is kind of ghoulish, if you ask me.
Last offseason, I recommended moves for Edwin Jackson and Mark Buhrle, and lamented the loss of Ian Kennedy. Folks thought I was crazy. This offseason, I’ll say again. Edwin Jackson and Mark Buhrle are options. Jackson may be cheaper than CJ Wilson, and could fill the time needed for the youngsters to get up here. CJ has the advantage that he’s a power lefty but there’s no way the Yankees add another $80+M pitching contract. None.
Hughes is by no means a lock for the rotation, and could be in the pen until Joba returns, and beyond.
Erin October 11th, 2011 at 2:29 pm
JonLaneNYC Mark Teixeira eager to improve performance vs. left-handers http://bit.ly/nnwuf2 #Yankees
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Is he starting today or tomorrow ?
# heyman_sux October 11th, 2011 at 2:18 pm
UnKnown – Not really a fair assessment. How much of that is CC’s fault, as opposed to the offense not picking him up? Bottom line is he gives them 7-8 quality innings nearly every time out. We shouldn’t lose sight of that just because he didn’t do it last week
—–
I can agree with that. Even when CC has terrible stuff he seems to get through 7 and only give up no more than 3 or 4 runs.
I guess I am looking for him to throw more games of 1 or 2 runs given up over 8 innings especially on days when he is facing the opposing team’s stud.
JM October 11th, 2011 at 2:32 pm
Glad Tex realizes he has some work to do.
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Hey, JM.
Did you read something today on Tex’s offseason? I’m encouraged, too, that he sees the light.
Girardi kept saying they could do a lot with Montero, which makes me think they’ll try him some at 1B maybe? In addition to BUC and DH duties in 2012. But he really did sound like he was on board with Montero being the eventual everyday catcher, at least that’s how I heard it, after next season. He said something about the value of a catcher with is bat (I think that’s what I heard, perhaps in no so many words.) Seems like he doesn’t want to, nor does he see any reason to, rush him into a FT catcher’s job. But sounds like they do want his bat next season.
It’s all good to me. We all tend to be in such a big hurry sometimes, you know?
The guys who really has to work hard this off-season, IMO, is Phil Hughes.
LOL. Is there any definition more fleeting these days than that of a “true” ace?
I guess a “true” ace is someone who didn’t get beat last night. Cliff Lee goes from “true” ace to aging lefty…CC gives you a chance to win nearly every time he takes the ball, as heyman said. That’s a true ace…chubby or otherwise
.
(CC warms up to “Big Poppa”) + (CC eats a lot of Cap’n Crunch) = ( ? )
Text your answers to #420
Jeremy, I would advise you to look for the splits any SP has vs “good” or “bad” teams.
Just like any contenders overall record – you’re going to feast on the weak, and play .500 ball against the cream of the crop.
I also hope you understand that when you say you wouldn’t opt out, its highly laughable. When is the last time you had the option to turn down millions upon millions of dollars.
Exactly.
Hey there JAP,
Erin posted a link about Tex from Jon Lane’s blog:
# Erin October 11th, 2011 at 2:29 pm
JonLaneNYC Mark Teixeira eager to improve performance vs. left-handers http://bit.ly/nnwuf2 #Yankees
Erin,
I have confidence in K Long if Tex is really committed to making changes.
“JonLaneNYC Mark Teixeira eager to improve performance vs. left-handers http://bit.ly/nnwuf2 #Yankees”
Let’s hope he means vs right handers
Thanks, JM (& Erin).
CC’s numbers VS Playoff teams.
72.1 IP, 70k’s, 20bb’s, 3.24 ERA, 1.23 WHIP
I doubt many starters have better numbers against the best teams in the league.
Where do you guys come up with this stuff? I understand that some of you hate stats, but even the basic ones that show up in the newspaper show how stupid this argument is.
How did you all vote?
1) Alex Rodriguez, Thats a lot of money for two measly ALDS hits.
2) Mark Teixeira, Only the leaves fall faster in October than the Yankees first baseman
3) CC Sabathia, The big fella came up small late in the season and in the playoffs
4) Joe Girardi, All the right moves? Hardly.
5) Brian Cashman, Yankees werent built to go the distance.
http://www.nypost.com/p/sports.....aTugZZhADM
J. Alfred Prufrock
I commented on his weight because others were talking about it. And the fact is that he should be in good condition for how much he is getting paid.
If Montero is a P/T catcher and DH next year that is a good thing. Catching bullpens, further learning the staff and having the opportunity to work with Tony Pena and Girardi on his skills behind the dish. All good.
My only thing with CC is I don’t want another big contract that extends to ages 37, 38… regardless of his current weight. I wouldn’t want that if he were 70 pounds lighter.
“If he can figure out what’s ailed him from the left side, Girardi sees no reason why Teixeira won’t at least put up his usual power numbers in 2012.”
Its fairly obvious why he can’t hit left handed anymore…..his swing is a mechanical mess and hes not getting away with it anymore.
LockDown – I voted for 6.
6) 5 game series are a stupid way to eliminate teams in the playoffs.
Tex did make some adjustments. We’re going to see a new/old Tex for 2012. When the student is ready, the teacher shall appear. Tex’s teacher was the frustrating results he got the more sever his uppercut became and being moved down in the order (should have come sooner, but better late than never).
Jeremy October 11th, 2011 at 2:43 pm
Exactly. Take the responsibility that goes with the paycheck.
Hughes should have trade value if they wanted to move him….still a lot of talent there but the problem is having only 2 years of control.
Would a team be willing to swap 1 year of their pitcher for 2 years of Hughes? (Danks, Cain, etc….)?
Bronx Jeers October 11th, 2011 at 2:39 pm
(CC warms up to ?Big Poppa?) + (CC eats a lot of Cap?n Crunch) = ( ? )
Text your answers to #420
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KenDavidoff A-Rod’s career regular-season OBP is .386. His postseason OBP? .386. #Clutch
Jeremy October 11th, 2011 at 2:43 pm
J. Alfred Prufrock
I commented on his weight because others were talking about it. And the fact is that he should be in good condition for how much he is getting paid.
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Considering how many innings he’s thrown, it’s hard to buy that he’s not at a level of conditioning that allows him to do that. If they think he needs to slim down, I’m sure they’ll address it. I just don’t see how you or anyone can measure how his weight affects his conditioning level and subsequently, his performance. I don’t think anyone has the ammunition to argue that, much less behave outraged about it.
Vineyard, you have no information about it. Zero.
Yes….I liked the ideas he had in the postseason. He closed ip a little and tried to go the other way some……the problem is that its very difficult for him to hit the ball on a line with his swing plane…..unless he changes that then going the other way ks going to lead to a lot of lazy fly balls to LF. I do think he realizes the issue now…..whichever is always the first step. He’s young enough to fix it……otherwise he could always make a living as a double for Prince William.
A good point, though, about this year’s playoff teams, at least in the AL. With the exception of Tampa, the WC team, the division leaders were within 2 wins of each other, 97, 96 and 95, respectively.
ANd aren’t the Yankees really lucky that the team with the best record in BB was eliminated in the first round, AND that Cliff Lee blew a 4-0 lead????
Because it was the Phillies, and not just the Yankees, the “crapshoot” argument will be given more heft.
Really, who are any of you to say CC doesn’t work hard at keeping weight off? If it were that easy, don’t you think he would have done it 10 years ago?
otherwise he could always make a living as a double for Prince William.
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Yes. And Leigh does resemble Kate IIRC, so they’re all set.
I do believe Martin had a significan impact behind the plate and I’m extremely fine with Montero as DH/BUC.
As to Joe’s other comments, I think:
1) Hughes gets until the ASB to prove himself – I don’t think he has much rope anymore with the organization
2) I’ve never made a big deal about CC’s weight because he’s a big guy, but he shouldn’t be gaining weight during the season – and who knows how it affected him? If he’s going to be asking for top $$$ and more years, the Yankees have the right to be sure he’s in as good health as possible. He’s in a wait and see mode, lol – sure; he needs to decide whether or not he likes it here.
This is my first post since Yankees were bounced from the ALDS.
The pain is still there for me, so I’m not sure how much I want to post today or in the coming days.
I would let CC walk – it’ won’t happen, but I’d be willing to bite the bullet for a year or two and try and let our young pitchers develop.
Joe said Nova would have to compete for a spot? I really doubt he meant it, but perhaps they don’t want to take any chances given how Phil came into camp when it was assured that he had a spot.
Sabathia packs up his locker and rides off into the offseason on the Deegan
http://getoutofmyballpark.file.....#038;h=300
Come on ” Hot Stove “
Irreverent Discourse October 11th, 2011 at 2:54 pm
Really, who are any of you to say CC doesn’t work hard at keeping weight off? If it were that easy, don’t you think he would have done it 10 years ago?
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Some people are just born to be big. He may have a glandular issue. There’s also DNA and diet one was raised on. Melky Cabrera must have undergone some lonely feelings, giving up Dominican food. He said it was very tough. The diet is not only what your body is used to, but there is something called cellular memory that craves food your family fed you, holiday foods, etc…It might not even be good for CC to lose a lot of weight at this point. People who lose a lot of weight, then put it back on, etc., really stress out the heart organ. What’s comfortable for someone may not be comfortable for others to look upon. Tough. Look inside, that’s where the true “fatness” lies.
I think it’s good that the Yankees have fired this warning shot across Hughes’s bow. I don’t like it when any player comes into came out of shape, but particularly a youngster who still had not completely proven himself. Plus, I’m assuming it’s now or never for him in terms of his secondary pitches………
All this talk about being fat is making me hungry.
Later.
Hassey October 11th, 2011 at 3:05 pm
Sabathia packs up his locker and rides off into the offseason on the Deegan
http://getoutofmyballpark.file…..#038;h=300
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Looks like he stopped for a few “whoppers.”
I’m glad to hear that Joe was high on Montero – it would be great if he could play some at 1B – the more versatile he is, the better.
Betsy,
I think you’re right regarding Hughes. He’s on the bubble. In regards to Nova, the comment was said in regards to both Hughes & Nova and I think Girardi was mainly talking about Hughes, but he didn’t want to throw Hughes under the bus. So he mentioned both names & then proceeded to go on about Hughes.
Also, didn’t he mention that Nova was going back to the doctor? Anyone concerned about this?
Blake, he’d have some trade value as a reliever – teams have seen him by now and they know what his flaws are. AS a starter, I don’t think Phil has that much value – some, not that much. Don’t you think teams would ask themselves why the Yankees are giving up on him if they thought he was capable of making the leap to a solid starter?
Betsy October 11th, 2011 at 3:10 pm
I’m glad to hear that Joe was high on Montero – it would be great if he could play some at 1B – the more versatile he is, the better.
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Hi Betsy, I saw your comment from this morning. My point is why are we so offended by the garbage that other fans hurl at us. Respectfully I’ve been to the stadium and witnessed firsthand the garbage we heap on them. I guess that was my only point, sorry if you took it the wrong way.
LockDown, I’ve thought for awhile the Yankees were down on Phil. I do not think Cashman loved his 2nd half of last year and I really believe the fact they had to send him to a fat farm this ST ticked him off – and why wouldn’t it? You just had to read between the lines everytime he was interviewed. Phil is a smart guy – this is a make or break year for him here.
Gary, I wasn’t offended by those fans – I just think they’re stupid. In any case, it’s over and done with – no big deal.
Sabathia showing off his in game carb replenishment ritual
http://ftrsports.com/wp-conten.....is-fat.jpg
LockDown-I thought the same thing re: Hughes and Nova. I can’t imagine Nova not having a spot in the rotation.
jonmorosi #Yankees lose Aaron Laffey to #Royals on outright waivers.
LockDown, I think you’re right about Nova as well……. that said, it’s not a complete given that he’s as good as he was last year. You know what they say about making assumptions………I have a feeling they are going all in on Wilson
J. Alfred Prufrock October 11th, 2011 at 2:51 pm
Agreeing with another poster with my opinion, which you have no information about. Zero.
I think the “shot across Hughes’s bow” is much ado about nothing. If Hughes is with the team he’s going to be in the rotation.
The simple fact is that there are only so many slots in the bullpen and you can’t keep throwing young starters in there without subtracting guys away.
Already Joba has gone from “front end starter” to mop up relief pitcher so now you’re going to marginalize Hughes too?
You have Mariano in the 9th and then Robertson, Soriano, Chamberlain and Hughes setting him up? What’s the plan – have them alternate? Pull pitchers after 5 and just go to the pen? It’s insane. If Hughes is going to the pen then you start having to move guys who are there. Since Mo and Soriano aren’t going anywhere based on age/contract and Joba’s not going to be traded until he shows up healthy the move then is to move Robertson – are you ready to move Robertson – who is established in late inning relief to free up a space for Phil Hughes? I’m not.
If you don’t think Hughes belongs in the rotation – trade him.
Erin October 11th, 2011 at 3:15 pm
jonmorosi #Yankees lose Aaron Laffey to #Royals on outright waivers.
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Devestating.
Hassey October 11th, 2011 at 3:14 pm
LOL !
Not sure losing Laffey was devistating, but we don’t want to hold onto a young lefty who was a prospect at some point and see if you can’t keep a cheap option with potential out in the pen? He also is capable of filling in as a starter.
Who are you trading for Hughes? You’re selling low right before hitting arbitration…Better off hoping he comes to camp in shape, ready to start
Hughes doesn’t need motivation is he a fa after 2012? As always Hughes just needs to put guys away
Ledger_Yankees -LHP Raul Valdes and RHP Scott Proctor each elected free agency in lieu of being outrighted off the Major League roster. #nyy
J. Alfred Prufrock October 11th, 2011 at 1:22 pm
Why don’t some of these writers have the balls to ask “If you like the bat so much, where was it in Game 5?”
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You’ll never see anything other than semi softball questions at these things. Writers are never going to bite the hands that feed them.
Betsy,
I know you talk a lot about this fat farm.
I don’t know much about this. But I do know that Cashmoney is high on guys who work hard & give it 110%. And if he doesn’t feel that hughes is that person, then I could see him looking to trade him or push him to the bullpen if he falters. But again, I don’t know Cash feels about Hughes.
Chip, I don’t agree. I think they are very serious – this is not a barren farm by any means; there are young kids on the brink ready to take his job if he can’t grab it by the horns. Marginalize? I don’t think that’s fair -Phil has had his chances and he’s still going to get another one. He’s the one who was sent to a fat farm – do you think the Yankees wanted to do that? He’s got talent and he’s a good kid, but what is wrong with the team asking for him to make progress as a starter?
and Proctor and Valdes elect for free agency……. and then there were 37.
Betsy October 11th, 2011 at 3:20 pm
Chip, I don’t agree. I think they are very serious – this is not a barren farm by any means; there are young kids on the brink ready to take his job if he can’t grab it by the horns. Marginalize? I don’t think that’s fair -Phil has had his chances and he’s still going to get another one. He’s the one who was sent to a fat farm – do you think the Yankees wanted to do that? He’s got talent and he’s a good kid, but what is wrong with the team asking for him to make progress as a starter?
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Ok. So let me ask you – Hughes comes to ST and doesn’t look as good as a kid – say Adam Warren – what do you do? Can’t send Hughes to the minors. You have Soriano, Robertson and Rivera and Joba will be back at some point – What’s Phil’s role with the club?
Chip, I think Phil will get half a year – and then he’ll go to the pen; maybe they will try to build up his trade value there. I get what you’re saying about the pen being too busy, but what is the alternative?
LockDown, I think most GMs like to see their players working at their craft – it doesn’t take a lot to come into camp in shape.
I guess we’ll have to see what happens.
Chip, I still think Phil would get the starters job because he’d get that benefit of the doubt over, say a Warren…………but he won’t have that long a leash, IMO.
Fat farm = getting to the field at 6:30am to work out with Dana.
Not exactly cracking boulders into pebbles.
“AS a starter, I don’t think Phil has that much value – some, not that much.”
Sure he does…..all teams think they can fix guys…..that’s why Edwin Jackson has been traded 500 times……put Hughes in a new situation…..say in that spacious park in SF and he coukd take off.
Challenge on the Fat Farm :
This person said that while everyone was focused on Joba Chamberlain’s weight gain and his having to go for individual workouts following the standard spring training workouts in order to shed pounds, it was missed by the media that Hughes also showed up overweight and was dispatched also to what the team refers to as “The Fat Farm.” This person said he believes Hughes is a player who needs the extra bulk to pitch and that it was possible the loss of the bulk explains the decreased velocity.
Hughes was also the first one at camp in 2010 pitching well before everyone else. Last year they said given the amount of innings that they wanted him to go easy, so maybe he didn’t work out enough.
Rival GM: “I’m looking for a guy who doesn’t mind getting beaten like a piñata. Hey, look, Proctor’s available!. Problem solved.”
Phil got really bulky starting a couple of years ago – not sure why he went away from that lean, young-Roger Clemens look.
Blake, perhaps, but I don’t know why the Giants would trade Cain
And second, Sherman has always claimed the same stuff about Hughes and is the only one to have kept writing about it. Any knocks on Hughes seem to stem from Sherman who apparently has some sort of agenda with him.
You want to see a Fat Farm????? How about all those teams that showed up for Torre or didn’t show up with the relaxed atmosphere.
New Post: Laffey claimed, Proctor and Valdes elect free agency
Chip October 11th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
My most current guess on what happens this winter:
CC signs 5 years at his current salary (Yankees might even go 7 if the bidding gets high enough but I think his weight will be a factor and they won’t just break the bank for him)
CJ Wilson signs 5 years $88 mil
Carlos Beltran signs 2 years $14 mil
Yankees pick up the option on Swisher; trade him, Nunez, a prospect and Phil Hughes to San Francisco for Matt Cain and Aubrey Huff (as part of a salary wash)
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My guess is your right on CC, the details need to be hammered out but he will be back. Texas will easily pay that kind of money for Wilson. He only comes here if the money is the best and he wants to play in NY. I think he stays in Texas at the end of the day. The offer I think has to be higher to have any chance. Beltran won’t be here in NY. Swisher will play in Pinstripes next year as will Hughes. I could think that Swisher could be dealt, but not Hughes. Like Joe said the project will be to get him back to 2010, they aren’t ready to give up yet on him.
Proctor and Laffey were placeholders. Bodies only to prevent excess wear and tear in blowouts. Only Valdes piqued any interest, and still may.
“Blake, perhaps, but I don’t know why the Giants would trade Cain”
That was just an example but he is in his walk year.
Blake, I’d love to have Cain…………but I’d be shocked if something like this happens
Betsy,
I don’t either…..now if you packaged him with some other stuff…..who knows.