Postgame notes: “You have to believe that”
Posted by: Chad Jennings - Posted in Notes on Apr 20, 2012 
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Ivan Nova has become a chicken-or-the-egg situation in the Yankees clubhouse. He hasn’t lost a game since June 3, and after 15 consecutive winnings decisions, the soft-spoken, sometimes erratic guy who showed up in 2010 has been replaced by a confident, consistent winner who seems here to stay.
“If you ask me, who is the best pitcher in the world, I say me,” Nova said. “You have to believe that. That’s why you win so many games.”
So which came first, the confidence or the wins? Or did they both build over time?
“It’s easy to throw strikes and stay in a groove when everything is going your way,” Joe Girardi said. “When things aren’t going your way, are you able to correct it? For me that’s the toughest thing for pitchers. He has found a way to get that done.”
During my last year covering Triple-A ball, Nova was a second-half call-up from Double-A. Despite unimpressive Triple-A numbers that year, he had a confidence bordering on cocky. Now that same attitude is starting to show at the big league level. And that’s a good thing. Nova’s learned to limit the damage — something he couldn’t do in 2010 — and he doesn’t let winnable games slip away. He seems to believe he’ll get out of trouble and get away with a win.
“He’s a monster,” Alex Rodriguez said. “I don’t know when people are going to realize that. He is a fantastic pitcher. He has four-plus pitches. All four pitches are above major league average. And his velocity, he threw a pitch today that was 96. All he knows how to do is win. He’s very composed. He works extremely hard. And he’s turning the corner, big time.”
He’s pitching like a guy who got around that corner a long time ago.
“Every time I win, like I win today, I can’t wait until my next start to try to win again,” Nova said. “It feels special. When you win, you make a lot of people happy, especially my family. I like to make my family happy. If I can win all the time, it’s got to feel really good.”
• From the Yankees, Andy Pettitte’s pitching line in an extended spring training game against the Pirates: 5 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 0 BB, 5 K. He threw 66 pitches, 58 strikes. The Associated Press reported 5.2 innings for Pettitte — given that it’s extended spring, there’s a solid chance some of those innings went four or five outs just to get his pitch count up — and Pettitte told the AP that he expects to make his next start at a higher classification, likely Double-A.
• On a day that was supposed to celebrate the Red Sox history, Derek Jeter moved past Dave Winfield on baseball’s all-time hits list and Alex Rodriguez moved past Ken Griffey Jr. on the all-time home runs list. Up next for Jeter is Tony Gwynn, 30 hits away. Up next for Rodriguez is Willie Mays, 29 homers away. “When the time comes, that’s a pretty great name,” Rodriguez said.
• Eric Chavez came into this game with six at-bats this season. His first two at-bats of the day were both home runs. He hit two homers all of last year. “I didn’t get a lot of at-bats prior to this, so you just do the best you can,” Chavez said. “I try to take as many swings as I can in the cage during the game at home. Try to do the best you can when you get the opportunity.”
• Russell Martin didn’t have an extra-base hit this season before crushing a home run off the sports authority sign at the top of the Green Monster. “I’ve been telling you that his at-bats have been better,” Girardi said. “He has taken his walks. It was a little mechanical thing. He hit two balls right on the screws today.”
• Girardi put Cody Eppley into the ninth inning because he was hoping to avoid using Mariano Rivera, but he had already decided to bring in Rivera if anyone got on base. “You give him some wiggle room,” Girardi said. “This park can be difficult sometimes. The wind is blowing out today so I made sure I gave him some wiggle room.”
• Girardi had multiple in-game conversations with the umpire crew seeking a rule clarification about the left field wall. One of the ball-strike indicator lights on the Monster was missing, and Girardi was worried that a hit ball might go into the hole. “I know the chances are really, really, really slim that that’s going to happen,” he said. “But I sure would hate to lose a game because of that.” The umpires decided it would be a ground-rule double.
• The Yankees actually seemed to love their one-time-only throwback uniforms. Girardi said they were more comfortable than the regular uniforms.
• I actually loved the pregame ceremony. I thought the Red Sox did a nice job. “I was out there at 2, man,” Nick Swisher said. “I thought it was absolutely awesome. Bringing all the greats that came back that have made this franchise what they are. Whether you’re a Red Sox fan or you’re not, I’m a baseball fan. To be able to go out there and see all those guys coming out, the ovations all those guys were getting, it was great. What a great day for baseball. … We come out to win the game. I don’t care where we’re playing or who we’re playing, we go out there to win. Today was our day.”
• Finally: Rest in peace Levon Helm. “All the people were singin’ … ”
Associated Press photos
repost:
“But in the case of the game of Marquis, we should have won that game regardless.”
Why? Marquis isn’t capable of settling down?
Sorry but I don’t buy any of this “we should have won” craziness. We shouldn’t cause the offense to continually try to come from behind. That’s what we shouldn’t do.
When your offense is third in the majors and you’re not winning, don’t look to your offense. When your ERA is 20th out of 30 teams, and you know your bullpen has been credible, point the finger at your starters.
luis, I can certainly understand when the offense is not producing. But when they’re productive, I find any complaining to be overkill.
And if there are games that the offense should have won, if that should happen, I can’t get too twisted about it since there will always be days when something should have gone another way. Five or more runs in 10 out of 13 games tells me the offense is clicking.
I will be back later to respond if you should respond to this. I’d prefer to be here talking Ys baseball to out with my company – not that I don’t like my company – but I guess I’ll go and spend time with them and hope they tire of me quickly. Maybe I’ll talk Ys baseball to them! That’ll work I’m sure!
““He’s a monster,” Alex Rodriguez said. “I don’t know when people are going to realize that. He is a fantastic pitcher. He has four-plus pitches. All four pitches are above major league average. And his velocity, he threw a pitch today that was 96. All he knows how to do is win. He’s very composed. He works extremely hard. And he’s turning the corner, big time.”
When will Arod host a chat to discuss our prospects????
I love Alex Rodriguez.
blake April 20th, 2012 at 8:37 pm
why did Kemp sign that stupid extension
————–
Could have paired him with Cano
Nova is the real thing. he has the repertoire, but more importantly he has the attitude.
Chad very good post, great to have you back!
Emma Peel video with Kinks song:
http://youtu.be/zxRs0mS3Iuk
the scary thing is that if kemp had not signed that extension, he would have gotten an arod type contract
likely left 90 to 120 million and 2 years on the table
“the scary thing is that if kemp had not signed that extension, he would have gotten an arod type contract”
he very well might have if he reproduced his 2011….however the new Dodgers ownership might still have been the ones to give it to him…and the Yankees would have probably cried budget anyway,….
Nick in SF April 20th, 2012 at 9:04 pm
Emma Peel video with Kinks song:
http://youtu.be/zxRs0mS3Iuk
————————————————————————————————————————-
All I can say is, “Diana Rigg, rough me up.”
what a game. Glad it was Nova on the mound for the 100th anniversary.
Hard to argue that Nova doesn’t give the team the best chance to win at the present moment.
Back at it tomorrow – hope Garcia surprises me.
“Against All Odds April 20th, 2012 at 9:00 pm
blake April 20th, 2012 at 8:37 pm
why did Kemp sign that stupid extension
————–
Could have paired him with Cano ”
————————————————
We can always hope for another bankruptcy
“Every time I win, like I win today, I can’t wait until my next start to try to win again,” Nova said. “It feels special. When you win, you make a lot of people happy, especially my family. I like to make my family happy. If I can win all the time, it’s got to feel really good.”
Pure gold.
“When will Arod host a chat to discuss our prospects????”
Confession: Alex is my source for waxing my poetics.
Nick in SF April 20th, 2012 at 8:51 pm
““He’s a monster,” Alex Rodriguez said. “I don’t know when people are going to realize that. He is a fantastic pitcher. He has four-plus pitches. All four pitches are above major league average. And his velocity, he threw a pitch today that was 96. All he knows how to do is win. He’s very composed. He works extremely hard. And he’s turning the corner, big time.”
When will Arod host a chat to discuss our prospects????
///
Alex is actually very well versed in the team’s prospects. Kinda puts a fork in the “Alex is about Alex” meme. He was on a radio show last year, talking up the farm.
Unbelievable, what Chavez did on 6 at-bats in two weeks. I knew he had a fine swing, is a smart batter, but nice pop! The wind didn’t hurt, but that was dead center, 420? Hope he can get some more chances.
…and he named names
Nova + being sent down+ honing his slider + constantly having to prove himself = supreme confidence.
Alex is a brilliant baseball mind. Alex for player-manager.
Could have paired him with Cano
///
Odds, You Know Who should have “paired” with Cano…
Hockey calls!
Go Penguins!!!
Good luck hoping for that lol
Celtics lose to the Hawks. Oh what a glorious day.
Thanks for the memories Nick-Diana Rigg-one of my favorites.
Sanchez with 3 of 5 runners caught stealing tonight. 1-4 with a double and 2 strikeouts. austin is 1-4 with a run scored and a stolen base. Williams is 0-3 with an RBI.
I’m not sure there is another player who actually cares about the teams prospects….Alex is a baseball junky….one who is swinging the bat much better…..
Yes I know but could you imagine if we kept him and then paired him with Cano and Kemp *head explodes*
Emma Peel ( Diana Rigg ) , can I have my heart back ????
“The wind didn’t hurt, but that was dead center, 420?”
Chavez loves 420, I’m told. Especially today!
Alex will one day buy the team
Against All Odds April 20th, 2012 at 9:34 pm
Yes I know but could you imagine if we kept him and then paired him with Cano and Kemp *head explodes*
///
LOFL
I think Girardi would have considered that immoral
Some teams wonder if the Angels should shop Mark Trumbo for a controllable reliever. There’s no indication the Angels are looking to trade Trumbo, but they’re “trying feverishly” to move Bobby Abreu, Stark reports.
If you like a controllable reliever, Rafael Soriano would fit your bill-to the tune of 14M next year. Straight up for Mark Trumbo.
“If you like a controllable reliever, Rafael Soriano would fit your bill-to the tune of 14M next year. Straight up for Mark Trumbo.
”
I think Soriano is the opposite of controllable
thought the Yanks do have some of those probably
Scranton wins, 6-4.
http://www.milb.com/gameday/in.....de=gameday
I still laugh at Alex going to Jeter’s place and asking him what are the channels for the MLB package? Jeter responded I don’t have the MLB package. Which completely surprised Arod.
J. Alfred Prufrock April 20th, 2012 at 9:38 pm
Against All Odds April 20th, 2012 at 9:34 pm Yes I know but could you imagine if we kept him and then paired him with Cano and Kemp *head explodes* ///
LOFL
I think Girardi would have considered that immoral
———-
Joe G would have taken it and accepted it
I will be discussing the Elvis Costello concert during the evening baseball program, but a complete set list cannot be provided at this time.
Nova is such an awesome guy to watch
Guy came out of nowhere, expected to be a back-rotation/fill-in starter or more likely trade bait. Now, he has grown, evolved, matured, and far outperformed his expectations. No surprise fans have gravitated to him, unlike the other guys hyped up to be he next great pitcher and failed, Nova just flew under the radar and progressively got better from day 1 like we hoped our other ‘young studs’ would do.
Guy has 20ks and 2 walks in 19 innings… a year ago, he would basically have a 1-1 walk/strikeout ratio and couldn’t miss any bats, now he is throwing guys’ timing off with his sick off-speed stuff.
“Nova is such an awesome guy to watch ”
——-
there were a few people here who said the Mariners fleeced the Yanks solely for the fact that they got Noesi instead of Nova
sometimes the Yanks actually do know what they’re doing, apparently
Charleston wins 4-3. River Dogs closer Ben Paulis made it too interesting. Final Box score.
http://www.milb.com/gameday/in.....x_crdafx_1
Those old time uniforms are really cool……….loved em.
I still think that Noesi has the better pitches and could end up being the better pitcher, but, Nova is making it tough on noesi to prove it.
Tampa Yanks got whacked 9-2. Final Box score.
http://www.milb.com/milb/stats.....a_dbcafa_1
Today’s game was surreal – it felt like an old time game in the 1920s. Everyone wearing the throwback uniforms with the high socks, Fenway Park as the backdrop, and the crowd was kind of quiet the whole game, so it felt like watching a game in the 1920s when people watched it not screamed and shouted all game long – you could hear the wind, the ball hitting the glove/mit, etc..
The fact that it was in the daytime made it feel even more like an old time game – a 3 PM-6PM game right in the middle of the afternoon, with the shadows, not these night games under the lights or 1 PM games – like a late afternoon/evening game under the sun. The atmosphere and conditions of the game made it feel like it was 1920 all over again
Could Gary Sanchez be ready for the Yankees in 2014?
If Martin doesn’t pick up his offense and still wants 3 years, would one of these potential FA catchers be worthwhile to sign for a year or two?
Updated 4-18-12
Catchers
Rod Barajas (37) – $3.5MM club option, no buyout
Henry Blanco (41) – $1.24MM mutual option
Ryan Doumit (32)
Chris Iannetta (30) – $5MM club option with a $250K buyout; player can void
Gerald Laird (33)
Russell Martin (30)
Jeff Mathis (30)
Brian McCann (29) – $12MM club option with a $500K buyout
Jose Molina (37) – $1.5MM club option with a $300K buyout
Miguel Montero (29)
Mike Napoli (31)
Dioner Navarro (29)
Wil Nieves (35)
Miguel Olivo (34) – $3MM club option with a $750K buyout
Ronny Paulino (32)
A.J. Pierzynski (36)
Humberto Quintero (33)
David Ross (36)
Carlos Ruiz (34) – $5MM club option with a $500K buyout
Brian Schneider (36)
Kelly Shoppach (33)
Chris Snyder (32) – mutual option
Yorvit Torrealba (34)
Matt Treanor (37)
Maybe we need to wait to see whether Noesi turns out to be as good or better than Pineda before reaching any conclusion on apparent truth.
Olivo for two years Trader
lounge lizard April 20th, 2012 at 9:59 pm
Maybe we need to wait to see whether Noesi turns out to be as good or better than Pineda before reaching any conclusion on apparent truth.
=========================
True
“Could Gary Sanchez be ready for the Yankees in 2014?”
possible I guess….but the way the yanks handle things I’d be surprised…..the fact that he’s a catcher only makes it more unlikely…..
I liked the uniforms also, especially the socks.
I’m going to say no to Miguel Olivo and any potential Imposter Olivos.
Youkallis looks like a player from 1920
Nick in SF April 20th, 2012 at 10:03 pm
I’m going to say no to Miguel Olivo and any potential Imposter Olivos.
=========================
Who would you suggest?
Trader, if money was not an obstacle I’d go with Ruiz or Montero.
blake April 20th, 2012 at 10:04 pm
Youkallis looks like a player from 1920
——————-
He got old really fast
GreenBeret7 April 20th, 2012 at 9:52 pm
I still think that Noesi has the better pitches and could end up being the better pitcher, but, Nova is making it tough on noesi to prove it.
==================================
If he has the make up of Nova, he will. At this level, is all about make up. That’s the difference maker. Pretty much like in golf.
GB7-
Is Bichette injured? I see he didn’t play today and was removed in the 11th inning the other day.
Montero[Miguel] will probably get a 3 year contract. 30M?
I suggest no Miguel Olivo. I veto him. Don’t want. Just say no to Olivo.
GreenBeret7 April 20th, 2012 at 10:06 pm
Trader, if money was not an obstacle I’d go with Ruiz or Montero.
===========================
I said Olivo, since i am assuming that the budgetary constraints will prevent a deal for Montero, that would be my first pick in a budget free decision.
Trader,
More like in the range of 13-15 mil. Remember the Yadier Molina contract,
While looking up Miguel Montero’s stats, the Diamondbacks CF’er, Chris Young is currently putting up a MVP type season, outshining his teammate Justin Upton.
http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/st.....amondbacks
Kevin Towers owes the Yankees one!!!!
Those numbers are unsustainable Trader! Unless your name is Barry Bonds reroidded!!
Towers could do us a favor by trading Montero to us in exchange of Martin and Soriano.
Yankee Trader April 20th, 2012 at 10:10 pm
GB7-
Is Bichette injured? I see he didn’t play today and was removed in the 11th inning the other day.
Montero[Miguel] will probably get a 3 year contract. 30M?
————————————————————————————————————————-
Yeah, he twisted something in his back or side the other night on a dive, turn-around and throw play.
Chris young got beat up in a collision with Upton and is now on the DL.
Luis-
Could Young be the mini me version of Matt Kemp?
Didn’t see enough of the game today. Any problems wirh Ibanez in Lf?
Latest consensus on Hughes? If he continues to have trouble with his secondary pitches is it back to AAA to work on them or go to the bullpen where he was successful in 2009 and can rely on 2 pitches?
Who will hit for a higher avg this year, Ichiro or Montero? (currently .263 and .262)
Towers could do us a favor by trading Montero to us in exchange of Martin and Soriano.
———————————–
Luis-
Expand the deal Hughes, Martin and Soriano for Cahill, Montero and Putz. If that’s not enough include Swisher for Chris Young. Deal or no deal?
I would say Ichiro. Less strain on the body playing the OF. Are you trying to make a fantasy league decision?
Nope, just thought it was an interesting proposition.
Will that be The Last Of The Mujica? Yadil Mujica with a weak ground out to second after his promotion from Tampa to replace “Zorro” Almonte to end the 11th inning. Almonte is on the DL with a pulled hamstring. Now top of the 12th inning 4-3 Harrisburg over Trenton.
Oops. you were referring to Jesus not Miguel! Just when I recently shifted that Montero to my non dominant side of my brain.
GB7-
I see Eduardo Sosa, aka Keyser Soze, plays for Tampa. Didn’t he star in The Usual Suspects?
Yankee Trader April 20th, 2012 at 10:29 pm
Luis-
Could Young be the mini me version of Matt Kemp?
Didn’t see enough of the game today. Any problems wirh Ibanez in Lf?
Latest consensus on Hughes? If he continues to have trouble with his secondary pitches is it back to AAA to work on them or go to the bullpen where he was successful in 2009 and can rely on 2 pitches?
==================================
I don’t know about Young, but those numbers are unreal.
Ibanez actually had a good game on th field, had two very good plays on the field.
About Hughes, He should be sent down to work on his craft. But i don’t think is happening, i say he ends up in the pen.
Yankee Trader April 20th, 2012 at 10:35 pm
Towers could do us a favor by trading Montero to us in exchange of Martin and Soriano.
———————————–
Luis-
Expand the deal Hughes, Martin and Soriano for Cahill, Montero and Putz. If that’s not enough include Swisher for Chris Young. Deal or no deal?
======================
Keep dreaming!!
I don’t think we’re going to see another of those touching Noesi-Montero hugs tonight.
There was one ball hit to LF that Ibanez couldn’t get to that Gardner and probably Nunez would have. That’s not Ibanez’ fault though, he is what he is. That’s on Girardi.
JS,
I’ll say Montero. Around 280-285 BA and 800-850 OPS. 340 OBP or so. Ichiro is pretty much done IMO.
” The lack of a good situational hitting approach does concerns me going forward, regardless of Montero. So please, leave him off the conversation.”
Seriously? I still believe that some of the whining about offense is a continuation of the Montero mantra and for some people to say otherwise would be to go against the on-going railing about how the Yankee offense is not enough to get the job done.
I can’t take anyone seriously who is complaining about offense when the Yankees are 3rd in the majors in runs and have gotten 5 or more runs in 10 of 13 games.
Over and out.
Yankee Trader April 20th, 2012 at 10:46 pm
GB7-
I see Eduardo Sosa, aka Keyser Soze, plays for Tampa. Didn’t he star in The Usual Suspects?
————————————————————————————————————————-
Trader, never saw the movie but, Sosa is in tampa. Have no idea who Soze is. I know who Eggbert Sous’e is, though.
that should be Eggbert Souse’, accent dram.
Nick-
Wow! Noesi line 1.1 innings 6 earned runs, 58 pitches was “Dunn”ed in.
jacksquat April 20th, 2012 at 10:52 pm
There was one ball hit to LF that Ibanez couldn’t get to that Gardner and probably Nunez would have. That’s not Ibanez’ fault though, he is what he is. That’s on Girardi.
========================
True, but he made a nice running catch to Gonzales as well. It could have been worse.
lounge lizard April 20th, 2012 at 9:59 pm
Maybe we need to wait to see whether Noesi turns out to be as good or better than Pineda before reaching any conclusion on apparent truth.
=========
you mean like a couple innings?
GB7-
Rent the movie. Here’s a trailer:
Watch the linup one:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114814/
Wild finish for trenton. After Lee Hyde gave up 2 runs in the 12th inning to Harrisburg, Melky mesa drove in the winning run on sac fly. Final score, 6-5, Trenton. Final Box score.
http://www.milb.com/gameday/in.....x_treaax_1
Fine Trisha. Just don’t bring him up. You were one of those who wanted the talk to be over, even a separate thread. I for my part have more reasons to be concern for the offense, you are entitled to your opinion, and i respect that. I hope that you respect my IMO valid concerns. Please don’t try to dismiss them with the Montero angle. OK?
Yoohoo, Nick in SF:
EC rundown?
Thanks, Trader. i’ll have to get the movie and watch it. Not my usual kind of movie, but, looks interesting.
Trader……A very good movie….Just watched it a few weeks ago as it’s making the rounds on Bravo or one of the premium movie channels
I for one have absolutely no concerns about the Yankees offense………….just go up to the plate swing hard, hit homers and there isn’t a shift in the game that can stop you.
Actually I’d like to see the Yankees sustain some rallies with key hits, and get the man home from 3rd with less than two outs.
GB,
Diana Rigg and the Kinks. Those were the days my friend.
Yankee Trader April 20th, 2012 at 11:12 pm
I for one have absolutely no concerns about the Yankees offense………….just go up to the plate swing hard, hit homers and there isn’t a shift in the game that can stop you.
Actually I’d like to see the Yankees sustain some rallies with key hits, and get the man home from 3rd with less than two outs.
============================
Trader,
4 years ago, Buttholtz doesn’t last beyond the 5th inning with the kind of stuff he had. Today he pitched 6+ innings. The offense needs to grind more at bats and improve their situational hitting. We scored six runs today with five homers, excellent. But we left a ton of men on base too.
I see where the best player in baseball right now went 3-3 with his 8th homer…….Matt Kemp!!
I remember it wasn’t long ago that many on the blog wanted to trade Cano for Matt Kemp. Kemp was labled an overweight malcontent and Cano too cavalier.
Wouldn’t be surprised that if the Yankees don’t sigh Cano to an extension, that he ends up in LA as a Dodger if allowed to get to FA.
Wouldn’t be surprised that if the Yankees don’t sigh Cano to an extension, that he ends up in LA as a Dodger if allowed to get to FA.
==================================
That would be a nightmare!!
EC rundown shortly.
Luis-
In a roundabout way I was agreeing with you! I saw some of the game and listened to a few innings while in the car. I believe it was the 8th inning men on 1st and 3rd and they didn’t score with no outs to extend the lead.
Yankee Trader April 20th, 2012 at 11:17 pm
Kemp was labled an overweight malcontent and Cano too cavalier.
*********
According to someone here Kemp was bound to “eat his way out of baseball”. As it turns out, the only thing he feasts on is just about any pitch you throw near him.
EC rundown.:
It was a Spectacular Spinning Songwheel show, in which case a huge game show wheel with various individual song titles and esoteric theme hints listed, shown here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/9.....hotostream
EC and the band came onstage and played a blistering “Lipstick Vogue” and “Watching the Detectives”; 2/3 of the way through the latter, EC went into his host mode and brought a couple audience members onstage to spin the wheel, with the song selections guided by where the wheel ended up. This was the general format for the rest of the night, though occasionally EC would add a selection and/or lean on the wheel to get someplace he wanted to go.
One of the first theme selections was called “Big Boo Little Hoo”, which led to “Big Tears”, “Town Cryer” and “Little Triggers”. The final spin of the night ended up on “Roses”, which led to “Good Year For the Roses”, “The Poisoned Rose”, and a Grateful Dead cover, “Rambling Rose”. “What’s So Funny…” closed out the show.
Inevitably, material from some entire albums went unrepresented, but lots of great stuff was played, such as “Human Hands”, “Beyond Belief”, and “Man Out of Time” from “Imperial Bedroom”, and “I Can’t Stand Up…” and “Hi Fidelity” from “Get Happy”, along with Beatles, Stones, Elvis Presly, and Chucky Berry covers (among others). Very high energy show. I got lucky with tickets close up in the orchestra, but slightly elevated, so I had an unobstructed view and could take a few song videos with my smartphone without being blocked and without disturbing anyone else around me. I’ll post them to youtube, eventually.
All in all, a great show.
Melky (4th OF) is hitting .333.
But we should be pining for Mariner DH Montero (.256 with a .270 OBP)
And let’s not forget about the dumping on proposals to trade Hughes for Chris Young in the offseason.
And let’s not forget about the dumping on proposals to trade Hughes for Chris Young in the offseason.
———————————
Don’t remember that one. Did you have a proposal?
Here is a link to the full set list, somone already saw my flickr pics and sent me this link:
http://www.elviscostello.info/....._Francisco
And more recently, the whole “Hughes is going nowhere, Nova is the odd man out” kerfuffle.
Yankee Trader April 20th, 2012 at 11:21 pm
Luis-
In a roundabout way I was agreeing with you! I saw some of the game and listened to a few innings while in the car. I believe it was the 8th inning men on 1st and 3rd and they didn’t score with no outs to extend the lead.
==========================
I know. I was agreeing with you too in the same roundbout fashion
“But we should be pining for Mariner DH Montero (.256 with a .270 OBP)”
————–
only 15 games into the season…. but if Pineda were pitching with comparable results for a pitcher through his first 3 starts…
Cashman would be Obama and this blog would be Ted Nugent
No politics, please.
But this kind of thing is ok:
http://plancksconstant.org/blo.....eturns.jpg
Bret……Kemp has hit something like 12 balls to the outfield, 8 of them went yard to the opposite field, or right center…….I’ve watched him come up and he was so raw but Torre , Bowa & Mattingly all said he was a star in the making
Good night Usual Suspects!
Until tomorrow.
Gnite Trader! Have a good one!
Nick,
On of the best ones you ever posted!!
Thanks Nick
For some reason, my initial response is awaiting moderation. No idea why.
But after I posted it, I saw your second post with the full list. I asked if he had done this song, but it is not on there. Still, a great menu.
He did the Spinning Wheel thing quite a few years ago as well, at a show in New Brunswick. Sadly, e didn’t do this cover at that one, either:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIBqBai5bzg
Bret,
Just let it play out. We will see in time.
I am going to sleep, but I received bitterly the news that he did Motel Matches for you.
He has never done so for me
JAP!,
Are you still watching the hockey game?…What is your take on Nova today?
Good night JAP, take care my friend
Bret The Hitman April 20th, 2012 at 11:26 pm
Melky (4th OF) is hitting .333.
///
I move that we have a separate thread for all Melky Cabrera references.
I am cut to the quick that Melky is in pinstripes no more, and I consider it to be emotional abuse that Melky is brought up in nearly every thread.
Let’s see if Chad will consider a separate Melky thread.
“The Comedians” was on the wheel, but it wasn’t selected.
It’s not a cover, btw, it’s an EC original. The first version was on “Goodbye Cruel World”, he later redid the lyrics for Roy Orbison to cover.
Fantastic version of the song done by Orbison in the “Black & White Night” concert movie.
“Wouldn’t be surprised that if the Yankees don’t sigh Cano to an extension, that he ends up in LA as a Dodger if allowed to get to FA.”
That will part of their leverage. The Yankees have some now. It would be kind of nice if they tried to use it.
luis,
The Vato with the filthy CB today. Loved it when he got Agon looking at that outside curve.
Got to get up early, so I’m out for now.
Have a great night, primo.
Montero–HR!
How many you need, Nick?
J. Alfred Prufrock April 20th, 2012 at 11:56 pm
Bret The Hitman April 20th, 2012 at 11:26 pm
Melky (4th OF) is hitting .333.
///
I move that we have a separate thread for all Melky Cabrera references.
I am cut to the quick that Melky is in pinstripes no more, and I consider it to be emotional abuse that Melky is brought up in nearly every thread.
Let’s see if Chad will consider a separate Melky thread.
======================
417 feet?
NSF, I thought Orbison had written it. Great song.
///
Luis, YF, Randy:
The Son of God goes YAD! Many more of those to come.
Now I can go to bed happy.
Thanks for the rundown, Nick.
Night, all.
Nice homer for Jesus. Too bad we can’t get players like that.
Oh great…
Good night Primo! take care!
I agree about Melky thread as well. Bret talks about him more than we do about Montero.
Over 19.5, which is 20. He hasn’t even gotten hot yet, I think he’ll do it, though I’d rather not see him protected in the lineup by…. Miguel Olivo?!?!?!
But the Mariners will probably be far behind in a lot of games, like tonight’s, so in those situations he’ll get pitched to, hopefully.
Rich, you need a new filter.
For now, it’s just good to see him tied with Eric Chavez.
Jose Canseco ? @JoseCanseco
Arod is a hater and a liar
Jose Canseco ? @JoseCanseco Close
Ball was flying out of fenway ,I could have hit 2 homers today
Jose Canseco ? @JoseCanseco Close
I almost went over and had a word with Alex rodriguez when I was on the field
——
Jose going nuts on his twitter timeline tonight. This dude is a nut.
Nick, 20? You should be fine; he is still making adjustments and is not yet in a rhythm.
yf
Or a new GM?
Jose Canseco ? @JoseCanseco Close
Great day I walked on to the field and then flexed for the crowd got a loud possitive cheer loved it
——–
WTH, this guy needs to just go away.
yankeefeminista April 21st, 2012 at 12:05 am
Rich, you need a new filter.
=====================
LMAO!!
Rich’s filter’s gone on the blink again.
Goodnight, indeed!
Go away, Jose. No one cares.
Rich in NJ April 21st, 2012 at 12:07 am
yf
Or a new GM?
==================
++++++++++++12345678
“++++++++++++12345678″
luis
You’re just enabling me to hate.
Just a thought: if Melky is up to .333, I guess that means the little chub got a few hits against the Mets tonight?
Good job, Melkman.
G’nite.
///
But how many home runs would Montero have against softie Bucky? Aye, there’s the question.
I am seriously…
And Montero throws out a runner…..
Is that allowed??
G’nite
Nick in SF April 21st, 2012 at 12:06 am
For now, it’s just good to see him tied with Eric Chavez.
_______
But two behind the ageless Jeter.
yankeefeminista April 21st, 2012 at 12:07 am
Nick, 20? You should be fine; he is still making adjustments and is not yet in a rhythm.
=======================
Easy Nick, i have him pinned for 285/25/85 OPS 800-850 and an OBP of 340
Jeter and Ortiz definitely have something in common.
J. Alfred Prufrock April 21st, 2012 at 12:13 am
Just a thought: if Melky is up to .333, I guess that means the little chub got a few hits against the Mets tonight?
Good job, Melkman.
G’nite.
///
But how many home runs would Montero have against softie Bucky? Aye, there’s the question.
I am seriously…
And Montero throws out a runner…..
Is that allowed??
G’nite
========================
Not according to some!…..Bad boy!!
Rich in NJ April 21st, 2012 at 12:12 am
“++++++++++++12345678?
luis
You’re just enabling me to hate.
===================
Sad to say, but you are not alone
Just read through the thread and didnt see a correction to this. GB said Young is on the DL because he collided with Upton, but he actually hit the wall making a catch. He is on my fantasy team and now he’s hurt
lol
yankeefeminista April 21st, 2012 at 12:13 am
Nick in SF April 21st, 2012 at 12:06 am
For now, it’s just good to see him tied with Eric Chavez.
_______
But two behind the ageless Jeter.
==================
It’s incredible how good Jeter looks like he is in his prime again. It’s a long shot, but he may have a shot at 4000 hits.
Rich in NJ April 21st, 2012 at 12:15 am
Jeter and Ortiz definitely have something in common.
===================
I hope is not the milkshakes
JAP,
Not only Buckey, but Marquis, last night pitcher (don’t remeber his name), Pavano with that short porch in RF.
“I hope is not the milkshakes”
I’m not that cynical, luis.
Once, both have been written off as done. Now, both are still at the top of their game.
Luis, Derek only drinks hormone-free milk, unlike Ortiz.
Rich in NJ April 21st, 2012 at 12:21 am
“I hope is not the milkshakes”
I’m not that cynical, luis.
Once, both have been written off as done. Now, both are still at the top of their game.
=========================
I know, couldn’t resist
Your post is spot on. it’s incredible.
yankeefeminista April 21st, 2012 at 12:22 am
Luis, Derek only drinks hormone-free milk, unlike Ortiz.
====================
I know, is just that Rich put it on a tee for me. Seriously though, i am impressed on how good Jeter is playing. Baseball is like a box of chocolats, you are always going to be surprised!
3rd homerun for [not] Dunn. Two tonight.
yankeefeminista April 21st, 2012 at 12:29 am
3rd homerun for [not] Dunn. Two tonight.
====================
I feel happy for Dunn, he had a horrible last season.
Luis, I am not surprised by anything Jeter does, but I like the box of chocolates analogy.
I too am happy for Dunn.
Thanks YF,
Have a good night. I hope to see you tomorrow. take care
You too, luis. Buenas Noches!
GN all.
‘Night, Rich.
No “Sleep of the Just…”
Wheres the guy that said noesi was great?? Big deal montero hit a meaningless homer.
Funny that this is the 100th anniversary of Fenway Park, and also the 100th anniversary of the Titanic sinking.
There’s an article in the Ledger today about Melky and how you don’t hear Yankees fans talking about him anymore. The author obviously doesn’t spend any time in the comments section of this blog.
“Funny that this is the 100th anniversary of Fenway Park, and also the 100th anniversary of the Titanic sinking.”
That is funny….that team just has a lot of holes and losing Ellsbury was a killer…..for them to be successful they had to have Bucholtz healthy and productive……their rotation is just too thin to rely on Lester and whatever Beckett can give……their pitching is in shambles and while they still have some talent…..I think Cherington did a pretty poor job of putting this team together this winter and I said so in spring training.
Twins on a roll….they beat the Rays with Moore on the hill last night….who is getting introduced to the big leagues it seems.
You trade your SS for nothing…..you trade your Rfer for an injury prone closer……you trade our infield depth for Melancon…..and you don’t add the starting pitching you need then its tough….
here’s another side of the player’s lives that is kind of interesting over coffee.
http://www.zillow.com/blog/201.....p-mlbhomes
The Angels are already 7 games behind Texas in the LC…..they’ll play better obviously but I doubt they’ll play 7 games better than Texas the rest of the way…….the Angels were this year’s “best team ever” even though they have some holes…..namely at 3B , their bullpen, and just the depth of their lineup
Good morning folks. I’ve got to come clean and say I didn’t think Nova had this much upside. Chad’s post is on the money, Nova has the mindset to succeed in the majors. He also has much better command of his repertoire now.
One of Phelps/Warren/Mitchell may surprise us just the same. Baseball is a wonderfully suprising sport.
Country Club -
Just read the same article and had the exact same though!!!
A Melky Fan Club/Mourning Mob certainly exists right here!
I wish the Yankees had listened to Alex when he told them Melky was working hard and would be worth taking back. Alas. What’s his status for next season?
“April 21, 2012 at 7:26 am Good morning folks. I’ve got to come clean and say I didn’t think Nova had this much upside”
I don’t think he did a year ago with shat he had……he’s improved his repertoire considerably since then though …..improving his breaking ball and throwing a lot more strikes…….he looks really good and I think the make up is maybe the biggest thing…..he’s a tough customer on that mound.
Villa,
I’m pretty sure he’s a FA after this yr unless SF signed him to an extension that I didn’t hear about.
Randy -
Which is/are your favorites of those homes?
I like Pujols’ – think I would like Beltran’s but it wasn’t close enough, but then Ichiro’s while a different style than I usually am attracted to, caught my eye, too!
Country Club, I wonder if he’d be cheaper than re-signing Swisher if a young-un doesn’t present himself as ready?
Yeah, there was just a study out this week about how perception impacts results. The study was with golfers (putting?) into a hole. One hole appeared bigger and the other appeared standard sized. The golfers putting to the bigger-seeming hole outperformed the golfers putting to the standard-seeming hole.
Long way of saying it, but Nova’s confidence is a huge part of his success. He’s definitely become a better pitcher in the last year – but I’d say he’s pitching over his head. It’s not a fluke, he just seems to have that intangible quality you can’t quantify. 15 consecutive Wins is wild.
I meant the picture of Beltran’s home wasn’t close enough to tell what it looked like, but I like the property.
And that picture of Jeter’s house – well, you can’t tell – it’s just the rooftop!!! But being near the water is nice.
I didn’t read the article – but the simple answer to Yankee fans not talking about Melky is that we don’t see him often. He played for The Braves, The Royals, and now The Giants. Hardly in the East coast spotlight.
He’s on my fantasy team
Utility/Back CF to Grandy :O
*Hardly in the AL East Spotlight I should say – The Braves are an exception to the coast thing.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05.....nkees.html
Throwback to 2007…when we could still dream
Silly trade question:
Phil Hughes for Johan Santana: Take it?
I still am surprised at how many people in this thread inlcuded nova in the folks to be moved. The guy has legit stuff and I said this since he was wrongly sent down last year.
http://stevewigdor.blogspot.com/
Nice to Chavez hit with some power and Martin had two very well struck balls…one was amazingly caught
“Phil Hughes for Johan Santana: Take it?”
How much salary are the Mets takin?
Well, Nova certainly didn’t “deserve” to be sent down, but one could argue that it gave him even more motivation/moxie AND he was able to work on some things that made him even better.
I am not sure why they never did this with Hughes, but frankly, the only reason Nova got sent down was because there was one too many pitchers and he was the easiest one to dispatch at the time.
He took one for the team and actually made it work out for himself. I think despite the talk in ST, Nova was NEVER going to be in AAA to start this season.
The more Chavez hits, the less we’ll see Nunez at 3rd. At least I hope that’s the way it’ll work. With Jones/Ibanez playing left for the next 2 weeks, the Yanks can DH Arod more often with Chavez at 3rd. Lose nothing in D…probably gain a bit, actually…and keep Arod’s legs fresh.
Villa Nova-Ya,
Hughes has been sent down, and he’s pitched in the minors several times since making his original call up.
And let’s say the Mets take a quarter to half the salary on Santana. It’s comical that we can entertain this thought, in 2010 we were all thinking we dodged a bullet. Now making that trade doesn’t look so bad..
You’ve heard of “attitude”.
We’ll now you’ve seen “Novatude”.
He gave the Sux a healthy dose of it yesterday giving up only 1 earned run over 6.
If Nova commands his stuff he’s deadly.
GM,
Yea Nova was awesome with the conditions yesterday….he really threw 6 pitches it looked like to me….looked like a lot of cutters…..maybe they were supposed to be sliders but the velo and action was more like a cutter……he mixed and matched and his breaking ball has become a real weapon……that 20/2 k/bb ratio is awesome…..I would like to see him use his 2 seamer at the bottom of the zone more but that’s picking nits.
About Ibanez ans the extra pitcher……I think if Gardner’s injury were more serious and perhaps the upcoming schedule was different maybe they would have called up an outfielder…..but they are playing 3 good offenses back to back to back and they need to be sure the pen stays strong for those games……I think they can mix and match out there and be ok so long as Gardner gets back soon……its easy to take Gardner’s defense for granted…..any time someone else is in LF Im constantly asking myself “would Gardy have had that”.
Agree about the 9th though….he should have just went to Mo there…..actually I don’t know why Nova pitched the 7th…..Drob is the guy I would have tried to avoid using……he’s pitched a lot this year already…..
Which is/are your favorites of those homes?
Villa Nova-Ya -
jeter’s without a doubt.
better scenery
Didn’t pitch the 7th*
Will Nova ever lose or Robertson surrender a run ?
He was lights out that night
MTU,
Oo, that’s a bet if I’ve ever heard one.
Aw, the end of that Melky article…
“‘It’s okay,” said Cabrera. “I miss my friends, like Alex (Rodriguez) and Robby (Cano), but the Giants have given me this opportunity. Maybe I’ll see them in the World Series.”
In 2010 I spent a few hours at RAB having a battle with the entire blog contingent resolved that Nova was much more than a fifth starter, probably higher ceiling than Hughes because of a better toolbox. (Slow day at work)
There were more alphabet stats thrown around than you could shake a stick at. There was just general disdain of Nova because he didn’t have high SOs. I didnt have the heart to go poke the wasps nest last year never mind now.
RadioKev -
It was my recollection that Hughes pitched in the minors as part of rehab from injuries, not being sent down to work on things.
randy l-
ARe you talking about inside the house????? LOL
I enjoy watching Nova pitch because IMO he will generally keep you in the game.
When he’s really on he’s like a combination of a Ginsu knife, Leatherman, and buzz saw.
Nova’s jump in performance coincides with the improved slider that he picked up last yr when he went to AAA. The fact of the matter is that he’s striking people out now at a higher rate than he did at any point in the minors.
I like his personality on the mound. He reminds me of Pettitte with the way he’s able to work out of trouble. That quality alone would have kept him in someone’s rotation for many years. But his improved stuff should keep him in NY.
And he has the attitude of a pit bull when it comes to winning.
He latches on and he does not let go easily.
Watched some of the Ms game last night…….Montero looked ok behind the plate….not great but good enough to do what Id do with him which would be catch him 30-40 games every year……the homer to CF was a blast.
I like Noesi and he has good stuff…..a year ago I liked him better than Nova because at that point he missed more bats and threw more strikes……..but Nova always had the two seamer and now he’s improved his breaking stuff and has starting throwing less balls…..Nova has better secondary pitches now and more tools to generate weak contact with.
Noesi doesn’t have a stand out secondary pitch really….he’s a fastball command guy with decent secondary offerings…..still think he will be ok in that ballpark and be good for them.
Nova has upped the SO’s since 2010. But he still gets his ground ball for DP. He just does what he has to do!
I didn’t get the chance to watch the game but the results sure looked good for Nova.
With Nova it is all about results, he just manages to get the job done. He reminds me of CC in that regard. What can you say about Chavez? He used to be a great ball player but since his injuries he has lost alot but every now and then he’ll remind you of what he used to be.
Villa Nova-Ya April 21st, 2012 at 8:39 am
RadioKev -
It was my recollection that Hughes pitched in the minors as part of rehab from injuries, not being sent down to work on things.
————————
He was sent down on the end of ST 09 to work on things. But you’re right more often than not he was recovering from injuries.
New thread ——>
RadioKev -
Was the 2009 starting day rotation CC, AJ, Wang, Joba and ???? I can’t remember!!! Ouch.