Cashman relieved; Jeter projection
Posted by: Brian Heyman - Posted in Misc on Nov 20, 2012 
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Brian Cashman had a conference call tonight with reporters in conjunction with the re-signing of Hiroki Kuroda.
“It’s a relief to know that Hiroki is back,” Cashman said. “… It’s a short-term deal that provides flexibility as we move forward and gives us an important, valuable arm to our rotation.”
Cashman didn’t have any update on Andy Pettitte’s thinking as far as a return.
He did say: “The pitching is our priority and has been our priority. So we’ll continue on those efforts.”
Cashman did talk up Ivan Nova as a starter despite his second-half struggles. He said Michael Pineda looked good recently throwing on flat ground, but that the Yankees aren’t ready to count on him yet for the rotation. He said the Yankees are still in talks with Mariano Rivera, and that he had no concerns over the closer’s reconstructed knee. Cashman also had praise for the Blue Jays’ big offseason. And here’s Cashman’s view on Derek Jeter’s return following his broken ankle.
“He’ll be our Opening Day starting shortstop,” Cashman said.
Mark Feinsand:
Cashman saw Michael Pineda throw at the Stadium 7-10 days ago. Here’s what he thought:
“He looked good, but he was throwing on flat ground at 90 feet. The report was that his arm was working very well, very healthy, very loose. He had zip on it, he’s in great physical shape in terms of body weight. That’s all it was. He looked good, but he’s not going to be a choice off the mound in game action until probably some time in May or June, whether it’s majors or minors. We’ve got him to the side. We’re mot counting on him, not looking at him because that’s the best way for us in terms of planning. We’ll put together as deep and strong a staff as possible and be pleasantly surprised and appreciative if we can welcome him back to the fold at some point. That’s all for another day; he’s got a lot more hurdles in the rehab process to clear.”
Kuroda back in the Bronx makes for a Happy Thanksgiving.
Finally some good news to brighten our darkest hours.
It’s a Thanksgiving Miracle! Welcome back Hiroki-San.
@StoneLarry: Chone Figgins designated for assignment by Mariners
~
Yes! .Thankgiving came early to Seattle
HA. Tomorrow we will hear, Yankees sign Figgins to a 1 year deal…
Cashman probably won’t be able to help himself from claiming Figgy
Compass, hi! – hope you and your son and his Jimi Hendrix ways are fine, for you are my ’77 entrance mate. Remember Danny Kaye and Peter Bavasi? Bob Bailor was our first pick and at the moment I forget yours which was ahead of mine.
“The pitching is our priority and has been our priority. So we’ll continue on those efforts.”
lol
I think Willie Horton was Seattle’s first pick ever.
Pitching wins championships! Except when you pitch well and can’t score any runs
Haha, blake,……Chinese Proverb!
Jmills,
I imagine you’re a happy camper these days…. Bold moves by AA… Jays could be good if they can stay healthy.
Night all
Nite, blake.
Cashman was just waiting for Chad to leave town to break news of a deal. It’s becoming tradition.
Williams, Heathcott and Austin
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The hitting version of the killer B’s?
blake November 20th, 2012 at 10:31 pm
Pitching wins championships! Except when you pitch well and can’t score any runs
****
But isn’t it the pitching that is preventing you from scoring any runs – so therefore – pitching wins championships – you original sarcastic comment is correct – – - – -
The pitching is our priority and has been our priority.
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He would have fit in well in the early 1900′s
But isn’t it the pitching that is preventing you from scoring any runs
–
Why bother having batters? Since to you they play no part in the outcome of the game
Just match up pitching staffs vs each other! Best wins. Or is it that even mediocre pitching can come through and what you really mean is ‘pitching well in an individual game wins championships’. Quality of the pitcher is unrelated to that.
In the playoffs hitting is the same way. You need to hit to win.
What is this continuous grind on Cashman? Is it habit, one track minds, lack of imagination, maybe it’s mob mentality? Thousands of posts repeating the same thing is at the very least boring.
Cashman
Totally rebuilt the scouting system from scratch in 2006
Drafting handicapped by a budget unlike other teams
Swisher Trade gamble – worked out well
Granderson trade – were told up front, same player three years earlier.
A Rod – not his signing
Teixeira got old in a hurry – Cashman’s fault
In some way created a clubhouse atmosphere to where players want to sign with the Yankees witness Chavez
His main opponent Theo – parachuted out – couldn’t compete
I could go on
I’m not a Cashman apologist, I don’t think he needs it, but this irrational harping bizarre is pathetic, especially this early in the post season. The post season started today and has three months to go.
The hitting version of the Killer B’s?
Only time will tell.
Totally rebuilt the scouting system from scratch in 2006
———————————-
And yet we are still looking for that number 2 starter, 6 years and counting.
BTW he took over in 2005
And yet we are still looking for that number 2 starter, 6 years and counting
————–
Which is crazy when you think about it. He’s been chasing the elusive number two for yrs
You need to hit to win.
*****
But not hit as much in comparison to the pitching you need to win. Two examples, Mike Mussina wins 1-0 over the A’s in game three of the ALDS. Second example, Rick Helling was dealing in the 98 ALDS – and it took to the final innings to break through – on the flip side – a Yankees staff shutdown a juggernaut Rangers offense (albeit probably on PEDS) – but regardless – - – -
And yet we are still looking for that number 2 starter, 6 years and counting.
———–
Gerrit Cole is looking pretty good.
The Yankees did not have scouts per se. George had fired all the top scouts because they made too much money. You can look it up. Oppenheimer was down the list and was retained. Drafted players take three to five years to challenge MLB and so on.
Cashman didn’t read Cole properly or at least his scouting department didn’t. A GM has the responsibility but he can’t be all things to all people.
Also from Sherman, he believes the Yankees will make “bold” one-year contracts akin to their deal with Kuroda, as the team is comfortable signing veterans to short-term deals. The Yankees will also look for less-expensive “Freddy Garcia type” pitchers later in the winter to add depth, though Sherman doesn’t mean Garcia specifically. Sherman suggests Dallas Braden as a possible candidate to fit this mold (both links are to Twitter).
Read more at http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/#HGIsfMr4Bd9bwJt2.99
*******
bold one year contracts to veterans – possibilities:
Hamilton
Haren
Drew
Napoli
AJP
Ichiro
Victorino
Ibanez
Hairston
Soria
Do you Godfather offer Hamilton 30 million for one year? 33 million for one year?
Which is crazy when you think about it. He’s been chasing the elusive number two for yrs
Hughes, Joba, Betances, Cole were candidates – didn’t work out. That’s the nature of the business
Hey jmills ~
I’m almost ashamed to say, that despite my advanced age, I have not been a Mariners fan since their maiden voyage in 1977. In fact, I hated baseball for the longest time – thought it was extremely boring. It wasn’t until mid-93, when the Mariners came *t-h-i-s* close to leaving Seattle, that I decided to find out what all the fuss (pro and con) was about.
Once I really started paying attention – I was hooked. And, I decided that my husband should take me to my first game on our 10th wedding anniversary – guess who the M’s were playing…
http://www.baseball-reference......8270.shtml
I still remember all the BC license plates we saw in the Kingdome parking lot! Also, funny how about 4-5 of the players on that Jays roster ended up on the M’s at some point.
Anyway, here’s hoping the M’s will catch up in the “rings” department of their expansion partners in the not too distant future
Joel Sherman ?@Joelsherman1
Think #Yankees will be bold on 1-yr deals like with Kuroda. Comfortable giving vets 1 yr deal, plus no $ toward ’14 when want be at $189M
Hughes was listed as the number one prospect in baseball. Could you for see his performance to date? I sure didn’t.
Bo knows November 20th, 2012 at 11:17 pm
Hughes was listed as the number one prospect in baseball. Could you for see his performance to date? I sure didn’t.
********
Want to talk about not seeing a downfall – talk about Rick Ankiel back in the 90s.
But not hit as much in comparison to the pitching you need to win. Two examples, Mike Mussina wins 1-0 over the A’s in game three of the ALDS. Second example, Rick Helling was dealing in the 98 ALDS – and it took to the final innings to break through – on the flip side – a Yankees staff shutdown a juggernaut Rangers offense (albeit probably on PEDS) – but regardless – – – -
–
This anecdotal stuff is irrelevant. The Yankees have needed to win games 9-6 in the world series. 9-5, 5-4. You need to pitch well, hit well, and get lucky to win in the playoffs nowadays.
09 Yankees won their WS games 3-1, 8-5, 7-4, & 7-3.
Pitching is important but volatile, so money & valuable assets should not be spent on it.
This is pretty cool…
Seattle Mariners ?@Mariners
#Class RT @ichimeterlady: OMG! I just got a package from Ichiro! Almost passed out in the middle of the living room! pic.twitter.com/V2g3SzIB
Pitching is important but volatile, so money & valuable assets should not be spent on it.
********
I am not complaining about the Yankees spending money on C.C., Kuroda, Andy, and Mo. The rest of the staff is very cheap with cheap enforcements on the way.
And in ’09 – game two – pivotal – it was pitching by Burnett that helped stabilize matters – as we saw this past postseason with the Yankees, Tigers, and Cardinals – and to a degree the Rangers down the stretch and in their lead in game (against Saunders) offense can be quite violatile – especially in the postseason – - – -
it was pitching by Burnett that helped stabilize matters
–
Exactly, pitching by AJ Burnett, who was an above average but not #2/Ace-like pitcher that year and terrible the next 2 years. No one is going, “We really wanna build our staff for the postseason, lets get AJ Burnett on board!”
Darn, the links used to work when I copy/pasted tweets
You’ll have to copy/paste it into your browser to see the spikes he sent the Ichi Meter Lady. and here’s the hand written thank you…
Amy Franz ?@ichimeterlady
My Thank You note from former @Mariners Ichiro. Wow!!!!! I am so excited!!! pic.twitter.com/7225Pgmi
Barry Zito threw some quality starts in the postseason this year, no one is going to be looking to break the bank on Zito and his contract was undeniably a mistake.
Cashman has done a lot of good things since bolstering his control in 2005. The Swisher trade was a nice move. He also has reshaped the atmosphere of the Yanks clubhouse through his acquisitions/signings of guys like CC. As a result, veterans want to come here (Chavez, Ibanez, etc.)
Cashman also made the right call on at least two occasions but was overruled by the FO: ARod resigning and Soriano signing.
The rotation for next season is in good shape with the Kuroda signing, and it will be stronger and deeper should Andy return.
Yet there are also real questions about this team’s offense and the potential to compete under 189. We’ll see how it plays out. Circumstances may force Cashman to think and act more like a small market GM. Unless he somehow can unload the ARod contract, he may face severe limitations in the moves he can make to replenish the offensive firepower of an aging core in 2014.
That is on Hal much more so than Cashman. Hal is willing to bet the budget cuts will not diminish, reduce or slow the growth of the multi-billion dollar Yankees brand.
I think the Kuroda signing puts the Yanks toe to toe with the Jays for the 2013 AL East title. Yanks have the pitching, Jays seemingly have a younger and more dynamic (health permitting) offense. But the offseason is young. Either team can make moves to improve their competitive position. Or the Orioles can sign somebody like Hamilton. And the Rays have the strongest rotation of all.
That is the joy of the offseason. And as the Red Sox so clearly proved two seasons ago, nothing is won in the offseason. But it sure is fun to discuss.
Jerkface November 20th, 2012 at 11:26 pm
it was pitching by Burnett that helped stabilize matters
–
Exactly, pitching by AJ Burnett, who was an above average but not #2/Ace-like pitcher that year and terrible the next 2 years. No one is going, “We really wanna build our staff for the postseason, lets get AJ Burnett on board!”
*****
Same is said about offense – Chad Curtis goes bonkers in 99 WS – it goes both ways – but in the end – pitching wins out – in the postseason – you never know who your heroes will be on the offense and pitching side – but I will take my odds with a more stabilized pitching staff – - – -
but in the end – pitching wins out – in the postseason
–
But as shown this statement is not factual, its just like… your opinion man
Bo knows November 20th, 2012 at 11:11 pm
Which is crazy when you think about it. He’s been chasing the elusive number two for yrs
Hughes, Joba, Betances, Cole were candidates – didn’t work out. That’s the nature of the business
———-
It is and when the results aren’t there those in charge get criticized for it. There are things that Cashman doed well but when it comes to pitching he namely ones he has developed he hasn’t done a great job.
Jerkface November 20th, 2012 at 11:34 pm
but in the end – pitching wins out – in the postseason
–
But as shown this statement is not factual, its just like… your opinion man
*****
True – just like the offense side is everyone else’s opinion – but based on what I have seen – give me an El Duque over a Miguel Cabrera come postseason – hitters impact the regular season – but in the postseason – with fewer games – the odds are better if you have a pitcher that can dominate – - – -
In general you need a pitching staff to make it through the regular season. The more starts your 1-5 get the more likely you are to make the playoffs.
Jerkface November 20th, 2012 at 11:37 pm
In general you need a pitching staff to make it through the regular season. The more starts your 1-5 get the more likely you are to make the playoffs.
******
You can clobber your way to the postseason with a decent staff – but that can only take you so far – sometimes it can take you to WS like the 2011 Rangers – but give me Carpenter in the end – - – -
Anywho – I am interested to see what “bold” one-year contracts Sherman was talking about re: veterans. I don’t think that will include Hamilton. But maybe Drew and next year’s catcher(s)?
You can clobber your way to the postseason with a decent staff – but that can only take you so far – sometimes it can take you to WS like the 2011 Rangers – but give me Carpenter in the end – – –
–
You can clobber your way to the postseason, you can also pitch your way to the postseason. The latter happens more often. Generally the offensive heavy teams that make the playoffs don’t have terrible pitching.
Yankeesource ?@YankeeSource
Dallas Braden suggested by Joel Sherman? It would be funny to see A-Rod call Braden off on a pop-up over the mound. Do it Cashman.
I’d take a bold 1 year deal on Napoli. RLYW is bullish on him for next season: http://hardballtalk.nbcsports......ke-napoli/
Baseline: .254 .353 .497
Bo knows November 20th, 2012 at 11:17 pm
Hughes was listed as the number one prospect in baseball. Could you for see his performance to date? I sure didn’t.
—
Pitchers are so unpredictable because there are so many injuries. Sometimes I think it may be a better idea for the Yankees to spend their high draft picks on position players, particularly prime position players (C, SS, 2B, 3B, CF), rather than pitchers. Have a strategy to simply buy or trade for if necessary your #1-3 starters, established pitchers that have passed the “injury matrix”. It seems exceedingly difficult to develop them. Then hopefully have a more steady flow of young, athletic position players to feed the team directly or via trade.
Jerkface November 20th, 2012 at 11:43 pm
I’d take a bold 1 year deal on Napoli. RLYW is bullish on him for next season: http://hardballtalk.nbcsports……ke-napoli/
Baseline: .254 .353 .497
*****
I’d do that – over giving Martin 3 years – - – -but I also would want to sign another catcher – no way would I go Napoli/Stewart(or whomever) – - – -
Pitchers are so unpredictable because there are so many injuries. Sometimes I think it may be a better idea for the Yankees to spend their high draft picks on position players, particularly prime position players (C, SS, 2B, 3B, CF), rather than pitchers. Have a strategy to simply buy or trade for if necessary your #1-3 starters, established pitchers that have passed the “injury matrix”. It seems exceedingly difficult to develop them. Then hopefully have a more steady flow of young, athletic position players to feed the team directly or via trade.
*****
I think they have made an effort to do that – AND also try to pick college pitchers who can be used to minimize the costs of the pen.
2009 – Heathcott CF – 1st round pick
2010 – Cito Culver SS (1st), Mason Williams CF (4) and then Angelo Gumbs taken as well in the early rounds
2011 – Dante Bichette Jr. 3b (supplemental round)
Add to it that the last big IFA July signing was a catcher – Gary Sanchez. The Yanks went back to drafting a pitcher in the first round in 2012 with Ty Hensley – - – -
The Red Sox have designated third baseman Danny Valencia, infielder Ivan De Jesus and right-handed pitchers Sandy Rosario, David Carpenter and Zach Stewart for assginment, according to a team press release.
******
Ivan De Jesus – the Sox and their fans hardly knew thee – - – -
It is and when the results aren’t there those in charge get criticized for it. There are things that Cashman doed well but when it comes to pitching he namely ones he has developed he hasn’t done a great job.
——————————————
You’re missing the point – It’s Cashman’s responsibility as a GM. The fault lies with his staff. Cashman was a 2B in college. So, at least he played baseball but as to development he did bupkus. Whatisname in Tampa was a stockbroker knew nothing about baseball.
You hire the best people you can at the time and delegate. You have to give them time, there is such a thing as loyalty down. The three B’s were lights out two years ago, something went wrong, who’s fault was it? Connors was a legend, Contreras was a pitching guru. It took years but now they’re both gone. Will Patterson make a difference? It takes time and it’s not as if pitching is an exact science.
Did someone suggest Rod Barajas here earlier today?
6% CS in 2012, 93 sb, 6 cs
lol
The Royals aren’t done shopping for pitching and ESPN’s Buster Olney says the club’s plan is to acquire another veteran by trading prospects. ESPN’s Jayson Stark, however, says that teams who have spoken to the Royals say Kansas City is “now more likely to go young than [for] another vet” in their pitching search (both links are to Twitter).
Read more at http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/#UHyqVgjvyqGMlUbY.99
Hmmm – - – -Cashman talking up Nova today during the conference call – KC looking for young pitching – - – -
JS, i think that’s sound but Yanks normally are not in a position to draft the more consensus positional talent in their accustomed draft slot. IFA used to a source of that.. now it has been curb by the new CBA. the criticism are rightfully so for the Yanks not going all out for IFA draftees when they obviously had the money and knowing the window is closing on obtaining these type talents that are otherwise are close to a team like NY.
oppenheimer did draft late rounder with paid the over slot money which has also been somewhat curb by the cba.
The transparency is out there for anyone who can read.. a consistent winner will have a harder and harder time in obtaining talents. the step that one can take is expand R and S dept, self scout your internal personnel. I see some small steps taken with the outst of contreras and connor oust(more so because hal’s hopeful 13 ready bees got shot down) than a systematic way of reallocation of resource in the vital dept that NYY surely would need to sustain long term success.
Bo knows November 20th, 2012 at 11:56 pm
It is and when the results aren’t there those in charge get criticized for it. There are things that Cashman doedwell but when it comes to pitching he namely ones he has developed he hasn’t done a great job.
——————————————
You’re missing the point – It’s Cashman’s responsibility as a GM. The fault lies with his staff. Cashman was a 2B in college. So, at least he played baseball but as to development he did bupkus. Whatisname in Tampa was a stockbroker knew nothing about baseball.
You hire the best people you can at the time and delegate. You have to give them time, there is such a thing as loyalty down. The three B’s were lights out two years ago, something went wrong, who’s fault was it? Connors was a legend, Contreras was a pitching guru. It took years but now they’re both gone. Will Patterson make a difference? It takes time and it’s not as if pitching is an exact science
———
He has had time. We aren’t in yr 1,3,or 5 we are in yr 7 going on 8.
signing kuroda is vital to 13, but cashman is wrong in thinking pitching is NY’s priority after obtaining kuroda. the NYY pitching staff has lot fewer questions with kuroda in fold than the NY lineup at this point. if cashman can’t see that then it’s a fatal flaw in thought process that goes along with his singular adherence to ‘big and hair’ concept.
Valencia was a ROY candidate 2 (3?) years ago but looked awful last year. Could he be worth a look for depth?
If opposite happened and all their guys panned out ppl wouldn’t be saying it’s early give them time.
I did note Cashman talking up Nova. Sounds like possible bait to me.
If the*****
I’ll repeat this. Cashman and Oppenheimer were hoist by the bean counters by being put on a budget, just as everyone was going all out for talent both in the US and L America. As someone said “Spreadsheet gurus”.
I’ve fought with them for years. They’ll cut costs on a Christmas party or cheap dip on a bottle of hootch, it’s in the genes.
It comes down to what has he done lately. Well, lately his team won 95 games. For a reality check go over to a Red Sox blog.
Look, if I can come up with “Sign Beltran, trade Swisher for upcoming talent”, I’m sure Yankee management with a whole bunch of bright baseball people could see something that obvious. For some reason they didn’t. Doesn’t make me a genius? I was just stating the obvious.
It always goes back to the wins.
bo I am not quite sure there are bunch bright baseball ppl that surrounds Cashman… sometimes the best and brightest can be blinded by one singular doctrine not see the obvious… I think Halberstam made some those points in his book.
btw, also reality check on 210 mil big ones… case in point, a 40 mil squeeze has a lot of folks questioning the Yanks ability to field a championship team or even competitive one in 14. The concern i have for Cashman is more to do with him operating in the future with a shrinking budget (granted maybe only a year or two) than if he had 220 mil budget to play with. so far i am not impressed , but it’s early.
“What is this continuous grind on Cashman?”
Jeter-Posada-Pettitte. Honestly thats what pisses me off the most about Cashman. At some point in time he treated those three with less class than I thought he should. I’m not a big fan of the arrogant Cashman. I’m not saying anybody else should feel that way, but that’s why I give him no slack anymore.
As for him as a GM, I like more of his moves than I hate. But there are definitely some hateful moves in there as well. And one more thing re: hiring the best people, GB was the first that I remember bringing up the lack of really good coaches, scouts etc in the lower levels. There is no excuse for the Yankees not to outspend anyone else in that area. So yeah I agree with GB.
Good night all
The Red Sox “made a really strong push” to sign Hiroki Kuroda before the right-hander re-signed with the Yankees, reports WEEI.com’s Rob Bradford (Twitter link).
Read more at http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/#3FLzwiftMybFAl0Z.99
HUGE to get Kuroda back. I love that guy. He is going to win 20 this year if he gets any run support at all.
I think I would welcome a Napoli signing. Tough decision there between Naps and Martin.
” It always goes back to the wins.”
Funny, that. People must be old-fashioned, thinking that wins matter or mean anything.
I read that the Royals are looking to trade minor league talent for pitching. I don’t know if it makes sense for us to trade Nova (or Phelps) if we’re not getting help for this season. We want that starting depth.
“looking to trade minor league talent for pitching. I don’t know if it makes sense for us to trade Nova (or Phelps) if we’re not getting help for this season. We want that starting depth.”
If either or both can get you Wil Myers then yes I think it does
Id trade both Nova and Phelps for Myers if I had to…..I like them but myers is a big league ready potential impact bat who you could control for 6 years……back end starters are much easier to replace than that……if they could trade them for Myers and sign a Haren or Dempster or somebody to be the #5 then that’d be awesome
Tar November 21st, 2012 at 12:44 am
“What is this continuous grind on Cashman?”
Jeter-Posada-Pettitte. Honestly thats what pisses me off the most about Cashman. At some point in time he treated those three with less class than I thought he should.
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This is unfair, at least for Jeter and Posada. Both expected to be paid like young superstars when they had showed signs of decline. Cashman wanted to negotiate a fair deal that paid them for their ‘residual value’ not their past accomplishments. If they had done similarly with A-Rod they would not be in the same mess that they are in. The stars always feel slighted when someone points out that their value eventually declines.
As I’ve said before….. Cashman has good qualities and I do think he’s an asset overall to the organization.
The problem is that now the ownership is asking him to shift gears and operate in a way he’s never had to operate before…..
They need to add a voice to the FO who has experience operating under tighter budgets and also somebody with lots of experience in player development……
there is literally no way the Yankees can remain competitive and reduce payroll if they don’t start developing players more frequently….. Players prices are going up and the payroll is coming down….that’s not a good match
Id still look into Haren if he will do 1 year…..upside there if he can stay healthy
“If either or both can get you Wil Myers then yes I think it does”
Blake, I don’t suppose selling low on Nova or high on Phelps (who isn’t a proven starter) could get that done. Might take a bigger package.
What’s the word on Haren? I’m not really against trading either of those guys, but I think it would be unwise to have one less arm.
“Blake, I don’t suppose selling low on Nova or high on Phelps (who isn’t a proven starter) could get that done. Might take a bigger package.
What’s the word on Haren? I’m not really against trading either of those guys, but I think it would be unwise to have one less arm.”
It may not….I was just saying I would do it of they would.. Harens back is an issue….but he was a lot better in the 2nd half last year. Velocity was down but he’s only like 32 and he’s a frontline guy when healthy……if the Yanks are being aggressive on one year deals then he’s a guy Id look at for depth…..he could get hurt and it be a waste…..he could also wind up being great too
There is a deal sitting there between the Royals and Rays that makes lots of sense for both teams…..it’ll be somewhat surprising if they don’t make something happen…..
Yeah, I’d like to think the front office is giving Haren a thought. I agree, I’d roll the dice with him too.
Now which two would you rather have? Nova, Phelps or Haren? If Haren is one of those players, get it done and see about trading off the other part.
“Now which two would you rather have? Nova, Phelps or Haren? If Haren is one of those players, get it done and see about trading off the other part.”
Just depends what I can get for Nova or Phelps…..if I could trade one of them for Choo and sign Haren Id probably consider that too.
I think the Yanks need to go for it as much as they can in 2013…..it’s not going to get any easier to win in 2014…..Jeter will be 40….Rivera, Petitte, and Kuroda will likely be gone and Cano and Granderson could be as well…..plus they’ll be slicing payroll by like 30 million…..
They need to make the 2013 team as strong as they possibly can and try to win one more title with this group IMO…..
Nick-
If you’re out there. You were right and I was wrong.
It does look like I “badly misinterpreted” Cashman’s attitude towards reacquiring Kuroda.
This is one time I’m happy to have been totally wrong.
I’m glad he’ll be back.
AP next so we can consider trading a pitcher.
Blake-
Like the idea of taking a flyer on Haren.
I would not give up a young arm for a rental.
period.
If Pettite comes back then either Nova or Phelps won’t fit in the rotation anyway…..now obviously you can’t have too much pitching…..but hopefully Pineda will be coming back at some point and they also have Marshall that’s pretty close and could provide depth.
Given the situation the Yanks are in and that their window is closing ….if Andy comes back then they should be looking to trade nova or Phelps for offense of such a deal is out there
Yes Blake.
Consider that trade but NOT for a rental.
“I would not give up a young arm for a rental.”
You can’t pitch them all and IMO they need to go for it in 2013…..I wouldn’t trade a young arm with frontline upside for a rental….but I don’t see Nova or Phelps as those type guys…..
For a Gordon, Upton, etc.
Sure.
yanks ought to give braden a call, the man knows how to pitch and probably will take a modest one year deal. same goes with McCarthy, but McCarthy carries more health imo.
btw, kc has not a clue when it comes to acquiring pitching… you can say they need to lure ppl to go to a mid west loser, but there are better and cheaper choices out there like the two mention above.
MTU,
Respect your opinion as always….I just think they need to take the assets they have and try to turn them in to things they need
Totally disagree this time Blake.
Those guys are worth more than the price of a rental IMO.
I think you’re underestimating their ability.
Even backend SP are worth more than a rental.
They’re both still young w. upside.
i give up anyone if there is a need and i am getting equal or greater value in return. that said, i rather trade hughes than phelps at this point.
i don’t think kc would do that deal but then again, i think blake is bored and try to acquire everyone else’s jewel with mediocrity.
“yanks ought to give braden a call, the man knows how to pitch and probably will take a modest one year deal. same goes with McCarthy, but McCarthy carries more health imo.”
He’s left handed and breathing so yes I agree…..Joe Saunders and Barry Zito proved last year that having anybody that can throw a baseball with heir left hand around can be helpful
McCarthy when healthy is very good. Same for Haren. I’m not sure either would do one year, but certainly woth looking into.
I just don’t know what trade value Nova or Phelps has.
Blake, is a “heir left hand” one that is inherited?
I should joke about typing. Mine is abysmal, but fortunately I have auto correct to blame.
Braden is a bad choice.
Can’t talk to him even when you need to.
No one gets near his mound.
The thing i like about braden is that he is a junkballer with very good command and an very good idea how to pitch. he is a LH to boot. that normally spell success in YS
Mac-
I’d bet they both have significant value.
Particularly Phelps who’s cheap.
Starting pitching does not grow on trees like beer.
Yo Cash, Gomes and Rayburn.. one might be cheap… one is free… get up on it.
“Even backend SP are worth more than a rental”
It depends on how easily you can replace their production…..and I think they could replace them fairly easily with cheap vets or even with Brett Marsha potentially…..
Tampa Bay has several guys who throw the ball like Phelps.
They’re pretty successful.
“i don’t think kc would do that deal but then again, i think blake is bored and try to acquire everyone else’s jewel with mediocrity.”
I don’t think so either….I was just saying Id do it
Mac,
Autocorrect makes life more interesting
MTU,
All those Rays pitchers have great CUs ….Phelps doesn’t really. I like Phelpsy though…..Id keep him if I couldn’t get a true offensive upgrade for him
Sure i do it with a guy like Myer blake, i probably lock robbie thomson in a trunk as a surprise gift and we call it a day.
Blake-
Marshall needs more time.
A cheap vet is not worth a young guy w. upside.
I’m ready to move guys but only for young, athletic guys who help the club longterm.
I think KC will add another pitcher who has upside…..if the rays won’t play ball with them then maybe they’d have interest in Nova……I dunno.
“A cheap vet is not worth a young guy w. upside.”
Depends on what you traded the young guy for
Blake-
You do not have to have a CU to be sucessful.
The overall arsenal is what’s important and Phelps has an excellent one.
CU’s are just in vogue now. A good slider, split, or curve can be equally effective.
Pitching is an Art. You paint w varying styles, brushes, and colors.
No one is the best. You ought to know that.
Blake-
Like who ?
Choo for a yr.
No thanks.
Who is your example ?
i like phelps a lot, though he is a guy without a plus plus out pitch. he has demonstrated he has a good command of it. that to me, overrides a lot things in turn of in becoming a successful pitcher in the major. look at oakland for example, they are full of guys like phelps. command is the number one attribute in evaluating pitcher in most cases.
Cash-
Now you’re talkin’.
Not every guy has to be a flamethrower to be successful. Quite successful actually.
Pitching is an art.
Velocity is sexy though.
“Choo for a yr.”
Yea Choo is pretty good….he’s a borderline elite hitter vs RHP…..so if you could trade Nova or Phelps for him as then sign Haren for a year then that’s makes the team a lot better short term…..and long term IMO Nova is rather replaceable……it just depends on how you value nova and where you see his upside…..if you think he’s going to be a #3 starter for a long time then no you don’t make that deal
I think both rays and seattle could be a good match with any teams that are looking for pitching. Rays has more establish talents, seattle has a boatload of guys who are on the verged and have good upsides.
it’s nice to have a porsche MTU, but you need a steering wheel.
*verge
Blake-
I understand and respect your opinion as well.
Not convinced the Ivan Nova story is over.
I’ve seen flashes of brilliance out of him. It’s all about FB command for his future and upside.
Some would say that he will never be able to master that.
I’m still not convinced he can’t.
If he can he’s as deadly as they come. Not quite ready to give up on that just yet.
Others would disagree and say he is what he is at this point and you sell while you can.
I still think there is a #3 pitcher in there.
Maybe I’m wrong.
Shields or Hellickson for Hosmer or Butler seems like a good fit for both teams……I don’t know if the Raus wound want to trade Shields though as they’ll want to win in 2013
i am not sure state of FL deserves a baseball team… they might have greater audience in water polo.
MTU,
You could be right…..part of the reason I feel the way I do is that I think the Yanks need to go for it in 2013…..it’s hard to see go they will have a better chance at a title in 2014 than 2013……IMO 2013 may be the end of a window to win a title and it may be a couple of years before another one opens.
Cash-
I’ll take a good vintage John Deere any day.
More durable, versatile, and practical.
And you can ride ‘em down the street w. a beer in your hand and get away with it.
Blake-
I think the team they field this season will be very similar to the one they put out there last season.
And that one wasn’t nearly good enough.
A few tweaks here and there isn’t going to cut it IMO.
They need a good young bat, or two.
I wouldn’t sacrifice the future for the present for mediocrity, or for the temporary fix.
If they can get an Upton, etc. fine. Otherwise plug the holes best you can and wait for reinforcements to arrive at the front in a year or 2.
I have thought and still think the Yankees can trade some of what they have for a youngish player to fill their needs.
Baring that I’m standing relatively pat.
@Ken_Rosenthal: New notes column: How #Marlins affect #Rays’ ballpark quest, interesting CF comps, trade talk, more. http://t.co/CMJit445
Interesting comments in there about the Yankees offseason approach and catching search
off the radar note, i see the tigers signed kevin Russo, i think he could make someone a decent super u down the road. well, tigers, to be precise as of now.
MTU,
If you look at 2014…..Jeter will be 40…..Alex will be what 39…..Tex will be older…..Rivera, Kuroda, and Pettite will presumably be gone….. And Granderson and Cano and Hughes could be as well……AND they are planning on lopping 30+ million off the payroll by that year…..it’s kinda tough to see how they will be competitive……
Blake-
Unless they get really lucky or are incredibly shrewd I don’t see them being a WS team for a few years.
I can accept that because the Yankees are not in the mode they were accustomed to being in.
Their future lies in their Farm or what it can bring back.
Big gamble but that’s how I see it.
They’ll be able to spend again in ’15 and later.
Only a fan revolt will cause them to change course.
I don’t see that at the moment.
That’s my 2 red cents.
If the Yanks aren’t playoff bound in 14, so be it. I don’t really see a big deal of it if they have a clear direction in reloading… matter of fact you can add 15 to it as well. Fans have options of supporting or not. i be watching…
“If the Yanks aren’t playoff bound in 14, so be it. I don’t really see a big deal of it if they have a clear direction in reloading”
If (big if) they actually do have a long term plan to reload……letting contracts expire and counting on prospects isn’t a very predictable plan
MTU,
I think they could be a WS team in 2013 with a couple of additions…..their pitching should be good enough if they can get their offense back to Yankee quality…..,
Blake,
What happened to the Heels yesterday?
I still have no idea how they plan on filling the team in 2014 when a majority of the players will have contracts.
Blake-
Perhaps.
But we have a different view of what it would take, and of the cost in blood and treasure.
Let’s see what they come up with. I’m not holding my breath.
By the way, before I forget, have a joyous Thanksgiving with the only thing that truly matters.
November 21, 2012 at 8:54 am
Blake,
What happened to the Heels yesterday?
Growing pains….I think they are ranked too high at the moment….they might be a top 10 team by the end of the year….but they aren’t right now….very young and inexperienced
If (big if) they actually do have a long term plan to reload……letting contracts expire and counting on prospects isn’t a very predictable plan
—————
It’s very NBA like.
But we have a different view of what it would take, and of the cost in blood and treasure.
***********************************************************************
I’m not a military guy, but please don’t use such phrases as it relates to sports trades. It’s an insult to those who have given blood and treasure in paying the cost of freedom.
thanx
The old Yankees window is closing song – now it’s 2014 – and the Yanks have not even finalized their roster for 2013 – - – -
“I still have no idea how they plan on filling the team in 2014 when a majority of the players will have contracts.”
It’s tough….like I’ve been saying…..if they don’t have some prospects hit (several of them) then it’s hard to see how they’ll get under the cap and stay competitive…..which is why I’ve pushed for them to sign Hamilton and go for it in 2013……that way they’d have both Cano and him next year and they’d have some leverage to let Cano walk of he demanded a 200 million dollar deal……
Hamilton will be expensive…..but Cano will be expensive for more years…..and if Cano left then at lest you’d still have Hamilton left to hit in the middle and act as a bridge……
Obviously Id rather trade for a long term solution like Upton ….but I don’t know if that’s possible
“The old Yankees window is closing song – now it’s 2014 – and the Yanks have not even finalized their roster for 2013 – – – -”
Keep telling us how you don’t need to hit to win
blake November 21st, 2012 at 9:02 am
“The old Yankees window is closing song – now it’s 2014 – and the Yanks have not even finalized their roster for 2013 – – – -”
Keep telling us how you don’t need to hit to win
******
Never said you don’t any hitting – but pitching is more important than hitting – - -but keep telling us young positional players are not traded – - – -
Hamilton one year 30 million contract yes – Hamilton longer than a 1 year deal – NO
What happened to the Heels yesterday?
===================
Whatever it was, the final score did not do that hammering justice.
“Never said you don’t any hitting – but pitching is more important than hitting – – -but keep telling us young positional players are not traded – – – -”
They are equally important and I never said they are never traded….I said they are traded less often than in years past because more teams can afford to keep them
“Whatever it was, the final score did not do that hammering justice.”
We tried to rally but they really showed their youth yesterday…..
Why does one need to be more important than the other as opposed to them being equally important? Isn’t “what’s most important” more based on personnel than anything else?
I want a team that’s good on ALL sides of the ball
If you let older players’ contracts run out you’ll still have plenty of money to pursue younger FA in 2014.
It’s possible Mariano + Kuroda + Pettite + Hughes + Ganderson + Cano = $ 80 M-plus.
That’s a lot of $$$ even with a $ 30 M or so cut.
The key to being competitive @ $ 189 in 2014 is the emergence of young starting pitchers. It really comes down to Nova, Phelps, Pineda and perhaps Warren and/or Marshall.
IF some of the guys from the Austin, Mesa, Adams, Romine group can fill roles then there will be more financial flexibility.
I wonder I Hamilton would take a 1 year 30 million dollar deal……you think if he came to NY for a year and stayed healthy and out of trouble and hit like 45 bombs in YS then his value would probably shoot up……teams are afraid of his drug history and also his finish to last season….if he stayed clean in NY and proved that last year was an anomaly then maybe some of those concerns go away and he can get a bigger deal next winter…..plus 30 million is a lot for one year
86-
Sure thing. You’re right. Bad choice of words.
My apologies.
MTU —-
thanx for your response… exactly what I would expect from you.
“If you let older players’ contracts run out you’ll still have plenty of money to pursue younger FA in 2014.”
What if there are none to buy?
blake November 21st, 2012 at 9:06 am
“Never said you don’t any hitting – but pitching is more important than hitting – – -but keep telling us young positional players are not traded – – – -”
They are equally important and I never said they are never traded….I said they are traded less often than in years past because more teams can afford to keep them
*****
Naaah – pitching is more important. Might be a 60/40 split – but pitching is more important. Good offenses with lousy pitching versus Good pitching and solid offense – the good pitching team makes it like the SF Giants. Heck – the Rays have been competitive and drooled about on this blog and they have subpar offense – as evidence by the no hitters. And again – positional players in their prime are still available. Elite young pitching is rarely traded – Verlander, King Felix, Kershaw, Strasburg – and when young pitching is dealt – teams pay through the roof – see Gio Gonzales – see even Trevor Cahill (Jarrod Parker!!!!)
Time to walk the Mopsters.
I’ll check back in a while.
You can have lots of money but If the store is fresh out of young superstars to buy then it doesn’t help much…..no guarantees that any of those players who are supposed to be free agents after 2014 will actually ever make it to free agency……actually I bet most dont
It’s possible Mariano + Kuroda + Pettite + Hughes + Ganderson + Cano = $ 80 M-plus.
That’s a lot of $$$ even with a $ 30 M or so cut.
——————-
Completely true 86.
I think my biggest concern is while a lot of money could open up so could a lot more holes. I really hope the young kids put on a show in 2013 and are able to fill some of them.
Bottom line the Yankees have pitched plenty well enough to win the last two playoff series they have lost…..they lost because they were totally shut down by Doug Fisters……
Blake —
I made the one-year for Hamilton suggestion a while back. I think it has merit for both sides. Stick him in RF for a year. DH him once a week or so.
It could have long and short term benefits to Hamilton and the Yanks. They’ll have more flexibility to consider retaining him as all those other contracts expire. for Hamilton, he has a huge, productive, healthy season in NYC it has to help him get the kind of deal he wants.
AND it shows fans that while $ 189 M in 2014 is important, ownership has NOT lost its desire to compete for championships.
blake November 21st, 2012 at 9:09 am
I wonder I Hamilton would take a 1 year 30 million dollar deal…
———————
We won’t give up until he signs somewhere!!!!
what are they gonna do if pettitte and mo both want to come back in 2014?
You need strong pitching to win…..the Yankees have a pretty solid rotation if Andy comes back…..you also need to be able to score runs off other strong rotations if you want to win it all.
Ys Guy November 21st, 2012 at 9:14 am
what are they gonna do if pettitte and mo both want to come back in 2014?
—————
Cry?
86,
If Hamilton stayed healthy and clean for a season in NY then it couldn’t do anything but help his value…..hopefully the Yanks consider at least talking to him about it.
With Kuroda’s deal done, and Mo expected to come in around $10-12 million.. where does Andy fall? Same range as Mo? Less?
the fact that the rangers dont really want hamilton back tells me all i need to know about him. they’ve seen his act. if they dont want him, i sure dont want him on the yankees.
“what are they gonna do if pettitte and mo both want to come back in 2014?”
Tell them they can come back but it’ll have to be for money that fits the budget most likely…..
they lost because they were totally shut down by Doug Fisters
———-
Those games still bother me smh
blake November 21st, 2012 at 9:13 am
Bottom line the Yankees have pitched plenty well enough to win the last two playoff series they have lost…..they lost because they were totally shut down by Doug Fisters……
*******
I disagree with 2011 – game two Garcia has to pitch better – and game five – you have to win that one – bad job pitching with Nova giving up the two early homeruns and then Sabathia coming in to give up that critical third run – I know there were opportunities with third and less than 2 outs – but you need to win that one 2-0 – pitching should have been better and it hurts losing your starter in the early inning.
Also – Tigers offense looked great in ALCS in 2012 – terrible in WS – same with Cardinals in the final three games of the NLCS 2012 – it happens to offenses and I do not think it is anything unique to the Yanks. Plus – Yanks have to win that extra inning game in ALCS – that turned the series.
My guess is the rangers would like Hamilton back but not for what he’s asking…..same as everybody else
I believe the Yankees had the best team ERA in the 2011 ALDS and they lost…..because they couldn’t hit
Ys Guy November 21st, 2012 at 9:17 am
the fact that the rangers dont really want hamilton back tells me all i need to know about him. they’ve seen his act. if they dont want him, i sure dont want him on the yankees.
****
Very good observation – something I have said in the past. I live in the Dallas area – and the Rangers are fed up with Hamilton’s act. However, I would make what Joel Sherman has said “bold” offers – I would make a bold 30+ million one year deal to Hamilton to play RF just in 2013 – - – -
that will go over great with the fans, mo wants to come back but the yankees will only offer him less than half what he’s worth….don’t think that’s gonna go over too well. same for andy.
@JeffPassan: Executives agreed: Stanton would fetch perhaps the biggest package of prospects ever. Up to 6, with at least 3 top-line, major league-ready.
So if you’re the marlins….you have to think about dealing him right?
Ys Guy says:
November 21, 2012 at 9:20 am
that will go over great with the fans, mo wants to come back but the yankees will only offer him less than half what he’s worth….don’t think that’s gonna go over too well. same for andy.
None of it will if they don’t win
blake November 21st, 2012 at 9:19 am
I believe the Yankees had the best team ERA in the 2011 ALDS and they lost…..because they couldn’t hit
******
That’s not true – go look at Cano’s numbers in the 2011 ALDS – he set an ALDS record! They clubbed the Tigers in games one and four. No – it was pitching of Garcia in game two – and then game five Nova leaving early and Sabathia giving up that critical third run – - – -
@Ken_Rosenthal: As I said on @MLBNetwork, Kuroda has signed four major-league contracts. None has been for the highest dollar amount, according to a source.
“That’s not true – go look at Cano’s numbers in the 2011 ALDS”
What’s not true?
The Yankees lost the 2011 ALDS because Doug Fister shut them down in game 5 at the stadium when he continually missed locations and threw pitches down the middle….
The Marlins shouldn’t keep Giancarlo for fan draw…..because nobody is going to those games anyway. If they can get a historic return ten they should do it…..they have already alienated their fan base…..might as well try to build a winner and get them back
“They clubbed the Tigers in games one and four. No – it was pitching of Garcia in game two – and then game five Nova leaving early and Sabathia giving up that critical third run – – – -”
The critical 3rd run! The Yankees didn’t score enough to win…..Nova left early and Girardi did a masterful job of piecing together the pen to give them a chance as they couldn’t score…..same ole story
If the Yankees are sitting there with most of the money coming off in 2013, I think some free agents might take a shot at getting some of it.
I long for the days of having an offense where Colby Lewis and Doug Fister doesn’t strike fear in their hearts in October
Ys Guy November 21st, 2012 at 9:17 am
the fact that the rangers dont really want hamilton back tells me all i need to know about him. they’ve seen his act. if they dont want him, i sure dont want him on the yankees.
—————–
I dunno if this is sound logic… remember when the Sox didn’t want Swisher? They wanted him gone so badly they traded him for WILSON BETEMIT.
@RiverAveBlues: On trading Curtis Granderson http://t.co/0yxnuDuZ
blake November 21st, 2012 at 9:30 am
I long for the days of having an offense where Colby Lewis and Doug Fister doesn’t strike fear in their hearts in October
———————
So basically you long for the real Yankees and not the JLo Yankees. Needless to say, I agree
Getting Kuroda this year is great though.. you just gotta hope they have their 2014 rotation targeted. Imagine if Kuroda gets run support this year and wants to stick with MLB for another season…. if this off season has been hard on some of us, it’s nothing compared to what next year might hold. I really hope they win the WS in ’13 and allow us to bask in that victory for a couple years.
I dunno that the O’s can repeat what they did last year. I know the Jays got much better but I still see them as a team that will end up as a middle of the road club. There’s no reason we shouldn’t be able to win the division again with the current roster.
…I wonder what they do with Hughes…
I agree hitting has clearly been the # 1 culprit in the last two post-seasons.
Annibal Sanchez was flat out TERRIBLE this year and the Yanks missed each and every meatball. He pitched much better in the World Series with worse results.
Another hidden savings for 2014… AJ Burnett who has a net cost of $ 8.5 M in 2013.
blake November 21st, 2012 at 9:24 am
The Yankees lost the 2011 ALDS because Doug Fister shut them down in game 5 at the stadium when he continually missed locations and threw pitches down the middle….
******
They scored two runs – pitching – Sabathia – gave up the third run – Nova put them in a hole early – the Yanks were not shut down – they actually scored runs – sometimes you need to Mike Mussina game 3 2001 ALDS the other team and win 1-0 or Pettitte/Wetteland outduel Smotlz game 6 ’96 WS. It is not accurate to say the 2011 Yankees were shut down entirely – Garcia pitches better – they win that series – It is more accurate to say the 2012 were shut down – - – -
blake November 21st, 2012 at 9:30 am
I long for the days of having an offense where Colby Lewis and Doug Fister doesn’t strike fear in their hearts in October
*****
My goodness – Colby Lewis has shut down more than just the Yanks in the postseason – he is actually “money” in the postseason – - – -
And the Yanks even outhit BA and OPS wise against the Tigers in 2011 ALDS – - – -Cano having a 1.057 OPS – - – - -
they actually scored runs
————————
When?! In the Tigers series?
Well you’re right… in games 2 through 4, they actually scored 2 whole runs!!
JLo Yankees.
Ohhhhh.. Return – Just realized you were talking about that other terrible series with the Tigers in 2011… I can’t remember how bad our offense was that year anymore, this year wiped it away, so I’ll believe you when you say we scored runs.
It’s easier to just believe…
Cashman talking up Nova, is once again his attempt at the “carnival barker” routine. He’s trying to portray Nova as a young 5 Slot Chucker, in order to up his trade value. ANYONE, that actually watched the games, knows Phelps out-pitched Nova. The only guy that truly believes Nova currently has the 5 Slot in the Yankee rotation, (assuming Pettitte returns), is Nova.
A few thoughts – and I’m sorry if these have been mentioned before:
1. Good that they got Kuroda done.
2. Hardball Talk has the Yankees interested in Stephen Drew as a super-utility guy. I think that he will probably balk at that in favor of a starting SS job somewhere, but if not, I would love to have the kid in the fold.
3. Cubs DFA’ed Bryan LaHair so that he could go to Japan. Yankees should do what the Red Sox did with Millar and that’s swoop in and tell him to stay. Guy has good raw power (awful LH/RH splits) and can play RF and 1b.
4. I have no doubt that the Yankees will be interested in Chone Figgins once he’s given his outright release.
I’m sure the Yankees are thinking there is no way 5 guys in their lineup can be that bad in the postseason again. While there may be a little truth there, they also probably shouldn’t expect the pitching to be as good as it was.
On LaHair, one, his strikeout rate is really bad, two, he had a huge April and then it looks like the league figured him out. Some people say he was just ate up by breaking pitches.
I would only be looking at Drew, in the event I dealt Nunez. Hopefully, the Yanks got something cookin’ with Arizona involving Nunez and J. Upton.
The decision makers over in Boston continue to emulate the 80′s Yankees. Deal young stars like Reddick, and then chase aging free agents like Swish, to plug the hole they just created. A DUMB endless cycle.
Chip,
Please don’t let your Figgins forecast be true. Give me Nunez, Dickerson or Adams. For that matter, anyone. Playing multiple positions badly is not really a help but you know that.
The article posted above talks about the Yankees painting by numbers meaning they don’t do anything else until the pitching is squared away. I don’t know why they don’t set aside what they will pay pitching and then work on other areas. The article did make it sound like the Yankees slowness was slowing the catching market.
jacksquat November 21st, 2012 at 10:02 am
On LaHair, one, his strikeout rate is really bad, two, he had a huge April and then it looks like the league figured him out. Some people say he was just ate up by breaking pitches.
————-
I just think that with a couple of adjustments he could be a late bloomer like Jose Bautista was. Right now it looks like the Yankees are settling on Ibanez for RF – LaHair would probably be a slightly better option with more upside.
The Red Sox are seeing that having money for free agents isn’t as good these days. If the Yankees have money next year due to departures, they will likely find the same thing. that’s why trades or free agents at a reasonable price is a very good thing.
I thought the Yankees would see Ibanez’ defensive deficiencies. He is fine for a LHDH, but I hope they do better for right field. Hey, I have an idea. How about Justin Upton?
“They scored two runs”
So your argument is that 2 runs should have been enough?
austinmac November 21st, 2012 at 10:19 am
I thought the Yankees would see Ibanez’ defensive deficiencies. He is fine for a LHDH, but I hope they do better for right field. Hey, I have an idea. How about Justin Upton?
——————–
My guess is that Cashman looks at him and says, “well we used him in LF every day last year and that went alright – RF is a lot easier so this could work.”
austinmac November 21st, 2012 at 10:16 am
Chip,
The article posted above talks about the Yankees painting by numbers meaning they don’t do anything else until the pitching is squared away. I don’t know why they don’t set aside what they will pay pitching and then work on other areas. The article did make it sound like the Yankees slowness was slowing the catching market.
—
Because if things went sour with the pitcher signings, they may have had to spend a lot more than expected on pitching. Or they even could end up spending less on pitching and have more available for hitting which would change the players you go after. I’m sure it’s not totally by the numbers, but they could have ended up with a disastrous pitching situation if both Kuroda and Pettitte did not return, whereas the top 6 spots in the lineup are probably already filled (unless they get someone better, but it doesn’t look like it).
LaHair would probably be a slightly better option with more upside
================================
Dude’s 30 years old. There’s no upside there. Had a good month of April, then was figured out.
Glad to see Kuroda back. He’s a reliable, low-maintenance player without an inflated ego. But the bottom line is he cost more bucks and he doesn’t make the team any better. In fact, I’ll be surprised if he pitches as well in 2013 as he did this year.
LaHair is free if you claim him on waivers. Even when he got ‘figured out’ he still put up a .330 OBP vs RHP. If he bounces back a little bit he would be great.
Given that it is no risk, someone has to claim him.
LaHair is free if you claim him on waivers. Even when he got ‘figured out’ he still put up a .330 OBP vs RHP.
=========================
Couldn’t even hit RHP’s after Mother’s Day.
.274/.323/.597 after 5/15 and that was almost exclusively against RHP’s.
Storey and Herndon are a couple of slightly interesting low level signings too.
LaHair = Jack Cust………only much worse.
Of the guys who were cut loose yesterday:
LeHair
Figgins
Danny Valencia
Ryan Rayburn
Vin Mazzaro
Brayan Pena
Will probably all have various levels of appeal to Cashman and the Yankees.
In fact, I’ll be surprised if he pitches as well in 2013 as he did this year
=============================
I would be surprising. He was the Yankees best pitcher by a good margin last year. I expect Sabathia to reclaim that title, but I think any drop off in Kuroda’s performance will be fairly minimal. He’s been rather consistent over his MLB career
*It would be surprsing…..
Anybody have a Good idea of the players risk losing by not including them on the 40-man roster?
only much worse.
–
How? Jack Cust hit .213 .344 .329 .673 in 2011 and then didn’t even play in the majors in 2012.
LaHair hit .288 .377 .508 .885 in 2011 and .259 .334 .450 .784 in 2012. I am not even interested in the overall slash line but platooning him vs RHP.
He hit .291 .362 .503 .865 vs RHP in 2012.
He is free, and the alternative is going to be a guy like Raul Ibanez. I’d rather bet on LaHair getting it together than bring in Ibanez. Cheaper, more versatile, and if he stinks you can cut him without any monetary impact.
Okay, so I didn’t see LeHair play that often last season but every time I did I like what I saw. Is there a chance he could be more consistent on a better team than the Cubs or would he just be a one-month wonder, a bit like Rod Barajas was for the Mets a couple of years back when he hit all those home runs at the start of the season, then did diddly-squat the rest of the year? Might be a good pick up as a bench player.
How?
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Was referencing Cust when he was still playing, not now.
Cust could at least draw a walk from time to time. Not even an issue of “if” LaHair stinks. He stinks. But, as you suggest, he is free. So if the flea market is the way the Yankees plan to go, why not? I’m no fan of bringing back Ibanez, but he’s a much more capable MLB bat than LaHair.
Sounds like he’s headed to Japan, which is probably more his speed.
I wonder if Lahair would accept a minor league contract? That would be ideal. That way if the Yanks sign Ibanez and he struggles, you have a backup option.
Kuroda is the man….I think he will be slightly worse than last year but only marginally so….
I wonder if Lahair would accept a minor league contract? That would be ideal. That way if the Yanks sign Ibanez and he struggles, you have a backup option.
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Doubtful. A team in Japan is going to pay him way more than a minor league contract to play full time. They need to claim him on waivers so they can just supercede his intention to go to the NPB. He probably has no options given that he is 31 or whatever.
But if they claim him and something better comes along they can just DFA him. Literally no risk to acquiring him.
I see where LaHair was DFA’d, but not put on waivers…
No Bryan Lahair will stand in the way of bringing back Rauldemort
Would it be mean to tell Cody Ross you were signing him to play RF …..then trade for Choo and platoon them?
Raul is a one-year legend in the Bronx. Whether its the right move or not, the Yanks probably bring him back for one more year. Don’t know if Hairston would agree to a one-year deal to platoon. He probably can get two years elsewhere.
I see where LaHair was DFA’d, but not put on waivers…
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To be DFA’d , one must be placed on waivers
tucker November 21st, 2012 at 11:10 am
Raul is a one-year legend in the Bronx. Whether its the right move or not, the Yanks probably bring him back for one more year. Don’t know if Hairston would agree to a one-year deal to platoon. He probably can get two years elsewhere.
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Year 2 from Raul will probably be similar to year 2 from Jones. Take the one quality year and walk away. I think a second season from Ibanez will turn out to be a disaster,
I’m surprised by all of the LaHair talk here. He is going to Japan – seems pretty clear. He got a great offer there that is flexible (I believe 2014 is a player option) and he will expect to play every day. Why would he take a 1 year minor league contract?
http://www.youtube.com/embed/c.....#038;rel=0
Arguably,…Oliver Reed is the man!