Spring training Game 4: Yankees at Phillies
Posted by: Chad Jennings - Posted in Misc on Feb 26, 2013 
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YANKEES (1-2)
Eduardo Nunez SS
Ichiro Suzuki RF
Robinson Cano 2B
Mark Teixeira 1B
Travis Hafner DH
Matt Diaz LF
Melky Mesa CF
Bobby Wilson C
Addison Maruszak 3B
RHP Jose Ramirez (7-6, 3.19 in 2012 in High-A)
This is Ramirez’s first appearance in big league camp
PHILLIES (2-1)
Jimmy Rollins SS
Ben Revere CF
Kevin Frandsen 2B
Ryan Howard 1B
Michael Young DH
Domonic Brown LF
Laynce Nix RF
Cody Asche 3B
Steven Lerud C
RHP Kyle Kendrick (11-12, 3.90 in 2012)
Kendrick vs. Yankees
TIME/TV: 1:05 p.m., not on TV or Radio
WEATHER: Rain finally stopped and it looks like the game will start on time.
UMPIRES: HP David Soucy, 1B Eric Cooper, 2B Dan Iassogna, 3B Vic Carapazza
PHILLIES PEN: Philadelphia is scheduled to throw RHP Aaron Cook, RHP Chad Durbin, RHP Zach Minor and LHP Jeremy Horst.
THE RIGHT SIDE: After three straight left-handed starters, the Yankees finally face a right-hander in Kyle Kendrick. He had a 1.54 ERA last spring.
LATE CHANGE: The Phillies made a late lineup change, putting Kevin Frandsen at second place instead of Chase Utley.
CITY OF BROTHERLY LOVE: Jayson Nix’s brother Laynce is in right field for the Phillies.
WHAT TO WATCH: Another chance to see Melky Mesa and Matt Diaz make a case for the left field job. Adonis Garcia, Thomas Neal and Ronnier Mustelier will also play today. … This will be the first spring appearance for both Joba Chamberlain and Dave Robertson. … It’s the first spring start for fringe catching candidate Bobby Wilson. Catching prospect J.R. Murphy is scheduled to get behind the plate for the first time this spring.
UPDATE, 1:09 p.m.: Nunez out on a ball back to the pitcher. Give him credit, he’s run hard on every single ball this spring.
UPDATE, 1:10 p.m.: Ichiro with an infield single up the middle. Just beat Rollins throw from behind second base.
UPDATE, 1:14 p.m.: Ichiro steals second and scores on a Teixeira double into the right-field corner. It’s a quick 1-0 lead for the Yankees.
UPDATE, 1:22 p.m.: Three up, three down for Ramirez. I don’t see a stadium radar reading anywhere, and the Phillies broadcast — which is on in the press box — doesn’t show velocity.
UPDATE, 1:24 p.m.: Matt Diaz with a single up the middle. That’s his first hit of the spring.
UPDATE, 1:27 p.m.: Mesa struck out, and was also called for batter’s interference on a stolen base attempt by Diaz. Mesa is out. Diaz is out. And Bobby Wilson followed with a fly out to center. That ended quickly.
UPDATE, 1:37 p.m.: Ramirez walked Howard, but he got Young to hit into a double play and got Brown to ground to first. That’s another scoreless inning from the young, hard-throwing right hander.
UPDATE, 1:43 p.m.: Ichiro had another hit in the top of the third, he was left stranded and now Robertson is out to pitch the bottom of the inning.
UPDATE, 1:51 p.m.: Nice play by Teixeira at first base get the Yankees out of the third inning with a runner stranded (a Robertson walk). Up next should be Chamberlain to pitch the bottom of the fourth, but first, it’s Teixeira, Hafner and Diaz coming to the plate in the top of the fourth.
UPDATE, 1:58 p.m.: Diaz lines sharply to first base, and it’s an unassisted double play. Granted, that one was bad luck, but Diaz has hit into three double plays already this spring.
UPDATE, 2:07 p.m.: Two strikeouts for Chamberlain, and the inning ends with a nice play by Nunez. Still a 1-0 Yankees lead heading into the fifth.
UPDATE, 2:12 p.m.: If that ball is a foot closer to the line, it’s a double for Maruszak. Instead it’s a 5-4-3 double play.
Excited to see Ramierez throw….first time for me
Pumped to watch this Yankee game today.
@ScottMCBS: Mike Trout lost 20 lbs last spring fighting viral infection. “I’ll take that 20-pound virus,” Mike Scioscia joked.
Apologies for the non baseball talk but I had to share this thread from a sound vendor I was going to use for my wedding this summer but thought it was too much $ so I checked with another vendor and my suspicion was correct; start at the bottom. I would love to expose this maniac but I’m not sure I want to risk it with the rage he displays:
—– Forwarded Message —–
Sent: Monday, February 25, 2013 11:55 PM
Subject: Re: proposal
You must be a liberal Obama supporter !
I was going to lay out over 10K worth of gear, maybe you can buy some junk for $1500, I hope it doesn’t rain.
On Mon, Feb 25, 2013 at 11:48 PM, Mike > wrote:
Its a reputable company that has been used by friends with great reviews. For $1500 I could have bought my own PA system.
________________________________________
Sent: Monday, February 25, 2013 11:35 PM
Subject: Re: proposal
you get what you pay for
On Mon, Feb 25, 2013 at 11:29 PM, Mike wrote:
Hi Frank,
Thanks for the proposal but we were able to get the same equipment with delivery/setup for about $900 less so of course we had to go with them.
________________________________________
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2013 2:08 PM
Subject: proposal
Hi Mike,
Attached is the proposal for the July 2013 event.
Excited to see Ramierez throw….first time for me
–
Love all the televised ST games. I’ve only ever seen Ramirez start in Tampa once and watching a pitcher on TV is way better for seeing the movement on the pitch.
@YankeeSource
Agreed. RT @JosephDelGrippo He might have the best change up in the system.
–
For those of us that can’t see it now, MLB network will probably replay it tonight
JF,
Take it you’re not in Clearwater today?
They need to get Nunez a smaller helmet
Seriously he could get hit in the head with a throw and that woukd be bad news.
Ichiro can still get down the line
Tex looks thinner to me
Take it you’re not in Clearwater today?
–
Nope, next games I’ll be at are probably March 16 vs Atlanta and then March 23 and 24 in lakeland and tampa.
Tex smoked that hanger
Great pair of swings for Tex off Kendrick, 1 liner just foul then hooked a deep fliner just fair.
Tex! Nice rip buddy.
Give as much info on Ramierez as you can, boys.. I hate not having a tv in my office. If I ever make it to upper management you can bet your ass I’ll have one in here somewhere…….
Rollins can still get it at short. GEtting to Ichiro’s ball and then Hafners is pretty rangey
I like Hafner. Always looks like he is going to murder the ball. I hope he does just that in the Bronx.
I don’t think Hafner steals too many bases this year.
YES should really forgo showing any Nets games in favor of ST games lol.
Come on. Rollins was playing Hafner up-the-middle. You coulda made that play.
Lefties hit .074 against Ramierez last year….probably a testament to that CU
Man this kid looks like a big league talent
Come on. Rollins was playing Hafner up-the-middle. You coulda made that play.
–
Shaded there but it was still a hard liner, need a good first step for that ball.
Ramierez clearly throws hard….no gun on but he’s bringin it ….
Phillies broadcast needs a radar gun, how can they not have one? MASN didnt have one either. Cheapskates.
Impressive…..like the arm slot….like the fastball….kids got good stuff….gotta keep him healthy
Ramirez made us forget Arodys Vizciano
Phillies got the jitters regarding Utley. Batting him outta the 2 Hole, (as rumored), would signal a power outtage.
Ramirez has a major league arm for sure.
Ramirez is very impressive. Health is the key but this guy has legitimate` top of the rotation stuff. Exciting.
bogus call
Matt diaz hitting a bunch of punchless ground balls so far.
Nasty CU there to Howard
Jerkface February 26th, 2013 at 1:29 pm
Matt diaz hitting a bunch of punchless ground balls so far.
________________________________________________
Remember last Spring Ibanez didn’t hit a lick. Then when the season started he came alive. It’s early yet
Tyler February 26th, 2013 at 1:26 pm
Ramirez is very impressive. Health is the key but this guy has legitimate` top of the rotation stuff. Exciting.
_____________________________________________
He’s ticketed for AA. Hopefully can reach AAA before the season is over
Too cute with Howard…..trying to be perfect there
By “not on TV or Radio”, you meant “definitely on the MLB network”, right Chad?
Can see what folks like about Ramierez….heavy sinking fastball and good Cu
Tackelberry February 26th, 2013 at 1:32 pm
Tyler February 26th, 2013 at 1:26 pm
Ramirez is very impressive. Health is the key but this guy has legitimate` top of the rotation stuff. Exciting.
_____________________________________________
He’s ticketed for AA. Hopefully can reach AAA before the season is over
—————————————————————–
That would be a productive season for him. I think he’ll be really good if he can just stay healthy. Might be a guy who is in the big league mix by the end of next year.
Im glad they interviewed Kyle Kendrick over that entire inning. Why did we have to see Kendrick?
Tackelberry February 26th, 2013 at 1:31 pm
Jerkface February 26th, 2013 at 1:29 pm
Matt diaz hitting a bunch of punchless ground balls so far.
________________________________________________
Remember last Spring Ibanez didn’t hit a lick. Then when the season started he came alive. It’s early yet
——————————————————————
Ibanez was clutch but I think people forget how awful he was almost all summer when he was a regular outfielder. I like the guy and he provided some power but I wish the Yanks had a better option for LF right now than a guy like Diaz.
I watched a piece of yesterday’s game and now this, and ‘am already tired of seeing a conga line of Yankee players with numbers on their backs in the 60′s-90′s range. Pitchers OK. Position players early inna game? NOPE
That would be a productive season for him. I think he’ll be really good if he can just stay healthy. Might be a guy who is in the big league mix by the end of next year.
______________________________________________
Hopefully joined by Banuelos, with Campos, Mitchell and DePaula right behind
Jerkface says:
February 26, 2013 at 1:37 pm
Im glad they interviewed Kyle Kendrick over that entire inning. Why did we have to see Kendrick?
Opposing broadcasts in ST are just dreadful….
Glad I decided to record the game on MLB Network today. Looking forward to seeing
Ramirez throw a little bit.
I had to admit, I also set the game to record so I could watch Joba and Robertson throw.
DRob sighting
LATE CHANGE: The Phillies made a late lineup change, putting Kevin Frandsen at second place instead of Chase Utley.
Wonder if Philly “fans” are having the same reaction to this that some on this board are having towards the Youk stuff.
tackel, I have a feeling that Campos will go down with major injury this season.
UPDATE, 1:09 p.m.: Nunez out on a ball back to the pitcher. Give him credit, he’s run hard on every single ball this spring.
The fact that a player needs to be given credit for this speaks volumes about where we are in sports.
Robertson late on the cover.
“Wonder if Philly “fans” are having the same reaction to this that some on this board are having towards the Youk stuff.”
Probably….he gets hurt all the time too
Cashmoney February 26th, 2013 at 1:47 pm
tackel, I have a feeling that Campos will go down with major injury this season.
_________________________________________________
If that happens, Cashman will really be toasted for not having hiim have TJ surgery last season
yeah we will see, i thought it was odd that Banuelos was on the shelve that long before we heard about the need for surgery, I think Cashman was afraid Hal shooting him for the trifecta of Banuelos, Campos and Pineda under the knives simultaneous. This, of course, is all conjectures.
Hafners swung it good so far this spring.
at work…. how did ramirez look? blake seemed to be impressed
DONNYBROOK February 26th, 2013 at 1:39 pm
I watched a piece of yesterday’s game and now this, and ‘am already tired of seeing a conga line of Yankee players with numbers on their backs in the 60?s-90?s range. Pitchers OK. Position players early inna game? NOPE
—————————
I hope this stops soon – maybe after the roster is eased by the loss of players to the World Baseball Classic (though that won’t take care of that many spots). Nice to see guys like Teix, Robertson and Joba today
as a baseball fan, I think the most exciting prospect in NY baseball to watch this year are probably Wheelers and D’Arnaud on the mets in 13, i think our ones are about 1 year and half away from MLB realistically. Harvey looks raw but electric.. also worth keeping an eye on.
Jerkface says:
February 26, 2013 at 1:57 pm
Hafners swung it good so far this spring.
He will hit if he can play
kd says:
February 26, 2013 at 1:57 pm
at work…. how did ramirez look? blake seemed to be impressed
Very impressed with the stuff….very smooth gas from what I could tell and the ball looks heavy….sinks. He only threw one breaking ball that insane and it was ok but his CU is really good….for a first spring outing it was good. He needs innings and to keep on the field though
Joba looks pretty good, too. Was that a split?
So does Joba know that he looks like a child molester with that mustache?
Jobber sporting a good slider
Joba with a nasty 3 pitch swinging K. Fastball-Curve for a strike, then curve or change for the K.
Joba nasty
Then, the next guy gets high heat for a K. Nice.
thanks blake.
let’s hop he can improve and stay healthy. i remember when they traded vizcaino for javy they said that Ramirez was a better prospect. great to see him getting big league camp exposure.
smooth gas is a huge compliment. good to see him not overthrowing on arguably the biggest stage of his career
tomingeorgia says:
February 26, 2013 at 2:03 pm
Joba looks pretty good, too. Was that a split?
Slider….his good slider looks almost like a split
Imagine if Joba can be described on the mound as “nasty” in 2013? That would help
secure a lot of wins.
Mo, Robertson & Joba
The 2013 version of The Nasty Boys
Wilson would be my back-up C.
Nice defensive play by Nunez at SS
Nunez hasn’t been bad in the field in the actual games so far. All at short of course.
Nice play by Nunez to end the inning.
add in Ardsma and we have quite a pen in the late innings
Real nice play there by Nunie….so far so good defensively for him
DONNYBROOK February 26th, 2013 at 2:07 pm
Wilson would be my back-up C.
—————-
Well when you start your own team you can find him waiting for you in Scranton.
@RiverAveBlues: Nice looking change-up from Jose Ramirez. http://t.co/LjaQK6nuSS
For those who missed it…,here is the best CU he threw probably….great action and arm speed
If Maruszak’s hitting last year wasn’t a one time thing, his versatility will make him a really good addition to future Yankee benches.
Phillies guys just said Nunez is going to the WBC?
thanks for the link blake
he kinda reminds he of jose contreras with this mechanics, just 80 lbs lighter.
I love .gifs.
Just a random thought: If .gifs can be made this quickly please GIVE ME INSTANT REPLAY.
Also related to the gif: great pitch right there.
Cano with the sick play.
Jerkface says:
February 26, 2013 at 2:22 pm
Cano with the sick play.
That play is not easy at all and he makes it look like a walk in the park….
Granderson’s issue most probably means that Gardner’s in CF to stay. After a month out there, I expect he’ll make the case that he should remain there. That would leave Curtis to slot into LF when he is done with his rehab in 10 weeks or so, barring setbacks.
I don’t know about you guys, but I’m hoping that the replacement isn’t Diaz or Rivera, but that one of Mustelier, Almonte, and Mesa are given the chance to play. You never know what you’ll get when a player makes the jump to the majors, especially when the league hasn’t had time to adjust to them just yet.
It can’t hurt and it’s not like our other options are any better. I want to see these young guys play. If we’re really going to be this team that’s partially built from within, we need to give our talented guys a taste of the bigs. Remember when we did that with Nova? The kid was so determined to get back up there that he actually improved his prospect status & overall pitching repertoire. I am hoping it’s Almonte or Mesa, because they’re exciting, but would be happy with Mustelier and his solid approach at the plate.
Ichiro having a nice day. Chopped an IF hit up the middle, sliced one past the 3Bman, and now just smacked a low line drive up the middle.
These guys predicting Ichiro 1st ballot HOF, yet Piazza falls short?
Ybarra for all-star.
Tackelberry February 26th, 2013 at 2:07 pm
add in Ardsma and we have quite a pen in the late innings
**************************************************************
I need to see Aardsma on the mound for about 20 innings before I get excited
about his ability.
The guy sends out the most absurd tweets. He makes it very easy for me to dislike him
2 Out, 2 Strike, MISTAKE.
Did the Yankees just put a shift on that lefty?
Murphey cranked that thing
Atta boy, JR!
Asche looks very good at third for the Phils, and J.R. really smoked that one!
Thats a bomb. 400+ ft.
JR Murphy over Cf wall for two run homer after Adonis Garcia hits single up the middle.
I can’t believe Joba is publicly stating that he can still start.
What is this, April Fool’s Day??
How about proving you can throw all 4 of those pitches for strikes when the games
count and while you’re at it Joba, perform all 4 pitches at a high level for an entire season.
Yea, the announcer saying it Just made it over the yellow line was hilarious.
Garcia, Mustelier, Mesa, Almonte.
Which two to go north rather than Diaz and Rivera?
tomingeorgia says:
February 26, 2013 at 2:49 pm
Asche looks very good at third for the Phils, and J.R. really smoked that one!
Yea I mentioned him as a trade target a few times this winter had they been able to add and outfielder and traded Granderson
Adonis has a decent swing….good plate coverage ….
Big Nude is pitching.
Yankee Trader February 26th, 2013 at 2:51 pm
Garcia, Mustelier, Mesa, Almonte.
Which two to go north rather than Diaz and Rivera?
———————————————————————————————————-
I want the best players for the job to go up north. If history means anything, you know
Girardi and the team will give the veterans every chance possible to make the roster and go north.
Any of those young guys would probably have to hit over .400 this spring to be considered. Those players would have to play great defense as well.
Not sure if that is possible, which is why I won’t get my hopes up about any of the young kids.
“How about proving you can throw all 4 of those pitches for strikes when the games
count and while you’re at it Joba, perform all 4 pitches at a high level for an entire season.”
Kinda need a chance to do this right ? The Yanks him basically 1 season after 70 minor league innings then pulled the plug…..
JR Ewing has left us, but the JR Murphy era has yet to begin
From behind, this guy looks like Joba.
DONNYBROOK February 26th, 2013 at 2:31 pm
These guys predicting Ichiro 1st ballot HOF, yet Piazza falls short?
————————————–
Don’t know what it has to do with Piazza, but Ichiro is a clear 1st ballot HOFer.
From behind, this guy looks like Joba.
–
I did a double take when I looked over, thought the same thing.
It has to do with the voters.
Ok Dom Brown Bomb. 450+ ft?
Talked about smoked.
That’s why some of us keep talking about getting Dom Brown
There is Dom Brown for ya. Way gone.
I don’t get why the Phillies don’t give this guy a true chance.
“Big Nude” just gave up a BIG homerun. Wow.
Riviaz = Juan Rivera + Matt Diaz
‘Say Riviaz is the outfielder until Granderson returns and Granderson returns on May 16 – smackdab in the middle of May. Granderson would miss the first 41 games, less with a rainout or rainouts.
I would be thrilled if Riviaz posted 5 HR and 20 RBI in the first 41 games as that’s a 20 HR 80 RBI pace, the best we could possibly, reasonably hope for from both them. We cannot expect 2011-12 Granderson production from Riviaz or whoever wins the temporary job.
3 HR 10 RBI from Rivera, 2 HR 10 RBI from Diaz is fine by me. If Rivera had a 2 HR 5 RBI game, he’d be only a homerun and 5 RBI shy of posting up his share of the production. If Diaz had a 2 HR 5 RBI game, he’d have hit his share of HR and driven in half his RBI share in one game alone.
More than 5 HR and 20 RBI from Riviaz is gravy. 7 HR and 25 RBI through the first 41 games would be a 28 HR 100 RBI pace. Where is it written in stone Granderson would post 7 HR and 25 RBI let alone 5 HR and 20 RBI in the first 41 games? Of course he’d be more likely to do it than Riviaz, but that’s neither here nor there.
If Riviaz posted 5 HR and 20 RBI, the Yanks probably lose at worst five solo homeruns in the first 41 games assuming Granderson would’ve posted 10 HR 25 RBI at best in the first 41 games (a 40 HR 100 RBI pace.)
The ONLY way the Yanks should get Vernon Wells is if the Angels are willing to have the Yanks pay $6M ($3M this year, $3M net) for him, about all he’s worth at this point. I would not mind him as the veteran super fourth / insurance outfielder who posts at least 10 HR and 30 RBI a year andd plays defense. The Angels have ZERO leverage over the Yanks as Granderson’s injury isn’t season-ending.
If Damon REALLY wants to be a Yankee again, he will suck it up by calling the Yanks to say he will accept a minor-league contract for a chance to compete for a job with the Yanks and the Yanks will most likely accept as the more options the better. He is NOT worth a guaranteed contract, not after his horrid 2012. He has ZERO leverage over the Yanks as again, Granderson’s injury isn’t season-ending.
Oh man, I’m so sad to be missing JR. I’ve been envisioning a JR/Sanchez tandem for a while now.
charlestonchew February 26th, 2013 at 2:27 pm
I don’t know about you guys, but I’m hoping that the replacement isn’t Diaz or Rivera, but that one of Mustelier, Almonte, and Mesa are given the chance to play. You never know what you’ll get when a player makes the jump to the majors, especially when the league hasn’t had time to adjust to them just yet.
——————————————————-
I hear you – much like I didn’t want to see Ibanez in that role last year (and yes, he hit some huge home runs, but let’s face it, he was absolutely awful most of the year and so we might as well have had a younger guy in there getting the time).
Big Nude put one right down the pike for Big Dom.
blake February 26th, 2013 at 2:58 pm
That’s why some of us keep talking about getting Dom Brown
—————–
Yep. No one would ever consider Brown to be the ideal guy, but in this climate it wouldn’t have been a bad idea to pursue him.
Come on…Dellin Betances for Dom Brown
blake, Cash would consider Brown a glorified DH. No position = Not a run saver. Hairy out, run saver in.
Nude looks like Joba except he’s much worse
Shame Spencer February 26th, 2013 at 2:59 pm
Oh man, I’m so sad to be missing JR. I’ve been envisioning a JR/Sanchez tandem for a while now.
——————–
Yeah I bet you have…
Something tells me Zach Nuding is hoping no one is watching this game.
JR Murphy is trending world wide on Twitter right now lol… good times!
Tommy Joseph > than Dom Brown
Nudging pitching batting practice.
Nude giving up some big shots…
How can Big Nude get further undressed?
Eek, Neal struggles with a fly ball and then another 2 run bomb given up by Nude.
He is getting undressed right now.
Chip February 26th, 2013 at 3:02 pm
Shame Spencer February 26th, 2013 at 2:59 pm
Oh man, I’m so sad to be missing JR. I’ve been envisioning a JR/Sanchez tandem for a while now.
——————–
Yeah I bet you have…
——————–
You think I’m lying lol?
Romine lost all of last year to a back problem.. I hope I’m wrong but I don’t think he’ll last long as the Yankees C.
I need randy’s magic database of all of our past posts….. any chance we can get him to make that a Google doc
Jerkface February 26th, 2013 at 3:03 pm
Nude giving up some big shots…
—————
The Russians are back on meteor watch.
Put it another way.
Granderson returns for Game 42.
Yanks are 24-17, about a 96-win pace.
Rivera and Diaz have a big game each, Yanks win both games.
They did a fine job holding down Granderson’s slot as they contributed to a twelfth of the wins.
Warning Track Power February 26th, 2013 at 2:55 pm
Yankee Trader February 26th, 2013 at 2:51 pm
Garcia, Mustelier, Mesa, Almonte.
Which two to go north rather than Diaz and Rivera?
———————————————————————————————————-
I want the best players for the job to go up north. If history means anything, you know
Girardi and the team will give the veterans every chance possible to make the roster and go north.
Any of those young guys would probably have to hit over .400 this spring to be considered. Those players would have to play great defense as well.
Not sure if that is possible, which is why I won’t get my hopes up about any of the young kids.
———————
The veterans will end up going north is my guess.
The best thing that Almonte and Mesa have going for them is that they’re already on the 40 man roster (in addition to being more talented) – Mesa with a slight edge over Almonte because Mesa’s arbitration clock is already ticking.
Mustellier and Neal would have to blow the doors off to go.
Adonis Garcia has zero chance.
Did Joba just make random comments that he could still start or was it brought up somehow?
It’d be weird for him to just state that.
Shame Spencer February 26th, 2013 at 3:05 pm
Chip February 26th, 2013 at 3:02 pm
Shame Spencer February 26th, 2013 at 2:59 pm
Oh man, I’m so sad to be missing JR. I’ve been envisioning a JR/Sanchez tandem for a while now.
——————–
Yeah I bet you have…
——————–
You think I’m lying lol?
Romine lost all of last year to a back problem.. I hope I’m wrong but I don’t think he’ll last long as the Yankees C.
I need randy’s magic database of all of our past posts….. any chance we can get him to make that a Google doc
——————
Oh, you meant a catching tandem…
Nik Turley is starting tomorrow’s game right? Looking forward to that.
Oh you dirty, dirty boy.. I sometimes forget this is like a frat house and I’m that girl always doing the walk of Shame.
Big Nude was pretty awful when I saw him in Lakewood, as well. But he supposedly had improved his secondary pitches. Everyone can’t be a J-Ram.
Envisioning a JR/Sanchez tandem isn’t exactly going out on a limb.
Shame Spencer February 26th, 2013 at 3:08 pm
Oh you dirty, dirty boy.. I sometimes forget this is like a frat house and I’m that girl always doing the walk of Shame.
——————–
Indeed.
These promotions. A replica Gold Glove award, and now a wiffle ball kit.
Is this like a frat house? Not really. That would be pro sports daily.
This Chucker is sneaky fast. The ball is getting on top of the hitters before they know it.
The problem with taking Rivera and Diaz north is that you need to open up spots on the 40 man roster for them.
You also are potentially taking Jayson Nix and/or Dan Johnson north too – also not on the 40 man roster.
Two spots are easy to open up (put Cabral and Pineda on the 60-day DL) but getting more than that you’re going to have to start cutting people.
“The problem with taking Rivera and Diaz north is that you need to open up spots on the 40 man roster for them.”
The other problem is they both suck
blake February 26th, 2013 at 3:13 pm
“The problem with taking Rivera and Diaz north is that you need to open up spots on the 40 man roster for them.”
The other problem is they both suck
———————-
Well right but I don’t think that’s going to be the impediment.
Girardi, when asked about it, will say that even though the results aren’t there these are both guys with track records and they could have opted out of their minor league deals if they didn’t come north so this gives them a month to see them in real games and take a longer look.
Or words to that effect.
Is Cabral going to be on the DL again? Is he starting the season on it?
Still recovering from… TJS? Whatever did he have?
I think they are almost going to have to use a 40 man spot on one of Nix/Johnson. I think it’ll be Nix honestly, he worked last year and he looks good this year.
PacoDooley February 26th, 2013 at 2:59 pm
charlestonchew February 26th, 2013 at 2:27 pm
I don’t know about you guys, but I’m hoping that the replacement isn’t Diaz or Rivera, but that one of Mustelier, Almonte, and Mesa are given the chance to play. You never know what you’ll get when a player makes the jump to the majors, especially when the league hasn’t had time to adjust to them just yet.
——————————————————-
I hear you – much like I didn’t want to see Ibanez in that role last year (and yes, he hit some huge home runs, but let’s face it, he was absolutely awful most of the year and so we might as well have had a younger guy in there getting the time).
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Yeah cuz three guys with exactly TWO MLB PLATE APPEARANCES between them (Mustelier, Almonte, Mesa) both owned by one of them (Mesa) are SOOOOOO much better than two guys with 5820 MLB PAs (Rivera 3787 PA + Diaz 2033) who have hit .268 vs.RHP, .285 vs. LHP (Rivera) and .258 vs.RHP, .324 vs.LHP (Diaz) for their careers.
Riviaz is the best current option for the Yanks. I think they’d be even better than Wells and/or Damon as Wells would have to be a two-year committment while Damon can’t hit for average or power or get on base. Rivera and Diaz can hit for power and hit lefties. They’re not glovemen but they are decent in the field and certainly better than Ibanez who cost the Yanks a game with his defense.
If Riviaz was a year-long proposition, yes, I would have a problem with them but I don’t because they’re not a year-long proposition, they’re a first five to seven weeks of the season proposition, ideally five. Ideally Granderson comes back May 1, but I doubt it although who knows? Time has a way of healing you faster than you expect. I think May 16 (he misses 41 games) is more realistic.
I say go with the veterans and see what they could do. What if Rivera reverts back to his 2004-07 form? Houston, we have a NICE problem haha. He’d be the Yanks DH after Granderson returns until (Rivera) cools off/reverts to 2008 on form, no doubt.
Of course, if you want to be an optimist, Juan Rivera doesn’t lend itself to any sort of “ie” at the end of either name “Juanie” “Riveraie” so he has that to overcome. Matt Diaz has no such problem as there’s the natural “Matty”. Of the two younger candidates – well Melky is already there. Zoilo has a lot to overcome…though I was happy to hear the praise Cashman lumped on him, including that they have him graded out as a future starter.
Having both Dan Johnson and Hafner go north would be a mistake. TEX plays all the time, making Johnson a gamble at 3B. 2 roster spots occupied by guys with bats and No position. PASS
Pinder Strongjaw. Good first batter.
Jerkface February 26th, 2013 at 3:16 pm
Is Cabral going to be on the DL again? Is he starting the season on it?
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Yeah I believe he’s on the same schedule as Pineda.
yankeefeminista February 26th, 2013 at 3:10 pm
Is this like a frat house? Not really. That would be pro sports daily.
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Lol, true story.
Anyway, I still don’t get the context on this Joba thing.
Jerkface February 26th, 2013 at 3:16 pm
I think they are almost going to have to use a 40 man spot on one of Nix/Johnson. I think it’ll be Nix honestly, he worked last year and he looks good this year.
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They could clear a roster spot by trading Eppley (which makes sense to do given the depth in the pen) or, if Romine wins the catching job, DFA either Cervelli or Stewart.
I think right now the bench would be:
Nix, Cervelli, Diaz, Johnson with Nunez in the minors and Rivera in LF.
“Amazingly, Joba Chamberlain has reignited the whole starter vs reliever controversy:
“This is probably going to spark a bunch of stuff and (Yankees PR director Jason) Zillo is going to be mad at me, but it’s one of those things where it’s like, do you think you have the capability to start? Yes. Do I have four pitches that I can throw for a strike? Yes. Do I have two plus pitches in the bullpen that I can throw at any time? Yes.
“I guess I’m trying to have my cake and eat it, too. I feel like I’m good enough to do both. I’ve proven that I can do both. Whatever it is, if I close, I want to be one or the other. I’ve been in the role of in the bullpen for a while, but am I confident that if I got the chance to start again somewhere – wherever that’s at – I could do it? Without a doubt. I just have to focus on this year and what I can do to improve to help this team win, continue to try to win ballgames for them.” 13 minutes ago
http://sulia.com/channel/new-y.....ce=twitter
Just because you decide to start Mesa or Almonte in Left doesn’t mean that Diaz and Rivera are left off the team. I think one of them stays to platoon DH and play the occasional day in the OF. I just think one of the younger guys is a better fit given their solid defense (in the case of Mesa and Almonte) compared to Diaz and Rivera. Games can be lost on defense, too, and there’s no real indication that Diaz and Rivera would be that much better than Mesa or Almonte. It doesn’t hurt to try them in the position if they perform well this spring.
Jobber is a stahtin’ pitchah.
DONNYBROOK February 26th, 2013 at 3:18 pm
Having both Dan Johnson and Hafner go north would be a mistake. TEX plays all the time, making Johnson a gamble at 3B. 2 roster spots occupied by guys with bats and No position. PASS
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Johnson would be coming north to add thump to the bench, someone Girardi can turn to in the late innings to hit for Gardner or the catcher if he needs a homerun late.
I’d easily keep Nunez on the 25 Man, and DFA Johnson
Good luck starting for another team, Joba.
WOW JR 400 ft line drive.
Yankeefem –
Joba’s never going to start for the Yankees. Even money says this is his last year with the team.
There will be some sentiment to re-sign him this winter, especially if Rivera retires given the fact that D-Rob will be a free agent following the 2014 season. But I don’t think he gets brought back – not with all the young power arms that the Yankees have.
It would be hilarious if someone.. I dunno.. asked him about it.
Joba would be dumb to say he couldn’t start.. he is an FA after this year.
Even money says this is his last year with the team.
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Considering he wants to start, I’d say its guaranteed.
I could see a pitching starved team like the Twins or Rockies or somebody signing Joba for peanuts then making him a starter….unless Joba really has a great year in the pen and can get a good set up or closing job then career wise he should try to find a 1 year deal with a team that will give him a chance to start…..
Nice day JR
Murp almost tied this thing up.
DONNYBROOK February 26th, 2013 at 3:24 pm
I’d easily keep Nunez on the 25 Man, and DFA Johnson
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Well first of all Johnson’s not on the 40 man roster so you don’t have to DFA him.
Second, they aren’t going to carry both Nunez and Nix on the bench – it’s redundant.
Third, they’re going to want at least one LH bat on the bench.
Chip February 26th, 2013 at 3:15 pm
blake February 26th, 2013 at 3:13 pm
“The problem with taking Rivera and Diaz north is that you need to open up spots on the 40 man roster for them.”
The other problem is they both suck
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Well right but I don’t think that’s going to be the impediment.
Girardi, when asked about it, will say that even though the results aren’t there these are both guys with track records and they could have opted out of their minor league deals if they didn’t come north so this gives them a month to see them in real games and take a longer look.
Or words to that effect.
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Hey blake
Rivera and Diaz don’t suck, they are what they are: two mid-thirties veteran reserve outfielders who will in all likelihood hold down Granderson’s job until Granderson returns because they have the experience, hit for power, and hit lefties very well, historically.
If you give Granderson’s job to Mustelier and Almonte, you give it to two guys with ZERO MLB experience.
If you give Granderson’s job to Mesa and either Mustelier or Almonte, you give it to two guys with TWO MLB PAs between them, both PAs owned by Mesa.
None of the three combinations of outfielders is happening, or it is highly unlikely, unless one or two of the outfielders hit .400+ in spring training, and even then Rivera and/or Diaz may get the nod simply on their experience.
Rivera and Diaz (Riviaz) have 5820 career PAs between them. Rivera’s career strikeout rate is .118, .103 last year and was 11 PAs shy of striking out once every ten PAs in 2012 (35 SO in 339 PAs.) That’s the kind of hitter the Yanks should have holding down Granderson’s job. Rivera makes contact plain and simple. Yes he has sucked since 2010 but he is still a career .274/.323/.443/.766 career hitter – not great but not bad. He’s only 34 – not a kid anymore but not an old man – and would still be only 34 after Granderson returns assuming the return is in May.
Jerkface February 26th, 2013 at 3:28 pm
Even money says this is his last year with the team.
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Considering he wants to start, I’d say its guaranteed.
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The problem Joba’s going to face is that as a reliever he would probably get a pretty good contract.
I don’t know what team would give him guaranteed money as a starter since he hasn’t done it in 4 years.
I’m just using your bench options. Of course, I also would go with Stewart over Cervelli.
“Rivera and Diaz don’t suck, they are what they are: two mid-thirties veteran reserve outfielders who will in all likelihood hold down Granderson’s job until Granderson returns because they have the experience, hit for power, and hit lefties very well, historically.”
You realize that 2/3 of the games aren’t pitched by LHP and that Diaz and Rivera can’t play defense or hit RHP at all right? Even if they hit LHP ok then you’re gonna get terrible defense in all games…..and basically Stewarts offense in LF the other 2/3 of games
I don’t know what team would give him guaranteed money as a starter since he hasn’t done it in 4 years.
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But he could parley 1 year as a starter into 10 x as much money. Unless Joba is insane this year as a reliever I don’t know he is getting double digits in a contract.
Duh Innings….
The only way to get MLB experience is to play. You can’t hold it against Almonte or Mustellier that they haven’t gotten to the majors yet. Girardi will, but that doesn’t make it right.
and hit lefties very well, historically
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But not recently, which is more important for a mid 30s guy than what you did 5 years ago. They only need 1 righty OF. Its not going to be Diaz and Rivera. Its going to be MAYBE 1 of them + someone already on the 40 man.
Out hit ‘em 12-5 and lose.
blake February 26th, 2013 at 3:32 pm
“Rivera and Diaz don’t suck, they are what they are: two mid-thirties veteran reserve outfielders who will in all likelihood hold down Granderson’s job until Granderson returns because they have the experience, hit for power, and hit lefties very well, historically.”
You realize that 2/3 of the games aren’t pitched by LHP and that Diaz and Rivera can’t play defense or hit RHP at all right? Even if they hit LHP ok then you’re gonna get terrible defense in all games…..and basically Stewarts offense in LF the other 2/3 of games
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The defense won’t matter – the Yankees played Ibanez most of the season in LF last year – they’ll be willing to go with Diaz or Rivera out there for a month.
I know Culver made the last out. Did he at least hit the ball hard?
Culver makes Ramiero Pena look dangerous at the plate
Jerkface February 26th, 2013 at 3:32 pm
I don’t know what team would give him guaranteed money as a starter since he hasn’t done it in 4 years.
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But he could parley 1 year as a starter into 10 x as much money. Unless Joba is insane this year as a reliever I don’t know he is getting double digits in a contract.
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Well that’s the question too – how much money does a non-closer relief pitcher get on the open market? You might be right – Joba might be better off selling himself as a starter on a one year deal than taking slightly more money as a relief pitcher…it’ll be an interesting story.
There is no way they play Diaz or Rjvera every day in LF or RF….they have to have a platoon partner for them
DONNYBROOK February 26th, 2013 at 3:32 pm
I’m just using your bench options. Of course, I also would go with Stewart over Cervelli.
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Outside of Dan Johnson there aren’t really any viable LH options in camp for the Yankee bench.
Chip February 26th, 2013 at 3:27 pm
Yankeefem –
Joba’s never going to start for the Yankees. Even money says this is his last year with the team.
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No, we would never let him start. But another team might. He would be far more valuable that way. I’ll bet it happens. Free Joba!
blake February 26th, 2013 at 3:36 pm
There is no way they play Diaz or Rjvera every day in LF or RF….they have to have a platoon partner for them
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I hope you’re right. I hope they go with Almonte and stick either Rivera or Diaz on the bench rather than one on the bench and one in the field. I just don’t think it’s likely.
If I’m Joba….I try to have a great season this year and explore if I can get a multi year deal as a Set up guy or closer for somebody.
If not then i take a cheap deal from anybody that will let me start and try to establish myself as that
Even though he may swing left handed, I do Not consider Dan Johnson a LH “bat” off the bench.
“If not then i take a cheap deal from anybody that will let me start and try to establish myself as that”
I root for a team that should consider that…either, actually.
Almonte/Diaz would be tolerable
“This is probably going to spark a bunch of stuff and (Yankees PR director Jason) Zillo is going to be mad at me, but it’s one of those things where it’s like, do you think you have the capability to start? Yes. Do I have four pitches that I can throw for a strike? Yes. Do I have two plus pitches in the bullpen that I can throw at any time? Yes.
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Jason Zillo is a shillo. But Joba is a stahtin’ pitchah, and I’m glad he’s starting to talk the talk.
Yankeefem – did you see Jo-Ram deal? Not quite as good location as down in Lakewood, but he looked good. We’ll get him in Trenton soon!
Joba also was on – all I was thinking was what a waste, and then you post these comments. LOL! I hope Joba becomes a pain in the butt in Rothschild and Girardi’s ear: I am a stahtin’ pitcha!!!
Where’s Odds?
I’m running out, but what a cool, vindicating quote for Joba, who has been the Sunday school boy a little too long, now. He’s been a good team guy but it’s time for him to claim what is right for him and professionally logical.
Great day for Joba, and great day for Jo-Ram!
Btw, interesting that Joba said the PR guy “would kill him,” even though in jest, there must have been a muzzle on Joba regarding speaking about wanting to start.
He’s been a good soldier. Glad he finally spoke up. I hope his agent keeps on him about this, as well.
Good one, guys and gals.
blake February 26th, 2013 at 3:39 pm
If I’m Joba….I try to have a great season this year and explore if I can get a multi year deal as a Set up guy or closer for somebody.
If not then i take a cheap deal from anybody that will let me start and try to establish myself as that
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I just don’t think a team will give him any guaranteed money to start. Would he be willing to take a minor league deal at this point? Or a low base salary with lots of incentives for games started?
How can no one tell me (I mean the journalists, not you guys) why Joba even brought this up lol…?
If he brought it up without being prompted, I’m gonna go ahead and say it’s purely regarding his contract. If someone asked him about it I’m having a hard time understanding the media reaction right now.
yankeefeminista February 26th, 2013 at 3:23 pm
Jobber is a stahtin’ pitchah.
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“I just don’t think a team will give him any guaranteed money to start. Would he be willing to take a minor league deal at this point? Or a low base salary with lots of incentives for games started?”
I think they woukd for sure cause they woukd know that even if starting didnt work out they could move him back to the pen and have a useful reliever
I just don’t think a team will give him any guaranteed money to start. Would he be willing to take a minor league deal at this point? Or a low base salary with lots of incentives for games started?
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If he wants to prove to ppl he can start than I think he’ll take it
If you could sign Joba for 3-5 million for one year then try him as a starter then you’ve lost nothing really if it doesn’t work out….you still have a reliever at a reasonable price
Against All Odds February 26th, 2013 at 3:49 pm
yankeefeminista February 26th, 2013 at 3:23 pm
Jobber is a stahtin’ pitchah.
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Group hug.
Now put him where he belongs!
I’m out, but what a great piece of text! Later, guys.
Against All Odds February 26th, 2013 at 3:49 pm
yankeefeminista February 26th, 2013 at 3:23 pm
Jobber is a stahtin’ pitchah.
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Our boy’s heart and arm both tell him it is so.
I just don’t think a team will give him any guaranteed money to start. Would he be willing to take a minor league deal at this point? Or a low base salary with lots of incentives for games started?
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I think he definitely gets 4 million / 1 year to start somewhere MINIMUM. The worst case scenario is you have a reliever. We’ll have to talk about this more at the end of the season when the picture is clearer, but non-guaranteed? LoL come on.
blake February 26th, 2013 at 3:50 pm
If you could sign Joba for 3-5 million for one year then try him as a starter then you’ve lost nothing really if it doesn’t work out….you still have a reliever at a reasonable price
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Exactamente!
If Joba finishes he season healthy and with mid- to high-90s velo, a biting slider, and some command, he is going get some good offers. It will suck if he leaves.
Worse PITCHERS than Joba get guaranteed money every year to start. The questionable status of his ability to start will not force him to take non-guaranteed money in a minor league sense. He may have a lot of incentives (both ways: games finished/games started, I can think of at least 1 guy who had a contract like that before but cant get the name )
You know who had zero MLB experience prior to last year? Bryce Harper. WTF were the Nats doing giving him playing time when they could have signed Dave Winfield who has 12358 PA?
Yanks pulled the plug on Joba as a starter way too early…. I really hope another team gives him a chance to be a SP again. I’ll never forget that game he started in Fenway against Beckett. Idk how anyone who saw that game would give him as little chance to continue to start as the Yankees did
“I’ll never forget that game he started in Fenway against Beckett. Idk how anyone who saw that game would give him as little chance to continue to start as the Yankees did”
That game was awesome.
Russell Munson says:
February 26, 2013 at 3:55 pm
You know who had zero MLB experience prior to last year? Bryce Harper. WTF were the Nats doing giving him playing time when they could have signed Dave Winfield who has 12358 PA?
Special special player though ….
Kev, I saw almost every Joba start in New York. In OYS, I would move down from Tiers to sit in M1 or M3 just to see him pitch. The kid had the stuff. What a waste.
Mesa doesn’t look like he can hit to me. His swing is too long.
I like Diaz better than Rivera,, but we will probably end up with both since the team motto is “Veterans are Us”.
RealKev,
That was memorable and I still have it on a VHS somewhere.
That’s what’s so frustrating – a start like that, among many good ones in 2008, and you just scratch your head that they shut the door on him.
Ironically, they traded Montero for a pitcher who had a similar type first year (and one with less of an arsenal), and were admonishing people that Pineda “needs time” to develop, etc.
Now I am really out. Wish I could stick around for this discussion, have to read backwards later. Good day.
I can’t stand even speculating about who the third outfielder will be.
Joba will sign somewhere he can start and prove himself capable of making the huge money. I would. He will be gone next year, I am quite confident.
Pruf, right back at ya. I’d travel to an opposing park if I had to to see Joba start. And yes, I can’t wait until we have J-Ram in Trenton, and as I have been saying, watch out, JR’s great AB’s are going to turn into some nice O stats this season. Go Thunder!
Obviously Harper is a different breed altogether, but if the point is experience is not all that matters, I agree.
It is pathetic if they have no outfielders in their system worth keeping on the roster. Instead, we get leftovers we saved from working at the grocery store.
@BryanHoch: Cashman shoots down idea of Johnny Damon coming to camp; says “we need somebody who can play the outfield every day.”
Good then Diaz and Rivera are out too right
austinmac, Mesa is what he is. He can hit a fastball a long way when he makes contact, but he is going to K a lot and whiff on breaking balls. I haven’t seen his AAA AB’s, but that is the Trenton Mesa that I saw game in and game out.
blake February 26th, 2013 at 4:05 pm
@BryanHoch: Cashman shoots down idea of Johnny Damon coming to camp; says “we need somebody who can play the outfield
every dayperiod.”They put Ibanez in the OF.
Don’t you bet Murphy has a big smile on his face today? These kids wait a lifetime for moments to show their stuff.
@eboland11: Cashman: “I love Johnny Damon, he was an awesome Yankee when we had him. But that was a while ago. It’s not something we’re going to pursue”