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How bout them Yankees!?

Posted By: Irishman12

How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/05 07:01 AM

Hmm, what a way for the "defending" world champs to open up the season with a 9-2 loss to the Yanks. I loved it so much when Manny & Ortiz struck out to Johnson!

Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/05 07:06 AM

Let's wait a few days before we give them the pennant, though. :rolleyes:
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/05 11:31 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Let's wait a few days before we give them the pennant, though. :rolleyes:
Are you kidding!? Their gonna win the next 161. :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/05 04:11 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Let's wait a few days before we give them the pennant, though. :rolleyes:
Sure, in fact let's wait until October. Man I wish the playoffs started tomorrow!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/05 09:13 PM

Well the Yanks hung on again to move to 2-0 on the season! Pavano I heard pitched good, which I'm totally happy about! I know it's just another game, but hey, even win for us is 1 less for them. I'm looking forward to the game tomorrow on ESPN at Noon CST.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/05 09:50 PM

I loved the column in the USA Today this morning: "The Red Sox came in full of themselves, and not hungry to defend their title."

I left Univ. @ about 1:45 today, scanned all the radio stations for the game in my truck but couldn't find it. Luckily, I made it home (after refueling :p ) in time to watch everything after the 6th inning.

Jeter = w00t!
Matsui = w00t!
Johnson = w00t!
Pavano = w00t!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/05 10:53 PM

I'm really impressed with Pavano's start today. Glad Jeter bailed us out but what the f*ck's gonna on with Mo!?
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 12:03 AM

With that payroll, I would expect them to win 75% of their games every year. I don't see what the big deal is. Giambi comes over as the biggest free agent then stops using roids and sucks. So he's replaced by Japan's best hitter. They buy the majority of their players - where's the challenge in that?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 12:46 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
They buy the majority of their players - where's the challenge in that?
First of all, Boston does the same thing but most people don't have a problem with them winning the Series last year with the 2nd highest payroll in MLB. As for the Yankees "should" be winning 75% of their games, let's not forget that this team is mostly comprised of players 33 and over (with many being in their late 30s/early 40s). As well as baseball being such a hard game that it is, I think it's somewhat unreasonable to expect them to win 75% of their games. I think that the last 4 World Series Champs (Arizona in '01, Anaheim in '02, Florida in '03 and Boston in '04) should lead you to believe that no matter what the Yankees payroll is, the players still have to go out there and perform and win it all themselves!
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 02:11 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
but what the f*ck's gonna on with Mo!?
Mo is 37(?). He can't throw bulletts forever. AND, everyone in the league has seen him a zillion times. We have to face it, Mo is no mo'. He's still very good, but the year's of smoke and mirrors is behind him.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 03:03 AM

I agree and the Yanks better do something. He is great and he can be lights out, but for some reason, when it comes to Boston (as last year's ALCS showed), they're figuring him out
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 03:47 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by goombah:
[b] They buy the majority of their players - where's the challenge in that?
First of all, Boston does the same thing but most people don't have a problem with them winning the Series last year with the 2nd highest payroll in MLB. As for the Yankees "should" be winning 75% of their games, let's not forget that this team is mostly comprised of players 33 and over (with many being in their late 30s/early 40s). As well as baseball being such a hard game that it is, I think it's somewhat unreasonable to expect them to win 75% of their games. I think that the last 4 World Series Champs (Arizona in '01, Anaheim in '02, Florida in '03 and Boston in '04) should lead you to believe that no matter what the Yankees payroll is, the players still have to go out there and perform and win it all themselves! [/b][/quote]Boston is also part of the problem of what is wrong with baseball. But NY is the most serious and longest running offender of buying talent. You're obviously a big fan and know the team better than I. But I can't think of anyone of significant value on NY's roster that was homegrown except Jeter. The only person in that organization I have any respect for is Joe Torre.

Of the past 4 seasons, NY was the better team on paper and should have beaten both Arizona & Flordia in the WS. I'm certainly glad they didn't. Had it been any other team than Boston, I would have taken so much more joy in the Yanks collassal choke in last year's ALCS. The only things I root for in NY & Boston are lots of bean balls and injuries.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 05:18 PM

Goomb,

The Yankee success in recent years has been a result of a great farm system and $$$$$players. Jeter, Bernie Williams, Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte (good bye Andy), Jorge Posada were the nucleus that George spent money around. (and they should have kept Soriano.)

Professional sports in general has been ruined by $$$. Its now become entertainment.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 05:30 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
Goomb,

The Yankee success in recent years has been a result of a great farm system and $$$$$players. Jeter, Bernie Williams, Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte (good bye Andy), Jorge Posada were the nucleus that George spent money around. (and they should have kept Soriano.)

Professional sports in general has been ruined by $$$. Its now become entertainment.
I disagree that the Yanks should have kept Soriano. Would I have liked to see Soriano stay in New York, of course. But when you have the opportunity to get the 2nd best player in baseball in Alex Rodriguez (especially after he was so close with going to Boston), you don't pass up an opportunity like that. As far as baseball being entertainment, I couldn't agree more. But I love it that baseball doesn't have a salary cap. I HATE it because it's so confining! Again, I agree with gommbah in that on paper the Yankees are always the best team, but as I've said, baseball is such a hard game, that the players still have to go out there and produce
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 05:32 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
Mo is 37(?).
Mo is still a spring chicken. He won't be 36 until the season is over (Nov 29th).

Let's not write his obituary just yet. The BoSox seem to have his number, but let's see how he does against everyone else first.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 05:48 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
Professional sports in general has been ruined by $$$. Its now become entertainment.
Could not agree more. I hate the spectacle that the Super Bowl has become. I really have little interest in a game that starts at 6:30 EST and these blockbuster thematic halftime shows. Then MLB with its interleague play and having the All-Star Game choose the homefield team for the World Series. Finally, I hate the NBA playoffs for having 3 and sometimes 4 days in between games and the playoffs lasting for nearly 2 months. I remember the good old NBA finals b/w LA & Boston that were in Game 3 by Memorial Day. Last year, if it would have gone 7 games, it would have been on Father's Day! :rolleyes:
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 05:52 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
[quote]Originally posted by MaryCas:
[b] Professional sports in general has been ruined by $$$. Its now become entertainment.
Could not agree more. I hate the spectacle that the Super Bowl has become. I really have little interest in a game that starts at 6:30 EST and these blockbuster thematic halftime shows. Then MLB with its interleague play and having the All-Star Game choose the homefield team for the World Series. Finally, I hate the NBA playoffs for having 3 and sometimes 4 days in between games and the playoffs lasting for nearly 2 months. I remember the good old NBA finals b/w LA & Boston that were in Game 3 by Memorial Day. Last year, if it would have gone 7 games, it would have been on Father's Day! :rolleyes: [/b][/quote]eventhough the schedules are made around money I still like them. On a saturday or sunday afternoon you can watch basketball games at 1:00, 3:30, 6:00 and 9:00. Yes that is made so that each game can get the most viewers but I prefer that to having 6 games being played and only being able to watch 1 or flipping back and forth between them.

Superbowl? you mean that thing in between commercials?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 06:03 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
[quote]Originally posted by MaryCas:
[b] Professional sports in general has been ruined by $$$. Its now become entertainment.
Could not agree more. I hate the spectacle that the Super Bowl has become. I really have little interest in a game that starts at 6:30 EST and these blockbuster thematic halftime shows. Then MLB with its interleague play and having the All-Star Game choose the homefield team for the World Series. Finally, I hate the NBA playoffs for having 3 and sometimes 4 days in between games and the playoffs lasting for nearly 2 months. I remember the good old NBA finals b/w LA & Boston that were in Game 3 by Memorial Day. Last year, if it would have gone 7 games, it would have been on Father's Day! :rolleyes: [/b][/quote]I couldn't agree more with what you just said. Sports is "big business" now and the sponsorships & corporations are ruining it. I hate it when "The Pepsi Half Time" or whatever. Like we're really going to go out and buy your product because you have a half time show. Wow, what an accomplishment! I also agree in that the Super Bowl is the most overhyped event all year every year! As for MLB, I think home field advantage should be determined by record, not who wins the All-Star game. And don't even get me started on the NBA playoffs. The NBA used to be my favorite to watch but I never watch a game anymore because they're never on TNT or TBS hardly, and I'm not going to pay for "NBA League Pass" or whatever it's called just to watch more games. They were free when the NBA was on TNT and TBS. So why then would I pay now? I just watch MLB and read the scores online. It makes me so sick now that the fans are getting screwed. But as for the NBA playoffs, the first round should have stayed at 5 games instead of 7 games. It takes 2 or more weeks just to get out of the first round. It's all about money and I'm f*cking sick of it!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 06:13 PM

I know the Yanks are down 2-1 but I'm really happy that A-Rod just hit his first home run of the season!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 07:08 PM

Now it's all tied up with Tino's solo bomb! Welcome back Tino!
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/05 07:30 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
But as for the NBA playoffs, the first round should have stayed at 5 games instead of 7 games. It takes 2 or more weeks just to get out of the first round. It's all about money and I'm f*cking sick of it! [/QB]
Right! There is no reason to have four 7 game rounds. You could knock out a best-of-5 series in 8 days, including travel. Worst is when there are 3 days off and the games in between are played in the same frigging city.

The other thing I hate about the NFL is the hype and "concert" before the season opener. I like the fact that they open on Thur now, but I don't need to see 60 year old Steven Tyler singing "Dream On" b/c it has absolutely nothing to do with football.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/05 12:45 AM

Mo, Mo, Mo what are we going to do with u?
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/05 01:48 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
[quote]Originally posted by MaryCas:
[b] Mo is 37(?).
Mo is still a spring chicken. He won't be 36 until the season is over (Nov 29th).

Let's not write his obituary just yet. The BoSox seem to have his number, but let's see how he does against everyone else first. [/b][/quote]plaw - thanks for the age adjustment. After today maybe we better revisit that -- 46 maybe? Who said it's better to trade them a year sooner than a year later. Mo, Mo, Moses. Ouch, 5 earned runs. George just aged 3 years.

Re: A-Rod, or is that A-Dud. Reminds me of a guy named Winfield. Great stats, no rings. Homeruns when the game was well in hand. RBIs when no one needed them.
Posted By: the bad guy tm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/05 02:01 AM

a big win for my red sox today and to top it off my yank i hate gets hit in the head how cool jk. well at least they won. baseball is a great game
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/05 02:14 AM

It was a good game, too bad the Yanks blew it again. Man I'm REALLY starting to get worried about Mo. I don't know what his deal is but I think they said he's blown his last 4 saves against the Cocks. That's no bueno for us!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/05 08:40 AM

The average tenure for a big leauge closer is 5 years, Mo is in his 9th year as a full time closer with the Yanks. Hes getting up there in age. I feel like the Sox have his number.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/05 12:15 AM

Mo is a Yankee, all the way. There's no way George can trade him. When his day comes, and I think it's a long way off, he should retire as a Yankee.

As for A-Rod, he's certainly not living up to his reputation, is he? Not that he's not good, but the best? No way. I wouold certainly put Jeter (love him) and Godzilla way ahead of him.

Anybody watching the Baltimore game right now? I just turned it on and they're LOSING!! WTF??
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/05 01:18 AM

The score is now 10-3, top of the 6th. It's a horror!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/05 02:49 PM

The Yanks got killed last night, lets hope Johnson cab get it back for us today. Iam going to the game tommorow hopefully Pavano puts on a good show.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/05 09:28 PM

Yes, ole "Mo" had a hard time against the Red Sox, but still all those boos from some of the (probably drunk) Yankee fans was just totally wrong. Agree Irish and DoubleJ?

Anyway, the Yanks will easily win the AL East, but will they defeat the Sox in the ALCS?

If Schilling continues to be a non-factor(playing or not), then Yanks will prevail.

However, A-Rod needs to get his stuff together and quit being a good player but instead the GREAT player hes being paid $25 million per season to be.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/05 10:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:

However, A-Rod needs to get his stuff together and quit being a good player but instead the GREAT player hes being paid $25 million per season to be.
Very true.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/05 02:10 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Yes, ole "Mo" had a hard time against the Red Sox, but still all those boos from some of the (probably drunk) Yankee fans was just totally wrong. Agree Irish and DoubleJ?
Sometimes people needed to be booed so they can get there stuff together. Others have said so about New York fans. It's not that we hate Mo or anything like that, but when it comes to Boston you just have to close the door on that team! Anyother team I wouldn't pay much mind to, but to do it against Boston (espeically twice in the playoffs last year after we were 3 outs away in 2 different games), some people just feel he needs a wake up call.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/05 04:40 PM

Here's an article that I found interesting about being Red Sox\'d Out (which I AM, believe me!)
Posted By: Johnny Stiltz

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/05 05:07 AM

They need to get it together -even if it is the first part of the season and stop playing like these games dont count-they are not playing like champions yet so they need to get their act together
the division is theirs for the taking

i am so glad that they watched the ring ceremony cause now they know what losing feels like and that they are expected to win and they should not know that feeling EVER AGAIN

LETS GO YANKEES -
Dethrone BOSTON
Posted By: Johnny Stiltz

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/05 05:08 AM

ps -the feeling of losing that is
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/05 01:18 AM

WOO HOO! Back-to-back homers by Giambi & Bernie! 5-2 Yanks in the top of the 6th. Adios Schill!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/05 02:26 AM

YES! Yankees get the win, Schilling gets the loss, Mo gets the save. It doesn't get any better than that
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/05 05:23 AM



Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 12:03 AM

Is this the "Irish talks to himself about the Yankees" thread? You are a true blue, bleed Yankee blue fan. I applaud your enthusiasm Irish, don't stop!(not there is chance you will).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 02:25 AM

Grazie MaryCas! Well no one seems to be too involved in the sports thread, so yeah, pretty much I just talk to myself. Did you see the game tonight!? WTF happened with Johnson!?
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 02:59 AM

Looks like we're gonna have to wait at least a week or two before we award them the pennant.

:rolleyes:
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 04:14 AM

That's alright plaw, I can wait another week or two
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 11:00 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
WTF happened with Johnson!?
He's living up to my expectations. Nevermind him, what about Flash Gordon? I'm still holding to my prediction. Yankees will finish third 82-80 and the Mets will have a better record; 83-79.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 01:57 PM

Yeah I don't know what's going on with Flash either, but come on, Randy can't give up 3 home runs to them and expect them to win (espeically when 2 of them were 2-run shots). I mean, the Yankees did everything offensively they could for Randy and he couldn't hold the lead
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 02:17 PM

So How bout that schuffle?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 06:00 PM

The fan was totally in the wrong. He started the whole thing
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 06:19 PM

Absolutely wrong. Not only did he interfere, but then it looks like someone threw beer at Sheffield. This morning's paper said that they may fine or suspend Sheffield because of it, which makes no sense to me. Also, it was rather obviously fan interference, so why didn't the runner hold at second??
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 07:02 PM

There were some call-ins from people in the stands who said that the guy never punched him.
That his arm would have to be three foot longer to have "uppercut" him like he claims. Of course from the field side camera view it looks like he did.

I don't know if it is true or not but there is a rumor of pictures showing the distance between the two, from the side, taken by a cell phone camera. If so I am sure that it will come out soon.

Still if we have learned anything from the past, the player is always wrong to go after anyone in the stands, at any time!

But anyway, the Yankees are still disappointing me so far.

But according to my Yankee handbook I should say, "that it is early in the season and they will put it all together soon"

Maybe, I will have to go out and get my National's cap soon.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 07:08 PM

This only happens in Boston too! Do you see any of this in New York (even though the field is more protected)? I don't buy what people are saying about how the fan was "reaching for the ball". He hand was NO WHERE near the ball! The ball was on the ground and Sheffied was bending down to grab it, the fans hand was right at Sheffield's head. Mighty good job for just "going for the ball" as many claim. Not to mention the person who threw beer on Sheff. The fan was ejected but no charges were pressed. I can't believe this either, people are saying that Sheff should get at least a 10 game suspension. For what!? The incident could have been a lot worse than it was but Sheff restrained himself
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 07:30 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
This only happens in Boston too! Do you see any of this in New York (even though the field is more protected)?


The incident could have been a lot worse than it was but Sheff restrained himself
No it happens in many ballparks. Frank Franciso was arrested after throwing a chair into the stands and broke a womens nose. I think it was last fall.


Hey, did you hear what Sheffield said: I just felt something hit me in the mouth. " I DON'T
KNOW if he hit me or not, it felt like it."

After Sheffield picked up the ball, He shoved the fan BEFORE throwing the ball back to the infield
"I almost snapped, but the thing is I thought about the consequences."

I bet you would when you are knew you were wrong, at going after any fan, Since you don't KNOW if he hit you or not. His own words there.

Emotions can be tuff. Last year two Yankees were arrest when they assualted a a RedSox grounds keeper. They agreed to a deal and charges would be dropped in six months.

But what about Johnson being ROCKED. Man that sucked, big time!
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 07:30 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
This only happens in Boston too!
Unless snotty kids named Jeffrey Maier are reaching for balls...then New York throws parades for fans who interfere. :rolleyes:

One set of rules for Yankees...one set of rules for other teams.

Bottom line is...players don't touch fans. If tht fucker Sheffield put a hand on me I would have kicked him in the nuts. The Yankess are no better then anyone else...get that through your thick head once and for all.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 07:54 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
But what about Johnson being ROCKED. Man that sucked, big time!
I'm kinda shocked. I thought the game would be a breeze, espeically since they beat Schilling the night before and there offense was roughing up Arroyo. But he kept giving up home runs! 2 of them were 2-run shots. I don't know what was going on with him.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/05 07:57 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Beth E:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] This only happens in Boston too!
Unless snotty kids named Jeffrey Maier are reaching for balls...then New York throws parades for fans who interfere. :rolleyes: [/b][/quote]There's a difference between Jeffrey and the incident last night. sure Jeffrey "stole" the home run, but he didn't hit the outfielder or try to slap at him. He simply put his glove above the fielders. But this guy last night either went for the ball or Sheff. I personally think his intention was to go after Sheff or at least to distract him. I don't think he was going for the ball, but that's just my opinion.

Quote:
Originally posted by Beth E:
The Yankess are no better then anyone else...get that through your thick head once and for all.
Sure they are, they're the Yankees. Who else has won 26 World Series or has as much of a rich history as them
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/05 04:34 PM

Sheffield should have jumped in the stands and beat the hell out of him.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/05 09:46 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Beth E:

Bottom line is...players don't touch fans. If tht fucker Sheffield put a hand on me I would have kicked him in the nuts. The Yankess are no better then anyone else...get that through your thick head once and for all.
Bottom line - fans don't interfere with players. The guy should NOT have been sweeping his hand down there for whatever reason...that ball was fair (as opposed to fans swooping down for a foul ball, which is fine). That notwithstanding, from the angles I've seen, he did brush Shef's face, which certainly entitles Shef to the push in response. He didn't throw a chair, or bottle, or anything. He pushed the guy away from him, and then security stepped in.

Personally, if that guy wouldn't smacked me in the face, I would've beaten his Boston-loving ass 'til it was as red as their namesake. The Boston fans are worse than everybody else, get that through your Padilla-adoring skull once and for all. :p
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/05 10:34 PM

Good point Double-J....
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/05 12:21 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]
Bottom line - fans don't interfere with players. The guy should NOT have been sweeping his hand down there for whatever reason [/QB][/quote]So who kicked that boy's Jeffrey Maier's ass? I heard no one crying about fans interfering with players then.

Bottom line is....Yankee fans can do whatever they want. Everyone else they whine about. :rolleyes:
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/05 12:24 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Beth E:
[qb]
get that through your Padilla-adoring skull once and for all. :p
Who the hell is Padilla, and why do I adore him?
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/05 02:26 AM

Yanks lose again today.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/05 02:41 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
Yanks lose again today.
$205 million doesn't buy what it used to. This is their worst start in a long time.

Speakin' of big bucks, did you hear that they're gonna build a new stadium? Its expected they're gonna spend $800 mil and its gonna have 7,000 fewer seats than the current Stadium.

I'm too much of a traditionalist to like this.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/05 02:44 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Beth E:
Who the hell is Padilla, and why do I adore him?
Vicente Padilla. Maybe because he swings a big bat. :p
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/05 02:52 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by SC:
[quote]Originally posted by Don Smitty:
[b] Yanks lose again today.
$205 million doesn't buy what it used to. This is their worst start in a long time.

Speakin' of big bucks, did you hear that they're gonna build a new stadium? Its expected they're gonna spend $800 mil and its gonna have 7,000 fewer seats than the current Stadium.

I'm too much of a traditionalist to like this. [/b][/quote]One of the great things about going to a Yankees game is to be there surrounded by all the history. I do not like it at all, they should kep the old stadium and not make a new one.
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/05 02:58 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by SC:
[quote]Originally posted by Beth E:
[b] Who the hell is Padilla, and why do I adore him?
Vicente Padilla. Maybe because he swings a big bat. :p [/b][/quote]Ok. That doesn't explain how I adore someone I've never heard of.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/05 02:59 AM

I agree.... part of the Yankee tradition is the Stadium (and all its great memories).

I don't much care for the newer, antiseptic feeling ballparks. Give me the old stadiums with their unique ground rules (i.e. Fenway, Yankee Stadium and Wrigley Field) anyday.

I undedrstand that there'll be some more field level seating and more luxury boxes but there'll be less seats (in total) as a result. That'll translate into higher ticket prices.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/05 04:55 PM

Give me the old time stadiums and day to. Who cares about new things in the stadium, I'am there to watch the game.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/05 12:44 AM

I agree with both of you Don Smitty and SC. The loss of 7,000+ seats will mean that fewer fans will be able to see the game live and translate into higher ticket sales. I heard a rumor that the new stadium will be an exact replica (I believe) of the current stadium, and it'll be right across the street or something like that. If they're going to do that, why not just renivate the darn thing again!? And whatever they do, no corporate sponsor better put their filthy name on it. I will absolutely hate and boycott the company who has the name of Yankee Stadium!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/05 01:37 AM

I think the new stadium is going to be a replica of the old Yankees Stadium.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/05 02:01 AM

Exaclty!? So what's the point? Just continue to renivate the old one
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/05 08:51 PM

I agree. Anyway the Yanks better step up sonn or the Boss is going to have a heart attack soon...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/05 09:36 PM

It's still early. It's only 12 games, they still have another 150! Sure I'm disappointed like everyone else, but I'm not throwing in the towel. The season is a marathon, not a sprint
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/05 10:28 PM

Well at least the fan who interferred with Sheffield lost his season tickets
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/05 11:37 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Beth E:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] [QUOTE]Originally posted by Beth E:
[qb]
get that through your Padilla-adoring skull once and for all. :p
Who the hell is Padilla, and why do I adore him? [/b][/quote]It's amazing what you think about randomly. As I was brushing my teeth circa 11:30 last nite after watching the History Channels FDR documentary, I realized my error. Castilla, not Padilla. Same difference. My apologies.

Quote:
So who kicked that boy's Jeffrey Maier's ass? I heard no one crying about fans interfering with players then.

Bottom line is....Yankee fans can do whatever they want. Everyone else they whine about. :rolleyes:
Not true. First of all, Maier, as Irishman aforementioned, reached above Tarasco's arm, and didn't physically attack/interfere with the play. Never have I said that what happened in '96 was right. It wasn't. But by that same token, it has little relevance in this Sheffield incident. I list the reasons below:

* Jeffrey Maier did not attempt to stop Tarasco from catching the ball. He was doing what all fans do - get a souvenier. Arguably, there could've been many results of what Maier did - if he wouldn't have caught it, who says that Tarasco wouldn't have bumped it over himself if he knocked the ball on its way down for a ground-rule double (which would be the ruling, correct?)

* The Boston fan deliberately attempted to interfere with Sheffield by taking a swipe at him. It could (arguably) be considered assault, if the idea of legality was brought into it. He tried (regardless of conflicting reports) to "smack" Sheffield while he was trying to make the play.

This isn't Yankee fans being whiners. Clearly, the effect of this play doesn't help us very much, especially with our current win/loss record. This is about some fan being an asshole. I'm glad they took away his season tickets.

---

As far as a new Yankee Stadium is concerned, I am, and have been since I posted a thread on it last year, vehemently against it. They aren't tearing down Wrigley because the concrete fell. Heck, even that big piece of green shit in Boston is being renovated and improved instead of moving the Blowsox stadium. I think it's a rather touchy move.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 12:26 AM

Wow, the Yanks just scored 13 runs in the 2nd inning against Tampa! Looks like Steinbrenner getting on them was only for their good
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 12:49 AM

Code:
     	MC Predicts	4/17/2005	
		W	L	W       L
Randy Johnson	9	8	1	0
Mike Mussina	14	7	0	1
Kevin Brown	1	3	0	1
Carl Pavano	16	10	0	2
Jaret Wright	10	11	1	1
		50	39	2       5
				
Bullpen/Others	32	41	2	3
				
Totals		82	80	4       8
This was my prediction on 3/31/05 in the "Yankees" thread; let's see how I do.

82-80, miss playoffs

Joe Torre fired at the All Star break when the team is under .500

...oh yeah Bosox finishes behind the Yankees at 79-83. Some Florida team wins the division, Orioles 2nd.

Johnson 9-8 (misses 15 starts)
Mussina 14-7 (misses 10 starts)
Kevin Brown 1-3 (herniated disc; out for the season)
Carl Pavano 16-10
Jaret Wright (10-11) (misses 7 starts)

Bullpen and other starters (32 wins)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 01:05 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
[CODE] MC Predicts 4/17/2005

Kevin Brown 1 3 0 1

Kevin Brown 1-3 (herniated disc; out for the season)
Oh, my goodness, don't try to give us such good luck.

Seriously though, the Yanks will (as always) turn it around. Clearly, tonights clinic in Tampa Bay is a good start; though Tampa is not Boston. NY still has plenty of work to do. I think Johnson is a bit more durable than you predict, Marycas. Mussina is coming off a very good year, which I didn't expect. And Pavano and Wright are still coming into the Yankees experience.

That's not an excuse. They have to play better (Johnson, especially, needs to dominate). But it's still quite early - there are a few teams that aren't where they want to be, and there are still more than 140+ games to go.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 02:25 AM

what about 13 runs in the second inning? the Yanks just beat the Devil Rays 19-8 with A-Rod on fire! anyway, I don't think they'll go far this season.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 04:14 AM

Well it was a much needed win. This is what sucks about being in Texas, I can't see Johnson pitch tomorrow! I love watching him perform and now I don't know when I'll be able to see him again. I might have to wait until I go to New York next month on the 26th
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 02:08 PM

the Yanks will rebound....hell, didn't most of us panic when they pulled the same stunt last season?

As for a new Yankee Stadium....who's been there?

I'm sorry, but its a historic dump. Fenway Park itself is a "historic" lousy ballpark(really, the seats are beyond awful). Oh and Wrigley....never been there, but I've not heard nice things about it.

Either Yankee stadium gets a new facelift within a decade or two, or they need to demolish it and build a new stadium. As we've seen with the New York Jets, the Yankees getting a new stadium in Manhattan is possible. Hell, rebuild Yankee Stadium but keep many facets and features from the old ballpark. A combo of the Old and New(like when the proposed "New Fenway Park" was supposed to hold the original Green Monster and other features from the Old Fenway Park).

Of course, for a season or two, the Yankees would have to play in Shea Stadium while a new stadium is being built. Then again, anyone remember the Mets pushing for years on a new retractable roof-ballpark? Really, NYC would easily support the Yanks over the Mets in terms of a new stadium.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 08:47 PM

Yanks beat the crap out of Tampa last night.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 09:22 PM

Hey "GRAMMER KING" -- good thing you didn't call yourself "SPELLING KING"...
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 09:46 PM

Shouldn't it be "GRANPA KING"?
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 10:11 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
Hey "GRAMMER KING" -- good thing you didn't call yourself "SPELLING KING"...
Very true! I thought grammer king had a good ring to it.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 11:35 PM

Woo hoo, Giambi just nailed his 3rd of the year. I must say, I'm surprised that he's already hit 3 home runs in his first 14 games. Not too bad Jason, keep up the good work!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/05 11:57 PM

I'am happy for Giambi. Johnson just gave up a home run.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 12:02 AM

I can't wait for Johnson to step up his game. I'am looking forward to the no hitters coming the Yanks way.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 12:06 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
Johnson just gave up a home run.
What is his problem!? He is preparing himself to pitch at the home run derby during the all-star break or what!? He gave up 3 to Boston last week and now already 1 to Tampa, and now the Yanks are down
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 12:11 AM

If he keeps pitching like this he will not be in the All Star game.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 12:18 AM

I know, I was joking. I was saying that he'll be the pitcher in the derby because he's giving up so many home runs so early :p
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 12:25 AM

Oh ...Sorry. Thats pretty funny.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 12:34 AM

Thanks. I try, I'm usually here Tuesday nights doing my routine :p
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 12:48 AM

He just gave up another homerun.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 12:55 AM

The Yanks do not have an easy time after Tampa with Toronto next.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 01:05 AM

A-rod is one day hot and the next hes not.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 01:09 AM

How could they be losing this game??????
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 01:12 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
How could they be losing this game??????
They have not won back to back games since the 1st 2 games of the season.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 01:50 AM

Theeeeeeeeee Yankeessssssss Looseeeeeeeeeee
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 02:58 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
How could they be losing this game??????
The team has no chemistry, and the pitching has not been what they're paying for.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 03:50 AM

What the f*ck is their problem!?? I know it's early, but come on, win a game or 2 please. And what's going on with the Unit??
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 05:58 AM

Only thing I can think of with the Unit is that he is so used to playing in Arizona that he needs some time to get used to the chilly weather here. Maybe by the summer he will be in top form.
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 06:00 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
Only thing I can think of with the Unit is that he is so used to playing in Arizona that he needs some time to get used to the chilly weather here. Maybe by the summer he will be in top form.
He is old too.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 06:05 AM

He is old. The Yankees like to pay big bucks to players who are on there way out!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 07:56 PM

You have only Irishman12 to blame.
He cursed the Yankees with all his talk.

The only way to break the curse is to make him wear a Redsox cap next time they play Boston.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 08:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
You have only Irishman12 to blame.
He cursed the Yankees with all his talk.
That's right, always blame the Irish

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
The only way to break the curse is to make him wear a Redsox cap next time they play Boston.
That'll never happen, I'd rather go down with the ship than be a traitor :rolleyes:
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 08:27 PM

The Yanks have Toronto tonite. Maybe they will turn it around.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 08:29 PM

Well Pavano's pitching. Isn't this his first start since being hit in the head, or his 2nd?
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 08:32 PM

His 2nd. He looks like crap to so far!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 08:41 PM

He's not the only 1. Pavano & Wright I expected to have problems early, but not Johnson
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 08:48 PM

They should have kept Lieber.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 08:56 PM

Yeah, I'd much rather have Lieber now than Brown, but they had to keep Brown because nobody else would take him
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 09:08 PM

Thats true nobody would take him. Brown is a bum!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 09:10 PM

They also should have kept Hernandez.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 09:13 PM

I think it's hilarious that the media is griping about the Yankees. It's 2 1/2 weeks into the season. Sure they're playing like shit now, but it's a marathon not a sprint. What's the old adage - never get too excited about what happens in April or September.

I just love the fact that Steinbrenner is about to stroke out.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 09:16 PM

With a 200,000,000 million dollar payroll i was hopeing for better.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 09:36 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
They also should have kept Hernandez.
I was thinking the same thing but his arms not what it used to be. Sure he's doing good in Chicago, but let's see how long he lasts. Towards the end of last year (especially in the playoffs) he just ran out of gas
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 09:38 PM

I was surprised that Torre did not start him and sit brown in game 7 last year. Was he hurt?
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/05 09:46 PM

The Yanks better do something good soon like put together a 4 game winning streak or the Boss is going to flip out.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/05 12:15 AM

Well it seems they're doing good tonight. They've already scored 6 runs against the Blue Jays. I like following the game on ESPN.com when I can't watch it. I did that yesterday and today since I've been in the computer lab working on stuff for school, and it updates itself after every play or out, it's so cool
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/05 12:46 AM

MLB clears Sheffield
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/05 02:21 AM

And so they should! Great game tonight. That's the first time I've seen Posada hit a HR in a long time.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/05 07:00 AM

ESPN.com is a good way to watch the game.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/05 05:22 PM

Yeah but you have to pay for it, right?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/05 06:00 PM

http://apnews.myway.com/article/20050421/D89JFPA80.html

I never liked the Boss, but man his Luxury Tax this year is about $30 million, plus his team is in a mess at the moment. Damn.

How bout them luxury taxes?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/05 06:45 PM

Yes, They sure are out to buy baseball championships.

According to my Yankee Handbook we are to respond with "Boston does it too"

Yup, but almost 74 million dollars less!

The banner reads: If you can't win it, just buy it, everything MASTERCARD!

Isn't that something. George's luxury tax is greater then a lot of small towns whole yearly budget.

Hold on, my Yankee Handbook says to point out:

It is a long season. don't worry the Yankees will put it all together.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/05 07:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
It is a long season. don't worry the Yankees will put it all together.
Exactly! Last night might have been the turning point too
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/05 11:23 PM

Lets hope they turned it around last nite.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/05 12:03 AM

I guess we'll find out tonight
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/05 01:03 AM

up 4 to 3 so far.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/05 01:23 AM

Looks like they might win!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/05 01:44 AM

Uh Oh ......... Gordan is in the game.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/05 02:25 AM

Yankees win! Yankees win!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/05 02:31 AM

Please, you two make it seem like a lousy (single) win is a super feat. They aren't considered that bad yet. :rolleyes:
OK, maybe they are getting close.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/05 06:37 PM

Lets see if Brown can shut down Texas tonite.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/05 04:18 AM

Of course he didn't. He still went 6 innings but gave up 5 runs in the process. Brown's 0-2
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/05 09:37 AM

What are we to do???
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/05 11:02 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
What are we to do???
(smacks Smitty across the face)

YOU CAN ACT LIKE A MAN!!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/05 03:15 PM

Very good.
Posted By: Nice Guy Eddie

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/05 03:26 PM

I'm sure it wont be long until they go out and buy another pitcher. :rolleyes: Maybe they can talk Nolan Ryan or Bob Gibson out of retirement.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/05 03:28 PM

Nah, the Boss has the financial means to probably clone a few legends.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/05 06:37 PM

The Yankees are behind again!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/05 08:54 PM

Maybe I will become a Mets fan. At least there games are interesting.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/05 11:11 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
Maybe I will become a Mets fan. At least there games are interesting.
You KNOW this won't last for them (Yankees), but they're really stinkin' up the jernt now.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/05 01:10 PM

I read that the Yankee fans booed Jaret Wright yesterday. A guy who walked off the field with a trainer, so you know he had to be injured. That's ridiculous. As classy as the Philly fans who cheered when Michael Irvin getting injured or booing Santa Claus.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/05 06:27 PM

Look's like Wright's gonna be out 4-6 weeks at the earilest. Is anyone else not impressed with him thus far? I knew the Yanks shouldn't have gotten him. Johnson, absolutely. Pavano, i'll take the chance, but I was thinking that we shouldn't have signed Wright
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/05 06:45 PM

As a Tribe fan who watched Wright's star rise in '97, I can honestly say he's had 2 good seasons: 1997 and 2004. The rest has been injury-prone and inconsistent. Why Steinbrenner gave him a 3 year deal is beyond me. He benefited greatly in 1997 by having hitters only see him for the 2nd half of the year. Then he had an amazing playoff run including a Game 5 gem to knock NY out of the playoffs. He benenfited even more last year by having Leo Mazzone as his pitching coach.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/05 11:58 AM

Code:
	        MC Predicts	4/25/2005	
	        W	L	W       L
Randy Johnson	9	8	2	1
Mike Mussina	14	7	1	1
Kevin Brown	1	3	0	2
Carl Pavano	16	10	1	2
Jaret Wright	10	11	2	2
Totals	        50	39	6	8
				
Bullpen/Others	32	41	2	3
				
Totals	        82	80	8	11

Looks like Jaret Wright is tracking nicely, but I had him only missing 7 starts.  
Brownie is on track too.
  
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/05 08:55 PM

Looks like David Wells might miss a month with a sprained right foot. So the Yanks lose 1 and now Boston loses 1
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/05 08:57 PM

Yes he will miss about a month.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/05 09:03 PM

The Yanks are on tonite right?
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/05 12:34 AM

A-Rod 2 homers so far!!!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/05 12:46 AM

Make that 3!!!!!!!!!!!!! GRAND SLAM!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/05 12:50 AM

Everybody says that they've been waiting for A-Rod to wake up. I think he officially has.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/05 01:01 AM

Holy sh*t! The games only in the 5th and I was just watching Batman. Imagine my surprise to hear that A-Rod has hit 3 home runs and has 9 RBIs!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/05 04:17 PM

Looks like Schilling's out for 15+ days as well with an ankle injury
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/05 10:08 PM

Jaret Wright was an interesting signee this year. His injury-prone status clearly puts him at a disadvantage, but I think it's more from the fact that he really only throws 3-4 pitches, correct? 4-seamer, 2-seamer, a curve and maybe a change? Nothing terribly exotic.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 01:02 AM

well they lose again! even with another homer from A-Rod. I'm starting to think they're REALLY messed up this year
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 01:08 AM

Irishman, are you ready yet?

Time to take one for the team!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 01:56 AM

Never! I'd rather go down with the sinking ship
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 01:59 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Never! I'd rather go down with the sinking ship
yes, it does seem like you just may be doing that.

I never thought it would look like this.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 02:07 AM

It's still early man. Let's not abandon ship just yet
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 02:17 AM

Well, it looks like more and more people are booking rooms near a life boat station.

It will not be long to you hear that big bang.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 02:32 AM

Exactly. A-Rod's banging, the rest of the team just needs to catch up
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 02:37 AM

No, Big George blowing a gasket!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 02:54 AM

I would be too if I were him. A $208 million payroll and the team is 9-13 in their first 22 games. The pitchers are playing like sh*t
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 05:41 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
A-Rod's banging, the rest of the team just needs to catch up
Their offense isn't the problem. The Yanks, while not hitting as well as they should be, aren't doing all that badly offensively. Its their pitching that is stinking up the joint.
Posted By: Caporegime

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 06:43 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I would be too if I were him. A $208 million payroll and the team is 9-13 in their first 22 games. The pitchers are playing like sh*t
That's the same record my Padres have, except they came into the season with a mere $60 million payroll. This marks the first losing April for the Yanks in the last 13 years. I cannot imagine George being a very happy man right now.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 02:51 PM

How are you Yankee fans holding up now that they are guaranteed their first losing April in who knows how long?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 07:24 PM

Well, knowing Curt "Idiot" Schilling is injured after bashing former Yankee Lou Pinella is a bit uplifting. :p
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 08:27 PM

It's kind've surreal...but always mildly pleasant...when I agree with Irishman12.

We're only a month into the '05 season.

They'll be fine, you'll see.

As for Schilling....he's a Red Sox and that cannot be forgiven. But I've had a soft spot for him ever since that 'Vote for Bush' comment morning after winning the World Series.

What's this about him & Pinella? Why do Red Sox have a tendency to get it on with managers of other teams (ala Pedro and Zimmer)????

Apple
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/05 09:16 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
How are you Yankee fans holding up now that they are guaranteed their first losing April in who knows how long?
I believe in 1991 was there last .
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/30/05 12:41 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
What's this about him & Pinella? Why do Red Sox have a tendency to get it on with managers of other teams (ala Pedro and Zimmer)????
Because they're classless and don't know how to keep their mouths shut!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/05 12:42 AM

The Yankees winnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn.....


Don Smitty
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/05 02:33 AM

A-Rod hit another homerun!
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/05 11:23 AM

Tom Gordon blows another one.

I was listening to the radio yesterday and John Sterling said, "I would like Bernie Williams in the two hole." I think he should be more careful in his choice of words.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/05 03:30 PM

Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/05 03:30 PM

But seriously bernie should not be batting #2. Hes not good anymore.

Don Smitty
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/05 11:43 PM

You know Don Smitty there's an edit button that you can use. 10-15 after the first 25 games. Alright, now I'm starting to get a little impatient
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/05 12:41 AM

I'am also getting angry. This is not the way a 200,000,000 dollar team is supposed to play.

Don Smitty
Posted By: Johnny Stiltz

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/05 01:22 AM

Where are the yankees

Wang did well the other nite BUT will he last

they are getting beat by teams they should beat soundly -
is the curse now REVERSED

does this spell the end of the Dynasty
will George do something
stay tuned
SAME YANKEE TIME
SAME YANKEE STATION
and SAME Amazing website

Holy Slump Batman !
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/05 12:48 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
I'am also getting angry. This is not the way a 200,000,000 dollar team is supposed to play.

Don Smitty
In the words of the Beatles, "Can't Buy Me Love" or wins.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/05 12:58 PM

Code:
 		
              MC Predicts	5/1/2005
	        W	L	W	L
Randy Johnson	9	8	2	2
Mike Mussina	14	7	1	2
Kevin Brown	1	3	0	3
Carl Pavano	16	10	2	2
Jaret Wright	10	11	2	2
	Totals  50	39	7	11
				
Bullpen/Others	32	41	3	4
				
Totals	        82	80	10	15

Kevin Brown is tracking nicely; just needs a win.  
I'm worried that Mussina is not going to turn it around.  
Tom "Blown" Gordon is having an interesting start.
 
[ Fixed formatting --JG ]
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/05 01:08 PM

No no, don't bring up a "reverse" curse or whatever sillyness.

Now if the World Series-drought for the Yanks becomes about a decade-long, then WE all can start being depressed about the club's situation.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/05 08:10 PM

Whos on the mound tonight?
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/05 08:20 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
Whos on the mound tonight?
The Moose is Loose. He needs velocity on his fast ball.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/05 08:34 PM

He's only getting up to about 89 mph so far.

DS
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/05 08:45 PM

Johnson has pitched well, but his fastball also is peaking at 92 mph, well short of the 98 mph he has been used to. Mussina, however, needs to get his rhythm going and use the knucklecurve effectively.

From what I heard on Mike & the Mad Dog, the Yanks are going to need to cut a pitcher. Groom has pitched very well, while Stanton has struggled. Karsay? Could the axe fall for him? I hope they don't ditch Sturtze, he was great for us down the stretch.

If they do drop somebody, let's hope his last name is Brown. :p

From ESPN, Omar Daal is the only FA pitcher available at the moment. I wonder whether the Yankees have another Chien Ming Wang down there in Columbus somewhere...

Oh "Admiral" Halsey, where have you gone....
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/05 10:33 PM

Bring back Lieber!

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 05:15 AM

New Look Yankees ?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 12:09 PM

Bullshit. I tell you how you fix the Yankees without this movement:

1.) Fire Kevin Brown, and bring up Sean Henn or another Yankee prospect.

2.) Fire Jason Giambi since he can't hit a baseball with or without steroids.

3.) Move Bubba Crosby to center field. Retain Matsui and Sheffield at current positions.

4.) Find a reliable second baseman. I don't care if it's Andy Phillips, Rey Sanchez, Tony Womack, or another minor leaguer.

5.) Figure out what happens during batting practice with Don Mattingly. I don't see how someone like Donny Baseball can turn an order that (on paper) could arguably rival Murderer's Row and have them hitting only 2, 3 hits a game for the entire team.

6.) Evaluate the bullpen, and let's see who we have from Columbus that can step up and who will be sent down. There isn't much room for discussion here.

7.) Leave either Ruben Sierra or Bernie Williams as the DH (until they are both healthy). See #2 for Giambi.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 02:39 PM

There isn't much to cheer about by beating Tampa Bay. In fact, if they didn't, I would have said that this season was almost over.

If I were George, I would ask to have their contracts redone.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 03:25 PM

Womack to left, Matsui to center, Bernie to the bench to share DH duties with Giambi, Robinson Cano up from Columbus to play 2B.

Not exactly a murderer's row.....

C-- Posada (Semi washed-up)
1B- Tino (Almost completely washed up)
2B- Cano (Unproven rookie)
3B- A Rod
SS- Jeter
LF- Womack (Not they type of offense you want from a leftfielder
CF- Matsui
RF- Sheffield
DH- Giambi/Bernie (Both pretty much done).

Four legit stars, the rest of the guys way into the downsides of their careers, plus an unreliable bunch of starters and an unreliable (exept for Mo) bullpen.

.500 and third place, anyone?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 03:31 PM

I would say, they are not as good as their payroll would have you believe.
.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 03:53 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:

Not exactly a murderer's row.....

Four legit stars, ...plus an unreliable bunch of starters and an unreliable (INCLUDING (my edit) Mo) bullpen.

.500 and third place, anyone?
My prediction of 82-80 might be ambitious.
How about rookie phenom Andy Phillips - 4 whiffs.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 04:04 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
How about rookie phenom Andy Phillips - (my edit: 5) whiffs.
I'd play him at first base ahead of Tino against lefties.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 04:58 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:


Not exactly a murderer's row.....
Again, as I said, on paper. There is no denying that most of the roster is playing well below potential.

Posada: Definitely has some issues. While he is still strong defensively, his batting skills have seriously dropped since his great 2003 season.

Martinez: He is still the *best* defensive first basemen in the game despite his age, with an excellent lifetime .995 fielding percentage. I'd still put him in the batters box over Giambi any day.

Cano: AAA 2B. We really don't know much, other than that he is one of the Yankees top prospects, though from what I hear from ESPN and YES he isn't projected to be much more than an everyday player.

A-Rod: His batting skills are varying from day to day. Still having problems adjusting to 3B. I wonder what would happen if Torre worked him out at SS for a few games.

Jeter: Still the Yankees most consistant bat. Though he's in his prime, and still one of the top 5 shortshops, Tejada is clearly the premier defensive shortstop in the league. His effort and leadership are, however, unparalled.

Womack: He's been a disappointment. I really was confused as to why we let both Enrique Wilson AND Miguel Cairo loose after the season, except for the fact that Womack was an excellent base runner and stealing threat. However, the pop in Cairo's bat is missed.

Matsui: Also struggling a bit, I still think his solid batting mechanics and fielding place him near the top of the team in value. It will be interesting to see how he handles the transition to CF, though they said on Baseball Tonight he was the best CF in the game a couple of years ago before he came to NY.

Sheffield: Still performing well, but is showing signs of age. Nothing to snuff at though, he is the Yankees big bat from the right side.

Giambi: Will the real Giambi please stand up? No. Please sit down. Why didn't we terminate this bum's contract after the whole steroid thing?

Bernie: Very, very streaky at the plate. His fielding skills have diminished because of his age and knee problems, but he still can get it done. He should probably move into a more mentor type role for Bubba Crosby.

Sierra: Best possible choice at DH when he is healthy.

Starting Pitching: Johnson will need to be more Johnson-esque, and Pavano will have to keep pitching effectively. Mussina did alright last night, but also has to step it up a notch. The jury is still out on whether Jaret Wright can become an effective starter. And Kevin Brown should be flushed the same way other brown things like his namesake are sent down the toilet.

Bullpen: The bullpen, even with Mo, has been ineffective. Sturtze started slow and now is hurt, Gordon is...clueless, and Stanton has been questionable. Groom has actually been a pleasant surprise, since we need a good left-hander in the 'pen. Karsay was clearly expendable. Felix Rodriguez needs to not turn into Felix Heredia. I hope we keep Colter Bean up, he seemed to do a pretty good job from what I saw.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 05:37 PM

I just read some rumors that Clemens might be traded to either New York or Boston before the July trade deadline. If that's true, we need to get him, plus we can't afford for Boston to get him.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 06:04 PM

I saw that on Mike & Mike this morning, though I wonder whether that would happen. I don't want Clemens back. I'd much rather take a look at other options around the league. Besides, there aren't any players the Yankees would really be willing to trade for Clemens (as they said) besides Roberto Cano and other AAA-prospects. I don't forsee this being likely unless they are *really* in the hole and suspect that Clemens would help them make the playoffs.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 06:51 PM

I'm kinda the same way with you. I'd like to see him continue to rot in Houston (he isn't getting any run support like Johnson last year). However, if it could mean we would win the World Series by getting him back, I'd like to see him back (espeically if we got him and Boston tried to). I also would love to see a rotation of Johnson, Clemens, Pavano, Mussina
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 08:02 PM

I still don't want Clemens, despite how viable that rotation would be. That bastard screwed us this past offseason, and I wouldn't want him back. I'd rather go down with the current ship that try to buy back that asshole.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 09:30 PM

I feel the same, but I'd rather win the World Series than see Boston win again or see Clemens go back there
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 09:50 PM

If you think the Yankees are a good team this year and just need one more top quality starter to get them over the hump, then Clemens could make the difference.

Unfortunately, though, I think the problem is gonna prove to be just as much on offense as on the mound.

They'll be looking around for a leftfielder or centerfielder that they can rent - someone like Arizona's Luis Gonzalez if the D'backs fall out of the race.

And it looks like not going after Beltran this past off-season was a mistake -- I mean how much worse are the Mets than the Yanks now?

Code:
         Yanks         Mets
-
 C       Posada        Piazza         Slight edge Yanks
1B       Tino/Giambi   Mientkiewicz   Slight edge Mets
2B       Cano          Matsui         Who knows? Edge Mets, I guess
3B       A Rod         Wright         Edge to Yanks now, but in 5 years?
SS       Jeter         Reyes          See A Rod/Wright comment
LF       Womack        Floyd          Edge Mets
CF       Matsui        Beltran        Edge Mets
RF       Sheffield     Cameron        Edge Yanks
-
SP       Johnson       Martinez       Too close to call
SP       Mussina       Glavine        Edge Yanks
SP       Pavano        Benson         Edge Yanks, maybe 
SP       Brown         Zambrano       Who knows?
SP       Wang          Iishi          Who knows?
Closer   Rivera        Looper         Big edge Yanks
Actually, Cameron would be a great fit for the Yankees. I think the Mets would like Victor Diaz to play every day, and a Matsui-Cameron-Sheffield outfield would be a good one for the Yanks.

And I know what you Yankee fans are thinking about a David Wright-A Rod comparison, but would anyone be really shcked if they both finished around .300 with 30-35 homers and 100-110 RBIs?
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 10:04 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Actually, Cameron would be a great fit for the Yankees. I think the Mets would like Victor Diaz to play every day, and a Matsui-Cameron-Sheffield outfield would be a good one for the Yanks.
If the Yanks want to cough up a decent pitching prospect or two, they can have Cameron.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 10:09 PM

I wonder if they even have a decent pitching prospect or two that they can cough up.

How about Cameron, Heilman, and Matsui for Cano and Pavano?
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 10:15 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
I wonder if they even have a decent pitching prospect or two that they can cough up.

How about Cameron, Heilman, and Matsui for Cano and Pavano?
As a Mets' fan, I'd do that in a second. I believe Omar Minaya would too.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 10:25 PM

I think it's a fair trade talent-wise, and it helps both teams.

I doubt if Pavano is ever going to be as successful in the AL as he was in the NL, as is the case with most pitchers who switch from the National League.

Heilman has shown flashes this year, and Matsui, I think, is better than Womack (at least offensively).

So the Yankees upgrade at 2B and in CF, with a moderate loss at third starter.

THe Mets give up two regulars, but can now play Cairo (while waiting for Cano to develop if he's not ready yet) and Diaz without too much of a drop-off, and improve their starting pitching.

I wonder what the Yankee fans would think of this deal?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 10:30 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
I wonder if they even have a decent pitching prospect or two that they can cough up.

How about Cameron, Heilman, and Matsui for Cano and Pavano?
No way. We don't need Matsui. We need Pavano more than him. Plus Pavano's just starting at as a Yankee too. Give the guy some time
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/05 10:39 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
I think it's a fair trade talent-wise, and it helps both teams.

I think it's more of a money issue than a talent issue. The Mets would LOVE to unload Cameron's and Matsui's contracts.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/05 02:47 AM

Hmm...I was close. I figured the Yanks would cap out at 9 earned runs tonight, but I was wrong.

Cameron would be a nice fit, though I wonder who we would give them. Pavano I wouldn't give up. Wang either - he seems to be the best pitching prospect since Halsey. Also, depending on how Henn does tomorrow night, it could also factor into any trade.

However, I think the Yanks need to stop flucking around and just get back to playing baseball. Put players back where they belong and let it work itself out (or better yet, follow my instructions a few posts back).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/05 07:34 AM

You know I was just thinking that it's probably a good thing that I'm not in New York right now watching the YES Network nightly watching the games. I'd have no hair left (not that I do now since I shave my head) but I'd go nuts watching the games. I think the last game I watched was a couple of weeks ago when Randy Johnson won in the Bronx against the Rangers. I will be in New York on the 26th though and I plan on watching as many games as possible. If the Yanks are still under .500 by the All-Star break, I'll probably hang myself. Screw the second half, I wouldn't even want to see it by then. I just don't understand what's going on. This is a team that was 1 out away from the World Series at least twice last year and they're 11-15 in their first 26 games. What is going on with the starting pitching (besides Kevin Brown)?
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/05 12:34 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I just don't understand what's going on.
Short Answer: They got old fast.

Posada, Bernie, Mussina, Gordon, Rivera, and Randy Johnson are all past their prime, and, with the possible exception of Johnson and Rivera, it's unrealistic to expect them to perform at the same level that they have in the past.

Also don't forget that as players age, even if they keep their performance level up, they become more prone to injuries.

Giambi, Tino, Quantrill (and the rest of the bullpen) and Kevin Brown are basically useless, and Womack is a nothing anyway and certainly no better than Miguel Cairo.

I wouldn't count them out just yet, but if Sheffield starts to show his age anytime this season, either by a performance drop-off or with an injury, and either Johnson, Pavano, or Mussina misses many starts, don't be surprised if the Yanks finish around .500
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/05 03:06 PM

Hell, Bernie Williams taken out of the outfield is not a good long-term sign for the squad.

Anyone heard those pitiful reports of Yankees wanting to maybe trade for Roger Clemens in July?

Thoughts:

*Who would the Yanks trade to Astros for? Last I heard, they're farm system is bone dry at the moment.

*Would Clemens REALLY want to go? He has the option to terminate any possible trade.

*What OTHER veteran players might be on the market for the Yanks to trade for? I mean tell me, since I'm clueless at the moment.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/05 03:24 PM

Opps, didn't read the previous posts.

Speaking of which, the Yanks are 6.5 games back from 1st place:

Code:
              
              W  L  WIN%  GB
Baltimore    17  9 .654   --
Toronto      16 12 .571   2 
Boston       14 12 .538   3 
NY Yankees   11 16 .407   6.5 
Tampa Bay     9 18 .333   8.5
(edited to use "code" for readability--pl)
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/05 04:44 PM

I just heard on ESPN that Steinbrener is going a different route with this team now. He has a meeting with the commisioner today and apparently wants to discuss simply buying the wins rather than having to write all of those paychecks :rolleyes:


Quote:
"You have only $200 million? Tough, find a way to win. That's your job!" Brian Cashman, Yankees GM
I love all the yankee fans having heart attacks because their team is doing bad. The team is bought, their only strategy is buying stars so no other team can get their hands on them. You've never gone through a "rebuilding" phase with your team it's always "buy more players".
I don't think we heard enough about Boston winning the world series. They went 82/86 whatever YEARS without winning yet the yankees go 25 games without a winning record and everyone is going insane. hmm maybe an 80 year W.S. drought is what yankee fans may need.

/rant off
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/05 05:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DonMichaelCorleone:
I love all the yankee fans having heart attacks because their team is doing bad. The team is bought, their only strategy is buying stars so no other team can get their hands on them. You've never gone through a "rebuilding" phase with your team it's always "buy more players".
Didn't go through a rebuidling phase? Ever hear of the 1980s? How many titles did the Yankees win between 1979 and 1996. NONE! And we're the "only" team that buys players, huh? So Manny Ramirez signed with Boston for the food? And David Ortiz stays for the weather? And Matt Clement likes to be by the water? And Keith Foulke wanted to be with Johnny Damon. Oh, how about the Astros signging Roger Clemens after he "retired" in 2003? The Yankees are the "only" ones who buy players, I think not!

Quote:
Originally posted by DonMichaelCorleone:
I don't think we heard enough about Boston winning the world series.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/05 05:09 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
*Would Clemens REALLY want to go? He has the option to terminate any possible trade.
I think if Clemens really wanted to win another World Series before he hangs it up for good he will. He's going through exactly what Randy Johnson went through last year, a great year pitching and no record to show for it because he's getting no run support. However, Randy didn't win the Cy Young even though he deserved it. I wouldn't be surprised if Clemens has the same type of year Randy did last year, plus the same record, and still wins the Cy Young again
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/05 05:49 PM

Same old Rocker

I also heard that the Yanks might go after Ken Griffey Jr., Mike Cameron, Richard Hidalgo or Juan Encarnacion. Plus the Yanks might just buyout Brown's contract and send him packing
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/05 08:21 PM

I have no problem with the Yankees strategy of "buying" players.

But like any other strategy, you still have to make the right moves, which recently the Yanks clearly have not.

--Putting 1B in the hands of Giambi and Tino this year, and not going after free agents Mientkiewicz or Delgado.

--Not going after Beltran.

--Having no fourth outfielder. Someone who can play everyday for a month or so if necesary. Sierra or Crosby don't fit that description.

--Letting Jon Lieber go.

--Signing Jaret Wright, who, in the three seasons between 2000 and 2002, appeared in only 24 major league games, compiling a 7-9 record with a 7.27 E.R.A, and has now been on the disabled list 8 times in 10 years and has never had a season in which he pitched more than 193 innings.

--Trading for Kevin Brown. Forget about giving up Jeff Weaver (altho he'd probably be an improvement over Brown).....the key player they gave up in that deal was reliever Yhency Brazoban, who last year was 6-2, 2.48 in 31 games, and this year is 1-0, 2.38 in 12 games.

No Beltran and Wright for Lieber are the keys though, I think.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/05 08:46 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
--Letting Jon Lieber go.

--Signing Jaret Wright, who, in the three seasons between 2000 and 2002, appeared in only 24 major league games, compiling a 7-9 record with a 7.27 E.R.A, and has now been on the disabled list 8 times in 10 years and has never had a season in which he pitched more than 193 innings.

No Beltran and Wright for Lieber are the keys though, I think.
I agree with these points. I never really knew much about Lieber before last year but he had a pretty good postseason from what I remember. I was for trading for Johnson and signing Pavano, but I was against signed Wright. I would have given the money we gave Wright to Lieber to make him stay. I also would have signed Beltran as well. As for Brown, I was for the trade originally and he started out great last year (I think he was 9-1) before the first time he got injured in May or June of last year. Once he got injured, he's never been the same for the Yanks
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/05 01:38 PM

Another lost to Tampa Bay.

Looks like someone is going to be eating some crow if this keeps up.

If you can't take a couple of games from the last place team, then who can you beat. I know Kansas City.

The Yankees playing under 400 ball.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/05 03:53 PM

If you listen closely you can hear the sound of the panic button being greased up (Henn, Cano, Henn, Cano, Crosby, Wang, Go-go-go).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/05 05:28 PM

Dunno why Bubba is getting such a bad rap here on the BB. He's a fairly solid outfielder, and has more speed than Bernie. And Tino as well - his fielding skills clearly should put him at first base, and he did crank a homer last nite...that already makes him 100% better than Gi-I wanna go home-ambi.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/05 08:23 PM

What about them Yankees?
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/05 09:04 PM

Who the hell is pitching tonight?

DS
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/05 11:56 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
Who the hell is pitching tonight?

DS
Wang....And he's already down 3-0 in the 3rd.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/05 01:18 PM

YANKEES ARE BEAT UP ON BY TAMPA BAY AGAIN!
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/05 03:14 AM

If George's horse loses tomorrow, heads will start rolling in the Yankee dugout by Monday.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/05 03:59 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Just Lou:
If George's horse loses tomorrow, heads will start rolling in the Yankee dugout by Monday.
That reminds me of the story about a horse that tried out for the Yankees:

A horse came onto the field during a workout and walked over to Joe Torre. Torre looked up and was shocked to see this. He yelled out, "What the hell is this about?". The horse replied, "I'd like to try out for the team. Torre laughed and said, "Thats ridiculous, a horse can't play baseball". The horse was determined to get a chance to try out and replied, "I'm a great ballplayer". Torre was in a light-hearted mood and was up for a laugh so he allowed the horse to take a few swings.

The horse hit the first pitch out of the park into the left field stands. Torre was astounded and yelled out to Randy Johnson on the mound that he should throw some heat. The horse knocked it into the second deck. Torre was now totally flabbergasted. He yelled to the horse, "OK, run the next one out".

The horse swung at the next pitch and it sailed over Matsui's head, rolling up to the wall in front of the monuments. Matsui ran the ball down, turned, and threw the horse out at first base.

Torre went jogging up to the horse and screamed that he had never seen such hitting like that but couldn't believe that the horse was thrown out at first base.

The horse replied, "Hell, if I could run I'd be in the Kentucky Derby".

:rolleyes:
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/05 11:06 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Freddie C.:
I bet the Yankees wish that they had kept Jon Lieber. He's been the one bright spot for my Phillies this year (5-1, 2.57 ERA)
Dumb move letting him go, and signing Wright.
Posted By: Freddie C.

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/05 11:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
--Letting Jon Lieber go.
He's been the one bright spot for my Phillies this year (5-1, 2.57 ERA)
Posted By: Don Sonny Corleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/05 11:29 PM

Though my beloved Mets arent doing so well themselves, the Yanks are in a lower standing in thier devision. I could sing!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/05 12:21 AM

Two wins in a row! Don't want to jinx it, but could this be the turn-around we've been hoping for? Please, oh, please, oh please!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/05 02:06 PM

Don't start the band up just yet. They were playing Oakland. A team that is almost as bad.

Last week they were beaten by Tampa Bay. And Tampa spanked them.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/05 03:01 PM

What a difference starting pitching makes.

If Mussina and Brown continue to pitch well, and Johnson is 75% of what he was last year if they can find one more competent starter, they might be OK.

Baltimore will come back to the pack a bit, Boston (with Schilling and Wells out) doesn't look as strong as they were last year, and the rest of the division is weak.

The key is Brown and getting one more decent starter.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/05 09:50 PM

Another MC prediction.

Time Unknown, but Ricky Henderson will join the Yankees in left field. Womack back to 2nd base. Ricky's first game back at the Stadium will be a sellout.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/05 12:46 AM

Time for our weekly update.

Code:
		MC Predicts	5/8/2005
	        W	L	W	L
Randy Johnson	9	8	2	2
Mike Mussina	14	7	3	2
Kevin Brown	1	3	1	4
Carl Pavano	16	10	2	2
Jaret Wright	10	11	2	2
	        50	39	10	12
				
Bullpen/Others	32	41	3	7
				
  Totals	82	80	13	19
  
Kevy got his win...finally. Moose looked good.

How are some of those "last year's pitchers" doin.

Jose Contreras - White Sox 1-0, 2.60 era
El Duque - White Sox 4-1, 2.92
Jon Lieber - Phillies 5-1, 2.57
Javier Vazquez - D'backs 4-2, 4.70
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/05 04:01 AM

3 wins in a row, not too shabby. Johnson went 8 strong and they pulled out the win with Womack knocking in the go ahead run. We'll take whatever we can get
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/05 04:52 AM

Looks like Brown had a good outing, hopefully it continues and this is the turning point that we need. I won't jinx it but it's good to see the Yanks win 3 straight (plus A-Rod seems to be doing well)
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/05 02:40 PM

This will be the start if there is to be one. After all they get to play Seattle today and Wednesday and then Oakland Friday and Saturday.
The last two place teams in the west.

If they can't win against these teams, what is going to happen when the get to play against Baltimore or Chicago, who are playing good solid ball.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/05 12:44 AM

Well, they're winning 7-2 against Seattle right now. Yay!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/05 05:43 AM

Make it 4 in a row
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/05 03:14 PM

So far, Chien Ming Wang seems to be the Lieber-esque stater this year. That is, he is a good pitcher who doesn't have overpowering stuff, but can get ground outs and popups. Hopefully, Wang can stay up with the big club and continue to be consistent.

Matsui also needs to get out of his slump, it's clearly the worst of his career. But when he's back, it will be nice.

Robinson "Crusoe" Cano has some defensive pop, and played well last nite. Seems to be as good of a prospect as projected.

Gi-"Go down to Columbus"-ambi should go down to the Clippers so we have another roster spot. Goodness knows we have to have another minor leaguer who can at least hit the ball 1-100. :p

Hopefully, this little rally the Yanks have built up is a good sign that the team chemistry is growing and the ship is back on course. Not jumping the gun, though.

And BTW...again, why was everybody so down on Tino's hitting ability except for me? Clearly, I think he's proven his critics wrong. We have a superior first baseman in Tino, and I have no idea why George Steinbrenner doesn't send Giambi to the same glue factory Bellamy Road will be heading to.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/05 03:36 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
and I have no idea why George Steinbrenner doesn't send Giambi to the same glue factory Bellamy Road will be heading to.
It is simple, as a veteran player, he cannot be sent to the minors without his consent.

Bad enough he is holding them up for his contract price after everything he has done, now he is filling a spot that could be used by a young hopeful.

and the Yankees are still only winning or should we say holding their own against the poorer part of the league.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/05 03:44 PM

I understand that. I really meant why Steinbrenner doesn't legitimately turn him into something useful...name him "Elmer's Pride" and ship him off with Bellamy Road.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/05 08:13 PM

Is Tino on the juice???


DS
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/05 08:35 PM

Yanks were down 5-0 in the first inning. Pavano gave up 4 HRs (not all in the 1st). Last I heard the Yanks were winning 12-9. Pitcher's duel. Tino yanked another.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/05 08:41 PM

The Yankees winnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn....

DS
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/05 09:05 PM

I think Pavano needed the 'roids today. Somebody give that man some juice!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/05 10:29 PM

Tino, ALMVP???
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/05 06:11 AM

Good to see the Yanks make a run. What's with Pavano!? 9 runs
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/13/05 09:42 PM

Pavano did not get any help in the field from A-Rod.

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/05 05:57 AM

6 in a row, what do ya gotta say now fathersson!? :p As for me, I found this read interesting about Clemens going back to the Yankees . As of now I think the Yankees are the front runners to get him with Boston being 2nd. So we had better get him. I mean, can you imagine having Randy Johnson AND Roger Clemens pitching in a 7 game series against Boston
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/05 11:43 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
6 in a row, what do ya gotta say now fathersson!? :p
Oh, back to being your typical Yankee brain washed fanatic- ( :p )

If you had read my prior posts you would already know what I would say.

The Yankees are playing teams like Seattle and Oakland who are playing some pretty shitty ball themselves. And Yes, Seattle even beat them a few times. So what is to be so proud of 6 in a row?

The YANKEES. The highest paid team in baseball. The same same team you yelled and screamed about how great they were becoming as they got this player and that player. Just are not doing what they should be doing at that kind of price.

Lets face it my friend, you have your eyes closed when it come to seeing the truth about your favorite team. You hate that Boston team so much that you will even be glad to see Clemens come back as long as Boston doesn't get him. Kind of sad if you ask me.
By the way, glad to hear that school is over for you. Good luck in the business world.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/05 01:49 PM

Pssht, regardless of who they are playing, this little streak has been a positive shot in the arm irregardless. The Yanks look like they've finally gelled.

Granted, I like seeing them win, but I don't want Clemens back. I'd rather see him rot in Houston.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/05 04:03 AM

I agree with DJ, but as for me, if Clemens can bring us a title, I'm willing to forgive him for the moment. I hate him probably as much as any other Yankee fan (espeically during this year's postseason with everyone at my college being on the "Astros bandwagon.") But if he can win us a title and we can flant him in front of Boston, I'm all for it. I'd rather win than him rot in Houston (but my feelings are the same)

It also looks like A-Rod is starting to "earn his stripes" perhaps this early in the season. He's batting .303 with 12 home runs and 34 RBIs in 37 games thus far. And congrats to the Yanks for their 7th straight win (even if it has come against Seattle & Oakland)
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/05 03:57 PM

I never thought I would see the day when Yankee fans would be so happy winning against teams like these.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/05 04:13 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
The Yankees winnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn....

DS
Is this the same Yankee fan that only two weeks ago was screaming about what a bunch of overpayed bums that they were and how they should get rid of half the high priced players? Is this the same Don Smitty who was trashing his own team?


Don Cardi
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/05 04:15 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
I never thought I would see the day when Yankee fans would be so happy winning against teams like these.
I never thought that I would see the day when Yankee fans, the same ones who blasted, cursed and came short of wishing death to the guy when he left, would be so happy about the possibility of The Rocket coming back to their team!


Don Cardi
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/05 10:41 PM

I heard that the reason Clemens retired in '03 was that he was going to play on the Olympic baseball team, but that somehow that didn't happen, so he followed his friend Andy down to Texas.

Anyway, top of the 8th and they're winning again. Tino was amazing again. He's has surpassed all expectations, hasn't he?
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/05 12:11 AM

It appears the dollar-boys have decided to earn their pay.

How about Giambi getting a beer bath. Idiot fans are everywhere.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/05 06:44 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
How about Giambi getting a beer bath. Idiot fans are everywhere.
I know right,what is going on with the fans this past year in sports? You've got the Brawl in Detroit 6 months ago, a fan in Detroit throw a quarter that hit Iverson, the incident in Boston with Sheffield, this fan throws a beer on Giambi in Oakland, and last year a fan got hit with a chair from a Rangers pitcher. I don't why these fans are so crazy all of a suddent!

Congrats to the Yanks 8th win in a row. And fathersson, as I said before, a wins a win (doesn't matter who it's against)
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/05 09:17 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:

Congrats to the Yanks 8th win in a row. And fathersson, as I said before, a wins a win (doesn't matter who it's against)
I agree, there isn't much else to be happy about.
Lets hope they gel before the important games, or maybe that the other teams fall apart by the time the Yankees have to play them.

Most real Yankee fans will not rest till they are in front of the Defending World Champion- RedSoxs
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/05 07:49 PM

I'm not resting yet until we're ahead of the Red Cocks, but for the moment I'm much happier being 19-19 than 11-19. Boston lost a series to Seattle and I think we're only 3 1/5 games behind them. What was with Johnson yesterday giving up 3 in the first inning!?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/05 05:53 AM

Make that 9 in a row
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/05 11:16 AM

Code:
 	     MC Predicts	5/16/2005
	        W	L	W	L
Randy Johnson	9	8	4	2
Mike Mussina	14	7	4	2
Kevin Brown	1	3	2	4
Carl Pavano	16	10	2	2
Jaret Wright	10	11	2	2
	        50	39	14	12
				
Bullpen/Others	32	41	6	7
				
Totals	        82	80	20	19
 
My predictions are tracking nicely. KB exceeded the one win, but that's OK, he tacked on an extra loss.

- Bernie's 11th career slam last night (BTW, Jeter has zero)
- Tino, AL MVP of the week
- Giambi gets a free beer in Oakland
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/05 02:28 PM

THE YANKEES ARE 500PCT!
THE YANKEES ARE 500PCT!
THE YANKEES ARE 500PCT!
THE YANKEES ARE 500PCT!
THE YANKEES ARE 500PCT!

EVERYBODY SING!
Happy days are here again!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/05 07:29 PM

Gee, I guess Bernie really is a washed up old man. :rolleyes:

Yippee! Keep on rollin', boys!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/05 07:36 PM

**** Spoiler *** Spoiler ****** Spoiler


It is like finding out that there is no Santa.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/05 08:22 PM

Bernie has 11 GSlams, the Bambino had 12, Joe D - 13, Lou Gehrig had 23 or 26 (he has the major league record, I heard it this morning, but I forgot the exact number.)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/05 08:26 PM

It's 23.

Top 100 Grand Slammers (Baseball Almanac)

Bernie clearly has to be updated.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/05 09:08 PM

23 Grand Slams!? In my best Lionel Richie voice "Outrageous!" As for Tino, it's so great we picked him up again. He's killing the ball right now. I can't wait to see the Unit pitch in the Stadium this year if I can get down to seeing him (I really want to). I've seen Clemens pitch in New York and I'm really looking forward to seeing Randy
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/05 05:05 AM

Excuse me, make that 10 in a row
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/05 11:20 AM

Gee, what a surprise...Giambi strikes out with men on base in a big situation.

It's more predictable than the latest Star Wars prequel. :rolleyes:

We sit the #2 HR hitter in the league right now for that bum. Please, please, can we just send him into the crowds to sell cracker jack, popcorn, or (orange) juice? Grr!
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/05 12:29 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Gee, what a surprise...Giambi strikes out with men on base in a big situation.
....and Flash Gordon blows another one.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/05 06:20 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Partagas:
It would be interesting to see the stats of Grand Slams VS Grand Slam Opportunies


or stated another way "Biggest Grand Slam Chokers."
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/20/05 10:17 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:
[quote]Originally posted by Don Smitty:
[b] The Yankees winnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn....

DS
Is this the same Yankee fan that only two weeks ago was screaming about what a bunch of overpayed bums that they were and how they should get rid of half the high priced players? Is this the same Don Smitty who was trashing his own team?


Don Cardi [/b][/quote]DC you should know that I was only mad at the time and did not mean what I said Anyway we will see tonight when your Mets get crushed by my Yanks!

DS
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/05 12:06 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
[Anyway we will see tonight when your Mets get crushed by my Yanks!

DS
Three game series, right? So if the Yankees win the series, I buy you dinner next week. If the Mets win the series, you buy me dinner! Deal?


Don Cardi
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/05 02:52 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:
[quote]Originally posted by Don Smitty:
[b] [Anyway we will see tonight when your Mets get crushed by my Yanks!

DS
Three game series, right? So if the Yankees win the series, I buy you dinner next week. If the Mets win the series, you buy me dinner! Deal?


Don Cardi [/b][/quote]Deal.

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/05 06:22 AM

Get ready to pay up DC because the Unit's on the hilll tomorrow
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/05 12:37 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Get ready to pay up DC because the Unit's on the hilll tomorrow
And your point is?


Don Cardi
Posted By: Johnny Stiltz

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/05 01:34 PM

Becareful Irishman this may turn into the restraunt scene with DC playing the part of Michael

just dont let DC go to the bathroom
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/05 02:02 PM

quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:
quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Get ready to pay up DC because the Unit's on the hilll tomorrow
1-0 baby!

DS
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/05 08:04 PM

Check that! Mets 5 and Yankees 0, If this keeps up I will be the one buying DC veal!

DS
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 04:48 PM

Did you ever notice that when the Yankees lose, No one posts.
I have a question for all you die hard fans. After 43 games, how many of the teams that the Yankees have played against so far this year, have been above 500.pct at the Time the Yankees played them?
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 07:24 PM

The Yanks really do stink this year and will not make the playoffs. Yes this coming from a yankee fan. This is not their year. The Yanks and the Mets are both setting up there fans for heartbreak this year. It does not matter though because all I care about is that dinner DC is going to buy me.

DS
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 07:36 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
The Yanks really do stink this year and will not make the playoffs.
Blasphemy!!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 07:37 PM

I hope they do but I do not want to get my hopes up.

DS
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 08:08 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
After 43 games, how many of the teams that the Yankees have played against so far this year, have been above 500.pct at the [b]Time the Yankees played them? [/b]
Code:
    
Date     Series        OPP record
         Result         going in
   
4/3-6  NYY 2 BOS 1 W     0-0  E     +
8-10   NYY 1 BAL 3 L     1-2  L     -
11-14  NYY 1 BOS 2 L     2-4  L     -
15-17  NYY 0 BAL 3 L     5-4  W     ~
18-19  NYY 1 TAM 1 E     4-8  L     s
20-21  NYY 2 TOR 0 W     9-6  W     +
22-24  NYY 1 TEX 2 L     8-9  L     -
26-28  NYY 1 LAA 2 L    11-8  W     ~
29-01  NYY 1 TOR 2 L    12-11 W     ~
5/2-5  NYY 1 TAM 3 L     8-17 L     -
6-8    NYY 2 OAK 1 W    13-15 L     *
9-11   NYY 3 SEA 0 W    13-18 L     *
13-15  NYY 3 OAK 0 W    14-20 L     *
16-18  NYY 2 SEA 1 W    15-22 L     *
20-22  NYY 2 NYM 1 W    22-19 W     +
     
+ NYY series W against even/winning team = 3
* NYY series W against losing team       = 4
~ NYY series L against winning team      = 3
- NYY series L against losing team       = 4
s Series split against losing team       = 1
    
Yanks won 3 series against even or winning teams and 4 series against losing teams. They lost 3 series against winning teams, but the problem is the 4 series they dropped to losing teams.

Of 15 series thus far, NYY has won or split 8 of them and lost 7 of them. But take a look at May. :p

So, what's your point? :p
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 08:09 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
I hope they do but I do not want to get my hopes up.

DS
talk about back sliding!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 08:43 PM

Yep.

DS
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 08:44 PM

Series this and series that


Quote:
how many of the teams that the Yankees have played against so far this year, have been above 500.pct at the Time the Yankees played them?
Questions was, how many TEAMS so it looks like they have played nine different teams this year after looking at your graph. So with 15 series they play 6 teams twice.

now for the meat of the question at the time they played them, where they above or below 500 ptc. I don't care if they won or lost the games.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 08:48 PM

Surely you can count the W's and L's without my help. :p

You don't care if the Yanks won or lost? Then, again, what's your point? :p
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 09:28 PM

Of 15 series thus far, NYY has won or split 8 of them and lost 7 of them. But take a look at May. :p

Yes, let us take a look at May: they played against 5L's and 1 W's team while they were on their winning streak.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 11:17 PM

quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Get ready to pay up DC because the Unit's on the hilll tomorrow

The Big Unit? Who? Yeah, oh, that old man, ok! Did he ever show up?


Don Cardi
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/05 11:18 PM

Don Smitty. IOU one Super Sized Happy meal! Never said WHERE I was buying you dinner!


Don Cardi
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/05 12:36 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:
Don Smitty. IOU one Super Sized Happy meal! Never said WHERE I was buying you dinner!


Don Cardi
As long as it's Super Sized.

DS
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/05 12:38 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
I don't care if they won or lost the games.
Quote:
Then farted out by fathersson:
...they played against 5L's and 1 W's team while they were on their winning streak.
I thought you didn't care if they won or lost the games? You're not making any sense, boy! Did the facts burst your almighty bubble? :p

Who's your team? The Mutts we beat twice this weekend? :p
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/05 12:54 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
[quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b]I don't care if they won or lost the games.
Quote:
Then farted out by fathersson:
...they played against 5L's and 1 W's team while they were on their winning streak.
I thought you didn't care if they won or lost the games? You're not making any sense, boy! Did the facts burst your almighty bubble? :p

Who's your team? The Mutts we beat twice this weekend? :p [/b][/quote]No, I was just pointing out the flip side of your glee....

I, myself didn't care if they won or lose their games.


Burst my bubble? Hell, no. It just proves my point on the quality of teams they have been playing.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/05 01:08 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:
Don Smitty. IOU one Super Sized Happy meal! Never said WHERE I was buying you dinner!


Don Cardi
Oh no you don't. In a gentleman's bet like this, unless you state before hand where you are going as part of the bet, then it up to the winner to pick the place.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/05 02:32 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:
quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Get ready to pay up DC because the Unit's on the hilll tomorrow

The Big Unit? Who? Yeah, oh, that old man, ok! Did he ever show up?


Don Cardi
He never showed up yesterday but yes the Yanks took the series. Enjoy the meal for me Don Smitty!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/05 11:24 PM

Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/25/05 12:05 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
[quote]Originally posted by Don Cardi:
[b] Don Smitty. IOU one Super Sized Happy meal! Never said WHERE I was buying you dinner!


Don Cardi
Oh no you don't. In a gentleman's bet like this, unless you state before hand where you are going as part of the bet, then it up to the winner to pick the place. [/b][/quote]DS can pick any place that his heart desires, and I will buy!


Don Cardi
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/25/05 12:12 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:
[quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Don Cardi:
[b] Don Smitty. IOU one Super Sized Happy meal! Never said WHERE I was buying you dinner!


Don Cardi
Oh no you don't. In a gentleman's bet like this, unless you state before hand where you are going as part of the bet, then it up to the winner to pick the place. [/b][/quote]DS can pick any place that his heart desires, and I will buy!


Don Cardi [/b][/quote]Now, there is a man of honor. Good for you.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/25/05 12:23 AM

5-0 Yanks with A-Rod blasting 2. I can't wait to start watching my Yankees everyday starting Thursday!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/25/05 12:41 AM

10-0 now in the 5th on Posada's 2nd HR
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/25/05 03:49 AM

Great job tonight Yanks and Boston lost too
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/26/05 02:46 AM

Again another great night as the Yanks won and Boston lost
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/26/05 07:47 PM

Does anyone else think that we might as well just keep Chien Ming Wang and Robinson Cano up with the big club and send Jaret Wright down to AAA-Columbus when he's off the DL? :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/26/05 08:53 PM

I second that emotion! I can't wait, I'm actually gonna be able to watch the game tonight now that I'm here in New York I can't wait to see Johnson pitch tomorrow!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 03:35 AM

Well I fell asleep during the game tonight but I'm watching the replay right now. Congrats to the Yanks on the sweep
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 03:41 AM

Now you will be happy. They will play your favorite team. The defending World Champion Boston Red Socks. Now they are going to play a team that means something.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 03:44 AM

Exactly and I can't wait. The Unit's pitching tomorrow and Schilling won't be back until July
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 12:19 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
Now you will be happy. They will play your favorite team. The defending World Champion Boston Red Socks. Now they are going to play a team that means something.
True, but the Yankees are now almost tied with Boston for second place, and Boston isn't exactly lighting the world on fire by losing to teams like Toronto and Seattle, either.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 03:04 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b] Now you will be happy. They will play your favorite team. The defending World Champion Boston Red Socks. Now they are going to play a team that means something.
True, but the Yankees are now almost tied with Boston for second place, and Boston isn't exactly lighting the world on fire by losing to teams like Toronto and Seattle, either. [/b][/quote]You are so right, Both the Yankees and Boston have lost to crap teams. But Boston did have some injuries to their team and I also think if you look at who Boston has played you may find that they have play more higher ranked teams so far this year. After all to be glad about Schilling being out to July.
Quote:
Exactly and I can't wait. The Unit's pitching tomorrow and Schilling won't be back until July
If I want to rant, I would at least want my foe to be at his best when I beat them.

Well, anyway My point is that this will make Irishman happy. Head to head after a reasonable break in period.

I know how much he hates Boston, His wild rants only make this weekend more fun (for me) to see the outcome. If the Yankees win he will be ranting all over this thread, if they lose you may not see him post at all.

This alone give ME a reason to follow the games!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 07:27 PM

Glad I could be of service. I thought you were somewhat of a Yankees fan yourself fathersson?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 07:39 PM

I think the final two weeks are going to be exciting for Yankees fans and baseball fans in general. The Yanks will be facing Baltimore and the Red Sox quite a bit in the closing days of the season, and it could be of vital importance for each team, depending on what other teams like the White Sox and Minnesota do.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 07:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Glad I could be of service. I thought you were somewhat of a Yankees fan yourself fathersson?
Now really Irishman...How could anyone live in New York State and not really be a fan of the Yankees.

It is not the Yankees or their fans that most people hate. It is the fanatics that they love to upset when they feel that they are going over board!

The problem with New york, is that we have to any New York teams. Two if this and two of that.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 07:45 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
I think the final two weeks are going to be exciting for Yankees fans and baseball fans in general. The Yanks will be facing Baltimore and the Red Sox quite a bit in the closing days of the season, and it could be of vital importance for each team, depending on what other teams like the White Sox and Minnesota do.
YES! that is what I like about sports.
You can keep all those one side games, I like good matchups, and I like my games like I like my women. Close and TIGHT! Blow outs are for two pump chumps!
i want a real game, right down to the last pitch of the last inning.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 07:47 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
I like good matchups, and I like my games like I like my women. Close and TIGHT!
When did Partagas get here? :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 07:50 PM

You live in New York? If you grew up here, than you have to be a die-hard fan such as myself

As for 2 teams, I'm glad we have 2. State's such as Texas and California have multiple teams as well. Texas has for basketball the Rockets, Mavericks, and Spurs. For baseball the Astros and Rangers and for football the Cowgirls and Texans. California for basketball has the Lakers, Clippers, and Kings. For baseball they have the Angels, A's, Giants, Padres, and Dodgers and for football the Raiders, 49ers, Chargers. We only have 1 basketball team (for now)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 07:58 PM

Bah, we have 3 football teams, and no basketball team (after the Buffalo Braves left). But everyone from Western New York supports the Bills, while those closer to the city support the Jets & the Giants.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 07:58 PM

Oh, you should hear my old man talk about sports growing up.

You were either a Yankees fan or a Mets Fan- Not both
You were either a Jets fan or a Gaints Fan- Not Both
You were either a Rangers fan or a Islanders Fan- Not both

Then he came upstate and they added Buffalo to the mix.
Downstate people never even thought of Buffalo as being part of New York as far as they were concern.
and after theose four years when Buffalo blew it, hell most of upstate didn't either- Sorry Double-J
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 08:00 PM

So what kinda fan are you then if you're not a New York fan in any sport?
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 08:29 PM

Lets hope Randy Johnson pitches good tonight.

DS
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 08:37 PM

I have a feeling that he will pitch very well tonight. He has to come up with a good start, his last couple haven't been great. I bet he'll pull some magic out of his cap.

Then again, he could completely blow it. :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 09:00 PM

I'm hoping he pitches well but we always have a problem hitting off of Wakefield
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 11:22 PM

Johnson gets himself outta trouble in the first, good job! Did that last strike not look like a strike against Varitek? This ump better not become a problem for us tonight
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 11:27 PM

This UMP really sucks.

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/05 11:35 PM

Yeah he does, but Randy gotta himself outta the inning again
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 12:58 AM

Oh no, Varitek Home Run!

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 01:00 AM

At least they cut the lead. I hate Varitek!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 01:02 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
At least they cut the lead. I hate Varitek!
Varitek is an idiot. How stupid does that Big C look on his chest?


DS
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 01:10 AM

2 great plays at the plate baby! Womack and Cano just stepped up to make 2 great plays to Posada! YOURRRRRRRRRRR OUTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT...........................

DS
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 01:16 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
2 great plays at the plate baby! Womack and Cano just stepped up to make 2 great plays to Posada!
Not taking anything away from the Yanks' defense (which was excellent in that inning) the BoSox 3rd base coaching SUCKED!!

And now its come back to haunt them..... the Red Sox SHOULD HAVE been up by more than two.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 01:17 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by SC:
[quote]Originally posted by Don Smitty:
[b] 2 great plays at the plate baby! Womack and Cano just stepped up to make 2 great plays to Posada!
Not taking anything away from the Yanks' defense (which was excellent in that inning) the BoSox 3rd base coaching SUCKED!!

And now its come back to haunt them..... the Red Sox SHOULD HAVE been up by more than two. [/b][/quote]Yes they should be. 5 straight hits they had. The 3rd base coach should be fired.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 01:31 AM

Yanks take the lead! WOO HOO! Man that was a shot by Sheff
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 01:37 AM

Nothing makes me happier than to see them beating Boston.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 01:45 AM

My feelings exactly Babe. I was also glad to see Ortiz go 0-3 so far and I'm not sure what Manny's doing tonight but it isn't much
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 01:48 AM

I'm not sure who I loathe more - Ortiz or Damon.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 02:02 AM

Ortiz definitely. Damon's an idiot (even he thinks so) but I don't hate him. He's probably the only Red Cock who I would say I liked but I'm not even saying that. Plus, he could be a Yankee in the off season
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 02:12 AM

Yes, Ortiz out on strikes!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 02:20 AM

WOO HOO, Varitek strikes out!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 02:24 AM

Ah, the Yankees win! 16 out of 18 with 5 of them coming in a row. A good game tonight and I'm looking forward to tomorrow's pitching matchup
Posted By: the bad guy tm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 02:32 AM

yankees still blow lol i cant belive my sox lost oh well we will get em tomorrow at noon. im happy for all u yank fans but tomorrow will be diffrent sox will take em
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 02:36 AM

Hope to see you tomorrow when they don't
Posted By: ginaitaliangirl

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 05:34 AM

ARGH!

I'm hijacking this thread for one post to vent about the Astros, because I'm sure it's not worth a new thread.

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 05:45 AM

I love it that Houston sucks! 16-31 after the first 47 games is a great start! I wonder when Clemens will be refitted for his pinstripes and how it feels to be pitching for his hometown losing team!?
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 03:10 PM

Watch the Yanks do something stupid like trade this kid Cano for some overpriced idiot.

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 05:17 PM

Well I heard he or Wang could be part of a trade if the Yanks decided to get Clemens before the trade deadline
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 05:33 PM

Great, the Yanks are already down 1-0 after the first part of the first
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 05:37 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Well I heard he or Wang could be part of a trade if the Yanks decided to get Clemens before the trade deadline
Stupid, stupid idea. I'd rather stick with Wang and Cano rather than trade for a one year hired-gun. Besides, both these kids could legitimately become full-time Yankees within the next couple of years. Womack isn't exactly a world beater, and if the Yankees pick up a solid center fielder in the offseason, I forsee Cano playing 2B full-time. It would be the first really strong defensive presence we've had at that position since 'Fonz Soriano.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 05:45 PM

I think it'd be a mistake too because we'd only have Clemens for half a season and then he would "retire" again. I think we should hang onto Wang & Cano, but I would love to see Clemens come back to us and I don't want him going to Boston at all!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 05:48 PM

The thing is...we aren't doing that shabby without Clemens. I mean, the slump is over, and the Yanks are #2 in the AL East. Granted, we might need a pickup for the playoff run, but I don't think we should sacrifice Cano and/or Wang at this point (or ever, imho).
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 05:54 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
but I don't think we should sacrifice Wang
I don't think that thought has EVER crossed my mind :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 05:56 PM

Great, another 2 runs scored (and 1 of them was Varitek)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 05:58 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
The thing is...we aren't doing that shabby without Clemens. I mean, the slump is over, and the Yanks are #2 in the AL East. Granted, we might need a pickup for the playoff run, but I don't think we should sacrifice Cano and/or Wang at this point (or ever, imho).
I agree, but I'd sacrifice Wright or Brown instead Although I'll give Brown credit, he started the year 0-4 and he's won his last 4 starts. However, we cannot let Clemens go back to Boston or they'll win the Series again with him & Schilling. I think it'll be too much
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 06:36 PM

Bah, who will Boston give up for Clemens, and even then, will Boston make the playoffs? I think if the Yankees dial-down and just focus on winning games, they will be fine. Our pitching staff is much improved from last year, even Brown is doing well. Tanyon Sturze was excellent as a spot starter down the stretch last year. I don't think Clemens will head to Boston unless crazy-legs-broken-bloody-ankle Schilling will be unable to pitch in the offseason (which could happen).

But this playoff race will be closer than ever, with Baltimore, Boston, New York, Chicago and Minnesota all looking for spots.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 06:45 PM

Clemens has said the only other team he would play for is the Yankees.

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 06:47 PM

When did he say that Smitty!? Pitiful that Pavano didn't even go 4 innings today. He had 2 outs and then he gives up another 2 runs
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 06:57 PM

I heard it about a month ago on Sportscenter.

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 07:10 PM

Pretty interesting. Man the Yankees are sucking it up today
Posted By: the bad guy tm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 07:28 PM

my sox are kicking there ass 12 to 0 i told u irishman they would yanks blow
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 07:41 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by the bad guy tm:
my sox are kicking there ass 12 to 0 i told u irishman they would yanks blow
Since when does 1 game determine whether a team "blows?" If that is true, than the Red Sox suck ass for being swept by the Blue Jays. :rolleyes:
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 08:00 PM

Great point DJ! Did anyone else hear on Fox how after game 3 players from Boston were congradulating the Yankees on playing the Cardinals in the World Series!?
Posted By: the bad guy tm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 08:29 PM

17 to 1 how bout them yanks lol
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 08:59 PM

how about them Yankees? Well, they were HUMILIATED by the Red Sox today. maybe a trade involving Clemens should be on the line, 'cause what happened today was a shame. Pavano has a slow (to not say awful, ridiculous, or absolutely terrible) start, and what happens? the bull-shit-pen earns 12 (TWELVE!) runs in less than SIX innings. sorry for all of you, yankee fans! now I can't wait to watch tomorrow's game.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 09:26 PM

It's ok because Wells is pitching tomorrow and he hasn't been that great so far this year. Don't get too comfortable Red Cock fans
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/05 10:00 PM

I'm not terribly worried about this loss. It's no reason to go all chicken-little. Pavano had a rough day, and so did the bullpen. Both instances are more likely to not happen than to occur; this kind of blowout will not happen again. It's just one of those deals. Pavano is in a bit of a slump, Johnson is still progressing, and the bullpen is still working through issues. Congrats to the Red Sox on a win. The Yanks still own second place in the AL East until somebody takes it away from them.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/05 01:33 AM

No need to hide under any rugs today my Yankee Brothers, knowing we won 4 rings in five years will make me sleep well tonight!

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/05 11:56 PM

All my peeps ready for the game? Smitty, you gonna be on here during the game!?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 12:36 AM

Boston goes up 2-0 on Ortiz's homerun and Jeter and now Sheffield just hit homeruns to tie it up!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 01:27 AM

Great, Moose only went 3 innings and now Wang is in. I'm excited to see him pitch because I've never seen him pitch before, but we had better not lose to David Wells
Posted By: the bad guy tm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 02:11 AM

im glad my red sox are winning but i still hate david wells. should of never let pedro go.my man david o is doing well tonight.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 02:50 AM

2 errors now for A-Rod DEATH to the Red Cocks!
Posted By: the bad guy tm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 03:20 AM

well it looks like my sox gonna take this one also i will sleep well tonight!! go soxxxxxxx
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 03:28 AM

F*ck the Cocks
Posted By: the bad guy tm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 03:30 AM

temper temper irishman u know the yanks blow lol jk well i quess at least i will sleep well 2night. gotta love them yankess lmfao
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 03:30 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]F*ck the Cocks [/b]
yup that can be done.

all joking inside you get wayyyyyy to into these games man. So they lost a game, who cares???? You're gonna die by the time your 30 because of the yanks losing to the red sox?
Posted By: ginaitaliangirl

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 03:37 AM

---> "No, Gina! Two wrongs don't make a right! Don't gloat about the Sox winning when you know it's only going to make the situation worse! Be go-o-o-d!"

--> "Oh, come on, Gina. Live a little! He picks on your poor Astros all the time, they won today, and the Yanks lost to the Sox, of all teams! Who cares if he'll come right back at you about the 'Stros, or insist on cursing the Sox! At least you have one moment of glory."

Hmm. I'll leave it alone, then.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 03:38 AM

Obviously you're not a Yanks or Cocks fan because if you were, you'd know that it's not "just another game" or it's "just 1 loss." It's to Boston, that makes it twice as worse. As for my temper, well, I'm just very passionate about my team
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 03:41 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ginaitaliangirl:
Hmm. I'll leave it alone, then.
Probably a good idea that you leave it alone. Talk to me when the Astros break .500 (if they ever break .500 with their 18-31 record) They still have the 4th worse record in baseball
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 03:43 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Obviously you're not a Yanks or Cocks fan because if you were, you'd know that it's not "just another game" or it's "just 1 loss." It's to Boston, that makes it twice as worse. As for my temper, well, I'm just [b]very passionate about my team [/b]
I'm a red sox fan but I don't have a heart attack everytime they lose, whether its to the yankees or not. What I'm trying to say is it's a game, theres really no need to get your blood pressure up over a game

You want to be alive in 89 years when the Yankees win their next W.S.
Posted By: ginaitaliangirl

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 03:43 AM

Ah, my little devil was right! Smart fellow.

I'm having a good baseball day today, and I don't care.

Have a good night, Irish, and watch that temper. :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 03:45 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by DonMichaelCorleone:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] Obviously you're not a Yanks or Cocks fan because if you were, you'd know that it's not "just another game" or it's "just 1 loss." It's to Boston, that makes it twice as worse. As for my temper, well, I'm just [b]very
passionate about my team [/b]
I'm a red sox fan but I don't have a heart attack everytime they lose, whether its to the yankees or not. What I'm trying to say is it's a game, theres really no need to get your blood pressure up over a game

You want to be alive in 89 years when the Yankees win their next W.S. [/b][/quote]It's probably a good thing that you don't. After 86 years of lossing, that'd be a lot of heart attacks!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 03:46 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ginaitaliangirl:
Ah, my little devil was right! Smart fellow.

I'm having a good baseball day today, and I don't care.

Have a good night, Irish, and watch that temper. :p
Grazie Gina, you do the same. I'm sure you'll be hearing from me about your "precious" Astros sooner rather than later
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 06:47 PM

At least Wang, Sheffield, and Jeter had good games. Mussina wasn't sharp, no biggie. It's okay, I'm not going to have a heart attack (though I think some other people in this thread need a cardiologist's attention ).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 06:51 PM

I'm not having a heart attack, I'm just passtionate that's all. And any time we lose to Boston it's unacceptable
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/05 10:55 PM

gina, how bout them Astros!? Yup, shut out 9-0 at home AND Clemens got the loss!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 01:32 AM

Anyone watching the game tonight?
Posted By: the bad guy tm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 01:43 AM

not watching the yanks but my red sox are killing the B O
Posted By: the bad guy tm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 02:00 AM

and the sox win!!!!! of course lol
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 03:20 AM

Yeah that's why they won yesterday too, oops, no they didn't
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 03:50 AM

ha, and funy shit is irish, i had tickets to that sox game last night and got ALOT of personal satisfaction out of seein them lose 8-1.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 11:32 AM

Bah, crappy loss last night. Why do they keep Brown in for so long? He was good for about 3-4 innings and then he just plain sucked. Grr.

I wish they would stop flucking around. Move the outfield back the way it belongs, bring Bubby Crosby back to play CF, and alternate Bernie Williams and Ruben Sierra at DH. Also, keep Robinson Cano at second, and bench Tony "the Hapless Bunter" Womack.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 01:05 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by scarfacetm:
ha, and funy shit is irish, i had tickets to that sox game last night and got ALOT of personal satisfaction out of seein them lose 8-1.
Derek! It's great to see you guy, where you been at!?
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 09:53 PM

Ahhh I've just been busy alot lately, gotta make money after all. I been meanin to come back sooner, but as i said just been real busy.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 11:05 PM

You back for good or just in & out?
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 11:06 PM

well, we'll see, hopefully for good but, never know.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 11:49 PM

Alright well you should check out the "love birds" thread. It's been kinda desolate as of late
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 11:53 PM

i seen it was gone lol.
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 11:56 PM

lol well, i retract that last statement.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/05 11:59 PM

Yeah I knocked it up there but gina hasn't been posting in it that much
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/05 12:42 AM

yea, i doubt katie will be either, she doesn't seem to get on much anymore. only times i've seen her recently was my b-day, and her graduation day.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/05 01:05 AM

She might now that it's summer. You watching the game? Unit's already given up 3
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/05 01:15 AM

nah, i assume she'll be busy. and nope im not watchin the game, im playin that forza motorsport game.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/05 11:25 PM

The Yanks are stinking right now!

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/05 11:27 PM

As long as they make the playoffs. I was pretty pissed yestereday because I was so excited to see Randy pitch and he lost
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/05 05:22 AM

Just heard on WFAN that this is the third time in Yankees history that they were swept in a series by the team with the worst record in baseball.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/05 02:19 AM

Alright, the Yanks come from behind tonight to win in 10
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/05 01:59 PM

Well, at least the monkey is off their backs.

Mr. Steinbrenner, please invite me to your office. I'm sure we can figure out a way to get this team to win. First though, we have to get rid of Giambi. I could put him to good use though. Put a sign on him that says "Washed-Up Juicer" and let him sell orange juice in the Yankee Stadium stands. It might be a good venture! Maybe we could get Bonds after he retires (*cough* quits) the Giants?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/05 05:05 PM

From what I've seen I'm very impressed with Wang. Hopefully when Wright is heatlhy, they continue to stick with him and maybe move Brown out of the rotation
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/05 05:49 PM

Seems stupid, since Brown is actually pitching *decent*. Let's send Wright down to Columbus and then give him a shot at the rotation once he's warmed up. But as far as I'm concerned, both Wang and Brown (yes, surprisingly) have earned their spots in the rotation.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/05 10:59 PM

I saw that the Yanks were up 2-0 in the 3rd and after the movie they lost 9-3
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/05 08:32 PM

They tied it 3-3, bases loaded, 2 outs, Jeter up, and he struck out!!!!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/05 10:06 PM

I know, they should have won that game yesterday. There was another time the bases were loaded, no outs and they got NOTHING out of it They keep f*cking around, they're not gonna make the playoffs this year
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/05 01:42 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
keep f*cking around, they're not gonna make the playoffs this year
Gee, you think :rolleyes: . They don't deserve to. I read that they've come from behind and won in only 2 out of twenty-something games (I think it was 27 games, but I'm not sure). Remember last year, when they won almost every game by coming from behind.

Right now they're losing again.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/05 01:44 AM

I know. They can't score ANYONE when the bases are loaded!
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/05 04:38 PM

If things remain on their present course, who will be the fall guy - a bench/assistant coach like Mattingly, the manager, or GM?

IMO, if Steinbrenner fires Torre, then Big George is a complete imbicile.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/05 04:58 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
IMO, if Steinbrenner fires Torre, then Big George is a complete imbicile.
I concur. I think Cashman might go before Torre because Cashman and management haven't made the best decisions as of late. Sure they've got A-Rod & the Big Unit through trades, but a couple of years ago Steinbrenner told Cashman to get David Ortiz and he didn't because they had Giambi at the time. Plus, the Yanks let Jon Leiber go (8-4, 4.61 ERA) and didn't sign Matt Clement (6-1, 3.79 ERA) [although I will give them the benefit of the doubt in that I didn't expect Clement to do as well as he is either]. Rather they signed Jaret Wright (2-2, 9.15 ERA). I wouldn't fire Torre under ANY circumstances, and let's hope George isn't that dumb!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/05 01:56 AM

Absolutely! Torre is the best.

They just threw Tino out of the game!! WTF?? Looks like Torre might be next.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/05 01:57 AM

And there he goes!
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/05 04:11 AM

ahhh well, the yankees still kicked ass, so its all good.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/05 12:53 PM

Congrats to A-Rod on being the youngest player to hit 400 home runs. Hank Aaron, look out!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/05 01:39 PM

Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/05 06:47 PM

hmmm, looks like that a-rod jersey i bought when he first went to the yanks will be worth something some day.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/05 07:31 PM

I certainly think Cashman would go before Torre. Last night, Torre showed he gives more than a damn about this team, and there is alot of frustration with the current performance, not just from Steinbrenner.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/05 07:39 PM

Hey Torre's just trying to get them fired up. Remember last how everyside the "turning point" for the Red Cocks was when Varitek tried to act like a bad a$$ and got into a fight with A-Rod? Maybe that's just what the Yankees needed
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/05 09:24 PM

Congrats A-Rod!

DS
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/05 02:36 AM

Bottom of the 8th, losing 8-1.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/05 03:45 AM

I think that they should take a look at the local little league teams in the Bronx area to see if they can find a fielding coach for Jason Giambi in order to teach him basic skills at first base.

While there at it...you might want to sign the kid up. :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/05 04:17 PM

I stopped watching after the 3rd or 4th inning I think. It was a horrible & sloppy game. Did anyone else get tired of hearing David Justice talk about Jeter needing to "throw some furniture around" and stuff like that to get this team energized. Literally, he went on between 5-10 consecutive minutes about it. I like David but the subject should have been dropped a long time ago!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/05 10:33 PM

A great game today. I didn't see most of it but from what I did watch it was a lot better than yesterday's game! Congrats to RJ on going 7 strong innings, only allowing 4 hits on no runs, and 7 strike outs!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/05 01:05 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Did anyone else get tired of hearing David Justice talk about Jeter needing to "throw some furniture around" and stuff like that to get this team energized. Literally, he went on between 5-10 consecutive minutes about it. I like David but the subject should have been dropped a long time ago!
David Justice is a terrible color commentator. I don't dislike him personally, especially since he had a stint with my Buffalo Bisons, but he isn't much when it comes to the booth.

Good job by Johnson today! The bats were moving too, whooah. Let's hope they keep this going.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/05 12:51 AM

Only 100 games left to turn this train wreck around.

DS
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/05 08:42 PM

If they do not win at least 10 games during this home stretch they are done for the season I believe.

DS
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/05 04:51 PM

There is no joy in mudville.

30-32 Over sixty games played and we are still below 500.

Irishman, You must wear the cap. There is no other way.
If you love the Yankees, you have to break the curse.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/05 05:02 PM

I'd like the believe that the weight of the season isn't totally on my shoudlers
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/05 05:09 PM

Just think, If you did and they started to win again.
You would be on the national news!
Everyone would know what a fan you were.
That YOU went the extra mile for the team you love.
How could George NOT give you a job after all that.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/05 05:24 PM

Na, the only people who'd know would be you & me
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/05 12:31 AM

The moose is loose!

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/05 12:34 AM

Yeah I'm not watching the game but I see they're up 4-0
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/05 01:59 PM

They played so well last night, it was like a breath of fresh air.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/05 02:14 PM

Well said Babe. Hopefully this home stand will be a breath of fresh air for everyone and they can turn that 3-9 road trip into a 9-3 home stand
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/05 02:37 PM

You have to love these sports writers.

On last nights game:

"With George Steinbrenner watching from his private box, the Yankees put on a performace worthy of their $200 million payroll- Nearly $163 Million more then the Pirates."


btw- What a bargin Pittsburgh is. They are only two games below 500 and they cost less then 20% of what the Yankees cost. A real deal for your money!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/05 11:26 PM

2-0 Yanks top of 2nd. Nice homerun Matsui!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/05 12:15 AM

And that was quite a hit by Giambi to bring Bernie home!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/05 03:33 AM

Congrats to the Yanks on a nice sweet of the Pirates
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/05 10:11 PM

lets see if Pavano can keep it up tonight.

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/18/05 12:03 AM

So far so good 4-0 Yanks. I'm gonna go watch a movie. I'll post probably after the games over
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/18/05 02:45 AM

Congrats to the Yanks on their 4th straight win
Posted By: Johnny Stiltz

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/18/05 03:02 AM

hopefully they keep on winning right up til they move to

RUTH STADIUM
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/18/05 03:03 AM

How did they blow a 4 run lead!?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/18/05 09:37 PM

Looks like the Yanks are well on their way to a 5th straight win in the 8th
Posted By: Johnny Stiltz

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/19/05 01:47 AM

Congrat to DJ for his first GRAND SLAM -

may there be more to come and with them WINS!

4.5 here we come Bal/Bos !!!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/19/05 09:52 PM

Make that 6 in a row for their 2nd straight sweep. Looks like the Yanks are putting that 3-9 road trip WELL behind them
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/19/05 10:12 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Make that 6 in a row for their 2nd straight sweep. Looks like the Yanks are putting that 3-9 road trip WELL behind them
I wouldn't go that far.(well behind them) But it is good to see them beating a better class of team.

It was a well balanced team effort today.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 01:50 AM

could Randy Johnson pitch any worse? 3 innings, 8 hits and 7 earned runs for the Big Unit today! I definitely didn't see this coming. anyway, I really hope the Evil Empire don't even make the postseason this year. sorry yankee fans
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 01:57 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
I really hope the Evil Empire don't even make the postseason this year.
I feel the exact same way about the Red Cocks. Let's go Orioles!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 02:37 AM

WOW! what a great come back by the Yanks. C-O-N-G-R-A-T-S! 13 runs in the 8th inning
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 02:53 AM

WOW! that's all I can say too. the Yankees are the only team to still be able to win any game even with such poor pitching. there are too many threats at the bats. Travis Harper might agree with me. the guy pitched 0.2 innings and still, somehow, managed to earn 9 runs!
Posted By: Johnny Stiltz

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 03:02 AM

bernie said tonight after the game
he thinks this is the turn around game for em and that they will improve from here -
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 05:58 PM

It looked like a video game last night. The Yanks were simply awesome. 13 runs! Tampa Bay is a minor league team. They give 4 million to Lou and 3 million to their pitching staff.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 06:02 PM

They were absolutely awesome last night. I hope that they just continue the momentum.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 06:09 PM

They were up 2-0 on Sheff's bomb but now it's tied
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 06:36 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don_Andrew:
It looked like a video game last night. The Yanks were simply awesome. 13 runs! Tampa Bay is a minor league team. They give 4 million to Lou and 3 million to their pitching staff.
What is there to be so proud of. They had to come back from being down by so many runs. To Who.. To Tampa Bay!

As people say. Thank God for Tampa Bay. They make sure the Yankkees aren't in the basement!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 06:41 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Johnny Stiltz:
bernie said tonight after the game
he thinks this is the turn around game for em and that they will improve from here -
Yeah Right, Isn't that what he said last week, and the week before that.

Maybe someone should send a memo to the rest of the guys.

Randy Johnson was whacked again! Remember that Tampa is only 6-29 away from home!
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 07:15 PM

When I turned off the car radio last night it was 8-2 Tampa. I meant to put the game on at home but then figured what's the point, the Yankees have lost this game.

Imagine my shock this morning when I heard what had happened!!! That'll teach me to give up on the boys!!!

Incidentally...anyone hear Warner Wolf's theory that in refusing to remove his pitcher from the game even as the Yanks rallied...Lou Pinella was sending a loud and clear message to his owner to get going on some better players unless this is what he'd like to see for remainder of the season!!

Sounds logical to me....!!

Apple
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/05 07:37 PM

Maybe LOU could cut his throat at home plate in the middle of a TV home game. That is the only way they would get the message. Jerks.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/05 02:49 AM

Yep, no Yankee fans in here tonight
There is no joy in mudville, The yanks have been beat by the worst team in baseball- AGAIN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/05 03:14 AM

Looks like we should have let the Red Cocks sign Pavano and we should have signed Clemente
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/05 03:15 AM

Looks like we should have let the Red Cocks sign Pavano and we should have signed Clemente
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/05 03:17 AM

I bet old Geroge is taking a few extra pills these days.

And more then one person is looking over their shoulder and afraid of their job right about now.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/24/05 02:18 AM

I guess we now know who are the Yankee's DADDY!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/24/05 02:24 AM

Pla-leze. When the Devil Rays start actually making the playoffs and beating the Yankees in October, then we can redine parental units. As for the D-Rays, I think if they just get out of first place we can have something to talk about. Until then, it's no big deal. They got swept by KC among other teams? Are the Royals there Daddy too? :rolleyes:
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/24/05 02:39 AM

You can twist it all you want Irish, but it still remains the same. Tampa Bay just about swept both series against the boys. If it wasn't for that big comeback last game they would have.

So pull out your hanky and dry your eyes. There is no joy in mudville once again.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/24/05 02:47 AM

Who's crying? Ooooooooooooooooo, they lost to Tampa Bay. Think I'm lossing sleep over it? Think again because I know where the Yankees will be at the end of the season compared to the D-Rays
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/24/05 02:56 AM

Well, if they keep this up, they will be right next to Tampa. Watching the World Series in the stands or on TV.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/24/05 02:56 AM

Bah. I never know what to expect from the Yankees. Let's just get rid of Womack, put people back on defense where they belong, and buckle down and play!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/24/05 03:01 AM

What are the odds of George haveing the big one during one of his fits this year.

No big Visa/Mastcard commercial this year.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/24/05 03:19 AM

Bah, I think he is going to shit his pants AND have a heart attack when he realizes how many Yankee fans are going to revolt when they see bulldozers turning Yankee Stadium into a parking lot.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/24/05 03:21 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Bah, I think he is going to shit his pants AND have a heart attack when he realizes how many Yankee fans are going to revolt when they see bulldozers turning Yankee Stadium into a parking lot.
Oh YEA.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/25/05 04:53 PM

Another case of tissues to Yankees Stadium and fast.

They lose another one!

To the Mutts and guess who stops them. You guessed it, their old nemesis Pedro Martinez!

Then to rub salt into the cut. Boston takes first place in the East by shutting out Philadephia.

No wonder this thread is slow today. There is no joy in Mudville once again.

Crap, the only good thing to happen this week is that blast to caught the win this week against Tampa Bay.
Posted By: the bad guy tm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/25/05 04:59 PM

im glad the yanks lost lol and yep the red sox will win today.even thou pedro left the sox im still a fan of him damn he can pitch. yabks not loking so good this year . pleanty of time left for them to kick some ass but lets hope not!!!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/05 04:19 AM

Another lost to the mutts. 10 to 3


Irishman, please break the curse, this is going on way to long.
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/05 04:23 AM

Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/05 12:03 PM

Sean Henn really laid an egg, didn't he?

Hey, it's still only June...
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/05 01:45 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Sean Henn really laid an egg, didn't he?

Hey, it's still only June...
Yes and come friday it will be July!

The Yankees and the Mutts, both at 500 after 74 games.
37-37, who would have bet this.

Could the mutts sweep the Yankees? Stay tuned.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/05 01:49 AM

Looks like the Johnson will be called on to keep the Yankees from being swept.

Do you think George is upset about how the Johnson is doing in NY?
Posted By: the bad guy tm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/05 02:36 AM

i think ol george is pissed!! all that money and there not playing for crap.i feel bad for the yank fans NOT!!! well maybe they will pull it off tonight we will see but i hope not. hey irishman im not bad mouthing u just having a little fun hope u dont take it wrong!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/05 02:47 AM

It's not Irishman you have to worry about, it's me!! j/k

Sheffield was robbed when he was called out, just like Jeter last night. They're doing their best to win this and at least they have a shot. C'mon Godzilla! As the announcers would say, "The go-ahead run is at the plate."
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/05 03:40 AM

great win for the Yanks. I don't think this will actually happen, but if the Yankees are somehow still able to make a comeback this season, this is the best posible turning point. and well, I don't think Looper is gonna get any sleep tonight :p
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/05 03:51 AM

Hey, they pulled it out in the bottom of the 9th.

At least they did get swept by the mutts!

btw- I have read this after every win -
Quote:
this is the turning point.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/05 04:43 AM

yeah that's why I was so 'unconfident' in my statement


edit: no I am NOT a yankees fan!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/05 05:25 PM

So fathersson, they pulled it out. Should we just hand them the trophy now after that come from behind win!? Isn't it time to throw in the towel for the rest of the league!?
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/05 05:31 PM

Yes. We may as well just hand them the trophy now because face it, this is how it's going to be in October.

Better still...let them enjoy themselves and play out the rest of the season.

There's no stopping them now...!!!!!

Apple
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/05 02:18 AM

Uh-O, 2 wins in a row for the Yanks. Look out fathersson, it's the end of the season for the rest of the MLB
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/05 02:30 AM

The Yankees win! The Yankees win!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/05 05:19 PM

Wow, I dunno who came up with the idea of the Cameron/Sheffield trade, but they must be fucking nuts. If they trade Sheffy, I think I'm going to boycott the rest of the season.

Womack yes, maybe a prospect/cash, but NOT Sheffield.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/05 06:06 PM

Trade Sheffield?? That would be the WORST idea since trading Soriano. Womack, yes. The Shef, NO!!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/05 06:11 PM

The Soriano trade wasn't so bad. The Yanks got one of the best players of all time. And a player way better than Soriano.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/05 06:32 PM

Yeah, but Soriano's absence at second base has led to the Womack situation, we haven't had a really reliable 2nd baseman since he left. Granted, I liked Enrique Wilson and Miggy Cairo, but Womack hasn't been good (hell, he's in left field now) and Cano shows much promise, on both sides of the ball, but he's still a rookie.

Don't get me wrong, A-Rod is awesome, I'm just saying that the trade has caused problems down the road at 2B.

BTW, what do y'all think about the trade rumours with the Yankees for Oakland's Kotsay?

Mark Kotsay: ESPN.com
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/05 06:39 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Yeah, but Soriano's absence at second base has led to the Womack situation, we haven't had a really reliable 2nd baseman since he left. Granted, I liked Enrique Wilson and Miggy Cairo, but Womack hasn't been good (hell, he's in left field now) and Cano shows much promise, on both sides of the ball, but he's still a rookie.

Don't get me wrong, A-Rod is awesome, I'm just saying that the trade has caused problems down the road at 2B.

BTW, what do y'all think about the trade rumours with the Yankees for Oakland's Kotsay?

Mark Kotsay: ESPN.com
That is very true. BUT, "I neva like dem cockroaches. Wilson & Cairo. I take dem whores to hell mang!"

Kotsay is having a good season, and has always been a good player, but I wouldn't be that excited if he came to the Yanks. It would be good for them, but I just wouldn't be that excited...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/05 10:16 PM

Mmm, neither would I, but Bernie is showing his age defensively, though he is still strong at the plate. I dunno, Brandon Inge is hot right now, and seems to be awesome as a utility player, making the top plays list on Sportscenter yesterday in LF, and he's a bloody 3rd baseman by default! Inge would be a nice addition, he's having a great season to this point.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/05 10:19 PM

Br.Inge T.Womack B.Williams


G 73 68 67
AB 284 250 222
BA .299 .240 .248
R 44 31 23
H 85 60 55
2B 13 4 12
3B 7 1 1
HR 7 0 4
TB 133 66 81
RBI 35 11 28
BB 40 11 32
K's 66 38 25
SB 4 19 1
CS 1 3 0
OBP .387 .274 .339
SLG % .468 .264 .365
SF 1 1 3
SH 1 6 1
HBP 1 1 0
IBB 1 0 0
GiDP's 4 4 9
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/01/05 01:35 PM

Anybody else wish we could go back in time and sign Beltran like we were 'supposed' to? Sure he's been hurt and having not the best year, but I'd still rather have him for another 6 or 7 years than not at all.

I am disgusting and angered at the Sheff rumors too. This guy comes here to win a championship, plays hurt most of last year, almost wins the MVP (which he should have IMO), and then we ship him!? Where's the love!?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/05 12:47 AM

I'm pretty excited because my family and I are going down to the Old Timers and Yankees/Indians game a week from tomorrow. Tickets were already sold out but since my boss at West Point used to work for the Yankees, he made a call to the Vice President of Ticket Operations or some such crap and somehow got us in. I think we should be on the first level which is great because we've always been on the 2nd level. This will be my first time down there this season. I'm looking forward to it, but I wish Johnson was gonna pitch
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/05 01:14 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
...but I wish Johnson was gonna pitch
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/05 01:11 PM

Wow. I think this year, my Yankees are the "team that makes other teams, especially bad teams, look like champions." :p

12 runs by the Tigers??? Holy shit!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/05 03:36 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]...but I wish Johnson was gonna pitch
[/b][/quote]Hey, even if he's not having the best year of his career, he's still obviously 1 of the best (if not THE best) left handed pitcher in the history of the game
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/05 04:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
.....even if (Johnson) he's not having the best year of his career, he's still obviously 1 of the best (if not THE best) left handed pitcher in the history of the game
Well, let's see.....

Sanday Koufax
Lefty Grove
Steve Carlton
Warren Spahn

At best, he's #3 behind Koufax & Grove, and possibly #5 behind the other two as well.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/05 06:27 PM

Well I said he's one of the best if not the best, meaning it was based on people's opinion. I've heard from many that they consider him maybe the 2nd best left handed pitcher ever
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/05 07:48 PM

The Yanks shipped Quantrill to San Diego for May and Redding. Not really an upgrade (?) in my opinion...Tim Redding is 0-5 this year with an ERA of 9.10...and Darrell May is 1-3 with a 5.61 ERA. Oh well. May just beat Johan Santana and the Twins, but grr...maybe May will be able to help us out, but Redding looks like a dud.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/05 07:52 PM

Yeah I heard about this too. Why would they pick up these bums?? They're just as bad if not worse than Paul
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/05 07:59 PM

May has a 3.63 E.R.A. in 13 relief appearances this year. He's also made four decent starts out of eight.

Plus, he's a lefty.

There are plenty of fifth starters around who are worse than he is.
Posted By: Caporegime

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/05 08:45 AM

As a Padres fan, I can say that I am glad that San Diego got rid of May and Redding. May was supposed to be the answer to the #5 in the Padres rotation, but was never consistent. He had a few good outings, but he was always an odd ball. And since I never did like the Yankees, I am really glad that they got them. Hopefully those guys will carry their inconsistent pitching to New York. I don't care much for Quantrill either, but San Diego is better off without Redding in the bullpen.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/05 05:43 PM

I'm not watching the game right now, but how early do you figure before we see these guys in a Yankee uniform?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/05 06:54 PM

What guys? I've been watching it and it's a fast game. The Yanks need to add another run for insurance purposes, but Cano's been pretty bad a$$ as of late
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/05 07:33 PM

Ahhh, the Yankees win! They took 2 out of 3 from Detroit, now they've got Baltimore tomorrow and they need that series as much as they needed this
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/05 08:22 PM

If they trade Robinson Cano, I will boycott the rest of this season. I can't believe that there is still talk of moving him and/or Wang.

BTW - Does anyone think that Kim Jones is a terrible interviewer? I think Joe is ready to flip at her inept postgame questions.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 04:10 PM

That would be stupid, wouldn't it? Wang's having a very good season, and is one of the few consistent pitchers that they have. And Cano is doing okay.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 05:07 PM

I agree, they should hang onto Cano & Wang and build around them. They already have Jeter, A-Rod and Sheff (for only another year though). They need to keep Cano, Wang, and resign Matsui
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 05:27 PM

Sheff just cranked a 3 run shot! 3-0 in the 1st
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 05:31 PM

Hideki blasts 1! 4-0 Yanks (and my ma even called that homer before he hit it)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 05:44 PM

It's Giambi's turn now, 5-0!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 05:54 PM

Mmm, how many umpires and nobody saw that Womack was safe, the ball wasn't in Mora's glove? Oh well. Cano line drive sends in Jeter, 6-0 Yanks.

Who ain't so bad? Baltimore ain't so bad.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 06:13 PM

Yeah it should have been 7-0 but what are you gonna do? The Yanks need these 2 games against Baltimore
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 07:26 PM

F me, now it's 6-5 Yanks
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 09:01 PM

Yankees take the lead, Yankees take the lead 10-8!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 09:24 PM

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh the Yankees win! Yankees win 13-8
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 10:28 PM

Hmm, Anderson didn't have a good outing, Proctor looked *okay* (damn, if he can throw 98 mph, what's RJ's problem?). Tanyon also good.

Do you realize that was the most production out of Giambi in two years?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/05 11:56 PM

Yeah I know right. Giambi had a good game and I'm happy for him. Sure Bernie can't play the field like he used to but man he can still hit!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/05 12:05 AM

Bernie is crazy, but he does seem to be letting good pitches get by him. His field play isn't stellar anymore, which is why I'm glad they recalled Bubba Crosby.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/05 12:10 AM

Yeah I was surprised to see Bubba out there, poor guy kept running towards 2nd I'd put Giambi at first and Bernie DH but the problem is is there's no where to put Tino or Reuben
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/05 01:20 PM

Put Tino at first, and shuffle Ruben and Bernie at DH, or put Ruben in left field and Bernie DH.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/05 01:26 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
put Ruben in left field and Bernie DH.
How fast is he in the field? Also, if you do that than you'd have to move Hideki to center and now what happens to Womack?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/05 01:44 PM

I'm not saying play everyday, I'm talking about in situational play, though I suppose it might work too for interleague games when we don't have the DH.

I still want Matsui at LF, and either Bernie or Crosby. Screw Womack, he's going to be a situational player at best, I'd rather see them utilize Rey Sanchez.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/05 01:57 PM

I like Womack for his speed on the bags. Sure he can't hit for sh*t but we need his presence on the bags
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/05 05:38 PM

Giambi goes yard again! 3 times in 2 days, 1-0 Yanks
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/05 05:57 PM

Wow it's 6-0 again and Giambi got a double for another RBI. He's really seeing the ball good as of late
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/05 06:13 PM

Sheff hits a 3 run shot and now A-Rod hits a solo. 10-0
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/05 06:56 PM

Another 10 run lead, now 12-2 after Hideki's 2 run shot
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/05 07:52 PM

Ahhhhhhhhhhh the Yankees win! Yankees win 12-3 (now that's what I call an a$$ whooping)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/06/05 12:47 AM

Mmm, yes, again, Giambi is actually producing for a change, it's magical!

Let's keep the ball rolling and get into 1st place, Bombers!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/05 12:35 PM

Well it's official, I'm going down to the Stadium Saturday for the Old Timers game and the Yanks/Indians game afterwards. My ma's the one who really wanted to go down for the Old Timers game, but I'm excited nonetheless. This will be my first time seeing them this season. I wish Johnson was pitching Saturday though
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/05 01:43 PM

It begins at 2:00 PM, right I12? I'm gonna watch it on YES.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/05 01:46 PM

Yeah the Old Timers game is at 2:00 with the Yanks/Indians at 4:05
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/08/05 12:54 AM

Giambi is looking good baby!

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/08/05 01:04 AM

He sure is, I was just gonna post about his RBI single. He also homered too, that's 4 HR's in his last 3 games. Man he's really killing the ball and I'm so happy for him
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/05 12:57 AM

I'm surprised the game's on tonight with all the rain we've been getting today. Glad to see they're winning (just got back from watching the Fantastic Four). Can't wait to see the Old Timers game and the regular game tomorrow. GO YANKEES!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/05 02:29 AM

Congrats to the Yanks on their 6 straight win Hopefully they'll make it 7 when I go to the game tomorrow
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/05 02:54 AM

The Old Timers game is always awesome. Especially with all those Yankee legends. Hope you have fun, Irish!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/05 02:57 AM

Graize Don_Andrews. I'm taking it you've been before? I was hoping to see Mattingly, but it doesn't look like he's going to be participating in it
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/05 11:44 PM

Well we went to the game and it was a lot of fun. Saw Sheffield & A-Rod hit 2 homers in the first but the Yankees still lost. It was nice to see the old timers though
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/05 05:44 PM

Glad you enjoyed yourself. But what did you do to them to make them break their streak???
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/05 06:12 PM

Hey it wasn't me, it was May. It was 2-0 after the first and the kid screwed it up. But Giambi just hit, that's right you guessed it, ANOTHER home run. Yanks lead 3-2
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/05 07:21 PM

They are in the lead, but the Indians are having a very good inning right now. God that Sizemore is fast!! He just got a triple in the 7th. And, is it me or does Coco Crisp have the coolest name in the world?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/05 08:12 PM

Sheff hits another bomb today! 9-4 Yanks, that should do it
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/05 08:19 PM

Congrats to the Yanks on their win today, 3 outta 4 from Cleveland. Now they're only 2.5 games out from Boston going into the break
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/05 08:45 PM

It was an excellent game, and Sturtze held the Indians well.
Posted By: Johnny Stiltz

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/12/05 12:44 AM

They are only 2.5 games out -they are still very much in it
i hope they can put off the first half of the season and take on Bos/Bal -
that would be very disappointing if they choked

HOW WOULD YOU GRADE THE TEAM SO FAR -i give em a B+ and thats only cuz of late they are improving
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/12/05 01:52 AM

Are they really improving that much or has Bal/ Bos been screwing up?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/12/05 02:30 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
Are they really improving that much or has Bal/ Bos been screwing up?
I think it's a combination of both. I mean, you have to give credit to the Yanks for playing better, but on the same token I'll admit that Baltimore and Boston have been sliding (Baltimore because of injuries and I don't know why for Boston). In any case, we're making up ground.

I was beginning to worry about you fathersson. You seem to be the first in line when the Yanks lose, but when they win 6 out of 7 going into the break, I've gotta put out an APB for ya

BTW, I'd grade their first half performance a B- or C+ at best (their pitching still needs work and they've been too inconsistent all season long. Not to mention they're a mere 6 games above .500 at 46-40)
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/12/05 03:42 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I was beginning to worry about you fathersson. You seem to be the first in line when the Yanks lose, but when they win 6 out of 7 going into the break, I've gotta put out an APB for ya

I could say the same about you, when the Yankees are losing you post less then normal, But when they are winning you give a blow by blow of the game.

AS you may have notice, I have not been on the boards as much. I have been rather busy at work with the old man away last week. We have had great weather here in CNY. Seems hotter then normal too.

Any free time is spent enjoying myself or working out at the gym. My Girl is a fitness nut and she keeps after me now that she is home for the summer.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/12/05 11:24 AM

Tell me about it, the weather here has sucked! We're gonna get more rain this week I didn't know you lived in the City?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/14/05 11:45 PM

Giambi homered again! That's now 6 home runs in his last 7 games!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 12:42 AM

Sheffield homers now! 5-4
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 01:00 AM

Bad throw, tie ball game 5-5
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 01:42 AM

Damn Ortiz!! Now they're losing 6-5. Ugh!!!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 01:54 AM

Reuben ties it with a double!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 01:59 AM

Flash Gordon is not starting out well.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 02:09 AM

A-ROD HOMERS OFF OF SCHILLING! 8-6 YANKS!! WOO F'N HOO!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 02:22 AM

ORTIZ STRIKES OUT TO MO. How sweet it is, only 1.5 games out now Anything to say fatersson!?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 02:24 AM

Mo - the closer of all closers!! That was an amazing game!! And ARod came through in the clutch!! Go Yankees!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 03:28 AM



Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 01:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]ORTIZ STRIKES OUT TO MO. How sweet it is, only 1.5 games out now Anything to say fatersson!? [/b]
Sure, you did just what I said you always do. A blow by blow of the game. Announcing ever Yankee run. But stone cold when Boston was on the move.

That is why these two teams have such great games against each other. They both seem to rise up when playing each other.

I think that there is three more to go so don't get on your Yankee high horse just yet. This game could have very quickly gone the other way. Maybe that is why you are so happy, because you didn't lose like you thought you were going to.

Anyway, enjoy the next few days. Baseball at its best.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 02:05 PM

I've been on my Yankee high horse all season long. As for why I'm so happy, well aside from tomorrow's game (when Randy Johnson pitches), yesterday's game could be the only game they win now that Wang is down with an injury. But you've gotta admit, that was a great game last night and I have a little bit of a right to celebrate when "Boston's hero" now chokes and Ortiz ends a game on a strike out to Mo!

BTW, if I did a complete play-by-play when Boston's ahead then you'd be complaining about that. I personally like to only post positive things such as the Yanks winning a game. Plus, I'm sure you'll enlighten all of us when the Yanks lose, so I have to return the favor and enlighten you when they win
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 09:50 PM

Mmm, I've been away this past week, and have missed all of the fun. I guess we're going to see Redding start tonight (according to ESPNews)...did he make any relief appearences at all yet? Or is this going to be his first time in a Yankee uni?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 11:03 PM

This will be his first time in a Yankee uniform. I think he may have pitched in Columbus (either AA or AAA) but we'll see how he does tonight
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/05 11:53 PM

Yankees' pitching staff stuggling again

BOS 5-0 in the bottom of the 2nd, 1 out, bases loaded and Manny Ramirez at the homeplate. how about them Yankees!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 12:05 AM

Hmmmmmm, where is the Irishman when the Yankees are down 8-zip?
No where to be heard from.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 01:11 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
Hmmmmmm, where is the Irishman when the Yankees are down 8-zip?
No where to be heard from.
Hmmmmmmmm, where was fathersson yesterday when A-Rod shelled Schilling!? No where to be heard from BTW, is anyone SURPRISED with tonight's game? I knew it'd be like this going into it and I know it's going to be like this Sunday. You'll be hearing from me tomorrow when Unit pitches
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 01:46 AM

Boy, they were really ragging on Manny Ramirez for not running to first, but I have to admit that it wasn't very sporting to just stand there. The ball clearly wasn't leaving the ballpark, and if Melky-Way Cabrera would've dropped it...forget it.

Wow. Okay. So yes, I think Redding is a dud (though he hails from nearby Rochester and went to MCC, where a few people I know go/went). Though it's not like his stats were sparkling in the first place anyways. Let's hope RJ has something better tomorrow night.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 01:51 AM

Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 02:39 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b] Hmmmmmm, where is the Irishman when the Yankees are down 8-zip?
No where to be heard from.
Hmmmmmmmm, where was fathersson yesterday when A-Rod shelled Schilling!? No where to be heard from BTW, is anyone SURPRISED with tonight's game? I knew it'd be like this going into it and I know it's going to be like this Sunday. You'll be hearing from me tomorrow when Unit pitches [/b][/quote]What does yesterday have to do with tonight? Typical Yankee Fanatic spinners. Why would you hear from me. I don't hang on every Yankee Game like it is life and death.

Oh My, I just found out that the Yankees LOST 17-1.

So you gave up tonight, and am waiting for the unit to save you?

Just like I said, We only hear from you when the Yankees are up on top.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 02:47 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b] Hmmmmmm, where is the Irishman when the Yankees are down 8-zip?
No where to be heard from.
Hmmmmmmmm, where was fathersson yesterday when A-Rod shelled Schilling!? No where to be heard from BTW, is anyone SURPRISED with tonight's game? I knew it'd be like this going into it and I know it's going to be like this Sunday. You'll be hearing from me tomorrow when Unit pitches [/b][/quote]What does yesterday have to do with tonight? Typical Yankee Fanatic spinners. Why would you hear from me. I don't hang on every Yankee Game like it is life and death.

Oh My, I just found out that the Yankees LOST 17-1.

So you gave up tonight, and am waiting for the unit to save you?

Just like I said, We only hear from you when the Yankees are up on top. [/b][/quote]And just as I said, we only hear from you when the Yankees are lossing You said so youself, "why would I hear from you last night?" Well I pose the same question, "why would you hear from me tonight?"
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 03:01 AM

Maybe because you can't get enough of the Yankees?

And show me where I ONLY post when the Yankees lose?

I think you are going soft in the head with the defense of your loved Yankees and see most as your rival.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 03:21 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
We only hear from you when the Yankees are up on top.
Sounds like some girls I know.


Pah-da-bah.

:p
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 06:41 AM

How 'bout them Yanks?

Gonna try and win a pennant with only two starting pitchers.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 06:55 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
You'll be hearing from me tomorrow when Unit pitches
Matt Clement is the name for tomorrow night. and let's wait for Johnson's ERA go up a few digits
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 10:42 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
And show me where I ONLY post when the Yankees lose?

I think you are going soft in the head with the defense of your loved Yankees and see most as your rival.
Well before yesterday it looks like you haven't posted in this thread since June 26. What's the matter, the winning streak going into the break ruin the first half 'fun' for you!?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 11:26 AM

OMG! Last night's game was awful!! That was just so bad that it my husband and I actually started laughing whenever Boston scored AGAIN, so we laughed a lot!! As Plaw would see, Sheesh!!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 04:16 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b] And show me where I ONLY post when the Yankees lose?

I think you are going soft in the head with the defense of your loved Yankees and see most as your rival.
Well before yesterday it looks like you haven't posted in this thread since June 26. What's the matter, the winning streak going into the break ruin the first half 'fun' for you!? [/b][/quote]Hmmmmm, haven't we already been down this road. Like I said you are going soft in the head. Let me review my pass posting for you to remind you once again.

AS you may have notice, I have not been on the boards as much. I have been rather busy at work with the old man away last week. We have had great weather here in CNY. Seems hotter then normal too.

I hope this helps you in answering your charges.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 06:27 PM

No it does not help in answering my charges, so you can try again if you like or we can just stick with the old 'you're on when they lose, and I'm on when they win' philosphy!

BTW, A-Rod homers 2-0 Yanks
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 06:33 PM

Bernie singles, Matsui scores! 3-0
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 06:37 PM

2 more runs for John Falhrety. Oh fathersson, where are you!?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 06:43 PM

Tino scores on Jeter's single, 6-0
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 06:52 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
John Falhrety
Who the fuck is John Falhrety? Is that like John Flaherty's bastard brother? :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 06:56 PM

No, it's his evil twin who just scored some runs As for the Cocks, yup, Ortiz struck out to end the inning to Unit
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 07:13 PM

Great piece of base running by the Cocks
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 09:29 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]You'll be hearing from me tomorrow when Unit pitches
Matt Clement is the name for tomorrow night. and let's wait for Johnson's ERA go up a few digits [/b][/quote]You mean Matt Clement who didn't even go 4 innings!
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 10:16 PM

let's just say I was too excited. now, it looks like that's the destiny of this season's Yankee team: barely beating the Red Sox in maybe their best outing of the year after a 17-1 blowout.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 10:34 PM

Best outing of the year!? Where have you been? Friday's game was better than today's. And remember, the Red Cocks were in this type of position last year
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 10:54 PM

"barely beating the Red Sox in maybe their best outing of the year"
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 10:56 PM

okay, really, my point is that the Yankees aren't going anywhere this season. maybe if they make a blockbuster trade involving 2 or 3 reliable pitchers
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/05 11:22 PM

Yankees trade for Leiter, though I haven't found out for what/whom (Leiter was designated for assignment, so...). I suppose it's not a bad pickup, but with Wang possibly gone for awhile, we're going to need somebody who at the very least has some starting experience. Not bad. Hideo Nomo is also available, maybe we could keep that Japanese thing going. Matsui-Wang-Nomo, hmm...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/05 01:53 AM

Wang is from Taiwan not Japan. I didn't know Nomo was available. I also heard they might go after some kid from Seattle but I forgot his name. As for Leiter, I think they just got rid of some minor leaguer
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/05 02:01 AM

Alright then. Let's change it then to the "Asian Connection" (though I suppose it wouldn't be PC) and make a T-shirt with Matsui, Nomo, and Wang on it?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/05 01:14 PM

I'm so glad we didn't get Kaz Matsui a couple of years ago. I remember the Yanks were somewhat interested in getting him and a lot of other teams were. Smart idea we stuck with what we had at the time. I'm excited to see Leiter pitch tonight. I'm sure he'll get rocked (you're first start in the AL is against Boston in Fenway) but he could surprise you
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/05 03:20 PM

Kazuo Matsui isn't a good fielder at all, certainly not what we need at this point, so I'm also glad we didn't acquire him.

---

I played as Leiter on MVP Baseball 2005 last night. Seems to be good. Then again, when I put Redding on the Yankees roster, I struck out the first two batters...

His efforts in the 2000 WS are enough to solidify him as one tough SOB when he threw 142 pitches (even if the Yanks still won against that other New York team).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/05 10:50 PM

Sheff knocks the f out of that knuckleball! 4-0 Yanks
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 12:12 AM

A-Rod's 3rd homer in 4 games, 5-1 Yanks
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 12:53 AM

*WHEW!*
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 12:53 AM

Tony Mosrite, what happened to your Cocks this weekend!? They drop 3 outta 4 to the Yanks at home, now they're only a half a game out
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 12:58 AM

Mmm, Leiter is awesome! Great job by the Yanks. Cano had a rookie mistake, but it was close. Darn close.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 01:04 AM

Yeah I was about to kill Cano if he blew that game for us. And Leiter pitched an absolute gem! The guy is picked up yesterday, told he's pitching today against Boston in Boston and only gives up 1 run and 3 walks to go with 8 strike outs in 6 1/3 innings GREAT JOB AL!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 01:30 AM

Cano's a rookie. He's still adjusting, no big.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 02:16 AM

Very scary 9th inning. Great relay by ARod, Posada and Tino. And did you see that catch by Jeter? It was a virtually impossible catch to make, but he did it.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 02:26 AM

It was actually the second of the night like that for Jeter, which continues to make it more and more clear that he shouldn't have been passed over for the all-star game.

And yes, A-Rod continues to be a prowess, it's really good to see he's gotten over last years "jitters" or whatever.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 02:35 AM

Nice new avatar Babe And what catch are you guys referring to? Brown's suppose to go tomorrow so let's hope he continues to keep this good thing going
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 02:42 AM

Thank you, Irish. Love me some DJ. He made a catch, I believe it was in the 8th inning, that looked like it was going to go right over his head, and he just jumped up and plucked it out of the sky. Great catch. And it was a disgrace that he wasn't in the All Star game, but heck, better he rested up for these last four games.

Leiter was tossed in their like some poor kid smothered in barbecue sauce and raw meat and thrown into a cageful of tigers. He was poised, controlled and pitched a great game.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 02:48 AM

I'm really looking forward to continue seeing Leither pitch. I think if he keeps pitching the way he did tonight and Moose and Unit stays healthy and we get Wang back for the playoffs, they got a legitate shot to win it (if not the favorite with that lineup as well). Should make for some interesting and exciting baseball in the Bronx
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 03:42 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Love me some DJ.
Gonna make love to ya woman.
gonna lay you down by the fire.
And caress your womanly body,
make ya moan and perspire.
Gonna get those juices flowin'
we makin' love baby, love baby,
love baby, love, love, love, baby!



Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 12:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
... aside from tomorrow's game (when Randy Johnson pitches), yesterday's game could be the only game they win now that Wang is down with an injury. ...
:)



Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 12:40 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] ... aside from tomorrow's game (when Randy Johnson pitches), yesterday's game could be the only game they win now that Wang is down with an injury. ...
:)



[/b][/quote]That's why I chose my words carefully and said that it might be the only game they could win. Glad to see I was wrong
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 02:36 PM

Understood, Irish...my glee was more directed at the Boston fans who were cheering their boys all weekend.

( Though I have to admit...Friday's 17-1 game became somewhat of a joke after a while !! Thank GOD they came back to win the next 2 )

On to Texas...

Apple
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 02:46 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
( Though I have to admit...Friday's 17-1 game became somewhat of a joke after a while !! Thank GOD they came back to win the next 2 )
Exactly! That game might be the game people are talking about the most because of the score but you know what, it still only counts as 1 game :p
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 03:09 PM

Doesn't matter how many runs they lose by, a loss is a loss and a win is a win. I think it proved that the Yankees couldn't be beaten psychologically, which is just as important. Now we have to see how Baltimore does against Minnesota and how Boston does tonight against Tampa Bay. And, of course, how the Yankees do in Texas!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 03:11 PM

Brown's pitching tonight. Hopefully his back holds up and can pitch us to another win
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/05 03:36 PM

Hey, good for the Yankees! The talk around the old coffee pot this morning had a few items come up as it often does between these two teams. Here were the high points.

YF: Yankees took three out of four games. Now we are back! Screw Boston!
BF: Yankees got their asses kick 17-1 though. That is twice this year 17 runs against them. Where were those superstars of yours those night? I didn't see the Yankees busting up Boston like that!
YF: Yeah, well we still took the games!
BF: Well, you should with 206 million plus dollar payroll!
YF: Well, Boston has a high payroll too!
BF: No where near what the Yank-offs do! Maybe a 3rd less.
YF: Well, Our pitching has been a sore spot!
BF: So, tell George to spend 50 million more and bring some more old timers to New York!
YF: Well, Leiter rocked Boston's Boat!
BF: Well, Lets see how many games he wins for that almost 3 million that they are paying him for half a season at age 39!
YF: Well, they will get others too.
BF: Sure what will that make them, like 14 pitchers this year. Must be nice to have anything money can buy and still lose that many games!
YF: Well so did Boston

It is then that A Baltimore Fan steps up and says. Screw Both of you. My O's are right up there with both of you and we only have a 75 Million dollar payroll. Less them half of what Boston gives there team and about 1/3 of what the Yankers give. We may not win the whole thing this year, but I still love those o"s.

YF: Yeah, but you will never have as many titles as the Yankees!

OF: Stop living in the past. If the Yankees don't win it all this year you will see a bunch of people hitting the highway and that includes Brian Chashman that ass-hole who should have know better then to let the Yankees get into this problem.
YF: Well, we are in ahead of you!
OF: so, we have been there the whole year and have a bunch of hurt players. Where have you been but hanging out with Tampa Bay? Who kicked your asses a few time this year, Right?
YF: Screw you, we are there now. Just as long as we are there at the end, that is all that matters! As long as we make the playoffs.
OF: For crying out loud, like who doesn't make the playoffs anymore.

The old man come in and says: Knock off the crap, let's get to work, I don't pay you all to sit around and grumble.
When The Yankees, Boston or the O's start playing ball like the "Cubbies" then you have something to talk about.

Funny thing is, I didn't even think the old man followed baseball.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 12:55 AM

6 unanswered runs for the Yanks in the top of the 2nd. Not to long ago A-Rod was on 3rd, Matsui on 1st and Sierra just struck out for the first out of the inning. Now it's 6-3 Yanks!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 01:02 AM

Great inning, wasn't it? But I miss Soriano!! I want him back!!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 01:39 AM

Sheff and Matsui blast a Homer a piece, 9-5 Yanks.

A couple of innings away from 1st Place.

Brown is pitching beach balls to the plate, Barajas just Homered, 9-6 Rangers.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 01:51 AM

17 runs and it's only the top of the 5th. Although the Yankees are currently winning, it's really anybody's game.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 02:16 AM

Red Sux lose 3-1 to the Devil Rays, it's all up to the Yanks now...
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 03:26 AM

and it looks like Ruben Sierra woke up and saved the night.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 03:26 AM

Yanks just retook the lead 11-10 after lossing it in the 6th by giving up 4 runs
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 03:27 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
and it looks like Ruben Sierra woke up and saved the night.
...and it looks like he's headed for the DL.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 12:39 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Just Lou:
[quote]Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
[b] and it looks like Ruben Sierra woke up and saved the night.
...and it looks like he's headed for the DL. [/b][/quote]Yeah but it was a big knock and won the game for us. Let's see how severe it is and how long he's down for. I didn't see anything about it in the paper but then again, the game didn't end til about 11:30 PM EST
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 03:28 PM

Mmm, please let Leiter take Brown's spot in the rotation, and toss Brown into some form of trade for a CF.

Bernie is showing his age, for sure now. I didn't think so, but last game proved he's really lost his edge, and has lost more than a step or two.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 03:52 PM

They should either let Bernie stay on next season as DH, or he should retire as a Yankee. His arm is showing his age, but the man can still hit.

They should get rid of both Brown and Wright, no matter what they have to do. I read that Wang is on the DL for two weeks, at which time they will decide if he needs surgery.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 03:59 PM

Yeah I read that too about Wang which is good news for now. I also read that Bernie might not call it quits after the season and may sign elsewhere if the Yanks don't pick him up. He still is a very good hitter and I trust his confidence at the plate, but when he dropped that ball yesterday I almost jumped through the screen. Sunday it was Cano almost blowing the game, last night Bernie, who's on tap for tonight!?

BTW, as you may notice good ol fathersson is 'busy' at the time the Yanks take over first place (hey if it's only by a half game, first place is first place). Boy, you can bet your bottom dollar that if the Yanks were under Tampa Bay, fathersson wouldn't be too busy at all! :p It's all in good fun BTW so don't get bent outta shape
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 05:57 PM

I'm just glad that they are doing this well after everyone wrote them off. Especially after Boston lost to Tampa Bay!!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 06:00 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:

BTW, as you may notice good ol fathersson is 'busy' at the time the Yanks take over first place (hey if it's only by a half game, first place is first place). Boy, you can bet your bottom dollar that if the Yanks were under Tampa Bay, fathersson wouldn't be too busy at all! :p It's all in good fun BTW so don't get bent outta shape
Irishman, you are getting to be more of a blowhard every day.

I am very happy for you. I am truly sorry that I wasn't posting on the boards sooner to meet your needs. :rolleyes:

Folks, make some noise for the Yankees! I am marking this day on my office ledger! And I have invited all staff to joing me in a drink at the pub starting at 3:30 PM as this afternoon is free of work, and the old man is out of town!

So at 3:30PM this afternoon hold you soda in the air. You may not be there (in First) for long! and with this heat, we don't need a reason to pound a wet one, but this will do.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 06:05 PM

Well, I won't be joining you at 3:30 but I'll pound some tonight in honor of your calling during the game tonight (or movie, which ever I decide to watch). Glad your happy fathersson. Now wasn't it silly writing them off 20 games into the season?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 08:56 PM

Sure, but the season isn't over yet!

Maybe they will be back on the bottom by then!

You just don't know do you?


If any team in baseball today, should be there it would be the Yankees, with the team that they bought. But, they weren't and that is what people where pissed about. Including good old George himself!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 09:14 PM

Oh, the suds were great, you missed a great time.
Just an hour and a half and we were back. We have people laughing and lots of cheap sports talk. The whole bar area was having a great time. It cost me $72.50 plus tip.

Still, the Yankee fans were happpy, The Boston fans still say they suck, and some others couldn't give a crap as long as they got some free suds!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 09:53 PM

I'll have some for ya during the game. Hopefully you catch it. It starts at 8:05 PM EST and Moose is pitching
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 11:48 PM

Mmm, Bernie can hit, absolutely. But I think what they talked about on Mike and the Mad Dog this afternoon is right - if he wants to stick around on the roster next year, he should take a serious paycut ala Paul O'Neill, and relegate himself to being a situational DH and a bench player. He just doesn't have the wheels or field judgement anymore to warrant a starting job, except at DH. And I love the guy, he is one of the best clutch hitters we have on the rosters.

I hope our order beats the shite out of Kenny Rogers. He basically proved his apology was crap when he mouthed off to the cameraman while he was being booked. As Jay Mariotti said, he's either dumb as a bag of rocks, or too arrogant for his own good. And Woody Paige railed him today, a tirade on "Around the Horn" which was absolutely nuts, but probably true.

Go Yanks!!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/05 11:58 PM

I thought Parks was pitching tonight and not Rogers? Yeah, I couldn't believe he was mouthing off either. It's that that got him INTO trouble in the first place which led to him being booked. Moron
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 02:34 AM

Finally the Yanks score a run, 1-0 top of 8
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 02:52 AM

F U Franklin
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 02:58 AM

Well, Matsui is on first, no outs, and Giambi's up. Keep your fingers crossed.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 03:03 AM

Matsui got thrown out and now Womack is running for Giambi as Posada is now at the plate
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 03:05 AM

Posada popped it up. Two away. Bernie's up at bat. It would be nice if he hit a home run tonight.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 03:19 AM

Dam! It was nice to be in first place while it lasted!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 03:43 AM

None of the AL East is exactly lighting the world on fire. Boston can't find a closer, and Baltimore can't find itself. No big, the Yanks are playing against a pretty good offensive team.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 01:04 PM

I'm surprised in how well Park pitched (but I'm pissed as well). I can't believe they lost that game. They needed it and tonight probably won't win with the kid Small on the mound again Benoit I think is his name. And then tomorrow, Friday and Saturday's games against the Angels are at 10:05 PM EST! I'm not staying up for those games. I'll see some of them but probably not all of the games. I won't be able to see another game until Sunday when they play at 4:05
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 02:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
They needed it and tonight probably won't win with the kid Small on the mound again Benoit I think is his name.
Small's ERA is misleading because he played two seasons in which he played one game and had huge ERAs (9.00 and 27.00, respectively).

Actually, he seems to be halfway decent. I haven't seen his stats from Columbus, but I know I've heard some things that the Yankees management likes him. Oh well. It can't be worse than Redding, can it? :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 02:02 PM

They got rid of Redding already haven't they? Oh well, I wish I could see Unit pitch tomorrow but I'd have to stay up til at least 1 AM for the game to end
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 02:11 PM

Yes, the front office bitchsmacked him onto the FA list after his abhorrent loss.

I want to know why they aren't trying Darrell May...we haven't seen him play yet, have we (I've been on vacation for the past week, so I've missed)? I saw him on the bullpen bench the other night, but he's a starter, why not give him a shot? I know he had problems in San Diego, but Leiter was terrible in Florida and now he seems to be back to old form.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 02:13 PM

Yes, the front office bitchsmacked him onto the FA list after his abhorrent loss.

I want to know why they aren't trying Darrell May...we haven't seen him play yet, have we (I've been on vacation for the past week, so I've missed)? I saw him on the bullpen bench the other night, but he's a starter, why not give him a shot? I know he had problems in San Diego, but Leiter was terrible in Florida and now he seems to be back to old form.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/05 02:29 PM

May got rocked in his 2 starts in a Yankee uniform. In his first start against the Indians (the game I went to, Old Timers Day) he went 4 1/3 innings, giving up 8 hits and 7 runs (3 of which were home runs), and he had 3 strike outs. His 2nd start against Boston was the game they lost 17-1. He went 2 2/3 innings, giving up 6 hits and 6 runs (1 of which was a home run), 3 walks and no strikes outs. The guy had 103 pitches against Cleveland and 69 against Boston
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/05 02:03 AM

Yankees win! Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh, theeeeeeeeeeeeee Yankees win 8-4 We should have swept because we should have won last night's game, but I'll take 2 outta 3. Great road trip so far. They're 5-2 on it
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/05 02:53 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
May got rocked in his 2 starts in a Yankee uniform. In his first start against the Indians (the game I went to, Old Timers Day) he went 4 1/3 innings, giving up 8 hits and 7 runs (3 of which were home runs), and he had 3 strike outs. His 2nd start against Boston was the game they lost 17-1. He went 2 2/3 innings, giving up 6 hits and 6 runs (1 of which was a home run), 3 walks and no strikes outs. The guy had 103 pitches against Cleveland and 69 against Boston
Okay, well I missed that. Have they released him yet, or what?

Small did a decent job. I still believe that if Leiter and Small continue to be decent, and Wang can return, Kevin Brown might be out the door.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/05 03:04 PM

I think the Yanks have released him but I haven't heard anything! I've checked ESPN.com & Yankees.com and looked at their rosters and he's nowhere there. I didn't watch the game last night unfortunately but I was surprised at how Small pitched. I'm seriously hoping they get all their starts back for the playoffs. Imagine if they have Moose, Unit, Wright, Brown, Wang, Leiter, and Small
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/05 03:36 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Imagine if they have Moose
Yes.

Quote:
Unit
Yes.

Quote:
Wright
If he's healthy. But hopefully not, because he sucks.

Quote:
Brown
Please God, no.

Quote:
Leiter
Yes.

Quote:
Wang
Yes.

Quote:
Small
Yes, at least so far.

Quote:
Sturtze
Yes, and give him a start.

Quote:
Groom
Yes.

Quote:
Franklin
No.

Quote:
Gordon
Yes.

Quote:
Rivera
Yes, absolute necessity.

Quote:
Proctor
Yes or No.

---

This type of thing just makes me even more angry that we let Jon Lieber go after last season. Grr! Bunch of dumbasses. We pay for stupid Kevin Brown and let go our most consistent pitcher.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/05 03:58 PM

Well remember we got Brown in a trade for Jeff Weaver, it had nothing to do with Leiber. But I agree, we should have kept him because he was an innings eater. What do you think about Clement or Wells? Think we should have signed at least 1 of them!?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/05 01:53 AM

I know Brown had nothing to do with Leiber. My point was that it made absolutely zero sense to let him get away last year, the same way we let Pettite and Clemens get away previously.

And no, I don't think we should have gone after Wells or Clement. Clement is having a good year, but didn't we beat him? Same with Wells, who is having too many injury problems. No, we have to look elsewhere.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/05 02:22 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
I know Brown had nothing to do with Leiber. My point was that it made absolutely zero sense to let him get away last year, the same way we let Pettite and Clemens get away previously.
Remember, Clemens left us, we didn't leave him. He "retired" and then a couple of weeks later after he got outta his contract with the Yanks decided, oh I'd like to pitch for a Texas team. Sneaky b*stard!

As for the Yanks, Cano knocks in Jeter and A-Rod hits another home run off of Colon!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/05 02:56 AM

Giambi hits ANOTHER home run! Looks like my prediction of 20-25 for this year wasn't asking too much
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/05 03:01 AM

I love Cano. We should start a fan club.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/05 03:48 AM

Johnson worked outta trouble and Matsui hits his 16th of the year, 4-2 Yanks
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/05 03:49 AM

Giambi just hit, yup, ANOTHER home run. Is there any stopping this guy!? 5-2
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/05 04:14 AM

F'n Tom Gordon!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/05 11:03 PM

It's not all Gordon's fault. Guerrero is insane at the plate, like Yogi Berra, he hits even "bad" pitches out of the zone. Besides, they brought him in an already bad situation courtesy of Proctor and Groom. We might not have been so screwed if Johnson had pitched longer, but supposedly he had an injury. Dunno if it was from falling in the dugout or when he slipped on his right foot.

And Giambi's two home runs were great, but that battle with K-Rod ended up screwing us. He swung at the shittiest pitch of the whole at-bat, and struck out. I mean, c'mon, I don't care how many home runs you get, you've gotta hit in the clutch. Jorge's hit also was a dud. A-Rod did a great job, if he could've went 5 more feet it would've been a homerun. And considering he was previously 0-8 against K-Rod, it was damn good.

Oh well. Let's hope Leiter stays hot from his last start and can get us a win tonight.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/05 11:29 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
We might not have been so screwed if Johnson had pitched longer, but supposedly he had an injury. Dunno if it was from falling in the dugout or when he slipped on his right foot.

And Giambi's two home runs were great, but that battle with K-Rod ended up screwing us. He swung at the shittiest pitch of the whole at-bat, and struck out. I mean, c'mon, I don't care how many home runs you get, you've gotta hit in the clutch. Jorge's hit also was a dud. A-Rod did a great job, if he could've went 5 more feet it would've been a homerun. And considering he was previously 0-8 against K-Rod, it was damn good.
Johnson hurt himself from the mound. He didn't plant his front foot properly on a pitch and he lost his balance a little. He said he'd be fine and shouldn't miss his next start which is great news. Giambi had a walk IMO but the ump called it a strike on 3-0 or 3-1 I think. Giambi HAD that walk. And yes, I thought A-Rod hit the homerun too, and I was upset it didn't go, but still he needed to score from 2nd with no outs in the 9th
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/05 02:36 PM

Damn, Leiter got rocked, and Yanks offense couldn't get off the ground. Hmm. Too bad Leiter settled down AFTER his runs scored.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/05 11:17 PM

Congrats to the Yanks on a good road trip. They went 6-5, but they should have done better. Not to bad though when Wang goes down and all you really have is Moose and Johnson. Let's go back home and now they're only 1.5 games outta first
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/25/05 01:54 AM

Mmm, but they got spanked by the Angels. If it wasn't for Matsui and Tino today, they would've been swept. It killed the whole road trip.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/26/05 12:28 AM

I was on a cruise and haven't been able to watch a game or get much news. I just got back and they have the night off.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/26/05 01:10 AM

Don't worry, we play the Twins tomorrow, hehe.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/26/05 01:43 AM

Yeah and Unit pitches and I'll miss it
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/26/05 03:16 AM

Yanks are only a game out now that Schilling blew another save!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/05 01:37 AM

Congrats to the Yanks on a well needed win 4-0 against the Twins
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/05 08:39 PM

Mmm, A-Rod is still lighting the league on fire, if he keeps this up through October, our offensive production should be fine.

BTW - did you see Steve Patterson on Cold Pizza this morning? He said that a likely trade is this:

Red Sox Get
___________

RF Gary Sheffield
RP Tom Gordon


Yankees Get
______________

LF Manny Ramirez


...?

I don't think we're trading Sheffie to get Manny, sorry. We don't need even WORSE outfield play right now. Manny is demanding a trade, and wants to come to NY, but they can't get rid of Sheff.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/05 08:52 PM

I agree! I don't want Manny (he's such a punk and classless individual). I wouldn't do it either. Why's he want out so bad? I don't buy "privacy issues." Let's face it, he wants out from Ortiz's shadow. First Pedro (who's the face of the Mets now) and now Manny. Hmmm, someone's trying to tell you something David!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/05 10:49 PM

Why would you want to go to New York, of all places, to get privacy? :p

I'd take Manny. Granted, he can be lazy, but he'd be an awesome DH, no question about it. His fielding is terrible though, so it's clearly not what the Yanks are looking for.

BTW - who called it? Did I not say that the Yanks should pick up Hideo Nomo for an Asian Connection? They picked him up off waivers today, yes! The Nomo Slider delivered in pinstripes! Hideo Nomo stats
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/05 10:55 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J on July 16th, 2005:
Yankees trade for Leiter, though I haven't found out for what/whom (Leiter was designated for assignment, so...). I suppose it's not a bad pickup, but with Wang possibly gone for awhile, we're going to need somebody who at the very least has some starting experience. Not bad. Hideo Nomo is also available, maybe we could keep that Japanese thing going. Matsui-Wang-Nomo, hmm...Alright then. Let's change it then to the "Asian Connection" (though I suppose it wouldn't be PC) and make a T-shirt with Matsui, Nomo, and Wang on it?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/05 11:11 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Why would you want to go to New York, of all places, to get privacy? :p

I'd take Manny. Granted, he can be lazy, but he'd be an awesome DH, no question about it. His fielding is terrible though, so it's clearly not what the Yanks are looking for.

BTW - who called it? Did I not say that the Yanks should pick up Hideo Nomo for an Asian Connection? They picked him up off waivers today, yes! The Nomo Slider delivered in pinstripes! Hideo Nomo stats
YES! Now we've got a guy who's 5-8 with a 7.24 ERA who TAMPA BAY of all teams dropped, just so DJ could sell his "Asian Connection T-Shirts" :p In all seriousness, he's not going to improve us (probably make us worse, if that's possible). I think all he had this year was the Yankees number. When he faces Anaheim or Boston he'll get lit up like a Christmas tree. Oh well, at least Hideki now has someone to talk to without a translator.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/05 11:45 PM

It would be incredibly stupid for them to trade Sheff. Incredibly stupid. I don't care who they got in exchange. Huge ARod fan that I am, I still haven't seen him doing anything far more spectacular than Soriano, who we traded.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/05 11:57 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
YES! Now we've got a guy who's 5-8 with a 7.24 ERA who TAMPA BAY of all teams dropped, just so DJ could sell his "Asian Connection T-Shirts" :p In all seriousness, he's not going to improve us (probably make us worse, if that's possible). I think all he had this year was the Yankees number. When he faces Anaheim or Boston he'll get lit up like a Christmas tree. Oh well, at least Hideki now has someone to talk to without a translator.
Well, how many t-shirts can I count you guys in for? 100? 200?

He's also the TB's winningest pitcher, so I guess that says alot. :p
Posted By: Jimmy Buffer

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/05 01:27 AM

Is this not the slowest played 1 run game in basebal history? I'm a Twins fan, so I thought I'd join you guys and gals tonight.
Posted By: Jimmy Buffer

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/05 01:35 AM

So which one of you jumped the fence tonight and slid into second?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/05 01:58 AM

I haven't been watching the game much but I just saw it was 4-0, bottom 7 and I turned it off. Leiter threw too many pitches over 5 innings but he still only gave up 1 run. The Yanks just couldn't score
Posted By: Jimmy Buffer

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/05 02:04 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
The Yanks just couldn't score
Welcome to the world of a Twins fan. Leiter did battle pretty well tonight. The Twins had chances to blow it open early in practically every inning, but Leiter kept the Yanks in the game. It's not over yet with that offense.
Posted By: Jimmy Buffer

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/05 02:24 AM

Here come the Yanks.
Posted By: Jimmy Buffer

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/05 02:27 AM

Oh my god! Thank you Yankee Stadium wind.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/05 05:19 PM

3-run home run for Gary Sheffield, and the Yankees lead 3-0 in the bottom of the 1st
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/05 07:49 PM

Another quick game today and another win for the Yanks as they take the series today 2-1 with a 6-3 win. Smalls doing pretty good
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/30/05 08:05 PM

WHAT THE FUCK WAS BRIAN CASHMAN SMOKING WHEN HE SIGNED ALAN EMBREE! THE YANKS ALWAYS BOMB HIM, AND NOW HE JUST BLEW THE LEAD!!!

[/President_of_the_Alan_Embree_Haters]

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/30/05 09:42 PM

I was thinking the exact same thing. Chacon pitched a good game. 6 or 7 innings I think with only 1 run given up
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/30/05 10:13 PM

WOW! I just checked the scores and the Yankees came back to win!?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/05 07:18 PM

RJ seems to be having trouble here after the 4th, he's been rocked twice. Grr.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/05 09:28 PM

Another great come from behind victory for the Yanks! I honestly didn't think they'd win that series, but we needed it since Boston's been playing Minnesota
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/05 10:52 PM

Mmm, Womack can actually hit in the clutch! Damn.

Grr...we traded Buddy Groom today to the Diamondbacks, for a player to be named later and cash. Does this mean maybe we've brought back Brad "Admiral" Halsey? That would make my day.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/05 04:29 PM

The trading deadline was kinda quiet, no?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/05 11:24 PM

I liked Buddy Groom though. There were other pitchers (Alex Graman, Darrell May, etc.) who I would've dealt before Groom. Oh well. We get either cash or a player to be named, maybe we can retrieve Halsey or another one of the prospects we gave away during the RJ trade last year?

BTW - I love Manny just being Manny again.

2 days ago TRADE ME! I GET NO PRIVACY FROM THESE FANS!!!

2 days later THESE BOSTON FANS, DEY ARE TEH BEST IN TEH WORLD, MANG!!!!

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/05 01:21 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:

[b]2 days later
THESE BOSTON FANS, DEY ARE TEH BEST IN TEH WORLD, MANG!!!!

[/b]
Did he really say that? Also, I think the Yanks got rid of May and the other guy from the Padres
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/05 12:36 PM

Watch the ESPN interview (if they still show it) after Saturdays game where Manny hit the game-winning hit sending Renteria to home plate. He's on the field and keeps repeating in broken english how "TEH ARE TEH GREATEST FANS IN TEH WUURLD, MANG, I TELL JOO, TEHR IS NO BETTER PLACE TO PLAY TEHN IN BOSTON, TEH ARE TEH GREATEST FANS IN TEH WUURLD."

It was hilarious.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/05 02:37 PM

Nomo didn't last 3 innings last night in Triple-A. He pitched 2 scoreless innings but I think in the 3rd he loaded the bases with no outs. I'd hold off on the "Asian Connection" T-Shirts for just a bit longer :p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/05 07:59 PM

Haha.

Well, okay, we could have a shirt with Wang and Matsui and call them the "Asian Sensation"
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/05 08:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Haha.

Well, okay, we could have a shirt with Wang and Matsui and call them the "Asian Sensation"
Now that's not a bad idea
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/05 12:57 AM

They were winning 4-0, and now they're losing 4-5! WTF??? Cleveland still has men on first and third.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/05 01:11 AM

That's what I'm thinking! I left and it was 4-1 Yanks. Now it's 6-4 Indians. WTF!?
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/05 10:17 AM

Riddle: How do you know when a pitcher is too old to pitch?

Answer: When he's on the Yankees!

Kevin Lumbar Brown
Mike Mush-Ball Mussina
Randy Batting-Practice Johnson

I hear Phil Niekro might be available.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/05 12:37 PM

Yeah but cheer up. I think we're going to get $30 million or so off of the books after this season when Bernie's and Brown's contract expire. I don't know who the pitchers will be that will be made available (maybe Clemens?), but I heard the Yanks could go after Damon or Juan Pierre in the offseason
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/05 12:39 PM

Now that you're back MC, let's take a look at your early season predictions:

Code:
             
           MC Predicts  Actual
-
Johnson       9-8       11-6    Doing better than expected
Mussina      14-7       10-7    May win more games, but with a lower winning %
Brown         1-3        4-7    Pitched more than you expected, but as badly 
Pavano       16-10       4-6    Much worse than you expected
Wright       10-11       2-2    No chance for 21 decisions, or even 21 starts
Others       32-41      20-21   Not too far off the mark here
-
Total        82-80      56-49
             .506       .533 
Well, you figured Johnson would be a disappointment, and you got that part right, his 11-6 record notwithstanding.

You're right around it on Mussina's performance. But who knows? He could finish 19-9 or 18-10,
and he could wind up 14-14 or 13-15 if the team falls apart

Brown too. Obviously, you figured him to be injured, and he is. He's just pitched more than you
thought he would.

You missed the mark completely on Pavano, the only one, really, that you were completely off on.

If Wright didn't get hurt I don't think he would have done much better, and possibly worse, than 10-11.

You predicted the Yankees would go 82-80 (.506), and they're 56-49 (.533), so they're doing somewhat
better than you predicted.

However, to finish at 82-80 they need to go 26-31 (.456) the rest of the way, which is certainly within
the realm of possibility. If they go, say, 30-27 or so, which is not unlikely, they'd finish at 86-76 (.531),
and you'd only be five games off on your prediction.

So far, I'd give you an overall grade of C+ or maybe B-. The only one you really missed big was Pavano.
Without him, you get a solid B+.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/05 05:03 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Yeah but cheer up. I think we're going to get $30 million or so off of the books after this season when Bernie's and Brown's contract expire. I don't know who the pitchers will be that will be made available (maybe Clemens?), but I heard the Yanks could go after Damon or Juan Pierre in the offseason
Not Clemens, but there are other pitchers around the league I'm sure the Yanks will be going after in the offseason. I'm actually surprised they didn't pull a deal for Juan Pierre, he'd a be a great asset, he's one of the speediest players I've ever seen.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/05 05:12 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
I'm actually surprised they didn't pull a deal for Juan Pierre, he'd a be a great asset, he's one of the speediest players I've ever seen.
I guess they decided to just wait and buy him instead of trading someone for him. Pretty smart IMO
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/05 05:29 PM

You think they'd try and *rent* him for the postseason maybe?

And what do you think of them declining Bernie's option? I hope he returns to the Yanks, he'd still be a valuable bench player.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/05 05:41 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
You think they'd try and *rent* him for the postseason maybe?
First, let's hope there's even a post season. Dropping 2 straight to Cleveland isn't exactly on the right track and who knows what's going on with Leiter!?

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
And what do you think of them declining Bernie's option? I hope he returns to the Yanks, he'd still be a valuable bench player.
As much as I'd love to see Bernie back in pinstripes next year, he would have to accept a lot less money plus be strictly DH like Sierra. He probably won't wanna and leave. I'd say let him leave. As unfortunate as it is, I'd let him be happy with another team and invest in getting another young talent like Damon or Pierre to go with Cano, Jeter, and A-Rod.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/05 11:48 PM

John Flaherty hits his first homerun of the year, 1-0 Yanks.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/05/05 12:26 AM

Bottom of the 5th and they're winning 2-0. Keep your fingers crossed!!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/05/05 01:30 AM

Top of the 8th and now they're losing 3-2.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/05/05 02:17 AM

Well at least they won 1 from Cleveland, but they're still 4 1/2 out from Boston
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/05/05 07:45 PM

What's the hullaballo coming out of ESPN today? There is some article on Gary Sheffield in the NY papers coming out on monday this is supposed to bring controversy in the Bronx, but I didn't understand what they meant.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/05/05 07:48 PM

Here's what I found at FoxSports.com

Sheffield: 'I know who the leader is

"NEW YORK (AP) - Gary Sheffield knows who leads the New York Yankees, and it apparently isn't Derek Jeter or Alex Rodriguez.

Sheffield all but appointed himself the Yankees' most valuable player in an interview with New York magazine, accusing reporters of distorting the truth and ruining team chemistry.
"I know who the leader is on the team," Sheffield told the magazine. "I ain't going to say who it is, but I know who it is. I know who the team feeds off. I know who the opposing team comes in knowing they have to defend to stop the Yankees.

"I know this. The people don't know. Why? The media don't want them to know. They want to promote two players in a positive light, and everyone else is garbage."

Sheffield was batting .302 this season entering Friday night's game against Toronto, a percentage point behind Jeter and well behind Rodriguez's team-leading .316.

Rodriguez also leads in home runs (30) and RBIs (85). Sheffield's 21 homers and 81 RBIs are tied for second in both categories.

Sheffield said the heavy scrutiny that goes with playing in New York inhibits friendships in the locker room.

"This is the first team I've been on where no one sits at their locker," he said. "It's where you build your chemistry, just talking about life. I'm used to having six chairs around me, but here if there are six chairs, then there's going to be 20 reporters."

Even if the clubhouse were less hectic, Sheffield said he wouldn't grow too close to any teammates.

"I don't trust that many people," he told New York. "Just my mother and my wife and a couple of friends. When I trust people, it doesn't end well."

Sheffield was never known for his congeniality during tumultuous stops in Milwaukee and Los Angeles. He blamed the media for his reputation.

"It happens because you're white and I'm black," Sheffield said. "My interpretation of things is different. You don't see it the way I see it. You write how you understand it, how you would articulate it, not how I, as a black man, would articulate it."
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/05 01:05 AM

Sounds more like his "interpretation of things" is from the POV of a jackass. He's a heart and soul player, but he's full of s**t. There would be 20 reporters in the locker room? I though that reporters haven't been allowed in the Yankee locker room in over a decade? Or am I being too literal?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/05 02:56 AM

A convincing win tonight. Where did this Aaron Small come from!? He's 3-0 with a 3.15 ERA. Good for him
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/05 02:00 PM

Mmm, Sheffy has come out and said that his quotes are being taken out of context. He gave sounding support for Jeter today on ESPN and whatnot. I'm not really concerned, it's typical of the NY media to try and stir the pot.

Anyways, yes, Small has done a great job, but I think Torre is slipping when it comes to his bullpen decisions. Small is lucky for that double play yesterday, because he was fading, and was toast by the next inning. I really was surprised that Torre didn't pull him, he's been more lax. I understand the bullpen isn't reliable, but still, c'mon, it's either guarenteed a guy who is toast, or you try a frest arm.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/05 11:46 PM

Wow, RJ. Wow. It's painstakingly obvious that the Yanks are looking more and more likely to miss the playoffs, unless the A's decide to take a nap (which is entirely possible) or the BlowSox slump.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/07/05 01:19 PM

I agree DJ. How the f*ck do you get rocked like that against Toronto!?
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/09/05 09:03 PM

Yanks need to sweep the White Sox.

DS
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/05 01:15 AM

Well, they're losing 1-0 right now at the 7th inning stretch.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/05 01:19 AM

I know, they can't even score a run against Jose Contreras!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/05 01:51 AM

See that kid who fell out of the upper deck? Luckily he landed on a net and appears to be okay. (So now I can laugh at him! )
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/05 01:59 AM

I saw!! I saw!! That was so weird! Why the heck couldn't they find a camera that showed the fall?! The YES announcers said that he came "flying" out of the upper deck. He did look pretty shaken up. And knowing that he's okay, I will laugh with you, JG
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/05 02:02 AM

No I didn't see or hear about it. What hapened!? As for the game, Alan Embree SUCKS!
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/05 04:05 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
I saw!! I saw!! That was so weird! Why the heck couldn't they find a camera that showed the fall?! The YES announcers said that he came "flying" out of the upper deck. He did look pretty shaken up. And knowing that he's okay, I will laugh with you, JG
SB,
I'm sure YES didn't want to draw attention to it (copy cats). You can bet that some camera caught it and it will show up on ESPN or some blooper show. It was the highlight of the game for us home viewers :rolleyes: Boy, that kid sure looked out of it. He probably landed on his head and twisted his neck. Yeoooouch!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/05 08:36 PM

I would of had a heart attack if i fell like that!

DS
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/05 01:01 PM

Today's paper says that the kid could face a year in jail. His friends ratted him out as a showboat.

Yankees: Who are those White Sox, George? Oh, just some ex-Yankees and a bunch of young guys hungry to win.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/05 01:45 PM

Doesn't matter MaryCas, Chicago ain't going anywhere in the postseason. As for the Yanks, looks like they're getting Jared Wright back Monday
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/05 02:47 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Doesn't matter MaryCas, Chicago ain't going anywhere in the postseason. As for the Yanks, looks like they're getting Jared Wright back Monday
What does matter is that the Yanks are 5 1/2 behind Boston and Jaret Wright is still a question mark. If Chicago isn't going anywhere in the postseason then who is?

Irish, your optimism is admirable.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/05 02:54 PM

Gotta remain optomistic

At least Wright coming back is some "good news" as Pavano's done for the season, and Brown & Wang are still out. WTF is going on with these injuries!? Plus Johnson's missing his next start. I just don't think Chicago will go to the Series, they're all show. I think Anaheim, Oakland or Boston will represent the AL, NOT Chicago
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/05 07:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Gotta remain optomistic

At least Wright coming back is some "good news" as Pavano's done for the season, and Brown & Wang are still out. WTF is going on with these injuries!? Plus Johnson's missing his next start. I just don't think Chicago will go to the Series, they're all show. I think Anaheim, Oakland or Boston will represent the AL, NOT Chicago
If Yankee fans are at all optimistic about getting back into it with the likes of Jaret Wright, then these are very desperate times. I originally said Minnesota would be the wild card, but that was before the injury to Tori Hunter. Now I have no doubt that the wild card will come from the AL West.

I agree with you about Chicago - they're the 2005 version of the 2001 Mariners. Lots of wins in the regular season, but will choke in the playoffs. Plus, Chicago has feasted on poor teams this year and is barely .500 against teams w/winning records.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/05 07:33 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
I agree with you about Chicago - they're the 2005 version of the 2001 Mariners. Lots of wins in the regular season, but will choke in the playoffs. Plus, Chicago has feasted on poor teams this year and is barely .500 against teams w/winning records.
Exactly! And what happens when they face a struggling team like the Yanks!? They almost get swept (the Yanks should hav won games 2 & 3) but unfortunatley couldn't get the job done. How about the year is having though!? Everyone left him for dead after his 2 blown saves at the begining of the year, now his ERA is like .90 (could be the lowest of his career) and he's tied a career high 30 consecutive saves
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/05 07:45 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by goombah:
[b] I agree with you about Chicago - they're the 2005 version of the 2001 Mariners. Lots of wins in the regular season, but will choke in the playoffs. Plus, Chicago has feasted on poor teams this year and is barely .500 against teams w/winning records.
How about the year is having though!? Everyone left him for dead after his 2 blown saves at the begining of the year, now his ERA is like .90 (could be the lowest of his career) and he's tied a career high 30 consecutive saves [/b][/quote]Who are you referring to?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/05 02:30 AM

Sorry, Mariano Rivera
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/05 02:58 AM

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh the Yankeesssssssssssssss win! Mo's 31 consecutive save
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/05 03:18 PM

Here are a few stats that tell the tale of the Yankee season to date. (It ain't pretty Irish) These stats show the ranking in all Major League - 30 teams.

Hitting
Batting Average - 5
Home Runs - 2
Runs - 3
Walks - 2
Slugging Pct. - 5
On Base Pct. - 2
Stolen Bases - 22

Fielding
Stolen Bases Allowed - 1 (101, St. Louis is best with 24)
Errors - 16
Fielding Pct. - 16
Defense Efficiency Rating - 25

Pitching
ERA - 22
Hits Given Up - 7
Runs Given Up - 8
Walks Given Up - 27 (that's good, if no one was getting hits)
Strike Outs - 15

The stats back up what we know. They can hit and score runs. Their fielding is poor. Posada should go (101 SBs).
Pitching is poor - 22nd in ERA. In a nutshell, the hitting can't offset the other two. They can only hope that they can out-slug their opponent. They sure can't out-pitch them.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/13/05 05:53 PM

Sheff homers, A-Rod homers, 4-0 Yanks
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/13/05 07:37 PM

Mo botches the save ( ), 5-5 into the bottom of the 9th.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/13/05 08:09 PM

Ahhhhhhhhhh the Yankeesssssssssssssssssssss win! Bernie Mac hits a walk-off home run
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/13/05 08:10 PM

BERN, BABY BERN!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/14/05 05:13 PM

After all the talk about how he's washed up, it must've been very gratifying for Bernie to hit that homer. Granted his arm isn't what it once was, but he still can hit!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/14/05 07:00 PM

Matsui homers, Yanks lead 5-3!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/14/05 07:12 PM

Bottom of the 5th, Yankees 7-3, and they're rolling out the tarp because it's pouring in the Bronx.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/14/05 07:12 PM

Yeah the stupid idiots wouldn't strike out so it could be an official game and they could call it (giving the Yanks the win)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/14/05 08:38 PM

The game's back on and A-Rod hits a 2-run shot, 9-3 Yanks!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 01:58 AM

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh the Yankeessssssssssssssssss win!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 02:05 AM

Yeah, baby! C'mon, we at least have to get the wildcard!

I didn't watch the game, how did Jaret "If the DL was a bathroom I'd be the attendant" Wright do tonight?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 02:32 AM

Wright actually pitched pretty well and got the win. He's now 3-2 and went 6 1/3 innings, 4 hits, 2 runs, 1 BB, 2 SO
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 02:34 AM

Schilling blew another save tonight! He pitched 1 inning, 4 hits, 3 runs, 1 BB, 2 SO. WOO HOO!
Posted By: NY Johnny

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 03:26 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Yeah, baby! C'mon, we at least have to get the wildcard!

I didn't watch the game, how did Jaret "If the DL was a bathroom I'd be the attendant" Wright do tonight?
:D thats a funny name for Wright


He surprised me and pitched very solidly tonight i was dreading watchin it...i was afraid he'd go "gas can" like Kevin Brown does with his famous 1/3 of an inning outing and get rocked...but Wright did great.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 03:39 AM

Mmm, Wright has a terrible ERA, I still wonder why we ever signed him. He is more likely to be on the DL than any of our other pitchers, and that says alot, considering we have Kevin Brown on our roster.

I'm glad he pitched well, hopefully he can actually add another solid arm to the rotation...which I guess is...

Johnson
Mussina
Wright
Small
Chacon

And in the bullpen...

Sturze
Proctor
Franklin
Rodriguez
Gordon
Rivera

Now, I'd like to see them give more starts to Tanyon Sturze. Also, does anybody have the official DL times for Wang and Pavano? I keep hearing conflicting reports as to when we're getting both of them back...

And please keep Brown on the DL.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 11:52 AM

JJ,
I thought I heard yesterday that Franklin was sent down to make room for Wright.

Also thought I heard that Pavano is gone for the year. Wang has been rehab-pitching. Let's hope they can have a steady, reliable staff when Sept. comes around.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 02:51 PM

Mmm, that's probably likely about Franklin MC, I haven't been following Yankee news as close since the football training camps/preseason began. Franklin wasn't very good anyways, I would've preferred they kept Buddy Groom.

Mmm, well, we'll need Wang back if Pavano is gone. I'd still move Sturtze to a starter (at least spot starting) role now, or test out Proctor again. If they can be *decent* (a big if for this years crew) then we should be able to take the Wild Card, the A's won't be able to hold that lead imho.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 03:56 PM

I think the Yanks are only like 2 1/2 or 1 1/2 games out of the wild card and only 3 1/2 behind Boston. They're still in it
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 04:10 PM

1-1/2 Wild Card, you're right on Boston, 3-1/2. Isn't it about the time when Boston starts sliding?

if, IF, the Yankee pitching solidifies, they can easily come in first. Shilling seems to be derailing Boston single-handedly.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 04:12 PM

I agree MaryCas. If Wright can hold up his own, plus Moose, Unit, Chacon, and Small I'd take that (plus if we get Wang back for the playoffs). The hitting has been coming around (except Cano who's in a slump), they can make a push. Remember, it doesn't matter what they did in the regular season once it comes to the postseason
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 04:16 PM

According to today's paper, they're 2 games out for the Wild Card and 3 1/2 out of first place. It all depends on the next 4-6 weeks. A month ago, whoever thought that Baltimore would be where they are? And six weeks ago, who would've thought that the Yankees would be where they are?? It's all going to come down to September, isn't it?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/05 09:12 PM

Both the Red Sox and the A's will be tapering off. It's the Angels I'm worried about.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/05 01:08 AM

bottom of the 8th and the BoSox just gave up the lead. looks like they're making things easier for the Yanks.

edit: a few minutes later and David Ortiz just saved the day.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/05 01:17 AM

Last time I checked, 3-1 Yanks, Johnson is pitching decent.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/05 12:16 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Last time I checked, 3-1 Yanks, Johnson is pitching decent.
Enter the bullpen. 4-3 Rays. Even Mariano can have a bad day.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/05 12:50 PM

How about an update an your PS predictions, MC?
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/05 02:56 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
How about an update an your PS predictions, MC?
Ya know, I think of that at the wrong time. :rolleyes: My file is at home (weak excuse). I'll send myself an email reminder and do it tonight.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/05 04:16 PM

I still wonder why they haven't dumped Embree. He's now 1-5. Wow. I haven't seen him look decent, and he earned the loss last night.

I can't believe that Alex Graman or Colter Bean or Jorge DePaula are worse than he is. Please, Cashman, dump his ass.
Posted By: danpit2

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/05 04:42 PM

baseball is the worst sports, it is pointless to even watch, completely predictable and unfair

boycott the MLB until they straighten out the problems
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/05 04:56 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by danpit2:
baseball is the worst sports, it is pointless to even watch, completely predictable and unfair

boycott the MLB until they straighten out the problems
...DP2, this is the best you can do for the "How bout them Yankees?" thread?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/05 08:34 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by danpit2:
baseball is the worst sports, it is pointless to even watch, completely predictable and unfair

boycott the MLB until they straighten out the problems
I know, baseball's TOTALLY predictable! Like everyone predicated the ending to last year's ALCS. Thanks, I haven't had a good laugh in a while. If you wanna talk about sports being predictable, unfair, or just overrated than I ask you to turn you attention to the NFL
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/05 08:41 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by danpit2:
baseball is the worst sports, it is pointless to even watch, completely predictable and unfair

boycott the MLB until they straighten out the problems
Hmm, go watch some hockey, and get out of here with that...
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/05 08:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
If you wanna talk about sports being predictable, unfair, or just overrated than I ask you to turn you attention to the NFL
Now THAT'S a good laugh...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/05 12:00 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by danpit2:
baseball is the worst sports, it is pointless to even watch, completely predictable and unfair

boycott the MLB until they straighten out the problems
Yeah, I guess it is when you live in Pittsburgh. I mean, it's common knowledge that the Pirates ALWAYS lose.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/05 12:20 AM

Code:
		MC Predicts	8/16/2005
	       W	L	W	L
Randy Johnson	9	8	11	7
Mike Mussina	14	7	11	7
Kevin Brown	1	3	4	7
Carl Pavano	16	10	4	6
Jaret Wright	10	11	3	2
	        50	39	33	29
				
Bullpen/Others	32	41	32	24
				
Totals	82	80	65	53
  
Let's see, I also predicted that Joe would be gone by the All Star break. Pretty close on Johnson and Mussina. Brown lasted longer than I thought and Pavano didn't. Let's check back in a month.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/05 12:59 AM

Yay!! Top of the sixth and they're winning 5-2, runners on 1st and 3rd!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/05 01:08 AM

Enjoy Babe! I flew back to texas today unfortuately and won't be able to see the Yanks unless they're on Fox or ESPN
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/05 01:31 AM

Well, bottom of the 7th and they're now tied 5-5, with only one out! And a runner on 3rd! WTF????
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/05 11:52 AM

SB?, SB?....are you OK? Nice pitching by Canyon Hurtz and Aaron Very Small.

The Yankees get my vote for worst bullpen in baseball.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/05 04:12 PM

Poor Aaron. He's been doing so well up until last night.

It was awful. I can't believe how they threw the last two games away!! Grrrrr...
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/05 05:51 PM

Yankee fans:

Did you ever, either in your wildest dreams or worst nightmares, think that the Yankees would be Tampa Bay's 'bitch' all season long? I have no rooting interest whatsoever, but it's a classic sports case of David slewing Goliath. I know it happens in every sport, but this is comical. If this was the NFL, it would be like the Bengals or Browns having their way with New England for the past 4 years, or in the NBA having Atlanta constantly beat the Spurs.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/05 04:13 AM

Dear, Mr. Steinbrenner,

Don't be an asshole. The Yankees fanbase will riot in the streets and have your head if you fire Joe Torre.

Of course you always need scapegoats whenever the Yankees are not exactly playing up to expectations, but you always blame everyone but yourself.

Torre won you 4 World Series titles, and now its rumored that you want to fire Joe Torre for the team's less-than-expected success.

Really George, piss off dude.

Sincerely,

RRA

P.S. - Whoever does your hair and makeup needs to be traded away to the Kansas City Royals. :p
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/05 11:59 AM

I haven't read it yet, but the radio is reporting a Mike Lupica (NY sports writer)story that talks of Joe going at the end of the year if they don't make the playoff. :rolleyes:

How about Cashman for buying geriatric pitchers?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/05 05:44 PM

Getting rid of Joe Torre would be a HUGE mistake. I think that the team would probably riot, as they are very close to Joe. He is extremely supportive of his players (look how he stuck up for Giambi when everybody said that the Yankees should dump him), and I would imagine that the opposite is true as well.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/05 07:28 PM

Again, not being a Yanks fan like many of you on this thread, I need some help. If Georgie stupidly fires Torre, which I agree would be a colossal screw-up, would Torre have been the longest tenured manager that George has had? I think Joe has been there since 1995 or 96, so that's about 10 years. Given the state of team from 1978-95, I would say Joe has been there the longest in George's time as owner.

Billy Martin's gotta be having a good chuckle out of this somewhere.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/05 07:57 PM

If they fire Torre, I'm going to eat my Yankees cap ala Gary Cooper in "Pride of the Yankees."

It's not Torre's fault...he's one of the all-time winningest Yankee coaches, and has lead them to the World Series 4 times, and the playoffs countless times more.

Cashman should be the one to go - he has signed pitchers that (clearly) other teams knew were about ready to bust, and has not addressed the center field issues.

Personally, the way things are going, we could've just stuck another scrub pitcher in Randy Johnson's spot. At this point, I would've rather taken Beltran.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/05 08:08 PM

Torre is 10 for 10 in playoff appearances with, if I'm not mistaken, six World Series appearances and four WS wins.

He's on the first year of a three year contract, and (according to Mike and the Mad Dog) would have $14 million coming to him if he's fired.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/20/05 01:37 AM

$14 million? I could be comfortable on that.

They just took a 3-1 lead against CHW in the 5th, in spite of the fact that Jeter was called out at first when he was quite obviously safe - AGAIN!!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/20/05 03:16 AM

Really, if it was any other owner, we wouldn't be talking about an owner canning Torre.

But this is THE BOSS, and from what I see, I bet you that many of us probably think that ya, Steinbrenner is capable of pulling off such a costly and stupid mistake.

Really, why can't Cashman get fired instead?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/20/05 03:23 AM

Tonight, the Yankees won against Chicago, who have not won a World Series since 1917. They haven't won a pennant since th 1950's. And Yankee fans are pissy because we haven't WON a series since 2000. We can't win every year!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/20/05 03:26 AM

And guess what? The White Sox won't win it this year, either. :p
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/20/05 08:37 PM

The Yankees win! Chacon did another amazing job.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/05 05:56 PM

Man Chacon was a great pick up! 2 in a row now, with the Unit looking for the sweep
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/22/05 12:30 AM

Not so fast boys. Ol' Man Johnson helped CHiSox into the record book. 4 homeruns in one inning. Homer, Homer, Homer, single, single, Homer. Pathetic. Send him back to ....wherever and take Brian Old-Age-Home Cashman with him. Some asshole will say Joe Torre is to blame. :rolleyes:
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/22/05 01:12 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
Some asshole will say Joe Torre is to blame. :rolleyes:
Yeah I agree. It's not Joe's fault and I don't understand why people continue to say that! I don't think I'll ever understand how the media portrays managers. Back in 2001 Bob Brenly was hailed a hero for winning the world series when he WASN'T a hero! Last year Terry F. was hailed a hero in Boston when he also WASN'T (let's not forget they were 3 outs away from being swept, come back or no come back). And now Joe Torre is hailed as a loser when he ISN'T for his team's performance. Sorry to get sidetracked but I'm tired of all this crap about managers. As for the game, I don't know what the f*ck is up with Unit but this guy has been a BIG disappointment. He's the one that wanted to come to New York so badly. He's the won who wanted to win another World Series with the Yankees. He's the one who wanted to win his 300th game as a Yankee and what has he done!? He's got like an 11-7 or 11-8 record (not to mention that now the Yanks are 0-2 against Contreras which I figured they would). You have a guy who does sh*t for you and when you trade him he winds up burning you!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/22/05 04:55 PM

Mmm. Let's trade him to Boston. I mean, Embree is sabotaging us, I wonder if we could do the same to them. :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/23/05 05:25 AM

Yes, another solid outing for Jaret Wright! He went 7 innings only giving up 4 hits I believe with no runs. He's 4-2 now and his ERA is down to 6.00 (which isn't great but his first 2 starts have been a LOT better than I thought they might be)
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/23/05 05:31 AM

All I see is a bunch of self-stroking... and no action! You wusses gonna show your shit in fantasy baseball, or just sit there showing each other your........ shit?

:p
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/23/05 12:11 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
All I see is a bunch of self-stroking... and no action! You wusses gonna show your shit in fantasy baseball, or just sit there showing each other your........ shit?

:p
Watch it buddy, that kind a talk can get you thrown outta here faster than a Billy Martin dirt-kickin' incident. :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/24/05 06:20 AM

Another win for the Yanks and they are now your AL Wild Card leader
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/24/05 11:46 AM

Bottom of the 9th, A-Rod up, winning run at 2nd. WHIFFFFF. Has that guy had a clutch-game-winning hit this year?(He didn't last year). He's got great stats, but....something is missing. Meanwhile Matsui always seems to come up big.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/24/05 03:13 PM

Clutch-winning hits? Hell, I can forgive A-Rod for his superb season stats. :rolleyes:
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/25/05 12:59 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
Bottom of the 9th, A-Rod up, winning run at 2nd. WHIFFFFF. Has that guy had a clutch-game-winning hit this year?(He didn't last year). He's got great stats, but....something is missing.
I remember at least ONE time when A-Rod hit the winning home-run in an extra inning game last season. I know, once is not enough, but is not like it never happened...
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/25/05 02:04 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
[quote]Originally posted by MaryCas:
[b] Bottom of the 9th, A-Rod up, winning run at 2nd. WHIFFFFF. Has that guy had a clutch-game-winning hit this year?(He didn't last year). He's got great stats, but....something is missing.
I remember at least ONE time when A-Rod hit the winning home-run in an extra inning game last season. I know, once is not enough, but is not like it never happened... [/b][/quote]Thanks Tony, I'll hang onto that. I know he's had some hits to start rallies and drive in needed runs, but it's just one those "impressions" you get that he doesn't come through in a big spot. The other night he made a fielding gem that saved a run. I think the guy is a phenomenal talent.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/25/05 04:09 PM

I do remember that game winning home run he hit against boston when Cock Schilling was making one of his first appearances out of the bullpen
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/25/05 04:45 PM

Wonderful outing last night, eh? Though we still lead the Wildcard I believe. :rolleyes:
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/25/05 09:09 PM

Chalk up another win for the Yanks. Man Chacon has been a GREAT pickup for the Yanks. Did they get him in a trade or off of waivers?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/26/05 04:29 AM

WOO HOO Cock Schilling got rocked in his first start since April by the Royals! 5 innings, 9 hits, and 6 earned runs
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/26/05 12:38 PM

Shilling and Johnson - back to the Diamondbacks. The Retirement farm called, they want their old, washed-up pitchers back.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/26/05 02:09 PM

I think they got Chacon off waivers, or for cash. I know they traded Groom to the Diamondbacks for cash/player to be named later, but Chacon came from the Rockies.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/05 06:00 AM

Wow another (gulp) win for the Yanks
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/05 01:16 PM

Yes, Bernie comes up big, and they win even with Randy Johnson pitching. :p

Quick Poll - who thinks Randy Johnson is going the way of Kevin Brown?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/05 06:18 PM

Na, Johnson's still a much better pitcher (it's just his location). Another poll, who thinks Cock Schilling is turing into Randy Johnson?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/05 09:18 PM

5 runs in the 9th sparks yet another Yankees win!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/05 10:56 PM

Irishman....nevermind. :rolleyes:

Yankees have indeed finally gotten their crap together it seems...

as have the MARLINS!
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/05 11:11 PM

They got Chacon in a trade for two Class A minor league pitchers that nobody ever heard of.

The Matt Lawton pick-up looks like a great one, although the Yanks gave up a legit prospect for him. Some guy named Berg, who was 6-1 with a good E.R.A in Class A (at Staten Island, I think).

Oakland is gonna be tough to beat with their pitching, though.....
Code:
Starters:    Harden   10-5   2.63
             Zito     12-10  3.49
             Sarloos   9-6   3.61
             Blanton   8-9   3.61
             Haren    10-10  4.04
Set-up guy:  Duscherer  1.85 in 50 games
Closer:      Street     1.28 in 52 games
The only thing working against the oakland pitching staff, except for Zito, is inexperience.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/05 11:19 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Irishman....nevermind. :rolleyes:

Yankees have indeed finally gotten their crap together it seems...

as have the MARLINS!
Hey a win's a win no matter how you get it. BTW, they're staying right on Boston's a$$ and in the Wild Card hunt which is the important thing. So if you're referring to them needing 5 runs in the 9th to win, get bent. They won, that's all I care about!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/05 11:53 PM

That was one of the best Yankees come-from-behind wins in a long time. A well-deserved win -- and necessary, too, since they're playing the lowly Royals.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 12:15 AM

I'm confused - I thought the trading deadline had passed a few weeks ago (with all the buzz about Manny going to the Mets)...how are these trades still happening?

I know I read something about teams having to finalize rosters by the 31st, but still...

Does this mean he'll be playing CF, and we're DH'ing Bernie?

Or are we still going to see the Yanks pursue a marquee outfielder this offseason?
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 12:28 AM

After the trading deadline is when no non-waiver trades can be made -- just don't ask me to explain that well enough. Maybe someone else can...

P.S. How long are you gonna keep that big ass signature? :p
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 01:08 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
After the trading deadline is when no non-waiver trades can be made -- just don't ask me to explain that well enough. Maybe someone else can..
I can

A team can put a player on waivers at any time.

Usually, that's a device that they use for sending a player who is out of options to the minor leagues (I'm not excactly sure how that works. I do know that with a young player, the parent team is allowed a certain number of "free" moves in which they can send him to the minors. But after a certain number - I'm gonna say three, but I'm not sure - the player must clear waivers first.

That means that any other team may claim the player (claims are honored in the inverse order of the standings, or W-L records), in which case the parent team has the option of either letting him go to the team that claims him for the waiver price ($20,000 I think), or withdrawing him from waivers and keeping him.

Generally, teams do not claim players on waivers just to block a trade. After all, they don't know when the shoe might be on the other foot. Plus, if they are out of the race and don't need that particular player, why claim him, especially if he has a big contract with time left on it.

There was a classic example, however, of a team claining a player to prevent another team from getting him.

I don't remember the year, but Atlanta and San Diego were locked in a duel for the NL West. Cincinnati (I think) put reliever Randy Myers on waivers, and San Diego claimed him to prevent Atlanta from getting him (Atlanta had no closer at the time, if I remember correctly).

He wound up not doing a thing for San Diego, and they were stuck with him and his big contract, which still had a couple of years left.

In these days of big salaries, waivers are used when non-contending teams wish to dump high salaried players.

They put a guy on waivers, and see who claims him. Then they know who's interested in the player, so they withdraw him from waivers and try to make a deal with the team that claimed him.

Anyway, in this case the Yankees got Lawton this way:

1- They discuss a deal with the Cubs. After the deal is agreed upon, the Cubs put Lawton on waivers. Or, the Cubs out Lawton on waivers, the yanks claimed him, the cubs saw that the Yanks were interested, so they withdre Lawton from waivers, and discussed a deal with the Yankees. Once the deal was agreed upon, they put Lawton back on waivers, and the Yanks claimed him again.
2- No team with a worse W-L record than the Yankees claims him, mostly because the teams with a worse record are already out of it, and they would have to pay Lawton the remaining $1 million on his contract for this season.
3- The Yankees claim him, and the Cubs do not withdraw him from waivers, because the Yanks have agreed with the Cubs that they would send the Cubs the two minor leaguers that they agreed upon, who do not have to clear waivers since they are not on the Yankees 40 man roster.

Also, to be eligible for the post season, a player has to be on the 40 man roster by August 31st.
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 01:39 AM

plaw, how big is the normal roster and what is this "extended roster" they keep talking about ? Yeah I know nothing about baseball lol
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 01:44 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by DonMichaelCorleone:
I know nothing about baseball lol
Well, you made that perfectly clear :p (J/K! )

Current MLB rosters are 25 uniformed men eligible to play in a game, and come September 1st, they can have 40 -- presumably to either 1) prepare for the postseason, and/or 2) to check out new talent for next year.

I suppose the expansion could have some effect on our game...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 01:45 AM

Ah, thanks Plaw. That's something I've never understood.

Actually, since you're answering - I do have a quick question about the "passed ball" rules...when a ball gets past the catcher, sometimes the batter will run to first. Isn't he out if it's a strike? I'm confused. I never understood that rule. I'm not sure if that's only on a 3-2 count or not, either.

Geoff - of course I'll keep it, I love compliments.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 01:48 AM

If the pitch was called a 3rd strike, and the catcher loses the ball, the batter can try to make it to first before the catcher recovers and throws him out. It's still a strike out, but, the batter can still make it to first as a baserunner. One of those weird rules.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 01:56 AM

It don't think it has to be a called third strike. Can't it be a swinging strike three also?

And the catcher doesn't have to be charged with a passed ball. The batter can strike out on a wild pitch.

AS far as the rosters go, there are always 40 men on the roster. But only 25 are eligible to be on the parent team at any one time.

If a team wants to send a player to the minors (assuming he has "free" options left), they are free to do so as long as they replace him with someone from the 40 man roster.

If they want to replace him with someone not on the roster, they must first clear roster space for him by dropping a player from the 40 man roster, and that player must clear waivers.

I can't fully explain it, but there are certain benefits that the parent team has with respect to the players that they control on the 40 man roster.

One example is the Rule 5 draft. Players who have a certain number of years in the minors and who are not on a team's 40 man roster, can be drafted for a nominal cost by another team
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 01:56 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
If the pitch was called a 3rd strike, and the catcher loses the ball, the batter can try to make it to first before the catcher recovers and throws him out. It's still a strike out, but, the batter can still make it to first as a baserunner. One of those weird rules.
Hence why you hear pitchers having 4 strikeouts in one inning
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 01:56 AM

Mmm, yeah, that's what I though. But it's not two outs if he's thrown out at first...seems silly.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 01:58 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
It don't think it has to be a called third strike. Can't it be a swinging strike three also?
Okay, yeah, I guess I should've said "considered" the third strike... which is what I meant. Either way, the ump calls it a strike whether he's swinging or not...

[Going out for a while - I'll be back later. But not up too late (famous last words!) since I gotta get up early tomorrow. ]
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 02:09 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Mmm, yeah, that's what I though. But it's not two outs if he's thrown out at first...seems silly.
On a strikeout, the catcher gets credit for a putout in his fielding stats.

If he throws the runner out at first after a strikeout, he gets an assist and the first baseman gets credit for the putout.

I'm not sure what you mean by this:

But it's not two outs if he's thrown out at first.

It doesn't matter how many outs there are.

Quote:
Originally posted by DonMichaelCorleone:
Yeah I know nothing about baseball lol
Hence your position in the Fantasy Baseball League.

(lol)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 02:50 AM

WOO HOO! Boston lost to Detroit and now the yanks are only 1.5 games outta first and still tied for the Wild Card lead with the A's. And yes ronnie, the Red Cocks (gulp) lost to Detroit :rolleyes:
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 02:54 AM

Since Plaw is being so pleasant and helpful, I have a question. Does anyone know how a player gets his number? Are they randomly assigned? Do they get to submit a preference? I always wondered why ARod had #13, given superstition, like buildings not having a 13th floor. Anyone know?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 03:07 AM

A-Rod has always worn #3 in Seattle and texas but since the Babe wore it first and it's retired, he decided to choose #13. Usually players from a former team get their same numbers (ala Gary Sheffield and #11). Also, Randy Johnson wore #51 throughout his career as well but since Bernie had it first, he decided to go with #41
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 11:34 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
5 runs in the 9th sparks yet another Yankees win!
And Thank God it was A-Rod. Now I can stop saying he's not clutch.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 11:58 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
[QB]
I'm not sure what you mean by this:

But it's not two outs if he's thrown out at first.

It doesn't matter how many outs there are.
No, what I mean is this - okay, the passed ball is considered a 3rd strike (either by swinging or not), so it's an out. However, there isn't another out issued if the catcher gets the ball to first before the batter does, correct?

That's what I meant.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 03:16 PM

Only one out is recorded on that particular play.

Every out in a game results in one "putout" for fielding purposes. As I said above, the only difference is that the first baseman gets credit for the putout on this play rather than the catcher, who gets an assist instead of a putout.

The pitcher recieves credit for a strikeout in either case, but strikeouts are not a fielding stat, they're a pitching stat.

Now, if the runner is safe it first, the pitcher still receives credit for a strikeout, but since the runner was safe, there is no putout recorded. And the pitcher will be charged with a wild pitch, or the catcher with a passed ball.

But it's really erroneous to say that when that happens there were "four outs" recorded in the inning.

Since there was no putout recorded when the batter reaches first safely after a strikeout, there will still be only three outs recorded for the inning.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 08:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
But it's really erroneous to say that when that happens there were "four outs" recorded in the inning.
Technically, yeah, only 3 outs per inning - but the pitcher can get 4 strikeouts in an inning... maybe even 5 or 6
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 08:02 PM

Giambi has 7 RBI's so far and 2 home runs today. It's 10-3 and I think it's safe to say the Yanks won again (yes even against the "lowly Royals")
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/05 10:07 PM

The Giam-bino had quite a day. His first HR was his 1,000 RBI and his second HR was his 1,500 hit. Kudos to the Steroid-Free athelete.

The rest of the league has got to be worrying about the Yankees. They have to be saying, if they ever settle their pitching staff, we are F'd; the bats are awesome.
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/05 02:39 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
If the pitch was called a 3rd strike, and the catcher loses the ball, the batter can try to make it to first before the catcher recovers and throws him out. It's still a strike out, but, the batter can still make it to first as a baserunner. One of those weird rules.
**after looking at another thread** It appears as though Puzo wrote a book about this rule "The Fourth K" :rolleyes:
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/05 04:32 AM

Geez, now the Yanks are gonna sign Mark Bellhorn!? WTF!? I don't want that bum on our team!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/05 07:15 AM

Another win for the Yanks. Another 2 home run game for Giambi
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/05 01:57 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Geez, now the Yanks are gonna sign Mark Bellhorn!? [b]WTF!? I don't want that bum on our team!! [/b]
Inquiry - where did you hear this? And I have no idea why the Yanks want another infielder, especially since our last Bostonian transfer Alan Embree blows more than a White House intern.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/05 06:09 PM

Yes, believe it. I heard it on the radio this morning. Bellhorn to the Yanks....why? Does that mean Bubba is on the AAA train again?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/05 06:43 PM

Bum???

Bellhorn hit 3 homeruns in the playoffs last year.

Hell, Aaron Boone is a bum, but do you Yankee fans regret him winning Game 7 of the 2003 ALCS with a homerun? Of course not.

Then again, its not much of a positivesign when put on waivers, no club wants to pick Bellhorn up...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/05 07:59 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Bum???

Bellhorn hit 3 homeruns in the playoffs last year.
Well as the old saying goes, what have you done for me lately? He was a bum then and he's a bum now!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/05 11:30 AM

What did he do lately....oh right, he help beat the Yankees last year in probably the most humiliating moment in Yankees' franchise history.

Besides, acquiring Bellhorn alone would bust the balls of several Red Sox fans. C'mon Irishman, that alone is great.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/05 06:44 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
What did he do lately....oh right, he help beat the Yankees last year in probably the most humiliating moment in Yankees' franchise history.
Again, what have you done for me lately (like THIS season)? You can't live in the past forever. As for acquiring him to piss off Red Cock fans, it's a nice notion but still not worth it to me
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/03/05 03:47 AM

Good job, Leiter (6 ER in .2 IP) & DePaula (5 ER in 2.1 IP) :rolleyes: (Who the fock is DePaula, anyway?)

11-0 after 3 innings??!! :rolleyes:
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/03/05 11:12 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
Good job, Leiter (6 ER in .2 IP) & DePaula (5 ER in 2.1 IP) :rolleyes: (Who the fock is DePaula, anyway?)

11-0 after 3 innings??!! :rolleyes:
Leiter just looked horrible.

DePaula, that isn't much of a surprise. The Yankees organization have been trying to bottle his AAA success (even then...) into MLB success for about the past 2-3 years, and it isn't working. They were hoping he would evolve into a starting rotation pitcher or an LRP, but it just isn't happening, he's still as bad as he's been in the past.

Way to go Yanks! It's almost like you aren't trying to get into the playoffs! :p
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/03/05 06:17 PM

It was just an awful game. And I read this morning that Mussina may be out for the season and that Wright will be out for a week. How is George going to blame that on Joe??
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/03/05 09:40 PM

I just saw one of the most unbelievable things in a baseball game: with one guy at 2nd, one at 3rd, 1 out, Hideki Matsui, Gary Sheffield and Alex Rodriguez coming up, this Kirk Saarlos guy INTENTIONALLY WALKS Derek Jeter. until someone tell me something I don't know yet about it, I think this guy is nuts!
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/03/05 09:58 PM

Steinbrenner now is paying also the other teams players!

that turned out in an 6 runs inning and a LOT of fantasy points for me!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/03/05 11:17 PM

Yeah and Small comes away with another win today! Thank goodness he's healthy. I mean, could this pitching staff be anymore banged up this year!? Johnson's missed a few starts, Pavano's been done for the season, Wang's been out weeks, Wright was out months, Brown's out for the season, Moose might now be out for the season. I'm really just waiitng to hear something about Chacon or Small
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/04/05 06:24 AM

How much is everyone willing to bet the Yankees win the Wildcard?

Me? $5
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/04/05 06:26 AM

Ohhhh a "real" gambling man now that he finds out that Moose might be out for the year and the Yanks are short AGAIN on pitchers. Where were you last week?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/05/05 05:39 AM

Another big win for the Yanks tonight. Trying to get ahold and run away with that Wild Card spot
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/07/05 02:12 AM

What the hell are they doing?? The Yankees scored 3 runs in the 1st two innings, and now they're losing 4-3 in the 9th. WTF????????
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/07/05 05:51 AM

You don't hear this everyday about a Major League ball club

Yankees Give $1 To Salvation Army

"NEW YORK (AP) - The Yankees presented a check for $1 million to the Salvation Army for its Hurricane Katrina relief effort before the start of Tuesday night's game against Tampa Bay.

Yankees outfielder Matt Lawton, whose parents' home in Mississippi was destroyed, took part in the presentation. Lawton's own home in Gulfport, Miss., also sustained heavy damage, and eight family members were displaced by the hurricane.
Salvation Army representatives will be at Yankee Stadium throughout this week's six-game homestand, which includes three games against the Boston Red Sox, to collect donations.

"The Yankees recognize the need for people from all over the world to assist in the recovery and the rebuilding of areas devastated by Hurricane Katrina," Yankees president Randy Levine said in a statement. "Unfortunately, New Yorkers know firsthand the anguish associated with such a horrific disaster, but we also know there is great strength and generosity from so many willing to help those in need.

"It is the Yankees' hope - and expectation - that the best fans in the world will follow the lead of so many others in giving of themselves at time when so much is needed."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/07/05 05:59 AM

Great news! Wang is back pitching! He's got the start against Tampa on Thursday
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/07/05 07:11 AM

What a disgrace.

I don't care about the many problems the Yanks are having this season. However, of all teams, there isn't an excuse to lose to the friggin Devil Rays.

Really, am I the only one that thinks this?

Petty loses like this is why the Yanks are only leading the American League Wildcard race.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/07/05 12:34 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
I don't care about the many problems the Yanks are having this season. However, of all teams, there isn't an excuse to lose to the friggin Devil Rays.

Really, am I the only one that thinks this?

I think George is on your side. 'Excuse' you say? On paper and by $$$ there is no logical explanation, but this is a TEAM sport and strange things happen when a group of individual rich-boys get together.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/07/05 03:53 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
What a disgrace.

I don't care about the many problems the Yanks are having this season. However, of all teams, there isn't an excuse to lose to the friggin Devil Rays.

Really, am I the only one that thinks this?

Petty loses like this is why the Yanks are only leading the American League Wildcard race.
True they shouldn't be losing to teams such as Tampa but when 4 out of your 5 starters go down with injuries (Wright, Brown, Pavano, Moose) it doesn't leave you with a lot of options. But in the long run, when the Yanks make the playoffs it won't matter because Tampa isn't goint to make the playoffs so they won't have to face them
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/07/05 05:44 PM

It would be nice for the Yankees to close the gap on Boston, then on the weekend sweep them and move into first; never to look back.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/07/05 07:13 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
It would be nice for the Yankees to close the gap on Boston, then on the weekend sweep them and move into first; never to look back.
It could still happen. Look how boston snuck in last year
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/07/05 11:56 PM

Mmm, the upcoming games are going to help out quite a bit, if we could sweep the Blowsox we'd be in great shape, but that's asking quite a bit. I hear Wang is gonna be back in the rotation, though, which is a huge boost.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/08/05 06:36 AM

Looks like Al Leiter is headed for the bullpen. Maybe he can be a setup guy for Gordon to Mo or just to Mo. Now with Wang coming back the rotation should be Johnson, Wright, Wang, Small, Chacon. Not a bad rotation making a playoff push.

As for tonight, looks like a bit of bad news with Sheffield leaving early due to a pulled hamstring. He should be day-to-day but they just don't know yet
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/09/05 02:10 AM

They lost! To Tampa! AGAIN!!!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/09/05 02:20 AM

Sickening.

And next is Boston? We're focked!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/09/05 02:25 AM

I have to be optimistic. They did well against Boston the last time they played them. I'm pretty sure they play them six times this month. Pretty important games.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/09/05 11:21 AM

The Yanks are 4 games behind Boston. 3 games at the Stadium. Where will they be on Monday morning - 1 game out or.....(whisper - 7)?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/09/05 09:27 PM

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=klapisch_bob&id=2156146

Hey Yank fans, wanna imagine what if Johnny Damon was with the Yankees? Of course, hes a Free Agent this winter, so it would be a great if expensive investment from Steinbrenner.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/05 05:05 AM

I heard Anaheim might go after him and he said the Angles would be behind on boston on his list. I wouldn't be surprised to see him go back to a California team.

But onto tonight's game yes yes yes the Yanks beat that boston a$$ 8-4!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/05 05:11 AM

Finally Irishman, you return to your thread with grace.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/05 06:47 PM

DISGUSTING DISPLAY TODAY
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/05 10:26 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
DISGUSTING DISPLAY TODAY
Not at all.

Schilling looked impressive.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/05 11:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
DISGUSTING DISPLAY TODAY
Couldn't agree more. Chacon only went 3 innings I believe. The first game I've seen in almost a month and this is the performance I get
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/05 03:52 AM

nice article ronnie! I believe Johnny Damon is among the top 10 players in the majors.

now today's game was also nice! I'm not a Red Sox die-hard fan, but I really like their team these past years and I really love to see them beat the Evil Empire. now you Yankee-fans don't get me wrong (is not personal ) but isn't this year's team the weakest you've rooted for in a long time? no pitching, no hitting, no bullpen, no emotion. - of course, they can just beat the Red Sox tomorrow, start the so-announced "comeback" and win it all, then what will I say? right now though, I don't see how the Yanks could beat the Red Sox in a playoff series, if they get to the playoffs at all.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/05 04:03 AM

Yeah well that's what happens Tony when your team is plagued by injuries all year. Honestly, did anyone predict 4 out of the 5 Yankee starters to go down with injuries?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/05 04:12 AM

I did.

I mean, old people tend to injure themselves quite easily.

Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/05 04:38 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
I did.

I mean, old people tend to injure themselves quite easily.



actually I would be glad if Carl Pavano and Kevin Brown were took off my team's pitching staff
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/05 07:36 PM

Home plate umpire Derryl Cousins is a jerkoff! Ramirez should've been called out on strikes to end the game, but now he's at 3rd base after a walk and a Renteria hit. 2 on, 2 out, 1-0 Yanks Top of 9th... Mo tiring... could be the typical disaster...
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/05 07:38 PM

...but most importantly...

The-uh-uh-uh-uh Yankees Win! Theeeeee Yankees WIN!

I knew they would.

Johnson was huge today!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/05 07:43 PM

Unfortunately I didn't see the game as neither Fox nor ESPN carried it! But Johnson pitched a gem and Giambi hit another homer so all is right in the world because theeeeeeeeeeeee Yankees won! The old man seems to have some left in the tank but what's with Wakefield? This guy is turning into some kinda "Yankee killer"? They only had 3 hits and 1 run against him!? Come on guys, gotta swing the bats better than that
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/05 08:59 PM

Okay, who would be willing to bet $100 right upfront that the Yanks will win the Wildcard?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/05 05:56 AM

I don't see why they can't (much as I'm sure you can't see Florida not winning it)
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/05 06:04 AM

Exactly!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/05 01:12 AM

Top of the 6th, and the Yankees are beating Tampa 10-2. Hooray!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/05 05:22 AM

Yanks broke out a$$ kicking bats tonight and gained ground of bastawn
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/05 03:55 PM

Any Yankee fans fearful that the Bronx Bombers might have blown their wad last night and come out and do nothing offensively? It happens all the time. The Tribe torched Minn on Sunday night with 12 and followed that by being shut out in Game 1 of the Oakland series.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/05 04:39 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
Any Yankee fans fearful that the Bronx Bombers might have blown their wad last night and come out and do nothing offensively?
Then we are afraid of reality . Their hitting has to carry them.....you hold your breath with their pitchers.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/05 05:36 PM

Personally, I would've liked to see those 17 runs spread out over at least two games, if not three. We'll just have to keep our fingers crossed. Who is pitching tonight? Is it Small?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/05 05:45 PM

No Babe, Wang's pitching tonight
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/05 05:49 PM

I guess Jason Giambi has the MLB Comeback Player of the Year Award by the needles...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/05 05:55 PM

I hope he does get it. 30 home runs exceede my expectations
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/05 09:44 PM

Giambi will finish with 35 Hr's.

DS
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/05 11:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
Giambi will finish with 35 Hr's.
I bet with you managing the team, he'd be good for at least another five :p
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/05 12:27 AM

Which team is more likely to win the Wildcard in their perspective leagues: Marlins or Yankees?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/05 04:51 AM

Yanks. I don't know what the Marlins schedule is but the Yanks have a pretty easy one (plus Houston managed to sneak in last year and is still unfortunately hanging around)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/05 12:11 AM

Down 2-0 in the top of the 4th, with two outs. Damn!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/05 12:57 AM

Cano ties it 5-5 with a Grand Slam in the 6th!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/05 01:00 AM

Almost makes me want to take back all the bad things I said about him. And ARod just hit a two run home run.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/05 03:15 AM

Another well needed win tonight and with Oakland's win the Yanks are only .5 games outta the wild card lead and only 1.5 games outta boston!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/05 12:15 AM

I missed part of the 2nd inning!! Why was RJ ejected from the game???!!! This is driving me crazy!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/05 12:43 AM

Yeah, FIX!

FIX!

FIX!

The pitch wasn't even inside, and the Ump just busts out, whips off his...mask ( :p ), and throws RJ out of the game. Totally sweet.

Of course, the Blue Jays pitcher nearly hit Giambi in the leg in the next inning, but let's not go there. After all, he didn't intend to throw it inside.

I think the whole neighborhood just heard me yell "WTF, fucking fix." Then again, Cano hits another HR, and hey, I'm all better.

And the Irish catcher is kicking arse as well!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/05 06:00 AM

Another good win for the Yanks. Unfortunately Oakland couldn't hold it's lead My brother called me during the game and said the score was 11-3 Yanks and Randy got thrown out in like the 2nd or 3rd inning. I couldn't believe it!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/05 11:22 PM

Another quality win for the Yanks today for their 6th in a row Keeping that playoff pressure on both Cleveland and boston. ronnie, what happened to them fish in the 9th inning!?
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/05 02:09 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Another quality win for the Yanks today....
That's all you can say?

I can't remember the last time they won 1-0 with this pitching staff. Pretty amazing, actually! Especially since yesterday (against the same team) it was 11-10!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/05 07:02 AM

A-Rod for MVP
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/05 12:26 PM

Sunday 6-5 Boooooooooo.

It would be neat if the Yankees could go on a tear, overtake Boston and Cleveland beats out Boston for the wild card. It can happen.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/05 02:00 PM

I agree with Mary Cas's post that NY can overtake Boston, especially with NY playing the pathetic Orioles 8 more times. The Cleveland - Whitesox series this weekend and the last series of the season will determine who wins the Central. What a colossal choke if Chicago should lose. They were up 15 games on Aug 1st. Now it's 3 1/2 games with 6 to play head-to-head.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/05 03:35 PM

We can always pray and cross our fingers, can't we?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/05 07:27 PM

For the AL I'd like to see the Yanks, Indians, White Sox and A's make the postseason. For the NL I'd like to see the Padres, Cards, Philies, and (unfortunately) atlanta
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/05 09:48 PM

The Yanks have to win at least the next 10 games to make it to the playoff's.

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/20/05 03:14 AM

Another BIG win for the Yanks, plus a boston lose. The Yanks are now only a half game outta first!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/20/05 04:36 AM

If Bubba could be consistent at the plate, the Yanks wouldn't need to shop for an outfielder this offseason. Damn, if he keeps hitting like that, he could be awesome.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/05 12:02 AM

Who just saw the Orioles' first baseman get injured? OMG! When they showed the replay, I thought that his arm was going to go flying into the stands. OUCH!! It was awful!

But the Yankees are winning!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/22/05 12:17 AM

Yankees won, Indians lost last night, so they gained a game in the wild card. However, Boston also won, so they're still a half game out of first place.

They are currently winning 2-0 in the bottom of the 4th. Why do I get the feeling that it's all going to come down to those last three games at Fenway?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/22/05 02:14 AM

It WILL come down to the last 3 games at fenway. As for tonight, ahhhhhhhhhhh the Yankees are in first! Yankees are in first!

Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/22/05 03:43 AM

First place! First place! And get this - with the Indians win tonight, Boston is one game out of the Wild Card. Sorry, SC, I don't like to gloat, but the Yankees are in first place!!
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/22/05 11:54 AM

The Spirit of the Bambino has been awakened. He's mad. Those baggy-pants,pine-tar-helmeted,unshaven cretans shouldn't be in first place and the Bambino will ensure that. Unfortunately last year the Babe had a hangover and his magical curse was under the weather.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/22/05 03:17 PM

Boston is still gonna be tough to keep down as long as Ortiz is swinging. However, it looks like the Yankees pitching rotation has finally stabilized to the point where we don't have to sign the drudges of the league to try and fill out a whole 5 man rotation. The fielding is above average (especially A-Rod as of late). The bats are spectacular (also A-Rod, Cano, and now Lawton? )

It's shaping up to be the *best* October in awhile for baseball.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/22/05 05:52 PM

I'm still nervous about Cleveland. Any team that gets hot heading into the playoffs I know worry about. Look at Anaheim in 2002 and boston last year. They got hot right before the playoffs and wound up winning the World Series, and houston last year was hot and was 1 game away from the World Series too.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/23/05 04:41 AM

Another Yankee win, they're now 1 game ahead of boston!
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/23/05 02:28 PM

I wonder what the collective era is for the middle relievers. Boy do they suck.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/23/05 05:15 PM

Especially Al Leiter! Giving up 4 runs in 1 inning!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/24/05 07:12 PM

A-Rod has tied the season-record for most Home Runs by a Right-Hand batter in Yankees franchise history. Who did he tie at the mark of 46 Home Runs?

Joe DiMaggio.

I think he will win the AL MVP title.... :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/24/05 07:36 PM

I hope he does but I wouldn't be surprised if he doesn't. He plays for the Yanks, I don't think that helps his cause with a lot of the "voters". Ortiz will win it simply because he DOESN'T play for the Yankees
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/25/05 12:39 AM

Oh please.

Sure, many baseball fans/writers hate the Yankees. However, what if the Yankees make the playoffs but the Red Sox doesn't?

Besides, who has been totally consistent for the Yanks all year long, and still leads in BA, HR, and RBI? Hell, save for Giambi, A-Rod has been the only really ball-breaking player that has stepped up to the plate for the Yanks.

If Ortiz wasn't with the Red Sox, they still would have Johnny Damon and Manny Ramirez. I dig Big Poppy, but right now A-Rod will win the AL MVP...unless the Yankees blow it, and fail to make the playoffs, thus the Red Sox make it, and Ortiz wins the MVP trophy.

Really, optimism is good for the soul...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/25/05 03:41 AM

Crap, they lost tonight and boston won, now they're tied. I don't like that it's going to come down to the final series of the season between the 2 teams (and the series is in boston of all places!)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/25/05 06:57 PM

Cano hits a bomb! 4-3 Yanks lead in the bottom of the 7th. The game is on ESPN and I FINALLY get to watch it!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/25/05 07:31 PM

Sheff hit a 3-run homer in the 8th. This game should be over
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/26/05 07:44 PM

Umm, the Yanks/Sox tied for the AL East, with both teams half a game away from the Wildcard-leading Cleveland Indians.....

This will be one hell of a week in baseball.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/26/05 07:52 PM

You bet it will be. And in the NL I think the Phillies are 1 game behind houston while florida is 4 or 5 back
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/26/05 08:41 PM

Why is wright still in the rotation?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/26/05 08:50 PM

Who knows? But I heard the guys on ESPN yesterday during the game say that Torrie might go with Small this week instead of Wright since they're still fighting for a playoff spot
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/26/05 09:04 PM

The rotation should be:

Johnson
Mussina
Wang
Small
Chacon

Yes?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/26/05 09:12 PM

Yes I agree DJ. I'm so excited and upset about Saturday's game. It's supposed to be Johnson vs Schilling but the game starts at noon my time and I won't get outta class until noon, plus an hour drive home so I'll miss an hour of the game!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/27/05 01:07 AM

Damn rain delays. I think that they're going to have to reschedule this game. Wait! They're starting again. Boston is going to have to play a double-header to make up for tonight's game.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/27/05 03:13 AM

So happy to hear that boston has to play a double header and the Yanks are winning
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/28/05 12:04 AM

Disgusting display from Moose tonight -- 5 runs in 2 innings, and now Leiter is coming in. :rolleyes:

BoSox already won Game 1, and are leading 3-0 in the 3rd of their second game.

Not good.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/28/05 12:47 AM

SHEFFIELD GRAND SALAMI!!!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/28/05 01:30 AM

Sheesh! Can't say much for the pitching on either side. Only the 5th inning and 16 runs scored so far! Geez Louise! The Yanks better not blow this game. The only good news is that Toronto has now tied Boston in the 7th.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/28/05 01:48 AM

Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/28/05 02:12 AM

I'm flipping between GF and the game. Every time I put the game back on, it's gotten worse. At least the Indians lost. And Toronto's winning 6-5, but there are still a couple of innings, and it's at Fenway.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/28/05 05:35 AM

Yes the Yanks lost but so did Cleveland and boston lost game 2 so we're still tied with them!
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/28/05 01:42 PM

Here is the BIG Achilles heal of the Yankees - if the Yankees can't get to the seventh inning with their starters they are in big trouble.

Earned Runs
Mussina - 5
Leiter - 3
Proctor - 4 (1/3 inning)
Rodriguez - 1
Franklin - 0
Embree - 0
Sturtze - 4 (2/3 inning)
Depaula - 0

17 Earned runs, 14 hits, 9 walks
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/05 02:03 AM

Ahhhhhhhhhhhh the Yankeessssssssssssssss win! boston's lossing right now as well 7-2 so if Toronto holds on, the Yanks have a 1 game lead. Plus, Cleveland already lost too!
Posted By: Johnny Stiltz

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/05 03:48 AM

how many games do the Boyz need to be ahead going into this weekend in order to make all of their fans "comfortable"

i say 2 or 3
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/05 12:30 PM

4!! But unfortunately only 2 is possible. So let's see, the Yankees win tonight and Boston loses. Then the Yankees win Fri. and Sat. to clinch. Sunday, Fenway is empty and the Yankee scrubs play. I like it.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/05 01:36 PM

Oh, MC, if wishing only made it so!!

It was a great game last night, the little I saw of it. I snuck out to the bar a few times to catch the score. Chacon did an excellent job, did he not?
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/05 02:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Oh, MC, if wishing only made it so!!

In my best Jimminy Cricket voice:
When you wish upon a star,
Makes no difference where the Yankees are,
They'll beat Boston that's for sure,
Yes, dreams....come...true.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/05 12:47 AM

Top of the 5th, Bombers winning 5-0, thanks to Small, and Giambi's three run home run.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/05 12:59 AM

With the White Sox winning the AL Central, either the Yanks, Sox, or Indians finish themselves with the final two open playoff spots. WHO WHO WHO?!?!

I say Yanks and Sox.

Speaking of which, if the Yankees somehow lose and fail to win the World Series, will this actually give credence to the annoying "Curse" that has kept the ballclub from winning since 2000? Mind you, such things are silly, but I tried to tell that once to this Red Sox fan years back...and he told me that I don't know anything. Look who's talking now.

Oh and if the Yanks win the AL East....Alex Rodriguez better go polish his AL MVP speech.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/05 01:01 AM

So, thoughts from everyone about the Red Sox acquiring Mike Stanton from the Nationals just for this weekend's series against the Yanks?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/05 01:11 AM

Didn't like Stanton when he was a Yankee. If he pitches as poorly for the Red Sox, maybe I'll finally like him!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/05 05:38 AM

It's gonna be a heck of a weekend! It sucks because I won't be able to see Friday's game (gotta work), I'll miss an hour of Saturday's game (driving back from class), and I don't think Sunday's game will be televised so I'll miss all of it
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/05 01:30 PM

I hope David Ortiz gets uncontrollable diareaha and can't play. That guy is scary-good.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/05 05:15 PM

I concur. Or here's a thought that never seems to enter Joe Torre's mind, WALK HIM! I'm praying that the Yanks take 2 outta 3 and that A-Rod wins the MVP
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/05 07:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
I hope David Ortiz gets uncontrollable diareaha and can't play. That guy is scary-good.
Big Papi is so damned good that IS scary, MC. We'll just have to keep our fingers crossed that Wang keeps his cool.

As for MVP, it really should go to ARod. He plays a position, so he has to be good in the field AND at bat. Ortiz is only the DH. By the way, am I repeating somebody's argument from a few posts ago??
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/05 10:29 PM

Ya you are.

I hate to say this, but I wonder if Rodriguez was a DH, you would ignore that little "fact".

The only reason that Ortiz might not win is because without him, the Red Sox still have consistently good players like Johnny Damon, Ramirez, Varitek, etc.

What do the Yanks have that has been consistently damn great all year long?

THAT is the reason why I believe A-Rod will win, not because he isn't a DH-player, but because even when the Yanks looked K.O. back in June, he was still delivering the bacon home.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 05:32 AM

RED SOX win!

You know, I hate to say this, but if the Yanks don't come back to win the other games and A-Rod continues to leak weak compared to the clutch-hitting Ortiz....Big Popi might win the AL MVP.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 05:45 AM

There's still 2 more games and we got Unit tomorrow I guess you gotta root for someone else now that the Marlins are outta it
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 04:40 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
I hate to say this, but I wonder if Rodriguez was a DH, you would ignore that little "fact".
Um, no.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 06:05 PM

5-2 in the bottom of the 2nd
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 07:00 PM

A-Rod homered! 7-2 Yanks, top 6th
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 07:22 PM

Stop jinxing it. :p
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 08:15 PM

Cleveland loses!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 08:28 PM

THEEEE YANKEES WIN! THE-UH-UH YANKEES WIN!

AL EAST DIVISION CHAMPS!!!
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 08:30 PM

JG the guy on the tv said if the yankees lose tomorrow and the Indians win that there will be a playoff. Am I understanding that correctly?
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 08:36 PM

Yeah, there would be a playoff -- between BOS and CLE.
Yanks are done, baby!!!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 08:54 PM

Congrats to the Yanks on their 8th consecutive AL East title! Everyone's counting them out but they're in the playoffs now!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/05 10:04 PM

Here's the BOS situation: "If Boston loses on Sunday and Cleveland wins, they will meet at Fenway Park on Monday to decide the AL's last playoff berth. If Cleveland loses on Sunday, the Red Sox get the wild-card berth no matter what they do."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 12:01 AM

Let's go Indians!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 01:50 AM

Actually, I'll be surprised if the Red Sox DON'T go to the playoffs.

A-Rod is your 2005 AL MVP!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 03:55 AM

Red Cocks will unfortunately go to the playoffs but yes I agree with you ronnie that A-Rod should be the MVP!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 04:16 AM

What a strange, wonderful, dismaying, in-consistent, and wonderful AL East Division Winning Season. All documented in this thread which started out on a Gloating March night, and I hope on a glorious October night.


GO INJUNS!

A-Rod is MVP.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 04:40 AM

How sweet it is!



Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 12:36 PM

OK, was Joe Torre the cutest, or what?? He could barely speak after they won because, in his words, he was "crying like a baby."

If you had asked me two months ago if this day would've come, there would be no way I could've imagined it. MAYBE the Wild Card. Just MAYBE. But no way did I think that they would win the division. But they did. And I hope that Cleveland kicks ass today!!!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 02:03 PM

Well, I'm glad they celebrated that much. They were supposed to be out of the playoffs by before the all-star break. Rii-gghht?? It's amazing. Just when you thought they were out, the Red Sox give in!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 02:55 PM

LOL

Lets look at the MLB Awards Predictions:

AL MVP - Alex Rodriguez, 3B, New York Yankees
AL CY YOUNG - ???
AL MANAGER OF THE YEAR - Ozzie Guillen seemed to have this as the shoe-in, but now could Joe Torre win it?

Thoughts folks?
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 02:58 PM

A-Rod MVP
Mariano Rivera CY
Joe Torre Manager??

A full Yankee sweep? :p
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 03:11 PM

Quite possibly!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 06:35 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
A-Rod MVP
Mariano Rivera CY
Joe Torre Manager??

A full Yankee sweep? :p
Don't forget about Giambi as comeback player of the year And yes I already know the arguments that he shouldn't be considered for the award for his steroid use, but let's face it, how many of you people thought he'd have the kinda of season he's having right now!? NONE! .271 avg, 32 HRs, 87 RBIs
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 06:58 PM

My question is, we can't test for Human Growth hormones, for which I wonder if some MLB players do continue to use it.

However, Irish is right. I expected Giambi to be total expensive dead-weight...and hes come up to the plate when the rest of the team was sluggish.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 07:11 PM

I've been disappointed and surprised at Sheffield this year. I mean, he had an MVP type year last year while playing hurt most of the season and this year he was healthier and didn't do as good (I know you can't expect him to have a perfect season every year) but A-Rod really seems to be the heart of that lineup this year
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 07:25 PM

Indeed. While Sheffield has either been mediocre or bitching at the management(or usually both), or Jeter isn't being Jeter, or better yet guys like Ruben Sierra and Bernie Williams aren't delivering the bacon home...really, the only consistently solid/good players in the lineup I've seen have been your 2005 AL MVP A-Rod, Jason Giambi, and the underrated Hideki Matsui.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 07:31 PM

Yanks better sign Matsui the second the season's over. Let's not make the many boston mistakes of letting our good players good before there times expired. I've been hearing a lot of talk about Johnny Damon not coming back next year, but seriously, how many think he's not? It's all talk and unfortunately, I don't think boston is that dumb to let him walk away. As for everyone b*tching about how they let Lowe and Pedro go. Lowe will finish the year 12-15 with a 3.61 ERA in the NL (not a good win-loss record) while Pedro went 15-8 with a 2.82 ERA. I expected Pedro's numbers to be much better in the NL this year than they were in the AL last year
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 07:38 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I expected Pedro's numbers to be much better in the NL this year than they were in the AL last year
They might have been if the Mets backed him up with some more offense when he pitched.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 07:42 PM

It's the same old story, same old song and dance as Aerosmith once said. Lack of run support hurt Randy Johnson from winning the NL Cy Young Award last year. Lack of run support hurt Roger Clemens this year (although he'll still probably win the Cy Young AGAIN this year unless Willis was more convincing).
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/05 11:21 PM

Negative, no way Clemens will win the NL Cy Young. He only has 13 wins, which is why he won't win his 8th award.

The race is between Carpenter and Willis, and compelling arguments can be made for both...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/05 05:48 AM

What about the AL ronnie? Think Mo should win it or Colon from Anaheim?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/05 05:55 PM

Ya I think Rivera should win it, but he won't.

Like Ortiz, Rivera will be biased against by voters because he is a CLOSER, not a STARTING pitcher.

Unfair? Totally...then again, there is bias against Ortiz because simply he is a DH.

But Rivera should win it, since he was the only consistently good pitcher on the Yankees' bullpen methinks....future Hall of Famer.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/05 06:43 AM

Pitching for the Yanks for the first 4 games are as followed:

Game 1 - Moose
Game 2 - Wang
Game 3 - Unit
Game 4 - Chacon
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/05 11:47 AM

Food for thought and voting:

CY Young Relievers:
American League
Sparky Lyle, 1977 (26 saves, 13-7)
Rollie Finger, 1981 (28 saves, also MVP)
Willie Hernandez, 1984 (also MVP)
Dennis Eckersley, 1992 (51 saves, also MVP)

National League
Bruce Sutter, 1979
Steve Bedrosian, 1987
Mark Davis, 1989
Eric Gagne, 2003

This year in the AL, Franciso Rodriguez has more saves than Mariano, 45 to 43, but the ERAs are 2.67 to 1.38.

The only DH to win the MVP was Don Baylor in 1979
186 Hits
139 RBIs
71 BBs
11 HBP
36 HRs
.296 BA
.371 OBP
.530 SLG
120 Runs

Of course these awards are relative to the performance of other players that year.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/05 11:52 AM

A Yankee moment yesterday.

It was 12:30 pm and I had a meeting in uptown NY City. It was a nice day, so I walked from my office on W.36th St. to Grand Central to take the 4 - 5 train. I cut through Bryant Park (nice sights for a warm day) and there to my surprise was a Yankee rally. There was a stage set up and a few hundred people gathered on the lawn. I recognized the announcers voice, but couldn't immediately place it. It was Chris Carlin, a sports announcer on WFAN radio. On stage with him was Don Larsen, Mickey Rivers, Jim Leyritz and another player whose name I didn't hear. I was too far back to recognize him. Only in New York.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/05 03:20 PM

To all you Yankees fans out there, is it true that whenever the team loses at home at Yankee Stadium, the Frank Sinatra version of "New York, New York" plays...and when they lose, the Liza Minneli version is played?
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/05 11:22 PM

Code:
 	     MC Predicts	Actual			
	        W    L	%	W	L	%
Randy Johnson	9    8	0.529	17	8	0.680
Mike Mussina	14   7	0.667	13	8	0.619
Kevin Brown	1    3	0.250	4	7	0.364
Carl Pavano	16   10	0.615	4	6	0.400
Jaret Wright	10   11	0.476	5	5	0.500
Total	        50   39	0.562	43	34	0.558
						
Bullpen/Others	32   41		52	33	
						
Totals	        82   80		95	67	
 
Well here is the year end against my prediciton. Thank God for the Yankee "others". There were 27 pitchers on their roster this year. The pitchers they started the year with who were listed as "Starters" ended up with 77 game decisions, I predicted 89. I wonder how the other teams fair. Pavano and Wright were huge busts. Brown lasted longer than I thought. The Unit surprised me. I really thought he would have broken down.

My other predictions didn't pan out, but that was on purpose because I can't predict shit, which is why I don't gamble.

Code:
 82-80, miss playoffs									

Joe Torre fired at the All Star break when the team is under .500									

...oh yeah Bosox finish behind the Yankees at 79-83. Some Florida team wins the division, Orioles 2nd. 
 
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/05 04:49 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
My other predictions didn't pan out, but that was on purpose because I can't predict shit, which is why I don't gamble.

Code:
 82-80, miss playoffs									

Joe Torre fired at the All Star break when the team is under .500									

...oh yeah Bosox finish behind the Yankees at 79-83. Some Florida team wins the division, Orioles 2nd. 
 
Yeah I thought those predictions were a little harsh and laughable. I'm so happy because tonight I don't have to work and I plan on sitting my fat a$$ down and watch the Yanks going for 2 in Anaheim!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/05 06:47 PM

Congrats to Jason Giambi on officially winning the AL Comeback Player of the Year Award!
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/05 07:11 PM

Good for Jason. He had a lot of demons to overcome. His story would be good for teens who are on the road to roids.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/05 09:42 PM

Jason is a bum. He cheated and should not have gotten that award. By useing Steroids he hurt himself.

DS
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/05 01:14 AM

Personally, I'm very happy for Giambi, and congrats to Joe Torre for standing by him. That's one of the reasons that Joe Torre is so loved by his players. When everyone else was saying that the Yankees should dump him, Joe stood quietly by Giambi. One of my favorite moments in baseball was when Giambi hit a game-winning home run. Joe Torre just reached out, hugged him and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

I think that Giambi had a very, very tough road, and I think he traveled it bravely, and with class. Just look at the way Palmeiro has handled his "scandal" in comparison.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/05 04:44 AM

Griffey won the award for the NL so congrats to him as well. I agree with everything you said Babe about Torre. I can't see how or WHY anyone would ever print anything about the Yanks firing him. How could they!?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/05 05:32 PM

Well it wasn't exacly the "perfect" year we were hoping for in 2005, Yankee fans. See you all next year!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 06:53 AM

WOO HOO the Yanks resigned Matsui to a 4 year deal yesterday. Now they can focus on the bullpen and a centerfielder
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 07:50 AM

Bullpen??

Let's try fixing the pathetic starting pitching. Bullpen is all Cy Youngsters compared to the starters... :rolleyes:
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 08:32 AM

They picked up the option on Sturtze, and wanna resign Gordon and sign BJ Ryan. Starting pitching should be fine is everyone stays healthy. I'd go with Johnson, Moose, Wang, Chacon, and Pavano with Small in the bullpen as middle relief
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 08:39 AM

Sorry, but that is not a Championship starting rotation... But, if they are all healthy ( for once! ) then I'll take it....!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 08:43 AM

Well that pitching staff at least got them into the playoffs. Plus, there aren't many good free agent pitchers out there except Roger Clemens and A.J. Burnett from what I've heard. Also, would you rather have Kevin Brown or Jaret Wright?
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 08:53 AM

Hindsight being 20/20, we never should've let Roger or Andy go. But if Randy steps up, to what he was, and, the others get back to their ace forms, then sure, we have a chance... but NY is a problem for a lot of people (see: Knoblockhead, Fielder, C*nsaco, etc...)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 09:06 AM

Well technically we never "let" Roger go, he quit and then came right back. Andy went sure. But I do agree, Randy should have a better 2nd year. I think he tried to do too much just like A-Rod did in his first year and look he just won the AL MVP. I think he'll be more comfortable this year plus he was coming back to the AL from being in the NL for the past 7 seasons. But again, I'm excited to see the rotation this year with Chacon, Wang added to Moose, Pavano and Unit.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 12:27 PM

Our newspaper this morning said that Cashman has his sights set on Brian Giles for CF. I'm glad to see Matsui signed.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 12:48 PM

Just what they don't need.

A 35 year-old slugger on the downside of his career who hasn't played much centerfield.

I think Tori Hunter is a much better fit.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 04:45 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
A 35 year-old slugger on the downside of his career....
Status Quo for them
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 05:12 PM

Yankee ages on opening day, 2006:

Jeter: 32
A Rod: 2 months short of 31
Giambi: 35
Posada: 4 months short of 35
Matsui: 2 months short of 32
Sheffield: 37
Bernie: 37

R. Johnson: 41
Mussina: 37
Rivera: 36

Giles: 35

I can see this team breaking down and falling apart all at once.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/05 06:03 PM

Good news that the Yanks were able to resign Matsui, a consistently solid player on both the field and the batter's box.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/17/05 04:47 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Just what they don't need.

A 35 year-old slugger on the downside of his career who hasn't played much centerfield.

I think Tori Hunter is a much better fit.
I agree, I'd go with someone younger like Hunter or Juan Pierre from Florida but it's looking more and more like he's not coming.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/05 06:43 AM

Wow I'm impressed this thread went 30 pages But in all honesty I wanted to take a quick poll from my fellow Yankee fans (Geoff, Don Smitty, and DJ among others). Would you welcome Roger Clemens back to New York if he decided to come back for the 2006 season? Remember, I personally think he could improve our chances of winning and also he could sign with Boston or Houston. I for one would welcome him back granted he could win the Series (not to mention seeing him & Johnson pitch side-by-side).
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/05 06:58 AM

I wouldn't be upset if he came back, but, he's a scumbag for pulling such antics! (sorry, Gina! )
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/05 07:01 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
I wouldn't be upset if he came back, but, he's a scumbag for pulling such antics! (sorry, Gina! )
I agree. If he doesn't come back, I'll always hate him

Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/05 07:09 AM

I cannot wait 'til I see Daemon, opps, sorry, Damon, after his Steinbrenner makeover! Probably better than the Fab 5 treatment he got last year! ...and, when he fails to do anything, (and mark my words here!) he'll blame it on George and claim his hirsuteness was the reason he could hit. Write that down. (see: Fielder, Blockhead, C*ntsaco, etc)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/05 12:26 PM

Octavio Dotel, if he can recover from his offseason Tommy John, would bring another sweet arm into the bullpen with his 97-mph fastball.

The problem I had with Flash Gordon was that he would choke in clutch situations. Perhaps Dotel can overcome that for us this year?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/05 03:41 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
The problem I had with Flash Gordon was that he would choke in clutch situations. Perhaps Dotel can overcome that for us this year?
Yeah but I always liked Flash and wish the Yanks could have hung onto him. I personally don't think Dotel would do better in similar situations because I remember when he was a closer for Oakland and Houston and he sucked. Sure he won't be closing in the Bronx but it was a similar situation kinda. MAY 1 is the Yankees first game in Fenway Park Can't wait to see it!
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/31/06 01:12 AM

So who thinks the yanks will score over 1000 runs this season???
DS
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/31/06 07:46 PM

Ruben Sierra signed a 1 year deal with the Minnesota Twins earlier today.

Poo.

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/06 12:05 AM

They should have kept Ruben. I REALLY wish they didn't let him go
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/06 12:09 AM

Ruben was real quality stuff for the Yanks. Sad to see him go.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/06 01:50 AM

I will miss him also. I would have liked to see Bernie go instead.

DS
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/06 02:07 AM

Aw, c'mon, DS!! No sentiment involved??? Although I'm sorry to see Sierra go, I am very glad that Bernie will retire as a Yankee. Although his arm is not what it once was, he can still swing the bat when he has to, and we can't forget the contributions he's made to the Yankees over the years. Bern, baby, Bern!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/06 03:36 AM

No way. Bernie is still a clutch hitter, and a great fielder. He just has lost his wheels over the years, which is natural. If Bernie would've left, it would have tarnished the legacy of a great Yankee career.

Ruben was one of my favorites, and always seemed to have a clutch hit in his arsenal. Plus, he was also an unofficial bench coach for the younger Latino players, if you notice, Robinson Cano has tooled his swing off of Sierra's style, thanks to his tutelage.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/06 04:16 AM

I agree with Babe and DJ, between the 2 I'd rather see Ruben go. As much as I appreciate what he brought to the Yanks, you can't replace Bernie. I hate it when all of these teams dump their stars after the years and don't have the respect to allow them to retire as a member of that franchise (a la Emmitt Smith leaving Dallas for Arizona). I'm glad the Yanks didn't make that mistake. Again, I will miss Ruben but I'd miss Bernie more if he went
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/06 04:23 AM

I was surprised when the Yankees didn't offer him arbitration. Dunno what Cashman was thinking. At least we've got Miggy Cairo back, he is an excellent utility infielder who has some pop with the bat and decent wheels.

Actually, I think the *worst* offseason loss is actually John Flaherty, who oftentimes looked better at the catcher position than Posada did...


Posada's 2005
Code:
 Year Ag Tm  Lg  G   AB    R    H   2B 3B  HR  RBI  SB CS  BB  SO   BA   OBP   SLG   TB   SH  SF IBB HBP GDP 
+--------------+---+----+----+----+---+--+---+----+---+--+---+---+-----+-----+-----+----+---+---+---+---+---+
2005 33 NYY AL 142  474   67  124  23  0  19   71   1  0  66  94  .262  .352  .430  204   0   4   5   2   8 
Flaherty's 2005
Code:
 Year Ag Tm  Lg  G   AB    R    H   2B 3B  HR  RBI  SB CS  BB  SO   BA   OBP   SLG   TB   SH  SF IBB HBP GDP 
+--------------+---+----+----+----+---+--+---+----+---+--+---+---+-----+-----+-----+----+---+---+---+---+---+
2005 37 NYY AL  47  127   10   21   5  0   2   11   0  0   6  26  .165  .206  .252   32   2   2   0   1   4 
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/06 04:36 AM

Maybe its just me, but I think that Gregg Zaun is a better catcher and team leader than Jorge Posada or John Flaherty.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/02/06 05:39 PM

Posada is still an excellent defensive catcher, especially with that gun to throw out guys at second. His offensive skills are terribly streaky, and he's having a hard time duplicating his batting success from 2-3 seasons ago.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/02/06 05:43 PM

You guys think the Yanks should have signed Piazza? If it was only for one year I would have loved to have seen him in pinstripes
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/02/06 06:20 PM

No. We don't need any more washed-up fogeys who can barely play their designated position. :p
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/02/06 10:54 PM

I would have liked to have Piazza as a DH instead of Bernie.

DS
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/06/06 11:03 PM

Rumour has it that Brian Cashman has been sending out feelers towards Andy Petitte for a possible return to pinstripes...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/07/06 08:17 PM

Brew-Jays just signed Bengie Molina...
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/07/06 08:45 PM

Uh...Yeah The BLUE JAYS just signed Bengie Molina and it looks like we are gonna be spoiled at the Catching position this season as we have Molina, Gregg Zaun and a pretty decent prospect in Guillermo Quiroz.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/07/06 08:51 PM

Now if you could just get some real grass in the Skydome...err...Rogers "Centre," the Blue Jays might be worth talking about! (j/k)
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/07/06 09:07 PM

Lol! Why'd you have to bring that up?! Actually the new field-turf in the SKYDOME is pretty good and the players say they like it better than the old astro turf. And yeah, it's the SKYDOME, SkyDome. SkyDome, SkyDome, SkyDome! none of this Roger's Centre bullshit! Sorry bro, this is a really touchy issue for me..
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/07/06 09:48 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Rumour has it that Brian Cashman has been sending out feelers towards Andy Petitte for a possible return to pinstripes...
Where did you hear this from? Also, when's his contract up? I know this will be his 3rd year in hell...I mean houston. I also can't believe it took Molina so long to sign with a team. Personally, I think the Yankees should have picked up either him or Piazza, just for a year as a backup or another hitter off the bench
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/07/06 10:11 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Where did you hear this from? Also, when's his contract up?
I read it from a link off of the Yankees homepage, it was like the hotstove/rumor type thing...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/13/06 09:05 PM

Friday, the Yankees claimed the Nationals' RHP Darrell Rasner off waivers, and ship Jason Anderson back down to Columbus.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/16/06 10:14 PM

What will the lineup be like???

ds
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/16/06 11:46 PM

Like that of any other old, over-the-hill, full of guys who are no longer on the upside of their career will look:

Like any other third or fourth place team. :p
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/06 12:34 AM

You might be right P.L. but I still think The Yankees are good enough to capture their 1 billionth American League East Crown and go to the Playoffs. I'm almost sure that my Blue Jays will win the A.L. Wildcard and the Boston Redsox will miss the Playoffs alltogether. In any case, I can't wait till April!!
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/06 12:46 AM

I think your team is a bit short in the offense department, Don J.

Actually, I think the entire AL East looks pretty weak this year, so I can't see the wild card coming out of there.
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/06 04:32 AM

P.L., Going by last season's statistics (2005 totals) The Blue Jays on our 40-man roster as of this moment had a combined 181 Home Runs and 851 Runs Batted In (give or take a few as I could have miscalculated). Now I know that this is not as much as The Yankees or The Redsox and that we did (do?) not have a legitimate 40+/100+ guy in our lineup but I think that because our pitching will be strong this year with a fully healthy Roy Halladay and with A.J. Burnett, Gustavo Chacin (the guy is only 25 years old and has loads of potential!), Ted Lilly, B.J. Ryan and Josh Towers that we are the number one Wild Card threat in the A.L.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/06 04:39 AM

I agree with plaw that Toronto won't make the playoffs. Sorry Don Jasani, but I just don't think they have all the tools yet. I congratulate them on their off seasons acquisitions but I just don't see them beating out boston for the Wild Card. boston still has Schilling, Beckett, Clement, Foulke, Ortiz, Ramirez, Nixon, etc.
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/06 05:12 AM

I don't know about T.O. not making the playoffs but I do know that ESPN and the other big American sports media outlets will do everything in their power (coveragewise) to make sure that both The Yankees and The Redsox make the postseason. While I disagree with you guys on whether we have the stuff to make it to the big dance, I think that a Blue Jays vs. any other team playoff series would be very good for the game for several reasons.

The main reason I want to see the Jays in the playoffs should be self-evident to anyone who has spent five minutes on the sports boards over here so I won't go over it again. The secondary reason would be that having The Jays in the playoffs would strengthen an already very strong media market (Toronto - 6 million+ people and by extension Canada - 35 million+ people) and bring a bit of an international flavour to the postseason. The beauty of this whole thing is that come April every team is technically in first place and theoretically at the very least, has an equal shot at making it to the World Series...except the AAA Kansas City Royals of course. Let's Go Blue Jays...Let's Go!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/06 08:14 AM

I'll say this much Don Jasani, I'll be pulling for them as well this season. I'd MUCH rather see Toronto in the playoffs than that "World Series buying" team, the boston red socks
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/06 07:49 PM

How about this? Fuck the Red Sox and especially the Yankees. Thankfully, less-spending clubs have won the major title part of the last few years, like Florida, Chicago, Anaheim, you name it.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/06 08:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
How about this? Fuck the Red Sox and especially the Yankees. Thankfully, less-spending clubs have won the major title part of the last few years, like Florida, Chicago, Anaheim, you name it.
Ah Chicago and Anaheim I don't mind, but f*ck Florida. I'm so glad they're gonna suck this year and that they let everyone go
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/06 09:27 PM

Irish, although (naturally) we mainly root for different and opposing teams we do share much common ground on wanting to see The Blue Jays make the postseason. You, for your reasons and me, for mine. I think that it can nay will happen, you are more skeptical. That's all kool and the gang as they say, and that's the beauty of Baseball and competitive sports in general. However, I must disagree with your views on The Florida Marlins. I mean this team won two World Series Titles in the span of about ten years or so right? And they're an expansion team to boot! Granted, this isn't better than what The Blue Jays did in 1992 and 1993 and those Jay teams were two of the best twenty-five teams ever to play a season in my admittedly heavily biased opinion, but that's another discussion altogether. But even with all their success and the two World Championships The Marlins get no respect, no regard either. What, is the city of Miami so nuts that they can't or more likely won't respect a Major League Baseball team that represents their city and its residents? Are Miamians (Miamites?) so wrapped up in their love of The Heat (a very good team no doubt) and so wrapped up in nostalgia about The Dolphins that they refuse to respect The Marlins and show up at their games? Although I love Hockey and am a huge NHL fan and just plain and simple a pure hockey fan, I don't think that Floridians are paying too much attention to the mediocre Florida Panthers although the whole State did appreciate and celebrate The Tampa Bay Lightning win of The Stanley Cup last season. Although The Calgary Flames could or should have won The Finals (a goal by Jarome Iginla I believe, was disallowed in the sixth game and The Lightning went on to win the series in seven...you don't want to get me started on that, believe me bro. ) Anyways, the point is, it really beats the hell out of me why The Marlins are held in such low regard by everyone in FLA. I'm quite sure they're not rooting for The Tampa Bay Devil Rays or The Atlanta Braves or a Texas team or something so why don't Floridians support their Baseball teams. Maybe it could be that many citizens of The Sunshine State have been spoiled by having Spring Training there every season and so since they can see so many teams up close and personal they don't really care all that much about The Marlins or The Devil Rays. Whatever, either way, although I hope and pray that The Blue Jays will go all the way this year (yeah I know hoping against hope and praying against common sense :rolleyes: ) I will also be rooting for The Marlins, The D-Rays and all the other teams across MLB that don't get the credit they should. I know The Marlins, The Devil Rays and other teams like The Arizona Diamondbacks and The Colorado Rockies are gonna get spanked this year, I secretly hope that they finish the season with respectable records. What would really be good is if The Montreal Expos er...I mean Washington Nationals go back to Montreal and the city of Washington D.C. gets its own new (expansion) team. It'll most likely never happen, but I hope it does.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/06 09:39 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
[b] How about this? Fuck the Red Sox and especially the Yankees. Thankfully, less-spending clubs have won the major title part of the last few years, like Florida, Chicago, Anaheim, you name it.
Ah Chicago and Anaheim I don't mind, but f*ck Florida. I'm so glad they're gonna suck this year and that they let everyone go [/b][/quote]Awww, is someone still sad the Yankees got their asses beat down like a bunch of rich fagg*ts in the '03 World Series?

Here little baby, here's some tissue to dry your tears.



Since his Yankees don't advance in the playoffs, he's gotta root against other teams for whatever gay little reason!

Oh, Roger Clemens decided to come back to his hometown and pitch out his career with the Astros? OH THEY SUCK, I HATE THEM.

He might come back? Let's be hypocrites and welcome him back! Same with Andy!

Let's root against the teams who don't have as much money as we do, because we get whoever we want and STILL don't do shit! Hooray!

And let's be major assholes to other team's fans during the World Series because our team wasn't good enough to get there! w00t!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 12:00 AM

Yankees sign former Dodger/Met Scott Erickson to a minor-league deal today.

ESPN.com
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 12:15 AM

Wow! Scott Erickson I remember when he just came up with the Minnesota Twins and he was supposed to be like the next Tom Seaver or whatever and he really kinda fizzled out. I have absolutely no idea what Mr. Steinbrenner is thinking! This guy (Erickson) is a career 142 - 136, has a career 4.57 Earned Run Average, and 1 250 Ks. Although he did have one amazing season with The Twins and a few really good seasons with The Baltimore Orioles, Erickson's best days are behind him. Even if you got him for a nickel there is no point to adding him to any team and unless Joe Torre plans on using him in middle relief as a setup man for Mariano Rivera or to eat up innings when one of his starters has a rough night I can't see any use for Erickson whatsoever.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 12:33 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
Even if you got him for a nickel there is no point to adding him to any team and unless Joe Torre plans on using him in middle relief as a setup man for Mariano Rivera or to eat up innings when one of his starters has a rough night I can't see any use for Erickson whatsoever.
Well, they signed him to a minor-league deal, which means he is simply insurance should one of the current rotation goes down.

Also, the Padres claimed Jason Anderson from the Yankees waivers. I didn't think he was terrible, but certainly we've got better options.

From what I'm reading, this is what the Yanks will look like from the mound in 2006:

Starters
  • Randy Johnson
  • Mike Mussina
  • Carl Pavano
  • Chien-Ming Wang
  • Shawn Chacon
  • Jason Wright/Aaron Small


Bullpen
  • Octavio Dotel
  • Ron Villone
  • Kyle Farnsworth
  • Mike Myers
  • Scott Procter
  • Darrell Rasner
  • Tanyon Sturtze
  • Mariano Rivera
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 07:02 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
[b] How about this? Fuck the Red Sox and especially the Yankees. Thankfully, less-spending clubs have won the major title part of the last few years, like Florida, Chicago, Anaheim, you name it.
Ah Chicago and Anaheim I don't mind, but f*ck Florida. I'm so glad they're gonna suck this year and that they let everyone go [/b][/quote]Awww, is someone still sad the Yankees got their asses beat down like a bunch of rich fagg*ts in the '03 World Series?

Here little baby, here's some tissue to dry your tears.



Since his Yankees don't advance in the playoffs, he's gotta root against other teams for whatever gay little reason!

Oh, Roger Clemens decided to come back to his hometown and pitch out his career with the Astros? OH THEY SUCK, I HATE THEM.

He might come back? Let's be hypocrites and welcome him back! Same with Andy!

Let's root against the teams who don't have as much money as we do, because we get whoever we want and STILL don't do shit! Hooray!

And let's be major assholes to other team's fans during the World Series because our team wasn't good enough to get there! w00t! [/b][/quote]Man, I'm just gonna throw in the towel because you have me COMPLETELY figured out

First of all, I'm not still sad over the 03 Series. I just hate the Marlins. I always have and probably always will.

Thanks for the tissues, I needed them

Damn straight I hate Roger Clemens. If he or Andy came back and actually WON a World Series, I'd welcome them back. But it wouldn't be like I'd be their biggest fans. In fact, I probably wouldn't even cheer for them until they proved themselves again. See, this is what a lot of other people don't understand about Clemens and the Yankees. It wasn't YOUR team. It'd be like Willis retiring and then joining a team that you loath (like the Yankees). Now really, can you honestly sit their at your computer and say "wow, he's pitching for his favorite team growing up. How can I argue with that? I hope he does swell up there with New York and wins MANY MANY championships & Cy Young awards?" No f'n way. You'd be as pissed as I am about Clemens.

And yes I rooted for the White Sox because I hate Houston. Call me childish or whatever but is that gonna take away the World Series title from Chicago? Not to mention I live in this hell hole state and have to listen & see it everywhere I turn ("Astro-mania")
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 07:22 AM

Don Jasani, I'll agree with you that the Marlins don't get a lot of respect and/or coverage. Why the state of Florida doesn't support them is beyond me. But as I said, I'll be rooting against them again this year.

DJ, nice pitching lineups but do you feel comfortable with the bullpen? Other than Sturtze & Mo, I think all these other guys are new. They gonna be able to "cut it" as they say in the Big Apple? I really wish they would have resigned Tom Gordon and that he could accept his role as a setup man. No offense Tom, but the Phillies aren't going anywhere this year and then we'll have another Tejada one our hands. A guy who goes to a bad team for the money and than b*tches about "well how come we never win?"
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 04:16 PM

If one is to lie Irishman, at least make a competent attempt at it.

Me, and I bet DA as well, are pissed still as Marlins fans over the infamous FireSale of 1997, as well the recent firesale, and fucking nightmares I have of them moving to friggin Las Vegas. Hopefully the Fish get that damn new stadium quite soon.

Fact is, that is me being annoyed with some franchise event that didn't involve friggin competition.

Really Irish, you still don't resent being humiliated at home....in Game 6...to the Marlins....to a pitcher that I believe only had 3/4 days of rest? Better yet, losing to a franchise that spent at least $100 million less than your Yanks did?

Fuck, I would still be angry over that if I was a fan. Sure I would get over it over time, but dammit it would still eat away at me. That is why I don't believe you either that the Yanks being beaten in four straight games....after winning the first three...to the archnemesis Boston RedSox...doesn't bother you.

As for Roger Clemens, what the fuck does he have to prove to you? He's a fucking freak of nature that we'll be telling our grandchildren, possibly the greatest pitcher of the last 50 years who even last year was a finalist for yet another Cy Young trophy, despite being an old man.

So you got pissy that he left the Yankees. Big deal. How about you get over it?

Dammit Irishman, this proves again what I always knew about you. I may have problems with JJ many times(just check out that recent "Retirement" thread in the main room), but at least he is logical and rational in the sports department.

However, you are just a damn punk kid in the body of a college graduate.

Respect due is respect earned, no matter where, when, or who. Even Alex Rodriguez's pretty great MVP season last year or Rivera being worthy of the Hall of Fame. Team partisanship clouds judgment.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 05:26 PM

ronnie, as I told you (and I'm not lying) that the 03 Series doesn't bother me anymore. It did until the 2004 playoffs and as you pointed out the whole boston "winning" thing. That's fueled my anger now this past year+ or so. The whole Marlines episode of 03 and the Angels episode of 02 I'm over. However, that still doesn't mean that I have warm, fuzzy feeling for Josh Beckett. I still hate him and even more so now that he's with boston

And I don't remember where I said that boston beating us doesn't bother me. In fact, it still haunts me to this day. But not the Marlins. I got some satisfaction when they haven't made the playoffs I believe the past 2 years.

As for Clemens, as I said, it didn't happen to you and I didn't figure you could relate. However, you still never answered my question. Would you or DA do backflips if the D-Train "retired" and than a couple of weeks later come out and played for the Yanks, a team that you really loathe? As for your other comments, there's no need for name calling. We have enough of that in the General Discussion area and thought you were more mature to argue in a more civilized manner.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 05:41 PM

How many games did Tanyon Sturtze give away for us last year? I think he is over rated.

DS
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 05:43 PM

I always liked Sturtze and thought, for the most part, he was reliable. But again, there's gonna be a lot of new faces in the pen this year which makes me a little uneasy.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 05:47 PM

I think Sturtze is a great pitcher, but he has some kind of mental issue (which I suspect could be helped immensely with Ron Guidry as the new pitching coach) where it takes him a few batters to settle in, and then, he seems to lock in the strike zone and have his way.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 06:02 PM

DJ, you never answered my question from a few posts ago amigo
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 06:44 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:


DJ, nice pitching lineups but do you feel comfortable with the bullpen? Other than Sturtze & Mo, I think all these other guys are new. They gonna be able to "cut it" as they say in the Big Apple? I [b]really
wish they would have resigned Tom Gordon and that he could accept his role as a setup man. No offense Tom, but the Phillies aren't going anywhere this year and then we'll have another Tejada one our hands. A guy who goes to a bad team for the money and than b*tches about "well how come we never win?" [/b]
I don't know if Gordon would bitch, after all, he played for the mediocre White Sox for all those years. If anything, he could bitch about leaving them for the Yanks and then they win the World Series 3 years later...

As far as the bullpen, there is no way I can truthfully say that I am comfortable with the 'pen because I haven't seen most of these new guys in action. Even the guys we've had for a couple of years (Proctor, Henn) aren't players I'd have on my roster, let alone as "reliable" (though Proctor has shown promise with that fastball).

However, like I said with Sturtze, Ron "Gator" Guidry is going to make a huge difference in this team, imho. He brings a fresh approach that has been lacking with Mel, who I miss for sentimental reasons but I think might have lost his touch. It is a good thing to see someone new take over the duties to see if we can bring this unit together.

Actually, what I'm most surprised (and a bit perturbed) about is that Aaron Small isn't listed as one of the starting pitchers. Sorry, but fuck Jason Wright. He should have to earn his spot in the rotation. Small did a spectacular job last year, defying ANY expectations (who actually had heard of Aaron Small unless you played with the Clippers or the Thunder in MVP Baseball :p ).

From what it sounds like, Johnson has finally figured out what he was missing - he said he wasn't getting enough proper rotation/alignment with is throwing arm...its on Yankees.com.

If I were managing the Yanks, this is what my rotation would look like:

Johnson
Mussina
Wang
Chacon
Small

Pavano and Wright, until they prove themselves, would be spot starters. In reserve starting duties would be Sturtze, Leiter, and yes, Hideo Nomo (if we've still got him :p ).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 06:54 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
As far as the bullpen, there is no way I can truthfully say that I am comfortable with the 'pen because I haven't seen most of these new guys in action. Even the guys we've had for a couple of years (Proctor, Henn) aren't players I'd have on my roster, let alone as "reliable" (though Proctor has shown promise with that fastball).
I couldn't agree with you more than here. Most of these guys I haven't seen in action either. Not to mention it sometimes takes a guy a season for "settle" down in New York (a la Alex Rodriguez).

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
However, like I said with Sturtze, Ron "Gator" Guidry is going to make a huge difference in this team, imho. He brings a fresh approach that has been lacking with Mel, who I miss for sentimental reasons but I think might have lost his touch. It is a good thing to see someone new take over the duties to see if we can bring this unit together.
Do you think the Gator will have an immediate impact? As I stated above, I'm willing to give him this season with almost no expectations. Even though he has played for the Yanks, this is a totally new and different job and I'm willing to bet he'll do better next year with a year of experience under his belt than he may do in 2006

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Actually, what I'm most surprised (and a bit perturbed) about is that Aaron Small isn't listed as one of the starting pitchers. Sorry, but fuck Jason Wright. He should have to earn his spot in the rotation. Small did a spectacular job last year, defying ANY expectations (who actually had heard of Aaron Small unless you played with the Clippers or the Thunder in MVP Baseball :p ).

If I were managing the Yanks, this is what my rotation would look like:

Johnson
Mussina
Wang
Chacon
Small

Pavano and Wright, until they prove themselves, would be spot starters. In reserve starting duties would be Sturtze, Leiter, and yes, Hideo Nomo (if we've still got him :p ).
I agree, I'd have Small up there on the rotation too and Pavano and Wright (Jared that is, not Jason ) should have to prove themselves. However, the Yankees shot themselves in the foot with Wright for signing him to that ridiculous contract. And for that, unfortunatley, Small has to pay for there sins. BTW, any possible way to grab one of the last "Asian Connection T-Shirt"?
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 08:28 PM

Irishman -

Thank you for not responding to ronnierocket's attack on you in the same manner.

ronnierocket -

You were out of line when you made that personal comment to Irishman earlier today and you owe him an apology. There's no place for attacks like that on a fellow member here. You wanna disagree? Fine. Just stop the name calling.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/06 10:55 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[QUOTE]Do you think the Gator will have an immediate impact? As I stated above, I'm willing to give him this season with almost no expectations. Even though he has played for the Yanks, this is a totally new and different job and I'm willing to bet he'll do better next year with a year of experience under his belt than he may do in 2006

---


I agree, I'd have Small up there on the rotation too and Pavano and Wright (Jared that is, not Jason ) should have to prove themselves. However, the Yankees shot themselves in the foot with Wright for signing him to that ridiculous contract. And for that, unfortunatley, Small has to pay for there sins. BTW, any possible way to grab one of the last "Asian Connection T-Shirt"?
I think, when it comes to coaching, there is still an "it" factor where you've either got it or you don't. Guidry was a phenominal pitcher during his career, and I have a feeling that he brings a fresher approach than Mel can at this point in his coaching career.

---

Hell, Cashman shot himself in the foot for getting the aging Johnny Damon for $50 million when just the year before he could've went after Carlos Beltran and gotten youth alongside of talent.

Haha, I'll have to dig them out, they didn't turn out to be big sellers (surprisingly!)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 12:53 AM

I'm not trying to take anything away from the Gator but sometimes great players don't turn into great coaches. Usually the players who weren't the superstars make the better coaches. Granted that's not in every case and I have no idea how good/what type of coach is or will be. I'm more curious than ever to see how he'll fit in and interact with players.

I don't think Cashman shot himself in the foot. First of all, image how much more the Yankees payroll woud have been had they have signed Beltran last year. Not to mention that Carlos missed quite a few games last year. Finally the Yankees needed a lead-off hitter more than I think they needed another home run hitter. I like Carlos and Johnny and true Carlos is younger but I'm at least glad we got Johnny instead of neither of them. Check out their stats for last year:

Damon
Games : 148
AB: 624
Runs: 117
Hits: 197
2B: 35
3B: 6
HR: 10
RBI: 75
SO: 69
SB: 18
SLG: .439
AVG: .316

Beltran
Games: 151
AB: 582
Runs: 83
Hits: 155
2B: 34
3B: 2
HR: 16
RBI: 78
SO: 96
SB: 17
SLG: .414
AVG: .266

BTW, it's well documented on here how I feel about Clemens but as a Yankee fan how do you feel?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 01:04 AM

I'm saying the Yankees shot themselves in the foot because they needed a defensive-minded center fielder with a good arm. Damon has neither - he is at best a mediocre fielder (watch the 2003 ALCS) and his arm is wholly suspect. Not only that, but the Yankees should be trying to get younger, look at Cano and Wang. In hindsight, I'm saying that we should've went after Beltran, I think, from a longevity standpoint.

As far as Clemens is concerned, he can eat shit. The way he left the Yankees, I don't even want him back as a rent-a-player. Pettitte I respect because he's a deeply religious man and wanted to be close to his family. But Rocket dicked around the Yankees with "I'm retiring...I'm coming back to NY" and he's doing the same thing with the Ass-tros this year with his WBC participation and his talk of how he'd love to return to NY, and how he has been meeting with the Boston admins.

Fuck Roger Clemens, at least from a Yankee fans perspective. I'd take Pettitte back in a heartbeat, but Clemens can rot, as far as I'm concerned.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 01:05 AM

BTW - Irishman - you should check out the discussion of 2006 baseball games in the video game section.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 01:14 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:

Fuck Roger Clemens, at least from a Yankee fans perspective. I'd take Pettitte back in a heartbeat, but Clemens can rot, as far as I'm concerned.
I agree.

ds
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 01:29 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Fuck Roger Clemens, at least from a Yankee fans perspective. I'd take Pettitte back in a heartbeat, but Clemens can rot, as far as I'm concerned.
I'm upset over the fact that Andy left. However, it was probably for the best. In 2004, his first year with the Ass-tros (sorry I had to steal that, I like it too much), he only started 15 games. Last year he did bounce back but he's never been the Yankees Andy Pettitte in Houston luckily. Also, after this year he'll be 34 and he's gonna be coming up on the downside of his career pretty soon I think. As you said, if the Yanks are smart they'll go for youth and pass on Andy come next offseason.

BTW, what's going on in the 2006 baseball games discussion?
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 01:31 AM

The Yanks never really offered Andy a good contract.

ds
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 01:32 AM

True but I think Andy has his mind made up too about going to Houston. I think the Yanks not offering him a contract was a good excuse so as not to leave on bad terms
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 01:40 AM

Could be.

ds
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 03:34 AM

It was no secret that Andy wanted to go, whether or not they gave him the extra money. He needed to be near his family, which I can totally understand and respect.

Irish - the debate revolves around which game to get - MLB 2K6 or MLB 2006: The Show. I've posted screenshots that involve the Yankees so far...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 03:43 AM

Unfortunately I'm not the gamer I was 10 years ago. I like to consider myself somewhat of a "movie buff" but I know most here will laugh at that notion. Although, I'd love to have the time to play more games but with school, work and movies, I just don't
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 03:48 AM

Damn it, Irish, what has become of you! You're starting to look like a model citizen! :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 03:52 AM

No, I still work a Blockbuster

BTW, I assume you watch YES for all the Yankee games? I can only watch the few that are on ESPN or ESPN2 until I go to New York at the end of May/early June However, I already have the first game marked on my calendar (against Oakland)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 04:01 AM

YES is practically my favorite channel from March to October

Save for, of course, The History Channel.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 04:07 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
YES is practically my favorite channel from March to October
Mine too. I look forward to watching every game I can whether its a night after work or on the weekend. I can't get enough of YES. Did you hear that Johnny Damon showed up early today at Spring Training?
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 01:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Check out their stats for last year:

Damon.....
Beltran....
Stat comparisons are often meaningless, or relatively so, unless evealuated in the context of the offense that the player was in, his positionin the batting order, and the park in which he plays.

Damon batted leadoff (with Ortiz & Ramirez hitting after him) rather than third in a much better offense and in an easier park for hitters.

Switch their teams, put Damon up 3rd for the Mets and Beltran leading off for the Sox, and see what happens stats-wise.

All things being equal, if I were the Yankees, I'd much rather have Beltran. It's not even close.
Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
If I were managing the Yanks, this is what my rotation would look like:

Johnson
Mussina
Wang
Chacon
Small

Pavano and Wright, until they prove themselves, would be spot starters.
Problem is, you have to consider a player's experience in the role he's being asked to fill, and his value in that role.

Pavano & Wright have virutally no experience as relievers, so you have to question their effectiveness coming out of the bullpen.

Small, on the other hand, has proven himself in middle relief, an area that the Yanks are weak in.

And, their contracts do factor in to it as well.
Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
I think Sturtze is a great pitcher.....
Let's not get carried away here....

He's proven that he can be a useful pitcher, I think, but to call him "great" is quite a stretch, don't you think?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 02:10 PM

Plaw - You did take my statement out of context, after all, since I discussed his mental issues with finding the strike zone.

Quote:
Problem is, you have to consider a player's experience in the role he's being asked to fill, and his value in that role.

Pavano & Wright have virutally no experience as relievers, so you have to question their effectiveness coming out of the bullpen.

Small, on the other hand, has proven himself in middle relief, an area that the Yanks are weak in.

And, their contracts do factor in to it as well.
True, but I also think that past years performance should factor in. Pavano and Wright were wholly ineffective overall, while Small went 10-0. If I were Torre, I'd rotate them during Spring Training until I felt comfortable with my starting pitchers.

I didn't say that Pavano and Wright would be middle relief, I simply said that they would be spot starters, at least in the early goings here in March and April. Let them sub in for Small, or Wang, or Chacon here or there depending on what their stats dictate, who would be a better matchup, etc., and I think that would be a good way to find out who deserves the spot in the lineup.

As it is, I don't think that the starting pitching would be set in stone - look at the Yankees last season. It depends on who is healthy (read: who is still breathing :p ), who is hot on the mound, and who is effective at getting batters out.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 02:45 PM

I don't think that the Yanks can afford two roster spots for "spot starters".

Typically, that role is filled by a guy who can make an ocasional start and pitch reliably in long/middle relief.

And it's important, I think, that players be comfortable with, and accepting of, their roles.

If Pavano and/or Wright have little or no use in long or middle relief, then, barring injuries, you're talking about something like 60-65 starts or so between Johnson & Mussina, and another 100 or so between the other five - Chacon, Wang, Pavano, Wright, and Small.

That leaves a bullpen of Villone, Farnsworth, Myers, Procter, Sturtze, and Rivera. I think they'd prefer a 7-man bullpen, with all 7 being proven, reliable relievers

That's 13 pitchers, with Dotel due back in mid-season, so if he can pitch, at least one, and possibly two, will have to go.

I think if everyone gets thru spring training relatively intact, they will be stuck with Johnson, Mussina, Wang, Chacon, and Pavano (in that order) as starters, with Small, Villone, Farnsworth, Myers, Wright, Sturtze, and Rivera in the pen.

That would leave them with 12 pitchers (and I'm sure they'd even prefer to go with 11 if they thought that they could get away with it), with Proctor as the odd man out for now.

What I predict will happen is that either Pavano or Wright will open the season on the DL while they look to unload one of them, and that if they had their druthers (or, if I were them, I'd want) their PS would look like this:

Johnson
Mussina
Wang
Chacon
Pavano or Wright (dumping one or the other)

Small
Villone
Farnsworth
Myers
Proctor
Sturtze
Rivera
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/06 06:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by SC:
Irishman -

Thank you for not responding to ronnierocket's attack on you in the same manner.

ronnierocket -

You were out of line when you made that personal comment to Irishman earlier today and you owe him an apology. There's no place for attacks like that on a fellow member here. You wanna disagree? Fine. Just stop the name calling.
You're welcome SC! I didn't want this thread to be closed down because of childish name calling
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/06 02:31 PM

Who do the Yanks play there 1st game against??
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/06 02:48 PM

Monday, April 3rd, at Oakland.

YANKEES SCHEDULE

Why don't you get into the Yahoo fantasy game, Smitty?

We can find out just how good a manager you really would make. :p
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/06 02:02 AM

Thanks Plaw. And I will check out the fantasy leauge.

DS
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/06 05:32 AM

I'm gonna be at The Blue Jay/Yankee game at The SkyDome on Apr. 19, The Blue Jay/Met games on Jun. 23, 24 and 25 and The Jays/Yanks game on Sep. 20 this season. Any of the New York/New Jersey/Connecticut gangsterbbers who are planning on making the trip to T.O. for the games can look for me in aisle 212, row 2, seat...well, let's just say I hope I'm sitting next to a really hot chick.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/06 05:53 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
well, let's just say I hope I'm sitting next to a really hot chick.
I didn't know that you felt that way about your mother. Hmm. I guess the incest taboo doesn't apply in Canada? :p
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/06 01:55 AM

I guess I walked into that one...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/06 02:18 AM

I heard today that Brian Cashman will more than likely pick up the 2007 option on Gary Sheffield's contract! WOO HOO!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/06 12:15 AM

Good. I hate the people that wanted us to trade him. Get real. He's still, imho, one of the top 10 hitters in the league.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/06 01:00 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Good. I hate the people that wanted us to trade him. Get real. He's still, imho, one of the top 10 hitters in the league.
I couldn't agree more. I can't believe they even ENTERTAINED the idea of trading him. I hope they sign him to another contract (I realize he's in his late 30s but he doesn't show any signs of slowing down and look at how old Roger Clemens & Randy Johnson are. They're in their early 40s and still competing at that level that they are).

BTW, congrats DJ on your 8,000
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/06 01:18 AM

Oh, Snap! I didn't even notice. Thanks I12, but I have a long way to go to get to your postcount. Besides, I don't have that much free time on my hands to repeatedly post in the word games section...err...I'm not as active as you.

---

The only problem I see with Sheff were his shoulder (which supposedly is fixed). Other than that, he's aging as would be expected, but I would argue there aren't many hitters as dangerous as he is in the game today, with the exception of maybe Bonds, Ortiz, and A-Rod.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/27/06 10:28 PM

Pavano might be starting this year on the DL.

Yet another reason why Aaron Small belongs in the starting rotation.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/27/06 11:50 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/27/06 11:54 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/27/06 11:56 PM

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/28/06 06:57 AM

Great pics DJ, where did you find them?
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/28/06 01:46 PM

The Yanks may win their division, altho Toronto looks much improved so I give them a shot as well.

It won't matter, though.

The other three playoff spots will come from the White Sox, Cleveland, Oakland, or maybe the Angels, and once again we'll be saying "Bye-Bye Bronx Bombers" after the first round of the playoffs (if they even get that far).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/28/06 05:48 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Great pics DJ, where did you find them?
http://www.NYYFans.com
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/02/06 07:28 PM

NYY vs PHI right now on YES!

Maybe watching some preseason games will get me back into baseball mode!
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/02/06 07:31 PM

Yeah, I wish you would already since you're pretty much all done in basketball (except for the all-important Rookie Game)
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/02/06 07:38 PM

I'm not done in Fast Break (yet) :p
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/02/06 07:46 PM

I guess, but with the way the game is.....

Never mind. :p

And I suppose if I were you I'd be still battling to stay out of the basement in Yahoo, which means something.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/02/06 07:51 PM

I have been paying a little closer attention to the Yahoo game lately... but it's kinda tough making significant movement at this point.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/02/06 08:19 PM

You're only 192 projected points behind DM, and you've been gaining ground lately as he's been forced to start filling in some of his "lost games" with players who are of lesser ability than those he has had to replace.

Personally, I'd be surprised if you don't catch him; I think you have the better team and there's still about 30% of the season left.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/06 01:38 AM

Dennis Erickson should be in the bullpen, no doubt, in my opinion. He has done a great job.

Jaret Wright should be cut, and Aaron Small should make the starting rotation.

Also, I really like that Kevin Thompson kid in the outfield, he's got great wheels. And who would have thought that Andy Phillips would be doing this well? I know they projected him to be a solid bench player, but he is doing great. I also like Stinnett as our backup catcher, though I was surprised to hear Flaherty retired - I would have been willing to take him back.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/06 12:14 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Jaret Wright should be cut, and Aaron Small should make the starting rotation.
11 hits, 8 earned runs, all occurring in 3 innings. And against the Pirates no less. I think my previous statement rings true even moreso than before.

Everyone - let's all wave goodbye to Jaret now, m'kay?



Starting Rotation:
Code:
#51 Randy Johnson (L)
#35 Mike Mussina (R)
#39 Shawn Chacon (R)
#40 Chien-Ming Wang (R)
#31 Aaron Small (R)
  
Hell, Dennis Erickson, the non-roster invite, could be a spot starter even. But one thing is clear - Jaret Wright blows, and is a blemish on Cashman's record as a GM. And it looks as though Pavano may not be far behind him, unless he can get healthy soon.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/06 06:15 PM

I knew the Yankees should have NEVER picked Wright up. What were they thinking!? The guys always injured and he's just not reliably. I'm glad we only signed him for 3 years (1 down, 2 to go however)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/15/06 03:23 PM

They should just cut their losses and release him, he's not doing us any good anyways.

Maybe this will be a newsflash for Cashman - 1.) Don't hire pitchers that are washed up, have been bombed by your team, and are mental cases (Kevin Brown) 2.) Don't hire pitchers that spend more time on the DL than in uniform (Jaret Wright).

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/06 03:56 PM

Jaret Wright will start today against the Marlins. Everyone keep your fingers crossed that he gets completely bombed and we cut his ass.

Rumours about regarding a trade with Bubba Crosby. Supposedly, Florida is interested in him, and from what I understand, there is talk of a possible trade sending Bubba to Florida and a certain D-Train to NYY (with other players involved, obviously).

Finally, Don Mattingly has said recently he would love to be a head coach someday, leading many rumour mills to circulate that he is a likely candidate for the Yankees head coaching job now that Girardi is in Tampa Bay. Of course, the old Lou Pinella chestnut is still abound as well. Let's hope we can keep Joe for as long as possible, though.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/06 06:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Rumours about regarding a trade with Bubba Crosby. Supposedly, Florida is interested in him, and from what I understand, there is talk of a possible trade sending Bubba to Florida and a certain D-Train to NYY (with other players involved, obviously).
I seriously doubt this would happen. As much as I'd love to see Willis be a Yankee, I don't think Florida is THAT stupid to trade away there only superstar player left.

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Finally, Don Mattingly has said recently he would love to be a head coach someday, leading many rumour mills to circulate that he is a likely candidate for the Yankees head coaching job now that Girardi is in Tampa Bay. Of course, the old Lou Pinella chestnut is still abound as well. Let's hope we can keep Joe for as long as possible, though.
I wouldn't mind seeing Mattingly or Pinella take over, but I agree, I wante Joe around as long as possible!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/06 03:30 AM

The Toronto Blue Jays might have lost one of their expensive new pitchers before the season even starts.

A.J. Burnett hurt his pitching arm Saturday and left Toronto's 8-4 loss to the Boston Red Sox after throwing one pitch in the second inning.

The right-hander signed a $55 million, five-year contract with the Blue Jays during the offseason after going 12-12 with a 3.44 ERA for the Florida Marlins in 2005.

Blue Jays manager John Gibbons motioned to the area above and below the inside of his right elbow when describing where Burnett's problem was.

"He went to get an MRI and check it out. It could be his forearm, and it could be his elbow. We don't know," Gibbons said. "He has had that elbow reconstructed in the past, so he knows his body."

The Blue Jays have a Carl Pavano of their own??
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/06 06:02 PM

And the Red Sox have Josh Beckett, who has been having a rough time as well...
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/20/06 09:30 PM

Aaron Small is on the DL because of his hamstring, Wright has back spasms (what a surprise) and Pavano too is on the DL because of his back. Deja vu, anyone??

Edited to Add: Double J - LOVE the avatar!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/23/06 12:00 PM

Well, its not deja vu for Small, since he was our 10-0 lock last year, but its still early, and its only a hamstring. Pavano and Wright are perennial bench warmers...they have collectively spent more time on the DL than some major league players have spent on the field, in game.

But don't feel bad - the supposedly world-beating Mets just found out Pedro's toe is going to make him miss opening day and might put him on the DL. Oh. So sorry. :p

BTW - Nice win last night against the Red Sox, is it just me, or does Bernie look like he's in the best shape of his life? I haven't seen him this good since we were winning the Series' in the late 90's...

SB - thanks, although I realized afterwards I forgot Don Mattingly, Reggie Jackson...I purposely left out most of the new guys...but it is hard to find decent Spring Training pictures of either of those two coaches...dunno why.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/23/06 01:21 PM

I am so sick and tired of reading about Pedro's toe. If I pick up the local paper and see another sports headline about his toe or his special shoes, I swear I'm going to barf.

As for Bernie, he is amazing. I'm so glad that they picked up his contract this year. If he is going to retire after this season, he should go out in pinstripes. And I think that he still has a great deal to offer, so Bern, Baby, Bern!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/23/06 01:37 PM

From what I heard yesterday, Bernie says he wants to play in the next WBC...which is 3 years away.

If he keeps hitting like that, I'd keep him at the DH for another 3 years at his price...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/23/06 06:25 PM

I heard Alfonso Soriano wants out of Washington so badly, he'd play outfield for the Yanks or Mets. He'd also be willing to DH for the Yanks. I wouldn't mind seeing him back in pinstripes but now we have Cano at 2nd, so we'd have to put him in the outfield or DH.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/23/06 07:13 PM

I would love to have Soriano back on the Yankees. And he is quite obviously miserable with the Nationals.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/06 12:36 AM

We don't need any more $10 million dollar prima donnas. Where would we put him? Would you really be willing to pay a DH $10 million dollars?

Bernie made $12+ million last year as an active CF, and has taken a "significant pay cut" to be the everyday DH and the backup CF. He understands his role.

Soriano, on the other hand, has a huge contract, and is unwilling to play other positions (ala Knoblauch, A-Rod) to help the team. Besides, I still think Damon, Sheffield and Matsui are better than Soriano in the OF. While he may be warming up to the position (out of necessity, I doubt he'd like to be suspended and not collect his $10 million), we all know how putting infielder Tony Womack in the outfield worked out last year...

I am very happy the way our trade worked out...we got A-Rod, one of the best fielders and hitters of all-time, and got rid of a great player who has become a Terrell Owens of the MLB and has had more errors than anybody the last few years. I would not like to see him back on the Yankees, unless something drastically changes the way our defense lines up this year.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/06 06:40 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Soriano, on the other hand, has a huge contract, and is unwilling to play other positions (ala Knoblauch, A-Rod) to help the team.
Um, A-Rod is playing another position, 3rd base.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/06 12:03 PM

Duh. That is why I mentioned him. Unlike Soriano, he (and as I said, Knoblauch, who went from 2B to outfield) was willing to take a personal sacrifice to play for the Yankees.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/06 06:16 PM

Sorry I misunderstood. I also don't remember Chuck changing positions? But now that you mention it, it somewhat is coming back to me
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/25/06 02:02 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Sorry I misunderstood. I also don't remember Chuck changing positions? But now that you mention it, it somewhat is coming back to me
It's okay, I didn't mean to make it sound so harsh...Chuck switched when we got Soriano I believe...from 2B to LF.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/25/06 02:35 AM

Quote:
Johnson strikes out six Twins over 6 1/3 sharp innings
By Mark Feinsand / MLB.com



FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Randy Johnson is ready for Opening Day. Now, he just has to wait another nine days to take the ball.

Johnson made his penultimate start of the spring on Friday, limiting the Twins to one run over 6 1/3 innings while striking out six. With one start remaining, Johnson looks to be in midseason form.

"I got my work in, went deep in the game, and felt like I was pretty comfortable with all of my pitches," said Johnson, who threw 88 pitches. "I feel like my last three starts have been good starts, so I've been able to build on those."

"He was really good," said manager Joe Torre. "He looked very smooth and had a good pace going."

Johnson's final start will come on Wednesday, most likely at the Yankees' Minor League complex instead of in Lakeland against the Tigers. Johnson will throw four or five innings in the game for a final tuneup, then do a bullpen session on Saturday in Arizona.

Johnson came to camp in February with the goal of throwing between 27-30 innings, compared to the 21 1/3 he threw last spring. He has 24 1/3 frames under his belt with one outing remaining, so he should have no trouble reaching that number.

Johnson has allowed eight earned runs on 24 hits, posting a 2.96 ERA. He has struck out 24 while walking just three, a good sign for the left-hander.

"For me, it's a progressional thing," he said. "If I wasn't getting better, then it might be something to worry about. My stamina is getting there, my location is much better and I'm throwing strikes. That's the bottom line."

"His stuff is as consistent as we've seen, time after time," Torre said.

Opener in question for Jorge: Jorge Posada remained at home on Friday, two days after breaking his nose while playing catch.

Posada, who is still suffering from headaches, spoke with Torre on Friday morning, and the manager told his catcher to take his time in returning to action, even if it meant missing the regular-season opener on April 3.


"I told him, 'I'm still saying you'll be ready Opening Day, but that's not necessary,'" Torre said. "Instead of having him rush back, we need to have him feel better. We'll see how much work he can get in before we have to decide on that."

Posada also broke his nose in May 2004, causing him to miss five days. It is unclear when he will begin working out again, but Torre has no plans to pressure him into coming back before he's ready.

"I don't think we can really make a statement either way until we see him," Torre said of Posada's availability for the opener. "When he comes out and starts working out, we'll see how comfortable he is. Whether it's Opening Day or two days later is no big deal for us."

Surging Sturtze? Tanyon Sturtze allowed a solo home run on his first pitch on Thursday night, but Torre is pleased with what he has seen lately from the reliever.

Sturtze is 0-2 with a 9.00 ERA this spring, but he has started to find his command, which escaped him in his early outings. Sturtze didn't pitch in games until March 12 as a result of his shoulder rehab program, but Torre is confident that he will be ready to go by Opening Day.

"I thought he was good yesterday," Torre said. "He finally feels satisfied with his stuff, which we've been trying to convince him of for a while. I think he's free and easy, the ball is jumping. It's fine with me."

Torre plans to use Sturtze and Kyle Farnsworth in the late innings to set up Mariano Rivera, alternating the two right-handers in the seventh or eighth innings to keep them fresh.

"I still have the same mind-set that both of those guys are in the same category," Torre said.

Minor Moose: Mike Mussina will pitch in a Minor League game on Saturday, as he was scheduled to pitch against Tampa Bay in each of his final two spring starts.

Mussina will face Triple-A Durham at the Yankees' Minor League complex. He will make his final start on Thursday against the Devil Rays at Legends Field before the Yankees head west for two exhibition games against the Diamondbacks.

Coming up: The Yankees travel to St. Petersburg on Saturday to take on the Devil Rays at 1:05 p.m. ET. Matt Childers gets the start for New York, while Edwin Jackson takes the mound for Tampa Bay.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/25/06 05:05 AM

Have you seen the video of Posada's nose being broken? OUCH!
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/25/06 05:16 AM

Ahhh... A.J. and P. Martinez will be fine by the time the season starts or very shortly thereafter. At lest they freakin better be, cuz if Burnett is out for a significant amount of time there's no telling how much potential damage it could do to my Blue Jays and if P.Mart is out for a while it will fuck with my fantasy squad before I even have a chance to get off the ground.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/25/06 02:41 PM

Both of those guys are like our Pavano... :p
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/06 12:42 AM

Personally, I think that Carl Pavano is overrated, Burnett is underrated and Martinez when he brings his A game is the best big game pitcher in Baseball. Martinez is moody though and he can be a liability if he's pitching on little rest or if he had a rough night the day before the game or whatever. Pavano's not even in the same ballpark as Burnett or Martinez.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/06 12:59 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
and Martinez when he brings his A game is the best big game pitcher in Baseball.
As much as I hate the man and as much as I hate to admit it, I think that honor would have to go to Curt (aka Cock) Schilling
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/06 01:13 AM

I don't understand all this hostility from New York Baseball fans (Yankees and Mets) toward Curt Schilling but that's another discussion I guess. Anyways, I think Schilling lost a lot of stuff last year and although he was brilliant in The Red Sox W.S. championship a couple of years ago, he will not be able to duplicate that success this season. I'm not saying that he has absolutely lost the magic and he's just a dud now (if healthy he'll prolly win at least 15 maybe even 20 and strike out 175 at the very least) but he is not the pitcher he once was. Also Schilling is pushing 40 and Martinez (who's no spring chicken himself mind you) is 5 years younger I believe. In any case I wouldn't mind both of them on my team.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/06 01:21 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
I don't understand all this hostility from New York Baseball fans (Yankees and Mets) toward Curt Schilling but that's another discussion I guess.
Um, I'm a Yankee fan and he's a pitcher for boston. Need to draw you a picture? :p Also beat the Yanks in the 2001 Series

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
Anyways, I think Schilling lost a lot of stuff last year and although he was brilliant in The Red Sox W.S. championship a couple of years ago, he will not be able to duplicate that success this season. I'm not saying that he has absolutely lost the magic and he's just a dud now (if healthy he'll prolly win at least 15 maybe even 20 and strike out 175 at the very least) but he is not the pitcher he once was. Also Schilling is pushing 40 and Martinez (who's no spring chicken himself mind you) is 5 years younger I believe. In any case I wouldn't mind both of them on my team.
I think the same can be said for Pedro. He's lost his stuff too and sure Schilling wasn't his usual self last year but he was also banged up most of last year if I'm not mistaken. I'm afraid of what he'll be like this season if he is indeed finally "healthy." Pedro's not the pitcher he once was which is one of the main reasons (if not THE main reason) he switched from the AL to the NL. You remember Pedro's last season in boston? He got rocked by the Yankees all year. How often did that happen? Not very...I think his age and/or wear & tear were starting to show
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/06 12:12 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
Personally, I think that Carl Pavano is overrated...Pavano's not even in the same ballpark as Burnett or Martinez.
I think we can all agree on that. I think he sucks. Possibly one "notch" better than Jaret Wright.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/06 04:14 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
I don't understand all this hostility from New York Baseball fans (Yankees and Mets) toward Curt Schilling.
that's probably because Curt KICKED Yankee's asses in postseason play everytime he met them!

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
Pavano's not even in the same ballpark as Burnett or Martinez.
wow! then we're talking about three different kinds of ballpark here! Pavano shouldn't even be mentioned. one of the most overpayed pitchers I've ever seen. he gained 9 millions last season to pitch 100 innings of below-average play. AJ Burnett is a good pitcher, overpayed in his new contract, but a good pitcher. he is not very reliable, though, able to strike out 14 batters in 6 innings (he did that twice last season), but he still has more losses than wins in his career. now, as for Pedro Martinez, we'd have to go a little deeper. he's one of the best, most dominating pitchers of all time. even if he "lost some stuff", he's still an amazing player. in fact, I believe he's the most dominating pitcher of his era. his 2000 season with the Red Sox was just stunning. 1.74 ERA in 217 IP, fanning 284 batters! the previous season he had fanned 313 in 213 IP with a 2.07 ERA, and this is the kind of game he brings every year. I believe Burnett is nowhere to be found in Pedro's league. he belongs among the greatests.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/06 06:52 PM

From The Pinstriped Bible at YESNetwork.com
Quote:
TUESDAY, March 21, 2006
ABRUPT CHANGE OF PLANS
The topic of today's column was going to be the grand showing by Yankees pitchers of late, but the Mike Mussina Show derailed what would have been a buoyantly optimistic opening about how the pitchers were rounding into shape and all was right with the world. Then it became Moose season — not the drunkenly lustful Moose mating season you read so much about, where Vermont motorists must be on their guard against hormone-drunk furry humvees with antlers stumbling into their cars. In that scenario, the moose does the damage. This time, the car got the Moose.

Mussina won't always be this bad, but as we've discussed in the past, age and injuries have taken just the slightest edge off of his very fine control. Now it's Very Fine Control Minus. That difference accounts for a lack of Mooseish consistency from start to start. Some days he's the old semi-Cy Young candidate. On others, he gets undressed like Charlie Brown pitching to the 1927 Yankees.

So Mussina's a buzzkill, because in the previous days even creaky old Randy Johnson had looked more like creaky young Randy Johnson. Pitching remains this club's weakness, because Johnson and Mussina have aged past consistency, Chacon and Wang might be one-hit wonders, and Pavano and Wright might already have registered for membership in that category. As for the bullpen in front of Mariano Rivera, who knows? Designing a bullpen on paper is a bit like designing the Freedom Tower. The conceptual work is easy, but in reality, the end product may prove to be unlike your expectations.

Fortunately, help exists. The scout-heads consider Matt DeSalvo — love to be the sign of an unorthodox fool, and PECOTA doesn't like the right-hander either. Yet, let us joust with this particular windmill, for it may yet prove to be a giant. (Note: Let's not oversell. Call him a serviceable giant.)

The first step for any pitcher to achieve Yankees success is to not cheese off Joe Torre, as Sean Henn did last year with his rookie jitters. Though he's been sent out for more seasoning (paprika and a roll in an Iron Chef-style lattice of pig fat), DeSalvo made a good impression, as Torre revealed to intrepid YESNetwork.com correspondent Jon "Don't call me Lois" Lane yesterday:

"DeSalvo is very close. We heard about him last year and what we saw this spring,
we were impressed with him. From the people who know him more than we do, they
are pretty comfortable with his insides. It's going to have to be a first time, some time."

By that last statement, Torre seems to mean that at some point the Yankees will have to trust a young pitcher and endure his virgin start, rather than giving that honor to, say, the Cleveland Indians and then trading for him after another club has gotten him over his nerves, his youth, his low-salary years, and his health. At least, that is what the Torre Kremlinologists are saying today. Torre could actually have been talking about something else entirely — channeling a Yogi Berra-ish point of philosophy, thinking wistfully back to his series of sandwich commercials with Willie Randolph, or to his desire to try something new for bedtime reading, moving beyond the same old Zane Grey novels.

Torre Kremlinologists suggest that the Henn version of this same statement is, "Over my dead body."

COX (A WORD YOU CAN LEARN IN THE ROB LOWE CLASSIC "OXFORD BLUES")
Torre may also be feeling bullish on last year's relief draftee J. Brent Cox — never to be confused with "Too Close for Comfort" co-star Jm J. Bullock, legendary financier/damaged nose case J. Pierpont Morgan, or Spider-Man nemesis J. Jonah Jameson. Like DeSalvo, Cox has been farmed but not planted. Interrogated by Jon "Penny" Lane, Torre remained positive and non-Hennish, being especially approving of Cox's ability to retire left-handed hitters:

"It's based on his stuff. He's got a live fastball. He doesn't throw 90-95, but he has
tremendous movement and he has a good breaking ball. And he's got some fire in
his belly. He fights himself right now, which is understandable for youth, but the last
couple of outings, he got it together and did well for us."

Cox is another pitcher on whom the scouting jury remains hung. That same lack of pure stuff to which Torre referred is always a strike against a young pitcher, a sign that he's not to be used in late relief but might be more suited for the middle innings. Yet, outs are outs, and if a pitcher can get 'em it doesn't matter when they pitch.

WILY AND THE ROADRUNNER
Theo Epstein swung another good deal on Monday, snagging slugging outfielder Wily Mo Peña (Yankees ex-officio) with fourth/fifth-ish starter Bronson Arroyo. The Red Sox were heading for a difficult spot at the end of the year when Trot Nixon's contract expired. Nixon is a decent player, but not someone the Red Sox would have been wise to renew for a period of years. He's too delicate and has too many flaws. Peña is only 24 and is signed through 2008. He's young enough to improve on his miserable on-base percentages while maintaining his power. It's not likely, but it's a worthwhile gamble. Outfield depth was going to be a real weakness for the Red Sox this year. Now when the inevitable ouchies set in they can substitute without falling to replacement level.

No doubt there will be the usual in-house gnashing of teeth at Yankee Stadium for every home run Penña hits against the Yankees, but the trade of Peña was inevitable given the contractual leverage he had to force the Yankees to carry him on the big league roster. That just wasn't going to happen, nor should it have, given that the Yankees, unlike the Reds, are playing to win every year. If your team is going to have a tread water for a season or two, it can devote a roster spot to on-the-job training. The Yankees, thankfully, don't have that luxury.

Even with their abundance of starting pitchers, the Red Sox did gamble in dealing the redoubtable Arroyo. Curt Schilling and David Wells may prove to be finished, Josh Beckett is likely to miss a start or 10, Jon Papelbon may not be a starter. All of these things rolling up at once would leave the Sox only with Tim Wakefield, the Rock of Plymouth ("Look at Wakefield, standing there like a stone, um, rock! Rally 'round him, boys! No bullet can harm you if you maintain a positive attitude!") and prospect John Lester.

On the other hand, one can't be so devoted to contingency planning no risks are taken, leaving needed improvements in some other part of the operation ignored. If Sox starting pitching blows up in the way described here, they could have two Arroyos and still not win.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/27/06 12:35 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
[quote]Originally posted by Don Jasani:
[b]Pavano's not even in the same ballpark as Burnett or Martinez.
wow! then we're talking about three different kinds of ballpark here! Pavano shouldn't even be mentioned. one of the most overpayed pitchers I've ever seen. he gained 9 millions last season to pitch 100 innings of below-average play. AJ Burnett is a good pitcher, overpayed in his new contract, but a good pitcher. he is not very reliable, though, able to strike out 14 batters in 6 innings (he did that twice last season), but he still has more losses than wins in his career. now, as for Pedro Martinez, we'd have to go a little deeper. he's one of the best, most dominating pitchers of all time. even if he "lost some stuff", he's still an amazing player. in fact, I believe he's the most dominating pitcher of his era. his 2000 season with the Red Sox was just stunning. 1.74 ERA in 217 IP, fanning 284 batters! the previous season he had fanned 313 in 213 IP with a 2.07 ERA, and this is the kind of game he brings every year. I believe Burnett is nowhere to be found in Pedro's league. he belongs among the greatests. [/b][/quote]I agree, Pedro is definitely a better pitcher than both AJ and Carl. Carl still has to prove himself with me (especially after he b*tched in the offseason about wanting to be traded already). You gotta earn your stripes in New York bro, they're NEVER just given to ya
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/27/06 02:33 AM

Yanks win. Sheffield in old form, but it looks like Wang got hit in the leg, but seems to be okay. Damon scores twice.

In other news, Jorge is progressing nicely, and practiced with the team today.
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/27/06 03:30 AM

Bah...exhibition games don't do it for me. I mean it's good that M.L.B. Baseball is being played but as everyone knows they don't mean anything and they're too much of a tease for me. April where are you??!! :rolleyes: :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/27/06 03:43 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
Bah...exhibition games don't do it for me. I mean it's good that M.L.B. Baseball is being played but as everyone knows they don't mean anything and they're too much of a tease for me. April where are you??!! :rolleyes: :p
I agree. I haven't been able to see them so I'm eagerly anticipating next Monday since the Yanks game will be televised on ESPN or ESPN2 against Oakland
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/28/06 06:17 PM

Well, the Yanks and Phillies are on tonight at 7 on YES...

BTW - anybody know about the Mets channel? I don't like the Mets, but I have DirecTV so I would get it. :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/28/06 06:46 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Well, the Yanks and Phillies are on tonight at 7 on YES...

BTW - anybody know about the Mets channel? I don't like the Mets, but I have DirecTV so I would get it. :p
They get a TV contract yet?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/28/06 07:08 PM

I thought Mike and the Mad Dog were talking about how crappy it was, it is all promos for Beltran and Pedro...but I think it is on the air...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/28/06 10:19 PM

Hmm, what channel? Is it MSG or whatever network the Nets play on? Or do the Nets play on YES? I know the Knicks come on MSG
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/29/06 08:41 PM

I get Yankees and Nets (though I don't watch basketball) on YES. I get Knicks and Rangers (and now Sabres) on MSG. Dunno.

Anybody watch the game last nite? Dunno why everyone was so impressed with Pavano, he pitched an inning, and allowed a hit and a run...if anything, Scott Proctor proved that he should be on the opening day roster and Jaret Wright wouldn't.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/30/06 03:02 PM

Did anyone see that skirmish between the Red Cocks and the Devil Rays the other day? WTF is their problem? It's spring training baseball...I wouldn't mind seeing that Boston asshole suspended for punching that guy in the face and stomping on his arm. Focking stupid.

It seems like Boston has been itching to fight though...Beckett ended up in a shouting match with Ryan Howard the other day, and then Tavarez punches Gathright in the face. WTF is their problem?

Link
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/30/06 07:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Did anyone see that skirmish between the Red Cocks and the Devil Rays the other day? WTF is their problem? It's spring training baseball...I wouldn't mind seeing that Boston asshole suspended for punching that guy in the face and stomping on his arm. Focking stupid.

It seems like Boston has been itching to fight though...Beckett ended up in a shouting match with Ryan Howard the other day, and then Tavarez punches Gathright in the face. WTF is their problem?

Link
Yeah and did you hear why Beckett was jawing at that guy? Because he "respected" the game so much, he didn't think the guy should walk while watching a homerun being hit. Umm, isn't Manny "Mr. Homerun Walker" Ramirez still on boston? Thought so. So Beckett you haven't got a f*cking leg to stand on! Take care of your own clubhouse first before you start on others. However, I'm not surprised. It's just like boston to pick a fight and be classless (in spring tranining no less)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/06 01:43 AM

Yankees looked decent today. Mussina wasn't very good though, imho. A-Rod is still having problems at the plate. Damon made a nice sliding catch in the outfield.

I loved how they talked about what a great job Pavano and Wright did in the AAA game today. Newsflash: It is easy to beat the crap out of AAA clubs when all of their decent players are up with the major league clubs at Spring Training. Furthermore, previous performance in minor leagues is not an indication of future performance at a major league level. :rolleyes:
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/06 02:29 AM

Pavano Injures His Bum; Out For a "Few Days"

Holy shit. Can Pavano or Jaret Wright take a shit, get out of bed, or walk down the street without injuring themselves? He dove to make a play. Big deal. Wow. :rolleyes:

In other news, Randy Johnson (the sleaze) finally acknowledged his 16-year-old daughter, a "love child" if you will.

Johnson Declared a "Piece of Shit" by Most Family-Oriented Americans
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/06 07:01 AM

Whatthefuck?! Are The New York Yankees turning into The Baltimore Freakin Ravens?! :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/06 07:52 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
Whatthefuck?! Are The New York Yankees turning into The Baltimore Freakin Ravens?! :p
No, we're a classy organization unlike them
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/06 08:15 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Hmm, what channel? Is it MSG or whatever network the Nets play on? Or do the Nets play on YES? I know the Knicks come on MSG
Christ. I thought you were a real fan. :rolleyes:

Yes, the Nets are on YES... as for the Mutts, I have no clue, nor give a shit. :p
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/06 01:50 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Furthermore, previous performance in minor leagues is not an indication of future performance at a major league level. :rolleyes:
There have been a number of studies done which prove that minor league performance not only is an indicator of future major league performance, but the best indicator as well.

But you don't need to look at studies to tell you that.

Pick up a "Who's Who in Baseball" and have a look at the minor league stats of today's MLB players.

Of course there are exceptions, but the vast majority of today's MLers had impressive stats in the minors, and for the most part, the better the ML player today, the better his minor league stats were.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/06 06:34 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] Hmm, what channel? Is it MSG or whatever network the Nets play on? Or do the Nets play on YES? I know the Knicks come on MSG
Christ. I thought you were a real fan. :rolleyes:

Yes, the Nets are on YES... as for the Mutts, I have no clue, nor give a shit. :p [/b][/quote]I know I should be able to keep up with them more for the whopping 3 months out of the year that I get to see them on the YES Network And I don't usually watch the Mets play, that's why I was asking
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/06 09:59 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b]Furthermore, previous performance in minor leagues is not an indication of future performance at a major league level. :rolleyes:
There have been a number of studies done which prove that minor league performance not only is an indicator of future major league performance, but the best indicator as well.

But you don't need to look at studies to tell you that.

Pick up a "Who's Who in Baseball" and have a look at the minor league stats of today's MLB players.

Of course there are exceptions, but the vast majority of today's MLers had impressive stats in the minors, and for the most part, the better the ML player today, the better his minor league stats were. [/b][/quote]So in the cases of Carl Pavano and Jaret Wright having *decent* performances in AAA Columbus, would you believe that warrants them ready to start in the rotation this season in the major leagues despite getting hammered in Spring Training? :rolleyes:

I think that until they step out on that mound and face Major League hitters, minor league performance doesn't necessarily mean a whole heck of alot. Take Sean Henn for example, who lit it up in AA but was terrible at the major league level. I'm not saying that minor league performance isn't indicative in all cases, but with Pavano and Wright, I'm sure they had no trouble lighting it up against AA-level players.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/06 10:11 PM

I said that there were exceptions, and I'm speaking primarily here of rookies coming up to the majors and predicting their Major League performance based on their Minor League stats, not veterans who are sent down for rehab assignments.

Wright and Pavano are different cases, anyway. They Yankees have a huge financial investment in those two, and they're not about to allow themselves to have egg all over their faces by not using them.

They will be in the rotation until they prove absolutely and without a doubt that they can no longer pitch on the major league level.

I happen to agree with you, BTW, and think that the jobs should be awarded on merit and performance, not on the size of a contract, but we both know that that's not the way Steinbrenner and the Yankees work.

As far as Henn goes, there was nothing remarkable or special about his performance in AAA last year before being called up.

5-5 in 16 starts, with a 3.23 E.R.A.

(That's Triple A. His double A stats were better, but I'm not claiming that AA stats are a reliable indicator of future ML performance. The lower you go in the minors, the less reliable those stats are as an indicator.)

Not bad, and certainly you would think that should translate to maybe a half a run or so higher at the Major League level, but his Triple A stats were nothing remarkable, either, or at least nothing to make one think that he was a "can't miss" prospect.

I can name several pitchers who were called up in mid-season last year who had much better stats in the minors than Henn did, and who were terrific after their call-up.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/02/06 06:38 PM

Who's ready for tomorrow It sucks because I'm going to be in class so I have to TiVo the game and watch it afterwards

Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/02/06 06:58 PM

You'll be in class at 10PM ET??
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/02/06 07:02 PM

No I'll be in class from 6-9 CST and then I still have an hour drive back home. So yeah, I won't be in front of the TV much before 10 PM CST (11 your time).

In any case, Jayson Stark is the man
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/02/06 07:53 PM

Jayson Stark eh?! I'm starting to think that maybe Mr. Rosenthal was right after all... :rolleyes: :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/06 05:28 AM

WOW! What a great and dominating win for the Yanks tonight. Unfortunately, I only got to see from the 5th inning on when it was 13-1 because my TiVo didn't record it for reasons unknown. In any case, a great preview for what the rest of the season will look like
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/06 10:12 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
....a great preview for what the rest of the season will look like
Yeah, when they're scoring 15 runs a week instead of 15 in one night.

Now that RJ is done until Saturday, let's see how they do.

I look for big declines in production this year from Sheffield, Posada, and Mussina, a total lack of reliable starting pitching after RJ, and a suspect bullpen aside from Rivera.

One game does not a season make.

I thing the AL East is weaker than it's been in recent years so the Yanks may make the playoffs, but I don't expect to see any more World Championship banners flying from Yankee Stadium as a result of the efforts of this group.

Talk to me when the Yankees at least have decent #2 and #3 starters, like Mussina in his prime or a healthy Pavano, or any one of 25-30 other guys I can name who are better than anyone the Yankees have.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/06 04:57 PM

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/06 08:15 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Talk to me when the Yankees at least have decent #2 and #3 starters, like Mussina in his prime or a healthy Pavano, or any one of 25-30 other guys I can name who are better than anyone the Yankees have.
So I can talk to you now that the Yanks have Shawn Chacon and Ching Meng-Wang I guess
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/06 08:19 PM

Don't let him rain on our parade, I12. Our batting order looks to be extremely dangerous, without a dead spot (except Jorge :p ) in the entire order, and our pitching...it is what it is. Hopefully Moose can stick it out. Johnson looked good. If Chacon and Wang can play well, and Small can come in (rather than either Pavano or Wright) we should be ok.

I actually wish we'd have kept Scott Erickson up with the big club rather than in Columbus, from what I saw in Spring Training he looked better than most of our relievers, and I bet he could be a spot start for us during the year if needed.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/06 08:24 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
So I can talk to you now that the Yanks have Shawn Chacon and Ching Meng-Wang I guess
Well, AFAIC those two are really not "proven" pennant-winning-caliber 3rd and 4th starters yet.

If mid-season rolls around and they're a combined 15-10 or something with respectable E.R.A.'s - or, if Pavano and/or Wright get healthy and pitch well and either Chacon or Wang are OK, and Mussina is pitching well, then I would agree that the Yankees are in good shape with their rotation.

Right now, though, after RJ they have nothing but question marks, IMO.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/06 08:27 PM

Well Chacon and Wang have "proven" themselves yet because they had like half a season in a Yankees uniform last year. I think they'll be solid (as long as Wang can stay health). Hey, you can't deny the fact that they were solid when the Yankees needed them to be last year.

DJ, he's not raining on my parade. I'm still on a high from last night's game. Unfortunatley, I won't be able to see many more while I'm in this hellhole known as texas.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/06 08:38 PM

Well sure, the two of them - especially Chacon - saved the Yankees ass last year.

It's hard to tell about Chacon since he spent his entire career in Colorado, and when a young pitcher like Wang has arm trouble so early in his career, I'm always afraidt that it could become a chronic problem.

I'll guess we'll have to wait and see.

You have to admit that there are nothing but question marks on the entire staff after RJ and Mo, and unless more of the questions wind up with positive answers than negative ones, the Yanks could be in trouble.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/06 08:43 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
You have to admit that there are nothing but question marks on the entire staff after RJ and Mo, and unless more of the questions wind up with positive answers than negative ones, the Yanks could be in trouble.
Personally, I'm not worried about Johnson, Chacon or Wang (just his health). Moose, Pavano, and Wright I'm concerned with plus the bullpen sans Mariano Rivera. New guys coming in who haven't played in New York still have to play under the brightlights and prove themselves. The pitching is the biggest question mark, no doubt. On a different note, I LOVED seeing Damon play yesterday as a Yank. I'm so glad they held out to get him and didn't sign Brian Giles or Milton Bradley
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/06 05:26 AM

What a heartbreaker tonight. I didn't watch the game but followed along on ESPN.com. I'm proud of the outing Moose gave. Now we gotta try to win the series tomorrow night with Wang on the hill
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/06 05:50 AM

You should invest $14.95 in the MLB audio feed, Irush.

You can listen to the home or away radio broadcast of any MLB game, plus they're giving a free three month subscription to Sports Illustrated as a bonus for signing up.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/06 05:52 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
You should invest $14.95 in the MLB audio feed, Irush.

You can listen to the home or away radio broadcast of any MLB game, plus they're giving a free three month subscription to Sports Illustrated as a bonus for signing up.
Irush? I'll just wait until I go to New York for the summer next month and see all the games on YES. The only thing that sucks is waiting but oh well. Absence makes the heart grow fonder as they say.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/06 06:03 PM

WTF!? They kill Oakland in game 1 and now they lose 3 in a row
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/06 06:10 PM

Don't worry....that seems to be the Yankees' way of doing things.

They'll win today's game.



Apple
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/06 06:23 PM

Yeah they got Johnson on the hill so I'm not as worried.
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/06 01:08 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
...They'll win today's game.
Like I said.... :rolleyes:

Maybe since they won the season opener...their plan is to win the home opener and then drive us crazy next few games after that.

Apple
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/06 01:16 PM

Whatever their plan is, it's starting to piss me off. That's 4 straight they've dropped
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/06 01:25 PM

Beginning to piss you off?

I'd sure hate to be in a room with Steinbrenner right now!
I've heard he doesn't take these things very well...

Apple
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/06 09:13 PM

This must really be a bad dream for you Irish. The Yankees are 1-4 and in last place in the morning paper.

Boston is in first and the real kick in the balls is that Schilling wins his 2nd game in a row with just a three hitter.
According to my Yankee handbook, Fans have to say: it is early yet, there is a whole season to go! Just look at last year.

Still try some ice in a large plastic bag on those balls, it may help the pain a bit.

Oh, don't worry, today is Sunday, and you know what happens Sundays, don't you. The Yankees always win.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/10/06 12:05 AM

Glad to see the Yanks FINALLY win today. Hopefully they can sweep their next series against the Royals
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/10/06 12:35 PM

BTW - the last time the Yankees started off a season like this, they ended up winning it all in 1998 by sweeping the Padres.

Don't push the panic button quite yet.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/10/06 05:49 PM

I'm not pushing the panic button, but I was getting pissed that they dropped so many games early. True the key words there are early but still....
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/06 04:17 AM

Glad to hear Giambi got his first CRACK of the year and that the Yanks came back from behind to beat the Royals :rolleyes:
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/06 05:46 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I'm not pushing the panic button, but I was getting pissed that they dropped so many games early. True the key words there are early but still....
No, the key words are "dropped so many"

Early or late, it makes no difference.

So far the Yankees have one three games in which they've scored a total of 34 runs, and lost four in which they've been outscored 20-10.

If they can't win when scoring 3-5 runs, or if they can't score enugh every day to win a few close ones when their pitching is good enough to hold the other team to 4-5 runs, then they're in for a long season because they're not gonna score 9+ in three out of every seven games, and they're not gonna hold the other time to 4 or less in five out of every seven games.

Their record is 3-4, yet they've outscored the opposition by 45-30.

I see a pattern here which, if it continues, is not a good one.

Talk to me when they start winning 60% of those 3-2 and 4-3 games, which so far they haven't been able to do.

I'm not a yankee-hater, BTW....I'm just trying to realistically assess their chances.

They're a team with two reliable starters and one terrific closer.

You can have all the hitting in the world, and that still won't be enough if that's all you have pitching-wise.

You don't get extra credit for winning 10-1 or 15-2.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/06 11:58 AM

I can't believe we're already getting into these long-term discussions right off the bat.

If we're going to do that, I suppose the Orioles should have won the World Series last year?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/06 01:09 AM

Another nice win for the Yanks. Congrats Giambi, let's just hope you've got a nice masking drug to cover up all of those 'roids you are most certainly taking.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/06 01:18 AM

As long as they can score 9 runs a game, they'll go down in history as one of the greatest teams ever with their 144-18 W-L record.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/06 01:34 AM

I think we need more cowbell, though.
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/06 03:18 AM

You can win all the games you want in the regular season but they have to pick up some pitching if they want to contend in the playoffs
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/06 03:42 AM

Listen...I wouldn't be telling Yankee fans about getting pitching after that shoddy performance by David Wells out in Beantown.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/06 05:47 AM

YES, another Yankees win and their first sweep of the season. I think they'll get Zito in the off season maybe
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/06 04:55 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Listen...I wouldn't be telling Yankee fans about getting pitching after that shoddy performance by David Wells out in Beantown.
a bad pitcher in the Red Sox doesn't make the Yankee's pitching staff better. I tend to fear no one will be able to stop their offense, but baseball history says they need pitchers. Wang, Small and Chacon are #5 starters at their best, IF one of them escape total failure. KICK THE YANKS!!!!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/06 05:35 PM

Please. The season isn't even two weeks old, and the speculation is rampant that the Yankees rotation isn't going to last. There is plenty of time to acquire another solid pitcher down the line, and Clemens also is still shopping his wares on the market (despite what he says).

I personally think you are wrong about Chacon. He's got great stuff, his only issue is control. Wang is also another great sinkerball pitcher. Small went 10-0 last year totally unexpectedly.

I don't think anybody is claiming that our rotation wasn't patchwork, but each of those guys you mentioned has materialized in their own right to be starting pitchers, and to claim they aren't even #5 starters isn't doing them justice.

Besides, if I were you (being a Red Sox fan), I'd be more worried about beating the Blue Jays for the Wild Card than what is going on with the Yankees pitching staff.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/06 06:33 PM

first, I am NOT a Red Sox fan. (at least not until they play the Yankees). maybe you got that from my signature, but no. it's just a quote that I find to be very funny and tells a lot about baseball. right now, for instance, I could throw a lot of stats proving these guys suck, and you would promptly come up with other ones proving I was wrong. the fact is, watching those guys play, I don't think they are 'always champion-Yankees-rotation-like' kind of pitchers. I don't care if Small went unbeaten last season or Chacon made whatever the hell the stats tell us he did. pitchers go up and down every year, and I got used to see the Yankees with at least 3 or 4 absolutely reliable pitchers, in their best years, with a couple of good season under their belts. now they have an aging ace (although I still believe the Big Unit is a top 5 pitfcher in the MLB), an aging AND under-developing #2 starter (Mussina) and a lot of guys that can either shut down the opponent or give up a game in 1 inning. this is not a question of "how long into the season we are". I was saying that before it even started. and so far, (of course, TOO EARLY) you don't have no reason to be that confident. :p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/06 09:55 PM

Who said I'm being "that confident," I even said we would benefit from picking up another starter down the stretch.

But again, while no one is going to say that Chacon or Wang (since Small is a non-factor at this point) are winning the Cy Young award anytime soon, they are decent starting pitchers. And it IS a long season. All of this spectulation is just that - speculation. I find it pretty silly when people are saying the Yankees should already be worried, or that the Blue Jays are winning the AL East, or other predictions based upon the first two weeks of a 162 game season. Again, I never said they were "always champion-Yankees-rotation-like' kind of pitchers" but with the batting order for this season, I think that being decent (with Johnson back to relatively old form and Mussina being stable) will suffice to do well in the postseason.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 02:50 AM

Damn...a blown save by Mariano Rivera (and a loss). He looked strong when he struck out those two batters, but he had already put two men on. Grr. Proctor and Farnsworth looked decent, but as per the norm Jaret Wright looked confused on the hill. At least Johan Santana didn't exactly light the world on fire either.
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 03:49 AM

No offense to the many Yankee fans on the bb, but I cannot understand how a team with Jorge Posada, Robinson Cano, Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Johnny Damon, Hideki Matsui, Gary Sheffield, Bernie Williams and Randy Johnson, Mike Mussina and Mariano Rivera on its A.R. can start off the season 5 - 6. On paper, The Yankees should be 11 - 0 and sit alone atop the A.L. East.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 04:00 AM

Well, Oakland and Anaheim have been two of the better teams in the AL. We swept the Royals, just as we should have. We would've won tonight, if Mo hadn't blown the save.

The Yankees also didn't have all of their starters in tonight, they played Cairo at first and Phillips at DH (not that its a real excuse, but Giambi and especially Bernie can be clutch). Also, they were facing two pitchers in Minnesota, the first whom they had relatively little experience against, and the other arguably the best active pitcher in MLB.

Again, you're right, we should have won some of those games. But I do think that it is still incredibly early in the season, the night is still young, and in the end, I think the team chemistry will blend enough for us to have a decent stretch of wins.
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 04:19 AM

I don't disagree at all on The Yanks being able to pull together a decent enough stretch of wins. Hell, The Bombers will probably win their gabillionth A.L. East title in a row. And, Jason "I used steroids but I kinda apologized for it so every thing should be a ok " Giambi is one of the most overrated players in all of Baseball in my opinion. If he didn't play in N.Y., in the words of Ace Rothstein he'd still be shovelling muleshit. Bernie Williams though, despite all the recognition he gets in N.Y./N.J./Conn. is prolly one of the most underrated and one of the classiest players in all of Baseball. I hope he makes it to The Hall one day but I'm not completely sure he'll have the stats.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 07:58 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Who said I'm being "that confident," I even said we would benefit from picking up another starter down the stretch.

(...)

"that confident" for me, was saying that the Yankees would win the AL East, what you absolutely did "Besides, if I were you (being a Red Sox fan), I'd be more worried about beating the Blue Jays for the Wild Card..." - now, before we continue this never ending discussion, let me repeat:

Code:
 

                       IP  H  R  ER  BB  SO  HR  E.R.A.
Rivera {BS,1}{L,0-1}   1.1 3  2  2   0   2   0   5.40

 


there's somethings money just can't buy. that is one of'em. it just makes the day for me seeing the Uber Closer come up such an embarassing outing (in fact, it is absolutely normal, but since it is Rivera...)

I also agree with Don Jasani. imagine if the Atlanta Braves or the Oakland A's had half the starts the Yankees have, and the Bombers still manage to embarass themselves
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 12:58 PM

New York's real dream team this season

The New York METS
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 01:10 PM

Careful what you say, fathersson...it's a bit early in the season.

The 'Daily Apple' has spoken.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 01:31 PM

You better check with your sport department then.

Oh I get it, we can brag how the Yankees sweep the shitty KC team and still are in the basement, but we can't give the Mets their due. :p

Once again: According to my Yankee handbook, Fans have to say: it is early yet, there is a whole season to go! Just look at last year.

Let Go METS!
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 01:49 PM

We can certainly give the Mets their due and complain about the Yanks as well. But when the season is exactly two weeks old I'd still be careful about gloating even if my own team were the one at the top.

Apple
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 01:56 PM

gloating
You better adjust you antennas, you are getting the wrong picture. maybe it is time to get cable.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 11:39 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
Oh I get it, we can brag how the Yankees sweep the shitty KC team and still are in the basement, but we can't give the Mets their due. :p
Congrats to the Mets. I'm happy they're so hot right now and I hope they win their division instead of those sh*tty Braves!
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/06 11:49 PM

The Toronto Blue Jays are 6 - 6.
The New York Yankees are 6 - 6.
The defending World Series Champion Chicago White Sox are 7 - 5.
The New York Mets are 9 - 2.
The Atlanta Braves are 6 - 7.
The defending N.L. Champion Houston Astros are 7 - 4.

All this means precisely...DICKALL! We're not even 20 games into the season yet people! These types of predictions should be made approaching The All Star break and then after the midway point of the season.

However, having said all this, I think that The Mets will finish with a better record than The Yankees. How both teams will do in the playoffs in their respective leagues (assuming they both make it) is anybody's guess though.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/06 12:48 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Who said I'm being "that confident," I even said we would benefit from picking up another starter down the stretch.

(...)

"that confident" for me, was saying that the Yankees would win the AL East, what you absolutely did "Besides, if I were you (being a Red Sox fan), I'd be more worried about beating the Blue Jays for the Wild Card..." - now, before we continue this never ending discussion, let me repeat:

Quote:
All this means precisely...DICKALL! We're not even 20 games into the season yet people! These types of predictions should be made approaching The All Star break and then after the midway point of the season.
I concur, and I've been saying that all along.

Nice win for the Yanks, today, btw. :p
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/06 02:57 AM

JJ, that was a low blow man! I mean the freakin game was called after 5 innings cuz of rain! I mean rain! Hey, do you or I or anyone else who has ever had to work outside ever in their lives ever stopped working for the whole day cuz of rain? No, you wait till the rain stops, then you start workin again. But just cuz Ozzie Guillen (no offense to him personally I actually like the guy) is a delicate genius, they have to call the freakin game. A Baseball game is finished after 9 innings. Nueve, no cinco o seis, o siete, o ocho, NUEVE! Nada mas. Nueve es bastante para una juega. Nine innings. They gotta change the weather rules, sorry to rant but it just pisses me right off!
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/06 01:19 PM

You can't play baseball in a continuous, driving rain. It affects the field, the running, and the pitching. The forecast must've stated that there would be no break in the rain.

A game is considered official after 5 completed innings, even if it is ended early due to weather. If they couldn't foresee the game even lasting that long, then no point playing at all. It's called a rainout.

If the game was called, then the game was called. Live with it.

Apple
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/06 06:57 PM

No for sure, I can live with it. But say it was game 7 of The World Series. Would they call the game after 5 innings cuz of rain, give out the trophy and be done with it?! That's my problem with the rule.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/06 07:38 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
No for sure, I can live with it. But say it was game 7 of The World Series. Would they call the game after 5 innings cuz of rain, give out the trophy and be done with it?! That's my problem with the rule.
I wonder if this has ever happened before...I suppose Plaw would know if any rule changes like this go into effect...perhaps they would wait it out for a set time, and then delay the game until the next day?
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/06 04:14 AM

How bout the Yankees?! They got doubled by MY Blue Jays tonight now didn't they. Didn't get a chance to watch the game but I'm going to The Sky Dome tmmw. to watch it. You can find me if you look for the handsome brown guy decked out in Blue Jay colours rooting for the good guys and cheering with every run we score. When we beat your asses down tmmw., I'll be on my third or fourth beer and I'll raise my bottle and say BLUE JAYS WIN! BLUE JAYS WIN! CHEERS!!!!!!! Drink up every body cuz I'm buyin!


:p


Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/06 07:38 PM

So how bout them Blue Jays!? How'd you like the live Yankee win Don Jasani?? Money well spent if you ask me :p
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/06 09:06 PM

1 of 10 games, that I have tickets too. We beat you up pretty bad last night as I recall so that makes this loss somewhat bearable. It did fuck me up for a while but I'll live. Having said that, we are gonna fuckin sweep Boston's ass!

Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/06 09:12 PM

You think so? I think the Sox look solid and they don't even have Crisp leading off. The Jays are deffinitly for real and will be in the hunt till August then drop off. I don't think they have the bullpin to get it done. Plus you can't like Burnett getting injured already.
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/06 09:15 PM

When we beat your asses down tmmw., I'll be on my third or fourth beer and I'll raise my bottle and say BLUE JAYS WIN! BLUE JAYS WIN!

-your about as straight as a circle
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/06 09:15 PM

Tony, a sweep is what I and every other Blue Jay fan want, and a sweep of us is what all Red Sox fans want. I'm pretty sure that neither will happen, as much as I'd like to see the admittedly solid Red Sox team get creamed by my Jays. Us taking 2/3 from you guys is something that I most likely see happening.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 09:54 AM

Someone should hide the newspaper from Irish,
Schilling 4-0
and some Boston fans are saying Johnny (Damon) who?
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 12:15 PM

FS, I heard on today's news that there's a new t-shirt they're wearing in Beantown that says:

Johnny Damon - Looks like Jesus, acts like Judas, throws like Mary.

I guess he'll get the same treatment Clemens got a few years back...those Boston fans just don't take these things well, do they!!

Apple
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 01:31 PM

Love it,
I wish I would have thought of it. I bet they sell a couple million of them.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 03:08 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
Johnny Damon - Looks like Jesus, acts like Judas, throws like Mary.
They didn't seem to mind for all the years he played in boston for them. But since the front office is so screwed up in boston and they didn't resign him, now he's the bad guy
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 03:40 PM

Nice showing by Mike Mussina, who seems to be showing his age one minute, and then pitching a great game like the old Moose the next.

Proctor has been the most pleasant surprise for me, at least at this point, because he's been the band-aid we've been looking for in long relief, and he has a relatively decent set of pitches.

That being said - it looks like it is a good thing that the Yankees have some top-rated pitching prospects in our farm system (Karstens, Cox, et al) because we're going to need them in the next couple of seasons, if not sooner.

One thing you can say about the Red Sox - to this point, they have gotten the better Diamondback (Schilling) and the better Marlin (Beckett).

Makes me wonder how much longer Steinbrenner will tolerate Cashman...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 03:44 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
Love it,
I wish I would have thought of it. I bet they sell a couple million of them.
Pfft.

Red Sox: 5 World Series Titles All-Time (Plus 1 from their days as the Pilgrims).

Yankees: 26 World Series Titles All-Time.

Priceless.

:p
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 06:41 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
[b] Johnny Damon - Looks like Jesus, acts like Judas, throws like Mary.
They didn't seem to mind for all the years he played in boston for them. But since the front office is so screwed up in boston and they didn't resign him, now he's the bad guy [/b][/quote]Oh come on now, The people of New York felt the same way when their players headed down south.

I think that the person that thought that shirt up was smart. I hope, I take that back, I KNOW that they WILL cash in, BIG TIME.

Next fall: Big George and the Yankees:

Starting Lineup: 240 Million Dollars
New Stadium: 300 million dollars
Still not winning a World Series Title: priceless



SORRY D-J That crap about how many titles is old and getting pretty lame.
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 06:49 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
[QUOTE]... That crap about how many titles is old and getting pretty lame.
Sure...lame for those who cannot boast the same for their own team.



Double-J, don't forget about the post-season titles!

Apple
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 06:50 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
[b] Johnny Damon - Looks like Jesus, acts like Judas, throws like Mary.
They didn't seem to mind for all the years he played in boston for them. But since the front office is so screwed up in boston and they didn't resign him, now he's the bad guy [/b][/quote]Oh come on now, The people of New York felt the same way when their players headed down south.

I think that the person that thought that shirt up was smart. I hope, I take that back, I KNOW that they WILL cash in, BIG TIME. [/b][/quote]If you love them so much, why don't you buy one and "help" the cause? As for me, I wasn't mad to see Pettitte go because I knew (as in Damon's case) that the Yankees screwed around and didn't resign him, so he left. As for Clemens, he weasled his way outta his contract with the Yanks so he could "pitch for his hometown team" which is a bunch of bullsh*t! Pettitte walked away like a man, NOT Roger. I'm finally glad I know what team you pull for, Mr. Red Sox fan
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 06:59 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]
quote:
Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
Johnny Damon - Looks like Jesus, acts like Judas, throws like Mary.
They didn't seem to mind for all the years he played in boston for them. But since the front office is so screwed up in boston and they didn't resign him, now he's the bad guy [/b][/quote]Oh come on now, The people of New York felt the same way when their players headed down south.

I think that the person that thought that shirt up was smart. I hope, I take that back, I KNOW that they WILL cash in, BIG TIME. [/b][/quote]If you love them so much, why don't you buy one and "help" the cause? As for me, I wasn't mad to see Pettitte go because I knew (as in Damon's case) that the Yankees screwed around and didn't resign him, so he left. As for Clemens, he weasled his way outta his contract with the Yanks so he could "pitch for his hometown team" which is a bunch of bullsh*t! Pettitte walked away like a man, NOT Roger. I'm finally glad I know what team you pull for, Mr. Red Sox fan

Don't worry, I will have one before long. I think it would be a great shirt to wear during Yankee games around town.

You need to control your anger, There is no room for anger in baseball. Or crying for that matter.

I know: A shirt that reads. I don't want to hear it: TELL IT TO GEORGE if you think that you are that smart.

You know, I'm going to the mall to see if I can get a shirt made up, which says: Schilling > the next Cy Young award winner.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 07:03 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I'm finally glad I know what team you pull for, Mr. Red Sox fan
HEY LUKE, get a rope. If you an't for us, you must be against us.
Lighten up. We haven't burned Out Yankee handbook yet.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 07:04 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b]
quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
quote:
Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
Johnny Damon - Looks like Jesus, acts like Judas, throws like Mary.
They didn't seem to mind for all the years he played in boston for them. But since the front office is so screwed up in boston and they didn't resign him, now he's the bad guy [/b][/quote]Oh come on now, The people of New York felt the same way when their players headed down south.

I think that the person that thought that shirt up was smart. I hope, I take that back, I KNOW that they WILL cash in, BIG TIME. [/b][/quote]If you love them so much, why don't you buy one and "help" the cause? As for me, I wasn't mad to see Pettitte go because I knew (as in Damon's case) that the Yankees screwed around and didn't resign him, so he left. As for Clemens, he weasled his way outta his contract with the Yanks so he could "pitch for his hometown team" which is a bunch of bullsh*t! Pettitte walked away like a man, NOT Roger. I'm finally glad I know what team you pull for, Mr. Red Sox fan

Don't worry, I will have one before long. I think it would be a great shirt to wear during Yankee games around town.

You need to control your anger, There is no room for anger in baseball. Or crying for that matter.

I know: A shirt that reads. I don't want to hear it: TELL IT TO GEORGE if you think that you are that smart.

You know, I'm going to the mall to see if I can get a shirt made up, which says: Schilling > the next Cy Young award winner.

I hope you enjoy your shirt! I've been enjoying wear my Johnny Damon Yankees shirt myself with his name and number on the back The perfect shirt to wear when he goes back to Boston this season. Furthermore, who's getting angry? Not me, I was simply stating my opinion. And what's even more bizarre is who's crying? Seems like Boston fans are since they lost their precious Damon. As for me, I think I'll gonna go to the mall myself and see if I can get a shirt made up, which says: 2 years down, only 87 more until Boston wins another World Series
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 07:05 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
I'm finally glad I know what team you pull for, Mr. Red Sox fan
HEY LUKE, get a rope. If you an't for us, you must be against us.
Lighten up. We haven't burned Out Yankee handbook yet.
[/quote]Sorry Mr. Met fan. We both know your not for the Yankees. So yes, if you're not for us, you're against us. Where is that rope again?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 07:20 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
As for me, I think I'll gonna go to the mall myself and see if I can get a shirt made up, which says: 2 years down, only 87 more until Boston wins another World Series
Even for real Yankee fans, they know that is lame.
Boston Fans just have shirts that say: we just had one, I see you are still waiting!

How about a shirt that reads:
A big face of screaming George saying> I know things are expensive in New York. I spend Billions and still couldn't but a World Series
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 07:24 PM

Or a shirt with a picture of Manny Ramirez and the Predator
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 07:27 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
I'm finally glad I know what team you pull for, Mr. Red Sox fan
HEY LUKE, get a rope. If you an't for us, you must be against us.
Lighten up. We haven't burned Out Yankee handbook yet.
[/quote]Sorry Mr. Met fan. We both know your not for the Yankees. So yes, if you're not for us, you're against us. Where is that rope again? [/b][/quote]You need a shirt that says: For me, it's the Yankees or Nothing! and I know what nothing feels like.

or: It's the Yankees against the rest of the world!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 07:29 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Or a shirt with a picture of Manny Ramirez and the Predator
which says:
Ladies > He may be ugly, but he's rich.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 07:41 PM

quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Or a shirt with a picture of Manny Ramirez and the Predator
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 07:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b]
quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I'm finally glad I know what team you pull for, Mr. Red Sox fan
HEY LUKE, get a rope. If you an't for us, you must be against us.
Lighten up. We haven't burned Out Yankee handbook yet.
[/quote]Sorry Mr. Met fan. We both know your not for the Yankees. So yes, if you're not for us, you're against us. Where is that rope again? [/b][/quote]It's the Yankees against the rest of the world! [/b]
I know, I've been trying to find one but have been unsuccessful. If you find one, let me know where I can pick one up
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/06 10:50 PM

TonyWillLive, what the fuck is wrong with you man?! You wait a whole 3 mins. for a response and then you start with your straight circle idiot bullshit. You my friend, are about as straight as Elton John! The Boston Red Sox will not win the World Series this season. They most probably won't win the American League Pennant either. Hell, they probably won't win either the A.L. East and hopefully won't win the A.L. Wild Card. Who the fuck do you think you are, and who the fuck do you think you're talkin to?!
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/06 02:31 AM

Oh yeah, T.W.L., looks like your Red Sox didn't too well against The Tampa Bay Devil Rays. They lost 5 - 1. Wonder how MY Toronto Blue Jays are gonna do against them tmmw...
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/06 03:21 PM

Is super blue jays fan for real? "fuck this fuck that" your real tough. Who said anything about the Sox winning the World Series? I didn't. Why don't we just wait and see what happens. Getting to me being Elton John, i'm not the one with the stupid ass cheer, blue jays win, blue jays win, why don't you get off your chair with the built in dildo up your ass and root for a sport you know about. We'll see how it goes down in this FIRST of many series between the Sox and the Blue Jays. Ahh I figured it out your a Blue Jays fan b/c you have something in common only you have blue balls not Blue Jays. Oh you can take more than three minutes to answer I won't hold it against you. -take it easy, I have a feeling you could.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/06 04:39 PM

Alright you 2, if you're gonna bicker like this, take it to another thread or PM each other please. This is a discussion for Yankee fans and I don't want to see it getting locked because of you guys arguing.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/06 05:02 PM

What the hell is everyone getting so excited for? It's APRIL for crying out loud. Rule #1 about baseball is that you shouldn't get too up or too down about what happens in April or September. The most accurate gage of a team happens from mid-May to August.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/06 05:33 PM

No way, if you love the game you have to love it from the very first pitch. You love every play and every out, of every game. Only pussies show up at the end of the year and start screaming how much they love their team after they see them on top.
You have to be like Irishman here. He loves the Yankees so much that people start to hate him for the way he locks in on the Yankees and doesn't let go. He throws his bull all around and doesn't back down when people bust his balls. Now that is a FAN. I pain in the ass, but a true fan. Maybe someday he can find a lady who loves the Yankees just as much as he does. Because I do believe that he would take the Yankees over a babe. Wouldn't life be a kick in the balls if Irish finds the perfect lady and she turns out to be a die hard BOSTON Fan.

But then anyone can be a Yankee fan. Sure they are the most popular team. When a guy jumps up and yells lets go METS this early, you know that it took balls.
Or you have to be like Pee Lawrence. The old guy studies and listens to hour and hours of games, talk shows and he must read every inch of the newspaper to learn more and more about what's going on the sport. He has even been known to jump out of bed and leave a lady alone while he checks up on stuff. Sure it is a bit screwed up, but at his age, what the hell. It is his time on this earth, let him spend it the way he enjoys most.
Now that is a real Fan. So back down you little pussies and learn from the pros about being an Athletic Supporter (and no, I don't mean a sock for your cock)
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/06 08:06 PM

Tony, I understand you are a big, internet tough guy and apparently with your advanced education a very, very intelligent man. :rolleyes: Actually, I feel sorry for you because you seem to have a very small, pathetic, insignificant life. I think that in reality, you are a 500 lb. Oriental woman who gets her kicks by posing as a Red Sox fan on internent message boards and pissing off strangers.

Having said this, good luck with your Red Sox (who will not win the pennant this year)! Good luck to The Yankees and their fans and good luck to my Blue Jays and our fans!
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/06 11:14 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
No way, if you love the game you have to love it from the very first pitch. You love every play and every out, of every game. Only pussies show up at the end of the year and start screaming how much they love their team after they see them on top.
You have to be like Irishman here. He loves the Yankees so much that people start to hate him for the way he locks in on the Yankees and doesn't let go. He throws his bull all around and doesn't back down when people bust his balls. Now that is a FAN.
Not at all what I said. Nowhere did I say you don't root for your team all year. But teams are going to win 60 & lose 60 games. It's what they do with the other 40 that determines their success or failure.

Last year all the Yankee fans were gripping b/c of the lousy start they had. The season is a marathon, not a sprint. The team still made it to the playoffs. Many insignificant things happen in April. Does anyone honestly think that dolt from Detroit will end up leading the league in HRs just b/c he has 9 so far this April?

With the exception of this season, Jim Thome usually has horrible Aprils. Same with Manny Ramirez. By the same token, September isn't a true barometer since rosters are expanded to 40 players. Anybody remember that "legend" Shane Spencer be annointed just for hitting some HRs in meaningless September games?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/06 11:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
Does anyone honestly think that dolt from Detroit will end up leading the league in HRs just b/c he has 9 so far this April?
No! I think if Thome stays healthy he's gonna have a great year. I agree with everything you've said thus far goombah. As a Yankee fan, I won't lie, I'd like to see them win more games instead of being 7-7 but at least they're hanging around .500 and are not under. However, I'm pissed at boston's hot start. But I agree, it's a long season and there's no need to hit that panic button just yet
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/06 03:16 AM

Hey TonyWillLive, you taking a little breather while the adults are talking, little buddy? Can I get you any thing, coffee, tea, red bull, beer, coke/pepsi, milk and freakin cookies?! Cuz you look a little dry? What oh what could be the reason?!

GO BLUE JAYS!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/06 11:27 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:


But then anyone can be a Yankee fan. Sure they are the most popular team. When a guy jumps up and yells lets go METS this early, you know that it took balls.
Far and away, we are the minority in my area. The vast majority of people around Buffalo (especially on campus) are Boston fans.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/06 04:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b]

But then anyone can be a Yankee fan. Sure they are the most popular team. When a guy jumps up and yells lets go METS this early, you know that it took balls.
Far and away, we are the minority in my area. The vast majority of people around Buffalo (especially on campus) are Boston fans. [/b][/quote]Really? I feel so sorry for you. But also, and this is my own personal opinion, but there's been A LOT of bandwagon Boston fans since probably 2003
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/06 11:51 PM

A good outting for Chacon today and a good Yankee win
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/06 11:52 PM

JJ, I can't understand why Buffalonians would root for any other team than The Yankees. Why would the city of Buffalo have a huge affinity for The Boston Red Sox when they are in New York State and closer to New York City than Boston, Ma.? Doesn't add up to me.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/06 08:10 PM

A great win for the Yanks today as they take the series from Baltimore. What a day from Mr. Jason Giambi 2 runs, 3 hits (2 homeruns) 5 RBI's
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/06 02:57 PM

Who do all of you see the Yankees picking at the break? I don't think Clemens will come back, I think there is a better chance he comes to Boston and that is very slim at best. With the way Houston is playing right now he probably will end up back there.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/06 03:07 PM

I think the Yanks have a great shot at picking up Clemens. He still stays in contact with a few of those guys, and if it comes down to an issue of money, we all know the Yanks have it. I would love to see Zito or Dontrelle Willis but I wouldn't want the Yanks to part with any prospects (a la Cano, Wang, etc.)
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/06 03:10 PM

I heard Willis is on the market, but Zito didn't know the A's were looking to deal. I agree with you the Yankees can't afford to let go of the few prospects they have. Whats your opinion on Damon? I loved him when he was here but if I were the Yankees I wouldn't have paid as much especially with a guy like Vernon Wells possibly coming onto the market.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/06 03:14 PM

Well I've heard if the A's fall out of contention they'll trade Zito (a la Hudson and Mulder). But I don't see that happening. Worst case scenerio, he'll sign with someone else in the offseason as a free agent. As for Damon, I haven't seen many Yankee game so far this season but I'm digging him. He is a little older but the man can still play and hit and he was an improvement from Bernie Williams in the field. I'm glad we didn't get Brian Giles or Milton Bradley. Everyone says we "overpaid" yet I think the Red Sox just tried to get him cheap. If the Yanks sign him, they overpaid. If they don't sign him, then people scream about how the Yankees couldn't afford to let him go, they need a center fielder, etc. As for Vernon Wells, I don't see Toronto letting him walk anytime soon (I think they know what they've got)
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/06 03:20 PM

Good points but I don't see the Red Sox as being cheap with Damon, they offered him the same contract as Varitek 4 yrs 40 million. The Yankees may get what they paid for this year and the next but he in my opinion won't get it done the last two years. Much like what I expect out of Pedro and the deal he got.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/06 03:30 PM

I say they wanted to get him cheap because Johnny was willing and able to stay in Boston and all it took for him to sign with New York was an extra $12 million. They have the money. If they wanted him back so badly and he was "the face of the team", spend the money and keep him. They pulled the same thing with Alex Rodriguez (tried to get him cheap from Texas) and that's why he's with New York too. However, I think a major reason why Johnny's in New York is because Theo wasn't in the front office during his time as a free agent. Had he been, he'd still be in Boston right now. I hate Theo!
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/06 04:32 PM

I disagree he wouldn't have signed Damon. I think if you look at the Yankees and the Red Sox from 2003 to now and you will see that the Red Sox are planning for the future and the Yankees aren't. Time after time the Yankees have gone out and gotten overpaid players that are getting towards the end of their career. I use Randy Johnson, Jared Wright, Johnny Damon as a few examples. The Red Sox have picked up Josh Beckett, Coco Crisp, Wily Mo Pena not to mention the development of Jonathan Papelbon, Kevin Youkilis and they still have Lester and Hanson. Its clear to me that it seems for now the Sox are in great position for 5 years and the Yankees are gonna have to play a game of wait and see in whos availiable in the off season.
Why would you Yankee fans be worried though, right?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/06 02:42 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
I disagree he wouldn't have signed Damon. I think if you look at the Yankees and the Red Sox from 2003 to now and you will see that the Red Sox are planning for the future and the Yankees aren't. Its clear to me that it seems for now the Sox are in great position for 5 years and the Yankees are gonna have to play a game of wait and see in whos availiable in the off season.
Why would you Yankee fans be worried though, right?
Not planning for the future? I guess you haven't heard of Chien-Ming Wang, Jeff Karstens, J. Brent Cox, Matt Smith, Eric Duncan, Phil Hughes, Melky Cabrera, Kevin Thompson, and the slew of other minor leaguers who are coming up through the Yankees farm system (Wang who is obviously with the team now, Smith recently called up).

I'm not worried, especially if we can get Clemens back for the mid-season haul. And no, Clemens will not return to Boston, a.) because he didn't like the treatment he received when he returned there from the asshole fans and b.) because he still has ties to New York or Houston, whereas in Boston, the players he was with are long gone.

I find it interesting that a few months ago, Boston fans hung their heads and sang "woe is me" when Epstein left, Damon was gone (conveniently going from team leader to a "aging center fielder"), and the only guys worth mentioning were Ortiz, Varitek, and Manny Ramirez. Yet, now you have "depth." Quite fascinating. I guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens with the mohawk closer and the rest of the Red Sox this year.
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/06 02:52 AM

I don't believe that Toroto Blue Jay Centre Fielder Vernon "V.W." Wells will be traded, placed on waivers or otherwise told to leave The Blue Jay franchise. Mr. Ricciardi, if he has any intelligence whatsoever (and believe me he does) will do every thing in his power to insure that V.W. stays with The Blue Jays for many years to come. Having said all that....

Sweet Caroline...! The Blue Jays better do well this season!
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/06 09:47 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Not planning for the future? I guess you haven't heard of Chien-Ming Wang, Jeff Karstens, J. Brent Cox, Matt Smith, Eric Duncan, Phil Hughes, Melky Cabrera, Kevin Thompson, and the slew of other minor leaguers who are coming up through the Yankees farm system (Wang who is obviously with the team now, Smith recently called up).
Every ML team has "a slew of minor leaguers" working their way through the system.

The question is, "How good are these guys?"

Unless Wang shows a dramatic improvement, I don't see him as anything more than a #3 or #4 starter, certainly not the type of 16-18 game winner you build a pennant-winning pitching staff around.

We've been hearing about Duncan, the Yanks top hitting prospect, since they made him their #1 pick in 2003, but so far he hasn't done much to justify the hype.

Minor league statistics have proven time and again to be quite reliable indicators of a player's future ML performance, and Duncan's have been nothing special.

Two years ago in A ball, he hit .258 with 16 homers and 131 strikeouts in 461 ABs.

Last year, in AA, it was .235 with 19 homers and 136 K's in 451 ABs.

So far at AAA Columbus this year, he's at .250, with no homers in 17 games.

Thompson is hitting .284 this year at Columbus, and Karstens is 0-2 for the Clippers so far, with an 8.18 E.R.A.

Hughes looked like a real prospect until he hurt his arm last year, and I'm not sure if he's back in action yet this season or not.

Only Cabrera, hitting .338 at Columbus, and Smih, look like tyhe might be ready for the majors now.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/06 12:07 AM

I'll say one thing, Clemens will infact return to Houston later on this year...I have heard from my sources. Quote me on this later if you want to.
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/06 12:29 AM

I'm gonna have to agree with Plawrence good facts man. I think the Yankees are a team that will pick up the players in the off-season and if they do have an prospects good enough they will trade them away in the middle of the year to pick up some help for the home stretch. This year in my opinion they don't have anything that will be of great value to any team looking to deal a everyday player or pitcher for a minor league stud. My Red Sox on the other hand...well he can check out the thread I started, speaks for itself I think.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/06 12:36 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
This year in my opinion they don't have anything that will be of great value to any team looking to deal a everyday player or pitcher for a minor league stud.
So I guess Chien Ming-Wang, Robinson Cano and Andy Phillips don't count?
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/06 12:46 AM

Well yea they do but you really think they are good enough to pick up a good player and if you do I would like to know who you think they could get.
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/06 12:52 AM

Philip Hughes according to Milb.com is only the only ranked Yankee in the top 50 and hes at 30. So it really doesn't bold to well, cause if the Yanks do trade Cano or Mieng-Wang who do they replace them with. By the way incase you didn't know Hughes is a pitcher.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/06 03:17 AM

Another well pitched game for Moose. 6 innings, 4 hits, 1 run, and 7 strikeouts. He's 3-1 with a 2.45 ERA
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/06 03:46 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
if the Yanks do trade Cano..... who do they replace (him) with?
I don't see the Yanks trading Cano unless they get back a starting pitcher along the quality lines of what Carl Pavano was supposed to be.

I could even see Cano and a top prospect maybe going to Florida for Willis.

Replacing Cano is easy.

The Yankees don't need offense from 2B, and there are plenty of minor league second basemen who can field as well as Cano can (or better) and hit maybe .240 or so.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/06 04:07 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
[quote]Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
[b] if the Yanks do trade Cano..... who do they replace (him) with?
I don't see the Yanks trading Cano unless they get back a starting pitcher along the quality lines of what Carl Pavano was supposed to be.

I could even see Cano and a top prospect maybe going to Florida for Willis.

Replacing Cano is easy.

The Yankees don't need offense from 2B, and there are plenty of minor league second basemen who can field as well as Cano can (or better) and hit maybe .240 or so. [/b][/quote]Good point plaw. They could trade him for the 24-year-old Dontrelle Willis (who I'd love to see in pinstripes). As for Cano, he is VERY replacable. Alfonso Soriano said before the season began, he'd be willing to DH or even play the outfield (yes, willingly) just to play for the Yanks again
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/06 06:30 AM

A good outting from Chacon, 6 1/3 innings, 4 hits, 1 run, 2 BB, 3 SO, 4.56 ERA, 3-1 record
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/06 07:47 PM

Thought you Yankee fans should know Chien-Ming Wang is 1-6 when the Yankees don't score six runs.
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/06 07:54 PM

Hey, listen...like John Sterling says at some point during almost every game....

'You CAN'T predict baseball!'



Apple
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/06 05:38 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
Thought you Yankee fans should know Chien-Ming Wang is 1-6 when the Yankees don't score six runs.
Thought you Red Sox fans should know Curt Schilling is planning on retiring after the 2007 season
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/06 08:04 PM

A good win today. Not Unit's best outting (5 innings, 6 hits, 6 runs, 4 BB, 2 SO, 4.71 ERA)
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/30/06 10:15 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
[b] Thought you Yankee fans should know Chien-Ming Wang is 1-6 when the Yankees don't score six runs.
Thought you Red Sox fans should know Curt Schilling is planning on retiring after the 2007 season [/b][/quote]Why would that upset me? Hes been great. We have Lester, Papelbon, and Beckett as our future starters who do the Yankees have?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/06 03:23 AM

Sorry Don Jasani, we just had to take that series from ya :p A good note to go to Boston with
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/06 02:24 AM

Funny Irishman you have the unique ability to be in denial about your team. You say something, I respond and then....nothing you have nothing to say. Oh yea nice win by the BoSox tonight, Ortiz what can I say? He's the man!
Posted By: thebadguytm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/06 02:28 AM

ortiz is the man. and to top it off damon did nothing tonight.the man upstairs is getting him back for being a yankee lol
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/06 06:45 PM

Want to say Johnny Damon was a class act at Fenway. Its a shame the fans didn't cheer him. I understand why some of us are mad but once I saw that I wish people gave him a cheer. From now on though...FUCK YOU JOHNNY DAMON, YOUR A LITTLE BITCH AND YOUR WIFE HAS GOT YOU BY THE BALLS! GO SOX
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/06 08:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
Want to say Johnny Damon was a class act at Fenway. Its a shame the fans didn't cheer him. I understand why some of us are mad but once I saw that I wish people gave him a cheer. From now on though...FUCK YOU JOHNNY DAMON, YOUR A LITTLE BITCH AND YOUR WIFE HAS GOT YOU BY THE BALLS! GO SOX
Typical hypocrite fan who's crying because his OWNER couldn't and wouldn't get a deal done with Johnny Damon. Blame yourselves! New York had the balls to offer him the cash and he went. Since the Red Sox had no spine they didn't resign him!

Red Sox fans have to wake up and shut up about loyalty. How about loyalty from Red Sox management, who refused to sign your beloved Damon?

So change your mantra to this;
FUCK YOU JOHNNY DAMON, YOUR A LITTLE BITCH WHO WAS A HUGE PART OF US WINNING A WORLD SERIES AND YOUR WIFE HAS GOT YOU BY THE BALLS, LIKE EVERY OTHER MAN ON EARTH!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/06 08:34 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
[quote]Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
[b] Want to say Johnny Damon was a class act at Fenway. Its a shame the fans didn't cheer him. I understand why some of us are mad but once I saw that I wish people gave him a cheer. From now on though...FUCK YOU JOHNNY DAMON, YOUR A LITTLE BITCH AND YOUR WIFE HAS GOT YOU BY THE BALLS! GO SOX
Typical hypocrite fan who's crying because his OWNER couldn't and wouldn't get a deal done with Johnny Damon. Blame yourselves! New York had the balls to offer him the cash and he went. Since the Red Sox had no spine they didn't resign him!

Red Sox fans have to wake up and shut up about loyalty. How about loyalty from Red Sox management, who refused to sign your beloved Damon?

So change your mantra to this;
FUCK YOU JOHNNY DAMON, YOUR A LITTLE BITCH WHO WAS A HUGE PART OF US WINNING A WORLD SERIES AND YOUR WIFE HAS GOT YOU BY THE BALLS, LIKE EVERY OTHER MAN ON EARTH! [/b][/quote]THANK YOU DON ANDREW! It wasn't Damon's fault the Red Sox didn't resign him. He went to a team that is a contender for the World Series every year and for a team that actually WANTED him. Sure, if Theo was in the front office he would have resigned him much the same he resigned Ortiz (DAME!). But, your loss is our gain. I cracked up when I heard people in Boston on ESPN saying "You can keep him, we got Coco." I just thought that was so hilarious Blame your front office Boston, NOT Johnny Damon
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/06 10:34 PM

You guys don't think I appreciate what Damon did?? Are you kidding me when did I say that? My problem with Damon is hes a hipocrite. In Spring Training '05 he is quoted as saying he wouldn't go to the Yankees, he said the Yankees would come at him hard but that it wouldn't matter.
You guys probably didn't know that did you? Its ok though we all make mistakes. I'll love Damon as a Red Sox 6 RBI's in game 7 in '04 it was unbelievable.
As for the management I like the price they set on Damon. He got the same offer as Jason Varitek did 4 for $40 mil. So I don't think they relayed to Damon that they didn't care. The Yankees were hell bent on overpaying for Damon. I understand exactly why they did it, I have no animosity towards the Yankees in signing Damon they needed a leadoff hitter and they got it. I like the Sox picking up Coco to replace Damon.
So don't give me that "Boston Sour grapes" bullshit cause thats a tired act. I simply don't like Damon because he is on the YANKEES, the Yankee fans would feel the same way if a guy like...well i'm not gonna guess. Lets say for argument sake Bernie Williams. I say him because the Red Sox went after him real hard that year his contract was up I think in '99 or '00.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/06 12:03 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
I say him because the Red Sox went after him real hard that year his contract was up I think in '99 or '00.
Some might. But at the same time - I think we could appreciate the fact that if he was getting a better deal in Boston, it would make more sense. Bernie is a class act.
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/06 12:09 AM

Yea some might cheer him, but remember those same Yankee fans booed DEREK JETER! Or did you knuckle heads forget that? So I think you should all re-exam the Johnny Damon situation for Red Sox fans.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/06 12:16 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
So I think you should all re-exam the Johnny Damon situation for Red Sox fans.
1.) Johnny Damon is a baseball player.
2.) Baseball players play for money and the World Series.
3.) The Yankees offered Johnny Damon money and a chance at the World Series.
4.) The Red Sox offered Johnny Damon less money and not so-good of a chance at the World Series.
5.) Johnny Damon signs with the Yankees.
6.) Boston fans boo the former face of their franchise, throw dollars at him.

Not much more analysis needed...
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/06 02:30 AM

YOU GUYS BOOED DEREK JETER! you have no point.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/06 06:44 AM

A good win tonight for those Yanks. A good loss tonight for those Red Cocks. It couldn't have been a better night for baseball
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/06 01:12 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
YOU GUYS BOOED DEREK JETER! you have no point.
I didn't.

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/06 01:55 PM

AL EAST STANDINGS (Look at those shitty Yankees! :p )

Code:
2006 American League Standings
-
      W	 L   PCT   GB    DAY   NIGHT  GRASS  TURF  1-RUN  XTRA	 ExWL
NY   14	11  .560   --   10-0   4-11   11- 8   3-3    0-4   1-1	 17-8
Bost 15	12  .556   --    7-3   8- 9   13- 8   2-4    5-3   0-1	 13-14
Toro 14	12  .538   .5    2-8  12- 4    6- 6   8-6    2-1   1-0	 14-12
Balt 14	15  .483  2.0    3-7  11- 8   10-12   4-3    4-3   0-1	 14-15
TB   11	17  .393  4.5    3-3   8-14    3- 9   8-8    2-2   1-1	 10-18  
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/06 02:07 PM

I suggest you re-do your chart, DJ, with the six teams across the top and all the categories down the side so it doesn't extend the screen way out to the right and make the chart un-readable.

I'd do it for you, but I gotta run.

(Never mind....done)

What's that last column, "ExW-L"?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/06 02:41 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
I suggest you re-do your chart, DJ, with the six teams across the top and all the categories down the side so it doesn't extend the screen way out to the right and make the chart un-readable.

I'd do it for you, but I gotta run.

(Never mind....done)

What's that last column, "ExW-L"?
That's strange, maybe it has to do with screen resolution, because I checked it in the preview screen and again once I posted it, and it didn't stretch my screen...maybe my screen is set at a higher resolution?

As far as ExW-L goes:

Quote:
*ExW-L and ExWP are derived from Bill James' Pythagorean theorem of baseball: Runs scored [squared] / (Runs scored [squared] + runs allowed [squared]). This formula was designed to relate a team's runs scored and runs allowed to its won-lost record.
That's from ESPN.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/06 08:41 PM

You also had some of the columns mis-aligned, and some numbers were misplaced.

Anyway.....

Strangely enough, I'm familiar with James' "Pythagorean Theorem", I just didn't realize that's what it was or that ESPN gave it any credence.

Basically, your (or ESPN's) explanation is pretty much it.

When he first developed the formula and tested it over hundreds of teams across dozens of seasons, it was amazing how close teams came to their actual W-L records after applying the formula to their runs scored and runs allowed.

The Yankees here are a great example, though, of the formula not working.

Because of all of their lopsided wins in which they scored bunches of unnecessary runs, and close losses in which some of those unnecessary runs scored in the wins might have averted some of the losses had they been scored in different games, their projected W-L record, had their runs been normally distributed, works out to be better than their actual W-L record.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/06 01:02 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
You also had some of the columns mis-aligned, and some numbers were misplaced.

Which is strange, because, as I said, I took some time to try and keep editing it until they were perfect on my screen, so maybe the resolution has something to do with it.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/06 02:12 AM

Damon sucks and is washed up!

Oops, he just hit a grand slam.

:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/06 05:55 AM

But then they'll cry "oh, it was only 1 grand slam." But the dude's got 4 home runs so far this year, and he's a LEAD OFF hitter
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/06 02:14 PM

But Damon sucks. He's too old. Let's throw our money at him! That will really show him! :p

Nobody ever said Boston fans were necessarily intelligent.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/06 03:23 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Nobody ever said Boston fans were necessarily intelligent.
No they aren't And why haven't we talked about Unit's accomplishment last night? Congrats Randy on being only the 3rd pitcher in major league history to record more than 4,400 strikeouts
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/06 03:47 PM

Thats a nice achievement, but if I were you guys I'd resign myself to the fact that while we may get flashes of the dominant RJ, the days of seeing him as a consistently dominating pitcher are over, and I no longer think he's one of even the top 15 starters in baseball anymore.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/06 05:42 PM

Yes, and he has 250 of them while a Yankee.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/06 01:19 AM

Yeah and he's been playing for the Yankees for only a little over a season
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/06 05:31 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
Hey, listen...like John Sterling says at some point during almost every game....

'You CAN'T predict baseball!'



Apple
Listening To Baseball 101

Previous nights broadcast is reviewed and critiqued, as students learn to pay little or no attention to the words of NY Yankees radio personality John Sterling.


Thuuuh Yankees Win!
Thuh-uh-uh-uh-uh-uh
YANKEES Wiiiin!




:p
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/06 05:51 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:


Thuuuh Yankees Win!
Thuh-uh-uh-uh-uh-uh
YANKEES Wiiiin!
Yes they do. :p (as scary as it is to watch them almost blow it!)
Posted By: SicilianMafia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/06 06:53 AM

....how bout them Blue Jays baby
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/06 03:15 AM

A good win tonight for those Yanks. Looking for that sweep tomorrow against da Rangers
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/06 01:29 PM

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/06 04:15 PM

A great sweep for the Yanks!
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/06 02:34 AM

Can't wait for the series to start. Less than 21 hrs.
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/06 03:06 AM

Helloooooooooooo????????? What you got nothing to say? You guys got DOMINATED tonight. Nothing much more to be said.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/06 05:45 AM

Yeah and um, it's 1 game. Your point being...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/06 12:26 PM

Fear not, Yankee fans. This is probably the greatest thing that could have happened to us. The Boss got to see first hand Randy Johnson's ineffectiveness, and should provide him with enough rage to send Cashman to Houston immediately to sign Roger Clemens. No doubt, Steinbrenner hates losing to Boston, and if anything, this solidified our chances of going after him vehemently.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/06 04:25 PM

The Big Eunuch.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/06 04:44 PM

I am sad to say that the Yankees got in their own home.

And Boston left a bunch of guys on base also.


Overheard from some Boston Fans:

I've got your Johnson right here.


Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/06 04:47 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Fear not, Yankee fans. This is probably the greatest thing that could have happened to us. The Boss got to see first hand Randy Johnson's ineffectiveness, and should provide him with enough rage to send Cashman to Houston immediately to sign Roger Clemens. No doubt, Steinbrenner hates losing to Boston, and if anything, this solidified our chances of going after him vehemently.
Double J, you can bet on it.

What would old Georgie do if he didn't have all that $$$$
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/06 05:00 PM

Steinbrenner couldn't play the ESPN Salary Cap Game, that's for sure.

After the way Clemens "retired" from the Yankees, enjoyed a day in his honor, and then signed with Houston, I doubt if George has any plans to go after "The Rocket".

Even if he does, though, I don't think he has much of a chance of getting him.

At this point, I don't think that money is the issue for Clemens (or he never would have sat out the first part of this season), and the situation in Houston is too perfect for him.

I also think he'd be too afraid of the reception he'd get from the fans if he tried to come back to New York.

But I wouldn't worry, Yankee fans. I don't think Boston has any chance of signing him either.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/06 03:45 AM

Yanks spank Schilling

Yanks win 7-3

What ya gotta say TonyWillLive
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/06 12:02 PM

No question, Mussina is the real ace of this rotation.

Even if Clemens isn't available (and he is, though he shows the inclination of returning to Houston his "heart" has always led him where it will enrich his pocketbook), hopefully they could find a way to get someone like Zito or even Willis.

And while I am on the Randy Johnson sucks bandwagon right now, it should be noted that he does tend to come around later in the season (like last year). That's still no excuse for being absolutely useless on the mound. But I think when they showed his eyes two days ago on YES - its clear he doesn't have that mean streak anymore. He went from being a pitcher that threw with an attitude of "hit this if you can" to now "please, don't hit this."
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/06 02:54 PM

quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
He went from being a pitcher that threw with an attitude of "hit this if you can" to now "please, don't hit this."

yeah that's what happens when you turn 40 and have to face young guys with the "I'll hit this for my starving family" attitude. I always thought that is what makes the difference in professional sports. when you're rich, tired, famous, and already have a WS ring, a perfect game and a MVP trophy under your belt, it's time to stop.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/06 05:12 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
when you're rich, tired, famous, and already have a WS ring, a perfect game and a MVP trophy under your belt, it's time to stop.
Then would you plese tell Curt to stop pitching :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/06 05:13 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
I am sad to say that the Yankees got in their own home.

And Boston left a bunch of guys on base also.


Overheard from some Boston Fans:

I've got your Johnson right here.


No words of wisdom today after the Yanks win last night? Oh that's right I forgot, you only like to post when the Yankees LOSE
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/06 06:34 PM

That was a tough one. I was listening last night on the Radio b/c I was working late. I wanted to come on but, no dice. That lineup is scary, makes me appreciate what Beckett did the other night even more. Should be interesting to see how the Yanks respond to the knuckleball tonight. The Sox have hit Chacon well in the past.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/06 06:51 PM

The current Yanks usually have trouble with Wakefield.

He's 4-6 in 13 starts with a 3.59 E.R.A. against the Yankees since 2003, but 2-2 with a 2.37 in 6 starts at Yankee Stadium.

The only current Yankeees who hit him reasonably well are Jeter (.293 with 3 HRs in 75 ABs) and A Rod (.246 with 4 HRs in 57 ABs).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/06 06:58 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
The current Yanks usually have trouble with Wakefield.

He's 4-6 in 13 starts with a 3.59 E.R.A. against the Yankees since 2003, but 2-2 with a 2.37 in 6 starts at Yankee Stadium.
Yeah in the past couple of years Wakefield has been, gulp, a "Yankee-killer" of sorts. He does give us trouble everytime but I think the last time they played him last week they did reasonably well. Looks like good ol' Doug Mirabelli will get some PT tonight, huh TonyWillLive J/K
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/06 08:13 PM

oh you know it buddy
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/06 03:24 AM

That was a great game.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/06 05:51 AM

I haven't been able to watch any games since they don't air down here on TV. Tonight's did on ESPN but I work nights. I catch them in 2 weeks when I'm in New York on the YES Network. I can't f*cking believe Matsui is out for 3 months!
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/06 10:52 AM

No one has said anything officially of course, but I have a feeling that Sheffield isn't ever gonna be 100% this season without surgery, and since the Yankees wouldn't extend his contract, he has said that he won't play hurt or partially hurt or whatever.

Can't really say as I blame him, either. The Yanks didn't show him any loyalty and he doesn't have a contract for next year, so why should he risk more serious injury by playing through this one?

Now with Matsui out, the Yanks better mke a deal for an outfielder from somewhere.

Suddenly, with Sheffield and Matsui both out, "all that offense" doesn't seem like all that much anymore.

Those two guys being out represent a loss of maybe 45-50+ homers, 1000+ at bats worth of maybe .300+ batting average, and 200+ RBIs, and the Yankees don't have anyone on their bench or in the minors that they can reasonably hope will produce anything close to those numbers.

So with Randy Johnson clearly proven as unreliable as an Ace, and two-thirds of their outfield missing, can we now say officially that "The Yankees are in trouble?"
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/06 11:47 AM

definitely. now all they have in their lineup is Damon, Jeter, A-Rod, Giambi, Posada....

scary enough, but they will miss Sheff and Matsui.

after I sent my last post I realized that Schilling is in the same league as the Big Unit, but although I still believe Randy will get a LOT better, it seems to me that Schilling has a little more great stuff left than him.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/06 04:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:


.. and the Yankees don't have anyone on their bench or in the minors that they can reasonably hope will produce anything close to those numbers.

...can we now say officially that "The Yankees are in trouble?"
What about Bubba and Melky? :rolleyes: Unofficially I thought they were in trouble anyway. The Big Eunuch, the decline of Mariano (is this the year?), A-Rod Mr. Unclutch.

Their hope rests in Jeter, Cano, Damon to make things happen, Giam-bino and A-Rod to clobber a few, Mussina to have a career year, Chacon and Wang to follow up last year and squeeze one more year out of Rivera. Is that asking too much?
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/06 07:47 PM

I think the Yankees are in big trouble, oh did I mention we don't have Coco back yet.
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/06 07:57 PM

yankees are gettin that 27th or torre is out
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/13/06 02:48 AM

A great night for Wang tonight. What was that again about the Yankees needing to score 6 or more runs so he could win? :p
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/13/06 07:51 PM

why should they fire Torre? Fuck, they are tied for the division with the Sox, so this is silly.

Besides, alot of people seem to not remember TRUE pain and fustration for the Yankees......early 90s anyone? You know, when they were fucking awful?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 12:58 AM

Well, at least the Yanks were in Oakland, which meant they didn't have to go far to find the administration for the Athletics so we can get Barry Zito. :p

Congrats to Kevin Brown...err...Randy Johnson on another wonderful start.

Can the Big Unit get ED? :p
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 02:42 PM

Get Barry Zito? Yea that will solve all your problems Randy Johnson $16 million a year So who exactly is gonna play outfield? Matsui is out for 3 months atleast, Sheff is a little bitch and will milk the injury. I think the Yankees are in big trouble, they know it and their fans know it.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 06:25 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
Sheff is a little bitch and will milk the injury.
Little b*tch? Milking the injury? The guy played hurt most of the year 2 seasons ago and should have on the AL MVP in my opinion. He wants to play next year and possibly beyond. I'd rather him sit for 15-days, get healthy and come back strong rather than playing hurt again and have a chance doing more harm than good
Posted By: hova4ever9

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 06:31 PM

Everybody knows that BOSTON IS THE BEST TEAM IN THE LEAGUE the yankees are nothing but punks, all but 2 yankees are sellouts. The biggest one is johnny Demon o i mean Damon. He is overrated anyway. Coco is btter then he was at this point in his career.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 06:45 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by hova4ever9:
Everybody knows that BOSTON IS THE BEST TEAM IN THE LEAGUE the yankees are nothing but punks, all but 2 yankees are sellouts. The biggest one is johnny Demon o i mean Damon. He is overrated anyway. Coco is btter then he was at this point in his career.
Everybody knows that NEW YORK IS THE BEST TEAM IN THE LEAGUE the red sox are nothing but punks, all but 1 red sox are classless. The biggest one is cock schilling o i mean Curt. He is overrated anyway.
Posted By: hova4ever9

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 07:03 PM

O he has won 2 world sereis how many as randy won O yea 1. and the yanks suck b/c they have all the money and they havent won in 5 years it must be embarrassing to be a yankee fan at this point. O yea sox are leading the series 3-1 this year.
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 07:06 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
[b] Sheff is a little bitch and will milk the injury.
Little b*tch? Milking the injury? The guy played hurt most of the year 2 seasons ago and should have on the AL MVP in my opinion. He wants to play next year and possibly beyond. I'd rather him sit for 15-days, get healthy and come back strong rather than playing hurt again and have a chance doing more harm than good [/b][/quote]Well I think you have to keep in mind that Sheffield is in a contract year meaning he will be a free agent. Like you said he is willing to play next year. Thats the key he isn't going to go and play hurt for a team that hasn't given him an offer. That same team has one good pitcher in Mussina, say what you want about the rest but they are nothing special. The big unit flat out got old. The AL is a better hitting league and its showing.

Now they Yankees don't know what to pick up at the mid point. Pitching is the obvious choice...now. More problems could arise though. Were gonna have to wait and see.

As for you comments on Schilling, say what you want about his political views your aren't going to find two people anywhere who view everything the same. To say hes overrated is a little premature. He hasn't pitched well since the 130 pitch night in Cleveland i'll give you that. However with all the rain were having in New England right now the Sox lost 2 1/2 games due to weather. I hope and believe this is what Schilling needed to get back on the right path.

-NEWS FLASH "THE YANKEES ARE IN TROUBLE, I REPEAT HOUSTON THE YANKEES ARE IN TROUBLE AND NEED THE ROCKET"

-Not gonna happen.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 08:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by hova4ever9:
Everybody knows that BOSTON IS THE BEST TEAM IN THE LEAGUE the yankees are nothing but punks, all but 2 yankees are sellouts. The biggest one is johnny Demon o i mean Damon. He is overrated anyway. Coco is btter then he was at this point in his career.
If Damon was on your team he wouldn't be overrated, correct?

Boston is not the best team in the league.

Quote:
Originally posted by hova4ever9:
O he has won 2 world sereis how many as randy won O yea 1. and the yanks suck b/c they have all the money and they havent won in 5 years it must be embarrassing to be a yankee fan at this point. O yea sox are leading the series 3-1 this year.
Have you seen Boston's payroll?
Posted By: hova4ever9

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 08:26 PM

i always thought damon was overrated anyway. He a leader but not great. HE was a great guy. now he nothing but a punk. yea i no boston has the 2nd most money in the league but the yankees are a whole worse then any other team in the league. i know boston isnt the best but they are one of them.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 09:19 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
As for you comments on Schilling, say what you want about his political views your aren't going to find two people anywhere who view everything the same. To say hes overrated is a little premature. He hasn't pitched well since the 130 pitch night in Cleveland i'll give you that. However with all the rain were having in New England right now the Sox lost 2 1/2 games due to weather. I hope and believe this is what Schilling needed to get back on the right path.
I think we all know my hatred for Schilling. I will give the man his due, he's a great pitcher (especially at his age). But that doesn't mean I don't hate him and he doesn't know when to keep his mouth shut. As for my comments about him, I was being sarcastic. I basically took everything hova4ever9 said and was making fun of it
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 09:57 PM

Iam a Yankee fan but Randy does not look to Dandy anymore.

ds
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/06 11:26 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
Iam a Yankee fan but Randy does not look to Dandy anymore.

ds
I know Plaw knows who said this (somebody like Branch Rickey) "It's better to trade him a year too early than a year too late." Unfortunately George is enamored with this old players and gives them long(er) term contracts. Longer than they deserve. I think Randy is the perfect example.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/06 01:49 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
[b] As for you comments on Schilling, say what you want about his political views your aren't going to find two people anywhere who view everything the same. To say hes overrated is a little premature. He hasn't pitched well since the 130 pitch night in Cleveland i'll give you that. However with all the rain were having in New England right now the Sox lost 2 1/2 games due to weather. I hope and believe this is what Schilling needed to get back on the right path.
I think we all know my hatred for Schilling. I will give the man his due, he's a great pitcher (especially at his age). But that doesn't mean I don't hate him and he doesn't know when to keep his mouth shut. As for my comments about him, I was being sarcastic. I basically took everything hova4ever9 said and was making fun of it [/b][/quote]Let me ask you a question, if he was a Yankee would you feel the same?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/06 06:07 AM

About the man, I think I might yes. As a player, I won't lie, I'd cheer for him in pinstripes. Same with Ortiz. Ortiz is really the only Red Sox I would say I "like" if a gun was put to my head
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/06 11:11 AM

Nine runs scored, I think, in the four games since Matsui went down.

With Shefield still out and coming back who-knows-when and A Rod having a sub-par year so far, does everyone think the Yankees still have enough offense?

Is only one or possibly two bona-fide 3-4-5 type hitters (A Rod and Giambi), one maybe-top-starter (Mussina) and a top closer (Rivera) enough to get them into the playoffs?

If I were a Yankee fan right now I'd be more worried about making the playoffs than I would be about trashing the Red Sox.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/06 12:08 PM

Sturtze looks to be out for the rest of the year with a torn rotator cuff, so it'll be good if they keep Erickson up. He looked great in Spring Training this year.

BTW - where did I ever say that signing Zito would solve all of the Yankees problems? Oh, that's right, I didn't. I simply indicated that it would be a good pickup, especially considering his age and the future of the franchise.

And I'm surprised they brought up Kevin Reese to back-up the outfield, I really thought Kevin Thompson looked like he was ready to break out during spring training and has great speed and range.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/06 12:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:

With Shefield still out and coming back who-knows-when and A Rod having a sub-par year so far, does everyone think the Yankees still have enough offense?
Will missing those two guys hurt? Yes. Of course.

However, there is still considerable depth and talent in that order - Damon, Jeter, A-Rod, Giambi, Williams. If they can all play to their proper levels, it would be fine (Jorge will still be pretty bad :p ). As far as guys like Cano, Crosby, Phillips, etc., they need to step it up and produce as backup players.

Still, while it is probably persistant optimism, the Yanks are only a game behind the Red Sox. And just look at the Red Sox if Manny or Ortiz went down...and the Yanks are in trouble? I'm concerned and disappointed (since Matsui is my favorite player on the Yanks) but I don't think its time to throw in the towel, we still have considerable talent on this team and if it can play to potential we should be able to compete for a spot in the playoffs.

Pitching is still the biggest problem. Kevin Johnson/Randy Brown is pitching his way into irrelevance. They need another decent pitcher...move Mussina into the ace role, get Zito/Willis, and then it should even out.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/06 04:32 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
However, there is still considerable depth....
I don't call a team with a bench consisting of Kelly Stinnett, Andy Phillips, Miguel Cairo, Kevin Reese, Bubba Crosby, and Melky Cabrera a team that has "considerable depth".

Actually, I think their bench is probably the weakest of any of the AL playoff contenders.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/06 07:00 PM

I don't know how many of you guys have noticed but either last year or this year I've been seening a lot of teams uniforms now with the player's numbers only, no names. I know the Yanks have been the team doing this the longest but recently the Cubs, Giants and Dodgers all don't have their players name on the back of their jersey's anymore. Why do you think that is?
Posted By: hova4ever9

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/06 09:26 PM

i know the red sox have been doing this for a while too. but maybe the teams want to be more old-fashined. but i really didnt think about it much even though i noticed it.
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/06 11:38 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I don't know how many of you guys have noticed but either last year or this year I've been seening a lot of teams uniforms now with the player's numbers only, no names. I know the Yanks have been the team doing this the longest but recently the Cubs, Giants and Dodgers all don't have their players name on the back of their jersey's anymore. Why do you think that is?
tryna be like those yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/06 05:56 AM

I didn't see tonight's game but all I can say is theeeeeeeeeeee Yankees win!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/06 06:36 PM

Last night's game will go down in history!!!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/06 06:02 AM

So what was that again about the Yanks needing to score 6 or more runs for Wang to win? I'm just not getting it. Tonight's outting, 8 innings, 6 hits, 3 runs, 2 earned, 1 BB, 2 SO. 4-1 record with a 3.79 ERA
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/06 12:57 AM

Well, they didn't do very well today, but to all those who said that Jorge Posada was on his way out
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/06 05:32 AM

Nice SB
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/06 03:16 PM

Hey did I hear Johnny Damon had a cracked bone behind his big toe?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/06 08:32 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
Hey did I hear Johnny Damon had a cracked bone behind his big toe?
Hey, did I hear that Coco Crisp (the more youthful and allegedly more durable Red Sox replacement for Damon) has missed nearly a quarter of the season already and only suited up for five games due to injury? :p

Edit: Edited the wrong post, bedizzle!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/06 11:34 PM

Randy Johnson
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/20/06 12:21 AM

Randy Johnson
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/20/06 05:38 AM

WTF is going on? First Randy Johnson has been pitching like sh*t for the past month, and then the Yanks let a game go with Mo closing it out! Not to mention, it looks like Pavano won't even pitch this year as he got bone chips taken out of his pitching arm
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/20/06 11:27 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Not to mention, it looks like Pavano won't even pitch this year as he got bone chips taken out of his pitching arm
You say that like its a bad thing... :p

Anyone think its time to George to get Florida (Willis) and Anaheim (Rodriguez) on the phone to acquire some pitchers?
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/20/06 04:24 PM

I was only asking if that was true about Damon so I don't know why you responded like that? Yea Coco got hurt and the Sox are still in first place! He'll be back soon and it will be real interesting to see how well they play. Oh Mike Lowell is hitting the cover off the ball.

If I was a Yankees fan I wouldn't be thinking of getting a guy like Willis or K-Rod. IMO the Yankees need to get healthy and play with what they have. IMO their prospects SUCK! You have Mo and you want to get K-Rod? Why? The quick moves are stupid the Yankees should maybe sit this year out in terms of a trade in the middle of the year. They should let their prospects get better and make a move next year. However this won't happen the Yanks will pick up someone and he'll be good, maybe. The Yankees have to many egos and half of them are living up to the hype. HOUSTON WE HAVE A PROBLEM, THE YANKEES ARE IN TROUBLE AND NEED THE ROCKET.-Not gonna happen boyz, keep dreaming.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/20/06 05:45 PM

Damon - again! :rolleyes:
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/20/06 08:12 PM

oh come on Billy Wagner!!!

that ASSHOLE single handedly ruined what was maybe the most beautiful Mets win of the season so far. there is still the bottom of the 9th to go by now, but that is a game that should be finished with a closer gaining 10 millions a season. damn yankees!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/20/06 08:24 PM

Man, I turned the game off in the bottom of the 8th or top of 9 and I missed the comeback!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/20/06 09:04 PM

Never say DIE! A great comeback win, 5-4
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/06 12:08 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Man, I turned the game off in the bottom of the 8th or top of 9 and I missed the comeback!
You're a true fan. :rolleyes:
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/06 12:15 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
IMO their prospects SUCK! They should let their prospects get better and make a move next year.
Contradiction?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/06 06:07 AM

Again I know it's early in the season, but what's going on with the Angles? They're 17-26 and in last place in the AL West Don't get me wrong I'm happy, but I can't believe they're sucking as much as they are now
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/06 07:38 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
...what's going on with the Angles?
That depends -- are you talking about the Obtuse Angles or the Acute Angles? Personally, I've always liked the Right Angles the most...
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/06 10:28 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
Personally, I've always liked the Right Angles the most...
90°, 86 Proof..... its all the same to you. :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/06 01:11 PM

My deepest apologies Don Malta. The Anaheim ANGELS of Los Angeles. Sorry, it was a long day yesterday
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/06 01:25 PM

Wrong again Irish... :p

The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim... :rolleyes:
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/06 01:27 PM

I give up trying to figure out who they are. We all know who I'm talking about
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/06 09:58 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
[b] IMO their prospects SUCK! They should let their prospects get better and make a move next year.
Contradiction? [/b][/quote]Not really my friend. I'm a Boston fan so no matter who plays on the Yankees I say they suck that doesn't mean I don't respect them either. What I mean is their prospects IMO are a year away from being able to aquire a player like Zito, or Willis. Hey would you mind answering my questions instead of just knit picking for something wrong I said. I don't know why I think things will change you are after all a Yankees fan.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/06 12:29 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
I don't know why I think things will change you are after all a Yankees fan.
Not really:

Tony Mosrite = Red Sox fan

SC = Red Sox fan

plawrence = Mets fan (I believe)

Don Andrew = Marlins fan

ronnierocketago = Marlins fan

DJ, JGeoff, myself are all Yankee fans
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/06 03:28 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
[b] I don't know why I think things will change you are after all a Yankees fan.
Not really:

Tony Mosrite = Red Sox fan

SC = Red Sox fan

plawrence = Mets fan (I believe)

Don Andrew = Marlins fan

ronnierocketago = Marlins fan

DJ, JGeoff, myself are all Yankee fans [/b][/quote]I think you misunderstood me.
Posted By: hova4ever9

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/06 03:31 AM

i am a red sox fan
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/06 12:09 AM

Weak Wang tonight. :rolleyes:
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/06 12:28 AM

We called up Terrence Long, huh? Nice couple of plays in the outfield tonight ( :rolleyes: )

Didn't even realize we had him in Triple A... but it did remind me of this screenshot I caught last year:



Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/06 12:31 AM

ortiz has got to be the official yankee killer cuz we cant buy an out off this guy, 2RBI

then manny whacks one over the gate

WHERE HAS OUR PITCHING GONE???
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/06 02:24 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
Weak Wang tonight. :rolleyes:
You are a bit young to be having that kind of problem aren't you?
Maybe its the drinking.
Then it could be the stress. The Yankees will do that to a people.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/06 02:31 PM

OUCH- Curt Schilling only allows one run and five hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
You have got to hand it to the Yankees. They try and come back in the ninth, but being down 9-1 doesn't help much :rolleyes:
There is no joy in mudville this morning.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/06 04:15 PM

There fathersson is! I know he'd come sniffing around after a Yankee loss sooner or later
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/06 06:00 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
There fathersson is! I know he'd come sniffing around after a Yankee loss sooner or later
Loss??? Hell, they have lost what, six out the last ten games. The Mets took two out of three from them and what
is their record with Boston this year so far?
Hell, what about that game when the bases were loaded and who was it A-rod or Jeter wiffed to retired the side. I couldn't help but think of you at that very moment.

But, I noted your lack of posting when the Yankees do poorly. Like I said there is no joy in mudville.

I was in New York a couple of times in the last few weeks. I have to tell you the New York papers are really putting it to the Yankees. Mostly kicking the crap out of Johnson. I wanted to post the stories, because I thought you would really enjoy them. Sorry to say I left them in my Hotel Room.

Remember the first post of this tread: Hmm, what a way for the "defending" world champs to open up the season with a 9-2 loss to the Yanks. I loved it so much when Manny & Ortiz struck out to Johnson!
Boy, how things do change.

But, that is what the game is all about, having fun. Enjoy.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/06 09:10 PM

FS - Is it possible that, like the Grinch, your shoes are too tight, or is it your briefs? Or is your teeny, tiny heart just WAY too small? Or did the other kids make fun of you when you were a child, and this is your way of enacting revenge? It just seems that you cannot take any pleasure in life unless you are attempting to cause displeasure, so I was just curious.

I am a bit disappointed in the Yankees performance these past few games. However, with players the caliber of Matsui and Sheffield out with injuries, I'm impressed that they've won the games they have. And Sheff is due back tonight, so that will be a big boost for them. Also, I'm sure it's only a matter of time until ARod gets his swing back. And, honestly, even YOU can't make fun of Jeter. He's not only a great player, but one who plays all-out, all the time, and with all his heart. Maybe that's why you can't recognize it! Derek Jeter has heart!!
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/06 10:52 PM

I am not a Red Sox fan.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/06 01:06 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
FS - Is it possible that, like the Grinch, your shoes are too tight, or is it your briefs? Or is your teeny, tiny heart just WAY too small? Or did the other kids make fun of you when you were a child, and this is your way of enacting revenge? It just seems that you cannot take any pleasure in life unless you are attempting to cause displeasure, so I was just curious.
Oh, did I hit a nerve with another Yankee fan?
:rolleyes:

I know, your hurt by what is happening. So you start with the name calling. Don't worry, I understand your pain.

Don't worry the Yankees will win tonight and then the sun will shine tommorrow. and you will be a better person to be around.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/06 01:14 AM

No nerves hit here. I am completely content with their record, especially considering that it's only May, and there are many months left to the season. As much as I might like, they certainly can't win every game! And no matter if the Yankees win or lose, I am grateful for every new day.

I was commenting on the fact that you only seem to be able to communicate by insulting people, and I don't believe that I've ever read a pleasant post from you on any subject. Just theorizing on WHY you are so bitter.
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/06 01:28 AM

doubleplayROD just came through with a 2R homerun with 2 outs to put the yankees up 7-1. this is what the top of the lineup needs to be doing on a consistant basis without matsui or even without sheffield at full strength
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/06 01:50 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
No nerves hit here. I am completely content with their record, especially considering that it's only May, and there are many months left to the season. As much as I might like, they certainly can't win every game! And no matter if the Yankees win or lose, I am grateful for every new day.

I was commenting on the fact that you only seem to be able to communicate by insulting people, and I don't believe that I've ever read a pleasant post from you on any subject. Just theorizing on WHY you are so bitter.
How about if I said that I find YOUR comments to be insulting to me?

You don't seem to have any problem insulting me in your subtle way.

And just to set the record straight. I am not bitter, Just speaking MY mind!

I think if you want to carry this topic any further you can contact me off the boards. I don't hide, my contact point is listed.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/06 01:56 AM

No, I think we both made our points. I think that you should just try to take joy in JOYful situations, not in trying to make others miserable. But thanks for the offer to chat off the boards. Maybe one night when my laptop battery isn't dying. Now it's time to shut down and concentrate on the end of the game. Keep your fingers crossed for the Yankees!!
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/06 02:18 AM

SB - fs appears to be a Mets fan, which is fine...but he tends to gloat when the Yanks aren't doing well.

Nobody HAS to like the Yankees, but I sort of wish he'd either create or go into a 'How 'bout them Mets' thread and use his energy to cheer on his own team instead of sticking it to Yankee fans who have plenty of complaining to do on their own.

Other than that, I've never had a problem with fs and basically feel he's a fun guy... .

I don't think he'll be crossing his fingers along with you, but at the very least he's conceded the Yankees will win tonight.

Thank GOD for small favors.

Daily Apple
Telling America and the Gangster BB like it really is
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/06 03:15 AM

Nice outing by Wright tonight the Sox had to little to late.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/06 03:36 AM

Now you see. I really have to tell you the truth here.

Yes, I was one of the first to cheer on the Mets. After all they have been thru all these years, I love to cheer them on. I cheer the underdogs or those who haven't had a chance to be on top.

I do not hate the Yankees! Let me say it again. I do not hate the Yankees.

What I really dislike are SOME Yankee Fans! Those who talk shit and are as arrogant as they can be. Talking trash and bashing other teams and their players at ever turn. Damn mean talk too. Hate! No sportsmanship with these types. They give the real New York Fans a bad image.

So I give some back,
What can I say. I like standing up to some arrogant know it alls.
So many times I just pass on thru and keep quiet. Then after a while I have heard my fill and give some back.
Yeah, it may not be right, but noone else seems to speak up at times.
They never seem to like it when they get what they give.
So if you think that I am being negative, it may just be that I am giving some back.

By the way The Yankees had a good win tonight.
I do love a good clean rivalry.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/06 06:02 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
FS - Is it possible that, like the Grinch, your shoes are too tight, or is it your briefs? Or is your teeny, tiny heart just WAY too small? Or did the other kids make fun of you when you were a child, and this is your way of enacting revenge? It just seems that you cannot take any pleasure in life unless you are attempting to cause displeasure, so I was just curious.
"You're a foul one, Mr. Grinch..." Well put SB

As for tonight, glad to see A-Rod and Damon went yard and that Jared Wright, gulp, beat the Red Sox Although the best news (other than the win) was that Sheff is back
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/06 01:13 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[QUOTE]...glad to see A-Rod and Damon went yard and that Jared Wright, gulp, beat the Red Sox Although the best news (other than the win) was that Sheff is back ...
Yes, last night went well indeed.

But alas, Randy's pitching tonight's game .

Not much to do except hope for a miracle.

Apple
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/06 02:22 PM

FS - Glad to hear that your team is doing so well this year. My dad was a Mets fan and, although I am loyal to the Yankees, I have to admit that any time a NY team wins, I feel good about it, no matter if I'm a fan or not.

And you're right, there's nothing good in talking trash about other teams, or in gloating about their losses. It is rather unsportsmanlike. I am probably guilty over doing a small dance of glee when the Yankees beat Boston, but you have to admire players like Ortiz and Schilling, because they're just amazing athletes. And although I love the Yankees, I also love baseball, and you just have to give in to love of the game sometimes.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/25/06 05:48 AM

WOW, I gotta admit, I'm surprised that the Yanks took 2 outta 3 from boston in beantown After the series with the Mets and having lost game 1 against boston, I was worried they might get swept or loss another series. I'm glad I was wrong!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/27/06 04:59 AM

Farnsworth gives up 3 runs in the 8th to KC!? WTF!?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/06 06:27 PM

Get ready guys, now that I'm in New York, I'll be watching the games A LOT more now

Got to see Johnny Damon get only his 2nd leadoff homer of the season (6th overall)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/06 09:24 PM

What a game from Unit

6 innings, 2 hits, 0 runs, 3 BB, 4 SO, 7-4 with a 5.37 ERA. However, the bad news is that Jeter left the game. Let's pray he's OK
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/06 09:44 PM

Yeah, Johnson pitched a hell of a game today. Saw bits and pieces of it. Looks like R.J. hasn't lost his touch.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/06 12:03 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Jasani:
Looks like R.J. hasn't lost his touch.
Pfft, everybody gets lucky once in awhile. :p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/06 03:17 AM

Mariano comes up big, Small pitches well and the Yankees move up a game behind of the Red Sox who fell to the Blue Jays.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/06 04:07 AM

Sweet, Yanks win & Sox lose. What more could I ask for? A good game they almost gave away but hey, a win's a win
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/06 02:49 AM

The Yanks just took 3 straight from the league's best in the Detroit Tigers
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/06 03:03 AM

Lordy, I just LOVE sweeps...especially when they work in the Yankees favor!!

Apple
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/06 04:47 AM

Well they'll be going for the sweep tomorrow. For some reason, this is a 4 game series but win or lose, the Yanks have played beautifully
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/06 11:05 AM

Did you happen to see Mussina yell at Joe, "...stay there." Referring to Joe's attempt to pull Muss after he gave up a hit. Guidry was laughing. I wonder what was said in the locker room after the game.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/06 03:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
Did you happen to see Mussina yell at Joe, "...stay there." Referring to Joe's attempt to pull Muss after he gave up a hit. Guidry was laughing. I wonder what was said in the locker room after the game.
Yeah I saw that Moose looking pissed and Joe and Ron just laughed
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/06 02:38 AM

F'n Kyle Farnsworth Thanks for blowing the sweep!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/06 12:27 PM

Yes, Farnsworth is terrible, let's hope Octavio Dotel will be much better since he is supposed to be back in late-June or early-July if I remember.

Nonetheless, the Yanks still took 3 out of 4 from the hottest team in the AL. I thought it was pretty funny that the Tigers were all flipping out so much when they won, I mean, yes, true, but don't act like you just dominated a game, you only won one game out of four. :p
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/06 12:51 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
I thought it was pretty funny that the Tigers were all flipping out so much when they won, I mean, yes, true, but don't act like you just dominated a game, you only won one game out of four. :p
Yes, they lost 3 of 4, but this was an emotional win, coming back from a 5-0 deficit.

A Yankee sweep would not necessarily have been devastating to Detroit, but salvaging the last game had to be a big high for the Tigers.

In baseball, with it's 6-month play-almost-every-day season, each new day, in effect, "turns the page."

I'm not explaining this very well, I fear....hopefully you get my point.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/06 12:57 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:


I'm not explaining this very well, I fear....hopefully you get my point.
No, I understand your point, and like I said, that's fine to celebrate, but I think putting the win into perspective (losing three out of four) makes their celebration a bit excessive.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/06 01:21 PM

The fact that each day is a new day is what made their emotional display after the win to be perfectly understandable and reasonable, and not excessive, IMO.

They forgot all about those first three losses; All that mattered to them was coming back from being down 5-0 to win yesterday.

In any case, the Yankees have more to worry about than yesterday's loss....

Is Sheffield finished for the season? They're talking about trying to rehab his wrist, but if that fails he'll probably need season-ending surgery.

So let's see...that leaves them with Johnny Damon (not 100% hmself), flanked by some combination of Melkey Cabrera, Bernie Williams, Bubba Crosby, Miguel Cairo, Terrence Long, Kevin Thompson, and Kevin Reese.

If Long, who they just acquired, was the best outfielder available basically for nothing, they're gonna have to make some kind of deal for an every day replacement - a guy at least good enough to hit .260-.270 with 20-25 homers or so.

Looking at the rosters and trying to figure out who might be available in a deal for prospects, I came up with Reggie Sanders (KC), Victor Diaz (Mets), Raul Ibanez (Seattle), Jason Lee (Houston), Jeromy Burnitz (Pittsburgh), and Jacque Jones (Cubs).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/06 03:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:


In any case, the Yankees have more to worry about than yesterday's loss....
Injuries hurt, true. But I think that beating the hottest team in the AL while missing key players shows that players on this team have the ability to step up (Melky Cabrera, Andy Phillips anyone?).

I'm not saying that either of these guys can replace the talent like Sheff or Matsui. But until there is a serious sign that this team can't be competitive without them, I think they made the right move by bringing up prospects (who look like they benefitted from the WBC by playing in the majors during Spring Training) rather than trying to go out and spend on someone like Soriano.

For a team missing big players and not having a A-Rod-ish A-Rod so far this season, they are still only half-a-game behind the Red Sox for first place in the AL East.

Perhaps I'm still idealistic after watching my Sabres nearly make it to the Stanley Cup with patchwork players, but the young players (especially Cabrera) seem to be playing decent, at least well enough so that it doesn't warrant going out and spending on a huge 1-year deal to someone like Soriano or Burnitz or other names you mentioned.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/06 04:39 PM

Kyle the Pile of Farnsworth-less. Shows you how valuable Rivera is.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/06 04:48 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Yes, Farnsworth is terrible, let's hope Octavio Dotel will be much better since he is supposed to be back in late-June or early-July if I remember.
I wish they would have kept Tom 'Flash' Gordon

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Nonetheless, the Yanks still took 3 out of 4 from the hottest team in the AL. I thought it was pretty funny that the Tigers were all flipping out so much when they won, I mean, yes, true, but don't act like you just dominated a game, you only won one game out of four. :p
EXACTLY! That's 1 of the reasons why I hate Pudge Rodriguez so much. It's 1 regular season game. He comes around 3rd base with his arm in the air acting like he just won game 7 of the World Series. Hey loser, it's ONE game. Act like a professional and like you've been there before you immature, classless, piece of sh*t!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 02:22 AM

Another game Farnsworth almost lost for us. Glad to see they hung on for the win
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 03:29 AM

"EXACTLY! That's 1 of the reasons why I hate Pudge Rodriguez so much. It's 1 regular season game. He comes around 3rd base with his arm in the air acting like he just won game 7 of the World Series. Hey loser, it's ONE game. Act like a professional and like you've been there before you immature, classless, piece of sh*t! "

The question is, if he was a Yankee, would you be so angry, or dismiss such a rant by someone else as..."joyful excitement".

Besides, I'm sure you're really still reeling from 2003. :p
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 03:35 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]EXACTLY! That's 1 of the reasons why I hate Pudge Rodriguez so much. It's 1 regular season game. He comes around 3rd base with his arm in the air acting like he just won game 7 of the World Series. Hey loser, it's ONE game. Act like a professional and like you've been there before you immature, classless, piece of sh*t! [/b]
Why don't you say that about your fucking Yankees? Or Derek Jeter, when he jumps into the stands for some trivial fucking out like it's game 7 of the ALCS, or Game 6 of the World Series... :rolleyes:
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 04:15 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
The question is, if he was a Yankee, would you be so angry, or dismiss such a rant by someone else as..."joyful excitement".
But you see there in lies the difference, I don't have to answer that because the Yankees don't do that. They are a professional and classy organization.


Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Besides, I'm sure you're really still reeling from 2003. :p
MAN, you're still on about 2003!? Feel free to jump into 2006 anytime there ronnie. What have the Marlins done for you lately? I think someone's just upset there team is currently 18-34 (14 games outta first place)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 04:18 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
Why don't you say that about your fucking Yankees? Or Derek Jeter, when he jumps into the stands for some trivial fucking out like it's game 7 of the ALCS, or Game 6 of the World Series... :rolleyes:
Ummm, let's see. Because he was hustling to make an out. You're trying to compare apples and oranges. Jeter was trying to make an out while Pudge was just running around the bases (there wasn't even a throw home)
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 04:28 AM

Of course the Marlins are lousy right now, but yet you yourself still whine about what Pudge did in what now officially is the "past". How then, according to your logic you put forth, aren't you a crybaby that can't get over it as well? Hey don't get mad, its a question.

Besides, true dedicated legion fans of clubs don't get over a bitter defeat in the playoffs quite so easily, like 2003 or the ALCS in 2004. I don't believe you brushing such shit aside, so either you're not a real fan, or you're in denial. I don't which one, so it doesn't affect me. Trust me, you think Braves fans can't stand that the Braves, despite how many consecutive division titles, were only able to win one title during that span? Really, its a pisser.

A pisser as well for us Marlins fans to see our franchise constantly selling off players like a glorified yard sale every few years. I understand the logic of it, but it still pisses me off.

Anyway Irish, you never answered my original question. You say that it can't happen with the Yankees, but pretend for a moment that Gary Sheffield proceeded to do the same act as Pudge did, and of course doing it while wearing a Yankees uniform? Would you slam him for being an overpaid jerk like you did to Pudge, or would you excuse it?

As a man, I assume you would criticize him, possibly quite rightly to do so. Right?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 04:47 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Of course the Marlins are lousy right now, but yet you yourself still whine about what Pudge did in what now officially is the "past". How then, according to your logic you put forth, aren't you a crybaby that can't get over it as well? Hey don't get mad, its a question.
I'm not getting mad. Here's where I draw the line, what happened was recent news. The game ended 2 minutes before my post. So if you consider that old news, then yes you got me. I wasn't on the ball and couldn't post immediately upon seeing Pudge do it. My fault. However, I also draw the line when a season (or 2 full seasons now) have past since your team won. You don't hear me hollering about the Yankees winning the Series in 1996 do you? And do you know why? It's 10 years ago amigo.


Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Besides, true dedicated legion fans of clubs don't get over a bitter defeat in the playoffs quite so easily, like 2003 or the ALCS in 2004. I don't believe you brushing such shit aside, so either you're not a real fan, or you're in denial. I don't which one, so it doesn't affect me. Trust me, you think Braves fans can't stand that the Braves, despite how many consecutive division titles, were only able to win one title during that span? Really, its a pisser.
I am over the defeat in 2003 just like I've over the defeat in 2002 when the Yanks lost to the Angels. I still hate Josh Beckett (so in a sense you could say I haven't COMPLETELY gotten over it). But you harp on that day like it's the blackest in Yankee history. Trust me, the 2001 Series and 2004 ALCS are 2 series that I'm not completely over either and they hurt (at least me) MUCH MUCH MORE than the Marlins fluke win.

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Anyway Irish, you never answered my original question. You say that it can't happen with the Yankees, but pretend for a moment that Gary Sheffield proceeded to do the same act as Pudge did, and of course doing it while wearing a Yankees uniform? Would you slam him for being an overpaid jerk like you did to Pudge, or would you excuse it?

As a man, I assume you would criticize him, possibly quite rightly to do so. Right?
If we could put the shoe on the other foot and it was Gary coming around 3rd base acting like an idiot than yes I would bash him too. I love watching the man play and respect the sh*t out of him. However, he's been in the game long enough where he should be acting like a professional too and that's not the kind of thing I'd like to see a Yankee player doing. Another reason why I hate "K-Rod" (the closer for the Angels) so much. After a strike out, I can understand a fist pump or sometype of satisfied reaction. But to constantly come in, pump your fist as hard as you can, yelling your head off is immaute (I'm sorry but it is). How many times have you seen Mariano do that in the regular season? (Playoffs excluded because the playoffs are a different atmosphere altogether).
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 04:53 AM

I'm just glad to see that you are indeed human, like the rest of us.

As for 2003, ya it was a fluke...as was 1997.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 04:56 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
I'm just glad to see that you are indeed human, like the rest of us.
I never said I wasn't human like everyone else. I think a misconcerption a lot of people have about Yankee fans (or at least me), and I'm quoting fathersson here also, is that we're "arrogant." I wouldn't consider myself an arrogant fan. I would consider myself knowledgeable and confident in my team (which may come off as being aarogant, I'm not sure). But that's just one thing that pisses me off is that people feel Yankee fans are arrogant. Don't misplace arrogance for confidence!


Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
As for 2003, ya it was a fluke...as was 1997.
See, NOW you're starting to see the pattern :p
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 12:37 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
[b] The question is, if he was a Yankee, would you be so angry, or dismiss such a rant by someone else as..."joyful excitement".
But you see there in lies the difference, I don't have to answer that because the Yankees don't do that. They are a professional and classy organization.[/b][/quote]Oh kiss my fucking ass. You are such a hypocrite. The Yankees do celebrate, don't act like they don't. EVERYONE CELEBRATES WHEN SCORING A GAME WINNING RUN. EVERY TEAM. So don't take a 'holier than thou' attitude with the Yankees because that is BULLSHIT to the third degree.

Oh, and you are obviously still bitter about getting your asses kicked all over Yankee Stadium, because every so often when someone mentions the Marlins, you say "Oh, I f'n hate the Marlins" or some other crap like that. Why so much hate against a 100 loss team? Bitterness. You are obviously living in 2003, otherwise you probably, as a sensible baseball fan, would not hold a ridiculous grudge against a 100 loss baseball team filled with minor leaguers.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 01:38 PM

Wow, I love all this detailed, thoughtful, stat/fact filled argument about baseball! :rolleyes: :p

Back to reality...Farnsworth is a huge liability, but I don't think we could've kept Gordon, as I understood he wanted to pursue other options (and did so). Let's just hope Octavio Dotel comes back strong from his surgery and can deliver as a solid set-up man.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 01:50 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Wow, I love all this detailed, thoughtful, stat/fact filled argument about baseball! :rolleyes: :p
Unfortunatley, my good man, bitterness is not a stat.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 01:55 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Wow, I love all this detailed, thoughtful, stat/fact filled argument about baseball! :rolleyes: :p
Unfortunatley, my good man, bitterness is not a stat.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 04:06 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
Oh kiss my fucking ass. You are such a hypocrite. The Yankees do celebrate, don't act like they don't. EVERYONE CELEBRATES WHEN SCORING A GAME WINNING RUN. EVERY TEAM. So don't take a 'holier than thou' attitude with the Yankees because that is BULLSHIT to the third degree.
Sure every team celebrates when scoring a game winning run. My point is I felt it was a bit excessive with the Tigers the other night. Looks like it didn't do them any good since they lost last night. Also, would we even be having this discussion if it didn't involve Pudge "I'm a former Marlin" Rodriguez?

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
Oh, and you are obviously still bitter about getting your asses kicked all over Yankee Stadium, because every so often when someone mentions the Marlins, you say "Oh, I f'n hate the Marlins" or some other crap like that. Why so much hate against a 100 loss team? Bitterness. You are obviously living in 2003, otherwise you probably, as a sensible baseball fan, would not hold a ridiculous grudge against a 100 loss baseball team filled with minor leaguers.
Believe what you want to my friend
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 05:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Also, would we even be having this discussion if it didn't involve Pudge "I'm a former Marlin" Rodriguez?
You brought it up.

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]EXACTLY! That's 1 of the reasons why I hate Pudge Rodriguez so much. It's 1 regular season game. He comes around 3rd base with his arm in the air acting like he just won game 7 of the World Series. Hey loser, it's ONE game. Act like a professional and like you've been there before you immature, classless, piece of sh*t! [/b]
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 05:32 PM

Yes I did but what I'm saying is you seem to be backing Pudge up pretty well but have yet to give any thoughts on my comments about K-Rod
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 09:05 PM

I agree with you on K-Rod. That is a bit excessive. Pumping your fist after every K is excessive, but my earlier point stands.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 09:53 PM

Man, we all know the Yanks will win the AL East...again...so if anything, I don't honestly care about baseball until at least August.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/06 10:41 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
I agree with you on K-Rod. That is a bit excessive. Pumping your fist after every K is excessive, but my earlier point stands.
I'm glad we could at least agree that some celebration is excessive
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/04/06 12:09 AM

Geez, now Scott Proctor is on the list after giving up 3 runs in the 8th Glad Damon hit the homer in the 10th and Wang could close it out. The Yanks take another series (and this one without A-Rod)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/04/06 01:05 PM

Yanks take 7 of their last 8, and move into first place in the AL East, with a roster devoid of Sheffield and Matsui, backups and young kids, and a sick A-Rod.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/04/06 03:53 PM

AND Giambi was sick yesterday too and missed the game
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/04/06 06:13 PM

Small is a BIG P.O.S. :rolleyes:
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/04/06 06:16 PM

I don't know what's happened to him since last year. He was unbelievable last year at 10-0. Now he looks like he wants to fill Kevin Brown's shoes
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/04/06 07:11 PM

Why the fuck did they take the kid Smith out -- who was doing great, 1.1 scoreless innings -- to put that other POS Erikson in, now it's 10-0 in the 5th!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/06 11:20 AM

At least Kevin Thompson (and the aforementioned Smith) had good days. I wouldn't get super upset about the loss, considering they've won 7 out of their last 9.

Chacon should come off the DL today (he went on the 21st of May), so Small will go back to the bullpen (or sent down to Columbus). I don't really know what happened to Small, other than players hadn't seen him before. Now they obviously have scouted him and know what to expect. Perhaps he's hiding an injury?

Either way, Chacon will be back in the rotation.

---

Also, for further updates on those "shitty" Yankees prospects:

Quote:
C.J. Henry, SS, 2005, Pick No. 17:
Henry, who is still just 19 years old, is playing for Class A Charleston in the South Atlantic League. Henry is playing shortstop every day, and despite the speculation that the Yankees would move him to the outfield, Damon Oppenheimer, the Yankees VP of Scouting, said that there are no such plans in the works. "He's doing well," Oppenheimer said. "He's swinging a good bat and showing some power. We're pleased."
Quote:
Philip Hughes, RHP, 2004, Pick No. 23:
Hughes is pitching in his second full season in the Minors, having been promoted from Class A Tampa to Double-A Trenton on April 30. In his five starts for Tampa, Hughes went 2-3 despite posting a miniscule 1.80 ERA. The right-hander, who has been compared to a young Roger Clemens, was 2-1 with a 3.99 ERA in his first five starts for Trenton. Hughes, who turns 20 on June 24, spent Spring Training in the Yankees' big-league camp, and catcher Jorge Posada said he had the best arm of anybody in camp, including Mariano Rivera, Randy Johnson and Mike Mussina.
Quote:
Eric Duncan, 3B, 2003, Pick No. 27:
Duncan, who won't turn 22 until December, is playing his third full season in the Minors, having started the season with Triple-A Columbus. Duncan hit just .235 with 19 homers and 61 RBIs at Double-A in 2005, but he followed the season with a stellar season in the Arizona Fall League, capturing league MVP honors. Duncan won top rookie honors in his first spring in big-league camp this season, but he has struggled at Triple-A this season, making his ascension to the Majors unlikely until 2007 or 2008.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/06 08:52 PM

Mike and the Mad Dog update just said that Jeter isn't in the lineup tonight. Looks like we'll see Cairo at SS...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/06 09:14 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Mike and the Mad Dog update just said that Jeter isn't in the lineup tonight. Looks like we'll see Cairo at SS...
F*CK!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/06 09:47 PM

Hey, I'm a big Jeter fan, but Cairo did an excellent job last week filling in for him.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/06 10:45 PM

A-Rod, Giambi and Mo playing tonight?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/06 11:20 PM

Moose strikes out the side including Ortiz AND Ramirez
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/06 11:54 PM

Andy Phillips homers off of Beckett! 4-2 Yanks lead
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/06 12:02 AM

Jason Giambi homers off of Beckett! 8-2 Yanks lead
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/06 12:50 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] Mike and the Mad Dog update just said that Jeter isn't in the lineup tonight. Looks like we'll see Cairo at SS...
F*CK! [/b][/quote]Cairo is a decent utility player...why so down on him? He's better than Tony Womack was, imho.

13-2 Yankees!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/06 01:39 AM

I have a TON of respect for Cairo and think he's a GREAT utility player. However, I just don't like Jeter missing games (especially against Boston)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/06 03:20 AM

How'd you enjoy that a$$ kicking beantown!? 13-5 and the Yanks move into first. Another steller performance by Moose and I was so happy to see Josh Beckett leave after just 1 1/3 after giving up 8 runs
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/06 12:20 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Another steller performance by Moose
Let's not get carried away here, IM.

6 IPs, allowing 5 runs on 8 hits is not what I regard as a "stellar" performance.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/06 12:36 PM

If we didn't have all those runs, it might have been a problem. But hey, anytime you can make Manny and Ortiz go hitless, that says something. Moose also had 9 strikeouts, which isn't too shabby either.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/06 01:03 PM

Sure, with a 10 run lead you pitch differently than you do in a 2-1 game.....

Just let the other guys hit the ball.

But a stellar performance it wasn't.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/06 02:51 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
But hey, anytime you can make Manny and Ortiz go hitless, that says something. Moose also had 8 strikeouts, which isn't too shabby either.
Exactly. That's all I was saying. I'm not saying it was the greatest performance of his career, but to make Manny & Ortiz go hitless (plus 8 strikeouts), plus only giving up 5 runs to that Boston lineup ain't too bad. Hey, at least he last more than 1 1/3 inning unlike Beckett
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/06 01:53 AM

The Yankees win! WHAT a catch by Melky Cabrera! Yanks up 1.5 games over Boston and they've won 5 out of the 9 meetings thus far this year
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/06 01:54 AM

Nice job by Wang and the 'pen, and Bernie with that shot.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/06 05:20 AM

Here's a decent pro-Yankee article on Page 2 of ESPN
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/06 05:43 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] But hey, anytime you can make Manny and Ortiz go hitless, that says something. Moose also had 8 strikeouts, which isn't too shabby either.
Exactly. That's all I was saying. I'm not saying it was the greatest performance of his career, but to make Manny & Ortiz go hitless (plus 8 strikeouts), plus only giving up 5 runs to that Boston lineup ain't too bad. Hey, at least he last more than 1 1/3 inning unlike Beckett [/b][/quote]I didn't say that Mussina's performance wasn't a"good" one, or even a "solid" one.

All I'm saying is that it wasn't "stellar".

If it was, then what would you call his other 11 or 12 starts, all of which were better?

If 5 runs and 8 hits in 6 innings is stellar, what do you consider "bad" or "below average" or sub-par"?

Allowing 5 runs in 6 innings is rather "shabby" IMO, because that translates to allowing 7.5 runs per game, Boston doesn't averge 7.5 runs per game, and that will lose the game for you probably 75% of the time.

I guess my problem is with the way some people tend to throw those superlatives, like "great" and "superstar", around so freely.

Call me a nitpicker if you want to; If you're gonna continue to insist that this was a superlative performance, I'm gonna continue to insist that it wasn't.

Despite the comments, sometimes warranted and sometimes not, by others about your frequently going overboard with your gushing praise of the Yankees, I have never been a member of that chorus until now.

But to call this performance by Mussina "stellar" is ridiculous.

He pitched well enough to win with a 10 run lead, but it was his worst game of the year. That's the best I can say about it.
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/06 04:01 PM

Sorry been a little busy didn't want you yankees to think I wasn't talking because my team was losing. All I have to say is what a catch.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/06 04:21 PM

Ok plaw, you win, it wasn't stellar. Wrong word I agree but I'm still happy with his effort
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/06 05:13 PM

Let's hope Jaret Wright can keep the Yankee train rolling tonight, and continue his decent performances as of late.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/06 05:23 PM

Yes, let's hope Jared can continue to drop that ERA of his
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/06 09:05 PM

the only thing better than that catch was the look on mannys face....

priceless
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/06 10:17 PM

Rained out...

Looks like it could be Johnson vs. Schilling tomorrow in a battle of the old fogeys! :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/06 10:43 PM

I figured it would be with all the rain we've been getting today. Is tomorrow a double-header or no?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/06 01:00 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I figured it would be with all the rain we've been getting today. Is tomorrow a double-header or no?
Doesn't sound that way, Mike and the Mad Dog update said no make-up date has been decided, and that Wright will probably pitch tomorrow against Schilling...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/06 01:20 PM

According to the Yankees official website, it's going to be Jaret Wright taking on Schilling...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/06 10:24 PM

Great, Sheffield's out until September
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/06 01:12 AM

Well, the Yankees have their excuse now: Injuries.

Which, to be fair, would not be unfair to say.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/06 01:57 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Well, the Yankees have their excuse now: Injuries.

Which, to be fair, would not be unfair to say.
So what is, pretell, the rest of the AL East's excuse, which is, last time I checked, still trailing the *injured* Yankees?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/06 02:17 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Well, the Yankees have their excuse now: Injuries.

Which, to be fair, would not be unfair to say.
Yeah I'd LOVE to see boston without Ortiz and Nixon and see how well they do :rolleyes:
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/06 05:54 PM

Our lineup can be very scary if v-tek can hit like that. It was nice to get out of New York with a win. Look for the Sox to go on run over the next 3 weeks. Good luck with all those injuries Yanks no one wants to see that happen.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/06 06:09 PM

Relax, Yankee lovers.

All I'm saying is that if they don't win this year they have an excuse, and that their excuse would be a legitimate one.

While it's true that I didn't exactly say what that it would be an excuse for (not winning this year), I think that that part of it is fairly well implied; what else could I be talking about that there's an excuse for?

Would it sound better to you if I used the word "reason" instead of "excuse"?

Here, let me re-write the whole thing:

"Well, the Yankees have a reason now if they don't win this year: Injuries.

Which would be fair to say."

Better?

As far as where they stand now goes.....

Yeah they're still on top of the division.

BUT....

With their pitching I didn't think they could win unless they had an overwhelming offense, because they would need to win a lot of 7-5 and 8-6 games, and I don't find their offense to be overwhelming anymore.

HOWEVER....

There's still a long way to go, and plenty of time for them to make a deal to add a decent bat without giving up anyone important.

Unless they do, though, I don't see a 2006 World Series appearance in their future.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/06 05:27 AM

4 innings, 6 hits, 6 runs, 5 walks, 2 strikeouts, 3 homeruns. 7-5 record with a 5.62 ERA. BAD RANDY!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/06 01:32 AM

Go Yankees...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/06 01:49 AM

3 in a row. I don't understand why but the A's always seem to have the Yankees number (at least that's how it appears to me)

So Giambi hurt his left hand; Damon has an elbow ailment to go along with a broken bone in his foot; left fielder Hideki Matsui began a running program on Friday, but may be out for the season with a fractured left wrist; right fielder Gary Sheffield is scheduled to undergo surgery on his injured left wrist on Tuesday, and shortstop Derek Jeter served as designated hitter for the third straight day due to an injured thumb that he doesn't expect will be well enough for him to return to the infield on Sunday.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/06 02:42 AM

Jeter and Giambi should be fine - you know that Jeter will get back in there and play, and Phillips is a decent fielding first baseman, so Giambi can return to the DH while he's injured.

Damon I'm worried about, just because he would be yet another outfielder, and he's been a great leadoff man for the Yanks, who have sorely needed one for the last couple of years. Hopefully with the days off or DH'ing, we can keep a young guy like Thompson or Reese up to play the outfield and spell Damon.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/06 05:04 AM

I've seen and/or heard about most of the injuries but how did Damon hurt his toe again?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/06 10:06 PM

Great 4 in a row now. However, Beckett was shaky again in his start again Texas

5 1/3 innings, 5 hits, 4 runs (3 earned), 3 BB, 7 SO, 112 pitches, 5.26 ERA
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 01:45 AM

Don't worry about the Red Sox. Worry about outfielders colliding, in-the-park homeruns, and Kyle Farnsworth.

Call the ball, and get Octavio Dotel up to the majors ASAP!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 01:52 AM

I've seen and/or heard about most of the injuries but how did Damon hurt his toe again?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 03:31 AM

Toe? I thought he had a fractured bone in his foot?

Of course, getting run into doesn't help either...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 03:36 AM

I thought it was a broken bone in his toe but it's possible I was misinformed. Did he collide with the outfield wall or another player, etc?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 03:50 AM

From the little I've seen of today's game, Damon and Melky were booking for a deep fly ball and collided and near full speed, allowing Oakland to get an in-the-park homerun.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 03:53 AM

Gotcha, thanks. Yeah I didn't get to see the game until the 5th or 6th inning unfortunately. I see Chacon didn't go past 5 but how did he pitch? Rusty?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 04:12 AM

Dunno, like I said, I've only seen bits and pieces from highlight shows. But to me, it sounds like Chacon pitched *decent* but the Yankees couldn't capitalize on the walks and on-base opportunities presented by Zito.

Tied, until Farnsworth allowed a huge homerun, which he explained with this didactic comment:

"I beat him with the pitch," said Farnsworth (2-4) of the homer. "He got the fat part of the bat on it, he had a late swing on it. It was a good hit from a halfway decent hitter."

Yeah. Or, it could be a good hit on a mediocre pitcher.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 07:03 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Well, the Yankees have their excuse now: Injuries.
Which, to be fair, would not be unfair to say.
Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
So Giambi hurt his left hand; Damon has an elbow ailment to go along with a broken bone in his foot; left fielder Hideki Matsui began a running program on Friday, but may be out for the season with a fractured left wrist; right fielder Gary Sheffield is scheduled to undergo surgery on his injured left wrist on Tuesday, and shortstop Derek Jeter served as designated hitter for the third straight day due to an injured thumb that he doesn't expect will be well enough for him to return to the infield on Sunday.
Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
So what is, pretell (sic), the rest of the AL East's excuse, which is, last time I checked, still trailing the *injured* Yankees?
Looks like those injuries are finally starting to catch up with the Yanks and take their toll in the W-L Column.

After all, a chicken can only run around without its head for so long.

Still a looooooooong way to go, though. Plenty of time to save the season with a deal or two.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 11:41 AM

Hmmmmm. Looks like the Metropolitans have the best team money can buy.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 12:40 PM

Or...it could just be a slump, as well as matching up with the A's who seem to do well against the Yankees.

Still, for a bunch of *injured* mop-up guys, they still are tied for the league lead in runs, sixth in hits, first in RBI's, third in batting average, first in OBP, and third in OPS, as well as eleventh in WHIP, tenth in BAA, fourth in OPS and seventh in ERA.

Not bad for a team that's still only 1 game out of the AL East lead. I'd call this a bit of a slump, not necessarily chicken without its head...

The only deal to be made *right now* would be for a starting pitcher.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 12:51 PM

Their decent W-L record, place in the standings, and big lead in all of those offensive categories is due to the fact, I think, that for the greater part of this season the team was intact.

Start tracking their stats from when Matsui went down, and I think you'll find that they're somewhere in the middle or lower end of the pack.

And with their starting pitching, that ain't gonna be good enough.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 01:11 PM

Yet, Matsui was considered to be a bit slumpy as well.

I don't think anyone is denying the significance of losing guys like Matsui or Sheffield.

And for such *horrible* starting pitching, they still outrank Boston where it counts - BAA and ERA. Not that the values are any good, but as far as winning the division goes, they still aren't too shabby.

We need another starting pitcher. Moose ranges from good-to-stellar...err...great. Chacon is coming back from injury. Wang is, despite all the criticism, a decent fourth or fifth starter. And, Jaret Wright seems to actually be holding it together...though likely with Elmer's glue.

The key is Randy Johnson.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 01:18 PM

I took a fast look at the Yankee stats with and without Matsui, with and without Sheffield, and with and without both.

I think that this will illustrate my point:

Code:
      
      Matsui                  Sheffield                  Both
   With      Without        With     Without        With      Without
 W-L   RPG   W-L   RPG   W-L   RPG   W-L   RPG    W-L   RPG   W-L   RPG
-
19-12  6.3  16-14  5.5  19-11  6.8  16-15  5.0   24-13  6.5  11-13  5.0
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 01:20 PM

And its to be expected, as I've said.

I still give this amalgamation a chance, as long as they can prevent or at least minimize these kind of slumps.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 02:13 PM

I'm not sure what you said "was to be expected"; If it's the decrease in offensive production that you're talking about, I don't see where you said it.

And if their pitching is, in fact, better than Boston's - which I think it is - then I still say they better pick up another bat before their offense goes completely south before they worry about getting another starter.

If they were 24-13 with Matsui and Sheffield in the lineup, that tells me that their pitching is good enough to win if their offense is intact.

Since they're 11-13 with the two of them out of the lineup, that tells me that since the pitching staff is basically the same, they need more offense right now, not more pitching.

Anyway....

I guess it depends on what you consider a "successful" season to be.

If simply making the playoffs qualifies as a success, then sure, the Yanks could do it, even with their weakened lineup.

I don't see any teams in the AL as being head and shoulders above the rest, although it does look to me like the White Sox may be a bit better than the competition because of their starting pitching.

The AL West is probably the weakest of the three divisions, but someone has to get a playoff spot from there.

So it would appear that the Yanks are battling Boston and Toronto for the top spot in the AL East, and/or Chicago, Boston, Toronto, Detroit, Cleveland, Ananheim, Texas, and Oakland for the wild card.

Nothing there that nobody didn't know, of course, but I don't see anything to be particularly optimistic about, given that the Yanks are battling two other teams for a division title, and six othr teams for one wild card spot.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 02:40 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
I'm not sure what you said "was to be expected"; If it's the decrease in offensive production that you're talking about, I don't see where you said it.
Alas, while I didn't use those exact words, I did comment on losing Sheffield and Matsui during the Tigers series:

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by plawrence:
[b]

In any case, the Yankees have more to worry about than yesterday's loss....
Injuries hurt, true. But I think that beating the hottest team in the AL while missing key players shows that players on this team have the ability to step up (Melky Cabrera, Andy Phillips anyone?).

I'm not saying that either of these guys can replace the talent like Sheff or Matsui. But until there is a serious sign that this team can't be competitive without them, I think they made the right move by bringing up prospects (who look like they benefitted from the WBC by playing in the majors during Spring Training) rather than trying to go out and spend on someone like Soriano.

For a team missing big players and not having a A-Rod-ish A-Rod so far this season, they are still only half-a-game behind the Red Sox for first place in the AL East.

Perhaps I'm still idealistic after watching my Sabres nearly make it to the Stanley Cup with patchwork players, but the young players (especially Cabrera) seem to be playing decent, at least well enough so that it doesn't warrant going out and spending on a huge 1-year deal to someone like Soriano or Burnitz or other names you mentioned. [/b][/quote]
Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
And if their pitching is, in fact, better than Boston's - which I think it is - then I still say they better pick up another bat before their offense goes completely south before they worry about getting another starter.

If they were 24-13 with Matsui and Sheffield in the lineup, that tells me that their pitching is good enough to win if their offense is intact.

Since they're 11-13 with the two of them out of the lineup, that tells me that since the pitching staff is basically the same, they need more offense right now, not more pitching.
While that may be true, I don't see who could really replace the level of offensive prowess with the exception of Soriano.

And, for the time being, I'm still going to give these youngsters a chance, as well as for other hitters (namely A-Rod) to start coming on.

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
I guess it depends on what you consider a "successful" season to be.

If simply making the playoffs qualifies as a success, then sure, the Yanks could do it, even with their weakened lineup.
I think being in the hunt when they make it to September when Matsui (and later, possibly Sheffield) will return to the lineup would be success enough, and with that revitalization could bring a push down the stretch into October.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 03:38 PM

Well, let's see.....

They're 35-26 now, and look like a .500 team.

With about 70 games to go until September, if they continue to play .500 that gets them to about 70-61.

Then what? 21-10 or 22-9 to get them to 91 or 92 wins?

I don't think there are two teams in the West capable of winning 91-92 games (I doubt if there's even one, but somebody's gonna come out of there), and if we give the White Sox the Central crown, then the Yankees are in trouble.

Detroit is 40-23 already, and i don't see any reason why they won't finish with at least 93 wins. All they need to do is go 53-46 the rest of the way, and they look good enough to do that.

So that means the Yankees road to the playoffs involves winning the AL East outright, which I don't think will be easy.

I'm certainly not a Yankee-hater, just an objective realist here, and IMO it's just a matter of time before the wheels fall of this team completely.

I still think it's possible, though, for the Yanks to make the playoffs by winning the East with as few as maybe 88-90 wins, but I certainly don't see them getting very far in the playoffs.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 03:56 PM

Well then.

I suppose for the sake of brevity I could simply summarize any remaining argument in this particular instance using the following image:

Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 04:20 PM

Since when has brevity ever been an issue around here? :rolleyes: :p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 04:31 PM

When I've got three different threads to reply to at once, all of which involve debating with you. :p

I had to save time somewhere.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 04:38 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
I'm not sure what you said "was to be expected"; If it's the decrease in offensive production that you're talking about, I don't see where you said it.

And if their pitching is, in fact, better than Boston's - which I think it is - then I still say they better pick up another bat before their offense goes completely south before they worry about getting another starter.

If they were 24-13 with Matsui and Sheffield in the lineup, that tells me that their pitching is good enough to win if their offense is intact.

Since they're 11-13 with the two of them out of the lineup, that tells me that since the pitching staff is basically the same, they need more offense right now, not more pitching.
I'd have to disagree with you on this. I truly think the Yanks need pitching (starting or bullpen). I thought Boston was incredibly stupid for letting A LOT of guys walk this past offseason while they upgraded their offense. Many of these guys I never heard of and thought they couldn't hit. Some can and some can't, but their defense is a lot better. The point I'm trying to make is, guys will hit when they're in the batters box. Maybe not all the time, but I think the Yanks need more help with the pitching than the hitting (remember, this team has 12 straight games with at least 10 hits, a franchise record)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 04:46 PM

Actually, there is a great article on Yankees.com today about prospects like Philip Hughes and Eric Duncan, and whether it would be worth it to trade them for someone like Dontrelle Willis.

Personally, I'd like to see Hughes up in a major league outing sooner rather than later, but I can see why they are being patient.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 05:06 PM

Dontrelle Willis is a 24-year old proven #1 or #2 starter.

I'd trade him for prospects in a second if I was sure I could sign him (I'm not sure what his contract status is).

It's not like he was a 35-year old or older veteran.

I wouldn't trade my best prospects for guys like Jon Lieber or Andy Pettitte or Kenny Rogers, for example - deals that the Yankees might have made in the past, but again: Willis is only 24.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 05:12 PM

I knew the Yanks should have taken the gamble with Kenny Rogers in the offseason. Look what he's doing for the Tigers thus far:

8-3 with a 3.46 ERA
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 07:07 PM

Was he a Free Agent?

Would have been a nice pickup if he was.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 08:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I knew the Yanks should have taken the gamble with Kenny Rogers in the offseason. Look what he's doing for the Tigers thus far:

8-3 with a 3.46 ERA
Yeah, because the Yankees didn't want improved team chemistry and desperately wanted a prima donna pitcher.

Maybe if he hadn't acted like an ass last season. True, he's doing well this year, but if it wasn't for his asinine behavior he probably could have landed a better deal elsewhere.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 08:30 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Was he a Free Agent?

Would have been a nice pickup if he was.
Yeah Texas didn't pick him up and Detroit signed him
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 08:33 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] I knew the Yanks should have taken the gamble with Kenny Rogers in the offseason. Look what he's doing for the Tigers thus far:

8-3 with a 3.46 ERA
Yeah, because the Yankees didn't want improved team chemistry and desperately wanted a prima donna pitcher.

Maybe if he hadn't acted like an ass last season. True, he's doing well this year, but if it wasn't for his asinine behavior he probably could have landed a better deal elsewhere. [/b][/quote]Well I think at this point with their pitching staff they have to ask themselves, do you want a pitcher who acts like an a$$ and can win or do you want pitchers who behave very well and don't pitch well?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 08:45 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] I knew the Yanks should have taken the gamble with Kenny Rogers in the offseason. Look what he's doing for the Tigers thus far:

8-3 with a 3.46 ERA
Yeah, because the Yankees didn't want improved team chemistry and desperately wanted a prima donna pitcher.

Maybe if he hadn't acted like an ass last season. True, he's doing well this year, but if it wasn't for his asinine behavior he probably could have landed a better deal elsewhere. [/b][/quote]Well I think at this point with their pitching staff they have to ask themselves, do you want a pitcher who acts like an a$$ and can win or do you want pitchers who behave very well and don't pitch well? [/b][/quote]Terrell Owens?

I rest my case.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 08:50 PM

I wouldn't compare T.O. to Kenny Rogers. Sure Kenny had some troubles last season with Texas but I wouldn't go as far to call him a T.O. (but that's just me personally)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/06 08:53 PM

I think he's a good pitcher, but like we've talked before, more than anything the Yankees needed team chemistry this year. Adding Kenny Rogers, fresh off the MLB arsehole list, was not the best way to do it.

In retrospect, maybe they should have looked into his services.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/06 03:34 AM

Why couldn't Contreras pitch like this for us!?

8 innings, 6 hits, 3 runs, 0 BB, 11 SO. 7-0 with a 2.62 ERA
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/06 03:46 PM

Because he was sent by Fidel to seek revenge against the Yankees.

But Contreras didn't realize Fidel wasn't talking about the Yankees of baseball. :p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/06 12:08 PM

Well, Wang pitches 7 shutout innings (5H, 1BB, 3K) and the Yankees bullpen keeps it together to shut out the Indians, as Robinson Cano blasts the game winner over the wall.

For a guy that people keep saying is barely 4th or 5th starter quality, he's still 6-1.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/06 12:26 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
For a guy that people keep saying is barely 4th or 5th starter quality, he's still 6-1.
I rate him as a solid 4 right now, and off of his last two starts (2-1 & 1-0 wins), close to becoming a 3.

(He's 7-2, BTW.)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/06 12:58 PM

In his past 9 appearences, he's 6-1, and a save I believe.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/06 06:23 PM

Yeah at least the Yanks stop the skip. I tried posting last night after the game but my computer's been f*cked up!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/06 07:50 PM

Need any help, I12? What's the problem?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/06 08:39 PM

F*cking Roadrunner. They're coming out to my house tomorrow between the hours of 9-7 to fix the problem. Could they be anymore VAGUE on the time!?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/06 02:19 AM

Another good win tonight for the Yanks and the Unit looked solid!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/06 02:20 AM

Great job by the Big Unit tonight (until he got ejected), and Phillips nearly got himself injured on the meaningless hero catch on the last out on the ninth. It did kind of give him a "moment" in the minds of Yankee fans though, like Jeter with the stage dive against Boston and A-Rod with his 3-HR game against the Angels.

Robinson Cano is on fire!!!
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/06 07:25 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
F*cking Roadrunner. They're coming out to my house tomorrow between the hours of 9-7 to fix the problem. Could they be anymore VAGUE on the time!?
You gotta break their balls when they tell you that.

Tell them it's unacceptable, you need a shorter time frae, you want a tech's first appointment of the day when he's just starting out, you want to speak to a supervisor, etc.

They have ways of pinning the time down better, but if you don't complain loudly and long, they save those "guaranteed" time slots for those who do.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/06 03:33 PM

Yes, you have to bitch for service.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/06 04:32 PM

Well the guy just came and was here 10 or 15 minutes. Plus he showed up around noon time so only 3 hours when they said they'd be here the earliest (which was 9) but I'm SUPER pissed because I go to bed around 2 in the morning and my ma woke me up at like 8 in the morning to be here in case the dude was here by 9 (which I KNEW he wouldn't) and now I'm going to be tired for the rest of the day. And in case you say, "just go back to sleep," I can't. Once I'm up, I'm up for the rest of the day
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/06 05:19 PM

What did he do? I mean, what was the problem?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/06 05:21 PM

There was a bad connection outside and he just fixed it
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/06 10:35 PM

Not a very, what's the word, steller ( :p ) performance by Moose today. 5 2/3 innings, 9 hits, 6 runs, 1 BB, 5 SO, 110 pitchers. 8-3 with a 3.14 ERA
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/06 01:22 AM

BTW - they suspended Johnson for 5 games. It only took how many of our guys to get hit before they even made a warning, and then they throw Johnson. And Torre gets a game.

And let's just say today's umpire wasn't exactly "stellar" in determining Moose's strike zone. :rolleyes:
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/06 02:34 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
And let's just say today's umpire wasn't exactly "stellar" in determining Moose's strike zone. :rolleyes:
I didn't see it but I heard Moose stared in about 3 times in the early innings so that kinda set the pace I guess
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/06 05:13 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] And let's just say today's umpire wasn't exactly "stellar" in determining Moose's strike zone. :rolleyes:
I didn't see it but I heard Moose stared in about 3 times in the early innings so that kinda set the pace I guess [/b][/quote]I remember seeing the encore presentation, Ken Singleton said it ended up being like 8 or 9 times by the time Mussina left the game...

BTW - Kudos to suspending Johnson and Torre, while Ozzie Guillen goes off at his young pitcher for not intentionally hitting someone. That's the way to play the game, eh! :rolleyes:
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/06 02:30 AM

A good win tonight for the Yanks against a pretty tough Nationals team. At least Wright's ERA is under 5.00 :p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/06 12:36 PM

Yes, a nice comeback win playing against the Nats, who looked good. Plus, Soriano was auditioning. :p

BTW - I hate the UPN 9 games because DirecTV doesn't offer that channel in my area...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/06 12:37 PM

Also, looks like its a good thing that Octavio Dotel will be back soon, Farnsworth was hurt last night (though he should only miss the weekend series).

http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20060616&content_ id=1509295&vkey=news_nyy&fext=.jsp&c_id=nyy
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/06 01:01 PM

You Yankee fans....the eternal optimists

Let's see what Dotel can do first before you go head over heels for him.

Of course he doesn't have to do much to be an improvement of Farnsworth-less.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/06 07:07 PM

2-run homer by A-Rod!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/06 07:19 PM

Damon is .408 lifetime with the bases loaded (6 home-runs now) as he crushes the ball, he's 2nd Grand Slam of the year!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/06 10:01 PM

How the f*ck did New York lose that game!?
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/06 10:04 PM

That had to be just about the saddest game I've listened to this season.

Imagine...BLOWING a 7-RUN LEAD!!!

Apple
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/06 11:33 PM

Oh I can imagine it.

The game is always only over when the 3rd out in the 9th inning has been called.
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/06 11:51 PM

I know...it's true, you can't predict baseball, ANYTHING can happen. The Yanks themselves have come back from even further behind in the past (weren't the Mets leading them by 9 last month?).

Still...it was a darn shame game to have to listen to.

Apple
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/18/06 03:52 AM

TJ Beam finally got called up, which was nice. If he can be consistent, I'd like to see him stay with the team.

Yanks and Sox still tied for first in AL East.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/18/06 05:13 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
.....it's true, you can't predict baseball, ANYTHING can happen.
You're right when you say that "anything can happen".

But "anything" happens far, far less frequently than what we can reasonably expect to happen, which makes baseball (along with every othe team sport) very predictable.

What makes a game like this so horrible for Yankee fans is that when you have a 7-run lead, you can expect, or "predict" that you will win maybe 98-99% of the time, and your prediction will be correct.

To me, once something that I expect to happen maybe 75% or more of the time does happen 75% or more of the time, I consider it to be fairly predictable.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/18/06 07:47 PM

F*cking Yankees blow it AGAIN! They should have swept that series against the Nationals
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/19/06 01:29 PM

Yankees call-up prodigy Jose Veras, supposed to have a great fastball, decent curve, good splitter and an average changeup. According to the scouts, he could be the next Tom Gordon (I'll wait to see him in action though :p ), has issues with control as he tires, which is why they turned him from a starter to a reliever (ala Mariano Rivera).

I like the Beam kid, and maybe this Veras can continue to be another Columbus call-up that does a good job for the big league club. To be honest, I'd much rather see the promotion from within than the Yankees going out and buying players...that's why I like the Indians, since I watch many of their young players here in their AAA-affiliate Buffalo.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/19/06 02:30 PM

On a related Yankee tidbit, Oakland Athletic reliever Steve Karsay officially annouced his retirement after one day winning his first game since 2002.

Wasn't Karsay injured during most of his tenure in NY, and had a HUGE (unwarranted) contract?

Karsay Retirment (ESPN.com)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/06 12:33 PM

Yankes in a big comeback win with washed-up Johnny Damon's two run triple in the 8th.

Dotel also looks like he will be ready for pinstripes next week, he'll be throwing with Columbus (AAA) instead of Trenton (AA) this week.

Scott Erickson was also designated for assignment, which, along with Aaron Small's DFA, is disappointing. Erickson looked good in ST, but could never really be effective in the regular season thus far. And Small, I don't know whether its his head or just that other teams have figured him out.
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/06 12:41 AM

It's good to see you changed that terrible icon Double J. What rumors are you guys hearing down in N.Y.C. about trades for the Yankees?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/06 02:54 AM

Wow, the Yanks (and Jaret Wright) blanked the Phils!? A good win and a series they needed to win (after dropping the one to the Nationals)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/06 11:54 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
It's good to see you changed that terrible icon Double J.
It wasn't terrible, just out of date. Don't worry, I'm working on a new one. :p

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
What rumors are you guys hearing down in N.Y.C. about trades for the Yankees?
Same as usual. Yankees want Reggie Sanders. Yankees will trade for John Smoltz. Yankees will trade for Dontrelle Willis. Yankees will trade for ________.

---

Shutout against the Phils (about time)! Damon the washed-up indigent goes 3-for-3.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/06 12:08 PM

Moehler faces off against Chien Ming Wang tonight in Yankee Stadium.

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/25/06 01:27 PM

Rainout yesterday - two game double-header today, Mussina at 1:00 PM and Chacon (or Villone, according to Yankees.com) will get the start at 8:05 PM tonight.

Strange they are skipping Johnson's start, I guess they're saving him for Atlanta against Tim Hudson.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/25/06 03:42 PM

I wouldn't be surprised to see today's games washed out too with the amount of rain we're supposed to get this week
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/25/06 08:57 PM

Home run #11 for the washed-up Johnny Damon and a good win for Moose against the D-Train (who I wish we'd get). 7 innings, 5 hits, 1 run, 2 BB, 6 SO, 9-3 with a 3.28 ERA. Hopefully this is the year he gets his 20 wins
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/25/06 11:17 PM

Still wondering whether they will give Chacon the nod tonight or if it will be Villone...as well as how many starters will make it out for game #2.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/06 01:45 PM

Yanks split the doubleheader, and it will be Tim Hudson against Randy Johnson tonight.

Let's hope the Big Unit can get it up.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/06 12:25 AM

First Giambi hits a 2-run shot, now he hits a 3-run shot!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/06 01:55 AM

Damon is washed-up?

If he is, then let some other teams have him.

Hell, for once, I think Irish and I agree on something relating to the Yanks.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/06 02:31 AM

A GREAT start for the Unit tonight. 7 innings, 4 hits, 0 runs, 0 BB, 9 SO, 9-6 with a 4.84 ERA
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 02:37 AM

Way to fucking suck guys. Wright pitched decent, imho a mistake to take him out when he was still getting guys out. He hasn't pitched that deep so far, why not give him a chance? It's not like the bullpen could do any better (no, really, they can't do any better).

BTW - Jorge sucks. Thank you.

Go Chien!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 03:17 AM

Can Kyle Farnsworth come into a game and NOT give up a run or 2!?

Looks like Clemens is having the same problems he had in Houston last year, lack of run support. He's 0-2 thus far
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 04:05 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Can Kyle Farnsworth come into a game and NOT give up a run or 2!?
No. Let's hope Octavio Dotel can do better.

Though I have to say, I think Jorge Posada's defensive skills have grown increasingly worse, and his ability to call a game is also very poor. Not that I don't think the Yankees bullpen is mediocre at best, but Posada doesn't impress me. He's also too streaky at the plate.
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 04:25 AM

10 in a row for the Sox and your still only out 3 1/2, not bad if you ask me but it could get worse.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 04:41 AM

Considering there are still over three months left in the season, I think there is plenty of time.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 05:09 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
10 in a row for the Sox and your still only out 3 1/2, not bad if you ask me but it could get worse.
Not to mention we're without Sheffield, Matsui and now Cano for the next 15 days (which means he won't start the All-Star game, which he earned!)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 05:18 AM

Calm yourself young padawan.

There is wisdom in not playing for 15 games and in an All-Star exhibition when you can play in October.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 06:26 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Well, the Yankees have their excuse now: Injuries.

Which, to be fair, would not be unfair to say.
Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Not to mention we're without Sheffield, Matsui and now Cano for the next 15 days
As I said.....^^^

And on another note.....

Quote:
Originally posted by TonyWillLive:
10 in a row for the Sox and your still only out 3 1/2, not bad if you ask me but it could get worse.
And I'm fairly certain that it will.

I do give those Yankee fans credit for their eternal optimism, though, as in:
Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Considering there are still over three months left in the season, I think there is plenty of time.
Sure there is plenty of time.

But time is not gonna cure what ails the Yankees.

If they don't pick up another starting pitcher, a corner outfielder or two with some power, and some help in the bullpen, all the time in the world isn't gonna help.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 01:26 PM

Ugh.




"Broken record,"
Double-J
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 01:28 PM

Yeah, I know you guys sound like a broken record, always talking about the injuries and how there's still a lot of time left, but I don't mind.

As I've said, I admire and respect your optimism.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 01:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Yeah, I know you guys sound like a broken record, always talking about the injuries and how there's still a lot of time left, but I don't mind.

As I've said, I admire and respect your optimism.
While you're busy admiring and such, try getting yourself a new needle.



"I read grooves with my fingers,"
Double-J
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 01:43 PM

Btw, JJ, a point of information I've been meaning to mention:

The guy on the Yankees you've referred to a couple of times is Colter Bean, not "Beam".
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 01:52 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
The guy on the Yankees you've referred to a couple of times is Colter [b]Bean, not "Beam". [/b]
No, he's not.

T.J. Beam

"Turn out the lights, don't try to save me,"
Double-J

BTW - A scallop is a shellfish. [/Barbershop]
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 03:10 PM

My mistake.

I thought you were referring to Colter Bean
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 09:09 PM

WOW! A-Rod ends the game with a 2-run game-winning home run!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/06 11:34 PM

Exactly what this team (and A-Rod specifically) needed to swing the mo in the upcoming weeks.

BTW - kudos the the Bronx boobirds who nearly pissed themselves after A-Rod hit the walk off. Congrats on being a bunch of hypocritical bastards.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/06 01:34 PM

DJ, EXACTLY!! It was long overdue, and I think we all agree that he needed it badly!! Glad that they have off tonight. The bullpen is worn OUT!!
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/06 03:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
....we're without Sheffield, Matsui and now Cano for the next 15 days (which means he won't start the All-Star game, which he earned!)
I voted for Seattle's Jose Lopez at second base.

Of course I haven't seen him play so I'm going strictly by offensive stats, but he's supposedly a terrific fielder.
Code:
        G   R   H/AB   AVG.  2B  3B  HR  RBI  SLG%   OB%   OPS
-
Lopez  76  47  88/311  .283  20   7   9   56  .479  .319  .798 
Cano   69  34  88/271  .325  17   1   4   27  .439  .353  .792
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/06 05:06 PM



A 16-year-old girl sitting with her parents in seats beyond the third- base line ran onto the field yesterday for a handshake with Derek Jeter. While her father went to the concession stand, the teenager bolted onto the field and jogged toward Jeter. When she neared the shortstop, the girl put out her hand and shook his right hand. Security guards closed in on her and escorted the stunned girl off the field in handcuffs.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/06 06:41 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:


A 16-year-old girl sitting with her parents in seats beyond the third- base line ran onto the field yesterday for a handshake with Derek Jeter. While her father went to the concession stand, the teenager bolted onto the field and jogged toward Jeter. When she neared the shortstop, the girl put out her hand and shook his right hand. Security guards closed in on her and escorted the stunned girl off the field in handcuffs.
Great, she got herself a handshake from Derek Jeter and her first taste of Bondage all in the same day.

I bet you the magic spell was broken when Security took hold of her.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/01/06 12:24 AM

Giambi's solo homerun puts the Yanks up 1-0 (his 24th of the year). He's gonna hit 40 easily
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/01/06 02:51 AM

Yanks hold the Mets to 1 hit and with the Red Sox lose, are only 3 games out
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/01/06 02:41 PM

Great win for the Yanks, let's hope Johnson can go two in a row.

If the weather holds, this is going to be a great holiday weekend to watch baseball.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/01/06 09:25 PM

In fact, that is my next FACE-OFF poll:

Which American past time is truely America's Past Time?

BASEBALL?
FOOTBALL?
or....BASKETBALL(you know, the sport that actually was truely invented totally by Americans?)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/06 03:26 AM

A-Rod hits a grand slam and puts the Yanks up 6-4
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/06 03:43 AM

A-Rod just hit a 3-run shot (his 2nd home run of the game) and it's 16-5 Yanks!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/06 12:53 AM

Where's Irish right now, as the Yanks are getting spanked 19-1 in the 8th? :p
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/06 02:15 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
Where's Irish right now, as the Yanks are getting spanked 19-1 in the 8th?
That was the final score. On George Steinbrenner's birthday, no less.

(Fredo: "They didn't know it was Pop's birthday").
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/06 02:56 AM

Good thing for all the Yankee fans that the Sox have dropped their last two.

Good thing for all the Red Sox fans that the Yanks have dropped their last two.

19-1, though. Ouch.

That sums up everything that's wrong with the Yankees: Starting pitching, bullpen, hitting.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/06 03:38 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
Where's Irish right now, as the Yanks are getting spanked 19-1 in the 8th? :p
At work :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/06 03:38 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
19-1, though. Ouch.
Almost as bad as the a$$ kicking the Yanks gave the Mets on Sunday, right? :p
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/06 04:48 AM

Actually, I enjoyed the Yankees win, believe it or not.

First of all, I'm not an unrealistic, over optimistic, living-in-a-dream-world Mets fan, despite their huge lead.

I'm just a call-em-as-I-se-em realistic Baseball fan who happens to prefer the Mets to the Yankees, but my allegience to them, or any other team, extends as far as whether or not I bet on them on a particular day.

I bet on Pittsburgh the last two days because they were big underdogs, and today's come-from-behind victory by the Mets hurt me a lot more than any loss that they suffered at the hands of the Yankees, especially as I bet on the Yankees in all three games against the Mets, since I've been riding their cold streak.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/06 03:16 PM

Yankees New Catching Prospect

Let's hope this turns out. I'm getting pretty tired of J-orgy.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/05/06 03:18 PM

Yeah I read about this in the paper yesterday. Jorge's 35 and they're hoping this kid can take his place by 19 or 20 (since I believe he's only 16)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/06/06 11:59 AM

Yanks bring up Kris Wilson (formerly of the Royals) who did a great job with a nasty breaking ball and a decent fastball for some nice relief last night in a big win against the Indians, as the Red Sox lost to the Devil Rays again, with the Yanks now 3 games back out of 1st place in the AL East.

The Yankees also released Erubiel Durazo, and claimed OF Aaron Guiel off waivers from the Royals.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/06/06 01:20 PM

Also, it looks like Chacon is on his way out. Rumours are running rampant regarding his work ethic and attitude, and coupled with his poor performance this year, it wouldn't be surprising to see him released or put on waivers. Ron Villone has been pretty good, and could become the Yankees 5th starter, and even Kris Wilson's name is now being tossed around to start.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/06/06 04:13 PM

AWESOME, Moose is on his way to his first 20-win season! And the Yanks gained a game on the Red Sox. Does anyone know when Kazmir is a free agent? That guys a Red Sox killer. Also, now I hear Damon's injuried again and will miss tonight's game!?
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/06/06 05:38 PM

Mussina is the first pitcher in American League history to win 10 games or more for 15 straight seasons, although many have done it ine the NL.

Oh, and here....I ran across this little smiley for you diehard Yankee fans:

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/06 01:48 AM

At least the Yanks salvaged the series and got a split. The Unit pitched pretty well: 7 2/3 innings, 7 hits, 4 runs, 0 BB, 5 SO, 10-7 with a 5.13 ERA
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/06 05:00 PM

Great win for the Yanks, Johnson looked good but they kept him in a bit too long.

Let's hope that the Yanks can get over the D-Rays (who helped us against the Sox) and get closer to 1st place in the AL.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/06 05:17 PM

I gotta give a lot of credit to Torre for this season.

He has them hanign' in there.

A lot of teams would have quit by now.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/06 05:37 PM

I agree, especially since they have remained (arguably) competitive in the wake of major injuries to 2/3rds of their outfield and the core of their RBI hitters.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/08/06 01:53 AM

A good win for the Yanks tonight and a very good outing from Wright. 6 innings, 4 hits, 0 runs, 0 BB, 10 SO. 5-5 with a 4.23 ERA
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/06 04:27 AM

An easy win for the Yanks tonight (kinda surprising). I thought Kazmir would mow the Yanks down as he mowed down Boston. Wang pitched very well: 8 1/3, 6 hits, 1 run, 2 BB, 2 SO. A 9-4 record with a 4.00 ERA (getting that ERA more respectable). PLUS, Farnsworth came in and shut the door without giving up a run :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/06 06:04 PM

Giambi hits a grand slam (his 27th HR of the year) and the Yanks lead 4-0
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/14/06 01:06 PM

Yanks Set to Sign Ponson

When I first saw this last night on the ESPN newswire, I nearly shit myself. I thought we actually traded for Ponson.

Then I saw that we are simply going to sign him, and St. Louis is still responsible for his league-minimum salary.

Oh well. I suppose we could give him a try, since Chacon has been a shell of his 2005 year and we could use a 5th starter.

Sir Sidney will hopefully leave his booze at home lest he be ridiculed even further by Yankee fans. :p

---

On trade rumor notes, I see that the Yankees might have Melky as one of their big potential trade baits before the deadline. I think that catch he made on 6/6/06 was pretty nuts, and has solidified him as at least a Yankee bench player.

BTW - Ruben Sierra was just made a free agent. I'd love to see him back in pinstripes again, even if he isn't very consistent.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/14/06 03:03 PM

The article I read said the Yanks were paying him $150,00 for the rest of the season, the pro-rated portion of the league minimum, and the Cards were paying off the remainder of his contract.

Of course with the Yankees, money is not the issue.

He's certainly capable of helping the team, altho you have to wonder if he has anything left after failing with a good team like St. Louis.

Maybe he'll be this year's Small or Chacon.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/14/06 03:23 PM

While I hope he will be decent, I don't hold Sidney in high regards, nor do I expect much from him. I didn't care for him when he was in Baltimore, and his fitness (especially with his alcoholism?) has always been a question regarding his ability.

At least he's coming cheap. :p
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/06 01:51 AM

Anyone hear about this?

http://www.mosnewyorkgrill.com/

I think he should've called it Mo's Tavern instead
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/06 01:54 AM

Yanks end Contreras's winning streak (fittingly) and close to 2 games (I believe) behind the Red Sox.

Guiel...homers? :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/06 03:17 AM

Nope, the Yanks are only 1.5 games out my friend

-Man Beckett got rocked by Oakland (4 1/3 innings, 8 hits, 7 runs, 4 BB, 3 SO. 11-5 with a 5.12 ERA)

-Looks like Clemens has been a good investment for Houston (5 innings, 7 hits, 2 runs, 0 BB, 7 SO. 1-3 with a 2.96 ERA). Boy, they just can't seem to win with Rocket on the mound.

-And YES, leave it to the Yanks to end Contreras's winning streak!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/06 01:44 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
-Looks like Clemens has been a good investment for Houston (5 innings, 7 hits, 2 runs, 0 BB, 7 SO. 1-3 with a 2.96 ERA). Boy, they just can't seem to win with Rocket on the mound.
Yeah, maybe if the Ass-tros could hit the ball, he'd have some more wins. :p

Should'a came to New York...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/06 02:36 PM

Preaching to the choir my brother, preaching to the choir
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/06 07:35 PM

I'm on my way out to work but the Yankees are kicking that White Sox a$$ 11-3
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/06 10:21 PM

Another win by the shitty, poorly coached, can't-hang-with-Boston, injury-riddled Yankees (who have a pitching staff with a better ERA than the World Champs, btw) who beat the ChiSox and move one game behind the Red Sox in the AL East.

Next up: that horrible, underserving, not-good-enough-for-a-5th-starter-spot Chien Ming Wang, who will throw the sinkerball hoping the #8th ranked team ERA holding Yankees can sweep the World Champions on Sunday.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/06 12:58 AM

1/2 a game behind Boston with a sweep of the defending World Series champion Chicago White Sox. Not a bad way to start the 2nd half
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/06 01:17 PM

Yanks win again, but still 1/2 game out, and 2 1/2 games out of the Wild Card.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/06 03:37 PM

F*cking Kansas City blows a 4-0 lead!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 11:41 AM

*ECW Chant*

Holy shit! Holy shit!

What a game! Ponson looked *decent* and struck out five, so he seems to be (with our offense as it is) a stop leak, at least for now, giving us a bit of relief in our 5th starting role.

And then the Yanks rally in the 9th, get a break with Posada safe at 1st (although in the rain and being that close, I can't really blame the umpire), and then when we come back from the delay, Melky blasts one over the fence to keep the Yanks half-a-game behind the Red Sox for the AL East title!


Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 02:32 PM

And of course A-Rod strikes out when it counts the most. I have been thinking these past few days, we should probably trade him. We could get A LOT in return (especially pitching). I'd send him to St. Louis for Pujols or Florida for Dontrelle just to name a few players
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 03:41 PM

We traded Soriano for ARod, and I don't believe we gained very much. I mean, I know he's having a tough season, but he has never looked comfortable being a Yankee. I think Damon has done a far better job fitting in, don't you?

It was a great game last night. I agree, Ponson has potential. And hooray for Melky!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 03:53 PM

Yeah I think Johnny has done better as a Yankee. The guy does the job when he's needed. As much as I like A-Rod, the man absolutely SUCKS when it counts (usually when the game's on the line). He's the COMPLETE opposite of a David Ortiz
Posted By: Don Alessandrio

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 03:56 PM

yankees would be crazy to trade A-Rod. I am not a Yankee fan nor do I follow the Yankee organization. (well no more than what Espn and national sports radio covers, which is a lot) But as an outsider I think that the Yankees have just come back down to earth. They were so dominant in the late 90's and early 2000's. I think some of that was due to luck and maybe some over achieving of players like Chuck Knoblough(Sp?), Scott Brosius, Ricky Ledee. BUt they were still the best team in MLB for a good 6 years straight. But the Yankees are still highly competitive. I laugh at talk radio when they say the Yankees are done and won't make the playoffs.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 04:20 PM

Oh yeah, he absolutely sucks. He was only the AL MVP last year. He was also the MVP in 2003, and has won the Golden Glove and Silver Slugger awards. He ranks 10th in the AL in runs this year, and 8th in walks. He's hit 30+ (averaging in at 42.2) in 9 out of his 10 full seasons as a starter. His career average is over .300. :rolleyes:

God, I hate these Yankee fans who will boo A-Rod when he's down and then hail him as the savior when he hits a grand slam. It's really annoying. Seriously, you boobirds ruin baseball for the rest of us.

I'm the first to admit that I don't have much confidence in Alex right now, and its obvious he doesn't have it in himself either. He's still a better-than-average (if not great) fielding third baseman, who needs to stop mixing in ordinary errors with his spectacular plays. And his bat has power, unfortunately he has psyched himself out. Certainly I get angry when he swings at a bad pitch, and his playoff stats with the Yankees (thus far) have been borderline dismal. I'd still rather have A-Rod at 3rd and Cano at second than some fill-in 3B and Soriano still at second.

Soriano is a great talent, no doubt, but we don't need his prima donna attitude nor his services at 2B, his natural position. Robison Cano has been doing an All-Star job at second, and Alex has to turn his season around. He's still, after all, doing better than Giambi was a couple of years ago, when he stopped juic...err...sick with a virus and had a tumor.

Damon has done a great job as a Yankee, and I will admit to being one of his detractors when we signed him. But his transfer can be rationalized with a couple of keynotes - keep in mind though that as a divisional rival, Damon saw quite a bit more action at Yankee Stadium in CF than A-Rod, as a Mariner or Ranger, ever saw in the infield here. Secondly, A-Rod is still adjusting to 3B, which is not his natural position. The hot corner has been graced by few who can rise to the level of greatness that has been seen from Mike Schmidt, Cal Ripken, or Scott Brosius. Brosius left big shoes to fill, and Robin Ventura/Aaron Boone/etc. were certainly not the same caliber as A-Rod.

Personally, as I've said, A-Rod is slumping and having a bad A-Rod year, no doubt. But he's still got 20 homeruns, and can make some spectacular plays at 3B. Sure, I'd love to see him turn it around - you're right, he does tend to choke in the clutch, no doubt (though I've seen him hit HR's and GS's as well, which we've conveniently neglected). But I'd rather see the Yankees with him than without him.

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
And of course A-Rod strikes out when it counts the most. I have been thinking these past few days, we should probably trade him. We could get A LOT in return (especially pitching). I'd send him to St. Louis for Pujols or Florida for Dontrelle just to name a few players
Again, I'm sorry to be so harsh on you I12, but you've hit a nerve. What makes you think that A-Rod (who I believe has a no-trade clause anyways) would want to go to the Marlins, or that the Marlins, who have been getting rid of high-priced talent like you've drank too much and have to piss, would never, ever take on A-Rod's contract. Secondly, as long as Scott Rolen is in the picture in St. Louis at 3B, the Cards would never give up their big-name meal ticket Pujols at first. And what the hell would we do with Giambi then? Move him to third? :rolleyes:

"The artist currently known as A-Rod's athletic and moral support,"
Double-J
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 05:49 PM

Now, now, DJ, don't get me wrong. I definitely am not one of those who would boo ARod. First of all, I believe that it hurts him mentally when he's booed, and as a Yankee fan, I want him to do well. Secondly, I think he's still a great player. My point was, I just don't see the huge gain we made by getting him. He's played well at third, which is why I believe he deserved the MVP award over Ortiz, as great a player as he is, because he didn't play a position. ARod had to play well offensively AND defensively, which IMO, made him more deserving. I don't believe for a minute that ARod should be traded. I just think that he's never settled comfortably into his pinstripes. He also has not proven himself as a player that can be counted on in a clutch situation. How many times have Jeter or Bernie come through in the clutch? And how many times has ARod?
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 06:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
And of course A-Rod strikes out when it counts the most. I have been thinking these past few days, we should probably trade him. We could get A LOT in return (especially pitching). I'd send him to St. Louis for Pujols or Florida for Dontrelle just to name a few players
St Louis wouldn't make that deal in a million years - Pujols is five years younger and his best years are probably ahead of him. A Rod's best years are probably behind him, and Pujols is a better player already.

Florida would never want A Rod's contract.

AAMOF, with his contract he's just about un-tradeable.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 06:09 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Alessandrio:
(The Yanks) were so dominant in the late 90's and early 2000's. I think some of that was due to luck and maybe some over achieving of players like Chuck Knoblough(Sp?), Scott Brosius, Ricky Ledee.
Brosius was an over-achiever, but Knoblauch and Ledee definitely under-achieved for the Yankees, and neither player was a key guy in their championship seasons.

The Yankees key guys when they were winning championships were Jeter, Martinez, Posada, O'Neill, Pettitte, and Rivera.
Posted By: Don Alessandrio

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 06:46 PM

true neither were the stars but in order for a team to win a championship usually it comes down to the supporting cast not srewing up or having career years.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 08:13 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
The Yankees key guys when they were winning championships were Jeter, Martinez, Posada, O'Neill, Pettitte, and Rivera.
Oh. yeah....and Bernie Williams.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/06 09:51 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Oh yeah, he absolutely sucks. He was only the AL MVP last year. He was also the MVP in 2003, and has won the Golden Glove and Silver Slugger awards. He ranks 10th in the AL in runs this year, and 8th in walks. He's hit 30+ (averaging in at 42.2) in 9 out of his 10 full seasons as a starter. His career average is over .300 and his playoff stats with the Yankees (thus far) have been borderline dismal.
I never said he sucked overall, I said he sucked when it counted. And Double-J, I was just like you. Putting his MVP, Gold Gloves and Silver Slugger awards up as an excuse (or reason) for the Yankees to continue to hang onto him. But now I'm just sick and tired of seeing the broken record that is Alex Rodriguez in the clutch. The last 2 games A-Rod's had the chance to either put the Yankees ahead of win the game for them. But of course not, he STRIKES OUTS both times! When he came to the plate last night I told my brother he's going to strike out and what happened? I'm sorry DJ, maybe I don't have as much patience as you, but I can't keep bailing the guy out. I'm not disputing the fact that he's still having trouble adjusting to third base, but that shouldn't affect how he swings the bat in clutch situations.

I like Alex and wish to see him succeed. And you may call me a "fickle" fan or what have you. But some of us Yankee fans, boo because we know they can do better (it's pretty much a kick in the a$$ telling them to get their act together. They're a better player than this, we know it and we want to see it). Besides, A-Rod and everyone else knows that when you come to New York, you're expected to win. So yeah, when or if he ever comes through in the clutch or the playoffs again, I will cheer him. I'll be happy for him but most importantly for the team.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/06 11:34 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
My point was, I just don't see the huge gain we made by getting him. I don't believe for a minute that ARod should be traded. I just think that he's never settled comfortably into his pinstripes. He also has not proven himself as a player that can be counted on in a clutch situation.
With regards to the huge gain - I've already listed the tradeoff in my previous post:

Yankees received: A-Rod - 2005 AL MVP/Gold Glove caliber infielder/9 30+ homerun seasons out of 10/replacement for fill-ins and underachievers at 3B as well as an empty slot at second base filled by budding All Star Robinson Cano.

Texas got: Alfonso Soriano - high powered home run hitting speedster/mediocre fielding 2nd baseman/prima donna/now with the Nationals and expected to be traded again and two minor leaguers.

With regards to settling into pinstripes, I agree, and I think part of it is his disposition...we want, nay, need, the A-Rod who was willing to toss the gloves with Jason Varitek, not the "I took my wife and daughter sunbathing today" A-Rod. He needs an attitude ala Gary Sheffield.

And I also agree regarding his clutch, as I said, I don't have much confidence in him. But does that mean I'd pinch hit for him? No.

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
St Louis wouldn't make that deal in a million years - Pujols is five years younger and his best years are probably ahead of him. A Rod's best years are probably behind him, and Pujols is a better player already.

Florida would never want A Rod's contract.
Thank you Mr. Redundant. It sounds awful similar to what I've said in my previous post. :p

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
And Double-J, I was just like you. Putting his MVP, Gold Gloves and Silver Slugger awards up as an excuse (or reason) for the Yankees to continue to hang onto him. But now I'm just sick and tired of seeing the broken record that is Alex Rodriguez in the clutch. The last 2 games A-Rod's had the chance to either put the Yankees ahead of win the game for them. But of course not, he STRIKES OUTS both times! When he came to the plate last night I told my brother he's going to strike out and what happened? I'm sorry DJ, maybe I don't have as much patience as you, but I can't keep bailing the guy out. I'm not disputing the fact that he's still having trouble adjusting to third base, but that shouldn't affect how he swings the bat in clutch situations.
I've got two words for you:

Jason Giambi.

Remember when we all said he was done, washed up, ex-steroid juicer who we should just cut and take the loss? Yeah. He's now our best power hitter at the moment, and is having a year like he did in 2002 (and in 2003).

A-Rod's not even close to being there. But he will turn his problems around. He's too good of a player not to.

And it has nothing to do with being patient. It has everything to do with supporting your team when they need it. I'll say again, I don't have much confidence in Alex, but it would be completely nuts to get rid of him...what are you going to do for a 3B and a 4th/5th hitter in the order? Seriously. We know he's having issues. It doesn't take Miss Cleo to figure that out. But instead of grandiose and unrealistic trade ideas, maybe we should just support him.

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I like Alex and wish to see him succeed. And you may call me a "fickle" fan or what have you. But some of us Yankee fans, boo because we know they can do better (it's pretty much a kick in the a$$ telling them to get their act together. They're a better player than this, we know it and we want to see it). Besides, A-Rod and everyone else knows that when you come to New York, you're expected to win. So yeah, when or if he ever comes through in the clutch or the playoffs again, I will cheer him. I'll be happy for him but most importantly for the team.
Ugh. Yankee fans bottle fed on those championships of the late 90's.

"In New York, you're expected to win."

Oh, shit, you mean, they aren't in Cleveland? Texas? St. Louis? :rolleyes:

New York may be the biggest stage of them all, but its still just a game. A-Rod is struggling - no doubt - but the boos, the "you're expected to win in NY" stuff, just makes Yankee fans seem more arrogant.

Even the reigning AL MVP isn't good enough for us, apparently.

"Touch your cleats with a magic bat, and you'll be a boobird too,"
Double-J

---

Oh, BTW - "Slammin'" Sammy Sosa is coming out of retirement. Wondering the possibility of the Yankees giving him a Minor-League deal and see how he does, if he's in shape maybe we could use him down the stretch.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/06 04:19 PM

Yankees News and Notes

Quote:
Dotel close: After striking out two hitters and allowing one hit in one inning with Double-A Trenton on Tuesday night, Octavio Dotel should only need one more rehab outing before once again joining the Yankees.
Quote:
Cano shut down: Robinson Cano was forced to stop his rehab Tuesday and did not do any activities again Wednesday. Cano, who has been rehabbing his injured hamstring in Tampa, Fla., was running the bases when he felt some pain in the same place rounding third base. It was at the end of a long rehab session.

"We just want to make sure we don't ignore it," Torre said. "I'm curious to see how the weekend goes and then we'll work it out."

Cano will resume his usual running, fielding and hitting activities Thursday and it's still unknown when the All-Star second baseman will be able to return to the Yankees.
Quote:
Pavano speeding: Frustrated with the slow progress of his rehabilitation, Carl Pavano, who hasn't pitched in a Major League game in more than a year, asked for his program to be accelerated. He was pitching before Wednesday's game and may start throwing breaking balls soon.
Quote:
General manager Brian Cashman has made it clear that pitching prospect Philip Hughes is as close to untouchable as any player in the Yankees' farm system.

But what about Melky Cabrera?

According to a Major League executive, the Yankees and Pirates have discussed a deal that would send the young outfielder to Pittsburgh in exchange for outfielder Jeromy Burnitz and first baseman/outfielder Craig Wilson.

Pittsburgh originally asked for Hughes earlier in the season, but the Yankees told the Pirates that the right-hander was not available.
Quote:
In less than two weeks, the nomadic adventures of Royals right fielder Reggie Sanders may land him in one of the few cities he hasn't played in during his 16-year career: New York.

With the Royals in last place in the American League Central, they have become attractive to teams such as the Yankees, who are looking to add one final piece to a championship puzzle.

Due to the injuries to outfielders Gary Sheffield and Hideki Matsui, the Yankees have shown interest in Sanders. Sanders is one of only six players in history to hit 300 home runs and have 300 stolen bases in his career.

"Right field is the spot we're playing with," Joe Torre said in the New York Times. "If there's something that makes sense and is going to make us better or give us more security, we've got to go after it."
---

Other things of note - as aforementioned, Sammy Sosa wants to un-retire, and Shea Hillenbrand has been designated for assignment by the Boo-Jays.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/06 05:43 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Ugh. Yankee fans bottle fed on those championships of the late 90's.

"In New York, you're expected to win."

Oh, shit, you mean, they aren't in Cleveland? Texas? St. Louis? :rolleyes:

New York may be the biggest stage of them all, but its still just a game. A-Rod is struggling - no doubt - but the boos, the "you're expected to win in NY" stuff, just makes Yankee fans seem more arrogant.

Even the reigning AL MVP isn't good enough for us, apparently.
First off plaw, I'm aware that St. Louis would never part with Pujols and I know Florida would never take on A-Rod's contract. I was really just thinking out loud of players I would like to see come to New York if they ever got rid of A-Rod. I'm not saying they're realistic, but there are players I wouldn't mind seeing in pinstripes.

Double-J, sure you're expected to win anywhere you go (whether it be New York, Cleveland, Texas or St. Louis). But I think we both can agree the pressure to succeed (and quickly) in New York is greater than in any other market. As you said yourself, "New York is the biggest stage of them all." Call me cynical or what have you, but as I said before, people know the pressures and expectations of playing in the Big City. Some guys can handle it and some guys cannot. And I know there have been former Yankee players and potential free agents who didn't sign with the Yankees for that very reason, they couldn't handle the pressure. So it's no secret that when the games on the line and you continue to fail, people are going to get on your case after almost 3 years of it. I'm sorry Alex, you knew (or should have known) the situation you were getting into. "If you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen!"
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 02:57 AM

Beautiful error by A-Rod tonight to open the door for a 4 run Blue Jay inning which pretty much costs us the game
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 12:04 PM

Granted - big error. But who let them hit the game-winning homer? Mariano Rivera.

Quote:
Double-J, sure you're expected to win anywhere you go (whether it be New York, Cleveland, Texas or St. Louis). But I think we both can agree the pressure to succeed (and quickly) in New York is greater than in any other market. As you said yourself, "New York is the biggest stage of them all." Call me cynical or what have you, but as I said before, people know the pressures and expectations of playing in the Big City. Some guys can handle it and some guys cannot. And I know there have been former Yankee players and potential free agents who didn't sign with the Yankees for that very reason, they couldn't handle the pressure. So it's no secret that when the games on the line and you continue to fail, people are going to get on your case after almost 3 years of it. I'm sorry Alex, you knew (or should have known) the situation you were getting into. "If you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen!"
Ugh. He's the friggin' AL MVP. Sure, he faltered in the playoffs - but the team did it in general, especially with our mediocre-at-best pitching staff.

All this pressure stuff, all this "can't take the heat" stuff, its brought on by the unrelenting fans, who refuse to accept that athletes are human, and when they don't perform as such, are chastized, especially in New York. Now, granted, A-Rod is a huge target because of his previous success and his obscene contract, but he's still only one cog in the Yankee machine.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 12:44 PM

Yankees Updates and Notes
Quote:
Good news on Yanks' Matsui, Cano, but not on Dotel
Associated Press

TORONTO -- New York Yankees outfielder Hideki Matsui could be just days away from taking batting practice after getting a positive report about his broken left wrist on Thursday.

Matsui was examined by the same doctor who performed the surgery on the wrist. He injured himself diving for a ball hit by Boston's Mark Loretta on May 11.

Team spokesman Rick Cerrone said Dr. Melvin Rosenwasser reported the bones fused perfectly and that after some muscular pain subsides, he could be cleared to take batting practice in Tampa in a few days.

Matsui is expected in Tampa later this week. Manager Joe Torre has previously said he hopes Matsui will return in September.

New York is also missing injured All-Star outfielder Gary Sheffield.

Right-hander Octavio Dotel, working his way back from elbow surgery, reported soreness in his arm after pitching an inning for Double-A Trenton on Thursday. He didn't give up a run, allowing two hits and a walk.

"He finished his stint today. He just didn't feel good. He felt sore and tender," Torre said.

Dotel hasn't pitched for the New York this season after undergoing elbow ligament replacement surgery a year ago.

Torre had hoped to have him on the roster on Sunday. He'll see the team doctor on Friday.

"We were close enough to get excited," Torre said. "I know he has to be frustrated by it. We certainly feel for him."

Yankees All-Star second baseman Robinson Cano hopes to resume taking batting practice on Friday after being shut down earlier this week because of tightness in his injured left hamstring.

Cano hasn't taken part in field drills since Monday when he stopped a baserunning session early. He went on the 15-day disabled list after straining the hamstring while running out a double during a June 25 game against Florida.

"It's feeling a lot better," Cano said Thursday after undergoing treatment.

Cano is hitting .325 with four homers and 27 RBI in 69 games this season. He said a date for running the bases again has not been determined. Baserunning is normally one of the final steps before starting a minor league rehabilitation assignment.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 01:09 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Granted - big error. But who let them hit the game-winning homer? Mariano Rivera.
True, but there wouldn't have even been a game-winning home run if they didn't tie the score on A-Rod's error
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 01:16 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] Granted - big error. But who let them hit the game-winning homer? Mariano Rivera.
True, but there wouldn't have even been a game-winning home run if they didn't tie the score on A-Rod's error [/b][/quote]I didn't see the game, but they scored all four runs on A-Rod's error?

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
So yeah, when or if he ever comes through in the clutch or the playoffs again, I will cheer him. I'll be happy for him but most importantly for the team.
But for now you'll say he sucks and will boo him, correct?

So you'll essentially be cheering for him when he's up and and booing him when he's down.

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
How many times have Jeter or Bernie come through in the clutch?
Then again, every so often Jeter gets booed too. But a good point nonetheless.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 01:21 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] Granted - big error. But who let them hit the game-winning homer? Mariano Rivera.
True, but there wouldn't have even been a game-winning home run if they didn't tie the score on A-Rod's error [/b][/quote]Why not blame the pitching? After all, wasn't A-Rod's error responsible for only 1 (maybe 2) runs? That still leaves 2 runs (not counting the GW) that were not his fault.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 04:28 PM

As an objective observer who doesn't live or die with Yankees, I don't get the critics A-Rod. He's one of the best players in the game. Just because he's the highest paid isn't his fault. Blame the jackass owner of the Rangers. I don't know how anyone in their right mind would turn down a quarter of a billion dollar contract. I sure as hell would not.

Yeah, the guy is having a down year, especially defensively. If he "sucked" then how did he win the MVP last year? He's just in the prime of his career and will probably go down as one of the greatest players in the game's history. I also think that he'll be the all-time HR king when it's all said and done. If this guy wasn't in NY, he wouldn't be under the microscope he's been viewed.

Baseball is a game when the best players only succeed about 30% of the time at the plate. Those who succeed at more than 33-35% are considered great ones.

I can't fathom another team being able or willing to take on his contract. And I think any team who would take on that contract would not want to compound the $$ issue by losing top players in exchange.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 04:46 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] Granted - big error. But who let them hit the game-winning homer? Mariano Rivera.
True, but there wouldn't have even been a game-winning home run if they didn't tie the score on A-Rod's error [/b][/quote]I didn't see the game, but they scored all four runs on A-Rod's error? [/b][/quote]Not all 4 runs. At least 1 (maybe 2 as DJ said) but his error opened up the inning for Toronto.

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]So yeah, when or if he ever comes through in the clutch or the playoffs again, I will cheer him. I'll be happy for him but most importantly for the team.
But for now you'll say he sucks and will boo him, correct?

So you'll essentially be cheering for him when he's up and and booing him when he's down. [/b][/quote]Yup that's pretty much it. He's garbage right now and is hurting the team more than he's helping them.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 04:48 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] Granted - big error. But who let them hit the game-winning homer? Mariano Rivera.
True, but there wouldn't have even been a game-winning home run if they didn't tie the score on A-Rod's error [/b][/quote]Why not blame the pitching? After all, wasn't A-Rod's error responsible for only 1 (maybe 2) runs? That still leaves 2 runs (not counting the GW) that were not his fault. [/b][/quote]I don't know how many outs there were but if A-Rod didn't let those runs scored I don't think they would have scored 4 runs that inning. It was a costly error and they needed that out. It looked like from then on, Moose lost his momentum
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 05:40 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
If this guy wasn't in NY, he wouldn't be under the microscope he's been viewed.
But he is in NY, and as his career stats have shown, he did better when he wasn't under the NY microscope.

Problem is, he's a super-duper star and expected to follow in the Ruth-Gehrig-DiMaggio-Mantle-Mattingly tradition of being not only the teams offensive leader, but their emotional and inspirational leader also, and he just ain't doing any of it - at least not this year.

Hence the criticism, which is justified - at least this year, IMO.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 05:50 PM

Thank you plaw! That's all I'm trying to say
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 05:52 PM

I don't disagree that he's having a down year. What I don't get is how some fans want to run this guy out town for a year and a half of sub-par play.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 06:26 PM

Even if A-Rod finds a cure for cancer, several fans will hate him. It can't be that he can't "cut it" in the playoffs. Why the hate? Is it because he doesn't bang enough whores, or beat enough kids up, or simply isn't a "true Yankee" (whatever the fuck that means).

Thing is, when Jeter had his infamous slump years back, did New Yorkers want his head on a silver platter, wanting his ass traded away? NO. They suck his cock so much, they think it taste like strawberries.

Besides, with or without A-Rod, Yanks will still fail to reach the World Series...AGAIN.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/06 10:05 PM

Perhaps Jeter is popular because he is a team player, he gives 200% in each and every game, he inspires and rallies his team-mates and the fans, and he looks like he knows he is one of the luckiest men on earth and he's HAPPY about it. He loves Joe Torre like a father, he's come through time and again in the clutch, and he's made amazing plays in game after game, season after season. Regarding one of your comments, RRA, perhaps there is a persistent strawberry sense, because he certainly seems joyful, and that would make a man fairly content, I would think. Personally, I am allergic to strawberries, so it wouldn't do a thing for me.

As for ARod, he is supposed to be THE MAN. He's supposed to be a great player, and a great Yankee. I know that he was the MVP, but it shouldn't surprise any of us that the fans are discontent. NY is a what have you done for me lately kind of town. For the team's sake, I hope he does get the cobwebs out of his head. There are some players that just can't cut it as a Yankee. So much more is expected of them, and the pressure is enormous. I hope that isn't what's going on. Maybe he needs to breathe out of his eyeballs, ala Nuke LaLouche.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/06 02:45 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
he's come through time and again in the clutch, and he's made amazing plays in game after game, season after season.
EXACTLY! Jeter's done his duty for now in helping this team win 4 championships in 5 years. Jeter's already proven himself to an extent that's bought him leeway
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/06 12:44 PM

A-Rod hit a 3-run shot, scoring the Yankees' only runs yesterday. Hopefully that brings up his confidence.

I definitley would cut some slack to A-Rod at third. After spending 10 years crafting and trying to perfect the shortstop position, you aren't going to becoming a gold glover in three years at a completely different position.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/06 12:49 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
[b] he's come through time and again in the clutch, and he's made amazing plays in game after game, season after season.
EXACTLY! Jeter's done his duty for now in helping this team win 4 championships in 5 years. Jeter's already proven himself to an extent that's bought him leeway [/b][/quote]Time out.

Again, as I've said before, Yankee fans sucking from the teat of the late 90's. How was the pitching during those Championship years? How did the team look?

Now look at those factors when A-Rod has been a Yankee. We've had marvel's like Kevin "Wall-Beater" Brown, Felix Heredia, Tony Womack, etc.

While I think this may come at a shock to him since its coming from me ( ), I think Tony Love has hit the nail on the head.

Last nite, A-Rod "sucked" hitting his 2,000 hit and 450th career homer, and yes, he had another error.

But what else faltered for the Yanks? They couldn't hit off of A.J. Burnett (excluding A-Rod). Their pitching varied from shaky to terrible. You cannot place all of that on A-Rod, especially when pitchers like Wright and Chacon walk-in runs...

To paraphase Ronnie - I think A-Rod could probably step down off the cross and proclaim himself as Christ, heal the blind, cure the sick, and become the savior of the entire human race, and there would still be these arrogant (or stupid?) NY fans and fairweather Yankee fans who refuse to accept that this guy is human and support him when he's hitting and bury him when he's not.

Feel free to get on him for legitimate claims - yes, he is slumping, and yes, he has seemingly forgotten the basic fundamentals on defense (what Little Leaguer in their right mind would throw such a shitty side armer and not expect to hear multiple jeers of "overhand!" when they got back to the bench?). But c'mon, you guys seem to be blaming him for everything from the sinking of the Titanic to losses against divisional rivals, seemingly ignoring the other factors involved.
Posted By: Jimmy Buffer

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/06 01:04 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Yeah I think Johnny has done better as a Yankee. The guy does the job when he's needed. As much as I like A-Rod, the man absolutely [b]SUCKS when it counts (usually when the game's on the line). He's the COMPLETE opposite of a David Ortiz [/b]
God, I wish the Twins had someone who sucked so bad in clutch situations that they actually lead the league in game winning RBIs.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/06 01:16 PM

OMG! We'll trade you A-Rod for Johan Santana, Francisco Liriano, and Torii Hunter!
Posted By: Jimmy Buffer

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/06 03:10 PM

I don't know if the Yanks fans would like that trade. Even though Johan got the win in his last start, he didn't pitch his best, Liriano got rocked his first start back after the break, and Hunter is hurt and has worse stats across the board than Arod. Evidently, anything short of perfection isn't good enough for the blessed Yankees.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/06 03:21 PM

Oh my god...I'm agreeing with DJ! Doctors, lock me up in the room with the cushions!

Sicilian Babe, again you giving me the Sean Penn defense, to paraphrase TEAM AMERICA, where Derek Jeter dances with the children around fields of flowers and rivers of chocolate. But what about him as a player?

I do agree that he seems to always come in clutch in the playoffs, and I can't beat that down. I mean how can I and take myself seriously as a baseball fan? Besides, he's good defensively at Short Stop.

But besides that, and your love letter post how of he's happy, how he seems to like his manager, how he can bang two whores at once every week, how his spit can cure glucoma, or that his tear drops bring shame to Chuck Norris...what about him as a player?

If Jeter had been drafted by another team, lets say the Marlins....he would be respected by some fans, but people in general wouldn't remember him. "Jeder? or is it Jedah?" Let's compare stats:

Jeter: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/stats?playerId=3246

A-Rod: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/stats?playerId=3115

Fact is, A-Rod at this rate will be a Hall of Famer, and who knows, maybe a distant good chance of beating Aaron for the HR record.

A-Rod's problem is that he's just doesn't have it defensively at Third Base. He was a Gold Glove Short Stop before he was moved to 3B, since we all know that since Jeter's thee holy cock taste like thou strawberries, that Jeter would never be moved to 3B (and probably personal bias on the part of Torre). In fact, who was winning the Gold Gloves for the American League at SS before Jeter won the last two? A-Rod.

In fact, switch A-Rod and Jeter. Let's see if Mighty Cock can cut it on the hot corner. If he can, then I'll respect him more. Until then, I hate strawberries.

P.S. - Why is it that many Yankees fans act like fucking "Mark" fans in Pro Wrestling?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/06 05:48 PM

Puh-leeze!! I am not saying diminishing ARod's talent. He's a great talent and I think it's a disgrace how the fans have turned their back on him. He hit two career milestones last night, and they were completely overshadowed by the negatives. IMO, that's ridiculous. What I AM saying is that I don't believe he has come through in that special way yet, as have other players on the team. And until he does, NYers are going to continue to give him a hard time. It comes with the territory.

As for Jeter, how about the fact that his average is .339 with 57 RBI's? And I don't want to see him dancing around flowers with whores, I prefer to see him running the bases. He plays all out every game, period, and makes it obvious that he loves the game and his team. He's a great player, and you can say what you want, if he happens to be handsome and popular, too, that doesn't detract from his talent.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/22/06 08:13 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:

In fact, switch A-Rod and Jeter. Let's see if Mighty Cock can cut it on the hot corner. If he can, then I'll respect him more. Until then, I hate strawberries.
Actually, and I wonder whether this would be feasible - let's put Andy Phillips, who played a variety of infield positions in the Minors and is a solid-if-not-better-than-good defensive first baseman at 3rd, play Giambi at 1st (he's decent), and give A-Rod the DH, and see what happens.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/06 02:22 AM

A good win tonight for the Yanks. They need to split the series. And oh yeah, A-Rod, 0-4 with 4 strikeouts
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/06 03:11 AM

Hey, I12, take a chill pill. The Yankees won over the Blue Jays and the Red Sox lost. Stop looking for the cloud that surrounds the silver lining, will you? :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/06 03:52 AM

I'm sorry SB. It's just that he's hurting the team. I know he's a MUCH better player than this (he proved that last year) and it's so frustrating to see him play this sh*tty.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/06 01:31 PM

Gee, Andy Phillips went 0-4, Miguel Cairo went 0-3, and Nick Green went 0-2.

They SUCK! :rolleyes:

---
In defense of A-Rod, the rarely-public, soft-spoken Mike Mussina actually responds to these bashers:

Quote:
Mussina comes to A-Rod's defense
By Mark Feinsand / MLB.com
TORONTO -- Many people have been wondering why Derek Jeter hasn't come to Alex Rodriguez's defense as the fans at Yankee Stadium continue to direct their anger and disappointment in this year's team at the reigning American League MVP.

Mike Mussina doesn't think that Jeter has the responsibility to defend A-Rod, but the Yankees' pitcher does think that the fans have been far too harsh on Rodriguez this season.

"It's hard to be looked upon to help carry a team and at the same time, be the lone target of ridicule when we don't do well," Mussina said. "That's what he is. He's expected to go 3-for-4, yet he'll be booed when he makes the one out. If he misses one ball or makes one mistake and we end up losing the game, it becomes his fault that we lost the game.

"Leave this guy alone for a while, let us see if we can get him to play," Mussina said. "The way he's being treated right now, it's not going to make it any better. It's making it worse -- and we can't win without him."

Mussina compared A-Rod's situation in New York to a parent admonishing their young child for spilling milk or breaking a glass.

"It's not going to help; imagine if every time your child made a mistake, you buried them and made them feel smaller than they already felt," Mussina said. "Instead of encouraging, it's negative reinforcement, and that doesn't produce improved results. And that's all he's getting."

It might be strange to hear Mussina come to A-Rod's defense, given that Mussina himself pointed a finger at his third baseman for a throwing error on Thursday that helped spark a four-run inning in New York's 5-4 loss.

"I thought he was going to throw to first," Mussina said after Thursday's game. "When I turned and saw him throw home, all he had to do was throw it on target and the guy would have been out by 20 feet.

"It let everything happen from there," Mussina added of the error. "I was doing the same things I was doing before, it all just mounted up in one inning. It was a tough inning."

Were Mussina's critical words following Thursday's game meant to inspire A-Rod? Not necessarily, but if they have that effect, Mussina won't complain.

"If I knew the right way to give him a kick in the [rear end], I would," Mussina said. "It's hard to tell which is the best way to do it. He has to be who he is for us to be successful, and he's not right now. I don't know how to get him back there. "

Mussina admits that he was "a little upset" about the error immediately following the game, and he still believes that, had Rodriguez thrown to first, making it a 3-1 game with two outs and no one on base, the game would have played out differently.

"That one inning, we didn't do much right; I didn't pitch that well and he made the error," Mussina said. "We could have walked off the field at 3-1 or 3-0 and we would have coasted through the rest of the game. That's not the way it happened, so everyone is looking for someone to blame. In a lot of cases, it's been him."

It most certainly has.

Whether it's an untimely error or a big strikeout with runners in scoring position, A-Rod has been the primary target of all things negative. Jeter can go 0-for-5 and strand eight men on base, but if A-Rod has two hits -- but neither wins the game for New York -- he'll bear the brunt of the criticism.

"The only way they'll accept him, because he's never won a World Series, because he didn't come from the organization, is if he's better than Derek -- and to be better than Derek, you really have to stand out and be glaringly better," Mussina said. "Everybody is going to give Derek the benefit of the doubt because he's Derek."

By no means is Mussina suggesting that Jeter hasn't earned that benefit of the doubt, nor is he saying that Jeter should be held more responsible for anything than anybody else. But his point is clear; put these two players next to each other, have them do the exact same thing and the reactions will be markedly different.

"When Jeter went 1-for-April a couple years ago, how long did it take people to actually boo him?" Mussina said. "And even then, it was a smattering. It wasn't lethal booing."

Mussina is the longest-tenured member of the Yankees who has not won a championship in pinstripes. Since joining the club in 2001, Mussina has been to the postseason five times, reaching two World Series.

In his eyes, his run in New York has been a successful one. No, he doesn't possess the ring he covets, but after spending a decade in Baltimore, where the World Series trophy hasn't been hoisted since 1983, he can appreciate the difficult nature of making the postseason once, let alone five straight times.

"Everybody else plays to get to the postseason, then they take their chances," Mussina said. "In New York, everybody is spoiled because this team went to the World Series four years out of five and won. Coming from an organization where, for 10 years, it was such an accomplishment to get to the postseason, knowing how tough it is, it's tough to be thought of as a failure if you don't win the World Series. That's a tough way to do your job.

"I've been to the World Series twice," he continued. "I came to New York to go to the World Series and I got there. You never know what's going to happen once you get there, so you just want that chance in the postseason."

The attitude Mussina describes is the one that has piled the greatest of expectations on Rodriguez, who has to try to live up to his $252 million contract every time he steps on a baseball field.

Compare these two stat lines:
Player A: .316 average, 21 home runs, 79 RBIs, 63 runs, .388 on-base percentage
Player B: .284 average, 21 home runs, 71 RBIs, 67 runs, .386 on-base percentage

The first? National League MVP candidate David Wright. The second? Rodriguez.

So although their stats are virtually identical, Wright (who has 11 errors vs. Rodriguez's 18) is having what is considered a terrific season because the Mets have a double-digit lead in the NL East -- and he makes less than a half-million dollars.

And let's not forget -- Rodriguez has put up these numbers in a "down year" where nothing has gone right for him.

The question from here is, can Rodriguez get past his current struggles and thrive in what has become an increasingly hostile atmosphere? Mussina, who watched last season as A-Rod captured the MVP award while playing in the same uniform in front of the same fans in the same ballpark, believes he can.

"Once you get adjusted here, it usually stays there or gets better; it rarely reverts back to the way it was," Mussina said. "I believe that he can still play in this atmosphere, but right now, it doesn't look like it's that comfortable for him.

"He really looks lost, which is the best way I can describe it," Mussina continued. "We've all looked lost once in a while, but it's magnified because we don't have Sheffield, Matsui or Cano right now. We have enough trouble as it is with the players we can't put out there. Without those guys, we need the guys we have to play at their level and be themselves."

And that starts with Rodriguez. Who knows where it will end.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/06 02:07 PM

Hmmm....

Mussina seems to be doing a little back door criticzing of his teammate there, if you kinda read between the lines.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/06 02:57 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Gee, Andy Phillips went 0-4, Miguel Cairo went 0-3, and Nick Green went 0-2.

They SUCK! :rolleyes:
They aren't former 2-time AL MVPs (apples and oranges brother)
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/06 04:08 PM

Irish....does Jeter taste like strawberries? :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/06 04:47 PM

I couldn't tell ya (I thought you already knew?)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/06 01:07 PM

Looks like Sidney is toast...better find someone else, fast.

Maybe bring up another minor league starter, no? Heck, I'd even like to see them give Villone a chance to start, he's been excellent in the long-relief role.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/06 02:11 PM

Yeah Villone has been great so far. Has he been a starter before or does he usually work from out of the pen?
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/06 03:25 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] Gee, Andy Phillips went 0-4, Miguel Cairo went 0-3, and Nick Green went 0-2.

They SUCK! :rolleyes:
They aren't former 2-time AL MVPs (apples and oranges brother) [/b][/quote]But they are members of the New York Yankees, and are expected to perform at a high level, regardless of how many awards they've won, right?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/06 06:32 PM

Yes, but they're not expected to fill Matsui and Sheffield's shoes in the batting order, A-Rod is
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/06 08:49 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Yes, but they're not expected to fill Matsui and Sheffield's shoes in the batting order, A-Rod is
That's a pretty gargantuan burden. I won't disagree that he is having a sub-par season, however, you can't expect him to fill that hole.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/06 09:14 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] Yes, but they're not expected to fill Matsui and Sheffield's shoes in the batting order, A-Rod is
That's a pretty gargantuan burden. I won't disagree that he is having a sub-par season, however, you can't expect him to fill that hole. [/b][/quote]No? Then who can we? Giambi's doing his part. Jeter's doing his part. When he plays, Damon does his part. Why's A-Rod get the special treatment of not having to fill those holes too?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/25/06 01:56 AM

Oh, I12, Give ARod a break. He's doing his best.

Nice to see the Yankees winning tonight. 6-2, top of the 8th. A run and an RBI so far for our friend ARod. Jeter more or less JOGGED into home plate from 2nd, and I thought he might be hurt, but he seems okay.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/25/06 02:58 AM

Agreed SB, a good win for the Yanks tonight (at Texas' expense) Another good performance by the Unit: 6 innings, 7 hits, 2 runs, 2 BB, 7 SO, 11-8 with a 4.80 ERA. Despite all of his problems this year, I'm glad to see (and somewhat amazed) the Unit has 11 wins
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/25/06 08:51 PM

Matsui Making Progress

Quote:
TAMPA, Fla. -- New York Yankees left fielder Hideki Matsui is making progress in his comeback from a broken left wrist but still isn't ready to take batting practice.

Matsui took easy swings off a tee and during a soft toss session with a mini-bat during his second workout Monday at the Yankees' minor-league complex. He also had a long toss session and fielded fly balls and grounders in the outfield.

"At this point, there are no problems," Matsui said through a translator. "I'm practicing to where it doesn't cause any problems."

Matsui has been sidelined since breaking his wrist while diving for a fly ball hit by Boston's Mark Loretta on May 11. A batting practice timetable could be set next week if Matsui is re-examined.

The Yankees are hopeful Matsui can rejoin the team in August.

"Right now I don't have a specific date," Matsui said. "I'm working on it now, expecting to be back as soon as possible."

Yankees second baseman Robinson Cano, out with a left hamstring injury, did agility drills Monday in the outfield in addition to taking batting practice and fielding grounders. He hasn't played since he got hurt running out a double against Florida on June 25.

The All-Star infielder hopes to run the bases Friday or Saturday. If that goes well, he could start a minor-league rehab assignment next week.

"It's feeling a lot looser," Cano said. "But I don't want to rush it."

Cano would likely play in two or three minor-league games before rejoining the Yankees.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/26/06 03:34 AM

-Another good win for the Yanks tonight (glad they got 2 out of 3 so far from Texas) and another great outing by Moose: 6 innings, 5 hits, 3 runs, 2 BB, 4 SO, 12-3 with a 3.44 ERA (Can you smell the 20 wins?)

-Damon missed his 2nd straight game!

-Poor poor Roger Clemens 7 innings, 7 hits, 2 runs, 2 BB, 4 SO, 2-4 with a 2.45 ERA. Boy, they just don't like to win with Roger on the mound
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/26/06 11:09 AM

I think the big story is Aaron Guiel, who can hit the ball very well and is solid on defense. G...g...g...gone! Guiel! Forget Reggie Sanders or Bobby Abreu (with his huge contract), I think Guiel should do nicely until (if?) Sheffield comes back this season.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/06 04:11 AM

A great win and sweep for the Yanks tonight. Only 1 1/2 games outta first. Way to go Giambi!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/06 11:51 AM

Also, the Yanks take a 1/2 game lead in the Wildcard standings over ChiSox and Minnesota.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/06 12:01 PM

Yankees Updates and Notes
Quote:
Trade talk: With the deadline looming on Monday, rumors continue to swirl around the baseball world.

One published report had the Yankees sending Proctor to the Braves for infielder Wilson Betemit. Listening to Torre, it sounds like the Yankees would prefer to add pitching rather than trade it away.

"If you're going to improve your team in one area that's going to cost some pitching, that would take a lot of thought," Torre said. "Pitching is hugely important. Now that we're getting production out of right field with [Aaron] Guiel and Bernie [Williams], you hope that's enough."

While Torre continues to stress pitching over hitting, he wouldn't rule anything out with the deadline just five days away.

"I'm sure we can do something to help our team, but if you asked me to put my finger on it right now, it's tough for me to do," Torre said. "I don't think we can limit it to feeling that we need to get better in only one area."
That would be retarded. Betemit is a good player, but I would not trade our middle relief for another backup infielder when we've already got Nick Green, who is decent on defense. A-Rod will come out of this fine, please don't trade away one of the more reliable pitchers we have in the bullpen.

Quote:
Here's Johnny: Johnny Damon was back in the lineup on Wednesday after missing two games with stiffness in his back. The center fielder suffered the injury while getting into a car on Monday.

Although he said he was unable to play on Tuesday night, Damon said his back "snap, crackled and popped a little bit" during the game, allowing him to play again.

"He told me last night in the seventh inning that he was OK," Torre said. "When he came in [on Wednesday], he was ready to go."
Quote:
Rehab rumblings: Robinson Cano will start running the bases on Friday, testing his strained left hamstring. If all goes well, he could begin playing in Minor League rehab games next week. ... Octavio Dotel, recovering from a right elbow injury, threw on flat ground at a distance of about 100 feet, and he is expected to throw off a mound in a few days. ... Hideki Matsui did more light work off a tee on Wednesday, as Torre said the outfielder was "sore in his shoulders, which is very good." Matsui, who is trying to come back from a left-wrist fracture injury, will be back in New York early next week to visit the doctor, and he could be cleared to take batting practice after that visit.
Quote:
Manager Joe Torre entered Wednesday night's game against the Rangers with a simple plan: Do not use Scott Proctor "at all costs."

But when Kyle Farnsworth's back refused to cooperate during his warmups in the bullpen, Torre was forced to go to Proctor, who gave up his first runs since the All-Star break.

Fortunately, the Yankees were able to come back and escape Texas with an 8-7 win and a three-game sweep. While that will make Thursday's off-day more enjoyable, the Yankees will certainly be crossing their fingers that Farnsworth's back problem is a temporary one.

"It was just a cramp that locked up on me," Farnsworth said. "Hopefully, it's nothing too bad."

Farnsworth said that the lower back pain was the same problem he dealt with in June, when he missed two games.

"There are certain things that crop up with him that handicap him a little bit, but we've been pretty fortunate," Torre said. "He's been able to go to the post for the most part for us."

Farnsworth has appeared in 49 games this season, second only to Proctor's 51 in the American League. He had no problem with his back before the game, and there was no sign of trouble when he got up to warm up in the eighth inning. But when he started throwing on the mound, he couldn't get himself ready to enter the game. After 25 or 30 pitches, Farnsworth stopped warming up.

"I did my whole warmups and did everything, it just never got loose," Farnsworth said. "My back was just grabbing, so I knew it wasn't where it needed to be to go out there. I could have injured it even more."

Torre said that no tests were planned, and Farnsworth said he expected to be ready to go when the Yankees return home to face the Devil Rays on Friday.

"We certainly hold our breath that Farnsworth isn't a problem," Torre said. "We'll know more about that Friday."
Quote:
The Yankees made their first move leading up to the trade deadline on July 31, acquiring backup catcher Sal Fasano from the Phillies for Minor League infielder Hector Made on Wednesday.

Fasano, 34, batted .243 with four home runs and 10 RBIs in 50 games with Philadelphia before landing on the disabled list on July 4 with inflammation in the left knee. He was designated for assignment on July 22.

"When he was designated, we were all on the same page in thinking it could be an upgrade for us," manager Joe Torre said. "It's no guarantee, but that's our feeling going in."

"You have two fears: Am I going to get a job, and am I going to get a job with a team that's not in contention," Fasano said of being designated. "When I found out the Yankees were interested, I was extremely excited. It changed the whole demeanor of my house. It was a good day in the Fasano household."

Fasano spent the 2004 season in the Yankees organization, spending Spring Training with New York before being sent to Triple-A Columbus for the year. When he walked into the clubhouse, he was greeted by several familiar faces, from catcher Jorge Posada to former Columbus teammates such as Andy Phillips and Scott Proctor.

"It makes it real easy," Fasano said. "I saw them at the beginning of their development, and now they're turning into big leaguers. The old guy in me says, it's great to see them have success, while the player in me wants to play with these guys."

To make room for Fasano on their roster, the Yankees designated Kelly Stinnett for assignment.

"He's very professional in the way he goes about his business -- not that Kelly isn't; we just felt he was a better option for us," Joe Torre said. "He's probably played a little bit more, especially this year. We were comfortable with him a couple of years ago, but we had a little more depth with John Flaherty."

Stinnett, 36, hit just .228 in 34 games with the Yankees this season, striking out 29 times in 79 at-bats. He was signed by the Yankees this winter to replace Flaherty as Posada's backup, but he did not live up to expectations at the plate. Torre informed Stinnett of the decision after Tuesday night's game.

"We're still going to count on Jorge," Torre said. "Offensively, we may not have to pinch-hit as often as we did before, so at least the days that Jorge is going to get off, he'll get off."

Made, 21, hit .286 in 86 games with Class A Tampa in 2006. He was signed by the Yankees as a non-drafted free agent out of the Dominican Republic on July 17, 2001.

Fasano had one piece of business to take care of before leaving Philadelphia for Arlington, trimming his Fu Manchu into a regular mustache, along with cutting the back of his hair.

"The jury is still out on the mustache," he said. "If I get some hits and we win, I might keep it. If we lose, I'm shaving it off. That was the tough part; the Fu Manchu was easy to get used to. I liked it. I also cut off about 20 inches of hair. You know the rules when you get here; it's part of being a professional."
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/06 12:30 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
OMG! We'll trade you A-Rod for Johan Santana, Francisco Liriano, and Torii Hunter!
Quote:
Originally posted by Jimmy Buffer:
I don't know if the Yanks fans would like that trade. Even though Johan got the win in his last start, he didn't pitch his best, Liriano got rocked his first start back after the break, and Hunter is hurt and has worse stats across the board than Arod. Evidently, anything short of perfection isn't good enough for the blessed Yankees.
If the yankee fans didn't like it, that would just have to be too damn bad.

The Yanks would be nuts not to make that trade if they could.

It never could happen, of course.

Minny isn't looking to take on any $25 million contracts - not to mention what they lose in the exchange of talent - and they can definitely get away with paying Liriano and possibly Santana way below market for the next few years.

But as a trade, the Yankees get the best of it by far.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/06 01:45 PM

I think he was being sarcastic, P.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/06 01:57 PM

That possibility occured to me, but with him I'm not sure.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/06 02:01 PM

Sure... :p
Posted By: Jimmy Buffer

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/06 03:04 PM

Yes, I was being sarcastic. Both posts were oozing with sarcasm. I just find it funny how ARod leads the league in game winning RBIs and he's critized for not being "clutch" enough for some Yankees fans, yet some guy named Guiel gets released by the Royals, has one good game, and suddenly he's being talked about as a replacement for Sheffield. I should open up a sidewalk store that sells Yankee blinders. Evidently, they're a hot item. :p

Seriously though, DJ, from reading the posts you've made, you seem to have a sense of reality, so I'll pose this question mainly to you. Others are more than welcome to answer, but I already know what you're going to say, so you it doesn't really matter.

The Yankees are still having a very good season. If it ended today, they'd be in the playoffs, so I don't mean to imply that they stink by this idea, however, it's been five and a half years since they last won the World Series and Johnson, Mussina, Rivera, Sheffield, Williams, Posada, Giambi, ARod, Matsui, et al. aren't getting any younger. They're all still very good players, but the last several years seemed to have proven they aren't capable of carrying a team to a title anymore without help from younger talent. When this happens to a lot of other ballclubs, the GM blows the whole operation up, trades for prospects or young talent, and starts building for the next 5 years. With the Yankees payroll, they can avoid taking this route, but if they fall short of the crown this year, would you as a Yankees fan like to see them try this, at least to an extent. Granted, you would have to find a trading partner willing to take on the salaries, so the possibility exists you could be trading with some of your rivals, but would you rather be overpaying over-the-hill talent or someone else. I mean this is the Yankees for crying out loud. Even though they are having a good year, it's almost embarassing having them pluck Kansas City Royals castoffs and run out the Melky Cabreras and Aaron Smalls of the world with that $200 million payroll.

Now keep in mind, I have no idea what the contract status of any of their players is after this year. Maybe they have a lot of expiring contracts on some of their older players, so this wouldn't be necessary. And it doesn't sound like too great of an idea when the team stinks next year, but just think of the years to come, when the Yanks have $150 million to spend on players in their prime (ala the late 90s teams) rather than trying to hold together an aging team with Band-aids they found in the bottom of the garbage can out behind the last place teams garage.

I'm an outside observer who only knows about the Yankees from the 10-12 games I watch on TV(including last night's game. What a barn burner!), so I'm not as aware of all the details of their franchise as you would be. I know it's a pretty extreme measure, considering the Yanks could still win the World Series this year. And I'm also aware that something like this would never in a million years happen, but I think it could pretty much gurantee the Yanks at least one title in the next 5 years, whereas, currently that doesn't appear to be a gurantee.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/06 05:40 PM

Don't laugh, but the best part about the World Baseball Classic was not seeing nation-based teams compete against other nations.

It was seeing the young minor leaguers get an actual shot to play in pseudo-MLB games while the big boys were playing in the WBC. Guys like Kevin Thompson, Kevin Reese, Melky Cabrera, etc., all young kids who are coming up through the Yankee system.

One thing I've stressed throughout the 49 pages of this thread is team chemistry. It is, in my opinion, arguably as valuable as the talent on your team. Case in point - the 2004 Red Sox, who, despite not having the best players at every position, managed to reverse the curse and win because of great team chemistry and will.

The Yankees, who seemed to emanate this quality aduring the mid-to-late 90's with a solid core of pitching and quality players including David Cone, David Wells, Andy Pettite, Paul O'Neill, Bernie Williams, Scott Brosius, Joe Girardi, Tino Martinez, and then-newcomers like Derek Jeter and Jorge Posada. These guys may not have all been the best at their position, but they were all excellent players and these teams hummed like a machine. With guys like Jeter and Posada, they were newcomers but both have proven to be All-Star caliber players at their respective positions (though you all know how I ride on Posada, since I think we need to get rid of him in the very near future).

Quote:
Originally posted by Jimmy Buffer:
it's been five and a half years since they last won the World Series and Johnson, Mussina, Rivera, Sheffield, Williams, Posada, Giambi, ARod, Matsui, et al. aren't getting any younger. They're all still very good players, but the last several years seemed to have proven they aren't capable of carrying a team to a title anymore without help from younger talent. When this happens to a lot of other ballclubs, the GM blows the whole operation up, trades for prospects or young talent, and starts building for the next 5 years. With the Yankees payroll, they can avoid taking this route, but if they fall short of the crown this year, would you as a Yankees fan like to see them try this, at least to an extent.
I don't think the Yankees need to totally rebuild, but I do agree that a youth movement ala 1996 with Jeter and Posada is necessary. The Yankees, much to the shock (and chagrin?) of those who constantly ride on the Bronx for buying players, have developed some nice prospects in their farm system, who should be impact players in the years to come (as you've said, 5 years down the road).

Philip Hughes, the Yankees #1 pitching prospect, is touted to be the next Clemens, and his numbers seem to reflect that. Even the major league Yankees who saw him in Spring Training felt that he was probably the *best* pitcher in camp this past spring. Jose Tabata is another great prospect in the outfield, who should replace Bernie Williams (or possibly Johnny Damon) in a few years. J. Brent Cox is said to be the next Yankee closer, with devastating stuff. Jeff Karstens, yet another pitcher, seems to deliver a sinkerball ala Chien-Ming Wang, and is alleged to be just as effective. Others, meanwhile, have forced the Yanks to think outside the farm - Eric Duncan for example, who has struggled mightily in AAA despite clobbering opponents in AA, and it appears more to be a limitation rather than a temporary adjustment period. Someone give Pujols a call when his contract up - because Giambi isn't lasting forever, and I don't know whether Andy Phillips will survive as a Yankee long enough to be the everyday 1st baseman.

Now, I'm not saying all of these will turn out. But I am saying that the Yankees are thinking of the future. Chien-Ming Wang is only 26, and has proven himself as a legitimate starting pitcher (which, I know, makes some in this thread cringe at the thought of him not failing...as they said he would). Similarly, Robinson Cano (who pretty much came out of nowhere last season) is 24, and an All-Star in only his second year. Melky Cabrera is only 21, and should be at the very least a solid outfielder in years to come and with more patience at the plate a great addition to the lineup. Combine that with other Yankees who still have some time left in the tank – A-Rod, Jeter, Matsui (?), Damon (?)…coupled with some standard trades and such, I think the Yankees can and will get younger without having to blow up the franchise ala the Marlins to do so.

As far as a guaranteed World Series title, I don't think that could ever really happen again for any team - the level of competition, as well as the increasing parity (look at the number of teams still legitimately in the hunt for divisions and wild card spots, including the Yankees). Though certainly one could assemble a team that should be able to win a World Series does not mean they will; the Yankees, nor anyone else, probably won't ever again assemble a "Murderer's Row," but with solid drafts, more youth movement, and emphasis on team chemistry rather than spare parts (which may take victims such as Brian Cashman, who, despite his seemingly proficient penchant for digging out gems from other team's wastebaskets, still hasn't gotten the Yanks to a WS since 2000), the Yankees should be competitive in the next 5-10 years to come.

Though, would anyone really expect anything less?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/29/06 02:47 AM

Wow, what a great performance by Wang tonight (yes it was against Tampa but this is still the same Tampa squad that took 2 out of 3 from Boston a couple of weeks ago). 9 innings, 2 hits, 0 runs, 2 BB, 1 SO, 12-4 with a 3.77 ERA.

Now who was it? Was it plaw who said at the beginning of the year that Wang needed to "prove" himself? Is this good enough for you? Sure we haven't seen him in the postseason yet but this guy has been a solid #3 starter (and I think that suits him just fine).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/29/06 11:16 AM

Wang stands up, and the Red Sox lose! A great night for Bronx Bomber fans.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/29/06 01:29 PM

I think you're making a lot more out of the whole "rebuilding" concept than you have to, JB.

Any good team, in any sport, rarely finds themselves in a position of having to revuild completely.

Successful teams usually have the right mixture of older and younger players, since teams of all old guys seldom win, nor do teams of all really young guys.

Right now, I think the Yanks need to replace Sheffield, reduce Posada's workload, and think about replacing RJ and Moose in the not-too-distant-future.

Other than that (off the top of my head) I don't se them as being in too much trouble age-wise.

Thing is, though, as I've said before, as guys get older they sometimes lose it over night rather than gradually, and when you have a bunch of old guys and they all lose it at the same time, it's a disaster.

I don't think the fans of any team like to be in a position where their team was good for a long stretch, and then the team had to be suddenly rebuilt completely.

The Yanks have successfully avoided that for a long time now, and I don't see why it should be any different.

True, they haven't been winning championships, but they've been correctly replacing their older players as necessary, and I don't see the need for a total rebuild unles they go 79-83 one year because everyone got old at once.

I think the reason that they haven't been winning championships is that a flukey thing happened on the way to one in 2004, and they lost to Arizona on a flukey play with the best relief pitcher in history on the mound.

And, of course, their starting pitching wasn't as stong as it needed to be.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/29/06 01:58 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
I think the reason that they haven't been winning championships is that a flukey thing happened on the way to one in 2004, and they lost to Arizona on a flukey play with the best relief pitcher in history on the mound.
THANK YOU! In all seriousness, I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who considers both of those wins "flukes" (same thing with the Marlins in 2003)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/29/06 02:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
Right now, I think the Yanks need to replace Sheffield
One I can't understand. I mean, I think he'll probably leave after this year as a free agent anyways, but he still has one of the best bats in the major leagues. He's an awesome talent.

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
reduce Posada's workload
They need to get a younger catcher, who is better defensively and can hit the ball. They signed some 16-year-old prospect (as I posted earlier) from Venezuela ala Jose Tabata who is projected to be an all-star, but in the meantime, it would be nice to get someone younger and faster.

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
and think about replacing RJ and Moose in the not-too-distant-future.
After the year Mussina is having (maybe a Cy Young?), he looks like he could go for another few years. Johnson is declining quickly, I agree, and could be toast after this year ala Kevin Brown, though he has been better as of late. But with Wang budding as a star, and Philip Hughes coming up the track, the Yanks should be good. Perhaps if Pavano could turn it around, they would be decent for a few more years...

Mussina
Wang
Hughes
Pavano
?
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/29/06 02:40 PM

I've been predicting Sheff's demise because of age every year for the past few, and I've been wrong every year so far.

But I'll keep predicting it, and i figure one year I'll finally be right.

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who considers both of those wins "flukes" (same thing with the Marlins in 2003)
Don't get crazy yet, IM.

I'm not saying that the yanks were the better team in those years....all I'm saying is that given the positions they were in, the loses were flukes.

They were up 3-0 vs. Boston - that does not mean they were the better team.

It just means that they happened to be 3-0 in their last three games against them, which in itself was somewhat flukey, given how evenly matched I thought the teams were.

I mean, suppose the Yankees were so much better than Boston that year that they could be expected to win a very healthy 55% of the the games between the two two teams.

Given that, the chances of the yankees winning three in a row were about 16.6%; certainly a bit flukey.

Every six sets of three games, the Yanks would sweep once.

And if Boston could be expected to win 45% of the time, the chances of them winning four in a row were only about 4.1% - very flukey.

Every 25 sets of four games, the Red Sox could be expected to sweep once.

We think of the Yanks-red Sox series as flukey because of the way it went down: Yanks win three in a row, then lose four in a row.

But had the Yanks split the first two at home, lost two out of three in Boston, won the 6th game at home, and lost the 7th, nobody would've said anything.

Let's not forget that it was a fluke that the Yanks were up 3-0 in the first, which gave Boston the chance to come back and win four in a row.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/29/06 04:16 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by plawrence:
[b] Right now, I think the Yanks need to replace Sheffield
One I can't understand. I mean, I think he'll probably leave after this year as a free agent anyways, but he still has one of the best bats in the major leagues. He's an awesome talent.[/b][/quote]I concur. Screw how old the man is, he's still VERY productive for his age. I'd try to sign him for another year or 2 because if they lose him, that's a HUGE bat in the lineup
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/30/06 10:52 AM

Well, wasn't that exciting...

And to think, I said Johnson might be toast by the end of this year.

Forget Bobby Abreu - I still think the Yanks need decent starting pitching.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/30/06 03:23 PM

I concur DJ. Even Joe Torre said it doesn't really make sense to give up Scott Proctor (or any pitcher) for hitting
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/30/06 08:51 PM

Yanks get Abreu . Looks like Sheff won't be back next year

Come September, if we get back everyone healthy, the playoff push squad could look like:

CF Johnny Damon
SS Derek Jeter
1B Jason Giambi
DH Gary Sheffield
RF Bobby Abreu
3B Alex Rodriguez
LF Hideki Matsui
C Jorge Posada
2B Robinson Cano

Look out Boston
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/30/06 09:03 PM

Another good performance by Moose to get us back on the winning track.

7 innings, 5 hits, 2 runs, 2 BB, 8 SO, 13-3 with a 3.40 ERA. Only 7 more wins to get #20
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/30/06 09:12 PM

Gotta give the Yankees credit....they do what has to be done.

Abreau is a great pickup, Lidle will probably help them at least as a decent 5th starter who gives them a better chance to win than Chacon, and I never heard of the four guys they gave up.

Now, if Wang can keep pitching anything like he has, and, as IM says, everyone gets healthy, I think maybe they're better than Boston and should finish first in the East.

Actually, I'd just figure on getting Matsui back. I have a feeling we've seen the last of Sheffield in NY.

Still can't figure out RJ, though, and he's the one big fly in the ointment....

How do you make the playoffs and advance with only two reliable starters (and one of them is the untested Wang?)

Are Moose and Wang gonna be enough?

The thought of RJ, Lidle, and Wright as your other three starters should be scary to Yankee fans.
Posted By: Freddie C.

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/30/06 10:27 PM

As a Phillies fan, i'm not that happy with the Abreu/Lidle trade. Statistically, Abreu is the second best outfielder in Phillies history (behind HOFer Chuck Klein). The fact that they only got four minor leaguers, three of whom are only in A ball, tells me that this was nothing more than a salary dump. I can only hope that they put this freed up money to good use during the offseason.

Yankee fans should be happy with this trade. Although his homeruns are down, he still has the ability to go deep at anytime. Abreu is a legitimate 5-tool player. He'll fit in well in New York. I've had Phillies season tickets for years on the right field foul line, so Abreu has kinda been "my guy" on the team. I hope he does well with the Yankees.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/30/06 10:58 PM

He better play to his best ability (and not have that "attitude" or "lack of effort" that I've heard about in Phily). Some of us Yankee fans (yes, me included) won't take too kindly to that :p
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/30/06 11:10 PM

Yeah, especially the Yankee fans that me and DJ like to refer to as bitches.

Abreu has always been a pretty fucking solid good ballplayer, but his style of play, some Yanks fans will hate him, especially this nugget that no one has mentioned yet, courtesy of ESPN.com:

"Abreu could have exercised his no-trade clause and killed the deal, as his agent said recently that any team expecting to acquire Abreu would have to pick up his $16 million option for 2008 in order for a trade to go through.

However, the Yankees wanted Abreu under the expectation that they would be paying only the $22 million owed on his deal through 2007 and told the Phillies to negotiate any deal required to waive the no-trade clause, ESPN's Buster Olney reported."

$38 million for a player. I'm sure Yanks fans will leave A-Rod alone now, since he only cost $25 million for this year.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/06 12:02 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Yeah, especially the Yankee fans that me and DJ like to refer to as bitches.
Really? That's what I use to refer to all Red Sox, Ranger, Marlin, Brave, Astro, Diamondback and Dodger fans
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/06 12:09 AM

How, what a RANDOM hate list.

What, Phoenix pisses you off? You hate clean air?

BTW, who the hell are the "Astro"? Are they a European French ballclub or something?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/06 12:11 AM

Abreu is a solid pickup, and I'm also glad they grabble Lidle. Not that he will set the world on fire, but at this point, I'd take any starters I can get. Ponson and Chacon are unreliable, and Lidle should at least give us some help getting that rotation set (btw - someone should call Roger Clemens on the phone and work out a monster deal for the rest of the year - because he's getting no love in Houston without any semblance of run support).

I think that the concerns over Abreu's work ethic are relatively mild considering we've seen Sheffield make some lazy underhand catches and drop them as a Yankee...not sure how much worse you can get. He's a Gold Glove RF and a major upgrade over stop-leaks like Guiel and Kevin Reese (though Guiel has contributed nicely and should stay on the bench if at all possible). Really a great pickup.

The only bad think is that we got rid of Matt Smith, who imho was one of the most solid relievers we had this year, and they sent him back down to AAA. Grr. I would have rather dealt Kris Wilson or some other soda-jerk-to-be. C.J. Henry was also a big name prospect but I've seen very little of him.

This team looks like, if we can get Matsui and Cano back (and possibly Sheff, though I tend to agree with Plaw that we may have seen his last game in pinstripes), this lineup could be scary good with some great defense as well.

Damon (CF)
Jeter (SS)
Abreu (RF)
Giambi (1B)
Matsui (LF)
A-Rod (3B)
Cano (2B)
Williams (DH)
Posada (C)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/06 12:54 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
How, what a RANDOM hate list.
Well I didn't think it was fair to lump everyone in for just a few rotten apples

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
BTW, who the hell are the "Astro"? Are they a European French ballclub or something?
Houston Asstros. Thought it was pretty obvious but I forgot who I was dealing with. Sorry, the H-O-U-S-T-O-N A-S-T-R-O-S from Houston, Texas, in the United States of America. Clear enough for ya?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/06 01:15 AM

But no hate for the Cubbies or White Sox fanbase? Really, you're so limited.

Anyway, why get so touchy after I wrote a smart-ass reponse? Did I brutally insult the inner-Mick within you a little too much?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/06 02:36 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
But no hate for the Cubbies or White Sox fanbase? Really, you're so limited.
Nope, none at all. In fact, I was REALLY happy in October when the White Sox swept the Houston Astros in the World Series. Oh man was that ever sweet

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Anyway, why get so touchy after I wrote a smart-ass reponse? Did I brutally insult the inner-Mick within you a little too much?
No, just one of a select few members that I wouldn't mind seeing go bye-bye for good from this here board
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/06 01:53 PM

As a die hard Phillie fan, I wish Abreu luck. He's 32, and not that far past his prime. His biggest contribution should be the walks he gets; he might have the best eye in the game. He hasn't hit a homer since the middle of June, and his power years are probably over.
He's due $17 million next year and is not worth it to the Phillies who have to retool.
Lidle was okay when the Phils picked him up last year.
He's pretty inconsistent and can't go too deep into games. He can, however, pull off the occasional gem.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/06 02:04 PM

Still waiting to see if Soriano goes today...

Yankees News and Notes
Quote:
NEW YORK -- The Yankees solved two of their problems with one trade on Sunday, acquiring right fielder Bobby Abreu and right-hander Cory Lidle from the Phillies for four Minor League prospects.

New York sent shortstop C.J. Henry, left-hander Matt Smith, catcher Jesus Sanchez and right-hander Carlos Monasterios to Philadelphia for Abreu, a two-time National League All-Star and 2005 Gold Glove winner.

"He gives us an experienced, left-handed bat; an everyday, grinder-type player," Joe Torre said. "I've been very impressed with the way Bobby Abreu plays his game for a long time. He's a good fit for us right now at a position we were trying to find a day-to-day solution."

"It's a good team; they have such good players over there," Abreu said of the Yankees. "Those guys have been to the World Series a long time. To play with those guys -- Jeter, A-Rod and Giambi and those guys -- it's going to make me feel good."

Abreu is hitting .277 this season, but his on-base percentage is a robust .427, third in the NL. After averaging 25 homers per season from 2000-05, Abreu has just eight home runs this year, though he does have 65 RBIs.

"I just want him to do what he's been doing," said general manager Brian Cashman. "We're not looking for a home run hitter; we're looking for somebody who has a number of different weapons who can help you. He's still an offensive force."

Abreu will become the Yankees' everyday right fielder, moving Bernie Williams and Aaron Guiel to the bench. Melky Cabrera will likely remain the regular left fielder until Hideki Matsui returns from the disabled list next month, at which time the youngster should become a bench player.

"We feel we've had a chance to upgrade significantly in right field," Cashman said. "Bobby comes with some weapons that can put pressure on, whether it's taking a walk, stealing a base, hitting a double, triple or home run."

The Yankees did not have to pick up Abreu's $15 million option for 2008 in order to get him to waive his no-trade clause, as the Phillies gave him $1.5 million to do so. New York will pay Abreu $4.4 million for the remainder of 2006 and $15 million in 2007. The Yankees retain the option for 2008, which they can buy out for $2 million.

"There's been a lot of talk the last few days on the baseball side of it before the decision was made to go for it from the financial side of it," Torre said. "We think Bobby Abreu is a good player; he's not just a quick fix."

Abreu's arrival probably signals that 2006 will be the final season of Gary Sheffield's tenure in New York, as the Yankees hold a $13 million option on him for next season. New York now has $41 million committed to Abreu, Matsui and Johnny Damon for 2007.

Cashman and Phillies GM Pat Gillick had been working on several trade scenarios over the past few days, including one which would have sent Scott Proctor to Philadelphia for Abreu.

"Two days ago, it was a whole different equation that we were working on," Cashman said. "You just don't know how things are going to shake out."

Offers went back and forth, and after the two men agreed on the prospects that would go to the Phillies, Cashman and Yankees president Randy Levine called owner George Steinbrenner Sunday morning to make their recommendation. Steinbrenner gave them his blessing to make the deal, which was officially announced after the Yankees' 4-2 win over the Devil Rays.

"He knows what kind of player Bobby is; everybody knows what he's done for a long time in Philadelphia," Cashman said. "These aren't easy decisions; I know it wasn't for me. It's a lot of money [and] it's a big commitment; we're trying to win now and give this team reinforcements."

Lidle went 8-7 with a 4.74 ERA in 21 starts for Philadelphia, posting 13 quality starts. In parts of nine seasons with six different teams, he has a career record of 78-69 with a 4.55 ERA.

Lidle will likely join the back end of the rotation in place of Sidney Ponson, who has started twice for New York since being signed on July 14. Lidle last pitched on Thursday for the Phillies, so he could start on Thursday in Ponson's place against Toronto.

"I wouldn't have done this if I didn't get a pitcher back," Cashman said. "I had to have Cory Lidle or this doesn't get done. We have a good team, but this has some exposure in areas."

"He's one of those pitchers that, when he's on, can give you a lot of trouble," Torre said. "He's not overpowering, but he's got enough weapons to make teams work very hard."

Cashman managed to acquire both a big bat for the middle of the lineup and a starting pitcher for the back end of the rotation without dealing away any of the club's blue-chip prospects, most notably Philip Hughes and Jose Tabata.

"The Phillies got prospects in this deal, but there were certain guys that, at this point in time, I was unwilling to give up," Cashman said. "[Players such as] Phil Hughes and Tabata, there are a lot of guys I was looking to protect."

Henry, the Yankees' first-round draft pick in 2005, was hitting .237 with two homers, 33 RBIs and 14 stolen bases in 76 games this season with Class A Charleston.

Smith has spent the 2006 season shuttling back and forth between New York and Triple-A Columbus, posting impressive numbers in both places. The left-hander, who did not allow a run in 12 appearances with the Yankees this season, is 0-1 with a 2.08 ERA in 24 relief outings for the Clippers.

Sanchez hit .264 with no homers and 10 RBIs in 23 games for the Gulf Coast League Yankees, while Monasterios went 1-2 with a 2.97 ERA in seven games (three starts) for the GCL Yankees.

"The Yankees only deal for the present," Torre said. "We made this move for right now. We gave up some young players that are going to be a part of the future somewhere else."

Both Abreu and Lidle are expected to join the Yankees on Tuesday. The club did not announce any corresponding roster moves, though Ponson and Guiel appear to be the likely candidates to be designated for assignment, though Bubba Crosby, Shawn Chacon and T.J. Beam are possibilities as well.

"We have a sprint that we're ready to take on," Cashman said. "It's tough competition in this league, so hopefully we're a little better prepared to withstand the next two months with the moves we just did."

The deadline isn't until late Monday afternoon, but Cashman and the Yankees appear to have made the one move they needed to make with 24 hours to spare. That said, the GM didn't rule out the possibility of another deal before the deadline.

"There's time on the clock," Cashman said. "I'm not anticipating things, but we have until 4:00 tomorrow. You never know."
Quote:
Trade clouds Sheffield's future
Abreu acquisition may signal end of slugger's New York stay
By Mark Feinsand / MLB.com

NEW YORK -- At the beginning of Spring Training, Brian Cashman told Gary Sheffield that he didn't see any reason why the Yankees would not pick up the outfielder's $13 million option for 2007.

Of course, at the time, Sheffield hadn't undergone surgery to fix a serious wrist injury. And Bobby Abreu wasn't wearing pinstripes.

Sunday, that became a reality, as the Yankees dealt for the two-time All-Star, sending four prospects to Philadelphia for Abreu and pitcher Cory Lidle.

Sheffield had left the stadium by the time the trade was announced, but his agent, Rufus Williams, said that Sheffield was excited about the acquisition of Abreu.

"It's all positive," Williams said. "Gary is a team player; Gary hopes that Bobby Abreu can help win them a World Series. That's what he came there for and that's what he's trying to do."

Added Williams: "I don't think you cast Gary away because you bring Bobby Abreu in."

Abreu is owed $4.4 million this season and is guaranteed $15 million in 2007. Throw in the $13 million the Yankees have committed to both Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui, and the 2007 outfield appears to be locked up -- without Sheffield -- for a total of $41 million.

Despite the obvious numbers, Cashman wouldn't say that the Abreu trade meant that the Yankees would not pick up Sheffield's option.

"There's a time and place for those things to be discussed and looked at," Cashman said. "We're trying to finish off something here in '06, so we'll look at '07 at another time."

Joe Torre spoke with Sheffield during Sunday's game to inform him of the possibility of the Abreu trade, telling the outfielder that the move doesn't mean that Sheffield's tenure in pinstripes will be over at the end of this season.

"I told Sheff that, if this deal is done, it doesn't say for sure that we're not going to have him here or pick up his option," the manager said. "That doesn't mean you're making him any promises that you are, but it doesn't mean that, because you get an outfielder, tell him that this is the way it's going to be."

Sheffield, who hasn't played since May because of a torn ligament in his left wrist, is in the final year of a three-year, $39 million contract. Sheffield, who will turn 38 this November, could be limited to designated hitter duties if and when he returns to action in September.

Sheffield hit .291 with 70 home runs and 244 RBIs in his first two seasons with the Yankees, and he was hitting .309 with four homers and 19 RBIs in 30 games before injuring his wrist this season.

"Gary's going to play for three more years; we hope it's with the Yankees," Williams said. "We know what Gary has done; we know what he's capable of doing. The move today doesn't impact how Gary has performed for the team; that's up to them to decide. He's done all that could be asked of him, so he's upbeat."

The Yankees won't have to make a final decision on Sheffield's option until after the season, but it would be hard to imagine the club having the financial room or flexibility on its roster to bring him back at that price tag.

"That's up to the Yankees," Williams said. "Gary has been an incredible player for that team. They'll have to gauge what they think is best. I'm sure Cash and his team will do that."
Quote:
Yanks welcome newest teammates
Damon: 'These guys are going to help us tremendously'
By Mark Feinsand / MLB.com

NEW YORK -- It didn't take long for word to spread throughout the Yankees clubhouse: Bobby Abreu and Cory Lidle were on their way to New York.

The trade, which sent four prospects to Philadelphia, gives the Yankees a new right fielder and a new starter at the back end of the rotation, two areas New York was hoping to improve.

"I think it's a great move for us," Johnny Damon said. "I think the trade gets us closer to realizing our goal, and that's winning a World Series. These guys are going to help us tremendously."

"We added two aspects that we thought would be helpful for us," Mike Mussina said. "Hopefully the guys come in here and play the way they're capable of playing, not get swallowed up in what New York can become and get us over the top."

Ever since Hideki Matsui and Gary Sheffield went down with left wrist injuries in May, the Yankees have been using Melky Cabrera in left field and a combination of Bernie Williams, Aaron Guiel and Bubba Crosby in right field.

The loss of Sheffield and Matsui also put a hole in the lineup, taking away two of the team's hitters from the middle of the batting order. Abreu, who saw all but 43 of his plate appearances this season in the No. 3 spot, will likely hit fifth or sixth for New York.

"I know he's a heck of a player," said Alex Rodriguez. "We've been grinding out wins. Hopefully this can bring a little meat to the batting order and make us even better."

"It brings a guy who can get on base on a .400 clip, a guy who has power who kind of needs to find it right now," Damon said. "He just brings a presence at the plate. He's a guy that can turn over the lineup."

One person who was not as excited to hear of the Yankees' addition was Red Sox manager Terry Francona, who managed Abreu from 1998-2000 in Philadelphia.

"He is an impact player," Francona said. "My hope is he stinks. My concern is that he goes over there for a couple of months and he might be one of the best players in baseball, because I think he has that in him. He's a good player."

Abreu is hitting .277 with eight homers and 65 RBIs this season. His .427 on-base percentage ranked third in the National League, so he'll fit right in with the likes of Derek Jeter (.427, 3rd in the AL) and Jason Giambi (.402, 6th in the AL).

"He's a great hitter, there's no doubt about it," Giambi said. "He takes great at-bats, like Jeter, can put a lot of hits together. He can definitely give this offense a shot in the arm."

Sal Fasano, who played with both Abreu and Lidle in Philadelphia this year before being designated for assignment earlier this month, believes that Abreu can help the Yankees over the final two months of the season.

"I think he's really going to like the spotlight," Fasano said. "Bobby's got that kind of magnetic personality; he's always smiling, is energetic and always having a good time. He enjoys being the center of attention. The bigger the stage, I think the better he'll play."

Third-base coach Larry Bowa, who managed Abreu from 2001-04, believes that adding him to the Yankees' lineup can only help the club.

"Bobby is a run producer; he plays the game right," Bowa said. "A lot of people perceive him to be laid back, but when the umpire says, 'Play ball,' he's ready to go.

"He was the main guy in our lineup; him not being the main guy in this lineup, there might be less pressure," Bowa added. "He felt that if he didn't do it in Philadelphia, no one was going to do it. He took a lot of pressure on himself."

Abreu will certainly search out Bowa when he arrives on Tuesday. After all, Bowa currently wears No. 53, which was Abreu's number in Philadelphia.

"We'll talk," Bowa said. "If he can guarantee me that he'll hit .300, I'll give it to him."

The acquisition of Lidle was also good news for the Yankees, who have struggled to fill the fifth spot in the rotation.

"He'll do just fine," said Fasano, who caught him with the Phillies. "He has a good sinker, curveball and split; he throws a lot of strikes and knows how to keep you in the game."

"Lidle will come in and just throw strikes," Mussina said, "[He'll] eat up innings and get ground balls and do what he's done ever since I've known him."

Mussina seemed relieved to learn that Scott Proctor was not part of the trade, as had been reported by several media outlets.

"I would have really had a problem if we traded Scott Proctor, to be honest with you," Mussina said. "Bullpen help is tough to come by, and quality arms that can throw the way he can throw the baseball are not out there to be had at any time.

"It would have been tough to trade some of the guys up here," he added. "These guys have played tremendous baseball for four months. Coming from a guy who has been around a while, seeing those guys stay puts a smile on your face. I don't want anybody to think we don't appreciate what they do."

Proctor was informed by manager Joe Torre after the game that the Abreu trade had been completed, and that he was not a part of the deal.

"It's going to be a real good off-day," Proctor said.

Damon spoke with Abreu when the Yankees played in Philadelphia back in June, saying that he "seemed pretty excited" about the trade possibilities that were ahead of him. Tuesday, Abreu will begin the next chapter of his career, starting in right field while wearing pinstripes at Yankee Stadium.

"His dreams are coming true," Damon said. "He's coming to the best place in the world to play baseball. He's going to enjoy it, but we need him to just be solid."
Quote:
NEW YORK -- Scott Proctor has heard all of the rumors, but he's doing his best to keep them all in perspective.

One day, he's headed to the Braves for Wilson Betemit. The next day, he's on his way to the Phillies for Bobby Abreu. Who knows where he'll be traded to next.

Until he hears otherwise, Proctor is going forward with the mindset that, when he wakes up on Tuesday, he will still be a member of the New York Yankees.

"We're always confronted with distractions throughout the course of the year, so I'll handle this one like the others," Proctor said. "You have a job to do, so when the phone rings, it's all about getting outs."

That Proctor seems to be coveted by several teams is a sign of his development, as he wasn't even supposed to make the Yankees' roster out of Spring Training. An injury to Aaron Small opened up a spot for Proctor, and he did the rest by becoming one of the team's most reliable arms in the bullpen.

"Gator [Ron Guidry] made a comment today when I told him he better keep me here," Proctor said. "He said, 'Well, you could go back to [stinking] where nobody wants you, then you wouldn't have to worry about it.' I said, 'I think I'll stay where I'm at.' It's been quite a transformation for me this year."

Proctor has already been traded once during his career, as the Dodgers sent him and Bubba Crosby to the Yankees at the trade deadline in 2003. Of course, he was just a Minor Leaguer at the time, so he hadn't established the roots in the clubhouse that he has in New York.

"I have a lot of real good friends here; guys I consider my brothers," Proctor said. "I play to win; this is the ideal place to play if you have a choice."

Proctor doesn't read the papers or watch ESPN, so most of what he hears comes from either teammates and reporters in the clubhouse or from his father, who monitors all of the rumors via the Internet and TV.

"My family pretty much stays up to date on all of the rumors," Proctor said. "I'm just going out and playing baseball. The biggest thing is just making sure that my wife is comfortable; everyone else can fend for themselves until it's over."

The Yankees would have a major hole to fill if they traded Proctor, who leads the American League in appearances and is tops among all big-league relievers in innings pitched with 64.

"You have to make a plan," said Joe Torre of the possibility. "If you're going to lose something in a certain area, you're going to have to find some support from somewhere. You can have a plan, but you still have to go out there and see if it works."

Monday will surely be an anxious day for the 29-year-old, who plans on sleeping late and spending time with his wife and children during the Yankees' off-day.

"The worst part is that we're not going to have a game, so I'll be going about my business and every time that phone rings, I'm going to wonder," Proctor said. "It's going to be a long day. Whatever happens, happens."

Robbie's rehab: Robinson Cano ran the bases at about 80-percent strength on Sunday, and Cashman said he could take part in a simulated game as early as Tuesday.

"He's making progress," general manager Brian Cashman said.

After the simulated game, Cano could move on to Minor League rehab games by Wednesday or Thursday, starting as a designated hitter before working his way back to second base.
Dotel's Return Later Than Expected

Quote:
Octavio Dotel is hoping to get into Minor League rehab games this week, but Torre isn't counting on getting a meaningful contribution from the right-hander until he sees him on the mound in pinstripes.

"I'd like to believe he can [help]," Torre said. "But even when he gets here, you're going to have to give him rehearsal time because it's not fair to throw him into the heat right away."

Cashman said that Dotel could get into a rehab game as early as Tuesday, but he didn't give a timetable for Dotel's return. Given that he has encountered a pair of setbacks after pitching in rehab games, it is unknown how many games Dotel will need to appear in before joining the Yankees.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/06 12:02 AM

Yankees Deal Chacon For Wilson

Quote:
Yanks obtain Wilson from Pirates
Club deals away Chacon to upgrade first-base situation
By Mark Feinsand / MLB.com

NEW YORK -- One day after making their big splash with the Bobby Abreu trade, the Yankees made one final move before Monday's non-waiver trade deadline.

Almost a year to the day after acquiring Shawn Chacon to bolster their starting rotation, New York sent the right-hander packing, trading him to the Pirates for Craig Wilson.

The move capped 24 hours in which the Yankees added Abreu to be their new right fielder and Lidle to be their new fifth starter, acquiring the pair from the Phillies for four Minor League prospects.

"On paper, we've had a positive impact; but that's got to translate out on the field," general manager Brian Cashman said. "I think we're better equipped to run the rat race in the final two months, but the competition is so fierce.

"The quality of the teams in this league is so good this year," Cashman added. "All of us tried to put our teams in the position to separate ourselves from the pack, but I'm not sure anybody did that."

Wilson, 29, was hitting .267 with 13 home runs and 41 RBIs in 85 games for Pittsburgh this season. Wilson played 43 games at first base and 30 in right field, and he will likely take away some playing time from Andy Phillips at first base. Wilson will also serve as the Yankees' third catcher.

"I'm definitely excited going to a team that's in contention and has the history that they have," said Wilson in a telephone interview. "I'll be ready for whatever they want me to do. If it's first base, I'll do the best that I can."

"He's a weapon Joe can utilize, because he was used in a lot of ways in Pittsburgh," Cashman said. "He provides Joe [Torre] some flexibility, and there's a lot of value there."

Both Wilson and Phillips are right-handed hitters, but Wilson has a .307 average with a .923 OPS in 88 at-bats against left-handers, while Phillips is hitting .195 with a .481 OPS in 77 at-bats against southpaws this season.

Wilson and Phillips could wind up in a platoon at first base, though that decision will ultimately rest with Torre.

"As we move forward, Andy Phillips is definitely a part of this team," Cashman said. "Joe Torre will have decisions to make on a daily basis on how he wants to attack his opponents. I think the matchups will dictate a lot of what Joe decides to do."

New York also optioned outfielder Aaron Guiel to Triple-A Columbus, opening a roster spot for Abreu. The Yankees will make one more roster move before Tuesday's game, with Bubba Crosby and Nick Green the likely candidates to be sent out.

Wilson, who has played his entire Major League career with the Pirates, said that as exciting as the move is for him, it is also bittersweet.

"It's the only organization I've known in the big leagues, but I guess there comes a point in time that everybody has to move on. This is mine," Wilson said. "The bright side is that I'm with a contender now and I'll be playing meaningful games in August and September, which I've never done before."

Chacon went 7-3 with a 2.85 ERA in 14 games (12 starts) for the Yankees last season, helping lead New York to an eighth consecutive American League East title. He started Game 4 of the AL Division Series, allowing two runs in 6 1/3 innings in a no-decision.

This year, Chacon was penciled in as the Yankees' fourth starter, and he opened the season 4-1 with a 3.68 ERA in his first six starts. But after spending time on the disabled list with a left leg bruise, he was never able to rebound. His record fell to 4-3 while his ERA jumped to 6.71 by July 4, before being yanked from the rotation.

In six relief outings, Chacon is 1-0 with a 9.00 ERA, making him 5-3 with a 7.00 ERA for the season. He had a memorable outing last Wednesday, escaping a no-out, bases-loaded jam against Texas without allowing a run. Three days later, Chacon allowed five runs in 2 2/3 innings against Tampa Bay in what turned out to be his final appearance for the Yankees.

"Shawn Chacon was a big-time pitcher for us last year," Cashman said. "I believe he can get back in line. He pitched very well for us in the second half and the postseason, had a good spring and a good April, and then when he suffered that contusion, it set him off line."

Abreu, Lidle and Wilson are all expected to be in uniform on Tuesday when the Yankees open a three-game series against the Blue Jays. Abreu will step in as the starting right fielder, while Lidle gets the start on Thursday in place of Sidney Ponson.

Neither Boston nor Toronto made any significant moves at the deadline, leaving New York as the most improved club in the AL East.

"We've plugged some holes along the way and obviously made some larger impact decisions; Hopefully they all work out," Cashman said. "The games will have to decide whether everything we've done is for the better."
A bit confused...I mean, I thought Phillips was doing a good job as the first baseman (excluding his recent batting woes), and I don't see a need to upgrade the position with another backup, though Wilson has better season stats and can play utility roles better than Phillips. It just seems like an odd pickup. Too bad Chacon hadn't turned it around...I'd rather have seen him stick around that Sir Sidney, but I think that Joe had begun to question Chacon's attitude and work ethic during this slump.

Oh well. Another solid bench player who is an excellent pinch hitter in exchange for a pitcher who's having a terrible year. Another small piece in the playoff-run puzzle for the Yanks.

This means though that it looks like we're gonna be losing some of the bench players we've gotten used to - Bubba Crosby, especially - to make room.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/06 03:14 PM

Something for SB to keep her eye out for :p

Jeter cologne not for those who think Yankees stink

NEW YORK -- Derek Jeter cologne is on the way.


Avon Products Inc. has signed the New York Yankees shortstop to a deal in which it will create a men's fragrance called Driven -- "reflecting the unique personality of one of the most driven men in America," according to a news release from the company.


The fragrance, the first in a line of men's grooming products bearing Jeter's name, goes on sale in November.


"I have been very involved with creating this fragrance -- everything from the blend of scents to the design of the bottle and logo," Jeter said in the news release. "I did have some help, however. Because women buy a large percentage of the men's grooming products sold in the U.S., I asked my mother Dot and sister Sharlee to be part of the project.


"I wanted to make sure the final product was something men would like to wear -- and that women would want them to wear."


The fragrance is a blend of chilled grapefruit, clean oak moss and spice.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/06 04:46 PM

Actually, I saw a story about Driven in the Business section of my local paper today. Gee, I'm surprised that it doesn't smell like strawberries. :rolleyes:

I, too, am sad to see Chacon leave. I think he had promise as a reliever, although he supposedly doesn't relish that role. And I think it would be a shame to see Bubba leave, although I'm glad that they didn't trade Melky Cabrera, as had been rumored.

And damn that Ortiz for being so talented!! I thought for sure that Boston was going to lose last night and tie the Yankees for first. And then Big Papi comes through in the clutch! He's really amazing.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/06 04:57 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
I, too, am sad to see Chacon leave. I think he had promise as a reliever, although he supposedly doesn't relish that role. And I think it would be a shame to see Bubba leave, although I'm glad that they didn't trade Melky Cabrera, as had been rumored.
I agree, I'm sad to see Chacon leave too. I would still be patient and I would have given him more time. I'm also glad we hung onto Melky. Bubba's good defensively, but the man sucks in the batter's box.

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
And damn that Ortiz for being so talented!! I thought for sure that Boston was going to lose last night and tie the Yankees for first. And then Big Papi comes through in the clutch! He's really amazing.
I knew he'd hit it when he came up to the plate. I told my brother last night they should walk him and get to Manny and he kept saying "no" and then what happened. F*CK YOU BOSTON!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/06 05:18 PM

I'm not "sad" to see Chacon go, because he really stunk the joint out this year, and Torre questioned his work ethic and attitude on more than one occassion. He did great things for us last year, and now that he's heading back to the NL, maybe he can turn it around, but he wasn't helping us. At least Craig Wilson could be a solid pinch hitter and utility player at nearly any position (including catcher).

---

They were just talking about this on Cold Pizza. I think I'd rather walk Ortiz and face Manny. I just think Ortiz is *better*. Both are nasty, but Big Papi is too clutch.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/06 05:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
They were just talking about this on Cold Pizza. I think I'd rather walk Ortiz and face Manny. I just think Ortiz is *better*. Both are nasty, but Big Papi is too clutch.
So would I. The guy's got 11 game-winning hits I believe since becoming a member of the real Evil Empire. I think he has 5 this season since June 1st
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/06 03:08 AM

Yanks win, Sox lose. Yanks tied for first
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/06 11:16 AM

Gosh, Bernie makes it so hard to take him out of the lineup. I'd even consider giving him another 1-year deal for next year. He's still such a great hitter. Total definition of clutch.

And what do you know? A-Rod goes 2-4 with a run and 2 RBI's...he totally sucks! :p

Abreu needs to get a blue glove. An unremarkable start to his Yankee career, but he did walk (what else?) and got a run. Good to see him in the lineup, though I think I'd move him to #3 and put Giambi in at #4.

Most importantly, the Yankees have tied the Red Sox for 1st place in the AL East, and are in a three-way tie for the wildcard with Boston and Chicago.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/06 11:27 AM

Yankee News and Notes

Abreu Plans to Silence Critics
Quote:
Outfielder joins Yankees, expecting a smooth transition
By Peter Zellen / Special to MLB.com

NEW YORK -- Bobby Abreu came to the Yankees knowing there were a number of preconceived notions floating around regarding New York's new right fielder.

There were questions about Abreu's work ethic while he was in Philadelphia; that he didn't seem to be giving his all on the field.

Some people wondered aloud whether Abreu's personality would mesh with New York City and its unforgiving fans.

Still others took issue with some faulty perception that Abreu can't hit in the clutch and had lost his power stroke.

But all those concerns seemed to roll off Abreu's back as he was introduced to a room full of clicking cameras and questions from about 50 members of the media before Tuesday's game against Toronto.

"It was a lot of tough times the last couple of days with all the talk of trades, finally it went through. Now, I can pretty much get back to normal," Abreu said. "I guess a lot of people don't see me more often on the field, they don't really realize the way I played the game. Now they're going to see how I play the game."

Abreu doesn't know how the talk of him not being a hard worker came about and added that such talk never bothered him.

Abreu also doesn't see any problems getting used to New York. He has an apartment in Manhattan and often spends Christmas in the city. While he hasn't been around the Big Apple during the season -- other than when the Phillies played the Mets the last eight-plus seasons -- Abreu has gotten a taste of what's expected of him.

And, because the Yankees' lineup is stacked with All-Stars, Abreu knows the attention won't just be on him. Hitting fifth, Abreu offers great protection for the likes of Jason Giambi and Alex Rodriguez, while providing an on-base percentage sure to increase RBI opportunities for Jorge Posada and the bottom third of the order.

He did just that on Tuesday against the Blue Jays in his debut at Yankee Stadium. In the fourth inning, Abreu worked a walk after checking his swing on the ninth pitch of the at-bat.

"Bobby, he really pours on the pressure by taking a great [at-bat] right there," said Giambi. "He's going to be big in our lineup, because he can do those little things that maybe don't look like big things on the scorecard but they end up being big situations that help the ball club out."

Abreu's free pass loaded the bases, and one out later Abreu scored on Bernie Williams' bases-clearing double.

"It was pretty good [to be in the middle of the rally]," Abreu said. "It's my first game over here, and we get the win. We're going to continue to win."

"I heard some things about Yankee fans and their support for the players. If you play hard and show them how you play the game and you love it, they support you more," Abreu noted before the game. "I just feel here that I'm going to be fitting into the lineup, into the team, just trying to contribute to win some games. I don't think I'm expected to be 'The Guy' who is going to carry the team; everyone has to contribute to win the game. There's no pressure for no one because they can all help [the team] to win.

"I heard a lot of good things about New York, so I believe it's going to be pretty much the same way [it was in Philadelphia]."

Abreu comes to the Yankees hitting .277 with 91 walks and a .427 on-base percentage, yet most people are focusing on his eight home runs, a low total for a player who smacked 30 homers two years ago and at least 20 in each of the last seven seasons.

That started speculation that Abreu, 32, has lost considerable bat speed, something Abreu quickly denied.

"I've been hitting the ball good, but for some reason I haven't elevated the ball, so I'm getting ground balls," Abreu said. "I'm not just trying to hit home runs. I'm just going to keep working, and I think the homers will start to come."

As for his clutch hitting, Abreu comes in with a .321 career average with men in scoring position and a .333 mark with the bases loaded.

With left fielder Hideki Matsui and center fielder Johnny Damon already under contract, the addition of Abreu, who will receive $15 million next season, means the Yankees have $41 million committed to their outfield next year.

That -- along with Giambi playing as the designated hitter -- might all but preclude the Yankees from picking up Gary Sheffield's $13-million option next year.

With Sheffield shooting for a September return from surgery to repair his left wrist, things could get awkward now that his position is being filled by Abreu. Yet the newest Yankee doesn't have a problem with that either and believes the situation will sort itself out.

"For right now, he's just hurt. I guess when he gets back, we are not the ones who are going to make the decision," Abreu said. "I think we will just concentrate on trying to just help the team win, that's pretty much my [feeling]."

In fact, Abreu got a hug from Sheffield when they first met.

"I wanted him to feel welcomed," said Sheffield of the icebreaker.

Just about the only thing Abreu worried about was getting his old uniform number back. After wearing No. 53 for the Phillies, Abreu arrived seeing third base coach Larry Bowa (his former manager in Philadelphia) wearing that number.

The two came to an arrangement; one Abreu laughed over but didn't want to give details about.

"It was long conversation but ..." said Abreu, proudly sporting a pinstriped jersey with 53 on the back.
Sheffield Willing to Switch Positions
Quote:

Associated Press

NEW YORK -- Gary Sheffield embraced Bobby Abreu's arrival with the New York Yankees, saying he would shift to first base if needed.

"I gave him a hug. I wanted him to feel welcome," Sheffield said Tuesday after Abreu reported to the Yankees, who acquired him in a trade with Philadelphia two days earlier.

Abreu played right field and batted fifth in a 5-1 victory over Toronto, going 0-for-3 and drawing a nine-pitch walk in the fourth inning that set up Bernie Williams' tiebreaking, three-run double.

Sheffield, recovering from left wrist surgery in June, hopes to return in September. Left fielder Hideki Matsui, who broke his left wrist in May, also hopes to return next month, and the Yankees could have four outfielders for three spots.

Manager Joe Torre revealed that he and hitting coach Don Mattingly -- a former All-Star first baseman -- have discussed for several months the possibility of shifting Sheffield from right field to first base. Torre said he would have broached the subject with Sheffield in June if he hadn't gone on the disabled list.

"I talked to Sheff Sunday, before he left, and just told him that there's no guarantee that this makes him odd man out just because we got a right fielder," Torre said. "We may just have to find some other thing to do. I didn't specifically say first base the other day, but we did today. He, Donnie and myself talked today. He's already working drills with Donnie."

Torre said Sheffield told him he had already ordered a first baseman's mitt.

"I think he can play that as a regular," Torre said. "I'd be very surprised if he wouldn't be able to handle the defensive part of that game. He's quick. His hands are good."

Sheffield has played the outfield, shortstop and third base in 18-plus major-league seasons. If he shifted to first base, Jason Giambi would see even more time at designated hitter.

"Who is playing first base for us?" Sheffield said playfully. "If he can do it, I can do it."

Abreu, who is 32, is signed for next year at $15 million, and the Yankees hold a $13 million option on the 37-year-old Sheffield, who at times has expressed dissatisfaction with his contract.

Sheffield was jovial when he spoke in the clubhouse and seemed to take delight that reporters appeared to be trying to find out if the trade upset him.

"It's funny how people could think for you and tell you what you're going to do," he said. "You all think you all know what I'm going to do, and you all don't. Nobody knows. That's the mystique of me."

Sheffield admitted he thrives on having something to motivate himself.

"At this point in my career, I need something," he said. "Everybody always [said] I wouldn't hit home runs when I came to Yankee Stadium, and I just kept that in the back of my mind, that I'm going to prove everybody wrong. And I did that. Whatever the next task is, I'll prove it again. That's what I thrive on.

"Trust me, I'll be laughing at the end. Watch me," he said.

New York's acquisitions of Abreu and Craig Wilson just before Monday's non-waiver trade deadline are likely to cut the playing time of Bernie Williams, Andy Phillips and Bubba Crosby. Torre said Wilson will start Wednesday.

Since hitting a record 41 homers in the Home Run Derby before the 2005 All-Star Game, Abreu has just 14 homers in the regular season -- and none in 132 at-bats since June 13 entering Tuesday.

"I've been hitting the ball very hard but for some reason I haven't elevated the ball," he said. "It's all line drives and groundballs."

He also addressed what he said were "all the rumors that talk about that I didn't hustle."

"They don't really realize the way that I play the game. Now, here, I think everyone is going to see the real thing, how I just play the game," he said. "You guys are going to decide whether it's true or not."

Abreu took No. 53 from third-base coach Larry Bowa, his former manager in Philadelphia. Abreu wouldn't say what he gave Bowa, who shifted to No. 50.
Lidle Stoked
Quote:
Lidle backs off criticism, but Rhodes keeps firing
Associated Press

ST. LOUIS -- Cory Lidle backed off his critical comments that some of his former Philadelphia Phillies teammates did not expect to win, saying Tuesday that incessant trade talk sapped the team of enthusiasm.

Cory Lidle
Starting Pitcher
New York Yankees

Profile
2006 SEASON STATISTICS
GM W L BB K ERA
21 8 7 39 98 4.74

Phillies reliever Arthur Rhodes did not back off his assessment of Lidle, acquired by the Yankees on Sunday, as a player who did not work at his craft and could be found in the clubhouse surfing the Internet or eating ice cream during games.

In talking about his stint with Philadelphia, Lidle said Monday that "on the days I'm pitching, it's almost a coin flip as to know if the guys behind me are going to be there to play 100 percent." He noted he was joining a Yankees team that expects to win all the time.

"That's why I'm most excited about it," Lidle said. "Sometimes I felt I got caught up kind of going into the clubhouse nonchalantly sometimes, because all of the other guys in the clubhouse didn't go there with one goal in mind."

Rhodes responded by calling Lidle, who crossed the picket line during the 1994-95 strike, a "scab," and a player who spent too much time flying his airplane and gambling.

Lidle, 8-7 with a 4.74 ERA in 21 starts with the Phillies, said Tuesday that "what I meant and I think what I said was a little bit different."

"What I meant was over the last couple weeks, when the trade rumors started, we had about 10 to 13 guys that possibly thought they could have been traded. And on any given day, it just seemed like the focus wasn't always on baseball."

Lidle also said he felt he had a good relationship with his ex-teammates.

"I made a lot of good friends in Philadelphia and the last thing that I would want to do is dog anyone in that clubhouse," he said. "If I made it sound like that, it was a mistake."

Rhodes was unimpressed, and chided Lidle again for criticizing the Phillies.

"He backtracked a lot of stuff," Rhodes said. "He's with the Yankees, you know he's going to have to backtrack."

Philadelphia manager Charlie Manuel didn't seem overly bothered by the flap, saying it was a predictable occurrence for an underachieving team. The Phillies were 49-55 entering a three-game series in St. Louis on Tuesday night.

"I think sometimes when you're losing a lot of frustration comes out," Manuel said. "Also a lot of finger-pointing or name-dropping."

Still, he took the criticism personally.

"I took it as a shot like we weren't playing hard," Manuel said. "If you watch us, we make mistakes, but we run balls out, we hustle, we do things the right way. We just haven't really been executing right."

Manuel said he's a stickler for players being on the bench when the game starts, although after the first pitch he admitted there was less control.

"During the game sometimes I don't have time to run around and go find my players, but at the same time you're supposed to be on the bench when the game's going on," Manuel said. "I've always addressed those problems, not only with Cory but with anybody else that would do that."

Manuel would not say he was glad Lidle was gone, and would not judge his effort.

"All the years I've been in baseball, there's always somebody on your team that you would question how much he wants to win, but you never can prove it," Manuel said. "I had no problem with Cory at all.

"Matter of fact, if he goes over there and pitches good and helps them, I would pull for him."

Rhodes said he hasn't spoken to Lidle since he confronted the pitcher for being on the Internet during a game in New York in May.

"I told him you've got to be out there for the first pitch and he got mad at me," Rhodes said. "That meant he didn't want to win, he didn't want to go out there and root the team on."

Rhodes also said he's not alone in being critical of Lidle for crossing the picket line in 1995. He said closer Tom Gordon and catcher Mike Lieberthal and "some of the other guys on the team" remained offended.

"It still hurts my feelings," Rhodes said. "Once you cross the picket line, you cross the line, and everybody knows it."

Lidle said Tuesday that he wasn't hurt by being called a scab, but he had thought he and Rhodes had a good relationship. Lidle said they played golf and cards together.

"I didn't expect Arthur, of all people, to say anything," Lidle said. "Me and Arthur got along great over there.

"For that to come out was kind of surprising."

Lidle said different players have different ways of preparing. He said he spends more time in the video room.

"I may not be in the weight room as much as some guys, but I get my work done," he said.
Wilson Does 'Whatever'
Quote:
Wilson in a better place; will likely play mostly against left-handed pitchers

NEW YORK -- Even before seeing the Yankee Stadium field for the first time in his career, Craig Wilson knew he was in a better place.

On Monday, Wilson came from the Pirates, who sit in last place in the National League Central at 40-67, to the Yankees, who at 62-41 are in a virtual tie with the Red Sox in the American League East.

"It's kind of like going from the worst team to one of the best," Wilson said. "Five-and-a-half years in Pittsburgh, most of the time, from the All-Star break we were either in last place or second to last place. It's exciting to actually play games in the second half that are meaningful to play beyond the season."

Wilson wasn't in Tuesday's lineup with Toronto's A.J. Burnett on the hill, but he will start on Wednesday against lefty Ted Lilly. Hitting left-handers is a major reason why the Yankees acquired Wilson. He's hitting .307 against left-handers this season and has a .302 average against them in his career. Wilson is batting .267 with 13 homers and 41 RBIs overall this season.

"I wouldn't say I feel more comfortable, it's just somehow the numbers are better against left-handers," Wilson said. "I don't know how to explain it. It just seems like I've hit them a lot better than right-handers."

Andy Phillips, who was getting much of the time at first base, is hitting .186 against lefties this season. He also has been slumping of late. After leading the Yankees with a .333 June batting average, he hit .161 in July.

While neither were in Tuesday's lineup, for now it looks like Wilson will get the nod at first with a lefty on the mound, and possibly for more than that. Manager Joe Torre said he didn't know much about Wilson's fielding capabilities and said he wants to get a look before making any more permanent plans.

"My view on this is the same it was the first day I left Spring Training," Phillips said. "I want to contribute any way that I can and any way they ask me to. That doesn't change whether I'm playing every day or not."

Wilson can also play right field and will also serves as the Yankees' third catcher.

"Pretty much, I'll do anything they want me to do," Wilson said.
Promotions, Demotions
Quote:
Back to back-up: The Yankees have been a different team during the past few months, with Gary Sheffield and Hideki Matsui out. There were new faces with lower salaries and their own scrappiness.

With the acquisition of Bobby Abreu, Cory Lidle and Wilson, that Yankee team will be a thing of the past.

T.J. Beam and Aaron Guiel were sent back to Triple-A Columbus. Sidney Ponson was moved to the bullpen for long relief. Bubba Crosby and Bernie Williams, who have seen more playing time this season, will go back to their usual roles as reserves.

"Right now, when you've been looking to do something, [the role players] have been in the lineup," Torre said. "It's going to help when you get in those close games late in the game and you pinch-run for those guys and not weakening yourself a great deal when you put them in."

Torre said he's proud of the fact that, even with the injuries, tare in the thick of the playoff race. But he added that it would have been a "disservice to everybody connected with this club, including the fans, if you don't [improve the club]."

Williams said he's fine with trades and his now lessened role since that is what he expected this season.

Ponson asked his agent to tell the Yankees that he wanted to stay on with the Yankees no matter what his role would be. He wanted to be a part of the playoff run, something he didn't really experience during eight years in Baltimore.

"It's not disappointing at all," Ponson said. "When they traded for Cory, I knew I was going to be in the bullpen or they were going to release me. I'm just happy to be a part of the Yankees."
Cano Injury Update
Quote:
Robinson Cano has run the bases. Now, he'll play in his first game. Cano is scheduled to be the designated hitter on Thursday for Class A Tampa. Torre and general manager Brian Cashman don't expect him to return until the Yankees face the White Sox, beginning Aug. 8, at the earliest.
Dotel Injury Update
Quote:
Octavio Dotel threw one rehab inning on Tuesday in the Gulf Coast League, throwing 10 pitches with two strikeouts while hitting 94 mph on his fastball. He's not throwing any sliders because, as Cashman said, the Yankees want this to be his last rehab stint.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/06 11:37 AM

I like the Craig Wilson pickup.

Chacon was totally expendable because Torre clearly didn't have a role for himm any longer, either starting or relieving, and Wilson is a versatile, above-average offensive player who can play several positions.

Suddelny the Yankees bench, which was definitely a weak spot all season, is much improved.

I think that there's one more move in the offing, though.

It looks like their 5 starters are RJ, Moose, Wang, Wright, and Lidle, with Mo, Farnsworth, Villone, Myers, and Proctor.

So if the carry 14 position players - which it looks like they will, that leaves Sidney Ponson as their 6th reliever.

I don't know if they're waiting for Dotel (how much longer can they wait?), or have something else in mind to replace Ponson in the pen.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/06 11:48 AM

Also of note - the Yankees bullpen is depleted right now...we're carrying more offensive players than ever it seems. Take a look:

Code:
                                B/T  	Ht  	Wt  	DOB    
        48 Kyle Farnsworth   	R/R  	6-4  	240  	04/14/76 [bullpen][SU]	
  	41 Randy Johnson 	R/L 	6-10 	230 	09/10/63 [starter]	
  	30 Cory Lidle 	        R/R 	5-11 	190     03/22/72 [starter]	
  	35 Mike Mussina 	L/R 	6-2 	190 	12/08/68 [starter]	
  	36 Mike Myers 	        L/L 	6-3 	220     06/26/69 [bullpen][SU] 	
  	24 Sidney Ponson 	R/R 	6-1 	250 	11/02/76 [bullpen][LR]	
  	43 Scott Proctor 	R/R 	6-1 	200 	01/02/77 [bullpen][MR]	
  	42 Mariano Rivera 	R/R 	6-2 	195 	11/29/69 [bullpen][CL]	
  	47 Ron Villone 	        L/L 	6-3 	245 	01/16/70 [bullpen][MR]	
  	40 Chien-Ming Wang 	R/R 	6-3 	220 	03/31/80 [starter]	
  	34 Jaret Wright 	R/R 	6-2 	230 	12/29/75 [starter]
Now, consider how many bench player we are carrying:

Code:
 
Catchers  	                B/T  	Ht  	Wt  	DOB  	 
  	26 Sal Fasano 	        R/R 	6-2 	245 	08/10/71 [bench]	
  	20 Jorge Posada 	S/R 	6-2 	205 	08/17/71 [starter]	
  	
Infielders 	                B/T 	Ht 	Wt 	DOB 	 
  	14 Miguel Cairo 	R/R 	6-1 	210 	05/04/74 [starter]	
  	25 Jason Giambi 	L/R 	6-3 	230 	01/08/71 [starter][DH]	
  	17 Nick Green 	        R/R 	6-0 	175 	09/10/78 [bench]	
  	2 Derek Jeter 	        R/R 	6-3 	195 	06/26/74 [starter]	
  	12 Andy Phillips 	R/R 	6-0 	205 	04/06/77 [bench]	
  	13 Alex Rodriguez 	R/R 	6-3 	225 	07/27/75 [starter]	
  	
Outfielders 	                B/T 	Ht 	Wt 	DOB 	 
  	53 Bobby Abreu 	        L/R 	6-0 	210 	03/11/74 [starter] 	
  	28 Melky Cabrera 	S/L 	5-11 	170 	08/11/84 [bench]	
  	19 Bubba Crosby 	L/L 	5-11 	190 	08/11/76 [bench]	
  	18 Johnny Damon 	L/L 	6-2 	205 	11/05/73 [starter]	
  	51 Bernie Williams 	S/R 	6-2 	205 	09/13/68 [bench][DH]	
  	39 Craig Wilson 	R/R 	6-2 	220 	11/30/76 [bench]	 
We're carrying 7...count them...seven bench players. Now, keeping in mind its necessary to carry two catchers, that brings the number down to 6.

Wouldn't it be more beneficial to send down to AAA two more bench players and bring up more relievers? With Dotel coming back, and them bringing up T.J. Beam, they could send Nick Green and Bubba Crosby down to AAA. Phillips can play most of the infield, as he did when he was coming up through the minors (I think he was originally a 2B), so we've got our backup infielder, along with the utility Craig Wilson. The outfield is secure with Bernie and Melky (along with Wilson).

Thoughts?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/06 11:50 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
So if the carry 14 position players - which it looks like they will, that leaves Sidney Ponson as their 6th reliever.

I don't know if they're waiting for Dotel (how much longer can they wait?), or have something else in mind to replace Ponson in the pen.
As I posted, Dotel is *almost* ready. But it looks like they plan to keep Ponson as the LR, which is fine...they could send Nick Green down to AAA to make room.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/06 01:08 PM

They were carrying 7 relievers most of the season and 13 position players.

Depending on how they use their bullpens and how long they expect their starters to go, everyone carries either 11 or 12 pitchers these days.

Lidle seems to be a guy that can go 6 or 7 if he has halfway decent stuff on a given day, so if Torre figures that the only "5 inning pitcher" he has is Wright, maybe he can get by with only 6 relievers.

And since the bench is much stronger now, it definitely could be worth the trade-off.

But they still have to find a 6th reliever to replace Ponson, who seems to no longer have a role.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/06 03:12 PM

So wait, St. Louis wanted to put Ponson in the bullpen, he didn't want to go and then he got traded? Now he's with the Yankees and they want to put him in the bullpen too and now he's fine with it?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/06 04:22 PM

When you play for the Yankees, I think your attitude changes just a bit.

Besides, I think Sidney would like to keep his job.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/06 04:49 PM

I'm sure Fat Sidney would like to keep his job, but can/will he?

If I'm the Yanks and Dotel is close, I'd wait for him and then dump Ponson.

If no Dotel, I'd find a different replacement for Ponson.

Unless you figure that Wright could go down at any time and you want a little extra insurance with a guy like Ponson who can also start - except that he's horrible.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/03/06 04:06 AM

Another great performance by Want: 8 innings, 4 hits, 0 runs, 3 BB, 3 SO, 13-4 with a 3.58 ERA. Unfortunatley boston came back
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/03/06 12:10 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
I'm sure Fat Sidney would like to keep his job, but can/will he?

If I'm the Yanks and Dotel is close, I'd wait for him and then dump Ponson.

If no Dotel, I'd find a different replacement for Ponson.

Unless you figure that Wright could go down at any time and you want a little extra insurance with a guy like Ponson who can also start - except that he's horrible.
It can't be that hard to find another long-relief man. Ponson is horrible, and I hated when we picked him up, but he is playing for almost nothing from the Yankees payroll. Why not give him at least one more chance in a relief role...if Ponson's coming in, it's probably a wash anyways. Once Dotel is up, even if he's not what he used to be, he'd still be better than Ponson. Then, they could move Villone/Proctor into the long-relief role (if necessary, both seem to have good stamina) and put Dotel in as a setup-man or middle-relief.

---

Yes, another great performance by Wang!

A-Rod totally sucked last night, going 3-for-5 with a run and 2 RBI's. We need to trade him. He totally blows!

Tonight, we get to see whether Cory Lidle really was the trade-buster Cashman said he was...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/03/06 12:17 PM

Yankees News and Notes

Matsui Closer
Quote:

Outfielder will have his wrist examined on Thursday

NEW YORK -- Hideki Matsui hopes the news is good when doctors examine his surgically repaired left wrist on Thursday. The big question is when and if Matsui can start swinging a bat again. The answer will go a long way in determining when the left fielder can return to the lineup he's been missing from for almost three months.

"Everything else is, in a sense, game ready, it's just my left wrist," Matsui said through an interpreter.

Matsui stretched with the Yankees on Wednesday in his first pregame workout with the team since May 11, when he fractured his left wrist sliding to make a catch at Yankee Stadium against Boston.

But even a positive report from doctors won't get him back in pinstripes immediately.

"I'll be back in Tampa," Matsui said. "I'm not going to jump right into [batting practice]. It will be a progressive thing."

Matsui expects to work off a tee and then take soft toss before hitting in batting practice. Thus far, Matsui has only been doing tee work and swinging with a short bat, which only works out his front hand.

Then there are rehab games in the Minor Leagues.

"He really needs to play some games," manager Joe Torre said. "He's not going to go down there and play one or two games. He's been missing all season."

Matsui, however, is still shooting for a return this month.

"It certainly depends on how my wrist feels," Matsui said. "But at this point, it could be a possibility."
Giambi Still Cramped
Quote:

It wasn't a big surprise, but Jason Giambi was out of the lineup on Wednesday with some residual effects of the leg cramps that forced him out of Tuesday's game after the fifth inning.

Torre wants Giambi in as the designated hitter for Thursday's day game and figured it was good idea to give Giambi the day off, especially with the temperature in the mid-90s again and left-hander Ted Lilly pitching for the Blue Jays.

"It's a little tight from being cramped yesterday," Giambi said through a team spokesman. "The plan is for me to be back out there tomorrow. It's feeling better, but it's still lingering from the cramp."

To give the players some relief from the heat, Torre shortened batting practice on Wednesday and will probably eliminate it altogether for Thursday's day game.

New Yankee Craig Wilson started at first base on Wednesday with Bernie Williams as the designated hitter.
Pavano Makes Good Progress
Quote:

Carl Pavano, who hasn't pitched for the Yankees this season after the removal of bone chips from his right elbow, threw 45 pitches before Wednesday's game.

Pavano threw one session of 25 pitches and then 20 more pitches consisting of mostly sliders and splitters.

"We'll wait until tomorrow and see how he feels. If he feels good enough, we'll do this [again] in a couple of days," Torre said. "We're on our way. This is a very positive outing, and we came up with a positive result."

If Pavano continues making progress and doesn't backtrack, Torre said the right-hander could make a Minor League rehab start by the end of the month.

In other injury news, second baseman Robinson Cano (strained left hamstring) is expected to play a rehab game for Double-A Trenton on Thursday, and if all goes well he could rejoin the Yankees next week in Chicago.
Farnsworth Scoreless
Quote:

Right-handed reliever Kyle Farnsworth came into Wednesday's game with six straight appearances without giving up an earned run. He's also struck out 10 in his last four outings, a span of just four innings.

"He's constantly working at his trade," Torre said. "Like [Scott] Proctor, they seem to have a plan out there and they're thinking with it as opposed to going away from what makes them successful. He's got a great slider, but he's got an incredible fastball."

Farnsworth has continually been clocked in the high 90s and comes in at 100 or 101 mph from time to time.
Jeter In The Running For The Hank Aaron Award

Quote:

Captain putting together one of his finest seasons in the Bronx

NEW YORK -- Asked just before the All-Star break who his team's first-half MVP would be, Yankees manager Joe Torre would seem to have a multitude of candidates. But he didn't hesitate.

Derek Jeter was his answer.

Now the Yankees' captain could win more than a hypothetical honor as Jeter is a candidate for this year's American League Hank Aaron Award.

Since 1999, the 25th anniversary of Aaron breaking Babe Ruth's all-time home run record, Major League Baseball has recognized the best offensive performer from each league with the Hank Aaron Award presented by CENTURY 21.

Past recipients include Barry Bonds (three times), Alex Rodriguez (three times), Manny Ramirez (twice), Albert Pujols, Todd Helton, Sammy Sosa and Carlos Delgado. Last year's winners, selected during balloting during the regular season's final month on MLB.com, were Boston's David Ortiz and Atlanta's Andruw Jones.

"It's nice any time you can have your name mentioned with Hank Aaron," Jeter said.

Jeter is having one of his finest offensive seasons in his 11th year. He was hitting .352 with seven homers and 63 RBIs as the week began. Jeter had the second-highest batting average in the Majors, only behind Minnesota catcher Joe Mauer. His .456 on-base percentage was fourth-highest in the AL.

"Even when you're not feeling good, your job is to try to find a way to get on base," said Jeter, who has missed only five games so far this season.

"That's what separates good years from average years. When things are going bad, you can't buy a hit. But when things are going good, you may get a bounce here or a bloop there."

Jeter has gotten much more than bounces or bloops. Still, he is on pace to hit a career season-low in home runs in a full season since 1997, his second year as a starter. Jeter hit just 10 homers in 2003 but played in only 119 games.

Hank Aaron Awards 2006

* AMERICAN LEAGUE
* Angels: Guerrero
* A's: Swisher
* Blue Jays: Wells
* Devil Rays: Crawford
* Indians: Hafner
* Mariners: Suzuki
* Orioles: Tejada
* Rangers: Young
* Red Sox: Ortiz
* Royals: DeJesus
* Tigers: M. Ordonez
* Twins: Morneau
* White Sox: Konerko
* Yankees: Jeter

* NATIONAL LEAGUE
* Astros: Berkman
* Braves: Jones
* Brewers: Hall
* Cardinals: Pujols
* Cubs: Barrett
* Diamondbacks: Tracy
* Dodgers: Garciaparra
* Giants: Feliz
* Marlins: Cabrera
* Mets: Wright
* Nationals: Soriano
* Padres: Gonzalez
* Phillies: Howard
* Pirates: Bay
* Reds: Dunn
* Rockies: Holliday

But Torre feels what enables Jeter to have such a high batting average may hinder his ability to club the ball out of the park -- hitting to the opposite field.

"Hitting to the opposite field, you're not going to get fooled very often because you're not looking to pull the ball," Torre said. "He hasn't hit as many home runs as he has in the past, but that doesn't mean he's not knocking in as many runs -- or more."

Jeter is on pace for a career high in RBIs. He had 70 last year and has only once notched more than 100. But projections are merely that, and as Jeter said, there's many more games to be played.

"We've got two months left -- the two most important months," Jeter said. "It's hard to comment on my year until it's over with. But I try to stay consistent day in and day out."

And that consistency was exactly Torre's reasoning for voting for Jeter as first-half Yankees MVP.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/03/06 12:51 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Tonight, we get to see whether Cory Lidle really was the trade-buster Cashman said he was...
What a load of crap that line was....
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/03/06 01:05 PM

I wonder if he really thought he could convice people that the entire trade was dependant on Cory Lidle :p

Maybe it worked on George?

Cashman: "You see George, we're playing hardball."

Steinbrunner: "George likes his kung-pow spicy!"

Cashman: "We won't accept the deal unless this Lidle comes with."

Steinbrunner: "Is he any good?"

Cashman: "George, he's better than Sidney Ponson!"

Steinbrunner: "Mmm...this is great kung-pow."

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/03/06 08:31 PM

Lidle picks up his first win as a Yankee in his debut, and looked pretty good, should fit nicely as our 5th starter. Yankee offense pounded the Jays, who showed no sign of the will they had in the last series. It seems like they've given up trying to chase in either the AL East or the Wildcard. Oh well. Sorry Don Jasani :p

But hey, another sucky day for A-Rod, who goes 0-3 with two walks.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/03/06 08:39 PM

For some reason, the Yanks beat the Jays in New York and the Jays beat the Yanks in Toronto. But yes, I think they're starting to fizzle away. The season is far from being over and Toronto can still turn it around but again, as I predicted Don Jasani, Toronto won't make the playoffs.

Yes Lidle did look good today and hopefully he can continue to improve. I was also glad to hear Chacon beat the Braves today.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/03/06 08:57 PM

Also of note, Yanks move a half game ahead of the Red Sox in the standings.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/03/06 10:54 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Also of note, Yanks move a half game ahead of the Red Sox in the standings.
For now, boston still plays tonight and can remain tied
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/06 01:55 AM

True, but let's hope otherwise.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/06 03:01 AM

Yankees take first place in the AL East as Boston loses and falls 1 game back.

Code:
 

EAST	        W	L	PCT	GB	HOME	ROAD	RS	RA	STRK	L10
NY Yankees	64	41	.610	-	36-19	28-22	590	494	Won 4	8-2
Boston	        64	43	.598	1	35-17	29-26	592	530	Lost 1	5-5
Toronto	        57	51	.528	8.5	35-21	22-30	569	532	Lost 5	2-8
Baltimore	49	60	.450	17	29-29	20-31	529	613	Lost 1	5-5
Tampa Bay	45	64	.413	21	27-25	18-39	482	591	Won 1	4-6 
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/05/06 02:45 AM

Nice job by Georgie in the 9th, and the 27th save for Mo!! Good game!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/05/06 03:07 AM

Crosby designated for assignment

BALTIMORE -- Feeling uneasy with only 11 pitchers, the Yankees added Jose Veras to their bullpen before Friday's game, designating Bubba Crosby for assignment in the process.
"We tried this thing with 11 pitchers for a couple of days and I just wasn't comfortable," manager Joe Torre said. "I just felt we needed another arm based on the fact that when you get a game when you're way ahead or behind, you don't want to use or abuse [Scott] Proctor or [Kyle] Farnsworth or [Mariano Rivera].

"And you have Mike Myers, who you save for a man here and there, so you're really limited on who you have to go to down there. I just felt we needed another arm."

Proctor leads the American League in appearances (53) and innings pitched (66 1/3) among relievers. Farnsworth is second in appearances, one behind Proctor, and Rivera and Ron Villone rank fourth and fifth in the AL in innings, respectively.

"We certainly didn't think we were going to have a decision this soon, but the last couple of days have made me uncomfortable," Torre said.

Veras, who was recalled from Triple-A Columbus, has never pitched in the Majors before. New York purchased his contract in mid-June, but he did not appear in a game.

Designating Crosby was a "very tough" decision, Torre said. Crosby, who made the team's Opening Day roster, made 19 starts with the Yankees this season. He got 87 at-bats, hitting .207 with a homer and six RBIs.

"He becomes a luxury item," Torre said. "He can pinch-run for you; you put him out in center field."

The Yankees acquired Crosby in 2003 through a trade with the Dodgers. He split time in 2004 and '05 between Columbus and New York. Crosby did not talk to reporters before Friday's game.

"It's a one-way conversation. There's not a lot I can talk to him about," said Torre, who expressed that the need for another pitcher was a necessity that outweighed keeping Crosby. "Obviously, he had nothing to do with the decision as far as his lack of ability or anything. You couldn't use him."

Injuried Yanks

Injured Yanks: Robinson Cano made his second rehab start Friday, playing second base for Double-A Trenton. On Thursday, Cano went 2-for-5 as the designated hitter for the Gulf Coast League Yankees.

The All-Star has been out since June 27 with a strained left hamstring, which he suffered while running out a double. Torre expects to have Cano back early next week.

"If everything goes well from now until Tuesday, where he'll play over the weekend and probably Monday, Tuesday I would guess would be pretty realistic," Torre said.

As for outfielder Hideki Matsui, Torre said not to expect him back until next month. Matsui got X-rays on his fractured left wrist Thursday, and although they look fine structurally, there is still tenderness.

"It's going to be September whether we like it or not," said Torre, who added that Matsui will probably not make any rehab assignments.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/05/06 03:36 PM

Sad to see Bubba go, maybe they can keep him in the minors?

Also, it's not surprising Matsui won't see any rehab assignments - doesn't MiLB end their season in early September?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/05/06 06:26 PM

Yup, that's why Matsui and probably Sheff won't make any starts
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/05/06 10:54 PM

C'mon Yanks...5-0 to the Orioles? THE ORIOLES? Get your shit together! The games not over...
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/06 12:00 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
C'mon Yanks...5-0 to the Orioles? THE ORIOLES? Get your shit together! The games not over...
It's over. Too many Boog Burgers or Sausage K-bobs or whatever they eat. You can't win 'em all.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/06 02:58 PM

Oh well. BoSox lose as well, keeping them a game behind, as well as a half-game behind ChiSox in the Wild Card.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/06 05:24 PM

Well, keep your fingers crossed for today's game. Mr. Can-I-Last-5-Innings Wright is pitching. Glad Jeter averted disaster with that slide into 3rd. Geez, I never saw Joe Torre hustle onto the field that quickly!!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/06 05:50 PM

Wow, no Yankee fan bashing of A-Rod as of late. Maybe the zoo has put the sloths back in the cages.

P.S. - Yet another AL East division title for the Yanks? Probably.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/06 08:50 PM

Another nice win for the Yankees. Wright did a fine job, allowing only one run. Abreu has fit in seamlessly, has he not? And yesterday Jorge Posada had his 330th start in two years, so he triggered his $12 million for next year. Good for you, Georgie!!

Now, let's see what Boston does. They're tied with Tampa in the 10th.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/06 10:45 PM

Red Sox lose in extra innings and fall 2 games back behind the AL East leading Yankees.

Jorge is good, but I'd be in favor of finding someone else. He's a tractor on the basebaths, and too inconsistent at the plate as he grows older.

And Abreu has done a nice job fitting in, as has Wilson, so it looks like the Yanks deadline moves are paying off.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/06 10:47 PM

Yankees News and Notes

Cairo Heads to the DL; Cano Returns Tuesday
Quote:

BALTIMORE -- The Yankees will place Miguel Cairo on the 15-day disabled list after he strained his left hamstring running out a ground ball Saturday night. Cairo had been playing almost every day, filling in for injured second baseman Robinson Cano, who suffered from the same injury.

Cairo will likely hit the DL on Tuesday, when Cano is expected to rejoin the Yankees in the opener of a three-game set in Chicago. Cano is making a final rehab start with Double-A Trenton on Sunday, and batted 7-for-12 with two doubles and two RBIs in three rehab games before then. During Saturday's start, Cano tested himself physically, running at full speed.

"He's going to be a pick-me-up for our lineup," manager Joe Torre said.

Cano has been out since June 27, forcing him to miss the remainder of the season's first half and the All-Star Game. On the year, he's batting .325 with 27 RBIs and 34 runs scored.

Torre said the team's head trainer, Gene Monahan, estimated Cairo would be out at least three weeks. After Saturday's game, Cairo said he had dealt with a hamstring injury in the past.

"That's tough, man; that's your legs," he said. "I didn't want to end up like this."

After a tough June in which Cairo batted .183, he bounced back in July with a .253 mark, with 10 runs and 11 RBIs in 23 games. Cairo was 1-for-5 in the Baltimore series, with a two-run double, before being injured.

Cairo is the third Yankee to be disabled with hamstring problems. Cano has missed more than a month with his injury, and Bubba Crosby -- who was designated for assignment Friday -- missed nearly a month from mid-May to mid-June with a strained right hamstring.

Nick Green replaced Cairo in Saturday's game and got the start Sunday, his seventh with the Yankees since being brought up from Triple-A Columbus when Cano went on the DL. With Cano coming back, Green will continue to play a backup utility role.
Pavano Throws BP, Rehab Start Coming Soon
Quote:

Carl Pavano, who has not pitched in a Major League game since June 2005, will make a rehab start with the Class A Tampa Yankees on Thursday.

Pavano threw batting practice to several of his teammates last week, including Saturday, and will throw a bullpen session Monday in Tampa, Fla. Thursday will be the first of a series of rehab starts, which will allow Pavano to rebuild his arm strength and endurance.

"He's ready to go," Torre said. "We're very enthused about what we saw yesterday."

Pavano also said he was very excited to be pitching in a game. If his rehab outings go well, Pavano could make a few starts with the Yankees down the stretch in September.

"That's what we're building toward," Torre said.

Pavano was sidelined last season after 17 games due to rotator cuff tendinitis. He's been battling back from a series of injuries, which includes surgery to remove a bone chip in his right elbow.
Dotel Debuts Soon
Quote:

Reliever Octavio Dotel threw again Saturday in a rehab assignment, and could rejoin the team later this month.

"There's a real possibility he'll be here before Sept. 1," Torre said.

Dotel is recovering from right elbow reconstruction surgery and has missed the entire season.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/07/06 01:30 AM

At this point, I think it's a mad race to see who we'll see first - Dotel or Pavano. Actually, I find it hard to believe we're ever going to see either of them!!

I know that Posada has aged, but he's still a great player, and he's having a good season. I know that they need to start preparing for his retirement, but I think that they have another season or two.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/07/06 04:11 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
I know that Posada has aged, but he's still a great player, and he's having a good season. I know that they need to start preparing for his retirement, but I think that they have another season or two.
I agree. Another reason why I'd keep him around is because he's clutch!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/07/06 11:33 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
[b]I know that Posada has aged, but he's still a great player, and he's having a good season. I know that they need to start preparing for his retirement, but I think that they have another season or two.
I agree. Another reason why I'd keep him around is because he's clutch! [/b][/quote]Whoa...

I can't believe you just said that.

You've been riding A-Rod since he came to New York for not being "clutch," and then you say that JORGE is clutch?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/07/06 02:18 PM

Yup yup yup
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/08/06 12:33 AM

Time to tip our caps to the Yankees

They've been credited with ruining baseball, but have no direct affiliation with Bud Selig, Scott Boras, Victor Conte or Chris Berman.

They're the alleged architects of a lopsided playing field, but have failed to win the World Series since Al Gore finally realized he no longer had a shot at the White House.
Their players are believed to be self-absorbed, but have been the focus of fewer egomaniacal publishing efforts than fans of the Boston Red Sox.

So, back in the crosshairs by popular demand, we now tip our caps to the New York Yankees.

Yeah, even though we can't seem to live with 'em or get away with settin' 'em on fire, the Yankees remain crucial to the success of Major League Baseball.

Sure, you may have had it up to your eyeballs with the Yankees, but MLB would be in lousy shape if Selig — finally sick of a little prosperity — decided to contract George Steinbrenner's team.

Let's begin this celebration of the Yankees' existence by thanking them for goosing an otherwise lackluster trading-deadline countdown. In case you were busy paying attention to the Washington National's clumsy auction of Alfonso Soriano, the Yankees were able to pry Bobby Abreu — and his mighty contract — from the Philadelphia Phillies.

Yankees GM Brian Cashman surrendered an allegedly-pedestrian prospect list (that failed to include hotshot pitcher Phillip Hughes) in exchange for Abreu and pitcher Cory Lidle.

According to critics who expect a lot from a multi-millionaire, Abreu quite possibly is even more overrated than Paris Hilton. When the trade was made, "Sock it to 'Em" Bobby wasn't exactly providing much sock, ranking 107th among National League hitters in slugging percentage.

But the pro-Bobby crowd reminds us that Abreu leads the league in pitches seen per plate appearance, and has an on-base percentage even greater than that of Gomer Pyle.

So, while we'll have to wait and see how much Abreu adds to the Yankee offense, Yankee-haters will crow about how baseball is ruined when Steinbrenner adds to his payroll.

Instead of whining about the Yankees, I prefer giving them credit for becoming a landfill where teams can dump salary. This means that while George pays even more for less than a California homeowner, other teams can use their savings to purchase productive players or build the farm system.

For the record, Steinbrenner began this season with a payroll of $208 million and change, which is almost more scoots than the payrolls of the other four AL East teams — including the pricey Red Sox — combined.

This less-than-thrifty approach enables other MLB teams to receive a financial windfall from the Yankees in the form of luxury-tax loot. Several third-world AL teams can use this money to pay for players or pocket it and pretend it doesn't exist.

Yankees fans should be saluted for adding much-needed controversy to the lull that generally trots right behind the All-Star Game. Instead of wringing our hands over the New York Mets losing home-field advantage for the World Series, Yanks backers created E-Ticket intrigue surrounding defending AL Most Valuable Player Alex Rodriguez.

When A-Rod's arm suddenly became as inaccurate and controversial as that of ex-New Yorker Kerry Collins, Yankees pulled out a brilliant approach to assist their third baseman: boo the heck out of him.

Please note that — considering his level of productivity and good-guy image — booing Rodriguez seems as intellectually bankrupt as heckling the Publishers Clearinghouse Sweepstakes guy because your jackpot has been immediately downsized by taxes.

The booing — which included razzing in Canada (Eh-Rod?) by traveling Yankees fans — reportedly led to a Rodriguez intervention. This intervention produced a celebrity list that included diet and brain guru Dr. Phil, Yankees teammate Derek Jeter, ESPN smoke alarm Steven A. Smith and Fox Network philosopher Homer Simpson. It went something like this:

A-Rod: I apologize for you guys having to come here and intervention me.


Dr. Phil: Get real! We're being paid to be here.


Homer: Less talking, more little hot dogs in barbecue sauce.


Smith: You're getting' paid? That's terrible. I'm in the wind. You with me, Derek?


Jeter: I have nothing to say.


Homer: OK, let's bottom-line this thing. Alex, if you don't expect anything, you won't be disappointed.

An obvious reason for celebrating the Yankees' existence is their status as a team that millions of baseball fans love to hate. This hating, as suggested previously, often involves Yankee fans. But most of the bad karma is generated by out-of-town baseball followers who loathe New York's successful history, Steinbrenner's payroll blitzkrieg or the team's connection with the big, bad Apple itself.

This hate, if used in moderation, is fine. According to dozens of armchair psychiatrists, Americans need something to hate; this cultural phenomenon may explain the popularity of Michael Moore, Ann Coulter, Mike Tyson and Taylor Hicks' Ford commercial.

Additional Yankee love should be offered in tribute to their ability to cast a large shadow.

For example, in addition to Steinbrenner's aforementioned financial contributions to baseball, the Yankees are a huge gate attraction on the road. This is explained by both the established hatred and the scores of New Yorkers who fled the city to live in smaller-market cities.

The large Yankee shadow is quite prominent in Boston, where the rivalry has enabled many frosty fans to forget how mediocre the Celtics have become. Boston fans also use this desire to get over on New York as a method of keeping Sox management on its toes.

The Yankee shadow is big enough to — nationally, at least — obscure a relatively terrific season from the New York Mets, and almost obliterate the St. Louis Cardinals' whiff during the 2004 World Series.

Another fine Yankee trait is their ability to invent controversy. The latest example involves the Abreu trade, which could — if injuries heal as expected — create an outfield logjam. Among the potential returnees is right fielder Gary Sheffield, who still has one of baseball's quickest bats and fastest mood swings.

It has been reported that Sheffield — a former shortstop and third baseman who has tested positive for EGO — may be asked to spend a little quality time at first base. At this stage of his career, asking this guy to charge home plate during a sacrifice-bunt situation may require a legal negotiation.

With so many things to be thankful for, it's time to identify the most important Yankee contribution.

I'm partial to their providing evidence that even though George may be able to buy the World Series, his actors will retain the potential to ignore the script.

Source: FoxSports
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/08/06 01:38 AM

Okay...

Jorge is a bag of stale donuts.

A-Rod is awesome.

[/end] :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/08/06 11:40 PM

Plate discipline is secret to October success

At first glance, the Yankees' path to the postseason looks as encouraging as it's been in months: They're two games ahead of the Red Sox, Bobby Abreu is 10-for-25 in pinstripes, and with Robinson Cano due to return to the lineup tonight (and Hideki Matsui only two weeks behind him) the offense is ready to resume its mission to nuke the American League into submission.

Or is it?

To the contrary, the Bombers have been anything but the monster home run hitters they envisioned this spring, and they'll fall well short of the 1,000 runs they were supposed to score (at least in their dreams). In fact, when the Yankees begin a three-game series with the White Sox, they'll be facing an opponent that has scored more runs, blasted more HRs, and hit for a higher average and slugging percentage.

Surprisingly, though, the Yankees have drawn 74 more walks than the defending world champs, and therein lies what Joe Torre calls the secret to October success. In fact, acquiring Abreu from the Phillies wasn't just about replacing Gary Sheffield's run production. It was designed to promote an improvement in the Yankees' on-base percentage, and more specifically, to wear out opposing pitchers by going deeper into counts.

Abreu leads the majors in pitches per plate appearance (4.48) and is second only to Kevin Youkilis in the number of pitches he's seen this season. Abreu left the Phillies as the NL's leader in walks, and has joined forces with another ultra-patient Yankee, Jason Giambi, whose 4.36 PPA ratio ranks him third in the AL and fourth in the majors.

And Torre is pleased to see the Yankees becoming more selective.

"[We] have what it takes to go through a pennant race," he said. "You're going to be facing the best pitching. This type of approach will serve you better than waiting for a mistake to hit. I feel very comfortable with this ballclub."

So far, Abreu's presence has made a difference, albeit in a small sample. The Yankees won 5 of 6 against the Blue Jays and Orioles last week, catching and passing the Red Sox for the first time since June 9. In the five Yankees victories, opposing starters averaged 4.2 innings and 88 pitches before being knocked out.

Abreu has been too modest to take credit for anything other than his own at-bats. But he does admit a fondness for long plate appearances.

"I've always been patient," he said, adding that the more pitches he sees, "the better I can see the rotation of the ball. That helps me make adjustments in that at-bat and other [upcoming at-bats]."

Giambi has a similar obsession with deep counts, although he suffered through a horrendous July, during which he batted just .186. But Giambi's patience could be having a residual effect on Derek Jeter, who two years ago had bottomed out with a 3.54 PPA. This year, as he's competing for the AL batting title, Jeter is up to 3.76 pitches per trip to the plate, proving that perseverance pays off.

Jeter used to be a classic swing-at-the-first-pitch-he-likes hitter, insisting that it had nothing to do with impatience or impulsivity. Instead, he discovered in 2004 that AL pitchers were determined not to walk him and set up big innings for Sheffield and Alex Rodriguez.

"They were going after me right away," Jeter said, "and a lot of times that first pitch was the best one I would see, a get-me-over strike."

But if anyone has a problem with first-pitch swinging, it would've been the "Moneyball" era A's. In 2003, at the height of Billy Beane's fixation with on-base percentage, the A's swung at only 18.5 percent of first-pitch strikes, the lowest in the American League according to STATS, Inc. Although they batted .343 in those situations -- meaning they clearly identified which strikes were most hittable -- Oakland's hitters were otherwise falling into 0-1 counts more often than anyone else.

Even a one-strike disadvantage can be fatal against a top-level pitcher. In his Cy Young season in 2001, Roger Clemens kept AL hitters to a .192 average after they fell behind 0-1. So it's a fine line between being patient and becoming too passive.

Still, the greater goal, for the Yankees and everyone else, is to make an opposing pitcher labor through each at-bat, inning after inning until he's exhausted.

"You're not going to make a living hitting off, say, Clemens for eight innings and then Mariano Rivera for one," Beane said. "Going deep into counts is a way to get the more talented pitchers out of the game sooner. What you prefer is to get deeper into the staff and get some of those at-bats against middle relievers."

That's the philosophy Abreu hopes to impart on the Bombers between now and October. It's not exciting, it hardly makes for "SportsCenter" moments. But so far, the Yankees aren't arguing with the results.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/09/06 02:51 AM

Right now it's 5-4, top of the 9th. And Cano just hit a double. Keep your fingers crossed, Yankee Fans!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/09/06 04:12 AM

What a heartbreaking loss. I don't know why A-Rod "walked" over to that foul ball that Dye hit. Once I saw that he didn't catch it, I knew Dye would get a hit. Tough loss
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/09/06 12:08 PM

BTW - big "clutch" at bat for Jorge Posada with the bases loaded, I loved that easy double play. Wasn't that clutch, I12? :p

Had he done something, this blown save would have been a nonissue since we would have been leading by four.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/09/06 02:24 PM

It was their game to lose, and they did so in a spectacular fashion. It was too bad, but let's hope they just come back tonight. The Big Unit is on the mound, so that could go either way.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/06 02:56 AM

Glad to see Villone get out of that situation, you could tell Johnson was toast though...great outing for him until that last little bit. I wish Torre would have pulled him out when he started with men on base, you could just tell he had lost his command. Oh well.

Let's go Yanks!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/06 03:31 AM

"Ball game over! Yankees win. Theeeeeeeeeeeeeeee Yankees wiiinnn!"
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/06 05:25 AM

Thank you Mr. Kyle "I almost blew the game" Farnsworth. Glad to see the Yanks held on and boston lost to push them 3 back Great outing through 6 for the Unit
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/06 07:50 AM

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/eticket/story?page=arod
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/06 11:16 AM

Not surprisingly, the Yanks struggled with the Halos, and Cory Lidle isn't the superstar that everyone seemed to embrace him as after his first game as a Yankee.

The Yanks always seem to have trouble with the Angels...let's hope they can pull out the next two wins and get back in the swing, keep knocking the Red Sox down.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/06 04:52 PM

I feel safe in declaring the Yanks as 2006 AL East champions...and as well, an early playoff exit.

Go Tigers!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/06 05:57 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
I feel safe in declaring the Yanks as 2006 AL East champions...and as well, an early playoff exit.

Go Tigers!
Poor poor bitter Marlins fans :p
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/06 06:26 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
[b] I feel safe in declaring the Yanks as 2006 AL East champions...and as well, an early playoff exit.

Go Tigers!
Poor poor bitter Marlins fans :p [/b][/quote]How about a person who doesn't live in a fantasy land of homerism that they're team will take it all.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/06 07:13 PM

And who will take it then? Let us not forget that this Yankee team has been without Matsui, Sheffield, Cano and for periods of time Damon and are STILL 2 games ahead of the Red Sox. Damon and Cano are currently playing and if we get Sheffield and Matsui back, why wouldn't you think they'd go all the way? Please enlighten me with who will. Let me take a guess, the "I'm gonna ride the bandwagon that is the Detroit Tigers for this year and this year only?"
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/13/06 12:36 AM

Irishman, yes, this piss bitter Marlins fan. is still seeing how the Fish are in the NL Wildcard picture. I doubt that they will take it, but they have a chance. Eat that mother fucker.

As for bandwagon, yeah I'm the Tigers, Twins, and hell, anybody in the AL West. Fuck the Yankees and Red Sox though. Screw the White Sox as well.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/13/06 02:40 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Irishman, yes, this piss bitter Marlins fan. is still seeing how the Fish are in the NL Wildcard picture. I doubt that they will take it, but they have a chance. Eat that mother fucker.
Keep telling yourself that. Looks like you've "got me there"

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
As for bandwagon, yeah I'm the Tigers, Twins, and hell, anybody in the AL West. Fuck the Yankees and Red Sox though. Screw the White Sox as well.
Well at least we both agree you're a bandwagon fan then :p
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/13/06 03:11 AM

Guys, please watch the profanity when addressing another member. Sometimes, even if you think you've posted it in jest, it can be hurtful.

Thank you.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/13/06 03:41 PM

BTW Irish, why hate the Rangers?

I mean, we know of your hatred of the "Red Cocks"(how mature), Marlins fans( because of me and Don Andrew. Oh, and 2003 World Series ). I assume you hate the "Asstros"(how original) because Roger Clemens prefered to play with them instead of the Yankees.

As for being a band wagon fan, yeah I am. I like to support surging ballclubs that never have won the title, or haven't in decades.

Besides, with my Marlins unfortunately a member of the 100-loss club, I can feel for those Tigers fans that had to sit by as their club stunk the league up for years. The fact that they're tops now makes me feel good.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/13/06 04:13 PM

Why do I hate the Rangers? Well, first of all they're a Texas team. Plus, my boss is a big time Ranger fan and I just love to watch them flop every year and see them miss the playoffs. Plus I always hated Pudge when he played for them too
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/14/06 04:35 AM

Texas? I don't get it. Is it because of Bushie? The fact that sodomy is frowned upon down there? Maybe perhaps that you can only hate the Red Sox for so much until you get bored with it?

Actually, I can understand the deal with your boss. Until I met this one spoiled mick on the internet, I never hated the Yankees. Really, unlike Red Sox fans and other baseball fans that love to piss and moan about the Yankees "buying" titles(yet, they are silent in the rare years when the Yankees tank hard), I thought it was pointless.

Besides, its like the Lakers or the Cowboys. Decades-long dominance of each league from either schrewed General Management, brilliant coaches, Hall of Fame players, or just kicking ass on both Draft Day and on the Free Agent market. Some franchises are lucky, and some are just the CLIPPERS.

Sure I rooted against the Yanks several times over the seasons in the playoffs, but when its my Florida Marlins(like 2003), or certain clubs that I champion at the time(for example, the Angels in 2002 or the Red Sox in 2004), it just happens by coincidence. Hell, I rooted for the fucking Yanks against the one franchise that I actually fucking depised for YEARS, the Atlanta Braves, in both World Series matchups.

But now, this one guy on the internet, just because of his postings, I hate the Yankees, which is really pointless on my behalf. If anything, I'm hoping they lose so that this one "guy" can get pissed. Really, how pathetic. It's like hating the Marlins because of two fans.

Not that you know who that dude is, since he isn't worth naming.

P.S. - REally, the Yanks are going to win the AL East...AGAIN. The new Braves-like division title streak?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/14/06 02:11 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Not that you know who that dude is, since he isn't worth naming.
You love me! You really love me! :p

---

Yanks lose another...poor Wang, he desperately needed some run support and didn't get any. Hopefully they'll put out a better performance for RJ, lest the Red Sox get any closer...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/14/06 04:04 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Texas? I don't get it. Is it because of Bushie? The fact that sodomy is frowned upon down there? Maybe perhaps that you can only hate the Red Sox for so much until you get bored with it?
Yeah you can throw Bushie in there as well if you want to. But as I said before, there's more than just 1 reason why I hate Texas (and no it's not because I can only hate the Red Sox for so much until I get bored). You can NEVER hate the Red Sox too much.

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Really, unlike Red Sox fans and other baseball fans that love to piss and moan about the Yankees "buying" titles(yet, they are silent in the rare years when the Yankees tank hard), I thought it was pointless.
Very good point here. Why is it when the Yankees win there's a problem, but when they lose they're as quiet as the dead?

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
But now, this one guy on the internet, just because of his postings, I hate the Yankees, which is really pointless on my behalf. If anything, I'm hoping they lose so that this one "guy" can get pissed. Really, how pathetic. It's like hating the Marlins because of two fans.
Are you trying to tell me something? :p And no, I hate the Marlins more than just because of you and Don Andrew, so don't flatter yourself.

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
P.S. - REally, the Yanks are going to win the AL East...AGAIN. The new Braves-like division title streak?
Here's another good question: why when Atlanta was on their division win streak there wasn't a problem with it? In fact, to me it seemed that people embraced it to see "how long they could go." But again, the Yankees are only about half-way to Atlanta's total and people are already b*tching and moaning about it. What hypocrisy!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/15/06 02:21 AM

Yankees win, nice job by all, many thanks to the less-than-stellar Halo defense tonight. Jorge goes 1-26 with a HR, very clutch ( :p ) while A-Rod made a sparkling defensive play early on and drove in what would be the winning run with a sacrifice fly...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/15/06 03:23 AM

A very good outing by the Unit against a great Angel team: 7 innings, 8 hits, 2 runs, 1 BB, 5 SO, 13-9 with a 4.92 ERA. Let us not forget that boston lost tonight too, so we're back up by 2 games
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/15/06 05:56 PM

"Yankees Win, A-Rod Drives in Winning Run; Fans still hate Him"
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/06 03:47 AM

A good come-from-behind win tonight for the Yanks as the bo sox lose, putting them up by 3 games BTW, thanks Johnny Damon for tying the game
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/06 12:52 PM

I hate UPN 9 games, because DirecTV doesn't have the local affiliate for them on my satellite. So I miss these games, and have to watch the Gamecast online. Grr!

Yankees win, Red Sox lose. Oh what a beautiful moooooorning...
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/06 02:25 PM

Boston's little collapse here has certainly helped, but I'm still impressed with what the Yankees are doing.

And what a deal that was - picking up Abreau and Wilson.

Since Wang's last three starts, though, now I'm worried about the starting pitching again.

I picture them in the playoffs against Oakland's Zito, Haren, and Blanton (not great, but man-for-man a little better than the Yanks "Big 3", I think)......Detroit's Verlander, Bonderman, and Robertson (unproven, but you still have to respect them)......the Angels Weaver, Lackey, and Saunders (there's the team the Yankees don't want to meet in the playoffs)......or the Twins Santana, Radke, and Liriano (if he's healthy).

And if some of the White Sox starters get straightened out....
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/06 02:40 PM

I'm not worried about Wang. He's been great more than he's been mediocre, and even though his road record isn't stellar, he's still the most dependable pitcher we've got on our roster. He'll be fine.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/06 01:17 AM

Dotel joins team

NEW YORK -- When the Yankees signed Octavio Dotel to a one-year deal last winter, they knew they would have to wait for him to finish rehabbing his surgically repaired right elbow before he would throw a pitch for New York.

The wait is over.

Dotel joined the Yankees on Wednesday, bolstering the team's bullpen for the stretch run. Dotel, 32, will join Kyle Farnsworth, Scott Proctor and Ron Villone as the primary setup men for Mariano Rivera.

"I feel like it's the first time I got to the big leagues," Dotel said. "The way I feel is it's a big time to come back. It's something where you have to work hard; you've got to earn it to come back after elbow surgery."

To make room for Dotel, the Yankees optioned right-hander Jose Veras to Triple-A Columbus.

Dotel was in his hotel room watching "Mission Impossible 3" in Columbus, when he got the call he had been waiting from Mark Littlefield, the organization's Tampa-based player development trainer.

"It's kind of funny, because when I heard from Mark Littlefield, I told him what I was watching," Dotel said. "He said, 'Well that mission is impossible, but this one is possible.' It was really an exciting moment for me right there. I didn't watch any of the movie after that."

Dotel had started and stopped his rehab assignment twice during the season, but his last one proved to be enough. Dotel had been in constant contact with general manager Brian Cashman, telling him that he was ready to join the team.

"He's been giving me a full-court press for a week," Cashman said. "He's felt for a week that he's been ready to join us."

"We talked after the game last night and Brian said that he's ready to go," Joe Torre said. "He's anxious. I always sensed with Dotel that he was willing to be patient with this whole thing, but for the last week, he's been champing at the bit."

With every setback Dotel suffered during his rehab, the thought crossed his mind that he might not return at all in 2006.

"It's kind of crazy, because sometimes you feel great and then you feel like you don't have [anything], and then the next day you feel good," Dotel said. "You think, 'What's wrong with me? What's going on in there?' One thing I can say is, I always felt positive in my mind."

Earlier this week, Torre didn't seem optimistic about getting Dotel back in the next week or two. But there he was Wednesday, slipping into his No. 29 pinstriped uniform.

"What may have turned the tide or pushed it over the edge was his attitude," Torre said. "When he's that proud of his stuff, it makes you feel good about it."

Torre plans to work Dotel in slowly, using him to start an inning at the beginning instead of putting him in with men on base. Dotel also hasn't worked in back-to-back games, so Torre isn't going to push the envelope on that issue, either.

"He gives us a little more experience in the bullpen," Torre said. "I'm happy he's here. This sort of came quickly, so hopefully it works out for him and for us."

Sheff swings

Gary Sheffield took the next step in his rehab on Wednesday, swinging a bat 20 times in his swimming pool.

Sheffield will visit hand specialist Dr. Charles Melone next week, at which point he hopes to be cleared to begin hitting.

"In my view, based on how I feel, I feel great; I feel like I want to swing a bat now, but I have to see the doctor," Sheffield said. "Once I get out of the pool, tee work and BP shouldn't be too far away."

"That's great news," Torre said. "I'm sure he's pleased about that. It's a step; once you start swinging the bat, you can start looking down the road."

Sheffield said he needs his surgically repaired left wrist to heal a little more and get some more strength before he can move forward with his rehab.

"I'm pain-free and that's all I've been waiting for for a long time," Sheffield said. "I'm not in a hurry. My plan is not in the short-term. My plan is long-term. That's the only thing I'm worried about."

Sheffield said he first felt pain-free at the beginning of the week, when he started playing catch.

"The first time I went out there, there was a lot of pressure when I caught a ball," he said. "After that I didn't feel any pain. Once I started catching balls from A-Rod and all those guys throwing it hard, I knew I was ready."

Carl on track

Carl Pavano, who threw four scoreless innings for Class A Tampa on Tuesday, will make his third rehab start Sunday for Double-A Trenton.

Pavano threw 56 pitches in his outing, a number which will increase to about 75 on Sunday. According to Cashman, Pavano's pitch count will increase by about 15 pitches each time he takes the mound.

"He's going to have to go through a whole Spring Training; we have to get him up to at least 100 pitches," Cashman said. "We need to build his arm strength up. When he gets to 100, we'll be in position to take him."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/06 02:08 AM

Dotel looked good striking out one, but threw four balls to walk the next batter and Torre had seen enough. He looks like he's got killer movement on his fastballs (both 2 and 4 seam) and a good slider. Hope he can have better control in his next outing.

C'mon Yanks! Boston won against the Tigers, don't fall to the (shitty) Orioles...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/06 02:41 AM

Fuck.

[/end]
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/06 02:05 PM

DJ, that pretty much sums it up, doesn't it? Although we did get to see the mystery man Dotel last night. And here I thought that he was off pitching in the Field of Dreams with Carl Pavano.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/06 03:01 PM

Let's hope they get their act together before they roll with Boston. We need to put them down by a few games, and beating shitty Baltimore whilst the Red Sox face the tough Tigers can only help our cause.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/06 03:09 PM

5 games, 4 days, and in Fenway, no less. I know that the Yankees tend to play well under pressure, but I can't help wishing that they had the home field advantage this weekend. Although there are still a number of games to play, why oh why do I get the feeling that this weekend could well decide the winner of the AL East??
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/06 03:26 PM

The good news is that the rotation gets started off with Wang against Jason Johnson, who hasn't won in a Red Sox uniform, and is 3-11. Sidney Ponson will probably blow it in the night game, even though we're facing Lester, who, along with Johnson, makes up the weak back end of the Red Sox rotation. Hopefully Randy Johnson can hold off the Sox long enough for the Yanks to bomb Beckett, who is 1-1 with a 10.80 ERA against the Yankees this year, and Mussina can with the pitchers dual with Schilling on Sunday. Lidle and Wells is a toss up - both could get bombed on Monday.

My predictions?

Wang v. Johnson - Yankees
Ponson v. Lester - Red Sox
Johnson v. Beckett - Yankees
Mussina v. Schilling - Red Sox (Moose pitches a no-decision)
Lidle v. Wells - Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/06 08:51 PM

Didn't have a chance to switch on the TV until the near end...wow...what an awesome performance.

I haven't seen anything bottom out that badly since Ted Kennedy drove Mary Jo into the water at Chappaquiddick.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/06 03:52 AM

C'mon DJ, there must've been some sort of Republican analogy you could've made!! :p For example: The Yankees were bigger sitting ducks than VP Cheney's hunting companions!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/06 09:10 PM

Both political-inspired jokes were *Yawn*

Anyway, the Yanks clobbered the Bo-Sox today, just like the Americans did to Nagasaki.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/06 09:28 PM

Let's just hope Ponson didn't get smashed before the game...and we can take two away from the Sox.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/06 11:02 PM

Nothing better to a 5-game Fenway series than to open up with a boston a$$ kicking
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/06 01:24 AM

Let's not get cocky. The Yankees are winning 5-4 right now, bottom of the 3rd. Manny Ramirez just got a double, and there's nobody out.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/06 05:07 AM

Ah, how sweet it is to win the first 2 games I know I'll sleep easy tonight
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/06 12:57 PM

Great job for the Yanks, beating the Sox two games yesterday. Let's hope RJ gives us a decent effort and we can go 3-0 into Sunday.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/06 02:35 PM

Wang Not Ordinary

Quote:
Meet the AL's premier sinkerballer
Klapisch
By Bob Klapisch

BOSTON -- When Chien-Ming Wang takes the mound at Fenway, he'll be deep enough in enemy territory to feel the moisture on his face -- which is precisely what happens to most opposing pitchers who find themselves 60 feet, 6 inches away from David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez

But there's not much about Wang that categorizes him as ordinary, not with a 95 mph sinker that's turned Wang into the American League's premier ground-ball pitcher, or with a personality that's either zombie-like or brilliantly serene. Wang is a smoker, too.

And when it comes to music, the Taiwanese right-hander says he's made the cultural leap. It's Snoop Dogg that Wang listens to, recently telling The Journal News (White Plains, N.Y.) he likes the rap star's "good songs."

Given the unusual profile, it's no wonder the Yankees say they're blissfully intrigued by Wang, who has an angry pitching profile -- hard sinker, blistering four-seam fastball -- but is as gentle as a monk in the clubhouse.

"Chien doesn't say much," is how Joe Torre put it. "He's no different than the first day we met him. But I wouldn't say he's oblivious to what's going on. That's not the way I would describe it. I'd say he's very calm."

Wang is only 26, but his maturity is rooted in part by two major shoulder injuries that cost him parts of the 2001 and 2003 seasons in the minor leagues. Wang knows how precious his gifts are, particularly that stunning two-seamer that separates him from the rest of the Yankees' rotation, if not the AL itself.

Jorge Posada flatly says Wang has the most charismatic stuff among the Bombers' pitchers. That's no small endorsement on a staff that boasts Mike Mussina's knuckle-curve, Randy Johnson's 90-something fastball and Mariano Rivera's legendary cutter.

But Wang can defeat hitters even when they know what's coming: His two-seamer bores down and in to right-handed hitters, making him a nightmare to anyone even thinking of elevating the ball.

"Trying to hit fly balls against Wang on a regular basis, you just can't do it, especially righties," Posada said. "A left-handed hitter can at least try to go the other way against him. But a righty has no answer. It's a devastating pitch."

The mystery of Wang's two-seamer is how late it breaks and how irresistible it looks to hitters who come to the plate vowing not to get tricked. For 55 feet, it looks like a four-seam fastball, straight enough to track. But then comes the sharp, downward break that reminds peers of Kevin Brown in his prime.

Slowly but surely, smarter hitters are giving up trying to drive the ball into the gaps against Wang. On his better days, it's wiser to think of ground ball singles as the way to defeat him. For every fly ball Wang allows, he forces 3.36 grounders, the best ratio in the league.

That would explain why Wang is unafraid to keep challenging hitters over and over. Posada estimates 85 percent of Wang's pitches are sinkers. In beating the Devil Rays on July 8, Wang tossed out his other weapons altogether and threw 100 percent sinkers.

Those numbers become even more impressive in light of Wang's relative unfamiliarity with the pitch. As recently as two years ago, he was relying on the curveball and four-seam fastball, until Triple-A pitching coach Neil Allen taught Wang how to crack the code on the two-seamer.

Sal Fasano, who caught Wang in Columbus that year and is once again a teammate in the Bronx, summed up the transformation: "He became a totally different pitcher in like a week. I remember one game after the All-Star break, we were playing Pawtucket, in that little bandbox of a stadium they have, and Chien just blew their hitters away. He was throwing some serious ched [velocity] right by them."

Here's one other bizarre curve of fate: The Yankees were ready to trade Wang after the 2004 season in their pursuit of Randy Johnson. The Bombers let the Diamondbacks know that anyone and everyone in the farm system was available to them. If they'd wanted Wang as part of a deal for the Big Unit, all the D-Backs had to do was ask.

They never did.

"I was hoping they wouldn't, but his name never came up," Yankees GM Brian Cashman said. "I guess people didn't think he was very good. Or else no one thought very much of the way we developed prospects. They must've figured if Wang was our best, how good could he be?"

Truth is, the Diamondbacks did scout Wang that summer, but he made no impression.

Bryan Lambe, who now scouts for the Mets, told The New York Times, "I'd like to say I never saw him, but I did, maybe for a game or at least a part of a game.

"He pitched well, but not like now. He didn't have that velocity or that kind of sink. Natural maturity took care of the velocity, but somebody fine-tuned him, because that sinker is as good as anybody's."

It goes without saying how much the Yankees are counting on Wang, not just today, but in September and October.

"This [race] is far from over," said Cashman, meaning the tension will be thick enough to rattle almost anyone.

That is, except Wang and his two trusted weapons:

That sinker. And that zero-anxiety demeanor.

Perfect accessories for a weekend at Fenway.

Bob Klapisch is a sports columnist for The Record (N.J.) and a regular contributor to ESPN.com.
But let's all remember -

he still sucks! :rolleyes:
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/06 09:27 PM

Yanks are now 3-for-3 against Boston in the series, pounding them for 13 runs today. Great job, even with RJ's mediocre-if-not-decent pitching (boy, I was disgusted with that Manny HR). Bernie (who we should re-sign immediately) and Cano delivered some HR's, and Posada even got a triple (of course, he made up for it with a shitty defensive play at the plate...wow...total dead on gunshot from Cabrera in left, and Posada let's it bounce by him for runs to score).

Great weekend for baseball so far!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/06 09:30 PM

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/20/06 06:01 PM

Man that was another a$$-kicking yesterday. I actually got to see some of the game because it aired on Fox (I'm no longer in New York anymore and don't get the YES Network) But what do you guys think, 5 game sweep or 4 outta 5?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/20/06 07:35 PM

I won't say anything, lest we be jinxed.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/06 01:53 AM

Whether we lose the next 2 games or not, we've already won the series
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/06 05:28 AM

Make that 4 in a row for my Yankees. BIG 9th inning hit by Jeter to tie the score and a BIG homerun by Giambi in the 10th to put them ahead for good (not to mention Jorge's 2-run homer for added cusion) 5 1/2 games on top
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/06 05:40 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Make that 4 in a row for my Yankees.
How much do you pay Steinbrenner?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/06 05:43 AM

More like how much does he pay me?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/06 12:52 PM

Wow. Really didn't know whether they would come back. Then, Jorge (aka Mr. Clutch) has that passed ball, setting up the bases loaded...somehow we got out of that.

Glad to see Coco Crisp was able to keep playing, that was a tough play. The Yanks came up huge, thanks to Rivera and the offense onslaught against the Sox in extra innings.

BTW - is it just me, or does Papelbon look like a neonazi/psychopath with that hair (or, more appropriately, lack thereof) and his facial features? When they kept flashing to him on the bench, he looked like he wanted to flip out and kill someone... :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/06 06:43 PM

Wouldn't you after you lost 4 straight to your most hated rival
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/06 08:14 PM

SWEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!!!

Yanks finish Boston beatdown, sweep five-game series

BOSTON (AP) -- The New York Yankees celebrated in the dugout as if they'd just clinched a playoff berth.

In a way, they've done everything but.

Hugging and shaking hands after a demoralizing five-game sweep of the rival Red Sox, New York took a season-high 6½-game lead in the AL East with a 2-1 victory over Boston on Monday. The Yankees have never squandered a lead that large, and they hadn't swept Boston in five games in more than half a century.

"A sweep in Boston?" winning pitcher Cory Lidle said, pausing before breaking out in a big smile. "Pretty awesome."

After outscoring the Red Sox 47-25 in four games over three days and two early mornings, the Yankees rediscovered their pitching to win the sleepy series finale at Fenway Park.

"Everything went about as wrong as it could," Red Sox manager Terry Francona said. "It's not been a very good five days."

Lidle (2-2) pitched six shutout innings in his third -- and best -- start since coming to New York at the trading deadline along with more-heralded slugger Bobby Abreu. With All-Star closer Mariano Rivera unavailable after pitching two innings to win Sunday night's game -- actually, it ended at 1:26 a.m. Monday -- Kyle Farnsworth pitched the ninth for his second save in six tries.

Yankees manager Joe Torre shouted in the Yankees' dugout and exchanged hearty handshakes with his coaches, then hugged his players as they came off the field.

Even they found it hard to believe.

"It was emotional," Torre said. "When you're sitting there, a manager's dream is to have these guys, their attitude. The guys that didn't play today -- you had to be in the dugout to hear the support that they gave each other."

There were a lot of regulars not playing for the Yankees, who rested center fielder Johnny Damon, catcher Jorge Posada and first baseman Jason Giambi and used Derek Jeter at designated hitter. David Wells (2-3) coasted through the makeshift lineup for five innings before Abreu doubled in Melky Cabrera to break the scoreless tie.

Nick Green doubled and scored on a wild pitch in the eighth to make it 2-0. Wily Mo Pena homered off Scott Proctor for Boston's only run.

It was 28 years ago that the Yankees came to Fenway in September with a four-game deficit and left tied for the division lead -- a series remembered in baseball as the "Boston Massacre." New York, which had trailed by as many as 14 games, won the AL East in a one-game playoff settled when Bucky Dent's popup settled into the net above the Green Monster.

The Red Sox hadn't been swept in a five-game series since the Cleveland Indians did it in 1954. The Yankees swept Boston in five games in New York in 1951 and at Fenway in '43.

"It's been an emotional weekend," Red Sox second baseman Mark Loretta said. "It's been physically challenging and emotionally challenging for both sides. It's a little easier to take if you're winning."

Both teams left for the West Coast, with the Red Sox knowing that their best chance to make the playoffs is the wild card. They began the day four games behind the Chicago White Sox and three in back of the Minnesota Twins.

"We came into this series thinking we could make up ground (because) we were playing the team right in front of us," Francona said. "We certainly didn't put ourselves in a very good position. If we allow it to devastate us, then we weren't good enough in the first place."

Lidle allowed three hits and five walks to go with five strikeouts. Octavio Dotel, Mike Myers and Proctor carried the shutout into the eighth.

Wells gave up two runs on six hits and a walk, striking out four before Green doubled and moved to third on Cabrera's sacrifice bunt. Green scored to make it 2-0 when Keith Foulke's third pitch was wild.

Red Sox outfielder Manny Ramirez left the game in the fifth inning with a cramp in his right hamstring. He had been the most productive player in the Red Sox lineup during the series, going 8-for-11 with two homers, seven RBI and nine walks.

Game notes
The 1933 Yankees led by six but finished seven behind Washington. ... According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the last five-game sweep in the majors was Boston over Toronto at Fenway Park in 2002. ... Red Sox SS Alex Gonzalez, who missed the previous two games with back spasms, was originally in the starting lineup but was scratched. ... Jeter's fourth-inning single was the 1,531st of his career, tying him with Bernie Williams and Lou Gehrig atop the Yankees' all-time list. Williams reached the milestone on Friday. ... Boston 1B Kevin Youkilis was not in the starting lineup a day after jamming his ankle and getting spiked in the hand. ... Kyle Snyder will start for Boston on Tuesday. ... Red Sox leadoff man Coco Crisp was 1-for-19 in the series. ... Torre said the groin tightness that caused starter Mike Mussina to leave Sunday night's game early was probably "just a cramp."

Code:
Fri 8/18   NYY 12  @BOS  4	
Fri 8/18   NYY 14  @BOS 11	
Sat 8/19   NYY 13  @BOS  5	
Sun 8/20   NYY  8  @BOS  5	
Mon 8/21   NYY  2  @BOS  1	
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/06 11:47 PM

The Red Sox are de-socked.

Now will Yankees fans stop hating A-Rod?
Posted By: TonyWillLive

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/22/06 12:44 AM

I'm gonna show up for the first time in awhile, take my lumps and tip my cap to the Yankees for having the best batting order I have ever seen. Your pitching is still shaky but compared to the Bo Sox its decent. My hope is that we can get within 4-5 games heading into the Bronx and see what happens. You probably won't hear from me until then so let me hear it. -Take it easy
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/22/06 01:39 AM

The sweep was so sweet!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/22/06 01:45 AM

"Red Sox leadoff man Coco Crisp was 1-for-19 in the series" WHAT!? Man that Johnny Damon is washed-up
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/22/06 11:25 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Now will Yankees fans stop hating A-Rod?
Probably not. He didn't hit 20 HR's in the sweep. He sucks.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/23/06 10:37 AM

Tough loss as Villone gives up a big one to Beltre...didn't see the game, but from what I hear, Karstens looked decent, at least better than Ponson, so that's a plus. Hopefully a solid long-reliever for our rotation and spot starter.

Oh well. Boston lost to the Halos, so it's all okay.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/24/06 05:15 AM

Hey Irish, you still hate A-Rod's fucking guts?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/24/06 12:28 PM

Chien picks up a nice win on the road, and the Yanks still hold the Sox back by 6 and 1/2 games.

The worst part is Moose is heading to the 15-day DL and will miss his next start, though Karstens looked good so he should be able to help us pick up the slack for a spot start.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/24/06 06:02 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Hey Irish, you still hate A-Rod's fucking guts?
Hey ronnie, have the Marlins even made the playoffs since 2003?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/24/06 06:04 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Chien picks up a nice win on the road, and the Yanks still hold the Sox back by 6 and 1/2 games.

The worst part is Moose is heading to the 15-day DL and will miss his next start, though Karstens looked good so he should be able to help us pick up the slack for a spot start.
I can't believe Wang is 15-5! I just think that's unbelievable for a guy in his first full season with the Yanks. But as you said, the bad news was Moose going down. We're gonna need him back QUICKLY to remain ahead of Boston
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/24/06 06:34 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
[b] Hey Irish, you still hate A-Rod's fucking guts?
Hey ronnie, have the Marlins even made the playoffs since 2003? [/b][/quote]Yeah, its called Fantasy playoffs.

Have a better snap comeback sometime.

BTW, you flip flop again?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/25/06 05:44 AM

Have another "quirky" question next time

And no I don't hate his f*cking guts. He's still not the same player he was last year but he's not the bum he was either a month or so ago. I can't watch the games anymore down here in texas so I haven't been able to see him play much
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/25/06 11:08 AM

Fuckin' RJ, his win streak against the Mariners comes to an end. I suppose he was due. Shitty Johnny Damon cranked his 21st over the wall.

BoSox win, but have two HUGE concerns - Manny had an MRI (that came back negative) on his knee, and was out for the game, and Ortiz was hospitalized for an irregular heartbeat.

Take even one of those guys away from the Sox right now, and their playoff chances are looking pretty slim. Both of them? Bye.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/25/06 03:35 PM

DJ, I haven't seen anything about Ortiz being in the hospital. I checked MLB.com, and they mentioned Manny, but nothing about Big Papi. It would be a shame for that to happen to him after such a fantastic year.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/25/06 04:10 PM

Source: ESPN.com

Report: Big Papi Hospitalized For Irregular Heartbeat
Quote:
Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz confirmed to the Boston Herald on Thursday that he was hospitalized last weekend for an irregular heartbeat.

Ortiz told the Herald he began experiencing a rapid heartbeat Friday night after the Red Sox were swept by the New York Yankees in a doubleheader at Fenway Park. Although Ortiz played Saturday, the problem persisted and the Red Sox medical staff advised him to visit Massachusetts General Hospital, where he was held overnight for observation.

Ortiz, who is hitting .286 and leads the majors with 46 homers and 120 RBI this season, didn't miss any time during the Yankees series.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/25/06 04:54 PM

I'd have an irregular heartbeat too if I dropped 5 straight at home to the Yankees
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/26/06 02:02 AM

Not funny Irish.

Besides Irish...can I get you some flip flop sandals for Christmas?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/26/06 06:20 AM

Sure you can. Just make sure they're of a team that sucks....kinda like the Marlins
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/26/06 03:59 PM

Florida 61 66 .480

Irish, they don't suck...they're just mediocre.

If you want a suck job, go waste your hate on the Nationals.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/26/06 05:46 PM

Aww, that's so precise how you stick up for your team like that
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/26/06 08:53 PM

yeah well, I can't violate the Ten Commandments now can I?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/06 02:36 AM

still, 0-10 for A-Rod against the Angels is...painful. 7 Strikeouts? Yikes
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/06 03:30 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
yeah well, I can't violate the Ten Commandments now can I?
Is that some kind of threat or something?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/06 03:41 AM

No man, you know that one commandment that sorta says that LYING is a bad thing?

I can't lie and say the Marlins are doing good. They're mediocre, though they have done MUCH better than I expected after the recent mega firesale.

Right?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/06 03:49 AM

Yeah I'll give you that they've exceeded expectations and with their current roster, there performance this season could be deemed a success
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/06 02:01 PM

Shitty, as always, against the Halos. Grr.

Interesting to see that the Yanks appear to be hiding their starters against Detroit - there aren't official starters named for any of the games...Karstens will start Sunday against the Angels, which means...Wang's start will be skipped over? Strange, they have off on Tuesday. Maybe it will be Johnson - Wang - Wright - Pavano - Lidle?

As you may guess now, Pavano is scheduled to be added back into the rotation this week. Wow. I care so much. Maybe he'll get us a win or two though until Moose can return.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/06 05:44 PM

I'm looking forward to see howing Pavano will pitch. Hopefully it'll be better than Dotel (because his numbers are scary thus far). Glad to see Boston struggling against the Mariners though
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/06 05:14 AM

Marlins 3 games behind Reds for WildCard!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/06 07:08 AM

Boston loses to the Angels, are now 7 games behind the Yanks
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/06 09:25 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Glad to see Boston struggling against the Mariners though
Like we did?

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I'm looking forward to see howing Pavano will pitch.
(to seeing)

I thought you couldn't actually watch the games...?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/06 07:32 PM

I can't actually watch the games. What I meant was I want to see what his numbers look like. Sorry I wasn't more specific
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/06 09:21 PM

Well, you may be waiting a looooooong time. It seems that Mr. Pavano recently began complaining about pain to his ribcage. It seems that he was in an auto accident in Florida on August 15th and broke two ribs. It also seems that he forgot to mention it to the team. Oops!! Cashman is furious, and rightly so. There was an accident report made, but with Ernesto bearing down on Florida, the police are unable to produce it at this time.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/06 05:46 AM

Boston loses again, now 7 1/2 games back!

Plus, Matsui has been cleared to take batting practice
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/06 12:13 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Well, you may be waiting a looooooong time. It seems that Mr. Pavano recently began complaining about pain to his ribcage. It seems that he was in an auto accident in Florida on August 15th and broke two ribs. It also seems that he forgot to mention it to the team. Oops!! Cashman is furious, and rightly so. There was an accident report made, but with Ernesto bearing down on Florida, the police are unable to produce it at this time.
I like how Pavano made it sound like nothing...

Pavano: "Umm...my car slipped on a wet patch and bumped into a truck."

Reality: "I was driving my Porsche like an idiot, lost control, and slammed into an 18-wheeler."

I'm crossing my ingers that Cashman and the Yankee legal team can find a loophole in the contract that will allow then to terminate Pavano's deal. It will give us some cash to go shopping during the offseason.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/06 03:29 PM

Yankees News and Notes

Matsui Cleared for Batting Practice
Quote:
Hideki Matsui was cleared to take full batting practice for the first time on Tuesday, a big step in his hopeful return to the Yankees' lineup this season. Matsui is scheduled to hit indoors on Wednesday.

Matsui had no problems with soft-toss hitting drills on Sunday, but he hasn't taken live batting practice yet. The Yankees originally thought Matsui wouldn't be ready until some time later this week.

"In terms of being pain free, that's something I definitely feel good about and very satisfied," Matsui said through his interpreter. "I'm still working on my mechanics and things like that."

Matsui said he's still conscious of his left wrist when he swings, but feels that getting his timing and mechanics back are all he needs before returning. Manager Joe Torre said he expects Matsui to join the team sometime this season.

One thing that could limit Matsui's progress is that the Minor League regular season ends in the first week of September, which may be too late for Matsui to make a rehab appearance. But Torre didn't seem concerned about that possibility.

"We can probably DH him at some point," Torre said. "I think that's the safest thing for him to do, as opposed to have him dive for a ball in the outfield."

Matsui originally fractured his wrist trying to make a sliding catch against the Red Sox on May 11. Since then, he has been maintaining his conditioning by constantly running and doing exercises to strengthen his wrist and keep his timing.

"My swing itself isn't that bad in terms of mechanics," Matsui said. "Hitting the ball, seeing the ball, hitting it with good timing, things like that, I think I'm still a little off."

Matsui said he couldn't say when he thinks he'll be able to return or how many at-bats it will take for him to get back to normal. He could answer how he's feeling mentally.

"I don't get anxious at all," Matsui said. "What I focus on is the next thing I need to do to get prepared and completing the next step. That's all I really focus on."
Yankees Look For Answers With Pavano
Quote:
The official investigation into Carl Pavano's car accident is underway.

Police have already released their report, and now it's the Yankees' and general manager Brian Cashman's turn to find out what actually happened.

Pavano, who waited until Saturday to inform the Yankees that he was involved in a car accident in Palm Beach, Fla., on Aug. 15, will see Dr. Stuart Hershon in New York on Wednesday to get a full physical evaluation to look at his two fractured ribs and any other ailments that the righty may have incurred.

His scheduled start for Triple-A Columbus on Wednesday has been scratched and another one won't be penciled in until Cashman has all the details about Pavano's rib injury. Manager Joe Torre said he's not counting on Pavano to pitch for the Yankees this season.

Pavano has concerns other than Cashman. According to The New York Daily News, which obtained a copy of the police report, Pavano was charged with the accident, contrary to what he told reporters on Monday. The report also said Pavano's 2006 Porsche sustained $30,000 worth of damage.

The driver that Pavano hit when his car slid out of control on the wet road says he has a shoulder injury and has retained legal counsel. His truck sustained $20,000 worth of damage.

Cashman spoke like an investigator on Tuesday, saying he wants to get all the facts straight before making an emotional decision.

Right now, that emotion is of complete frustration. Pavano hasn't pitched in more than 14 months due to shoulder, back, buttocks, elbow and now rib injuries.

"It's frustrating, because you want results," Cashman said. "I don't think he's enjoying the experience. I know we're not enjoying the experience. It's frustrating for all parties involved."

Despite talking with Pavano already about what happened, Cashman said he doesn't have any facts about the accident yet. He said he will wait until he's in the right setting and takes the right procedures in questioning Pavano, so he doesn't "compromise" himself.

Once everything is known about the accident and Pavano's decision to withhold news of it from the organization, a fine or some other punishment could be levied. Cashman said he doesn't want to rule out any punishment.

"We haven't done anything yet, because I haven't completed an investigation," Cashman said. "We need to be smart about where we are instead of forcing an issue because of frustration and because of circumstances and compound the problem by making bad choices. The right choice right now is to make sure he has a full physical evaluation."

Pavano saw a Triple-A Columbus doctor on Tuesday, but Cashman and Hershon agreed that they want to do their own head-to-toe checkup. Cashman said the Yankees would have never checked for a fractured rib after Pavano first complained of pain after pitching six innings last Friday for Columbus. They thought it was only a strain or muscle spasm.

Now even after finding out that there is indeed more of a physical problem than once thought, it sounded as if some Yankees were questioning the true severity of the injury and whether it should stop Pavano. He, after all, did make three starts after getting in the car accident.

It all adds to the speculation that Pavano, who signed a four-year $39.5 million contract before last season, may have lost his passion for the game. He has started just 17 games for the Yankees -- all in 2005.

"I know there's a lot of stuff flying around that he doesn't want to pitch now," Cashman said. "So far, up to this latest incident, he has been held back mainly because of physical issues and they've all been legitimate. ... I don't buy into that."

Yankees reliever Octavio Dotel, who's battled his fair share of setbacks when trying to come back from Tommy John elbow reconstruction surgery this season, said he has sympathy for Pavano. But even he seemed to ponder how Pavano could pitch six innings last Friday despite the injury and not be able to pitch now.

"I heard he threw six innings," Dotel said. "So hey, why not [keep doing it]? If he was really, really hurt I don't think he could pitch one inning. ... If he did that, then let's keep going, bro."

Dotel said he believes Pavano wants to compete and could tell he has been frustrated by just looking at him. He said he doesn't talk to Pavano, because he doesn't know what he would say that would make him feel better. Dotel empathized with Pavano wanting to hide his injury to possibly help get him back to the Yankees sooner.

"After you get so many pains and so many little things, you want to go through it and pitch with that feeling to see if it goes away," Dotel said. "I'm not saying he should do that, but sometimes you get to that point and you want to do it no matter what."

Torre said he could see Pavano's side of things, but he's also frustrated. Torre hasn't spoken with Pavano since the team was informed of the accident, but unlike Cashman, the manager said he isn't going to delve into any investigation.

"It seems that every time we think we have something solved, something else pops up," Torre said of Pavano's injuries. "You just kind of shake your head."

Torre also seemed to ponder the severity of the rib injury saying, "There are players who have played with broken bones before. Evidently, it was possible [because Pavano did it on Friday]."

Derek Jeter said he didn't know all the details of the injury and that he hasn't even thought much about it.

"It's not a letdown if you weren't counting on it," Jeter said of Pavano's comeback, which was supposed to happen later this week.

Even if Pavano does come back this season there are concerns about how he will be received in the Yankees' clubhouse. There have been several players who said off the record that it seemed like Pavano didn't want to pitch, and Cashman said he's sure the players are frustrated.

"You have to walk into this clubhouse, dress next to these guys and carry your share of the load," Torre said. "If it's a little tougher to do that at first, so be it."

As team captain, Jeter spoke almost as the team's representative to reporters on Tuesday.

"He's a teammate, he's going to be welcomed," Jeter said. "We want him to win. We want him to do well. But he's got to be healthy first, before we can answer those questions."

The Yankees will find out just how healthy Pavano is on Wednesday. Cashman said he could use a healthy Pavano. The question is whether that will ever come.
Myers Reigns as King of Lefty Specialists
Quote:
In 1997, as a pitcher for the Mariners, Mike Myers and a Seattle television station wanted to see just how many people would recognize Myers on the street.

So they came up with idea of sending him to Pike Place Market, a famous fish market on Seattle's waterfront, to see if people would buy food from him just for the novelty of meeting a Major League Baseball player.

Myers' item was frozen fish sticks.

"People just gave me funny looks," said Myers, who is now the Yankees' left-handed specialist.

Such is the life of a baseball "LOOGY" -- a nickname coined by former STATS Inc. writer John Sickels for a (L)eft-handed, (O)ne-(O)ut (G)u(Y).

But among specialists, Myers is revered. In an online statistical breakdown of the historical use of LOOGYs by The Hardball Times, Myers is referred to as "His Majesty, the Big Kahuna, the King of LOOGYs," the "Hardest of Hardcore" of them all.

Myers is the all-time record holder for most appearances while facing just one batter. He has averaged less than two-thirds of an inning per appearance during his 11-year career and has the most appearances of any player since 1995.

"Whether there is something done, good or bad, there's a record for whoever does the most or least," Myers said. "So OK -- no big deal."

That's his attitude about a lot of things. Myers is an every day, blue-collar worker. He stands out from his teammates, who have constant media pressure. Myers almost treats his profession like a 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. job.

Myers has been the commissioner of an "office" fantasy golf league for several years on different teams, and now heads up the Yankees' players and coaches league. He's an excellent poker player, according to his teammates, and reads the newspaper and does the crossword puzzle before games.

Asked to describe Myers with one sentence, bullpen coach Joe Kerrigan said, "He's the kind of guy you'd like to have as your next-door neighbor."

Myers, an Arlington Heights, Ill., native, was described in a different way by his bullpen buddy Ron Villone, with whom Myers warms up every day. It wasn't something you often hear said about a player.

"He's very sneaky," Villone said. "He's kind of that under-the-radar type, but at the same time he's a character."

There are a few tricky things about Myers. He shares his name with famous horror-movie character Michael Myers from Halloween and he enters games to the movies' creepy theme music.

Then there's his delivery, which Myers started using in 1996, his first full season in the big leagues. Suggested by then-broadcaster and former Tigers great Al Kaline during a plane ride, Myers' delivery comes from far out to his left and only about a foot above the ground to give Myers some "funkiness," as he says. Myers tossed perfect innings in his next two outings after the advice and stuck with it.

Villone also said Myers is very smart. Myers may have the physical appearance of your average 6-foot-3, 37-year-old father, but can dominate hitters by outwitting them, Villone said.

Myers, who became a specialist in 1995, uses a low-70 mph slider and a high-70 mph fastball. He mixes pitches so well that he's a nightmare for left-handed batters. Lefties are hitting just .241 off Myers this season and .209 off him in Myers' career.

Although teams sometimes counter Myers' entrance by pinch-hitting a right-handed hitter, it's Myers' success even against righties which has made him so successful. Right-handed hitters are hitting .219 off him this season. He is 1-0 with a 2.66 ERA overall this year.

"He's very important for us," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "That's why you sort of ignore him a lot, because there's that one situation where his name comes to mind."

Myers doesn't get the acclaim despite his years of success. But that's fine by him. Unlike some of his teammates who are recognized in bookstores or restaurants, Myers keeps a low profile. He resides in Highlands Ranch, Colo., with his wife Robyn, sons Christian and Daryl and a daughter named Laryssa.

"My pocket book isn't as big," Myers said. "I don't get as many endorsement deals. But I'm able to take my family out."

The tough thing is that the Yankees are Myers' eighth Major League team. Reliable bullpen help is always in demand, but can also become expendable at season's end. Myers seems to stay two years wherever he goes and has a two-year contract with the Yankees.

There are also other negatives to the job. Not only has Myers been asked to retire some of the most feared left-handed hitters -- such as David Ortiz, Barry Bonds and Ken Griffey Jr. -- but he's asked to do it in some of the most stressful situations.

"He's a special kind of performer," Kerrigan said. "He can come in and instantly get an out. He knows it's crucial; that it's this one at-bat, this left-hander, and it has to happen now. It takes a special talent to do that, not only pitching skills, but mental skills."

The job can be mentally taxing because it can be difficult for specialists to get constant work. Some teams don't have any feared lefties in their lineup, or many lefties at all, meaning a specialist such as Myers could go more than a week without an appearance. Myers has pitched just 23 2/3 innings in 47 games this season.

But on Aug. 21, with the Yankees on the verge of their five-game sweep of the Red Sox, Myers' expertise was called on. This was the moment he had been signed for.

The Yankees were ahead by one run with one out in the seventh inning and the master of late-inning heroics, David Ortiz, stepped to the plate.

"I know the one guy that I'm going to be facing in this lineup," Myers said after the game. "It's not a whole lot of fun to think about, but it's fun when you succeed."

Myers succeeded, striking out Ortiz swinging with just three pitches. That was the end of his day -- three pitches, one huge out. It was precisely what he's done throughout his entire career.

"I do my thing and move onto the next day," Myers said. "I'll look at my baseball card when I retire, see how I did."

He can get one of those cards fairly easily. A Myers rookie card sells for 25 cents online.

But now that he's an all-time record holder, you better act fast; those things are selling like frozen fish sticks.
Yanks Players Question Pavano's Will, Desire to Play
Quote:
The Carl Pavano saga added yet another chapter Monday with news that Pavano has two fractured ribs suffered in a car accident on Aug. 15 in West Palm Beach, Fla. The accident occurred the morning of a rehab assignment for Class A Tampa.

Pavano, who hasn't pitched in the Majors in 14 months due to shoulder, back, buttocks and most recently elbow injuries, didn't report the accident to senior vice president and general manager Brian Cashman until Saturday.

The Yankees starter felt discomfort in his ribcage after pitching six innings for Triple-A Columbus on Friday night. He felt he was ready to return to the Yankees following the start, but the injury didn't seem to get any better, so he decided to inform Yankees management.

"Of course I'm angry," Cashman said. "You can't help somebody if they won't help themselves. ... I've got an army of people here that we provide to put our players in the best position possible to succeed, and I don't want anybody to sabotage that by holding back. And clearly, here, for a period of time that took place."

Pavano appeared to be on his way back to the Yankees' rotation and was tentatively scheduled to make a start some time later this week. Now, after getting a full checkup and throwing a side session on Monday, Pavano will make another rehab start with Columbus on Wednesday before being reevaluated by doctors and Yankees management.

"If he's healthy, he'll pitch," Cashman said, adding that it will be manager Joe Torre's decision on where Pavano will fit into the rotation or bullpen. It was believed that Pavano could have replaced Jaret Wright in the rotation or at least fill in while Mike Mussina was on the disabled list, but Wright will start on Thursday.

Pavano said his car hit a puddle and spun out of control, hitting a truck that was at a stop sign. Pavano said his car wasn't totaled, that he wasn't charged with the accident and that he didn't get any medical treatment on the scene or afterward.

Pavano did not inform any coaches about the accident and made three rehab starts before reporting what happened. He said he didn't feel much pain just after the accident. Pavano threw four scoreless innings that night, so he figured he could play through it.

But the pain didn't go away despite icing it himself, forcing him to "come clean and get the right treatment."

"It just seems like there's a lot of distractions that are caused by me that go around with the team, and I figured that, at the time, it was something I could get through," Pavano said. "It backfired on me. I take full responsibility for making the wrong decision. It's been frustrating for me. Obviously, I want to pitch."

Cashman remembered former Yankee Paul O'Neill playing through a similar injury. Still, Cashman said that it's the obligation of every player to always report any injuries and that he's still gathering information on whether Pavano broke any contractual obligations.

Pavano signed a four-year, $39.95 million contract before last season following an 18-8 season with the Marlins. He has started just 17 games for the Yankees, going 4-6 with a 4.77 ERA. Pavano said the pressures placed on him to finally return to the club added to his reasons for not telling Yankees management about the injury sooner.

"There are a lot of expectations that I put on myself two years ago that I still haven't gotten the chance to move forward on," he said. "I put pressure on myself to pitch and be a big part of the team and not be a distraction, which is basically how I feel.

"It would be nice to get those things behind me. The only way I can do that is go out there on the mound and do my job and try to live up to why they signed me. Those things are very important to me."

On Sunday, several Yankees players, who asked to remain nameless, questioned Pavano's desire to return to the team. Upon hearing of Pavano's rib injury, which was originally thought to be a strain, Torre said, "It became one of those things where it took the air out of the balloon again."

Cashman said he's only worried about Pavano's health right now, and Pavano also said he's not concerned with his teammates' reactions if or when he returns to the clubhouse.

"I don't feel like I need anybody to feel sorry for me," Pavano said. "I'll do what I have to do to get through this. If they don't understand, I don't think I have much control over that. Me talking to them or trying to save face -- that's not the type of guy I am.

"I can understand why some people think that happens for some reason or this happens for some reason," he continued. "But I'm really the only one who has the answers. So a lot of the answers depend on how I perform, and I understand that."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/06 09:07 PM

Wang has a BEAUTIFUL game against the 2nd best team in the league (that's right, the Mets are better by 1 game) in the Detroit Tigers. Wang went 7 2/3 strong innings, 3 hits, 0 runs, 2 BB, 3 SO, 16-5 with a 3.66 ERA. Has he "proven" himself yet plaw :p

And with the win the Yanks move a full 8 (gulp!) games ahead of the Red Sox, with Boston (and Schilling) get rocked by the A's 4-1 in the top of the 6th.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/06 02:10 AM

F--K YOU PROCTOLOGIST PIECE OF CRAP!!!!!!!
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/06 08:20 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
[b]F--K YOU PROCTOLOGIST PIECE OF CRAP!!!!!!! [/b]


Take it easy. I'm sure Irishman didn't mean anything.
Posted By: plawrence

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/06 02:06 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Has (Wang) "proven" himself yet, plaw :p
Yeah, I would say that Wang is now a "proven" #3 Major League Starter, and is working on (and very close to) joining the ranks of the #2 guys - guys like Glavine, Harden, Lackey, etc.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/06 02:52 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
[b]F--K YOU PROCTOLOGIST PIECE OF CRAP!!!!!!! [/b]
A-Men
I've wanted to say that very thing more then once!

I bet that felt good getting that off your chest!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/06 05:26 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by plawrence:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] Has (Wang) "proven" himself yet, plaw :p
Yeah, I would say that Wang is now a "proven" #3 Major League Starter, and is working on (and very close to) joining the ranks of the #2 guys - guys like Glavine, Harden, Lackey, etc. [/b][/quote]Glad he passed "the test" :p I'm still curious to see how he'll perform in October though, where it counts (hint hint A-rod)
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/06 07:26 PM

He's baaaaaaaack! A-Rod's a triple away from the cycle
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/06 08:07 PM

The Yankees win. Aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Yankees win and take 2 outta 3 from those pesky Tigers. Are they gonna fizzle before October or what?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/01/06 01:04 AM

The Tigers will fizzle when you stop flip-flopping, Irishman. :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/01/06 05:48 AM

Wow, A-Rod only has 27 homeruns this season. If he doesn't hit 30, it'll be the first since 1997 that he hasn't hit more than 30
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/02/06 05:48 AM

A good win for the Yanks tonight and glad to HEAR A-Rod hit 2 homeruns (he's currently sitting on 29).

Remember when Jose Contreras was "invisible" earlier this year? Currently he's 11-7 with a 4.23 ERA. Tonight, he went 5 innings, 7 hits, 7 runs, 2 BB, 6 SO against the lowly Royals.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/02/06 12:05 PM

You've become like a good luck charm to Alex Rodriguez, Irish. Maybe you could complain about some more nitpicking stupid crap and he'll have a nice fluffy stretch for his stats.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/02/06 04:12 PM

Tough breaks for the Red Sox, whose team appears to be falling apart like an old Corvair...Jon Lester has (treatable) lymphoma, Papelbon injured his arm, Schilling will miss at least his next start, Manny and Ortiz are still MIA, Varitek is still out, wow.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/02/06 05:43 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
You've become like a good luck charm to Alex Rodriguez, Irish. Maybe you could complain about some more nitpicking stupid crap and he'll have a nice fluffy stretch for his stats.
Hey, I'm for anything that will break his 1-for-24 slump before the Detroit game on Thursday
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/02/06 05:43 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Tough breaks for the Red Sox, whose team appears to be falling apart like an old Corvair...Jon Lester has (treatable) lymphoma, Papelbon injured his arm, Schilling will miss at least his next start, Manny and Ortiz are still MIA, Varitek is still out, wow.
How did Papelbon injury his arm and why is Schilling missing his next start?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/02/06 10:16 PM

Villone gives up some big runs and the Yanks fall to the Twins, 6-1 (with the rain shortening their chances).

Darrell Rasner (WTF?!?! I thought he had season-ending injuries...) will get the start Sunday against Garza. Grr. I guess they must be pulling these guys out of the reserves since we're virtually a lock for the AL East, but damn. Oh well.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/03/06 08:21 PM

A good win for the Yanks today as they take 2-outta-3 from the Twins (a possible playoff match?). A good debut for Darrell Rasner and yes A-Rod hits 2 bombs
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/03/06 10:45 PM

After 29 Homers Irish, are you gonna stop sucking A-Rod's cock after you snowballed him out of hate?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/04/06 06:13 AM

Stop? When did I start?

Looks like Josh Beckett has turned into the Jaret Wright of the Boston Red Sox He last only 5 innings (threw 77 pitches) against the Blue Jays. He's 14-10 with a 5.11 ERA
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/04/06 12:16 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Looks like Josh Beckett has turned into the Jaret Wright of the Boston Red Sox
Not so funny when you consider we've still got Jaret Wright on our team.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/04/06 12:47 PM

Chien will see action today against the Royals, and Mussina returns tomorrow. Hooray!

And, the Yanks are 2 games behind the Tigers for the AL lead!


Yankees News and Notes

Matsui Nearing September Return
Quote:
Hideki Matsui moved one step closer to a September return, taking live batting practice on Wednesday for the first time since fracturing his left wrist nearly four months ago.

Matsui took about 35 swings in the indoor batting cage at Yankee Stadium, reporting no problems following the session. He is expected to take BP every day and could play in Minor League rehab games sometime next week.

"Everything was good; I didn't have any pain, and swing-wise, I felt pretty good," Matsui said through his interpreter. "My swing and my mechanics aren't too bad right now. I think it's more that my timing is a little off."

While the Minor League regular season ends next Monday for most teams, the Yankees will likely have one or two teams playing in the postseason, so Matsui could rehab by playing in those games.

"Live batting practice ... [may] be a little more physical than he's used to doing," manager Joe Torre said. "It's just a matter of how much BP he needs. We'll see what we can do after that."

"If it were to happen today, I'm sure I could play in a game," Matsui said. "I'll follow whatever I'm told to do."

Torre and general manager Brian Cashman haven't decided whether Matsui will play in any Minor League games, as Torre called it "a little premature" to discuss that. However, the manager said that scenario is "not out of the question."

If Matsui isn't ready to play in Minor League games before they are over, he would likely take part in some simulated games before returning to the Yankees.

Neither Torre nor Matsui seem concerned about the possibility of reinjuring the wrist by playing the outfield, but Matsui will likely serve as the Yankees' designated hitter upon his return, leaving Melky Cabrera as the starting left fielder.

"Just to get his feet wet," Torre said. "I think it's the safest thing to do, just so he's not diving for any balls out there."

"I should be fine," Matsui said, "as long as I don't do the same thing I did a couple of months ago."

Hideki Matsui took batting practice on the field with his teammates before Friday's game, hitting several balls out of the park.

Matsui could begin a rehab assignment early next week when Double-A Trenton begins its postseason, making a return by the end of next week a realistic possibility.

"If I had to play now, I think I could play," Matsui said through his interpreter. "When they tell me it's time to go for rehab, that's what I'll do."

"The fact that he's hitting on the field is a step closer to being on the field," Torre said.
Pavano On Mend For At Least Two Weeks
Quote:
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman decided on Wednesday that right-hander Carl Pavano would be shut down for about two weeks while his two fractured ribs heal.

The latest news in the saga of Pavano, who has two years and $20 million remaining on his contract, came shortly after the pitcher was examined by team physician Dr. Stuart Hershon, who prescribed the rest in a conversation with Cashman.

Pavano tried to talk Cashman into letting him pitch through the injury, which he did during three Minor League rehab outings following his car accident, but the GM had no intention of letting Pavano pitch.

"He wants to pitch through it; he thinks it's something he can deal with and that he's been dealing with," Cashman said. "I'm choosing, based on the discussions with our team physician, not to allow that. I don't need one problem causing another problem."

Pavano's injury is forcing him to cut his delivery short, and that has resulted in tightness in his right shoulder. Pavano underwent MRI exams on both his shoulder and his elbow, both of which came back clean.

Despite Pavano's desire to pitch through the injury, Cashman believes that shutting him down until his ribs heal is the right move.

"The easy thing would be to say, 'This is embarrassing for everybody involved, so you're just going to go out there, toe the rubber and get through it, because none of us want to deal with the alternative,'" Cashman said. "The alternative might be a little more embarrassing to go through with, but it's the smart play."

Pavano, whose last start for the Yankees came on June 27, 2005, has missed the entire season with injuries to his buttocks, elbow and now the ribs. He suffered this latest injury after crashing his Porsche into a truck on Aug. 15, though he didn't inform the club of the accident for almost two weeks.

The incident has caused a lot of hard feelings inside the Yankees' clubhouse, where several players have questioned his desire to pitch for the team at all. On Wednesday, copies of the back pages of Tuesday's New York tabloids featuring the headlines "Crash Test Dummy" and "Crash Dummy" were taped into Pavano's locker by one of his teammates, causing a laugh among some of the players.

Cashman acknowledged that Pavano will have to mend his relationship with his teammates when he returns to the team, but said that the issue will have to be addressed at another time.

"There's no doubt that with the fans, the front office, his teammates -- everything is about earning respect on a daily basis," Cashman said. "Clearly, he's been a member of this team for two years and he's been unable to help us because of legitimate reasons; but stuff like this, hiding injuries, it loses credibility and respect.

"He's got a mountain to climb to get back into the fold," Cashman added. "That's on him; like any person, you're going to want to earn that back and fight for it."

When Pavano will have that opportunity, however, is unknown. Cashman wouldn't rule out the possibility of the righty pitching for New York in 2006, but he also said that the pitcher could be done for the year.

"I'm not saying he won't pitch for us this year, but I'm not saying he will, either," Cashman said. "I want him to help us at some point; I wish it would be in '06, but I can't guarantee it is."

There has been speculation that the Yankees will try to void the remaining two years of Pavano's contract, but Cashman said it is far too early to talk about that. The team's internal investigation into the accident has not been completed, and Cashman declined to discuss possible penalties until he has collected all of the facts.

"We don't have any facts on anything that has happened," Cashman said. "We're certainly investigating, and if there's something for us that's worth disciplining, we're going to pursue that to discipline. That's as far as I'll go on that."

According to Cashman, fractured ribs take three to six weeks to heal, giving Pavano another one to four weeks of recovery time. Pavano needs to be "free and easy, without restriction" before he will be permitted to take the mound again, though Cashman said he will throw on flat ground to keep his arm loose.

"Two years into this thing, it hasn't worked out," Cashman said of Pavano's contract. "I have two years left -- and he has two years left -- to salvage it and make good, so it makes no sense to jeopardize anything going forward."
Batting Practice Nears For Sheffield
Quote:
Gary Sheffield could be a week away from taking batting practice, making a September return a realistic goal for the outfielder.

Sheffield has been out since undergoing surgery in early June to repair a torn ligament in his left wrist, missing the Yankees' past 84 games. He visited Dr. Charles Melone, the hand specialist who performed the surgery, this week and was told to continue his current program for another week.

"It's about getting the strength I need to be the player that I'm capable of being," said Sheffield, who has been swinging a bat underwater as part of his rehab. "That's what I'm working on now, getting my stamina and power."

Unlike Hideki Matsui, who progressed from hitting off a tee to doing soft-toss drills before taking BP, Sheffield plans on jumping right into batting practice when he is cleared to hit.

"Like I told [the doctor], 'Once you clear me, I have to be able to do it all -- or don't release me to do anything,'" Sheffield said. "I can either do it or I can't; we established that early."

"I think once he starts, it's going to be a knife-through-butter type of thing," manager Joe Torre said. "He's been champing at the bit."

Once Sheffield starts taking batting practice, it's not unreasonable to expect him to return to the Yankees shortly thereafter. Sheffield never picks up a bat during the winter, but he needs just 30 spring at-bats or so to get his timing in order. By the time he is ready to play, the Minor League season will be over, so there will be no rehab games for him to play.

"Once I start taking BP and all goes well," he said, "I can jump on the field pretty quick."

"When the doctors turn him loose he's going to have to try it somewhere," Torre said. "If there are no other games left to play, [then] we're the only game in town."

Sheffield hasn't targeted a specific date for his return, as he doesn't want to be disappointed if he's not ready to return by that day.

"I'm not going to do that to myself," Sheffield said. "I know how I am when I get close -- I want to get out there and contribute. When that date comes up soon, you get excited and start rushing things."

Sheffield stressed that he won't return until his wrist is 100 percent healed, as he is about to hit the free agent market this fall. The Yankees hold a $13 million option on Sheffield for 2007, but he has said that he plans to play three more years before retiring.

"My career is at stake here. It's one thing to go back out there knowing you have four or five years on a contract, but this is it for me," Sheffield said. "I have to make sure [the wrist is solid], because if I'm not going to be here, I have to look beyond that."
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/05/06 03:15 AM

Anyone else watching the 8th inning of the KC game?? An inning like this is what makes the Yankees such an exciting team to watch.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/05/06 04:25 AM

Great, now Boston is getting Manny, Ortiz, Nixon and Varitek back
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/05/06 04:11 PM

So what?

They'd have to have the Yanks on a total cold streak, and they'd have to go on a serious hot streak, to even start to make up the difference.

They should (try) go for the wild card, if they can.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/06/06 12:06 PM

Yankees can't get anything started, and Moose has a mediocre-if-not-bad return from the DL, dropping the 2nd of 3 to the Royals 5-0. Despite his crappy start, Mussina says he's feeling much better since his rest.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/06/06 12:11 PM

Yankees News and Notes

Giambi Resting; Rejuvenating
Quote:
Jason Giambi's struggles at the plate continued on Monday night, as he extended his hitless streak to 18 at-bats with an 0-for-4 night.

Joe Torre decided to rest the slumping slugger on Tuesday, but the manager isn't concerned about Giambi's skid having any long-term effects on him.

"He's getting better," Torre said. "Donnie [Mattingly] figures his stroke is getting close."

Giambi agreed with his manager, and he doesn't think that it will take much to get himself back on the right track.

"I'm hoping to get that one good swing, to hit that one ball real hard, get a base hit and take off from there," Giambi said. "I feel close. Hopefully one good at-bat can get it going again."

Giambi's struggles coincide with a wrist injury that has hampered him for about two weeks. He first felt a problem during the team's series in Seattle after taking a check swing, but he played through it for more than a week before taking a cortisone shot to relieve the pain.

Giambi said Tuesday that his wrist feels "dull" and that he doesn't have enough "snap" in his hands because of the injury.

"I'm just in a little funk," Giambi said. "I'm just fouling off too many pitches right now; I don't have that last little snap to put the ball in play. I'm getting that mistake and fouling the ball back, and you can't do that at this level. Even when I do hit the ball hard, it's right at somebody."

Giambi was just 1-for-15 on the Yankees' homestand, so after striking out in his first at-bat on Monday, he decided it was time to take charge of himself. What did he do? He went into the clubhouse and shaved his mustache.

Unfortunately for him, he went 0-for-3 and was hit by two pitches in his next five trips to the plate.

"I figured it couldn't hurt; change something up," Giambi said. "It didn't really work out to my benefit though, since I got hit twice. Maybe I should have left it on."
Mariano Still On Mend
Quote:
Mariano Rivera played catch on Monday, but he still felt tightness in the muscle near his right elbow.

Rivera did not throw at all on Tuesday and may play catch on Wednesday, delaying a potential mound session until Friday at the earliest. Rivera said Monday that he would need to throw a bullpen session before he gets into a game, making it unlikely that he will pitch again before Saturday.

"We'll see generally how it feels; he said it felt better today," Torre said. "I'm not concerned because the tests they took show there's nothing that needs to be tended to other than just getting this thing out of there. He's going to be honest, because he understands how important it is."
Abreu Was Yanks Best Deal in Six Years
Quote:
It was late June in 2000 when Yankees general manager Brian Cashman decided his dynasty was in danger of collapse. After two consecutive world championships, the Bombers were barely above .500, having lost six of seven and looking nothing like the team that had blown through the 1998 and '99 World Series without losing a game.

This was still the pre-Jason Giambi, Alex Rodriguez, Hideki Matsui, Gary Sheffield era, and Cashman feared his in-house talent wouldn't be enough to take the Yankees to the postseason, let alone another Series. So he picked up the phone and promptly made the best trade of his professional life.

Cashman's acquisition of David Justice from the Indians delivered the Yankees to the Subway Series, where they beat the Mets in five games. A reborn Justice batted .305 after arriving in the Bronx, slugging 20 home runs in just 275 at-bats.

To this day, Justice is the billboard of best-case scenarios -- proof that one trade, one player, can redefine a season. Six years later, Cashman has picked the right horse again, getting Bobby Abreu in time for the Yankees' five-game sweep at Fenway last month and the subsequent sprint for the playoffs.

The ultra-selective Abreu sees a major league-best 4.47 pitches per plate appearance.

After watching Abreu go 10-for-20 against his team, Curt Schilling noted the difference between the Yankees and Sox was Abreu himself.

"I told my teammates, 'He's going to be the best player in baseball for the last eight weeks of the season,'" Schilling said.

All Abreu has done is bat .374 in pinstripes, including a four-RBI night in the Yankees' 12-5 thrashing of the Royals Monday. His .460 on-base percentage is fueled by a major league best 113 walks -- all of which come from Abreu's extraordinary discipline and patience in the batter's box.

He averages 4.47 pitches per plate appearance, tops in the majors. Combined with Giambi, who looks at 4.37 pitches per plate appearance (third in the AL), the Yankees are wearing out opposing pitchers at a relentless pace.

In taking four of six from the Tigers and Twins last week, the Yankees forced opposing starters to average 90 pitches in five innings. The driving force is Abreu, who in Giambi's words, "can break down a pitcher psychologically in how fast he can go from 0-2 to 3-2 in the count."

More often than not, Abreu will lengthen at-bats for the sheer pleasure of making a pitcher work.

"I like getting a good look because it helps me and my teammates," he said. "It helps me later in the game, too, because by then I've had a chance to see how the pitcher is throwing to me."

Of course, there's a narrow gulf between patience and passivity, and if there was any criticism in Philadelphia over Abreu's style of play, it's that he was too eager to walk and too reluctant to crash into the outfield walls chasing down a fly ball.

How would that laid-back demeanor look in comparison to the hyperactive Johnny Damon? That was no small curiosity. Before making the swap with the Phillies, Cashman quizzed Larry Bowa, the Yankees' third base coach and Abreu's former manager in Philadelphia, about the possibility of an unwelcome transition.

After all, Yankees fans had spent much of July and August booing Rodriguez until Joe Torre was finally forced to move A-Rod out of the No. 3 spot in the batting order. That would become Abreu's turf, but not until Cashman was assured that his new right fielder could absorb the win-or-else mandate that's like the Yankees' second skin.

Bowa, however, was sure Abreu would grow to love New York.

"I didn't think it would be an issue whether Bobby would fit in here," he said. "He's surrounded by a lot of great players. In Philly, he took a lot of responsibility on himself. If he didn't hit, he felt the team couldn't win."

Abreu was more or less right about the Phillies' plight: He never got to the postseason in eight years with the Phillies. He spoke of coming to the Yankees as a "dream come true; you get here and you realize why these guys win all the time. It's all they think about is winning. It's more exciting here. There's so much passion to win."

Whether Abreu can sustain his production is anyone's guess. The Phillies wondered out loud about the outfielder's declining home run production. More importantly, GM Pat Gillick was so desperate to unload the $20 million Abreu is owed through 2008, he didn't put up a fight when the Yankees demanded Cory Lidle be included in the deal.

In the short term, the Yankees had no problem allowing their payroll to swell over $200 million, especially if it meant finding another David Justice-like lottery ticket. Actually, there was no luck involved; the Yankees knew they had the Phillies backed into a corner, because they were the only team willing to absorb Abreu's salary.

Still, in Cashman's fiefdom, the ends justify the means, especially if it guarantees the Yankees their ninth straight division title.

Abreu says he's ready for the monthlong riot that descends upon the Bronx every October. If anyone can handle stress, it seems, it's Abreu, who is so unassuming and uncomplicated, he's become the anti-A-Rod.

With a smile, Abreu says, "That's me, I don't really say much. It's the way I am."

No wonder Derek Jeter calls Abreu, "the perfect fit" for the Yankees. No issues, no scandals, only base hits. Talk about old school.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/09/06 03:44 AM

Yanks got stomped tonight. What the f*ck happened to Lidle? He only went 1 2/3 giving up 6 runs But it's all good because Boston blew it in the 9th to Kansas City
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/09/06 11:53 PM

Man I can't believe Wang has turned out so good this year. Tonight he went 7 1/3 innings, 8 hits, 1 run, 0 BB, 1 SO. He's 17-5 ( ) with a 3.60 ERA.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/06 03:34 AM

WOO HOO! Boston losses to Kansas City AGAIN, and now they're a full 10 games back of those pesky New York Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/06 12:39 PM


***MATSUI RETURNS TO THE YANKEE LINEUP MONDAY!!!***
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/06 05:55 PM

Now what did Giambi do to his wrist? I'm hearing he injured it last month on a road trip in Seattle?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/06 06:04 AM

The Yankees are officially the best team in the A.L. with a record of 85-56 (.603) compared to Detroit's 86-58 (.597). Now if the Yanks can just hang on, they'll have homefield advantage throughout the playoffs
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/06 02:02 PM

Yes, homefield advantage.......that worked well in 2003.

:p

No offense, but thats always overrated. Besides, how many WS-winning squads in the last 25 years actually had homefield advantage?

Again, my prediction from weeks and weeks ago has come true. The Yanks have the East.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/06 02:29 PM

Wow, even Jack Nicholson thinks the hate against A-Rod is silly.

http://nymag.com/guides/fallpreview/2006/movies/19704/

"I’d like to help A-Rod out, because they just won’t shut up in the Stadium"
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/06 05:23 PM

Ortiz says he should still be considered for MVP

David Ortiz, the American League leader in home runs and RBI, says Boston's fall from the American League playoff race should not disqualify him from the race for the AL's Most Valuable Player award.


But Ortiz told reporters after the Red Sox's 9-3 win over the Royals on Sunday that he thinks that's what's going to happen.


"I'll tell you one thing," Ortiz said. "If I get 50 home runs and 10 more RBI [which would give him 137], that's going to be a round number that no one else in the American League will have."


"But they'll vote for a position player, use that as an excuse. They're talking about [Derek] Jeter a lot, right? He's done a great job, he's having a great season, but Jeter is not a 40-homer hitter or an RBI guy. It doesn't matter how much you've done for your ball club, the bottom line is, the guy who hits 40 home runs and knocks in 100, that's the guy you know helped your team win games.


"Don't get me wrong -- he's a great player, having a great season, but he's got a lot of guys in that lineup," Ortiz continued. "Top to bottom, you've got a guy who can hurt you. Come hit in this lineup, see how good you can be."


Ortiz said if he had a vote, he might cast it for Jermaine Dye or Paul Konerko of the Chicago White Sox, or Justin Morneau of the Minnesota Twins.


"All depends on who makes the playoffs," he said. "Dye is having an unbelievable season, an incredible year. Konerko, too.


"Morneau, he's having a great season, but in Minnesota, there's no publicity. I bet you nobody knows who he is."


Ortiz also noted that Alex Rodriguez won the MVP in 2003, despite the fact his Texas Rangers finished last in the AL West. That season, A-Rod hit .298 with 47 home runs and 118 RBI.


"I'm right there," he said, "but I'm not going to win it. They give it to [Rodriguez] one year, even though his team was in last place, so now they can't play that BS anymore, just because your team didn't make it. They gave it to Alex that year because of his numbers. But they always have a reason to vote for whatever, so that's why I don't worry about it."

Source: ESPN

Is this a joke or what!?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/06 08:33 PM

Well, I'm sure he believes it. Personally, I think that Ortiz has proved himself THE clutch hitter of the year. How many games would Boston have lost if it wasn't for a 9th inning homer from Big Papi? Aside from that? I don't know. I'm not diminishing his talent. He's a great ballplayer. But I have to agree with the theory that a player who is "only" a DH, but who has similar numbers to one who plays both offense and defense, will lose out for MVP.

Jeter is having a great season. I believe this is his year.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/11/06 09:06 PM

Hopefully so, SB. I'm REALLY rooting for Jeter but upon looking at his career statistics, this hasn't been his big year in the bigs. Check out his stats from the 1999 season
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 12:07 AM

Ortiz is one of the most clutch hitters in baseball. Arguably the biggest batting threat in the AL.

But I still refuse to accept a DH as the Most Valuable Player - baseball is a 2-way game, played on offense and defense, at least in my humble opinion.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 12:32 AM

DJ, since when have you been humble?? I happen to agree with you wholeheartedly. There was an article about this being Jeter's year for MVP in my local paper. They referenced other seasons that he's had, and compared his getting MVP this season to Pacino winning the Oscar for Scent of a Woman, saying that although we loved the Colonel, he was no Michael Corleone.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 12:44 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
It doesn't matter how much you've done for your ball club, the bottom line is, the guy who hits 40 home runs and knocks in 100, that's the guy you know helped your team win games.
This is ridiculous!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 03:25 AM

Wow Babe, local NY papers pushing Jeter for MVP. Wow! Will wonders ever cease? :rolleyes:

Anyway, you Yankees fans are silly. If you had an MVP-candidate at DH, you all would be pushing him like insane monkeys during mating season, or the bored chimps at the local zoo when they grab a handful of feces and throw at the tourists.

Again, Jeter is a worthy MVP candidate. I mean why not?

In fact, the reason why I can't support Ortiz for MVP is that the Red Sox are out of the contention for the East, and WC? Very doubtful.

Call me old-fashion, but "Most Valuable Player" to me means a player instrumental in making one's clubhouse be one of only 4 clubs of an entire league to make the playoffs.

In that rationality, Jeter is more worthy of MVP than Ortiz.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 05:18 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]It doesn't matter how much you've done for your ball club, the bottom line is, the guy who hits 40 home runs and knocks in 100, that's the guy you know helped your team win games.
This is ridiculous! [/b][/quote]I agree. I can't believe Ortiz would be dumb enough to say all of this stupid sh*t. Sure he's had a great year and is the most clutch hitter in the game, I'll give him that. But I agree with DJ, I just don't accept a DH as much as a position player because of their work in the field.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 05:20 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
In fact, the reason why I can't support Ortiz for MVP is that the Red Sox are out of the contention for the East, and WC? Very doubtful.

Call me old-fashion, but "Most Valuable Player" to me means a player instrumental in making one's clubhouse be one of only 4 clubs of an entire league to make the playoffs.

In that rationality, Jeter is more worthy of MVP than Ortiz.
However, I will agree with Ortiz in that A-Rod was voted MVP while Texas sat comfortablly in last place, although Alex is a position player.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 07:12 AM

I really don't care if a DH wins -- he just needs to be THE MOST VALUABLE PLAYER. Period. Who cares if he plays in the field or not, if he was THE MOST valuable player.

But what's that even mean anymore? Most homers and RBI? Most production in general, regardless of how the team ends up? Most instrumental in his team's success?

Did Ortiz put up bigger numbers than Jeter? Sure, many do, outside of AVG. But was Ortiz valuable enough to help his team get to the post season? No... at least not yet. Is Jeter an instrumental part of the Yanks reaching post season play? Absolutely. But so are others on other successful teams.

So Ortiz needs to STFU and stop embarrassing himself and his team by making such idiotic comments. Altho I do NOT think A-Rod deserved it that year with Texas; that was ridiculous, and I don't think they should make that mistake again.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 07:34 AM

Your points are valid Geoff. I can see the problem from both sides. To me, I wouldn't vote for a DH because they don't play the field. They don't have to worry about fatigue and getting injuried while playing the field like A-Rod, Jeter, etc. do. I can't image how those guys played days games at the Stadium in 100+ degree weather last month. That sets into a player come the 6th, 7th and 8th innings if they're physically drained.

However, I do also see Ortiz's point. To only be a DH, you have one job, hit the ball. Sounds simple enough but when you are "required" to do it all the time because you are the automatic DH player, it can put a lot of pressure on the hitter (which Ortiz has brushed off time and time again). As I said in my previous post Ortiz is Mr. Clutch (pitchers/teams should realize they SHOULDN'T pitch to him anymore, because how many game winning hits/home runs did he have this season?). Ortiz has done his job extremely well and he has the best power numbers in the AL, but as you also said, he hasn't been instrumental in Boston making the postseason (thus far).
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 03:32 PM

I think Ortiz belittled himself a bit in campaigning for the MVP. That said, I wouldn't necessarily eliminate a DH from MVP contention even though I oppose the DH. Don Baylor won an MVP as a DH, so there is precedent.

Ortiz does deserve consideration, not only in the big numbers he's put up, but the numerous ninth inning heroics. I would lean, however, to Jermaine Dye right now for AL MVP.

You guys have raised some interesting MVP points. It is often said that preference should be given to players whose teams make the play-offs or compete late in the season for post-season; the point being that these players put up their numbers in "meaningful" games. I would suggest then that if this is so, then conversely the fact that the Mets are so far in front should weaken MVP arguments for Beltran. Certainly, the Mets would hold a comfortable lead with an average center fielder. Moreover, it could be said that the Mets' games from August on have not been that meaningful.

I would give the NL MVP nod to Ryan Howard, who took over the Phillies after they dealt Lidle, Abreu, Cormier, Franklin and Bell at the deadline and almost single handedly transformed them from a floundering club to a play-off contender. Plus, his numbers aren't too shabby.

Anyway, I've never been completely comfortable in penalizing great players in the balancing act between impressive statistics and overall team success.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 03:54 PM

Klydon1, I agree I think Ryan Howard should (and probably will) win the NL MVP. A case can be made for Beltran, but as you pointed out, Howard has turned that team around single-handedly.

What about the Cy Young's for each league? I would have given it to Moose early on but he's had some setbacks during the 2nd half of the season. I'd nominate Wang but I'm not sure how many others would follow suit. More than likely, Santana from Minnesota will win it again and as for the NL, maybe Chris Carpenter for the Cards
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 05:19 PM

Jeter to Ortiz: Yanks have \'something to play for\'

Success is apparently its own reward for New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter.

When asked about Boston Red Sox DH David Ortiz's grousing about his chances to be the American League MVP, Jeter noted the Yankees still have "something to play for."

In comments published Monday, Ortiz said the Red Sox's free-fall from the AL playoff race should not affect his MVP candidacy with voters, and compared his own performance to Jeter, whose MVP stock rose as the Yankees took command of the AL East. New York led Boston by 10½ games on Tuesday.

"Don't get me wrong -- he's a great player, having a great season, but he's got a lot of guys in that lineup," Ortiz said of Jeter. "Top to bottom, you've got a guy who can hurt you. Come hit in this lineup, see how good you can be."

To that, Jeter replied "I don't have to do it in his lineup."

"I'm not thinking about the MVP right now," he told reporters Monday. "We're thinking about winning a division. We've still got something to play for."

He then added, "No one here's focused on individual awards."

Yankees center fielder Johnny Damon said Ortiz's comments didn't sound like the Big Papi he played with for three seasons in Boston.

"It doesn't sound like Ortiz," Damon told reporters. "I can't believe he would say something like that."

Damon said he thought Ortiz was a "shoo-in" for MVP last season, but lost out to Alex Rodriguez last year because being a DH hurt him with the voters.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 06:05 PM

And people wonder why Derek Jeter is so admired? What a classy way to respond!!
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/06 07:35 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:

What about the Cy Young's for each league? I would have given it to Moose early on but he's had some setbacks during the 2nd half of the season. I'd nominate Wang but I'm not sure how many others would follow suit. More than likely, Santana from Minnesota will win it again and as for the NL, maybe Chris Carpenter for the Cards
I agree that it looks like Santana over Halladay and Carpenter over Webb.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/13/06 12:46 AM

The Yankees are winning 12-0 in the 4th against Tampa. Right now the bases are loaded, and Abreu is up. Although it's early, I think that they may just win this one.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/13/06 02:21 AM

My vote for NL MVP is Ryan Howard. Even if the Phillies barely squeak themselves out of the Wildcard clinch, Howard fucking turned a demoralized clubhouse and city, and actually made the friggin Phillies.....you know....contenders.

THAT is MVP street cred.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/13/06 05:52 AM

Abreu has 7 RBI's on the night, Matsui goes 4-for-4 and Moose pitches 5 1/3 shut out innings with 5 SO. Not to mention, "the Met's victory (over Florida) eliminated the Braves from the NL East race, ending their record run of 14 straight division titles." Can it get any better than this!?
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/13/06 06:13 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
"the Met's victory (over Florida) eliminated the Braves from the NL East race, ending their record run of 14 straight division titles." Can it get any better than this!?
Sure... I'd rather the Mutts have LOST. NYY should have a better W-L record!! :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/13/06 06:22 AM

I don't hate the Mets (in fact, they're my 2nd favorite team). But I absolutely LOATH the Braves
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/13/06 06:29 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I don't hate the Mets (in fact, they're my 2nd favorite team).
:rolleyes:

And, what, your 3rd favorite is Boston, right???

WTF????????????

OMG. Really: WTF?? That's just NOT RIGHT!!

{Listens as I12's credibility gets flushed right down the drain!}

*He was practically paisan*

The ONLY time I rooted for the MUTTS was in '86 -- for OBVIOUS REASONS!! THAT'S IT! Holy s h i t ...! omg...... too weak to even type.......
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/13/06 07:37 AM

In all honesty, I grew up a Mets fan. My first sports role model growing up was Darryl Strawberry. I became a Yankee fan when Darryl came to the Yanks in 1996 and have been a die hard fan ever since. I don't get the whole "in New York you either love on or the other" mentality. I'm happy and proud of both teams. And if it ever came to another Subway Series, I'm pro Yankees. However, if the Mets advance further than the Yanks, I'm rooting for the Mets
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/13/06 08:12 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I don't get the whole "in New York you either love on or the other" mentality.
How unfortunate. Cuz apparently you're not local, so how could you understand?! :p

But even I will admit, tho, that the '86 Mutts rocked! Even moreso for having beaten the BoSox, of course, but, they had personality -- everyone knew who they all were!

But today? Nah... as good as they are, I don't see them -- nor the Yanks for that matter -- anywhere, outside of the game.

...but to get back on topic: fuck Ortiz!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/06 03:59 AM

Another Yankee win, another Boston loss. 11 1/2 out
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/06 02:34 PM

Whoa Whoa Whoa, back up Geoff.......Irishman had credibility?

What the hell is going on?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/06 11:39 PM

I know, who'd have thunk it ronnie
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/06 12:47 PM

So the Yankees will play two double headers against Boston this weekend, and then travel to Toronto. Man, oh man. I hope that the weather holds out for them today. Looking out my window right now, it doesn't look pretty.
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/06 05:48 PM

i cant remember the last time i seen a 11 1/2 game lead in the division it feels like forever since its been that kinda lead
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/06 12:16 AM

Rebuilding the Empire
The demise of the Yankees was greatly exaggerated


Until recently, the prevailing belief about the Yankees was that their run was about up. Their cycle of success was complete. After finding the ideal mix of a productive farm system and a characteristically aggressive approach in the trade and free-agent markets during the mid-to-late '90s, the Bombers seemed to revert to their old selves after 2001.

Instead of developing their own talent, they returned to the tactics that characterized George Steinbrenner during the '80s: trading their best chips for big-name, top-dollar veterans while breaking the bank in their pursuit of glitzy free agents. At the start of the 2005 season the Yankees' farm system was considered to be underwhelming, with no clear help in sight.

But nearly two seasons later, thanks to the breakout successes of Robinson Cano, Chien-Ming Wang and Melky Cabrera and a budding crop of farmhands, that perception couldn't be any more different from the truth.

"A year ago at this time, these Yankees seemed to be in a 'win now with this group' mode," says Pete Abraham, who covers the Yankees for The Journal News. "Now they have Cano, Cabrera and Wang as transition players with right-hander Philip Hughes, outfielder Jose Tabata and others on the way. There may be no letup."

Jay Jaffe wrote about the Yankees' farm system two summers ago in an article for Baseball Prospectus titled, "The Claussen Pickle," the upshot of which was that while the Yankees lost some good young players from 1994 to 2004, they didn't lose any Hall of Famers. Mike Lowell is the best position player the Yankees have traded in the past 10 years; perhaps Nick Johnson will surpass him one day.

Eric Milton, a No. 1 draft pick, helped land Chuck Knoblauch; Jake Westbrook and Zach Day fetched David Justice. However, "in the two years since that article was written," Jaffe explained recently, "it's even clearer that they've traded away players that were better than what they came up with for their secondary players. Juan Rivera, Marcus Thames or even Wily Mo Peña would have been superior to Ruben Sierra or Bubba Crosby on last year's team."

All of which makes the emergence of Cano, Wang and Cabrera even more crucial as the Yankees look to keep adding to their current streak of AL East titles (eight and counting, with nine almost assured). Sometimes, as the old baseball saying goes, it's better to be lucky than good, and there are many who consider the success of these three players to be, if not a fluke, at least a very pleasant surprise.

Take, for example, how Cano and Wang got their opportunities in the first place. A $200 million payroll buys the ability to survive disastrous mistakes like the 2004-05 offseason, which YES Network analyst Steven Goldman dubbed the worst of the Steinbrenner era, when they signed Carl Pavano, Jared Wright and Tony Womack and passed on Carlos Beltran. But the Yankees can absorb a bad signing like no other team, and in this case a poor decision proved to be a blessing in disguise: Womack's failures hastened the promotion of Cano. (In truth, the Yankees were desperate and willing to try anything.)

Uneven performances, combined with injuries to Pavano and Wright, allowed Wang the opportunity to crack the starting rotation. I don't think anyone would have envisioned Wang winning 17-plus games this year or Cano hitting over .330. But here they are, two key contributors to the 2006 team. Not everyone believes that their success has simply been a stroke of luck, though.

"No, I think it is real," says John Sickels, minor league analyst for Rotowire.com and author of the upcoming 2007 Baseball Prospect Book. "[Yankees GM] Brian Cashman & Co. realized about four or five years ago that they needed to revamp the system and have put more effort into scouting and player development, particularly on the international front."

The Yankees GM, flush with more control than ever after winning a front-office power struggle, refused to trade either Cano or Wang last season, and this year Hughes, the team's shining pitching prospect, was off-limits. Furthermore, "Cashman is firing scouts left and right and making significant changes within the system," says Abraham. "If he continues to get his way, the Yankees could become a player-development machine."

Damon Oppenheimer, a one-time protégé of Stick Michael, is part of the Tampa faction but appears to have a productive relationship with Cashman, as the tensions between New York and Tampa have eased significantly over the past couple of years. Oppenheimer has officially run the last two drafts, but his influence was all over the 2004 draft as well, when he was the VP of player development and scouting.

"Starting with the 2005 draft," says BP's scouting expert Kevin Goldstein, "the Yankees finally realized what everyone else has been thinking forever, which is, Why don't they just flex their muscles here, too? The Yankees had this long stretch where they'd say, 'Who is the best guy there? And whoever wants him, we'll pay him more.' They gave Wily Mo Peña $3 million and realized they weren't getting the kind of returns they wanted, so then they moved things around and said, 'Let's identify 10 high-ceiling guys and instead of spending $3 million on one, let's spend $300,000 on 10.' And that's where you get Melky Cabrera, and that's where you get Robinson Cano, and that's where you get Jose Tabata."

Prospect guru Bryan Smith, formerly of BaseballAnalysts.com and a contributor to SI.com, is similarly impressed by Oppenheimer's first two drafts. "The depth he added with shortstop C.J. Henry helped acquire Bobby Abreu from the Phillies, and the team likes what they see from right-hander J. Brent Cox and outfielder Brett Gardner," he said. "Furthermore, the Yankees' deep pocketbooks allowed them to take a risk by drafting a guy like outfielder Austin Jackson in the later rounds, and then paying him enough to return to school. That methodology continued in 2006, when the Yankees took and signed right-handers Mark Melancon and Dellin Betances."

The biggest challenge for the Yankees will be allowing the younger talent to develop. Goldstein notes that all of the Yankees' top prospects are under 21, presenting a two- or three-year gap between Cano, Cabrera and Hughes -- who could be in the big leagues as early as next season -- and the likes of Tabata.

"I do think because of all the draft problems that they had [prior to Oppenheimer taking over], there is a gap in the system," Goldstein says. "There is nothing at Double and Triple A unless you have any faith in infielder Eric Duncan, and I don't. Other than that, there is nothing there except for Hughes. So there is a gap and there is going to be patience that is needed, which will require the Yankees to spend on the free-agent market, which is something they are obviously able and willing to do."

Of course, the Yankees are equipped to fill holes like no other team.

"The Yankees do not have to become a homegrown team," says Abraham. "But every homegrown regular increases the money they can spend elsewhere, be it on free agents or international signings."

This winter, the most attractive foreign talent is a 26-year-old pitcher from Japan, Daisuke Matsuzaka. While financial clout doesn't necessarily always win out with Japanese players (witness Ichiro's desire to play in Seattle), the fact that the Yanks will have Wang on the cheap helps them prepare to make a serious run at Matsuzaka.

Smith expects the Yankees to continue to be both aggressive and successful in signing players from Latin America and Asia. "But it will be Oppenheimer's success with the draft that turns the farm system around, taking the right players early and the expensive players late," he says.

While it should take several years before Oppenheimer's efforts can be properly evaluated, it seems as if the Yankees are intent on applying both smarts and financial aggressiveness in the way they run their farm system, perhaps allowing them to remain atop the AL East for years to come.

Source: SI.com
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/06 06:07 AM

Well at least the Yanks split on Saturday night
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/06 12:52 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
This winter, the most attractive foreign talent is a 26-year-old pitcher from Japan, Daisuke Matsuzaka. While financial clout doesn't necessarily always win out with Japanese players (witness Ichiro's desire to play in Seattle), the fact that the Yanks will have Wang on the cheap helps them prepare to make a serious run at Matsuzaka.
Yes, that guy is insane. I'd love to see him in pinstripes. Hopefully we can get Moose back, and bring up Hughes.

Wang
Mussina
Matsuzaka
Hughes
Wright/Pavano/Karstens (?)

Kicky!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/06 05:34 PM

You're missing Unit DJ. He'll be in the final year of his contract next year
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/06 08:02 PM

Lets go Yanks!!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/06 05:44 AM

Wow what a surprise, Kyle Farnsworth blows ANOTHER game for us. Is anybody else seriously missing Tom Gordon right about now? I never wanted him to leave in the first place. I'd much rather have him than Farnsworth
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/06 05:53 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Is anybody else seriously missing Tom Gordon right about now?
I'm not. Same shit. :rolleyes:

I'm missing Mo, tho.

But these games don't mean shit, anyway, except for home field advantage. It's not like we're not gonna clinch. But it'd be nice to do it SOON to give guys some rest...

Sorry to see Jeter's hitting streak end at 26, tho... Great job! But DMC jinxed him by picking him for the Diamond Daily game...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/06 07:35 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
You're missing Unit DJ. He'll be in the final year of his contract next year
I didn't forget him. I'm just figuring without him, since you never know how much left he has in the tank.

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Wow what a surprise, Kyle Farnsworth blows ANOTHER game for us. Is anybody else seriously missing Tom Gordon right about now? I never wanted him to leave in the first place. I'd much rather have him than Farnsworth
You do realize these games don't matter, right? I mean, c'mon. The Red Sox are dead, and the Yanks need like 3 games to clinch.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/06 07:54 PM

Sure the games don't matter but Farnsworth needs to nail these games down now. I don't have hardly any confidence in him, and like I said, I'd much rather see Tom Gordon there (I had more confidence in him).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/06 08:14 PM

I did to. But we still have Proctor, Villone, Bruney, Myers, Dotel, et al, all whom will perform well when used in their normal roles. Farnsworth had been doing well up to that point.

So give them a break. Torre is going to push them in ways he wouldn't so he knows what he does and doesn't have in the playoff run.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/06 08:18 PM

What's going on with Villone during the last month? Every time I see that he pitches he's starting to give up a lot of runs. Earlier in the year when I saw him pitch he was (for the most part) lights out. Fatigue or what?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/06 09:43 PM

I think over-use. He was taxed quite a bit this year, and hopefully they can rest him up before the October run.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/06 11:44 AM

Jeter and A-Rod both homer and Rasner pitches decent to give the Yanks a 7-6 win over the Blue Jays, moving the magic number to 3.

As for the bullpen core, they went through Villone, Dotel, Myers, and finally Veras to get the save. Dotel still doesn't seem to be totally recovered from that Tommy John deal. I think we probably won't see him back to his normal 100% until next season.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/06 11:53 AM

Yankees News and Notes

Rivera Pitches In The Bullpen; On Schedule
Quote:
Mariano Rivera remains scheduled to take the mound on Tuesday for a bullpen session, and the Yankees are hopeful that their All-Star closer will return to the mound later this week.

Rivera hasn't pitched in a game since Aug. 31, because of a mild muscle strain near his right elbow. He got on a mound for the first time on Saturday, throwing 32 pitches in the bullpen at Yankee Stadium.

"He's getting a little antsy right now," manager Joe Torre said. "He's been in a lot more playful mood lately than he was for 10 days or so."

Rivera has insisted all along that he wasn't concerned about the injury, even though it came at a point in the season when he is typically tuning up for the postseason. Following his bullpen session on Saturday, Rivera seemed excited about how he felt.

"Even though he's had something similar to this in the past, he's never really had stop himself from doing anything," Torre said. "The last few days, his personality is a little more upbeat."
Sheffield Works On First Base Drills
Quote:
Gary Sheffield took the next step toward a move to first base, working out with Don Mattingly and a group of Yankees coaches before Monday's game at the Rogers Centre.

Sheffield worked on his footwork, his throwing and some overall knowledge of the position, with Mattingly -- a nine-time Gold Glove Award winner at first -- guiding him through each situation.

"He was really good," Mattingly said. "It looked really easy for him. He can do it; there's no question he can do it."

Joe Torre watched from the side, even offering some words of advice to Sheffield during the practice. Sheffield took ground balls with a ball in his right hand and his hand behind his back, a drill designed to concentrate on footwork that Mattingly picked up years ago from Eddie Murray. He also worked on turning double plays, making most of his throws with accuracy -- save for one that sailed into left field.

"He was a good student; he worked at it," Torre said. "This is something he needed to learn; it's not like taking extra batting practice. It's a new position for him, even though he's been an infielder. It seems like he's going to be comfortable."

Sheffield has played 468 games at third base in his career and another 94 at shortstop, so the infield isn't completely new territory for him. Mattingly believes that experience can only help make the transition easier for the 37-year-old.

"It's an advantage for him that he's played the infield," Mattingly said. "He's caught ground balls, he's moved both ways, so he understands it as opposed to a guy like Bernie who has never played infield in his life. It's not a foreign country."

Sheffield said he has talked with former All-Star first baseman Fred McGriff about the move, which McGriff called "a blessing in disguise" because it could extend his career.

Sheffield believes the position switch will enhance his value as a player, giving him more versatility. The Yankees hold a $13 million option on Sheffield for 2007, but if they decline to exercise it, Sheffield will be looking for a new team.

Torre hasn't decided when Sheffield will return to action, as he is scheduled to take part in a simulated game on Tuesday afternoon. Pitching coach Ron Guidry will pitch to Sheffield, who will also run the bases.

Mattingly believes that Sheffield will pick up plenty by doing drills, but in the end, he will have to learn on the job.

"He can work on all that stuff, but it's a matter of doing it in a game," Mattingly said. "You can only simulate so much. You can talk about everything, but a lot of things out there come from experience."

When asked if he expects to play in a game on this week's road trip, Sheffield said, "More than one, I hope."

"I want to get in there and see where I'm at," Sheffield said. "I know there's going to be a little rust. It's just one of those things where you have to do it."

If Sheffield is able to show the Yankees that he can handle first base, he may find himself there during some games in the postseason. Torre would like to use Jason Giambi as the designated hitter, enabling him to stay in the game in the late innings instead of being lifted for a defensive replacement.

"If we feel comfortable that he can play the position, I don't think that's an issue," Torre said of Sheffield. "But we have to see something that will make us feel that way."
Tired Arm: Villone?
Quote:
Ron Villone's struggles continued on Sunday, as he allowed four runs in one inning, taking the loss against the Red Sox. Villone has appeared in 66 games this season, posting a 4.50 ERA, but his past seven weeks have been a battle for the left-hander.

In August, Villone tied Scott Proctor for the AL lead with 17 appearances. While Proctor put up a 3.27 ERA in the month, Villone's was a whopping 6.04.

This month, Villone has pitched in five games, allowing 12 runs in 3 2/3 innings for a 29.45 ERA. Torre said that the pitcher has no physical problems, so he'll keep sending him out there, hoping he can straighten himself out.

"He's still what he is. He's still a guy who will make great pitches, then make some other pitches," Torre said. "He's always been that way in his career. Talking to guys who have faced him, that's what makes him tough to hit. You can't zero in on one spot."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/06 07:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Dotel still doesn't seem to be totally recovered from that Tommy John deal. I think we probably won't see him back to his normal 100% until next season.
You think they'll sign him again for next year? I think he only signed a 1 year deal but I could be wrong
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/06 11:28 PM

Ortinz says he's done talking about AL MVP

David Ortiz is not boycotting the press, although he does not want to talk about the AL MVP award.

"There's no boycott. I won't stop talking to my people," said Ortiz in reference to the regular Red Sox reporters.

Ortiz, who leads the American League with 49 home runs and 129 RBI, did not talk to the press during the four-game series between the Red Sox and the Yankees played last weekend in New York.

"I just didn't want to talk to the New York reporters so as not to create a big thing about an issue that's not important," Ortiz told ESPNdeportes.com from Boston.

The Red Sox will start a three-game series against the Minnesota Twins on Tuesday.

Ortiz was booed by the fans and criticized by the media in New York due to recent comments about the MVP award, in which he compared himself with Yankees' star, Derek Jeter.

"Don't misinterpret me. He is a great player and is having a great year, but there are lots of good players in that team," said Ortiz about Jeter. "From top to bottom, they have guys that can hurt you. Let's bring him here, so he can show us how good he is," Ortiz said, according to Boston newspapers.

"I'm not thinking about the MVP award right now. We are thinking about winning the division. We still have something to play for," answered Jeter.

After the Yankees swept the Red Sox in a five-games series in Boston to take the lead in the AL East, Jeter's odds to win the MVP award have increased dramatically.

The Yankees captain is second in the league in batting average (.340) and has 198 hits, 14 home runs, 95 RBI and 109 runs scored.

Ortiz is batting .283 and leads the league in home runs and RBI, while he is second in walks (107), thirds in OPS (1,031) and slugging (.625), fourth in runs scored (107) and seventh in on-base percentage (.405).

The Dominican designated hitter needs one more home run to tie the franchise record owned by Jimmie Foxx since 1938.

"Jeter is a horse on the field and a classy person. I would never say something to hurt him," said Ortiz.

"That's why I decided not to talk to the New York reporters last week. I think that they have misinterpreted my comments on purpose and they have exaggerated my words," he added.

Last season, Ortiz lost the MVP race to Alex Rodriguez, from the Yankees, in one of the closest votings ever.

"I'm not going to talk anymore about this award, because if I didn't win in 2005 and I don't deserve it in 2006, then I don't think I could ever win it," said Ortiz

Source: ESPN.com
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/20/06 03:25 AM

Yanks magic number down to 1!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/20/06 11:29 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] Dotel still doesn't seem to be totally recovered from that Tommy John deal. I think we probably won't see him back to his normal 100% until next season.
You think they'll sign him again for next year? I think he only signed a 1 year deal but I could be wrong [/b][/quote]Dunno what his contract is, but Torre seems to like him, and the general groove from the front office is that he's still recovering from surgery and should return to form in 2007.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/20/06 01:59 PM

If they win tonight and Boston loses, they'll clinch the division title. However, if Boston wins and they win, and then Boston loses tomorrow, the Yankees will clinch on their day off. That would NOT be fun.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/20/06 07:21 PM

Actually, the Magic Number is 1 -- either a NYY Win (with rookie Henn vs Halladay ) or a BOS Loss (by Schilling) would clinch it.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/20/06 08:24 PM

I thought it had to be a combination. What do I know?
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/20/06 09:27 PM

It is a combination, of either/or... but we're down to 1, so... it's either/or!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/06 04:09 AM

Well NOW it's official! Congrats to the Yanks on their 9th straight AL East title! So you guys thinking Subway Series yet or what?

"It ended the way it was supposed to end. They (the New York Yankees) played a lot better than us over the course of the season," said Red Sox starter Curt Schilling, who returned from a three-week layoff but lasted just five innings and did not get a decision. "I don't think we opened the door for them as much as they kicked it in."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/06 04:39 AM

Also, sorry Don Jasani, but I told you Toronto wouldn't make the playoffs Maybe next year but I hope they can finish strong and come in 2nd this year
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/06 07:24 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
...sorry Don Jasani, ...Maybe next year but I hope they can finish strong and come in 2nd this year
WTF is this shit, from a "Yankees fan"??
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/06 02:21 PM

Hooray!! In spite of losing Matsui, Sheffield and Cano for a huge chunk of the season, the Yankees did it! Back in June, when everyone was saying that they were toast because of the loss of such great players, they made it happen anyway. Real champions can do that IN SPITE of injuries.

Edited because June is spelled J-U-N-E, not J-U-N-T.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/06 05:19 PM

WTF is this shit??
Quote:
The Los Angeles Daily News' Doug Padilla is reporting the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim may make a serious run at acquiring 3B Alex Rodriguez from the New York Yankees if Rodriguez requests a trade or the Yankees decide to shop him around. If the deal goes through, the Yankees figure to ask for no less than SP Ervin Santana, RP Scot Shields, OF Chone Figgins and a high-level prospect.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/06 05:49 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]...sorry Don Jasani, ...Maybe next year but I hope they can finish strong and come in 2nd this year
WTF is this shit, from a "Yankees fan"?? [/b][/quote]I'd rather them be the runner-up than Boston. That's still what Toronto is fighting for, 2nd place (it'd be an accomplishment to them)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/22/06 12:55 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
WTF is this shit??
[quote]The Los Angeles Daily News' Doug Padilla is reporting the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim may make a serious run at acquiring 3B Alex Rodriguez from the New York Yankees if Rodriguez requests a trade or the Yankees decide to shop him around. If the deal goes through, the Yankees figure to ask for no less than SP Ervin Santana, RP Scot Shields, OF Chone Figgins and a high-level prospect.
[/quote]There has been trade rumours, mainly based on whether A-Rod has a good or bad postseason. Personally, I think its garbage...he's recovered to have a good-if-not-great season (obviously not by his standards, but still...) and should be alright in the postseason. But the consensus, at least from what I'm hearing on Mike and the Mad Dog, Mike and Mike, and ESPN is that if A-Rod bombs in the playoffs, they will try to move him. Of course, that's irrelevant, since he has a no-trade clause, and said he'd rather "retire than not be a Yankee." Time will tell.

Besides, I'd never trade him to the Angels. They kick our ass it seems like every time we play them, no way I'd make them stronger. Chone Figgins? Why? Like we don't have a glut of outfielders already. Santana, maybe. Shields, dunno. K-Rod, absolutely. Prospect, not so much.

I still think the Yanks rotation, if they can re-sign Moose, will be strong enough next year that they don't have to deal away any marquee players for awhile:

Wang
Mussina
Johnson (Even though I don't know about this, I12)
Hughes
Pavano (?)
Karstens
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/22/06 05:44 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by J Geoff:
[b] WTF is this shit??
[quote]The Los Angeles Daily News' Doug Padilla is reporting the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim may make a serious run at acquiring 3B Alex Rodriguez from the New York Yankees if Rodriguez requests a trade or the Yankees decide to shop him around. If the deal goes through, the Yankees figure to ask for no less than SP Ervin Santana, RP Scot Shields, OF Chone Figgins and a high-level prospect.
[/quote]There has been trade rumours, mainly based on whether A-Rod has a good or bad postseason. Personally, I think its garbage...he's recovered to have a good-if-not-great season (obviously not by his standards, but still...) and should be alright in the postseason. But the consensus, at least from what I'm hearing on Mike and the Mad Dog, Mike and Mike, and ESPN is that if A-Rod bombs in the playoffs, they will try to move him. Of course, that's irrelevant, since he has a no-trade clause, and said he'd rather "retire than not be a Yankee." Time will tell.

Besides, I'd never trade him to the Angels. They kick our ass it seems like every time we play them, no way I'd make them stronger. Chone Figgins? Why? Like we don't have a glut of outfielders already. Santana, maybe. Shields, dunno. K-Rod, absolutely. Prospect, not so much. [/b][/quote]I couldn't agree more DJ. The Angels have the Yankees number without A-Rod, so why would we trade him to them? It doesn't make any sense. Plus if he did, you know he'd come back to torch the Yankees every time they play. And as you mentioned, A-Rod can veto ANY trade. He's staying in pinstripes.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/23/06 12:34 PM

You know, something is fucked up in the head of George Steinbrenner when he seriously considered firing Joe Torre after the 2005 season.

Really Yankee fans, don't you all think that shit is silly?

I mean in spite of consecutive playoff appearances since 1996, 4 World Series titles within 5 years, 6 American League Pennants, and over 1,000 games won...and as well for being somehow able to tolerate Steinbrenner's insanity.......he could very well still get axed after this season if the Yanks fail to win another title, or worse, he's pressured to resign.

The Yankees have a strong chance at another World Series title this year, but it definately won't be easy.

If the Yanks hold the Tigers off and clinch Homefield Advantage, they'll face either the Twins/Tigers, whoevever of which wins the Wildcard slot. If the Tigers eclipse the Yanks, then while the Tigers will be forced to fight the Twins in the playoffs in the Division playoffs, the Yanks will have to deal with the Angels, and you Yankees fans know that shit won't be pretty.

Can Jason Giambi come back in time? Can the Yankees pitching, despite the jokes on sports radio shows, make due what was promised? Can A-Rod deliver in the clutch? Will Derek Jeter's possible AL MVP season success flow into this the postseason? Will Joe Torre keep his job before George fires him for losing more than one game in a playoff series? STAY TUNE!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/06 05:43 PM

Wang's starting game 1, Moose game 2, Unit game 3 and as of now Wright for game 4. Also, Pedro's done for the postseason. Looks like that Subway Series might be in jepordy
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/06 05:46 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Looks like that Subway Series might be in jepordy
Why, you don't think we can make it??
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/06 06:13 PM

Why? Pedro has does absolutely nothing for the Mets since May, so its basically like they've been pitching without his help anyways.

The Mets, even without Pedro, are still the team to beat in the NL.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/06 06:17 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
The Mets, even without Pedro, are still the team to beat in the NL.
True but they still lost their ace, that doesn't exactly help them going into the playoffs.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/06 06:30 PM

But again, the Mets have had all of their success without Pedro for most of the season.

Tell me one other team in the NL that could lose their ace and still be virtually unharmed or unimpeded in their playoff race?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/06 06:32 PM

Your points well taken. All I'm saying is that I think it will hurt the Mets. True they've had much success without him (and could possibly win the World Series with out) but again, it's not going to help the team with him out (physically or psychologically)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/06 06:35 PM

Well, I agree, but they've still got Glavine, Hernandez (who is an excellent postseason pitcher), Trachsel and Maine, all of whom should at least provide competant starting pitching, which, when combined with their batting lineup, should vanquish almost any of the other contenders in the NL.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/06 06:50 PM

Who's getting in in the NL? San Diego, Los Angeles, Houston or St. Louis? Should make for a fun weekend (BTW, I'm rooting for San Diego, St. Louis and Philadelphia)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/06 10:53 PM

Yanks' Johnson has herniated disc, playoffs in doubt

NEW YORK -- Yankees left-hander Randy Johnson has a herniated disc in his lower back, an injury that could prevent him from pitching in the playoffs next week.

The injury was discovered during an MRI exam this week, and Johnson received an epidural injection Friday.

"Hopefully that will ease the discomfort," New York manager Joe Torre said. "If it doesn't ease the discomfort, I'm not sure he's going to be able to pitch. But we don't expect that to be the case."

Torre's announcement came one day after the crosstown Mets said Pedro Martinez will miss the postseason because of a torn tendon in his left calf muscle.

Johnson, who turned 43 on Sept. 10, is expected to play catch Saturday and throw a side session Sunday at Yankee Stadium.

Johnson has a 7.64 ERA over his last three starts, giving up five runs each outing and failing to last longer than six innings. He is 17-11 this season with a career-high 5.00 ERA.

Chien-Ming Wang and Mike Mussina will pitch the opening two games of the best-of-five series against Detroit or Minnesota. Johnson is scheduled to pitch Game 3 on the road next Friday.

"If he says he's ready to go or will be ready to go on Friday, we'll write him in. If things change, then we'll do something else," Torre said. "I certainly want Randy Johnson, bad back and all. His capabilities are very, very high. He's pitched for as long as he's pitched, and we know darn well he wasn't 100 percent every single step along the way."

If after watching the weekend sessions the Yankees don't think Johnson can pitch next Friday, Torre said he probably would omit the Big Unit from his first-round roster. If that happens, the Yankees would use Jaret Wright and Corey Lidle in Game 3 and, if necessary, Game 4.

Johnson has been bothered by back spasms over his past few starts, beginning a day after his birthday, but didn't tell the team until after he allowed five runs and seven hits over six innings in an 8-0 loss last weekend at Tampa Bay. The Yankees then decided he would skip his final regular-season start.

"You don't know what you're going to get when he pitches," Torre said earlier this week. "The one thing I'm hoping for is that he feels better, and then we'll deal with the command at that time. But you can't have both. You can't have him stay sharp and throw and be able to rest something."

Johnson missed more than four months of the 1996 season with a herniated disc in his lower back that required surgery. Torre said he was unsure if this injury would also require surgery during the offseason.

Source: ESPN.com
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/06 05:22 AM

Is Yanks losing Johnson a bigger disaster for them than say Pedro for the Mets?

DEBATE!

I dare you, for I am the Master Debater!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/06 07:12 AM

Yanks lockup home field advantage throughout the playoffs
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/06 10:20 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Is Yanks losing Johnson a bigger disaster for them than say Pedro for the Mets?

DEBATE!

I dare you, for I am the Master Debater!
Yes, because Johnson has been 17-11 for the Yankees this year, while Pedro has gone 9-8.

As aforementioned, Pedro was of little help to the Mets, while Johnson, despite being the Shrunken Unit, still performed fairly well. He's not dominating, he's not even the Yankee ace anymore, but he did have flashes of brilliance sprinkled in between mediocrity.

In the playoffs, this means the Yanks will need to go:

Wang
Moose
Wright
Lidle/Rasner/Karstens (?)
Wang

in a five-game series.

Which means now Wright will have to pitch, whereas with Johnson in the rotation, he might not have had to.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/06 02:06 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Is Yanks losing Johnson a bigger disaster for them than say Pedro for the Mets?

DEBATE!

I dare you, for I am the Master Debater!
You sure are....would you like us to pass you a tissue?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/06 02:08 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Is Yanks losing Johnson a bigger disaster for them than say Pedro for the Mets?

It is the Yankees way of getting Johnson out of the rotation. Why you ask? BECAUSE HE SUCKS and they know it.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/06 06:04 PM

Ahh, it couldn't be a postseason without fathersson
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 12:41 AM

Hell, they are doing all Yankee fans a favor.

If they don't go all the way this year, then they should give everyone half price tickets next year, and cut all players pay by half.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 12:54 AM

No if they don't win it this year they should resign Sheffield and try to grab Barry Zito off the free-agent market and try again next year.

And getting back to ronnie's question, yes, losing Randy Johnson is a bigger loss to the Yankees than lossing Pedro is to the Mets.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 01:38 AM

I'm not a particularly big Barry Zito fan. Besides, with the A's in the playoff mix, I doubt they'll let him get away. When they were mediocre, sure, they let Hudson and Mulder go, but now, Zito is the ace of a decent rotation, they'll probably lock him up ASAP.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 02:09 AM

True they could and should make a run at him but it's up to Barry now. Maybe the lure of Johnny Damon and Jason Giambi playing for the Yankees who make the postseason every year (which Oakland missed out on last year) might just be enough to make him go. Look at all the A's who've left in the past (such as Damon, Giambi and Miguel Tejada, etc).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 06:39 AM

Report: Clemens, Pettitte, Tejada named in Grimsley drug case

LOS ANGELES -- Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte and Miguel Tejada were among the players that a former major league pitcher accused of using performance-enhancing drugs, according to a federal agent's affidavit, the Los Angeles Times reported Saturday on its Web site.

The agent for Clemens and Pettitte denied the accusations. Baltimore teammates Brian Roberts, Jay Gibbons and Tejada also were implicated in the sworn statement, the Times said; an Orioles spokeswoman said the team had not seen the report and had no comment.

In June, federal agents searched reliever Jason Grimsley's home in Arizona after the pitcher admitted using human growth hormone, steroids and amphetamines. Grimsley was later released by the Arizona Diamondbacks and suspended 50 games by Major League Baseball, and has not played since then.

In a 20-page search warrant affidavit signed by IRS Special Agent Jeff Novitzky, the Times reported, he said Grimsley identified other players who had used drugs. Those names were blacked out when the document was released.

The Times said an anonymous source with access to the document -- minus the crossouts -- let the newspaper see it, but kept the copy. The Times said a second source who had identified the other players provided additional details about the document.

According to the affidavit, the Times said, Grimsley told investigators Clemens and Pettitte "used athletic performance-enhancing drugs."

The affidavit also alleged Grimsley told federal agents that Roberts, Gibbons and Tejada "took anabolic steroids."

On Wednesday, Gibbons told ESPN The Magazine's Amy K. Nelson he had not seen a copy of the affidavit and was told by his agent and other journalists only that his name was on the document. He also said he thought he was named as part of the group Grimsley referred to when discussing amphetamines. "I barely knew [Grimsley]," Gibbons said.

In June, the Orioles' front office held separate meetings with Tejada, Gibbons and Roberts, according to three sources. The context of the conversations was to inform the players that their names were rumored to be on the affidavit, and that they should all consult their lawyers. According to one source in the room, it was simply a forewarning, and no other intimate information related to the affidavit was shared.

Gibbons said that all questions the media had would likely be referred to his lawyer.

"I know it'll make me only look more guilty, but I have to protect myself," Gibbons said earlier this week. "I don't have to protect anybody else. This is my livelihood."

Orioles vice president Jim Duquette, also reached at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday, said he had seen only a redacted version of the document, but he was aware the three players were known to be on the list.

Novitzky also was the lead investigator in the Bay Area Laboratory Co-Operative probe. Two BALCO officials and Barry Bonds' personal trainer, Greg Anderson, served jail time after guilty pleas in that investigation.

Grimsley has complained to friends, the Times said, that federal agents attributed statements to him that he did not make.

"I'm told he has denied saying all of this," Randy Hendricks, who represents Clemens and Pettitte, told The Associated Press on Saturday night. "It's an agent's recollection about a conversation he had about conjecture."

"I've grown weary of having to defend [Clemens] from innuendo and conjecture about every six months for the last several years when he's complied with all of the rules and regulations," Hendricks said. "Andy is just surprised and stunned, and has no knowledge of any such activity."

Clemens and Pettitte pitch for Houston. The Astros won 5-4 at Atlanta on Saturday night.

Tejada, Gibbons and Roberts had left the clubhouse in Boston after Baltimore's 5-4 victory Saturday night when an AP reporter sought comment.

"I don't pay attention to what [Grimsley said]," Tejada told The (Baltimore) Sun. "I know that I've never had a problem with that. I know that I've never used that and I know I am clean.

"I don't worry about anybody who puts me in that stuff. I'll get checked out for anybody, any time, any moment -- whenever they want."

Gibbons told The Sun: "I have passed every test administered by Major League Baseball over all the years. And I am not going to dignify these claims and accusations with any further response."

Along with the federal probe, baseball hired former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell to investigate the use of steroids.

All major league players are tested at least twice a year for banned drugs. There is no test for HGH, but it is banned by baseball.

Source: ESPN.com
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 09:56 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
No if they don't win it this year they should resign Sheffield and try to grab Barry Zito off the free-agent market and try again next year.

And getting back to ronnie's question, yes, losing Randy Johnson is a bigger loss to the Yankees than lossing Pedro is to the Mets.
Right, That is why so many people think that the system is so off whack. When does it stop? If they don't make it, then go out and BUY the fix. They have the money.
Other teams don't have the large market or if they don't make it, so the fans don't show. Then the money flow stops so they clear out their big stars because they need to make a profit for their stock holders/owners.

I know, the same old crap from Non die hard Yankee fans.
But, has it ever been fair? Can you really say it has, even going back years and years ago? Or has New York always had this advantage because of the size of its market.
Look at the Mets, They finally sink some money into players and Bam....They are in.

Does more money mean a deeper Bench? Of course it does.
So you can over come injuries, slumps or just plain burnout after a long season? Look how the Yankee can fill spots so quickly with other players or by throwing cash at other teams.
Hell, so you have to pay an extra fee, who cares. We just get it back by filling the seats with the stars.

I know, same old things, BUT many of us feel, that with a roster like this, that they should/have to win the whole thing every year. So it is no big deal if they win the thing. Now, give us a team that pulls it all together without being over star filled and we think that it is a special year and great plays/players like the Cubs and Mets in 69 when they made their run. (or what ever the year was.)

And getting back to Ronnie's question Irish. What, no reason for your answer? A die hard fan like you should be given us all kinds of reasons. I am sure the Mets Fans don't think that way. Looks like Pedro will be out for eight months, but with his age, I would bet he will be out longer. Then will he be over the hill? How big a hole does it leave when they need it most. I think Mets fans are worried right about now.


The Yankees remind me of a rich playboy who droves as fast as he wants. Speeding tickets? who cares I have more then enough money to pay the fines. Wreck the car, I'll buy another one.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 05:13 PM

Funny enough, the Yankees have been replenished for a good part by some of their farm guys, like Cano and Wang. If anything, the Yankees need to get out of that "Buy" mentality and actually invest much more into their once rich and plentiful farm system. I mean, where did Derek Jeter come from? Bernie Williams?

Anyway, Fatersson is right. Buying Barry Bonds or Barry Zito from the Bay Area aren't the answer. I know many Yankees fans are anxious to win another title, but half-ass methods is really a major reason why the Yanks haven't won shit since 2000.

The baseball system is indeed out of whack. You're correct again Fathersson. If anything, MLB needs to adopt a salary cap. Why has the NFL as a corporate organization has overtaken MLB as America's prefered pasttime and sport to watch?

Consider last year with the Union/League feud that almost lead to a lock-out in the NFL. If that had happened with MLB, Selig and MLPA would rather drink piss then compromise. Instead, Tagliabue was able to convince several of the major franchise owners(like old school Lamar Hunt of the Kansas City Cheifs) to take a necessary hit to their own pockets, for the sake of the league. I mean, its a good logical argument. Would one club rather lose say $10 million, or $100 million, if the season was partially or fully cancelled?

As for why the YAnks have dominated for decades, here are three reasons:

(1) Babe Ruth. People forget that until the Babe's headline arrival to NYC from Boston in that era's version of "Free Agency", the New York Giants under Jim McGraw ruled that town in wins and popularity. With the Babe as the anchor, and collecting players over time(best example, Lou "Iron Horse" Gehrig), the Yankees overtook the Giants, and have ruled the city pretty much since then. Several dominating World Series-championship seasons sorta help as well.

(2) 1940s to the 1960s, the Yanks got unbelievable amount of farm talent from lower clubs like the Kansas City Royals. While Kansas City was open to having over-the-hill veteran players, the Yanks got rich prospects oh mighty. Mantle and Maris anyone?

(3) George Steinbrenner and company. I hate Steinbrenner personally, an egotiastical, arrogant bastard that displays such rage and emotions over logic(hire/fire Billy Martin three times, almost whacking Torre in 2005, firing Yogi Berra after 10 games). However, he's a whore. He'll suck a room full of cocks to get a title. He would pawn off his legs as well. He has the resources to waste/spend as much money as he sees fit in order to win titles. REally, $200+ million team salaries don't happen by accident.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 05:33 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] No if they don't win it this year they should resign Sheffield and try to grab Barry Zito off the free-agent market and try again next year.

And getting back to ronnie's question, yes, losing Randy Johnson is a bigger loss to the Yankees than lossing Pedro is to the Mets.
Right, That is why so many people think that the system is so off whack. When does it stop? If they don't make it, then go out and BUY the fix. They have the money.
Other teams don't have the large market or if they don't make it, so the fans don't show. Then the money flow stops so they clear out their big stars because they need to make a profit for their stock holders/owners.[/b][/quote]And as always I pose the question, how many titles have the Yankees won since 2000? If the answer is none (which it is BTW), what are you complaining about? Look at when Chicago, Florida and the Angels won it. Very few people probably picked them to go all the way and they did just that. Sure a big payroll full of superstars makes it easier to win, but as the last 5 years have proven, the men on the field still have to get the job done themselves!

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
And getting back to Ronnie's question Irish. What, no reason for your answer? A die hard fan like you should be given us all kinds of reasons.
Well as DJ already pointed out, much of the Mets success this year has been without Pedro (so the guys who have filled in for him have had more experience in that role). Now it's playoff time and Unit might not be available, it's not the same thing to throw Jaret Wright, Corey Lidle, etc. into a Game 3 (on the road no less) and tell them to win it. TOTALLY different set of circumstances.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 05:44 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
I hate Steinbrenner personally, an egotiastical, arrogant bastard that displays such rage and emotions over logic. However, he's a whore. He'll suck a room full of cocks to get a title. He would pawn off his legs as well. He has the resources to waste/spend as much money as he sees fit in order to win titles. REally, $200+ million team salaries don't happen by accident.
That's one of the reasons why I love George Steinbrenner so much, he has that much passion and desire to win. He's not one of these owners (Jeffrey Loria, perhaps?) who's interested in making money. He already has plenty of it. No, George spends his hard earned money and invests it back into the team (that's one of the reasons why the fans come back and why so many Marlins fans are pissed off). Come on, a $15 million payroll not even 3 years removed from a World Series title with 2 drawing power stars in Willis and Cabrera? 2 firesales since 1997 after winning the World Series? What is that!? I think it's clear we can see where George Steinbrenner's and Jeffrey Loria's priorities are (winning vs the almighty dollar).
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 07:09 PM

I love your simplicity, Irish. What would we do without you?
First off, the Yankees have since the 1930s been the "team" of New York City. Even with the Rangers winning the cup in 1994, or the Knicks' success in the 1970s, the Yankees winning or losing have moved the city. Titles bring joy, losing years bring disapointment. Besides, the Giants and Jets haven't played within the state of New York in years, decades....they friggin play in New Jersey!

Besides, look at NYC right now. The Rangers made the playoffs last year, but their ownership is basically Steinbrenner, but without the titles to shield them from being called "idiots". The Knicks have become such a joke, it will take years, if not a decade, before they ever return to playoff contention. Save for the Mets' isolating good year of 2006 so far, what else does New York City have?

Anyway, your Papa George works for money too. The difference between him and other owners, for better or for worse, is that he's impulsive. Over a decade of playoff series, and currently the longest-active division title consecutive streak in baseball? Oh nice. No World Series titles in 6 years? YOU'RE FIRED!

The problem with Loaria, you're about right. After 2003, if he had been willing to spend some cash and actually hungry for more major success, the Marlins would keep more fans in their stands.

The other side though Irish, which you brilliantly haven't researched at all, is that Dolphins Stadium SUCKS for baseball. It's hard to drive too, its another football stadium convertedly, awkwardly, for baseball, and so on. REally, if the Marlins can fucking get that new stadium in Miami, thus a commitment between the franchise and South Florida for the Fish to stay in Miami, and if Loaria is willing to spend the darn cash, and quit doing stupid shit, then the MARLINS would have a good stable attendence rate.

If anything, we Marlins fans do understand Orioles fans. We both fanbases have to deal with an asshole of an owner that won't spend the cash, is more worried about the profit margins, and worse, doesn't seem to give a shit.

I mean God, the Marlins get a surprisingly strong manager in former Yankee hero Joe Giradi, who takes an expected 100-loss club, and his reward for being a candidate for NL Manager of the Year? A pink-slip. :rolleyes:

So Irish, will your Papa George fire Uncle Joey Torre if he fails to get another title?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 07:43 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Anyway, your Papa George works for money too. The difference between him and other owners, for better or for worse, is that he's impulsive. Over a decade of playoff series, and currently the longest-active division title consecutive streak in baseball? Oh nice. No World Series titles in 6 years? YOU'RE FIRED!
I agree that George's is, for better or for worse, impulsive. But again, at least he's doing SOMETHING and seems to have a deep affection for his team and not worrying about cutting costs to fill his fat pockets. It's not just about him, it's about the team!

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
The other side though Irish, which you brilliantly haven't researched at all, is that Dolphins Stadium SUCKS for baseball. It's hard to drive too, its another football stadium convertedly, awkwardly, for baseball, and so on. REally, if the Marlins can fucking get that new stadium in Miami, thus a commitment between the franchise and South Florida for the Fish to stay in Miami, and if Loaria is willing to spend the darn cash, and quit doing stupid shit, then the MARLINS would have a good stable attendence rate.
First of all, there's too many if's in that sentence. Second of all, the stadium can't be that bad since they seem to pack it in come football season. :rolleyes:

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
If anything, we Marlins fans do understand Orioles fans. We both fanbases have to deal with an asshole of an owner that won't spend the cash, is more worried about the profit margins, and worse, doesn't seem to give a shit.

I mean God, the Marlins get a surprisingly strong manager in former Yankee hero Joe Giradi, who takes an expected 100-loss club, and his reward for being a candidate for NL Manager of the Year? A pink-slip. :rolleyes:

So Irish, will your Papa George fire Uncle Joey Torre if he fails to get another title?
Again, that's why I love Steinbrenner because he DOES seem to give a sh*t about his team, unlike Baltimore's, Florida's and many other teams owners. Furthermore, I agree that firing Joe Giradi (who did a HELL of a job with that team this year) does NOT deserve to get fired. However, I don't think he'll have a problem finding another job after his performance this year. Perhaps, another area where George is willing to set aside his own personal feelings towards Joe Torre? Sure he's talked about firing Joe for years but has it ever happened yet? Nope!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 11:26 PM

Back to reality...

Yanks will face the Tigers in the ALDS, which is far better than going to the artificial turf of the Metrodome. Plus, the Yanks crushed the Tigers in the regular season.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 11:48 PM

Considering the last few years, don't expect shit from the Yankees. I mean, they got KICKED last year from the ALDS. Last Year!

Anyway Irishman, you and simplicity go together like Mark Foley and young 16 year old athlete/pages. Inseperable!

You have any idea of how the Dolphins are an institution in South Florida? You know, like Yanks in NYC, but playing America's real current past time, instead of that sport that proclaims itself to "still" be.

Of course, the last few years have been lousy for Miami, and sadly 2006 looks to be another bummer year. However, the days of the No-Name Defense, the '72 Undefeated Squad, Dan Marino, the Marks Brothers, and Jason Taylor keep the "Dol Fans" with a stable and large fanbase.

Besides, the Dolphins always make, or at least try, to go for a committment of winning for each season. the Marlins? Not really. Again Irish, you said it so yourself a long time ago, why fucking bother if the ownership doesn't give a shit?

Also, there are only 8 football games at Dolphin Stadium every season. I'm sure people know they have limited opportunity, unlike say 81 Home Games for the Marlins. Again, you seem to ignore variables and complexity.

P.S. - Joe Giradi will go to another club and kick ass. Righteously, he will beat the snot out of the Marlins. Hey, thats what they get for tossing a good manager.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/06 11:56 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Considering the last few years, don't expect shit from the Yankees. I mean, they got KICKED last year from the ALDS. Last Year!
I expect them to at least make it to the World Series. They're fundamentally better than any of the other AL teams in most categories.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 01:05 AM

Lets go Yanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 02:23 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Considering the last few years, don't expect shit from the Yankees. I mean, they got KICKED last year from the ALDS. Last Year!

Anyway Irishman, you and simplicity go together like Mark Foley and young 16 year old athlete/pages. Inseperable!

You have any idea of how the Dolphins are an institution in South Florida? You know, like Yanks in NYC, but playing America's real current past time, instead of that sport that proclaims itself to "still" be.

Of course, the last few years have been lousy for Miami, and sadly 2006 looks to be another bummer year. However, the days of the No-Name Defense, the '72 Undefeated Squad, Dan Marino, the Marks Brothers, and Jason Taylor keep the "Dol Fans" with a stable and large fanbase.

Besides, the Dolphins always make, or at least try, to go for a committment of winning for each season. the Marlins? Not really. Again Irish, you said it so yourself a long time ago, why fucking bother if the ownership doesn't give a shit?

Also, there are only 8 football games at Dolphin Stadium every season. I'm sure people know they have limited opportunity, unlike say 81 Home Games for the Marlins. Again, you seem to ignore variables and complexity.

P.S. - Joe Giradi will go to another club and kick ass. Righteously, he will beat the snot out of the Marlins. Hey, thats what they get for tossing a good manager.
Well said. The Dolphins were Miami's first pro franchise and are this city's baby.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 03:58 AM

do you guys remember when the season was about to start a lot of people still had doubts about the Mets and A LOT of people still thought the Braves would win another NL East title. Jose Reyes was not that good, Beltran was coming from a terrible 2005 season... I mean, look at it now, they won easy, but in the start of the season they did had to prove and build all that huge lead. those early days were the toughest ones, and Pedro Martinez was brilliant in the first 2 months. in the month of may he went 0-1 in 6 starts with 2.14 ERA and 55 K in 42 IP. if he had better run support in those starts (what depended just on bad luck, especially because the Mets have probably the best lineup in baseball - Yankees don't count) he should have at least 10 wins. I guess he just ran out of arm later.

when they already had a huge lead in the NL East it was way easier for young guys like Traschel and Maine keep it up, but now in the playoffs it all starts from zero, so I think the Mets miss Pedro more than the Yankees miss Randy Johnson (considering them both healthy) because the damn Yankees have like 6 starting pitchers. in my opinion, the Mets will run out of SP in the postseason. the Yankees will roll over the Tigers and I think I'll root for the Twins
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 05:55 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
[b] Considering the last few years, don't expect shit from the Yankees. I mean, they got KICKED last year from the ALDS. Last Year!
I expect them to at least make it to the World Series. They're fundamentally better than any of the other AL teams in most categories. [/b][/quote]I agree and I'm sticking with my Subway Series prediction
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 05:59 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
the Yankees will roll over the Tigers and I think I'll root for the Twins
How bout them Sox!?

Some random happy thoughts about the 2006 season

-Boston finishes in 3rd place in the AL East (behind New York AND Toronto)
-The Angels didn't make the playoffs
-The Rangers didn't make the playoffs
-The Braves didn't win the NL East (AND didn't make the playoffs for the first time since 1990 AND finished 4 games below .500)
-The Marlins didn't make the playoffs
-The Diamondbacks didn't make the playoffs

And probably my happiest 2006 thought
-THE ASTROS MISSING THE PLAYOFFS!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 11:16 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
-The Angels didn't make the playoffs
Thank God. They'd probably still kick our ass.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 12:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
[b]the Yankees will roll over the Tigers and I think I'll root for the Twins
How bout them Sox!?

Some random happy thoughts about the 2006 season

-Boston finishes in 3rd place in the AL East (behind New York AND Toronto)
-The Angels didn't make the playoffs
-The Rangers didn't make the playoffs
-The Braves didn't win the NL East (AND didn't make the playoffs for the first time since 1990 AND finished 4 games below .500)
-The Marlins didn't make the playoffs
-The Diamondbacks didn't make the playoffs

And probably my happiest 2006 thought
-THE ASTROS MISSING THE PLAYOFFS!

[/b][/quote]These kind of posts will not win you any friends Irish.
Then again, you don't seem to need any.

In fact this is the type of post that drives up anti Yankee feelings. People who hate your type of nasty
So as the post season starts and the questions is: Who would you like to see win it all in 2006?

The answer quickly becomes: ANYBODY BUT THE YANKEES!

All other Yankee fans- Good luck and have a great playoffs.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 12:54 PM

Good thing we've gotten to witness good Yankee fans and idiot Yankee fans to know they're not all bad.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 01:41 PM

If only the good Yankee fans would bring the idiots out back and have them shot, like political prisoners in Latin America, then all would be good.

Hey Irish, I've got a NEW garden in my backyard I so want to show you... :p

Well, while I laugh at these Yankees fans who assume they'll walk over the Tigers....they could. Its not impossible, but considering the last few years, one series at a time. Take down the Pussy Cats from Detroit first. Then either the Twins/A's(guess? A's) in the ALCS, and the A's would be a bitch to fight against in the ALCS.

One series at a time!
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 02:14 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:

(2) 1940s to the 1960s, the Yanks got unbelievable amount of farm talent from lower clubs like the Kansas City Royals. While Kansas City was open to having over-the-hill veteran players, the Yanks got rich prospects oh mighty. Mantle and Maris anyone?

(3) George Steinbrenner and company. I hate Steinbrenner personally, an egotiastical, arrogant bastard that displays such rage and emotions over logic(hire/fire Billy Martin three times, almost whacking Torre in 2005, firing Yogi Berra after 10 games). However, he's a whore. He'll suck a room full of cocks to get a title. He would pawn off his legs as well. He has the resources to waste/spend as much money as he sees fit in order to win titles. REally, $200+ million team salaries don't happen by accident.
The Royals didn't come into existence until 1969.
the Yankees success in the 90's occurred despite Steinbrenner when the Yankees built a winning foundation from within (Williams, Jeter, Posada, Pettitte and Rivera.
Steinbrenner's influence led to the acquisition of overpaid, whiny prima donnas who hadn't won anything prior to joining guys like O'Neill, Brosius and Martinez(A-Rod, Giambi, Mussina and Clemens) while watching the farm system suffer.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 06:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
[b]the Yankees will roll over the Tigers and I think I'll root for the Twins
How bout them Sox!? [/b][/quote]do people still think I'm a Red Sox fan??? I just hate the Yankees...

as for the Tigers, believe me, they're not as good as they look. ALL of their starting pitchers (who made the hell of a job in the regular season) are worn out and/or slumping, and their offense looks better than it is because different players had huge hot streaks in different moments throughout the season. my guess is the Yanks will get past them. I don't know how many games it will take, but they will.

the Twins are on a roll and I believe they have what it takes to win it all. the poor Mets, well they just ran out of starting pitchers. if it wasn't for that, they'd win.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 06:09 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
[b]the Yankees will roll over the Tigers and I think I'll root for the Twins
How bout them Sox!?

Some random happy thoughts about the 2006 season

-Boston finishes in 3rd place in the AL East (behind New York AND Toronto)
-The Angels didn't make the playoffs
-The Rangers didn't make the playoffs
-The Braves didn't win the NL East (AND didn't make the playoffs for the first time since 1990 AND finished 4 games below .500)
-The Marlins didn't make the playoffs
-The Diamondbacks didn't make the playoffs

And probably my happiest 2006 thought
-THE ASTROS MISSING THE PLAYOFFS!

[/b][/quote]These kind of posts will not win you any friends Irish.
Then again, you don't seem to need any.

In fact this is the type of post that drives up anti Yankee feelings. People who hate your type of nasty
So as the post season starts and the questions is: Who would you like to see win it all in 2006?

The answer quickly becomes: ANYBODY BUT THE YANKEES!

All other Yankee fans- Good luck and have a great playoffs. [/b][/quote]I'm not here to win any friends fathersson so don't worry. And like I said, these were just things I was happy to see this year in MLB. You guys aren't the ones who have to see all the Astros crap (or rather lack there of now) thrown in your face. I've always hated Houston but all the more since Clemens and Pettitte went there. GOOD RIDDANCE! As for good old Yankee hating, you didn't need me to stir the pot. You either love them or hate them (there's NO in between)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 07:15 PM

Yanks are turbocharged this October

The last time the New York Yankees won a World Series -- way back in the dark ages of October 2000 -- there had never been a major league player named Melky, Johnny Damon was still a Royal and Chien-Ming Wang was a man with a dream that some day there might actually be a big leaguer from Taiwan.

That was six long years ago, friends.

It was so long ago that George Steinbrenner has had enough time to fork out nearly a billion of his precious payroll dollars trying to get back to the Canyon of Heroes.

It was so long ago that the likes of Steve Karsay, Drew Henson, Karim Garcia, Jeff Weaver, Raul Mondesi, Armando Benitez and Esteban Loaiza have all had time to zip on into Yankee Stadium and also zip on out.

It was so long ago that there was enough time for Derek Jeter to get 1,142 hits, for Jason Giambi to make 201 home run trots (and one grand-jury appearance), for Ron Villone to pitch for seven different teams.

But enough of that nostalgia. Wake up the Lower Manhattan street-sweeping crew. They're about to get 19 tons of confetti dumped on their heads -- because The Best Yankees Team Since That One is about to begin its rampage through another glorious October.

Yes, friends. We're picking the Yankees to win the 2006 World Series. We know that's not a pick that will make Yankee haters across the universe real euphoric. Sorry about that.

It's also not a pick, to be honest, we've had no second thoughts about. Heck, we've had third thoughts, fourth thoughts and several thousand other thoughts about it.

But we're applying the old That's My Story And I'm Sticking To It principle here. We picked the Yankees to win the World Series before Opening Day. And they look even better now. So this way, we can always say we nailed this from square one.

If we're right.

But the one common theme running through the last five postseasons is that nobody is ever right. So there's no reason to think anybody has this Octoberfest figured, either.

"This is the strangest baseball season I've ever seen," one longtime scout was saying over the weekend. "So I look for the playoffs to be equally strange."

That scout was one of a dozen GMs, scouts and executives we polled over the last week-plus see what team they thought would win the World Series. You might have presumed that poll would turn into a Yankees landslide. Far from it.

The Yankees got five votes. The Twins got four. The Tigers, A's and Mets got one each.

So what does that tell you? Here's what:

• Just about nobody thinks a National League team can win.
"I don't see anybody in the National League that's better than the top seven or eight teams in the American League," said one AL GM. "We've got eight teams over here with 85 wins and five with 90 wins. Now in a seven-game series, who knows? But from a realistic standpoint, it's no contest."

• Hardly anyone thinks the Mets can win now that Pedro Martinez is hanging out with his local rotator-cuff surgeon
"You don't get Pedro for the [regular] season," said one NL GM. "You get Pedro for the postseason. That's what they got him for. So without him, they're not the team they were constructed to be."

Even the one GM who picked the Mets to win made his pick before he knew Pedro was done. But there was also no reason to think he'd be the Pedro at that point, either. And that GM still had a gut feeling that the Mets would find a way to rise up.

"I know their pitching isn't great," he said. "But there's something about that group of guys [in the lineup]. They just don't let up on you. They're relentless."

But that was a sentiment no one else bought into. In fact, one scout said the Mets' rotation, minus Pedro, is "the weakest starting pitching of any of these teams. [So] I don't see the Mets making it through the LCS now. I'm not sure they can even get out of the first round."

• Not many people buy the idea that the Tigers might follow the 2005 White Sox script.
You all remember that script, of course: Best Team in Baseball for four months. Scare the carburetors out of your fans for the next two months. Then recapture the magic and blitzkrieg through October.

"There's one big difference between the Tigers and the '05 White Sox," said one AL executive. "The Tigers don't have the dominant pitching the White Sox had."

• Oakland's regularly scheduled second-half heat wave hasn't convinced many people that this is their year, either.
"I don't discount Oakland," said one scout. "They're better than people think. But I just don't know if they can score enough. It all depends how these teams pitch Frank Thomas, and I don't think they'll pitch to him. You get Frank out, you get Oakland out. When Frank doesn't hit, they don't have an offense."

• The loss of Francisco Liriano hasn't opened many seats on the Twins' bandwagon.
With Liriano, the Twins would have been the hot pick this October. Without him, you could see them doing just about anything -- from winning it all to getting swept in the first round.

But our panelists who favor them think they still match up with just about anybody, Liriano or no Liriano. And the biggest reason is a bullpen that has given up 83 fewer runs than the Yankees' bullpen. Yep, 83.

"They don't need to get great starting pitching, because once you get the game to the sixth inning against them, if you don't have the lead, it's over," said one AL assistant GM. "You can't say that about the Yankees. The guys the Twins bring in there in the middle innings are better than the guys most teams bring in there in the late innings. Jesse Crain pitches the sixth inning for the Twins. He'd close for a lot of teams."

And the man who does close, Joe Nathan, is the least-talked-about dominator in the whole sport.

"Mariano Rivera gets all the attention," said one scout. "But the guy in Minnesota is as good as anybody. And I mean anybody."

You could listen to these arguments and easily pick the Twins. They have the best record in baseball over the last 100 games (68-32). They've been just about as good (40-25) since Liriano's last win. Their lineup is so much better than it used to be, they actually outscored the White Sox in the second half. And they have the one pitcher in baseball who can win a series just about all by himself -- that Johan Santana guy.

So why are we still picking the Yankees? We have our reasons:

1. Have you seen that lineup?
All discussion about the Yankees starts with the most terrifying batting order of this millennium -- a lineup that will, literally, feature an All-Star at every position.

Yankees 2006 Offense
Stat Total MLB rank
BA .285 2nd
Runs 925 1st
Hits 1,597 T-1st
HR 209 5th
OBP .363 1st
SLG .461 3rd
OPS .824 1st

For two weeks now, we've been listening to folks from other teams muttering stuff like: "They've got Hideki Matsui hitting eighth." And: "Robinson Cano might win the batting title, and he's hitting ninth." Etc., etc.

"Think about this," said one AL executive a few days ago. "They're going to win close to 100 games, and they lost Matsui and [Gary] Sheffield for almost the whole year. If most teams lost 250 RBIs, they wouldn't even contend."

Instead, here's what the Yankees did -- with those two guys out for more than four months apiece, with Jason Giambi going a month without a homer, with Alex Rodriguez having the ugliest 35-homer, 122-RBI season of his career:

They scored nearly 100 more runs than the next-highest-scoring team in the playoffs (the Mets). They led the major leagues in runs, on-base percentage and OPS (on-base plus slugging). And they were the only team in the American League (in fact, the only team in baseball beside the Mets) to put up 200 homers and 130 stolen bases. So they can score any way there is to score.

"I know pitching wins in October," said one AL GM. "But that lineup is too good for anybody to shut down. There isn't a dominating pitching staff out there, like the White Sox had last year, that's good enough to shut them down."

This is only the 10th team in Yankees history to score 930 runs with this high an on-base percentage (.363) and OPS (.824). Seven of the other nine won the World Series. And to find the last team that didn't, you have to go all the way back to 1931.

2. They're relentless.
We know that word was used to describe the Mets, too. But now that Bobby Abreu wears pinstripes and Matsui and Sheffield are back, we can't recall any lineup since the mid-'90s Indians that was this exhausting to face.

Four of the nine Yankees regulars average more than four pitches seen per plate appearance. Two -- Abreu (4.46) and Jason Giambi (4.37) -- rank in the top three (with Kevin Youkilis) in the whole sport. Only one regular (Cano) averages under 3.7 pitches per PA.

So what does all that add up to? The Yankees had about 1,400 more pitches thrown to them this year than the Twins, and about 1,500 more than the Tigers.

"I just saw them for two days," said one scout. "And they had over 315 pitches seen. What they do is, they get to teams' middle relief and go through teams' bullpens like no other team I've seen. You just don't have enough pitchers when you face them."

3. Derek Jeter still works there.
In our recent debate with Jerry Crasnick over which New York shortstop you'd rather have -- Jeter or Jose Reyes -- I spent the 100 words allotted to me talking all about Jeter's world-famous intangibles.

Almost immediately, one Yankees fan e-mailed us to say we'd missed the point:

This year, Jeter has the tangibles to go with the intangibles.

And that's true. This was, clearly, Jeter's greatest season since 1999 and the second-best of his career: 214 hits, a .417 OBP, a .483 slugging percentage, a .900 OPS (higher than Andruw Jones, Carlos Lee or Mark Teixeira), a career-high 33 steals.

But the biggest reason to mention him here is that this is Derek Jeter's time of year.

Jeter is not a man who uses words like "disappointing" or "unfortunate" to describe not winning the World Series. He's a man who says not winning the World Series "makes me sick to my stomach."

So if they don't win another one, you may see him as the national spokesman for Zantac.

4. Mariano Rivera still works there.
The Great Mariano is hardly a known quantity right now. His name has shown up recently in the same sentence as letters like "MRI." He has pitched precisely four innings since August. The last time he left the mound without any runner having reached base was Aug. 12.

But since his return, he hasn't exactly reminded anybody of Jay Witasick. He has faced 17 hitters in those four outings, allowed only four to reach base, punched out six and allowed zero runs.

Granted, there's no way to know whether he's ready to assume the workload Joe Torre loves to heap on him in October. But it's also possible his 21-day September siesta will leave him more fresh than he has ever felt this time of year. Scary thought for the Yankees' opponents.

While Rivera's health is one of many Yankees questions that make us squirm, you can never go wrong betting on a closer with a postseason ERA of 0.81. And let's remind you there has only been one closer like that in history.

5. The Red Sox went over a cliff.
Over the last 10 years, history has taught us that teams that spend the last half of September on cruise control are usually not the teams that win the World Series.

Only one of the last 10 World Series champs (the '98 Yankees) has been a team that clinched early. But four of the last 10 champs were wild-card teams -- all of whom essentially played playoff games for the entire month of September.

But we have a feeling that's a trend that won't apply to these Yankees. And for that, they can thank the Red Sox.

The last three years, the Red Sox exhausted the Yankees before they ever got to the World Series -- last year with a final-weekend mano a mano for first place, in 2004 with The Comeback, in 2003 with the Aaron Boone Series that made the World Series feel like an anticlimax.

But this year, with the Red Sox Holy War off the autumn schedule, the Yankees could use September to "catch their breath," said one GM. And even more important, said an AL scout, they could "rest their bullpen, which Joe [Torre] has abused all year."

The Yankees are always charged up for October. But this year, they're turbocharged. Which is not an uplifting thought for the other playoff teams.

Now we've already admitted there is stuff about the Yankees that doesn't make us feel real confident about this pick. We're not guaranteeing it -- or your cable bill back, or anything like that. Can't do it. Not with this team, in this sport.

There's nothing encouraging about Randy Johnson's getting an epidural, unless he's secretly about to give birth. And we recognize that this is a team with the highest bullpen ERA (4.16) of any of the eight playoff teams.

And the thought of Gary Sheffield playing first base while Wang is busy throwing 23 ground balls in Game 1 ought to terrify anybody who has dared to pick this team.

But on the other hand, it's also possible this group has already survived a summer full of injuries, adversity and A-Rod soap operas. Now, said one GM, they're actually "getting healthier. Their lineup is unreal. [Mike] Mussina, Wang and Johnson are a legitimate top three [assuming the Unit is OK]. They have a combination of experience and hunger."

Plus, of course, they're The Yankees. And those six years since the last time they won are the equivalent of 60 years for any other franchise.

We can all agree there's nothing sadder than a billion dollars going to waste. So we hate to break it to the rest of the planet. But this is the year when Boss Steinbrenner will finally get his money's worth.

Jayson Stark is a senior writer for ESPN.com.

Source: ESPN.com
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 08:02 PM

Imagine the crushing disappointment if they lose. With all the talk about the lineup, the deification of the pitching, and the astronomical payroll, there will be a lot of embarrassment if they don't bring home a title.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 08:05 PM

And if the Mets don't....
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 08:49 PM

The Mets have to get to the Series. They're still in the Yankees' shadow.
They have nothing to lose once they face the Yankees. I think the Dodgers will upset them just as they did in the '88 NLCS.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/06 09:49 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by klydon1:
Imagine the crushing disappointment if they lose. With all the talk about the lineup, the deification of the pitching, and the astronomical payroll, there will be a lot of embarrassment if they don't bring home a title.
and the saddest part is that he didn't even find a way to really describe how scary that lineup is. neither did I. just take a look. they have one of the greatest outfielders of all time (I'm not a fan of Bobby Abreu but he does have the numbers) as a last minute addition who doesn't even have a place to field and was thrown up in the middle of a lineup that features a leadoff batter that could bat 3rd for most teams, a 9th hole man who battled for AL batting title and a slumping 3rd baseman who hit 35 HR with 122 RBI. I hope I'm deadly wrong but I can't disagree with Stark.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 12:45 AM

Originally posted by Irishman12:
I'm not here to win any friends fathersson so don't worry. And like I said, these were just things I was happy to see this year in MLB. You guys aren't the ones who have to see all the Astros crap (or rather lack there of now) thrown in your face. I've always hated Houston but all the more since Clemens and Pettitte went there. GOOD RIDDANCE! As for good old Yankee hating, you didn't need me to stir the pot. You either love them or hate them (there's NO in between)

Yes, I can see how your type of "sportsmanship" couldn't "win" friend down south. Hell, we hate you up here and we are all Northerners- Sure, coming from the North and spewing that kind of stuff againist the area home team could make things uncomfortable for you.
And I do understand where you are coming from about Clemens and Pettitte. I am sure that the Boston fans feel the same way about Damon.

I guess we shouldn't hate the team just because we dislike some of their fans.
I would surely hate to have to go to classes down there if the Yankees lose it this year.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 03:18 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
Hell, we hate you up here and we are all Northerners
Right back at you buddy

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
I guess we shouldn't hate the team just because we dislike some of their fans.
That's the 2nd time someone has said that to me. Wow, it's really flattering to think you'd hate the Yankees just because of little ol me
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 05:48 AM

Yeah well, a post-graduate still working at Blockbuster can piss off alot of people on his own.

"I've seen things you people wouldn't believe!"
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 06:26 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Yeah well, a post-graduate still working at Blockbuster can piss off alot of people on his own.
Hey, it pays the bills. Working at Blockbuster isn't my LIFE. I'm not making a career out of it. I work there because the pay isn't too bad, 5 free rentals a week (PLUS the new movies that come out on Tuesdays, we get them the Friday's before), it's close to home, they're flexible with my schedule, etc.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 02:26 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Working at Blockbuster isn't my LIFE. I'm not making a career out of it. I work there because the pay isn't too bad, 5 free rentals a week (PLUS the new movies that come out on Tuesdays, we get them the Friday's before), it's close to home, they're flexible with my schedule, etc.
I work at a porn shop.

They're just plain flexible.

:p
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 02:38 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]Working at Blockbuster isn't my LIFE. I'm not making a career out of it. I work there because the pay isn't too bad, 5 free rentals a week (PLUS the new movies that come out on Tuesdays, we get them the Friday's before), it's close to home, they're flexible with my schedule, etc.
I work at a porn shop.

They're just plain flexible.

:p [/b][/quote]Sure and it is a great place to make new friends I bet.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 03:14 PM

If you like your friends soft, supple, and inflatable...yes!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 03:43 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
If you like your friends soft, supple, and inflatable...yes!
just as long as they aren't wearing any baseball caps!
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 04:10 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
[b] Yeah well, a post-graduate still working at Blockbuster can piss off alot of people on his own.
Hey, it pays the bills. Working at Blockbuster isn't my LIFE. I'm not making a career out of it. I work there because the pay isn't too bad, 5 free rentals a week (PLUS the new movies that come out on Tuesdays, we get them the Friday's before), it's close to home, they're flexible with my schedule, etc. [/b][/quote]If the I12 worked at my blockbuster I would kick his yankee loving ass so far that when he got back he would still think....... that uh, it was the previous week's new releases!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 05:13 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Ice:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
[b] Yeah well, a post-graduate still working at Blockbuster can piss off alot of people on his own.
Hey, it pays the bills. Working at Blockbuster isn't my LIFE. I'm not making a career out of it. I work there because the pay isn't too bad, 5 free rentals a week (PLUS the new movies that come out on Tuesdays, we get them the Friday's before), it's close to home, they're flexible with my schedule, etc. [/b][/quote]If the I12 worked at my blockbuster I would kick his yankee loving ass so far that when he got back he would still think....... that uh, it was the previous week's new releases! [/b][/quote]"Don't sing it, BRING IT!" Your probably what was again exactly? Don't come into this thread that you've never posted in before and start off by making "threats"
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 05:42 PM

Hey, you guys have to play nice. This isn't the Fantasy Boxing thread.

Or the Fantasy Wrestling thread.

This isn't like playing on X-Box,
You have to get right up to them and Bam, bam, bam-
Right in the eye or break his nose right off the bat.

Blood gushing all over your expensive clothes.
Remember this is business, not personal.

Then again, the least he could do is tell you what team he is for. Before he yells that he wants to kick your ass. It is only fair. Right? Vito, Tom, Sonny
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 06:14 PM

My heart says the World Series will be the A's vs. the Padres. My head says it will be the Yankees vs. the Dodgers.

The Mets do not have the starting pitching - they are not going to bash their opponents to death like they did in the regular season. Sure, they can in a 5 game series, but it's not happening in a 7 game series. Detroit and St. Louis are falling apart at the seams.

I don't think Minnesota has the horses to hold off NY. I don't think the Yanks are a lock esp. given their question marks in the rotation. Mussina has not really won too many big playoff games, Johnson is not healthy, and they will have to rely on Jaret Wright in a 7 game series. None of which really instills fear into an opponent. That said, if their pitchers keep the games close, the hitting should take over. I hope A-Rod chokes again and the fans are all over him. Here' hoping there are still several bases-loaded, 2 out strikeouts left in A-Rod and a few mulitple erro games as well.

Definitely mark me down on the "hate" side of the ledger regarding the Yankees.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 06:46 PM

Irishman, get a thick skin. If you bring the heat on others, don't go crying when that same flame burns your hands.

I mean shit, I know what to expect when I'm pissing on others.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 06:50 PM

A's over Twins
Cardinals over Padres
Dodgers over Mets
Yankees over Tigers
-------

Yankees over A's
Cardinals over Dodgers

----------

Ummmmm....I would say the Yanks, but why is it that I have this nagging feeling that they'll fuck up?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 07:05 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
Irishman, get a thick skin. If you bring the heat on others, don't go crying when that same flame burns your hands.

I mean shit, I know what to expect when I'm pissing on others.
And again, Ice comes into the equation how? Since I have been "pissing on him" all over this thread :rolleyes: You want to have a discussion or disagree with me, then fine, but don't come into a threat and start making empty threats. We both know he wouldn't do a thing if I were in the store and it takes away from the REAL topic of this thread (the New York Yankees)
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 07:15 PM

Please stop threatening and insulting each other.

Thank you.

Santana to lose Game 1 ??
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 07:37 PM

A's beat Santana and Twins in Game #1, 3-2. Two HRs for Frank Thomas.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/03/06 07:47 PM

My predictions:

-Yankees over Tigers
-Twins over A's
-Mets over Dodgers
-Padres over Cardinals

-Yankees over Twins
-Mets over Padres

-Yankees over Mets
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 02:15 AM

Oh, Goombah, how could you come into this thread and talk like that?? What makes you treat the Yankees so disrespectfully?? You broke my heart, Goombah, you broke my heart.

At least tell me that you believe that Derek Jeter deserves to be MVP this year!!

Right now, top of the 6th, and the Yankees are winning 5-3. The Yanks lost it a bit in the 5th by allowing those 3 runs to score, but they seem to be back on track.
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 05:11 AM

[QUOTE]Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
[qb]Irishman, get a thick skin. If you bring the heat on others, don't go crying when that same flame burns your hands.

I 12,

U HATE TEXAS AND U LOVE IT!!(see college football thread)

in this yrs mlb playoff i pick.......billy beane and money ball!!! w/ frank thomas 2 hr today he becomes the player w/ the longest interval between post season hr in history!!!

'and i want everyone here to know--there's not gonna be no trouble from me!'
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 05:27 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
[b]the Yankees will roll over the Tigers and I think I'll root for the Twins
How bout them Sox!?

Some random happy thoughts about the 2006 season

-Boston finishes in 3rd place in the AL East (behind New York AND Toronto)
-The Angels didn't make the playoffs
-The Rangers didn't make the playoffs
-The Braves didn't win the NL East (AND didn't make the playoffs for the first time since 1990 AND finished 4 games below .500)
-The Marlins didn't make the playoffs
-The Diamondbacks didn't make the playoffs

And probably my happiest 2006 thought
-THE ASTROS MISSING THE PLAYOFFS!

[/b][/quote]These kind of posts will not win you any friends Irish.
Then again, you don't seem to need any.

In fact this is the type of post that drives up anti Yankee feelings. People who hate your type of nasty
So as the post season starts and the questions is: Who would you like to see win it all in 2006?

The answer quickly becomes: ANYBODY BUT THE YANKEES!

All other Yankee fans- Good luck and have a great playoffs. [/b][/quote]GOOD LUCK YANKEES!!! UNTIL THE TEXAS STRANGERS 'GET OFF THE FARM' IM ALL FOR YA. BUT I HOPE THE CURSE OF A-ROD RINGS TRUE!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 05:36 AM

The Yankees win 8-4, lead the series 1-0
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 05:55 AM

I was hoping the tigers would pull a white sox this year but their staff sucks. I REALLY hoped 'pudge' would rally the tigers like he did the marlins in their world series run but that looks unlikely.

FROM AN OUTSIDER PT OF VIEW: the yanks will win title # ? (whatever # it is) this season.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 06:03 AM

27 brother. Man, Jeter sure looked like an MVP tonight going 5-for-5 (and from what I've seen Abreu didn't look too bad either)
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 06:13 AM

Yeah Bobby Abreu!!! WTF, its about time!!!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 11:04 AM

I stayed up and watched it on the East Coast, which is no easy feat after rising at 4:30 AM that morning... :p

And I'm glad I did...Jeter was insane, Bobby Abreu was awesome, Sheff made good, Giambi put it over the fence, even A-Rod was decent.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 12:56 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Oh, Goombah, how could you come into this thread and talk like that?? What makes you treat the Yankees so disrespectfully?? You broke my heart, Goombah, you broke my heart.

At least tell me that you believe that Derek Jeter deserves to be MVP this year!!
As much as I despise the pinstripes, I do have a tremendous amount of respect for the player adorning your avatar. Jeter always steps it a notch in the playoffs. And yes, I do think he should be the AL MVP.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 01:48 PM

He really had a great game last night, didn't he?? As did the rest of the team. They looked awesome, and I think that they truly can go all the way this year, although one never knows.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 03:30 PM

You have to tip your cap to the man. He went five for five last night.

But it is still early to be giving out any awards just yet.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 04:02 PM

I don't see how anyone can think Jeter should win the AL MVP award. if it was the "Best Player Award" he could win, although he wouldn't be my pick. now, as for Most Valuable Player, that just can't be him. not with another dozen of all starts in his team.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 04:21 PM

I disagree...who else should be the MVP? Johan Santana? He didn't have any more wins than Chien Ming Wang, why isn't Wang the MVP? David Ortiz? He's so valuable, his team didn't make the playoffs. Jim Thome or Jermaine Dye? Their team didn't make it either. Hafner? Same. Joe Mauer? Sure, he has the batting title, but his defensive skills are good at best.

Just because Jeter is on a team full of All-Stars doesn't mean his impact is less. It's like saying Lou Gehrig sucked because he played alongside Babe Ruth.

Jeter has an amazing impact on this team both skill wise (5 hits last nite...pretty rare air there) on offense and defense as well as a team leader as the captain and lockerroom sage.

Pitchers should, for the most part, get the Cy Young. That's what its there for. The MVP should be the player who, if gone, would put a serious hole in that teams lineup, both offensively and defensively. Jeter takes an All-Star/Gold Glove defense away from the Yanks...replaced by Andy Cannizaro? And at the plate...over .343 average (#2 in AL), 214 hits (#3 in AL) 97 RBI's, 69 BB's, 34 SB's (#7 in AL), and a .417 OBP (#4 in AL).

The question, more appropriately, is really who else is there besides Jeter?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 05:02 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
Just because Jeter is on a team full of All-Stars doesn't mean his impact is less. It's like saying Lou Gehrig sucked because he played alongside Babe Ruth.
I agree DJ. Just because Jeter is on a team full of stars shouldn't have any bearing on him as an individual player. I think it says a lot about what type of player he is when you are on a roster like the Yankees and can stand head and shoulders above the rest of those stars. Now does everyone understand why Jeter gets a "free pass" from Yankee fans and why A-Rod gets booed so much during the regular season? Jeter comes through when we need it most while A-Rod wasn't horrible last night, but he also didn't have 5 hits either.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 05:27 PM

The interesting thing that I read this morning was that Jeter's HR last night was his 17th career home run in the postseason. To me, that proves that he comes through when the team needs him, and that goes a long way towards making the case for him to be the AL MVP.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 05:44 PM

Didn't Frank Thomas hit two?
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 05:55 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
at the plate...over .343 average (#2 in AL), 214 hits (#3 in AL) 97 RBI's, 69 BB's, 34 SB's (#7 in AL), and a .417 OBP (#4 in AL).

The question, more appropriately, is really who else is there besides Jeter?
HE is one of the best CLUTCH hitters EVER!! Scouts take a lot of count in what a guy does with a full count, and what a guy does w/ men in scoring position. In those two categories he is the best in the world. (David Eckstein of anaheim excels in those two categories as well, even though he traditionally hits around the mendoza line)

THERE ARE 5 TOOLS AND JETER GOT EM' ALL BABY!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 06:06 PM

Well, it gets to be a whole new world when you have a team that puts men on the bases before you get up to bat. If you didn't have the guys already on base he wouldn't get the RBIs or they wouldn't have to pitch to him so well, but the rest of the lineup is tuff too.
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 06:14 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
Well, it gets to be a whole new world when you have a team that puts men on the bases before you get up to bat. If you didn't have the guys already on base he wouldn't get the RBIs or they wouldn't have to pitch to him so well, but the rest of the lineup is tuff too.
i have always considered the rbi to be pretty arbitrary too. but u gotta be clutch and knock those guys in when you have the chance.

and again, he is considered the best 3-2 hitter ever.

.343 and 34 SB who else did that this yr?
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 06:22 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:


The question, more appropriately, is really who else is there besides Jeter?
Justin Morneau. .321 34 HR 130 RBI

I like what Jeter does and this was perhaps his finest season. While I am not one who believes he is overrated and that his value can not be adequately assessed by statistics, I think his offensive numbers get a bump from having A-Rod, Abreu and Giambi hitting behind him. Frankly, he, Damon and Cano get better pitches to hit throughout the year.

Morneau had more combined runs/RBI than Jeter and played on a team that had far fewer runs. The 20 hr difference between them is far greater than the .022 difference in batting average. He had a bigger impact on getting the Twins to the play-offs than Jeter had for the Yankees.

I would rate them for AL MVP: 1. Morneau; 2. Jeter; 3. Dye: 4. Ortiz; and 5. Thomas

In the NL I rate the MVP race as 1. Howard; 2. Pujols; 3. Beltran; 4. Cabrera; and 5. Utley
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 06:44 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
The interesting thing that I read this morning was that Jeter's HR last night was his 17th career home run in the postseason. To me, that proves that he comes through when the team needs him, and that goes a long way towards making the case for him to be the AL MVP.
This isn't a crack on Jeter, but rather the playoff system. He has the most hits (147 I believe) in the postseason. Why? Because there are more playoff games now in the era Jeter plays in than Ruth, Mantle, Ty Cobb, etc. There was no wild card until 1995, which is an extra 5 games. And if I'm not mistaken, the league championship series were shorter than they are now.

Having said all that still does not take away Jeter's accomplishments.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 07:56 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
[quote]Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
[b] The interesting thing that I read this morning was that Jeter's HR last night was his 17th career home run in the postseason. To me, that proves that he comes through when the team needs him, and that goes a long way towards making the case for him to be the AL MVP.
This isn't a crack on Jeter, but rather the playoff system. He has the most hits (147 I believe) in the postseason. Why? Because there are more playoff games now in the era Jeter plays in than Ruth, Mantle, Ty Cobb, etc. There was no wild card until 1995, which is an extra 5 games. And if I'm not mistaken, the league championship series were shorter than they are now.

Having said all that still does not take away Jeter's accomplishments. [/b][/quote]The same is said about Bernie Williams whom I believe owns the most career postseason home runs (although I'm not sure what the number is).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/04/06 09:50 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by klydon1:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b]

The question, more appropriately, is really who else is there besides Jeter?
Justin Morneau. .321 34 HR 130 RBI

I like what Jeter does and this was perhaps his finest season. While I am not one who believes he is overrated and that his value can not be adequately assessed by statistics, I think his offensive numbers get a bump from having A-Rod, Abreu and Giambi hitting behind him. Frankly, he, Damon and Cano get better pitches to hit throughout the year.

Morneau had more combined runs/RBI than Jeter and played on a team that had far fewer runs. The 20 hr difference between them is far greater than the .022 difference in batting average. He had a bigger impact on getting the Twins to the play-offs than Jeter had for the Yankees.

I would rate them for AL MVP: 1. Morneau; 2. Jeter; 3. Dye: 4. Ortiz; and 5. Thomas

In the NL I rate the MVP race as 1. Howard; 2. Pujols; 3. Beltran; 4. Cabrera; and 5. Utley [/b][/quote]Morneau may have been the batting champion, but how does his defense compare to Jeter? Barring injury, Jeter plays every day. A catcher must be rested.

Furthermore, if we're going by how good the team around them is, you could argue the pitching in Minnesota was better and more consistent with Santana and Liriano versus Wang, et al.

Sure, Morneau plays on a team with less "stars," and I'm not saying he shouldn't be a candidate for the MVP, but Jeter had an awesome year that stands out among an entire team of great talent. Furthermore, let's wait and see which team gets farther in the playoffs...Jeter is already having an amazing postseason after just one game (1.000 BA, 5 hits, 2 doubles, a homerun, and an RBI) while Morneau is not off to a great start (0-4 .000 BA, 0 RBI's, etc.).

Granted, its one game, so its pretty unfair. But one started like a sparkplug, the other a dud. So let's see which team makes it further, and then decide who is more valuable.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 01:49 AM

When does a rain delay become a cancellation?
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 02:03 AM

It's just postponed 'til tomorrow afternoon - they didn't wanna take chances not being able to complete the came tonight...
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 02:04 AM

Damn!! Does this mean that they play a double-header in Detroit?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 02:05 AM

See what happens when you screw around with the Yankee avatar.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 02:10 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Damn!! Does this mean that they play a double-header in Detroit?
Tomorrow was a travel day - it'll be at Yankee Stadium before they head to Detroit for Friday's game. You don't know the Yanks' schedule?? Bad girl! :p
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 06:37 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
[quote]Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
[b] Damn!! Does this mean that they play a double-header in Detroit?
Tomorrow was a travel day - it'll be at Yankee Stadium before they head to Detroit for Friday's game. You don't know the Yanks' schedule?? Bad girl! :p [/b][/quote]she's a very bad girl.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 12:34 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Damn!! Does this mean that they play a double-header in Detroit?
I think hell has a better chance of getting some flurries than MLB playing a doubleheader in the playoffs. A doubleheader wouldn't be able to generate as much TV revenue to satisfy Bud Selig.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 03:36 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by klydon1:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b]

The question, more appropriately, is really who else is there besides Jeter?
Justin Morneau. .321 34 HR 130 RBI

I like what Jeter does and this was perhaps his finest season. While I am not one who believes he is overrated and that his value can not be adequately assessed by statistics, I think his offensive numbers get a bump from having A-Rod, Abreu and Giambi hitting behind him. Frankly, he, Damon and Cano get better pitches to hit throughout the year.

Morneau had more combined runs/RBI than Jeter and played on a team that had far fewer runs. The 20 hr difference between them is far greater than the .022 difference in batting average. He had a bigger impact on getting the Twins to the play-offs than Jeter had for the Yankees.

I would rate them for AL MVP: 1. Morneau; 2. Jeter; 3. Dye: 4. Ortiz; and 5. Thomas

In the NL I rate the MVP race as 1. Howard; 2. Pujols; 3. Beltran; 4. Cabrera; and 5. Utley [/b][/quote]Morneau may have been the batting champion, but how does his defense compare to Jeter? Barring injury, Jeter plays every day. A catcher must be rested.

Furthermore, if we're going by how good the team around them is, you could argue the pitching in Minnesota was better and more consistent with Santana and Liriano versus Wang, et al.

Sure, Morneau plays on a team with less "stars," and I'm not saying he shouldn't be a candidate for the MVP, but Jeter had an awesome year that stands out among an entire team of great talent. Furthermore, let's wait and see which team gets farther in the playoffs...Jeter is already having an amazing postseason after just one game (1.000 BA, 5 hits, 2 doubles, a homerun, and an RBI) while Morneau is not off to a great start (0-4 .000 BA, 0 RBI's, etc.).

Granted, its one game, so its pretty unfair. But one started like a sparkplug, the other a dud. So let's see which team makes it further, and then decide who is more valuable. [/b][/quote]It's Morneau. Justin Morneau. He's not a catcher. He plays first base. You're thinking of Mauer.

Sure, both Morneau and Jeter played defensively well enough and I'll grant that Jeter plays a more demanding position, but MVPs are awarded by and large for offensive production. While defense is considered, show me an MVP that won it for his glove.

I don't see the relevance of the team pitching comparisons. What I'm saying is that Morneau had a greater impact in getting his team to the post-season than did Jeter. I agree that Jeter had an awesome year. But , I believe Morneau, despite the fact that he doesn't get nearly the same hype as Jeter, was more valuable.

By the way, Post-season performance is not factored into the League MVP considerations. Never has been. There are LCS and WS MVPs for that. But even at that, Morneau was 2 for 4 with a homer yesterday.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 05:30 PM

Well, thank goodness they had a travel day! So far, no score, bottom of the first, 2 men on, 2 outs, Giambi's up and the count is 3 and 1. Giambi has one of the best eyes in baseball.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 05:31 PM

Oh, my!! Giambi walked. Bases are loaded. Guess who is up at bat?? ARod. C'mon, Alex. This is your moment to shine!!

Edited to add: ARod struck out. I'm shocked.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 06:20 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Oh, my!! Giambi walked. Bases are loaded. Guess who is up at bat?? ARod. C'mon, Alex. This is your moment to shine!!

Edited to add: ARod struck out. I'm shocked.
Come on, Are you really that shocked?

Thanks for keeping us posted on the score!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 06:26 PM

Well, now it's the bottom of the 4th and the score is 1-0, Tigers. 1 man on, one out, Posada's up, count is 2-2. C'mon Georgie!!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 06:30 PM

DAMON 3-run HR!!! (3-1 NYY bottom 4th)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 06:31 PM

I was just saying to myself right when Johnny came up "come on, you burned us before, now burn them" and the first pitch he crushes for a 3-run home run!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 06:32 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by fathersson:
[quote]Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
[b] Oh, my!! Giambi walked. Bases are loaded. Guess who is up at bat?? ARod. C'mon, Alex. This is your moment to shine!!

Edited to add: ARod struck out. I'm shocked.
Come on, Are you really that shocked?[/b][/quote]No, because ESPN showed Alex's postseason numbers since becoming a Yankee (through 10 games he's batting like .130)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 06:46 PM

That was a great shot by Damon! However, the Tigers have now made it 3-2.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 06:52 PM

You should've called him Alexis -- see, it's all your fault!! :p

Oh, he's up again now - now your chance!!

Edit: Shit, even that didn't work.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 07:16 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by fathersson:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
[b] Oh, my!! Giambi walked. Bases are loaded. Guess who is up at bat?? ARod. C'mon, Alex. This is your moment to shine!!

Edited to add: ARod struck out. I'm shocked.
Come on, Are you really that shocked?[/b][/quote]No, because ESPN showed Alex's postseason numbers since becoming a Yankee (through 10 games he's batting like .130) [/b][/quote]I know, that is what I was thinking. It is a shame, a real shame.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 07:17 PM

ouch, all tied up.....
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 08:00 PM

another arod strikeout in the 8th. ouch!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 08:03 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Ice:
another arod strikeout in the 8th. ouch!
In 11 postseason games as a Yankee, .128 AVG, 1 HR, 2 RBI
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 08:06 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Ice:
[b] another arod strikeout in the 8th. ouch!
In 11 postseason games as a Yankee, .128 AVG, 1 HR, 2 RBI [/b][/quote]yes, but how many guys did he leave on base?
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 08:25 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Ice:
[b] another arod strikeout in the 8th. ouch!
In 11 postseason games as a Yankee, .128 AVG, 1 HR, 2 RBI [/b][/quote]What was his post-season numbers with Seattle? I don't recall anything outstanding although it was quite a while ago.
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 08:26 PM

I can't believe that they did not try to bunt cabrera over and get him into scoring position in the 9th with 0 outs.
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 08:29 PM

Boy did Verlander make A-Rod look like a FOOL today. Oh yeah, coming back to the D all tied up.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 08:35 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by klydon1:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Ice:
[b] another arod strikeout in the 8th. ouch!
In 11 postseason games as a Yankee, .128 AVG, 1 HR, 2 RBI [/b][/quote]What was his post-season numbers with Seattle? I don't recall anything outstanding although it was quite a while ago. [/b][/quote]I don't remember his HR or RBI numbers but his average through 22 non-Yankee postseason games, his average was above .300
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/06 08:46 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
You should've called him Alexis -- see, it's all your fault!! :p

Oh, he's up again now - now your chance!!

[b]Edit:
Shit, even that didn't work. [/b]
GET THAT AVATAR BACK TO WALDO OR I'LL DOS THE GBB! :p
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/06 12:20 AM

Thank goodness Waldo is back. Wasn't the rain delay enough of a warning? You didn't see that as God's way of saying, "Don't mess with fate!"? Please man, whatever you do, don't mess with the avatar again, ok??

Meanwhile, let's face it. ARod coming through certainly would've helped, but he didn't lose the game all by himself. Sorry, JG, I meant ALEXIS!! :p
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/06 12:41 AM

Trust me - Waldo's here to stay (at least thru the playoffs! )
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/06 01:23 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
I don't see how anyone can think Jeter should win the AL MVP award. if it was the "Best Player Award" he could win, although he wouldn't be my pick. now, as for Most [b]Valuable Player, that just can't be him. not with another dozen of all starts in his team. [/b]
Can you at least name someone you think should win the MVP instead of who should not? The MVP almost always goes to a player who helped his team get to the postseason. So Ortiz is out - I couldn't see giving it to a DH anyway. The same goes for Hafner - he was having a great year before the broken wrist in Sept, but Pronk does not play the field.
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/06 06:59 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:


ARod coming through certainly would've helped, but he didn't lose the game all by himself. Sorry, JG, I meant ALEXIS!! :p
in the sick, sadistic, world of guys and sports its called the 'curse of a-rod'. when he was 20 years old and playing in seattle w/ no pressure he was one of the greatest specimens of baseball talent the world had ever seen.

'and then george steinbrenner comes along w/ his billion dollar payroll and playoff charm....'

HE CANT TAKE THE HEAT.

i bet he plays better on the road though.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/06 07:34 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
[quote]Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
[b] I don't see how anyone can think Jeter should win the AL MVP award. if it was the "Best Player Award" he could win, although he wouldn't be my pick. now, as for Most [b]Valuable
Player, that just can't be him. not with another dozen of all starts in his team. [/b]
Can you at least name someone you think should win the MVP instead of who should not? The MVP almost always goes to a player who helped his team get to the postseason. [/b][/quote]I don't think that your team HAS to make the play-offs, but it helps if your team was a play-off contender. As such, your games, plays, at bats, pitches, etc. are meaningful to your team.

If we disqualify players, whose teams are 20 games out of it because their games aren't meaningful, should we not consider or limit the importance of those games of players whose teams are 20 games ahead? Similarly, while we may preclude a KC Royal because his team's games were apparently meaningless, down the stretch they played the Twins, White Sox and Tigers. Those games were meaningful even though KC wasn't going anywhere.

Anyway, for reasons stated above, I tip my hat to Jeter, but would give the award to Morneau.
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/06 07:57 PM

YANKEE FANS???

little quiet today
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/06 08:27 PM

Waiting for the game to come on, studying for finals next week and I just got back from seeing The Departed
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/06 09:50 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Ice:
YANKEE FANS???

little quiet today
What are we going to talk about besides Geoff fucking everything up with his avatar? :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/06 11:07 PM

WOW, Oakland swept Minnesota
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/06/06 11:36 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b]WOW, Oakland swept Minnesota [/b]
Huston Street(A's closer) who is a few yrs younger than myself and son of longhorn legend james street, went to my high school and besides being a great baseball player also was on the football team who lost to cedric benson(bears rb) in the texas state finals. he stuck benson's ass so many times i am sure benson must have had doubts about his career carrying over to the pros.

(my all-white team is the only 'austin-westlake' team to ever win texas state thanks largely to a guy named drew brees)

u yanks better have some endurance left for billy beane's boys after grinding this series out w/ the tigers.
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 01:57 AM

Wow, the 3rd base ump is having a terrible game. As much as I loved the safe call on Pudge, he was so out. And then the that just hit the foul line and you could see the chalk/paint fly up.


Other than that it's been a pretty good game so far.
Posted By: DonVitoCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 02:53 AM

I have a man-crush on Kenny Rogers.
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 03:15 AM

*Ric Flair voice* WOOOOOOOOOOOO

Bondo is gonna wrap it up tomorrow.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 06:04 AM

I really didn't need a Yankee loss tonight.

But I gotta admit, Rogers -- an ex-Yankee! -- looked sharper than he ever did in New York!

Bastid.

We're done now, with Wright going in tomorrow's final NYY postseason game. :rolleyes: I guess all the "Yanks have the best 1-9 lineup of all time" bullshit means nothing in the end....
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 06:36 AM

I KNEW and said the Yanks should have picked up Rogers in the offseason
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 06:54 AM

Please... he couldn't succeed in NY the first time, what makes you think he could've a 2nd time? NY is too intimidating for many players; they just can't take it.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 10:11 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
I really didn't need a Yankee loss tonight.

But I gotta admit, Rogers -- an ex-Yankee! -- looked sharper than he ever did in New York!

Bastid.

We're done now, with Wright going in tomorrow's final NYY postseason game. :rolleyes: I guess all the "Yanks have the best 1-9 lineup of all time" bullshit means nothing in the end....
Considering that both the home plate and 3rd base umpires gave the Tigers a little help, I can't give it all to Rogers. Then again, I can't understand why the Yankees were swinging at trash. Half of his stuff was out of the zone, it was like playing against Wakefield...
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 01:51 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I KNEW and said the Yanks should have picked up Rogers in the offseason
Christ, who DIDN't you say the Yankee should have picked up?
You wanted them to buy every player out there.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 02:56 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
[quote]Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
[b] I don't see how anyone can think Jeter should win the AL MVP award. if it was the "Best Player Award" he could win, although he wouldn't be my pick. now, as for Most [b]Valuable
Player, that just can't be him. not with another dozen of all starts in his team. [/b]
Can you at least name someone you think should win the MVP instead of who should not? The MVP almost always goes to a player who helped his team get to the postseason. So Ortiz is out - I couldn't see giving it to a DH anyway. The same goes for Hafner - he was having a great year before the broken wrist in Sept, but Pronk does not play the field. [/b][/quote]yes, I can. if I had to pick the AL Most Valuable Players of 2006, I'd go with Justin Morneau. the guy had triple crown numbers and helped his team make the playoffs in the tightest race of the MLB, against the former World champions and a team that had built a huge division lead. and he's not even a star or anything, just like his teammates. as for "DH's shouldn't get the MVP award", I have to say: I don't see any logic there. maybe if the award was "Most Valuable Player Who Plays a Position Role". I remember last year when there was the A-Rod or Ortiz MVP talk, I read somewhere that Rafael Palmeiro once won the 1st base Gold Glove award playing 21 games at 1st and more than 100 at DH. so they're giving the Gold Glove to a DH, but not the MVP award???
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 03:03 PM

quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
quote:
Originally posted by Ice:
YANKEE FANS???

little quiet today
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 03:06 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Ice:
in the sick, sadistic, world of guys and sports its called the 'curse of a-rod'. when he was 20 years old and playing in seattle w/ no pressure he was one of the greatest specimens of baseball talent the world had ever seen.

'and then george steinbrenner comes along w/ his billion dollar payroll and playoff charm....'

HE CANT TAKE THE HEAT.

i bet he plays better on the road though.
absolutely agreed. just like JG said, "NY can ruin careers". in my humble opinion, it's a curse from the devil. if A-Rod was still a SS from any other team I'd keep a poster of him in my bedroom. now, Uncle George buyed and buried him.

last night, though, it was just not his fault. Rogers was on fire. half of his stuff was out of the zone??? then why all that millionaire all stars kept swinging??? also, if the Yankees had picked Rogers in the offseason, he'd be either on the DL or on waivers right now, after a 5-11, 6.00 ERA season. but last night was HIS night I think. he was better than when he pitched a perfect game!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 06:37 PM

I'll even argue that Jeter was more deterent for the Yankees last night than A-Rod was.

Remember that jump of his that failed to catch the flying ball? (Still, one hell of a reach) It allowed to continue a scoring rally for the Tigers.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 08:56 PM

3-0 DET in the 2nd... It's the beginning of the end...
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 09:00 PM

You must swear to never change your avatar again.
better hurry,
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 09:01 PM

Do I smell hot tar boiling?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 09:06 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
3-0 DET in the 2nd... It's the beginning of the end...
Geez, aren't you Mr. Optimistic?? I know it looks bad, but it's only the freaking 2nd INNING!!! Way to stay faithful to your team, Big Guy!!
Posted By: ginaitaliangirl

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 09:08 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Geez, aren't you Mr. Optimistic?? I know it looks bad, but it's only the freaking 2nd INNING!!! Way to stay faithful to your team, Big Guy!!
It's his "patented" anti-jinx, I think. You know, the one that never works!!! Jeez, Geoff. You better draw Waldo all over your walls or something...
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 09:21 PM

Gary Sheffield should have....fuck it, he aint a First Baseman.

However, Giambi would have caught it for sure.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 09:54 PM

Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 10:10 PM

7-0, Top of the 6th.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 11:19 PM

See you in April!!

I know, I know, there's no crying in baseball!! I don't care!
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 11:24 PM

THE TIIIIIIIIGERS WIN .... THE TIIIIIIIGERS WINNNNN!
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 11:35 PM

THEEEE TIIIIIIIIGERS WIN!!!!


see you in april.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 11:41 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by SC:
THE TIIIIIIIIGERS WIN .... THE TIIIIIIIGERS WINNNNN!
Trying to get I12 riled up to say, "Yeah? How far did the BoSox get??" :p :rolleyes:
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 11:45 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
Trying to get I12 riled up to say, "Yeah? How far did the BoSox get??" :p :rolleyes:
You're beginning to sound more and more like him every day.

Post whore!

$198 million doesn't buy what it used to.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 11:46 PM

So much for that.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/06 11:49 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by SC:
Post whore!
I don't need this abuse!

I'm going to the Word Games forum for a few hours... :p
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 12:08 AM

I wonder if Plawrence had anything to do with this.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 12:14 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by AppleOnYa:
I wonder if Plawrence had anything to do with this.
He wouldn't be so cruel to SB and me!! Unless, of course, he had money riding on it...
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 12:21 AM

If it had been a 'closer' loss I might agree with you.

It was FAR too miserable a game, almost from the beginning...NOT to have been influenced by forces beyond our world.

He had something to do with it...and is probably having a HUGE laugh on his buddies right now.

Apple
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 12:49 AM

Let's Go Mets! Nah, doesn't sound right. Pleae fire Steinbrenner and Cashboy.
Posted By: ginaitaliangirl

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 12:57 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
Good thing we've gotten to witness good Yankee fans and idiot Yankee fans to know they're not all bad.
This statement rings very true for me.

SB, JG, two of the nicest and most respectful Yankee fans I know, I truly am sorry. Same to several others here who were always good sports regardless of their team. They made a good run, but I guess it's time for y'all to join me on the couch watching the other guys have fun.

As for the one who so enjoyed my Astros missing out...nothing I say will ever change anything in his mind, but this is just desserts for me.

Plaw, you dirty rat.
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 01:48 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by MaryCas:
Let's Go Mets! Nah, doesn't sound right. Pleae fire Steinbrenner and Cashboy.
This evening after the game, I told my 7yr old daughter that at least we could still hope to root for the Mets. Even though it wouldn't be the same...we'd still have a New York team to cheer on.

To which she firmly replied:
"There's NO WAY I'm rooting for the Mets."

Her grandfather would be so proud.

Apple

ps - Steinbrenner is an owner, he cannot be 'fired'.
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 01:54 AM

Can we send in Neri to move this thread out??? :p
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 02:21 AM



I'm not sorry, good or idiot Yankee fans. you already have 26 WS, let someone else play! it will not be that bad for you, because the Mets are not going anywhere too.

Quote:
Originally posted by Me
posted October 03, 2006 01:58
"the Mets will run out of SP in the postseason and the Yankees will roll over the Tigers"
I still think I'm right about the Mets, but the Yankees... just another jinx from our boards against the evil empire
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 02:27 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:
I'm not sorry, good or idiot Yankee fans. you already have 26 WS, let someone else play! ...
:rolleyes:

The usual mantra that one can count on this time of year.

Of course, we can also say that we've been in 5out of the past 11 World Series, and made post-season ALL those 11 years.

So sure...someone else can play.

Meantime, we'll work on our pitching over the winter.

Apple
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 02:33 AM

i dont know what i just saw but its time for k-rod to leave town n bring up some young talent. that was flat out embarrasingg.


to remember better times
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 02:50 AM

Wow, nobody blaming it all on A-Rod....yet. I'm amazed!

BTW, I have Tigers over the A's. :p
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 03:13 AM

Beside's Wang, your pitching was terrible and I thought we have some bullpen trouble. And there is no way A Rod stays a Yankee for next year, I cant see it. And I think Torre might get the boot also, I think he's one of the most over-rated managers.

Now we must play a hot Oakland team, but I think our pitching will lead us to the win.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 03:47 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
[quote]Originally posted by SC:
[b] THE TIIIIIIIIGERS WIN .... THE TIIIIIIIGERS WINNNNN!
Trying to get I12 riled up to say, "Yeah? How far did the BoSox get??" :p :rolleyes: [/b][/quote]Don't worry, he' just jealous (3rd place finish)

Let's go Mets!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 03:54 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ginaitaliangirl:
As for the one who so enjoyed my Astros missing out...nothing I say will ever change anything in his mind, but this is just desserts for me.
Now now don't be so jealous that your boys weren't good enough to make it this year . Hopefully this will teach Clemens not to come back next year. Maybe if your fellow statesmen weren't such a$$holes about texas sports I wouldn't have so much animosity towards texas teams.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 03:55 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tony Mosrite:


I'm not sorry, good or idiot Yankee fans. you already have 26 WS, let someone else play!
Umm, they've been playing now for the past 6 years. Time to let the Yankees play again in '07
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 03:57 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ap_capone48101:
And I think Torre might get the boot also, I think he's one of the most over-rated managers.
What the F*CK are you talking about!?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 04:33 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by ginaitaliangirl:
[b] As for the one who so enjoyed my Astros missing out...nothing I say will ever change anything in his mind, but this is just desserts for me.
Now now don't be so jealous that your boys weren't good enough to make it this year . Hopefully this will teach Clemens not to come back next year. Maybe if your fellow statesmen weren't such a$$holes about texas sports I wouldn't have so much animosity towards texas teams. [/b][/quote]Hey, Irish, I love the Yankees every bit as much as you do, but I would say that you seem more like the asshole with that post. There's such as thing as unsportsmanlike behavior, and I would have to say that you have embodied it in almost every one of your posts here in this thread. This one is obviously no different.

We're a FAMILY here on the board, and my little sister Gina is a big Astros fan. You know what Sicilians are like when you mess with their little sisters, right??
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 04:59 AM

SB, have you ever been to Texas?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:01 AM

Yes, have you ever been to Sicily?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:02 AM

Nope. How long were you here and what part?
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:06 AM

I never tire of hearing Irishman's excuses for acting so immaturely when the Yankees lose.

Apparently now you are allowed to act more immature depending on WHICH PART of Texas you have been to.....
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:11 AM

No DMC, I was only curious what part of the state she visited. But nice try at being a smartass
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:15 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
No DMC, I was only curious what part of the state she visited. But nice try at being a smartass
Oh I'm sorry, I just figured that when SB wrote about you acting the way you were and you were responding with "Have you ever been to Texas?" that you were going somewhere with it. Guess you just decided to go after Gina and not SB, understandable.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:17 AM

Then leave Texas if you don't like it. :p
Don't be pickin' on my sister's team, too! :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:22 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by DonMichaelCorleone:
Guess you just decided to go after Gina and not SB, understandable.
Well I'm glad I have your approval now (JUST kidding gina). I have nothing against you personally but I just hate the Astros. I may be the only member on this board who voices it as much as I do but this is a message board and plenty of people have voiced their hatred of the New York Yankees (and to a lesser extent, myself).
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:25 AM

Torre is vastly over-rated. Any idiot that knows nothing about baseball could win with a 200 million payroll.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:29 AM

Well any idiot could win with Curt Schilling and Randy Johnson but that didn't stop EVERYBODY in the world giving Bob Brenly credit in 2001 (while so miraculously forgetting about the 2 games he lost for them by putting Byung-Hyun Kim in the game)

BTW, if the last 6 years have proved anything, it's A LOT harder than it looks to win with that payroll :rolleyes:
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:30 AM



Yeah... he's only the manager with the most postseason wins of all time. Whatever. :p And obviously payroll has NOTHING to do with it!
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:32 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
Yeah... he's only the manager with the most postseason wins of all time.
Don't ask me why but that seems like a double negative or oxy-moron or something
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:33 AM

lol, you cant compare the D-Back's to the Yankee's. That just proves my point. He's an over-rated manager, I mean come on that was only their 4th year in exsistence.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:35 AM

You can't compare the D-Backs and Yankees, why? Because Joe Torre has won more championships than Bob Brenly? Or that Joe Torre still has a JOB in Major League Baseball?
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:37 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Or that Joe Torre still has a JOB in Major League Baseball?
...well, let's at least wait to see what George does tomorrow!
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:39 AM

Ok, is Joe Torre is so great then why did Leyland just out coach him?

And SportsCenter just said he is expected to be fired and replaced by Lou Piniella.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:39 AM

I12, I've been to Dallas, and my nephew was stationed at Fort Hood, and he now lives near there since he finished his time with the army. Is that relevant to our discussion? And does it have any bearing on your apparently boundless display of poor sportsmanship?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:40 AM

JG, I REALLY don't believe Torre will lose his job. People have been saying that for years but I just don't see it happening. It's not Joe's fault when A-Rod (here you go ronnie), goes 1-for-14 in the Series, Sheffield 1-for-12, Giambi 1-for-8, Cano 2-for-15. Collectively, the team hit .246 for the series. It's NOT Joe's fault when the hitters don't hit. Bomberman today needed only 23 pitches to get the first 9 outs of the game for Detroit (you're not gonna win many ball games like that)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:41 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ap_capone48101:
Ok, is Joe Torre is so great then why did Leyland just out coach him?
And just exactly HOW did Leyland "out coach him"?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:42 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Is that relevant to our discussion? And does it have any bearing on your apparently boundless display of poor sportsmanship?
No I was just curious (as DMC thought, I wasn't going anywhere with it)
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:44 AM

By starting our 4th pitcher game number one was a major one. Lots more and I wonder if that is true what they said on SC. Guess we will know tomorrow.

And who's decision was it for Wang to stay in NY? That was just crazy.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:47 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ap_capone48101:
By starting our 4th pitcher game number one was a major one.
Yeah, A LOT of good it did them since they lost that agme 8-4
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:51 AM

lol, that was the point waste our worst pitcher and waste your best pitcher.
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:51 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]
[b]
I just hate the Astros. [/b][/quote]what have the poor little astros ever done to you irish?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:52 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Ice:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]
[b]
I just hate the Astros. [/b][/quote]what have the poor little astros ever done to you irish? [/b][/quote]Namely, Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 06:07 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ap_capone48101:
And who's decision was it for Wang to stay in NY? That was just crazy.
Wanna clarify this? Cuz I can't imagine you asking why the Yanks decided to keep Wang! Crazy?? Wang was the best of all NYY starters -- a freakin' Cy Young contender!! WTF??

As for Leyland "out coaching" Torre, that's horse shit, too. If you actually watched the game, you'd've seen/heard Leyland saying how "brilliant" Torre was for trying to eat up time to stiffen Bonderman up during a long inning. I hate to say it, but, I12 is right for once -- Torre's NOT in the batter's box, and NOT on the pitcher's mound. What's he expected to do, hit for those hitless millionaires?? :p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 06:08 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
I hate to say it, but, I12 is right for once -- Torre's NOT in the batter's box, and NOT on the pitcher's mound. What's he expected to do, hit for those hitless millionaires?? :p
Do my eyes deceive me? :p
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 06:11 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
Do my eyes deceive me? :p
Don't get used to it.
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 06:17 AM

No, I meant they were all saying that Wang stayed in NY while they were in Detroit for games 3 & 4, I should have been more clear.
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 06:19 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by J Geoff:
[quote]Originally posted by ap_capone48101:
[b]And who's decision was it for Wang to stay in NY? That was just crazy.
Wanna clarify this? Cuz I can't imagine you asking why the Yanks decided to keep Wang! Crazy?? Wang was the best of all NYY starters -- a freakin' Cy Young contender!! WTF??

[/b][/quote]Wang did keep it up all year.....
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 06:22 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by DonMichaelCorleone:
Wang did keep it up all year.....
You noticed? :p
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 12:31 PM

The NY Daily News is reporting that George Steinbrenner has asked Joe Torre to step down (as manager). If Torre refuses then Steinbrenner will fire him.

Hey George... take some of your $200 million team salary and buy yourself a fuckin' personality. Then shove the rest of that money up your ass!
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 12:46 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by SC:
The NY Daily News is reporting that George Steinbrenner has asked Joe Torre to step down (as manager). If Torre refuses then Steinbrenner will fire him.
...
Yes, I just heard this story on the morning news.

Of course, it's a HUGE mistake on Steinbrenner's part. Let him go & find another manager who will bring his team to post-season 11 years in a row.

Maybe he'll hire Joe Girardi...

Apple
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 01:26 PM

My personal feelings on the whole situation:

  • On A-Rod: So, A-Rod had a .071 average. I'm not going to defend him anymore. He cannot handle being in New York, he has lost his ability to be clutch, and he didn't come up big when the team needed him to. Then again, neither did anyone else. I say move him in the offseason - rumours abound from being traded to Florida for Dontrelle Willis (yes) to even Los Angeles either to the Dodgers or the Angels. Make the deal. Find a way around his no-trade clause.
  • On the Yankees Lineup: With the exceptions of the first three hitters (Damon, Jeter, and Abreu), the Murderer's Row + Cano looked like a poorly coached Little League team. Granted, I think that the Yankees got a terrible strike zone throughout this series, and some questionable calls on the basepaths, but irregardless, this lineup died. Save for the aforementioned first three, too many Yankees had no strategy at the plate - nobody tried smallball, everyone tried to swing for the fences, and it was an exercise in futility. Which brings me to my next point...
  • Joe Torre: Fire him. Yes. I said it. I've defended him numerous times in threads here, I think he's one of the best managers of all-time, but he doesn't have "it" anymore. Throughout the season I have questioned his decisions regarding leaving pitchers in, and his lineup. I would have benched A-Rod after Game 2 of this series, and played Sheffield @ 3rd. Could it have been any worse? Furthermore, this team, as abovementioned, had no strategy at the plate. No one tried smallball, line-drives, hit-and-runs, it was all swinging with flaccid penises towards the fences which made easy 1-2-3 innings for the Tigers pitchers, making Jim Leyland look like a genius. This team had no fire...questionable calls from umpires weren't challenged, there wasn't any direction from Torre. I understand he is one of the more passive managers in the league, but he was watching his ship sink yesterday with his normal smirk from the bench. The Yankees deserved to lose because none of them played like they wanted to win. An example of a team going through the motions.
  • On the Managerial Prospects: Bringing in Lou Piniella would be a mistake. He did nothing with the Devil Rays, and granted, they were a bad team, but he is not necessarily what the Yankees need for a head coach. I grant you that we need a less-passive manager, someone with fire to light these players up and just as much bench them when they play poorly. If I were Steinbrenner, I'd promote Lee Mazzilli to head coach; he has shown that he's got some balls in the past and is willing to light a fire under his players. Mattingly would be a decent choice, but I don't feel he is ready to coach. I don't want that asshole Buck Showalter who just lost his job with the Texans. I say, promote from within - let Mazzilli handle the team. Pena and Bowa are also excellent managers with experience, far better candidates than anyone else out there. I'd even like to see Joe Girardi come back, though I'm not sure whether I'd move him to manager.
  • On the Offseason: The Yankees can either pay Jaret Wright $4 million to go away or $7 million to stay. Let's give him his walking papers. Trade A-Rod, get a solid starting pitcher. Re-sign Mussina. Move Matsui to the DH position, play Melky Cabrera in LF. Giambi is the everyday 1st baseman. Get rid of Carl Pavano. Get rid of Randy Johnson. Promote Philip Hughes from the minors. Sign Daisuke Matsuzaka from the Seibu Lions. Try to keep Bernie and Sheffield, if possible, but don't object to losing Sheffield. Consider moving Giambi for a better fielding first baseman, possibly in trade with A-Rod (A-Rod + Giambi for Pujols? Obviously fantasy, but still...)


Yankees lineup could look like this:

+ Trade/FA


Starting Pitching
Chien-Ming Wang
Daisuke Matsuzaka +
Mike Mussina
Philip Hughes
Dontrelle Willis +

Defense
1st Base: Albert Pujols +
2nd Base: Robinson Cano
3rd Base: ?
Shortstop: Derek Jeter
Left Field: Melky Cabrera
Center Field: Johnny Damon
Right Field: Bobby Abreu
Designated Hitter: Hideki Matsui
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 02:48 PM

If Steinbrenner fires Torre, a manager who won 4 titles in a 5 year span, then say hello to mediocrity. It's not Joe's fault that A-Rod chokes in the playoffs and can't field his position; it's not Joe's fault that Randy Johnson is on the last legs of his career; it's not the manager's fault that Giambi isn't the same player because he is no longer juiced up; Torre didn't sign a hack like Jaret Wright to a 4 year deal. Nearly all of the Yankees shortcoming can be attributed to a meddling owner who thinks he can 3 things: owner, GM, and manager. Go for it, a-hole.

As a Yankee hater, I hope that Steinbrenner does make this move. But he would be an absolute fool to do so.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 03:07 PM

No chance A-Rod gets traded to Florida. His pay is 3-4 times the entire payroll.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 03:22 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Andrew:
No chance A-Rod gets traded to Florida. His pay is 3-4 times the entire payroll.
The Yankees would have to accept a huge chunk of his paycheck to move him, which I think they're ready to do.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 03:23 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
If Steinbrenner fires Torre, a manager who won 4 titles in a 5 year span, then say hello to mediocrity. It's not Joe's fault that A-Rod chokes in the playoffs and can't field his position; it's not Joe's fault that Randy Johnson is on the last legs of his career; it's not the manager's fault that Giambi isn't the same player because he is no longer juiced up; Torre didn't sign a hack like Jaret Wright to a 4 year deal. Nearly all of the Yankees shortcoming can be attributed to a meddling owner who thinks he can 3 things: owner, GM, and manager. Go for it, a-hole.

As a Yankee hater, I hope that Steinbrenner does make this move. But he would be an absolute fool to do so.
And yet, with a team full of all-stars, the Yankees failed to get past the first round, and not the first time either.

Time for a change.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:24 PM

STEINBRENNER:

Hey, come on over here with me; I wanna show you something really useless. You do appreciate uselessness, don't you?

(then)

There you are, $250,000,000 on Third Base. I bet a Russian Czar never paid that kind of dough for a single ballplayer.

(then, looking toward Third)

A-Rod. A-Rod...

(then)

I'm not gonna trade him, though. He's such a stud.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:31 PM

Georgie Porgie is gonna end up with A-Rod's head in his bed?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:39 PM

WTF do Yank fans still cling to that non-sense about him being traded to Florida?

The Marlins' owner is a cheap-bastard. If he wasn't willing to re-sign Pudge Rodriguez, who thinks he would pony up, no matter how much the Yankees eat up, to pay for such an expensive white horse like A-Rod. Really Irishman, get your head out of the gutter.

I'm not surprised that "George" will fire/force Torre out of the job.

One thing I'll criticize baseball fans when they say that anyone could win with a $200 million payroll....if so, how come the Red Sox missed this year's playoffs? Why did the Dodgers miss the playoffs for many seasons despite being over $100 million? Chicago White Sox anyone?

Besides, in a time when parity has come into baseball's Championships, we haven't had repeat champs since that 4 titles out of 5 seasons by....Torre's Yankees. I mean, to simply throw away the fact that he and his staff pulled that feat off in the last 10 years, is incredible to fanthom...much less three titles in a row.

"Several Yankees players told MLB.com that they would be surprised to see Torre go.

"That's pretty drastic," outfielder Johnny Damon was quoted as saying by the Web site. "Joe has been awesome. You never know what's going to happen, but I think Joe should be safe. For all he's done and had to put up with, he's been incredible."

Cashman dismissed the idea of either Torre or Rodriguez leaving, telling MLB.com, "Why wouldn't they be coming back? That's not something that I'm even thinking about." "

Besides, Pinella is a bad fit for the Yankees. He's never gotten along with management, and I see that he would last only a season with George before Papa George fires him. Torre's best ability to stay for 11 years with the Yankees
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 05:59 PM

JOE MUST GO ..... bring on Sweet Lou!


DS
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 06:23 PM

Double J, I agree with most of your analysis, except for the part about Joe Torre. I have defended ARod in the past, but there are some players that just can't handle the heat of being in NY. It's a damn tough town to play in, and some are made for it and some are just not. What has the team really gained by having him? Nothing I can really think of, aside from having Cano at 2nd base.

A team needs 3 decent starting pitchers, which with Wang, Mussina, we're 2/3 of the way there. I would say we need decent relief pitching, but Proctor and Villone were so overworked this season that it's hard to say what their true capabilities are.

I say keep Joe, dump Pavano and Johnson, I think Wright will be OK, and get ARod and his thick head out of there. I think one of Joe's mistakes was taking out Melky Cabrera. If he wasn't playing Giambi, why not move Matsui to DH, and put Melky in? He was a big part of the team that won all season, and I think Melky and Cano brought a youthful energy to the team that was missing.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 06:29 PM

I can't believe the venom some of you are exhibiting toward Torre. Be careful what you wish for. Lou Pinella has one title to his credit - 16 years ago on an improbable Reds team that had pitchers who got hot when it mattered. It was one of the biggest WS upsets in the past 50 years. His biggest accomplishment in Seattle was winning 2 ALCS games vs. Cleveland in 1995. With a team that equaled the AL record in wins during the 2001 season, he couldn't even get Seattle to the World Series. That is utterly pathetic. Why some of you think Pinella can make A-Rod, Johnson, Mussina, Damon, and other underachievers on that roster play better is beyond me.

Then look at his disatrous stint in Tampa Bay. If you thought he melted under pressure in Tampa, what the hell would one expect under the intensity and microscope of the NY media? This guy will have more temper tantrums than a 3 year old. Throw in a meddlesome owner and there are all the makings of a daily soap opera.

Don't think one of NY's rivals wouldn't snatch up Torre in a second.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 06:29 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Smitty:
JOE MUST GO ..... bring on Sweet Lou!
Lou Piniella Managerial Record :
Code:
 Year    League   Team     Age  G     W    L    WP   Finish
+----+-----------+--------+---+-----+----+----+------+------+
 1986 AL East     NewYorkY  42   162   90   72   .556      2
 1987 AL East     NewYorkY  43   162   89   73   .549      4

 1988 AL East     NewYorkY  44    93   45   48   .484      5

 1990 NL West     Cincnnti  46   162   91   71   .562  WS  1
 1991 NL West     Cincnnti  47   162   74   88   .457      5
 1992 NL West     Cincnnti  48   162   90   72   .556      2

 1993 AL West     Seattle   49   162   82   80   .506      4
 1994 AL West     Seattle   50   112   49   63   .438      3
 1995 AL West     Seattle   51   145   79   66   .545      1
 1996 AL West     Seattle   52   161   85   76   .528      2
 1997 AL West     Seattle   53   162   90   72   .556      1
 1998 AL West     Seattle   54   161   76   85   .472      3
 1999 AL West     Seattle   55   162   79   83   .488      3
 2000 AL West     Seattle   56   162   91   71   .562      2
 2001 AL West     Seattle   57   162  116   46   .716      1
 2002 AL West     Seattle   58   162   93   69   .574      3

 2003 AL East     TampaBay  59   162   63   99   .389      5
 2004 AL East     TampaBay  60   161   70   91   .435      4
 2005 AL East     TampaBay  61   162   67   95   .414      5
+----+-----------+--------+---+-----+----+----+------+------+
                  Cincnnti       486  255  231   .525
                  NewYorkY       417  224  193   .537
                  Seattle       1551  840  711   .542
                  TampaBay       485  200  285   .412
+----+-----------+--------+---+-----+----+----+------+------+
      TOTAL                     2939 1519 1420   .517
Joe Torre Managerial Record :
Code:
 Year    League   Team     Age  G     W    L    WP   Finish
+----+-----------+--------+---+-----+----+----+------+------+
 1977 NL East     NewYorkM  36   117   49   68   .419      6  Player/Manager
 1978 NL East     NewYorkM  37   162   66   96   .407      6
 1979 NL East     NewYorkM  38   163   63   99   .389      6
 1980 NL East     NewYorkM  39   162   67   95   .414      5
 1981 NL East     NewYorkM  40    52   17   34   .333      5  First half of season
 1981 NL East     NewYorkM  40    53   24   28   .462      4  Second half of season

 1982 NL West     Atlanta   41   162   89   73   .549      1
 1983 NL West     Atlanta   42   162   88   74   .543      2
 1984 NL West     Atlanta   43   162   80   82   .494      3

 1990 NL East     St.Louis  49    58   24   34   .414      6
 1991 NL East     St.Louis  50   162   84   78   .519      2
 1992 NL East     St.Louis  51   162   83   79   .512      3
 1993 NL East     St.Louis  52   162   87   75   .537      3
 1994 NL Cent     St.Louis  53   115   53   61   .465      3
 1995 NL Cent     St.Louis  54    47   20   27   .426      4

 1996 AL East     NewYorkY  55   162   92   70   .568  WS  1
 1997 AL East     NewYorkY  56   162   96   66   .593      2
 1998 AL East     NewYorkY  57   162  114   48   .704  WS  1
 1999 AL East     NewYorkY  58   162   98   64   .605  WS  1
 2000 AL East     NewYorkY  59   161   87   74   .540  WS  1
 2001 AL East     NewYorkY  60   161   95   65   .594  AL  1
 2002 AL East     NewYorkY  61   161  103   58   .640      1
 2003 AL East     NewYorkY  62   163  101   61   .623  AL  1
 2004 AL East     NewYorkY  63   162  101   61   .623      1
 2005 AL East     NewYorkY  64   162   95   67   .586      1
 2006 AL East     NewYorkY  65   162   97   65   .599      1
+----+-----------+--------+---+-----+----+----+------+------+
                  Atlanta        486  257  229   .529
                  NewYorkM       709  286  420   .405
                  NewYorkY      1780 1079  699   .607
                  St.Louis       706  351  354   .498
+----+-----------+--------+---+-----+----+----+------+------+
      TOTAL                     3681 1973 1702   .537
See that .607 winning percentage w/ the Yanks? How'd Lou do? And look at 1996 on -- 1st every year except one.

Torre did HIS job; but did his team? Not really...
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 06:36 PM

J Geoff

All honky stats that you posted. The most important for Torre: 4 championships to Lou's 1 title. That should be the bottom line in any sport.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 09:33 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
The Marlins' owner is a cheap-bastard. If he wasn't willing to re-sign Pudge Rodriguez, who thinks he would pony up, no matter how much the Yankees eat up, to pay for such an expensive white horse like A-Rod. Really Irishman, get your head out of the gutter.
Sure, since it's been me the past few days saying A-Rod would go to Florida (and not DJ) :rolleyes:
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 09:49 PM

Dude, DJ is a upstate New Yorker. He can't be helped. :p

On the otherhand, you can be helped. Thus, you suffer for DJ's mistakes.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 09:51 PM

Ah, and you got this "logic" how?
Posted By: AppleOnYa

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/08/06 10:40 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
...As a Yankee hater, I hope that Steinbrenner does make this move. But he would be an absolute fool to do so.
You know, goombah...except for the 'Yankee hater' part, I sort of agree with you.

Steinbrenner wants a change. He is apparently no longer with what Torre has brought him since 1995. Let him have Lou, and let him see how many AL East Titles, AL Pennants, and WS Championships Mr. Pinella can bring him over the next 11 years.

Perhaps Joe Torre would benefit from the change as well.

Apple
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/06 03:28 AM

Why Irish, from my time with you. :p
Posted By: The Iceman

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/06 04:13 AM

If Joe Torre is fired it would be just another typical move that that meddlesome idiotic fool Steinbrenner would make.

As much as I hate the yankees, and I hate them so much I'd love to see them finish every single season from here on out 0-162(hey a guy can dream can't he. ) Getting rid of Torre is not the answer.

Neither is getting rid of A-rod, yeah he hasn't done sh*t during the postseason. But hell he's just one guy, if one guy is in a slump then it's time that the other players take their game to the next level. And during the past 2 postseasons A-rod's fellow yankees haven't done that.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/06 02:13 PM

Why they lost?
It's not Torre. I guess George realizes that $202 million doesn't buy what it used to.

The Yankees won championships in the 90's by virtue of a team they built when Steinbrenner was kicked out of baseball. Jeter, Pettite, Posada and Williams. Guys like O'Neill, Martines and Brosius, who never sought the limelight but knew the value of playing hard as a team every game, were added.

George returned and he eventually is attracted by big names, self promoters and prima donnas, who were portrayed as stars, but never won anything: Giambi, Mussina, A-Rod, and most recently Abreu. Plus, Sheffield, the antithesis of the Yankee of the late-90's, has been a complainer and whiner wherever he's been. And Johnson was just too old.

A great assembly of individual talent? You bet.

A great team? Hardly.

Anyway, it's good that we don't have to listen to the garbage about the greatest hitting lineup anymore.

Fire Torre? Bring in Piniella to scream and rant to motivate the boys. If $200 million doesn't motivate them, a funny looking clown, who kicks dirt and rips bases from the field, isn't going to do it.

By the way, the biggest reason Detroit won- and I haven't seen it mentioned- was that they completely removed the Yankees' biggest asset from the series: Rivera.
Posted By: Don Alessandrio

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/06 03:56 PM

So now that the Yanks have lost when will this thread cease to continue?
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/06 05:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by The Iceman:
If Joe Torre is fired it would be just another typical move that that meddlesome idiotic fool Steinbrenner would make.

As much as I hate the yankees, and I hate them so much I'd love to see them finish every single season from here on out 0-162(hey a guy can dream can't he. ) Getting rid of Torre is not the answer.

Neither is getting rid of A-rod, yeah he hasn't done sh*t during the postseason. But hell he's just one guy, if one guy is in a slump then it's time that the other players take their game to the next level. And during the past 2 postseasons A-rod's fellow yankees haven't done that.
if Yoda was called to give his opinion on the Yankees, that's what he'd say. that's absolutely 100% right, in my humble opinion.

if there is a reason for the Yankees not being able to win a WS title even with a team that shouldn't even be allowed to play, the reason is George Steinbrennet. don't anyone else feel like every decent pitcher in the MLB of the late 90's has already played 2 poor seasons with the Yankees before getting kicked in the ass? every promising young player, every talented hitter, every pitcher, they're always buying, selling for 1/3 of what they paid for, changing the staff and it leads to nowhere.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/06 11:32 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by goombah:
I can't believe the venom some of you are exhibiting toward Torre. Be careful what you wish for. Lou Pinella has one title to his credit - 16 years ago on an improbable Reds team that had pitchers who got hot when it mattered. It was one of the biggest WS upsets in the past 50 years. His biggest accomplishment in Seattle was winning 2 ALCS games vs. Cleveland in 1995. With a team that equaled the AL record in wins during the 2001 season, he couldn't even get Seattle to the World Series. That is utterly pathetic. Why some of you think Pinella can make A-Rod, Johnson, Mussina, Damon, and other underachievers on that roster play better is beyond me.

Then look at his disatrous stint in Tampa Bay. If you thought he melted under pressure in Tampa, what the hell would one expect under the intensity and microscope of the NY media? This guy will have more temper tantrums than a 3 year old. Throw in a meddlesome owner and there are all the makings of a daily soap opera.

Don't think one of NY's rivals wouldn't snatch up Torre in a second.
I agree that Piniella is the worst possible choice right now to replace Torre.

However, I think a change must be made.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 03:26 AM

Yeah, and the change that needs to be done is....GEORGE.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 04:00 AM

I really cannot belive the amount of members in here who wish to see Torre gone from the Yankees. Glad to see where your loyalties lie (that is, for you few Yankees fans in here) What more did you want the man to do other than beat Detroit? He can't get on the field and do it for them!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 04:38 AM

Unbelievable Irish...I agree with you!

Amen to Torre-trashers. Let them have Pinella!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 06:46 AM

Wow ronnie, I think that's only the 2nd time I can remember you agreeing with me
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 04:38 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I really cannot belive the amount of members in here who wish to see Torre gone from the Yankees. Glad to see where your loyalties lie (that is, for you few Yankees fans in here) What more did you want the man to do other than beat Detroit? He can't get on the field and do it for them!
No, but he can try to prepare and motivate his players, which he didn't do. The team was going through the motions, and had no will, no fire to win.

And that I do blame the manager for.

The Yankees, since they are keeping Torre it seems (according to the NY Post), now need to focus on trading A-Rod and getting their starting pitching in order, as well as figuring out the 1st base situation.

BTW - Anyone read yesterday's USA Today? Glad to see Sheff and Giambi throw Torre under the bus, saying that because he demoted A-Rod in the order they felt bad and it ruined the team chemistry.

Wow, get out on the field, you fucking tards. Sheffield decided to have surgery since he knew he wasn't probably coming back next year and basically abandoned the team for most of the season, and Giambi is a steriod-head who we should move while we can still get good trade value for him.

And let's not get indignant, I12...don't act as if you've been standing behind every Yankee decision this entire season, and we've been bastardizing this thread.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 05:08 PM

Torre should NOT be fired. He has brought the team to the world series 6 times, winning 4 of them. And he's brought his team into the playoffs every year that he's been there. 11 years I believe.

The man was in a NO WIN situation this year. Had he sat Matsui and Sheff, and the Yankees would have lost, they'd be calling for his head. So he played Sheff and Matsui, and they lost, and they are calling for his head anyway.

My beef with Torre is that he does NOT manage small ball. He sits back and relies on the long ball everytime he has runners on base. He needs to manufacture runs once in a while instead of always relying on the longball. He needs a Don Zimmer type bench coach back by his side.

The bench is dead. Watching those games, whenever the camera would scan the dugout, you'd see everyone just sitting there. No spunk, no commoraderie and absolutely no hunger.

It surprises me that some of the Yankee fans and sports writers are so bitter about the team getting knocked off that they've even went as far as blaming Derek Jeter for not supporting Arod!! That's outrageous!

11 trips to the playoffs, 6 times in the World Series walking away with 4 of those 6 world series titles under Torre!!! Spoiled fans. That's exactly what many, not all, but many Yankee fans are. Spoiled.

They tell me that Willie Randolph is going to bring the Mets to the playoffs for the next ten years with six trips into the world series, I sign the contract now.


Don Cardi
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 05:26 PM

When reading this thread and all this talk about Arod and the Yankees, I recalled someone from these boards once saying that Arod would not improve the team that much. So I did an 'Arod a Yankee' search and found that post :

Quote:
I can't see A. Rod making a difference. If the pitching doesn't hold up the Yanks won't win. If it does, they'd win without A. Rod.
That post was made by our very own Statman, Plawrence over 2 1/2 years ago, when the Yankees first aquired Arod. The man was absolutely correct.

http://www.gangsterbb.net/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=15;t=000167#000016

Don Cardi
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 05:33 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:

The bench is dead. Watching those games, whenever the camera would scan the dugout, you'd see everyone just sitting there. No spunk, no commoraderie and absolutely no hunger.

Spoiled fans. That's exactly what many, not all, but many Yankee fans are. Spoiled.
Contradiction much?
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 05:33 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:


My beef with Torre is that he does NOT manage small ball. He sits back and relies on the long ball everytime he has runners on base. He needs to manufacture runs once in a while instead of always relying on the longball.

It surprises me that some of the Yankee fans and sports writers are so bitter about the team getting knocked off that they've even went as far as blaming Derek Jeter for not supporting Arod!! That's outrageous!

Don Cardi
That's right. I remember when NY won the Series in '96, many commented that Torre (a career National Leaguer) brought NL baseball to the Yankees. Stolen bases, hit and runs, bunts, sacrifices, etc. It was also widely said that that team was ateam without superstars.

Once they filled the lineup with big superstar names, they lost that element. Giambi won't bunt; Rodriguez won't go to right to advance a runner; and Sheffield swings for the fences thinking if he doesn't connect, someone else will get the runs in. I have little doubt that the '96 team would likely sweep the '06 collection of stars.

With respect to Jeter and A-Rod, it is obvious that there is discord, probably stemming, in part, from A-Rod's dissing of Jeter in the Esquirearticle 6 or 7 years ago. If A-Rod needs more support than the $25 million he's getting, he should be shown the door.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 05:37 PM

I agree about the smallball comments, which I pointed out in a previous post regarding how the Yankees had no strategy at the plate.

And I also saw the ESPN article that said to trade Jeter and keep A-Rod, which made about as much sense as a one-legged man entering an ass-kicking contest. There is definite animosity between A-Rod and Jeter, and I'd rather see A-Rod gone than Jeter any day. Give me 4 Jeters and 4 Bernie Williams and I'll show you how to play baseball. These are the kinds of guys we need...we need to get rid of the A-Rods, the Sheffields, the Giambi prima donnas.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 05:40 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by Don Cardi:
[b]
The bench is dead. Watching those games, whenever the camera would scan the dugout, you'd see everyone just sitting there. No spunk, no commoraderie and absolutely no hunger.

Spoiled fans. That's exactly what many, not all, but many Yankee fans are. Spoiled.
Contradiction much? [/b][/quote]Not at all. I blame the players, the veteran players for not showing any life on the bench. When an experienced manager has a good anount of experienced players on his team and in his dugout, the manager should not have to be the one to constantly pump the younger players up or for that matter pump the veterans up. He usually knows that his veteran players will take care of those things. That his veteran players will walk up and down the bench and try to pump up the other players.

No JJ, not a contradiction at all.

Don't blame Torre because his Veteran Line-up could not excite themselves, or the younger players for that matter.

Al I blame him for was his refusal to manage by trying to manufacture runs and not rely on the long ball as much as he did. But he definitely does not deserve to be fired.

Don Cardi
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 05:44 PM

If the responsibility to motivate and manage a team is supposed to come from the veteran players, why bother having a manager at all? The way you've described the situation, there is no need for coaching, it should be the guys picking themselves up from the bootstraps. While I think that is necessary, it is the managers responsibility to prepare these guys, just like a general must have his troops ready to take the field.

Sorry, I don't buy the fact that the manager is totally absolved from his team coming it to the playoffs DOA. Torre was a great manager, one of the greatest, but it is about that time that someone more active and less passive steps into the job.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 08:35 PM

Glad to hear that Joe Torre will be the Yankees skipper for at least one more year. I think this is the last year of his contract so enjoy it Yankee fans, as this will be his last year ever (they won't resign him, nor do I think Joe will resign).

Quote:
Originally posted by klydon1:
Fire Torre? Bring in Piniella to scream and rant to motivate the boys. If $200 million doesn't motivate them, a funny looking clown, who kicks dirt and rips bases from the field, isn't going to do it.
I couldn't agree more with you here klydon1. A lot of people want Piniella to be the Yankees coach and I don't think he's a good fit. I'd rather see Lee M. or Joe Giradi
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 09:04 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:

[quote]Originally posted by klydon1:
[b] Fire Torre? Bring in Piniella to scream and rant to motivate the boys. If $200 million doesn't motivate them, a funny looking clown, who kicks dirt and rips bases from the field, isn't going to do it.
I couldn't agree more with you here klydon1. A lot of people want Piniella to be the Yankees coach and I don't think he's a good fit. I'd rather see Lee M. or Joe Giradi [/b][/quote]As someone, who is not a Yankee fan, I can't say that I'm thrilled, but bringing Torre back is the right move. I think George realizes that sometimes anything can happen in a short series. Get rid of Sheffield and fine tune the machine.

Between Mazilli and Girardi, I think Mazilli would be a better fit with the present Yankees. Girardi is not that far removed from his playing days and may not command the same level of respect from a team of stars. Plus, I think Girardi is a really good fit with the Cubs.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 09:15 PM

I also think George is well aware of the backlash he would receive from firing Torre (especially if he only had one year left on his contract). Again, I think King George will just swallow his pride for another year, give the team to Torre for one last hooray and then quietly say goodbye after the 2007 season.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 10:03 PM

I'm glad everyone seems to have picked up on my Mazzilli thoughts...I think he will be the best option to replace Torre after the 2007 season.

And don't worry, I12...I'm sure I'll enjoy it. Hopefully we'll get past the first round this time, and our players will want to win.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 11:53 PM

Whyyyyyyyyyyyyyy are they bringing Joe back???????????
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/10/06 11:58 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
And don't worry, I12...I'm sure I'll enjoy it. Hopefully we'll get past the first round this time, and our players will want to win.
I've been hearing a TON of rumors about this upcoming offseason. I'm hearing Sheffield won't be resigned, Wright and Unit might get their contracts bought out, they might be trying to shop Giambi and A-Rod, and they might not resign Moose
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 01:39 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
If the responsibility to motivate and manage a team is supposed to come from the veteran players, why bother having a manager at all? The way you've described the situation, there is no need for coaching, it should be the guys picking themselves up from the bootstraps. While I think that is necessary, it is the managers responsibility to prepare these guys, just like a general must have his troops ready to take the field.

Sorry, I don't buy the fact that the manager is totally absolved from his team coming it to the playoffs DOA. Torre was a great manager, one of the greatest, but it is about that time that someone more active and less passive steps into the job.
My description in no way even implies that there is no need for coaching. So please don't put words in my mouth, you're not debating politics with some lib over in GENERAL :p

Yes a manager needs to get his team ready. And a manager needs to be a motivator at times. But I look at that Yankee bench and see a bunch of guys just sitting there watching a ballgame. Where were the Bernies and the Jeters talking to the other players trying to motivate them? You loo at the Mets dugout and all you see are the Julio Francos and the Carlos Delgados talking and motivating the other players. That's what I was talking about JJ.

One thing that Torre maybe should have done was to go out in that 3rd or 4th game and argue with an ump and make a scene and get booted which mayh have incited the rest of the team to step up a bit and get excited.

There was absolutely no excitment whatsoever on that Yankee bench.

Perhaps Torre was not as animated as he should have been. Perhaps he should have been a little more aggresive in his managing style as far as manufacturing runs and trying to make things happen on the bases. But there is no way that you can convince me that he was to blame and that he should be fired. No way.

Spolied, spoiled, spoiled. That's what you are! :p


Don Cardi
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 01:53 AM

Torre not animated?? There's a big stretch. Joe Torre is NEVER animated. He is poker-faced in any and every game. That's his style. Having grown up in an abusive household, he remains calm and placid, no matter what (you know, DC, kind of like you and me ). It's just not his nature.

I12, Some of those rumored changes are ok by me. However, I hope that they don't follow their usual path and trade hot, young talent (read Melky Cabrera) for some aging prima donna with a ridiculous contract.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 02:08 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:
There was absolutely no excitment whatsoever on that Yankee bench.
I agree DC. I believe I saw during Game 4 in the middle or late innings, Jeter on the bench smiling while talking to one of the players. I'm thinking to myself, "WTF are you smiling for? You're about to be eliminated by the Detroit Tigers!"
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 06:15 AM

FWIW - I don't know how true it is, but, Ron & Fez said that Mike (and the Mad Dog) reported that Torre is STAYING!

...and it's apparently true !
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 12:53 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
[quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] And don't worry, I12...I'm sure I'll enjoy it. Hopefully we'll get past the first round this time, and our players will want to win.
I've been hearing a TON of rumors about this upcoming offseason. I'm hearing Sheffield won't be resigned, Wright and Unit might get their contracts bought out, they might be trying to shop Giambi and A-Rod, and they might not resign Moose [/b][/quote]I'd be in support of every single one of those moves.

With Wang as the ace, Hughes coming up and hopefully Matsuzaka acquired from Seibu, that gives the Yankees three solid starters. Re-sign Mussina as the #4 pitcher (15-7 for your fourth starter would be pretty damn good). If they could get Dontrelle Willis (surely a stretch, just like the Pujols rumors), it would be an insane rotation.

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:
Yes a manager needs to get his team ready. And a manager needs to be a motivator at times. But I look at that Yankee bench and see a bunch of guys just sitting there watching a ballgame. Where were the Bernies and the Jeters talking to the other players trying to motivate them? You loo at the Mets dugout and all you see are the Julio Francos and the Carlos Delgados talking and motivating the other players. That's what I was talking about JJ.

One thing that Torre maybe should have done was to go out in that 3rd or 4th game and argue with an ump and make a scene and get booted which mayh have incited the rest of the team to step up a bit and get excited.

There was absolutely no excitment whatsoever on that Yankee bench.

Perhaps Torre was not as animated as he should have been. Perhaps he should have been a little more aggresive in his managing style as far as manufacturing runs and trying to make things happen on the bases. But there is no way that you can convince me that he was to blame and that he should be fired. No way.

Spolied, spoiled, spoiled. That's what you are! :p


Don Cardi
The blame does fall on the manager because it isn't the players responsibility to get other players ready to go. That is the managers job - even without the fire, it looked like half of the team had been out partying late the night before and hadn't practiced. That's not Jeter's or Bernie's problem, because we know their respective work ethics. But the manager has to a.) sit-on the prima donnas like Sheffield and Giambi, slap the shit out of them if necessary, and light them up and b.) get the team organized, use a variety of strategies, and not just sit there and watch the team go 1-2-3 up and down for 9 innings.

That is absolutely Torre's fault, and I can't see how that this isn't bigger issue to some people here. Again, in the past I've expressed my fondness for Torre and my belief that he is one of the greatest managers of all time, but the Yankees came in naked. Now, granted, his pitching rotation, with the exception of Wang, was suspect. But with that batting lineup, there should have been some more runs on the board than the pathetic, paltry outings in games 3 and 4.

Furthermore, at the press conference yesterday, what did Torre say the Yankees needed to improve on next year?

Starting pitching?

Better defense?

No. The bullpen.

Sorry Joe, but I cannot fathom how you can blame the bullpen for the Yankees problems. If anything, Proctor, Villone Inc. were solid this season, Bruney came in as a breath of fresh air, Myers was the best lefty specialist in baseball, and Farnsworth was decent. And Rivera is Rivera. Don't tell me that the bullpen is the problem - by the time they came into the game, it was mop-up duty.

Maybe with some on-field personnel changes for 2007, Joe Torre can coach the Yankees to another World Series. Maybe if they get a new third-baseman who can play decent defense, and who can bat deep into the lineup. Maybe if they get a defensive first baseman. Maybe if they don't have so many injuries. Maybe if they have starting pitching.

Maybe, most of all, if the manager can get the team to want the World Series more than anybody else.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 02:23 PM

Apparently, Derek Jeter was one of the major Yankee organization people that called Papa George and told him that Torre needs to stay. I've criticized Jeter in the past, even if he's got an arguable AL MVP year, but at least he's using his muscle to keep Papa George in check(though Brian Cashman being another major voice does help).

What's with this "motivation" shit? These guys are PAID to play. They're PAID to win. They're PAID to be "motivated".

Besides, did Torre mishandle a ball like A-Rod did? Did Torre leap and barely missed a ground ball like Jeter did? Did Torre blew a game like the Unit did? Better yet, did Torre blow that umpire call on A-Rod/Pudge at 3rd?

I thought it was hilarious during Torre's press conference that while the Yanks haven't won a title since 2000, Torre made a point that before he came in, the Yanks hadn't won a title since the 1970s.

But yeah, next season will be his last, which then Papa George could then hire Pinella or whatever manager(maybe Mattingly or Leo Maz) that fits his fancy. However, the next manager of the Yankees in the 2008 season must use Torre's one great attribute in relations to Papa George: Tolerance. Really, I don't think I could take George's shit for 11 years.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 02:28 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by ronnierocketAGO:
What's with this "motivation" shit? These guys are PAID to play. They're PAID to win. They're PAID to be "motivated".

Besides, did Torre mishandle a ball like A-Rod did? Did Torre leap and barely missed a ground ball like Jeter did? Did Torre blew a game like the Unit did? Better yet, did Torre blow that umpire call on A-Rod/Pudge at 3rd?
Managers, even with Joe's success, are always in the "what have you done for me lately," saga with owners, especially in New York. It's been 60 Steinbrenner years since the Yankees have won a World Series.

And sure the players are paid to play, I'm not disputing that. They should all be like Derek Jeter, and run out every ground ball to first base, and never quit on defense. But in reality, there are quite a few prima donna Manny Ramirez's around the league. In the 2006 playoffs, they all seemed to congregate in the Yankee locker room.

Now again, I think the blame falls upon Joe mainly for an absence strategy and lack of fire in the team, but as you've said, A-Rod and crew helped by doing absolutely zero for the team this postseason.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 02:40 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Cardi:
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Double-J:
[qb]

Yes a manager needs to get his team ready. And a manager needs to be a motivator at times. But I look at that Yankee bench and see a bunch of guys just sitting there watching a ballgame. Where were the Bernies and the Jeters talking to the other players trying to motivate them? You loo at the Mets dugout and all you see are the Julio Francos and the Carlos Delgados talking and motivating the other players. That's what I was talking about JJ.

Don Cardi
Interesting point in light of remarks Joe Morgan made on ESPN Radio yesterday. When asked to compare the Big Red Machine with the present Yankees, he noted that the Yankees in their series were quiet and keeping to themselves in the dugout.

He went on that the Reds would constantly discuss pitchers' patterns, batters' tendencies, alternate approaches, especially when challenged. He noted that Kenny Rogers had subtle, predictable tendencies in his approach to lefties and righties, but the players sat away from one another and didn't discuss it. He said especially in play-offs, he, Rose, Bench, Perez, Foster, Griffey, etc. would discuss these things constantly between innings. Once behind, he felt the Yankees lost focus and desire when they needed it most.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 02:51 PM

Everyone needs/wants a scapegoat.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 02:51 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Torre not animated?? There's a big stretch. Joe Torre is NEVER animated. He is poker-faced in any and every game. That's his style. Having grown up in an abusive household, he remains calm and placid, no matter what (you know, DC, kind of like you and me ). It's just not his nature.

I think you hit upon one of his top assets. While I'm far from a Yankee fan, I firmly believe that Torre's demeanor has given the Yankees a stability they've never seen under the chaos of Steinbrenner. Prior to his arrival in the '96 season, they bounced among managers. Billy Martin several times, Lou Piniella, Showalter.

While I admit that Torre had more talent than his predecessors, he was the perfect manager to allow the team to grow and flourish. Get rid of him? Be careful what you wish for.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 03:08 PM

klydon, you are right. His calm demeanor was exactly what the Yankees needed, given the volatile nature of the previous managers, no to mention the owner!! I am very happy to hear that he'll be with the team for another year. I think that he's being blamed for this loss, but not credited for what he achieved in the past two years. Given the injuries this year, given the lack of pitching, given the fact that they had the most overused bullpen in baseball, the fact that he's managed to guide them to the division championship again and again is just outstanding. I'd like to see any other manager in baseball do it.

When the Red Sox lost Manny, Big Papi, Varitek and Shilling to the DL, everybody cried and said, Well how can you expect them not to crash and burn? However, when the Yankees lost Sheffield, Matsui, Cano, and, albeit briefly, Mussina to the DL, everyone said, Tough, find a way to win anyway. And Joe Torre did.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 03:22 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:

When the Red Sox lost Manny, Big Papi, Varitek and Shilling to the DL, everybody cried and said, Well how can you expect them not to crash and burn? However, when the Yankees lost Sheffield, Matsui, Cano, and, albeit briefly, Mussina to the DL, everyone said, Tough, find a way to win anyway. And Joe Torre did.
Yes, but does any other team have a bench as deep or as good as the Yankees do this year. If they didn't have someone to put in a spot, which they had many, then they went out and bought who they needed.

I'm not meaning this in a bad way. Just pointing out that Joe had the best hand money could buy. Some fans see that and need a scapegoat and Joe is it to them!

I hear people say that you can have the best superstar in the world, but if the manager or coach can't get it out of that superstar then it is his fault. Think about it...

Joe had so many superstars that he had a problem not playing them when they were stinking up the place. How can you bench a 25 million dollar superstar that is stinking up the place. Instead move him to the rear of the order?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 03:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Given the injuries this year, given the lack of pitching, given the fact that they had the most overused bullpen in baseball, the fact that he's managed to guide them to the division championship again and again is just outstanding. I'd like to see any other manager in baseball do it.

When the Red Sox lost Manny, Big Papi, Varitek and Shilling to the DL, everybody cried and said, Well how can you expect them not to crash and burn? However, when the Yankees lost Sheffield, Matsui, Cano, and, albeit briefly, Mussina to the DL, everyone said, Tough, find a way to win anyway. And Joe Torre did.
But none of those injuries or shortcomings of the Yankees were expected to be problems. This team steamrolled into the playoffs with the best record in the league, and looked like the Kansas City Royals. It doesn't matter whether Joe Torre has guided them to the Divisional Series every year for the past how long...when's the last time they've gotten to the World Series?

Torre had a glut of talent to work with, and both he and his team couldn't get the job done. I've outlined what I think went wrong with this team, and while I don't think it's entirely Torre's fault, he should certainly share his brunt of the blame.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 05:36 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]Originally posted by Irishman12:
[b] [quote]Originally posted by Double-J:
[b] And don't worry, I12...I'm sure I'll enjoy it. Hopefully we'll get past the first round this time, and our players will want to win.
I've been hearing a TON of rumors about this upcoming offseason. I'm hearing Sheffield won't be resigned, Wright and Unit might get their contracts bought out, they might be trying to shop Giambi and A-Rod, and they might not resign Moose [/b][/quote]I'd be in support of every single one of those moves.

With Wang as the ace, Hughes coming up and hopefully Matsuzaka acquired from Seibu, that gives the Yankees three solid starters. Re-sign Mussina as the #4 pitcher (15-7 for your fourth starter would be pretty damn good). If they could get Dontrelle Willis (surely a stretch, just like the Pujols rumors), it would be an insane rotation. [/b][/quote]I think they should resign Moose and make them the 4th starter. Having Wang be the ace, bring Hughes up and see how he does (it's still not a guarantee yet) and also that Japanese pitcher (Matsuzaka), try to sign him but he's even more suspect than Hughes because pitching in America is different than pitching in Japan. I'd like to see him pitch against the Angels, Mets or Red Sox. But if they could make all of these moves happen, I'd resign Moose and stick him in there as well (that'd be a pretty sweet rotation)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 05:44 PM

There comes a point where pitching is pitching. Matsuzaka can pitch. Anywhere. And his gyroball will frustrate the hell out of any American batter, period.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 05:51 PM

I hope you're right and I hope the Yankees get him. How old is he? Also, I thought I heard he still has 1 year remaining on his contract with his Japanese team?
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 06:15 PM

Hughes and Matsuzaka are far from being called solid major league pitchers. hideki Irabu was a sure thing too.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 07:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by klydon1:
Hughes and Matsuzaka are far from being called solid major league pitchers. hideki Irabu was a sure thing too.
True, but all indications are that both should be excellent. Hughes was, by all accounts, the best pitcher in Yankees spring training 2006...that isn't the best rookie, it was the best pitcher, period.

And watch some Matsuzaka film. Even if he has a bit of trouble adjusting, he'll be decent.

I'd rather have Hughes and Matsuzaka than Randy Johnson and Jaret Wright...it can't be any worse. :p
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 07:22 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[QUOTE]
I'd rather have Hughes and Matsuzaka than Randy Johnson and Jaret Wright...it can't be any worse. :p
Maybe. But I think they'll need solid veteran arms to get to the Series. Neither has pitched a full season by major league standards, nor have they faced a major league lineup.

Right now just about every team has a promising pitcher being touted as a future #1 ace in a staff.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 07:28 PM

Hughes has to be worth something or else the Yankees wouldn't have protected him the way that did; virtually unprecedented. He essentially is the next Clemens. And Matsuzaka has pitched quite a bit in Japan, his young arm has seen alot of action, which may be bad in the long run, but he has experience. I think he should transition well, like Matsui or, for a throwback, Nomo and his deadly slider compared to Matsuzaka's gyroball.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 08:57 PM

Plane in NYC crash registered to Yankee pitcher

WASHINGTON (AP) - A law enforcement official has told The Associated Press that a member of the New York Yankees organization was aboard the plane that crashed into a New York City high-rise.

FAA records show the plane was registered to pitcher Cory Lidle.
MORE TO COME

Source: FoxSports

I just read this I hope and pray it's not true
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 09:03 PM

It's true, unfortunately. He was the only one onboard the plane, and he perished, as well as 4 people inside the building.

We're discussing it in the General Discussion forum...
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/06 09:36 PM

Irish is much more concerned about the pitching staff. He will post right here thank you.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/06 01:23 AM

How the f*ck can you be so heartless Ice and JG who made a comment about that in the other thread in the General section. It just shocks and saddens me, the 2 of you
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/06 01:38 AM

take it easy bud. everyone deals w/ grief in their own way.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/06 01:42 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
How the f*ck can you be so heartless Ice and JG who made a comment about that in the other thread in the General section. It just shocks and saddens me, the 2 of you
Mr. Freeze: "I'm beyond emotions. They've been frozen dead in me."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/06 07:51 PM

Trade Rumour - from Mike and Mike this morning, apparently the ChiSox general manager Ken Williams has been on the phone with Yankee GM Brian Cashman nonstop discussing a deal as follows (even though papers are saying Cashman has said no dice to some of these):

1.) Yankees Get: Joe Crede (3B), Freddy Garcia (P) OR Javier Vasquez (P) OR Mark Buerhle (P).

White Sox Get: Alex Rodriguez (3B), cash.

2.) Yankees Get: Brandon McCarthy (P), Josh Fields (AAA Prospect 3B).

White Sox Get: Alex Rodriguez (3B), cash.

3.) Yankees Get: Josh Fields (AAA Prospect 3B), Freddy Garcia (P) OR Javier Vasquez (P) OR Mark Buerhle (P).

White Sox Get: Alex Rodriguez, cash.

---

I'd most like to see deal #3, and get either Buerhle or Garcia to go with our new 3B prospect. Fields looks to be solid, and the Yankees need that youth movement. McCarthy seems decent, but with Proctor and Villone, do we really need more middle relief? Maybe.

Either way, I'm glad to see that teams are interested in A-Rod. It's just a matter of picking the right partner with whom to dance.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/06 08:21 PM

I'd personally trade him out of the AL to an NL team like St. Louis or Florida perhaps
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/06 08:25 PM

DJ - although McCarthy pitched in middle relief most of last season, he's a big-time starter prospect. Many felt that Oz waited too long to put him in the starting rotation since he was one of pitchers who carried them down the stretch during the Sox's World Series year.

(Just to make it clear, although I'm from Chicago, I'm not a homer or anything. He's just one of the guys I track for fantasy purposes. )
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/06 09:02 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Irishman12:
I'd personally trade him out of the AL to an NL team like St. Louis or Florida perhaps
My guess is that wherever he goes, if he goes, he'll return to playing shortstop.
I don't see him with the Marlins, who are building quite a team on a small payroll. ARod would disrupt that plan on multiple levels.
Wherever he goes, the Yankees will have to swallow the lion's share of his contract. The Players' Association will see to that.
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/06 09:26 PM

klydon1 - Just wondering, why do you think the union cares that it's the Yankees picking up the lion's share of his contract (versus any other team looking to trade for him)? I would have figured that the Union won't care, just as long as ARod's paid what's owed.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/17/06 05:50 AM

I think because no one would take on the remaining part of A-Rod's contract unless the Yanks took on most of it (kinda of like Texas. They're not paying most of it but the Yankees saw that they didn't pay ALL of it). And yes klydon1, I agree, whereever A-Rod goes, he's gonna be a shortstop again.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/17/06 03:38 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Don Sicilia:
klydon1 - Just wondering, why do you think the union cares that it's the Yankees picking up the lion's share of his contract (versus any other team looking to trade for him)? I would have figured that the Union won't care, just as long as ARod's paid what's owed.
ARod was all set a few years ago to be traded to Boston after agreeing to restructure his deal in a way that would decrease his compensation from the $25 million per year. The PA stepped in and prevented any devaluation of the original contract because of the potentially harmful precedent it might set. Accordingly, the deal was nixed, and he ended up in NY receiving full salary.

I believe that they will take the same stand again. As such, I don't think there is any team out there willing to pay ARod close to the $25 million, seeing how that contract was an albatross around the neck of the Rangers for the years he was there. Accordingly, if the Yankees move ARod and the PA makes sure there's no contract devaluation, the Yankees will be stuck with paying a big chunk of the contract.

A year ago, his market value was higher. After this season (although his stats were very good), I think there are some concerns about his defense and other areas that bring his value to a team down.
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/17/06 03:43 PM

Oh I see. I was taking it as an assumption that the contract won't be devalued (also remembering the ARod-Sox deal). I see where you're coming from.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/17/06 04:15 PM

Rumour Mill

  • New Chicago Cubs coach Lou Pinella came with a catch - he wants the team to be in full pursuit of a trade that would reunite him with Alex Rodriguez, whom he coached under Seattle and still has a good working relationship with.


---

The best deal I can see coming out of this would be Aramis Ramirez (who is a good-if-not-great 3B, but he is a bit like A-Rod at the hot corner with suspect fielding on occasion) and a starting pitcher...but who would they want that can stay healthy? Not Wood or Prior. Maybe Carlos Zambrano - I'd take that.

Its a hard choice between the White Sox or the Cubs, but Crede lacked the offensive numbers this season, so I'd take the Cubs deal...although with McCarthy being a budding star (thanks DS - I hadn't followed the White Sox closely this year ) it may still be an option. Then again, we may also look at Cesar Izturis, who would bring speed and fielding but a drop off in power (obviously).

All in all, I'm glad to hear that there are some deals in the works despite the professed solidarity from Cashman and A-Rod.

Now if we could just get a deal with the Cardinals for Pujols... :p
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/17/06 05:59 PM

Remember ARod has the right to veto any trade and there have been several reports that he has no interest in playing for the Cubs. The Yankees can only negotiate in good faith with only those teams that ARod would agree playing for.

Apparently, ARod's primary interest is getting a championship and proving he can deliver in the post season, and the Cubs are nowhere near challenging for the play-offs. It doesn't matter that Piniella is with the Cubs. Moreover, Zambrano is the Cubs' only dependable starter, and pitching is their greatest need. Essentially, the Cubs do not become a better team by getting ARod and losing Zambrano.

With ARod's no-trade clause, the list of teams, to which he may be dealt, is very limited. These teams know it, meaning that it would be a buyers' market for his services.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/17/06 08:39 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by klydon1:
Remember ARod has the right to veto any trade and there have been several reports that he has no interest in playing for the Cubs. The Yankees can only negotiate in good faith with only those teams that ARod would agree playing for.

Apparently, ARod's primary interest is getting a championship and proving he can deliver in the post season, and the Cubs are nowhere near challenging for the play-offs. It doesn't matter that Piniella is with the Cubs. Moreover, Zambrano is the Cubs' only dependable starter, and pitching is their greatest need. Essentially, the Cubs do not become a better team by getting ARod and losing Zambrano.

With ARod's no-trade clause, the list of teams, to which he may be dealt, is very limited. These teams know it, meaning that it would be a buyers' market for his services.
True, but both Boras and Cashman should be able to convince A-Rod to get rid of that - it isn't a good situation in New York, and he basically needs to start fresh. If he goes to an up-and-coming team, like the Cubs, who are only missing a few pieces, they could likely convince him that with less pressure in Chicago and the atmosphere being different in Wrigley, along with Pinella, he'd be better off in Chitown.

As far as Zambrano goes, I think that they could still finaggle a deal...Ramirez for A-Rod alone isn't going to do it, and neither Wood nor Prior are reliable starters...maybe the Yanks would have to toss in something else, but I'm sure it could be done, especially since Pinella and the Yankees are on good terms.

But A-Rod (and the Yankees) are just putting on the public face - of course they're "committed" to A-Rod staying in NY and A-Rod won't waive his trade clause - the offseason hasn't begun yet really. Believe me...I'm 99.9% sure that they're doing all they can to move Rodriguez.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/17/06 09:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Double-J:
[quote]
True, but both Boras and Cashman should be able to convince A-Rod to get rid of that - it isn't a good situation in New York, and he basically needs to start fresh. If he goes to an up-and-coming team, like the Cubs, who are only missing a few pieces, they could likely convince him that with less pressure in Chicago and the atmosphere being different in Wrigley, along with Pinella, he'd be better off in Chitown.

[/QB][/quote]Knowing Boras' past, he's certainly not going to join Cashman in convincing ARod to do anything. Rather, if anything, He will cater to his client and tell Cashman, "If you want my boy to waive the no trade clause, it's going to cost you a lot of $." That clause has monetary value. He also knows that the Yankees want to move him more than Arod needs to move. He will limit the team or teams to whom ARod will be willing to go.

The Cubs aren't up and coming; they're down and going. I think that they're more than a few pieces away from competing. Dealing Zambrano for any offensive player would be a step backward. They were built on Wood and Prior and neither has had a healthy season in some time. If they are to compete, they need to overhaul, and acquiring ARod will hinder them in this regard.

ARod will only consider a team that is established and competitive now. My guess is that if he goes (and I have my doubts), it will be the Angels, and I don't think it will involve a veteran front-line starter.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/06 11:32 AM

True, without Zambrano the already depleted staff will take a hit, but with the payroll planned to rise with Pinella, I think the Cubs will be active in getting more starters. And that's what they need - when they have good starting pitching, they were a game away from going to the World Series...when they don't, they're in the basement.

And don't doubt A-Rod's wanting to leave - his career will rot and die here the longer he stays. The boos have shaken him, and he wants out. Boras can see that. If A-Rod stays in New York, he'll be a lame duck...an outcast, an undesirable. He needs a fresh start, and the Yankees need a new first baseman...Graig Nettles part 2.

If A-Rod goes to anybody, it will be for starting pitching and a blue-chip prospect. It has to be. The Yankees will be taking on all of that salary, and should get quite a bit in return...which is why the Yanks wanted from the White Sox McCarthy or Buehrle/Garcia and their star 3rd base prospect from Chicago's AAA team...and that seems fair...A-Rod and cash for 2 players.
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/06 01:43 PM

If ARod goes to a Chicago team, it won't be to the Cubs, it will be to the White Sox. With the White Sox, it won't be too hard to move Uribe from SS so ARod can go back to his natural position. The Sox can give up Crede or Josh Fields (it won't be both) and some pitching talent for the trade. It will be a good trade on both sides.

The Cubs, on the other hand, do not have the same wealth of talent. They do have some pitching talent in the farm, but I think they're too green to entice the Yankees. Wood and Prior are done. ARod will not want to go to a last place team.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/25/06 03:12 AM

Japanese pitcher to be represented by Boras

ST. LOUIS (AP) - Japanese pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka selected Scott Boras to represent him in negotiations with major league teams, the agent said Tuesday.

Matsuzaka's rights are expected to be "posted" by the Seibu Lions next month, meaning that all 30 major league teams can bid on the 26-year-old right-hander. The team with the highest bid gains the right to attempt to sign the pitcher.
Matsuzaka was 17-5 with a 2.13 ERA and 200 strikeouts this year, and he impressed many major league scouts last March during the World Baseball Classic, where he was selected MVP as Japan won the title.

Source: FoxSports.com
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/25/06 01:44 PM

C'mon Cashman, open that pocketbook and say hello to Seibu!
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/25/06 03:13 PM

This guy is touted almost as highly as Hideki Irabu.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/25/06 03:59 PM

But he's not a fat pussy toad.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/25/06 04:14 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
But he's not a fat pussy toad.


True enough.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/25/06 06:39 PM

Boras: Cashman says Yankees won't trade A-Rod

A-Rod isn't going anywhere.

That's the message agent Scott Boras said he received from New York Yankees GM Brian Cashman in a phone conversation about Alex Rodriguez recently, according to a report on the New York Daily News' Web site.

"Brian Cashman and I had a discussion and he made it clear that he has no intention of trading Alex," Boras told the Daily News, "and I told him that Alex Rodriguez has a no-trade clause.

"There will be no movement of Alex Rodriguez this offseason," Boras said.

However, baseball executives are unsure whether Boras' statements are believable, particularly given Rodriguez's postseason struggles and the media scrutiny in New York.

"There's nothing about playing in New York City that he finds as a negative," Boras told the Daily News.

Rodriguez's relationship with manager Joe Torre, who dropped A-Rod to eighth in the lineup during Game 4 of the division series, could be another factor in any decision to trade the third baseman.

"When there was talk about Joe's situation [as manager], Alex was very supportive," Boras told the Daily News. "That's not an issue. I never heard anything from him about [being offended by the lineups]. I think Alex's position is that when you're a player of his stature, you don't really care where you hit. You want to win."

Cashman has said he hasn't received any formal offers for Rodriguez, but executives told the Daily News that several teams have had internal discussions about what they'd be willing to offer in a trade.

However, Boras said he's certain Rodriguez isn't leaving the Big Apple.

"Alex came to New York and has averaged about 40 home runs a year," Boras told the Daily News. "Last time I checked, there aren't a lot of guys doing that. He came here because he wanted to be in a winning situation and the team has been close but hasn't done it yet. He wants to stay and be a part of doing it."

Source: ESPN.com
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/25/06 10:04 PM

Umm...yeah. Sorry. I don't buy that.

Not after Steinbrenner saw his almighty powerhouse lose to the Tigers. This team is going to get a serious shakeup, and A-Rod will be dealt for decent starting pitching.
Posted By: Jimmy Buffer

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/25/06 10:30 PM

A-Rod will be traded this offseason. How else does Cashman justify keeping his job? He's got to do something. Now that Torre is back, A-Rod is gone.

As far as him being traded to the Cubs, I just don't see it. The Cubs have nothing to offer in return. Sure trading Zambrano and using the increased payroll money to acquire some veteran starting pitchers sounds like a nice idea in theory, but just look at the recent history of the Yankees to see how easy that actually is to do. The Yanks haven't been able to acquire a decent, veteran starting pitcher with unlimited resources at thier disposal. The Cubs are a long ways from contending, so if they want to shake things up, the smart thing to do would be to trade Ramirez for some young, major league ready pitchers, not vice versa. Of course, this is the Cubs we're talking about, so I guess it doesn't rule out the possibility that they would do something completely asinine like trade Zambrano for offense.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/25/06 10:37 PM

If I were Cashman, I'd hang onto A-Rod and go REALLY hard after Barry Zito. I'm not sure if Oakland will resign him and he's probably the best starting pitcher on the market today. This way the Yankees get to keep A-Rod and get a Cy Young starting pitcher
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/06 01:22 PM


How in the world COULD they say that they would trade A-rod before a deal is set. Remember A-rod has a no trade clause. So they will not come out and make him look bad until they are ready.You don't make your multimillion dollar star look bad, or slap him in the face. You may be stuck with him.

The whole league knows that he is available. They will let the offers come in and talk to A-rod before they go public.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/06 05:02 PM

Report: Sheffield's option picked up by Yankees
October 26, 2006
Quote:

NEW YORK (AP) -- Gary Sheffield was told Wednesday that the New York Yankees will pick up his $13 million option for next season, according to a newspaper report.

Sheffield said he was hoping to test the free-agent market and get another three-year contract, USA Today reported in Thursday's editions.

"This will not work, this will not work at all," Sheffield told the newspaper. "I don't want to play first base a year for them. I will not do that."

Sheffield, sidelined from May 29 to Sept. 22 with an injured left wrist that required surgery, hit .298 with six homers and 25 RBIs in 39 games this season. He played first base for the first time in his major league career after he returned in September.

"I don't know what they're (Yankees) going to do," Sheffield said. "Maybe they picked it up just to trade me. If they do that, if I just (go) to a team for one year, there's going to be a problem."

A message was left by The Associated Press seeking comment from Sheffield's agent, Rufus Williams.


First off, WHY?
Secondly, what an asshole!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/06 05:51 PM

I know I'm the only Yankee fan but I'm glad (yes GLAD) the Yankees held onto him and I hope they don't trade him. I'd rather him stay in New York than be in Boston tourching us. He may be an a$$hole but he's a great player. Remeber we had this discussion about Kenny Rogers earlier in the year and look how he manhandled the Yankees in the postseason (although he is currently under suspicison of cheating). You have to ask yourselves what's more important, an a$$hole superstar who can produce, or the "nice" guy who craps in the playoffs (A-Rod). I think this is a smart move for the Yankees because losing Sheffield in that lineup would have been a great loss.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/06 06:08 PM

Re: Sheffield, Wasn't he the one who pissed and moaned in the press because he DIDN'T have this option, and cried and carried on about how unappreciated he was until he got it?! So, now that the Yankees have exercised it, he's pissed off about that, too? Or is he pissed off with the performances of Abreu and Cabrera, which have made him a virtual third wheel? I think that Gary is getting older, he's had medical problems, nobody is sure WHAT he'll have to offer next year and he should just shutup and be happy to play whatever position the Yankees want him to. His return to the team was certainly no indication of past performance, and he should just stop running to the press complaining all the time. JG, you're right, he looks like a spoiled brat.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/06 06:33 PM

I figured his option would be picked up to trade him. Problem is that another team won't offer as much as one would think unless they had assurances that he would sign for an additional few years. Moreover, with his past (a chronic complainer wherever he's been), his diminishing abilities and his age, he certainly won't command a top rate starter in return. But, NY should get something in return although they may have to help pay his overpriced option.

The key is that by signing him and then paying to trade him, they can pretty much control where he ends up, rather than cutting him loose and let a division rival snatch him up.

My feeling is that if and when he is dealt, there won't be any long faces in the clubhouse.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/06 11:14 PM

The only reason they've resigned Sheffield is because they think they can get value for him in a trade, rather than let him walk. Cashman will not keep him on - he'll become a cancer in the locker room with his attitude now.

And yes, you're the only one who is glad. Sheffield is a good player when he's healthy, but with Abreu, he's obsolete, unless he learns how to pitch.

As far as going after Kenny Rogers...bah. Rogers "magic" postseason should disappear in a Game 6 (if necessary) when he'll have to wear the normal cap and be totally clean, and he'll suck like he usually does.

Zito is not worth the money he'll be getting, and plus I think the A's will re-sign him. He seemed like a head case to me when we faced him early on in the year, and we rocked him too.

And A-Rod HAS to go. Even with a no trade clause - all of this is being done to save face. They're no doubt trying to put on a good smile so that other teams will be interested, and that it can be made positive PR so it doesn't look as bad of a failure as it is. But A-Rod WILL be gone. He'll waive his no trade clause. He has no choice. The relationship between him and Jeter is colder than a witches tit, and he won't last the offseason in pinstripes.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/27/06 03:11 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J

And A-Rod HAS to go. Even with a no trade clause - all of this is being done to save face. They're no doubt trying to put on a good smile so that other teams will be interested, and that it can be made positive PR so it doesn't look as bad of a failure as it is. But A-Rod WILL be gone. He'll waive his no trade clause. He has no choice. The relationship between him and Jeter is colder than a witches tit, and he won't last the offseason in pinstripes.


I don't agree, but I guess only time will tell who is "right"
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/27/06 06:15 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
A-Rod WILL be gone. He'll waive his no trade clause.


How much you wanna bet on that?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/27/06 05:24 PM

Originally Posted By: J Geoff
Originally Posted By: Double-J
A-Rod WILL be gone. He'll waive his no trade clause.


How much you wanna bet on that?


Why would he stay in New York? To watch his career die? I think that Boras and Cashman will get together and make some sort of deal that will save face. A-Rod may have a no-trade clause, but he is smart enough to see that he'll never achieve the greatness its clear he desires as long as he stays in New York. So they'll chip away at his resolve and get him to go to a second-tier city - Chicago maybe - and play with slightly less of a critical lens upon him.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/27/06 06:23 PM

[quote=Double-J

Why would he stay in New York? To watch his career die? I think that Boras and Cashman will get together and make some sort of deal that will save face. A-Rod may have a no-trade clause, but he is smart enough to see that he'll never achieve the greatness its clear he desires as long as he stays in New York. So they'll chip away at his resolve and get him to go to a second-tier city - Chicago maybe - and play with slightly less of a critical lens upon him. [/quote]

His career is hardly dying. He won an MVP in NY in 2005 and hit 40 homers this year. If a post-season flop is a one-way ticket out of NY, he'll have plenty of company on that train.

Boras does not want him out of NY, and Cashman knows that he can't get equal value in return for a trade. Moreover, the number of teams to whom A-Rod or Boras would consider a trade could be counted on one hand.

A-Rod's greatness is already assured as he is a first ballot hall of famer even if he never plays another game again. He's not concerned about resurrecting a career. Also, the fact that he has few friends in the Yankee clubhouse is irrelevant as he hasn't made many friends during his stays in Seattle and Texas.

He wants the championship. While he might agree to a trade, I don't think he or Boras feel the need to play elsewhere.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/27/06 06:31 PM

You can't say its exactly flourishing either. A-Rod is coming off one of his worst seasons (relative to his standards) on record, he's hated by the fans, and the tension between himself and the captain as well as his resentment of Torre's demotion in the batting order has created an environent where he can no longer succeed.

I'd be careful about the number of people who want A-Rod...there are quite a few teams in the market for his talent, who are missing one or two pieces of the puzzle or need a jolt in the arm and think he may be the answer. With the Yankees obviously taking the money hit, why would a team object to trading a starting pitcher for an All-Star 3rd baseman if it will help their team? Sure the Yanks won't get fair value - but they don't want him in NY despite the public face of the situation put on by Cashman and Boras.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/27/06 06:56 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J

I'd be careful about the number of people who want A-Rod...there are quite a few teams in the market for his talent, who are missing one or two pieces of the puzzle or need a jolt in the arm and think he may be the answer.


Yes, but the question isn't who wants A-Rod; it's whom does A-Rod want? He and Boras will only consider an established and winning franchise. He will not consider waiving the no-trade clause for a fringe team or a team with a losing record. Also, few teams will be able to take on his contract, or even that portion remaining after the Yankees contribute. I'm thinking only the White Sox, Red Sox and Angels are the only ones who might be able to consider it. He's got the Yankees by the short hairs.

Also, I don't think he gives a damn about what the fans. He'll win a few games, hit some homers, and they'll be happy again. Also, he didn't care for Jeter when he got there, so that wouldn't stop him.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/27/06 07:01 PM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
He will not consider waiving the no-trade clause for a fringe team or a team with a losing record. Also, few teams will be able to take on his contract, or even that portion remaining after the Yankees contribute. I'm thinking only the White Sox, Red Sox and Angels are the only ones who might be able to consider it. He's got the Yankees by the short hairs.

Also, I don't think he gives a damn about what the fans. He'll win a few games, hit some homers, and they'll be happy again. Also, he didn't care for Jeter when he got there, so that wouldn't stop him.


But most of the fringe teams wouldn't have the talent the Yankees want anyways.

Furthermore, its clear A-Rod needs fans. He can't thrive without them.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/27/06 07:56 PM

Then again, I forgot how retarded the Yankees can be.

Don't get me wrong, I like Mattingly and thought he did a good job as the hitting coach, but I don't see why Mazzilli should be pushed out and Mattingly promoted. I hope Mazzilli is at least staying with the team...he should be the next manager of the Yankees.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/28/06 03:31 AM

Originally Posted By: ap_capone48101
Boy did Verlander make A-Rod look like a FOOL today. Oh yeah, coming back to the D all tied up.


WOO HOO! The Cards win the series! Man Detroit hitters really CHOKED when it counted the most! F U Pudge!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/28/06 03:43 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: ap_capone48101
Boy did Verlander make A-Rod look like a FOOL today. Oh yeah, coming back to the D all tied up.


WOO HOO! The Cards win the series! Man Detroit hitters really CHOKED when it counted the most! F U Pudge!


Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/28/06 04:00 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: ap_capone48101
Boy did Verlander make A-Rod look like a FOOL today. Oh yeah, coming back to the D all tied up.


WOO HOO! The Cards win the series! Man Detroit hitters really CHOKED when it counted the most! F U Pudge!


Your hatred for Texas is legendary. Have you added Michigan to the list as well, I12??
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/28/06 04:07 AM

No, but they beat the Yankees so I couldn't cheer for them and I've always hated Pudge so I'm just glad to see him lose
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/28/06 04:46 AM

Originally Posted By: Ice
Quote:
Jeter?
HE is one of the best CLUTCH hitters EVER!! Scouts take a lot of count in what a guy does with a full count, and what a guy does w/ men in scoring position. In those two categories he is the best in the world. (David Eckstein of anaheim excels in those two categories as well, even though he traditionally hits around the mendoza line)


Well I might not know he plays for St Lou and I might pick St Lou to get their ass swept by San Diego BUT CAN I PICK EM BABY!?!

MVP boys
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/28/06 01:35 PM

Darn. And I was hoping to watch Kenny Rogers fall flat on his face in Game 6 when he would be totally clean.

Oh well. Yay Cardinals!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/06 12:14 AM

When are they going to announce the regular season MVP? I thought it would have been done during the postseason like it's done in the NBA. It seems like it's late this year
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/06 01:59 AM

In a week or two.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/06 02:32 AM

I wonder why they wait so long? Oh well. These individuals have flied for free agency today:

NEW YORK (AP) - One day after the World Series ended, baseball's business season began Saturday when San Francisco's Barry Bonds, Oakland's Frank Thomas and the Los Angeles Dodgers' Nomar Garciaparra headed 59 players who filed for free agency.

Oakland pitcher Barry Zito and Washington's Alfonso Soriano are the biggest names available in this year's free-agent class. Approximately 200 players are eligible to file by the Nov. 11 deadline, and free agents can start talking money with all teams the following day.
Under new rules this offseason, free agents do not face any deadlines to re-sign with their former teams. In the past, players had to re-sign by Dec. 7 (or Jan. 8 if offered salary arbitration) or else could not return to their former teams until May 1. The deadlines were eliminated in baseball's new labor contract.

Among pitchers, the Chicago Cubs' Kerry Wood and Houston's Andy Pettitte could attract some interest. The Astros' Roger Clemens also is eligible, but the 44-year-old hasn't indicated whether he wants to pitch in 2007 or whether he'd consider leaving his hometown team.

Outfielder Luis Gonzalez, not wanted back by Arizona after eight seasons with the Diamondbacks, plans to play next year.

Five players filed Saturday from the New York Mets: outfielders Cliff Floyd and Ricky Ledee, pitchers Orlando Hernandez and Steve Trachsel and shortstop Chris Woodward.

Five players also filed from Philadelphia - catcher Mike Lieberthal and pitchers Arthur Rhodes, Rick White, Randy Wolf and Aaron Fultz - along with five from San Diego.

Three players filed from the New York Yankees: infielder Miguel Cairo, reliever Octavio Dotel and outfielder Craig Wilson.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/06 04:11 AM

Every time that Wilson would come up to the plate, Mr. Babe would scream Wilson!! just like Tom Hanks in Castaway.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/06 01:28 PM

Dotel, what a tard. He spent most of the season on the bench.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/01/06 06:04 PM

Report: Yankees have Sheffield trade in place

New York Yankees' general manager Brian Cashman has a potential trade in place for slugger Gary Sheffield, according to a Newsday report.

The Long Island, N.Y. newspaper reported the news citing an unnamed official from another American League team.
But it appears that Cashman is not ready to pull the trigger on a trade. In fact, a person familiar with the Yankees' plans reportedly told the newspaper that "there is no urgency to the process." The team apparently wants to wait to see if Sheffield's trade market value improves.

The Cubs and Phillies seem to be the teams most interested in acquiring Sheffield, whom Newsday called "an attractive, more affordable alternative to free-agent sluggers Alfonso Soriano and Carlos Lee."

Those sluggers are likely to land long-term deals this winter. Sheffield, meanwhile, will cost a team $13 million for next season with $4.5 million deferred.

The Yankees, according to Newsday have until Sunday to pick up Sheffield's contract option, and are expected to do so shortly after agreeing to a trade, which now seems inevitable.

Sheffield, meanwhile, made his feelings public in a USA Today story last week that he is not happy about the Yankees' plans to pick up his option and then trade him.

Why?

He would rather try to get a three-year deal on the free-agent market. What's more, the veteran slugger has publicly warned teams interested in dealing for him that he is going to want a contract extension.

An American League team official told Newsday that the Yankees are open to all kinds of (trade) packages. And Cashman reportedly could accept a deal that would include prospects, bullpen help or a starting pitcher.

The Rangers and Indians are thought to be among the AL teams interested in a possible Sheffield trade. But the Yankees might avoid trading him to an AL team simply to avoid facing him too often next season.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/01/06 10:22 PM

Unless its a deal for solid (young) starting pitching or better-than-average fielding 1st baseman (which we already have in Andy Phillips) I would hope Cashman would have the sense to go for prospects, especially pitching.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/02/06 04:57 AM

I agree DJ.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/02/06 06:39 PM

The Yanks officially have cut ties with Lee "Maz" Mazzilli, which proves that George is growing increasingly braindead.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/04/06 03:18 AM

Well, I thought Papa George was damn nuts already when he wanted to fire Torre last year. But yeah, now its certified.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/07/06 11:31 PM

Yankees want Clemens, Pettitte back?

Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte are free agents. The Yankees are fresh off another postseason disappointment.

Is a reunion in the works? According to the New York Daily News, the Yankees will inquire about both players.
Agents Randy and Alan Hendricks, who represent both players, tell the paper their cliens haven't decided whether they will continue playing in 2007, but if so, then they are open to all suitors.

The paper also reports that confidantes for Pettitte have suggested he would be willing to consider a return to the Bronx. Clemens, who retired in 2003, joined the Astros at the behest of his good friend Pettitte, after he signed there as a free agent.

Both had strong second halves last season, but Houston failed to reach the playoffs

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/08/06 06:24 PM

Wouldn't that be typical of the Yankees, signing two aging primadonnas??? They wanted to be back in Texas that badly, then let them stay there. No offense to my friend Gina if she's around, but the Dynamic Duo left the Yankees in the lurch as far as their starting pitching, and they really still haven't recovered. I think that while they were both amazing pitchers in their prime, they are past it now. Haven't we learned our lesson with Randy Johnson???
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/08/06 07:37 PM

I agree SB. Although, Clemens could help but Pettitte I think would be just another Kevin Brown/Jaret Wright. However, I don't see these 2 leaving Houston AT ALL. I wouldn't be surprised to see Clemens retire (FINALLY), but I would if Pettitte followed him. But again, they'll either retire or stay in Houston.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/09/06 05:04 AM

Sheffield says he's blocked from talking to Boss

NEW YORK -- Gary Sheffield said he's being blocked by "middle men" from speaking with Yankees owner George Steinbrenner about his desire to stay in New York and will comply with the team's request to form a list of clubs he'd prefer to be traded to.

New York exercised Sheffield's $13 million option last weekend, preventing him from becoming a free agent. The Yankees acquired right fielder Bobby Abreu in July while Sheffield was injured and appear to be preparing to trade Sheffield before next season.

Talking with reporters at the opening of the Brooklyn Diner's Times Square location, Sheffield said that if he's traded, Alex Rodriguez would lose his only sounding board on the team. Sheffield also said Abreu wasn't as good a player as he was.

"My situation, honestly, the truth about it, I never was comfortable," Sheffield said. "I was always feeling a little insecure about where I fit here and where I belonged, or do they want me here? And I had to play on those terms, and I was being a man about it and going out and trying to do my job under the conditions."

Sheffield joined the Yankees before the 2004 season, personally negotiating a $39 million, three-year contract with Steinbrenner, his Tampa-area neighbor.

Steinbrenner has cut back on his public involvement with the team, and the 76-year-old owner fainted Oct. 29, the second time he collapsed in public in three years. Sheffield said he didn't speak with Steinbrenner "just because of his health."

"If it wasn't for his health, I'd have made that conversation happen, but my situation ain't worth that to me," Sheffield said, adding that "you've got middle men blocking him. ... They get in the way and their personal feelings get in the way."

Sheffield wouldn't identify the people he was referring to. Reached later, general manager Brian Cashman declined comment.

Sheffield, who turns 38 on Nov. 18, had 36 homers and 121 RBI in his first season with the Yankees and then had 34 homers and 123 RBI the following year. But he injured his wrist April 29 in a collision at first base with Toronto's Shea Hillenbrand, had surgery June 13 and didn't return until Sept. 22, when the Yankees shifted him to first base for the remainder of the season.

Sheffield doesn't have a no-trade clause and he doesn't understand why the Yankees appear to prefer the 32-year-old Abreu in right field.

"He's a good player, but like I say, you can draw it up any kind of way, he ain't me, and that's the bottom line," Sheffield said. "I understood them having to make this move for the remainder of the season but ... I always was told that you leave because somebody's better than you, and I don't think that's the case here."

Sheffield also said that dropping Rodriguez to sixth and then to eighth in the batting order messed with his head.

"Knowing him, yes it did," Sheffield said.

If Sheffield is dealt, he thinks A-Rod will lose the only teammate in the Yankees' clubhouse that he could bounce ideas off.

"He might as well get ready," Sheffield said. "There's nobody."

He defended Steinbrenner's initial decision to sign him, made without Cashman's participation.

"Everybody knows when they go out and make moves, they make moves based on who's hot at the time or who's the top free agent. Who's this or who's that? But at the same time, you look at all the moves they made and you look at the move they made with me, that George made, which ones panned out?" Sheffield said.

"I've produced ever since I got here. If it wasn't for me the first year, in 2004, we wouldn't have made the playoffs. I went out and put up big numbers against Boston for us to win that division. ... It wasn't some mystery man. It was myself," he said.

Sheffield expected the Yankees to exercise his option because he knew they didn't want him to sign with Boston or another rival.

"Everybody knows when I go to another team, I'm coming back looking for you. That's just the way it is," he said. "The Dodgers, that happened. The Marlins, it happened. When you let me go, I've got a chip on my shoulder, and I'm coming with it. That's how I play the game."

He wouldn't mind getting dealt to the New York Mets or Chicago White Sox.

"Obviously, we would like to go play somewhere where we're comfortable and people we're surrounded with that we know," he said. "Obviously, those couple places, I do know those guys. Hopefully, something will work out for the better."

Sheffield, a nine-time All-Star, wants to play three more seasons. But if he's traded to a last-place team, he said he would retire. He would consider becoming a full-time first baseman if the Yankees told him he would be there for at least two years.

In retrospect, he said he rushed back from the wrist injury. He caught underhand at first base because his wrist hurt when he tried to catch throws normally.

"Nobody in the history of the game tried what I just tried," he said. "We're talking about on the biggest stage, in New York, playing out of position and asked to hit fourth for the New York Yankees. I mean, that's never been done."

Sheffield was pleased his uncle, former Yankees and Mets star Dwight Gooden, is due to be released from prison Thursday. Gooden will have served about seven months for violating his probation by using cocaine.

His advice to Gooden was to "just stay away from the wrong crowd. I made that choice and he has to make the same choice."

Sheffield, stopping in New York en route to Tampa following a Las Vegas vacation, received a $25,000 check for his foundation during the ceremony. Former Mets closer John Franco also accepted a check for his own foundation as "Sopranos" star Lorraine Bracco looked on from the crowd.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/09/06 05:09 AM

Yanks ready to catch gyroball

Maybe it's the urban legend of his bizarre pitch -- the "gyroball" -- that defies both logic and physics. Or maybe it's that he's young, or Japanese, or a hard thrower, which makes the Yankees remember why they once coveted Randy Johnson.

There are plenty of reasons why Daisuke Matsuzaka has become the centerpiece of the Bombers' offseason plans, but the focus on the right-hander is so great, he's put a potential courtship of Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte on a back burner.

"This is the guy we want," one Yankees official said on Tuesday, referring to Matsuzaka. "I'm not saying we have to get him, but we'd like to."

The baseball world will have its answer on Wednesday, when, by 5 p.m. ET, clubs have to submit their blind bids for the negotiating rights to Matsuzaka and the gyroball, which is said to rotate like a football and move like a slider in slow motion.

The Yankees are believed to be ready to go as high as $20 million for the mere right to speak to Matsuzaka about a contract. It's an enormous posting fee, even by the Yankees' standards, but they're being driven by an unsubstantiated belief that the Rangers will be the dark horses in the blind bidding.

Owner Tom Hicks, they hear, is apparently convinced he needs just one young arm to take control of the West, and further believes his working relationship with agent Scott Boras, who represents Matsuzaka, can divert the pitcher away from the Bronx straight to the heart of Texas.

That scenario would explain why the Yankees appear determined not to be outbid. "At the end of the day, they're the only ones who'll go [to $20 million]," said one insider.

And if the Yankees are successful? Then don't hold your breath waiting for Clemens or Pettitte despite the nostalgic ties to both pitchers. For one, Mike Mussina is on the verge of signing a two-year deal worth $22 million. That's one less spot for the former Yankees hurlers.

Furthermore, the Bombers aren't sure Clemens is necessarily married to the idea of wearing pinstripes again; they're just as convinced he's headed back to Fenway Park if he decides to leave the Astros.

As for Pettitte, who recently said he's considering retirement, a Yankees higher-up said, "we love the guy, but it's hard to take a run at a pitcher who isn't 100 percent convinced he wants to play anymore."

There are other factors that would complicate Pettitte's return. Despite a strong second half of the 2006 season, the long-term durability of Pettitte's elbow, which has twice undergone surgical procedures, is a concern for the Yankees. So are his personal feelings about New York.

The club was under the impression Pettitte was pressured by his family to leave New York after the 2003 season, leading to a three-year commitment with the Astros. Whether Pettitte would face resistance at home about another tour with the Yankees remains unclear.

That question would become moot if Matsuzaka signs with the Yankees and Randy Johnson's recent back surgery is a success. "Then we're looking at four starters [including Chien-Ming Wang and Mussina]," said the official, suggesting the fifth spot may ultimately belong to Jaret Wright. The Yankees have until Nov. 12 to pick up Wright's $7 million option for 2007 (or buy him out for $4 million).

That move may go down to the wire, although industry peers say the Yankees' offseason machinery is running more smoothly than in past years and that the chain of command has been streamlined.

Or, as a rival GM succinctly put it: "[Brian] Cashman is calling the shots now."

That has become evident since Cashman successfully steered George Steinbrenner away from his initial impulse to fire Joe Torre following the Bombers' collapse in the American League Division Series.

Such a reversal would've been unheard of 20 years ago -- maybe even as recently as 2002, when the Yankees were booted out of the playoffs in the first round by the Angels. But Cashman saved Torre's job by convincing Steinbrenner that no one else could manage the number of All-Stars (and the emotional baggage) better than the man who's done it since 1996.

Torre may or may not have full protection throughout the 2007 season, after which his contract expires. But it's clear Cashman is already thinking ahead, having fired bench coach Lee Mazzilli and promoted Don Mattingly to that very position.

The fact that Mazzilli was dismissed underscored Cashman's influence, considering he moved against Torre's closest friend on the coaching staff. In this case, not even Torre could have saved Mazzilli.

Cashman's next crossroads will be deciding where to trade Gary Sheffield -- the Cubs and Phillies are among the front-runners -- and how to make life easier for Alex Rodriguez next season.

A Rodriguez trade has been all but ruled out by the front office; Cashman would still listen to any offer, but has in the meantime told Rodriguez's representatives he should consider himself a Yankee for the remainder of his contract.

"My goal is to win a championship, and Alex is still the best third baseman to get us there," the GM said recently.

Another pitcher wouldn't hurt, either. Fingers tightly crossed, Cashman and the Yankees are entering a blind auction for a Japanese pitcher who's never thrown an inning in the major leagues.

It's unfamiliar territory, which is why the Yankees will ultimately resort to their genetic coding: When in doubt, write a bigger check.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/09/06 04:37 PM

1.) Resigning Clemens or Pettitte is retarded. Ever hear of Kevin Brown? Holy shit. I mean, I'd consider either if they had some skinny contracts, but I wouldn't bet my rotation on either. We've already got the geriatric ward out there with Randy Johnson.

2.) Matsuzaka will be a Yankee. The Yanks won't be outbid by anyone. Plus, why is Daisuke coming? Money and a championship. He may get some money from Texas, but they aren't a contender. The Yankees are a better fit.

3.) Sheffield should shut the fuck up and get the hell out. He got demoted because he wasn't swinging well. Matsui didn't seem to have any problems - get the fuck out. Thanks.

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/09/06 09:21 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
1.) Resigning Clemens or Pettitte is retarded. Ever hear of Kevin Brown? Holy shit. I mean, I'd consider either if they had some skinny contracts, but I wouldn't bet my rotation on either. We've already got the geriatric ward out there with Randy Johnson.


Clemens looks like he still has some in the tank although if that transfers to the AL is yet to be determined. I think it'd be smart to get him for what he has shown in the past (especially in Houston) but you're right, I wouldn't overspend on him, especially if it'll only be for half a season!

Originally Posted By: Double-J
2.) Matsuzaka will be a Yankee. The Yanks won't be outbid by anyone. Plus, why is Daisuke coming? Money and a championship. He may get some money from Texas, but they aren't a contender. The Yankees are a better fit.


I hope you're right. Plus, at least now Hideki will have someone to talk to
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/09/06 10:51 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Clemens looks like he still has some in the tank although if that transfers to the AL is yet to be determined. I think it'd be smart to get him for what he has shown in the past (especially in Houston) but you're right, I wouldn't overspend on him, especially if it'll only be for half a season!


Clemens may have some left in the tank, but I wouldn't pay for him unless our rotation, which would contain Wang, Mussina and Matsuzaka, was totally depleted. Maybe if Pavano can come back and pitch decent and Johnson recovers from his back surgery, we'll be alright. Otherwise, I'd still move Sheffield and A-Rod for two more marquee pitchers.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/09/06 11:26 PM

I TOTALLY forgot about Pavano. Is he coming back next year (FINALLY) or what? The guy's pitched like 3 months at the most so far in 2 years for the Yankees!? Also, do you think the Yankees will buyout Jaret Wright for $4 million instead of picking up his option for $7 million? Finally, I've been hearing a lot about Matsuzaka, but I haven't heard ANYTHING about the Yanks going after Zito. I still think they should (even if they get Matsuzaka). As the Yankees have shown in recent years, they can never have too much pitching. The rotation I'd like to see next year is:

-Wang
-Matsuzaka
-Moose
-Zito
-Johnson
-Pavano as long relief or in case 1 of these guys (Unit?) goes down
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/10/06 05:04 PM

They won't need Zito if they get Matsuzaka and Hughes is called up.

The rotation should be (as of now, assuming Matsuzaka is signed):

Wang
Mussina
Johnson
Matsuzaka
Hughes

with Pavano in long-relief.

And no, I think the Yankees will buy out Wright for $4 million rather than see him drain another $7 million out of the payroll.
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/10/06 05:09 PM

You guys aren't worried about the mileage Matsuzaka has on his arm? You guys have read the same stories that I have (250 pitch, 17-inning game and then pitched again the next day) and the last time I heard someone being overworked like that, it was Kerry Wood and I've had front row seats to how he's turned out.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/10/06 05:12 PM

Worried? Sure. There's some potential there for problems. But the pitches he's throwing - 97 mph Fastball, changeup, and forkball - aren't that stressful on the ligaments. And his gyroball slider? It's designed not to induce stress on the elbow and wrist ligaments.

Matsuzaka is a risk, no doubt, but he's still young, and, considering that he'd be pitching considerably less in American than he would be in Japan, should be alright. Anybody can be a risk - you mentioned Kerry Wood - but if it pays off, then the Yanks have a bonifide ace on their hands. And if it doesn't? The Yanks still have those giant purse strings...
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/10/06 05:19 PM

I agree with you DJ, it's all about risk-reward with him. I was just focusing on the "risk" aspect since people tend to focus on the "reward" part.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/10/06 05:33 PM

Right, and I totally agree, I mean, it has to be a concern, but when you look at it - we have a 24 year old pitcher who throws a pitch nobody has seen before and has game experience. I think at this point, give me Matsuzaka over Jaret Wright or Carl Pavano. At least if Matsuzaka gets hurt, it will because his arm is tired, not because he got plastered and into a car accident and then didn't tell anybody and ended up with broken ribs and being out for the season when he was 2 weeks away from returning...ugh.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/10/06 06:27 PM

Quote:
Report: Red Sox may have top Matsuzaka bid
ESPN.com news services


The Boston Red Sox may have posted the top bid for the right to negotiate with Japanese right-hander Daisuke Matsuzaka, ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney reported, citing Major League Baseball sources.

There has been no official announcement, and the Seibu Lions, Matsuzaka's team in Japan, have until Tuesday to accept or reject the high bid.

But Olney is reporting that the Red Sox may have posted the top bid with a figure between $38 million and $45 million, according to Major League Baseball officials who are monitoring the bidding.

Matsuzaka, who pitched for Japan's World Baseball Classic champions, is considered among the top prospects available this offseason.

If the Lions accept the top bid -- and according to the rules of the process, the team making the high bid is not disclosed to the Japanese team -- the winning bidder has 30 days to reach an agreement with Matsuzaka. If a deal cannot be reached, he would return to the Lions for the 2007 season and become a free agent in the spring of 2008.


Noooooo!

(Holy shit...$30-45 million? Wow. I thought the Yanks alleged $25 million was alot. If Matsuzaka flops...wow.)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/10/06 09:49 PM

Tigers deal three pitchers to Yankees for Sheffield

Detroit has acquired Gary Sheffield from the New York Yankees for three right-handed pitching prospects, the Tigers announced Friday.

In return for Sheffield, the Tigers sent Humberto Sanchez, Kevin Whelan and Anthony Claggett to New York. Detroit agreed to a two-year contract extension with Sheffield through the 2009 season.

The moves comes days after Sheffield blasted Yankees management and said Bobby Abreu, the player who took Sheffield's place in New York's outfield, isn't as good a player as he is. The Yankees exercised their $13 million option on Sheffield last weekend, preventing him from becoming a free agent, and asked him for a list of teams to which he'd like a trade.


"Everybody knows when I go to another team, I'm coming back looking for you. That's just the way it is," he said earlier this week. "When you let me go, I've got a chip on my shoulder, and I'm coming with it. That's how I play the game."


He'll have the chance to prove it again by moving across the AL to the Tigers, who stunned the Yankees in the playoffs on the way to the World Series.

Sheffield, a 19-year veteran and nine-time All-Star who has played for Milwaukee, San Diego, Florida, the Los Angeles Dodgers, Braves and Yankees, has a .297 career batting average, 455 home runs and 1,501 RBI in 2,229 games. He's sixth among active players in RBI and seventh in home runs.

"We have been able to add one of the biggest bats in baseball," said Tigers manager Jim Leyland, who managed Sheffield in Florida. "I have a great relationship with Gary Sheffield and I have the utmost respect for him. I'm happy to add a bat of this magnitude and that he'll be a Tiger."

Sanchez, 23, was a combined 10-6 with a 2.53 ERA and 129 strikeouts in 123 innings with Triple-A Toledo and Double-A Erie this year. Whelan, 22, was 4-1 with a 2.67 ERA and 27 saves for Class A Lakeland. Claggett, 22, was 7-2 with an 0.91 ERA and 14 saves for Class A West Michigan.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/10/06 09:52 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J

(Holy shit...$30-45 million? Wow. I thought the Yanks alleged $25 million was alot. If Matsuzaka flops...wow.)


I agree, $30-45 million just as a bid! WOW, looks like someone's overspending
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/11/06 04:25 AM

Jeter and Cano both won their first Silver Slugger awards today so congrats to them!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/11/06 10:26 AM

Great move by Cashman. It sounds like we've now got three solid pitching prospects who can be developed and we've unloaded Sheff's $13 million contract. The first time I've said in awhile that the Yanks have done something pseudo-intelligent.

Quote:
"Everybody knows when I go to another team, I'm coming back looking for you. That's just the way it is," he said earlier this week. "When you let me go, I've got a chip on my shoulder, and I'm coming with it. That's how I play the game."


Haha, no problem. Are you sure the chips aren't in your wrist, or shoulder? Besides, that will be great. We know how lax your fielding skills are. Damaged goods? Shut the fuck up and sit down.

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/11/06 11:38 AM

This is a good move for the Yanks. Roster spot cleared up of an aged has-been, and of $13 million.
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/11/06 02:54 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Great move by Cashman. It sounds like we've now got three solid pitching prospects who can be developed and we've unloaded Sheff's $13 million contract. The first time I've said in awhile that the Yanks have done something pseudo-intelligent.



They might turn out good, but as of now it was a steal by the Tiger's. Sanchez might have a bright upside but he has had some arm problem's and the other two haven't pitched above AA ball. But you never know untill the season start's.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/11/06 03:44 PM

Originally Posted By: ap_capone48101
They might turn out good, but as of now it was a steal by the Tiger's.


How so?

Three pitching prospects for one aged, mediocre fielding, injury prone prima donna?

Sheffield has a great bat, no doubt, but I don't think he'll last long enough to be worthwhile.

The Yanks needed pitching prospects - they got them. They also unloaded salary. It's better than the Yanks getting nothing for Sheffield if he walks as a free agent.
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/11/06 04:42 PM

True, but we gave away two guys that never played above AA ball and Humberto was our like 7th best prospect in our farm league. But like I said, I wont judge until the season is over.

But look's like he will just DH here so that might make a huge difference on how he preforms.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 04:16 AM

Detroit was a fluke this year. They'll be lucky to make the playoffs next year (like Chicago, who happened to miss the playoffs this past season)
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 05:38 AM

Those pitching prospects weren't acquired to develop. They're going to be chips to deal next July at the trade deadline.
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 05:45 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Detroit was a fluke this year. They'll be lucky to make the playoffs next year (like Chicago, who happened to miss the playoffs this past season)
I'll believe that when I see it. So we bring everyone back and add a guy that is a career 30/100 and we wont make the playoff's? The twins are going to be hurting, so it will be a two team race.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 05:54 AM

My money's on the Tigers to win the Cenral.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 06:51 AM

Originally Posted By: ap_capone48101
Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Detroit was a fluke this year. They'll be lucky to make the playoffs next year (like Chicago, who happened to miss the playoffs this past season)
I'll believe that when I see it. So we bring everyone back and add a guy that is a career 30/100 and we wont make the playoff's? The twins are going to be hurting, so it will be a two team race.


I think Detroit will have a good year next year and will make a run for the playoffs but I don't see them getting in, nor do I see them having a better year next year than they did this year. Sure they added a big bat in Gary Sheffield, but "I'll believe it when I see it"
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 06:52 AM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
My money's on the Tigers to win the Cenral.


That's what a lot of people said about Chicago too this past season after they actually won the World Series. And again, they didn't even make the playoffs. My AL playoff teams for next year are the Yankees, Red Sox, A's and White Sox
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 01:42 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Detroit was a fluke this year. They'll be lucky to make the playoffs next year (like Chicago, who happened to miss the playoffs this past season)


Umm...I don't think so. They're a very good team with good coaching that did catch some breaks, but their pitching is pretty good...I wouldn't call them a "fluke," that's like saying the Royals make the playoffs, that would be a fluke.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 01:50 PM

Yes. There are quite a few contrasts with the White Sox of 2005 starting with management. Leyland and Pudge have always flown the steady course. Tigers may not be the best team, but their singleness of purpose and focus are unmatched.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 01:51 PM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
Those pitching prospects weren't acquired to develop. They're going to be chips to deal next July at the trade deadline.


I'm not so sure about that...after all, they aren't exactly big name prospects, and the Yankees farm system has actually been (I know, shockingly) nurturing and fostering our prospects. Look at Cano, Wang, and Cabrera. All of whom were players that were going to just be trade bait - and now two of them are starters and one should be the starting LF who has some great fielding skills (Just DH Matsui...it will be fine).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 01:56 PM

Quote:
Yanks discuss trading right-hander Wright to Orioles

Associated Press

NEW YORK -- The Yankees and Orioles were discussing a deal Saturday that would send Jaret Wright to Baltimore for prospects.

Wright and Yankees teammate Mike Mussina filed provisionally for free agency Saturday, awaiting decisions on team options for 2007.

New York had until Sunday to exercise a $7 million option on Wright, a deal that carries a $4 million buyout. While the Yankees have until Wednesday to decide on Mussina's $17 million option, which has a $1.5 million buyout, the team and the pitcher's agent have been discussing a new two-year contract in the $20 million to $25 million range.

Wright, a right-hander who turns 31 next month, has been a disappointment in two seasons with the Yankees. He was 5-5 with a 6.08 ERA in 2005, when he injured a shoulder and was limited to 13 starts, then went 11-7 with a 4.49 ERA this year, only rarely lasting past the sixth inning.

A trade would leave Chien-Ming Wang and Randy Johnson, coming off back surgery, as the only definite returning starting pitchers for the Yankees, likely to be joined by Mussina. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman admitted Thursday that the team can't count on Carl Pavano, who hasn't pitched for the Yankees since June 2005 because of shoulder, backs, buttocks, elbow and rib injuries.

It was not clear which players the Orioles would send to the Yankees if a deal was struck.


Please...please...please. Smart moves. Re-sign these guys and get prospects rather than just casting them off in free agency, as long as there are teams (Detroit, Baltimore, etc.) that are willing to give these chips up for these malcontents and underachievers. Cashman is scoring big points with me so far this offseason.

Now trade A-Rod, and I'll love you forever.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 02:21 PM

It's all but official...Jaret Wright is G-O-N-E!!!

Quote:
Wright move? O's reportedly to acquire Yanks' righty
ESPN.com news services

Jaret Wright reportedly will be staying in the AL East next season -- but not with the Yankees.



New York will trade the right-handed starting pitcher to the Baltimore Orioles, according to newspaper reports out of New York and Baltimore.

The Baltimore Sun, citing two Orioles sources, is reporting that Baltimore will send reliever Chris Britton to the Yankees for Wright and $4 million, the amount it would have cost the Yankees to buy out Wright's contract.

The trade won't become official until the commissioner's office signs off on the deal, since more than $1 million in cash is being exchanged, the newspaper reported.

Wright, a right-hander who turns 31 next month, has been a disappointment in two seasons with the Yankees. He was 5-5 with a 6.08 ERA in 2005, when he injured a shoulder and was limited to 13 starts, then went 11-7 with a 4.49 ERA this year, only rarely lasting past the sixth inning.

The trade will leave Chien-Ming Wang and Randy Johnson, coming off back surgery, as the only definite returning starting pitchers for the Yankees, likely to be joined by Mike Mussina.

While the Yankees have until Wednesday to decide on Mussina's $17 million option, which has a $1.5 million buyout, the team and the pitcher's agent have been discussing a new two-year contract in the $20 million to $25 million range.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman admitted Thursday that the team can't count on Carl Pavano, who hasn't pitched for the Yankees since June 2005 because of shoulder, backs, buttocks, elbow and rib injuries.

Britton was 0-2 with a 3.35 ERA and one save in 52 games for the Orioles in 2006.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 02:25 PM

Britton looks like he's got a good WHIP (1.17) and a decent ERA (3.35) so I guess the Yanks really want to stock up on relievers...Britton looks massive though, I'm surprised the Yankees aren't more concerned about his Ponson-like weight.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 02:29 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
It's all but official...Jaret Wright is G-O-N-E!!!


That's good that Wright's gone and they're getting relievers but are they even gonna have enough guys to fill the rotation? Wang, Unit and for the most part Moose are the only 3 "for sure" starts. What about the last 2 spots?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 06:04 PM

Hughes? Matsuzaka? Karstens? There are a few more options from within, but the Yankees also have A-Rod and possibly Melky to dangle for teams during this offseason.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 06:22 PM

Between DJ and Irishman, DJ is Brian Cashman and Irishman are the sucker teams willing to trade for either washed-up or underacheiving talent.

That is, DJ is impressing me. Irishman is all bright lights in the eyes.

Yes, I agree with DJ. Cashman is doing great so far as GM. The Yankees are finally amputating the corners of fat that've dragged them down for the last few years.

Coinciding with this, who's heard the reports that Steinbrenner has been ill? I mean, Cashman getting rid of space-wasters while Papa George is MIA? I smell a pattern.

Thing is, I just don't think A-Rod will be moved in the off-season. I don't know why, but I just have this good feeling of instinct that it just won't.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/12/06 08:25 PM

Originally Posted By: RRA
Thing is, I just don't think A-Rod will be moved in the off-season. I don't know why, but I just have this good feeling of instinct that it just won't.


I know publicly Cashman has said they won't move him, but I have to think that if something comes along like Aramis Ramirez and starting pitching (Cubs) or Crede and starting pitching (ChiSox) or even (however unlikely) Dontrelle Willis for A-Rod with the Yankees absorbing the vast majority of his contract (Florida), he'll be gone. I don't think George is willing to risk another season on Rodriguez, just because he has twice now failed to deliver in the offseason and his defense at the hot corner is now, more than ever, suspect.

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/13/06 01:20 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Hughes? Matsuzaka? Karstens? There are a few more options from within, but the Yankees also have A-Rod and possibly Melky to dangle for teams during this offseason.


I haven't heard anything about Hughest being moved up and again, ESPN is reporting Boston has the high bid for Matsuzaka
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/13/06 12:29 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J





The new guy looks like a fatter version of the old guy.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/13/06 08:28 PM

Sources: Red Sox big high of $42M for Matsuzaka

The Red Sox bid $42 million for the right to negotiate with prized Japanese pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka, sources told ESPN's Peter Gammons. Boston's bid far exceeded any other team's offer.

Matsuzaka will learn Tuesday whether the Seibu Lions have accepted a bid for him by a major league team.


Major League Baseball and the Japanese commissioner's office will make simultaneous announcements at 8 p.m. ET Tuesday (10 a.m. Tokyo time Wednesday), MLB spokesman Pat Courtney said Monday at the big league general managers' meetings.


The amount of the highest bid was forwarded by the major league commissioner's office to the Japanese commissioner's office last Wednesday, and the Lions have until Tuesday to accept. Only if the offer is accepted will the identity of the winning team be revealed.

Matsuzaka, a right-hander who pitched for Japan's World Baseball Classic champions, is considered among the top prospects available this offseason.

If the Lions accept the top bid, the winning bidder has 30 days to reach an agreement with Matsuzaka. If a deal cannot be reached, he would return to the Lions for the 2007 Japanese baseball season and the bid will not be paid.

There are three reasons the deal would make sense for the Red Sox:

• Talent evaluators who have seen Matsuzaka say he's a top of the rotation-quality pitcher who would improve the Red Sox staff.

• If Boston signs him it would effectively plant a Red Sox flag in the growing Far East market.

• By merely winning the bidding the Red Sox would block the Yankees from acquiring Matsuzaka. By signing him, they would gain the same kind of advantage the Yankees gained when they signed Johnny Damon away from Boston.

Source: ESPN

A resounding F*CK!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/14/06 01:40 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12

I haven't heard anything about Hughest being moved up and again, ESPN is reporting Boston has the high bid for Matsuzaka


Pick up a copy of today's NY Times - Cashman feels pretty comfortable with our young crop with Karstens, Hughes, and Rasner.

Quote:
Focused on Retooling Rotation, Yanks Deal Wright

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By TYLER KEPNER
Published: November 13, 2006

The baseball off-season, so often a drama in slow motion, is on fast forward for the Yankees. Before he boarded a plane yesterday for the general managers meetings in Naples, Fla., the Yankees’ Brian Cashman had already accomplished more since season’s end than most of his counterparts.
Skip to next paragraph
Richard Perry/The New York Times

Jaret Wright will be reunited in Baltimore with the pitching coach Leo Mazzone.
M.L.B.

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Steve Nesius/Associated Press

The Yankees acquired reliever Chris Britton from the Orioles Sunday in the first trade between the teams since 1992.

The Yankees are closing in on a new contract for starter Mike Mussina, they traded outfielder Gary Sheffield to Detroit on Friday, and yesterday they sent starter Jaret Wright to Baltimore for reliever Chris Britton.

“So far, we are being aggressive if something makes sense,” Cashman said. “We’ve made two trades before the G.M. meetings even start; I’ve been with the Yankees for 20 years, and I don’t remember that ever happening. We’re ready and prepared to hit the ground running.”

The Yankees could have let Wright go by paying a $4 million buyout, or brought him back at a $7 million salary. Instead, they found an alternate solution: They sent the $4 million and Wright to the Orioles, who were eager to reunite Wright with the pitching coach Leo Mazzone.

“In this marketplace, there’s value in having a starter for $3 million,” said Jim Duquette, the Orioles’ vice president for baseball operations. “And the last time Leo and Jaret were together, in Atlanta, it was a pretty positive experience. We thought it would be a good chance to get them reunited and hope for similar results.”

Working with Mazzone for the Braves in 2004, Wright went 15-8 with a 3.28 earned run average and piqued the interest of the Yankees, who signed him as a free agent. But his uneven performance over two years — 16-12 with a 4.99 E.R.A. — made him expendable.

Wright’s departure leaves the Yankees thin in the rotation past Chien-Ming Wang and Mussina, whose agent, Arn Tellem, said through a spokeswoman that he and Cashman had been having positive talks.

The Yankees and Mussina have been discussing a two-year contract that would probably pay Mussina about $11 million a season.

“Arn and Brian have had very productive talks and are making very good progress,” said the spokeswoman, Erin Estrada.

Yesterday was the first day teams could make offers to free agents on other teams, and the Yankees will probably try to sign two starters from a market that includes Barry Zito, Jason Schmidt, Jeff Suppan, Ted Lilly, Randy Wolf and Gil Meche.

As for the Japanese starter Daisuke Matsuzaka, the Yankees have little hope of signing him. Matsuzaka’s team, the Seibu Lions, has not formally accepted the highest bid for his negotiating rights, but the Boston Red Sox are expected to have made it. An announcement could come today.

The courtship of Matsuzaka could begin an aggressive winter for the Red Sox, who are said to have strong interest in J. D. Drew, who opted out of the three years and $33 million remaining on his Los Angeles Dodgers contract. If he signs with Boston, he would replace Trot Nixon in right field.

The Yankees’ lineup is mostly set, with a right-handed-hitting first baseman — Nomar Garciaparra, perhaps — the most pressing need. The rotation is much less stable, with Randy Johnson and Carl Pavano coming off injuries.

But Cashman said the Yankees were comfortable enough with their prospects to let Wright go. He named Jeff Karstens, Darrell Rasner, Phil Hughes, Humberto Sánchez, Tyler Clippard and Steven White as potential options.

“We’ve got a lot of depth to the starting rotation that’s coming from the farm system that will give us some choices,” Cashman said. “The last few days, we’ve shed a lot of payroll. My goal is to obviously reduce the team’s payroll and increase the team’s talent pool in terms of choices and flexibility. Hopefully, these last two deals have done that.”

The trade of Sheffield, which saved the Yankees $13 million, brought two Class A relievers and Sánchez, a Class AAA starter. The Wright trade brings Britton, a right-hander who turns 24 next month and went 0-2 with a 3.35 E.R.A. in 52 games as a rookie.

Britton has struggled with weight issues; he is 6 feet 3 inches and weighed 280 pounds by the end of last season. But he has two minor league options remaining and joins a setup group that includes Brian Bruney, Scott Proctor and Kyle Farnsworth.

“We’re trying to transition to a younger, more flexible roster, and Chris Britton did a nice job last year,” Cashman said. “We feel he could be a long-term asset. We’re trying to be the best we can be in ’07 while trying to improve our long-term hopes as well.”

It was the first trade between the American League East rival Yankees and Orioles since 1992, when the Yankees traded pitcher Alan Mills to Baltimore for prospects. The Yankees had made a deal with every other major league team in the meantime.

“It’s hard to make a trade within the division, and I think they felt similarly,” Duquette said. “You really have to be careful.”


Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Sources: Red Sox big high of $42M for Matsuzaka

The Red Sox bid $42 million for the right to negotiate with prized Japanese pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka, sources told ESPN's Peter Gammons. Boston's bid far exceeded any other team's offer.

Matsuzaka will learn Tuesday whether the Seibu Lions have accepted a bid for him by a major league team.


Major League Baseball and the Japanese commissioner's office will make simultaneous announcements at 8 p.m. ET Tuesday (10 a.m. Tokyo time Wednesday), MLB spokesman Pat Courtney said Monday at the big league general managers' meetings.


The amount of the highest bid was forwarded by the major league commissioner's office to the Japanese commissioner's office last Wednesday, and the Lions have until Tuesday to accept. Only if the offer is accepted will the identity of the winning team be revealed.

Matsuzaka, a right-hander who pitched for Japan's World Baseball Classic champions, is considered among the top prospects available this offseason.

If the Lions accept the top bid, the winning bidder has 30 days to reach an agreement with Matsuzaka. If a deal cannot be reached, he would return to the Lions for the 2007 Japanese baseball season and the bid will not be paid.

There are three reasons the deal would make sense for the Red Sox:

• Talent evaluators who have seen Matsuzaka say he's a top of the rotation-quality pitcher who would improve the Red Sox staff.

• If Boston signs him it would effectively plant a Red Sox flag in the growing Far East market.

• By merely winning the bidding the Red Sox would block the Yankees from acquiring Matsuzaka. By signing him, they would gain the same kind of advantage the Yankees gained when they signed Johnny Damon away from Boston.

Source: ESPN

A resounding F*CK!


Congrats to the Red Sox for winning the bid and proving once again that they can no longer use their excuse of the "Evil Empire" since it's clear that they're willing to dole out egregious amounts of cash. Hell, they haven't even signed him...that's just $45 to buy the rights to talk to him. It's like an expensive phone call.

Like Klydon and I discussed before, he's still a risk, and he may or may not pay off. We'll see how he adjusts to American baseball.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/14/06 06:46 AM

"Believe it or not, teams are contacting the Yankees about trading for right-hander Carl Pavano; the Rockies are one club that might have interest if the Yankees paid a portion of the $21 million that Pavano is owed over the next two seasons.
The Yankees, naturally, say they won't give Pavano away; their public position is that they want him to get healthy and be productive. Still, it's difficult to imagine the Yankees rejecting even a mediocre offer for a pitcher who has been a severe disappointment.

One rotation possibility that the Yankees might consider, with or without Pavano: Right-hander Scott Proctor, who was one of the team's best relievers last season."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/14/06 08:38 PM

I think I'd only use Proctor as a last resort in the starting rotation. I'd try to re-sign Villone if I could...with Britton coming on and Bruney staying put, J. Brent Cox and Jose Veras coming up to round out middle relief, I think the bullpen should be good. If they can find another good set-up man (unless they're confident in Farnsworth? I'd actually move Proctor to set-up).

And dish Pavano as well. Get someone young like Gil Meche in there.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/06 03:37 AM

Boston's high bid was $51.1 million. You're right DJ, boston fans don't have a reason to gripe now about the amount of money the Yankees spend on players, when boston make's this type of bid just to NEGOTIATE a contract with a player who has never thrown a major league pitch.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/06 03:52 AM

That's actually really egregious money...I thought the $25 or so million the Yankees supposedly bid was alot, but damn. Like I said before, the Red Sox just made the most expensive phone call in history.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/06 04:28 AM

If (or rather when) boston signs Matsuzaka, do you think boston will be the favorites to win the AL East AND the World Series? You've gotta admit, that pitching staff will look pretty deadly with Schilling, Matsuzaka, Beckett, Papelbon, etc.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/06 05:12 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
If (or rather when) boston signs Matsuzaka, do you think boston will be the favorites to win the AL East AND the World Series? You've gotta admit, that pitching staff will look pretty deadly with Schilling, Matsuzaka, Beckett, Papelbon, etc.


No way.

Schilling's best days are behind him;Matsuzaka is unproven in the big leagues; Papelbon has to do it again to convince me he's good; and Beckett didn't impress last year.

I really thought at the beginning of last season that the Sox didn't have the talent to make the post-season.

It seems to me that the Yankees and Red Sox habitually make moves that are motivated by the need to spite each other that they lose focus on the essential ingredients necessary to put together a complementary team.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/06 05:35 AM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
Originally Posted By: Irishman12
If (or rather when) boston signs Matsuzaka, do you think boston will be the favorites to win the AL East AND the World Series? You've gotta admit, that pitching staff will look pretty deadly with Schilling, Matsuzaka, Beckett, Papelbon, etc.


No way.

Schilling's best days are behind him;Matsuzaka is unproven in the big leagues; Papelbon has to do it again to convince me he's good; and Beckett didn't impress last year.

I really thought at the beginning of last season that the Sox didn't have the talent to make the post-season.

It seems to me that the Yankees and Red Sox habitually make moves that are motivated by the need to spite each other that they lose focus on the essential ingredients necessary to put together a complementary team.


I agree that Schilling's best days are behind him but he didn't have a bad year at all. He was 15-7 with a 3.97 ERA (not too bad coming from a guy who's 40-years-old AND came back from an ankle injury that bothered him since the 2004 playoffs).

I also agree that Matsuzaka is unproven in the bigs thus far but he must be pretty darn good if teams like the Yankees and Red Sox are willing to spend this type of money just to negotiate a contract. $51.1 million is a BIG gamble and boston seems to think he's worth it.

I further agree that Papelbon has to prove himself again before I believe him (much like the Detroit Tigers next year and Chicago White Sox this past year). But you've gotta admit, 35 saves with a 0.92 ERA in his first year is pretty impressive from any standard.

Finally, I agree that Beckett didn't impress anyone last year. However, I'm positive his '07 season will be better than his '06 season in which he went 16-11 with a 5.01 ERA. He can't get much worse and I wouldn't be surprised at all to see him come back better next year now that he's got his first "transition" year of AL work under his belt.

Boston missing the playoffs this year really never entered my mind. They were a better team defensively and their offense was their most of the year (how many games did Ortiz win this year?). Boston may not have the stacked lineup the Yankees have but when the #3 & #4 hitters come up, they do damage and drive in runs. Let's not forget this was a boston team that was in first place most of this past season and crapped out in early August.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/06 12:39 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
If (or rather when) boston signs Matsuzaka, do you think boston will be the favorites to win the AL East AND the World Series? You've gotta admit, that pitching staff will look pretty deadly with Schilling, Matsuzaka, Beckett, Papelbon, etc.


Hah!

Boston has waaaaaay too many holes to fill on its roster, even if they get decent starting pitching. Schilling is an old man, and even if he gives them good stuff, he's only one guy. Matsuzaka will probably have a good year but he's unproven. Beckett gets rocked waaaaaay too often, and basically is sort of the Bizzaro-Boston version of the Yankees Carl Pavano, except he can pitch ( ), but both got big money as free agents to join their respective teams and neither has done the job. Papelbon? That wanker? Maybe as a closer, but take a lesson from Mariano Rivera, mohawk-man: relief pitching doesn't equal starting pitching. Rivera was a terrible starting pitcher but the best closer of all-time. Papelbon should hopefully get rocked as well in long games.

Who else do they have? They have zero depth in their farm system, as last season proved when there were injuries.

Either way, even with all this doom and gloom for their rotation, they have much bigger defensive issues to take care of - namely shortstop/2B, outfield, and their comatose bullpen.

Favorites to win the AL East and World Series? Bah. They aren't even favorites to win the AL Wild Card. I wouldn't be surprised if they missed the playoffs again entirely.

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/06 05:49 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Favorites to win the AL East and World Series? Bah. They aren't even favorites to win the AL Wild Card. I wouldn't be surprised if they missed the playoffs again entirely.



That's a bold statement my friend, but I like it!

Sox can no longer whine about 'Evil Empire'
By Michael Rosenberg


I hate to slap any limits on free speech, but from now on, there are two words I never again want to hear out of the city of Boston.

"Evil Empire."

And I really, really don't want to hear them out of Larry Lucchino's mouth.

No more complaining about the Yankees' payroll, Red Sox fans. Your team is the second-fattest cat on the block.

The Red Sox just won the Daisuke Matsuzaka sweepstakes with an astounding $51.1 million bid. They are not paying $51.1 million for Matsuzaka's services. They are paying the Seibu Lions $51.1 million just for the right to negotiate with Matsuzaka. Just to get in the door. If they can't reach an agreement with Matsuzaka, the Red Sox get their money back. But they are expected to reach a deal.

Six major league teams spent less than that on their entire 2006 payroll.

Now, it is possible that the Red Sox aren't really paying that much; deals with Japanese teams are rumored to feature more secret handshakes than sixth-grade recess. But they are obviously spending a ton. Once they get around to actually, you know, paying the pitcher, their total bill could reach $100 million over five years.

The Red Sox see Matsuzaka as a 26-year-old ace and a gateway to the Japanese market, which explains why they see this as an investment.

But Matsuzaka has never even pitched in the major leagues. For all we know, the secret to his famed "gyroball" is illegally applied yogurt sauce, and he'll be a bust here.

If the Yankees made an offer like this, you know what would happen.

Lucchino, the Red Sox president, and many Boston fans would whine that the Yankees were spending recklessly, messing up baseball's payroll structure, sending the country into a recession and complicating the situation in the Middle East.

Four years ago, when the Yankees outbid Boston for Jose Contreras, an angry Lucchino told The New York Times "the evil empire extends its tentacles even into Latin America."

That deal was for four years and $32 million.

The Red Sox will apparently pay more just for the right to negotiate.

Hey, it's their money. They have it and they can spend it how they please. Maybe it will turn into a brilliant move, both for the baseball team and the business.

I just don't want to hear any whining from Boston fans about the Yankees payroll. Last year, the Yankees spent around $199 million, which is nuts. But the No. 2 team was the Red Sox, at $120 million, for a team that finished in third place in the A.L East.

Nobody else was above $103 million.

Thanks to baseball's revenue-sharing system, pretty much any team with good management and a strong business plan can compete for the playoffs. But for at least two-thirds of the teams in the major leagues, the idea of bidding anywhere near this much for a guy who has never pitched in the majors is absurd.

And when you add the astounding news of a $51.1 million offer to the reality of the Red Sox' payroll, you can only come to one conclusion:

The Red Sox are aggressively exploiting every possible revenue stream, creatively growing their big-market business in any way they can, then plowing their extra millions back into their ballclub in a vigorous attempt to compete for the World Series every year.

Nothing wrong with that.

But that's exactly what the Yankees do.

It can't be evil for one team and OK for another. It can't be horrible and offensive and ruining baseball when the Yankees do it and just fine when the Red Sox do it.

When it comes to baseball's economics, the only difference between the Red Sox and Yankees is that Boston is a really big market that loves baseball, and New York is a huge market that loves baseball.

If the Red Sox want to order a large, expensive platter of gyroballs, that is their right. But please, waiter: hold the morality play.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/06 08:07 PM

I agree. Boston has their long-awaited ring. They spend as much as the Yankees. I'm sorry, but they don't have shit to call anything on the Yankees anymore.

MEANWHILE, Joe Giradi wins NL Manager of the Year. Yeah Marlins, you still think firing him was a smart move?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/06 09:46 PM

Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
I agree. Boston has their long-awaited ring. They spend as much as the Yankees. I'm sorry, but they don't have shit to call anything on the Yankees anymore.



Wow, I know this doesn't happen very often but I agree with you ronnie. I've been tired of hearing boston whine, b*tch, and moan about this subject for year's now. They're been #2 in terms of spending the past few seasons and they act like they're the victims (because they didn't sign A-Rod or resign Damon over money).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/06 11:25 AM

Yanks re-sign Moose to a two-year deal!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/06 11:34 AM

Good, another sign-up for the Yankee Pension Fund.

Is it me, or was Irishman earlier trying to hype up the fucked Red Sox's chances in 2007, just to say that, when they do fail, that the "Red Cocks" can't cut the mustard with the Yankees?

Still, $51 million for just the right to negotiate with this unproven pitcher? That's like spending $100 on a phone call to order up a $20 blowjob. Its silly.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/06 01:45 PM

Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Good, another sign-up for the Yankee Pension Fund.

Is it me, or was Irishman earlier trying to hype up the fucked Red Sox's chances in 2007, just to say that, when they do fail, that the "Red Cocks" can't cut the mustard with the Yankees?

Still, $51 million for just the right to negotiate with this unproven pitcher? That's like spending $100 on a phone call to order up a $20 blowjob. Its silly.


Yes, that caught my eye also. Maybe Irish has gotten some anger management help.

But Bitch and moan all you want Yankee Fans, about what the Boston team is spending. The Yankees still out spent Boston by 60-70%. Yes, that is percentage. I don't care how many Yankee fans yell and scream about this. Unless Boston spends close to what the Yankee payroll is the it hasn't change a fuckin thing. And I don't care how many ass kissing sports writer say it.

It doesn't take a math major to understand the difference between 200 million and 120 million in payroll. Boston is the 2nd highest, but what about all the other teams that are sending far less the Boston. It makes the gap between those teams even larger from the Yankees.

Just to set the record straight. I think all team that pay these prices are just showing the Avg. American how fucked up this sport is getting. For crying out loud. People are killing themselves trying to provide for their families and make ends meet for what these guys get for less then one game. Now this is getting out of whack.

Tell it to the old, the poor who can't pay their bills or afford their Meds.... I know the two things don't mean shit, but damn, when Baseball fans are bitching about what each team is spending like they are talking about fake money and their are so many problems for so many people, we have to start to say, enough is enough.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/06 05:08 PM

We're not defending the Yankees, since its obvious our payroll is egregious.

The problem I have with Boston fans is when they cry poormouth about how they can't compete with the Yankee payroll, blah blah blah. Well, they just spent $51 million to negotiate with a free agent. It doesn't get any more egregious than that.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/06 06:49 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
The problem I have with Boston fans is when they cry poormouth about how they can't compete with the Yankee payroll, blah blah blah. Well, they just spent $51 million to negotiate with a free agent. It doesn't get any more egregious than that.


I couldn't agree with you more DJ. And for those doubters, no I wasn't "pumping up boston's chances." I really think if they get Matsuzaka they'll have one of the best pitching staffs in the league (if not THE best). And as I said before, boston can scores runs even with their current roster.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/06 10:21 PM

BTW - Kudos to the Red Sox for shopping Manny around yet again. That can only help the Yankee cause.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/06 11:16 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
We're not defending the Yankees, since its obvious our payroll is egregious.

The problem I have with Boston fans is when they cry poormouth about how they can't compete with the Yankee payroll, blah blah blah. Well, they just spent $51 million to negotiate with a free agent. It doesn't get any more egregious than that.




Yes, I caught that, but it isn't just Boston Fans that are saying it. It is fans of all the other teams. You just hear the Boston fans the most as they are your hated rivals.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/17/06 11:13 AM

Yes, but it means less coming from Boston than it does from say, Kansas City.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/18/06 07:44 PM

Quote:
Dodgers decline $12 million option on closer Gagne
Associated Press

LOS ANGELES -- Eric Gagne's $12 million option was declined Friday by the Los Angeles Dodgers, making the former NL Cy Young Award winner a free agent.

The Dodgers will pay $1 million to buy out the final year of Gagne's contract, but could attempt to re-sign him at a lower guaranteed salary. Gagne had filed provisionally for free agency on Tuesday.

Gagne had season-ending surgery July 8 to repair a herniated disc in his lower back. He is expected to be healthy and ready to pitch when spring training begins in mid-February.

Gagne was limited to 14 games and eight saves in 2005 and two outings with one save this year. He had surgery in April to remove a nerve from his pitching elbow -- the same arm that required elbow-ligament replacement surgery in 1997.

Gagne became a closer in 2002 and was an immediate success, saving 52 games that year, a franchise-record 55 in 2003 and 45 in 2004. He set a major league record with 84 consecutive saves from late 2002 to mid-2004.

He won the NL Cy Young Award in 2003, when he went 2-3 with a 1.20 ERA and 55 saves, two shy of the record Bobby Thigpen set with the Chicago White Sox in 1990.


Want to piss off the Red Sox, and find a better set-up man than Kyle Farnsworth?

Sign Eric Gagne. Yes, I realize he's the Mark Prior/Kerry Wood version of a closer because of his injuries, but let's see if they couldn't haggle a deal that is incentive-laden and based upon games played in...the Red Sox desperately need a closer after letting Foulke go and moving Papelbon to the starting rotation, and signing Gagne with the Yankees takes away the only decent closer on the market for the Red Sox, hurting their bullpen, while providing a solid set-up man (ala Tom Gordon) for Mariano Rivera.

Thoughts?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/18/06 08:41 PM

I'm game. Sure I wouldn't expect him to pitch much but I don't think they Yankees would go after him
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/21/06 03:40 PM

Quote:
New York also has been involved in discussions with the agent for free-agent first baseman Shea Hillenbrand. His agent, Dan Lozano, said several teams are interested in Hillenbrand and that discussions have not progressed with any club.

Source: ESPN.com


Noooooooo!

How retarded can you be? This guy is a cancer in the lockeroom. Andy Phillips is a damn good fielding first baseman. Why are they trying to fuck this up?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/21/06 07:44 PM

Jeter didn't win the MVP
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/25/06 01:43 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Quote:
New York also has been involved in discussions with the agent for free-agent first baseman Shea Hillenbrand. His agent, Dan Lozano, said several teams are interested in Hillenbrand and that discussions have not progressed with any club.

Source: ESPN.com


Noooooooo!

How retarded can you be? This guy is a cancer in the lockeroom. Andy Phillips is a damn good fielding first baseman. Why are they trying to fuck this up?


I'm a Giants fan and Shea Hillenbrand came to my team midway through last season after all the problems in Toronto. I wouldn't be so quick to call the guy a cancer given the situation in which he left the Blue Jays. I think the fact that the team gave him a hard time for taking time off in order to finalize an adoption of a child, which in the eyes of Hillenbrand and his wife is the same as having a child of their own, was pretty screwed up on Toronto's part.

I wouldn't mind seeing him come back to the Giants, so honestly I'm rooting against your yankees getting him
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/27/06 06:44 PM

According to Ben Maller, premiere free-agent lefty Barry Zito wants to play in New York, which should put the Yankees and Mets in a bidding war for his services. If this is true, the Yankees had BETTER sign him. The work is practically done for them. However, they are sure to be in the sweepstakes for Ted Lilly, who is seeking a three-to-four-year deal at an average of $8 to $9 million a year. F*ck Ted Lilly! GET ZITO!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/28/06 05:50 PM

Lucchino brushed aside suggestions that the bid was made just to block the New York Yankees from signing Matsuzaka.

"I assure you that the notion that this is a primarily defensive maneuver is preposterous," Lucchino said, adding that 51.1 million is "obviously a historical number but we are talking about a national living treasure and an exceptional baseball player."

F*cking hypocrite
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/28/06 11:29 PM

This will be the hardest thread to stay away from...

Quote:
Yanks Expected to Win Rights to Igawa

The Yankees won the bidding for Japanese pitcher Kei Igawa, ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney is reporting.

The winning bid is expected to be about $25 million. An announcement is expected Tuesday night.

After the bidding closed Monday, the Tigers were informed of the amount of the high bid, but not which team made it, The Associated Press reported. The New York Mets bid about $15 million for Igawa, another baseball official told The AP, on condition of anonymity.

The Yankees will have until midnight at the end of Dec. 28 to work out a contract with the 27-year-old left-hander. Igawa is represented by Arn Tellem, also the agent for Yankees left fielder Hideki Matsui.

The Yankees pay Hanshin only if they reach an agreement for Igawa.

Igawa went 14-9 last season with a 2.97 ERA in Japan. He struck out 194 to tie for the Central League lead, adding to the strikeout titles he won in 2002 and 2004.

Igawa has an 86-60 record with a 3.15 ERA. He would have to play in Japan for three more seasons before he could become a free agent.

The Boston Red Sox bid $51.1 million to win the right to negotiate with Seibu Lions pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka, the MVP of the World Baseball Classic. After winning the auction this week, the Red Sox have until midnight on Dec. 14 to agree to a deal with Matsuzaka and his agent, Scott Boras.

Also this week, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays won the rights to Japanese infielder Akinori Iwamura of the Yakult Swallows with a bid of about $4.5 million.

Source: ESPN.com


Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/28/06 11:35 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
This will be the hardest thread to stay away from...


Then don't. Besides, I don't wanna gloat only over Irishman when the Sox kick the Yanks' butt next year.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/28/06 11:41 PM

Originally Posted By: SC
Originally Posted By: Double-J
This will be the hardest thread to stay away from...


Then don't. Besides, I don't wanna gloat only over Irishman when the Sox kick the Yanks' butt next year.


Keep telling yourself that SC. Where did boston finish the year? 3rd place, behind the Yankees AND Blue Jays I'd be more worried about the Jays at this point than the Yankees Good to see you back in this thread, DJ!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/29/06 03:10 AM

Boston trying to reduce their Matsuzaka bid?

BOSTON (AP) - The Boston Red Sox cannot reduce their $51.1 million bid for Daisuke Matsuzaka in order to sign him, even if his Japanese team agrees to take less, baseball officials said Tuesday.

"There are no side deals in the situation," said Jimmie Lee Solomon, executive vice president of baseball operations in the commissioner's office. "Everybody's been assured that's not allowed, and everybody's been made aware of the rules."
A Red Sox official said the team is not trying to reduce the bid, called a posting fee, which was by far the highest in baseball history. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because the team is not commenting publicly on the negotiations.

Solomon said the posting process was clear to all teams before it started. There has been no complaint about Boston's handling of the matter, and no reason to believe the Red Sox are not following the rules, he said.

"There were some reports that we heard, but those reports proved to be not true," he said.

Boston bid $51.1 million for the right to negotiate with Matsuzaka, the MVP of the World Baseball Classic in March. The team has until the end of Dec. 14 to sign him or he would return to the Seibu Lions for another season before he could be posted again.

If so, the Red Sox would keep their money. Reports from Japan, where Red Sox president Larry Lucchino went to negotiate a long-term "working relationship" with Seibu, centered on the possibility that the Lions would pitch in for Matsuzaka's contract to make the deal happen.

"That would not be allowed," Solomon said. "The deal is that the Red Sox are to pay the Lions the posting fee. They are to negotiate (Matsuzaka's contract) free from any other negotiations that might be going on."

Lucchino said in Japan that the Red Sox have sent a fair and comprehensive offer to Matsuzaka's agent, Scott Boras, as a follow-up to the record-setting bid.

"(It's) obviously a historical number but we are talking about a national living treasure and an exceptional baseball player," Lucchino said. "We know it's been his dream to play in the major leagues and we are proud that he will live out his dream in Boston with the Boston Red Sox."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/06/06 07:57 AM

Boston doesn't have a f*cking leg to stand on now! $51.1 just to BID for Matsuzaka, and today they signed Julio Lugo to a 4-year $36 million deal PLUS they signed J.D. Drew to a 5-year $70 million deal. NOW who's the evil empire!?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/06/06 06:13 PM

Sexson Might Be 1st Option

While the Yankees met with Shea Hillenbrand's agent yesterday, another option at first base surfaced. And while Richie Sexson is an expensive alternative, it could be one for the Yankees.

The Mariners have let teams know they are looking to move Sexson and third baseman Adrian Beltre in order to reduce payroll. It's believed the Mariners are clearing money in order to go after free agent Barry Zito.

Casey Close, Sexson's agent, had a meeting last night with Mariners brass to gauge its desire to move the right-handed slugger who batted .264 with 34 homes and 107 RBIs last season. He has two years and $28 million left on a four-year, $50 million contract he signed prior to the 2005 season.

While the Yankees aren't going to give up Chien-Ming Wang or Phil Hughes for Sexson, a package headed by Melky Cabrera could entice the Mariners if they are willing to eat some of Sexson's money. If they don't pay part of the money, they can't expect much back.

So what do you guys think? Think Sexson can hang in New York? Should the Yanks trade away Melky Cabrera to get him? DJ, if you're still out there, thoughts?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/08/06 06:04 PM

Gee Irish, Yanks bring in another slow corner-man that either hits dingers or hits air....its just what the franchise needs!

BTW, Boston will be a laughing stock if they fail to sign that Japanese pitcher.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 12:38 AM

Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
GBTW, Boston will be a laughing stock if they fail to sign that Japanese pitcher.


I'm hoping so! I hear the 2 are very far apart on a contract. HOO RAY Scott Boras

The Yanks sign Pettitte today to a one-year contract worth $16 million. Gee, ANOTHER player past his prime (nothing new here). The only positive I see out of this is if he can convince Roger to come back as well. But I'm still pissed that they haven't even attempted to sign Zito!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 02:06 AM

Do they even need Barry Zito? Ask yourself that Irish.

Actually, I like that Andy P. is coming back for the Yanks. It brings back a reliable veteran that was in the midst of those 4 titles in 5 years run.

Also, its just such a boast for the fanbase.

Thing is, will Papa George, believing that its a divine privlige to play for the Yankees, give the absolute schedueling benefits that the Astros have given to Clemens?

That question is why Clemens could, or could not, re-join the Yanks.

Hell, is he even coming back?

Wait a minute, he is coming back. I need to quit assuming that Clemens will ever retire, like with Favre.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 03:57 AM

Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Do they even need Barry Zito? Ask yourself that Irish.


ABSOLUTELY! They need another left-hander (or needed before they signed Pettitte). Zito is the best lefty on the market and a proven Cy Young/front of the rotation kind of guy. He's not "dominate" as Clemens, Pedro and others were in their early years but the man is a proven winner. I cannot understand why they'd take the health risk with Andy Pettitte instead of Zito. Sure Zito will cost more but he'll be more durable and they can sign him for longer. Again, they need another big lefty. If they signed Zito, they could have a rotation like:

1) Wang
2) Zito
3) Moose
4) Unit
5) Pavano/Igasawa

I'd feel much more confident in that rotation than with Pettitte (as much as I'm happy to see him in pinstripes again, he's gonna be another Jaret Wright)

DJ! Where you at? COME BACK!
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 05:49 AM

Don't worry about Pettites health. Steroids make you bounce backfrom injuries more quickly.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 06:08 AM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
Steroids make you bounce backfrom injuries more quickly.


And what is that supposed to mean?
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 06:26 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: klydon1
Steroids make you bounce backfrom injuries more quickly.


And what is that supposed to mean?


Just a light-hearted reference to remarks made by Jason Grimsley that Pettite and Clemens had used steroids.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 07:59 AM

Oh yeah I forgot about that guy
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 11:10 AM

Perhaps Zito is only allowed to talk to NL teams.

As for Pettite, he and Clemens took off when the Yankees really needed them. I, for one, am not thrilled to have him back.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 12:34 PM

I love how some Yankee fans have this sense of entitlement to them. Pettite left New York, after reliable good seasons and a Yankees organization that took him WAY TOO granted as being a member of the organization.

Besides, like Clemens, he wanted to go back home to Texas. But hey, Astros impotence in runs-production would drive anyone away from home.

Hell, New York Times article about the Pettite signing, had a thing about his kids crying when they heard the news, because they really thought Pettite was going to force them to move back to New York.

Really, these Yankees fans that, perhaps, had just cause in attacking A-Rod's failure in the playoffs, but didn't criticize Jeter and Sheffield for their impotence in the same playoffs. Though, some NYC Paper editorials did trash Jeter, so I can't be too rough honestly.

Really Babe, this is typical. He's reliable, he's of the old guard, and most of all, he's much more of a spiriting boast for the fanbase than any Barry Zito signing can.

Now Irish, you never seem to understand why Zito hasn't been seriously approached by the Yankees. When you hammer a nail, you don't do it sideways or under it, you SLAM IT on the head of the nail.

Fact is, Brian Cashman and the GM Office is just not excited in spending big bucks/long-years worth guaranteed contracts, after they got burned with Pavano. Randy Johnson and earlier debacles like Kevin Brown and Jones don't help either.

If anything, I like what Cashman is doing. The office is investing much more into the farm system. Get that once-plentiful garden sprouting country fair-winning giant pumpkins again! Also, that negotiation with that Japanese pitcher which hasn't gotten serious press coverage. $20+ million negotiation rights bid(though compared to $52 million, 20 isn't anything to write about) is basically, like the re-investment in the farm system, alternative methods of dealing with the pitching situation for the Yankees besides the status quo of big bucks/lengthy contracts on the Free Agent market.

Fact is, if Pettite and Clemens push the Yankees through the Division Round, and who knows, a World Series title after 7 years, I can't wait for you and Irish to go off about it, and I'll bring up this, and laugh my ass off.

Of course, he could tank.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 01:44 PM

Everyone is ignoring Kei Igawa (as evident by the fact that nobody is spelling his name correctly ). However, I am very excited about this Japanese left-hander. "Iron Nerves" as he's called doesn't have to be a barn-burning left-hander strikeout king for the Yankees - Chien Ming-Wang proved that last year - he has to simply be reliable and consistent. Igawa has been consistently in the top of the Japanese league in strikeouts, and won the Sawamura.

Strange thing is, I think its been a bit of poo-poo on Igawa after the monster Daisuke Matsuzaka (phantom) deal in Boston. When the Yankees were supposedly in the running for Matusaka as the lead bidder, Matsuzaka was either a.) not going to translate well to the MLB game b.) had pitched too many innings in Japan and was going to break down and/or c.) will not be able to adapt to the New York environment.

Yet, now that Boston won the bidding race, he's the best free agent available, instantly will save the franchise, and should be their #1 starter to dominate the ranks of the AL.

What horseshit.

I'm not denying Matsuzaka as a pitcher, because I too think he will be great (as my older posts have indicated). But please, let's get all of these closet Boston fans to put their hypocritical tongues back in.

When the Yankees won the bids for Igawa, all I hear is how he's a mediocre pitcher who will fail in the American baseball system (much like Matsuzaka's characterizations when the Yankees were in the lead), and "anonymous" league coaches and scouts decry Igawa as an overrated has-been.

How about a cup of shut-the-fuck-up?

Both of these guys have done well in their native country, but they are BOTH still question marks. If Boston fails to sign Matsuzaka, not only will they be the laughingstock of major league baseball, but they will also potentially lose Matsuzaka to another team (the Yankees?). It appears that their purse strings might not have been as open as they indicated. Cry me a river.

Plus, Igawa got the seal of approval from Hideki Matsui. That's good enough for me.

---

Don't sign Zito. Thank God they didn't sign Lilly, talking about getting robbed. The Cubs paid rape money to Lilly for a starter who is barely over .500 lifetime (59-58 record isn't exactly worthy of $40 million...no?). Zito is going to get even more than that for whomever signs him.

And I haven't liked Zito since his early-season bashing against the Yankees last year. He gets by with his location rather than his speed, and it can hurt if he isn't spot-on (ala Randy Johnson in 2005/6). If they could sign him for a reasonable amount ($20 million over 4 years?) I could see that. But not with the monster cash someone is going to shell out.

---
The Yankees pitching staff got exactly what it needed in Andy Pettitte. Sure, he's on the decline, and didn't have a good 2006 in comparison to previous years. But Pettitte is consistent, knows how to pitch in New York, is a superb playoff pitcher, and will provide the locker-room with a boost as well. A bit of the old guard. He's not going to be the same Andy Pettitte from the World Series years; I'm not expecting him to be, and no one else should be either. However, he should fill the end of the rotation in the Jon Lieber-reliable-starter-who-gets-outs type 4th man. That's what they need.

The Yankees rotation should shape up fine. Chien Ming-Wang will be the ace. Moose will be a solid #2 man. Johnson and Pettitte can duke it out for the middle of the rotation, but Johnson's ego may force him into the #3 slot. Pavano? He's a non-factor as far as I'm concerned. I'd dump him for prospects if I could. But I think he can battle Igawa for the #5 spot.

This is great for the farm system, because it keeps Jeff Karstens and, more significantly, Phil Hughes from being brought up to full-time MLB action before they are ready. Karstens did a great job as the emergency starter last time, but he needs more development time. Hughes needs action at the AAA-level. The Yankees now have a number of *decent* pitchers who can hopefully hold their own. And if (more appropriately, when?) the dinosaurs like Johnson go down, we've got a couple of options.

And watch Hughes during Spring Training this year - he was great last year. He will be great in a couple of years.

---

For the first-base situation, I'd love to see Richie Sexson come to the Yankees, but the Mariners aren't that stupid (at least, I don't think they are...). I remember when Sexson was punting monster shots out of my local Dunn Tire Park/Pilot Field AAA stadium when he played for the Indians farm club, the Buffalo Bisons. He's a good-fielding first baseman. And if Cashman can do the dirty deed and shop Pavano and cash for Sexson, I'd strike while the iron is hot.

Josh Phelps is like a free token. The Rule 5 draft gives the Yankees someone to compete with Andy Phillips during spring training, and he costs virtually nothing. But it should be noted that Phelps blows at fielding, and they could probably get a cardboard stand-up of Don Mattingly that would field better at 1B than either Giambi or Phelps. Phillips has shown proficiency at fielding (as he was originally a middle infielder) so he can play either first-base or the hot corner. If he could work with Donnie Baseball and improve his hitting consistency, then the job should be his.

Or, here's a radical thought.

Bernie Williams should be brought back again. Why not move him to first base? Sure, he doesn't have a strong arm, but its plenty for the infield. And he's a Gold Glove outfielder. This is the time when they could start getting him ready, unlike the trial-by-fire they gave Sheffield (although I come from the utility school of baseball, where I feel any player should be able to come in a play at an acceptable level at ANY position except for pitching). Bernie wants to come back. Let him complete his career in pinstripes at first-base. It isn't a knock on Williams - he knows he can't compete with guys like Damon, Abreu, and Cabrera with their fresh legs. Move him to first, and we've got at least a solid glove there until we can find a way to snare Pujols away from the Cardinals ( ).

Hooray! I'm back for five minutes.

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 04:31 PM

Originally Posted By: SC
Originally Posted By: Double-J
This will be the hardest thread to stay away from...


Then don't. Besides, I don't wanna gloat only over Irishman when the Sox kick the Yanks' butt next year.


Right.

Because J.D. Drew does have me quivering in my cleats.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 04:53 PM

THANK YOU DJ. Finally, someone that agrees with me about the Yanks with Zito.

Is it me, or are teams spending a ridiculous amount of money on average pitchers this year?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 06:49 PM

Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Really, these Yankees fans that, perhaps, had just cause in attacking A-Rod's failure in the playoffs, but didn't criticize Jeter and Sheffield for their impotence in the same playoffs. Though, some NYC Paper editorials did trash Jeter, so I can't be too rough honestly.


Yeah but Jeter did go 5-for-5 in Game 1 (that's 4 more hits than A-Rod had ALL series)

Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Fact is, Brian Cashman and the GM Office is just not excited in spending big bucks/long-years worth guaranteed contracts, after they got burned with Pavano. Randy Johnson and earlier debacles like Kevin Brown and Jones don't help either.


Yes, but remember, those were broken down Randy Johnson and Kevin Brown's (not in their prime like Barry Zito still is). Pavano sure has been a complete bust, but you can't fault ANYONE for the amount of injuries this guy has substained the past year and a half.


Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Fact is, if Pettite and Clemens push the Yankees through the Division Round, and who knows, a World Series title after 7 years, I can't wait for you and Irish to go off about it, and I'll bring up this, and laugh my ass off.

Of course, he could tank.


If Pettitte (and if Clemens comes back to New York) then yes I will cheer and be happy for the team. Winning a World Series title is much more important to me than a little personal beef with these 2 texans
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 06:59 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Plus, Igawa got the seal of approval from Hideki Matsui. That's good enough for me.


What did Matsui say? I haven't heard him say anything about either Japanese pitcher thus far.



Originally Posted By: Double-J
This is great for the farm system, because it keeps Jeff Karstens and, more significantly, Phil Hughes from being brought up to full-time MLB action before they are ready. Karstens did a great job as the emergency starter last time, but he needs more development time. Hughes needs action at the AAA-level. The Yankees now have a number of *decent* pitchers who can hopefully hold their own. And if (more appropriately, when?) the dinosaurs like Johnson go down, we've got a couple of options.


But didn't Boston think they had in-house resolution to their pitching problems last year too and look how badly they got burned.

Originally Posted By: Double-J
But it should be noted that Phelps blows at fielding, and they could probably get a cardboard stand-up of Don Mattingly that would field better at 1B than either Giambi or Phelps.


I'm sorry but that was too good
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 07:01 PM

Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Is it me, or are teams spending a ridiculous amount of money on average pitchers this year?


Is it me or did the Cubs rob a lot of banks? Geez they're really opening up the purse this offseason (maybe FINALLY the Yankees can be seen as not the only team who actually SPENDS money on free agents)
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 07:10 PM

Why are you so personal with your beef? Baseball is a business, and those 2 players left. Its a good thing that one(if not both) will return to the Bronx.

Yes, Jeter had a great GAme One....and then promptly did mistakes that were un-Jeter-istic, which put a crappy note on what otherwise was a totally MVP-worthy season.

What really worries me is how for the first time in years, there was almost hints of disgruntlement within the Yankee clubhouse...and its not just against A-Rod. Mussina himself all but saying that Jeter was held, to put it, out of reach of responsibility....really, Jeter needs to rectify that situation.

If A-Rod now has convinced me that he shoots blanks in the playoffs, Jeter can save the day and get Team Yankees back to work.

Everyone knows I don't exactly worship the Jeter Altar, but there is just a vast difference of today and that title-reign of years ago. In those title years, the Yanks didn't have the best players at certain positions, but they had such a team chemistry and so fucking solidified behind Jeter. If Paul O'Neil was the respected old man in the daily line-up, Jeter was the young captain that, unless I'm mistaken, never had discontent indirectly stated in interviews like of the last few years.

That is why Andy Pettite back in the clubhouse is a welcoming move that some Yankees fans don't seem to comprehend. Thankfully, DJ gets it. Hopefully, a man of the "Old Guard" himself, he'll get Team Yankees back behind Jeter, and for Jeter to sweep away the problems of last year.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 07:12 PM

What I don't get about the Cubs is, WHERE is this money coming from?

No, not banks. Try the mafia. Imagine if the Cubs keep losing, and the "mob repo men" come to town.

Then again, considering the last few seasons, the Cubs have played like they're legs were broken.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 07:53 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: Double-J
Plus, Igawa got the seal of approval from Hideki Matsui. That's good enough for me.


What did Matsui say? I haven't heard him say anything about either Japanese pitcher thus far.


Matsui Pumped Over Igawa

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
But didn't Boston think they had in-house resolution to their pitching problems last year too and look how badly they got burned.


But the difference is that the Yankees a.) aren't counting on their farm system as major force, only as a band-aid for injuries b.) have talent in their farm system, whereas the Red Sox had virtually none after Papelbon.

In addition, I'd like to see the Yankees get Gagne before the Red Sox do. With Papelbon moving to starter (which, imho, is a huge mistake, I project that he'll get walloped), and Foulke gone, they need a closer.

And the Yankees need a better set-up man than Kyle Farnsworth, especially if they can't get Villone back.

Originally Posted By: RRA
What I don't get about the Cubs is, WHERE is this money coming from?


I've heard rumours that the team will be up for sale next year, and they want to maximize the value they get in return.

Regards,
DJ
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 08:00 PM

Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Why are you so personal with your beef? Baseball is a business, and those 2 players left. Its a good thing that one(if not both) will return to the Bronx.


I am glad to see Pettitte back in the clubhouse but as a starter (as of now) I think the main has the potential to be another Jaret Wright (I'm praying he proves me wrong).

I don't have as much beef with Pettitte as I do with Clemens. The Yanks didn't sign Pettitte and he wanted to be closer to his family, so it was a perfect fit in his eyes. However, the spurning that Clemens played on King George and all us Yankee fans was pretty poor. This whole "I'm retired" now....well...ok...maybe not...HEY HOUSTON! (add in the fact that I hate ALL texas teams except the Dallas Mavericks and I think you get the picture)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 08:02 PM

Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
What I don't get about the Cubs is, WHERE is this money coming from?


EXACTLY! They finished dead last in their division this past year but they definitely seemed posied to change that this year (and I hope so). They fired Dusty, signed Lou, Soriano, Ramirez, Lee, Lilly, etc.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 08:05 PM

I have a similar feeling towards Clemens, mostly because he screwed the Yankees with his Favre-esque retirement bullshit, and then signed with Houston. I buy Pettitte the family man; Clemens, not so much. The Yankees may not even need Clemens if the rotation unfolds as well as it looks on paper, though I wouldn't doubt it if he ended up in pinstripes if only for a playoff run. If Boston signs Matsuzaka, then they probably won't shell out the cash to get Clemens. The Yankees and the Astros are the only viable option left, unless the Cubs rob another bank ( ) or the Texans get really, really good really, really fast.

Pettitte kind of got shat on when he left here. I would've liked to have had him stay, and they should have tried harder to keep him. It took his leaving and the loss of Jon Lieber to make the Yankees realize they can't let these guys go (which is probably why they worked Mussina so hard).

Best,
DJ
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 08:05 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
In addition, I'd like to see the Yankees get Gagne before the Red Sox do. With Papelbon moving to starter (which, imho, is a huge mistake, I project that he'll get walloped), and Foulke gone, they need a closer.

And the Yankees need a better set-up man than Kyle Farnsworth, especially if they can't get Villone back.


I agree. I was talking to a friend about this this past week that if the Yanks took the gamble on Dotel this past season, why not Gagne? And if boston signs Gagne, why not take the chance with Foulke? I agree, they need a new set up man and his name is NOT Kyle Farnsworth. As for Villone, I'm sorry to see that he rejected arbritation and hopefully he'll resign with the Yanks (he was GREAT during the first-half of the year and just got overworked in the second-half).

Also, thanks for the Matsui article DJ (glad to see you back sir)!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 08:09 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12


Also, thanks for the Matsui article DJ (glad to see you back sir)!


Alas, only in this thread.

---

BTW - Dotel signs with the Royals? I guess he must be in it for the money. Gil Meche and Octavio must be in on a secret nobody else knows about...because the Royals are terrible, and still will be in the basement of the league this year, right alongside the Pirates.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/06 08:13 PM

And as far as Gagne goes, his agent (Boras) has met with the Yankees (though not necessarily for Gagne...) and is involved in talks with the Red Sox, Blue Jays, (surprise!) Cubs, Cleveland, and the Dodgers.

I'd have to think though that the Yankees may not be the best fit simply because Gagne wants to close. But if they could convince him to become a set-up man (and possible heir-apparent to Mariano) ala Tom "Flash" Gordon (another one they should never have let get away), it would be great.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/10/06 12:35 AM

Lure of Yankees draws Pettitte in; Red Sox have issues

By Peter Gammons


Of course it helps to have the Yankees' revenues to take on Bobby Abreu's $15 million salary when the Phillies want him out of town and pay Andy Pettitte $16 million off a 14-13, 4.20 ERA season.

Though Yankee Stadium in the late 1980's was about the last place this side of a West Virginia coal mine that anyone wanted to play, what Gene Michael and Buck Showalter turned around and Brian Cashman and Joe Torre have cultivated is a place players want to go to and win.

Oh, winning is part of it, and so is never having to argue over 10 bucks. But Torre is a man players implicitly trust and respect, and when the Brothers Hendricks couldn't make a deal in Pettitte's hometown with Drayton McLane, it didn't take 72 hours for Pettitte to go home -- no longer than it did for Johnny Damon to make an emergency landing in New York last season.

Look at the Yankees' offseason. When they were bounced out of the playoffs by the Tigers and George Steinbrenner was so outraged that he was ready to fire Torre, he was returned to rational earth with this thought: "The Tigers thought they had to have home-field advantage and lost it by being swept by the Royals the final week of the season. Would you have fired Jim Leyland?" Two decades ago, Torre would have been gone.

Cashman, who with president Steve Swindal got the organization refocused on development (ask their scouting people what it's like in the new Cashman World), not only refused to trade off Philip Hughes and gave Melky Cabrera a chance, but has also moved Gary Sheffield and Jaret Wright for four young pitchers, two of whom, Humberto Sanchez and Kevin Whelan, could be major parts in the second half of the 2007 season. He also signed Kei Igawa for depth and inventory.

Pettite may not be the dominant top-of-the-rotation guy he once was, but as he turns 35 in June he gives the Yankees a third proven starter with Chien-Ming Wang and Mike Mussina. Mussina was fourth in the AL in quality starts with 23; Wang sixth with 20; Pettite had 20 in Houston -- albeit far from the AL East. Now there is less pressure on Randy Johnson to rush back and no pressure as they spend half the season figuring out who will be the 4-5 starterts down the stretch between Carl Pavano, Igawa and Hughes. Now Scott Proctor can remain in the bullpen.

Then there's the whole Roger Clemens issue. If he decides to leave Houston, he doesn't need a video to sway him -- Torre is good enough.

Pettite is a great signing on a one-year deal, even with the player option for 2008, and at the end of the season Johnson, Pavano, Jorge Posada and Abreu come off the books as Vernon Wells, Torii Hunter and Andruw Jones come onto the market. The next year, they can have Mark Teixeira at first base in their new stadium.

The Yankees have won the AL East nine straight years, and since Cashman gained control last fall, they are in better shape to make a run at the Braves' incredible record than they have been in a couple of (baseball) generations. I was there when Rick Rhoden DHed, remember the "Mr. May" line and the releases from "Ken Clay spit the bit" to the apology for losing the playoffs.

It's very different, now, and a lot more difficult for the Blue Jays, Red Sox and Orioles.


Red Sox get offensive
The team the Red Sox should put in the field in 2007 is a far cry from the one that was 11th in the league in runs after the All-Star break. If, as expected, Manny Ramirez returns, a lineup of Julio Lugo, either Kevin Youkilis or Coco Crisp, David Ortiz and Ramirez could make J.D. Drew a 125 RBI guy, particularly with his left-center field power in Fenway. More important, it will be a lot easier for Drew to adapt to Boston as a complement to than a replacement for Manny.

1. Matsuzaka. Scott Boras insists he does not have to bring the 26-year-old right-hander to Boston this week. Boras claims that he is "arguably one of the five best starting pitchers in the game and should be paid accordingly, especially coming off of this market." In Boras's mind, that fair market price is $20 million, not that he's asking for it because of the posting system. But Boras also claims that Matsuzaka can get $15-18 million pitching in Japan, that Seibu can get a lot more than $51.1 million next year and that Boston can write off most of the posting costs with marketing and the exclusion of the luxury tax.

Boston essentially needs to get the Matsuzaka agreement done by Tuesday night so they can get him in Wednesday for a physical prior to the Thursday deadllne. One GM Friday said "it would be a shame for Matsuzaka and baseball to hold him out to try to force a change in the posting system." Boras has a very strong relationship with Theo Epstein, but he is willing to hold out players when necessary, such as Boston's current catcher and right fielder.

Will it get done? No one knows. But one can assume that the Red Sox are a far better team with Matsuzaka than without him, although he has never thrown a pitch in the AL East.

2. Closer. The Red Sox would not guarantee Eric Gagne 60 percent of his $10 million 2006 salary because of the fear that there's as much chance that he's Rob Dibble as he is Trevor Hoffman. Washington asked for Craig Hansen and Clay Bucholtz for Chad Cordero, which isn't happening. Essentially, there's nothing on the market except for Tony Armas, which has been discussed, so if spring training were to open Monday, 28-year-old Devern Hansack, the Nicarauguan veteran who threw a five inning no-hitter the last day of the season, would be the first choice as closer.

The Red Sox believe that if and when Hansen remembers that his 95-98 mph four-seamer is a complementary, hittable pitch, goes back to his 92-95 mph sinker and regains consistency with his Brad Lidge slider, then he can eventually close. So can Bryce Cox, their third-round pick out of Rice who blew through the system.

But they need a veteran or two to get them to midseason, and thus far have had no luck trying to acquire Derrick Turnbow, Cordero, Jesse Crain, Chad Qualls, Cameron Loe, et al.

Source: ESPN.com
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/10/06 12:48 PM

Boston - You're counting on Coco Crisp to make J.D. Drew work?




Thanks! I needed that!

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/10/06 08:38 PM

Talks Breaking Down Between Boston and Matsuzaka
Quote:
Dealings would need 'abrupt change' to beat deadline


After all the hoopla surrounding the $51.1 million bid the Red Sox posted to talk to Daisuke Matsuzaka, it appears a contract may not materialize.

Boston essentially needs to get the Matsuzaka agreement done by Tuesday night so they can get him in Wednesday for a physical prior to the Thursday deadllne. One GM Friday said "it would be a shame for Matsuzaka and baseball to hold him out to try to force a change in the posting system." Boras has a very strong relationship with Theo Epstein, but he is willing to hold out players when necessary, such as Boston's current catcher and right fielder.

Will it get done? No one knows. But one can assume that the Red Sox are a far better team with Matsuzaka than without him, although he has never thrown a pitch in the AL East.

Negotiations between the team and the Japanese star pitcher have nearly broken down, the Boston Herald reported Sunday. A source familiar with the situation told the Herald late Saturday that unless "there is an abrupt change of course," the Red Sox will not strike a deal with Matsuzaka before the deadline midnight Thursday.

Attempts to reach Matsuzaka's agent, Scott Boras, were unsuccessful. The source blamed Boras for a lack of interest in the negotiations.

Matsuzaka signed with Boras in October and was posted for bidding in early November.

Matsuzaka was 17-5 with a 2.13 ERA and 200 strikeouts for his Japanese team, the Seibu Lions, this year. He throws in the high-90s, has good off-speed pitches and is known for his deceptive "gyroball," which has been likened to a screwball.

The Lions will not receive any of the $51.1 million if Matsuzaka does not sign. The initial offer made by the Red Sox was believed to be between $7-8 million a year for four-six years, but Boras was reportedly asking for nearly $15 million a year.

Though the Herald's source admitted that there is time for the outlook to change, as of Saturday night the team and Matsuzaka weren't close to finding a common ground.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Source: ESPN.com


Yes.

Cashman, get on your horse. Send Seibu (and Boras) a message, with a few million inside to whet their appetite.

While I still think this deal will get done, it would be a huge blunder if the Sox couldn't do it, and they would, as abovementioned, be the laughingstock of the league.

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/10/06 08:39 PM

Great minds think alike DJ. I just posted that too

I guess you can always count on boston to f*ck up a good thing
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/10/06 08:40 PM

Haha, beat you!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/11/06 12:40 PM

Yankees Sign Cuban Outfield/1B Prospect
Quote:
Outfielder-first baseman signs with Yankees
By Enrique Rojas
ESPNdeportes.com

SANTIAGO, Dominican Republic -- The New York Yankees signed Cuban prospect Juan Miranda to a four-year contract worth $2 million, the player told ESPNdeportes.com.

The deal, which includes a signing bonus of $500,000, is a major league contract and requires the Yankees to place the outfielder-first baseman on their 40-man roster.

The signing was confirmed by a Yankees official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

"In Cuba I grew up dreaming of playing in the big leagues, but I never thought it would be possible, much less with the Yankees," the 23-year-old Miranda said.

The left-handed-hitting Miranda was on the Cuban national team from 2001 until defecting to the Dominican in early 2004 following two previous unsuccessful attempts to leave Cuba by raft. Miranda gained Dominican citizenship last year. He left behind his parents and three brothers in the Cuban province of Pinar del Rio.

Miranda worked out for several major league scouts in the Dominican Republic over the last two years, but it wasn't until last week, after passing a team physical, that he completed the deal with the Yankees.

"There were a lot of teams interested, but they didn't match my contract expectations," Miranda said. "The Los Angeles Dodgers were close."

"Miranda is projected to hit over 20 home runs and hit .280," the Yankees official told ESPNdeportes.com. "He doesn't swing at bad pitches."

Enrique Rojas is a reporter and columnist for ESPNdeportes.com and ESPN.com.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/11/06 03:36 PM

Here are some videos of Igawa:

Kei Igawa (2001) (notice the 2nd batter...hehe )

Japanese All-Star Series 2004 Game 3

Japanese All-Star Series 2004 Game 8 (Watch him strike out Big Papi!!!)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/11/06 06:44 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Talks Breaking Down Between Boston and Matsuzaka
Quote:
Dealings would need 'abrupt change' to beat deadline


After all the hoopla surrounding the $51.1 million bid the Red Sox posted to talk to Daisuke Matsuzaka, it appears a contract may not materialize.

Boston essentially needs to get the Matsuzaka agreement done by Tuesday night so they can get him in Wednesday for a physical prior to the Thursday deadllne. One GM Friday said "it would be a shame for Matsuzaka and baseball to hold him out to try to force a change in the posting system." Boras has a very strong relationship with Theo Epstein, but he is willing to hold out players when necessary, such as Boston's current catcher and right fielder.

Will it get done? No one knows. But one can assume that the Red Sox are a far better team with Matsuzaka than without him, although he has never thrown a pitch in the AL East.

Negotiations between the team and the Japanese star pitcher have nearly broken down, the Boston Herald reported Sunday. A source familiar with the situation told the Herald late Saturday that unless "there is an abrupt change of course," the Red Sox will not strike a deal with Matsuzaka before the deadline midnight Thursday.

Attempts to reach Matsuzaka's agent, Scott Boras, were unsuccessful. The source blamed Boras for a lack of interest in the negotiations.

Matsuzaka signed with Boras in October and was posted for bidding in early November.

Matsuzaka was 17-5 with a 2.13 ERA and 200 strikeouts for his Japanese team, the Seibu Lions, this year. He throws in the high-90s, has good off-speed pitches and is known for his deceptive "gyroball," which has been likened to a screwball.

The Lions will not receive any of the $51.1 million if Matsuzaka does not sign. The initial offer made by the Red Sox was believed to be between $7-8 million a year for four-six years, but Boras was reportedly asking for nearly $15 million a year.

Though the Herald's source admitted that there is time for the outlook to change, as of Saturday night the team and Matsuzaka weren't close to finding a common ground.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Source: ESPN.com


Yes.

Cashman, get on your horse. Send Seibu (and Boras) a message, with a few million inside to whet their appetite.


But doesn't Matsuzaka go back to Japan for another year if boston doesn't sign him?
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/11/06 07:13 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
[
But doesn't Matsuzaka go back to Japan for another year if boston doesn't sign him?


That is my understanding. Otherwise, why the bidding war to earn the right to try to sign him. If he doesn't sign, Boston doesn't have to pay a dime of the infamous $51 million.

While the Red sox end up with egg on their face if they don't sign him, Matsuzaka doesn't play major league ball in 2007 and Seibu is out of the cash it desperately needs.

Therefore, Boras, if your boy is serious about pitching in the majors, get the deal done. My gut feeling is that Boston has already put an acceptable package together, and Boras is waiting to see to what extent they'll sweeten it before the deadline.

From the beginning this negotiation had the makings of an eleventh hour agreement. It is in both parties' interest to characterize the offers and counter-offers as being far apart. The deal will be done because it has to get done.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/11/06 08:18 PM

"The Rangers are still interested in reliever and former Cy Young Award winner Eric Gagne. Reports out of Boston said the Red Sox were probably out of the bidding and that Gagne was choosing between San Francisco, Cleveland and Texas for a base salary of around $6 million and additional money if he reaches certain incentives. Daniels did not comment on Gagne."

"The Cardinals have asked to view Carl Pavano's expansive medical records, according to a report in yesterday's St. Louis Post-Dispatch, a sign that the Yankees might be able to get out from under that albatross of a contract. The Rockies previously expressed interest in the righthander, but talks broke down because they wanted the Yankees to eat most of the $22.95 million left in the final two years of his four-year, $39.95-million deal, a person familiar with the talks said."

Source: Ben Maller
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/11/06 10:29 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12


But doesn't Matsuzaka go back to Japan for another year if boston doesn't sign him?


It depends on MLB and Selig. It could either render the whole decision null and void, where Seibu would send the cash back and the Red Sox send Matsuzaka back across to the Lions, or...

...since the Mets placed the second-highest bid, by rights, they should get the rights to negotiate, and Seibu will still get its cash.

From what I understand, it could go either way if the deal falls through.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/11/06 11:42 PM

So where did the Yanks bid then, 3rd?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/12/06 02:58 AM

Mike and the Mad Dog said the Mets were #2, so I think it went like this:

1.) Red Sox
2.) Mets
3.) Yankees
4.) Rangers
5.) Cubs/Dodgers
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/13/06 06:59 PM

Matsuzaka On Plane to Boston
Quote:
Red Sox, Matsuzaka headed to Boston
ESPN.com news services

BOSTON -- Daisuke Matsuzaka headed to Boston on Wednesday with Red Sox officials, a sign Boston had reached a preliminary contract agreement with the star pitcher.

Code:
Matsuzaka's Career With Seibu
  	W-L 	ERA 	SO 	IP
2006 	17-5 	2.13 	200 	186.3
2005 	14-13 	2.30 	226 	215.0
2004 	10-6 	2.90 	127 	146.0
2003 	16-7 	2.83 	215 	194.0
2002 	6-2 	3.68 	78 	73.3
2001 	15-14 	3.60 	214 	240.3
2000 	14-7 	3.97 	144 	167.6
1999 	16-5 	2.60 	151 	180.0


"They all took off together," Red Sox owner John Henry said in an e-mail to The Associated Press.

Team president Larry Lucchino said shortly after noon ET that the plane was leaving California.

In prior days, agent Scott Boras had said he would not allow Matsuzaka to travel to Boston for a physical unless the sides had reached a preliminary agreement.

"You should assume a deal is close or done," an official with knowledge of the negotiations said, speaking on condition of anonymity because no announcement had been made.

In prior days, agent Scott Boras had said he would not allow Matsuzaka to travel to Boston for a physical unless the sides had reached a preliminary agreement.

The sides reportedly were $3 million-per-year apart last night. Sources told the Boston Herald that the Red Sox's latest offer to the pitcher is six years for $8 million a year. Matsuzaka's camp, according to the Herald, has counter-offered with an $11 million request for six years.

Boston officials flew to Newport Beach, Calif., on Monday on Henry's plane and said they would return Wednesday with or without Matsuzaka. The team and Matsuzaka have a midnight Friday ET deadline to reach an agreement.

The Red Sox called a news conference for Wednesday afternoon to introduce shortstop Julio Lugo, who agreed to a four-year, $36 million deal last week. With the top Red Sox brass still en route, manager Terry Francona and assistant GM Jed Hoyer were to attend that event.

Boston bid $51.1 million last month for the right to negotiate with Matsuzaka. The Red Sox will pay that money to his Japanese team, the Seibu Lions, only if an agreement is reached.

If there is no deal, Matsuzaka's rights remain with the Lions and he cannot be offered to major league teams again until next November. He is not eligible to become a free agent in Japan until after the 2008 season.

Lucchino and general manager Theo Epstein showed up unannounced in California on Monday for face-to-face talks with Matsuzaka's agent, Scott Boras.

Red Sox officials left the building where Boras' offices are located shortly before 7 p.m. ET Tuesday, returned about four hours later and stayed for 40 minutes before leaving again.

The Red Sox had said they would present their second offer at the meeting. The large amount bid by the Red Sox for Matsuzaka's rights complicated negotiations. Boras said it shouldn't cause the team to decrease the salary he thinks his client deserves.

"Free agent pitchers who are 26 and have Matsuzaka-like ability receive salaries in excess of $100 million over five or six years in free agency," Boras said at a news conference Monday night.

Epstein agreed Matsuzaka is worth $100 million, but his calculations include the posting fee.

"That magnitude is certainly the right ballpark for the commitment of the ballclub," Epstein said

Matsuzaka has a 108-60 career record in Japan with a 2.95 ERA and 1,355 strikeouts in 204 games. He was MVP of the inaugural World Baseball Classic last March, won by Japan.

Late Monday, Henry had sounded miffed about Boras' approach.

"We're on Scott Boras' doorstep because he hasn't negotiated with us thus far and we're taking the fight directly to him, the fight to have a negotiation here," he said during a conference call.


Like I said, I figured the deal would get done, but I'm assuming that the Red Sox finally caved.

In addition, this is going to make Zito even more expensive, because he'll be the last big name pitcher available, and plus, Boras will use Matsuzaka as a benchmark (not that the Mets can't afford Zito, but still...).
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/13/06 08:39 PM

I believe Boras has been ready to make the deal all along, but waited and feigned disinterest in an effort to sweeten the deal as best he could. He misses the mark when he compares his client to a free agent who should get free agent $. He is not and his market value is determined by his status. If he didn't make the deal, Matsuzaka would have to play for Seibu for two more years, during which time an injury or mediocre performance could derail his dream of playing in the majors.

If the deal isn't done, Red Sox lose no 4 and become the front runner for Clemens possibly; Boras gets nothing; Seibu doesn't get the 51 million dollars; and Matsuzaka would hope to return in 2008...with a different agent.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/13/06 11:09 PM

Not that I want him back with the Yankees, but I don't think Clemens will go back to the Red Sox if this deal falls through. The only teams he'd pitch for would be Boston, New York, and Houston, and having Pettitte on the same club or the proximity to his home gives distinct advantages to the Yankees and the Astros.

He wants to pitch for a team with a sure-fire shot at the World Series, and without Matsuzaka, the Red Sox aren't even the best team in the AL East, let alone contenders in the playoff hunt. Of course, Clemens is only going to pitch for at most half-a-season anyways, so if the Red Sox are in or near 1st place in the AL East, he still may want to come back, but I think Boston is probably the least likely destination.


Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 12:47 AM

And one more thing - let's all tip our caps to all the Red Sox fans who are now telling everyone they are going to run over the Yankees...First, please shut your hypocritical mouths about how much the Yankee payroll is, because you spent an egregious amount of cash just for a phone call, and then overpaid someone who has never made a major league start. Secondly, J.D. Drew...right. Really one of those players in the echelon of Mays, Ruth, Gehrig etc. Not. Congrats.

In addition, let's make note of the fact that if the Yankees had pulled this off, the only story coming out of the media outlets would be how this is terrible for baseball and only the rich teams (i.e. NY) can sign these big stars. Yet, Boston's move is being hailed as some sort of international handshake between these two countries. Wake up? The 2004 Red Sox team is still the most expensive world champion team to be fielded in history.

Again, kudos to the Red Sox for winning the bid, I'm just getting ready to wrap myself in my Yankee/old-fashioned baseball fan blanket ala Linus Van Pelt to deflect all of the hypocritical, pro-Boston crap I'll be hearing up until spring training.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 04:33 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
In addition, let's make note of the fact that if the Yankees had pulled this off, the only story coming out of the media outlets would be how this is terrible for baseball and only the rich teams (i.e. NY) can sign these big stars. Yet, Boston's move is being hailed as some sort of international handshake between these two countries. Wake up? The 2004 Red Sox team is still the most expensive world champion team to be fielded in history.


As usual DJ, the Yankees are held to a double standard. The Yankees make this deal and as you said, "it just proves what's wrong with baseball." Boston makes the deal, and it's "great for baseball." F*cking hyptocrites! It's just good ol' fashion Yankee hating.

PS - Does this guy have the potential to be a Jose Contreras? Hmmm.....
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 08:01 AM

There is always a risk, Irish. Its like playing Russian Roulette. Either you're Clint Eastwood, or Christopher Walken.

Guys, you complain about the double-standard used against the Yanks.

May I ask, what would you prefer? That the Yanks be the "face" of American professional baseball in stature, dominance, and in victory, or let the Red Sox become that?

Its like being President. The monkey shit thrown at you the alpha-male, by the weaker beta-males, is only because the Yanks are on the top, and Red Sox/Dodgers/Phillies/Astros/etc. are NOT.

Red Sox fans, in their leadership role of the Anti-Yankee lobby, had the sympathetic factor in that their franchise hadn't won a title in several generations. I felt good when they won in 2004.

But now, without the sympathy, they reveal to be exactly like their Yankee fanbase adversaries: Loud, ignorant, obnoxious, retarded, and most of all, WHININING.

Yanks fans, its like being the Undisputed Heavyweight boxing champion of the world. Everyone else is gunning for you, and criticizing you as such. It comes with the territory. Accept it, and piss on those challengers when they fall in defeat.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 01:02 PM

I'd just prefer the media would shed this image of David v. Goliath in these Red Sox/Yankees battles, where the Red Sox are constantly the hard-luck club that doesn't have money or great players at every position but their camaraderie and fan base drive them forward, while the Evil Empire Yankees use their deep pocketbooks and selfish greed to buy championships, ruining the game of baseball and driving smaller market teams out of business.

Because that's crap, and I think we all recognize it.

Like:

"We can't operate like the Yankees." - Theo Epstein, after the Yankees traded three low-level prospects for Cory Lidle and Bobby Abreu.

Right, because they didn't just spend $51 million for a phone call and another $8-$10 million per year plus incentives on a pitcher who has never started a Major League game.

Cry me a river!
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 02:26 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
I'd just prefer the media would shed this image of David v. Goliath in these Red Sox/Yankees battles, where the Red Sox are constantly the hard-luck club that doesn't have money or great players at every position but their camaraderie and fan base drive them forward, while the Evil Empire Yankees use their deep pocketbooks and selfish greed to buy championships, ruining the game of baseball and driving smaller market teams out of business.

Because that's crap, and I think we all recognize it.

Like:

"We can't operate like the Yankees." - Theo Epstein, after the Yankees traded three low-level prospects for Cory Lidle and Bobby Abreu.

Right, because they didn't just spend $51 million for a phone call and another $8-$10 million per year plus incentives on a pitcher who has never started a Major League game.

Cry me a river!


I agree the Red Sox can't presently complain about money, but the rest of us can criticize the uneven playing field.

We just have to wait each year until October when smaller salaried teams with smaller paychecks and egos, but bigger hearts go to NY and and smoke Yanee ass while A-Rod, Giambi, Sheffield and the Unit sit silently in the dugout with a deer in the headlights look.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 02:26 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
I'd just prefer the media would shed this image of David v. Goliath in these Red Sox/Yankees battles, where the Red Sox are constantly the hard-luck club that doesn't have money or great players at every position but their camaraderie and fan base drive them forward, while the Evil Empire Yankees use their deep pocketbooks and selfish greed to buy championships, ruining the game of baseball and driving smaller market teams out of business.

Because that's crap, and I think we all recognize it.

Like:

"We can't operate like the Yankees." - Theo Epstein, after the Yankees traded three low-level prospects for Cory Lidle and Bobby Abreu.

Right, because they didn't just spend $51 million for a phone call and another $8-$10 million per year plus incentives on a pitcher who has never started a Major League game.

Cry me a river!


I agree the Red Sox can't presently complain about money, but the rest of us can criticize the uneven playing field.

We just have to wait each year until October when smaller salaried teams with smaller paychecks and egos, but bigger hearts go to NY and and smoke Yanee ass while A-Rod, Giambi, Sheffield and the Unit sit silently in the dugout with a deer in the headlights look.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 03:59 PM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
I agree the Red Sox can't presently complain about money, but the rest of us can criticize the uneven playing field.


The uneven playing field has been helped immensely by the revenue sharing and luxury tax...if it wasn't for the Yankees, smaller markets like Kansas City wouldn't even be able to operate.

Originally Posted By: klydon1
We just have to wait each year until October when smaller salaried teams with smaller paychecks and egos, but bigger hearts go to NY and and smoke Yanee ass while A-Rod, Giambi, Sheffield and the Unit sit silently in the dugout with a deer in the headlights look.


But the fallacy is that you're saying the smaller paychecks and egos are "smoke Yanee [sic] ass," when in reality, the money teams (I'd say top 15) still make the playoffs, and generally win the World Series.

Code:
2006 MLB Team Payrolls

Based Upon 2006 Season as of April 7, 2006

Rank        Team                 Total Payroll

1 	New York Yankees 	$194,663,079 (Playoffs)
2 	Boston Red Sox 	        $120,099,824 
3 	Los Angeles Angels 	$103,472,000
4 	Chicago White Sox 	$102,750,667 
5 	New York Mets 	        $101,084,963 (Playoffs)
6 	Los Angeles Dodgers 	$98,447,187  (Playoffs)
7 	Chicago Cubs 	        $94,424,499
8 	Houston Astros 	        $92,551,503
9 	Atlanta Braves 	        $90,156,876
10 	San Francisco Giants 	$90,056,419
11 	St. Louis Cardinals 	$88,891,371  (Playoffs, WSC)
12 	Philadelphia Phillies 	$88,273,333
13 	Seattle Mariners 	$87,959,833
14 	Detroit Tigers 	        $82,612,866  (Playoffs)
15 	Baltimore Orioles 	$72,585,582
16 	Toronto Blue Jays 	$71,915,000
17 	San Diego Padres 	$69,896,141  (Playoffs)
18 	Texas Rangers 	        $68,228,662
19 	Minnesota Twins 	$63,396,006  (Playoffs)
20 	Washington Nationals 	$63,143,000
21 	Oakland Athletics 	$62,243,079  (Playoffs)
22 	Cincinnati Reds 	$60,909,519
23 	Arizona Diamondbacks 	$59,684,226
24 	Milwaukee Brewers 	$57,568,333
25 	Cleveland Indians 	$56,031,500
26 	Kansas City Royals 	$47,294,000
27 	Pittsburgh Pirates 	$46,717,750
28 	Colorado Rockies 	$41,233,000
29 	Tampa Bay Devil Rays 	$35,417,967
30 	Florida Marlins 	$14,998,500


Source: USAToday.com

The last 10 World Series winners have been: the 2006 St. Louis Cardinals (#11), the 2005 Chicago White Sox (#13), the 2004 Boston Red Sox (#2), the 2003 Florida Marlins (#25), the 2002 Los Angeles Angels (#15), the 2001 Arizona Diamondbacks (#8), the 2000 New York Yankees (#1), the 1999 New York Yankees (#1), the 1998 New York Yankees (#2), and the 1997 Florida Marlins (#7).

With the exception of 2003, all the World Series winners were within the top 15 teams in total payroll, and 60% of them within the top 10.

Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 04:16 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J


Rank Team Total Payroll

1 New York Yankees $194,663,079 (Playoffs)
2 Boston Red Sox $120,099,824
3 Los Angeles Angels $103,472,000
4 Chicago White Sox $102,750,667
5 New York Mets $101,084,963 (Playoffs)
6 Los Angeles Dodgers $98,447,187 (Playoffs)
7 Chicago Cubs $94,424,499
8 Houston Astros $92,551,503
9 Atlanta Braves $90,156,876
10 San Francisco Giants $90,056,419
11 St. Louis Cardinals $88,891,371 (Playoffs, WSC)
12 Philadelphia Phillies $88,273,333
13 Seattle Mariners $87,959,833
14 Detroit Tigers $82,612,866 (Playoffs)
15 Baltimore Orioles $72,585,582
16 Toronto Blue Jays $71,915,000
17 San Diego Padres $69,896,141 (Playoffs)
18 Texas Rangers $68,228,662
19 Minnesota Twins $63,396,006 (Playoffs)
20 Washington Nationals $63,143,000
21 Oakland Athletics $62,243,079 (Playoffs)
22 Cincinnati Reds $60,909,519
23 Arizona Diamondbacks $59,684,226
24 Milwaukee Brewers $57,568,333
25 Cleveland Indians $56,031,500
26 Kansas City Royals $47,294,000
27 Pittsburgh Pirates $46,717,750
28 Colorado Rockies $41,233,000
29 Tampa Bay Devil Rays $35,417,967
30 Florida Marlins $14,998,500[/code]

The last 10 World Series winners have been: the 2006 St. Louis Cardinals (#11), the 2005 Chicago White Sox (#13), the 2004 Boston Red Sox (#2), the 2003 Florida Marlins (#25), the 2002 Los Angeles Angels (#15), the 2001 Arizona Diamondbacks (#8), the 2000 New York Yankees (#1), the 1999 New York Yankees (#1), the 1998 New York Yankees (#2), and the 1997 Florida Marlins (#7).

With the exception of 2003, all the World Series winners were within the top 15 teams in salaries.



Sure, you can fool yourself and look at ranks, but look at the gap among payrolls. There is a wider gap between the Yankees and #2 Boston in payroll than there is between Boston and #27 Pittsburgh!
And that gap continues to grow.

Luxury tax? It's a bucket of water against an inferno.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 05:11 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
The 2004 Red Sox team is still the most expensive world champion team to be fielded in history.




Shame on you D-J, you are sounding more and more like Irishman, and that my friend is NOT GOOD.
Please, don't whine like he does, PLEASE?

and just to twist those words back around.
Yes, and the Yankees are the most expensive team fielded to NOT win the World Championship.

Wow, you people really let those Boston fans get to you, don't you.

The whining is way to much for us avg. posters to stand.
The greatest thing about last years season was watching the Yankees lose and go home, broken down by what had been the worst team in baseball the year before.

Now please don't take this as a shot against the Yankees, it is not. The sweet smile that crossed my face that night was for good old Irishman. Nothing shuts him up like when the Yankees take a good old ass kicking.

He then has to come back with "what about" this or that. Whinning all the way.

Oh, and if this is knocking another BB poster, I will take my banning like a man!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 06:43 PM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
Originally Posted By: Double-J


Rank Team Total Payroll

1 New York Yankees $194,663,079 (Playoffs)
2 Boston Red Sox $120,099,824
3 Los Angeles Angels $103,472,000
4 Chicago White Sox $102,750,667
5 New York Mets $101,084,963 (Playoffs)
6 Los Angeles Dodgers $98,447,187 (Playoffs)
7 Chicago Cubs $94,424,499
8 Houston Astros $92,551,503
9 Atlanta Braves $90,156,876
10 San Francisco Giants $90,056,419
11 St. Louis Cardinals $88,891,371 (Playoffs, WSC)
12 Philadelphia Phillies $88,273,333
13 Seattle Mariners $87,959,833
14 Detroit Tigers $82,612,866 (Playoffs)
15 Baltimore Orioles $72,585,582
16 Toronto Blue Jays $71,915,000
17 San Diego Padres $69,896,141 (Playoffs)
18 Texas Rangers $68,228,662
19 Minnesota Twins $63,396,006 (Playoffs)
20 Washington Nationals $63,143,000
21 Oakland Athletics $62,243,079 (Playoffs)
22 Cincinnati Reds $60,909,519
23 Arizona Diamondbacks $59,684,226
24 Milwaukee Brewers $57,568,333
25 Cleveland Indians $56,031,500
26 Kansas City Royals $47,294,000
27 Pittsburgh Pirates $46,717,750
28 Colorado Rockies $41,233,000
29 Tampa Bay Devil Rays $35,417,967
30 Florida Marlins $14,998,500[/code]

The last 10 World Series winners have been: the 2006 St. Louis Cardinals (#11), the 2005 Chicago White Sox (#13), the 2004 Boston Red Sox (#2), the 2003 Florida Marlins (#25), the 2002 Los Angeles Angels (#15), the 2001 Arizona Diamondbacks (#8), the 2000 New York Yankees (#1), the 1999 New York Yankees (#1), the 1998 New York Yankees (#2), and the 1997 Florida Marlins (#7).

With the exception of 2003, all the World Series winners were within the top 15 teams in salaries.



Sure, you can fool yourself and look at ranks, but look at the gap among payrolls. There is a wider gap between the Yankees and #2 Boston in payroll than there is between Boston and #27 Pittsburgh!
And that gap continues to grow.

Luxury tax? It's a bucket of water against an inferno.


The gap is irrelevant - the fact remains that the top 15 teams who spend the most money consistently win championships.

And sure, the luxury tax isn't supposed to give world peace - but it's better than nothing.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 06:57 PM

Originally Posted By: fathersson
Originally Posted By: Double-J
The 2004 Red Sox team is still the most expensive world champion team to be fielded in history.




Shame on you D-J, you are sounding more and more like Irishman, and that my friend is NOT GOOD.
Please, don't whine like he does, PLEASE?

and just to twist those words back around.
Yes, and the Yankees are the most expensive team fielded to NOT win the World Championship.

Wow, you people really let those Boston fans get to you, don't you.

The whining is way to much for us avg. posters to stand.
The greatest thing about last years season was watching the Yankees lose and go home, broken down by what had been the worst team in baseball the year before.

Now please don't take this as a shot against the Yankees, it is not. The sweet smile that crossed my face that night was for good old Irishman. Nothing shuts him up like when the Yankees take a good old ass kicking.

He then has to come back with "what about" this or that. Whinning all the way.

Oh, and if this is knocking another BB poster, I will take my banning like a man!


My point was merely an open opine against the countless Boston fans who will still hide being their false wool of "david," when in reality, they are no better than the Yankees, and the Matsuzaka signing proves it.

The argument is also indicting the media, who tend to (especially after the A-Rod, Johnson, and Abreu trades) tell the whole world that the Yankees are bad for baseball, etc. etc. etc. And yet, the Matsuzaka signing, which is almost as egregious as A-Rod's salary, imho, is being hailed as some sort of handshake between America and Japan and all this other lovey-dovey crap, when you know if the Yanks had won the rights to Matsuzaka, it would have been an uproar and firestorm towards the Yankees and the commissioner for the posting system and the lack of parity.

Originally Posted By: FS
Yes, and the Yankees are the most expensive team fielded to NOT win the World Championship.


But the point is that the Yankees don't deny their free-spending ways, while the Red Sox line their pockets with millions and cry poor mouth in the unemployment line and then call the Yankees the "Evil Empire." See my abovementioned Epstein quote.

And I don't see how the Yankees "took an ass kicking" last night. Hell, they weren't even the #2 bidders in the Matsuzaka race. The OTHER NY team was. And I guess if not overspending on an unproven free agent is losing, then the Yankees got crushed.

FS - BANNED!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 07:23 PM

It's ok DJ, don't worry about fathersson. He LOVES to rag on the Yankees but can never seem to find a negative thing to say about his own team (whoever that is. Mets perhaps?) And fathersson, as you so "conviently" forgot to mention, the Yankees weren't the only team to lose to Detroit, the A's did too my friend. You know, prior to last year, every team the Yankees lost to in the playoffs went on to win the World Series (Arizona, Anaheim, Florida, Boston)
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 08:48 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
And fathersson, as you so "conviently" forgot to mention, the Yankees weren't the only team to lose to Detroit, the A's did too my friend. You know, prior to last year, every team the Yankees lost to in the playoffs went on to win the World Series (Arizona, Anaheim, Florida, Boston)


YES- that is the way most teams get to the World Series, By beating the YANKEES!

And Irishman, just because other teams lost to Detroit doesn't make the Yankees lost any better. Like I said "What ABOUT" is always the answer.

and just to rub it in a bit more- Irishman.... They all all had lower payrolls TOOOOOOO

Boy, I just can't wait to Spring to get here.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/14/06 08:53 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Originally Posted By: fathersson
Originally Posted By: Double-J
The 2004 Red Sox team is still the most expensive world champion team to be fielded in history.




Shame on you D-J, you are sounding more and more like Irishman, and that my friend is NOT GOOD.
Please, don't whine like he does, PLEASE?

and just to twist those words back around.
Yes, and the Yankees are the most expensive team fielded to NOT win the World Championship.

Wow, you people really let those Boston fans get to you, don't you.

The whining is way to much for us avg. posters to stand.
The greatest thing about last years season was watching the Yankees lose and go home, broken down by what had been the worst team in baseball the year before.

Now please don't take this as a shot against the Yankees, it is not. The sweet smile that crossed my face that night was for good old Irishman. Nothing shuts him up like when the Yankees take a good old ass kicking.

He then has to come back with "what about" this or that. Whinning all the way.

Oh, and if this is knocking another BB poster, I will take my banning like a man!




And I don't see how the Yankees "took an ass kicking" last night. Hell, they weren't even the #2 bidders in the Matsuzaka race. The OTHER NY team was. And I guess if not overspending on an unproven free agent is losing, then the Yankees got crushed.

FS - BANNED!


No, I mean the last night of the season. Watching that last game, and so many in the place where we were watching were saying the same thing. GOOD BYE YANKEES!


at least you banned me while I am still on the boards. I came back to find out that I was banned last time.


Good to see you around!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 12:06 AM

Well since you're so afraid to flaunt your favorite team fathersson, how many championships have they won in, oh, let's say, the past DECADE!? Hmm...worry about your own house before you worry about the Yankees and their "spending spree" (since that's all they've done since this offseason's begun)
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 12:24 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Well since you're so afraid to flaunt your favorite team fathersson, how many championships have they won in, oh, let's say, the past DECADE!? Hmm...worry about your own house before you worry about the Yankees and their "spending spree" (since that's all they've done since this offseason's begun)


Oh man, that is so lame. You need some help there Irish if that is the best you can come up with.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 12:27 AM

I agree, talking to you has made a crazy person go nuts. But, why are you so scared to say who your favorite team is? What do you have to hid? Embarassed? Scared?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 07:08 AM







This one's probably my favorite

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 01:09 PM

Originally Posted By: fathersson
No, I mean the last night of the season. Watching that last game, and so many in the place where we were watching were saying the same thing. GOOD BYE YANKEES!


at least you banned me while I am still on the boards. I came back to find out that I was banned last time.


Good to see you around!


Well, I suppose you Red Sox fans do need your little support groups. After all, your team didn't even make the postseason!

Don't worry, you'll be banned soon. The wheels are in motion!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 01:34 PM

Yankees Interested in Piniero
Quote:
Bombers mull pitch
for Pineiro

BY PETER BOTTE
and BILL MADDEN
The Yankees already have Andy Pettitte in the fold, they likely have Kei Igawa on the way and they still have Roger Clemens in their sights whenever he decides about next year.

But a person familiar with the Yankees' thinking said the team also has renewed interest in righthanded pitcher Joel Pineiro, who hit the free-agent market yesterday following a subpar season with Seattle. He was one of several players granted free agency because he was not tendered a contract by his 2006 club by Tuesday's midnight deadline.

Pineiro, 28, earned $6.8 million last season when he went 8-13 with a career-worst 6.36 ERA over 40 appearances - including 25 starts before he was shifted to the bullpen in August. The Yanks also had expressed interest in Pineiro before the July 31 trade deadline before acquiring Cory Lidle in the Bobby Abreu trade.

Of course, there are a few danger signs to consider in an exploding market for mediocre pitchers. Pineiro's 58-55 lifetime record is not that different from that of former teammate Gil Meche, who recently earned a five-year commitment worth $55 million from Kansas City despite a 55-44 career mark. And Jason Marquis, who sported a 6.02 ERA last season, signed a three-year contract in excess of $20 million last week with the Cubs.

Pineiro went 30-18 combined over 2002-03, but has gone just 21-35 over the past three seasons, including stints on the disabled list with shoulder and elbow injuries.

Still, Pineiro also went 1-0 with a 3.63 ERA and one save in 15 relief appearances last season for the Mariners. He could provide the Yankees with some flexibility in case Igawa and/or Clemens is not signed - especially because injured starters Randy Johnson and Carl Pavano are not certain to be ready to start the season.

The Yanks have until Dec.28 to come to terms with Arn Tellem, the agent for Igawa, whose rights were obtained from the Hanshin Tigers for $26 million via the posting process last month.

Agent Randy Hendricks also reiterated in an E-mail yesterday that Clemens "will not make a decision until 2007." Hendricks said he's "not yet certain" which day next week Pettitte will be in New York to take a physical. The Yanks expect their doctors to examine the veteran lefty early next week to complete their one-year $16 million deal (with a matching $16 million player option for 2008).

"Andy's still on his hunting trip, but it should be next week," Hendricks said.


Source: NY Daily News

---

Piniero may be a nice project...I could see him as a long-man. If I'm not mistaken, he did okayish in the bullpen last year, although he got rocked as a starter. But he's had some good years in the past. Always need more pitching. And if he can be a bullpen guy, it should be a nice replacement/stop leak for Tanyon Sturtze/Ron Villone/etc. as well as giving Proctor a break.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 01:36 PM

Yankees Want Mientkiewicz
Quote:
N.Y. Yankees talking to first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz

2006/12/15
By Ken Davidoff NEW YORK, Newsday


In their search for a first baseman, the Yankees are contemplating a platoon, a solution that would further increase the already significant possibility that Bernie Williams won't have a place on next year's roster.

The Yankees are speaking to free agent Doug Mientkiewicz, a Met in 2005 and the man who caught the last out of the 2004 Red Sox's World Series victory (and proceeded to keep the ball). Mientkiewicz, a left-handed hitter, would share the job with Andy Phillips or Rule 5 selection Josh Phelps.

The Yankees also have considered a trade for Seattle's Richie Sexson, but in their quest to cut payroll, they have so far been willing to take Sexson, who is owed US$28 million through 2008, only if there is some financial relief. The Mariners reportedly weren't amenable to the idea of taking Carl Pavano in return for Sexson. Mientkiewicz, 32, figures to come relatively cheap, as he played in only 91 games for the Royals last season. A back injury, which eventually required season-ending surgery, prevented him from playing after July 25.

He is well known for his defense, and the Yankees, who have suffered from Jason Giambi's subpar first-base glove for much of the past five seasons, like the idea of deploying a steady defensive presence at first. Mientkiewicz would be especially valuable in light of the throwing problems that Alex Rodriguez experienced last season and Derek Jeter's occasional short-hop throws from shortstop. In that regard, Mientkiewicz could be viewed as more useful than free agent Shea Hillenbrand, who is a better hitter and a worse fielder.

If the Yankees used a first-base platoon, they could carry seven infielders (including Giambi at designated hitter and a re-signed Miguel Cairo), two catchers, four outfielders and 12 pitchers. If they decided to go without Cairo, they might go with 13 pitchers, a nod to manager Joe Torre's liberal use of relievers.

There are multiple roster permutations that don't feature the ultra-popular Williams, who would like to return to the Yankees for a 17th season but has been left dangling so far.

Outside of settling first base, the Yankees' work is largely done this winter. They need to sign Kei Igawa, the Japanese left-hander whose rights they won through the posting process, by midnight Dec. 29, and they want to sign a left-handed reliever.


Source: Newsday

---

Mientkiewicz may be okay as a first baseman. I'm not thrilled though with all of these journeyman style players, though his defensive play and surprisingly strong arm place him ahead of Phelps, imho. Phillips' defense is being severely underestimated in the grand scheme of things, and I know they want pop, but I'd still pencil in Phillips as my everyday 1st baseman with Giambi as DH.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 02:25 PM

For crying out loud- The Yankees want everbody!

You would think that George was collecting baseball cards the way they report all this stuff.

I must say, that baseball is hard up for good pitchers. They throw Millions at guys who aren't even that great anymore. Or should I say once were good.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 02:41 PM

I'm thinking about trying out for an amateur draft and getting Scott Boras as my agent...look at my stats:

-Fastball 82 mph
-Cut fastball 80mph
-Sinking curveball in the 65mph
-Knuckleball 50mph
-Out of shape
-Out of practice
-Decent fielding skills
-Poor runner
-Hits for power (has to, because he can't run)

Yep, I figure I could command about $3 million per year plus a $10 million dollar signing bonus in today's market.

Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 04:27 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
I'm thinking about trying out for an amateur draft and getting Scott Boras as my agent...look at my stats:

-Fastball 82 mph
-Cut fastball 80mph
-Sinking curveball in the 65mph
-Knuckleball 50mph
-Out of shape
-Out of practice
-Decent fielding skills
-Poor runner
-Hits for power (has to, because he can't run)

Yep, I figure I could command about $3 million per year plus a $10 million dollar signing bonus in today's market.




Giive me a few, I'll e-mail Newsday and drop them a leak.

You will retain me as your press agent, right?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 04:51 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
I'm thinking about trying out for an amateur draft and getting Scott Boras as my agent...look at my stats:

-Fastball 82 mph
-Cut fastball 80mph
-Sinking curveball in the 65mph
-Knuckleball 50mph
-Out of shape
-Out of practice
-Decent fielding skills
-Poor runner
-Hits for power (has to, because he can't run)

Yep, I figure I could command about $3 million per year plus a $10 million dollar signing bonus in today's market.



Definitely worth a long-term deal seeing as how you haven't thrown a single MLB pitch. Boy, that intramural baseball must be paying off pretty well
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 05:26 PM

They gave Matsuzaka Johnny Damon's old jersey number- No. 18

Did you also see where NASCAR'S Jeff Gordon's bride since this pass Nov. is pregnant and due in July.

I guess she walked down the aisle with a bun in the oven!
Who do you think the real father of the kid is?

AS rumors have it, Jeff doen't really like girls that much.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 05:57 PM

Originally Posted By: fathersson

Did you also see where NASCAR'S Jeff Gordon's bride since this pass Nov. is pregnant and due in July.

I guess she walked down the aisle with a bun in the oven!
Who do you think the real father of the kid is?

AS rumors have it, Jeff doen't really like girls that much.


Neither is his boyfriend "Kimmie" Johnson...to which my father and I always enjoy making numerous jokes about during a race. I'm sorry, I love auto racing, but NASCAR is just too blatantly easy to make fun of.

And Jeff Gordon? The former God Squad man? Pfft. I used to like him too, and then realized what a wank he was. I wouldn't be surprised if she went to a sperm bank while Jeff and Kimmie were out "bump drafting."

Anyways, back ontopic...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/15/06 10:51 PM

Yankee Central & Latin American Prospect Updates

Quote:
Chavez tearing it up in Venezuela
Veteran hoping to make Yankees as reserve catcher in 2007
By Kristen Zimmerman / Special to MLB.com



Raul Chavez has been labeled a "journeyman" for much of his career. He's a 33-year-old reserve catcher, who has spent 16 years in professional baseball, bouncing around from organization to organization and never spending a full season in the Majors.

After the Yankees signed him to a Minor League contract on Dec. 6, his next move will either be in the Bronx or Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, the team's Triple-A affiliate. The Yankees signed Chavez with the intent of having him compete with Wil Nieves for the backup catcher position, and Chavez is trying to prove his worth with the bat in his native Venezuela this offseason.

A career .212 hitter in over 405 Major League at-bats, Chavez has turned up the offense against Venezuela Winter League pitchers. In 26 games for the Navegantes del Magallanes, all of which he started behind the plate, Chavez is batting .325 and is in the midst of a 12-game hitting streak. He's also hitting .350 with runners in scoring position.

Chavez and 12 other prospects in the Yankees organization are currently playing in Venezuela, Mexico and the Dominican Republic.


Quote:
Venezuela Winter League

2B Carlos Mendoza -- After tearing through Venezuelan pitching during the Thanksgiving week, Mendoza has just one hit in his last 13 at-bats to lower his batting average to .287. The shortstop hasn't played since Nov. 30.

3B Marcos Vechionacci -- After being absent from the Navegantes del Magallanes lineup for almost two months, Vechionacci returned on Dec. 6, striking out in a pinch-hit at-bat. He started at third base two days later and went 0-for-3.

RHP Francisco Butto -- Butto picked up his 12th save of the season on Dec. 8 and hasn't allowed a run in his last two outings. Overall, he's 2-3 with a 4.58 ERA.

RHP Gerardo Casadiego -- Casadiego's been one of the Yankees' most consistent relievers in Venezuela this offseason. Since Nov. 15, he hasn't surrendered a run and has recorded three wins over 11 1/3 scoreless innings. For the year, he's 4-2 with a 2.12 ERA.

LHP Edgar Omana -- Omana has appeared in just one game as of late, coming on in relief on Dec. 6. He faced two batters and walked both before being lifted. His ERA still stands at 9.00.

RHP Scott Patterson -- Patterson hasn't pitched since Nov. 16, and he's 1-0 with a 4.30 ERA.

Dominican Winter League

RHP Erick Abreu -- Abreu still carries a hefty opposing batting average (.321), but he also managed to lower his ERA from 1.00 to 0.83 in the past two weeks. He has 13 strikeouts while walking just two in 21 2/3 total innings.

RHP Juan De Leon -- The 26-year-old had another poor outing to raise his ERA to 14.71. De Leon gave up two earned runs in one inning, which gives him six earned runs in 3 2/3 total innings.

RHP Jorge De Paula -- De Paula hasn't had much success this offseason, but he did manage to lower his ERA slightly to 6.04 after throwing a few scoreless innings.

RHP Bryan Villalona -- Villalona is another Yankees prospect who's struggled in the Dominican Republic. He's 0-2 with an ERA of 7.24 and has struck out eight while walking seven in 13 2/3 innings.

RHP Edwar Ramirez -- Ramirez continued to be Licey's most dependable strikeout performer this season, setting down 31 batters and walking just seven in 21 innings. But when batters are making contact against the reliever, they're getting hits. Ramirez has a 5.14 ERA thus far.

Mexican Winter League

SS Ramiro Pena -- Pena joined the Tomateros de Culiacan in late October, but he hasn't made much of an impact. The shortstop was in the starting lineup for the first couple of weeks in Mexico, but he batted just .149 and, lately, has served more as a pinch-hitter and late-inning defensive replacement.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/16/06 03:12 AM

Hall NO?!?!
Quote:
The Yanks are interested in free-agent catcher Toby Hall (who was non-tendered by the Dodgers) as Jorge Posada's backup, but a person familiar with Hall's thinking said he'll first pursue a job with a club promising the opportunity for more playing time. Philadelphia, which recently lost Mike Lieberthal to L.A., is considered a strong possibility....The Phillies might sign him and have him share time with Carlos Ruiz behind the plate. Though they say they're content with Wil Nieves and Raul Chavez battling for a job, the Yankees could also have some interest in Rod Barajas.

Source: Rotoworld.com, NY Daily News


Yankee Prospect Tests Positive
Quote:
Yanks pitching prospect Hector Noesi, 19, was suspended 50 games to start next season for testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance. He made five appearances in the Gulf Coast League last season....Pitchers and catchers are slated to report on Feb. 13, the Yanks announced.

Source: NY Daily News


Yanks Going Gonzo?
Quote:
If the Pittsburgh Pirates wind up trading closer Mike Gonzalez, it appears the most likely destination for the left-hander is the New York Yankees.

Baseball sources indicated Friday that Yankees are willing to part with left-handed hitting outfielder Melky Cabrera straight-up in a trade for Gonzalez. But the Pirates reportedly want a second player included, though the Yankees are highly unlikely to put right-hander Scott Proctor into the deal.

Cabrera, 22, hit .280 with seven homers, 50 RBIs and 12 steals in 130 games as a rookie last season after batting .385 with four homers and 24 RBIs in 31 games with Class AAA Columbus.

The Boston Red Sox also have interest in Gonzalez. The Red Sox reportedly want more than just Gonzalez in any trade for outfielder Coco Crisp and their need for relief help lessened Friday when they signed left-hander J.C. Romero as a free agent and traded with the Los Angeles Angels for right-hander Brendan Donnelly.

Source: Times Online


Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/16/06 04:04 AM

A-Rod Mulls Retirement!
Quote:
Rodriguez Talks Retirement, but No One Hears

By MICHAEL S. SCHMIDT
Published: December 16, 2006

Toward the end of his most challenging season in baseball, Alex Rodriguez told Bob Costas in a nationally syndicated radio interview that he might not play once his current 10-year contract expired after the 2010 season.

“I don’t really see myself playing past this contract,” Rodriguez said on “Costas on the Radio,” a weekly program that is heard on 120 stations, but not in New York. The interview was conducted toward the middle of September and began airing Sept. 16.

In the interview, Rodriguez is less specific at other moments, saying he might play beyond his current contract “but not way past it.”

Professional athletes often speak of retirement, only to keep playing for as long as they are physically capable of standing up. Nevertheless, Rodriguez’s remarks, coming toward the conclusion of a season in which he struggled in the field and at the plate and was often booed by Yankees fans, seemed to take Costas by surprise.

“I thought the phone would be ringing off the hook the next day,” Costas said of an anticipated news media reaction that never came, perhaps because many reporters remained unaware of what was said.

“I believe he was speaking honestly from the frame of mind that he was in at the time,” Costas said in a telephone interview yesterday. “He was very matter of fact and there was no anger in his voice. It was a tone of resignation. He said a lot of the joy of the game was gone, and even if had a reasonable shot at breaking records, he would walk away from the game.”

Attempts to reach Rodriguez’s agent, Scott Boras, to comment on the interview were unsuccessful.

Rodriguez will be 35 when his record-breaking $252 million contract expires. He has 464 career home runs, and if he keeps playing until he is 40, or older, he would appear to have a good chance to set the career home run mark, regardless of what number Barry Bonds finally reaches. Still, Rodriguez told Costas that records would not affect his decision.

“To me, I have never been a guy that worries about numbers or has concerned himself with where I stand in the history books,” Rodriguez said. “I care about one thing, and that is winning, and that is it.”

The Yankees have not won a World Series in Rodriguez’s three seasons in the Bronx, and he has increasingly struggled in postseason play, to the point where he batted eighth in the Yankees’ final game in October, when they were eliminated in the first round by Detroit.

In the weeks that followed, there was speculation that the Yankees might even look to trade Rodriguez. That speculation has now died, but the issue of Rodriguez’s comfort level in New York has not. He seemed to acknowledge that issue in the interview, telling Costas: “I think the demand that is put on a player like me is so much more then the generic everyday guy.”

Source: NY Times




Can we please trade you first?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/16/06 10:16 PM

Deal Would Send Cabrera to Braves, Gonzalez to Yankees; Igawa Deal "Nearly Done"
Quote:
Yankees May Trade Cabrera; Igawa Contract Is Almost Done

By MICHAEL S. SCHMIDT
The New York Times
Published: December 17, 2006

The Yankees are in discussions with the Braves and the Pirates about a three-way deal that would send outfielder Melky Cabrera from the Yankees to the Braves, reliever Mike Gonzalez from the Pirates to the Yankees, and first baseman Adam LaRoche from the Braves to the Pirates, according to a baseball official.

The official, who was granted anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss trade possibilities publicly, also said that the Yankees were close to completing a five- year, $20 million contract with the Japanese pitcher Kei Igawa. The deal is likely to be completed tomorrow and is pending a physical.

The Yankees won the bid to negotiate with Igawa, who has pitched in Japan for eight seasons, on Nov. 28 and have 30 days to negotiate a contract with him. If no deal is struck within 30 days, then Igawa will return to pitch in Japan and the Yankees will get back the money they posted.

One hitch in the three-way deal between the Yankees, Pirates and Braves is the Yankees’ concern about Gonzalez’s elbow. Last season Gonzalez, a hard-throwing left hander, had tendinitis in his elbow and was placed on the 15-day disabled list in August.

The Yankees are in need of a left-handed pitcher out of their bullpen. They can part with Cabrera because their outfield for next season is set with Hideki Matsui in left, Johnny Damon in center and Bobby Abreu in right.

With Igawa’s signing, the Yankees would have six starting pitchers under contract for next season. Along with Chien-Ming Wang, Randy Johnson, Carl Pavano, the Yankees resigned Mike Mussina this off-season and signed Andy Pettitte.


I know Tabata is coming up, but he's still in A-ball. I thought Melky got overrated last year after his D-Day monster catch, but he takes alot of bad cuts at the plate. Still though, I'd feel more confident with Melky as my platoon/utility outfielder than Bernie, who I'd rather see as my backup first baseman/DH. But oh well.

Gonzalez sounds dangerous, both as a pitcher and as an injury risk. We could use another solid left-hander, especially if Villone doesn't resign, but Tabata isn't a sure fire thing. Melky could be a defensive standout. So I'm not sure how I feel about this deal. On one hand, Melky is a decent better with some pop but swings at bad pitches, but he's also a superb defensive outfielder who would be our best reserve option. Do we part ways with the youth movement for a pitcher with a potentially lingering arm injury and habitual DL issues?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/17/06 01:59 PM

It keeps sounding more and more like this deal is getting done, although I've heard they make just get rid of Atlanta's part of the deal altogether and just make it a clean Cabrera for Gonzalez trade.

I'm actually a bit disappointed. I'd rather keep Melky than trade him away. I think his bat could be improved, and the Yanks will regret this trade 5 years from now. Jose Tabata is projected to be an MLB All-Star, no doubt, but Damon and Matsui won't be playing forever, and Abreu is right behind them.

If we could resign Villone, and utilize Myers more, I'm not so sure we need to trade for Gonzalez, even if he is near-closer quality.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/17/06 02:03 PM

Matsuzaka May Follow Predecessors Into Mediocrity
Quote:
Well, breathe easy, Boston; the Red Sox finally have Daisuke Matsuzaka.

Only took them a month of negotiating, a fast-approaching deadline and $103.1 million to sign the 26-year-old pitcher, who over eight seasons in those tiny Japanese League ballparks was 108-60 with a 2.95 earned-run average.

The Red Sox spent $52 million on a six-year contract for the right-hander.

They sent the other $51.1 million to the Seibu Lions, who owned the rights to the MVP of March's inaugural World Baseball Classic.

And everyone thought only the Yankees printed money.

So what does $103.1 million buy the Red Sox?

Perhaps a lot compared to what other teams have paid this offseason for free-agent pitchers.

That $103.1 million -- hey, it's only money -- looks like a bargain compared to the:

- $55 million for five years Kansas City threw at Gil Meche, who apparently was rewarded $1 million for each of his career victories in six years with Seattle.

- $40 million for four years the Chicago Cubs tossed at Ted Lilly, who had 49 victories over his last four years as a starter but averaged only 52/3 innings in those 120 starts.

- $40 million for four years the Chicago Cubs tossed at Ted Lilly, who had 49 victories over his last four years as a starter but averaged only 52/3 innings in those 120 starts.

- $34 million for three years Texas spent to keep Vincente Padilla and his 4.50 ERA.

- $24 million for three years the Phillies gave as a welcome-home bouquet to Adam Eaton, who they originally selected with the 11th overall pick of the 1996 amateur draft only to trade to San Diego in 1999.

Then again, maybe Matsuzaka turns out like so many of the 18 other Japanese pitchers who were expected to be the next whomever after Masanori Murakam became the first with San Francisco in 1964.

Remember Hideki Irabu? How about Kaz Ishii?

Take away Hideo Nomo with his 123-109 record and Matsuzaka's predecessors have a combined career record of 260-297.

Source: The Patriot News
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/17/06 02:35 PM

DJ, I agree 100%. I think that Melky, like Cano, is exactly the kind of player the team needs. Youth and energy. I think it would be a foolish decision for them to trade him, but it wouldn't be surprising.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/17/06 05:12 PM

Abreu's contract is up after 2007 (with a $16 million dollar club option for 2008) so his tenure is also tenuous. I really wish the Yanks would stop screwing around...I know they want to keep Bernie, but he cannot be the everyday utility outfielder anymore. He doesn't have the speed. Melky, on the other hand, makes a great option to play 2-3 games a week, allowing the Yanks to spell either Damon or Matsui.

Bernie has always had a superior glove - I'd rather see them resign him now, and get to work training him at first base, rather than trading away Melky to free up a roster spot for Bernie. It doesn't make good long-term sense. The Yanks bullpen isn't that desperate. Farnsworth didn't have a terrible year last year, and is streaky with on-off years. Last year was an off year - expect big things out of him in 2007. Proctor has solidified himself as the big middle relief man, one of the best in the AL. If Bruney and Britton can combine for some solid innings, they resign Villone, utilize Myers more, and bring up J. Brent Cox and Jose Veras, the Yankees bullpen will be fine.

I understand that Mike Gonzalez is a closer-quality pitcher, but I don't see how adding him to the bullpen at the cost of losing arguably our best fielding outfielder makes the team that much stronger.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/17/06 05:33 PM

I agree DJ that the Yanks should hang on to Cabrera and resign Bernie and move him to first. However, there's way too many "if's" in the Yankees bullpen, and ultimately, come playoff time it'll come down to pitching as it always does
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/17/06 05:35 PM

True, but the Yankees bullpen can get them to the Summer. Before the trading deadline, don't tell me Melky's value won't be even higher than it is now with all of the free-spending and injuries bound to happen between April and July.

By the deadline, we could get Gonzalez, maybe a utility infielder, and probably work in a deal for a big-time prospect in exchange for Melky.

Plus, the Yankees will be active as well, and should supplant their 'pen around this time. And their rotation would benefit when Clemens decides to pitch for 3 months or so and the Yanks have a chance to sign him.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/17/06 05:37 PM

Theo Can't Emulate Cashman
Quote:


by Mike Lupica
New York Daily News

The Red Sox won the World Series in 2004 and there was no hotter executive in all of sports than Theo Epstein. He was the boy wonder of Boston, the baseball prodigy who got most of the credit for the Red Sox winning it all for the first time since 1918. At the time Epstein seemed to be the Yankees' worst nightmare, even if Larry Lucchino was the one who really set the tone in Boston once he and John Henry and Tom Werner got the team.

Lucchino is the one who wanted to get in the face of the Yankees and never get out. But Epstein was his protégée. They were going to take the fight to the Yankees for a long time, and do it together.

At least until Epstein decided he didn't need Lucchino quite as much as he did when he was starting out.

Now Epstein is no longer the boy wonder of baseball or the boy prince of Fenway. He wanted the kind of power that Brian Cashman now has with the Yankees and couldn't get it and even left the Red Sox for a while, giving the impression that he was off to save the whales. He is back now, but whatever the organizational chart says on Yawkey Way, Epstein is back working for Lucchino.

John Henry is still the principal owner and they all report to him. But Lucchino is back at quarterback, after a couple of years when the Red Sox acted as if they could move the guy to offensive guard. The operation on Yawkey Way is back to being collaborative, instead of Theo's Boys Club.

Why does this matter here? Because it is the Red Sox and even after a season when the Yankees knocked them out of the ring, Yankees vs. Red Sox matters here as much as Yankees vs. Mets. A lot has changed since the Red Sox came back from 0-3 down on the Yankees two years ago. Most of the change has occurred in Boston, where they have spent a lot of time trying to ruin a good thing.

These are all smart people in Boston and bring a lot to the party. But more than two years after the Red Sox got the last out against the Cardinals in the '04 Series, Epstein only wishes he had the power in Boston that Cashman, who seemed to be in some trouble of his own back in '04, now has with the Yankees.

Epstein didn't make all of the bad moves that finally knocked the Red Sox all the way back to third place. He wasn't responsible for the injuries that helped sink the Red Sox after the trade deadline last year. But he is on the books for a lot of stinkers, from Matt Clement to Edgar Renteria to Coco Crisp. There was almost another one this past week before Lucchino did the most to get a deal out of Scott Boras on Daisuke Matsuzaka.

Epstein said this the other day:

"We been watching (Matsuzaka) for 10 years."

What, since Epstein was majoring in baseball sabermetrics at Yale?

We had heard for weeks about how well Epstein and Boras worked together. Well, Boras sure thought that way after the Red Sox paid $70 million to Theo fave J.D. Drew even though the Sox were bidding against themselves. Then Boras was allowed to go weeks before even making a counter-offer on the Japanese star.

Finally Lucchino - who had recently made a trip to Japan with his marketing people - took this fight to Boras and the negotiation right to the pitcher and got a deal done.

Epstein preached patience last season as things fell apart. Lucchino burned. Epstein said the Red Sox couldn't spend with the Yankees. Now the Red Sox pay more than $100 million, in posting fees and contract, for Matsuzaka.

Game back on between the Yankees and Red Sox. The name of the game is Moneyball. Just not the kind that Theo learned from Billy Beane.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/17/06 11:57 PM

Quote:
Why the Yankees are Sick
10:11 AM By Goredosoxfrevr1
PROtrade.com

It has been just reported that the New York Yankees are discussing trading Melky Cabrera to the Pittsburg Pirates for OK reliever Mike Gonzalez. This is just disgusting. Think back to the trading deadline of last year (06).

The Yankees had Hideki Matsui Injured along with Gary Schefield. They did, however, have up-and-coming prospect Melky Cabrera who seemed to be filled with clutch hits and spectacular plays in the outfield. But the Yankees were not happy with having someone like that in their outfield. They wanted to have more. More More More! So they signed Bobby Abreu to a huge deal. Now, on paper, they had 5 suitable outfielders. No problem, just keep the most expensive ones and trade the rest away!

So here we are, the Yankees are using Melky Cabrera as bait. Every team in the MLB would love to get their hands on that future star. But the Yankees don't feel like seeing how he progresses through the Major Leagues. Instead, they just want expensive outfielders, and as many relievers (no matter if they're good or bad) as possible. This is the simple reason the Yankees are sick.

The Media loves the move to use 'The Melk Man' as bait. Are you kidding me? How about the golden rule: Don't Trade Awesome Prospects. Come on Yankee Media. Get with the times. But of course, the Yankees CAN trade away prospects. They CAN sacrafice the future for today. All because they have a rich owner who is willing to hand out $100 million contracts like flyers in NY. The MLB desperatly needs to fix this problem.


Wow. Okay retard. I guess you've never heard of Robinson Cano or Chien-Ming Wang.

Never, ever write an article again. Thanks.

And learn how to spell.

Furthermore, the Yankees didn't "sign Abreu to a huge deal," they took on his huge contract. It wasn't the Yankees who wrote him the big fat paycheck in Philly. In addition, I didn't realize Melky Cabrera could play both right and left fields simultaneously...because the author is claiming the Yanks simply weren't happy with Melky as a replacement for an injured Matsui and "Schefield" [sic].

Who let these people publish on news sites?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/18/06 12:10 AM

Yankees and Unit Shuffle Trade Rumours Under Rug
Quote:

December 17, 2006 -- Despite the buzz leaking out of the desert, Randy Johnson hasn't asked the Yankees to deal him closer to his Arizona home.

"He hasn't called me officially and asked me to trade him, no," GM Brian Cashman said yesterday when asked if the Big Unit requested the Yankees move him.

Cashman, asked if he was attempting to move Johnson, who has a blanket no-trade clause and is 20 wins shy of 300, wouldn't comment. Alan Nero, one of Johnson's agents, said there was no truth to the rumor.

"There is nothing coming out of our camp," Nero said. "I don't know where rumors start."

Johnson, who is working his way into shape after October back surgery, is one of six starting candidates for five spots in the Yankees' rotation - and that's before Roger Clemens possibly comes along. Johnson will be the first to admit his two years in The Bronx haven't been vintage, but the 43-year-old lefty has won 34 games (17 each season). He went 17-11 with a 5.00 ERA last year while pitching with a bad back.

Even if Johnson asked to be dealt, the Yankees wouldn't be dealing from strength.

- Often-injured Carl Pavano is one of the six candidates, and he hasn't been in a big-league game since June 2005. Like Johnson, Pavano is working out in Phoenix at Fischer Sports, a physical therapy and conditioning center.

- Kei Igawa, a Japanese lefty, is part of the half-dozen. Not only isn't Igawa signed, it's not known if he even can offer back-of-the-rotation help.

- Johnson's age and injury situation could force teams to shy away from him. Then there is the case of the $16 million owed to him for 2007.

- The Diamondbacks are closest to Johnson's home, but they were the ones that dealt him to the Yankees because they wanted to shed the contract of a 40-plus pitcher with back and knee issues. The Angels, Dodgers, Padres and Giants are closer to Arizona than The Bronx, but would they be willing to pay Johnson's salary and give the Yankees at least prospects in return? Seattle, where Johnson pitched from 1989 to 1998, is shopping first baseman Richie Sexson ($28 million for 2007-08). Though the Yankees, who would prefer a right-handed hitting first baseman, would save $2 million in 2007, it would cost them $14 million in 2008.


Source: NY Daily News

---

He was still a 17-game winner last year. Johnson should fill out the middle-to-back of our rotation nicely, and I'm not sure I'd move him either, and we won't get fair value because he's old and coming off of major back surgery.

I'm no fan of the slightly-diminished Unit when he blows up, but he has won some nice games for us, and I'd rather have him than not.

---

Updating the Melky situation...I'd still rather see them keep Melky and work with Piniero or other FA/non-tendered pitchers who have shown proficiency in relieving roles rather than trade him away.

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/18/06 01:05 AM

Red Sox Regretting Drew?
Quote:
Are the Red Sox having second thoughts on signing J.D. Drew? They at least want a second opinion on the outfielder's physical exam results, The Boston Globe reported Sunday.

Drew is scheduled to have a second opinion Monday on a shoulder issue that came up in Drew's first exam, a source told The Globe.

The newspaper reported that it isn't known if the issue could void Drew's deal with the Red Sox. Boston reached a preliminary agreement on a five-year, $70 million contract with Drew at the winter meetings on Dec. 5.

The shoulder issue could cause the Red Sox to shorten the length of the agreement, or replace some guarantees with incentives, The Globe reported.

The 31-year-old Drew has had injuries throughout his career, but he played in 146 games for the Los Angeles Dodgers last season and hit .283 with 20 homers and a team-high 100 RBI. He became a free agent when he opted out of the last three years of his five-year, $55 million.

The injuries have added to negative perceptions that have followed Drew since the Philadelphia Phillies selected him No. 2 overall in the 1997 amateur draft. He did not sign, went back into the draft and was picked by the St. Louis Cardinals fifth overall the next year.


Source: ESPN.com/AP

---

JD Drew still strikes my heart with fear, especially since he can't throw!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/18/06 04:51 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
He was still a 17-game winner last year. Johnson should fill out the middle-to-back of our rotation nicely, and I'm not sure I'd move him either, and we won't get fair value because he's old and coming off of major back surgery.

I'm no fan of the slightly-diminished Unit when he blows up, but he has won some nice games for us, and I'd rather have him than not.


I agree, I don't want to see Unit gone either. Do you think he'll pitch in the Bronx in 2008? I know he only has 1 more year left on his contract but he's only 20 wins shy of 300 and figure he should win at least 10 this year, he'd be halfway there. Think he'd take a paycut to come back in '08 to get to 300? BTW, what do you think about Clemens? Think he's going to Houston, Boston or New York? I don't think he'll come back until the trading deadline but where do you think he'll go?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/18/06 02:37 PM

My crystal ball says "no" to RJ in the Bronx in '08. The Yankees rotation will be getting overcrowded if things play out the way they should...with Phillip Hughes, Jeff Karstens, and Humberto Sanchez all aiming to be in the full-time rotation within the next couple of years. Hopefully Igawa will work out. Mussina is still signed on to 2008, as is Pavano (with a $13 million club option for 2009 that I guarantee won't be picked up unless Pavano suddenly gets down off the cross, walks on water, cures the lepers and makes the blind to see). Barring some trades, the Yanks have an overabundance of young and upcoming pitchers, all of whom have shown great promise towards succeeding at baseball's highest level. Unless Johnson has an INSANE year, he'll probably try to sign on someplace closer to his home, or retire. His price tag (even if he drops his price) combined with his injury risk and declining performance is a bit too high for a 45 year old pitcher.

Clemens, on the other hand, will most likely end up in New York, in my opinion. Not that I want him to - far from it - but I'm still believing that the Yankees have a more secure shot at the playoffs than Boston does. Matsuzaka isn't going to change what was wrong with that franchise last year, and if he flops, is only going to contribute. Julio Lugo will be a welcome asset defensively at shortstop, but couple JD Drew's problems and cancerous attitude issues with Lugo's questionable attitude at times, and multiply that with "Manny being Manny," and you have a potential chemistry downfall.

On the other hand, the Red Sox, on paper, have a solid team, and their rotation will be arguably better than the Yankees, if all plays out correctly with Matsuzaka, Beckett learns how to pitch to AL hitters, and Schilling still can pitch with bloody socks.

Houston is still probably his #1 choice. But I think that with the Yankees adding Pettitte, it gives Clemens a little food for thought. Whether Cashman is willing to rebuild those burnt bridges Roger left when he torched us to go to Houston is another story.

Either way, he's only going to pitch probably from June or July through October, so his golden fleece is still a bit far off from being attained by the Yankees, Red Sox, or the Astros.

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/18/06 03:08 PM

Dates for the Trading Dance: Yankees One of Many
Quote:
Yankees are just one of Pirates' options with Gonzalez
Team sees Braves, Red Sox in trade mix, too

Monday, December 18, 2006
By Dejan Kovacevic, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Whether Mike Gonzalez opens the 2007 season with a tomahawk across his chest or draped in pinstripes, this much is certain: His profile has been raised quite a bit this offseason.

His name was buzzed throughout Major League Baseball's winter meetings two weeks ago, when the Pirates and Atlanta Braves discussed an ill-fated deal that would have brought first baseman Adam LaRoche to Pittsburgh. The Boston Red Sox were after him, too, at one point engaging the Pirates and Braves with a three-team trade scenario.

And now, Gonzalez is becoming a mainstay on New York's back pages.

Beginning with a New York Post article eight days ago that described the Yankees' possible interest in Gonzalez, then mushrooming into another possible three-team trade involving Atlanta, then diminishing to focus solely on the Yankees and Pirates, the story has sprouted in some form or other in all of that city's dailies.

This is what is known on the Pirates' end of the matter, according to multiple sources:

General manager Dave Littlefield's priority remains finding a way to acquire LaRoche, 27, who had 32 home runs and 90 RBIs last season and would more than fit their bill for a young, left-handed power hitter. Atlanta still would welcome the addition of Gonzalez, even after acquiring setup man Rafael Soriano from the Seattle Mariners, but the Braves want more to part with LaRoche because their backup at first base, Scott Thorman, is no known commodity.

The odds still favor Atlanta making a deal with the Los Angeles Angels rather than the Pirates, as the Angels would be better able to fill the Braves' need for a leadoff-hitting second baseman.

The Pirates and Yankees have engaged in feeler-type talks regarding Gonzalez, but there is no firm word from Pittsburgh or Atlanta -- counter to the reports out of New York -- that those have included the Braves or any third party. Rather, they are focused on a deal that would send Gonzalez to New York for outfielder Melky Cabrera and another player, likely a pitching prospect.

It is not the first time the Pirates have inquired about Cabrera, 22, who hit .280 with seven home runs and 50 RBIs in 460 at-bats last season. He was the focus of their July talks with the Yankees that ultimately led to the Craig Wilson-Shawn Chacon trade.

One source in New York yesterday described the Pirates' interest in Cabrera as intense.

Boston is not yet of the mix, even after the Red Sox acquired relievers Brendan Donnelly and J.C. Romero in the past week. The view there is that general manager Theo Epstein is adding relievers to bolster his chance of acquiring a closer. Neither Donnelly nor Romero is seen as filling that role.

Still, Boston does not have a match for the Pirates' desired left-handed power hitter, which is one reason the Red Sox were part of three-way talks.

Concerns about Gonzalez's health were diminished after he had another physical last Monday in Pittsburgh and was given another clean bill. Gonzalez missed the final five weeks of last season to elbow tendinitis, which raised a red flag from Atlanta at the winter meetings.

No deal on any front appears imminent, though some expect the Pirates to make some type of move involving Gonzalez before the end of the year.


Certainly, with Romero and Donnelly, Boston's bullpen is a bit more formidable. However, I do think that Papelbon is going to fall flat on his face as a starter (ala our own Mariano Rivera's unsuccessful stint as a starter before being moved to set up for John Wettelend). Sure, he's got some exceptional pitches, but he's going to get a wake-up call when batters see him 3 or 4 times a game, as opposed to what he currently pitches. Boston needs a closer in the worst way, and Gonzalez is quite good, so I'd rather see him end up in pinstripes as a lefty alternative to Farnsworth.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/18/06 09:34 PM

Yanks, Igawa Ink 5-Year Deal
Quote:
The New York Yankees and Kei Igawa both played second fiddle in the posting sweepstakes. Igawa, though, got a first-rate deal it was learned on Monday, agreeing to a five-year, 20 million dollars contract with the Bronx Bombers.

The Yanks earned the right to negotiate with Igawa in late November and wasted little time getting the southpaw in pinstripes.

The deal for the 27-year-old, who was 14-9 this past season with a 2.97 ERA for the Hanshin Tigers, also includes incentives.

Negotiations were smooth thanks Igawa's agent, Arn Tellem, who has strong ties with the Yankees. Talks opened on Nov. 29 and Tellem made it clear that Igawa wanted a long-term deal.

The Yanks, who earned negotiating rights with a bid of a little more than 26 million dollars, thought highly of the Hanshin ace and both sides were determined to hammer out a deal before the 30-day negotiating deadline.


Source: The Yomiuri Shimbun

---

Glad to see the Yanks didn't drag their feet ala Boston and Matsuzaka. Also, here are more links to an 11-inning complete-game shutout from Igawa's final regular season game this past year with the Hanshin Tigers.

First Inning


Second Inning


Third Inning


Fourth Inning


Fifth Inning

Sixth Inning

Seventh Inning

Eighth Inning

Ninth Inning


Tenth Inning

Eleventh Inning
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/19/06 01:50 PM

I think the Red Sox have some insecurities they may need to discuss in therapy, after reading this garbage from the Boston Herald:

Quote:

Dogged Determination: Sox Sink Teeth Into Dice-K

By Gerry Callahan
Boston Herald General Sports Columnist
Tuesday, December 19, 2006 - Updated: 05:16 AM EST

It would have been so easy to just go through the motions. They could have just submitted a bid of $30 million or $35 million, lost out to the New York Mets, and then said, “Oh, well, we tried.” It would have been hard to blame them.

Then they could have told their friends in the media that the kid is no sure thing. He’s never pitched an inning in the big leagues, and he’s never played anywhere like Boston. Remember Hideo Nomo and Byung-Hyun Kim? They hated it here. Couldn’t wait to get out. And let’s not forget slimy agent Scott Boras. The Mets can go kiss his toes, if they’d like. We don’t need the aggravation.


In the end, the Red Sox could have saved the Chilean Sea Bass, sat out the Daisuke Matsuzaka sweepstakes and never had to worry about where to put the Million Cameraman March that will follow the pitcher to the big leagues. You know what the last Sox owner would have done if he were faced with an opportunity of this magnitude? Passed.

Not these guys. John Henry, Tom Werner and Larry Lucchino went after the player like a pit bull on the neighbor’s cat, and they didn’t let up until they had a deal. It was the most aggressive and impressive play from this team since Dave Roberts took off for second on Mariano Rivera, and it proved one thing about these Red Sox owners: They are as maniacal and driven as the people who fill the seats at Fenway.
One year ago, the Sox front office was more messed up than Air America. Today it is the envy of baseball and the reason Yankees owner George Steinbrenner is looking for something to throw at GM Brian Cashman. In one big, bold, imaginative move, the Sox signed the best pitcher on the market and generated an unimaginable level of interest in an aging, 86-win team.

You don’t think they’ll recoup their $51.11 million posting fee? These are the same guys who sold dirt. They took bids on the empty champagne bottles after the ’04 World Series. Somehow they’ll find a way to cash in on Dice K Mania.

But the real beauty of this move is on the baseball field. We heard it all last summer, as the Detroit Tigers rolled through the regular season, into the playoffs and onto the World Series: To build a championship team, you start with a pitching staff made up of young power arms. With Josh Beckett [stats], Jonathan Papelbon and Matsuzaka, the Red Sox now have three 26-year-old right-handers who have the potential to win the Cy Young. None of the three is eligible for free agency until after the 2010 season.

The fact is you can find a closer. You can trade for a closer. You can even make a closer. Twenty-six-year-old starters are the most precious commodity in the game.

To his credit, GM Theo Epstein anticipated an exploding market for pitching and trumped the field with his bid for Matsuzaka. Then the Sox refused to blink in their negotiations with Boras, and wound up with a potential ace for about $8.7 million a year. If you’re keeping score at home, the Sox trounced both the Yankees and Boras, and for the second year in a row, they landed the best pitcher available.

The only difference is last year Beckett cost them shortstop prospect Hanley Ramirez, who turned out to be NL Rookie of the Year for Florida, and Anibal Sanchez, who turned out to be a pretty good pitcher who threw a no-hitter as a rookie for the Marlins. Dice K cost them nothing but money and jet fuel, and what do the Sox get for their investment?
“He was the best pitcher in the world this year,” wrote Sports Illustrated’s Tom Verducci, who nominated Matsuzaka for the 2006 Sportsman of the Year.
It is easy to say that Dice K hasn’t pitched in the big leagues, but Ichiro Suzuki won the AL MVP in his first season in the United States. Nomo was the NL Rookie of the Year and an All-Star in 1995. Dice K was the MVP of the World Baseball Classic last March and has been performing under pressure since he was in high school. He’s used to crowds and cameras, and for what it’s worth, he smiled more in one day in Boston than Nomo or Kim did in their entire careers.


Because of his size and stuff, Matsuzaka has been compared to Pedro Martinez, which is ironic. One of the things that drove Martinez out of Boston will help Dice K immensely in his rookie year. Pedro didn’t like sharing the spotlight with Curt Schilling [stats], the man who helped him win his only World Series ring. Dice K is probably not so egomaniacal. Who is, after all? The new kid is surely smart enough to listen and learn as much as he can from Schilling, who promises to learn a few Japanese words and phrases by the day pitchers and catchers report to spring training.
This is Schilling’s final season, and the truth is, until about a few days ago, he had his doubts. He didn’t think he had much of a chance of going out on top. Then the Sox went after Dice K, and everything changed. The Sox are a championship contender again. The best pitcher in the world will do that for you.



Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/19/06 06:26 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
One year ago, the Sox front office was more messed up than Air America. Today it is the envy of baseball and the reason Yankees owner George Steinbrenner is looking for something to throw at GM Brian Cashman.


Thanks DJ, I needed that. "The envy of baseball," WOW, what a load of horse sh*t. This is the same team that didn't trade for A-Rod or resign Damon for only a measly couple million dollars (but we won't put that in the article because it would make boston look, gulp, incompetent).


Originally Posted By: Double-J
This is Schilling’s final season

WOO HOO!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/20/06 01:32 PM

Mientkiewicz Wants Pinstripes; Pirates Want Proctor
Quote:
By GEORGE KING

December 20, 2006 -- Doug Mientkiewicz would love to play for the Yankees, but if he doesn't, the free agent says another team is going to get a completely healthy first baseman.

"I am doing great," said Mientkiewicz, who underwent back surgery in late August to repair a herniated disc that invaded his nerve root.

"Everything is ahead of schedule. I am running and looking forward to next year."

Mientkiewicz, who has played for the Twins, Red Sox, Mets and Royals, hasn't heard directly from the Yankees but is aware they have an interest in him.

"There are other teams interested, but I would enjoy [playing for the Yankees]," the lefty-hitting Mientkiewicz said.

Oakland has expressed interest, and if Seattle deals Richie Sexson it likely would ask about the 32-year-old Mientkiewicz.

Mientkiewicz, who made $1.85 million last year when he played 91 games for the Royals, is looking for a one-year contract. That makes him more desirable to the Yankees than Shea Hillenbrand, who is seeking a multi-year deal. Mark Loretta's name also has surfaced in the puzzle to find a player who will turn Jason Giambi into a full-time DH.

*

Andy Pettitte underwent a physical yesterday, but plans for a Yankee Stadium news conference today have been scrapped. Pettitte has a family activity to attend in Texas.

Japanese lefty Kei Igawa is to undergo a physical today. Igawa has agreed to a five-year deal worth $20 million.

*

Unless the Yankees agree to give the Braves Melky Cabrera and Scott Proctor for Mike Gonzalez, a three-way deal including the Pirates won't happen.


Source: New York Post

---

That deal with Cabrera should not go down...if the goal is to strengthen our bullpen, why would we cut out one of our young cornerstones simply to acquire another? It makes no sense. I think that's the reason Cashman is rejecting this deal, because Cabrera for a young left-handed closer straight-up is a good deal, but adding Proctor in...they should be getting considerably more for a 22-year-old budding outfielder with increasing bat pop and arguably the most reliable middle reliever in the American League.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/20/06 01:37 PM

Darryl Strawberry Becomes Dr. Phil
Quote:
How dysfunctional are things in the Yankees' clubhouse? Even Darryl Strawberry thinks it's messed up.

"I think the Yankees' problem is they just don't support each other," Strawberry said yesterday. "Back in the day we all supported each other. I think they need to get back to that. The talent is there, but everyone seems like they go their own separate ways."

Strawberry, the former Met and Yankee who once brawled with Mets teammate Keith Hernandez during the team's spring training photo day, was at a news conference in lower Manhattan to promote a film in which he will appear in 2008.

But when asked by reporters about the current Yankees, Strawberry had plenty to say -- especially about the Derek Jeter-Alex Rodriguez relationship.

"Jeter and A-Rod are two class acts in baseball, and I would hope they would put their relationship back together," Strawberry said. "They've got to come together. It's time for them to mend that relationship. Both of them are leaders and they need to come together as leaders and bring the Yankees back up to par."

Strawberry said that the Yankees' lack of chemistry comes through when he watches them play on TV.

"They've separated themselves as individuals," he said. "A-Rod is a big part of that team. He's a great player, a great person, but they need to embrace him. It's kind of sad they haven't done that. You hate to see that because he's part of helping you win, and you need to embrace every piece to win. I hope Jeter would embrace him this year and bring him into the circle as part of the Yankees family. If Jeter does it, everybody else will respond."

Strawberry echoed a popular sentiment about Rodriguez and the way he's been "handled" by New York and by his own teammates.

"A-Rod's a great guy, man. He's a sensitive guy," Strawberry said. "You don't get booed in Texas. You don't get booed in Seattle. You come here, the pressure's on. The team needs to embrace him. They need to make him feel he's part of the Yankees, not an outcast."

Strawberry also scoffed at the notion that Rodriguez hasn't performed up to expectations as a Yankee.

"He won the MVP two years ago -- what do they mean it's not working out?" Strawberry said. "He hit 35 (homers) and drove in 100 (runs). What do they mean it's not working out? He hasn't performed like Jeter has in the playoffs, but Jeter's a different breed."

The film in which Strawberry will appear is based on Yankees adviser Ray Negron's children's book, "The Boy of Steel," which will be adapted into a television special and DVD and a live-action movie. The movie will begin filming in September for a 2008 release, and Strawberry will play a cancer patient.

The Yankees hope to "introduce" Andy Pettitte at a news conference this week at Yankee Stadium. Pettitte, the former Yankee who agreed to a two-year, $32 million free-agent deal with the team two weeks ago, had his physical exam yesterday in New York, and as of last night the Yankees were still waiting for some test results before scheduling the news conference.

Japanese left-hander Kei Igawa, who has agreed to a five-year, $20 million contract after the Yankees bid $26 million for the rights to negotiate with him, is also slated to take a physical this week. But his signing won't be made official today, and he might not have his introductory news conference until after Jan. 1.

---

In their continuing search for a first baseman, the Yankees have contacted free-agent second baseman Mark Loretta about the idea of changing positions and manning first base for them.

"It's something that kind of recently came up," said Loretta's agent, Bob Garber. "I think he's being patient and waiting for the right opportunity."

Loretta batted .285 and made the All-Star team last year, in his first and only season with the Boston Red Sox. He actually played 11 games at first base for Boston in 2006, and for his career has played 171 games at first base, 171 at third, 328 at shortstop and 731 at second base. The Houston Astros and Texas Rangers are the teams that so far have shown the most interest in Loretta.

A baseball official close to the situation said the Yankees' efforts to land lefty reliever Mike Gonzalez in exchange for Melky Cabrera seemed to be "fading away."

The Yankees announced that Dave Miley, who managed their Triple-A Columbus team last year, would return for a second year as their Triple-A manager. This year, the Yankees' Triple-A team will play in Scranton-Wilkes Barre. Miley's coaching staff includes former Yankee players Butch Wynegar (hitting coach), Dave Eiland (pitching coach) and Alvaro Espinoza (infield coach).


D-Straw, telling people how things are supposed to be? Have another snort.

Anyways, I do think he is partially right. Jeter should be the bigger man and try and reestablish some chemistry with A-Rod and the rest of the gang. Getting Pettitte back and hopefully resigning Bernie should help this cause. If it takes having to have a fistfight out behind Yankee Stadium between A-Rod and Jeter, so be it. But if A-Rod is going to remain in NY, then something has to be done to get his head in the right place (surprised that such a statement can be fit in the same post as a D-Straw's name, right? )
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/20/06 01:41 PM

JD Drew Deal In Jeopardy; Red Sox Nation In Agony, Go On Mass Anime Spending Spree to Show Japanese Solidarity
Quote:
BOSTON -- Two weeks after they reached a preliminary agreement, the Boston Red Sox still haven't finalized their contract with J.D. Drew.

J.D. Drew
Right Field
Boston Red Sox

Profile
2006 SEASON STATISTICS
GM HR RBI R OBP AVG
146 20 100 84 .393 .283

"There's some stuff in the medical reports that the team was not aware of," Gene Orza, chief operating officer of the Major League Baseball Players Association, said Tuesday. "It hasn't risen to the level of a dispute yet."

The Boston Herald reported Saturday that the outfielder's medical exam raised "a red flag'' that the team wanted to investigate further. Reports in the Herald and Boston Globe have mentioned the condition of his right shoulder.

Neither Boston general manager Theo Epstein, owner John Henry nor Drew's agent, Scott Boras, have commented about the shoulder. Red Sox assistant GM Jed Hoyer said last week that, in the midst of negotiations over another Boras client, Japanese ace Daisuke Matsuzaka, finalizing Drew's agreement had been delayed.

"His contract is fairly complicated and Scott and Theo have been fairly busy on some other things," Hoyer said. "They just need to dot some I's and cross some T's."

On Dec. 5 at baseball's winter meetings, Boras confirmed a preliminary agreement with the Red Sox. Epstein stressed at the time that the deal was pending a physical, but commented on how Drew would fit in the team's lineup if everything went through.

Drew's contract calls for annual salaries of $14 million, but if Drew can't meet set levels of games played, some of the final year's $14 million would be deferred.

The Red Sox envision the lefty hitting Drew playing right field and batting fifth, a weak spot in the order last season, behind David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez. Trot Nixon, last year's starting right fielder, is a free agent. Wily Mo Pena, who also played there last season, figures to be Boston's fourth outfielder.

The 31-year-old Drew had surgery on his right shoulder and right wrist in September 2005 but played in a career-high 146 games last season for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He also drove in a career-high 100 runs. But he hit only 20 homers, an average of one every 7.3 games, his lowest in four seasons. He slugged .498, 14 points below his career average, but raised his slugging percentage every month from June on, including a torrid .683 figure for September.

Drew hit nine homers in his first 46 games but none in his next 43 before finding his power again with 11 homers in his last 57 games.

He played only 72 games in 2005, primarily because of a broken left wrist sustained when he was hit by a pitch that ended his season on July 3. He became a free agent after last season when he opted out of the last three years of his $55 million, five-year contract with the Dodgers.


Source: Associated Press

---

This would be hilarious if it doesn't get finalized. I mean, I've heard local Red Sox fans acting as if JD Drew is Willy Mays, and is going to be the next Manny. Maybe they would be better off signing him...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/20/06 01:45 PM

Yanks Consider Loretta at First
Quote:
ESPN's Buster Olney says the Yankees have been in contact with Mark Loretta about their opening at first base.
Loretta's finished with OPSs of 707 and 706 the last two years, so he looks like he'd be an incredibly weak option as a regular first baseman, though the insurance he'd provide at second base would be nice. The Yankees will probably end up with Doug Mientkiewicz or Shea Hillenbrand.


Source: Rotoworld, ESPN Insider

---

No! Please. Can't we just get a decent fielding first baseman instead of trying to make square cogs fit in a round hole? Fuck. The only convert I'd accept would be Bernie, just because his bat and clutch are so valuable. Loretta is a good fielder, but as the Rotoworld comments state, his bat production is why the Yankees want a Richie Sexon.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/20/06 01:53 PM

To counter that crappy Boston Herald article, I've got one from the New York Sun:

Yankees Make the Most of $200 million
Quote:
Taking Fewer Risks, Yankees Making the Most of $200M
Baseball

By TIM MARCHMAN
December 20, 2006


One good way to test a plan's quality is to think about how heavily it relies on many things going right. It's hardly impossible, for instance, to imagine the Chicago Cubs boasting an excellent rotation this coming year. If oft-injured Mark Prior regains his health, inconsistent young starter Rich Hill makes the leap from promising prospect to quality major leaguer, free agent signing Ted Lilly proves the rare lefty able to pitch in Wrigley Field, and fellow newcomer Jason Marquis bounces back from a season when he had the worst ERA in the National League, the team will be in great shape. Of course, all those things won't happen, and the fact that thinking about the Cubs' rotation leads instantly to these conditionals is a good demonstration of why their master plan to have a good rotation isn't really very impressive.

With the Yankees, the conditionals work in the opposite direction. You can imagine every pitcher in the team's prospective rotation doing a bit worse than they're expected to, and the team still has a fine staff. It's an improvement on such Cubs-like schemes as positing that Carl Pavano and Jaret Wright will be healthy and effective.

That the Yankees find themselves in this position is a testament to how much more soundly they've been run since general manager Brian Cashman won a power struggle with various other factions of the Yankees bureaucracy last year. The Kremlinology involved in determining how much credit Cashman deserves, is less interesting than the simple fact that it is so. Compare the circuses of past seasons to this year's simple, efficient operation. The team has traded likely future Hall of Famer Gary Sheffield and filled out a rotation that consisted, as of the end of the World Series, of just Chien-Ming Wang and Randy Johnson, and hardly anyone has, relatively speaking, noticed or cared.

It's the filling out of the rotation that's been most impressive. Assuming that the deal to bring Japanese left-hander Kei Igawa to the Bronx goes through (there are some final-stage negotiations still going on, and the pitcher needs to pass a physical),the team will have committed $85 million to secure Igawa, Andy Pettitte, and Mike Mussina to new contracts. When Gil Meche is being paid $55 million to be awful for the Kansas City Royals for five years, it seems criminal for the Yankees to get away with this sort of thing.

Consider this: Last year, the Yankees' starters pitched 933.2 innings with an ERA of 4.54, as the impressive work of Wang and Mussina was counterbalanced by Johnson's meltdown and the usual parade of fifth-starter scrubs — not the most impressive performance in history, but good enough for 97 wins. That should be considered a conservative downside for this year's staff.

Just as a back of the envelope sketch, assume the following. Wang takes a step back and watches his ERA rise to 4.25, half a run above his career mark, and pitches 190 innings. Both Mussina and Pettitte pitch about as well and about as much, Mussina a bit less and Pettitte a bit more, as their recent brilliant campaigns prove to have been flukish performances. Johnson is just as bad as last year and misses a quarter of the season with various injuries. Meanwhile, Igawa, a durable pitcher who's thrown 200 innings in four of the last five seasons despite the short Japanese schedule, throws 175 innings with a 4.50 ERA — a bit higher than a straight statistical analysis would suggest is likely — while Stadium concession stands sell lots of T-shirts featuring his "Iron Nerve" slogan.

Add that all up and the Yankees have 900 innings of 4.40 ERA ball. Note the assumptions made here — that Wang's sinker will lose a bit of its effectiveness, that Mussina will not pitch as well as he did last year, that Pettitte will more resemble the durable innings-eater last seen in the Bronx than he will the fitfully brilliant ace he was in Houston, that Johnson will not recover a bit, and that Igawa will essentially be a Ted Lilly-type. None are unreasonable propositions, but just as the Cubs would be foolish to expect all of what they need to go right to do so, there's no reason to expect the Yankees will catch no breaks.

Maybe Wang will continue to baffle everyone who says that being an ace-caliber starter without striking anyone out is impossible. Maybe Johnson will have one last glorious run left in him. Maybe Phillip Hughes will come up from the farm fully formed like one of the Detroit Tigers' bounty of young starters. Maybe none of this will happen, and the Yanks will just soldier on this year, getting pitching about as good as they did last year, and they'll win 95 again. There's no way to know for sure, of course. What we do know is that for once the team isn't counting on any kind of miracle from anyone. It's the kind of plan $200 million should buy every year.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/06 01:46 PM



Wining and Dining: Cashman and Igawa
Quote:
Igawa meets GM, tours Yankee Stadium

© 2006 The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Japanese left-hander Kei Igawa is still waiting to sign a contract with the New York Yankees. Yet judging by the smile and the Yankees jacket he wore Wednesday after an hour-long meeting with general manager Brian Cashman, that should come soon.

"The deal is not done, but it will be nice if we can do it," Igawa said through a translator.

Igawa and the Yankees have agreed in principle on a five-year, $20 million contract. Igawa and agent Arn Tellem, expected to arrive in New York late Wednesday, are still working on the year-to-year breakdown of the pitcher's salary and performance bonuses.

The 27-year-old Igawa is scheduled to take a physical Thursday. He arrived in New York early Wednesday and spent much of the day looking around New York, including a tour of Yankee Stadium.

"My impression about New York was that there would be a lot of people walking," he said. "But I was surprised there were a lot of cars."

Temperatures in the low 40s probably had something to do with keeping people off the streets, but that didn't stop almost 40 Japanese reporters from huddling outside Yankee Stadium for 90 minutes to catch Igawa after his visit.

New York and Igawa have until Dec. 28 to finalize an agreement. The Yankees bid $26,000,194 for Igawa, who went 14-9 last season with a 2.97 ERA and 194 strikeouts for the Hanshin Tigers.

The Yankees must pay the fee to the Tigers within five business days after completing a contract.

Igawa is scheduled to fly back to Japan on Saturday. Even if the deal is completed before then, the Yankees aren't expected to make a formal introduction of their newest Japanese player - they also have outfielder Hideki Matsui - until January.

Pitcher Andy Pettitte, who had a physical in New York on Tuesday as part of finalizing his contract to return to the Yankees, traveled back to Houston for a family matter. The Yankees will introduce him by conference call on Thursday.

Pettitte comes back to the Yankees after three seasons with his hometown Astros. He will earn $16 million next year and holds a $16 million player option for 2008.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/06 01:49 PM

YES Sues TW
Quote:
NEW YORK - The Yankees Entertainment Sports Network (YES) filed a breach of contract lawsuit on Wednesday against Time Warner Inc.'s Time Warner Cable, claiming they underpaid the network by more than $1.5 million.

In a six-page summons and complaint filed in New York State Supreme Court, the sports and entertainment network alleges that Time Warner Cable had "miscalculated the licensing fees due YES under an Affiliation Agreement" since February 1, 2005.

YES said the agreement in question was dated March 20, 2002, and amended on April 6, 2005.

According to the lawsuit, YES alleges that Time Warner Cable "continues to underpay YES in an amount to be proven at trial but believed to now exceed $1.5 million ... and increasing every month."

YES is also seeking compensatory damages and pre-judgment interest and an amount to be determined to reimburse the network for all its expenses.

Time Warner Cable declined to comment.


Source: Reuters

---

If their service in my local area is any indication, Time-Warner really, really blows. They cut out a number of channels that were on basic or tiered cable and made them premium channels (like the NFL Network), while hiking rates.

I guess Ted's alimony still must have to pay for Hannoi Jane's adventures in her vegetable oil bus.

It makes me glad to have DirecTV.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/06 01:51 PM

Yankees Top Salary Chart, Decline From Last Season
Quote:
It came as no surprise when the players union released its annual average salary report yesterday that said the Yankees were No. 1 for the eighth straight year. Surprising, however, was that the Yankees’ average salary this year dropped from 2005.

The decline was not a first in recent years for the high-spending Yankees; their average fell in 2003. But any time the Yankees have lower salary figures of any kind, it is a development worth noting.

The Yankees’ average was $6,947,232, down from $7,386,451, a decline of 6 percent. They were one of 12 clubs whose average salaries fell, though the major league average rose 9 percent, to $2,699,292 from $2,476,589.

Because of the number of players on their roster and disabled list as of Aug. 31, the date both the union and the commissioner’s office use for their computations, the Yankees’ payroll was actually higher this year than last by $717,894 — $222,311,424 (32 players) to $221,593,530 (30 players).

Probably an even bigger surprise in the report than the drop in the Yankees’ average was the identity of the team with the second-highest average. The Houston Astros’ average salary soared 47 percent, to $4,283,240 from $2,905,946.

The Red Sox were third, down from second, at $3,986,768, and the Mets were fourth, up from fifth, at $3,859,172. The Mets’ average rose 15.6 percent; the Red Sox’ fell 4.4 percent.

At the bottom of the average list, not surprisingly, were the Florida Marlins at $594,722. The Marlins, whose average plummeted 68 percent, and their fellow Florida franchise, Tampa Bay ($747,536), were the only teams whose averages were under $1 million.


Source: NY Times
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/06 02:28 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J




I hope she does well.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/06 02:36 PM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
Originally Posted By: Double-J




I hope she does well.


He's bigger than that Dice guy over in Beantown. I bet he could take him.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/06 04:33 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Originally Posted By: klydon1
Originally Posted By: Double-J




I hope she does well.


He's bigger than that Dice guy over in Beantown. I bet he could take him.


Rosie O'Donnell is bigger than Dice too.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/21/06 05:50 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
It makes me glad to have DirecTV.


I have DirecTV in texas and I hate it. I'm a cable person myself (ESPECIALLY in New York when I get actually see the YES Network)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/22/06 12:05 AM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
Originally Posted By: Double-J
Originally Posted By: klydon1
Originally Posted By: Double-J




I hope she does well.


He's bigger than that Dice guy over in Beantown. I bet he could take him.


Rosie O'Donnell is bigger than Dice too.


She's too busy taking on men smaller than her, like Danny DeVito.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/22/06 01:21 AM

Yankees Latin and Central American Prospects Updates
Quote:
Francisco Butto's ERA in the Venezuela Winter League may be a tad higher than he's used to, but it's a different stat column that's raising some eyebrows.

On Dec. 17, the right-hander, who's currently playing for the Tigres de Aragua, picked up his 13th save of the offseason. The saves he's tallied in the last two months ties his Minor League career total, which spans eight seasons.

Butto's spent most of his career in the bullpen, although with Class A Lakewood in 2003 and advanced Class A Clearwater the following season, he did see a significant amount of time as a starter. But now, it seems he's experimenting, and doing well, with a much different role.

In 23 appearances -- totaling 21 innings -- Butto is 2-3 with a 4.29 ERA, which is almost a full point higher than his career ERA of 3.35. But the bulk of his ERA is stemming from a poor outing on Nov. 9, when he gave up five runs in less than an inning.

Butto and 11 other players in the Yankees organization are currently playing in Venezuela, Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

Carlos Mendoza, 2B -- In two games over a week's time, Mendoza went 3-for-8 with a run scored to raise his average to .295 on the season.

Raul Chavez, C -- Chavez's bat has cooled off as of late, dropping his average below the .300 mark. He's gone 3-for-15 since Dec. 13, leaving his average at .295.

Gerardo Casadiego, RHP -- Casadiego gave up his first run since Nov. 13 on Sunday after he gave up a solo homer in one inning of relief for the Tiburones. Ironically, the run he gave up prior to that also came on a solo shot. The right-hander's ERA remains at 2.12.

Edgar Omana, LHP -- Omana's last appearance was on Dec. 6, and his ERA stands at 9.00.

Marcos Vechionacci, 3B -- Vechionacci hasn't played since Dec. 8, when he returned from a month-long absence.

Dominican Winter League

Erick Abreu, RHP -- Abreu pitched under an inning over the last week, but he raised his ERA over a point to 2.02. Entering competition on Dec. 13, Abreu had a 0.83 ERA in 22 1/3 innings.

Edwar Ramirez, RHP -- Ramirez threw two scoreless innings last week to lower his ERA to 5.09.

Juan De Leon, RHP -- De Leon hasn't pitched since giving up two runs in his last outing, leaving his ERA at 14.71.

Jorge De Paula, RHP -- De Paula didn't pitch this past week, and he carries a 6.04 ERA in 25 1/3 innings.

Bryan Villalona, RHP -- Villalona also hasn't pitched in the last five days. He has a 7.24 ERA in 13 2/3 innings.

Mexican Winter League

Ramiro Pena, SS -- Pena had three pinch-hit at-bats over the last week, and he struck out in all three of them. The infielder is batting .209 in 67 at-bats.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/26/06 12:50 AM

Report: Yanks discuss dealing Johnson

NEW YORK -- Randy Johnson could be leaving the New York Yankees after just two seasons.

The Yankees have started trade talks with several teams, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, although it is too early to tell whether the discussions will lead to a deal. Talks were confirmed Monday by a baseball official who had knowledge of them and spoke on condition of anonymity because they are in the preliminary stage. The Yankees' discussions with the Diamondbacks, Johnson's former club, were first reported by the New York Post and The Star-Ledger of New Jersey.

Alan Nero, one of Johnson's agents, said Monday he was informed of trade talks by Yankees general manager Brian Cashman.

"I just had one conversation with Brian, and that's it. As far we know, there's nothing going on significant enough for us to become a part of it," Nero said. "I think Brian is just doing his job."

Johnson has a no-trade clause, meaning the 10-time All-Star must approve any deal. Nero said it was too early to say whether Arizona would be the pitcher's first choice if the Yankees do decide to trade the 43-year-old left-hander.

"We haven't discussed it, to be honest," Nero said. "This idea that Randy doesn't want to come back, that's not exactly true. I'm not aware of anything coming from our side that would force this. Whatever comes down, comes down, but it's not because Randy has demanded it or because we're participating in the process."

Cashman and Diamondbacks general partner Jeff Moorad did not return telephone calls seeking comment.

A five-time Cy Young Award winner, Johnson has been a disappointment with the Yankees despite a 34-19 regular-season record. He has a 4.37 ERA with New York -- including 5.00 last season -- and he is 0-1 with a 6.92 ERA in three postseason appearances with the Yankees, struggling with his arm angle and a slider that often has lacked bite.

He appeared to be uncomfortable with New York even before he officially agreed to be dealt to the Yankees. He got into a confrontation on a Manhattan sidewalk with a television cameraman while walking to take his physical, then apologized.

While at times he has displayed a sense of humor, he has been grumpy for long stretches, especially when his back bothered him last season. He had surgery Oct. 26 to repair a herniated disc in his back -- he had a similar operation in 1996 -- and the Yankees said he might be behind other pitchers when Spring Training starts in mid-February.

New York's projected rotation also includes Chien-Ming Wang, Mike Mussina, Andy Pettitte and Kei Igawa -- who must complete his $20 million, five-year contract by Thursday. In addition, Carl Pavano hopes to return from injuries that have sidelined him for 1 1/2 seasons, and there are several young pitchers who could earn a starting spot, a group that includes Jeff Karstens, Humberto Sanchez and possibly top prospect Philip Hughes.

The Yankees also hope Roger Clemens will decide to follow Pettitte back to New York after three seasons with their hometown Houston Astros. Even if Clemens does decide to pitch, he might repeat his decision of last season to start his season in June.

Johnson is owed $16 million next year, the final season of his contract, with $1.5 million deferred without interest and payable through 2010.

He pitched for Arizona from 1999-04, winning the NL Cy Young Award in his first four seasons. He was co-MVP of the 2001 World Series, coming out of the bullpen to beat the Yankees in Game 7, and lives in the Phoenix area.

Source: Yankees.com
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/27/06 01:56 AM

According to FOX Sports, "if the Yankees do trade Johnson, who is owed $16 million next year in the final season of his contract, New York would consider pursuing Barry Zito, the top available starting pitcher on the free-agent market." I'd do that in a heart-beat. I have been VERY adament about the Yankees pursuing Zito and they'll need another lefty if they trade Unit. As much as I like Unit and as much respect I have for the man, I hope the Yankees trade him, get some good players in return (some more bullpen help perhaps) and SIGN ZITO!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/31/06 11:23 PM

Yanks envision Clemens as replacement for Johnson

While the Yankees continue their efforts to trade Randy Johnson -- Arizona still seems the most likely landing spot -- they are envisioning Roger Clemens as the one to replace Johnson, to the point where they hope to convince Clemens to move up his possible 2007 start date, sources said.

Baseball people say the Yankees seem determined to deal Johnson and hopeful to convince Clemens to not only come to New York but to begin the season much earlier than he did with Houston in 2006. If the Yankees are successful in trading Johnson, their need for Clemens to start sooner becomes much more vital.

The Yankees were disappointed when Barry Zito went to the Giants for an eye-popping $126-million deal, but appear much more confident about their chances for Clemens. A person close to Zito suggested before Zito signed in San Francisco that the Yankees could have him if they matched the $18-million, seven-year contract Zito got in San Francisco, or if they came close to it. But according to someone familiar with their plans, the Yankees rebuffed that offer, as they were thinking more along the lines of $80 million for five years and first needed to secure a trade for Johnson, anyway.

The Yankees are more optimistic about landing Clemens even though his current public stance is that he hasn't decided whether to return in 2007. If he does, the Yankees hope he will come back for them a lot sooner than his first 2006 start for Houston of June 22, which followed a few minor-league tune-ups. The archrival Red Sox and Clemens' hometown Astros are also interested in Clemens.

The word going around is that while Clemens loved the convenience of home, he also misses the drama of New York. And, whether they know it or not, the Yankees' efforts in trying to trade Johnson could enhance their chances to land Clemens. Beyond the fact that by trading Johnson they would free up dollars, word is that Clemens doesn't particularly like Johnson to the point where he might even prefer to go to Boston or stay in Houston if the Yankees fail to unload The Big Unit.

It was Johnson's offhand comment to Yankees general manager Brian Cashman that he might prefer to play near his Paradise Valley, Ariz., home that provided the impetus to trade talks. Cashman took Johnson's remark as an opportunity to try remake a rotation that has disappointed at playoff time the past few years. The Yankees like Clemens better as an October starter (no surprise considering Johnson's 6.92 postseason ERA as a Yankee vs. Clemens' 3.24) and also see him as a more positive clubhouse influence. The Yankees have not been back to the World Series since Clemens' "retirement'' following the 2003 season.

But first things first, and that means finding a new home for Johnson. To that end, it is believed the Yankees are discussing a couple of potential deals with Arizona. There is some optimism for a deal, but sticking points may remain. One appears to be the compensation package going to the Yankees (and possibly the money going back to Arizona to cover a small portion of Johnson's $16-million salary), and the other is a possible extension for Johnson in Arizona. He is believed to be seeking a one-year extension for about $12 million.

The Yankees have given the Diamondbacks a list of about a half-dozen players and told them that they'd accept any combination of three of them while also agreeing to pay a few million toward Johnson's salary. A lesser package that would still include at least one or two players from that list might still be acceptable if the Diamondbacks absorbed Johnson's full salary.

The Yankees also have talked to the Padres about Johnson, and reliever Scott Linebrink was a target there. However, it appears the focus is on Arizona, which has more prospects than San Diego and provides a greater likelihood of Johnson waiving his no-trade clause.

The Yankees' Arizona A-list list includes young pitchers Micah Owings, Ross Ohlendorf, Dustin Nippert and reliever Luis Vizcaino. A couple other players believed to have been discussed include young pitcher Enrique Gonzalez and young infielder Alberto Gonzalez. The Yankees earlier had requested first baseman Connor Jackson, among other highly-regarded position players, but the Diamondbacks have said they will not include him in any deal and at this point, the talks involve mostly pitchers.

The Diamondbacks, who already owe Johnson deferred monies from his first go-round there, may also want Johnson to defer some of his 2006 salary. And while a one-year extension for Johnson might not be a major hurdle, the whole thing could be held up as he is said to be vacationing in Hawaii.

Source: Sports Illustrated
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/04/07 06:08 PM

Yankees to sign Mientkiewicz

NEW YORK -- The Yankees have reached terms on a tentative deal with first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz, the New York Daily News and New York Post reported Thursday.
Mientkiewicz, 32, was reportedly on his way to New York for a physical examination as a precursor to finalizing a one-year contract with the Yankees.

A Yankees spokesman said Thursday that the team had nothing to announce, and a telephone call to Mientkiewicz's agent was not immediately returned.

A left-handed hitter, Mientkiewicz would fill the Yankees' desire for a reliable glove at first base, perhaps platooning with either Josh Phelps or Andy Phillips while hitting in the lower third of the lineup. Such an arrangement would permit Jason Giambi to focus on serving as the Yankees' full-time designated hitter.

Mientkiewicz batted .283 with four home runs and 43 RBIs in 314 at-bats for the Royals last season before undergoing season-ending back surgery on Aug. 29.

A career .270 hitter, Mientkiewicz has played in New York before, appearing in 87 games with the Mets in 2005. He is perhaps best known for his role in Boston's 2004 World Series victory, having caught the final out from closer Keith Foulke before becoming involved in a custodial battle over the baseball.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/04/07 08:11 PM

This is a good pick up for the Yanks as he will vastly improve the defense at that position. He can be a pretty darn good hitter too.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/04/07 08:30 PM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
He can be a pretty darn good hitter too.


I'm not holding my breath for that. If he improves the defense, great. But I think he'll be the one easy out of the lineup.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/04/07 10:22 PM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
This is a good pick up for the Yanks as he will vastly improve the defense at that position. He can be a pretty darn good hitter too.


Andy Phillips has been vastly underrated as a defensive first baseman, and I'd take him as an in-house option over Mientkiewicz as a defensive player. And frankly, I don't find a career .270 hitter who averages 11 HR's over 162 games to be a "pretty darn good hitter," especially since his durability is a question. But I'll take Mientkiewicz as a defensive option over Giambi...a Gold Glove winner? Gimme gimme gimme.

However, this is nothing more than a (bad) stop leak. Even though he has a decent walk to strikeout ratio, platooning Mientkiewicz with Phillips or Phelps...that has to be the worst offensive first-base lineup in baseball. Phelps is the only one with some pop, Mientkiewicz is an instant out, and Phillips goes hot and cold like a refrigerator during blackouts.

Getting ahold of Nick Johnson, who is reportedly available, or Sexon, or even snagging Mark Texiera from the Rangers, has to be the long term option at first base. But this has to be the most glaring hole in the lineup. Period.

---

And I still say trading Randy Johnson for Vizcaino et al is a bad move. The only way this works is if they use these prospects to get someone like Texiera. Otherwise, we're going to be overloaded in AAA with young arms (which isn't necessarily a bad thing), and be missing a quality starter who has won us 17 games two years in a row.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/04/07 10:46 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
And I still say trading Randy Johnson for Vizcaino et al is a bad move. The only way this works is if they use these prospects to get someone like Texiera. Otherwise, we're going to be overloaded in AAA with young arms (which isn't necessarily a bad thing), and be missing a quality starter who has won us 17 games two years in a row.


I couldn't agree with you more than right here DJ! The ONLY way I'd part with Unit is if Clemens coming back would be a lock (which it ISN'T!). My friend keeps saying we've got Wang, Moose, Pettitte, Igawa and Pavano. Since Zito signed with San Fran and if the Yanks can't sign Clemens, they just left a BIG hole open in the rotation that Igawa and Pavano CAN'T feel. I'm worried about this and futhermore, I don't wanna see Unit go.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 03:53 AM

It didn't make a whole lot of sense to give Johnson away. Sure, they dumped payroll, but you can never have enough pitching, particularly left handers.

I'm guessing that Johnson expressed an interest in going back home to Arizona. He is a low key unassuming guy, who wouldn't air his demands publicly.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 04:33 AM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
It didn't make a whole lot of sense to give Johnson away. Sure, they dumped payroll, but you can never have enough pitching, particularly left handers.


I agree but I do see some reasoning behind this madness. Johnson only had 1 year left on his contract and I'm sure the Yankees wouldn't have extended it another year. This way, they do dump payroll (I hear they only have to pay as much as $2 million on Unit's contract. Which means, that's an extra $14 million to invest in the Rocket), and they get young pitching prospects in return. However, the Yankees are sorely gonna miss Unit's 33 starts and 17 wins. Again, Igawa and Pavano will NOT be able to fill his shoes. Clemens sure, but that's still a long shot at this point (especially starting in Spring Training like they want him to).
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 05:53 AM

Would Steinbrenner save Rocket for the playoffs like the Astros do?

Is that 'really' why he left NY in the first place?

The Yanks want him sooo bad. But they're not gonna get him are they Irishman?

edit-Johnson sucks now. He got shelled all yr and has never had 'GREAT' control. His fastball obviously is NOT the world beater it used to be.


Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 12:38 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: Double-J
And I still say trading Randy Johnson for Vizcaino et al is a bad move. The only way this works is if they use these prospects to get someone like Texiera. Otherwise, we're going to be overloaded in AAA with young arms (which isn't necessarily a bad thing), and be missing a quality starter who has won us 17 games two years in a row.


I couldn't agree with you more than right here DJ! The ONLY way I'd part with Unit is if Clemens coming back would be a lock (which it ISN'T!). My friend keeps saying we've got Wang, Moose, Pettitte, Igawa and Pavano. Since Zito signed with San Fran and if the Yanks can't sign Clemens, they just left a BIG hole open in the rotation that Igawa and Pavano CAN'T feel. I'm worried about this and futhermore, I don't wanna see Unit go.


As you know, I've been against bringing Clemens back ever since his screwjob of the Yankees in 2004. Even if Johnson has not been sparkling in the postseason for the Yankees, his 17-win and 33 GS average warrants me, if I were GM in NY right now, to keep him as at least my third or fourth starter. With Johnson gone, we've lost those 17-wins, and a large number of starts.

I'm not really worried about the Yankees front three (Wang, Mussina, and Pettitte). It's the backend that's the concern. I believe Igawa should do fine in New York, but it isn't a sure-fire thing (neither is Matsuzaka, for that matter). And Pavano? Unless he lights it up in spring training - and even if he does - I still think he'll be trade fodder, along with these other prospect we've been acquiring, in a deal for either an elite, power-hitting first baseman or a better-than-good starting pitcher.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 12:41 PM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
It didn't make a whole lot of sense to give Johnson away. Sure, they dumped payroll, but you can never have enough pitching, particularly left handers.

I'm guessing that Johnson expressed an interest in going back home to Arizona. He is a low key unassuming guy, who wouldn't air his demands publicly.


That's essentially how I feel. From what I've heard, the sudden death of Johnson's brother elicited a comment to Brian Cashman that he wouldn't object to being traded back towards the west coast. I think Cashman had more of a team chemistry issue than anything else, coupled with what I12 has mentioned about the contract; Johnson already had a hard time in NY, and knowing he'd rather be someplace else is a prospect you'd like to take care of if possible.

We basically got back nothing for Johnson, unless Cashman has a master plan on the table to acquire a Mark Texiera or a Johan Santana by unloading cash and prospects on these teams.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 12:53 PM

Originally Posted By: Ice
Would Steinbrenner save Rocket for the playoffs like the Astros do?

Is that 'really' why he left NY in the first place?

The Yanks want him sooo bad. But they're not gonna get him are they Irishman?

edit-Johnson sucks now. He got shelled all yr and has never had 'GREAT' control. His fastball obviously is NOT the world beater it used to be.




If the Yankees rotation is good enough to get them through June or July, then sure, they'll wait for Clemens. After all, Johnson was projected to be out until possibly May or June anyways, so it's not like they are altering the equation much.

Furthermore, Johnson doesn't "suck." I wouldn't call a 17-game winner, who finished 8th in the AL in strikeouts, someone who is done. Johnson pitched most of the year in pain, forcing him to change his delivery angle. Nobody here is claiming that he is a world-beater at his age, but he's still better and more efficient than a large percentage of his younger counterparts, and he'll thrive in the NL again.

Then again, a logical argument from my end probably is unnecessary, as it will probably be ignored.

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 04:39 PM

DJ, do you think the Yanks will use a lot of these prospects they've been collecting to go after someone like Dontrelle Willis. I'm sure Florida would ask for Melky and some prospects. Do you think they'd part with Melky and prospects to add Dontrelle in July?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 04:40 PM

Answer me this......

Out of his 17 wins last year.....How many were won with his pitching saving the day and how many were won by the Yankees hitters carrying the game?

So, even a half assed pitcher can win a bunch of games if the hitters are giving him a shit load of runs.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 05:33 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
DJ, do you think the Yanks will use a lot of these prospects they've been collecting to go after someone like Dontrelle Willis. I'm sure Florida would ask for Melky and some prospects. Do you think they'd part with Melky and prospects to add Dontrelle in July?


If the players they got from Arizona could be the cornerstone in a deal for Dontrelle Willis, why wouldn't the Diamondbacks have used them to make such a deal?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 07:29 PM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
Originally Posted By: Irishman12
DJ, do you think the Yanks will use a lot of these prospects they've been collecting to go after someone like Dontrelle Willis. I'm sure Florida would ask for Melky and some prospects. Do you think they'd part with Melky and prospects to add Dontrelle in July?


If the players they got from Arizona could be the cornerstone in a deal for Dontrelle Willis, why wouldn't the Diamondbacks have used them to make such a deal?


I'm not saying the Arizona prospects only. The Yankees did get players for trading Jaret Wright to Baltimore and Gary Sheffield to Detroit. They could use ANY number of all of these players. Plus Arizona doesn't have Melky Cabrera.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 08:19 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
DJ, do you think the Yanks will use a lot of these prospects they've been collecting to go after someone like Dontrelle Willis. I'm sure Florida would ask for Melky and some prospects. Do you think they'd part with Melky and prospects to add Dontrelle in July?


I don't think that's the Yankees plan, personally. It's clear now more than ever that they are interested in development from within, particularly after the success of the Robinson Cano, Chien-Ming Wang, and Melky Cabrera experiments (because that's what they were - stop leaks, experiments, when the Yankees needed reserves) going so well.

Philip Hughes, Humberto Sanchez, J. Brent Cox, Jose Veras, and Darrell Rasner are all top tier prospects for the Yankee pitching staff. Cox and Veras are expected to move into full-time reliever roles by 2008, with Cox expected to succeed Mariano Rivera. Hughes is projected to be the next Clemens. The Yankees, for the first time in a great while, have actually be stocking their farm club. This doesn't include others like Jose Tabata, who is going to be the Yankees long term option in the outfield, hopefully complementing Melky Cabrera. Couple this with already young starters in Chien-Ming Wang and, if he works out, Kei Igawa, and the Yankees have a nice platform for the next 5 years at the mound.

And I hope they don't go after Willis. I think he's the hot name to throw around, but I don't think he'd transition well to the AL. He finished 6th in the NL in walks, and you can add another 1-1.5 points to his ERA when he comes to the AL East. He's a good pitcher, no doubt. But if I had my pick of NL starters, give me a Oswalt or a (Carlos) Zambrano.

So the answer is no, I don't expect Cashman to go for Willis in July. Even though I disagree with it, I'm sure they'll try and sweet-talk Clemens into a last hurrah.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 08:22 PM

Originally Posted By: fathersson

So, even a half assed pitcher can win a bunch of games if the hitters are giving him a shit load of runs.


My friend...ever hear of Kevin Brown?

Johnson's pitching ability, while not dominating, is still good enough so that I bet he'd win 20 games next year for the Diamondbacks.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 09:44 PM

Does anyone know how many days it is until spring training?? By the way, I heard that the trade for the Royals first baseman has left no spot for Bernie!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 10:13 PM

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Does anyone know how many days it is until spring training??


Tickets are available on the Yankees website and it looks like the first game is on March 1st again the Minnesota Twins.

DJ, I read today that the Yanks could use some of these young arms to perhaps sway Minnesota to trade Johan Santana (I believe he's going to be a free agent at the end of the 2008 season and will command a BIG contract that Minnesota won't be able to give him). At least this way they can get some young talent and the Yanks can get an AL Cy Young winner. Think that would be a smart move?

Finally, it really ticks me off. The Yankees hardly spend any money this offseason, but rather rebuild their farm system that so many (mostly boston fans on this board) have said was "depleted." Now the Yankees are going against the norm, throwing caution/money to the wind on players, and thinking ahead to the future by trading big name players with big contracts to get pitching prospects. Do the Yankees get a "pat on the back?" NO!. Are the Yankees still "hurting" baseball? NO! But were are the stories about this? Whereas boston grossly overpays for Matsuzaka and San Francisco does the same with Barry Zito, and they're "applauded" for their efforts to improve their teams. I just hate how hypocritical the media and baseball fans are!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 10:19 PM

Bah, what does it matter. As a Miami Hurricane fan, which the media detests and absolutley tears up for anything, I have learned to just move on and not give a shit what the media thinks.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 11:08 PM

I don't really care what the media or other non-Yankee fans think but it does piss me off when the Yanks do something and get lynched for it, yet do something COMPLETELY different and it's not even mentioned. Just a little credit. But does anyone b*tch about boston's payroll and spending spree this offseason? Of course not! They're "good for baseball." HORSESH*T!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 11:19 PM

I12, if you're a Yankee fan, you have to realize that it's almost a sport in itself for the press and non-Yankee fans to bad-mouth the Yankees. I say, watch them play, enjoy the season while it's hear, and turn a deaf ear to anything else.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/05/07 11:54 PM

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I12, if you're a Yankee fan, you have to realize that it's almost a sport in itself for the press and non-Yankee fans to bad-mouth the Yankees.


I know this all too well. It just gets to me sometimes the double standard the Yankees are held to because I cherish them so much.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/06/07 12:10 AM


Anywho... we just signed 1B Mientkiewicz for a year to allow Giambi to DH fulltime.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/06/07 12:37 AM

He'll be an easy out in the lineup
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/06/07 01:30 AM

Originally Posted By: J Geoff

Anywho... we just signed 1B Mientkiewicz for a year to allow Giambi to DH fulltime.


I read this morning that this trade leaves no room for Bernie.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/06/07 01:35 AM

That's not totally true SB. They could still bring him back as a bench player if he wants to. I remember he said he played a lot more this year than he thought he would (or maybe wanted to for that matter) when Matsui and Sheffield went down. Maybe with a full roster, he'll want to come back as a pinch hitter.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/06/07 01:50 AM

I hope so. I can't imagine a Yankee game without Bernie, especially since he had a pretty decent season last year.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/06/07 01:56 AM

Me too and like I said, with the overflow of outfielders this year (Matsui, Damon, Abreu, Melky) I think it's safe to say if he comes back this year, he won't see a lot of playing time.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/06/07 05:05 AM

Just what we were talking about SB

Bernie's return questionable

NEW YORK -- Will the Yankees have room for one more year of Bernie Williams?
General manager Brian Cashman said Friday that he has had discussions with both the 38-year-old outfielder and his representative, Scott Boras, about the possibility of Williams returning for what would be his 17th season in New York.

"I've had conversations with Bernie directly, as well as with Scott Boras during the winter, about what opportunity may or may not be here in '07," Cashman said. "We've had a very open and honest dialogue with Bernie and Scott Boras throughout the process. That will continue."

The Yankees' numbers situation, as currently comprised, appears to limit Williams' chances. Cashman said that the signing of Doug Mientkiewicz assures the Yankees will carry both a left-handed-hitting and a right-handed-hitting first baseman as part of a platoon, with either Andy Phillips or Rule 5 selection Josh Phelps set to win the latter position.

With Jason Giambi now entrenched as the full-time designated hitter, and Melky Cabrera remaining as a fourth outfielder behind Hideki Matsui, Johnny Damon and Bobby Abreu, the Yankees' 25-man roster -- assuming a 12-man pitching staff -- is becoming more set.

The Yankees have room to add a utility infielder -- Cashman said that re-signing Miguel Cairo remains a possibility -- and can select a backup catcher, likely from the tandem of Raul Chavez and Wil Nieves.

But that may leave no room for Williams, a free agent who has not officially decided if he wishes to play in 2007. Williams played more than expected last season when both Gary Sheffield and Matsui went down to injury, responding with a .281 average, 12 home runs and 61 RBIs in 131 games.

Williams is relatively inexperienced as a pinch-hitter, with just seven hits in 33 at-bats over the last three seasons. Plus, after flirting with the idea of dealing Cabrera earlier this winter, the Yankees now appear primed to hold onto the 22-year-old.

Cashman declined to speculate if he would consider inviting Williams to camp as a non-roster invitee who could make the club in the event of injury.

"Obviously, he's meant a lot to this franchise," Cashman said. "He's been a big piece for quite some time. It's been a great marriage."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/06/07 02:36 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
DJ, I read today that the Yanks could use some of these young arms to perhaps sway Minnesota to trade Johan Santana (I believe he's going to be a free agent at the end of the 2008 season and will command a BIG contract that Minnesota won't be able to give him). At least this way they can get some young talent and the Yanks can get an AL Cy Young winner. Think that would be a smart move?


I would do that deal in a heartbeat, and I'd rather see it done than I would watch them sign Roger Clemens. But I highly doubt that the Twins would let their mealticket leave without some serious cost, if they'd let him leave at all. Unless Liriano proves he is not injury prone, then I would suspect the Twins would hold onto Santana for dear life, as they should. It would have to be his decision. By winning the Cy Young award this past year, Santana's full no-trade clause kicks in, so even if the Twins wanted to deal him, he'd have to want to come to the Yankees.

Again, I think it could happen, as his salary is fairly hefty for the Twins (it's end heavy, so he makes $12 million this year and $13.25 next year), and there are performance incentives, which make him even more expensive. If I were the Yankees, I would make a deal for Santana in a heartbeat. He's by far and away the best pitcher in the AL, and he's only 27. Think of the damage the following rotation could do if it all plays out correctly for 2008:

Code:
Name         Age    Throws  

Wang          26        R
Santana       27        L
Hughes        21        R
Sanchez       24        R
White         26        R


Now, granted, this is very right-heavy. It also ignores Kei Igawa's potential, as well as whether Carl Pavano pulls his head out of his ass.

Originally Posted By: J Geoff
Anywho... we just signed 1B Mientkiewicz for a year to allow Giambi to DH fulltime.


See my previous posts for my thoughts on Mienty-fresh. Even if he is one of the best defensive 1B's in the game, I can't see the Yankees not make a move for Texiera down the road this year. Mienty-fresh has zero power, and although he walks and has some command of the strike zone and patience at the plate, he'll be an easy out in the 9th spot.

Although the Yankees have been blessed by having great hitters in the 8th/9th spot over the past couple of years. Robinson Cano anyone?

BTW - Happy B-Day!

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I read this morning that this trade leaves no room for Bernie.


It depends on how many pitchers the Yankees will carry this year. I have no clue why they are going to keep Phelps or Phillips on the bench when they still have Giambi to spell Mienty-fresh occasionally. I mean, Giambi is bad, but not THAT bad. They're going to waste a roster spot in order to keep a first-baseman backup-backup. It would make more sense if they simply keep Miguel Cairo, as a utility infielder, who could play first base in a pinch.

Keeping Bernie should be a PRIORITY. He was by far and away the Yankees best clutch hitter last year. Nobody else hit better with two outs. He can still play, despite what a number of sports pundits and (surprisingly) many Yankee fans I speak with think. Even if he can't be an everyday outfielder anymore, his bat alone makes him a superior bench player, and I'd rather see them DH Bernie or play him at first.

This is how it will look in 2007:
Depth Chart
Code:
C:     Posada, Chavez
1B:    Mientkievich
2B     Cano
3B:    Rodriguez
SS:    Jeter
LF:    Matsui
CF:    Damon
RF:    Abreu
DH:    Giambi
BNCH:  Cairo (?), Phelps/Phillips, Cabrera
SP:    Wang, Mussina, Pettitte, Pavano, Igawa
RP:    Rivera, Proctor, Myers, Farnsworth, Vizcaino, Britton, Bruney




The Yankees should carry 12 or 13 fielders, if I were in control:

Depth Chart
Code:
C:     Posada, Nieves
1B:    Mientkievich
2B     Cano
3B:    Rodriguez
SS:    Jeter
LF:    Matsui
CF:    Damon
RF:    Abreu
DH:    Giambi
BNCH:  Cairo (?), Cabrera, Williams
SP:    Wang, Mussina, Pettitte, Igawa, Pavano
RP:    Rivera, Proctor, Myers, Villone, Farnsworth, Vizcaino, Britton OR X-Lefty



The problem is that the bullpen is clearly right-heavy, with Myers being the ONLY left-handed reliever. Villone has supposedly been talking with the Yankees, but he declined arbitration, simply because the FA market was so sweet for pitchers this offseason. However, I hope Cashman brings him back.

This means however, the Yankees would carry 13 pitchers in their bullpen, unless they cut Bruney (or someone else). There literally is no room for Bernie, unless he somehow can play utility infield, and they keep him rather than Cabrera.

Unfortunately, I suspect, unless the Yankees acquire two decent lefty arms for their BP, Bernie is the odd-man out.

The biggest problem with Bernie is that he's consistently proven to be a poor pinch hitter when brought off the bench.

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/06/07 04:17 PM

I hope the Yankees keep Villone too. He was great out of the pen during the first half of last season and just was overworked by the second half. But I had A LOT of confidence when he was in the game (moreso than Farnsworth).
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 12:57 PM

Well, as much as I love Bernie, the team needs Melky more. However, I hope that Bernie doesn't go to another team. If he's going to retire, it should be as a Yankee. I would think that they'd like to keep him around, though. You never know when you're going to need him, and Bernie's been great.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 01:20 PM

The team needs Melky more as a solid option in the outfield, allowing the Yankees to spell Matsui, Damon, and Abreu, and help to keep them all healthy. Bernie can't play the outfield anymore. His arm was never strong to begin with, but there is no way he could play full-time.

That being said, I see no reason why he couldn't be an emergency reserve. And his batting skills, which have not deteriorated, warrant keeping him on the bench and ready to go.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 03:52 PM

Quote:

The Yankees
| Jan 06 2007 06:33 AM PST By wrightright
Topics: Johnson Clemens Mulder Wells Estes Trashsel Weaver Park Armas Davis Gonzalez Webb
In baseball, the big spender is the Yankees. Everyone knows that. They could afford any one in baseball. They name the price and it's done, but the Yankees are doing something different this year. Instead of going after veteran pitchers like Barry Zito, Jeff Suppan, Mark Mulder, and even former Yank David Wells, they are going after the young, inexperienced pitchers like Chien-Ming Wang and Kei Igawa. They also hope to bring Clemens back into the rotation, which I think would be a dumb move. Though Roger Clemens has proved he can still pitch, he's 44. A year older than the rocket. How much longer can he go? He's no Julio Franco. Why waste valueable money and space on your roster for Clemens? You can spend money on getting young players who have a future in baseball and will be around for more than a couple of years.

Getting rid of Randy Johnson will be a good move for the Yankees, opening up money and a spot on the rotation, but both a Stupid move and a Smart move for the D-Backs. Let's look at the good from getting Randy. You got a young pitching staff that consists of Brandon Webb (4 years experience), Livian Hernandez (10 years experience), Douglas Davis (7 years experience), and Edgar Gonzalez (4 years experience). You aquire Randy Johnson (Who will be going on 20 years in the MLB) you add another man to the rotation as well as an experienced pitcher who could help improve the game of the other pitchers. He could still give you over ten wins, and probably much more. Thing is, he's only got 3 years max left in the Majors. He's 43 and aging fast. If you want an experienced pitcher, you have David Wells, Steve Trashsel, Jeff Weaver, Mark Mulder, Chan Ho Park, TOny Armas, Shawn Estes, and many more pitchers who have experience and can get you over ten wins. Plus, they will be much cheaper than the Big Unit. Livian Hernandez has experience, but I think the D-Backs need to add one more experienced pitcher to be able to put them in contention for the playoffs.


Source: ProTrade.com

---

Hmm, I didn't realize Chien-Ming Wang was an inexperienced pitcher anymore, and that the Yankees were pursuing him?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 04:00 PM

Good Riddance to Randy Johnson
Quote:

by Matt Tempesta
Sunday, 07 January 2007

After two years of postseason disappointments and regular-season letdowns, Randy Johnson is heading back to Arizona.



Let me be the first to say: Thank God.

In exchange for a slick-fielding shortstop and a pair of young pitchers, the Diamondbacks are getting a 6’10” sideshow attraction—a means of boosting attendance and a source of false hope. What more can anyone expect from a 43-year-old pitcher coming off of back surgery?

I can’t say that I’ll miss Randy the Country Mouse and his ugly scowl. To me, the Unit was like the G.I. Joe Rolling Thunder that I wanted for Christmas when I was seven. The Rolling Thunder, for those of you who don’t remember, was this huge ten-wheeled tank that could destroy anything the Cobra Commander threw at it...and oh man I wanted it so bad. But I didn’t get the Rolling Thunder when I was seven; I got it the next Christmas, when I was eight, and by that time all my friends had one—and most of them were already broken.

The moral of the story: I got the Rolling Thunder a year too late.

Just like the Yankees did with Johnson.

To be fair, Randy did win 17 games in each of his two seasons in New York. But it was the Yankees lineup won those games for him—not his 90-MPH fastball or his flat slider.

Put it this way: If he’d been playing for, say, Tampa Bay, I don’t think Johnson’s 5.02 ERA would have been good for seventeen wins.

This trade is great for New York on two levels. First, obviously, the Yankees are acquiring two young arms. Second—and no less importantly—the Bombers are unloading most of the $17 million they owe to Randy this year. At 6’10”, that works out to about $3 million per foot—money that could be much spent on younger and shorter players.

This move is part of what has been a welcome change of pace for the Yankees this offseason: No more overspending on old players. I expressed hope in a previous article that the times they were are a changin’ in New York...and it looks like my prediction is coming true. If nothing else, it’s safe say that Brian Cashman finally has the Yankees sailing in the right direction.

Gary “Me Me Me” Sheffield?

Gone.

Jaret “It’s the fourth inning who’s warming up?” Wright?

Ditto.

Randy “Get out of my face” Johnson?

Back to the desert, with the rest of America’s retirement-age population.

Instead, Cashman is focused on pitching and defense—the two things that win championships. To wit:

He’s stocking the Yankee farm system with young pitchers, none of whom are slated for back surgery anytime in the near future.

He’s solidified the Yankee infield with the signing of Doug Mientkiewicz, who can’t hit a lick but should finally fill the Bombers’ defensive void at first base. (And who needs more offense when your number-eight hitter hit .342 last year?)

He’s even brought back Andy Petitte, who was a core player on the Yankees championship teams—and who oh by the way is a dependable lefty with a knack for winning big games.

My final analysis: I love it.

With players like Barry Zito and Carlos Lee going for more than $100 million, it’s nice to see the Yankees take a step back while other teams waste their money this offseason. It’s almost like watching that fat guy who’s finally gone on a diet: Normally he’d eat that entire pizza pie, but this time he's opting for a nice side salad.

And everyone’s thankful for it.

So Yankee fans, wave goodbye to crusty old Randy Johnson—and say hello to a leaner, meaner, and much less ugly world order in the Bronx.

It’s about time.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 04:02 PM

Bobby Murcer Recovering From Brain Surgery
Quote:


Source: ESPN.com

NEW YORK -- Bobby Murcer is back home in Oklahoma and doing well after surgery last week to remove a brain tumor.

The former New York Yankees star was released from a Houston hospital Sunday night and spent New Year's Eve in the city with his family, the team said Friday in a statement. Doctors cleared him to return to Oklahoma, which he did Tuesday.

Murcer, 60, has been relaxing and enjoying everyday activities, and hasn't had any setbacks since the surgery, the Yankees said. He is scheduled to return to Houston next week to consult with doctors at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, one of the top cancer facilities in the nation.

Murcer, now a Yankees broadcaster, had brain surgery at the hospital last Thursday. The tumor was discovered following an MRI on Christmas Eve after he had been having headaches and feeling a loss of energy.

Murcer played 17 seasons in the major leagues from 1965-83 and was a five-time All-Star and a Gold Glove-winning outfielder. He batted .277 with 252 home runs and 1,043 RBI with the Yankees, San Francisco Giants and Chicago Cubs.

After his retirement, Murcer won three Emmy Awards for live sports coverage as the voice of the Yankees.

Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press


We wish you the best, Bobby! God Bless!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 04:07 PM

Yanks Have Yet to Phone Villone
Quote:
By PETE CALDERA
STAFF WRITER



While the Mets have expressed some interest in signing Ron Villone, the lefty reliever still hasn't heard a word from the Yankees.

"Several other teams are more than interested," Villone said Friday from his Englewood home. "I'd like for the Yankees to be [interested], but if they've got other plans ..."

The Yankees' immediate attention remains elsewhere.

Friday, the club announced the one-year ($1.5 million) signing of Doug Mientkiewicz, who arrives with a 2001 Gold Glove award at first base and a shoulder for Alex Rodriguez to lean on.

During their high school days in Miami, Mientkiewicz played tight end as A-Rod quarterbacked Westminster Christian to a 1992 championship.

Now, part of Mientkiewicz's job is to save some of A-Rod's errant throws after his 24 errors last season -- twice his 2005 total.

"Trust me, no one's harder on themselves than Alex himself," Mientkiewicz said. "He's always been that way, since the day I met him. It's almost been a detriment [that] he doesn't allow his natural ability to take over."

A career .270 left-handed hitter, Mientkiewicz, 32, batted .283 in 314 at-bats, with four homers and 43 RBI, for Kansas City last year. His season ended on July 25, with surgery required for a herniated disk.

Mientkiewicz is fully healed, and some unspecified family-related "distractions" from 2005 (when he batted .240 with the Mets) have been resolved.

"My biggest regret is that I didn't show [New York] the player I could be and I am," said Mientkiewicz, adding that it "took a long time" to get over being traded from the celebrated 2004 Red Sox.

The controversial baseball that Mientkiewicz caught (and then kept) to record Boston's first world championship since 1918 now resides at the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y.

In Tampa next month, Josh Phelps and Andy Phillips will compete to be Mientkiewicz's right-handed platoon. But the only lefty reliever could be Mike Myers. Rookie left-hander Sean Henn also is in the mix, according to general manager Brian Cashman.

Villone, who turns 37 next week, learned of the Mets' interest Thursday during a conversation with agent Scott Boras, who also represents lefty reliever Scott Schoeneweis -- whose contract demands have dimmed the Yanks' interest.

Though he admits to having tired over the final six weeks of the season, Villone was still throwing above 90 mph.

BRIEFS: Cashman's focus is "more outside the organization" for a backup infielder, though Miguel Cairo could return. David Bell and Bronx-born Ronnie Belliard are available free agents.

Scott Proctor most likely will train as a starting pitcher in spring training.

Cashman has maintained "an open and honest dialogue" with Bernie Williams, though there's currently no room for him. ... Bobby Murcer is doing "extremely well" following surgery to remove a brain tumor, and was home for New Year's. He'll return to a Houston cancer hospital for additional tests next week.

Source: NJ Herald


Come on guys! Don't leave your most reliable left-handed reliever out there to be snatched up! This guy deserves a roster spot. Get on it, Cashman! Without Villone, we have 1 lefty reliever, and he's a specialist, not an everyday MR. Don't play hard-ball with Villone - he's said he'd love to come back to the Yankees, and would be the only team he'd accept a short-term deal from, but he is one of the better lefty relievers available, and you know he'll get the job done.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 04:09 PM

Cairo Re-Signs With Yankees
Quote:


Source: NJ Star Ledger
Sunday, January 07, 2007
BY DAN GRAZIANO
Star-Ledger Staff

A person with knowledge of the negotiations, who asked not to be identified because the Yankees haven't announced the deal yet, confirmed reports that the Yankees have re-signed utility infielder Miguel Cairo to a one-year contract worth $750,000.

The Yankees had been looking for a utility infielder, and Cairo is one they know well. He played for them in 2004 and 2006.

There's a possibility, if Cairo shows he can handle the position, that the Yankees would use him as the right-handed-hitting half of their first-base platoon with lefty- swinging Doug Mientkiewicz. If they did that, they could bring back Bernie Williams as a fifth outfielder.

However, it seems more likely right now that the right-handed first baseman will be either Andy Phillips or Josh Phelps, which would leave no room for a Williams return unless the Yankees traded fourth outfielder Melky Cabrera.


Great, we needed a utility player who can play anyplace. But now they just have to decide whether its worth keeping two poor-hitting first-baseman (besides Giambi) or to bring back Bernie Williams. It should be a no-brainer, but I guess not...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 04:10 PM

Mets, Yankees Spend Wisely
Quote:

Source: NY Daily News

by Bill Madden

"Thrifty business: Mets, Yankees wise to save their money"

In contrast to the mind-boggling signings by so many other teams, one would have to admit it's been a rather frugal and prudent winter for our local nines.

While Omar Minaya has seen to it that the Mets will be AARP's team of the year with the signings of 40-year-old Moises Alou to play left field and 37-year-old Damion Easley to serve as a utility infielder, with 37-year-old Jose Valentin at second base, fortysomething El Duque and 40-year-old Tom Glavine in the rotation and 33-year-old Guillermo Mota in the bullpen (upon the conclusion of his 50-game steroids suspension), the ever-active GM wisely took a pass on Barry Zito once that sweepstakes started to get insane.

Because of his inability to acquire a top-of-the-rotation starter or upgrade substantially at second base, it might be concluded that Minaya has had a bad winter. But at the same time, would throwing crazy money at Zito or - even worse - at mediocrity such as Vicente Padilla, Gil Meche, Miguel Batista or Adam Eaton be considered as a good winter? To that we would say only, "Come see us in September."

If Minaya was applauded his first two winters for his aggressiveness in pursuing Pedro Martinez and Carlos Beltran as cornerstones for his Met renaissance, this offseason he deserves plaudits for his restraint in not following the desperate measures of so many of his GM compatriots. The fact is, there were no bona fide top-of-the-rotation starters available this winter, unless you want to put Colorado's Jason Jennings in that category, and he was only going to be traded to Houston, where he lives.

While a prospective Mets rotation of Glavine, El Duque, John Maine, Oliver Perez and either lefty Dave Williams or rookie Philip Humber might seem a tad underwhelming, at least until Pedro Martinez hopefully rejoins it in June, look around the rest of the NL East and you'll find only the Florida Marlins can claim a rotation five-deep in quality. And other than Dontrelle Willis, their arms are still too inexperienced to be considered real deals.

With the dearth of quality starting pitching, many teams have shifted the emphasis to the bullpen, which is why 12-man staffs are now the norm. It was the bullpen as much as anything that won for the Mets last year and Minaya, who added another power arm in Ambiorix Burgos as a hedge if Duaner Sanchez is not fully recovered from shoulder surgery, is clearly counting on that to be the case again.

"I know we may not have a lot of sexy names in our rotation," said Minaya, "but in reality there were only two guys we really focused on getting - (Daisuke) Matsuzaka and Zito, and while it turned out we finished second by a long shot for Matsuzaka, we made a very aggressive offer. With Zito, we told them up front it couldn't get into (6-7) years for us. Still, I feel we are an improved team from last year because in Alou we got the offensive guy we wanted and Burgos will improve our bullpen."

Like Minaya, Yankee GM Brian Cashman is looking to his bullpen as a strength, while he continues to stockpile young power arms for mid-season or '08 delivery, the latest being 24-year-old Princeton product Ross Ohlendorf, the "goods" prospect coming in the Randy Johnson deal.

If anything, Cashman has done more substantial subtraction than addition for the near term. Having traded Johnson and the equally disgruntled Gary Sheffield, he has nonetheless resisted making a clubhouse-cleansing trifecta by dealing Alex Rodriguez. Unlike Sheffield and Johnson, A-Rod, for all his foibles last year, still yearns to make a go of it in New York, although he has to know the onus for another failure to reach the World Series will be on him as much as it will be on Joe Torre and Cashman.

As for Cashman, it's now clear why he spent so much time at the Winter Meetings with White Sox GM Kenny Williams. They both seem to be following the same philosophy this winter of trading established players for young starting pitching. Williams traded starter Freddy Garcia for two Phillie pitching prospects, lefties Gavin Floyd and Gio Gonzalez, and would-be '07 starter Brandon McCarthy for Texas' top prospect, another lefty, John Danks.

Williams nearly traded another established starter, Jon Garland, to Houston for two other younger (and inexpensive) pitchers. Williams' deals were given their impetus by White Sox board chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, who has become both outraged and exasperated at how his fellow owners have pushed the starting pitching market to insane heights.

Cashman, who picked up three pitchers, including top starting prospect Humberto Sanchez from the Tigers for Sheffield, agrees with Reinsdorf's assessment.

"Our thought process for the past two years has been to stockpile as many young pitchers as we can, so you don't have to go into the free agent market and do desperate things," Cashman said. "It's been proven again and again you can be slaughtered there, where all the pitchers are over-priced. Plus, our payroll simply couldn't go any higher than it was."

So now, with Ohlendorf, Sanchez, top prospect Philip Hughes, No. 2 prospect Tyler Clippard and last year's highly regarded draftees Joba Chamberlain, Ian Kennedy and Dellin Betances, the Yankee farm system is arguably the deepest in baseball in terms of quality arms - a dramatic two-year turnaround since Cashman was put in charge of the entire baseball operation, including the draft, which still has not produced a single starting pitcher of any consequence since Andy Pettitte was taken in the 22nd round in 1990. From 1991, when they took ill-fated Brien Taylor No. 1, to 2004 when they made Hughes their No. 1 pick, the Yankees drafted a total of 405 pitchers. Of the more than half they signed, other than '96 No. 1 Eric Milton, who was traded to the Twins for Chuck Knoblauch, not one had any impact on their staff. You can't even try to scout that badly.

It's a Madd, Madd World...

  • We can only imagine what '50s and '60s pitchers such as Whitey Ford, Bob Gibson or Robin Roberts must think of this: Cubs reliever Neal Cotts, who was 1-2 with a 5.17 ERA and 12 homers allowed for the White Sox in '06 after going 4-0 with a 1.94 ERA and just one homer allowed in 2005, was given more than a 100% RAISE from $400,000 to $825,000 last week.
  • For all their major off-season maneuverings, the Red Sox neglected to fill their most important need - closer - and there was likely considerable angst in the Nation last week when the Sox announced plans to try newly signed Joel Pineiro in that role. Pineiro was 13-22 with an ERA well over 5.00 as a starter for Seattle the past two seasons, but Sox chief scout Allard Baird was impressed with his stuff as well as his composure after being demoted to the bullpen last year.
  • For those wondering why Arizona would give up four players, including durable reliever Luis Vizcaino and blue-chip starting prospect Ross Ohlendorf for 43-year-old Randy Johnson with his creaky back and $17 million salary, one baseball executive offered this interesting theory. "The Diamondbacks owe him $44 million in deferred money and they're still heavily in debt from the Jerry Colangelo era. They need to re-structure that debt and Randy is their biggest creditor.”
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 04:14 PM

Mientkiewicz Says He's "Just What Yankees Needed"
Quote:


Source: Hartford Courant

January 6, 2007
Staff And Wire Reports

Doug Mientkiewicz watched the Yankees' playoff meltdown in October and envisioned himself as the stopper.

"I remember just watching them in the playoffs and thinking, `That's a perfect fit for me,'" said Mientkiewicz, who signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Yankees on Friday. "What I do best can really help these guys."

What Mientkiewicz does best is play first base, and the Yankees, setting aside their desire for a right-handed hitter, went for the glove man instead.

"That's what made him really attractive to us," general manager Brian Cashman said. "There are only so many ways to improve your pitching. If you can't get your hands on one of the best arms in the game, you look to support the defensive side. I don't know if there is anyone better defensively than he is."

Jason Giambi and Gary Sheffield struggled at first in the Division Series loss to the Tigers. Next season, Giambi will DH most of the time. Mientkiewicz, a Gold Glove winner in 2001 who bats left, will play against right-handed pitchers. Andy Phillips or Josh Phelps, both right-handed batters, could start against lefties.

"I can do the dirty work," Mientkiewicz said, "the stuff that goes unnoticed. ... I know it helps to have infielders know they don't have to be perfect on every throw."


Just hit the *#&%*&$ ball, Mienty-Fresh.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 04:16 PM

Running Out of Room for Bernie
Quote:


Source: South Florida Herald

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

NEW YORK -- It appears that the New York Yankees might not have room for Bernie Williams anymore.

The Yankees finalized their $1.5 million, one-year contract with Doug Mientkiewicz on Friday, and general manager Brian Cashman said he will be part of a platoon at first base with Andy Phillips or Josh Phelps. With Jason Giambi shifting to designated hitter and the Yankees planning to keep 12 pitchers, that leaves them with no spots open for Williams -- unless they trade Melky Cabrera.

"I've had conversations with Bernie directly as well as Scott Boras throughout the winter about what opportunity may or may not be here in '07," Cashman said, referring to Williams' agent. "We're still filling our club out and I'd rather not really say more than that, but we've had an open and honest dialogue with Bernie and Scott Boras throughout the process, and that will continue. I really can't say much more than that right now. But clearly the plan is to have a right-handed and left-handed bat at first base and Giambi at DH."

Williams signed with the Yankees in 1985 and joined the major-league team six years later. He helped New York win six AL pennants and four World Series titles, becoming a five-time All-Star and the 1998 AL batting champion.

He lost his starting job in center field when the Yankees signed Johnny Damon before last season. Kept as a backup, Williams wound up getting 420 at-bats because Gary Sheffield and Hideki Matsui got hurt. Williams hit .281 with 12 homers and 61 RBI.

Williams, who is 38, hasn't decided whether he will retire if the Yankees don't offer a contract.

In 2004, Mientkiewicz helped Boston win its first World Series title since 1918, catching the throw for the final out and keeping the ball. That sparked a furor that didn't end until he donated the ball to the Hall of Fame.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 04:19 PM

Yankees Wasting Money on Aging Pitchers
Quote:

Source: Chicago Tribune
by Phil Rogers
Sunday, January 07, 2007

"At least team got a mulligan on Big Unit, though."

Imagine how fortunate Brian Cashman must feel this weekend. If Randy Johnson can pass a physical Monday, the New York Yankees' general manager will be getting a rare thing — a Big Unit mulligan.

It was 1989 when a team last won in a trade that brought it Johnson. That was the one that sent him to Seattle from Montreal. The two since then have been stinkers, especially the one in 1998 that cost the Houston Astros two front-line prospects, Freddy Garcia and Carlos Guillen, on the cusp of their big-league careers.

2001 ASSOCIATED PRESS
(enlarge photo)

Randy Johnson is one of several high-dollar starting pitchers that ultimately disappointed the Yankees.

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The Yankees sent catcher Dioner Navarro and lefty Brad Halsey, a former Texas Longhorn, to the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2005 deal that brought them Johnson. Now it appears they could get at least a decent return in sending him back to the Diamondbacks — 24-year-old pitchers Ross Ohlendorf and Steven Jackson, minor-league shortstop Alberto Gonzalez and reliever Luis Vizcaino.

This trade seemingly clears the way for the Yankees to re-sign Roger Clemens. It's another domino in the chain of expensive mistakes that have kept the Pinstripes chasing their tail in October.

Mike Lupica of the New York Daily News wrote that the Yankees will wind up having paid Johnson $43 million to win 34 games, none in the postseason. But that's only the tip of the iceberg.

During the last four years, Cashman has signed off on deals that cost the Yankees $146.4 million for Jose Contreras, Esteban Loaiza, Kevin Brown, Javier Vazquez, Carl Pavano, Jaret Wright and Johnson. Those guys have given the Yankees 96 victories, 224 starts and a combined 4.94 earned-run average.

George Steinbrenner had to pay a part of departing players' future salaries to send Contreras to the White Sox in 2004, Vazquez to the Diamondbacks in '05 and Wright to the Orioles earlier this winter. The Yankees will be on the hook for $9 million in deferred payments and $2 million in salary when the pending Johnson deal is finalized. And none of this factors in luxury taxes.

You want to know why the Yankees haven't won the World Series since 2001?

It's not Alex Rodriguez. It's the woeful performance of the starting pitchers to whom Cashman turned after allowing Orlando Hernandez, Andy Pettitte and Clemens to get away.

The common thread to the stories of these pitchers is that no one ever overcomes failure with the Yankees.

Contreras blossomed after being traded to the White Sox. Vazquez has been almost as good for the Diamondbacks and the White Sox as Johnson was for the Yankees. The difference was supposed to be Johnson's toughness in the playoffs — and he got pounded in both of his October starts for the Yankees, allowing 10 runs in 8 2/3 innings in series-changing losses to the Angels and Tigers.


Not anymore, though. Go Philip Hughes!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/07/07 04:23 PM

Big Unit's Departure Leaves Big Void
Quote:

Source: ESPN.com

By Bob Klapisch

NEW YORK -- So what's in store for the Yankees in the post-Randy Johnson era? The uncharacteristic stockpiling of prospects continues, but the starting rotation is nevertheless being held together by a series of hopeful assumptions -- which is another way of saying the Bombers are saying their prayers.

"There are question marks, and they're real," is what GM Brian Cashman was conceding shortly before a tentative agreement was reached to send Johnson back to the Diamondbacks. While the Yankees look like they will make out reasonably well -- shedding a 43-year-old pitcher in decline, coming off back surgery and otherwise uncomfortable in New York, all for a reported surcharge of only $2 million -- there's still the matter of filling in the Unit's 205 innings in 2007.

The Yankees are reasonably sure Andy Pettitte's cut fastball will be still effective in the American League, even if he's beyond his prime. And Chien-Ming Wang's sinker will continue to be poison to right-handed hitters for another season, even if he doesn't strike anyone out with it. Beyond that, however, the Yankees need at least two of the next three tipping-point issues to go their way to hold off the Red Sox.

Can Mike Mussina continue to be a 15-game winner at age 38? Can Kei Igawa cope with AL sluggers? And most important, can Carl Pavano stay off the disabled list after recent physical therapy corrected a misalignment in his hip that made one leg a half-inch shorter than the other?

Cashman isn't naive enough to believe all these outcomes will be favorable, which is why the backup plans include Scott Proctor, who could evolve into a starter; Triple-A prospect Philip Hughes, who's almost certain to be promoted to the major league roster by midsummer; and Roger Clemens, whom the Yankees were lusting after even before Johnson started looking for the door.

One person familiar with the Yankees' courtship of the Rocket admits they have no inside track on the bidding. "All he has to do is say yes" and the Bombers would practically hand Clemens a blank check, said the source. But club officials are nevertheless in the dark about his plans. Not even Pettitte seems to know where his buddy is headed, which is potentially good news for the Red Sox. If Pettitte's return to pinstripes couldn't immediately sway Clemens, it means he could be destined to finish his career at Fenway.

Of course, it's possible the Yankees' sudden accumulation of young, cheap talent that would be acquired in both the Johnson and Gary Sheffield deals is leading to a mega-swap with the Twins, who've undoubtedly calculated (and fainted at) the cost of keeping Johan Santana after he becomes a free agent in two years. Cashman's army of youngsters might be the escape the Twins would need, given that Barry Zito is now earning $18 million per year.

Short of a deal of that proportion, however, the Yankees will keep their fingers crossed and stick to Cashman's business plan. So far, the GM has resisted the urge to empty the Yankees' coffers, safely underbidding for Daisuke Matsuzaka and refusing to go anywhere near Zito's free agency. Little by little, Cashman has restored a sense of order to the Bombers' operation, as the Yankees have gotten younger and cheaper. But when it comes to Pavano, Cashman admits he's abandoning logic in place of blind faith.

The GM insists the troubled right-hander is "100 percent healthy" after four-hour-a-day workouts in Arizona. Pavano's hip problems may or may not hold the key to making him a successful (or at least active) pitcher again, but Cashman is apparently serious about getting a return on the Yankees' four-year, $40 million investment.

Several teams, including the Cardinals, have called inquiring about Pavano's availability this winter, hoping to pry him loose without having to pick up much salary. To each of them, Cashman has said, no chance.

"GMs have asked me, 'Would you consider moving [Pavano]? If so, you'd have to pick up X number of dollars,'" Cashman said. "I've told them, 'Uh-uh.' I happen to believe Carl is going to be an effective and contributing member of this club."

Pavano might just pitch well enough to get himself traded in spring training. And Igawa might hold on to his No. 5 spot in the rotation just long enough for Hughes to claim it after the All-Star break. Any number of other prospects, including Jeff Karstens, will be rushed to the Bronx in the likely event that Mussina goes on the disabled list or is injured for the third year in a row. Amid all the uncertainty, the Yankees will be happy with the official departure of Johnson, whose 5.00 ERA, declining strikeout ratio and poor performance in back-to-back postseasons were enough to soil his legacy, at least in New York.

The Unit, cold and aloof from the first day, never fit in with the Yankees, spending most of his time at his locker with his back to his teammates. There was no emotional investment on either side; even the fans sensed Johnson was just passing through on his way to Cooperstown. Maybe it was Johnson's way of acting tough in a big market, or maybe it was his frustration at the stunning number of fastballs he threw over the middle of the plate, and the sliders that were usually flat.

Whatever the reason, Johnson was unhappy enough to look daggers at Johnny Damon last August when the outfielder tried to rally the slumping Yankees. In the middle of the clubhouse, Damon shouted to the whole team, "Come on, you [expletive]. Wake up!" From across the room, Johnson stared coldly, so unnerving Damon that he later asked a club official, "Did I do something wrong?"

The Yankees obviously haven't publicly indicted Johnson in their efforts to trade him, but it's clear no one will miss him. One employee said, "Randy was the kind of guy who, if you asked him, 'How's it going?' he'd stare you down and say, 'What do you mean by that?' He was the most socially awkward person I ever met around here."

Of course, Johnson's eventual departure will create a set of short-term problems, but for now, the Yankees are happily looking forward to a change in climate.

The clubhouse is about to get a whole lot warmer.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/08/07 07:44 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J


Come on guys! Don't leave your most reliable left-handed reliever out there to be snatched up! This guy deserves a roster spot. Get on it, Cashman! Without Villone, we have 1 lefty reliever, and he's a specialist, not an everyday MR. Don't play hard-ball with Villone - he's said he'd love to come back to the Yankees, and would be the only team he'd accept a short-term deal from, but he is one of the better lefty relievers available, and you know he'll get the job done.


I agree and I hate to say this, but knowing the Yankees as of late, they'll probably let him walk. Anyone heard what happened to Dotel? I haven't heard squat about him since the season ended. Did he sign someone else or are the Yankees going to give him another go?
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/08/07 08:09 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12


I agree and I hate to say this, but knowing the Yankees as of late, they'll probably let him walk. Anyone heard what happened to Dotel? I haven't heard squat about him since the season ended. Did he sign someone else or are the Yankees going to give him another go?


Dotel signed with the Royals about a month ago.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/08/07 08:52 PM

Thanks klydon1
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/08/07 08:56 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I agree and I hate to say this, but knowing the Yankees as of late, they'll probably let him walk. Anyone heard what happened to Dotel? I haven't heard squat about him since the season ended. Did he sign someone else or are the Yankees going to give him another go?


I don't think they'll let Villone walk, but the delay in re-signing him leads me to think that Cashman still is trying to move Melky Cabrera for either Pittsburgh's Gonzalez, or another top-tier lefty reliever. Villone lives in New Jersey, and has expressed his desire to both play near home and for the Yankees themselves. However, Cashman also knows that if Pavano pitches well in Spring Training, he could also be dealt for some lefty-support.

And don't be surprised if a blockbuster trade for Johan Santana isn't in the works - Minnesota needs to unload his contract, and the Yankees have a glut of pitching talent jammed down in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and Trenton...not all of it is top-tier like Clippard or Hughes, but it would be enough to whet the appetite of any major league GM, including Minnesota's Terry Ryan.

As much as we don't want to move Melky, it would keep Bernie available, since the Yankees seem perpetually hard-headed about keeping two first-basemen on the roster, even though all of them are terrible hitters.

And as far as Dotel goes...he wasn't worth the money. He's damaged goods, and the Yankees don't need another right-handed arm. It will be interesting to see if he's his old self again out in Kansas City, but I think he still has some mental issues to deal with besides the physical ones. He's not worth $5 million per year. Sorry.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/09/07 01:21 PM

Randy Johnson Passes Physical
Quote:


Source: Baltimore Sun

Randy Johnson passed his physical yesterday, and the Arizona Diamondbacks scheduled a news conference today to introduce him, ESPN.com reported.

Advertisement
The physical completes the trade that sends Johnson from the New York Yankees to the Diamondbacks.

Johnson's best years were in Arizona, where he was 103-49 in six seasons and won four Cy Young Awards before going to the Yankees in a trade he sought in 2005.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/09/07 01:23 PM

Igawa's First Pitch in Big Apple
Quote:
Source: AP

NEW YORK -- Kei Igawa pulled on his new pinstripes, stepped to the podium and threw his first changeup in the United States.

His long hair freshly trimmed in accordance with team rules, the Japanese pitcher stood before a packed room at Yankee Stadium on Monday and explained -- in English -- how thrilled he was to reach the big leagues.

"Today, my lifelong dream became a reality: to be a major league baseball player," Igawa said, reading carefully from a prepared statement. "I will give you my best as a Yankee. I will do my best to win the championship for this great city, New York."

All set to trade Randy Johnson to Arizona, the Yankees introduced one of his potential replacements during a formal news conference attended by about 75 Japanese reporters.

Igawa, 27, agreed to a $20 million, five-year contract with New York last month after the club bid $26,000,194 for his negotiating rights. The left-hander spent eight strong seasons with the Hanshin Tigers, going 14-9 with a 2.97 ERA and 194 strikeouts last year.

"We look for him to come in and solidify the back of the rotation," General Manager Brian Cashman said. "I think the fact that he took the time today to learn a bit of English -- I think that was just a small indicator of the work ethic that he possesses as he tries to transition over here."

Igawa, who will wear No. 29, practiced his speech for two days. But he said he was comfortable trimming his trademark long locks to comply with Yankees rules, just as center fielder Johnny Damon did last offseason after leaving the rival Red Sox.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/09/07 01:25 PM

Cashman: "Igawa's Not Matsuzaka"
Quote:
Source: NJ Star Ledger
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
BY DAN GRAZIANO
Star-Ledger Staff

NEW YORK -- This was 3 p.m. at Yankee Stadium -- one hour after Kei Igawa had smiled into a galaxy of popping flashbulbs and read an introductory statement in English, a language he doesn't speak. This was after they'd put away the sushi and the carving boards, after the TV cameras had been folded up and packed back into the vans.

Yankees GM Brian Cashman came into a small room in the Stadium basement, took off his suit jacket, sat in a folding chair and started talking about his new Japanese pitcher with a couple dozen reporters.

His basic message: Don't get too excited.

"He's not Matsuzaka," was the first thing Cashman said about Kei Igawa. "(Daisuke) Matsuzaka is a front-of-the-rotation type of pitcher, and we don't want to confuse our fan base. We're looking for (Igawa) to stabilize the back end of our rotation."

It was a startling statement, invoking the name of the Japanese ace the rival Boston Red Sox spent $103 million to acquire this winter. The Yankees' $46 million investment in Igawa is puny by comparison, but Cashman wants to make sure everybody understands what that means. The Sox think Matsuzaka is a No. 1 starter. The Yankees don't think that about Igawa. Never did.

And that's why the big story out of Yankee Stadium yesterday wasn't that Igawa was there. (Heck, they signed the guy weeks ago. This wasn't exactly news.)

The big story about Igawa is that he's starting to move up a little too high in that Yankee starting rotation.

"What I have to do at this point," Igawa said through an interpreter, "is to win a job as a starter."

But that's not really true. For Igawa not to win a job as a starter, he'd have to be a total disaster in spring training and the Yankees would have to find at least two starting pitchers better than he is to push him out of the rotation. The trade of Randy Johnson, which should become official today, leaves their rotation more than a little thin. And if you think that's not a concern of Cashman's, think again.

"There are going to be questions in our rotation," Cashman said. "What's Carl Pavano going to do for us? How's Andy Pettitte going to transition back to the American League? Mike Mussina is a year older. How is Kei Igawa going to handle his transition to a new league and a new country? They're fair questions, and there's an unknown, and that's why we're trying to cultivate as much as we can on the farm."

There is something to Cashman's message these days that we're not used to hearing from the Yankees. Behind what he's saying lurks the real possibility that the Yankee team that goes to spring training next month in Tampa ... brace yourself ... might not be good enough to win the AL East for the 10th year in a row.

"We've got a plan here that we're trying to execute and hope that it works for our short and long term," Cashman said. "But it's a balancing act."

See, the trade of Johnson back to the Diamondbacks for reliever Luis Vizcaino and three prospects makes the Yankees' starting rotation weaker for 2007. Right now it's Chien-Ming Wang, Mussina, Pettitte, Igawa and Pavano. Could that turn out to be good enough? Sure. But does it inspire that much confidence when you match it up against Boston's rotation of Matsuzaka, Curt Schilling, Josh Beckett, Tim Wakefield and Jonathan Papelbon?

No. It really doesn't.

There is, however, good news: The Triple-A and Double-A teams are looking pretty good.

The prospects the Yankees are getting for Johnson, plus the prospects they got for Gary Sheffield, plus promising farm system holdovers like Phil Hughes, Tyler Clippard and others have the Yankees' minor-league system looking a lot more loaded than it ever has in recent years. Which means, if the rotation falters, they'll have a better chance to make the proper midseason adjustments. They'll have talented arms in the minors that can help them either on the big-league mound or in the trade market, where the new influx of talent makes them better equipped to make baseball deals instead of just salary-dump deals.

"Aug. 31," Cashman said. "I have until Aug. 31 to play with the roster. And I have interest in improving the roster at all times. So time will tell. We're going to have to play it out."

It's gutsy of Cashman to take this chance -- to build the farm system at the risk of a down year with the major-league team. He's right that time will tell what kind of strategy it turns out to be. In the meantime, Yankee fans will have to have faith. And they may also have to have something they're not used to having.

They may have to have patience.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/09/07 10:13 PM

Unit Trade Gives Yankees Bait
Quote:
Source: Rotoworld.com

Shortstop Alberto Gonzalez was one of four players acquired by the Yankees in the Randy Johnson deal. Gonzalez, a slick-fielding 23-year-old, hit .290/.356/.392 in 434 at-bats in Double-A last season. He's unlikely to hit enough to be a regular on a team like the Yanks, but he could be enticing to a weaker team in need of a shortstop. If the Yankees keep him, he'll be groomed as a utilityman.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/09/07 10:28 PM

Santana's No-Trade Clause May Prove Problematic for Twins
Quote:

Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press

by Charlie Walters

Much has been made of the Twins' seemingly bleak chances, for financial reasons, of retaining Johan Santana when he becomes eligible for free agency following the 2008 season. By winning his second Cy Young Award last season, it turns out the left-hander's market value may have increased even more than initially anticipated.

Santana's contract, it has been learned, includes a clause that could hinder the Twins from trading him this year if the club believes it won't be able to re-sign him for 2009.

Being among the top three vote getters for the 2006 Cy Young Award triggered a no-trade provision for Santana for 2007. Had he not been among the top three, Santana had the right, by contract, to choose 12 teams to which he could be traded.

Now, Santana cannot be traded to any team in 2007 without his approval. His price tag could reach $20 million a year on the open market after the 2008 season.

The Twins probably wouldn't want to wait until 2008 to trade him, though, if they determined they wouldn't be able to afford him after that season. By waiting, Santana's trade value could diminish.

With the no-trade clause this year, Santana has leverage to reject any deal unless a team is willing to provide him with a huge contract extension. That could limit the Twins' ability to get market value for him in a trade.

If Santana, a unanimous Cy Young Award choice last season, isn't among the top three Cy Young vote getters after the coming season, his contract reverts to a 12-team limited trade clause for 2008.

Santana, 27, is signed for $12 million this year and $13.25 in 2008. That's considerably below market value considering Barry Zito's recent $18 million per season free-agent contract with San Francisco.

The Yankees' expected trade of five-time Cy Young winner Randy Johnson, 43, and his $16 million contract for this year could be connected to an effort to sign Santana for 2009, when they will move into a new stadium.


Santana has been loyal to the Twins, sticking with them and taking a bit lower salary at his last re-up. If the Yankees give Twins GM Terry Ryan a decent package (possibly including Tyler Clippard or maybe even the untouchable Phillip Hughes) this year, I bet they could convince Santana to waive his clause and he could be headed to the Bronx and pitching in pinstripes as soon as this year.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/09/07 10:32 PM

Texiera Eventually Heading to New York
Quote:

Source: Arlington Star-Telegram
by Jennifer Floyd Engel

ARLINGTON -- Mark Teixeira is exactly the type of player good franchises build around, which is why it should surprise nobody the Rangers are frittering him away.

Not at this very moment. Not exactly.

Tex has another two years as a Ranger before he becomes a free agent and, most noteworthy, a Scott Boras free agent. Mr. Greedy Gut's presence in this equation is why everybody anticipates Tex to sign elsewhere, most likely New York, when given a choice.

We'll all cry, "Damn free-spending Yankees!" and we'll only be half right.

Because the Rangers will have had a chance, in winter 2006, to give themselves a chance at Tex. Re-signing him has to begin now, or else it will become about simply throwing A-Fraud money at him in hopes he values cash ahead of winning. Don't bank on that, not with Tex.

Oh, silly money is going to be needed to sign him. Talent like Teixeira's does not come cheap. Neither will Michael Young, if we're being honest.

Crazy money is rarely enough, though, in Texas.

Look at Barry Zito. He is the most eligible bachelor in free agency and, to his credit, Owner Hicks cleared Jon Daniels to slap down a realistic bid in hopes of enticing him to marry them. So why does just about every baseball expert say, "No way?" Why does everybody think he signs with the NY Mets -- even if it means a little less money?

Now, I do not know Zito, but "why" seems pretty simple to me. Nobody thinks anybody can win in Texas.

And if that is what people who have never lived through a disappointing Rangers season believe, what must be going through Teixeira's and Young's brains? What do you think he will be thinking after another couple of mediocre years?

Here's a guess: Get me the hell out of here.

This is why keeping Tex (and Young) has to begin right now, with signing Zito and possibly Mark Mulder, with adding another bat to this lineup to hit behind Teixeira, with spending -- not dumping -- cash.

Hicks took a big and necessary step in that direction this off-season when he dumped Buck Showalter. My guess is his absence gave JD a fighting chance of re-signing Tex and adding a Zito-like pitcher.

Winning is how teams like Texas have a fighting chance to keep guys like Tex, and he is worth keeping.

For baseball reasons. For a lot of reasons. For Friday.

Tex hosted his first Holiday Hold 'Em poker tournament benefiting a charitable fund that bears his name. And unlike Greedy Gut client A-Fraud, Tex's charity actually benefits Texans.

He sponsored six scholarships in the DFW area this year. He plans to double that in 2007. He has a deal with Habitat for Humanity to build a home for a local family.

He plays here. He lives here. He gives back here.

He is exactly the kind of athlete we always say we want, talented and dedicated and charitable and personable. He is exactly the kind of player good franchises use as building blocks for long-term winning. And frittering him away is not the only option.

Start by signing Zito, and then see how good franchises are made.


I guess A-Rod is only a great guy when he's on your team...otherwise, it's okay to slander him and make fun of him.

Who were the retards that gave him his ginormous contract? 'Nuff said.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/10/07 05:13 AM

People in the texas area LOVE to leave out those "little" details because it would deflat their argument But I agree, it was Hicks who signed "A-Fraud" to that contract, BLAME HIM!

Onto your article about Santana, they should get him. He's young, a proven Cy Young winner, and it'd be a great guy to have in a new stadium (damn that idea) in 2009. Money won't be an issue and hopefully if Minnesota continues to miss the postseason or lose in the first round, it'll entice Santana to want to travel to New York to win.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/10/07 01:42 PM

By far and away, Santana is the best pitcher in the league, hands down. I think that like you've said, unless the Twins blast out of the gate and end up in 1st place in their division at the season midpoint, Santana is destined for greener, hopefully pinstriped, pastures.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/10/07 05:46 PM

Q&A With Randy Hendricks
Quote:
Source: Houston Chronicle

Agent for Clemens, Pettitte, etc., discusses baseball, his players, and the outlook for 2007

Q&A: Agent Hendricks discusses Clemens, Pettitte

Randy Hendricks, whose star clients include Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte and Jason Schmidt, has been one of the most prominent baseball agents in America since the early 1970s, when he and his brother, Alan, started Hendricks Sports Management in the 1970s.

One of the trailblazers in fighting salary arbitration and the owners' collusion, he has often been rated among the most powerful folks in baseball. And as his bio states at http://www.hendricks-sports.com reminds us, "He has been named to the Sporting News list of 100 Most Powerful People in Sports, including most recently 2003."

An honors graduate of the University of Houston Law School, Hendricks took some time from his schedule to answer some questions regarding Clemens, Pettitte and the state of baseball in Houston.

QUESTION No. 1: This has been a pretty busy winter for you. You have landed some great deals for Russ Springer, Jason Schmidt and a guy named Andy Pettitte. What are your thoughts about the recent spending spree in baseball?

ANSWER: One can always find a correlation between player salaries and revenues in the game. As revenues go up, so do salaries. This has been true for 30 years, so the recent increase in salary levels comes as no surprise. Revenues of $5.2 billion were reported by the 30 clubs in 2006. This is an average of $173 million per club.

• • •

QUESTION No. 2: What is up with Roger Clemens?

ANSWER: Nothing is really new with Roger. Fans need to keep in mind that he intended to retire after the 2003 season. Then, for a lot of reasons, he decided to play for the Astros in 2004. After evaluating the variables, Roger decided in early December 2004 to play again for the Astros in 2005. Roger was pretty beat up after the 2005 season (and really in late August, September and the playoffs in 2005). So he wasn't sure he could or should play another year.

I suggested shortening the season for 2006 so he would not put so much wear and tear on his body. He probably would have retired, except he wanted to play for the USA in the World Baseball Classic. He felt good after that. Koby hurt his hand and needed rehab, so Roger and Koby worked out together in early May of 2006. Roger felt good, he enjoyed his time with Koby, so he decided to take me up on the shortened season recommendation. As everyone knows, he pitched one game at class A (with Koby), one at AA and one at AAA before starting on June 22 in Houston. Roger had several choices, as everyone knows. The Rangers, Yankees, Red Sox and Astros all made known their desire to sign Roger. So did other teams. Ultimately, Roger chose to sign with the Astros.

Roger has very much enjoyed his time with the Astros. He has no complaints with the management or the way in which he has been treated. He is most appreciative of the relationship.


Hendricks and Roger Clemens go way back. This was taken while Clemens was with the Blue Jays in 1998.

He has to decide what he wants to do for 2007. He hasn't decided. If he does play, it will only be for the Astros, Red Sox or Yankees. He needs to sort through all of the variables, again. One positive is that he came out of 2006 season feeling really good physically.

From my standpoint, and keep in mind that I am an Astros season ticket holder, the most discouraging part with the Astros has been the very poor run support in 2005 and 2006. That puts an incredible amount of pressure on a pitcher to never give up a run, which means a pitcher cannot give himself the luxury of making more than one mistake. I am sure many Astros fans, like me, would expect that the team would think "hey, Roger is pitching, so we'll win; all we have to do is score a few runs."

Instead, the team plays uptight offensively behind him and just seems to have settled into this bad pattern. Hopefully, if Roger plays for the Astros in 2007, that will change.

• • •

QUESTION No. 3: If you had to guess, will Roger pitch again? Where?

ANSWER: I think it is more than 50/50 that Roger will play in 2007, but for a shortened season. As I said, it will be for the Astros, Red Sox or Yankees. I don't think any team is really ahead. Obviously, Houston has the home field advantage. One of the nice things during Roger's time playing for Houston has been how outstanding the fans have been. One of the reasons he decided to play for the Astros was the large number of Houston fans who asked him to do so

QUESTION No. 4. I'm pretty sure I'm right, but some fans want to clarify the status of Roger Clemens' personal services contract. Because the deal only kicks in after he retires, it is correct that Roger can play elsewhere without breaking that contract, correct?

ANSWER: Roger's personal services contract with the Astros starts the year after he retires. He can play elsewhere in 2007 (the same was true last year) and it won't affect his personal services contract. The Astros understand Roger's history with the Red Sox and Yankees. He thinks highly of all three teams, and there is nothing wrong with that. And it is fair to say that all three teams think highly of him.

After all, I have made the case, as have others, that he is the greatest pitcher in the history of baseball. He should be considered a local treasure by Houstonians, not someone to boo if he were to play elsewhere for a year.

After all, Nolan Ryan left the Astros to play for the Rangers and everyone loves Nolan.

• • •

QUESTION No. 5: What do you think of the state of baseball in Houston? By that, I mean the Astros, UH, Rice, Texas A&M baseball and the high schools? Do you anticipate another year of top draft picks coming out of this area?

ANSWER: The quality of baseball played in Houston is as good as anywhere in the world. I am continually impressed with how good our local players are, both in college and high school. There are a lot of good coaches and instructors in our area, who only help make these gifted players better. Many players play on all star teams, and they seem to push themselves to play even better. I will always take my chances with the players we have in Texas. California and Florida rank highly as well on talent.

Given the abundant talent pool in our state, it is no wonder that we have so many good high school and college teams. Every year, we have several local high school teams that are good enough to be state champion, only they can't get out of the Houston area in the playoffs.

• • •

QUESTION No. 6: You and I both share a healthy respect for Andy Pettitte. Moreover, I've told you that I thought Andy received a bad rap from some fans who don't realize that Pettitte's decision would have actually been made for him if he the Jon Garland trade had not been canceled after the Astros and White Sox had agreed to the players that would be exchanged. (The White Sox pulled out after reviewing the medical reports about Taylor Buchholz?)

ANSWER: The reaction by many people is disappointing to me and Andy. It is like they forgot the last three years. Both Boston and Anaheim offered him $52 million three years ago. He signed with Houston for $31.5 million. How many fans would have turned down over $20 million guaranteed just to play at home? Andy did. He is glad he did. It was good for everyone. Why some people cannot be grateful for the past three years is difficult to accept.

More to the point, the Astros were more worried about Andy's elbow than were the Yankees. The opposite was true three years ago. That irony is not lost on me. The Astros initially offered Andy a substantial pay cut, for the record. Then, their best offer was the lowest one we had. So it was clear as could be to me that the Astros had a lot of reluctance on Andy, and I attribute that mostly to medical concerns.

Andy is so sensitive that being a free agent has not been easy for him. He hates to disappoint people or to hurt their feelings. So he was torn three years ago, and he was torn, again, this year. First, he wasn't sure he would be healthy enough to play. Second, he wasn't sure his family would want him to play. Third, he wasn't sure he should play due to his father's heart condition. So he needed a lot of time to decide. Meanwhile, the Astros and I had an understanding that the Astros should go ahead and do what they needed to do while Andy decided.

They could have signed Woody Williams, which they did, and traded for Jon Garland, which they almost did, and they then would have told Andy there was no room for him. That would have been acceptable to us because of the circumstances of his indecision.

Andy decided to play in early December, but he wanted a player option for 2008 so he wouldn't have to go through being a free agent again at the end of next year. He said he wouldn't exercise the option if he were hurt and unable to play. The Yankees accepted this and the Astros did not. The Yankees said they would accept Andy's word and the Astros said, in essence, they wouldn't or couldn't. The Astros' reaction was to try to trade for Garland; the Yankees' was to say "when do you want to sign?" Now you tell me, what would you have done in the same situation?


Hendricks joined Andy Pettitte in Deer Park for the announcement of the pitcher's return to New York.

The Astros were as hesitant this year as the Yankees were three years ago. The Yankees were as aggressive this year as the Astros were three years ago. It shows that we are all people, and respond well to people or companies that say they want and need us.

• • •

QUESTION No. 7: How is Pettitte doing?

ANSWER: Andy feels really good. Fans need to remember how unnatural it is to pitch, meaning it is not the right thing to do, medically speaking. So pitchers break down and wear out. A lot of times veteran pitchers need several months off just to start feeling all right and to recharge their batteries. Fans may think it is a game, but they don't understand there is no reason to play such a game. A player is better off saying he is ready, willing and able to play, in order to maximize his market value, than saying he is not sure if he will play or where he will play. It is not us asking for press attention. It is the press or fans who are reacting to the uncertainty. But that uncertainty is a product of what I described, not some contrived game.

• • •

QUESTION NO. 8: What does it say about the Yankees' decision to sign Andy Pettitte and trusting his elbow one month and then trading Randy Johnson the next month?

ANSWER: It says in bright lights on Broadway that they would rather have Andy Pettitte, and his elbow, than Randy Johnson and his back. Keep in mind, though, that Randy Johnson expressed to the Yankees an interest in going to Arizona, just as he did after he played for the Astros for two months in 1998. Andy is a proven post season winner under the glare and pressure of New York. The Yankees have been missing that attribute since Andy left.

• • •

QUESTION No. 9: You've had quite a successful career. How much longer do you want to do this? What do you view as the highlight of your career?

ANSWER: I love my profession and intend to continue it indefinitely. As for highlights, fighting for free agency for players, when none existed, fighting against collusion by the owners, setting arbitration and contract records, and the relationships I have enjoyed with people, including clients, non player clients, people in management, people in the media and fans, have been notable. I love baseball and enjoy the people connected with it. Some times the competition brings out a lot of emotion, and that goes with the landscape. I don't hold grudges and move on down the road to the next situation.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/10/07 05:51 PM

Yankees Stockpile Arms
Quote:
Source: NJ Record

By PETE CALDERA
STAFF WRITER

Since watching the Yankees get abruptly bounced from October, general manager Brian Cashman has added six new pitching prospects via trade.

More than once Tuesday, Cashman referred to the improved "inventory" in his minor league system -- young arms who could help the Yankees sooner or later, or as trade bait for a more experienced pitcher.

Right-handers Ross Ohlendorf and Steven Jackson officially joined the Yankees' deepening talent pool Tuesday, as the Randy Johnson trade was completed with Arizona.

"I think our position players are the best in the game, and we're trying to find a mix of quality arms," Cashman said. "I'm happy about the inventory [that] we're collecting."

Cashman also received reliever Luis Vizcaino and minor league shortstop Alberto Gonzalez for Johnson, 43.

In dealing Johnson, Jaret Wright and Gary Sheffield mostly for prospects, the Yankees have at least increased their chances of trading for an impact big league pitcher before the July 31 deadline.

By then, a list of starters who might become available could include Mark Buehrle, Jon Garland, Bartolo Colon, Kris Benson, Freddy Garcia, John Smoltz, Jake Westbrook, Doug Davis and Livan Hernandez.

Of course, free agent Roger Clemens could decide to pitch for the Yankees at any time, and all it would cost is money.

Both innings-eaters with signature sinkers, Ohlendorf and Jackson could start the season at either Class AA or AAA. Cashman described Gonzalez as a "special defender" with a "contact bat."

Vizcaino 32, earned the nickname "Daily," based on his penchant for frequent use. Among the 2006 Yankees, only Scott Proctor (83) and Kyle Farnsworth (72) appeared in more games than Vizcaino (70).

Minus Johnson's 200 innings per season, Cashman acknowledged that he had "put the rotation at risk," but had accelerated making the Yankees younger, more athletic and less expensive.

Trading Johnson wasn't on Cashman's agenda until a lengthy phone conversation following the death last month of Johnson's older brother.

Johnson suggested that he'd waive his no-trade clause to get closer to his Phoenix-area home, but only if the deal made sense for the Yankees. "He didn't ask to be traded," said Cashman, who thanked Johnson for his two seasons and 34 combined wins.

Despite a herniated disk diagnosed late last season, "I don't think we'd have gotten as far as we did without him," Cashman said. "We didn't achieve our ultimate goal, but ultimately that's a team effort."
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/10/07 09:06 PM

The brain tumor that was removed from Bobby Murcer last month was malignant.

Say a prayer for him!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/11/07 01:13 AM

A true Yankee, who had to step out of the shadow that was Mickey Mantle and earn his own accolades, particularly after coming back from the Army. He had the privilege and fortune of playing with fellow Yankees great Thurman Munson before his tragic death. God bless you Bobby, we wish you the best!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 12:55 AM

Pettitte wants Clemens to join him in NY

NEW YORK -- Andy Pettitte's sense is that Roger Clemens will decide to pitch in 2007. If it happens, Pettitte wants it to be as a Yankee.
"Would that be great," Pettitte said. "Does he know that I would love that? Of course."

Since Pettitte signed a one-year, $16 million contract with the Yankees on Dec. 21, speculation has been that the 44-year-old Clemens will eventually follow his good friend and workout companion back to the Bronx.

Pettitte -- who was reintroduced at a Yankee Stadium press conference on Thursday -- said he played golf with Clemens recently. He believes the Rocket is planning on at least one more liftoff.

"After speaking with him, it sounds like he's probably going to want to pitch," Pettitte said. "It's amazing to me that he still wants to pitch, but he does. It's like he's 20. He's just got an unbelievable amount of energy."

Clemens has not officially decided upon his plans for 2007, but agent Randy Hendricks told the Houston Chronicle this week that there is a "more than 50-50" chance that the seven-time Cy Young Award winner will pitch.

If he does so, it will be for one of three clubs -- the Red Sox, the Yankees or the Astros. Pettitte noted that all three clubs have compelling points of interest for Clemens.

"Boston is where it all started for him, [in] New York we won the championships, and [Houston] is home," Pettitte said. "He's there on the schedule he's able to have with his family situation and he's got a son [Koby, a third baseman in low Class A ball] in the organization.

"Right off, those are the things that obviously have to be going through his mind. It'll be an extremely tough decision."

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said that he has spoken with Hendricks over the winter to relay the team's interest, but not to Clemens directly.

"If Roger's interested in coming to New York, then I'd love to talk to him," Cashman said.

Clemens was 7-6 with a 2.30 ERA in 19 starts for the Astros in 2006, joining the club in late June.

As a Yankee from 1999-2003, Clemens went 77-36 -- including his 300th career victory in 2003 -- while helping the club to the 1999 and 2000 World Series titles.

Cashman pulled the trigger on the original trade in which the Yankees acquired Clemens from the Blue Jays before the 1999 season. He called Clemens a "perfect employee."

"He came in here and delivered not only a huge performance on the field, but had a major impact in the clubhouse," Cashman said. "He cared a great deal, not just about the young guys on the come, but he cared about his teammates [and] he cared about the people within his working environment."

If Clemens does pitch in 2007, he would likely request a special schedule like the one the Astros allowed. The team permitted Clemens to pitch partial seasons and skip certain road trips in order to remain at home in Houston with his family.

Cashman declined to speculate if he would allow a Yankees player to enjoy such allowances. Pettitte said he didn't expect Clemens to pop up at Legends Field in Tampa when pitchers and catchers report on Feb. 13.

"I think Spring Training would probably be out," Pettitte said with a laugh. "You don't ever know what Roger's really going to do. He'll talk and say stuff, but ... I don't think he's thinking he'll be heading to camp anywhere in the next three weeks."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 02:54 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
He had the privilege and fortune of playing with fellow Yankees great Thurmond Munson before his tragic death.


How can a Yankee fan incorrectly spell Thurman Munson?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 01:17 PM

For my penance, I'll watch the entire 1990 Yankees season.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 01:23 PM

Yankees: We Want Rocket
Quote:
Source: Utah Daily Herald

Now that they have Andy Pettitte, the New York Yankees want Roger Clemens, too.

"He's kind of like your perfect employee," general manager Brian Cashman said Thursday after welcoming Pettitte back to Yankee Stadium.

Clemens pitched for the Yankees alongside Pettitte from 1999-2003, helping them win two World Series titles and four AL pennants. The pair spent the last three seasons with their hometown Houston Astros.

"If Roger is interested in coming to New York, I'd love to talk to him," Cashman said. "He came in here and not only delivered a huge performance on the field but had a major impact within the clubhouse."

New York hasn't reached the World Series since Clemens left. The Yankees traded Randy Johnson back to the Arizona Diamondbacks this week, and Cashman admitted the move put the rotation at risk.

Clemens, a seven-time Cy Young Award winner, is choosing among returning to the Astros, retiring or rejoining the Yankees or Boston Red Sox, his first major league team.

Clemens' agent, Randy Hendricks, says that if the Rocket pitches, he probably wouldn't start his season until May or June.


No, please, no! Getting Roger Clemens is a huge mistake for this club. Instead of paying all of this money to sign him for three months, why not make a huge investment and go after Johan Santana now? We've got the prospects, we've got the cash. Let's make a deal with the Twins.

And I can understand the strategy of trying to get him before the Red Sox do, and Clemens in the physical phenom for pitching at his age, but I really think a 45-year-old Clemens is going to get hammered in the AL East...

That being said...I will admit that, personal animosity for what he did to the Yanks in 2004, he's still better than 98% of the guys the Yankees could bring in to help fill up the end of their rotation, and I'd take him over Pavano and Igawa at this point. However, I'd go after Santana (and maybe Willis, if we didn't have to sell the farm, which I suspect Florida will want, and he's not worth it) instead of devoting all of my resources to pursuing Clemens.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 01:26 PM

Big Unit's Failure Mystifies Rivera
Quote:
Source: NY Post

By DAN MARTIN

January 12, 2007 -- Mariano Rivera won four World Series titles closing for Andy Pettitte and saw little but disappointment with Randy Johnson as a teammate, and he still can't figure out exactly why.

"I don't know what happened," Rivera said of the Big Unit, who was dealt back to Arizona. "From what I saw, Randy gave his best all the time. Unfortunately, it didn't work out the way we wanted it to. But I can't say he didn't do all he could."

Indeed, Johnson's two years in Pinstripes featured first-round playoff exits and the tall lefty failing to contribute in the postseason. He was a far less effective pitcher than the one who repeatedly shut the Yankees down when he was with the Diamondbacks and, before that, the Mariners.

Rivera didn't see the same stuff with Johnson as a teammate, which is likely the reason the aging Johnson didn't succeed with the Bombers.

"When Randy came here, he didn't have the same stuff he used to have," Rivera said.

The Yankees hope that is not the case with Pettitte as he returns to The Bronx.

"Andy should have never left," Rivera said of the southpaw who was re-introduced as a Yankee yesterday. "He should have always been a Yankee. But [Pettitte's leaving] is in the past. I'm happy to have him back."

Rivera was honored for his work with the FDNY, NYPD and Port Authority PD at a ceremony for the World Police and Fire Games, which will be held in New York in 2011 to coincide with the remembrance of Sept. 11, 2001.

With pitchers and catchers due to report in little more than a month, the closer said his arm felt good. It will need to if the Yankees are going to contend for their first World Series victory since 2000.

Rivera thinks Pettitte will play a key role in getting the Yankees back to dominance.

"Everyone knows what Andy Pettitte can do," Rivera said.

And while Johnson never fit in with the Yankees, Pettitte always did. Rivera doesn't expect that to change, even though Pettitte is older now, having spent the past three years in Houston. And as the Yankees found out, those seasons can add up.

"They are two different pitchers," Rivera said. "Andy grew up here, so he was used to it. Randy only pitched here as a visitor and maybe he wasn't comfortable. He's the only one who really knows. But he worked, worked hard. We didn't win as much as we wanted to, but I know every time out there, he pitched as hard as he could."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 01:30 PM

MLB deal brings Ohlendorf back to area

Quote:
Source: The Princeton Packet

by Justin Feil

Travel plans certainly got a lot easier for the Ohlendorf family.


Traveling from their Austin, Texas home to see both Chad, who will be a freshman with the Princeton University baseball team, and Ross, who was in the Arizona Diamondbacks organization play, wouldn't have easily happened on the same weekend. Now, the brothers could end up within an hour, or even a few minutes of each other after Ross was traded to the New York Yankees in a five-player deal that was finalized Tuesday.

"I'm excited to come back to the Princeton area," said Ross Ohlendorf, an Academic All-District selection while playing at Princeton University in 2004. "The Yankees are obviously a great, great organization. I'm excited about the opportunity. I had a great experience with the Diamondbacks. I had great coaches and great friends there. Going to the Yankees, this is, if not the best, one of the best organizations in the history of baseball. I'm excited about the opportunity."

Ohlendorf was dealt along with fellow minor league pitcher Steven Jackson and infielder Alberto Gonzalez and Diamondbacks reliever Luis Vizcaino for Yankee pitcher Randy Johnson. Ohlendorf will report to pitchers and catchers Feb. 13 in Florida.

"I don't think they really know for sure where I'll be," Ohlendorf said. "I know with the Diamondbacks, I was expecting to most likely start in Triple A. I don't know the Yankees organization well in terms of what pitchers they have. I'm hoping to move up from Double A. If not, I'll have opportunity to pitch and move up."

Either way, the power-pitching right-hander figures to be in close proximity with his younger brother, who will likely pitch for the Tigers this spring, according to PU head coach Scott Bradley. The Trenton Thunder remain the Yankees' Double A club, while Scranton/Wilkes-Barre is their Triple-A affiliate.

Ohlendorf was 10-8 with a 3.29 earned run average for the Tennessee Smokies of the Southern League last summer. In 177 innings, he struck out 125 and walked just 29. He had four complete games. He made one appearance with the Tucson Sidewinders, the Diamondbacks' Triple-A team. The year before, in Single-A South Bend of the Midwest League, he was 11-10 with a 4.53 ERA. In 157 innings, he had 144 strikeouts and 44 walks.

"I felt like I learned a lot," said Ohlendorf, who was a fourth-round selection by the Diamondbacks in 2004. "At the end of my first season, things started to click. I was able to carry it in through the spring season and able to get better and better. That's all I can hope to do, continue to improve. I have things to keep working on. Some things to improve.

"My control is much better. That's the thing that's improved every season. My fastball, understanding the importance of throwing strikes and getting ahead in the count, was something I never understood in college. I understood to some extent, but a lot of times I tried to just throw it by everybody. It made a big jump. My control is better. My change-up has gotten much better. I'm throwing inside more. My offspeed, I can continue to improve. My consistency with my offspeed can continue to improve."

The Yankees see potential in Ohlendorf, and the Diamondbacks thought enough of him to send him to the Major League Rookie Career Development Camp, which was held right outside of Washington, D.C. last weekend. There, players learn about talking to the media, handling their finances, drug policies and the dangers of gambling.

"Each organization gets to invite three players to it who are expected to make their major league debut," Ohlendorf said. "It was Micah Owings, Doug Slaten and me. I went as a Diamondback."

It was while there that the wheels started to spin on the trade that brought Ohlendorf back east.

"One of college roommates called me," Ohlendorf said. "I knew there was a possibility. One of college roommates said there was a report I was in the tentative deal.

"I talked to the Yankees for the first time (Tuesday) and the Diamondbacks (Monday). When I talked to the Diamondbacks, it wasn't official. There was some speculation the last two weeks that I was one of the players that might be involved. I was going to be involved, they said, on Thursday."

Worth Lumry, a former pitcher for the Tigers who played in the Seattle Mariners farm system before suffering a shoulder injury, called Ohlendorf when the first news of the trade broke. Johnson had to pass a physical before the deal was finalized to send Ohlendorf to the Yankees.

"Actually they've been my mom's favorite team since she was growing up," Ohlendorf said. "So I've always liked them. I never had a strong favorite on teams. In baseball growing up, I liked the Astros and Rangers because they were close, and whichever team I was on in Little League."

Now, Ohlendorf hopes to stay on path to the majors. He has been interning in the office of finance for the University of Texas system in the morning hours, then working out in the afternoons to prepare for spring training. He is looking to build on his latest successful summer.

"I was very happy with this year," said the 24-year-old. "My first season was OK. I was happy how it ended. Struggling that first season, having the struggles, really taught me some things. I think that was good to not do quite as well. I was happy I had the jump I had. I'm happy with where I am now. I think I'm a much better pitcher."

Continued improvement will be his ticket to the majors. He would have the chance to make the jump with a storied team, one that his Princeton coach played for. It was one of the reasons that Bradley called to congratulate Ohlendorf.

"He was very excited for me," Ohlendorf said. "He came up in the Yankee system and made his major league debut with Yankees. He told me to play with the Yankees is an incredible experience and in Yankee Stadium. He was excited I have a chance to be a Yankee."

Ohlendorf hopes to follow in the footsteps of another former Tiger, Chris Young, who has been traded twice and burned both teams that dealt him away with solid seasons to follow.

"He's had a great couple seasons," Ohlendorf said. "He's had a great career so far. He's going to continue to do well. Hopefully, now I'll be with the Yankees for a little while."

Ohlendorf's arm strength and ability to eat up innings were two attractive qualities for the Yankees. Those strengths give him the potential to help as a starter, or possibly as a reliever. Proving he can help in either role will help speed him to the majors. He's looking forward to spring training and his debut within a new organization after two solid summers with the Diamondbacks.

"I'm hoping to move up a level," Ohlendorf said. "If not, if I'm in Double-A, I'd be right down the street from my brother."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 01:35 PM

Grading the Randy Johnson Deal

Quote:
Source: RealGM Baseball

The Yankees have traded Randy Johnson back to Arizona ending the future Hall of Famer's very disappointing career in pinstripes. The Yankees sent The Big Unit and $2 million to Arizona for reliever Luis Vizcaino and three minor leaguers.

Vizcaino is a 32-year old right hander who went 4-6 last season with an ERA of 3.58 in 70 appearances. He has a career record of 25-23 and a 4.24 ERA in eight seasons. The three minor leaguers included in the deal were right handed pitchers Ross Ohlendorf, and Steven Jackson, and shortstop Alberto Gonzalez, all of whom are 24 years old. Ohlendorf, went 10-8 with a 3.29 ERA at double A Tennessee, and Jackson went 8-11 with a 2.64 ERA also at Tennessee. Gonzalez, a right-handed hitter, batted .290 with six homers and 50 RBIs.

Johnson pitched for the Yankees for two years and was a disappointment to say the least. In his first season in pinstripes, Johnson was 17-8 with a 3.79 ERA, and last season he went 17-11 with an ERA of 5.00. He was a disaster in the playoffs, going 0-1 with a 6.92 ERA in three starts. After dominating in Arizona, both in the regular season and playoffs, New York had high expectations for Johnson coming to the Yankees and he did nothing but disappoint.

The Yankees were able to pull off a great trade by unloading Johnson, getting prospects in return, and having to pay only $2 million. The Yankees would have had to pay $16 million for a pitcher who was no longer producing.

Bringing Johnson back to the National League may help him, but don't expect the Johnson of old especially after the decrease in velocity as his fastball now only hits the low 90s.

The Diamondbacks will pay Johnson $14 million for the upcoming season, and I believe even with his decreased performance he will probably prove to be worth that amount because of the increase in attendance that he will bring. I do not however think he will be worth the $14 million plus the prospects that Arizona gave up, as well as the extension they signed him to.

Arizona: C

The D-Backs gave up too much for an aging pitcher who does too little.

Yankees: A+

They unloaded a huge disappointment, received prospects in return, and have to pay only $2 million of Johnson‚s salary. There is absolutely nothing wrong with their side of the deal, and this is coming from a die-hard Mets fan.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 01:43 PM

Rocket Return Likely

Quote:
Source: Sports Illustrated

by Jon Heyman

Yankees become clear front-runners to land Clemens

By unloading Randy Johnson, the New York Yankees didn't merely clear $14 million of his $16 million salary off their books, move a pitcher who didn't comfortably fit in New York back home to Arizona (not to mention one who just had back surgery -- though word is he's fine and will be ready for spring training). Or add four younger, less expensive players to the Yankees' organization. They also greatly enhanced their chances of signing the star pitcher they really want: Roger Clemens.

Some baseball officials say they believe Clemens is much more likely to go to the Yankees now that Johnson is out. And that's true not only because the Yankees have more money to spend with Johnson gone. Word is, Clemens doesn't particularly care for Johnson and wouldn't have considered coming to the Yankees had the Big Unit still been in pinstripes.

While it isn't known whether Clemens' negative feelings toward Johnson helped spur the Yankees to trade Johnson trade, Clemens' feelings didn't surprise one Yankees person. Told Clemens doesn't much like the moody, the person responded, "Who does?''

In any case, baseball people now view the Yankees as the strong favorite to sign Clemens over the Houston Astros and Boston Red Sox. Things can change, however. Clemens isn't expected to pitch until late May at the earliest despite the Yankees' preference that he start earlier. But Clemens is thought to be excited about returning to a place where there's urgency and drama surrounding every outing and a World Series-like atmosphere (though to be fair, the Astros have been in more World Series than the Yankees since The Rocket left New York).

Clemens' camp is officially saying that The Rocket hasn't even decided whether he will pitch in 2007, although his agent Randy Hendricks recently conceded to the Houston Chronicle that it's "better than 50-50'' that Clemens plays somewhere. As we all know by now, Clemens isn't much for math. He returned the first time after being 99 percent retired.

Here are my own estimates. It's 99 percent certain he plays somewhere, 75 percent likely he'll play for the Yankees. The best guess has the Yankees signing him to a $23 million contract prorated over the final four months to pay him close to $15 million.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has tried to emphasize starting pitching since taking over as in 1998, and it's hard to believe he would have left himself with a rotation that depends on both Kei Igawa and Carl Pavano, two question marks, without believing he at least had a decent chance at landing Clemens. "If he's interested in playing for us, we'd be interested in having him back,'' Cashman said.

Andy Pettitte's re-introductory press conference was Thursday in the Bronx, and it's easy to imagine Clemens will be joining his friend eventually. The Yankees were aware that Pettitte's people were out house hunting (he must be figuring on two years, not just the one), and it isn't a stretch to think that since Pettitte's people are also Clemens' people, and they will report their findings back to The Rocket. Even if Pettitte isn't a pull for Clemens, his buddy provides a ready-made excuse in case Clemens bolts from his hometown of Houston.

It is also believed that the Yankees now may even be willing to soften their historical stance not to permit relaxed schedules for stars. While the Yankees won't allow it to be as relaxed as it's been in Houston, Clemens has gotten used to being able to attend a lot of family functions through the Astros' come-as-he-pleases rule and might find the usual rules confining.

"I'm not going to speculate about that,'' Cashman said. "It's not something on the table, it's not a frontburner issue.''

Perhaps not yet.

New start for Unit

If the Big Unit seemed unusually warm and fuzzy in his Diamondbacks press conference, it might have something to do with the unique welcome club employees gave him. He was led through the offices before a door opened to the cafeteria where all the Diamondbacks workers were waiting for him. One team higher-up told Johnson, "Our family would like to welcome you back." Then they cheered.

In turn, Johnson told the workers he felt bad that he didn't visit them more often when he was a Diamondback the first time and promised real interaction. Then Johnson reportedly grew misty-eyed.

Of comings, goings and Owings

The Yankees offered to pay Arizona more money -- as much as $4 million -- had they been willing to include one of two other highly-regarded pitching prospects, either Micah Owings or Dana Eveland in the package (they got Ross Ohlendorf, Alberto Gonzalez, Steven Jackson and Luis Vizcaino). But Arizona, which covets prospects and has done a nice job to keep its best ones, decided they'd rather retain both those pitchers and take only $2 million from the Yankees despite its longstanding money difficulties.

Taking a look back, while Arizona only received young catcher Dioner Navarro, light-tossing left-hander Brad Halsey and overrated right-hander Javier Vazquez for Johnson, the D'backs greatly enhanced that haul by sending Vazquez to the White Sox for Vizcaino (who can't know whether he's coming or going), Orlando Hernandez and center fielder Chris Young, who's currently viewed as rising star, untouchable and who's in their immediate plans.

Cashman was talking to four teams about Johnson (though two weren't on the West Coast, so Johnson probably wouldn't have OK'ed those deals). The Padres offer of Linebrink and Headley wasn't awful, but beyond the fact that Arizona was easier (that's where Johnson lives), the Yankees liked the Diamondbacks' package better, anyway.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 02:33 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
For my penance, I'll watch the entire 1990 Yankees season.



Was that the year Andy Hawkins (I think he was the guy) pitched a no-hitter and lost the game?

By the way, I always found that the most misspelled Yankee name of that generation belongs to Graig Nettles, who was commonly and erroneously called "Craig" during his career.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 07:41 PM

I agree DJ that the Yanks should go after Santana hard but again, ultimately it's up to Minnesota. They could put together a winning team this year and be playoff contenders, especially if Francisco Liriano comes back healthy. In the meantime, I wouldn't wait around on hearing from Minnesota. I'd go after Clemens because again, trading Johnson left a BIG hole in the rotation (and as I've said numberous times before, I don't feel confident in Igawa or Pavano filling the spot).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 08:36 PM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
Was that the year Andy Hawkins (I think he was the guy) pitched a no-hitter and lost the game?


I was just a little tyke at the time, but from what I understand, yes, Hawkins has the strange honor of losing while pitching a no-hitter. And Sammy Sosa scored what would end up being the winning run...

And from what I've read, he lost the no-hitter stat as well, since the Yanks were visiting and the White Sox didn't hit in the bottom of the 9th.

Originally Posted By: klydon1
By the way, I always found that the most misspelled Yankee name of that generation belongs to Graig Nettles, who was commonly and erroneously called "Craig" during his career.


A-Rod couldn't even spell his name correctly, and he worked with him to get him ready to play third base when he came to the Yanks in the Soriano trade. I'm pretty sure this isn't apocryphal, because I remember it in the news when it happened, but my cursory link search didn't yield any solid results; A-Rod sent an autographed ball/photo to Nettles, with something like "Thank you Greg for all your help."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 08:49 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I agree DJ that the Yanks should go after Santana hard but again, ultimately it's up to Minnesota. They could put together a winning team this year and be playoff contenders, especially if Francisco Liriano comes back healthy.


For the Twins to be effective, they need Liriano to avoid a sophomore slump (and return to the team completely rehabilitated), which may plague him as AL batters now have seen him for most of last year. Torii Hunter needs to come up big, maybe even beating his personal-best 31 HR's last year. Can Morneau keep his AL MVP title? Can Mauer return as a Silver Slugger?

Even though Santana has been loyal to them in the past, I don't think he's got that Torii Hunter type loyalty where he'd be willing to stick around if they fall into the basement. I personally don't think their bats will repeat this year, and even if Liriano returns to 2006 form, the Twins will be hard pressed to get into the playoffs in their now ultra-competitive division, competing with the White Sox, the Tigers (who may also slump), and the Indians, who are a chic pick to make a big improvement this year.

However, if Liriano does return to form, it could pay off for the Yankees in 2008, because the Twins would be more open to unloading Santana's salary before he becomes an FA. Liriano will be there to pick up the slack.

So on one hand, it may be good if the Twins falter, but on the other, maybe keep your fingers crossed that Liriano comes back from injury.

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
In the meantime, I wouldn't wait around on hearing from Minnesota. I'd go after Clemens because again, trading Johnson left a BIG hole in the rotation (and as I've said numberous times before, I don't feel confident in Igawa or Pavano filling the spot).


Pettitte however should fill that spot. While I'm not blind to his age and flaws, at this point, I have more faith in Pettitte's elbow than I do in Johnson's back (and waning stuff). I personally think Igawa will make a decent starter...winning the Japanese Cy Young and being a perennial strikeout leader over in the land of the rising sun has to mean something. Pavano...well, even if he's supercalifragilisticexpealidocius in Spring Training, he may be moved for a power-hitting first baseman with strong defense (Mark Texiera?), or more pitching prospects. The Yankees have too many good, young arms in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to leave the cap on any longer, and I expect either Sanchez, Rasner, and Hughes to make a contribution somewhere down the stretch.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 10:01 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
The Yankees have too many good, young arms in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to leave the cap on any longer, and I expect either Sanchez, Rasner, and Hughes to make a contribution somewhere down the stretch.


I hope you're right. I'm dying to see this new "Roger Clemens" type Ace Philip Hughes in the big league already. At this rate, he won't come up until he's 30 Regardless if the Yankees get Clemens or not, I'm pretty sure they're gonna pull off a trade this summer and unload some of their prospects. Whether it's for another pitcher for the playoffs or for Texiera.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/12/07 10:55 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: Double-J
The Yankees have too many good, young arms in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to leave the cap on any longer, and I expect either Sanchez, Rasner, and Hughes to make a contribution somewhere down the stretch.


I hope you're right. I'm dying to see this new "Roger Clemens" type Ace Philip Hughes in the big league already. At this rate, he won't come up until he's 30


Keep in mind, he's only 20 years old...much like Chien-Ming Wang, they aren't going to rush his development if they don't have to. You can look towards Brad Halsey and Sean Henn as prime examples of too much, too fast.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/13/07 07:45 AM

I agree DJ, I wouldn't rush him either, I'm just anxious to see him. I thought he was ready to go but I'm sure I'm wrong. Speaking of which, I did a little research and it turns out Francisco Liriano had surgery that will require him to miss the ENTIRE 2007 season. So maybe the Yankees can pry Santana away from Minnesota sooner than later.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/13/07 01:17 PM

Everyone is anxious to see Hughes play, but he's still just a kid, and the Yankees have plenty of pitchers to go around. No need to rush his development quite yet. He's still in AA ball.

And bad news on Liriano isn't very good for a Santana trade...the Twins, with such a question mark on their star rookie, now will have to try and sign Santana to both save face and keep their rotation in check.

However, Liriano, with such an injury, may be allowed to walk free when his contract expires, if the Twins think he'll want too much or he's injured beyond repair.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/13/07 09:06 PM

Yankee Invites Include Pratt, Hughes

Quote:
Source: Rotoworld.com

Yankees invited C Todd Pratt, INF Andy Cannizaro, INF Angel Chavez, C Raul Chavez, RHP Tyler Clippard, C Ben Davis, INF Eric Duncan, OF Brett Gardner, RHP Phil Hughes, RHP Steven Jackson, LHP Ben Kozlowski, INF Ramiro Pena, RHP Ross Ohlendorf, C Peter Pilittere, C Omir Santos, OF Jose Tabata, INF Marcos Vechionacci, RHP Kevin Whelan, and RHP Steven White to spring training.

It appeared that Pratt might have a chance to join the Yankees last year, but he went to the Braves and the Bombers opened the season with Kelly Stinnett as Jorge Posada's backup. Now he'll get a chance to battle Wil Nieves and Chavez for backup duties. Although he's well past his prime -- he turns 40 next month -- he's the best choice of the group.


As of right now, that assessment is correct; Pratt at 40 is still better than the less-than-average Chavez and the young but underperforming Wil Nieves. He is however better than Stinnett, and although his defense is occasionally shaky, he does bring some power to the plate, and can play 1B if necessary.

I still wish they would have kept Fasano, his defense was stellar. Sure, he couldn't hit a lick, but most #1 catchers can't hit well either, and his defense was superb. At least Pratt gives us an option at 1B besides Mienty-Fresh.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/13/07 09:08 PM

Hughes Has High Hopes for Spring Training

Quote:
Source: MLB.com

by Brian Hoch

NEW YORK -- The Yankees invited 21 non-roster players to Major League camp Friday, including right-hander Jeff Nelson, who announced his retirement shortly thereafter.

Heading the list of players planning on arriving in Tampa is top pitching prospect Philip Hughes, who will make his presence known as the 2004 first-round selection continues to work toward his eventual Major League debut.

Hughes, 20, made 21 starts at Double-A Trenton last season, going 10-3 with an Eastern League-leading 2.25 ERA and 138 strikeouts in 116 innings of work. Hughes won his last eight decisions at Trenton after beginning his season at Class A Tampa of the Florida State League, posting a cumulative 2.16 ERA for the year.

Hughes, who could appear in New York as soon as this season, is one of eight pitchers invited to Spring Training by the Yankees.



Also on the list are three right-handers acquired in offseason trades: 24-year-old starters Steven Jackson and Ross Ohlendorf -- both acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks this week -- and Kevin Whelan, a 23-year-old reliever who came from the Detroit Tigers in November.

The other pitchers invited to camp are right-handers Tyler Clippard, who led all Yankees Minor Leaguers with 175 strikeouts in 2006, and Steven White, plus left-hander Ben Kozlowski.

The Yankees invited six catchers to camp, set to vie with 40-man roster backstop Wil Nieves to be named Jorge Posada's backup. The list includes several catchers with Major League experience in Raul Chavez, Ben Davis and Todd Pratt, along with Minor Leaguers Francisco Cervelli, P.J. Pilittere and Omir Santos.

Andy Cannizaro, who hit his first Major League home run last Sept. 26 at Tampa Bay, is one of five infielders on the invite list. Others include Angel Chavez, Eric Duncan, Ramiro Pena and Marcos Vechionacci.

Two promising outfield prospects round out the list in speedy leadoff hitter Brett Gardner and 18-year-old Jose Tabata, who was named the second-best prospect in the Yankees' system by Baseball America after batting .298 in 86 games with Class A Charleston last season, earning selection as a South Atlantic League All-Star.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/13/07 09:12 PM

Interestingly, Humberto Sanchez' name is conspicuously missing from these invite lists...if nothing else, this certainly lends credence to the possibility that a.) The Yankees think Sanchez is ready to play in the major leagues and will make the 25-man opening day roster b.) They will be moving Pavano during Spring Training and bringing in Sanchez as a 5th starter.

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/15/07 12:43 AM

Bernie Feeling the Squeeze; Villone May Be Out

Quote:
Source: FoxSports.com

The Yankees can spend whatever it takes for free-agent right-hander Roger Clemens; their payroll is down to $157 million, according to a major-league source, $167 million including benefits.

With a relatively trim payroll by their standards, might the Yankees make a run at the Rocket? (Ronald Martinez / Getty Images)

Yet, for all their streamlining, the Yankees still don't have room for free-agent center fielder Bernie Williams. The problem is not money, but roster space — the Yankees don't have a spot for Williams, and they want to keep the bottom of their roster flexible.

Williams, 38, played far more often and was far more productive than the Yankees expected last season, but he no longer offers assets that most teams want from their bench players — stolen-base ability, above-average defense, pinch-hitting prowess.

If injuries strike, the Yankees might need to promote an outfielder such as Kevin Thompson or infielder such as Alberto Gonzalez to occupy their 25th spot. They would be locked in with Williams, and the last thing they would want would be to release him in the middle of the season.

Gonzalez, acquired in the Randy Johnson trade, is considered one of the top defensive shortstops in minor-league baseball; two teams contacted the Yankees to express interest in acquiring him before the Johnson trade was even official.

A final note on the Yankees: The team sees little need to re-sign free-agent left-hander Ron Villone, in part because their right-handed relievers are proficient at retiring lefties and in part because they believe that lefty Sean Henn might enjoy the same type of breakout that Matt Thornton did with the White Sox last season.


Give me Ron Villone as a long-reliever and left-handed middle relief any day over Sean Henn. What crap. Henn has had numerous chances at the major league level, and plays like crap. Period.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/15/07 12:54 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J


Give me Ron Villone as a long-reliever and left-handed middle relief any day over Sean Henn. What crap. Henn has had numerous chances at the major league level, and plays like crap. Period.


AMEN! Lord help the Yankees if they go with Henn over Villone. You know, sometimes the Yankees make some REALLY good moves but then, other times they make some pretty bonehead moves (like this one)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/15/07 06:19 PM

After Trimming the Fat, Yankees Future Looks Bright

Quote:
Source: New York Sun

By TIM MARCHMAN
January 15, 2007


With the off-season effectively over, it looks like the biggest Yankees story is the one about what didn't happen: The Yankees didn't sign anyone to a long-term deal.

Everyone appreciates that this is important; I'm not sure people realize, though, just how important it is. As much as it seems otherwise, the Yankees haven't been wildly outspending the rest of the American League for that long. As recently as 2002, their payroll was about $125 million, substantially higher than Boston's $108 million payroll, but not wildly so. It was in 2003 when the Yankees began to lose all restraint, as they spent $152 million compared to Texas's $103 million, the second-most in the AL. Last year, the Yankees spent around $195 million, $75 million more than Boston.

A great deal of this money, of course, may as well have been used as kindling. Players like Carl Pavano, Bernie Williams, Kevin Brown, Jeff Weaver, and so on have made sums out of all proportion to their contributions. The Yanks may have been spending $200 million a year, but a great deal of that has been used to cover up earlier mistakes, replacing players to whom expensive commitments have been made with equally expensive but only marginally better players. In a word, the payroll has been inefficient. The Bombers outspent the Red Sox by more than $200 million from 2004 through 2006, and for the money got 14 more wins and one fewer world championship.

This makes the team's refusal to add more long-term commitments very good news, a much bigger deal than the moves to get rid of Randy Johnson, Gary Sheffield, and Jaret Wright, to whom the team only had short-term commitments. This is largely just a function of necessity — this wasn't a strong free agent market — but the Yankees are suddenly, on paper, in frighteningly good shape for the future.

As of right now, the Yankees have $66 million committed for the 2009 payroll, all of it earmarked for five players — Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter, Johnny Damon, Hideki Matsui, and Kei Igawa. Robinson Cano, Chien-Ming Wang, and Melky Cabrera will all be eligible for arbitration, and the three of them will collectively make about half what they'd be worth on the open market, probably something like $20 million all told.

There are no obvious albatross contracts here. For the past few years, looking at future Yankees ledgers has shown preposterous sums owed to players unlikely to be worth their salaries. Those types of commitments, to players like Jason Giambi, will all be done with in the next two years. Matsui and Damon aren't likely to be star players in 2009, but they are likely to be perfectly solid players for their positions. Every other player to whom the Yankees have a commitment is likely to still be a star or making a relatively paltry sum in 2009.

So, this is all to the good, right? The Yankees will have a bunch of good and great players under contract and a sum equivalent to Boston's payroll left over to spend on the rest of the team, and will thus be a monster. This is the hope, but there are some reasons for concern.

The first is that the young players who are suddenly part of the Yankees' core pose an odd dilemma. Wang finished second in the Cy Young balloting, Cano third in the batting race, and Cabrera put up a .360 on-base average as a 21-year-old. With performances like that, you have to look at these players as very important parts of the team's future, but it's hard to tell how important they'll be, as there are reasons to think they're all illusions. Wang doesn't strike anyone out, Cano's value is extraordinarily dependent on hitting for a high average, and Cabrera hasn't hit for power yet, and may never do so. This makes it hard to plan around them. You can't just pencil in Wang for star performance, because if his one trick stops working, he won't be a star. Not having a firm idea of how good your players will be makes it hard to tell how good you need to rest of your players to be, and thus what sort of players you need to acquire. The Yankees, being so rich, are better situated than any other team to tolerate this sort of uncertainty, but it will still be something a problem over the next few years.

The second is that the Yankees have some players who are going to be very hard to replace. Giambi is a star player, but similar players are relatively easy to find. Closers capable of posting a sub-2.00 ERA for four years at a time, or catchers who hit like Jorge Posada, generally aren't available at any price.

The importance of these problems shouldn't be overstated — there are worse crises to deal with than the possibility that your second baseman may not actually be as good as Rod Carew. Also, the Yanks have some things going for them that haven't been mentioned here, like Phillip Hughes, who may be the best pitching prospect in baseball. Still, the mere fact that the Yankees are trimming the fat doesn't mean their problems are going to solve themselves. It just means it will be easier to deal with the remaining ones. Efficiency isn't good in its own right, any more than a balanced budget is good in its own right. In both cases, it's what you do with the money you're not wasting that counts. There are good reasons to be more optimistic about the Yankees' future now than at any time in the recent past, but optimism does not win championships.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/15/07 06:24 PM

Are Yankees After Clemens?

Quote:
Source: Yankees.com

Mailbag with Brian Hoch


Last week, the Yankees showed off Andy Pettitte in the Bronx, putting the lanky lefty through the dog-and-pony show of an introduction.

It was a nice gesture and a pleasant ceremony, but New York knows Pettitte and vice versa. That cut the introductions short and created a perfect opportunity to find out more about Pettitte's friend, Roger Clemens.

At one point during an informal press conference, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman had to pause and say: "This is Andy Pettitte we're talking about here. We're not talking about Roger Clemens."

But Yankees fans are ready to discuss The Rocket, judging by the amount of questions sent in this week. Some of you are extremely pro-Clemens; others, not so much.

We'll get to that and much more in the second Yankees mailbag of 2007:

With Clemens' recent announcement that his return may be even later than last year, have the Yankees changed anything in their approach toward him?
-- Jeremy P., Oakhurst, N.J.


Clemens hasn't yet said where, when or if he will pitch in 2007, and this drama is going to stretch out long past the date when pitchers and catchers report to Tampa (Feb. 13). One thing appears certain: If Clemens decides to be on a mound in 2007, the Yankees want it to be theirs.

Cashman had been rather coy in public discussions regarding Clemens, but at the Pettitte press conference, he pulled no punches, calling the Rocket a "perfect employee" during his time in the Bronx and glowing about Clemens' work ethic and clubhouse presence with teammates and staff.

It not only appears that Clemens will pitch a partial season, but he may join any potential club -- the Yankees, Red Sox or Astros -- even later than he made his first start for Houston last year, which was June 22 vs. Minnesota.

That means that the Yankees will still need to plan for at least 12 weeks of having a pitcher not named Clemens in their rotation. That's plenty of time to see if the rotation can remain intact, if Kei Igawa and Carl Pavano are contributors, if Philip Hughes and his Minor League compatriots are ready or any other number of questions that could be surrounding the Yankees near the All-Star break.

Who knows? If all breaks right, it's possible that the Yankees might not even need Clemens by that point. That's a long shot. What team could say, "Not interested" to Clemens? The safe bet is that they'll push for Clemens no matter what the situation.

Are the Yankees giving Humberto Sanchez a Spring Training invitation? According to reports, he is ready for the big leagues and is very impressive. He is not listed as an invitee.
-- Tom D., New York


There was some confusion on this. Sanchez will be in Spring Training as a member of the Yankees' 40-man roster. He was on the Detroit Tigers' 40-man at the time of the trade that brought him to the Bronx in November.

Based on reports I've seen, I'm not sure if Sanchez is ready for the big leagues just yet -- he made just nine Triple-A starts in 2006 and didn't finish great -- but he's close and will get a good look in camp. No matter what, the rotation at Triple-A Scranton should be stacked to begin the year.

Is it possible to get Bobby Murcer's address? Bobby has always been one of my favorite players. He is truly a class individual. I believe in the power of prayer and will ask my entire church to remember him in their prayers. He truly is not in this battle alone!
-- Leroy W., Nakina, N.C.


Many, many fans wrote in with touching stories of their appreciation for Murcer, who recently learned that the brain tumor he had removed on Dec. 28 was malignant. Murcer has asked for your prayers as he fights this development.

Murcer's e-mail address -- along with that of the rest of the Yankees' broadcast team -- is listed here on MLB.com as media@yankees.com. You can also send postal mail to Murcer through the YES Network:

Yankees Entertainment and Sports
405 Lexington Avenue, 36th Floor
New York, NY 10174-3699

Do you think Don Mattingly will have a good shot for the Hall of Fame in '08, since there is not a strong class coming up?
-- Tom M., Las Vegas


It doesn't appear likely. The problem that Hall of Fame voters have with Mattingly is that, though he was one of the game's premier players from 1984-89, injuries robbed him of that elite status in his latter years.

Mattingly was a terrific Yankee, and I understand why fans want to see him in Cooperstown, but voters must consider the entire picture when evaluating a player's career. Mattingly received just 54 of a possible 545 votes this year (9.9 percent). It would be an astronomical jump to get to 75 percent and Induction Day.

Based upon comments Mattingly has made, it seems that even he has accepted that for the foreseeable future, his retired No. 23 in Monument Park will have to do. There's no shame in that.

Goose Gossage, however, is knocking on the door pretty loudly, falling just 21 votes shy this time. The next Hall of Fame vote could be it -- a long overdue honor, in my humble opinion.

Should the Yankees try to trade Pavano for a pizza pie, and get rid of his salary at the same time? Pavano has never proven himself to be a consistent winning pitcher.
-- Jay J., Brooklyn, N.Y.


At $10 million for 2007 and $11 million for 2008, plus a $1.95 million buyout for Pavano's 2009 club option, you're talking about some ridiculously expensive slices of pepperoni and cheese.

Seriously, though, it's been no secret that the Yankees have been underwhelmed with what Pavano has given them (17 starts, 4-6, 4.45 ERA in 2005). He not only hasn't been the pitcher that the Yankees expected, for all of last season, he wasn't a Major League pitcher, period.

But Pavano is on the payroll for now, and the Yankees owe it to themselves to see if he can ever come close to replicating the performances in Florida that originally wooed them. Surely, Pavano hasn't enjoyed his turn of events much, either.

Cashman noted earlier this winter that to trade Pavano, he'd have to pick up a significant portion of his salary and wouldn't get much in return as far as players or prospects -- a classic case of buying high and selling low.

I'm no stock-market wizard, but that's a no-no on Wall Street. It applies here, too.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/16/07 05:41 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Interestingly, Humberto Sanchez' name is conspicuously missing from these invite lists...if nothing else, this certainly lends credence to the possibility that a.) The Yankees think Sanchez is ready to play in the major leagues and will make the 25-man opening day roster b.) They will be moving Pavano during Spring Training and bringing in Sanchez as a 5th starter.



Just an update for you on Humberto Sanchez

Are the Yankees giving Humberto Sanchez a Spring Training invitation? According to reports, he is ready for the big leagues and is very impressive. He is not listed as an invitee.
-- Tom D., New York

There was some confusion on this. Sanchez will be in Spring Training as a member of the Yankees' 40-man roster. He was on the Detroit Tigers' 40-man at the time of the trade that brought him to the Bronx in November.

Based on reports I've seen, I'm not sure if Sanchez is ready for the big leagues just yet -- he made just nine Triple-A starts in 2006 and didn't finish great -- but he's close and will get a good look in camp. No matter what, the rotation at Triple-A Scranton should be stacked to begin the year
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/16/07 06:56 PM

GM's Help Explain Most Puzzling Offseason Moves

Quote:
Source: USA Today

by Bob Nightengale

The winter has been long, strange and curious.

The Royals and Yankees have switched identities, with Kansas City spending wildly and New York clutching its wallet.

The pitching-hungry Yankees have traded away five-time Cy Young Award winner Randy Johnson.

The Cubs have bought players as if they were using Monopoly money.

The White Sox, who have believed their rotation is among the best in baseball for the last two years, have dumped two of their starters for young, mostly unproven pitchers.

And the Padres watched their successful, longtime manager, Bruce Bochy, wander to the enemy.

We talked to the decision-makers behind the offseason moves that caused some baseball folks to ask, "What were you thinking?"

1. Cubs commit nearly $300M to players this offseason and are still shopping

The Cubs felt that after going 66-96 last year they had to do something drastic to make them relevant in the National League Central again.

So what did they do? They committed close to $300 million on players and brought in a new manager (Lou Piniella).

Chicago signed slugger Alfonso Soriano to an eight-year, $136 million deal. (But general manager Jim Hendry said he doesn't know for sure what outfield position Soriano will play.)

The Cubs re-signed third baseman Aramis Ramirez to a five-year, $75 million deal.

They brought in second baseman Mark DeRosa at $13 million over three years.

And they re-signed pitchers Kerry Wood and Wade Miller and catcher Henry Blanco to smaller deals.

Yet their only expenditures on outside pitching help were the signings of Ted Lilly (four years, $40 million) and Jason Marquis (three years, $21 million) and a trade for reliever Neal Cotts.

Lilly has won 59 games in his career. He has won more than 12 games in a season once and never pitched in more than 197⅓ innings. Marquis has won 42 games and pitched 602⅔ innings over the last three seasons, but he also has surrendered 642 hits. He had a 6.02 ERA last season.

Cotts joins a bullpen that had a 4.04 ERA, which was sixth best in the NL last season.

But Lilly and Marquis join a rotation that had a 5.19 ERA, the second-worst mark in the NL.

"We needed help in all areas, not just pitching," Hendry says.

"What we set out to do was get the best player available, and we did that with Soriano. We were thrilled to keep Ramirez. And we think Marquis will come back strong. And Ted Lilly is a 15-game winner (in 2006).

"But by no means are we finished. There are a lot more things we want to do in January and February. We're still interested in adding somebody; maybe tinker in the outfield and get help against left-handed pitching."

Hendry realizes the baseball world will be watching. You don't throw $300 million at players and hope to be merely competitive.

"We had to do this to get back," Hendry says. "We've had some bad luck with injuries, and I could have done a better job the last couple of years spending money in the offseason. But obviously the bosses down at the Tribune tower (the Cubs are owned by the Tribune Co.) were committed to fixing a lot of the problems.

"We drew 3 million people last year with a bad ballclub, but we wanted to show everyone that we're committed to becoming a winner. This is the first time, I think, we've ever gotten the best free agent available. Soriano was the marquee free agent, and we got him."

Why not spend that kind of money for the offseason's marquee pitching free agent, Barry Zito? "We didn't want to go seven or eight years for Barry," Hendry said. "It was that simple. That's why it was imperative we got Ted."

Can the Cubs win with what they have?

Hendry likes his team's chances, not just because of his offseason acquisitions but because of two returning players: first baseman Derrek Lee and shortstop Cesar Izturis. Lee, who hit .335 with 46 home runs and 107 RBI in 2005, missed most of last season tending to a wrist injury and his daughter's illness. The Cubs acquired slick-fielding Izturis from the Dodgers last July 31 in the Greg Maddux deal, but he only played 22 games the rest of the season because of a hamstring injury.

"I feel good about our team, I really do," Hendry says. "We have depth in the rotation now. We're very pleased with our bullpen. We get Derrek Lee back healthy. With Izturis at shortstop all year and throw in Soriano in the middle of the lineup, we can do some things."

2. Royals sign free agent pitcher Gil Meche to five year, $55 million deal

The Royals made their most expensive free agent signing since the 1985 World Series this offseason … on Gil Meche.

Meche, 28, has a great arm, but he has won 55 games in six major league seasons and he has never pitched more than 186⅔ innings in a season.

"We're all second-guessed in this game. It's part of the arena we're in," Royals general manager Dayton Moore says. "You just have to do what you think is best for your organization. People can say what they want, but the one thing that was always consistent is what a good competitor and class guy he is.

"Look, we could have continued to do what we've always done. We could have gone after a fourth or fifth starter and continued to be where we are. But we've got to be aggressive. We're going to do everything we can to be aggressive. We want our players to have a certain style. This was good for us."

If the Royals were a big-market club, they say, nobody would have said a word about their Meche signing. They were actually pleased they could add a fifth year to the deal. This is a team that has lost 100 or more games for three consecutive seasons, as well as four of the last five.

"What's important to us is accountability," says Moore, once the Braves' highly regarded player-development and scouting director whom the Royals hired last spring to replace Allard Baird. "We have 25 guys in that clubhouse, and all we heard was, 'Go get Gil Meche.' We have our players excited. Our fans are excited. And that's who you're accountable for.

"To me, this is the perfect signing for Kansas City."

The Royals aren't saying that Meche will be a 20-game winner this year, but they do believe he had the finest pure arm on the open market. Just give him time, and the right environment, the Royals say, and folks will see why he could become a legitimate No. 1 starter.

"Everybody in baseball realizes that Gil Meche has an outstanding quality to his pitches," Moore says. "You can talk to people and they'll tell that this guy should win 15-plus games a year. I see this guys entering the prime years of his career. Guys just don't break into the major leagues as a No. 1 or No. 2 starter. Look at Johan Santana, Chris Carpenter, Tom Glavine, John Smoltz. It takes time.

"And to get pitchers like that, we'd have to give up (top prospects) Alex Gordon and Billy Butler. We can't afford to give them up. We looked at the free agent market in '07 and '08. We realized that if we're going to do something, we've got to do it now."

Meche should provide a lift to a rotation that yielded a major league-worst 5.65 ERA last season. And he joins a core of players Moore loves. They include designated hitter Mike Sweeney, starting pitcher Zack Greinke and shortstop Angel Berroa.

Sweeney, a .302 hitter with 799 RBI in 1,208 career games, was limited to 60 games by injuries and hasn't played as many as 147 in a season since 2001. Greinke, a 23-year-old starting pitcher with another live arm, missed much of last season dealing with personal issues. Berroa has been steady offensively but struggled defensively over his four full seasons in the major leagues.

"If Mike Sweeney is healthy, Zach Greinke comes back and makes 30 starts and Angel Berroa comes back strong defensively and hits .260 or so," Moore says, "we're going to play for something. I don't know what we'll play for, but I do know we won't be out of this thing in May like the past. We're going to have some fun."

3. Padres let longtime manager Bruce Bochy leave for division rival Giants

For the last 12 seasons, Bruce Bochy and Kevin Towers have been synonymous with Padres baseball.

They were the second-longest active manager-general manager tandem in baseball, behind John Schuerholz and Bobby Cox of the Braves.

But this offseason, Towers let Bochy, who managed the Padres from 1995-2006 and led them to back-to-back National League West titles the last two seasons, leave to manage the NL West-rival Giants.

Towers and the Padres informed Bochy, who was in the final year of a three-year contract that paid him $1.9 million last season, he wouldn't be given a contract extension. He asked for permission to talk to other clubs. Permission was granted.

"I think the misnomer was that everybody kept thinking he got fired," Towers says. "He didn't. We would have brought him back. It's just that we weren't going to extend him right away. But certainly he would have been welcomed back.

"We just gave him the opportunity to get more security for him and his family."

Bochy got a three-year deal for about $6.3 million from the Giants.

"I think it's hard to tell a guy he can talk to the Cubs or you can talk to the Nationals but not to the Giants," Towers says. "It's been my philosophy and (team President Sandy Alderson's) philosophy that we're not opposed to trading within the division. I think it would have been wrong to say, 'You can talk to these clubs and not them.'"

Besides, Towers says, the team permitted him to interview with the Diamondbacks, another division rival, after the 2005 season for Arizona's general manager vacancy. Josh Byrnes got that job.

"We treated Bruce the same way I was treated when they were going to allow me to go to Arizona," Towers says. "Look, what I'm happy about is that he's happy. Of all places, San Francisco was most desirable to him. It worked well for him. He has the opportunity to stay close to home and is going to an organization with a great tradition."

But couldn't this be a competitive disadvantage?

"You can look at it two ways," Towers says. "Yes, he's familiar with us. But we're familiar with him, too. He knows our ballclub fairly well, obviously, but we know his tendencies, too. I don't think it's a great advantage just because he's managing them and knows our ballclub."

The Padres hired local resident Bud Black, formerly the Angels pitching coach, to replace Bochy. Black, who pitched for 14 years in the big leagues and also has worked in the Indians front office, has no managerial experience.

"I think this will work out well for everybody," Towers says. "Boch will be a difficult guy to replace, but now we've got a guy who went to San Diego State, lives here and is in a similar situation when Boch first got his opportunity."

The Padres and Giants are scheduled to meet in the season opener for both teams. That will be the first time Towers and Bochy have competed against each other. In 1988 they were teammates at Triple-A Las Vegas, where Towers pitched and Bochy was his catcher. A year later Towers was Bochy's pitching coach at Spokane in the short-season Northwest League.

"Even in fantasy football, we were teammates," Towers says. "The competitive juices will be flowing, and we'll always have mutual respect for one another and be great friends, but when we go out together this spring, the information flow will be a whole lot different."

4. White Sox trade two-fifths of their rotation for prospects

Everyone is looking for pitching, right? Pitching wins games. Pitching wins divisions. Pitching wins World Series championships.

So what are the White Sox doing trading not only Freddy Garcia, their best starting pitcher down the stretch last season and a key member of their 2005 World Series championship team, but pitching prodigy Brandon McCarthy, 23, who was scheduled to be in the starting rotation this year? They received nothing more than prospects in return from the Phillies (for Garcia) and Rangers (for McCarthy and minor league outfielder David Paisano).

Listen to Chicago Sun-Times columnist Jay Mariotti, who wrote this reaction: "Somebody will have to explain why (general manager Ken) Williams is butchering his pitching rotation and his team's 2007 World Series hopes. … Your general manager is so busy outthinking himself, his logic is twisted like a bow atop a package. He is running this team with a crystal ball instead of common sense, all the more reason to think '05 was a one-and-done proposition."

Now listen to Williams' reaction: "I'm getting ripped to shreds in Chicago, which is not unfamiliar territory. We will continue to do what we think is best and using the philosophies we believe in. We are still a bit old-fashioned in terms of scouting the player first and the numbers second. So some things we do don't add up in what now is considered the conventional sense.

"But I can't explain what we're doing without giving away trade secrets. I can very well go out and articulate to our fans and to our media how we make our decisions, but if I do that, we're losing our competitive edge."

Williams thinks the two players the White Sox received from Philadelphia (fifth starter Gavin Floyd and top pitching prospect Gio Gonzalez) and the three from Texas (John Danks, Nick Masset and Jacob Rasner, all of whom have the potential to be effective major league pitchers) make them a strong team in the future while sustaining success today.

"It's tough in baseball when you're making a deal, sending a known commodity away and replacing it with people the fan base and the media have never heard of," Williams says. "I understand that. But if we're going to have a chance to have a successful organization and sustain success, these moves were necessary.

"Every move we made we wanted to better ourselves or at least give ourselves an equal chance in '07. People in Chicago think we have taken a step backwards from the '06 season. This wasn't about money or penny-pinching. The fact of the matter is we think we're better. We have a young, lights-out bullpen. What gets lost is that without Mr. Masset, the deal never gets done without his inclusion."

Masset, a hard-throwing right-hander, had a 4.15 ERA in eight games for the Rangers last year, and the White Sox are counting on him as part of their bullpen.

"Sorry if people don't like what we've done," Williams says. "But I'll be damned if I'm staying pat and in another year or two I have to go out on the market and sign overinflated free agents and reward mediocrity. I don't ever want to be in that position.

"You do that and let these free agents walk out the door and have nothing to show for them and you lose 90-100 games, that criticism is going to last four or five years. This criticism will last one month, right up to the time spring training starts, when people see how good these kids are.

"I can live with that."

5. Pitching-hungry Yankees trade Randy Johnson back to the Diamondbacks

You can point to a lack of enough quality pitching as the primary reason why the Yankees haven't won a World Series since 2000.

So what did they do during this offseason?

They traded Randy Johnson, who won 34 games and pitched more than 430 innings the last two seasons, for one reliever and three prospects.

OK, so they saved $14 million in the deal (dumping Johnson's 2007 salary of nearly $16 million while still paying $2 million of the 2007 salary for the Diamondbacks). Still, they traded a five-time Cy Young Award winner for reliever Luis Vizcaino, minor league pitchers Ross Ohlendorf and Steven Jackson and minor league shortstop Alberto Gonzalez.

The reason? General manager Brian Cashman has told owner George Steinbrenner the Yankees' days of checkbook-dictated baseball are over. If they want to keep winning and sustain their reputation for winning World Series championships, Cashman says the Yankees need to develop a bountiful farm system to maintain their talent and, in turn, reduce their payroll.

Remember, the Yankees' farm system produced Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Bernie Williams, Andy Pettitte and Jorge Posada. The system also has brought along second baseman Robinson Cano, outfielder Melky Cabrera and starting pitcher Chien-Ming Wang.

It's time for the Yankees get back to their roots, Cashman says.

"I've been very vocal and stated our goals," he says. "We want to reduce payroll, improve our farm system, get younger and have more flexibility."

Johnson, in the final year of a three-year contract with the Yankees, had a 5.00 ERA last year (his career high for a full season), but he still won 17 games for the second consecutive season.

Yet Johnson was miserable in New York and didn't hide that fact when he spoke with Cashman in December. Cashman telephoned Johnson to offer his condolences when he learned Johnson's older brother had died. During the conversation, Johnson conveyed his unhappiness in New York.

He didn't formally request a trade but told Cashman he would be happier playing in Arizona (where his family lives) or on the West Coast.

"It was a very personal discussion," Cashman says. "Randy opened up and expressed his desire and preference to be closer to home and family.

"I wasn't going to do something that didn't make sense, but I knew that as long as it got him closer to home, I wouldn't have to worry about the no-trade clause."

Cashman moved when Arizona offered Ohlendorf. The right-hander went 10-8 with a 3.29 ERA last season in 28 starts for Double-A Tennessee.

"Arizona separated itself from the pack, and I was very satisfied with what we got," Cashman says. "We reduced our payroll, got younger and built up our farm system.

"At the same time, Randy was happy. I didn't see him smile the whole time here. But he looked like a whole different person in that (Diamondbacks) press conference."

A Yankees rotation of Wang, Mike Mussina, Pettitte, Japanese signee Kei Igawa and Carl Pavano probably wouldn't draw fear from adversaries in the powerful American League East. But there is about a month before spring training, about 2½ months before Opening Day and about seven months until playoff rosters must be submitted.

"I know there are going to be questions in our rotation," Cashman said at the Yankees news conference that introduced Igawa. "What's Carl Pavano going to do for us? How's Andy Pettitte going to transition back to the AL? Mike Mussina is a year older. How is Kei Igawa going to handle his transition to a new league and a new country? They're fair questions, and there's an unknown.

"And that's why we're trying to cultivate as much as we can on the farm."

But it's hardly as if the Yankees are broke. They have reduced their payroll from $208 million two years ago but still have a $167 million payroll. They spent $46 million on Igawa and brought back Pettitte for a one-year, $16 million deal.

They could make a strong play, too, for free agent Roger Clemens, though Clemens says he's undecided about pitching in 2007 and that he's behind last season's preparation schedule. He returned to the Astros last June 22.

Whether or not New York gets Clemens, who would sign with a team for a prorated salary, the Yankees think their days of feeling they have to sign marquee free agents every year are over, according to Cashman.

"The Yankees aren't afraid to write a check," Cashman says, "but we're going to be more care-ful allocating our resources. This free agent market was very expensive. All we're trying to do is a simple format: Give us as many internal choices as possible. We will never not be free agent players, but it'd be nice to have internal choices, too.

"What we won't want is to be desperate in the free agent market. You do that, you get slaughtered.

"To have a short-term and long-term strategy at the same time is a balancing act with a lot of risk involved. We were recognized as the best position team in baseball, but we came out short on the pitching side. Hopefully now in the long term we can have a lot of choices going forward.

"We're very proud of the depth we have from the lowest level to the top and excited about the potential."

But Cashman says his new philosophy is awfully risky, too.

"I recognize that prospects are suspects that have to earn their keep," he says, "but I believe in what I'm doing."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/16/07 06:59 PM

Breaking News: Yankee Stadium to Host 2008 All-Star Game

Quote:
Source: MLB.com

NEW YORK -- Yankee Stadium will be sent off in style with the 2008 All-Star Game, ESPN.com reported on Tuesday, citing baseball sources.

No official announcement has been made, but a Yankees representative said that there were no developments to discuss as of yet, and a spokesperson for Major League Baseball said there would be no comment at this time.

According to the report, an announcement is expected shortly -- perhaps as soon as next week -- as Major League Baseball coordinates with the office of New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg.

Construction on the new 51,800-seat Yankee Stadium facility is underway, just north of the existing ballpark and is expected to be completed in time for Opening Day 2009. That would mean that next year is the last season to be played at the current site.

Yankee Stadium has held three previous All-Star Games, the last of which was in 1977, when the extensively remodeled building was showcased in its second year of existence.

The National League defeated the American League, 7-5, in that contest, with the Yankees' Reggie Jackson and Willie Randolph in the AL's starting lineup. The All-Star Game was also played in the Bronx in 1939 and 1960.

The 2007 All-Star Game is scheduled to be played in San Francisco's AT&T Park on July 10. On Monday, Commissioner Bud Selig revealed that St. Louis' Busch Stadium would host the 2009 Midsummer Classic.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/16/07 07:02 PM

Yankees Wait Patiently For Clemens, Hughes

Quote:
Source: Sports Illustrated.com

Having wrested full control of the New York Yankees' baseball operations over the past 18 months, GM Brian Cashman is running a leaner, less reactionary organization. His stockpiling of young pitchers this winter is bad news for the rest of baseball. The Yankees are difficult enough to contend with because of advantages in resources. Give them homegrown young pitching and patience and they become even more of a threat.

But Cashman's intentions will be severely tested in the next four months. Starting out the season, he plans to devote two-fifths of his team's starts to Kei Igawa, who some teams wrote off as "an NL West pitcher" (i.e., suited to bigger ballparks and weaker lineups), and Carl Pavano, who has made 17 starts and no friends in his own clubhouse over two seasons with the Yankees. And if either of those choices don't work, Cashman has Darrell Rasner (four career starts) and Jeff Karstens (six career starts) standing by.

Here is Cashman's problem: his two best options for those rotation spots should be off limits until June: 20-year-old phenom Philip Hughes (he'll be 21 in June) and 44-year-old legend Roger Clemens. Can Cashman continue to remain patient through the first third of the season while Hughes tears up Triple-A and Clemens waits until he's ready to pitch? While Cashman might have no control over when Clemens pitches -- it won't be in April -- he does have the power to bring Hughes up to the big leagues prematurely, which would be a huge mistake and a departure from the plan of calculated patience that Cashman has developed.

"I wouldn't mind if Philip Hughes spent the full season in Triple-A," Cashman said before leaving on a vacation this week -- yet another sign of his acquisition of power. A Yankees GM leaving on a vacation four weeks before spring training used to be unheard of. "We're going to sit down soon with [pitching coordinator] Nardi Contreras and map out some plans that will be in place when we get to spring training Feb. 13. If Philip Hughes spends a full season in Triple-A, that's not a bad thing."

Hughes, of course, is too good and New York's rotation too fragile for the Yankees not to touch him all season. But Cashman must know he is risking Hughes' development and health if he brings him to New York when the season starts. This is the same pitcher on which the Yankees put a short leash in the second half of last season to keep him under 150 innings. Hughes generally was pulled after five innings or about 80 pitches, whichever came first. And now he's going to make the Opening Day rotation? Cashman may be too smart for that, but don't think he won't get pressure to carry Hughes once the media and coaching staff see him in big league camp. Actually, Cashman revealed, it happened last year already.

"Joe Torre called up after the Anaheim series [in late August] when we were stretched for pitchers and said, "What about bringing up Hughes?''' Cashman said. "On the next homestand, Gator [pitching coach Ron Guidry] asked me about bringing up Hughes to help out the staff. I joked with him and said, 'Nope. I'm saving him for the next pitching coach."'

The plan that Cashman and Contreras map out for Hughes in the coming weeks should look something like this: Tell Hughes and the major league staff he has no chance of making the big league club coming out of spring training, no matter how well he pitches -- this reduces the chances of Hughes overthrowing to try to make the club -- and send him to Triple-A with the same pitch limits he had in place last season. The Red Sox used a similar plan with Jon Lester last season.

Hughes can help the Yankees in the second half, but only if he doesn't load up on innings in the minor leagues. The Yankees should budget Hughes for about 180 innings this year, postseason included. Better to cut back on those innings early in the cold of Scranton rather than late in New York.

Here's a good office pool to start among Yankees fans: Who makes a start for the Yankees this season first, Hughes or Clemens? The Rocket is not likely to be seen in any big league ballpark until June, the schedule that worked so well for him last season when he posted a 2.30 ERA in 19 starts.

"I would think spring training would definitely be out," said Andy Pettitte, the Yankees left-hander and friend of Clemens, about the Rocket's plans. "I don't think he's thinking he's heading to camp in the next three weeks."

Clemens does intend to pitch again. He is "working out like a maniac" with his son Koby, an infielder in the Houston system, according to a source close to Clemens, and is throwing batting practice regularly. Clemens plans to attend an Astros' mini-camp for pitchers, most of whom are minor leaguers, at the end of this month at Minute Maid Park. He is likely to keep his arm in shape throwing to hitters and working with young pitchers at the Astros' minor league facility this spring.

It is unlikely that Clemens will decide where to play until after the season begins, and then he will require a three-week program, including minor league starts, to be major-league ready. He will choose among the Astros, Yankees and Red Sox. Boston, according to one source familiar with talks, have "not been as aggressive as last year." The Red Sox were so eager to sign Clemens last year that they essentially gave him freedom to write his own job description. In one scenario, for example, Clemens would have been paid $1 million per start to pitch only on Sundays, with permission to leave the team in between starts.

The Red Sox may not be so aggressive this time around because of the addition of Daisuke Matsuzaka, but they still offer Clemens a unique storybook-style end to his career: to finish it where it began, to pass Cy Young as the franchise leader in wins, to have his No. 21 retired and to go into the Hall of Fame representing the Red Sox.

Meanwhile, Clemens will keep the Astros under surveillance during the first two months of the season to see if they are a strong contender and if their popgun offense that wasted many of his strong starts last season has improved. Houston was the worst-hitting team in the NL in 2006 while scoring fewer runs than every team except Milwaukee and San Diego.

The Yankees, meanwhile, are quietly monitoring Clemens and his progress. Clemens does maintain contact with a few Yankees, especially Pettitte and Derek Jeter.

As the Yankees wait on Clemens and Hughes, their spring training camp and the 24 starts in April and May that go to anybody not named Chien Ming Wang, Mike Mussina and Andy Pettitte make for a new kind of drama around New York. Make no mistake, this is Cashman's team through and through these days. How he navigates the uncertainties in his rotation while resisting the promotion of Hughes and the waiting game on Clemens will be the toughest test yet of his patient approach.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/16/07 07:06 PM

Sheffield Book Details Splits with Bonds, Yankees

Quote:
Source: NY Times

Sheffield book details split with Bonds, Yankees

By BEN SHPIGEL

In an autobiography to be published this spring, Gary Sheffield, a former Braves player known for voicing his displeasure, describes his relationship with Barry Bonds, his link to the Bay Area Laboratory Co-Operative steroid distribution case and his three turbulent seasons with the Yankees, culminating in his trade to Detroit last November.

A bound proof of the autobiography, "Inside Power," was mailed to The New York Times by Crown Publishing. It does not appear to contain any bombshells, but its candor and insight into baseball's steroids controversy and its most recognizable franchise have again catapulted Sheffield into the headlines.

During his three seasons with the Yankees, Sheffield was regarded as combative and outspoken, known as much for his chronic complaining about contracts as his bat waggle. He developed a reputation as a superb clutch hitter and as someone who would play hurt.

But Sheffield repeatedly found himself linked to the steroids scandal that engulfed the sport. He has said he unknowingly used a testosterone-laced cream.

"I've never touched a strength-building steroid in my life — and never will," Sheffield said in the book. "The proof is in pictures and stats."

According to the book, after agreeing to train with Bonds in Northern California after the 2001 season, Sheffield grew tired of Bonds' uncompromising control over their workout routine. He nevertheless agreed when Bonds said he would give him "vitamins" from the BALCO founder Victor Conte Jr. Sheffield said that Conte gave the vitamins to Greg Anderson, Bonds' trainer, who gave them to him.

As he acknowledged during testimony before the BALCO grand jury, Sheffield said that he rubbed cream on his knee after surgical stitches popped out while working out. Sheffield said that Anderson gave him "some cream that'll heal you up in a hurry," but he went to a doctor anyway.

"My understanding was that the cream was no different from the Neosporin you buy at Rite Aid," Sheffield said. "Only it worked quicker. It did work fast. It healed me in about a week."

His relationship with Bonds deteriorated soon after. He said Bonds told reporters in San Francisco that Sheffield could not handle the training regimen. They have not spoken since, although Sheffield said Bonds told BALCO to send him an invoice for about $400 for thecream.

Sheffield said that he started plotting his signing with the Yankees after the 2003 season with Atlanta. He planned a lunch meeting with Braves officials at a restaurant in Tampa, Fla., where the Yankees' principal owner, George Steinbrenner, often ate with the hopes that Steinbrenner would intensify his interest in signing him.

The negotiations that followed provided a backdrop for his history of moping about contracts. Sheffield said that Steinbrenner altered their initial three-year, $39 million agreement with a team option to include deferred payments.

Sheffield called manager Joe Torre "an enigma" and recalled how, in 2004, his first season with the Yankees, he grew infuriated that Torre had said he wished the team had signed the slugger Vladimir Guerrero.

During a meeting in Torre's office before a May game in Baltimore, Sheffield told him: "I'm tired of hearing you talk about how much you love Guerrero. That disrespects me."

The next season, Sheffield recounted, he and Torre had an argument in St. Louis the day after Torre called him out during a team meeting for his uneven defensive play. Sheffield said they quickly patched things up once Torre explained how he viewed him as a team leader and as someone who could handle the pressure.

After the Yankees crumbled to a first-round playoff defeat against Detroit, Sheffield said he knew his days with the team had ended.

"Up in New York, it became clear that the Yankees had no more use for me, other than as a pawn in a trade," he said. "But after a lifetime in professional ball, I wasn't about to be a pawn. That's not my style."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/16/07 08:48 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Breaking News: Yankee Stadium to Host 2008 All-Star Game

Quote:
Source: MLB.com

NEW YORK -- Yankee Stadium will be sent off in style with the 2008 All-Star Game, ESPN.com reported on Tuesday, citing baseball sources.

No official announcement has been made, but a Yankees representative said that there were no developments to discuss as of yet, and a spokesperson for Major League Baseball said there would be no comment at this time.

According to the report, an announcement is expected shortly -- perhaps as soon as next week -- as Major League Baseball coordinates with the office of New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg.

Construction on the new 51,800-seat Yankee Stadium facility is underway, just north of the existing ballpark and is expected to be completed in time for Opening Day 2009. That would mean that next year is the last season to be played at the current site.

Yankee Stadium has held three previous All-Star Games, the last of which was in 1977, when the extensively remodeled building was showcased in its second year of existence.

The National League defeated the American League, 7-5, in that contest, with the Yankees' Reggie Jackson and Willie Randolph in the AL's starting lineup. The All-Star Game was also played in the Bronx in 1939 and 1960.

The 2007 All-Star Game is scheduled to be played in San Francisco's AT&T Park on July 10. On Monday, Commissioner Bud Selig revealed that St. Louis' Busch Stadium would host the 2009 Midsummer Classic.


I'm REALLY excited for this. If I can get my hands on some tickets, I'd love to go. Not only to go to an All-Star weekend, but it'll be the last time (NO!) in the "old" Yankee stadium.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/18/07 01:52 AM

Around the Horn: Yankees Catchers

Quote:
Source: Yankees.com

NEW YORK -- Jorge Posada will be among the constants returning for another season in pinstripes, fresh off a campaign regarded as a bounceback year for the veteran Yankees backstop.

The 35-year-old switch-hitter put aside the usual nicks and bruises of life behind the plate to post another solid campaign in 2006, batting .277 with 23 home runs and 93 RBIs in 143 games.

Posada's RBI total tied Cleveland's Victor Martinez and Atlanta's Brian McCann for the league lead among Major League catchers, while his .492 slugging percentage was second in the American League to Minnesota's promising young Joe Mauer. Posada's .374 on-base percentage ranked third in the circuit.

But the numbers are of little surprise, considering Posada long has been known as one of the top offensive catchers in the game. Enjoying the dimensions of Yankee Stadium, Posada has strongly stated that case by collecting 163 home runs and 626 RBIs over the last seven seasons.

Those numbers have not only made Posada an invaluable and familiar piece of the Yankees attack, but they have earned him select company among the top backstops in baseball.

Entering a stage when such power statistics normally tend to decline, Posada seems to be bucking the trend.

Still, the fan favorite continues to find new ways to reinvent and improve his game, and Posada's biggest strides in 2006 seemed to come with each throw to a base.

Working closely with first-base coach and catching instructor Tony Pena, Posada's throwing improved markedly last season.

A solid defender who has made great strides in his handling of the pitching staff and blocking balls during his career, Posada added another weapon to the equation by gunning down 38 would-be basestealers in 102 attempts.

That performance tied Pittsburgh's Ronnie Paulino for the second-most caught stealings in the Major Leagues and produced a 37.3 percent mark, well surpassing Posada's previous career average.

Posada -- who shook off knee, elbow and finger injuries during 2006, not to mention illness and a broken nose in Spring Training -- figures to have little trouble adjusting to most of the pitching staff as the 2007 season draws closer.

That should include left-handed newcomer Kei Igawa, considering Posada has been through the situation of working with Japanese hurler Hideki Irabu during his Bronx tenure.

Above Igawa, Posada is obviously familiar with the repertoire of Andy Pettitte, as well as returning Yankees Mike Mussina, Carl Pavano and Chien-Ming Wang. Should Randy Johnson remain with the club in April, that also doesn't figure to be an issue, as Posada and Johnson appeared to put aside any differences to forge a working relationship.

While there remains time for the Yankees to pursue another option, Wil Nieves appears a strong candidate to serve as Posada's 2007 backup.

Nieves, 29, has gone hitless in 10 at-bats with the Yankees over the last two seasons after being acquired from the Angels for reliever Bret Prinz during the last days of Spring Training 2005, though he has proved a capable performer in Triple-A.

Nieves batted .259 with five home runs and 34 RBIs while seeing regular duty for the Columbus Clippers in 2006, playing in 88 games and logging 321 at-bats. Behind Nieves, Omir Santos, a 25-year-old who played at Double-A Trenton in 2006, has shown promise as one of the system's top defensive catchers.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/18/07 01:54 AM

Around the Horn: Yankees Corner Infielders

Quote:
Source: Yankees.com

NEW YORK -- If you had been in Miami in 1992, watching Westminster Christian School race to a Class 2A football title, you would have seen high school quarterback Alex Rodriguez firing passes to a tight end named Doug Mientkiewicz.

Fifteen years later, very similar actions will be on display in New York, as A-Rod and Mientkiewicz again link as teammates in the Yankees infield. And like before, it'll be Mientkiewicz's job to grab those throws from Rodriguez.

"I'm looking forward to sharing the same uniform again," said Mientkiewicz, who finalized a one-year contract with the Yankees on Jan. 5. "He's going to help me a lot more than I'm going to help him."

Having watched Rodriguez morph from the gridiron to a No. 1 draft pick on his way to baseball superstardom, Mientkiewicz is qualified to help analyze a situation that grew especially trying for Rodriguez last season.

The 31-year-old third baseman batted .290 with 35 home runs and 121 RBIs in yet another All-Star campaign, but it was a year that will be remembered more for Rodriguez's prolonged slumps and postseason struggles.

As Yankee Stadium fans cooled on Rodriguez, speculation of trade talk began to heat up. Rodriguez went 1-for-14 with an error in the American League Division Series against the Tigers, including batting eighth in the deciding Game 4.

Rodriguez insisted that he continued to fit in the puzzle and would be part of the solution, and the Yankees later issued a vote of confidence that Rodriguez would not be traded.

Mientkiewicz said that much of Rodriguez's troubles had likely stemmed from pressing.

"Alex is such a perfectionist," Mientkiewicz said. "He realizes the talent that he has. You're talking about, probably, the guy who's going to go down as the best baseball player to ever play the game. I think sometimes people have a perception of him to be perfect all the time.

"Trust me, no one is harder on themselves than Alex is on himself. He's always been that way since the day I met him -- always been working his butt off, to the point that it's almost a detriment and he doesn't allow his abilities to take over."

Much of the logic in importing Mientkiewicz centers on defense, though the 32-year-old had a bounceback offensive season in 2006. He batted .283 in 314 at-bats for the Royals before his campaign ended with August back surgery.

Now reportedly healthy and on track for Spring Training, the 2001 Gold Glove Award winner was brought back to New York, where he spent 2005 with the Mets. Mientkiewicz's main task will be to help the Yankees' infield glovework while engaging in part of a platoon at first base.

Since making his Major League debut in 1998, Mientkiewicz ranks second among all first basemen (behind Travis Lee) with a .996 career fielding percentage, and Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said, "I'm not sure if there's anybody better defensively than him."

"I know sometimes as an infielder you don't feel very comfortable with your release and where the ball may go," Mientkiewicz said. "To know that someone on the other end is going to do their best to catch it -- it sounds pretty simple, but it goes a long way."

With Jason Giambi now slotted as a designated hitter after appearing in 68 games at first base in 2006, the left-handed-batting Mientkiewicz will garner the bulk of first-base at-bats against right-handed pitching, against whom Mientkiewicz has batted .259 over the past three years.

That leaves Andy Phillips and Josh Phelps, a selection in December's Rule 5 Draft, to battle it out in Spring Training for the right-handed portion of manager Joe Torre's first-base mix.

Phillips, who will turn 30 in the first week of the regular season, had a disappointing 2006 season in his first extended taste of big-league action, batting .240 with seven home runs and 29 RBIs in 246 at-bats.

Though Phillips has punished left-handed pitching in the Minor Leagues, batting .365 against them for Triple-A Columbus in 2005, he hit just .195 (16-for-82) against big-league southpaws last year.

Phelps, 28, was selected in the Major League portion of the Rule 5 Draft from the Orioles, meaning that the Yankees must keep him on their roster for the entire season or offer him back to Baltimore for $25,000, half the selection cost.

"For $50,000, I thought it was worth the free look to see what he can do," Cashman said in December.

Having last played in the Major Leagues in 2005, Phelps spent all of last season with Triple-A Toledo in the Tigers system, batting .308 with 24 home runs and 90 RBIs, numbers which placed him among the International League's offensive leaders.

Utility infielder Miguel Cairo, who recently agreed to terms on a one-year, $750,000 contract to return to the Yankees, should see some action at both corners.

The 32-year-old Cairo started at all four infield positions, plus one game in left field, while batting .239 last season for New York.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/18/07 02:00 AM

Around The Horn: Yankees Middle Infielders

Quote:
Source: Yankees.com

NEW YORK -- They can turn a double play any day of the week, but it's at the plate where Derek Jeter and Robinson Cano really do their damage.

The Yankees' middle-infield combination teamed up to put a 1-2 punch on the American League batting race in 2006, as Jeter and Cano finished second and third, respectively, behind the Twins' Joe Mauer.

Along the way, they earned hardware to remind them of their in-season exploits, with both players logging a Silver Slugger Award -- given to the top offensive player at their position as voted on by Major League managers and coaches.

Jeter, 32, added an AL Hank Aaron Award and his third consecutive Rawlings Gold Glove Award to the mix.

Beginning his 12th full season as the Yankees shortstop, Jeter is the team captain and has long been established as the face of the organization. He lost out on a bid for his first Most Valuable Player Award last season, falling 14 points shy of the 320 logged by the Twins' Justin Morneau.

Many had expected Jeter to run away with the balloting following his tremendous 2006 campaign, but he logged 12 first-place votes -- three fewer than Morneau.

Jeter, once again an All-Star after missing the 2005 squad, finished second in the AL with a .343 batting average and 118 runs scored. He was fourth with a .417 on-base percentage and sixth with 34 stolen bases.

A clutch performer who batted .381 with runners in scoring position in 2006, Jeter also hit 14 home runs and drove in 97 runs, though the Yankees captain would have traded his kudos and accolades for another World Series title.

"You've heard me say it a thousand times, but winning the World Series for the New York Yankees continues to be my main focus," Jeter said in a statement following the MVP vote. "There is no individual award that can compare with a championship trophy, and I look forward to working towards that challenge again in 2007."

In 2004, Jeter became the first Yankees shortstop to win a Gold Glove Award. However, his fielding has remained a regular source of criticism, even though he has added two more to his trophy case.

Last year, Jeter's .975 fielding percentage ranked fourth in the AL, while his 15 errors were the third-fewest behind the Rangers' Michael Young and the White Sox's Juan Uribe (14 each) among all AL shortstops who played in at least 130 games.

Cano, 24, helped create a dangerous offensive tandem with Jeter during his second full Major League season. The All-Star hit 15 home runs and collected 78 RBIs for the Yankees, finishing just one point behind Jeter with a .342 batting average -- good for third in the American League.

Cano missed six weeks during the summer with a hamstring injury, but he finished the regular season on a tear, batting .373 (41-for-110) in September to earn AL Player of the Month honors.

Since taking over as the Yankees' full-time second baseman in May 2005, placing second in the AL Rookie of the Year balloting, Cano has gained entry into discussions about baseball's best young talents.

The left-handed-hitting Cano finished ninth in the American League with 41 doubles, and for the second straight year, he did some of his best work away from Yankee Stadium. Cano led the AL again in road batting average, hitting .364 away from the Bronx.

Continuing to improve his defensive craft, Cano started 115 games at second base for the Yankees in 2006. He posted a .984 fielding percentage, committing nine errors in 572 total chances and works well with Jeter up the middle.

Miguel Cairo is set to return as the Yankees' utility infielder. Cairo became a valuable player for New York last season when Cano went down to injury for 34 games, batting .239 with 30 RBIs in 222 at-bats. Cairo played all four infield positions in 2006, plus one game in left field.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/18/07 02:37 AM

Who is Derek Jeter???
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/18/07 03:50 AM

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Who is Derek Jeter???


That mediocre hack who plays shortstop for the Yankees.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/18/07 06:56 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Who is Derek Jeter???


That mediocre hack who plays shortstop for the Yankees.


You mean the 2006 AL MVP?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/18/07 02:16 PM

I12, THAT'S the answer I was looking for!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/18/07 03:57 PM

You mean that guy that can't clutch in the playoffs?

Sorry, thats A-Rod.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/18/07 09:43 PM

No ronnie, we mean the guy pulled over for drunk driving.

Opps sorry, that's Dontrelle Willis
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/19/07 12:16 AM

Lame.

For once, a joke that some Yanks fans would giggle at. Instead, a lame joke, I guess in counter-strike(which felt like if Portugal tried to carpet bomb Los Angeles. Its that big of a landslide) we get a D-Train joke.

The problem is, the fact that he's inconsistent as hell, and signing back for $6 million for 2007(which means that no other MLB clubs were willing to spend $10+ million annually for D-Train, and the guy is hoping to make 2007 his campaign for the next winter).

Irish, try making a joke about the Florida Management firing the NL Manager of the Year, and then announcing in a press conference the new manager, all within 10 hours. That's some comedy gold up in them hills!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/19/07 12:52 AM

Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Irish, try making a joke about the Florida Management firing the NL Manager of the Year, and then announcing in a press conference the new manager, all within 10 hours. That's some comedy gold up in them hills!


You have got me there. It must suck to be a Marlin fan
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/19/07 03:41 AM

It sucks as much as it would being the fan of say King Booker, the current awful ECW incarnation, Khali, Lashley, etc,

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/19/07 03:43 AM

No no no, if you wanna get it right you'd say "it sucks as much as being a Knicks fan." Although, compared to last year, they are a better team and Isiah does have them believing (they're not winning A LOT of games and won't be a playoff contender, but hey, Rome wasn't built in a day either)
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/19/07 03:58 AM

You know, I do feel bad for Knicks fans.

What I don't get is, why Thomas is still around. This is the same genius that ran the CBA, that great minor league basketball league that was around in America before the NBA, into bankruptcy, and now hes made the proud Knicks legacy into a bloody joke, which is a SHAME.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/19/07 10:56 AM

--> Ontopic (because no one gives a shit about the Knicks or ECW, frankly)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/20/07 12:39 PM

Best and Worst of MLB Offseason

Quote:
Source: CBS Sportsline

Best offseason stories

1. New York Yankees keep their wallet closed. Who are these guys, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays? GM Brian Cashman clearly is in charge of this organization's baseball path now, and his operating philosophy became obvious this winter: Make the Yankees younger, stockpile pitching prospects and, ahem, even reduce payroll. Which will give the Yankees more flexibility. Why, this keeps up, Cashman is going to become Time's Man of the Year, Sports Illustrated's Sportsman of the Year, a Nobel Peace Prize winner and the Leopard Lodge's Grand Poobah, all at once.

2. The Cubs' wild spending ways. Somebody had to step into the breach left by the Yankees. Rumors abound that the Cubs are being groomed to be sold, and throwing $300 million at players either is going to make them a whole lot more attractive ... or scare a few potential bidders away. Either way, they should be much more attractive to their fans this year. No Lysol needed.

Theo Epstein and the Red Sox opened up the vault for Daisuke Matsuzaka. (Getty Images)
Theo Epstein and the Red Sox opened up the vault for Daisuke Matsuzaka. (Getty Images)
3. All the good money spent on bad pitching. Welcome to the age of the .500 pitcher making $10 million or more annually. Or, as you like to say come tax time, charity.

4. Boston's espionage laced pursuit of Daisuke Matsuzaka. It contained all the elements of the best spy novels, with a whole bunch of baseball thrown in. All that was missing was a James Bond girl or two. Now if the 2007 season is a page-turner for the Red Sox, they'll look brilliant.

5. Barry Bonds tests positive for amphetamines. Hmm, do you think he was the only player who violated baseball's amphetamines policy last year? You don't? Then isn't it quite the coincidence that his name is the only on that has been leaked so far? Baseball has some 'splainin' to do.
Most overdone offseason stories

1. Alex Rodriguez trade talk. Thank goodness for the Internet, which, at the very lest, doesn't kill trees when printing wild, rampant, unfounded speculation.

2. Manny Ramirez trade rumors. Can't wait for next winter, when the Red Sox trot out Chapter 42 in the longest running saga this side of The Thornbirds ... and we all fall for it again.

3. Roger Clemens. Play. Don't play. Come back in May. Or June. Or July. Whatev ... yawn ... er ... bigger yawn ... Zzzzzzzz.

4. New York Mets pursue Barry Zito. People have had Zito pegged for the Mets since last June. Uh, whoops. Just because you have a plastic badge and a fingerprint kit doesn't mean you're a detective.

5. The Yankees' dealing Randy Johnson to Arizona opened the door for them to pursue Zito. No, it didn't. It only opened the curtain. And when everybody went charging through to put the Yankees with Zito, they all ran into the glass sliding door. Nobody saw that.
Best contracts

1. Boston, Matsuzaka, six years, $52 million. The contract was brilliant. Especially when you see what Ted Freakin' Lilly and Gil Freakin' Meche are getting. The tough thing to swallow is the $51 million the Red Sox paid simply for the right to negotiate with Matsuzaka.

2. Los Angeles Dodgers, Randy Wolf, one year, $8 million. While the other kids were all getting crisp $20 bills, Wolf happily accepted 50 cents and went on his way. If he's right physically, working in a pitcher friendly ballpark, the Dodgers could be getting the best pitching bargain of anybody.

3. Detroit, Sean Casey, one year, $4 million. Casey is as Midwest friendly as they come, he fits into the clubhouse like postgame pizza, he's a gap hitter who fits into Comerica Park even better, and he was eminently affordable. What's not to like?

4. St. Louis, Adam Kennedy, three years, $10 million. Very reasonable deal for a guy who can still play, already has a working knowledge of maneuvering around the second-base bag with shortstop David Eckstein and is the consummate professional.

5. Boston, Julio Lugo, four years, $36 million. If Lugo plays like he did with the Dodgers last summer, this could backfire. And the Red Sox already have been there, done that with Edgar Renteria. Here's guessing Lugo will revert back to his old, steady form in his return to both a league and a position in which he is comfortable. Compare this contract to Rafael Furcal getting $13 million a year, and Boston did well.
Worst contracts

1. Zito, San Francisco, seven years, $126 million. There's almost as good a chance of Paris Hilton walking into your computer room right now as there is that this contract will work out for the Giants. Monster contracts for pitchers have a long and sordid history of backfiring. See Brown, Kevin (seven years, $105 million), Hampton, Mike (eight years, $121 million), Dreifort, Darren (five years, $55 million) and Neagle, Denny (five years, $51 million).

2. Juan Pierre, Dodgers, five years, $44 million. Personally, if somebody is going to get $44 million, I'm really happy to see a great guy like Pierre get it. But there's zero power, and he didn't rank among the NL's top 50 in on-base percentage last year.

3. J.D. Drew, Boston, five years, $70 million. Wait until Red Sox fans get their hands on this loafer.

4. Meche, Kansas City, five years, $55 million. Oh ... my ... goodness.

5. Danys Baez, Baltimore, three years, $19 million. The Orioles needed bullpen help and spent $42.4 million on four relievers who are somewhat less than state-of-the-art. In this division, Baez will wear out his welcome far earlier than three years.
Best personnel moves

1. Tigers trade for Gary Sheffield. Detroit needed a middle-of-the-order bat and struck early, before the winter really got going and salaries spun out of control.

2. Cubs hire Lou Piniella as manager. What a pleasure it will be to again see Piniella have some talent to work with.

3. Giants hire Bruce Bochy as manager. He's just like Felipe Alou, only younger and not quite so philosophical.

4. Atlanta beefs up its bullpen. Adding Rafael Soriano and Mike Gonzalez, plus having Bob Wickman for a full season in 2007, gives the Braves an important element they didn't have a year ago.

5. Texas hiring Ron Washington as manager. He has paid his dues, he has experience and he is a unique, direct personality players love. Not anywhere close to the cookie-cutter, corporate-type of manager, and good for the Rangers for hiring him anyway.
Worst personnel moves

1. Giants bring back Bonds. Won't be long before Giants players and coaches will be issued toxic waste suits and respirators before entering their own clubhouse.

2. Padres say "see ya" to Bochy. The Padres refuse to admit that they wanted Bochy gone because they were, among other things, too cheap under owner John Moores and president Sandy Alderson to pay a manager more than $1 million. But if that's not true, and if Alderson is so smart, why didn't the Padres at least demand compensation from the Giants for allowing Bochy out of his contract (he was signed through 2007), to a division rival, no less? Answer: Because they wanted Bochy gone, and because Moores misrepresented himself to fans when he was lobbying for Petco Park -- intimating that he would spend a lot more money than he has -- and they didn't want to pay Bochy, let alone marquee free agents. When Seattle allowed Piniella to go to Tampa Bay, the Mariners received outfielder Randy Winn as compensation. The Padres didn't even ask.

3. The Cubs spending $300 million and the only pitching they added was Lilly and Jason Marquis. Ugh. Mark Prior, you'd better be healthy.

4. Padres trading second baseman Josh Barfield to Cleveland for third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff. Barfield had a terrific rookie season. The Padres needed a productive bat in the middle of their lineup. Odds are long that Kouzmanoff is it.

5. Seattle keeping manager Mike Hargrove. What's the point?
Most underrated personnel moves

1. Cubs sign Mark DeRosa. Maybe DeRosa did have a career year in 2006, and some scoff at $13 million over three years. But he's versatile, he's smart and he'll help the Cubs cover several positions.

2. Milwaukee signing Jeff Suppan. The Brewers have a lot of good, young position-player talent. They need pitching. Suppan knows how to win, and he knows October.

3. Cleveland trades for Barfield. Great, great move by GM Mark Shapiro.

4. Atlanta trades for Soriano. Braves GM John Schuerholz firmly believes that if the Braves had closer Wickman for all of '06, their streak of division titles would remain intact. This trade with Seattle will help solidify the Braves late in games, giving them more than just Wickman in '07.

5. Texas signs Frank Catalanotto. Watch him flourish now that he has the luxury of playing one position (left field) instead of several as a utility man.
Most harrowing moments

1. Cubs general manager Jim Hendry's angioplasty. Hendry was having chest pains at the winter meetings in December, finally was convinced to go to the hospital and completed the deal with Lilly while hooked up to machines testing his heart. Let's see Sprint, Verizon or Cingular put that in their plan.

2. Boston's owners and GM Theo Epstein flying unannounced to Scott Boras' "doorstep" in Southern California to finish off the Matsuzaka contract. Maybe you should try it with the doctor you can't get in to see for another three weeks.

3. Bonds arriving at winter meetings. It has come to this, that he has to personally show up to sell himself?

4. Shortstop Juan Uribe says he might not play this year. The AL Central leads the league in emotional infielders. Uribe, who almost certainly will play this year, talked a few weeks ago as if he might not after he, his brother and a family friend were questioned after the shooting of two men in the Dominican Republic. The White Sox's heart skipped a beat, and it reminded everyone of Detroit's Placido Polanco calling it a season while rehabbing from an injury last summer -- before returning to help the Tigers to the World Series.

5. Ken Griffey Jr.'s broken hand. It's always something ...
Coldest offseason deals

1. Texas signing Eric Gagne and telling him he'll close ... and telling Akinori Otsuka sorry. Thanks for bailing us out last year with those 32 saves, Aki. Now get back downstairs to the eighth inning.

2. Drew cutting ties with the Dodgers. The guy spends September telling everyone he likes it in L.A. and definitely will be back. Then he disappears into the winter, his word as reliable as a '78 Pinto.

3. Catcher Rod Barajas backing out of an oral agreement with Toronto. A guy's word just doesn't mean as much as it once did -- sense a pattern here? The Jays thought they had Barajas' deal done, only to have him back out of it late the night before it was to be announced. Last laugh, though, was for the Blue Jays: Barajas didn't have a fallback plan and eventually signed with Philadelphia, losing roughly $5 million in the process.

4. Craig Counsell veering away from the Padres at the last minute after all but giving an oral commitment. He wound up signing with Milwaukee

5. Nationals freezing out Frank Robinson. Hey, what was a fired manager going to do, anyway -- just hang around?
Most apropos offseason moment

Padres acquire relievers Ring and Bell. That's, uh, Royce Ring and Heath Bell.
Most improved teams

1. Chicago Cubs. Not just because they spent the money. They lost 96 games last year, and they can't be that bad again. They invested in Aramis Ramirez returning, they signed the best player on the market in Alfonso Soriano, and though Lilly and Marquis aren't exactly Claude Passeau and Ferguson Jenkins ... they'll help.
Which team improved most?
Cubs
Braves
Indians
Red Sox
Phillies


2. Atlanta. Acquiring Gonzalez this week from Pittsburgh was the masterstroke. The Braves badly needed bullpen help, and in Gonzalez and Soriano, they've gotten it.

3. Boston. Anybody who watched Matsuzaka work in last spring's World Baseball Classic knows he is capable of making a big difference in the AL East -- or anywhere else.

4. Philadelphia. Freddy Garcia gives the Phillies a whole new twist. He should be really good in the NL, so much so that you can forget GM Pat Gillick's initial assessment after dealing Bobby Abreu last year when he said that the Phillies realistically wouldn't contend until 2008. Mix Garcia in with Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins and the rest of what's here, and you have the makings of a pretty good story this summer.

5. Cleveland. The Indians added Barfield and a stable of relievers: Joe Borowski, Keith Foulke, Aaron Fultz and Roberto Hernandez. OF David Dellucci. And Jhonny Peralta can't be that bad again, can he?
Least improved teams

1. Washington. The Nationals, after not trading Alfonso Soriano last July, lose him essentially for nothing. Until they move into their new stadium, they're not doing anything. Their farm system is depleted from the Montreal days. They spent the winter collecting six-year minor league free agents. This is going to be one ugly team -- the inspiring play from two years ago might as well have been 100.

2. Los Angeles Angels. About that marquee move owner Arte Moreno promised to make over the winter for an impact, middle-of-the-order bat. Gary Matthews Jr.? I don't think so.

3. San Diego Padres. Greg Maddux is a good addition. But a team badly in need of a productive bat for the middle of the lineup instead subtracted Mike Piazza and Barfield.

4. Oakland. The A's lost their best hitter from last year (Frank Thomas) and their best starting pitcher (Zito).

5. Minnesota. Where the heck are the Twins going to get starting pitching with Brad Radke retired and Francisco Liriano out for the season? Sidney Ponson? Ah ... next? One thing I will say: GM Terry Ryan and his excellent staff have proved adept at coming up with something, somewhere.
Good gambles

1. Colorado trading for Willy Taveras. Lots of folks think the Rockies are crazy for giving up Jason Jennings, but they added speed they needed along with two pitchers -- Jason Hirsh and Taylor Buchholz -- who can help sooner rather than later.

2. Houston acquiring Jennings. Sure, the Astros lost Andy Pettitte and might lose Clemens. Jennings will help pick up some of the slack.

3. Pittsburgh acquiring first baseman Adam LaRoche for Gonzalez and Co. Question: Why does a team that loses 90 games need a closer? The Pirates need LaRoche -- a left-handed hitter who maybe can help protect Jason Bay in the lineup -- a lot more than they need Gonzalez at this point.

4. The Yankees getting prospects for Johnson and Sheffield. We have no idea right now whether Humberto Sanchez (from Detroit in the Sheffield deal) or Ross Ohlendorf (from Arizona in the Johnson deal) will turn into All-Stars or busts. But Johnson is going to wake up finished one of these mornings, and Sheffield wasn't a long-term guy for the Yanks. At some point, New York must get somebody into its system other than Philip Hughes who maybe can develop into a starting pitcher one day. That process started this winter, and it's smart baseball on the part of Cashman.

5. Cincinnati trading for outfield prospect Josh Hamilton. The kid badly flamed out in Tampa Bay thanks to drugs and other assorted missteps. But the talent is there, and Cincinnati is the perfect place to give him a new start. It's low risk and high reward for the Reds.
Longest stay in the on-deck circle

The Mets signed reliever Guillermo Mota. But remember, he'll start 2007 by serving a 50-game suspension for testing positive for steroids.
Best pre-emptive moves

1. St. Louis extending Chris Carpenter's contract. Walt Jocketty took one look at the way the money for pitching was soaring and immediately moved on Carpenter. Result: A five-year, $63.5 million deal for Carpenter, giving him security and the Cardinals comfort in knowing they will not have to meet him on the free-agent market anytime soon.

2. Toronto re-signing Vernon Wells, avoiding a spring and summer of trade rumors and speculation.

3. Detroit signing Jeremy Bonderman to a four-year, $38 million extension. The ink was barely dry before inflation struck the pitching market.

4. The White Sox trading Garcia as he was entering his walk year. No worries over Garcia's impending free-agency for Chicago.
How about simply adding a retractable roof?

The Rangers are planning to move the start of their home games back 30 minutes, to 7:35 p.m., this summer. They think maybe it will help attendance, and they really hope that even a minimal temperature drop in those 30 minutes, an average of about two degrees, will help eliminate some of their fatigue problems. It's part of a major campaign by the Rangers to eliminate fatigue -- the first step was firing manager Buck Showalter.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/23/07 08:18 PM

Cano changes number, just in case

NEW YORK -- If Roger Clemens returns to the Yankees later this year, his old uniform will be waiting for him.
All-Star second baseman Robinson Cano has volunteered to give up his No. 22 for this season, according to a Yankees official, likely anticipating the possibility that Clemens will arrive in the Bronx to reclaim it at some point.

"I was happy to give up the number to a future Hall of Famer if he comes aboard," Cano said in Tuesday's edition of the New York Post. "Hopefully, he will be one of my teammates; I'll have the pleasure of playing with him."

Within the past week, Cano told clubhouse personnel that he would switch to uniform No. 24, a change that has been officially executed on the Yankees' roster.

With Spring Training less than three weeks away, uniforms are in the process of being tailored. The Yankees did not ask Cano to switch numbers, the official said.

Clemens, 44, wore No. 22 for most of his five-year stay with the Yankees from 1999 to 2003, though he originally wore No. 12 -- a reversal of the uniform number he wore with the Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays. He made the switch from No. 21 because that number was issued to Paul O'Neill when Clemens joined the Yankees.

No. 21 has remained unassigned by the Yankees since O'Neill's retirement following the 2001 World Series.

But Clemens appears to hold a special affinity for No. 22, even negotiating his 2006 contract to contain a reference to the number -- had Clemens played a full season with the Houston Astros, his contract would have been worth a reported $22,000,022.

As it was, Clemens earned a pro-rated percentage of that salary after joining the club in late June, going 7-6 with a 2.30 ERA in 19 games for Houston.

The right-hander would not be expected to reach a decision regarding his playing future until at least after Spring Training. If Clemens plays, he is expected to choose among the Astros, Red Sox and Yankees.

Source: Yankees.com
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/24/07 12:55 AM

Frankly, Cano has earned the number, and I wouldn't have him change it for anyone, let alone Clemens, who will ride in on his horse and pitch for all of 4 months. The report I heard today seemed to say that the Yankees management implied that it "would be nice" if Cano would accept a number change, which leads me to think the Clemens deal, being negotiated in smoky back rooms, is nearly done (unofficially).
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/24/07 01:21 AM

That's one of the most ridiculous things I've ever heard. DJ, you hit the nail directly on the head - Cano has earned that number. You're also right in surmising that the Clemens deal is a done one. Why they would bend over backwards for someone who left them in the lurch the way the Rocket did is beyond me, though.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/24/07 01:44 AM

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Why they would bend over backwards for someone who left them in the lurch the way the Rocket did is beyond me, though.


From a financial and GM standpoint, it's a smart move. The Yankees have plenty of cash, especially after moving Wright and Sheffield. Clemens is going to return to one of three teams - Houston, Boston, or the Yankees. The Astros may be close to home, but their chance of offering Clemens another World Series ring is not as good as with either of the AL East teams, both of which are almost always playoff locks. Boston is where Clemens began his career, but they've already used quite a bit of their payroll on Matsuzaka, their replenished bullpen, JD Drew (a deal which is still incomplete because of the physical) and Julio Lugo. They would love to have Clemens back, but their financial situation may prevent them from making a monster offer.

Basically, the Yankees would rather see Clemens pitch in pinstripes or with the 'Stros than with the Red Sox. Even if he comes back as a marginal Roger Clemens in the AL East, he's still a better option that Carl Pavano or Kei Igawa at this point. The Yankees can get him for a less-than-1-year prorated contract with the cash they've got lying around...bring back a pitcher who, even at 45, could still be a viable 4th starter in the AL, and keep him out of the hands of your archenemies and division rivals.

Believe me, you know from my previous posts over the years that I am 100% against Roger Clemens, particularly in a comeback, because of his mystical un-retirement and screwjob in 2004. That being said, the deal right now makes sense. The Yankees can't lose. They keep the best FA pitcher available right now out of the hands of their main division rivals, get him for a prorated deal, and get him for the playoffs, where he excels.

It's nothing personal...it's just business.

Nonetheless, and you can all quote me on this: Fuck Roger Clemens.

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/24/07 04:44 AM

I agree DJ. I have hated Clemens since he burned the Yankees over 3 years ago (ESPECIALLY to go to the astros, a texas team of all places). However, I do respect the man, and will forgive all pastdoings if he can produce a title. It will be nice to see him in pinstripes for me personally, because I never wanted him to leave and thought it would have happened a season or 2 ago that he'd come back home. But the important thing is that they WIN the title or this is all for NOTHING!
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/24/07 02:40 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
However, I do respect the man, and will forgive all pastdoings if he can produce a title.


Yes, thats what this one man has the ability to do, produce a title. I said that earlier in here.

I don't see a large number of dominating arms in baseball who are also available. You MUST have pitching to win in the playoffs(the Yankees have officially proved that the last 5 yrs)and if there were any A+ pitchers available George would have already bought them.

Start a list of world-beater pitchers, I don't see how you could name many more than 10 or so. Clemens can't go an entire season but can still win you a title IF your team is in the playoffs.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/25/07 12:52 PM

Murcer Doing 'Fabulous' After Surgery; Hopes to Return to Booth in 2007

Quote:
Source: ESPN.com, AP

In a radio interview Tuesday, Bobby Murcer said he's doing "fabulous" in his battle against a malignant brain tumor and hopes to continue broadcasting Yankees games for the team's YES network this season.

Bobby Murcer tells ESPN Radio 1050's Michael Kay that his treatment for cancer is going well and he's overwhelmed by the support he has received. Listen

Appearing on The Michael Kay Show on ESPN Radio 1050 in New York, Murcer took questions from callers and said he feels "blessed" with all the support he has received.

"I'm just doing absolutely fabulous ... I haven't had any setbacks of any kind," Murcer said.

Murcer said he's leaning on his faith and has a "real sense of calm."

"Whatever will be will be. I feel that through my faith that God will heal me," Murcer said.

Murcer, who currently is undergoing treatment for the tumor, said he plans on attending Yankees spring training in Tampa, Fla., if he feels well enough to do so.

"I plan on being back in the booth and spring training if all goes well," Murcer said.

The 60-year-old Murcer had surgery in Houston on Dec. 28 to remove the tumor. It was revealed this month that the tumor was malignant.

The tumor was discovered following an MRI exam on Christmas Eve after Murcer had been having headaches and feeling a loss of energy.

Murcer played 17 seasons in the major leagues from 1965-83 and was a five-time All-Star and a Gold Glove-winning outfielder. He batted .277 with 252 home runs and 1,043 RBIs with the Yankees, San Francisco Giants and Chicago Cubs.

Murcer has won three Emmy Awards for live sports coverage as one of the voices of the Yankees.


Great work Bobby, and we all hope to see you back as well.

BTW - Since he did the interview, anyone else here really can't stand Michael Kay besides me? In addition to just disliking his commentary and attitude, after finding out he beat his dog to death (which he confessed to on-air), I've relegated him to the "reprehensible piece of shit" category.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/25/07 02:27 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J


BTW - Since he did the interview, anyone else here really can't stand Michael Kay besides me? In addition to just disliking his commentary and attitude, after finding out he beat his dog to death (which he confessed to on-air), I've relegated him to the "reprehensible piece of shit" category.


I'm out of the loop on this one, Double-J. Is Michael Kay the radio announcer for Yankee games? What were the circumstances of this act? I assume he's been charged and is no longer affiliated with the team. Yikes.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/25/07 06:27 PM

Unfortunately, no. In 2005, after the Yankees were knocked out of the playoffs, he was apparently so frustrated that he went home and beat his little dog, Bernie (aptly named after Bernie Williams) to death. He confirmed this on-air, and apologized, though I didn't hear it.

Michael Kay is the play-by-play announcer for the YES Network, and he also hosts Centerstage. For a little Godfather link, he's the nephew of Danny Aiello, and Chad Pennington's uncle.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/25/07 07:53 PM

Where did you hear he beat his dog to death? I've never had a problem with him and like his commentary, but if this is true, he just lost A LOT of respect in my book. I f*cking hate people who abuse animals (or worse, beat them to death)!

Yankees seek working agreement with China baseball

A contingent of executives from the New York Yankees will fly to China next week with the hope of concluding ongoing negotiations on a working agreement with the China Baseball Association. This could lead to the Yankees dispatching coaches and trainers to work with players in China, and perhaps, in years to come, beginning a baseball academy.

According to a major league executive who has been briefed on the Yankees' intentions, the Yankees -- operating in consultation with Major League Baseball -- have been in negotiations for seven months on this deal. The Yankees' goal is to get their brand into the world's most populated nation, and put themselves in position, down the road, to scout talent, while working with members of the CBA to improve the state of baseball in China.

Similarly, the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays were the first teams to firmly establish themselves in the Dominican Republic, and benefited greatly. Nothing prevents other Major League Baseball teams from attempting to reach the same strategic alliance that the Yankees hope to soon formalize.

If the agreement is finalized, the Yankees "intend to make an investment in baseball in China," said the executive. "They intend to assign the coaches and trainers there for extended periods of time." In addition, the Yankees will serve as host to representatives from the China Baseball Association in the U.S., giving them an opportunity to observe baseball operations here.

Yankees executives, including President Randy Levine, General Manager Brian Cashman, and assistant GM Jean Afterman, will also visit teams in Japan as part of their travel to the Far East.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/25/07 08:56 PM

I remember when people laughed at the Dodgers for starting baseball academies in Latin America in the 1970s. Now all the teams are setting up around the world to train promising young athletes.

In this new age of the game, baseball is overlooking one important area - the inner cites. I know Joe Morgan and others have been critical of MLB's huge investments overseas while ignoring a pool of talent within our own cities.

Anyway, I'm sure the teams are just trying to improve.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/25/07 10:17 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Where did you hear he beat his dog to death? I've never had a problem with him and like his commentary, but if this is true, he just lost A LOT of respect in my book. I f*cking hate people who abuse animals (or worse, beat them to death)!


You can read about it on the Wikipedia entry for Michael Kay, but I remember hearing about it a few months after the end of the 2005 season.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/25/07 10:19 PM

That is absolutely disgusting. I had a lot of respect for the man but not now. I'm sorry, but when people take their frustration out on poor, defenseless animals, it just pisses me off to no end!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/26/07 12:13 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
That is absolutely disgusting. I had a lot of respect for the man but not now. I'm sorry, but when people take their frustration out on poor, defenseless animals, it just pisses me off to no end!


Actually trying to find a notable article on it is fairly difficult though...my cursory search of Google and Google News yielded little about it. I guess YES did a good job of keeping it quiet...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/26/07 12:38 PM

Deal With Cairo Final; Prospect Cox Breaks Pitching Hand

Quote:
Source: NY Post

The Yankees finalized their one-year, $750,000 agreement with Miguel Cairo yesterday. Cashman wouldn't say who Cairo will replace on the 40-man roster.

Pitching prospect J.B. Cox did not receive an invitation to spring training because of a fracture in a bone in his throwing hand. Cashman would not disclose how Cox injured his hand, but said that the second-round draft pick was not undergoing disciplinary action.

Cashman said Cox is healing and expected to start his throwing program the first week in February. Cox was 6-2 with a 1.75 ERA and three saves with the Trenton Thunder last season.


I wonder who will get the boot from the 40-man...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/27/07 05:21 AM

Bernie waiting to hear from Yankees

NEW YORK (AP) -- With spring training less than three weeks away, Bernie Williams still doesn't know whether he'll be back with the New York Yankees.

Williams' agent, Scott Boras, said Wednesday he was waiting to hear from general manager Brian Cashman. With the Yankees planning to carry 12 pitchers, use a platoon at first base and move Jason Giambi to designated hitter, there doesn't appear to be room on the roster for the 38-year-old Williams, who has been with the team since 1991.

"He's a very special player," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said Thursday. "Obviously, he's a unique individual that you try to take a great deal of time and effort and discussion as we go through the process."

It's possible the Yankees could agree to a minor league deal with Williams, a favorite of manager Joe Torre.

"If this is the end, there are no regrets," Williams was quoted as saying in Thursday's editions of The Journal News. "I gave it my best shot. One of the things I've always wanted was to gain the respect from my teammates, and I think I've done that. I may be a little goofy at times, but nobody can say I didn't play the game hard."

Williams spoke to the Westchester newspaper on Wednesday at Irvington Town Hall Theater, where the five-time All-Star played guitar with jazz guitarist Gil Parris.

"I have come to a place in my career where there are other things in my life that have become just as important as baseball," Williams told the paper.

Williams lost his job as the starting centerfielder last year to Johnny Damon. Melky Cabrera is slated to be New York's fourth outfielder.

"When you give a large chunk of your life to a team, it is hard. It's not like I am a journeyman," Williams was quoted as saying. "Part of me says if they wanted me, they would have made an offer by now. When you play this game for a long time, you take things for granted and think it won't end. But the harsh reality of it is, it will."

On another topic, Cashman said the Yankees still would like to sign Roger Clemens but are waiting for the seven-time Cy Young Award winner to decide whether he wants to pitch this year. If Clemens pitches, it will be for the Yankees, Houston or Boston.

"They know where we sit and how we feel," Cashman said of Clemens and agent Randy Hendricks. "Those feelings haven't changed. They're not new this year compared to last year or previous years."

Clemens, due in New York for a speaking engagement on Jan. 31, left the Yankees after the 2003 season and spent the last three years with his hometown Houston Astros. Robinson Cano already decided to switch from No. 22 to No. 24 to leave the number open for the Rocket.

"I thought Robby Cano volunteering to put his uniform out was an incredible, great gesture," Cashman said.

Cashman said fans should automatically expect that Clemens will follow Andy Pettitte back to New York.

"Do I feel that we have an inside track on the man? No," he said.

Pitcher J. Brent Cox, another Hendricks client, won't be at the major league spring training camp. After he went 6-2 with a 1.75 ERA and held batters to a .196 average at Double-A Trenton, the Yankees had planned to invite him.

"He injured his hand in a slight altercation," Hendricks said. "He won't be ready until minor league camp starts, so the decision was made to just start out in minor league camp. He has a slight fracture of a small bone in his hand. He should be fine when minor league camp starts."

Cashman said pitcher Carl Pavano, who hasn't pitched in the majors since June 2005 because of several injuries, is finally healthy.

"`He's not a rehab player going into spring training. He is going to be on the same timeframe," Cashman said.

At some point, the Yankees will have a formal meeting with Pavano to discuss possible discipline over his decision last year to withhold that he had injured ribs in a car accident.

"That dialogue is going on as we speak," Cashman said. Notes: Yankees chief operating officer Lonn Trost had a mild heart attack while attending last week's owners' meetings in Phoenix. Trost could be back at work as early as next week, the Yankees said.

Source: SI
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/27/07 06:37 AM

Pavano?? What a joke!!

As for Bernie, I think that last season he proved that still had a contribution to make to the team. I think it would be a disgrace to let him go. A minor league team?? An insult.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/29/07 10:10 PM

Schilling Says He'll Pitch Past 2007; Vows Never to Play in New York

Quote:
Red Sox's Schilling Says He'll Pitch Past 2007 Season (Update1)

By Mason Levinson

Jan. 29 (Bloomberg) -- Boston Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling said he plans to continue his Major League Baseball career past the 2007 season, which was to be his last.

The 40-year-old right-hander said he'd play elsewhere if a contract extension can't be reached with Boston, ruling out only the New York Yankees, the Red Sox's archrival, as a possible new team.

Schilling told Boston radio station WEEI that discussions with his wife and children in recent months led him to change his mind about his plans to retire when his contract expired after this season.

``We came to the conclusion about a week to 10 days ago that I was not going to retire in 2007,'' Schilling told the radio station. He said his health is good enough to allow him to pitch in 2008 and perhaps beyond.

Schilling, a six-time All-Star, was 15-7 with a 3.97 earned run average last season in 204 innings of work. He has a 207-138 record and 3.44 ERA in 19 seasons for the Red Sox, Arizona Diamondbacks, Philadelphia Phillies, Houston Astros and Baltimore Orioles, amassing 3,015 strikeouts while walking 688 batters.

Schilling said he is negotiating a contract extension with the Red Sox and would play elsewhere if an agreement cannot be reached.

``I hope it's Boston. This is where I want to play,'' Schilling said. ``It wouldn't be in New York. I could not make that move.''

The Red Sox finished 86-76 last season, 11 games behind the Yankees in the AL East.


Why would we want yet another aging pitcher? We'll take pinstripes over bloody socks.

Besides, I can't see Schilling lasting much longer in the AL East anyways. If people are worried about Roger Clemens coming back to this division, then certainly Schilling has to be even more of a concern in the next couple of seasons.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/29/07 10:16 PM

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Pavano?? What a joke!!

As for Bernie, I think that last season he proved that still had a contribution to make to the team. I think it would be a disgrace to let him go. A minor league team?? An insult.


I have to be honest...I was watching Pavano pitch this morning in the A-Rod 10 RBI game versus LAA.

Damn.

If that sonofabitch could stay healthy, he's got a great power fastball and a wicked slider. I'm actually excited to see what he can do healthy.

That isn't to say I think he's going to be great...he has to earn the #5 starter spot for sure, and he's a huge retard for all of his antics and accidents and setbacks. But I'll be more than happy if they can get 10+ wins out of him this year.

And as Bernie goes, we may gasp at a minor league contract, but it may be the only way to keep him in pinstripes. Look at it this way - he'll be emergency call-up relief, he'll be a mentor and coach to the youth of the Yankees, and he'll be available once our roster goes 40-man.

If the Yanks are hell-bent on this retarded 1st base platoon, then a minor-league deal is the only way I can see us keeping Bernie.

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/29/07 10:25 PM

How arrogant of Schilling to think we'd even want him. There are some players, like Damon, who could make that transition easily. There are others, like Pedro or Manny, that have too much bad blood between the teams to ever make it as a Yankee. Schilling is definitely another one who could not.

As for Pavano, I hope you're right. Nothing would make me happier. Given his past, though, I have my doubts.

I think Bernie would be a wonderful mentor for younger players when the time is right, but I just don't think that the time has arrived. He's still got plenty to contribute.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/29/07 10:28 PM

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I think Bernie would be a wonderful mentor for younger players when the time is right, but I just don't think that the time has arrived. He's still got plenty to contribute.


I agree with that. Unfortunately, the reality is that the Yankees management feels that a platoon at first base full of mediocre-to-just-plain-bad players is a better option for the team's success than an aging Bernie Williams.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/30/07 01:55 AM

Check out what Clemens was sporting at the Sundance film festival:



Sign of things to come???
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/30/07 02:03 AM

I would think they wear them night and day. I know I would, wouldn't you?? My neighbor used to wear his Superbowl ring all the time.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/30/07 02:06 AM

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I would think they wear them night and day. I know I would, wouldn't you?? My neighbor used to wear his Superbowl ring all the time.


True, but it is a bit conspicuous, no?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/30/07 02:15 AM

Conspicuous? Yeah, a bit. I've never seen a World Series ring in person, but the Superbowl ring is enormous.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/30/07 02:17 AM

I was referring to the fact that because it has a giant Yankees logo, and he clearly mugged for the camera with it, and the Yankees are rumored to be in the Roger Clemens 2007 sweepstakes, it's a bit conspicuous, no?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/30/07 02:21 AM

Who knows what these clowns do and why? Maybe it was his way of telling Boston or Houston, Put up the bucks, or guess where I'm going??
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/30/07 02:27 AM

Maybe he just wanted to show Jennifer Garner that his ring has bigger diamonds than hers.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/30/07 07:37 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Check out what Clemens was sporting at the Sundance film festival:



Sign of things to come???


No, it's just the only place he's won a ring

Clemens still undecided about playing

ROUND ROCK, Texas (AP) -- Seven-time Cy Young winner Roger Clemens isn't prepared to say whether he'll be back for another season.

"I don't know what's going to happen tomorrow. I'll make that decision when it comes," Clemens said in a story for Monday's editions of The Daily Texan. "I'm in good shape, but I'm nowhere near baseball shape. Mentally, it's going to be another challenge for me."

Clemens, a free agent who had a 7-6 record in a shortened season with the Houston Astros last year, said teammates got him to come back last year.

"If somebody makes a phone call, and I think I can do it again physically, I probably could," Clemens said. "The only reason why I'd continued to play was because of my teammates calling me."

He said he is enjoying working with younger players.

"We've got in Houston our elite camp on Monday and Tuesday, so that'll be fun," he said Saturday after throwing the ceremonial first pitch for the Texas Longhorns' alumni game.

Clemens is choosing among returning to the Astros, retiring or rejoining the Yankees or Boston Red Sox, his first major league team.

Clemens' agent, Randy Hendricks, said earlier this month that if the Rocket pitches, he probably wouldn't

Source: SI
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/30/07 07:02 PM

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
How arrogant of Schilling to think we'd even want him. There are some players, like Damon, who could make that transition easily. There are others, like Pedro or Manny, that have too much bad blood between the teams to ever make it as a Yankee. Schilling is definitely another one who could not.


I would just love to know what his seemingly "personal vendetta" against the Yankees is. Ever since 2001, to me at least, it seems Schilling has been on "Yankee Death Patrol." WTF is his problem? Did anyone even bring up pitching for the Yankees or is he just talking out of his a$$ again?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/31/07 12:39 AM

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. tomorrow. Spring is just around the corner!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/31/07 02:51 PM

Yankees Ask Cabrera to Skip Caribbean World Series; Yankees Prospects Analysis

Quote:
Source: Associated Press

Yankees outfielder Melky Cabrera will skip the Caribbean World Series at the team’s request so he can rest up for next season.
Cabrera played the last part of the winter league season in the Dominican Republic and participated in the playoffs, said Mark Newman, the Yankees’ senior vice president of baseball operations.
”We’ve asked that he shut it down at this point. It’s been a long year for him,” Newman said Tuesday on a conference call to discuss the team’s top prospects. ”We thought he needed some rest.”
Cabrera was a pleasant surprise as a rookie last season, getting extensive playing time because of injuries to Hideki Matsui and Gary Sheffield. Cabrera played excellent defense, especially in left field, and batted .280 with seven home runs, 50 RBIs and 12 stolen bases in 130 games. He also scored 75 runs and had 26 doubles in 460 at-bats.


The 22-year-old Cabrera enters this season as New York’s fourth outfielder, the top backup behind Matsui, Johnny Damon and Bobby Abreu.
Newman also talked extensively about a few of the club’s top young pitchers, including Philip Hughes - the gem of the organization.
Hughes might have a chance to win a spot in the rotation during spring training, though Newman said the best-case scenario would be to have the right-hander begin the season at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
The 20-year-old Hughes went 10-3 with a 2.25 ERA in 21 starts at Double-A Trenton last year. He struck out 138 in 116 innings, and opponents hit only .179 against him.
Newman said the kid’s minor league performance has been ”off the charts.”
”He’s a pretty mature young guy,” Newman said. ”We think of him as a long-term, high-end starter. ... But he’s still a prospect and until he does it in New York, he’s just a prospect.”
The Yankees also are excited about right-handers Humberto Sanchez and Ross Ohlendorf, among others.
Sanchez, acquired from Detroit this offseason in a trade for Gary Sheffield, has the stuff to be a starter and the mental makeup to be a late-game reliever, Newman said. Sanchez is expected to begin the season at Triple-A.
Ohlendorf, acquired from Arizona in the deal for Randy Johnson, throws a lot of strikes and could make an impact for the Yankees this season, Newman said.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/31/07 02:52 PM

Mussina: "Pavano has a lot to prove to Yankees"

Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

BY LISA KENNELLY AND ED PRICE
Star-Ledger Staff

NEW YORK -- Staying healthy and regaining a spot in the rotation might be the easiest part of Carl Pavano's spring.

The oft-injured right-hander, who hasn't pitched in almost two years, will have to win back a Yankees clubhouse that is hardly convinced of his commitment to the team.

He can begin, fellow starter Mike Mussina said, by showing up.

"He's been away a long time," Mussina said last night at the 27th annual Thurman Munson Awards Dinner, where he was honored with an award. "He's come and gone for periods of time and he's been real close, and everybody thought he was going to come back and he didn't. He's got to earn some trust from some players again, and from a coaching staff and a manager and an organization."

Pavano's spot as the No. 5 starter is hardly guaranteed either, given his long layoff. Should Pavano flop, top pitching prospect Phil Hughes is waiting in the wings to take his place.

Pavano was due to come back last August but faced another setback with broken ribs from a car accident that he tried to conceal from the team.

"We know he can do it, we know he can pitch and we know he can get people out." Mussina said, adding that Pavano has to "be a new guy again." "So if he gets over those other hurdles, then he'll be an asset."

Meanwhile, Hughes could be make the big-league team's roster as soon as Opening Day, senior vice president for baseball operations Mark Newman said.

Hughes, who last year was 10-3 with a 2.25 ERA for Double-A Trenton, is scheduled to begin this season with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

"I think there's some chance he could make the team out of spring training," said Newman, who oversees the farm system. "I would never count someone of his ability out.

"I think the best-case scenario is we give him some time in Triple-A. But it's not unreasonable that he has an impact this year (in the majors)."

The back end of the rotation -- after Chien-Ming Wang, Mussina and Andy Pettitte -- is up in the air, since Japanese import Kei Igawa is an unknown and Pavano's ability is unclear.

Newman said the Yankees want to limit Hughes, who turns 21 on June 24, to 175-180 innings in 2007.

"We think of him as a long-term, high-end starter for the Yankees," he said. "So we don't want to sacrifice the long term for a short-term need. We'll do the best we can to protect him over the long run."

- Former Yankee reliever Goose Gossage will be with the Yankees in Tampa as a spring training instructor.

- Major League Baseball, the Yankees and New York City will officially announce that the 2008 All-Star Game will be held at Yankee Stadium at a press conference at New York City Hall today.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/31/07 03:08 PM

Yankees Will Limit Hughes' Innings

Quote:
Source: Lower Hudson Journal

By PETER ABRAHAM
THE JOURNAL NEWS
(Original publication: January 31, 2007)

The Yankees plan to limit top prospect Philip Hughes to no more than 180 innings this season. The question is how many - if any - will come in the major leagues.

The 20-year-old right-hander has been invited to spring training. But expectations are that he will start the season with Triple-A Scranton. Hughes was 12-6 with a 2.16 ERA last season. Counting the playoffs, he pitched 152 innings.

"I think there's some chance he can make the team out of spring training. I would never count someone of his ability out," vice president of baseball operations Mark Newman said yesterday during a conference call. "The best-case scenario is you give him a little time in Triple-A. It's not beyond reasonable that he would make an impact (in the majors) sometime this year."

The Yankees have proceeded cautiously with Hughes as he moves through the organization. Studies have shown that loading innings on young arms can lead to injuries.

"We think of him as a long-term, high-end starter for the Yankees. So we don't want to sacrifice the long term for a short-term need," Newman said. "Admittedly, that's hard to do with our franchise and with our city. But we're going to do the best we can to protect him over the long run."

Veteran Mike Mussina, speaking before the Thurman Munson Awards Dinner last night, agreed.

"He's got ability, he's got skill, he's got an idea, and he had a good year last year," Mussina said. "I don't know if they should be throwing him into the fire at 20, 21 years old, but he's not very far away. ... I hope they let the kid go out there and develop and be a strong major-league pitcher when it's time to ask him to be."

Newman said Hughes was the best pitching prospect the Yankees have had since he joined the organization in 1989.

Two of the pitchers the Yankees received in trades over the winter - Humberto Sanchez and Ross Ohlendorf - could help the Yankees this season, Newman said. He also thinks highly of reliever Kevin Whelan, who was obtained from the Tigers.

The Yankees also believe strongly in three pitchers they drafted last June: Ian Kennedy, Joba Chamberlain and Dellin Betances. All three already have reported to the team facility in Tampa, Fla., and started workouts.

Young outfielder Jose Tabata, a spring-training invitee, also reported early, as did 17-year-old Venezuelan catcher Jesus Montero. The Yankees plan to have Montero start his career in the Gulf Coast League.

"He's got huge power," Newman said. "We've never had a Latin player with that kind of power."

The Yankees named former big-leaguer Jody Reed the manager of their Gulf Coast League team.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/31/07 03:30 PM

Yankees Farm System Packed With Punch

Quote:
Source: ESPN.com

The Yankees have long had the game's biggest payroll, but their farm system has lain fallow for several years, the result of some uninspired draft picks and trades that rid the system of the few prospects who remained. Over the last 18 months, however, the Yanks' system has made a stunning turnaround, going from one of the five worst systems in the game to one of the 10 best.

What sets the Yankees' system apart from most others is the presence of two of the 10 best prospects in baseball, something no other organization can claim. The first of these two is right-handed pitcher Philip Hughes, who should show up in the Bronx in the first half of this season. The Yanks' first-round pick in 2004 has rocketed through the system, and would likely have reached Triple-A this year had the Yanks not been keeping their best prospects away from the Columbus clubhouse. Hughes has two consistent plus-plus pitches in a 93-95 mph fastball with fair sink, and a 12-to-6 curveball, and he has a promising changeup as well. Hughes pounds the strike zone and his command made some strides late in the 2006 season, although he still relies a bit too much on his secondary stuff. A year ago, Hughes had promise, but had missed time with minor shoulder injuries and had command issues. Now he's one of the top two pitching prospects in the game.

Hughes' hitting counterpart on the Yanks' prospect depth chart is teenaged center fielder Jose Tabata, who spent all of 2006 in the full-season Sally League; only the Mets' Fernando Martinez and the Braves' Elvis Andrus were younger among such players. Tabata has an outstanding package of tools, but also has a degree of baseball acumen not often seen in players so young. He has a quick bat with developing power and good command of the strike zone. He has good instincts in center, with a plus arm that will allow him to move to right if he outgrows center. His season ended in early August due to a thumb injury, but he's playing in the Venezuelan winter league and swinging the bat with no trouble.

The Yanks' system also now boasts depth that it hasn't had in years. Trading Gary Sheffield netted the Yankees another top pitching prospect in Humberto Sanchez as well as two live arms in Kevin Whelan and Anthony Claggett. Randy Johnson didn't bring as much back, but the Yanks did grab another live arm in Ross Ohlendorf. Meanwhile, Tyler Clippard passed the Double-A test and looks like at least a fifth starter in the majors, while 2006 sandwich pick Joba Chamberlain, who fell out of the top 10 picks due to serious concerns about the state of his shoulder, threw extremely well in the Hawaiian Winter League.

The Yanks also added two more tough signs in Mark Melancon and sashimi-raw flamethrower Dellin Betances. It's a significant improvement for such a short period of time, and it's very bad news for the other four teams in the AL East.

Five more

1. Tampa Bay: The Devil Rays have the best farm system in the game right now, and it's not particularly close. They're stacked with impact bats like Delmon Young, Elijah Dukes, Evan Longoria, and possibly Reid Brignac, and they have a wave of young arms coming behind those hitters, including Wade Davis and Jeremy Hellickson. The question dogging them is whether they can get the pitching to the majors before their offense starts to hit free agency.

2. Colorado: Despite some odd first-round selections in recent years (Greg Reynolds, Chris Nelson), the Rockies have still managed to stack their system with promising hitters. Shortstop Troy Tulowitzki and catcher Chris Iannetta will see a lot of big league time this year, and corner infielder Ian Stewart and outfielder Dexter Fowler are both promising. The system is short on pitching prospects, though, with oft-injured right-hander Ubaldo Jimenez the closest to the majors.

3. Arizona: Former scouting director Mike Rizzo can still claim a good chunk of the credit for the wave of young talent showing up in Phoenix, and there's more coming, including homegrown products like outfielders Justin Upton and Carlos Gonzalez, catcher Miguel Montero and right-hander Micah Owings, as well as players acquired by GM Josh Byrnes via trades, including second baseman Alberto Callaspo and the system's jewel, center fielder Chris Young.

4. Kansas City: The Royals' system lacks depth, although new GM Dayton Moore has tried to fill in some of the gaps by acquiring guys like left-handed pitcher Tyler Lumsden. The Royals make the cut here, however, because their top three prospects are as good as any team's top three -- third baseman Alex Gordon, DH Billy Butler and right-handed starter Luke Hochevar. Outfielder Chris Lubanski and right-hander Chris Nicoll aren't in the same class, but both have promise as well.

5. Cleveland: Unlike Kansas City's top-heavy system, Cleveland's boasts tremendous depth but just one impact prospect, right-handed starter Adam Miller, who sits in a class with Hughes and Homer Bailey among the game's best pitching prospects. Left-handed starter Chuck Lofgren and outfielder John Drennen could make the leap into the top prospect ranks in 2007, and the system is stacked with useful prospects like left-handers Scott Lewis and Tony Sipp, slick-fielding shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera and outfielder Trevor Crowe.

Cold Plate Special: San Diego Padres

There are a number of barren farm systems, but San Diego's stands head and shoulders above ... er, below the pack.

Since the trade of their best hitting prospect, catcher George Kottaras, for a month of David Wells' time, the Padres no longer have a single prospect who could earn a solid 45 (one grade below average) on the 20-80 grading scale. Their best pitching prospect, 2005 first-rounder Cesar Carrillo, missed the last half of the season with an elbow injury.

They had the first overall pick in the 2004 draft and went for signability, taking shortstop Matt Bush in a first round that also included Justin Verlander, Jered Weaver, Homer Bailey, Stephen Drew, Josh Fields and Philip Hughes. Their first pick in 2003, Tim Stauffer, hid a shoulder injury until after he was taken and looks like a four-A player at best. And in 2006, they went conservative again in the first round, taking Wake Forest infielder Matt Antonelli, who projects as a utility player in the majors.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 01/31/07 09:00 PM

Odd man out?

Bernie Williams' great Yankees career just might end with a soap opera he didn't bargain for.

SI.com has learned that the Yankees have made Williams a standing offer to come to spring training as a non-guaranteed, nonroster invite. While this wasn't anything close to what he was hoping or looking for, all indications are that he is considering the proposal.

Williams still could decide to retire, too. But the third option, which is to sign a better deal with another team, seems to be out of the question.

Though Williams could have gotten a guaranteed contract elsewhere, people close to him say he considers himself a Yankee and only a Yankee.

But right now he's still grappling with hurt feelings. He sits at home in Westchester County, his pride stinging. He recently told the Westchester Journal News, "When you give a large chunk of your life to a team, it is hard. It's not like I'm a journeyman.''

Williams knows that if he decides to return for what amounts to a tryout, through no fault of his own he becomes the story of spring, superseding returning hero Andy Pettitte, at least until Roger Clemens decides whether to rejoin them. But if Williams retires, he might have regrets about leaving too soon. He was productive last year (.281, 12, 61), maybe more so than the Yankees remember.

New York's current roster plan includes 12 pitchers, three first basemen (generously counting Jason Giambi as a first baseman) and no guaranteed deal for Williams. But don't count him out if he comes to camp. Manager Joe Torre always has been a Williams fan, and while Torre may have slightly diminishing clout, his voice should still count more than the detractors, who wonder how much Williams can contribute in a limited role.

The potential soap opera might have been avoided if only the Yankees continued to give Giambi time at first base. But alas, they have seen the light there. As a first baseman, Giambi makes a terrific DH.

The soap opera might also have been avoided had the Yankees felt that young Andy Phillips was ready to play first base full time. But Phillips had a disappointing first full season offensively, thus prompting the Yankees to sign Doug Mientkiewicz to platoon with him at first.

The Yankees' belief is that Mientkiewicz gives them better flexibility and glovework, and he probably does do that. But Mientkiewicz was terrible offensively as a Met, mediocre as a Royal and definitely is declining faster than Williams.

Mientkiewicz also is recalled as Boston's Ball Hog, who thought he had a right to the 2004 World Series ball simply because he hoarded it afterward. He also drew criticism for being overly talkative with the Mets, considering that he was the worst everyday player on the team. He ripped them as losers on his way to Kansas City (the Mets, incidentally, were on their way to the NLCS).

In what was a pretty good winter, one in which the Yankees improved their future and clubhouse, Mientkiewicz is their one hard-to-understand signing. It's difficult to believe Mientkiewicz is the one who stands in the way of Williams staying a Yankee. But for now, he is.

In any case, Mientkiewicz has a guaranteed contract, so the Yankees will feel obligated to carry him for half a year, at least. But Williams' presence in spring could force the Yankees either to drop Phillips or, more likely, go with only 11 pitchers.

Williams is great in the clubhouse and still pretty good on the field. If Williams takes the Yankees up on their offer, maybe they'd be too embarrassed to cut him. Or maybe they'd just start to remember what Williams still brings something to the team.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/07 01:12 AM

If it wasn't for the fact that the Yankees think that A-Rod will be the horse to Doug Alphabet's stable goat (they went to high school together and are good friends), I don't think they would have signed him. This first base platoon idea is retarded. Not only is it unnecessary, since none of these players can hit the ball worth a lick, but it is going to keep one of the most clutch players in the history of the Yankees off the roster.

Maybe Joe can dump Phillips and Phelps and get them to keep Bernie. Cross your fingers.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/07 07:07 AM

Williams deciding whether to accept minor league deal

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. -- Bernie Williams has a big decision ahead.

The New York Yankees have offered the former All-Star outfielder a minor league contract and an invite to spring training.

The offer was reported Wednesday on Sports Illustrated's Web site and confirmed by a baseball official who spoke on condition of anonymity because the team didn't publicly disclose the offer.

"I'm waiting to hear from Bernie," Williams' agent, Scott Boras, said Wednesday. "Once I talk to him, he'll let me know what he's thinking."

The 38-year-old Williams has been with the Yankees since 1991 and has expressed a desire to remain with them. But with the team's plan to go with 12 pitchers, platoon at first base and move Jason Giambi to designated hitter, there is no spot on a 25-man roster for Williams at this point.

Johnny Damon took Williams' job as the starter in center last year, and Melky Cabrera is slated to be the fourth outfielder.

New York manager Joe Torre likes Williams' abilities, which could weigh in his favor if he does come to camp.

Williams filled in capably last season when Hideki Matsui and Gary Sheffield were injured, batting .281 with 12 homers and 61 RBIs.

He told The Journal News in Westchester, N.Y., last week that he has other interests in his life now that are just as important to him as baseball.

"When you give a large chunk of your life to a team, it is hard. It's not like I am a journeyman," Williams said. "When you play this game for a long time, you take things for granted and think it won't end. But the harsh reality of it is, it will."

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/07 07:10 AM

Clemens craves October run

NEW YORK -- Roger Clemens is no closer to deciding where, or if, he'll pitch this season. But he knows when he would want to: October.

Speaking at a St. John's University sports banquet in New York, baseball's most coveted 44-year-old said that he still loves to compete, but falling short of the postseason -- as his Astros did in 2006 -- is not an option.

"I've got to tell you, you put your body through a lot of punishment and you come up one game short like we did last year, for me, it was a waste of time," Clemens said.

"When you don't have an opportunity to go to the playoffs and have a chance to win, it's a waste of time for me. At this stage and point in my life and career, that's all you're looking for. You want to have that feeling of being in the playoffs."

Clemens has stated that he would only pitch for one of three teams in 2007 -- the Astros, the Red Sox or the Yankees, all of whom have ties close to his heart.

Clemens applauded the Yankees' signing of Andy Pettitte, and kidded the left-hander that he should have inked a three-year contract to ensure his presence for the opening of the new Yankee Stadium.

But as for Clemens' own Bronx return? Clemens said he isn't sold yet, even though he has been coaching Pettitte, a fellow Texan, on a regular basis to fine-tune his New York mindset.

"It won't make it any easier for me to come back," Clemens said. "To do that, I'm going to have to disappear. I'm going to listen [to offers] like I always do, but ... I'm my own worst critic, and I just don't want to let anybody down.

"I'm going to be 45 years old, and I have expectations, too. I expect my body to do certain things. It might not be as crucial if I wasn't a power pitcher."

Clemens' agents, Alan and Randy Hendricks, have been passing along semi-regular updates on media speculation. For now, Clemens insists that he has still not made a decision on his future.

"I'm nowhere near ready to play baseball at this time," Clemens said. "I'm in good shape, but I'm nowhere near the type of playing shape that I want to be in if I'm going to try and play another season. That would take another huge commitment on myself."

Clemens said that part of the difficulty in deciding whether to pitch lies within his own personal standards. He believes he can handle the physical stress of another Major League season, but the mental aspect is more daunting.

For a potential playoff contender, there would be no mulligans offered just because of Clemens' advanced age or his late start to the year.

"Mentally, I beat myself up to perform," Clemens said. "Once I do sign a contract to continue to play, they don't care how old I am. They want results, and I want results also."

Forget the devastating splitfinger, at least for the moment. As of late, Clemens' Hall of Fame-bound right arm has been used only to lob hit-me fastballs about 60 feet, six inches.

On Monday and Tuesday, Clemens pitched 45 sweat-soaked minutes of batting practice to Astros Minor Leaguers -- including his son, Koby -- at Houston's Minute Maid Park.

Clemens plans on being in Spring Training with the Astros, part of a personal services contract with the club that he is honoring, and is keeping up with the winter movements of all three teams that he would pitch for.

Beyond that, Clemens knows that there is a very strong possibility that injuries could prompt his telephone to ring in May. But Clemens said he has no intention of pitching that early.

"I think all three clubs are planning on winning, with or without me," Clemens said. "But if somebody goes down and I'm feeling good, I don't know what my decision is going to be yet.

"I hope that they all get off to a great start and I can just fade away, and come and watch some ballgames up here [in New York]. I don't think it's going to happen."

Saying that he believes he can still pitch at a high level, Clemens said his decision to walk away would likely be much easier if not for the phone calls he has received from teammates in New York, Houston and Boston, all urging him to come back for one more year.

"I wish it was an easy decision. I'm failing at retirement," Clemens said. "Let's just face it; I'm failing miserably at it."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/07 07:11 AM

Clemens: 'I'm failing at retirement'

NEW YORK (AP) - Roger Clemens talked about his plight and laughed.

"I'm failing at retirement," he said. "Let's just face it. I'm failing miserably at it."

The 44-year-old right-hander, unsure whether to retire or return for a 24th major league season, was the keynote speaker for the St. John's winter baseball banquet on Wednesday night.

If he does pitch - and it sounds as if he will - Clemens will choose among his hometown Houston Astros, the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox.

"I think if it wasn't for more than a handful of phone calls from my teammates, not only my teammates here, but in Houston and the guys in Boston, I don't think I'd take it to heart as much," he said. "It would be real easy to step away and be done with it."

Clemens threw batting practice in Houston for the Astros this week, mostly to minor leaguers.

"I probably threw 45 minutes of BP on Monday and again on Tuesday," he said. "It's supposed to be good for your heart. I'd rather have a glass of wine."

Clemens didn't start his major league season last year until June 22. Plagued by poor run support, he went 7-6 with a 2.30 ERA in 19 starts.

This year, he might begin a few weeks earlier - but only a few weeks.

"None of the teams are interested in seeing me before May, and that's great," he said. "I don't have an interest in playing right now in May."

With 348 wins, seven Cy Young Awards, one MVP, 11 All-Star selections and two World Series titles, Clemens doesn't need to return for more accomplishments. He just enjoys winning.

"You put your body through a lot of punishment and then you come up one game short, like we did last year, for me it was a waste of time," he said. "When you don't have the opportunity to go to the playoffs and have a chance to win, it's a waste of time for me. At this stage and point in my life and career, that's all you're looking for."

Clemens spent the last three seasons with his hometown Astros following five years with the Yankees.

With Houston, he got to spend time on the field with his son, Koby, an Astros' minor leaguer. The Rocket didn't have to always be with the major league team on days he didn't pitch.

"It's been overstated, like I pitch and I'm never there," Clemens said. "When I'm not there, it's not the freedom of being home, I'm out working and doing the things I love to do. I'm usually with one of the other minor leagues in the organization, helping some young kid chase his dream."

Clemens planned to see some of his former Yankees teammates this week. He expects them to push for a return to pinstripes, following the example of close friend Andy Pettitte, who played alongside him in the Bronx and Houston.

"I'm sure they're going to be beating on me pretty hard," Clemens said.

He plans to travel from Houston to Yankee Stadium early in the season to watch Pettitte pitch. Already, he wants Pettitte to stay with the Yankees until at least 2009.

"He has to open that new stadium," Clemens said. "He just rolled his eyes at me on that one."

Not retired, not active, Clemens is a target for the Yankees, Astros and Red Sox. He is a coveted commodity in a twilight zone, the $22 million man without a team.

"I hope that they all get off to a great start and I can just fade away and come and watch some ballgames up here," Clemens said. "I don't think that's going to happen."

Source: Fox Sports
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/07 12:43 PM

Suck it up Clemens. Shut the fuck up and make up your mind. Seriously. This whole attitude is eerily similar to the numerous "retirements" from pro wrestling, only to return either months later or even on another show.

---

As far as Bernie goes, I still say even a minor-league contract is better than nothing. Besides, there will be a spot for him - once they see how much Phelps/Phillips totally suck this spring, no doubt Bernie will get the ML callup.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/01/07 12:52 PM

Red Sox-Yankees Missile Gap

Quote:
Source: YES Network


Even without Helton, Sox hold surprising offense edges
By Steven Goldman / Special to YESNetwork.com


MISSILE GAPS AND THROW WEIGHTS
When John F. Kennedy ran for president in 1960, he made a "Missile Gap" between the United States and the Soviet Union a central part of his appeal. Kennedy suggested that the Dwight Eisenhower-Richard Nixon administration had let the Soviets overtake the US in the seemingly important category of total nuclear missiles. The only problem with this point was (as Kennedy well knew), that it was wholly fictional. As historian John Lewis Gaddis wrote in his recently-published The Cold War: A New History, "The U-2 photographs quickly confirmed the limited size and inferior capabilities of the Soviet long-range bomber force. Determining Soviet missile capabilities took longer, however, because the missiles themselves — in the quantities that Khrushchev had claimed — did not exist. By the end of 1959 his engineers had only six long-range missile launch sites operational."

The missile gap captured the popular imagination because, in Cold War logic, if you could blow up the other guy 11 times over but he could blow you up 12 times, he might be tempted to launch a first strike and could strong-arm you diplomatically. These things tended to upset people. Existentially. Similarly, the Red Sox-Rockies talks on Todd Helton, now apparently dead (Larry Lucchino has that affect on people), had Yankees fans worrying about the Boston-New York missile gap. The irony is that in this case the doomsayers are right. While winter worries have focused on New York's lack of frontline pitching, its offense is almost certainly not the best in the AL East.

One way we can look at this is to use the 2007 Pecota projections now available from Baseball Prospectus. Rather than quote the whole prediction for each player, we'll just borrow one aspect, MLVr, or Marginal Lineup Value per game. Marginal Lineup Value estimates the additional number of runs a player will contribute to a lineup that consists of average offensive performers. For example, last year, Robinson Cano's MLVr was .252, so in a lineup of average players he would have chipped in an "extra" quarter of a run per game.

These fractions can numb the eye, so the key thing to focus on is that we're looking at a projected rate of offense at each position, and the precise meaning of the number is less important than which team has the player with the higher rate.


YANKEES

BOSTON

POS

PLAYER

MLVr

PLAYER

MLVr
C
Jorge Posada
.036
Jason Varitek
.047
1B
Doug Mientkiewicz
-.112
Kevin Youkilis
.082
2B
Robinson Cano
.083
Dustin Pedroia
.041
3B
Alex Rodriguez
.207
Mike Lowell
-.010
SS
Derek Jeter
.144
Julio Lugo
-.024
LF
Hideki Matsui
.119
Manny Ramirez
.285
CF
Johnny Damon
.077
Coco Crisp
.085
RF
Bobby Abreu
.096
J.D. Drew
.146
DH
Jason Giambi
.203
David Ortiz
.299


YANKEES

BOSTON

POS

PLAYER

MLVr

PLAYER

MLVr
U-OF
Melky Cabrera
-.033
Wily Mo Pena
.082
U-IF
Miguel Cairo
-.210
Alex Cora
-.202
U-C
Raul Chavez
-.531
Doug Mirabelli
-.190

Again, these are projections, and while PECOTA is usually good at what it does, there are reasons to question its prediction that Varitek will be more productive than Posada or that Abreu's season is going to be more reflective of his Philadelphia 2006 than his Yankees 2006. PECOTA also thinks that Coco Crisp will pick up where he left off before last year's injuries, and it is very optimistic about Pedroia. All predictions can only be proved with the passage of time, but these seem more vulnerable to being disproved by events than some of the others.

Still, many aspects of the projection are almost certain to be true. The Red Sox won't have a great bench, but the Yankees bench will be worse. Raul Chavez is a poor hitter of historic magnitude, and Wil Nieves, should he win the reserve catcher's job in spring training, won't be significantly better. Barring injuries, the Red Sox will out-hit the Yankees at DH and left field. The Yankees will out-hit the Red Sox at second, third, and shortstop. Center field and catcher should be competitive, regardless of which team's player is actually more productive. First base will almost certainly be an unmitigated disaster for the Yankees.

None of this is to say that the Yankees will have a bad offense. Their starting lineup, if healthy, should stack up with that of almost any team. It should also, in a global sense, keep up with the Red Sox; with the exception of first base, the Yankees aren't significantly far behind the Red Sox at any position, and will dominate them at second, short, and third.

The Helton deal was probably not in Boston's best interest. While it would have allowed them to be rid of Lowell and the depressing Julian Tavarez, both would have been coming off the books after the 2007 season, whereas peace will reign in the Middle East before Helton's contract is over. Boston might have a better offensive team if it tried Wily Mo Pena at first and shifted Youkilis to third when a fly-ball pitcher is on the mound. In the meantime, the relief pitchers that the Rockies coveted would be best kept handy until (a) the major league pen shows it won't need them, or (b) a long-term first or third base solution presents itself, one that doesn't carry the financial baggage of Helton.

As for the Yankees, they would actually reap more of a benefit from adding Helton, though the contract is still a major deterrent. It's not really Helton the Yankees need to add, it's anyone. As the predictions above suggest, their attack isn't so dominant that they can afford to give away offense at any position. Given one or more significant injuries, and the shortfall at first base will not only hamper them, it will stop the offense cold.

RODRIGUEZ'S APOTHEOSIS: WHEN IT WILL HAPPEN
One of the fascinating aspects of the season to come is that Alex Rodriguez is very likely to hit his 500th career home run sometime late in the second half. With 464 career home runs entering the season and a career average of 43 home runs per 162 games played, he probably won't have to wait until 2008. Rodriguez would become the third player in history, and the first since Mickey Mantle, to hit his 500th home run in a Yankees uniform. Just three members of the 20-member 500 home run club have played for the Yankees-Mantle, Babe Ruth, and Reggie Jackson. Reggie hit his 500th round-tripper as a member of the Angels.

With the days of Yankee Stadium dwindling, Rodriguez's 500th may be one of the last historic events to take place there. You wonder what the Yankees will plan for him, and how much enthusiasm the fans will show. Here's a prediction: No. 500 will come at Yankee Stadium on August 30. It's a day game against the Red Sox. The fan reaction, it is safe to say, will be strongly positive.


Sorry. I don't buy it. Coco Crisp (hee-hee-haw-haw) is going to have a better year than Johnny Damon? JD Drew better than Abreu? Pedroia, basically a rookie, is getting a huge boost randomly? Wily Mo Pena is going to have a better year than Melky?

I'm actually surprised that George would let his YES team even print this garbage.

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/02/07 05:29 PM

Hughes Looks Like the Real Deal

Quote:
Source: NY Sun

By TIM MARCHMAN
February 2, 2007




It's already that time of year when people start talking about the top prospects in the game. To what extent this is the result of the vagaries of publishing schedules and the fantasy baseball calendar is left to the reader to determine, but this year we're starting to see something unusual: A growing consensus that a Yankee, Philip Hughes, is among the game's elite prospects. Scouts Inc.'s Keith Law rated him as the top man in the minors, Baseball Prospectus's Kevin Goldstein called him "the best pitching prospect in the game," and John Sickels called him "the best pitching prospect in baseball." These three are respected talent evaluators, none of them liable to throw claims like that around, and their words carry some weight. It's one thing to hear from the proverbial anonymous baseball official that Hughes is the real deal, another to hear it from an independent party whose reputation rests on being able to make balanced judgments based on indepth knowledge of all 30 teams' farm systems.

For Yankees fans, this means two things. First, any fears that Hughes is just another product of the same hype machine that brought you Brad Halsey and Ed Yarnall can be set aside. Hughes is not guaranteed ever to do so much as throw a pitch in Yankee Stadium, but he's as good a bet as any minor leaguer to do great things in the game. Second, any concerns about the state of the Yankees' rotation should be balanced against the near certainty that Hughes will make a substantial impact this season, and the distinct possibility that he is, as of right now, the team's best starter.

Concern that Hughes is just another chump is understandable but misplaced. Whatever you look for in a pitching prospect, Hughes has it. He's young (he turns 21 in June) and huge (6-foot-5, 220). He has great stuff, with excellent command of two fastballs, the harder of which coming in as high as 96 mph, as well as a hard curveball and a change-up. He has an immaculate statistical record, with a 269/54 K/BB ratio, only six home runs allowed, a solid ground ball rate, and a 2.13 ERA in 237.1 minor league innings. He has a clean health record, hasn't been overworked, and has pitched enough to prove he has the durability to be a starter. He hasn't had any notable run-ins with teammates, umpires, opponents, or the law so far in his young career. If you were to design a top pitching prospect, you'd come up with Hughes.

Further good news for Yankees fans is that one worry they may have is misplaced, and that's fear that no matter how bright and shiny Hughes may be, he hasn't yet pitched at Triple-A, and thus isn't ready for the big leagues. It's nonsense; truly elite prospects rarely spend much time in Triple-A, both because they don't need to and because it's better for them to learn on the job in the majors against the tougher competition. Just look up the records of any of the really great pitching prospects of the last 10 years. Mark Prior made three starts in Triple-A, Kerry Wood made 10, Scott Kazmir made none, and Rick Ankiel made 16. All demonstrated why they were considered studs as soon as they stepped foot on a major league mound. Barring injury, Hughes is going to be ready by June, and there's little reason to think he wouldn't be ready to take the ball right out of spring training.

This brings us to the real question: Should Hughes, assuming he has reasonable success in spring training, break camp with the team? In a literal sense, the answer is surely no — with the early season schedule, you can't guarantee a no. 5 starter regular work in April, and you don't actually even need him anyway. The broader sense of the question, though, is about where he ranks among Yankees starters. Statistically, a case can be made that he's better than any of them: Baseball Prospectus's PECOTA system projects an ERA of 3.91, best on the staff (and better, one notes, than that projected for new Red Sox pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka). Of course a lot more goes into being a top starter than a pretty statistical projection, and no one save perhaps Mrs. Hughes would rather see the ball in his hand than in Andy Pettite's in a big game. That's for now, though; four months as the team's best starter would change an awful lot. Baseball, for whatever its problems, is very much a meritocracy.

We'll see how Hughes does, and it's worth keeping in mind that even an enormous impact this year would guarantee nothing for the long term, as the examples of Prior, Wood, and Ankiel should show vividly. For now, though, it's February, and baseball is all about hope, and anyone who can't wait for spring can just think about Philip Hughes, who has every chance to be the best homegrown starter this team has had since Whitey Ford. It's something.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/02/07 05:32 PM

Bernie Likely To Accept Yankees Minor-League Deal

Quote:
Source: Newsday

BY KEN DAVIDOFF
Newsday Staff Writer

Published February 2 2007

Bernie Williams is leaning toward accepting the Yankees' offer of a minor-league contract, two people familiar with the situation told Newsday yesterday.

The 38-year-old, ultra-popular outfielder is aware that he'll be a long shot to make the 2007 Yankees, the sources said. But after spending all 16 of his big-league seasons as a Yankee, he has no desire to play for another team, and Williams figures that if he doesn't make the cut, he'll retire in Yankees pinstripes.


Should Williams move forward and agree to the non-guaranteed deal, he would give Yankees fans a likely final chance to thank him, albeit in exhibition games, for his outstanding career. But he also would make himself one of the focal points of the media, from the first workout until the close of camp.

Williams has made it clear in recent interviews that he's not ready to retire. Yet both his strong family ties - he makes his full-time home in Westchester - and his appreciation of his place in Yankees history have made him reluctant to join another team. Viewed through that prism, going to Yankees camp could at least give Williams a sense of closure.

The Yankees effectively eliminated Williams' roster spot when they committed to a platoon at first base, signing free agent Doug Mientkiewicz to share the job with either Andy Phillips or Rule 5 draftee Josh Phelps. Jason Giambi is expected to get the bulk of the at-bats at designated hitter.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/02/07 05:33 PM

Yankees, Red Sox Take Rivalry Overseas

Quote:
Source: Lower Hudson Journal

Yankees, Red Sox taking rivalry overseas

By STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS
(Original publication: February 2, 2007)

TOKYO - The Yankees hope to introduce a whole new set of fans to their rivalry with the Boston Red Sox.

And with Daisuke Matsuzaka now pitching for the Red Sox, playing against Hideki Matsui and Kei Igawa, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has every reason to believe that will be the case.

"We have two great organizations that both respect each other, and now we'll take that battle overseas," Cashman said at a press conference in Tokyo yesterday. "Bringing the rivalry over here is something special."

Cashman and Yankee president Randy Levine were in Tokyo on the second leg of an Asian tour.

The two were in Beijing earlier this week, and the Yankees agreed to send coaches, scouts and trainers to China to boost interest in baseball, furthering a push by Major League Baseball into one of the world's fastest-growing sports markets.

The Yankees' delegation held meetings with management of the Yomiuri Giants, their Japanese partner, yesterday.

They will travel to Okinawa today, where the Hanshin Tigers will be holding spring training. The Yankees bought the rights to Igawa from the Tigers last month.

Matsuzaka signed a $52 million, six-year contract with the Red Sox in December after they bid $51 million for his negotiating rights.

Shortly after that, Igawa agreed to a $20 million, five-year contract with the Yankees after the club bid $26 million for his negotiating rights.

Note: Right-hander Matt DeSalvo cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A Scranton. He was invited to spring training.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/03/07 10:16 PM

Pavano Insists He's Ready to Pitch

Quote:
Source: AP

February 3rd, 2007

NEW YORK - Carl Pavano says he’s healthy and ready to pitch again in the major leagues.

Really. Honestly. Truly.

“I’ve thrown three bullpens. I just threw one this morning. I feel pretty good,” he said Friday.


The New York Yankees pitcher, starting the third season of a $39.95 million, four-year contract, hasn’t pitched in the major leagues since June 27, 2005, due to shoulder, back, buttocks, elbow and rib injuries. Earlier in the week, teammate Mike Mussina said Pavano “needs to earn the trust from the players, the coaches, the manager and the organization.”

“I welcome any kind of thoughts like that, especially from my teammates, especially from someone that I respect like Mike Mussina,” Pavano said during a telephone conference call.

“I couldn’t really have said it better myself. I understand the position I put myself in with the things that have happened over the last couple of years,” Pavano added. “I totally understand why there’s question marks.”

Pavano, a 31-year-old right-hander, went 4-6 with a 4.77 ERA in 17 starts for the Yankees two years ago before going on the disabled list. Having spent time with his teammates late last season, he doesn’t feel a need to apologize for the distractions he caused.

“I don’t think I rubbed anyone the wrong way or disrespected anyone in any way,” he said.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman envisions Pavano will be part of a rotation that will include Chien-Ming Wang, Mike Mussina, Andy Pettitte and Kei Igawa.

For Pavano, a turning point was when his new agent, Gregg Clifton, introduced him to Brett Fischer late last year. Pavano spent about nine weeks during the offseason in Phoenix working out four-to-five hours each weekday at Fischer Sports Physical Therapy & Conditioning. On weekends, he rode mountain bikes.

“The injury itself on my back just really messed my whole body up,” Pavano said. “It worked from my back and it went into my shoulder, my elbow, my legs. It kind of just took over my whole body.”

Preparing for the start of spring training on Feb. 15, Pavano worked out on machines that he hadn’t used before, ones he said were more common for track athletes and body builders.

“I don’t think I’ve worked any harder this offseason than I have in the past. I’ve definitely worked smarter and attacked issues that Brett was able to capitalize on and make stronger,” he said. “It was a lot of flexibility stuff. A lot of the motion in my back was lost over the years and I regained a lot of that, and a lot of the strength that was lost over the years and obviously shoulder strength.”

Randy Johnson, Kerry Wood, Eric Gagne and Kevin Millar work out there, too. Fischer had Pavano exercise in unconventional ways. To get back the whipping motion in Pavano’s windup and separate his shoulder and hip movements, Fischer had Pavano straddle tables “like he was riding a wide, wide horse.” Pavano also worked with medicine balls and pulleys.


“It involved identifying specific joints that weren’t moving the way they were supposed to be move,” Fischer said in a telephone interview. “He had a lot of — I call them nagging injuries. He had learned to compensate one after another, and it kind of steamrolled on him a bit. I said, ‘Let’s start again and let’s get all these joints moving correctly.’ “

Pavano and the Yankees still have one issue to resolve. Cashman wants to hold a formal meeting to discuss what happened last year, when Pavano withheld from the team that he had injured his ribs in a car accident. The Yankees may attempt to discipline Pavano for hiding the injury from the team for several weeks.

“Our desire is probably to have a chance before spring training, if possible, or certainly early in spring training,” Clifton said. “We’ll just all get together and try to sit down and hash it out a little bit and move forward from there.”


I sincerely hope he can come back and be a decent starter in the AL East. He's got the pitches. Now he needs to stay healthy.

But I'll believe it when I see it. For now, he has to earn his spot, and battle Igawa for the 4th starting role.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/04/07 02:02 PM

2007 Yankees Projections

Here are the values from Bill James (i.e. Sabermetric man), PECOTA, and ZiPS projections. Many thanks to Yanksphan from the NYYFans forums for assembling these.

Yankees Batting Projections - Bill James Baseball Handbook 2007
Code:

Name 	Age 	Inj 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	RC 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	SB% 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS
Abreu 	33 	High 	160 	588 	170 	43 	2 	21 	104 	99 	118 	123 	141 	26 	9 	74% 	0.289 	0.415 	0.476 	0.891
Damon 	33 	Med 	154 	627 	179 	35 	4 	17 	115 	75 	98 	68 	82 	22 	8 	73% 	0.285 	0.358 	0.435 	0.794
Matsui 	33 	High 	129 	485 	143 	31 	1 	19 	81 	86 	87 	61 	70 	2 	1 	67% 	0.295 	0.376 	0.480 	0.856
Mientk	33 	Med 	100 	292 	77 	20 	1 	6 	35 	35 	41 	38 	45 	2 	1 	67% 	0.264 	0.356 	0.401 	0.757
Phill 	30 	Low 	76 	154 	40 	8 	1 	7 	23 	21 	22 	11 	32 	1 	1 	50% 	0.260 	0.309 	0.461 	0.770
Cano 	24 	Med 	149 	557 	181 	44 	3 	17 	80 	83 	99 	23 	60 	4 	2 	67% 	0.325 	0.354 	0.506 	0.860
Jeter 	33 	High 	158 	644 	203 	35 	2 	17 	117 	81 	114 	70 	111 	24 	7 	77% 	0.315 	0.393 	0.455 	0.848
A-Rod 	31 	High 	159 	607 	178 	29 	1 	42 	119 	124 	130 	91 	143 	16 	6 	73% 	0.293 	0.395 	0.552 	0.947
Posada 	35 	High 	143 	497 	132 	29 	1 	22 	70 	89 	84 	78 	113 	2 	1 	67% 	0.266 	0.373 	0.461 	0.834
Giambi 	36 	High 	135 	424 	112 	22 	0 	30 	77 	91 	90 	99 	104 	1 	1 	50% 	0.264 	0.419 	0.528 	0.947
Cairo 	33 	Med 	95 	254 	65 	13 	1 	2 	31 	25 	26 	15 	32 	11 	4 	73% 	0.256 	0.308 	0.339 	0.646
Cabrera 22 	Low 	130 	460 	131 	24 	2 	10 	69 	60 	67 	46 	57 	12 	4 	75% 	0.285 	0.351 	0.411 	0.762
Bernie  38 	High 	121 	358 	98 	19 	1 	11 	54 	52 	53 	43 	54 	2 	1 	67% 	0.274 	0.355 	0.425 	0.779


Yankees 2007 Pitching Projections - Bill James Baseball Handbook 2007
Code:
Name 	Age 	Inj 	G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	HB 	W 	L 	Pct 	Sv 	BR/9 	ERA 	WHIP
Wang 	27 	High 	32 	32 	214 	232 	15 	52 	98 	5 	14 	10 	0.583 	0 	12.2 	3.79 	1.33
Moose 	38 	High 	29 	29 	172 	170 	29 	36 	146 	4 	12 	7 	0.632 	0 	11 	3.56 	1.20
Andy 	35 	High 	33 	33 	210 	214 	20 	61 	164 	3 	12 	11 	0.522 	0 	11.9 	3.77 	1.31
Pavano 	31 	High 	14 	14 	78 	84 	8 	20 	50 	4 	5 	4 	0.556 	0 	12.5 	4.15 	1.33
Karste 	24 	Low 	15 	12 	85 	93 	11 	25 	64 	2 	5 	5 	0.5 	0 	12.7 	4.45 	1.39
Rasner 	26 	High 	10 	6 	38 	39 	3 	8 	26 	2 	3 	2 	0.6 	0 	11.6 	3.79 	1.24
Farns 	31 	High 	67 	0 	62 	55 	7 	28 	68 	2 	4 	3 	0.571 	2 	12.4 	3.77 	1.34
Myers 	38 	Low 	65 	0 	34 	32 	3 	15 	25 	3 	2 	2 	0.5 	0 	13.2 	3.97 	1.38
Proct 	30 	Med 	80 	0 	95 	93 	15 	34 	85 	3 	6 	5 	0.545 	6 	12.3 	4.26 	1.34
Rivera 	37 	High 	54 	0 	66 	53 	3 	14 	57 	3 	5 	2 	0.714 	40 	9.5 	2.59 	1.02
Vizcai 	32 	Med 	67 	0 	69 	63 	10 	28 	61 	2 	4 	4 	0.5 	0 	12.1 	3.91 	1.32


Sabermetric v. PECOTA v. ZiPS (Batting)
Code:
Bobby   Abreu 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	160 	588 	170 	43 	2 	21 	104 	99 	123 	141 	26 	9 	0.289 	0.415 	0.476 	0.891 
  PECOTA 	
 	        474 	131 	28 	2 	16 	95 	65 	86 	107 	22 	6 	0.277 	0.389 	0.447 	0.835 
  ZiPS 	        150 	534 	153 	34 	1 	20 	89 	98 	114 	122 	28 	7 	0.287 	0.414 	0.466 	0.880 
  Average 	155 	532 	151 	35 	2 	19 	96 	87 	108 	123 	25 	7 	0.284 	0.406 	0.463 	0.869 
 
  Melky Cabrera 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	130 	460 	131 	23 	2 	10 	69 	60 	46 	57 	12 	4 	0.285 	0.351 	0.411 	0.762 
  PECOTA 	
 	        514 	145 	27 	3 	10 	74 	59 	45 	65 	10 	4 	0.282 	0.341 	0.408 	0.749 
  ZiPS 	        157 	584 	172 	28 	3 	18 	93 	92 	55 	67 	12 	5 	0.295 	0.355 	0.445 	0.800 
  Average 	144 	519 	149 	26 	3 	13 	79 	70 	49 	63 	11 	4 	0.287 	0.349 	0.421 	0.770 
  
Miguel Cairo 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	95 	254 	65 	13 	1 	2 	31 	25 	15 	32 	11 	4 	0.256 	0.308 	0.339 	0.646 
  PECOTA 	
 	        179 	46 	8 	1 	2 	22 	16 	9 	23 	8 	3 	0.258 	0.300 	0.343 	0.643 
  ZiPS 	        75 	226 	55 	12 	1 	2 	28 	26 	12 	26 	10 	2 	0.243 	0.300 	0.332 	0.632 
  Average 	85 	220 	55 	11 	1 	2 	27 	22 	12 	27 	10 	3 	0.252 	0.303 	0.338 	0.640 
  
Robinson Cano 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	149 	557 	181 	44 	3 	17 	80 	83 	23 	60 	4 	2 	0.325 	0.354 	0.506 	0.860 
  PECOTA 	
 	        533 	164 	36 	3 	16 	76 	80 	30 	65 	5 	3 	0.308 	0.345 	0.472 	0.817 
  ZiPS 	        143 	568 	179 	41 	3 	18 	81 	97 	24 	68 	3 	2 	0.315 	0.343 	0.493 	0.836 
  Average 	146 	553 	175 	40 	3 	17 	79 	87 	26 	64 	4 	2 	0.316 	0.347 	0.490 	0.838 
  
Johnny Damon 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	154 	627 	179 	35 	4 	17 	115 	75 	68 	82 	22 	8 	0.285 	0.358 	0.435 	0.794 
  PECOTA 	
 	        548 	158 	30 	4 	18 	94 	73 	62 	76 	14 	5 	0.289 	0.362 	0.458 	0.821 
  ZiPS 	        149 	611 	177 	31 	4 	17 	112 	88 	60 	82 	16 	6 	0.290 	0.353 	0.437 	0.790 
  Average 	152 	595 	171 	32 	4 	17 	107 	79 	63 	80 	17 	6 	0.288 	0.358 	0.443 	0.802 
  
Jason Giambi 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	135 	424 	112 	22 	0 	30 	77 	91 	99 	104 	1 	1 	0.264 	0.419 	0.528 	0.947 
  PECOTA 	
 	        395 	100 	18 	0 	29 	84 	81 	102 	99 	2 	1 	0.252 	0.413 	0.518 	0.930 
  ZiPS 	        125 	394 	95 	17 	0 	27 	70 	97 	91 	97 	1 	0 	0.241 	0.400 	0.490 	0.890 
  Average 	130 	404 	102 	19 	0 	29 	77 	90 	97 	100 	1 	1 	0.252 	0.411 	0.512 	0.922 
  
Derek Jeter 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	158 	644 	203 	35 	2 	17 	117 	81 	70 	111 	24 	7 	0.315 	0.393 	0.455 	0.848 
  PECOTA 	
 	        585 	189 	32 	4 	12 	110 	71 	59 	93 	23 	6 	0.322 	0.390 	0.452 	0.843 
  ZiPS 	        152 	625 	189 	34 	2 	16 	111 	92 	66 	110 	21 	4 	0.302 	0.378 	0.440 	0.818 
  Average 	155 	618 	194 	34 	3 	15 	113 	81 	65 	105 	23 	6 	0.313 	0.387 	0.449 	0.836 
  
Hideki Matsui 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	129 	485 	143 	31 	1 	19 	81 	86 	61 	70 	2 	1 	0.295 	0.376 	0.480 	0.856 
  PECOTA 361 	104 	21 	1 	15 	62 	60 	51 	52 	2 	1 	0.288 	0.376 	0.474 	0.850 
  ZiPS 	        133 	498 	146 	31 	1 	19 	85 	100 	58 	77 	1 	1 	0.293 	0.367 	0.474 	0.841 
  Average 	131 	448 	131 	28 	1 	18 	76 	82 	57 	66 	2 	1 	0.292 	0.373 	0.476 	0.849 
  
Doug Mientkiewicz 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	100 	292 	77 	20 	1 	6 	35 	35 	38 	45 	2 	1 	0.264 	0.356 	0.401 	0.757 
  PECOTA 	232 	58 	13 	1 	5 	29 	30 	26 	38 	1 	1 	0.251 	0.328 	0.382 	0.710 
  ZiPS 	        101 	329 	84 	22 	1 	6 	41 	36 	42 	51 	2 	1 	0.255 	0.342 	0.383 	0.725 
  Average 	101 	284 	73 	18 	1 	6 	35 	34 	35 	45 	2 	1 	0.257 	0.342 	0.389 	0.731 
  
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 
  Andy Phillips 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	76 	154 	40 	8 	1 	7 	23 	21 	11 	32 	1 	1 	0.260 	0.309 	0.461 	0.770 
  PECOTA 	
 	286 	74 	15 	2 	11 	37 	45 	21 	60 	2 	1 	0.259 	0.313 	0.441 	0.754 
  ZiPS 	108 	326 	80 	14 	2 	12 	56 	57 	29 	59 	2 	2 	0.245 	0.312 	0.411 	0.723 
  Average 	92 	255 	65 	12 	2 	10 	39 	41 	20 	50 	2 	1 	0.255 	0.311 	0.438 	0.749 
  
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 
  Jorge Posada 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	143 	497 	132 	29 	1 	22 	70 	89 	78 	113 	2 	1 	0.266 	0.373 	0.461 	0.834 
  PECOTA 	
 	405 	105 	21 	1 	17 	65 	65 	65 	84 	2 	1 	0.259 	0.365 	0.443 	0.808 
  ZiPS 	127 	417 	110 	22 	1 	18 	59 	84 	63 	93 	1 	1 	0.264 	0.368 	0.451 	0.819 
  Average 	135 	440 	116 	24 	1 	19 	65 	79 	69 	97 	2 	1 	0.263 	0.369 	0.452 	0.820 
  
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 	
 
  Alex Rodriguez 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	159 	607 	178 	29 	1 	42 	119 	124 	91 	143 	16 	6 	0.293 	0.395 	0.552 	0.947 
  PECOTA 	
 	555 	160 	30 	2 	34 	108 	104 	84 	131 	14 	4 	0.288 	0.385 	0.531 	0.916 
  ZiPS 	156 	589 	169 	26 	1 	32 	108 	126 	88 	138 	16 	3 	0.287 	0.387 	0.497 	0.884 
  Average 	158 	584 	169 	28 	1 	36 	112 	118 	88 	137 	15 	4 	0.289 	0.389 	0.527 	0.916
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/04/07 02:09 PM

2007 Yankees Projections

Here are the values from Bill James (i.e. Sabermetric man), PECOTA, and ZiPS projections. Many thanks to Yanksphan from the NYYFans forums for assembling these.

Yankees Batting Projections - Bill James Baseball Handbook 2007
Code:

Name 	Age 	Inj 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	RC 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	SB% 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS
Abreu 	33 	High 	160 	588 	170 	43 	2 	21 	104 	99 	118 	123 	141 	26 	9 	74% 	0.289 	0.415 	0.476 	0.891
Damon 	33 	Med 	154 	627 	179 	35 	4 	17 	115 	75 	98 	68 	82 	22 	8 	73% 	0.285 	0.358 	0.435 	0.794
Matsui 	33 	High 	129 	485 	143 	31 	1 	19 	81 	86 	87 	61 	70 	2 	1 	67% 	0.295 	0.376 	0.480 	0.856
Mientk	33 	Med 	100 	292 	77 	20 	1 	6 	35 	35 	41 	38 	45 	2 	1 	67% 	0.264 	0.356 	0.401 	0.757
Phill 	30 	Low 	76 	154 	40 	8 	1 	7 	23 	21 	22 	11 	32 	1 	1 	50% 	0.260 	0.309 	0.461 	0.770
Cano 	24 	Med 	149 	557 	181 	44 	3 	17 	80 	83 	99 	23 	60 	4 	2 	67% 	0.325 	0.354 	0.506 	0.860
Jeter 	33 	High 	158 	644 	203 	35 	2 	17 	117 	81 	114 	70 	111 	24 	7 	77% 	0.315 	0.393 	0.455 	0.848
A-Rod 	31 	High 	159 	607 	178 	29 	1 	42 	119 	124 	130 	91 	143 	16 	6 	73% 	0.293 	0.395 	0.552 	0.947
Posada 	35 	High 	143 	497 	132 	29 	1 	22 	70 	89 	84 	78 	113 	2 	1 	67% 	0.266 	0.373 	0.461 	0.834
Giambi 	36 	High 	135 	424 	112 	22 	0 	30 	77 	91 	90 	99 	104 	1 	1 	50% 	0.264 	0.419 	0.528 	0.947
Cairo 	33 	Med 	95 	254 	65 	13 	1 	2 	31 	25 	26 	15 	32 	11 	4 	73% 	0.256 	0.308 	0.339 	0.646
Cabrera 22 	Low 	130 	460 	131 	24 	2 	10 	69 	60 	67 	46 	57 	12 	4 	75% 	0.285 	0.351 	0.411 	0.762
Bernie  38 	High 	121 	358 	98 	19 	1 	11 	54 	52 	53 	43 	54 	2 	1 	67% 	0.274 	0.355 	0.425 	0.779


Yankees 2007 Pitching Projections - Bill James Baseball Handbook 2007
Code:
Name 	Age 	Inj 	G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	HB 	W 	L 	Pct 	Sv 	BR/9 	ERA 	WHIP
Wang 	27 	High 	32 	32 	214 	232 	15 	52 	98 	5 	14 	10 	0.583 	0 	12.2 	3.79 	1.33
Moose 	38 	High 	29 	29 	172 	170 	29 	36 	146 	4 	12 	7 	0.632 	0 	11 	3.56 	1.20
Andy 	35 	High 	33 	33 	210 	214 	20 	61 	164 	3 	12 	11 	0.522 	0 	11.9 	3.77 	1.31
Pavano 	31 	High 	14 	14 	78 	84 	8 	20 	50 	4 	5 	4 	0.556 	0 	12.5 	4.15 	1.33
Karste 	24 	Low 	15 	12 	85 	93 	11 	25 	64 	2 	5 	5 	0.5 	0 	12.7 	4.45 	1.39
Rasner 	26 	High 	10 	6 	38 	39 	3 	8 	26 	2 	3 	2 	0.6 	0 	11.6 	3.79 	1.24
Farns 	31 	High 	67 	0 	62 	55 	7 	28 	68 	2 	4 	3 	0.571 	2 	12.4 	3.77 	1.34
Myers 	38 	Low 	65 	0 	34 	32 	3 	15 	25 	3 	2 	2 	0.5 	0 	13.2 	3.97 	1.38
Proct 	30 	Med 	80 	0 	95 	93 	15 	34 	85 	3 	6 	5 	0.545 	6 	12.3 	4.26 	1.34
Rivera 	37 	High 	54 	0 	66 	53 	3 	14 	57 	3 	5 	2 	0.714 	40 	9.5 	2.59 	1.02
Vizcai 	32 	Med 	67 	0 	69 	63 	10 	28 	61 	2 	4 	4 	0.5 	0 	12.1 	3.91 	1.32


Sabermetric v. PECOTA v. ZiPS (Batting)
Code:
Bobby   Abreu 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	160 	588 	170 	43 	2 	21 	104 	99 	123 	141 	26 	9 	0.289 	0.415 	0.476 	0.891 
  PECOTA 	474 	131 	28 	2 	16 	95 	65 	86 	107 	22 	6 	0.277 	0.389 	0.447 	0.835 
  ZiPS 	        150 	534 	153 	34 	1 	20 	89 	98 	114 	122 	28 	7 	0.287 	0.414 	0.466 	0.880 
  Average 	155 	532 	151 	35 	2 	19 	96 	87 	108 	123 	25 	7 	0.284 	0.406 	0.463 	0.869 
 
Melky Cabrera 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	130 	460 	131 	23 	2 	10 	69 	60 	46 	57 	12 	4 	0.285 	0.351 	0.411 	0.762 
  PECOTA 	514 	145 	27 	3 	10 	74 	59 	45 	65 	10 	4 	0.282 	0.341 	0.408 	0.749 
  ZiPS 	        157 	584 	172 	28 	3 	18 	93 	92 	55 	67 	12 	5 	0.295 	0.355 	0.445 	0.800 
  Average 	144 	519 	149 	26 	3 	13 	79 	70 	49 	63 	11 	4 	0.287 	0.349 	0.421 	0.770 
  
Miguel Cairo 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	95 	254 	65 	13 	1 	2 	31 	25 	15 	32 	11 	4 	0.256 	0.308 	0.339 	0.646 
  PECOTA 	179 	46 	8 	1 	2 	22 	16 	9 	23 	8 	3 	0.258 	0.300 	0.343 	0.643 
  ZiPS 	        75 	226 	55 	12 	1 	2 	28 	26 	12 	26 	10 	2 	0.243 	0.300 	0.332 	0.632 
  Average 	85 	220 	55 	11 	1 	2 	27 	22 	12 	27 	10 	3 	0.252 	0.303 	0.338 	0.640 
  
Robinson Cano 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	149 	557 	181 	44 	3 	17 	80 	83 	23 	60 	4 	2 	0.325 	0.354 	0.506 	0.860 
  PECOTA 	533 	164 	36 	3 	16 	76 	80 	30 	65 	5 	3 	0.308 	0.345 	0.472 	0.817 
  ZiPS 	        143 	568 	179 	41 	3 	18 	81 	97 	24 	68 	3 	2 	0.315 	0.343 	0.493 	0.836 
  Average 	146 	553 	175 	40 	3 	17 	79 	87 	26 	64 	4 	2 	0.316 	0.347 	0.490 	0.838 
  
Johnny Damon 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	154 	627 	179 	35 	4 	17 	115 	75 	68 	82 	22 	8 	0.285 	0.358 	0.435 	0.794 
  PECOTA 	548 	158 	30 	4 	18 	94 	73 	62 	76 	14 	5 	0.289 	0.362 	0.458 	0.821 
  ZiPS 	        149 	611 	177 	31 	4 	17 	112 	88 	60 	82 	16 	6 	0.290 	0.353 	0.437 	0.790 
  Average 	152 	595 	171 	32 	4 	17 	107 	79 	63 	80 	17 	6 	0.288 	0.358 	0.443 	0.802 
  
Jason Giambi 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	135 	424 	112 	22 	0 	30 	77 	91 	99 	104 	1 	1 	0.264 	0.419 	0.528 	0.947 
  PECOTA 	395 	100 	18 	0 	29 	84 	81 	102 	99 	2 	1 	0.252 	0.413 	0.518 	0.930 
  ZiPS 	        125 	394 	95 	17 	0 	27 	70 	97 	91 	97 	1 	0 	0.241 	0.400 	0.490 	0.890 
  Average 	130 	404 	102 	19 	0 	29 	77 	90 	97 	100 	1 	1 	0.252 	0.411 	0.512 	0.922 
  
Derek Jeter 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	158 	644 	203 	35 	2 	17 	117 	81 	70 	111 	24 	7 	0.315 	0.393 	0.455 	0.848 
  PECOTA        585 	189 	32 	4 	12 	110 	71 	59 	93 	23 	6 	0.322 	0.390 	0.452 	0.843 
  ZiPS 	        152 	625 	189 	34 	2 	16 	111 	92 	66 	110 	21 	4 	0.302 	0.378 	0.440 	0.818 
  Average 	155 	618 	194 	34 	3 	15 	113 	81 	65 	105 	23 	6 	0.313 	0.387 	0.449 	0.836 
  
Hideki Matsui 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	129 	485 	143 	31 	1 	19 	81 	86 	61 	70 	2 	1 	0.295 	0.376 	0.480 	0.856 
  PECOTA        361 	104 	21 	1 	15 	62 	60 	51 	52 	2 	1 	0.288 	0.376 	0.474 	0.850 
  ZiPS 	        133 	498 	146 	31 	1 	19 	85 	100 	58 	77 	1 	1 	0.293 	0.367 	0.474 	0.841 
  Average 	131 	448 	131 	28 	1 	18 	76 	82 	57 	66 	2 	1 	0.292 	0.373 	0.476 	0.849 
  
Doug Mientk 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	100 	292 	77 	20 	1 	6 	35 	35 	38 	45 	2 	1 	0.264 	0.356 	0.401 	0.757 
  PECOTA 	232 	58 	13 	1 	5 	29 	30 	26 	38 	1 	1 	0.251 	0.328 	0.382 	0.710 
  ZiPS 	        101 	329 	84 	22 	1 	6 	41 	36 	42 	51 	2 	1 	0.255 	0.342 	0.383 	0.725 
  Average 	101 	284 	73 	18 	1 	6 	35 	34 	35 	45 	2 	1 	0.257 	0.342 	0.389 	0.731 
  
Andy Phillips 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	76 	154 	40 	8 	1 	7 	23 	21 	11 	32 	1 	1 	0.260 	0.309 	0.461 	0.770 
  PECOTA 	286 	74 	15 	2 	11 	37 	45 	21 	60 	2 	1 	0.259 	0.313 	0.441 	0.754 
  ZiPS 	        108 	326 	80 	14 	2 	12 	56 	57 	29 	59 	2 	2 	0.245 	0.312 	0.411 	0.723 
  Average 	92 	255 	65 	12 	2 	10 	39 	41 	20 	50 	2 	1 	0.255 	0.311 	0.438 	0.749 
  
Jorge Posada 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	143 	497 	132 	29 	1 	22 	70 	89 	78 	113 	2 	1 	0.266 	0.373 	0.461 	0.834 
  PECOTA 	405 	105 	21 	1 	17 	65 	65 	65 	84 	2 	1 	0.259 	0.365 	0.443 	0.808 
  ZiPS 	        127 	417 	110 	22 	1 	18 	59 	84 	63 	93 	1 	1 	0.264 	0.368 	0.451 	0.819 
  Average 	135 	440 	116 	24 	1 	19 	65 	79 	69 	97 	2 	1 	0.263 	0.369 	0.452 	0.820 
  
Alex Rodriguez 	G 	AB 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	R 	RBI 	BB 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS 
  Bill James 	159 	607 	178 	29 	1 	42 	119 	124 	91 	143 	16 	6 	0.293 	0.395 	0.552 	0.947 
  PECOTA 	555 	160 	30 	2 	34 	108 	104 	84 	131 	14 	4 	0.288 	0.385 	0.531 	0.916 
  ZiPS 	        156 	589 	169 	26 	1 	32 	108 	126 	88 	138 	16 	3 	0.287 	0.387 	0.497 	0.884 
  Average 	158 	584 	169 	28 	1 	36 	112 	118 	88 	137 	15 	4 	0.289 	0.389 	0.527 	0.916


Sabermetric v. PECOTA v. ZiPS (Pitching)
Code:
Wang 	        G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	Sv 	ERA 	WHIP 
  Bill James 	32 	32 	214 	232 	15 	52 	98 	14 	10 	0 	3.79 	1.33 
  PECOTA 	36 	23 	151 	170 	16 	42 	74 	9 	9 	0 	4.55 	1.40 
  ZiPS 	        29 	28 	183 	202 	16 	48 	79 	12 	9 	N/A 	4.28 	1.37 
  Average 	32 	28 	183 	201 	16 	47 	84 	12 	9 	0 	4.21 	1.36 
  
Mussina 	G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	Sv 	ERA 	WHIP 
  Bill James 	29 	29 	172 	170 	29 	36 	146 	12 	7 	0 	3.56 	1.20 
  PECOTA 	30 	28 	175 	182 	21 	43 	133 	11 	9 	0 	4.08 	1.28 
  ZiPS 	        30 	30 	184 	189 	21 	43 	148 	13 	8 	N/A 	3.91 	1.26 
  Average 	30 	29 	177 	180 	24 	41 	142 	12 	8 	0 	3.85 	1.25 
  
Pettitte 	G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	Sv 	ERA 	WHIP 
  Bill James 	33 	33 	210 	214 	20 	61 	164 	12 	11 	0 	3.77 	1.31 
  PECOTA 	29 	29 	180 	190 	21 	51 	131 	12 	9 	0 	4.21 	1.34 
  ZiPS 	        32 	31 	193 	204 	24 	50 	140 	15 	9 	N/A 	4.10 	1.32 
  Average 	31 	31 	194 	203 	22 	54 	145 	13 	10 	0 	4.03 	1.32 
  
Pavano 	        G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	Sv 	ERA 	WHIP 
  Bill James 	14 	14 	78 	84 	8 	20 	50 	5 	4 	0 	4.15 	1.33 
  PECOTA 	32 	25 	160 	182 	20 	30 	88 	10 	9 	0 	4.37 	1.33 
  ZiPS 	        20 	20 	128 	150 	16 	30 	66 	8 	7 	N/A 	4.64 	1.41 
  Average 	22 	20 	122 	139 	15 	27 	68 	8 	7 	0 	4.39 	1.36 
  
Karstens 	G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	Sv 	ERA 	WHIP 
  Bill James 	15 	12 	85 	93 	11 	25 	64 	5 	5 	0 	4.45 	1.39 
  PECOTA 	41 	24 	139 	162 	25 	46 	81 	7 	9 	0 	5.55 	1.49 
  ZiPS 	        31 	29 	185 	210 	33 	56 	100 	10 	11 	N/A 	5.25 	1.44 
  Average 	29 	22 	136 	155 	23 	42 	82 	7 	8 	0 	5.08 	1.44 
  
Rasner 	        G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	Sv 	ERA 	WHIP 
  Bill James 	10 	6 	38 	39 	3 	8 	26 	3 	2 	0 	3.79 	1.24 
  PECOTA 	34 	18 	126 	136 	16 	43 	64 	6 	9 	0 	4.77 	1.41 
  ZiPS 	        20 	17 	102 	121 	14 	25 	46 	4 	5 	N/A 	5.12 	1.43 
  Average 	21 	14 	89 	99 	11 	25 	45 	4 	5 	0 	4.56 	1.36 
  
Farnsworth 	G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	Sv 	ERA 	WHIP 
  Bill James 	67 	0 	62 	55 	7 	28 	68 	4 	3 	2 	3.77 	1.34 
  PECOTA 	63 	0 	68 	55 	7 	27 	79 	4 	3 	7 	3.33 	1.21 
  ZiPS 	        72 	0 	67 	60 	9 	29 	67 	4 	2 	N/A 	4.16 	1.33 
  Average 	67 	0 	66 	57 	8 	28 	71 	4 	3 	4.5 	3.75 	1.29 
  
Myers 	        G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	Sv 	ERA 	WHIP 
  Bill James 	65 	0 	34 	32 	3 	15 	25 	2 	2 	0 	3.97 	1.38 
  PECOTA 	38 	0 	32 	34 	4 	12 	18 	2 	1 	1 	4.43 	1.44 
  ZiPS 	        67 	0 	36 	36 	4 	15 	23 	2 	2 	N/A 	4.25 	1.42 
  Average 	57 	0 	34 	34 	4 	14 	22 	2 	2 	0.5 	4.22 	1.41 
  
Proctor 	G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	Sv 	ERA 	WHIP 
  Bill James 	80 	0 	95 	93 	15 	34 	85 	6 	5 	6 	4.26 	1.34 
  PECOTA 	52 	1 	54 	55 	9 	18 	41 	3 	3 	3 	4.51 	1.35 
  ZiPS 	        73 	1 	90 	90 	13 	33 	76 	5 	4 	N/A 	4.60 	1.37 
  Average 	68 	1 	80 	79 	12 	28 	67 	5 	4 	4.5 	4.46 	1.35 
  
Rivera 	        G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	Sv 	ERA 	WHIP 
  Bill James 	54 	0 	66 	53 	3 	14 	57 	5 	2 	40 	2.59 	1.02 
  PECOTA 	60 	0 	66 	56 	5 	16 	58 	5 	4 	34 	2.45 	1.08 
  ZiPS 	        68 	0 	76 	61 	3 	15 	66 	8 	1 	N/A 	2.01 	1.00 
  Average 	61 	0 	69 	57 	4 	15 	60 	6 	2 	37 	2.35 	1.03 
  
Vizcaino 	G 	GS 	IP 	H 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	Sv 	ERA 	WHIP 
  Bill James 	67 	0 	69 	63 	10 	28 	61 	4 	4 	0 	3.91 	1.32 
  PECOTA 	51 	0 	56 	56 	9 	23 	49 	3 	3 	2 	4.36 	1.40 
  ZiPS 	68 	0 	66 	62 	9 	28 	60 	4 	6 	N/A 	4.64 	1.36 
  Average 	62 	0 	64 	60 	9 	26 	57 	4 	4 	1 	4.30 	1.36
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/04/07 02:22 PM

My thoughts on the stats are a bit wowed. Obviously, the aging players yield the higher injury risk, but I can't believe some of them. Matsui had a huge consecutive games streak going into this past season, and his freak wrist injury ruined it for him. The guy is never out. I'd give him the lowest of low for injury risk. Then again, Damon is a medium (WTF? He had at least three nagging injuries I can think of off the top of my head last year), and A-Rod and Jeter are High, so I'm not sure how much faith I have in that James injury stat.

Also, this Yankee lineup is drastically under-powered. Jeter is going to regress apparently, and hit only 17 HR's and drive in 81 RBI's. I think his RBI totals will be a bit higher (in the low 90's range). The HR's may be accurate. Matsui and Cano are only going to hit under 20 HR's? Nope. Don't buy it. I think Cano pushes for the batting title this year, and Matsui is going to hit around 35 as he rebounds from injury last year. In fact, I'd venture to say that if A-Rod has problems (hopefully not), and Giambi gets injured as I predict, Matsui may lead this team in HR's, with Cano and Abreu inching behind in the high 20's/low 30's range.

As far as pitching goes, again, the injury bug is supposedly going to kill us. I don't buy it (for the most part). Moose yes, Pavano yes, Pettitte maybe, and Wang should be low. The win totals from the sabermetric scale are hugely disappointing...Wang is going to regress, Moose won't hit 20 wins (which I think he could this year, finally), and Pettitte is going to blow. I just don't see it, with our batting lineup. Then again, the way they rated our lineup, I could see our pitchers playing like they had the Royals batting order.

Anyways, let's hear some others opinions. I think we're being a bit devalued. What do y'all think?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/05/07 01:16 PM

Yankees Don't Expect Williams to Play for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre

Quote:
Source: Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Citizens Voice

According to a wire report over the weekend, outfielder Bernie Williams is “leaning toward” accepting the Yankees offer of a minor league contract with an invitation to big league camp in spring training.



That hardly means we’ll see the popular Yankees veteran in Northeast Pennsylvania, though.

In a telephone interview with the Times-Tribune, Yankees farm director Mark Newman said that even if Williams accepts the minor league contract, he isn’t likely to accept an assignment to the minor leagues.

“No, I don’t expect it to happen,” Newman said.

It’s likely that 38-year-old Williams will use the contract as a chance to make the big league team and retire if he doesn’t.

In a 16-year major league career — all with the Yankees — Williams has amassed 2,336 hits and 287 home runs while becoming wildly popular among Yankees fans. Over the past three years, though, Williams’ role in New York has gradually deminished.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/06/07 05:10 AM

Not really Yankees news, but he was a Yankee at one point

D'backs add Stottlemyre as instructor

PHOENIX (AP) -- Mel Stottlemyre will join the Arizona Diamondbacks as a special instructor in spring training and will work with the club's pitchers during the season, the team announced Monday.

Stottlemyre, 65, spent 26 seasons as a major league coach, including 11 as the New York Yankees' pitching coach. He had a 164-139 record with a 2.97 ERA in 360 games, all with the Yankees.

His son, Mel Stottlemyre Jr., is the Diamondbacks' minor league pitching coordinator.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/06/07 07:02 PM

A-Rod May Eye Exit After '07

Quote:
Source: ESPN.com

The $252 million contract that Rodriguez signed with Texas six years ago is stunning for its magnitude and noteworthy for agent Scott Boras' foresight. It includes a clause giving Rodriguez the freedom to opt out after the 2007 season, and again in 2008 or 2009 if he's not earning $1 million more than the second highest-paid position player in the game.

Now that Manny Ramirez is staying in Boston and Bonds is re-signing with San Francisco -- we think -- it's the hot rumor du jour: A-Rod, tired of his best never being good enough in New York, plans to take advantage of his "opt out'' clause and flee for a more favorable environment.

He's not the only big leaguer with an escape clause. A.J. Burnett and Vernon Wells have similar opt-out provisions in Toronto. Aramis Ramirez just took advantage of one to negotiate a five-year, $75 million contract with the Cubs, and J.D. Drew left Los Angeles after two years to sign a $70 million deal with Boston.

Boras told ESPN.com that opt-out clauses are a way for players to protect themselves against all sorts of unforeseen developments -- from ownership upheaval to changing personal circumstances. "These things are about choice,'' he said. "When you do the contract, you can't always anticipate what the issues will be.''

Front-office executives generally agree that opt-out clauses are a no-win proposition for teams. If a free agent is bad (e.g., Chan Ho Park), he gets the cash regardless. If the player performs well and the market goes crazy, he can use his opt-out clause to hit the open market or squeeze an extension out of his current club.

"It certainly is for the most part a player-friendly clause,'' said Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti, who was not a happy man when Drew opted out in Los Angeles. "There's little debate on that.''

So why do teams give them? Maybe it entices a player to sign for a slight discount, or serves as Plan B when a club is averse to giving out no-trade clauses. More likely, it's as simple as the player and his agent holding firm and the team saying, "Let's do it and worry about the repercussions later.''

If Rodriguez leaves New York, it will be the headline story of the next Hot Stove season. We're talking about a 12-time All-Star and two-time Most Valuable Player who makes news when he's getting a tan in Central Park. Rodriguez has averaged 40 homers and 119 RBI in New York, but he still makes some Yankees fans wistful for the Scott Brosius era.

Publicly, at least, Rodriguez is pledging allegiance to the Yankees. And Boras, true to form, is keeping his negotiating options open.

"I don't think Alex personalizes it,'' Boras said. "He knows when you're a New York Yankee and the Yankees don't win, that players of a certain stature are going to get a certain response from the fans. He accepts that.

"He's in a very good situation. He's playing for a team he loves to play for, and he can either evaluate [the clause] or let it pass. Frankly, he doesn't have to do anything.''

What will A-Rod do? Here are three possibilities:

Scenario 1: Rodriguez's 2007 regular-season numbers are impressive, but they're rendered meaningless when the Yankees are bounced in the Division Series. It's A-Rod's fourth straight October flameout, and he's getting torched on WFAN radio and buried in the tabloids. He's thinking about wearing a Bobby Valentine nose-and-glasses disguise around town just to maintain his sanity.

The good news is, Rodriguez's production still ranks among the elite players in the game. As it becomes increasingly clearer that the A-Rod-New York union isn't working and he's going to opt out, potential suitors are standing in line.

The Angels are always looking for help for Vladimir Guerrero, and the Dodgers might be willing to sign another big Boras client despite the hard feelings from Drew's abrupt departure. The Nationals want a marquee name as they prepare to move into a new park in April 2008, and the Red Sox, those freethinkers, can never be counted out as players. Maybe Seattle fails to re-sign Ichiro Suzuki and decides to dump Adrian Beltre and bring back A-Rod to resurrect the good old days.

Rodriguez is guaranteed $81 million over his final three seasons in New York, and that $27 million annual payout will be tough to surpass. But if Boras can land him $150 million-plus for a long-term deal and a fresh start, it will be tough for A-Rod to resist taking the plunge.

Scenario 2: Rodriguez hits the jackpot. He belts 50 home runs, wins a third MVP award and the Yankees capture the World Series for the first time since 2000. He enjoys a public relations makeover, just as Peyton Manning did after winning the Super Bowl. Derek Jeter and his teammates embrace him as a "true Yankee,'' and everyone is so giddy after the parade, it's no longer outlandish to envision him finishing his career in pinstripes.

Because Texas is responsible for a third of the $81 million New York must pay Rodriguez from 2008 through 2010, the Yankees are basically getting a year of A-Rod for free. Boras is happy to make that point when he approaches general manager Brian Cashman about an extension.

Boras is also sure to note that Rodriguez is better than Alfonso Soriano, who received $136 million from the Cubs at age 31, and that the Yankees will enjoy ample benefits from A-Rod's chasing Babe Ruth in New York. In fact, the rhetoric has already begun.

"It's very clear to all people in baseball that Alex is stepping into a time in his career that's going to be historic in the next decade,'' Boras said. "He has an opportunity to have Ruthian and Aaron-like performances in his career. There aren't many players in the history of the game you can say that about.''

Scenario 3: Rodriguez has a good season, but not good enough for the Yankees to consider an extension. Boras surveys the market and has no assurances he can do better elsewhere. So A-Rod remains in New York, forced to get by with no love and a mere $24 million base salary with $3 million deferred at 3 percent compound interest.

Whatever happens, it's bound to be eventful.

"I can assure you one thing,'' said an American League executive. "That clause will not pass without Scott using it as a leverage point.''

You can count on that.


During this offseason, I'm warming back up with A-Rod. Given the fact that there are few proven commodities in baseball - and A-Rod is still one of them - I really can't see letting him slip away, unless the deal was a monster (i.e. Pujols for A-Rod/Giambi).

Let's see what he does in 2007. I think he's going to surprise alot of people, and really come out strong.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/06/07 07:06 PM

Yankees' Posada Focused On Season, Not Extension

Quote:
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Jorge Posada is focused on the season as he heads into the final year of his contract with the New York Yankees.

Posada will make $12 million in 2007, the final season of a deal paying him $59 million over six years. The 35-year-old catcher says he’s leaving his contract situation up to his agents, Sam and Seth Levinson, and Yankees general manager Brian Cashman.

‘‘Obviously I have one more year left, and a lot can happen,’’ Posada said Monday after a pre-spring training workout. ‘‘We’ll see. It’s up to them. That will take care of itself. I’m concentrating on what I have to do.’’

Posada hit .277 last year with 23 homers and 93 RBIs, the best season at the plate for the four-time All-Star since 2003. Unless the sides agree to an extension, he will be eligible for free agency after the World Series.

‘‘To tell you the truth, if I keep feeling like I’m feeling right now, I’m going to keep playing,’’ Posada said. ‘‘If I don’t feel like that, it’s time to go.’’

Posada will be working with several new pitchers this season, including Kei Igawa.

‘‘He was very good in Japan, and I’m looking forward to catching him,’’ Posada said. ‘‘It’s going to be a good experience for me.’’

Posada expects Igawa’s transition to be eased by the presence of Hideki Matsui, who will be starting his fifth season with the Yankees.

‘‘I think Matsui is going to help him a big deal, ‘‘ Posada said. ‘‘Matsui had it tougher being here by himself. It’s going to be all right.’


I'm one of the hardest people on Jorge in my inner circle of Yankee fans, but its hard to keep bashing the guy when you look at what else is out there. He's still the best RBI hitting catcher in the league, even if he runs like a bag of donuts.

Plus, I'm glad to see he's giving Igawa the thumbs up.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/06/07 09:25 PM

Jeter Expects Clemens to Play in 2007

Quote:
Source: AP

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - Yankees captain Derek Jeter expects Roger Clemens to pitch this season. He just doesn't know where the ace might wind up.

"The only thing I'll say about Rocket is he hasn't decided if he's going to come back yet. If you ask me what I think, I would think he would," Jeter said Tuesday after a pre-spring training workout.

Clemens has said he would not make a decision on returning for a 24th major league season until sometime after spring training. He took a similar approach last year and didn't make his season debut with Houston until June 22.

Plagued by poor run support, Clemens went 7-6 with a 2.30 ERA over 19 starts last season.

The Yankees, Astros and Boston are the top three contenders should the seven-time Cy Young winner pitch in 2007. The 44-year-old righty was part of two World Series championship teams during a five-year stint with the Yankees from 1999-2003.

"I don't have to sell him on New York," Jeter said.

Jeter hasn't talked recently with longtime teammate Bernie Williams, who has been considering a minor-league contract and spring training invite from New York. Jeter said "it would be strange" to play without the veteran outfielder, who made his Yankees debut in 1991.

"I hope he comes back," Jeter said.

Notes: Jeter took batting practice with C Jorge Posada and INF Miguel Cairo. ... Japanese LHP Kei Igawa had a long toss session during his first early workout at the Yankees' spring training complex.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/07/07 04:23 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
During this offseason, I'm warming back up with A-Rod. Given the fact that there are few proven commodities in baseball - and A-Rod is still one of them - I really can't see letting him slip away, unless the deal was a monster (i.e. Pujols for A-Rod/Giambi).


I know what you mean DJ. I almost cringe at the thought of A-Rod leaving. Sure he's not Mr. October, but his regular season stats are great (he's already won his MVP in New York) and he'd be ANOTHER big bat to lose (with Sheffield being the first, and no one but Doug I-can't-hit-to-save-my-life Mien "filling" in for him). I'd love to see him win a title in New York and prove all the na-sayers wrong just like Peyton did on Sunday.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/07/07 04:26 AM

It's the summer of 2013, and Alex Rodriguez is finally getting the love and acceptance he craves. As he basks in the praise for his 715th career home run and takes aim at Hank Aaron and Barry Bonds, he's embracing the role of beloved elder statesman.

Critics who once slammed Rodriguez for wilting under pressure now admire him for the consistency, sportsmanship and strong work ethic he's displayed since breaking into professional ball with Seattle two decades ago.

He is 38 years old and he has never flunked a steroid test, posed for a mug shot, pulled a gun at a stop light or defamed the game with questionable off-field behavior. So who cares if he weighs his remarks for public consumption and seems obsessed with his self-image? Baseball fans certainly don't care as they stand and cheer, and sportswriters hail Rodriguez as the man who's about to ride to the rescue and knock Bonds from the top of the record books.

What uniform will A-Rod be wearing when he sets the home run record? As everybody knows, that question was resolved in November 2007.


-----------------------------------------------------


The $252 million contract that Rodriguez signed with Texas six years ago is stunning for its magnitude and noteworthy for agent Scott Boras' foresight. It includes a clause giving Rodriguez the freedom to opt out after the 2007 season for any reason, and again in 2008 or 2009 if he's not earning $1 million more than the second highest-paid position player in the game.

Now that Manny Ramirez is staying in Boston and Bonds is re-signing with San Francisco -- we think -- it's the hot rumor du jour: A-Rod, tired of his best never being good enough in New York, plans to take advantage of his "opt out'' clause and flee for a more favorable environment.

He's not the only big leaguer with an escape clause. A.J. Burnett and Vernon Wells have similar opt-out provisions in Toronto. Aramis Ramirez just took advantage of one to negotiate a five-year, $75 million contract with the Cubs, and J.D. Drew left Los Angeles after two years to sign a $70 million deal with Boston.

Boras told ESPN.com that opt-out clauses are a way for players to protect themselves against all sorts of unforeseen developments -- from ownership upheaval to changing personal circumstances. "These things are about choice,'' he said. "When you do the contract, you can't always anticipate what the issues will be.''

Front-office executives generally agree that opt-out clauses are a no-win proposition for teams. If a free agent is bad (e.g., Chan Ho Park), he gets the cash regardless. If the player performs well and the market goes crazy, he can use his opt-out clause to hit the open market or squeeze an extension out of his current club.

"It certainly is for the most part a player-friendly clause,'' said Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti, who was not a happy man when Drew opted out in Los Angeles. "There's little debate on that.''

So why do teams give them? Maybe it entices a player to sign for a slight discount, or serves as Plan B when a club is averse to giving out no-trade clauses. More likely, it's as simple as the player and his agent holding firm and the team saying, "Let's do it and worry about the repercussions later.''

If Rodriguez leaves New York, it will be the headline story of the next Hot Stove season. We're talking about a 12-time All-Star and two-time Most Valuable Player who makes news when he's getting a tan in Central Park. Rodriguez has averaged 40 homers and 119 RBI in New York, but he still makes some Yankees fans wistful for the Scott Brosius era.

Publicly, at least, Rodriguez is pledging allegiance to the Yankees. And Boras, true to form, is keeping his negotiating options open.

"I don't think Alex personalizes it,'' Boras said. "He knows when you're a New York Yankee and the Yankees don't win, that players of a certain stature are going to get a certain response from the fans. He accepts that.

"He's in a very good situation. He's playing for a team he loves to play for, and he can either evaluate [the clause] or let it pass. Frankly, he doesn't have to do anything.''

What will A-Rod do? Here are three possibilities

Scenario 1: Rodriguez's 2007 regular-season numbers are impressive, but they're rendered meaningless when the Yankees are bounced in the Division Series. It's A-Rod's fourth straight October flameout, and he's getting torched on WFAN radio and buried in the tabloids. He's thinking about wearing a Bobby Valentine nose-and-glasses disguise around town just to maintain his sanity.

The good news is, Rodriguez's production still ranks among the elite players in the game. As it becomes increasingly clearer that the A-Rod-New York union isn't working and he's going to opt out, potential suitors are standing in line.

The Angels are always looking for help for Vladimir Guerrero, and the Dodgers might be willing to sign another big Boras client despite the hard feelings from Drew's abrupt departure. The Nationals want a marquee name as they prepare to move into a new park in April 2008, and the Red Sox, those freethinkers, can never be counted out as players. Maybe Seattle fails to re-sign Ichiro Suzuki and decides to dump Adrian Beltre and bring back A-Rod to resurrect the good old days.

Rodriguez is guaranteed $81 million over his final three seasons in New York, and that $27 million annual payout will be tough to surpass. But if Boras can land him $150 million-plus for a long-term deal and a fresh start, it will be tough for A-Rod to resist taking the plunge.

Scenario 2: Rodriguez hits the jackpot. He belts 50 home runs, wins a third MVP award and the Yankees capture the World Series for the first time since 2000. He enjoys a public relations makeover, just as Peyton Manning did after winning the Super Bowl. Derek Jeter and his teammates embrace him as a "true Yankee,'' and everyone is so giddy after the parade, it's no longer outlandish to envision him finishing his career in pinstripes.

Because Texas is responsible for a third of the $81 million New York must pay Rodriguez from 2008 through 2010, the Yankees are basically getting a year of A-Rod for free. Boras is happy to make that point when he approaches general manager Brian Cashman about an extension.

Boras is also sure to note that Rodriguez is better than Alfonso Soriano, who received $136 million from the Cubs at age 31, and that the Yankees will enjoy ample benefits from A-Rod's chasing Babe Ruth in New York. In fact, the rhetoric has already begun.

"It's very clear to all people in baseball that Alex is stepping into a time in his career that's going to be historic in the next decade,'' Boras said. "He has an opportunity to have Ruthian and Aaron-like performances in his career. There aren't many players in the history of the game you can say that about.''

Scenario 3: Rodriguez has a good season, but not good enough for the Yankees to consider an extension. Boras surveys the market and has no assurances he can do better elsewhere. So A-Rod remains in New York, forced to get by with no love and a mere $24 million base salary with $3 million deferred at 3 percent compound interest.

Whatever happens, it's bound to be eventful.

"I can assure you one thing,'' said an American League executive. "That clause will not pass without Scott using it as a leverage point.''

You can count on that.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/07/07 11:26 PM

Early Bird

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Kei Igawa is getting an early start to his first spring training with the New York Yankees.

"He looks like he is going to be a real good pitcher," Yankees vice president Billy Connors said Wednesday after Igawa's second workout at New York's minor league complex. "He throws a heavy ball. He should be very good."

Igawa, who agreed in December to a $20 million, five-year contract, has been throwing on flat ground. The 27-year-old left-hander is scheduled to throw off a mound on Monday.

"It's an honor to be on this field," Igawa said through a translator.

Igawa is likely to be part of a rotation that includes Chien-Ming Wang, Mike Mussina and Andy Pettitte, with Carl Pavano also starting if he is healthy.

Igawa went 14-9 with a 2.97 ERA for the Hanshin Tigers last season.

"We need him this year," Connors said. "He's very important for our club. I've heard a lot of good things about him. We're happy to have him. We're anxious to see him out there."

Igawa has gotten the chance to meet several new teammates also working out at the Yankees spring training complex, including shortstop Derek Jeter, catcher Jorge Posada and infielder Miguel Cairo

"It's all a feel for him, getting to know the guys," Connors said. "Jeter has been already kidding him ... teaching him a new word every day. He's going to be fine. It just takes the time to get adjusted."

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/08/07 01:08 PM

Not a bad thing to have a multi-time winner of the strikeout title and the Japanese Cy Young on your team, right?

Of course, he still sucks though. [/Boston_fan]
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/08/07 01:19 PM

Clock Ticking For Bernie and the Bronx

Quote:
Source: New York Times

By TYLER KEPNER
Published: February 8, 2007

The next road trip on Bernie Williams’s schedule is not to Tampa, Fla., for Yankees spring training. He will not be packing bats and gloves. Instead, he will bring his guitar to a church in New Milford, Conn., tomorrow, for a benefit concert with Chynna Phillips.

Williams, 38, has the rest of his life to appear at such events. He is an accomplished guitarist, as anyone who has heard him strumming peacefully in his corner locker at Yankee Stadium knows. But his days as a baseball player are numbered.

The question is whether they are over, officially. Williams does not want to retire, and he does not want to leave the Yankees. But he does not want to grovel for a meaningful job with them, either.

The Yankees do not want to beg Williams to accept the standing offer they have made him. Williams has been invited to spring training as a nonroster player, but with no guarantee of a spot when camp breaks on March 31.

“Bernie right now is just focused on the Yankees,” his agent, Scott Boras, said yesterday. “He really is. I know there is interest out there from a number of other teams, but his focus is on the Yankees.”

Other teams have offered Williams guaranteed major league contracts, according to Boras. But the Yankees have no plans to make such an offer because they do not envision Williams on their 25-man roster.

The Yankees plan to carry 12 pitchers and two first basemen, not including Jason Giambi, who will become the full-time designated hitter. There is room for only one reserve outfielder, Melky Cabrera.

Last spring, the Yankees had a comparable roster crunch in the bullpen. They had space for two left-handed relievers, Mike Myers and Ron Villone, but agreed to let the veteran Al Leiter come to camp as a nonroster player.

That was a new role for Leiter, who had 19 years in the majors. The difference is that Leiter was ready to retire and mostly wanted to stay in shape for the World Baseball Classic. Williams, who hit .281 last season, wants to keep playing.

“I was 40, and Bernie’s 38,” Leiter said yesterday. “So he’s probably working out, and he feels good. It’s a tough spot, it really is, for him and the Yankees. I would say, if it’s about playing, he should find the best opportunity to play. And if he wants to play, his best opportunity is not with the Yankees.”

Williams could accept the Yankees’ invitation and hope he makes the team, either through an injury to an outfielder or a trade of Cabrera. And if the Yankees end up with no spot for him, Williams would at least have showcased himself for other teams.

In a way, though, Manager Joe Torre could be the most important factor. Torre is loyal to Williams, and he could decide to take only 11 pitchers in April, effectively postponing a decision on a player he deeply respects.

For now, Torre could probably convince Williams to come to camp with one phone call. If Torre tells Williams that he truly wants him in Tampa — even without the promise of a job in April — it seems likely that Williams would go.

There is compelling statistical data to keep the switch-hitting Williams in pinstripes. In 133 at-bats against left-handers last season, he hit .323 with seven home runs. In 127 at-bats against lefties, Giambi batted .213 with nine home runs.

Torre has always dismissed the idea of trying Williams at first base, and the Yankees seem intent on keeping Andy Phillips or Josh Phelps as a right-handed complement to Doug Mientkiewicz. But given his success against left-handers, Williams theoretically could share the D.H. spot with Giambi.

In any case, Williams is unlikely to approach his playing time of last season, when he had 420 at-bats. He has seemed uncomfortable as a pinch-hitter and is no longer ideal for pinch-running or late-inning defense.

One American League general manager, who was granted anonymity because he did not want to speak publicly about a player who was not on his team, praised Williams for his class and experience. But he also questioned Williams’s value on the field.

“There is not enough offense to consider him an offensive bench player or enough defense to consider him a defensive bench player,” the general manager said. “His skills are trending down, and at his age there is very little reason to believe he will reverse the trend at all this season.”

In spite of that, if Williams comes to spring training, there will probably be strong public pressure on Torre to keep him. Williams has the longest tenure of any Yankee, with 16 seasons in the Bronx.

It is hard to imagine Torre cutting Williams to make space for Phillips, Phelps or a 12th pitcher. Then again, it is also hard to imagine Williams risking the indignity of ending his career by being cut in spring training.

“You’re going to be dealing with baseball evaluations, but still — it’s Bernie Williams,” Leiter said. “He’s a guy who’s going to go down as one of the great Yankees in the history of the team. You have to be sensitive to it.”
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/08/07 06:13 PM

First spring training photos I've found, courtesy of the Associated Press, Yahoo, etc:









Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/08/07 06:19 PM








Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/08/07 06:20 PM

Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/08/07 09:31 PM

Thank you, Double J. I personally like # 2,3 and 4, but I guess that's not a surprise.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/08/07 09:42 PM

Sweet, thanks DJ. May I ask, where did you find them?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/08/07 10:08 PM

Don't be surprised if the Mets, and not the Yankees, end up with Johan Santana for $20 million a year after the Twins' Cy Young Award winner becomes a free agent after the 2008 season.
-- St. Paul Pioneer Press

Source: SI

That had better not be the case. I know the Mets need pitching but so do we
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/09/07 12:19 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Don't be surprised if the Mets, and not the Yankees, end up with Johan Santana for $20 million a year after the Twins' Cy Young Award winner becomes a free agent after the 2008 season.
-- St. Paul Pioneer Press

Source: SI

That had better not be the case. I know the Mets need pitching but so do we


That's based upon nothing. Bobby Abreu and Johan Santana have the same agent (Peter Greenberg), and I think that it couldn't hurt.

I mean, the Phillies, the Royals, the Cubs, the Dodgers, every team in MLB could get Santana. Their comments don't mean anything without some sort of evidence or rationale.

This is the full "article" in all of its...umm...glory. Again, it's like saying that "some team will sign Santana in 2008." Duh.

Anyways, trust me, I12...I'm pretty sure that the reasons the Yankees didn't go gaga over Matsuzaka (although I'm sure they thought that their bid would have been enough) was that they're keeping a nice little nest egg to make Santana the highest paid pitcher, if not player, in major league baseball once he's an FA.

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/09/07 12:40 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Anyways, trust me, I12...I'm pretty sure that the reasons the Yankees didn't go gaga over Matsuzaka (although I'm sure they thought that their bid would have been enough) was that they're keeping a nice little nest egg to make Santana the highest paid pitcher, if not player, in major league baseball once he's an FA.



I really hope your right. But with other teams such as boston, Anaheim and the Mets competing with the Yankees in bidding wars, I'm a little more worried now than I would have been a few seasons ago. As for Matsuzaka, I'm REALLY hoping he's another Hideo Nomo. The first couple of seasons the guy was great and I think his delivery really threw hitters timing off. But once guys saw him enough and timed him right, they knocked him all around.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/09/07 02:35 AM

Forget Nomo. I want him to be another Hideki Irabu.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/09/07 03:10 AM

Speaking of which, I placed an order for that "Asian Connection" T-Shirt and have yet to see the product. Do I have to speak to your manager?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/09/07 06:29 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Speaking of which, I placed an order for that "Asian Connection" T-Shirt and have yet to see the product. Do I have to speak to your manager?


Dear Mr. Irishman,

Our customer service representative Alejandro S. forwarded your issue to me. I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience regarding your order of March 26th, 2006, for the item #8675309, "Asian Connection 100% cotton t-shirt" and item #1337 "Kevin Brown pinstriped panties." These items have unfortunately been discontinued, and according to the manufacturer, have been destroyed. Your account will be updated and credited for the value of this order ($37.98).

However, here at Yankeeeesstore, we value your business, and would like to extend to you a five (5) dollar gift certificate, which you can redeem at any time day or night at Yankeeeesstore.com. We appreciate your business, and apologize for any inconvenience.

Thanks for shopping with Yankeeeesstore.com!

Regards,
Double-J
Customer Service Manager
Yankeeeesstore.com

---

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Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/10/07 04:13 AM

That is unacceptable! Almost a year of waiting and now shirt! Let me just tell you sir, YOU just lost a customer. eBay here I come!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/10/07 05:16 AM

Hughes ready to state case

NEW YORK -- Philip Hughes, the big right-hander with a sizzling fastball and knee-buckling curve, is doing his best to ignore any hype of being the top pitching prospect in the Yankees' farm system.
Yankee Stadium may very well be in his future, but right now, the 20-year-old Hughes is salivating only at the prospect of finally breaking out of winter workouts and staring down Grapefruit League hitters.

"I look at it as an opportunity to show the Yankees what I can do," Hughes said in a telephone interview. "Hopefully, they like what they see. I may get a shot to make the team, and I may not. I'm always thinking of going in there with the intention of doing my best and making the decisions a little bit tougher for them."

The Yankees' first-round selection (23rd overall) in the 2004 First-Year Player Draft, Hughes has established himself as one of baseball's best Minor League pitching prospects. The Santa Ana, Calif., product spent most of last season at Double-A Trenton, posting a 10-3 record and 2.25 ERA in 21 starts.

Boasting a fastball that regularly clocks in the mid-90s, a curveball that was resurrected after being scrapped from Hughes' high school arsenal, plus a developing changeup, Hughes struck out 138 batters in 116 Eastern League innings, allowing 73 hits and walking 32.

The curveball was a major factor in Hughes' success. When Hughes' velocity jumped in his late teens, the effectiveness of his curve diminished.

Hughes had shelved the hook in favor of a slider, but at the urging of Minor League pitching coordinator Nardi Conteras, Hughes spent much of last season redeveloping his curveball into his strikeout pitch -- first at Class A Tampa in the Florida State League, then fine-tuning at Trenton.

The pitch is actually more of a knuckle-curve, an offering that has been effective for Yankees starter Mike Mussina. The veteran right-hander spent time around Hughes last spring, even offering some tweaks on Hughes' version, and Mussina recently issued a strong endorsement for Hughes' future.

"He's got ability, he's got skill, and he's got an idea," Mussina said. "He had a good year last year. I don't know if they should be throwing him into the fire at 20 or 21 years old, but he's not very far away."

Hughes said last season gave him a low-pressure experience of what camp would be like. In one February workout, he buzzed a mid-90s heater past Alex Rodriguez, prompting the reigning AL MVP to ask a club executive, "Who the [heck] is that guy?"


This year, his teammates will know the kid wearing No. 65. Hughes enters the spring as a dark-horse candidate for the back end of the Yankees' rotation, which has been tentatively filled out by Japanese import Kei Igawa and the oft-injured Carl Pavano.

The Yankees would prefer that Hughes begin the season at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, taking the lead role in a powerhouse rotation. But that scenario is hardly a lock.

"Obviously, if you look at the [Major League] rotation now, there's not really a spot for me," Hughes said. "A lot of things can happen. I'm just going to go in and do my best. If a spot opens up and they want me to fill it, I will. If not, I'll take my time and go where they want me to go."

Mark Newman, the club's senior vice president of baseball operations, will not shoot down the possibility of Hughes making the team's Opening Day roster. But because of Hughes' value as a long-term asset, the Yankees are cautious not to jeopardize his future to satisfy a short-term need.

"I would never count someone of his ability out," Newman said. "I think the best-case scenario is to give him a little time at Triple-A. It's not beyond reasonable for him to make an impact sometime this year."

Newman believes time is on the Yankees' side. Hughes -- who will not celebrate his 21st birthday until late June -- would just be entering his junior year of college, had he attended.

"He's probably the best young pitcher we've had in this organization since I've been here, both in terms of stuff and in terms of performance," said Newman, who joined the Yankees in 1989.

"[Hughes] had a month last year where he threw 80 percent fastball strikes. We've never had anybody do that. He went all year and didn't face a hitter with the bases loaded. All the performance indices we look at are off the charts."

Accordingly, the Yankees plan to increase Hughes' innings total this season to a ceiling of 180, no matter his level.

Newman cautioned that Major League innings could be more taxing emotionally than those compiled in the International League. Hughes, who pitched 152 innings last year including the playoffs, said he is ready for a higher workload.

"Midway last year, I was on pace for over 200 innings, and I didn't feel any fatigue going into the second half of the season," Hughes said. "I feel like I'm ready for a jump up in innings.

"A lot of the philosophy is that if you increase innings, that can lead to arm trouble, so I'm sure they're going to be cautious. I'm definitely looking forward to another full, healthy season. I'll pitch until they shut me down."

Through his relatively brief professional career, the roadmap of the Minor Leagues has become littered with coaches and scouts who rave about Hughes' makeup, maturity and moxie.

Hughes said he believes his grounded personality comes from his upbringing, when he was taught that any perceived advantages or benefits can disappear at any time. Accordingly, Hughes said he hasn't been the type to get in trouble or become involved in confrontations.

"I'm the same guy I've always been," Hughes said. "I just go out and pitch and do my thing every fifth day."

He describes his clubhouse goals as keeping his head down and getting to work. It's an ethic that, sooner or later, should deliver him to the Bronx.

"I think the door is open for me," Hughes said. "I've just got to go out and prove that I'm ready."

Source: Yankees.com
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/10/07 05:20 AM

Williams won't accept Yankees offer

Bernie Williams will not accept a minor-league contract offer from the New York Yankees, according to a report in the New York Times.

Williams, speaking with reporters before a concert in Connecticut, said he would prefer to stay at home, stay in shape, and wait for a guaranteed offer from the team rather than attend spring training and attempt to play himself onto the roster.
"I think if they wanted me, they would have signed me already," Williams said, according to the Times. "The option to go to spring training and see what happened — I don't think at this moment it is something I want to consider."

A guaranteed contract will be tough to come by. A burgeoning Yankees roster has left little room for the aging Williams, who has played all 16 of his major league seasons in New York. The 38-year-old hit over .300 for eight straight seasons from 1995-2002, but his production has dropped off since then.

"We love and respect Bernie, but with the dynamic of our roster, there's not a spot," GM Brian Cashman said. "We had a lot of conversations with him. I understand that he doesn't want to accept a minor league deal."

The Yankees already have the outfield filled with Johnny Damon, Bobby Abreu, and Hideki Matsui. Jason Giambi will be the designated hitter, and Melky Cabrera as the only reserve outfielder.

That means no spot for Williams, who hit .281 with 12 homeruns and 61 RBIs in 2006 and helped fill in holes in the Yankees' injury-plagued lineup.

"It is just a part of the game," Williams said. "It is what makes this interesting."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/10/07 02:52 PM

it would be very hard to see bernie not be on the yankees in some type of role. even though i belive melky is the extra outfielder we need i would love to see bernie hang around for another summer and hopefully another run for #27 for the all-time post-season rbi king
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/10/07 07:57 PM

Originally Posted By: reynols
it would be very hard to see bernie not be on the yankees in some type of role. even though i belive melky is the extra outfielder we need i would love to see bernie hang around for another summer and hopefully another run for #27 for the all-time post-season rbi king


I hope so too and I think the Yankees want him back. The frustrating part is there is NO room for him, that's what makes this situation so unfortunate.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/11/07 12:18 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I hope so too and I think the Yankees want him back. The frustrating part is there is NO room for him, that's what makes this situation so unfortunate.


The problem is that there is room for Bernie, but the Yankees have two glaring issues. One, they refuse to even consider dumping Andy Phillips and Josh Phelps, both of which will be useless in comparison to the offensive production of Bernie, unless Phelps turns around and becomes the power hitter everyone expected a couple of years ago. But I wouldn't bet on it. Why not platoon Bernie at first base? He'd still be better than Giambi, and you've got Gold Glove Doug Alphabet to play everyday. Keep Bernie on the bench.

Another issue is that the Yankees feel the need to carry 12 pitchers, which is not surprising since we ride our bullpen hard, but we've got some crappy pitchers too. First thing I'd do? Get rid of Sean Henn and re-sign Ron Villone, please. He was a cornerstone of the bullpen. Then, dump Mike Myers. Seriously. He's not even valuable as a LOOGY, since Farnsworth and Proctor had better averages against lefties than he did...in fact, Myers did better against righties than he did against lefties. Pretty silly then to have a LOOGY who can't fulfill the whole point of his position. Get rid of him, you now have a roster spot for Bernie.

Seriously, if the Yankees wanted Bernie, they'd bring him back. Unfortunately, they seem to believe that his value is limited (he can't pinch run, doesn't seem to DH well, can't play outfield) in comparison to two journeymen first basemen and a LOOGY who can't pitch to left-handed batters...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/11/07 12:23 PM

Yankees Trying To Get Ahead With Changeup

Quote:
Source: Newsday

BY JIM BAUMBACH
Newsday Staff Writer

February 11, 2007
When we last saw the Yankees together four months ago, chaos reigned. Everything fell apart so quickly against the Tigers in the ALDS that it must have felt like a roller coaster going downhill fast.

This week, the memory of that nightmare finally starts fading.

Yankees pitchers and catchers officially report to Tampa Tuesday, marking the start of the team's season. Everything begins fresh, and there might not be any other team in baseball that's more thankful for that.

Then again, this won't be their typical spring training camp, at least not the kind that their fans have grown used to lately.

For starters, there will be no recently acquired first-time Yankee superstar dominating the headlines.

The Yankees tried that with Mike Mussina, Jason Giambi, Hideki Matsui, Alex Rodriguez, Randy Johnson and Johnny Damon -- and how many World Series rings did that method deliver?

So with their roster aging and loaded with long-term, guaranteed contracts, general manager Brian Cashman went about his offseason to-do list a little differently, doing far more subtracting than he did adding. He traded Gary Sheffield, Johnson and Jaret Wright, all for youth.

And while major league teams collectively spent more money this offseason than ever before, the Yankees stayed relatively silent, at least compared to their old self.

They acquired a known quantity in Andy Pettitte and added Japanese pitcher Kei Igawa through the posting process to avoid the luxury tax.

"The Yankees not only have emerged from the offseason as one of the elite teams in the major leagues, but also a vastly improved farm system that will allow them to sustain their championship success," Indians general manager Mark Shapiro said in an e-mail message.

But the price the Yankees will pay in the short term for their added pool of young talent is a major-league rotation that has its share of question marks.

By trading Johnson back to the Diamondbacks last month, which was sparked by the lefthander's preference to play closer to home, the Yankees are left with Igawa as their fourth starter and Carl Pavano as their fifth.

Cashman freely admits there are questions. Igawa never has thrown a pitch in the majors and Pavano hasn't pitched in a major-league game since June 2005 because of an embarrassing list of injuries.

And although the Yankees created goodwill among fans by bringing back Pettitte, team officials have not forgotten about his troublesome left elbow, which was a big reason why they let him leave after the 2003 World Series in the first place.

Yankees brass undoubtedly will spend a good portion of spring training taking stock of their pitching staff, determining how much they can trust Igawa and Pavano and keeping an eye on Pettitte's elbow.

If they must turn to someone else, highly touted pitching prospect Phil Hughes won't be hard to find. He'll be in camp for the second straight year, and although the team expects him to start the season with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, they haven't ruled him out as part of the roster to start the season. "He's not very far off," Mussina said recently.

Hughes, 20, headlines an impressive crop of young pitchers in camp, including Humberto Sanchez (acquired in the Sheffield trade), Ross Ohlendorf (acquired in the Johnson trade) and righthander Tyler Clippard.

"For the first time since I've been in camp, we're going to have an opportunity to look at six or seven mystery guys that we don't know who they are, or at least we haven't seen them yet at the major-league level," Rodriguez said last week. "Maybe we can strike lightning in a bottle, kind of like Detroit did last year with Verlander and Zumaya."

Of course, the Yankees aren't blinded by youth.

They made it clear to 44-year-old Roger Clemens that he's welcome back whenever he wishes, and Pettitte's return to pinstripes can only help their cause.

But The Rocket's decision isn't expected until after spring training, so the Yankees aren't concerned about it right now. Their thoughts are completely focused on the spring, a welcome reprieve from last fall.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/11/07 12:26 PM

Not Your Typical Yankee Offseason

Quote:
Source: Metro West Daily News

By Art Davidson / Daily News staff
Saturday, February 10, 2007 - Updated: 11:30 PM EST



By Yankee standards this offseason has been downright bizarre. New York has actually reduced its payroll and has significantly improved its farm system by trading some veterans for several young players.

The Yankees acquired seven excellent prospects in trades for pitchers Randy Johnson and Jaret Wright and outfielder Gary Sheffield.

"We are very excited about some of the young players we've received," said Yankees general manager Brian Cashman. "We are always going to pursue free agents, but now we have a considerable amount of top-level talent within our own organization. Hopefully, some of those players will make an impact for us, like Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada and Robinson Cano did when we promoted them from our farm system."

The Yankees won their ninth straight AL East title last season, but were defeated by Detroit in the Division Series. After losing the series opener, the Tigers rebounded by winning the next three games.

It was speculated that Yankees owner George Steinbrenner might fire manager Joe Torre or that the team might trade Alex Rodriguez, but neither occurred.

New York's lineup should be even more potent this season. Outfielders Hideki Matsui and Sheffield both missed significant portions of last season with injuries. The trading-deadline deal which brought Bobby Abreu to New York prompted the Yankees to ship Sheffield to Detroit last November.

The Yankees' biggest concern entering spring training is their starting rotation. Chien-Ming Wang has become New York's top starter. The 26-year-old right-hander was 19-6 last season.

The departure of Johnson puts more pressure on 38-year-old Mike Mussina, who is coming off a good, but unspectacular 15-7 season.

The Yankees' most significant offseason acquisition was bringing back Andy Pettitte for his second tour of duty in the Bronx. Pettitte, 34, has spent the last three seasons with Houston. New York didn't ardently attempt to re-sign Pettitte after he filed for free agency following the 2003 seasons because Cashman had concerns about his left elbow. Those worries seemed justified when Pettitte was hampered by injuries in 2004, but he's pitched more than 200 innings in each of the last two seasons. Pettitte was 14-13 in 36 games last year.

Does the return of Pettitte mean that Roger Clemens might also decide to move from Houston to New York and pitch for the Yankees again?

"If Roger Clemens wants to pitch this year we are certainly going to be interested in talking to him, like we did last year," said Cashman. "He made it clear last year that the only teams he would consider playing for are Houston, ourselves and the Red Sox."

Cashman admits that he was disappointed that the Yankees weren't able to sign Daisuke Matsuzaka and that he ended up with the Red Sox.

"There were indications that it wasn't going to be us," said Cashman. "Once that happened I was hoping that our main rival wasn't going to win the right to negotiate with Matsuzaka. The Red Sox have added a very good pitcher."

The Yankees settled for signing Japanese southpaw Kei Igawa, who was 14-9 with a 2.97 ERA last season for Hanshin. Igawa, 27, doesn't have an overpowering fastball, but he's led the Central League in strikeouts three times.

New York posted a bid of $26 million to win the right to sign Igawa. The Yankees then gave him a five-year deal worth $20 million.

"He's not Matsuzaka, but he's someone who we believe is going to be a long-term asset to us," said Cashman.

The Yankees' fifth starter could be Carl Pavano, who claims he's finally healthy. Pavano hasn't pitched in a major league game since June, 2005.

For the last two years Philip Hughes has been New York's best prospect. He could make the jump from Double A to the major leagues, but the Yankees would like him to get at least some experience at the Triple A level. Two other young hurlers, Humberto Sanchez, who was obtained in the Sheffield deal, and Tyler Clippard, also will be given an opportunity in Florida to earn pinstripes.

New York's effective bullpen has been bolstered by the addition of Luis Vizcaino, who is the most senior of the four players the Yankees received from Arizona for Johnson. The Yankees still have future Hall-of-Famer Mariano Rivera as their closer. Conversely, Boston's closer remains a mystery.

The only new non-pitcher who is likely going to receive a significant amount of playing time is former Red Sox first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz, who spent last season in exile in Kansas City.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/11/07 12:28 PM

Cashman Views Roster Changes As Complete

Quote:
Source: MLB.com

Entering his 10th season as general manager, Brian Cashman has seen his Yankees teams run the gamut of Spring Training news cycles.

February's calendars have been highlighted by tell-all books, imported superstars, blockbuster trades, returns from injuries, off-field issues, contract talks and even a few spats with the Boston Red Sox. And that's just the last few years.

So what could the next few weeks of 2007 hold? Cashman isn't sure, but one thing is certain -- around the Yankees, events are never in short supply.

"Every spring is different," Cashman told MLB.com on Friday. "There are always major needs with potential free agents at the end of the year; there are always new players who arrive via trades, and new free agents.

"Sometimes you've got a former player returning, like Andy Pettitte, and sometimes you've got a new hotshot rookie knocking on the door. The stories can be similar, the teams are very different, but the effort to win a championship and be the best you can be is always there."

Though the mandatory report date for Yankees pitchers and catchers isn't until Feb. 13, several veteran players -- Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada and Miguel Cairo among them -- have already traded their winter gear for shorts and T-shirts.

Another Yankees stalwart, Bernie Williams, remains on the outside looking in. The Yankees have reportedly offered the 38-year-old a standing non-roster invitation to camp, which the outfielder said Friday he did not intend to accept.

Williams addressed reporters briefly at a New Milford, Conn., benefit concert. Convinced by his good showing last season, Williams has said that he is capable of playing another season, though the Yankees -- the only organization he has known in a 16-year Major League career -- do not appear to have room for him and, thus far, have been unwilling to offer a guaranteed deal.

Cashman said that he views the Yankees' roster changes as largely complete.

"As of right now, we're going in with what we've got," he said. "I've floated some ideas out there, but I don't want to say anything more than that. These are the people we've committed to going in with, so we're getting ready to hit the ground running."

As is the case every spring, the Yankees have a hot-button issue to contend with. This year it may wind up being Alex Rodriguez's opt-out clause, which gained steam coinciding with the third baseman's promotional book tour this week in New York.

Cashman said that he is not putting serious thought into the possibility that the two-time Most Valuable Player could be playing his last season with the Yankees.

"It's just not something I'm going to be focusing on right now," he said. "We're focusing on getting the team ready for '07. We're not focusing on '08."

Rodriguez's agent, Scott Boras, suggested to the Associated Press that Rodriguez could secure a significant raise for 2008 and beyond by exercising the opt-out clause. Rodriguez is set to earn $72 million over the final three years of his contract.

Cashman said that there was little the Yankees could do to influence the end result of the clause, which was built into Rodriguez's original 10-year, $252 million contract, signed with the Texas Rangers.

"That's a decision for Alex," he said. "He negotiated that in good faith when he did his contract, and that's a right that he earned and bargained for. We'll just wait until the end and see what he has to say. If he opts out, he opts out."

With a core compiled by established returning players, the Yankees have a certain luxury of using Spring Training to showcase various young talents who were either promoted or acquired over the winter.

Cashman said that it was an "unlikely" scenario that top pitching prospect Phil Hughes would break camp with the Yankees, but noted that the respective bounties from the Randy Johnson and Gary Sheffield trades should be of particular interest.

"I think there are people in this organization that people are anxious to go in with and see what they've got," he said. "Those will be the more interesting stories -- who Alberto Gonzalez is, who Ross Ohlendorf is, Humberto Sanchez, Kevin Whelan, people like that; the new guys."

With those young players waiting in the wings, Cashman rejected the idea that talent has been stockpiled with thoughts of translating it into established Major League talent through trades.

For the moment, he said, the Yankees' farm replenishment can be taken at face value. That follows a pattern notably established with the promotion and subsequent successes of right-hander Chien-Ming Wang and second baseman Robinson Cano.

"I think we've demonstrated here in the last few years that we prefer to keep our players for ourselves," he said. "We're going to grow from within and go inward first before we decide to go outside. You have to have talent from within to do that, so hopefully, we've added enough choices to give us that ability."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/11/07 12:30 PM

5 Questions As Yankees Enter Camp

Quote:
Source: Daily News

BY MARK FEINSAND
DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER


The Yankees didn't make any major splashes on the free-agent market this winter, passing on - or getting outbid on - big names such as Barry Zito, Jason Schmidt, and Daisuke Matsuzaka.

Instead, the Bombers shed a couple of big contracts, dealing Randy Johnson and Gary Sheffield, while bringing back old friend Andy Pettitte. Despite their bloated - albeit decreasing - payroll and All-Star lineup, the Yanks are looking to players such as Philip Hughes, Humberto Sanchez and Jose Tabata to carry them into the next decade rather than dole out hundreds of millions to players in free agency.

That's not to say that Brian Cashman is in the midst of a rebuilding project. The Yankees' objective for 2007 is the same as always, which is to bring the World Series trophy back to the Bronx.

With pitchers and catchers scheduled to report to Tampa on Tuesday, here are the five biggest questions facing the Yankees this spring.

1) Is the rotation good enough?

That depends on two separate questions: Will Carl Pavano stay healthy and can Kei Igawa make a smooth adjustment to the major leagues? If the answer to each of these is yes, then the Yankees are in good shape. If not, it could be a long year in the Bronx.

Chien-Ming Wang, Mike Mussina and Pettitte lead the rotation, and while there are always concerns about Pettitte's health, the lefthander has put some of those fears to rest by surpassing the 200-inning mark in each of the past two seasons.

Pavano's health, on the other hand, is still a hot topic. After working out in Arizona this winter, he says he's in the best shape of his life. His first two years in as a Yankee have been an unmitigated disaster, marred by a slew of injuries, some more bizarre than others. Pavano, who has pitched a total of 100 innings in pinstripes, is entering the third season of his four-year, $39.95 million deal. He will have to take the ball every five days and prove to his teammates that he wants to be on the field with them.

Igawa is more of a mystery, as few in the organization had even seen him throw a pitch before he arrived in Tampa earlier this week. Will Igawa follow Hideki Matsui's lead and make an easy transition from Japan to the majors, or will he resemble Hideki Irabu, who never lived up to expectations? The Yankees project him as a back-of-the-rotation starter, so there shouldn't be too much pressure on him.

2) How good are these kids, anyway?

Over the past few months, Cashman has been restocking the farm system, adding several hard-throwing young arms to the organization. Sanchez and Ross Ohlendorf were acquired in trades for Sheffield and Johnson, respectively, landing two blue-chip arms in the Bronx.

When these young pitchers will pay dividends is yet to be determined, but Joe Torre figures to get a good look at all of them during spring training. As Cashman likes to say, it typically takes 20 to 25 pitchers to get through a 162-game season, so these youngsters may be needed in 2007, just as Darrell Rasner and Jeff Karstens were called upon last year.

Then there's Hughes, who is likely to open the season at Triple-A Scranton. Hughes isn't just the team's top prospect, he's also probably the top pitching prospect in the league.

This will be Hughes' second go-around in big-league camp with the Yankees, only this time there is an outside chance that he could make the Opening Day roster. Either way, it's a near lock that Hughes will be wearing Yankee pinstripes at some point this season. If Pavano or Igawa stumbles during the spring, Hughes could seize the opportunity.

3) Can A-Rod stay out of the limelight?

It's unlikely that Alex Rodriguez will be able to blend into the background this spring. Despite the projections that A-Rod will opt out of his contract at the end of the season, he remains the highest-paid player in the game, and along with that title comes plenty of attention. Throw in the fact that he is coming off yet another dreadful postseason, and all eyes will be on Rodriguez for yet another spring.

The conjecture about his contract will be a year-long story, though it will be little more than speculation until the fall. A-Rod says he's committed to playing in New York, but could another October disappointment change his thinking? Only A-Rod knows the answer to that, though he is unlikely to reveal that answer for about eight or nine more months.

Unfortunately for A-Rod, his regular-season performance in 2007 - no matter how good it may be - will do little to silence critics. Only a strong October and a Yankees World Series win can do that.

4) Is Joe Torre on the hot seat?

Torre almost lost his job following the Yankees' first-round loss to the Tigers last October, but the manager was brought back for a 12th season - the final year of his three-year contract.

Like the A-Rod situation, there figures to be plenty of speculation as to Torre's future. Will this be the skipper's final season in New York? Will he move on in 2008 and manage elsewhere? Will he ride off into the sunset if his Yankees earn him a fifth ring? Will he be fired during the season if the team doesn't meet the owner's expectations?

It is hard to see George Steinbrenner giving Torre the ax during the season, even if the Yankees get off to a slow start. After all, the team stumbled out of the gate in 2005 and didn't get off to the hottest start last season, yet the Bombers have reached the postseason in each of Torre's 11 years. Knowing that Torre's contract is up, Steinbrenner could wait until the end of the season and make a change without the bad PR that would come with a firing.

This is still the Yankees, so a terrible first month, combined with a hot start by the Red Sox, could change everything.

5) Who's on first?

Doug Mientkiewicz will fill the left side of the platoon, playing against right-handed pitchers, while Andy Phillips and Josh Phelps battle it out for the other spot.

Phillips was expected to see a lot of time at first base last season, but a mediocre first half led to the Yankees' deadline deal for Craig Wilson, reducing Phillips to the bench. He hit just .240 with seven homers and 29 RBIs, proving himself to be a streaky hitter.

Phelps, whom the Yankees plucked from the Orioles in December's Rule V draft, did not play in the majors last season, but he has had success during his brief career. The 28-year-old hit 15 home runs in 74 games with Toronto in his rookie season of 2002, then followed that up with 20 homers in 2003. He hasn't done much since the Blue Jays traded him in the middle of 2004, but he has an opportunity this spring to play his way back to the big leagues.

Camp info

Pitchers and catchers report: Tuesday
Park: Legends Field
Location: Tampa, Fla.
Seating capacity: 10,000
First game: March 1 vs. Minnesota at 1:15 p.m., televised on YES (The Yanks get ALDS rematch with Detroit in their third home game, March 5 at 1:15 p.m. on YES and ESPN)
Ticket prices: $17 (200 level outside bases); $21 (200 level inside bases); $23 (100 level outside bases); $25 (100 level inside bases); $25 (boxes and suites)
Ticket info: log on to http://www.yankees.com or call (813) 879-2244
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/11/07 12:34 PM

Yankees, Mets: Time To Face Up

Quote:
Source: NJ Herald

By BOB KLAPISCH
RECORD COLUMNIST


With pitchers and catchers finally within our grasp, the Yankees and Mets are about to learn whether their modest off-seasons will mean trouble later this summer. The Red Sox are better, and so are the Phillies and Braves. Met fans in particular should be prepared for a more harrowing, albeit entertaining, pennant race.

In fact, you could argue that for all the sub-plots that'll accompany the Yankees and Mets to spring training -- Alex Rodriguez's contract, Pedro Martinez's health, Andy Pettitte's re-acclimation to the American League -- it's Willie Randolph and Joe Torre who face the greatest challenges in 2007.

Both men are being asked to take their teams deeper into October, despite the fact that neither roster is significantly better today than it was at the end of 2006.

That's not good news for Torre, who was fired for a 24-hour period after Game 4 of the AL Division Series, and goes into the season without job security. The thought of finding another manager is already in George Steinbrenner's head; a slow start in April or May could easily remind The Boss how chilly his relationship is with Torre, no matter how staunchly GM Brian Cashman defends his manager.

Randolph has a new safety net, a three-year $5.65 million contract, but he has to convince the Mets that losing Game 7 of the NL Championship Series to the Cardinals wasn't necessarily a setback, just a detour in what promises to be a long golden era at Shea.

It won't be an easy sell for Randolph, not after a 97-win season during which the Mets had finished crushing the East before the All-Star break. No one believes the Mets will have it that easy in '07; such dominance comes along once in a generation. The Mets will find themselves being pressured by the Phillies, who signed Freddy Garcia and already have one of the more dangerous offenses in the National League.

The Braves could be a problem for the Mets, too, having vastly upgraded their bullpen. Adding Rafael Soriano and Mike Gonzalez, and teaming them up with closer Bob Wickman, almost entirely covers the blemishes that ruined Atlanta in 2006. And outside the East, the greatest winter makeover in recent history -- the $300 million the Cubs spent on Alfonso Soriano, Ted Lilly, Jason Marquis, Aramis Ramirez, Mark DeRosa and Lou Piniella -- all but guarantees the arrival of another NL power broker.

The Mets? They still don't have a No. 1 starter, and, yes, it does matter. Whether or not Martinez ever returns to the rotation, his days of dominating hitters are over. Randolph has no one he can count on to take the Mets into the seventh inning; lucky for him that GM Omar Minaya has restocked the bullpen. As well, the Mets' American League-type offense should act as a buffer against any shortcomings in the starting rotation: they scored 103 more runs than they allowed last year, the NL's greatest surplus.

But Minaya knows the National League has closed the talent gap on the Mets since Adam Wainwright's final curveball to Carlos Beltran. The Mets desperately wanted Barry Zito, and made a strong push for Daisuke Matsuzaka. That courtship ended badly, too. One major league executive said: "The Mets still look great on paper, but if you ask me if they're head and shoulders above everyone else, I would have to say no. It'll be a fight."

The Yankees are braced for the same reality. In fact, their hopes of holding off the Red Sox may hinge on where Roger Clemens decides to finish his career. Without the Rocket in pinstripes, it's conceivable the Sox will have the advantage in starting pitching for the first time in the Torre era.

So much depends on whether Pettitte's cut-fastball is still effective enough to neutralize the AL's bigger, stronger hitters. And the back of the rotation is full of questions, too: is Kei Igawa ready for the big leagues? Will Carl Pavano ever again throw a pitch for the Yankees?

If Clemens chooses Fenway over the Bronx, the Yankees will almost certainly be forced to summon Phil Hughes from Class AAA, if they even wait as long as July. The 20-year-old right-hander was so effective at Class AA in 2006, minor league director Mark Newman told the Daily News, "At the end of the year, he had no-hitter stuff two out of every three starts, it seemed."

Hughes was 10-3 with a 2.25 ERA in 21 starts, holding opponents to a .179 average at Trenton. Scouts are calling him the next John Smoltz with an unmistakable appetite and skill for strikeouts: Hughes blew away 138 hitters in 116 innings last year.

How can the Yankees resist the kid? Cashman has staked his reputation on protecting Hughes, but with the Bombers' championship drought going into its seventh year, Hughes' career path could be linked directly to Matsuzaka's.

The question of the spring can be narrowed to this: does the Japanese star really throw an unhittable pitch called the gyro ball?

According to urban legend, the gyro is delivered like a football, with the same spiral that makes the ball drop straight down like a splitter, only with much greater velocity.

"The gyro ball is scary. It is beyond imagination," Kazushi Tezuka, the baseball instructor who researched the pitch and wrote a book called, "The Truth about the Supernatural Pitch," told Sports Illustrated.

It won't take long for the Red Sox (and the Yankees) to figure out whether Matsuzaka can alter the balance of power in the East. If the gyro ball is more than just hype, the Bombers will be on the phone with Clemens' agents, promising him the empire.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/12/07 12:37 AM

With the beginning of Spring Training upon us, what ever happened with the Ron Villone situation? Are the Yanks gonna resign him? Did he sign with the Mets?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/12/07 11:59 AM

As of 2/12 at 6:54 AM, Ron Villone is still a free agent. And from what I can see, I don't think the Yankees plan to resign him. Cashman has (repeatedly) stated that he will utilize Sean Henn as the primary lefty reliever to replace Villone, and apparently, is confident that he can assume this role. I don't believe that, given Henn's struggles on the major league level. But maybe being a reliever will allow him to utilize his stuff more efficiently. We've seen it before - Mo went from being a horrid starter to the best closer of all time. And Henn was, a couple of years ago, before Hughes and others arrived, the Yankees best pitching prospect after Chien-Ming Wang.

Either way, given the Yankees new penchant for developing talent from the farm, they offered arbitration to Villone, and if he signs with another team (right now it looks like the Mets and the Mariners are the front runners), they'll receive a compensatory draft pick.

I'm not sure why, but the Yankees seem to be emphasizing Villone's slowdown at the end of last season, but I suspect that is more related to Torre's (consistently) poor handling of the bullpen. He tends to ride his most reliable guys into the ground - Proctor and Villone were no exceptions - and consequently, they were worn out by the end of last year. Hopefully adding Vizcaino, a well-known innings eater, will take some of the burden off of Proctor. However, as I've said before, I'd much rather have them cut Mike Myers this offseason and re-sign Villone.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/12/07 08:49 PM

Rivera's future is uncertain

TAMPA -- Mariano Rivera acknowledged the absence of longtime teammate Bernie Williams on Monday, calling it "strange."
Could players be saying the same thing about the Yankees closer one year from now? Rivera's commitment to the team expires after 2007, and while he said he would love to retire in New York, he realizes that scenario is not yet certain.

"Definitely, I want to finish my career here," Rivera said. "But if they don't give me the respect that I deserve, [if] I have to move on, I have to move on. The Yankees always give me respect. When it comes to these times, I don't like to talk about it."

Rivera -- with Williams' apparent parting, now the longest-tenured Yankees big leaguer -- met the media near the front entrance of the Yankees' Minor League complex, his words draped by the background of passing traffic.

Though he appears to have given some thought to his baseball fate, Rivera insisted that he is not upset. Rivera's focus, he said, remains on helping the 2007 Yankees accomplish their goal of a World Series championship.

That mission begins Tuesday, as pitchers and catchers officially report to Legends Field. As Rivera noted, he is under contract with the team, and would not let any uncertainty concerning his future creep into his current obligations.

"I'm not that kind of player," Rivera said. "I play for the team. I'm a team player. I don't have to think about that stuff."

The Yankees have not made overtures to Rivera's agent, Fernando Cuza, regarding an extension of the two-year, $21 million contract that will expire after this season.

Rivera said he would be receptive to discussing an extension with the team -- "If they want to talk, we'd be willing to listen," he said -- but the closer noted he did not plan on initiating conversations.

"Like I said, this is a business," Rivera said. "If they have somebody who can do a job better than I do, they will do it. So I don't have to worry about those things. When the time comes, if they want me back, they want me back.

"Otherwise, I'm not going to sit in my house crying. I'd have to move on."

Finding a successor to Rivera's throne would be difficult. A lifetime Yankee who signed with the organization in February 1990 and grew to become generally regarded as one of the top closers of all time, Rivera posted a 1.80 ERA over 63 appearances last season, including 34 saves in 37 opportunities.


Rivera said he had refrained from throwing for much of the offseason and that he has no concerns about his elbow, which was rested last September in preparation for the club's abbreviated postseason entry.

Clearly, at some point, Rivera acknowledged that his years of service in the Major Leagues will be complete. He needed no more glaring reminder of that than the fact that Williams' No. 51 will apparently go unused this spring.

"My body is ready to go," Rivera said. "Definitely, this is not going to be forever, but I'm going to do as much as I can and enjoy."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/12/07 11:26 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Rivera's future is uncertain

TAMPA -- Mariano Rivera acknowledged the absence of longtime teammate Bernie Williams on Monday, calling it "strange."
Could players be saying the same thing about the Yankees closer one year from now? Rivera's commitment to the team expires after 2007, and while he said he would love to retire in New York, he realizes that scenario is not yet certain.

"Definitely, I want to finish my career here," Rivera said. "But if they don't give me the respect that I deserve, [if] I have to move on, I have to move on. The Yankees always give me respect. When it comes to these times, I don't like to talk about it."

Rivera -- with Williams' apparent parting, now the longest-tenured Yankees big leaguer -- met the media near the front entrance of the Yankees' Minor League complex, his words draped by the background of passing traffic.

Though he appears to have given some thought to his baseball fate, Rivera insisted that he is not upset. Rivera's focus, he said, remains on helping the 2007 Yankees accomplish their goal of a World Series championship.

That mission begins Tuesday, as pitchers and catchers officially report to Legends Field. As Rivera noted, he is under contract with the team, and would not let any uncertainty concerning his future creep into his current obligations.

"I'm not that kind of player," Rivera said. "I play for the team. I'm a team player. I don't have to think about that stuff."

The Yankees have not made overtures to Rivera's agent, Fernando Cuza, regarding an extension of the two-year, $21 million contract that will expire after this season.

Rivera said he would be receptive to discussing an extension with the team -- "If they want to talk, we'd be willing to listen," he said -- but the closer noted he did not plan on initiating conversations.

"Like I said, this is a business," Rivera said. "If they have somebody who can do a job better than I do, they will do it. So I don't have to worry about those things. When the time comes, if they want me back, they want me back.

"Otherwise, I'm not going to sit in my house crying. I'd have to move on."

Finding a successor to Rivera's throne would be difficult. A lifetime Yankee who signed with the organization in February 1990 and grew to become generally regarded as one of the top closers of all time, Rivera posted a 1.80 ERA over 63 appearances last season, including 34 saves in 37 opportunities.


Rivera said he had refrained from throwing for much of the offseason and that he has no concerns about his elbow, which was rested last September in preparation for the club's abbreviated postseason entry.

Clearly, at some point, Rivera acknowledged that his years of service in the Major Leagues will be complete. He needed no more glaring reminder of that than the fact that Williams' No. 51 will apparently go unused this spring.

"My body is ready to go," Rivera said. "Definitely, this is not going to be forever, but I'm going to do as much as I can and enjoy."

Source: Yankees


The Bernie situation is totally different from the Rivera situation. Bernie has been consistently dropping in ability (and ultimately, usefulness) to the team over the past few years. Consequently, it was no surprise that he earned only 1-year deals, since it was unsure of how much he'd deteriorate over time.

Rivera has shown no signs of slowing down whatsoever. The Yankees realize this. It is a no brainer. There is nothing to worry about. Cashman will pay Rivera what he wants, and he will finish his career in pinstripes. Period. Then they can retire #42 for the Yankees (besides for JR) and Rivera will go to the HoF.

Bernie is in the unfortunate situation that his superb fielding ability is hindered by his increasing lack of movement, and poor first-break. He is now an emergency outfielder at best, and a DH at worst. The Yankees, for reasons I've explained, can't fit him on the roster in their current mind set. I don't necessarily agree, but that's how it is.

Rivera still has at least 3-4 years left in the tank. The Yankees are still trying to figure out who his successor will be...will it come from within? It could be Jose Veras, J. Brent Cox, or even Scott Proctor? Or will it come from the outside, like Francisco Rodriguez from the Angels, who becomes a free agent after 2007?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/12/07 11:30 PM

Yankees Facing Some Big Issues

Quote:
Source: USA Today

BY PETER ABRAHAM
STAFF WRITER


Pitchers and catchers report to Legends Field on Tuesday with the first full-squad workout coming a week later.

As is tradition, New York Yankees manager Joe Torre will address the players first and stress the team's pursuit of a championship.

It might be appropriate to gather everybody together for a photograph once the speech is finished. Just in case.

Torre is in the final year of his contract and barely avoided being fired last fall when the Yankees were eliminated from the first round of the playoffs by the Detroit Tigers. Now 66, Torre said last spring that he wanted to manage into his 70s. But his vast reservoir of good will has run dry with the Yankees not having won the World Series since 2000.

At the very least, Torre needs another American League pennant to earn an extension, if not another World Series championship. With Don Mattingly on the coaching staff and reigning National League Manager of the Year Joe Girardi in the broadcast booth, viable replacements are plentiful.

The future is uncertain for several players as well. The $252 million contract Alex Rodriguez signed seven years ago includes a clause allowing him to void the deal after this season. Rodriguez would be leaving $81 million on the table were he to bolt, but he could get that back and more, given baseball's new economic climate.

It's a tactic agent Scott Boras used with success this winter when he had outfielder J.D. Drew leave the Dodgers in favor of a new contract with the Red Sox. Rodriguez has said on many occasions he does not want to leave New York, but he has never gone against the advice of Boras.

The Yankees also go into the season knowing that closer Mariano Rivera and catcher Jorge Posada are in the final years of their contracts. The team is expected to offer both players extensions, but those negotiations may not take place until after the season, as was the case with Mike Mussina in 2006.

"It's a little strange to be in that situation," the 37-year-old Rivera said recently. "But it's part of the game. They know how I feel and that I want to stay. I'm not worried about it."

"A lot can happen," said Posada, who turns 36 in August. "We'll see. That will take care of itself. I'm concentrating on what I have to do."

General manager Brian Cashman doesn't believe the contract situations will be a distraction.

"They shouldn't be, everybody has a contract for this season and a job to do," he said. "If we have the kind of season we're capable of and expect, those things tend to get settled."

Cashman is far more interested in the composure of the pitching staff. The Yankees bid $26 million to obtain the rights to Japanese left-hander Kei Igawa with the intention of using him as their fourth or fifth starter.

Cashman also has collected a group of young right-handers who have been invited to camp and could figure into the team's plans this season.

They include former first-round pick Phil Hughes, who is considered the best pitching prospect in the game by most scouts. The Yankees also have Humberto Sanchez and Ross Ohlendorf, who were among the prospects obtained when Gary Sheffield and Randy Johnson were traded.

The Yankees even have Carl Pavano, who is finally healthy after missing 18 months with assorted injuries.

"There are options now and flexibility that we didn't necessarily have before," Cashman said. "That was my goal this winter, to give Joe more options. I have to think about pitching all the time because history says that is what will determine the season."


Much like Rivera, this is a no-brainer, Posada will get a nice package from the Yankees, considering he is the most consistent (surprise, isn't it?) offensive catcher in the league. At his age, he's still got a couple left in the tank, and they aren't much more solid than Jorge behind the plate. Until Venezuelan phenom Jesus Montero becomes old enough to play in the MLB (he's only 16 right now, but is projected to be a monster all-star catcher who can hit for power and play Gold Glove defense with a cannon arm), Posada will remain, and probably move to the backup role to usher in the era of Montero (widely considered the best Venezuelan prospect since Miguel Cabrera).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/12/07 11:36 PM

Hughes Could Be Ace of Yankees Staff; Pitching Prospect Preview

Quote:
Source: Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Citizen's Voice

BY CHAD JENNINGS
STAFF WRITER

With pitchers and catchers reporting to spring training this week, Times-Shamrock begins a series of stories each Monday looking at the candidates for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees inaugural season.

Nine logical candidates for five spots in the rotation. Our look at the Yankees Triple-A candidates begins with the position most difficult to predict.

Given the logjam of nearly major league-ready pitching talent in the Yankees system, the Triple-A rotation might not be decided until the final big league cut of spring training.

Headlining the Triple-A candidates is 20-year-old phenom Philip Hughes, who would be a lock to join the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre roster if not for his rapid assent toward New York. If there isn’t room for him in the Bronx, there’s no way he’s going back to Double-A Trenton, so he’ll be right here at PNC Field.

Beyond Hughes is — among others — a Double-A strikeout leader, two major league starters and three significant trade acquisitions. All strong candidates for a team that won’t have room for all of them.

Tyler Clippard

Pitching for Double-A Trenton last year, Clippard led the Eastern League with 175 strikeouts. It was his second consecutive season leading his league in strikeouts, and all those Double-A Ks came with 12 wins, a 3.35 ERA and the first no-hitter in Trenton franchise history.

At 21 years old, the right-hander is firmly entrenched in Hughes’ shadow, but Baseball America included him in its list of Top 10 Yankees prospects and noted that he profiles as a solid back-of-the-rotation starter in the big leagues.

Matt DeSalvo

A year ago, DeSalvo was nearly the shock of spring training when the unheralded, undrafted right-hander nearly pitched his way onto the big league staff. Instead, he wound up taking a minor league step backwards.

Signed as a undrafted free agent out of Marietta College in Ohio, DeSalvo dominated Class A and Double-A before his impressive 2006 spring training. Sent to Columbus to start last season, DeSalvo struggled and was sent down back to Double-A. This year, the 26-year-old, might be the longshot of this group to make the Triple-A rotation.

Steven Jackson

The least heralded of the three prospects acquired from Arizona in the Randy Johnson trade, 24-year-old Jackson was second in the Double-A Southern League with a 2.65 ERA last year. His record, however, was a less impressive 8-11.

A 10th-round draft pick in 2004, Jackson had been only so-so before last season, and despite such an impressive ERA last year, the group of Yankees Triple-A candidates is so strong that he might have to start this season in Double-A. If he proves last year wasn’t a fluke, though, Jackson could force his way into the Yankees’ Triple-A plans.

Jeff Karstens

This should be a fairly familiar name after Karstens pitched in eight major league games, including six starts, for the Yankees last season. He did pretty well with a 3.80 major league ERA, but there’s full slate of big league candidates heading to spring training and it’s hardly a sure thing that Karstens will return to New York to start the season.

Instead, the 24-year-old might start this year where he started a year ago. Last season, Karstens began the year in Triple-A Columbus and was demoted before putting things together in Double-A Trenton and returning to Triple-A before making his big league debut.

Ross Ohlendorf

Considered the 10th-best prospect in the Diamondback’s star-studded system, Ohlendorf was the top prospect the Yankees received in the Johnson trade. He was a fourth-round draft pick in 2004 and went 10-8 with a 3.29 ERA in Double-A Tennessee last season.

Along with Clippard, Ohlendorf might be the closest thing to a lock to join the Triple-A rotation.

He’s too big of a prospect to take a step back, but likely not yet ready for the big leagues. His power sinker could play well on PNC Field’s new grass field.

Darrell Rasner

Like Karstens, Rasner should be a familiar name to New York fans. He pitched six times for the big Yankees last season, building a 3-1 record and a 4.43 ERA.

Also like Karstens, Rasner is not guaranteed a spot in New York and could be back in Triple-A where he went 4-0 with a 2.76 ERA last year.

A former second-round pick of the Expos, the 25-year-old Rasner wound up being waived by the Nationals prior to last season and picked up by the Yankees. He could bounce back and forth from Triple-A to the major leagues this season.

Humberto Sanchez

The biggest concerns with Sanchez center on his durability and health. He missed significant time due to injuries the past two seasons, but when he’s healthy and pitching it’s hard to question his stuff.

Brought over in the Gary Sheffield trade, Sanchez was named the Yankees No. 3 prospect by Baseball America. He has a mid- to high-90s fastball and finished with a 1.76 ERA in 11 Double-A starts last year. Some reports consider him a fringe major league candidate, but the 23-year-old most likely will begin the season in Triple-A.

Steven White

Once considered among the Yankees’ brightest prospects, White’s stock has dropped the past two seasons. He struggled in Double-A in 2005, then dominated Double-A last year only to be promoted to Triple-A and struggle to a 4.71 ERA in Columbus.

That said, White’s still only 25 and as a former fourth-round pick could have the raw tools to eventually help in the majors. Because of the crowded group of Triple-A candidates, he could be forced back to Double-A this year. If he goes to Triple-A, White will have to prove himself to stay on the prospect map.




Learn these names...I suspect Hughes, Ohlendorf, White, and Sanchez could be staples of the Yankees rotation heading into the next decade, all lead by Chien-Ming Wang.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/13/07 06:50 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Or will it come from the outside, like Francisco Rodriguez from the Angels, who becomes a free agent after 2007?


Unfortunately, I'm sure the Angels know how valuable K-Rod is. I'm sure they'll resign him (they wouldn't want him staying in the AL if they didn't resign him)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/13/07 04:47 PM

Keep in mind Bartolo Colon, Scot Shields, Hector Carrasco, Juan Rivera, and Jose Molina will all have contracts due in 2007, besides K-Rod. They are bound to have money tied up in these other players, so the Yankees, given their solid financial situation, should have the money to lure K-Rod away from Anaheim.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/13/07 06:49 PM

True, but if I were the Angels, I'd first invest in K-Rod. Like I said, they know how valuable he is plus he's a young, proven closer (hard to find these days, just ask boston). As for the contracts, where do you find all of this information about who's contract expires when?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/13/07 07:41 PM

Yanks bring back Villone

TAMPA -- The Yankees added one more arm to challenge for a spot in their bullpen mix on Tuesday, signing left-hander Ron Villone to a Minor League contract with an invitation to Spring Training.

Villone, 37, is expected to compete with Sean Henn to be the second southpaw behind Mike Myers on the Yankees' relief staff. He will wear uniform No. 47.

A native of Upper Saddle River, N.J., Villone made a career-high 70 appearances with the Yankees last season, compiling a 3-3 record and a 5.04 ERA in 80 1/3 innings, walking 72 and striking out 51.

He had declined salary arbitration from the club in December, leaving him available to pursue offers as a free agent.

Since breaking into the Major Leagues in 1995, Villone has compiled a career record of 55-57 over 543 games with the Mariners, Padres, Brewers, Indians, Reds, Rockies, Pirates, Marlins and Yankees.

Source: Yankees

Well that answers my question. WOO HOO!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/13/07 08:14 PM

'Bernie should be here'
Rivera blasts Yankees for treatment of Williams


TAMPA, Fla. -- Bernie Williams isn't in Yankees camp. But whether he comes or not, it's obvious he's going to be an issue.

Mariano Rivera, the great Yankees closer who'd previously expressed dismay over the team's delay in extending his own contract, told SI.com on Tuesday that the Yankees should be treating Williams better.

Responding to a question about whether he's surprised that Williams didn't receive a guaranteed deal from the Yankees, Rivera responded, "Surprised? Yes ... I think Bernie shouldn't be treated that way. But who am I to say?''

Rivera had declined to discuss Williams' situation on Monday, when he expressed disappointment at having to wait to have his contract addressed since he told the Yankees weeks ago that he was interested in staying beyond 2008. However, Rivera made it clear in an interview with SI.com how he feels about Williams' plight.

"Bernie should be here with his bat,'' Rivera said, emphatically. "He had a great year last year, and he helped us a lot. I guess that's the business side of baseball.''

Without regard to sentimentality, the Yankees made a calculated choice to align their roster to contain 12 pitchers and three first basemen and only extend a non-guarantee, non-roster minor-league invitation to Williams, a Yankees icon. However, they risked upsetting a few longtime teammates of Williams's, particularly since he had a fine 2006 season, hitting .281 with 12 home runs and 61 RBIs.

While Williams has responded to questions regarding his situation in a circumspect manner, friends say he is very upset to be relegated to non-guaranteed and longshot status after having a terrific bounceback year in 2006. Asked how Williams is taking his plight, Jorge Posada said Tuesday, "What do you think about that?''

The problem is that some key Yankees decisionmakers feel that Williams is not equipped for a reserve role, saying that he's no longer above average defensively and that he couldn't excel as a pinch-hitter. Williams, though, did perform admirably as a backup last year even while learning a new position for him, right field.

The Yankees also had to know that with their decision they chanced upsetting the very players who led them to four World Series titles, and on Tuesday, Rivera became the first to express criticism of the team for the call. The decision regarding Williams may also have caused Rivera to possess and express anxious feelings regarding his own contractual situation.

On Monday, Rivera suggested dismay over a delay in his own talks and glumly spoke of baseball as a business. "I definitely want to finish my career here,'' Rivera told several New York writers on Monday, "but if they don't give me the respect I deserve ... I'm not going to stay at my house crying. I have to move on.''

Meanwhile on Monday, Rivera's longtime teammate, Posada, yet another great Yankee heading into the final year of his contract, expressed support for Williams without being critical of the team. "I'm a Bernie fan;'' Posada said. "He's done a lot for this organization, and we all know that.'' Posada expressed hope Williams would accept the minor-league invite but stopped short of criticizing the team for its decision.

Posada didn't discount the possibility that Williams' fate triggered Rivera's remarks concerning his own situation. "Yeah, it could happen with anybody,'' Posada said. "You hope it won't happen to Rivera.''

Yankees people were surprised at Rivera's remarks regarding his own talks on Monday, especially since Rivera, a supremely low-maintenance superstar, has hardly ever uttered a critical or anxious word during his reign as one of the greatest closers of all-time. Yankees decisionmakers view the situations of Williams and Rivera far differently, considering Rivera is still one of the top two or three closers in the game. Their position in the Rivera delay is that they were busy forming their team and that they will not only get to it soon but expect to get it done. The great likelihood is that the Yankees grant Rivera the two-year extension he seeks.

However, they don't discount the possibility that Williams' situation has affected Rivera's mood. And it surely has.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/13/07 09:31 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Yanks bring back Villone

TAMPA -- The Yankees added one more arm to challenge for a spot in their bullpen mix on Tuesday, signing left-hander Ron Villone to a Minor League contract with an invitation to Spring Training.

Villone, 37, is expected to compete with Sean Henn to be the second southpaw behind Mike Myers on the Yankees' relief staff. He will wear uniform No. 47.

A native of Upper Saddle River, N.J., Villone made a career-high 70 appearances with the Yankees last season, compiling a 3-3 record and a 5.04 ERA in 80 1/3 innings, walking 72 and striking out 51.

He had declined salary arbitration from the club in December, leaving him available to pursue offers as a free agent.

Since breaking into the Major Leagues in 1995, Villone has compiled a career record of 55-57 over 543 games with the Mariners, Padres, Brewers, Indians, Reds, Rockies, Pirates, Marlins and Yankees.

Source: Yankees

Well that answers my question. WOO HOO!


Great news. Another solid pitcher brings the Yankees even better bullpen positions in 2007. Villone, Proctor, Vizcaino, Britton, Bruney, Karstens, Veras, the Yankees have plenty of options for the 'pen.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/13/07 09:46 PM

Yeah, what they're doing to Bernie blows. No doubt. They've gotta get a handle on this before it fucks the team chemistry. They got rid of Sheffield and Johnson because they were cancers in the locker room. This could be worse.

Can't they just admit that Phillips and Phelps both suck, and Bernie should at least get a full shot at playing 1B? I mean, c'mon, his bat is still better than either of those two, and you've got Gold Glove Mientkeiwicz. I can't see what they hope to gain with a 30-year-old permanent prospect (even though I love A-Phil's defense) and a failed project in Phelps?

Although I may consider keeping Phelps since he can play catcher...who is going to be the backup, Todd Pratt?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/13/07 09:48 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Yanks bring back Villone

TAMPA -- The Yankees added one more arm to challenge for a spot in their bullpen mix on Tuesday, signing left-hander Ron Villone to a Minor League contract with an invitation to Spring Training.

Villone, 37, is expected to compete with Sean Henn to be the second southpaw behind Mike Myers on the Yankees' relief staff. He will wear uniform No. 47.

A native of Upper Saddle River, N.J., Villone made a career-high 70 appearances with the Yankees last season, compiling a 3-3 record and a 5.04 ERA in 80 1/3 innings, walking 72 and striking out 51.

He had declined salary arbitration from the club in December, leaving him available to pursue offers as a free agent.

Since breaking into the Major Leagues in 1995, Villone has compiled a career record of 55-57 over 543 games with the Mariners, Padres, Brewers, Indians, Reds, Rockies, Pirates, Marlins and Yankees.

Source: Yankees

Well that answers my question. WOO HOO!


Great news. Another solid pitcher brings the Yankees even better bullpen positions in 2007. Villone, Proctor, Vizcaino, Britton, Bruney, Karstens, Veras, the Yankees have plenty of options for the 'pen.


Note - if Henn can show even remote competency, wave goodbye to wannabe-LOOGY Mike Myers.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/13/07 09:51 PM

Thought this may interest some here, since I know the Yankees will be looking to acquire a big pitching star to replace Mussina within the next couple of years:

Zambrano to Cubs: "Sign Me Now Or I'm Gone"

Quote:
Source: ESPN.com

Carlos Zambrano has issued an ultimatum to the Chicago Cubs -- sign me now, or say goodbye when the 2007 season is over.


"Whatever happens, I don't want to know [anything] about a contract during the season. I want to sign with the Cubs before the season starts," the Cubs' pitching ace said in an interview on WGN-TV. "If they don't sign me, sorry, but I must go. That's what Carlos Zambrano thinks."

He also thinks he should get paid -- a lot. Zambrano and the Cubs are currently due to go to salary arbitration Feb. 20, with Zambrano seeking $15.5 million and the Cubs offering $11.025 million.

The Cubs spent lavishly during the offseason, forking over nearly $300 million to bring aboard Alfonso Soriano and Ted Lilly and re-sign Aramis Ramirez in an effort to turn around last year's NL-worst 66-96 record.

During the annual Cubs Convention, Zambrano, when asked whether he will test free agency next season, repeatedly said "This is a business" and noted that Barry Zito's seven-year, $126 million deal helped raise his value on the free-agent market.

"When you're a great pitcher and have talent, you deserve the money no matter who gives it to you," he said, according to the Tribune. "Zito is a great pitcher. Good for him he has that contract, and I think that will help me.

"[Cubs general manager] Jim [Hendry] spent a lot of money. I hope he has more for 'Big Z,'" he said, the newspaper reported.

Zambrano, who became the Cubs' staff ace when Kerry Wood and Mark Prior went down with injuries, went 16-7 with a 3.41 ERA in 2006. For his career he's 64- 42 with a 3.29 ERA in 977 innings.


Always a plus when a player refers to himself in 3rd person.

But hell...I thought if we got Santana it would be great, but could you imagine this killer rotation:

Santana
Wang
Zambrano
Hughes
Ohlendorf/Clippard/White



Scary good.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 04:19 AM

Torre wants to talk to Williams

TAMPA -- If Bernie Williams is intent on not attending the Yankees' Spring Training camp, Joe Torre at least would like to hear the outfielder's reasons.
Torre said he unsuccessfully is trying to reach Williams, 38, who told reporters last week he was not planning on accepting a non-roster invitation to camp. The manager said he left a message for Williams on Tuesday and also "five or six days" prior, with no response.

"I'd feel better if I was able to talk to him," Torre said. "I want to see what he's thinking, first. The whole thing about coming in as a non-roster [invitee], I'm sure you tend to feel slighted, because he's been here.

"There's no question. He's been a Yankee, he'll always be a Yankee and it's the only way you'll really look at him."

Last season, Williams logged 420 at-bats for the Yankees, finishing with a .281 average, 12 homers and 61 RBIs. He no longer appeared to fit into the club's plans over the winter, however, when the Yankees settled on carrying just four outfielders to accommodate a 12-man pitching staff and a platoon at first base.

Williams has been a mainstay with the organization and one of Torre's favorites, spending all 16 of his Major League seasons in pinstripes.

"It will be real weird not having him around," catcher Jorge Posada said Tuesday. "Not talking to him, it's going to be tough. We'll see what happens. We don't know what's going to happen yet. Bernie could still come. Anything can happen in Spring Training."

A corner locker in the Legends Field clubhouse previously occupied by Williams remained empty early Tuesday morning, with no nameplate affixed, but by mid-afternoon it had been assigned to Jose Veras, a 26-year-old relief pitcher. Williams' uniform No. 51 has not been issued.

Cashman previously has acknowledged that the Yankees' configuration does not offer a spot for Williams. Melky Cabrera has been slotted to back up outfielders Hideki Matsui, Johnny Damon and Bobby Abreu.

Cashman said he has had "a lot of dialogue" with Williams' agent, Scott Boras, over the last few months. Cashman noted the Yankees have no plans of rescinding their standing invitation to Williams until Sunday, the first day the 2007 roster will assemble as a whole.

"We'd love to have him," Cashman said. "I respect the fact that he's not interested in doing that. Other than that, there's not much more I can speak to."

While he has been unable to reach Williams recently, Torre said he spoke to the longtime fan favorite earlier in the offseason, before several meetings were cancelled by illnesses and Torre's lengthy Hawaiian vacation.

Describing Williams' state of mind as "uncomfortable" and "disturbed," Torre did not rule out the idea that Williams could wind up winning a roster spot and going north with the Yankees for Opening Day.

But Torre seemed to insinuate that if Williams rejects the team's offer, there would be absolutely no chance of a 17th year in New York.

"Who knows?" Torre said. "That's the one thing about being down here -- you don't know."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 04:21 AM

Torre focused on 2007, unsure of future

TAMPA -- After 11 years at the helm of the Yankees, Joe Torre knows the score. In his workplace, anything falling short of a World Series title will be considered in some corners as disappointment.
Such an instance nearly cost Torre his job last October, when the Yankees accepted their surprisingly early playoff exit at the hands of the Detroit Tigers.

Torre, 66, has returned to manage the final year of his contract, but he remains uncertain if he'll be in a dugout one year from now.

"I don't know yet," Torre said. "The way I feel now, I'd say yes. It's exciting. I'm looking forward to it, and every year is different. That keeps it stimulating."

Following a camp-opening organizational meeting of more than five hours Tuesday, Torre said he still embraces the challenges and experiences of coming to work with the Yankees.

He has tucked away the memories from last October, when Torre peered out the windows of his suburban Westchester County home, eyeing the assembled camera crews as reports swirled that his tenure as manager was about to end.

The sublime season ended after a brief waiting period when, eventually, principal owner George Steinbrenner delivered a phone call in which Torre's status was indeed deemed secure.

If not for the partial intervention of general manager Brian Cashman, Torre believes his dismissal could have become reality. That, along with several other factors, leads Torre to believe his relationship with Cashman is as strong as any general manager in his baseball past.

"I think Cash was a big reason why I'm still here right now," Torre said. "I think we're going to have to continue to be comfortable with each other."

Though Torre expressed surprise at how a mostly positive season had splashed his potential dismissal across the sports pages, he continues to evaluate the New York media bubble and expectations with expertise.

He also acknowledged the fact that emotion tends to rule a lot of baseball clubhouses. It is Torre's wide understanding of these facets, the Yankees believe, that will continue to make him an ideal candidate to pilot the club.

Had he been fired, Torre said he was confident he would have been able to find another job, but it couldn't have been the same -- not after 11 years with the Yankees.

"When you work here, where the requirements are what they are, you certainly don't take anything for granted," Torre said.


Even though the club's 97-victory season appeared to lose momentum halfway through the American League Division Series, Torre was satisfied with the collective effort put forth by his troops.

He also said the ongoing challenges and excitement of the campaign -- particularly filling holes due to injuries sustained by star players -- kept him energized.

Still, there always is the looming specter of October within the Yankees, the thought process that says this: If the team does not win 11 games in the postseason, bringing home a World Series title, the season has not been a success.

Torre points to a memorable quotation by basketball coaching legend John Wooden, who advised that those in charge of clubs cannot always control the outcomes.

"If getting to the World Series is the only reason that I'd be here, I can't control that," Torre said. "You wish you could."

The course of the upcoming season may do quite a bit to satisfy Torre's curiosity concerning his immediate future.

"I think I'd probably know during the year if it's as much fun as I hope it's going to be," Torre said.

At the Yankees' organizational meetings in New York in December, Torre relayed a conversation he had with Cashman.

Torre told Cashman he did not know how much longer he wanted to manage, and, for now, both parties have opted to look no further than the current campaign at hand.

"We had a conversation that he's looking forward to this year," Cashman said. "Obviously, we both are unsure what '08 brings. Let's do whatever we possibly can in '07. I know he loves what he does."

Torre said even if he does decide that life as the Yankees manager in 2008 is something he hopes to pursue, the lack of a contract past the current campaign would not be a hindrance.

Surely, Torre's own resume in the Bronx -- four World Series titles and 1,079 victories in pinstripes highlighting the achievements -- would speak for itself in that instance.

"They know what I do," Torre said. "Whether there's a contract involved or not, that's insignificant."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 04:23 AM

Cashman will speak with Rivera

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - Mariano Rivera spoke softly, and the New York Yankees got the message.

A day after the All-Star closer said "if they don't give the respect that I deserve, I have to move on," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said he intends to speak with Rivera — but would not necessarily offer a contract extension beyond 2007.
Rivera seldom says anything controversial, and his remarks dominated the back pages — and in one case, the front page — of Tuesday's tabloids in New York.

"Mo knows how we feel about him. We care a great deal about him. He's been a great Yankee," Cashman said Tuesday. "Obviously there's a contract in place that we worked out a while before. Let me talk to him first. In theory I would always prefer to wait. Right now I want to concentrate on '07 and worry about '08 at another time. When that time will be, that would be between me and Mo."

Rivera and catcher Jorge Posada are entering the final seasons of their contracts and are eligible for free agency after the World Series. Rivera will earn $10.5 million this season, completing a deal that pays him $31.5 million over three years.

"The Yankees always give me the respect," Rivera said Monday. "When the time comes, if they want me back, they want me back. Otherwise, I'm not going to sit in my house crying. I have to move on."

Cashman said the one time he spoke with Rivera during the offseason, the 37-year-old didn't bring up his contract situation. Rivera's agent and Cashman did have one conversation about an extension.

"Every situation has a proper time and a proper place," Cashman said. "My preference is to wait throughout the year on everybody, if I possibly can. We have a lot of people up. I'm going to talk Mariano first, have a conversion with him to see where he's at."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 11:58 AM

Here are my solutions:


  • Hand Mariano Rivera a blank check. Let him fill in the value. Pay him.
  • Joe: Get on the Bernie situation. Don't call him - call his agent, go to his house, set up a personal meeting. This stuff is going to destroy your clubhouse chemistry to start the season. If a guy like Mariano speaks out...who never does...you're in serious trouble.
  • Torre will close out his Yankees career this year. If he wins the World Series, it will be a triumph, and he'll retire. If not, he may just retire anyways. Either way, when you've got the NL Manager of the Year in your broadcast booth, Don Mattingly as your bench coach, Tony Pena at 1B coach, and Larry Bowa as 3B coach, the Yankees are not short on quality coaching talent.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 12:02 PM

Storylines Plenty As Yankees Open Camp

Quote:
Source: Scranton, PA Times-Tribune

BY CHAD JENNINGS
STAFF WRITER
02/14/2007

Down south, just a few miles from the Gulf of Mexico, snow is a myth. Sunshine and baseball are reality.

Northeast Pennsylvania might have spent Tuesday preparing to shovel driveways and scrape windshields, but in Florida, the Yankees spent the day preparing for another season.

Tuesday was the official spring training report date for Yankees’ pitchers and catchers, so no matter what the weather outside tells us, it’s time to think about baseball.

For the most part, this is a remarkably familiar group of Yankees convening at Legends Field in Tampa. The outfield and all but one of the infield front runners are returning starters, the top three spots in the rotation are basically set in stone with familiar faces and Mariano Rivera is back to close games.

Key jobs, though, are still up for grabs, particularly in the bullpen and at the back of the rotation.

With pitchers and catchers already in camp, and the team planning its first full-roster workout for February 20, these are the Yankees’ major league spring training storylines worth following.

Fourth and fifth starters

For now, it seems Kei Igawa and Carl Pavano are the heavy front runners for the back of the rotation, but neither is a sure thing. Igawa was signed out of Japan and will be playing his first season in America. Pavano is trying to come back from a series of injuries that forced him to miss all of last season.

Igawa’s adjustment and Pavano’s health are arguably the most pressing issues in Yankees camp.

If either struggles, the Yankees will have a host of Triple-A candidates to consider for the big league rotation, primarily prospects Philip Hughes and Humberto Sanchez.

For now, though, the jobs are Igawa’s and Pavano’s to lose.

Pettitte’s return

A steady starter and postseason juggernaut for the Yankees for nine years, left-hander Andy Pettitte is back in pinstripes after three years in Houston. There will be no shortage of love tossed toward the remarkably popular southpaw.

Although his 4.20 ERA last season was his worst since 2000, Pettitte is basically guaranteed a spot at the top of the rotation with Chien-Ming Wang and Mike Mussina. The only real question surrounding those three is whether they can pitch well enough to carry a rotation that might be lacking in the fourth and fifth starting spots.

Bullpen wide open

After Rivera, the Yankees have plenty of relief options, and on Tuesday they added one more to the mix by signing lefty Ron Villone to a minor league contract.

Counting Rivera and Villone, the Yankees have 14 pitchers in camp who pitched in major league relief last season. They likely will carry seven in the bullpen.

Villone joins Mike Myers and Sean Henn as left-handed options. Brian Bruney, Kyle Farnsworth, Scott Proctor and Luis Vizcaino seem to be the front-runners from the right side. Injury is all that would keep Rivera from returning to his role as future Hall of Fame closer.

Another name to know is Chris Britton, who was acquired from Baltimore in the offseason trade for Jaret Wright. Last year the 24-year-old had a 3.35 ERA in 52 relief appearances for the Orioles.

First base platoon

For now, it seems the Yankees are set on carrying two first basemen, not counting Jason Giambi, who is penciled in strictly as a designated hitter.

Newcomer Doug Mientkiewicz, a defensive stalwart, will serve as a left-handed hitting portion of the first base platoon along with one of two right-handers, either returning Yankee Andy Phillips or Rule 5 draft pick Josh Phelps.

Phillips turns 30 in April and should be considered the favorite after serving as a solid reserve for the Yankees last season, but Phelps is a year younger and actually has more than twice as many career major league games to his credit. With 57 big league home runs, Phelps has enough power to crack the roster, but Phillips seems to be a better defensive player.

Any surprises?

Maybe not, but if a minor league candidate bursts into the big league picture, it will be huge news.

Right now, the only real position battles seem to be for a seldom-used backup catcher and for that right-handed first base platoon spot. Otherwise, it’s going to take outstanding numbers for a position player to jump onto the radar.

Some possible candidates: Outfielders Kevin Reese and Kevin Thompson hit well as Yankees reserves last year but seem headed back to the minors if the team carries only one reserve outfielder, and shortstops Andy Cannizaro and Alberto Gonzalez are extreme longshots to beat Miguel Cairo for the utility infielder job.

Money, money, money

Rivera and Alex Rodriguez are guaranteed spots on the big league roster, but be prepared to hear plenty about Rivera’s pending free agency and Rodriguez’s option to opt out of his contract after this season.

That’s the price of doing business.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 08:44 PM

Yankees Rivera On Contract Status: "I'm Not Upset."

Quote:
Source: Lower-Hudson Journal

By PETER ABRAHAM

TAMPA, Fla. - Mariano Rivera understands why the Yankees may wait until after the season to discuss a contract extension. But if he does get to free agency, the Yankees should not expect any special consideration.

"Everybody would have the same shot," Rivera said earlier today at Legends Field. "The Yankees would not have an advantage. Everybody would have a free shot."

The Yankees retain Rivera's rights for 15 days after the final game of the World Series and would try to reach an agreement during that time.

That was the route general manager Brian Cashman took with Mike Mussina last fall. By waiting to commit the money, the Yankees can ensure that Rivera is healthy and productive.

Rivera is now 37 and appeared in only four games last September because of an arm injury. Tests taken last fall were negative and Rivera said he feels strong. But there already are plans to limit Rivera to one inning per appearance.

Cashman called Rivera on Tuesday night to discuss the situation.

"I don't know what's going to happen. All I can tell you is that I'm going to focus on this year and at the end of the year we'll see what happens," Rivera said. "They made a decision, I don't have to make a decision. I'm fine, definitely. I'm fine. I have no worries at all. I'm not upset either. I want to make that clear."


It's fairly obvious that he's pissed. Again, lock him up now for another two years at whatever he wants.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 08:48 PM

Rivera Has No Problem Leaving Yankees

Quote:
Source: Newsday

BY JIM BAUMBACH

February 14, 2007, 2:04 PM EST
TAMPA, Fla. -- Mariano Rivera said today he plans to test the market if they don't sign him to an extension by the end of spring training, and vowed to give the Yankees no homefield advantage if he becomes a free agent next winter.

"The Yankees will not have an advantage," he said. "Everyone will have a shot."

Rivera said general manger Brian Cashman called him last night, but never mentioned anything about waiting until the offseason to negotiate his new deal, as Cashman told reporters earlier Monday. That gave Rivera hope it could happen during camp.

But Rivera insisted his camp will not make the first call; they've already tried that. His agent, Fernando Cuza, called Cashman at the start of the offseason and requested that they get a new deal done by the start of spring training -- or table talks until after the season.

Rivera obviously is not sticking with that self-imposed deadline, saying today that if the Yankees called, he would certainly listen. But he adamantly insisted he would not negotiate once Opening Day (April 2) passes. "I just want to make sure when the season starts, I am 100 percent mentally and physically prepared for the season," he said.

Cashman is expected to address reporters later this afternoon.

Rivera is entering the final year of a three-year, $31.5-million contract signed during spring training in 2004. Today, he reiterated his goal of pitching for the Yankees in the new stadium, which opens in 2009, but also added he would not hesitate to walk if it came to that.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 08:49 PM

Torre Plans To Manage After '07

Quote:
Source: Associated Press

TAMPA, Fla. -- Joe Torre sat behind the manager's desk, and George Steinbrenner was surrounded by cameras as he limped down the tunnel outside the clubhouse at Legends Field. The Yankees were back in business Tuesday, opening spring training after another of their typically tumultuous offseasons.

After Detroit eliminated the Yankees in the first round of last year's playoffs, Torre wasn't sure he'd be allowed to return for a 12th season as manager. But Steinbrenner was persuaded to keep him on for the final season of his contract, and Torre sounded open to managing beyond 2007.

"I don't know yet. The way I feel now, I say yes," he said. "It's exciting. I'm looking forward to it. Every year is different, and that's what I think keeps it stimulating."

Torre will earn $7.5 million the final season of a three-year deal that paid him $6.7 million in each of the previous two years.

"Is there pressure on me because I don't have a contract?" he asked out loud. "No more pressure, my mind, than there always is, as far as I'm concerned."

He led the Yankees to four World Series titles in his first five seasons, but they haven't won one since 2000. They haven't even been to the Series since 2003, a failing that dwarfs their accomplishment of nine consecutive AL East titles.

In a job in which the only total that counts is World Series championships, Torre realizes he has no "safety net." Still, he has not concerned himself with asking Steinbrenner or general manager Brian Cashman for an extension.

"I have not talked about it. I have not inquired about it," he said. "I think I'd probably know during the year if it's as much fun as I hope it's going to be or I expect it to be."

The 66-year-old New Yorker with the weathered face -- who has earned a spot alongside Joe McCarthy, Miller Huggins and Casey Stengel as the team's most successful managers -- still sounds bewildered when thinking back to what happened last October, when camera crews camped outside his house in suburban Westchester. He knows Cashman is his biggest ally.

"I think Cash was a big reason why I'm still here right now," Torre said.

During a 34-minute talk with reporters two days before the opening workout, he addressed all the usual concerns of Yankees fans: the status of Bernie Williams, who hasn't accepted the team's offer of a minor-league contract; the tumult surrounding his decision to drop Alex Rodriguez to eighth in the batting order during the final game of the playoff loss to Detroit; and the need for Carl Pavano to gain the confidence of his teammates. Torre said he plans on limiting Mariano Rivera, whose elbow was tender late last season, to the ninth inning.

Before dropping in on the latter stages of Torre's 5½-hour staff meeting, Steinbrenner walked from the lobby to the clubhouse, almost like a perp walk past cameras. Dressed in a striped shirt and Yankees windbreaker, he favored a knee, looked pale and gave short answers to questions -- his longest reply was five words.

• Asked whether he was saddened by Williams' absence: "That's up to Cashman."

• What were his thoughts on 2007? "We're trying for it."

• Does Torre have to "win it" this year? "No."

• What does he expect from the team? "We're going to do well."

• Does he feel good about the team? "Yeah, sure."

• Is it good to have Andy Pettitte back? "It's great having him back."

Torre said he'd been trying to contact Williams, who hasn't accepted the Yankees' offer of a minor-league contract. Torre sounded open to the possibility of the outfielder playing his way back onto the team during spring training.

"Who knows? That's the one thing about being down here," Torre said. "You don't know. You're going to leave here with the team that you want to go north with."

A few minutes earlier, Cashman talked about Rivera. On Monday, the All-Star closer said he would wait for the Yankees to come to him about a contract extension. Rivera, who rarely says anything controversial, is eligible for free agency after the season and he said "if they don't give the respect that I deserve, I have to move on."

"Mo knows how we feel about him. We care a great deal about him. He's been a great Yankee," Cashman said. "Obviously there's a contract in place that we worked out a while before. Let me talk to him first. In theory I would always prefer to wait. Right now I want to concentrate on '07 and worry about '08 at another time. When that time will be, that would be between me and Mo."

Torre later recounted a story about Rodriguez, who didn't drive in a run in the series against Detroit and is 4-for-41 (.098) without an RBI in his last 12 postseason games dating to 2004.

"I went to my daughter's soccer game one day and the opposing team, one of the kids came over and asked about him batting eighth," Torre said.

"Alex has that aura about him, that he needs to be what I'm not sure anybody can be on a regular basis," Torre said before adding that A-Rod's lack of success in the postseason "weighs heavy on him."

Torre expects Pavano, who has been sidelined by a series of ailments since June 2005, will be a part of the starting rotation. He does think the pitcher must reconnect with his teammates.

"To me, you can't get commitment unless you get trust, and I think it's something you have to earn," Torre said. "You earn it by being reliable and, as I say, being there on an everyday basis for your teammates to feel your support."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 08:51 PM

Where Will 'Rocket' Land?

Quote:
Source: MLB.com

HOUSTON -- It's easy to recite that old cliche that there are only two things guaranteed in life -- death and taxes. But in baseball terms, there are two more elements that fit the bill: pitchers and catchers reporting to Spring Training, and Roger Clemens keeping everyone guessing on his future.

This year is no different. Certain to hold off the retirement announcement for a third year, Clemens, although yet to say it publicly, is most certainly heading back to the mound at some point this year. It's a matter of where he wants to pitch, and while 30 teams would be crazy not to be interested, it's going to come down to three teams that he's quite familiar with: the Astros, Yankees and Red Sox.

Each team offers something unique that could lure the Rocket. The Astros have the "home field" advantage, considering he's a native Houstonian. The Yankees have the baseball tradition and the drama that Clemens craves. And Boston is where it all began for Clemens 23 years ago, and finishing there would bring things full-circle as well as mend all fences that broke down when Clemens departed the Red Sox organization in 1996.

If Clemens knows where he's headed, he's not letting on, and according to comments he's made in the recent past, he won't make any kind of decisions or announcements until after the season starts.

At first glance, it would appear the Yankees may have the advantage. His good friend Andy Pettitte re-signed with New York in December, and the Yankees clearly want the Rocket back in the fold. It's likely he'll be looking for the "full-court press" they gave Pettitte. And, as history shows, what the Yankees want, the Yankees usually get.

The Astros seemingly want Clemens back, too, but the blank-check theory may not be in effect in Houston. Asked recently about the club's feeling about luring Clemens back to the Astros, club owner Drayton McLane's comments were far from the "whatever it takes, we'll do it" attitude they've had in the past.

"We'll have to look and see what the package is," McLane said. "We have had to build the team without Roger. If we had saved for Roger, and then he wasn't able to come and we didn't find that out until May, that certainly would have put us way behind.

"We already built the team, and we've got a $95 million payroll. We'll have to look at the time when [Clemens' agents] come to us and see if they're ready to go, if that's appropriate."

The Red Sox appear to have some degree of interest in Clemens, but their desire to bring him back is not as strong as it was in 2006. Their pitching staff is stacked this year with Curt Schilling, Josh Beckett, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Jonathan Papelbon and Tim Wakefield, with Jon Lester and Matt Clement waiting in the wings. That means if Clemens were to sign on, a capable Major League pitcher would have to be traded or moved to the bullpen just to make room for him.

Clemens' desire to start late in the season, however, may increase Boston's interest, because by Opening Day, there will be a better read on the health of the six existing starters and just how badly (if at all) Clemens is needed in Boston. Besides, the Red Sox already have two pitchers over 40: Wakefield and Schilling.

April and May could very well be a tryout period for the three clubs. Clemens' recent comments suggesting that playing for a non-contender was a "waste of time" for him strongly hints that the 44-year-old will not join a struggling team halfway through the season.

But that raises another question: Is a 60-game sampling enough of an indicator of how a team will finish in the standings? In 2005, the Astros surely appeared to be going nowhere after a 15-30 start after seven weeks, and they wound up in the World Series. And the Red Sox were in first place last year at the All-Star break and trade deadline, but did not make the postseason.

Clemens will have an up close and personal view of how one team is progressing this spring, considering he's planning to spend extensive time with his son, Koby, a third baseman in the Astros' system. The Minor League side will hold a mini-camp prior to players reporting to Spring Training, which means the elder Clemens could be in Kissimmee right around the same time Major League position players report.

"I'll be on those back fields, and if our big league guys need some batting practice, I'll be doing that too," Clemens said recently at the Astros' Elite Pitching Camp.

The weeks Clemens spends at Spring Training will provide the perfect opportunity to get into playing shape, and the Astros will have to accept that Clemens may be using that time to get ready to pitch elsewhere. They insist that whatever he decides to do will not create any tension during Clemens' post-playing career, at which time he'll begin a 10-year personal services contact with the Astros.

But until Clemens declares he intends to play, the three interested teams can only sit by and wait.

"They have said they will let us know when they're ready to talk," McLane said. "Hopefully the time comes when they're ready. We're ready to talk."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 08:57 PM

More Spring Training photos, courtesy of Yahoo! and the AP.


Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 09:00 PM

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Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 09:04 PM

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Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 09:10 PM

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Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 09:13 PM

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Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 09:15 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 09:16 PM



Newsday


Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/14/07 09:21 PM

Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 03:11 AM

Thanks for the pics, DJ. Who is the young boy with Jeter, aside from the luckiest kid on earth??
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:08 PM

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Thanks for the pics, DJ. Who is the young boy with Jeter, aside from the luckiest kid on earth??


These kids (who I think range in ages 10 to mid-teens) won a contest to practice with Derek Jeter.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:17 PM

It's Hard To Say Goodbye To Bernie

Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

Thursday, February 15, 2007
BY DAN GRAZIANO

When the Jets told Joe Klecko he was done and he didn't agree, he went to play somewhere else.

He wishes he hadn't.

"When you grow up with one team and then go to another, you don't really understand it until you get there," said Klecko, a lifelong Jet who left to play for the Colts in 1988, after the Jets told him his knees were shot. "It's not the same. I played the whole season, but my heart wasn't in it."

Klecko, now 53, was looking back on that memory the other day because he was asked about Bernie Williams, the lifelong Yankee who doesn't appear to have a spot on the 2007 team. Klecko doesn't know Williams, but he's a baseball fan, and he knows enough to understand what's going on.

"That's almost exactly what happened to me, huh?" Klecko said. "I really believe there's only one person who knows (when you're done), and that's you. Whether you're fooling yourself or not is a different story."

The place at which the Yankees have arrived with Bernie Williams is not uncharted. It's one of the tougher spots in professional sports. How do you tell a legendary player -- a franchise icon, in this case -- that he's done when he doesn't think he is? How do you tell your fans he's done when they want to see more of him? What are you supposed to do?

It's a difficult situation, and not just for the player or the fans. It's tough on the team, too.

"I don't think general managers are totally devoid of sentimentality, or emotion, or what's right for their organization's culture and fan base," Arizona Diamondbacks GM Josh Byrnes said. "But by nature, I think we have to be a little less emotional and a little more pragmatic in situations like those."

Byrnes isn't far removed from a similar situation. Late last season, he had to call Luis Gonzalez into his office and tell him the Diamondbacks wouldn't be bringing him back for 2007.

Gonzalez was 39 years old and moving toward the end of a season that would see him post his lowest home run total (15) since 1997. Yes, he would end up with 52 doubles. Yes, the fans loved him. Yes, his was the hit that famously won the 2001 World Series against the Yankees and Mariano Rivera. Yes, he was a powerful charitable presence in the community.

But he was also getting old, and the Diamondbacks had to make room for top young outfield prospects Carlos Quentin and Chris Young. And so Gonzalez, whether he and the fans liked it or not, had to go.

"It's extremely difficult," Byrnes said. "He's unquestionably the most popular player in the history of our franchise. But if it gets to a point where a player's not performing the way he used to and then playing-time issues arise with young players that you're trying to build around for your future, that's a situation where nobody benefits. That's what you have to guard against."

In Williams' case, the Yankees are determined to carry 12 pitchers and two first basemen (in addition to Jason Giambi, who will be a full-time designated hitter). That leaves room for only four outfielders -- starters Hideki Matsui, Johnny Damon and Bobby Abreu, plus reserve Melky Cabrera. The Yankees offered Williams a non-guaranteed contract and an invitation to spring training, but so far he has not accepted it. Last week, he said he probably would not.

That means Williams' career could be over, or that he could play for a different team than the one that signed him in 1985. And while those are painful possibilities for Williams and his fans to consider, that's basically the way it goes.

"You can have personal feelings, but you separate yourself," Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski said. "You're a human being, and you understand people's feelings, but you still have to do what's best for your ballclub."

The example Dombrowski cited came in the wake of the 1997 World Series title he won as GM of the Florida Marlins. Dombrowski said he formed a special attachment to the players but that he had to trade them because ownership ordered him to slash payroll so the team could be sold.

"It was not easy to pick up the phone and tell those people they had been traded, or that they were going to be traded at that point," Dombrowski said. "But that was a case where you had to do it because it was dictated to you by your ownership. So there are a lot of different reasons it could happen, but what it comes down to is, you have to separate yourself from the emotional aspect of it to do your job."

That's the situation in which Yankees GM Brian Cashman finds himself now -- and he's not likely to be the only one. As players are playing to an older and older age, there are more players than ever who will be determined to hang onto their careers longer than their teams might want them to. And as salaries are skyrocketing, more and more teams are looking to fill those fourth-outfielder spots with young, cheap players such as Cabrera rather than older, more expensive veterans.

"Newer guys are coming in, but the old guys aren't going out as willingly," said Gregg Clifton, an agent whose clients include Gonzalez as well as the seemingly ageless David Wells. "There are bound to be a lot more situations like this."

Gonzalez, who played with three different teams before he became a Diamondback, has moved on. He signed with the Dodgers this winter. Williams has dropped the occasional mild hint about possibly playing elsewhere, but it's unclear how serious a possibility that is. Right now, Williams is dealing with the emotional part of not feeling wanted by the team for which he's played his entire career and won four World Series titles.

"We play a game because it allows us to stay little kids," Klecko said. "Bernie's 38, so it allowed him to stay a kid for 20-something years. That's what it does for us. We feel like we're owed, maybe, but you're not. You played. You've made a lot of money. Now, the latter part of your career, it becomes a very tough emotional time for all of us, as players."

Klecko may not have been as great, or as famous, or as decorated as Williams is, but he was a beloved Jet. And in that respect, he knows what Williams is going through. But if Williams is thinking about playing for another team, Klecko might just advise him to think again.

"It's very hard to go to anybody else at this stage," Klecko said. "It wasn't in me. There's a time when you wake up in the morning and you want to get it done, but it's just not there."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:19 PM

Jeter Doubts Bernie Will Show Up

Quote:
Source: Newsday

BY JIM BAUMBACH AND KEN DAVIDOFF

February 15, 2007
TAMPA, Fla. -- Derek Jeter is one of the few Yankees who managed to reach Bernie Williams lately, and the captain said yesterday he doesn't think Williams will be with the team in spring training.

"From what I understand, he's not coming. From what I've heard," Jeter said. "Whether he changes his mind or they change their mind, I have no idea. But as far as I know, he's not coming."

Williams, who presumably is at home in the New York area, said last week he was leaning toward declining the Yankees' non-roster invitation. Pitcher Jose Veras is already using what has long been Williams' locker here.

Williams, of course, could change his mind. Joe Torre is one of his biggest supporters and has reached out to him twice in the past week. Torre even said Monday that Williams would have a shot to make the Opening Day roster.

Williams also has the support of his most influential teammates.

"Bernie had a good year last year," Jeter said. "He wasn't expected to play much last season, and then because of injuries, he found himself in the lineup a lot. He did a great job. He did an outstanding job. I don't know what the numbers are. I don't know what the situations are. But I wish Bernie was here."

Mariano Rivera also has reached out to Williams recently but hasn't spoken with him. "I've been trying," he said, "but no luck."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:21 PM

River Offers Zambrano's Ultimatum: Sign Me By The End Of Spring Training Or Else

Quote:
Source: Newsday

BY JIM BAUMBACH

February 15, 2007
TAMPA, Fla. -- If the Yankees don't sign Mariano Rivera to an extension by the end of spring training, their longtime closer vowed yesterday to give every team an equal shot to sign him.

"The Yankees will not have an advantage," he said.

Speaking softly and confidently for about 10 minutes in front of his Legends Field locker, Rivera reiterated his strong desire to remain a Yankee and was adamant he is not upset.

But Rivera also made it clear the Yankees should not take his words lightly.

When asked if he could picture himself wearing another uniform, he said, "I don't, but if I have to, I have to do it."

Brian Cashman called Rivera Monday night to talk about his uncharacteristically strong comments, and the Yankees general manager left the conversation confident Rivera understood his stance.

"I don't feel there is an issue here," Cashman said.

Cashman said he explained to Rivera that he doesn't want to deal with contracts until they expire, and Rivera is no different.

"I told him what my preference is," Cashman said. "My preference is, right now it's 2007 and we're focusing on the '07 situation. It's very hard, despite how great Mariano is, to all of a sudden pick and choose who to start discussing contracts with."

Rivera added, "They'll make the decision. They have to do what they have to do. I have to play my season and wait for them."

But Rivera seemed to hold out hope that a deal still could be done, and he said he'd be willing to talk about an extension until the end of camp as long as the Yankees make first contact. But he stressed he would not negotiate during the season.

Although Cashman did not rule out signing Rivera to an extension in spring training, he strongly expressed his preference to wait until after the season to negotiate.

"At the end of the day I think it's a lot simpler to handle," Cashman said.

"The Yankees are very good at writing the checks. I personally have done every one of Mariano's contracts and I've never had a problem. We've always found common ground."

But Rivera's previous two extensions were negotiated in spring training, and he has never been a free agent.

If Rivera gets that chance next winter, he said he plans to test the open market, a possibility that can't sit too well with Yankee fans.

"I don't know what's going to happen," Rivera said.

"All I can tell you right now is that I'm going to focus on this season, and at the end of the year we'll see what happens. The Yankees know me. They know what I want to do. I want to remain a Yankee."

And the Yankees to a man expect Rivera to stay in pinstripes, even if the contract isn't finalized until after the season.

"I don't anticipate Mariano ever being anything but a Yankee," Cashman said.

Derek Jeter added, "Mo ain't going anywhere. Mo will be right here next year. Where's he going to go?"

Then Jeter said, "I'm just playing."

Rivera, however, is not kidding these days. When asked if he thought the Yankees are waiting until the offseason so they can make sure he stays healthy, he said, "Maybe they're thinking that. Maybe they think they have to wait for me to be healthy. But I'm good. I don't have to prove to nobody. I'm fine."

With the memory of Rivera's elbow injury from September still fresh, the Yankees enter spring training with the intention of viewing Rivera as a one-inning pitcher only.

But he disagreed, saying, "I will never think one inning."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:26 PM

Yankees Cash Cow Drying Up

Quote:
Source: Newsday

by Shaun Powell

February 15, 2007
For decades they've given us a weird contrast: a rich company located in one of the poorest neighborhoods in the country. Predictably, their priorities were hardly a match. While the South Bronx suffered from decay, the Yankees lived by caviar standards. The Bronx craved money; the Yankees gave money away.

Well, the times they are a-changin', and while the Yankees are hardly pleading poverty today, they're suddenly looking at price tags before they open their wallet. The days of the impulse purchase and egotistical buys and trophy hunts are apparently over. This is no longer a team that an agent can love.

In a few years, who knows, the payroll might slip into a size 8. That's the direction the Yankees are headed as they begin to shift into a period of fiscal responsibility by cutting payroll, not to the level of Alex Rodriguez's playoff batting average, but in that general area.

The trick for general manager Brian Cashman is to do this without dropping in the standings or insulting those players who helped make the Yankees winners. He must locate the next great Yankees while making tough decisions on the Yankees who aren't so great anymore. He must be willing to pay for the next Mariano Rivera while resisting any urge to overpay the current Mariano Rivera. It all comes down to money, obviously, which no longer will be spent so freely and stupidly anymore in the Bronx.

This financial game of chance will be every bit as interesting as the game played on the field. It will dictate the Yankees' philosophy as they move further away from the spend-at-all-cost mentality of George Steinbrenner, whose grip on the franchise is loosening every year. It will send a message to current Yankees along with potential Yankees. Mostly, it will be an attempt to return to the good old days, circa 1996, when the Yankees won games with a leaner and younger lineup.

That Yankees team won a championship without paying out a pinstriped ransom for it. They were mainly built through smart trades and free-agent signings, with the right mix of role players who came up big when it counted and a sprinkling of young and cheap players fresh from the farm. It's the kind of team St. Louis used to win the World Series last season and the White Sox the year before that. Actually, with the exception of the 2004 Red Sox, every World Series champion that followed the 2000 Yankees managed to win without maxing out their credit cards.

That hasn't been lost on Cashman as he begins to form the Yankees with a more frugal touch. Basically, don't expect the Yankees to give $15 million to 40-year-old pitchers or 38-year-old outfielders. Randy Johnson and Gary Sheffield were lucky enough to cash in while the getting was good in the Bronx; others won't be so lucky, if Cashman sticks to his plan. The biggest sign that a new day has dawned in the Bronx came this winter, when the Yankees didn't sign a single high-profile Scott Boras client. Now that's showing restraint.

Over the next few years, they'll need to show more strength when decisions are due on the players who helped win four titles in five years. And if Cashman is smart, he'll put sentiment aside when talking contract with Rivera and Jorge Posada. To an extent, Cashman is doing this with Bernie Williams. The Yankees gave Williams roughly $90 million in his last deal. They owe him nothing except a great farewell day at Yankee Stadium. And if Rivera's demands are unreasonable come November, then the Yankees must make a tough decision with him, too. When a team puts one player above the franchise, then in most cases, the franchise is doomed.

Every current player who was on the roster in 2000, the year of the last Yankees' title, is living quite nicely today. Jeter is $190 million richer. Posada, Rivera and Williams all received contracts bigger than the Royals' payroll. Pettitte went to Houston for his money, and now has returned to the Yankees for more. Everyone made a ton of "respect," to borrow a phrase from Rivera.

After failing to win a championship for the sixth straight year, the Yankees are done with spending more money; they just want more to show for it.


Except, retard, the Yankees still have virtually an open-ended salary purse, and guys like Rivera and Posada still have position-player usefulness to the team. It's night and day differences between the Bernie situation and the Rivera/Posada ones.

Put one player above the franchise? Let's think. If Rivera doesn't pitch for the Yankees, they don't many of the playoff games they've won since '96. Rivera is the backbone of this franchise, they depend on him more than anyone else (even Jeter). So give him a check, have him fill in the amount, and then sign it. Pay the man. Now.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:28 PM

Rare Yankee Phenom Hughes Is The Real Thing

Quote:
Source: Newsday

by Ken Davindoff
February 15, 2007

TAMPA, Fla. - For the first time in this mass-media era, the Yankees have themselves a phenom. Someone who has generated widespread excitement before he ever sets foot in a major-league ballpark.

"I kind of get that sense, somewhat," Phil Hughes, 20, said yesterday, speaking of his fan following.

For this, you can thank (or blame) a perfect storm of circumstances. Consider:

Since the Yankees took Derek Jeter in the 1992 amateur draft, not one of their top picks has played for the big-league club.

The 2007 Yankees' starting rotation appears thin, in terms of major-league experience.

Hughes, the 23rd overall selection of the 2004 draft, is indeed great - the best pitching prospect, many believe, in all of baseball.

Consequently, we have a situation in which people - some fans, some media, perhaps even some team officials - will be clamoring for Hughes each time Kei Igawa or Jeff Karstens pitches poorly. The challenge with Hughes will be for the Yankees to balance their short-term needs against their long-term ambitions.

"In a perfect world, theoretically, I'd love him to take the ball every five days in [Triple-A] Scranton, and then we'll see where he's at, at the end of the year. Maybe a September call-up," GM Brian Cashman said. "But that's in theory. Practically speaking, we'll have to wait and see where it goes."

Said Bill Masse, who managed Hughes last year at Double-A Trenton: "I'm pretty sure that if they let him pitch in the big leagues this year, he would be one of their five starters."

Masse, now managing the Blue Jays' Double-A club in New Hampshire, said, "I've never seen anyone dominate like he dominated Double-A last year," and the numbers back that up. You strike out 138 and walk 32 in 116 innings, and you'll get noticed. This space was fortunate enough to witness Hughes' start in the Eastern League semifinals - six innings, 13 strikeouts, one walk. Incredible.

The Yankees let Hughes throw six innings because it was the playoffs. For the roughly three months prior to that, he was limited to five innings or 80 pitches, whichever came first.

"He was pitching so deep in games [at the start of last year]," Cashman said. "He was piling up so many innings that he got to the point where you were projecting he would have too many. We had to cut it back."

"I was fine with it," Hughes said. "Obviously, I wasn't going to go out and throw 200 innings-plus. I think the way they handled it was fine."

Hughes threw 152 innings in 2006, including the playoffs, and Yankees senior vice president of baseball operations Mark Newman said last month that the righthander would be targeted for 175 to 180 this season.

As much as they want to protect Hughes, however, the Yankees eliminated a buffer when they traded Randy Johnson to Arizona. Regardless of your feelings about the Big Unit, that propelled Hughes up the Yankees' depth chart.

Cashman disagrees, saying, "Now I've added more guys to be in a position to help give me depth." Citing Humberto Sanchez, Karstens, Ross Ohlendorf, Steven Jackson, Darrell Rasner, Steven White and Tyler Clippard, besides Hughes, he said, "All of these guys are supposed to be in the position to help pick up the slack. Who emerges, I can't tell you. But that was the purpose of it, that there would be strength in numbers."

It clearly excites Yankees fans to have so much pitching potential in this camp, and yet the wise ones also know that potential doesn't win a World Series. When rookies perform like Justin Verlander or Francisco Liriano, it's awesome. When they perform like Ed Yarnall and Randy Keisler ... not so much.

Hughes at least acts as if he's not caught up in all of this.

"Whatever the plan is for me, is fine," he said. "I'm still fairly young, so I have to wait. I've got to pay my dues."

The Yankees' season will dictate whether the rest of us prove as patient.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:30 PM

Yankees Notebook: Hughes Not Making Pitch For Rotation, Pettitte Says Clemens Will Play in 2007

Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

BY ED PRICE
February 15th, 2007

TAMPA, Fla. -- Here's who isn't hyping Phil Hughes: Phil Hughes.

Hughes -- he prefers Phil to Philip -- is regarded as one of baseball's top pitching prospects. And even though Yankees executive Mark Newman recently gave Hughes a shot at making the roster out of spring training, Hughes yesterday downplayed that chance.

"I'm not coming in here aggressively, like, fighting for a rotation spot," he said, "because there's not one really open. It's just one of those things where I can come in, get ready for the season and then go from there."

Asked about Newman's comment, a nonplused Hughes said, "You can't really rule anybody out for any spot."

The projected rotation includes Chien-Ming Wang, Mike Mussina, Andy Pettitte, Kei Igawa and Carl Pavano. But as manager Joe Torre has pointed out, four of those five have had recent health issues. (And the fifth, Igawa, has never pitched in the U.S.)

Hughes, a right-hander who turns 21 in June, split last year between Class-A Tampa and Double-A Trenton. In 21 starts for the Thunder, he was 10-3 with a 2.25 ERA, striking out 138 while allowing 73 hits in 116 innings.

Concerned about his workload -- Hughes, a first-round pick in 2004, entered last season with just 91 1/3 pro innings -- the Yankees handled him gingerly down the stretch. Hughes was allowed to pitch no more than five innings in each of his final 11 starts, including being removed Aug. 24 without having allowed a hit.

Andy Pettitte said he expects Roger Clemens to pitch this season but won't be lobbying Clemens to rejoin the Yankees.

"Usually when me and Roger get together, Roger talks," Pettitte said upon reporting to camp. "There's nothing I've got to say. He knows how I feel about him, I know how he feels about me, and really that's it. He knows whoever he adds himself to, he'll be an unbelievable help to the team."

Clemens, who will turn 45 in August, has said if he pitches this year it will be for the Yankees, Boston Red Sox or Houston Astros.

Pettitte underwent elbow surgery in 2004 and, because of the elbow, seriously considered retirement before signing with the Yankees (two years, $32 million guaranteed, with 2008 a player option).

Judging by his comments yesterday, Pettitte seems to feel the elbow will always be a concern.

"I just try to get out there, you know what I'm saying?" he said. "I just try to get out on the mound and make my starts. Whether I feel bad or good, however my elbow feels, really doesn't matter. Whatever I've got that day, I just go with it.

"I feel good, and I feel like I'm going to be strong and I'm going to hold up. Or I wouldn't have done this."

General manager Brian Cashman said that because of the surgery, Pettitte's elbow was judged to be in better shape now than when he left after the 2003 season.

"The elbow is something he's had to deal with for quite some time," Cashman said. "There is risk associated with him. ... I don't think anybody can tell you that he's definitely going down or that he won't go down again."

Right-hander Ross Ohlendorf, acquired from Arizona in the Randy Johnson deal, said his younger brother, Chad, will follow in his footsteps and pitch for Princeton.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:33 PM

Yankees Ask To Play First MLB Game in China

Quote:
Source: Bloomberg.com

By Danielle Sessa

Feb. 15 (Bloomberg) -- The New York Yankees want to play Major League Baseball's first game in China, team president Randy Levine said.

Levine and General Manager Brian Cashman were among Yankees officials who visited China last month to form a partnership with the Chinese Baseball Association that will help coaches and players learn about the sport.

The earliest a game might be played in the most populous country is 2009, because the stadium to be used won't be available until after the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, Levine said in a telephone interview yesterday. He said the Yankees want to play a regular-season game there, with a season-opener a possibility.

``We are open to going over and playing in China, whether it's opening or not,'' said Levine, who added he has informed MLB and the Chinese Baseball Association about the club's interest.

Paul Archey, baseball's senior vice president for international business operations, didn't immediately return a call for comment. Baseball spokesman Pat Courtney didn't immediately return a message on his mobile phone.

Baseball, which opened preseason training camps this week, has started its season overseas four times, twice in Japan and once each in Mexico and Puerto Rico.

U.S. sports are trying to capture the attention of the more than 1.3 billion people living in China, where soccer is the most popular game.

The National Basketball Association has played preseason games in China and the National Football League will stage a preseason game there in August. Baseball opened a Beijing office in January.

Olympics Preparations

Levine toured the baseball stadium under construction for the Olympics and said it's important the ballpark be maintained after the Games.

``Major League Baseball and all of the clubs have an obligation to make sure that the stadium stays,'' he said. ``You need a venue to play games.''

Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig said at last month's owners meetings he's ``anxious'' to open a season in Europe, though baseball hasn't been able to find a proper venue. Selig said the sport would be ``very aggressive'' in China and that talks are taking place about playing games there.

The Yankees played the 2004 season opener in Tokyo against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and New York would rather not go back to Japan, Levine said.

``I'd leave that to baseball,'' he said. ``They probably prefer having teams that haven't been there go, and that is what I think should probably happen, too.''
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:35 PM

Maybe Pettitte Can Help Pavano

Quote:
Source: Hartford Courant

By DOM AMORE, Courant Staff Writer
February 14th, 2007

TAMPA, Fla. -- Andy Pettitte and Carl Pavano went to the outfield to play catch Wednesday. It seems like Pavano has spent most of his two years with the Yankees playing catch in the outfield, but this had the potential to be a most valuable session.

"You've got to trust me," Pettitte told Pavano at one point, "because you need somebody to talk to."

Maybe personality had nothing to do with the Yankees' decision to bring Pettitte back, but if it was a sensible baseball and business decision, it also figures to pay dividends on the human side. Pettitte, a mainstay in the Yankees rotation in 1995-2003, knows his way around the clubhouse, and his way with people could be what Pavano needs to repair his career.

"I know he's frustrated; just from talking to him I can see that," said Pettitte, who re-signed with the Yankees after three years in Houston. "When you're not healthy you're going to be frustrated, and sometimes you have trouble competing through situations like that. I wanted to let him know, `I'm here. I'm on your side. ... I'm your teammate. We're family here.'"

Pavano, who spent the offseason at a training complex in Arizona, has been throwing off the mound and today will join the starting pitchers in the first session in the bullpen at Legends Field. This is a far cry from where Pavano, 31, was last February, when a back injury forced the Yankees to shut down the former Southington High pitcher for nearly the entire spring.

When he was close to coming back in May, bone chips in his elbow cropped up and required surgery. When he was about to return in August, it was revealed that he had broken two ribs in an auto accident and more controversy ensued.

Pavano, who signed a four-year, $40 million contract after the 2004 season, missed most of his first Yankees season with a shoulder injury, so he has not pitched for them since June 27, 2005. The perception has grown that Pavano just does not want to pitch in New York, and teammates now have a we'll-believe-it-when-we-see-it approach.

Late last season, manager Joe Torre called for a greater commitment from Pavano. During the winter, pitcher Mike Mussina said Pavano would have to "earn the trust" of the other players, some of whom plastered headlines from the accident, including "Crash Test Dummy," in his Yankee Stadium locker while he was away.

"I have to make it work, it's not `if,'" Pavano said. "I have two years on my contract. This is the only place I want to be. I wanted to be a Yankee all along. It would be easy to say I made a mistake coming here, but this could have happened anywhere. I don't like the perception that my teammates don't like me, that we don't communicate. I just didn't think they needed to be involved in my problems. I've tried to handle them myself."

Pavano does not plan to make a speech at the first team meeting today, and Torre said he won't encourage him to do so, but the healing process could begin with Pettitte's help, given his clubhouse stature.

"I'm going to be looking for someone to work out with," Pettitte said. "Roger [Clemens] isn't here. I know [Pavano] can't run much because of his back, but I was talking to him about the offseason and he's been working hard. He's got great stuff and he's a big, strong guy. We've got to help each other."

Pettitte, 34, came up through the Yankees organization and won 149 games for them, plus 13 in the postseason. If Pavano, who was 24-12, plus two postseason wins, in his last 11/2 seasons with the Marlins, is another pitcher who goes bust after coming to the Yankees, Pettitte is an example of the few who thrive on the pressure of pitching in New York.

"I want to start building relationships with all the guys who weren't here before I left," Pettitte said. "You know, I'm the kind of guy that likes to build relationships. I made some good friends here, and some good friends with Houston. I want to let people know I'm ready to go out and battle. I wouldn't have done this if I didn't think I could pitch. I don't want to go through the agony of feeling like I let people down because I can't toe the rubber."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:37 PM

Waiting Game Begins For Torre, Yankees

Quote:
Source: The New York Times

By TYLER KEPNER
Published: February 14, 2007

TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 13 — George Steinbrenner shuffled down the AstroTurf carpet that covers the concrete walkway to the Legends Field clubhouse. Steinbrenner, the Yankees’ principal owner, wanted to sit in on Manager Joe Torre’s first meeting with his coaches.

In the past, Steinbrenner might have marched in, gesturing confidently while predicting a championship. But there was none of the old gusto on Tuesday. He tried to shoo away cameras and seemed uncertain with his answers to questions. He mumbled a few words and lurched away.

Clearly, it was not the same raging Steinbrenner of popular caricature. One answer might have been revealing, or it might have been meaningless. When asked if Torre “had to win” this season, Steinbrenner replied in a word: “No.”

The fiction around the Yankees is that Steinbrenner, 76, demands a championship every season. The Yankees have lost 10 of their last 13 playoff games over the last three years, yet Steinbrenner has retained Torre every winter.

Now, Torre is in the same position as some of his stalwart players: like Mariano Rivera and Jorge Posada, he is unsigned past this season.

Torre, 66, did not sound ready to retire. But he made no promises, either.

“I don’t know yet,” he said, when asked if he wanted to manage in 2008. “The way I feel now, I’d say yes. It’s exciting. I’m looking forward to it. Every year is different and that’s what keeps it stimulating.”

Torre said he had not thought at all about initiating talks on a new contract. He spoke with Steinbrenner after flying here Monday, but did not speak to him during the lengthy coaches meeting.

“I think I’d probably know during the year if it’s as much fun as I expect it to be,” Torre said. “It’s the challenge, the excitement. I was pretty proud of what we did last year. Sure, it ended abruptly, and you can’t control it.”

The Yankees’ playoff series with the Detroit Tigers ended in just four games. The Yankees then traded two starters from that series, Randy Johnson and Jaret Wright, as well as the slugger Gary Sheffield.

They have a standing offer to Bernie Williams to return on a minor league deal, although Williams does not have an obvious spot on the 25-man roster.

“We’d love to have him,” General Manager Brian Cashman said. “I respect the fact he’s not interested in doing that.”

Williams’s corner locker was given to a young pitcher, José Veras, but Posada said Williams had not ruled out accepting the offer. Torre said he would keep trying to reach Williams by phone, but he could offer no guarantees.

“Obviously, he has to know he’s got to come in here and make the team,” Torre said. “That’s something he’s never had to do before.”

Torre said he would limit Rivera to pitching only the ninth inning, a sign that the Yankees want to protect an arm that needed three weeks of rest last September. That is one reason the Yankees see no urgency to address Rivera’s wish for a contract extension.

“My preference is to wait until the end of the year,” Cashman said. “We have a lot of people up. But I have to talk to Mariano. I talked to him once this winter, and this subject didn’t come up.”

Another sensitive issue is the clubhouse credibility of Carl Pavano, who has not pitched for the Yankees since June 27, 2005, because of a series of injuries. Pavano threw at the minor league complex on Tuesday, but he must regain the trust of his teammates, who questioned his competitiveness last season.

“I think it’s sizable,” Torre said, referring to the work Pavano must do in the clubhouse. “I don’t think it’s all based on results, either. I think it’s based on being here every day and being part of it, and that’s something that sort of got disconnected.”

Pitchers are scheduled for physicals on Wednesday, with the first formal workout on Thursday. Torre said he had nothing he needed to speak about with Alex Rodriguez when the full roster reported next week.

Torre dropped Rodriguez to eighth in the lineup for the final playoff loss in Detroit. Rodriguez went hitless in the game and finished 1 for 14 in the series.

Torre did not talk with Rodriguez over the winter, but he heard plenty about the lineup. It was such a hot topic, Torre said, that an opposing player at his daughter’s soccer game even asked about it. He was ready for the question on Tuesday.

“Do I know where he’s going to hit? No, not yet,” Torre said, smiling. “It won’t be eighth.”

INSIDE PITCH

The left-hander Ron Villone re-signed with the Yankees on Tuesday and said he expected to compete to be the second left-hander in the bullpen. “I wouldn’t come here unless there was an opportunity,” said Villone, who is not on the 40-man roster but will earn $2.5 million if he makes the team. Villone made a career-high 70 appearances last season, but his effectiveness waned under a heavy workload in August. He said he turned down multiyear offers from other teams. ... The Yankees did not assign No. 30 out of respect for pitcher Cory Lidle, who died in an October plane crash. ... Proof that spring training is big business: The Yankees are installing three rows of premium seats behind home plate at Legends Field. The cost of a box of eight a year is $22,800, an average of $190 a ticket over the 15-game spring schedule.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:40 PM

Pettitte Feels At Home With Yankees; Yankees Honor Lidle

Quote:
Source: Lower-Hudson Journal

By PETER ABRAHAM
February 15, 2007

TAMPA, Fla. - Andy Pettitte reported to Legends Field yesterday and took a long look around the clubhouse.

"Everything is so much the same," the left-hander said. "It's Groundhog Day, almost."

In that movie, cranky weatherman Bill Murray had to repeat the same day over and over again until he mended his wayward ways. Pettitte's déjà vu is the result of having rejoined the Yankees after three seasons with the Houston Astros.

Pettitte didn't have to take a physical, having done so in December when he signed a one-year, $16 million deal to return to the Yankees. But he showed up anyway.

"That first day with Houston was gut-wrenching; I didn't know (any)body," said Pettitte, who spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Yankees. "But this is so comfortable, which it should be."

In an appropriate twist on Valentine's Day, Laura Pettitte called her husband's cell phone as he was being interviewed. His ring tone was the song "I'm So In Love With You."

Pettitte, slightly embarrassed, took the call.

"I told her before I get to the ballpark, I should get rid of that ring tone," he said.

Pettitte recently bought a home in Purchase, just down the street from where he lived in 2003, when he last played for the Yankees.

Laura and his four children will move there in April.

"It's like we never left," he said. "Everything is the same as it was."

The final piece of the puzzle would be a reunion with Roger Clemens. The 44-year-old free agent is working out and is expected to sign with the Yankees, Astros or Red Sox in May or June.

Pettitte won't recruit Clemens to return to the Yankees. He doesn't think he has to.

"Me and Roger don't talk an awful, awful lot but when we do get together, he does a lot of talking," Pettitte said. "I won't say anything. There's nothing I've got to say. He knows how I feel about him."

Wang ready: Chien-Ming Wang reported to camp well into a throwing program. He spent four weeks with personal trainer Brett Fischer in Phoenix.

"I've been in the bullpen six times," said Wang, who won 19 games last season and finished second in the Cy Young voting. "Everything is good."

Extra bases:
The Yankees will wear a black band on the left sleeve of their uniforms in memory of Cory Lidle. The right-hander was killed in a plane crash on Oct. 11. The team also does not plan to assign his No. 30 this season. ... Derek Jeter said he spoke with Bernie Williams and doesn't believe the outfielder will accept the team's offer of a minor-league deal. "He's not coming, from what I understand," Jeter said. ... Humberto Sanchez is listed at 6-foot-6, 270 pounds. But the rookie right-hander who was acquired from Detroit in the Gary Sheffield deal said he is closer to 250. "I feel great," said Sanchez, a native of the Bronx. "It's kind of a dream, come true to be in this room with the Yankees."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 12:42 PM

Rivera Upset Yankees Not Negotiating

Quote:
Source: Lower-Hudson Journal

By PETER ABRAHAM
February 15, 2007

TAMPA, Fla. - Mariano Rivera understands why the Yankees plan to wait until after the season to discuss a contract extension. But if the legendary closer does get to free agency, the only team he has ever played for should not expect any special consideration.

"Everybody would have the same shot," Rivera said yesterday. "The Yankees would not have an advantage. Everybody would have a free shot."

That is welcome news to the Red Sox and any other team without an established closer. But the Yankees are banking on Rivera wanting to stay in New York. They also retain his rights for 15 days after the final game of the World Series and would try to reach an agreement during that time.

"I don't anticipate Mariano never being anything but a Yankee," general manager Brian Cashman said. "We love Mo. He knows that, he knows how we feel. ... I don't think this is as big an issue as it's being played out to be."

Rivera was uncharacteristically irritated as he discussed his contract status on Monday. Cashman called the right-hander on Tuesday night after reading his comments and came away optimistic.

"I've personally done every one of Mariano Rivera's contracts and never had a problem," Cashman said. "We've always had common ground. We've always been fair and respectful, and he has been back. We've never had an issue. But I believe there's a time and place for everything."

The 37-year-old Rivera appeared in only four games last September because of a muscle strain near his right elbow. Tests taken last fall were negative, and Rivera said he feels strong. But there are plans to limit Rivera to one inning per appearance this season.

By waiting to commit the money, the Yankees can ensure that Rivera is healthy and productive.

"All I can tell you is that I'm going to focus on this year and at the end of the year we'll see what happens," Rivera said.

Rivera spoke in conciliatory tones regarding his conversation with Cashman and said several times that he is not upset with the GM or the Yankees.

But as he is on the mound, Rivera was ruthless behind a calm exterior. If the Yankees want to discuss an extension, they'd better do so soon. That door slams shut once the regular season starts.

"I won't be talking," Rivera said. "I would say to wait until the end of the year because that would be a distraction. That's how I work."

Rivera has been one of the key players of the Joe Torre dynasty, saving 413 games and dominating the postseason. His last contract extension came during spring training in 2004.

"I don't know what they're thinking now," Rivera said. "This is a business, and I cannot control what they do. They're going to do whatever they're going to do. On my behalf, all I have to do is make sure I stay healthy and help the team as much as I can."

As Rivera and other pitchers reported for their physicals, Derek Jeter worked out across the street at the minor-league complex. Asked about the idea of Rivera leaving, the team captain laughed.

"Mo will be here next year," Jeter said. "Where's he going to go? ... I'm just playing. But I'm sure it will work out."

The Yankees have no closer on the horizon. Current set-up man Kyle Farnsworth closed for the Braves over the final two months of the 2005 season, but wears down easily.

"You can't replace a guy like Mo," catcher Jorge Posada said. "He's the best ever at what he does."

It would be unsettling to Yankee fans to see Rivera pitching for another team. Even Rivera admitted that he could not imagine such an outcome. But he held the possibility open.

"If I have to, I have to do it," he said. "I'm not going to sit home crying."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 05:16 PM

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 09:13 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Andy Pettitte said he expects Roger Clemens to pitch this season but won't be lobbying Clemens to rejoin the Yankees.
[/quote]

This is what is pissing me off about Andy. When he went to Houston 3 years ago, what did he do? He lobbied for Clemens to come out of "retirement" and join him (and he did). Andy goes back to New York and KNOW he doesn't want to lobby him. HYPOCRITE!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 09:38 PM

I don't think you can be mad at Andy now...I mean, c'mon...the Yankees screwed him in 2004, and picked Randy Johnson. Big mistake. Clemens was going to the Astros anyways, since he'd already "retired" from New York.

In this case, I don't think Pettitte has any say, nor would his lobbying do any good. Clemens will do what his "heart" and the money dictate.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 09:47 PM

Torre To Bernie: "We Want You"

Quote:
Source: Associated Press

By RONALD BLUM, AP Baseball Writer
February 15, 2007

New York Yankees' Bernie Williams walks off the field after batting practice before a Major League Baseball game against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in this April, 27, 2006 file photo, at Yankee Stadium in New York.
AP - Feb 13, 7:43 pm EST
More Photos

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Joe Torre spoke to Bernie Williams and the message from the New York Yankees manager was clear: Come to spring training.

Williams, feeling slighted by the only major league team he's played for, has thus far refused to accept a minor league contract. After Torre left some telephone messages, the 38-year-old outfielder called back on Wednesday afternoon.

"The only thing I stressed to him yesterday is: `If you want to continue to play, you can't do it if you stay up there. We have to see you,"' Torre said Thursday.

Torre said that if Williams does come to spring training, he would have a real chance of earning a spot on the Yankees' 25-man roster

"It doesn't mean you have to hit .400," Torre said. "I think it's what you see more so than what the numbers are."

Williams has been one of Torre's favorites and helped the Yankees win four World Series and six AL pennants. Williams said last week that he was leaning against accepting the minor league contract but said he hadn't made up his mind.

"Yeah, it would be tough for me if you had to say goodbye," Torre said. "I sense he feels confident that he can still play this game."

Williams lost his starting job in center field to Johnny Damon last year. Because of injuries to Hideki Matsui and Gary Sheffield, Williams played a lot and hit .281 with 12 home runs and 61 RBIs in 420 at-bats.

New York doesn't currently have room for Williams because it plans to carry 12 pitchers, use Jason Giambi as a designated hitter and platoon Doug Mientkiewicz at first base with either Josh Phelps or Andy Phillips.

"If we see Jason as a first baseman, that all of a sudden opens up a spot," Torre said.

Torre spoke with Williams for about 20 minutes and planned to talk with him again in the next day or so.

"It's tough for him to feel wanted if it means getting spot on the 40-man roster at this point in time because there's no room," Torre said.

"I think we have to think more in terms of: `You come down and compete for a job and don't worry about the numbers,"' he said.


Stop all of this fucking around. Cashman locked Bernie out when he signed Mientkeiwicz and then told everyone they were going to platoon Doug Alphabet, Phelps or Phillips. You guys need to either convert Bernie to 1B (the sooner the better) or tell him he's gone. That's it.

And as far as Mariano goes, I realize you guys want to see what this year brings, but c'mon, you know better than anyone his conditioning. He's going to keep pitching beyond this year, and he's going to be dominant, even if he slides a bit over the next two seasons. Finding closers who can consistently succeed in the AL is next to impossible nowadays. SIGN HIM NOW!!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 09:51 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 09:54 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 09:56 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 09:56 PM

BTW - Whoever keeps rating this thread low? Grow up.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 10:58 PM

Steinbrenner's Yankee Heir Arrested For DUI

Quote:
Source: Rotoworld.com

Yankees general partner Steve Swindal was detained early this morning in Florida under suspicion of DUI, according to WFAN. He reportedly apologized profusely once released.

Swindal is George Steinbrenner's son-in-law and is the top candidate to take control of the Yankees once Steinbrenner's reign is over. There's also been some controversy lately about Swindal's future with the team given his stake in Excelsior Racing Associates, which is bidding for three New York racetracks and eyeing the inclusion of video slot machines. Of course, MLB dislikes any ties with casino gambling.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 11:01 PM

Williams Ordered to Spring Training

Quote:
Source: Shortnews (news.yahoo.com)

Bernie Williams has been told to go to spring training with the New York Yankees, despite the 38-year-old refusing to sign a contract with the club that would see him play in the minor leagues. Williams has only ever played for the Yankees.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 11:03 PM

Torre Urges Williams To Attend Spring Training

Quote:
Source: Associated Press

By RONALD BLUM,
Thu Feb 15, 2:50 PM ET

TAMPA, Fla. - Joe Torre spoke to Bernie Williams and the message from the New York Yankees manager was clear: Come to spring training.

Williams, feeling slighted by the only major league team he's played for, has thus far refused to accept a minor league contract. After Torre left some telephone messages, the 38-year-old outfielder called back on Wednesday afternoon.

"The only thing I stressed to him yesterday is: `If you want to continue to play, you can't do it if you stay up there. We have to see you,'" Torre said Thursday.

Torre said that if Williams does come to spring training, he would have a real chance of earning a spot on the Yankees' 25-man roster

"It doesn't mean you have to hit .400," Torre said. "I think it's what you see more so than what the numbers are."

Williams has been one of Torre's favorites and helped the Yankees win four
World Series and six AL pennants. Williams said last week that he was leaning against accepting the minor league contract but said he hadn't made up his mind.

"Yeah, it would be tough for me if you had to say goodbye," Torre said. "I sense he feels confident that he can still play this game."

Williams lost his starting job in center field to Johnny Damon last year. Because of injuries to Hideki Matsui and Gary Sheffield, Williams played a lot and hit .281 with 12 home runs and 61 RBIs in 420 at-bats.

New York doesn't currently have room for Williams because it plans to carry 12 pitchers, use Jason Giambi as a designated hitter and platoon Doug Mientkiewicz at first base with either Josh Phelps or Andy Phillips.

"If we see Jason as a first baseman, that all of a sudden opens up a spot," Torre said.

Torre spoke with Williams for about 20 minutes and planned to talk with him again in the next day or so.

"It's tough for him to feel wanted if it means getting spot on the 40-man roster at this point in time because there's no room," Torre said.

"I think we have to think more in terms of: `You come down and compete for a job and don't worry about the numbers,'" he said.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/15/07 11:32 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
BTW - Whoever keeps rating this thread low? Grow up.


What do you mean
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/16/07 02:59 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: Double-J
BTW - Whoever keeps rating this thread low? Grow up.


What do you mean


Look at the thread rating (i.e. 'stars'). I know I gave this thread 5 stars when the boards switched to the new software. For awhile, it's been down to two stars. Today, it's now down to one star.

I realize that the thread rating system is supposed to be something that reflects the quality of a thread, but I suspect that in this case, it is more personal animosity or anti-Yankee than it is someone actually reading the thread, since very few non-Yankee people actually visit this thread until the season starts.

According to the mouse-over, 5 people have rated this thread. I know I gave it 5 stars. So the other four must have given it pretty crappy ratings (either one or two stars) to justify its current rating.

So poo on them.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/16/07 03:08 AM

Yankees' Mussina Critical of Teammate Pavano

Quote:
Source: Associated Press

TAMPA, Fla. -- Carl Pavano and Mike Mussina pitched off adjacent mounds in the bullpen as the New York Yankees started spring training workouts Thursday.

A short while later, Mussina said the oft-injured Pavano isn't in sync with his teammates just yet.

"He needs to show a lot of people that he wants to go out there and pitch for us. If he shows us that, I think everything is going to be fine," Mussina said.

Pavano hasn't pitched in the major leagues since June 2005 because of shoulder, back, buttocks, elbow and rib injuries. Entering the third season of a $39.95 million, four-year contract, the 31-year-old right-hander has made just 17 starts for the Yankees, going 4-6 with a 4.77 ERA.

On Tuesday, when asked how much work Pavano had to do to regain the trust and respect of his teammates, Yankees manager Joe Torre responded: "It's sizable."

"Joe obviously has his opinions on it," Pavano told reporters. "I didn't come in here nervous that my teammates are going to oust me or give me the cold shoulder. I know that definitely there's respect to be earned. Other things that were said, I think were just things that you guys are having a lot of fun with."

Mussina, the senior pitcher in the Yankees' starting rotation, took issue with that, saying the chasm was real and not just a media creation. Sitting in his corner chair in the clubhouse at Legends Field, taking pauses to phrase his words precisely, he spoke of the frustration he has felt.

"He's only looking at it from his perspective. We're looking at it from our perspective, those of us that have been through both years. We want him to go out there and show that he wants to do this," Mussina said. "It got to a point where we just didn't even want to hear about it or talk about it anymore."

The extent of how much Pavano must do to regain respect was evident when Mussina was asked whether he would give Pavano the benefit of the doubt that he's going to do all he can to pitch.

"No, not just yet. Not yet, no," Mussina replied. "I want to see that he wants to do it."

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has repeatedly said that all of Pavano's injuries were legitimate. But while Pavano wasn't pitching, center fielder Johnny Damon, first baseman Jason Giambi, Mussina and others played hurt.

"When one guy is out there playing the game despite whatever is going on and somebody else is not, that's how teammates get bad tastes in their mouths," Mussina said. "As another starting pitcher, who hasn't been 100 percent for all of the last two years, I know what it takes to be able to go out there and pitch, and I know when you can't go out there and pitch. And sometimes it's a fine line, but I think after 15 years I kind of know where the line is."

Pavano says that one injury led to another and that he finally feels well after working out with a new trainer in Arizona during the offseason. Some of his teammates kept pointing out that each time it appeared he was close to being ready to pitch in the major leagues, another injury occurred.

"I'm looking at from a perspective of just the way each thing happened and the timing of it and just piecing all those things together," Mussina said. "You get to form your own evaluation. It didn't look good. From a player's and a teammate's standpoint, it didn't look good. Was everything just coincidence over and over again? I don't know."

Taking his regular turn in the rotation would solve Pavano's problem with his teammates.

"If he does those things, eventually it's going to show everybody that he wants to be out there pitching for us," Mussina said.

On that, they agreed:

"Obviously, I've got to go out there and pitch. Other than that, I don't think there's really much left to do," Pavano said. "I know a lot of these guys obviously are frustrated. I think it's more of a compliment. They're frustrated because they know I can help them, and I haven't been able to do that."

As always, Yankees captain Derek Jeter was circumspect. Asked whether Pavano needed to regain trust and respect, he answered as if he were a diplomat.

"I wouldn't necessarily say that. You want him to be healthy," Jeter said. "He just has to go, prove he's healthy and go out there and pitch. Then he'll be fine."

After watching Mussina, Pavano, Andy Pettitte, Chien-Ming Wang and Kei Igawa pitch for eight minutes each, Torre said Pavano would have to learn to compete again in game situations.

"I think that's going to take a special preparation and focus, but again that's what spring training is for," the manager said. "Certainly can't do it in the bullpen."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/16/07 04:43 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: Double-J
BTW - Whoever keeps rating this thread low? Grow up.


What do you mean


Look at the thread rating (i.e. 'stars'). I know I gave this thread 5 stars when the boards switched to the new software. For awhile, it's been down to two stars. Today, it's now down to one star.

I realize that the thread rating system is supposed to be something that reflects the quality of a thread, but I suspect that in this case, it is more personal animosity or anti-Yankee than it is someone actually reading the thread, since very few non-Yankee people actually visit this thread until the season starts.

According to the mouse-over, 5 people have rated this thread. I know I gave it 5 stars. So the other four must have given it pretty crappy ratings (either one or two stars) to justify its current rating.

So poo on them.


How do you vote? I've seen the stars but I've never known how to vote since we switched to the new site. And yes, if it does only have 1 star than people need to grow up. That's pretty poor since You, SB, Geoff and a few others are really the only "regulars" in this thread
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/16/07 01:24 PM

You rate threads at the top of the thread (next to topic options & new reply) by clicking on the windowpane, selecting a rating, and submitting it.


And yes, I typed this with my Wii...
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/16/07 06:51 PM

I think that problem with Pavano and the rest of the team has to do with trust. After the accident last year, and the way he tried to hush it up, I think that did a lot of damage. I heard that the rest of the team cut out the newspaper headlines like "Crash Test Dummy" and decorated his locker. OUCH!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/16/07 08:26 PM

Loved Mike Francesca's rant today on Mike and the Mad Dog today...

Keep in mind, I'm paraphrasing, but..."When did everyone in the media become so concerned about the Yankees pocketbook? Now they're talking about fiscal responsibility, with Mariano Rivera, the arguably the greatest closer of all time, only Bonds has been more consistent over the last ten years...don't tell me how he's going to break down, you're going to be hoping all season he doesn't break down to save a buck? How many guys have we paid millions of millions to and have been horrible? Pavano? Wright? Rivera is a sure thing! How many people would flip for joy if we paid Roger Clemens $4 million a month from July through October, but we can't pay Rivera?!? I don't understand it...why would you put him through this this season? Why take the risk of having him sign with someone? Boston just paid...we just paid $40 million to a guy we've never seen! Boston is going to pay a guy they've never seen for $100 million! Do you think that, if they lost to the Yankees in the playoffs this year, they'd spare any expense in signing the greatest closer of all-time! And don't give me this crap about ticket prices. Hello, supply and demand. Paying Mariano Rivera $30 million isn't going to make the prices go up, you've got people in-line to get in-line for these tickets, the Yankees prices are dictated by demand! Do you realize the fan revolt that would happen if they didn't sign Rivera?"

Always fun to listen to Francesca, at least he's a Yankees fan who knows where his bread is buttered...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/16/07 08:33 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/16/07 08:37 PM

Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/16/07 09:20 PM

I agree with Franc then, DJ. I just don't get the Yankees in their dealing with Rivera.

He's reliable, and most of all, he's earned his fucking butter for what he's done for the Yanks. Pay him the damn money.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 04:02 AM

Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
I agree with Franc then, DJ. I just don't get the Yankees in their dealing with Rivera.

He's reliable, and most of all, he's earned his fucking butter for what he's done for the Yanks. Pay him the damn money.


I agree. I'm shaking my head. Ultimately, I know Mo's not going anywhere and would be more concerned if A-Rod left. Yes you read that right, because just like losing Sheffield, we'd lose A-Rod's bat. Now sure he's TERRIBLE in October, but the man has averaged 40 home run's and 120 RBI's in his 3 seasons in New York (not to mention a little piece of hardware called the American League MVP).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 04:03 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J


Who's this guy?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 05:05 AM

Clemens says only 20 percent chance he will return

HOUSTON -- Seven-time Cy Young winner Roger Clemens has given himself just a 20 percent chance of returning to the mound next season.


"Koby [his son] asked me last night when we were working out, he was doing more of a workout than I was," Clemens, 44, told Houston television station KRIV-TV in an interview on Thursday.

"I still told him 80-20 that I wasn't going to play.

"We get little notes at my foundation about people saying they wish I would make up my mind and decide because I am leaving people hanging. I'm not leaving anybody hanging.

"I don't want to play," added Clemens.

If Clemens, one of just four major league pitchers to record more than 4,000 strikeouts, does return for a 24th season, it probably will be back with his hometown Houston Astros or with another of his former teams, the Boston Red Sox or New York Yankees. The right-hander was part of two World Series championship teams during a five-year stint with the Yankees from 1999-2003.

With the Astros the last two seasons, he got to spend time on the field with Koby, his son, an Astros minor leaguer. The Rocket didn't have to always be with the major league team on days he didn't pitch.

"The teams that are involved, I think they've got really good clubs that are together, and if somebody stubs their toe and my phone rings in May, I might have to think about it," Clemens told KRIV.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 05:19 AM

Moose, Pavano meet to make peace

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Carl Pavano walked into the clubhouse attendants' room, across the hallway from manager Joe Torre's office at Legends Field. Three minutes later, Mike Mussina entered and shut the door.

Twelve minutes after that, the pair emerged, smiling. Peace and understanding had been achieved.

A day after Pavano said the rift between him and teammates was largely a media creation and Mussina responded with the verbal equivalent of a brushback pitch, the New York Yankees' pitchers said they were ready to move forward.

"I told him where I was coming from, and he told me where he was coming from," Mussina said Friday. "It should have been done without what happened yesterday, and I told him that. I apologized for that. It shouldn't have happened that way. But at some point we probably would have needed to do it anyhow."

Now, if only the frostiness that some say exists between Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez can be melted away.

Pavano hasn't pitched since June 2005 because of an unusual string of shoulder, back, buttocks, elbow and rib injuries, prompting ridicule in New York that even the diplomatic Jeter acknowledged "had pretty much gotten to the point of being comical." Mussina's remarks that Pavano must regain his teammates' confidence generated back-page banner headlines Friday.

"Moose's message to slacker Pavano: SHOW SOME GUTS!" said the New York Post.

"BUTTHEAD" the Daily News said under Pavano's picture.

Throw in the back-and-forth over whether Bernie Williams will accept a minor league contract and Thursday's arrest of general partner Steve Swindal -- George Steinbrenner's son-in-law and designated successor -- and the Yankees have dominated New York's sports sections all week.

"It's the Yankee spring," manager Joe Torre said.

"Camp Quiet," joked general manager Brian Cashman.

There are just three lockers between where Mussina and Pavano dress, a gap of perhaps 12 feet, but the gulf between them has been huge.

Pavano said he initiated the meeting with Mussina, an erudite Stanford graduate who sometimes in the setting of a baseball clubhouse can come off as condescending.

"We had a nice conversation," Pavano said. "I told him I understand his frustration. He's been counting on me for two years and I haven't been there for him, and he's had to carry the load that I should be picking up at times. I totally understand that. But we're both in agreement that we need to be on each other's side, we need to support each other and we need to lead this rotation."

While saying his injuries were "all streaks of bad luck," Pavano acknowledged that teammates had become suspicious of his desire to pitch.

"I'm not naive to that at all," he said.

Mussina told Pavano to look ahead and not behind.

"I think he understands where we're coming from, the other guys in the clubhouse," Mussina said. "It helped for him to hear our side of it from someone, and it helps us to hear his side of it from him. He doesn't have to stand up and do it in front of 45 guys in the middle of the clubhouse. I don't think that's necessary. But by him at least talking to me, we'll start the process."

Torre called Mussina's remarks Thursday "constructive criticism" and said of Pavano: "He has to get the clubhouse back."

"You're not always going to hear what you want to hear," Torre said. "I don't think Moose is in the attack mode right now."

Pavano and Mussina agreed that the issue can be put behind if Pavano returns to the Yankees' rotation. New York gave Pavano a $39.95 million, four-year contract before the 2005 season, and Cashman repeatedly has said the team is hoping to get a return on its investment during the next two seasons.

While many players say they don't read sports sections, Jeter said he had followed how the Pavano saga had played out.

"When I say comical, I'm saying some of the back pages were pretty funny. Some of the stories were funny," Jeter said.

There was a bit of an edge in his words. The Yankees' captain was asked whether he has any issues with Pavano.

"I don't know how I could. He hasn't been here," Jeter said. "You can't really miss someone that hasn't been here."

On another team, all this could have been worked out without fans knowing what had taken place. Not on the Yankees, where even the large spring-training roster is outnumbered by media.

"You always like everything to stay in house. It's not realistic," Cashman said.

Now that they appeared to be pals after the meeting, Mussina joked about what had gone on and how he and Pavano reached their accord.

"We were going to have rock, paper, scissors, best three-out-of-five," he said.

As Mussina was talking with reporters, Pavano walked by and left the clubhouse for the day.

"See you, Mr. Mussina," he said.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 01:43 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
I agree with Franc then, DJ. I just don't get the Yankees in their dealing with Rivera.

He's reliable, and most of all, he's earned his fucking butter for what he's done for the Yanks. Pay him the damn money.


I agree. I'm shaking my head. Ultimately, I know Mo's not going anywhere and would be more concerned if A-Rod left. Yes you read that right, because just like losing Sheffield, we'd lose A-Rod's bat. Now sure he's TERRIBLE in October, but the man has averaged 40 home run's and 120 RBI's in his 3 seasons in New York (not to mention a little piece of hardware called the American League MVP).


Mo is the backbone of the franchise though, and without his contributions, you don't win those World Series titles in the late 90's to 2000's.

Consequently, there is no good that can come out of waiting...why? Is Cashman hoping he breaks down, so he doesn't have to pay him? What the fuck is that? What they're doing right now is pissing off one of the most mild mannered and calming influences in the clubhouse, and it makes no sense. I realize they have this policy of not negotiating until the season is over, but Mo is a special player. Cashman has done a great job since he wrestled control away from the bums in Tampa, but to paraphrase Dave Chappelle, "Cashman is fucking up son!"
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 01:51 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: Double-J


Who's this guy?


Wil Nieves, the backup catcher for Jorge. He's been in the Yankees farm system for a bit, and he's not very good.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 01:55 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Clemens says only 20 percent chance he will return

HOUSTON -- Seven-time Cy Young winner Roger Clemens has given himself just a 20 percent chance of returning to the mound next season.


"Koby [his son] asked me last night when we were working out, he was doing more of a workout than I was," Clemens, 44, told Houston television station KRIV-TV in an interview on Thursday.

"I still told him 80-20 that I wasn't going to play.

"We get little notes at my foundation about people saying they wish I would make up my mind and decide because I am leaving people hanging. I'm not leaving anybody hanging.

"I don't want to play," added Clemens.

If Clemens, one of just four major league pitchers to record more than 4,000 strikeouts, does return for a 24th season, it probably will be back with his hometown Houston Astros or with another of his former teams, the Boston Red Sox or New York Yankees. The right-hander was part of two World Series championship teams during a five-year stint with the Yankees from 1999-2003.

With the Astros the last two seasons, he got to spend time on the field with Koby, his son, an Astros minor leaguer. The Rocket didn't have to always be with the major league team on days he didn't pitch.

"The teams that are involved, I think they've got really good clubs that are together, and if somebody stubs their toe and my phone rings in May, I might have to think about it," Clemens told KRIV.

Source: ESPN


Sure. Right. This comes from the guy who said he was "failing at retirement" a couple of weeks ago, and then a few years ago told the Yankees he was 99% retired and then screwed them.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 01:58 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Moose, Pavano meet to make peace

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Carl Pavano walked into the clubhouse attendants' room, across the hallway from manager Joe Torre's office at Legends Field. Three minutes later, Mike Mussina entered and shut the door.

Twelve minutes after that, the pair emerged, smiling. Peace and understanding had been achieved.

A day after Pavano said the rift between him and teammates was largely a media creation and Mussina responded with the verbal equivalent of a brushback pitch, the New York Yankees' pitchers said they were ready to move forward.

"I told him where I was coming from, and he told me where he was coming from," Mussina said Friday. "It should have been done without what happened yesterday, and I told him that. I apologized for that. It shouldn't have happened that way. But at some point we probably would have needed to do it anyhow."

Now, if only the frostiness that some say exists between Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez can be melted away.

Pavano hasn't pitched since June 2005 because of an unusual string of shoulder, back, buttocks, elbow and rib injuries, prompting ridicule in New York that even the diplomatic Jeter acknowledged "had pretty much gotten to the point of being comical." Mussina's remarks that Pavano must regain his teammates' confidence generated back-page banner headlines Friday.

"Moose's message to slacker Pavano: SHOW SOME GUTS!" said the New York Post.

"BUTTHEAD" the Daily News said under Pavano's picture.

Throw in the back-and-forth over whether Bernie Williams will accept a minor league contract and Thursday's arrest of general partner Steve Swindal -- George Steinbrenner's son-in-law and designated successor -- and the Yankees have dominated New York's sports sections all week.

"It's the Yankee spring," manager Joe Torre said.

"Camp Quiet," joked general manager Brian Cashman.

There are just three lockers between where Mussina and Pavano dress, a gap of perhaps 12 feet, but the gulf between them has been huge.

Pavano said he initiated the meeting with Mussina, an erudite Stanford graduate who sometimes in the setting of a baseball clubhouse can come off as condescending.

"We had a nice conversation," Pavano said. "I told him I understand his frustration. He's been counting on me for two years and I haven't been there for him, and he's had to carry the load that I should be picking up at times. I totally understand that. But we're both in agreement that we need to be on each other's side, we need to support each other and we need to lead this rotation."

While saying his injuries were "all streaks of bad luck," Pavano acknowledged that teammates had become suspicious of his desire to pitch.

"I'm not naive to that at all," he said.

Mussina told Pavano to look ahead and not behind.

"I think he understands where we're coming from, the other guys in the clubhouse," Mussina said. "It helped for him to hear our side of it from someone, and it helps us to hear his side of it from him. He doesn't have to stand up and do it in front of 45 guys in the middle of the clubhouse. I don't think that's necessary. But by him at least talking to me, we'll start the process."

Torre called Mussina's remarks Thursday "constructive criticism" and said of Pavano: "He has to get the clubhouse back."

"You're not always going to hear what you want to hear," Torre said. "I don't think Moose is in the attack mode right now."

Pavano and Mussina agreed that the issue can be put behind if Pavano returns to the Yankees' rotation. New York gave Pavano a $39.95 million, four-year contract before the 2005 season, and Cashman repeatedly has said the team is hoping to get a return on its investment during the next two seasons.

While many players say they don't read sports sections, Jeter said he had followed how the Pavano saga had played out.

"When I say comical, I'm saying some of the back pages were pretty funny. Some of the stories were funny," Jeter said.

There was a bit of an edge in his words. The Yankees' captain was asked whether he has any issues with Pavano.

"I don't know how I could. He hasn't been here," Jeter said. "You can't really miss someone that hasn't been here."

On another team, all this could have been worked out without fans knowing what had taken place. Not on the Yankees, where even the large spring-training roster is outnumbered by media.

"You always like everything to stay in house. It's not realistic," Cashman said.

Now that they appeared to be pals after the meeting, Mussina joked about what had gone on and how he and Pavano reached their accord.

"We were going to have rock, paper, scissors, best three-out-of-five," he said.

As Mussina was talking with reporters, Pavano walked by and left the clubhouse for the day.

"See you, Mr. Mussina," he said.

Source: SI


I listened to Moose and Torre yesterday on Mike and the Mad Dog, and I get an inkling that much of this stuff happening in camp is being blown up by the media...especially when I start to read articles about how calm and great the Red Sox camp is.
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 02:39 PM

in regards to mariano all cashman is doing is being a business man. its a tuff argument to make against mariano that he shouldnt be paid because of risk factor of him getting hurt and the yanks being hamstringed for $$ if he doesnt come back

on the flip side of the coin mariano has done alot more than many recent yankee pitchers including ones that are so overpaid

its a tuff nut to crack but i think cashman may not what hes doing but maybe not...to be continued
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 04:18 PM

Originally Posted By: reynols
in regards to mariano all cashman is doing is being a business man. its a tuff argument to make against mariano that he shouldnt be paid because of risk factor of him getting hurt and the yanks being hamstringed for $$ if he doesnt come back

on the flip side of the coin mariano has done alot more than many recent yankee pitchers including ones that are so overpaid

its a tuff nut to crack but i think cashman may not what hes doing but maybe not...to be continued


The problems I have with this argument are:

a.) The Yankees have no cash concerns; this whole idea of fiscal responsibility is crap. It's nonsense.

b.) Mariano shows no signs of slowing down, their hesitant to sign him; Jaret Wright never finished a season off the DL, and they give him big money.

The Yankees are being retarded right now, and trying to save money on Mariano Rivera is pointless when you look at how stupid they have been in the past 4 or 5 years with their cash.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 04:46 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Originally Posted By: reynols
in regards to mariano all cashman is doing is being a business man. its a tuff argument to make against mariano that he shouldnt be paid because of risk factor of him getting hurt and the yanks being hamstringed for $$ if he doesnt come back

on the flip side of the coin mariano has done alot more than many recent yankee pitchers including ones that are so overpaid

its a tuff nut to crack but i think cashman may not what hes doing but maybe not...to be continued


The problems I have with this argument are:

a.) The Yankees have no cash concerns; this whole idea of fiscal responsibility is crap. It's nonsense.

b.) Mariano shows no signs of slowing down, their hesitant to sign him; Jaret Wright never finished a season off the DL, and they give him big money.

The Yankees are being retarded right now, and trying to save money on Mariano Rivera is pointless when you look at how stupid they have been in the past 4 or 5 years with their cash.


I've got to totally agree with DJ. The Yanks have the cash, and the willingness to spend it.

Oh and Reynols, "on the flip side of the coin mariano has done alot more than many recent yankee pitchers including ones that are so overpaid"....what?

Many? You're belittling Rivera. He's the dominant closer of his generation, and of the current era. Shit, he's position-defining. That's how important he has been for the Yanks. Besides, unlike Bernie Williams, Rivera is still delivering the goods.

Pay him the DAMN money. He's earned his bread for what he's done for the Yanks.

As for Bernie Williams, sad to see him go and all, but he's one outfielder too much for the club. Now there is a unified, everyday outfield.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 05:52 PM

My opinion could not possibly be more objective, because I am a Met fan.

The Yankees would be insane not to give Mariano the money that he deserves. They fleeced him on his last contract and all he's gone on to do is become the greatest reliever, bar none, in the history of baseball.

If you want to make the argument that Cashman is just being a businessman it just doesn't cut it. Where were his business smarts when he was giving away the store to guys that aren't even half as deserving as Rivera is.

If Steinbrenner was still in charge of the day to day operations, would we even be having this conversation ?

Cashman has proven himself to be of the top tier GM's in ALL of sports, I hope he doesn't blemish his near perfect record with one bone headed decision.

Show him the money, Brian.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/17/07 08:46 PM

Give Mo the Dough!!!

ds
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/07 01:03 AM

Hughes looks, feels like he belongs

TAMPA, Fla. -- In Jorge Posada's view, Philip Hughes appears quite humble and shy, the epitome of a very likeable 20-year-old fellow.
But somewhere between the Legends Field clubhouse -- where Hughes appears to spend most of his time attending to a growing pile of autograph requests -- and the mound, something else begins to set in.

When Hughes throws, as he did on Saturday to the veteran Yankees catcher, crowds assemble and intangibles appear. For some, it might as well be a flashing neon sign, reading, "The kid belongs."

"That maturity, it just stands out," Posada said. "The attitude, you see it. It's not about being cocky. It's just the way he walks around, he belongs here. He acts like a big leaguer."

Hughes is among the Yankees' non-roster invitees to Major League camp this spring, but that seems to be just a formality. Conceivably, Hughes might end up experiencing the most big-league service time of any player on the list.

"Everyone knows Philip is an extraordinary athlete," pitching coach Ron Guidry said. "The kid has a lot of composure. He wants to make this club. So does everybody else, [but] I just think he might be a step above a lot of guys."

The Yankees' No. 1 selection in the 2004 First-Year Player Draft from Foothill High School in Santa Ana, Calif., Hughes has experienced a meteoric rise through the system. Through 237 1/3 Minor League innings, Hughes has compiled a 21-7 record and a 2.13 ERA.

He wrapped up the 2006 season with Double-A Trenton of the Eastern League, and believes his progression has delivered him to the proper place.

"I'd say I'm right on schedule," Hughes said. "This is where I thought I would be. I can say I've come a long way since I was pitching in high school, just by having an idea of how to get hitters out.

"If I would have had to guess what position I'd be back in 2004 [on draft day], I'd probably say right about where I'm at. I don't feel like I'm ahead of pace or behind at all."

With their five-man starting rotation already penciled in -- and both Carl Pavano and Kei Igawa appearing formidable early in camp -- Hughes' only clear shot at making the Yankees' Opening Day roster might arise via injury.

General manager Brian Cashman has called a scenario where Hughes would appear in April "unlikely," and manager Joe Torre said that the Yankees would prefer to see Hughes test himself against Triple-A hitters before taking up residence at Yankee Stadium.

That's not to say Hughes couldn't handle the jump. Posada said Hughes' demeanor reminded him of catching a young Andy Pettitte in 1993, when the two were playing together with Prince William of the Class A Carolina League.

Even then, Posada said he could tell Pettitte was destined for the big leagues. Acknowledging the lack of space on the Yanks' 2007 25-man roster, Posada said he nevertheless sees big-league qualities in Hughes.

"I'm pretty sure he could come north Opening Day," Posada said. "You'd hate to have a guy like that not throwing, so you've got to have him in Triple-A and you've got to have him throwing."

Scouts have deemed Hughes' repertoire to be Major League-ready at the present time. Hughes has said that his primary objective in Spring Training is to further develop his changeup to complement his mid-90s fastball and sharp-breaking curveball.

Hughes is also tinkering with a slider after being ordered to temporarily scrap the pitch in favor of re-learning his curveball, which he had last thrown in high school.

He insists that he is content with projections that have him beginning the season with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre of the International League, where the Yankees' new Triple-A farm club is poised to boast a powerhouse pitching rotation.

In addition to Hughes, a number of other participants in the Yankees' Spring Training camp -- hurlers Tyler Clippard, Ross Ohlendorf and Humberto Sanchez among them -- are opening eyes, leading Guidry to wonder if the 2007 youth movement is the best the Yankees have assembled in recent memory.

"You always say, 'Man, you've got some great arms,'" Guidry said. "I said the same thing last year, but it's moreso this year."

Arguably the brightest of those blossoming hurlers, Hughes remains confident he will be able to handle New York whenever the chance arrives.

"I believe I'm ready," Hughes said. "If I was given an opportunity, I'd surely go out and do what I'm capable of doing. To me, I think I am [ready], but they pay a lot of other guys a lot of money to make those decisions."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/07 01:33 PM

Igawa Adjusting To America

Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

BY LISA KENNELLY
Star-Ledger Staff

TAMPA, Fla. -- The biggest adjustment for Kei Igawa has been tipping.

Not his pitches. At restaurants.

"They don't have tipping in Japan," said Igawa, the Yankees' latest acquisition from the Far East.

But like everything Igawa has encountered in America in his first week -- on the field and off -- it didn't take long for him to adapt. Culture shock seems to be a foreign concept to the left-hander.

Take getting an American driver's license. Igawa passed the test with no problem, despite the fact that in Japan they drive on the left side of the road. The only tricky part was the turn signal.

"It was a little difficult at first," Igawa said through his interpreter, Yumi Watanabe. "I put the wipers on when I tried to put on the blinker."

Igawa is reading a book to learn baseball English, and he's picking up other words and phrases. His vocabulary includes, "thank you for breakfast," "what's up?" and his favorite American food, "hot dog."

He has also broken out the game "shogi" in the clubhouse. Shogi is like Japanese chess, and Igawa has the level of master, the equivalent of a black belt in karate. The game helps with his concentration on the mound -- reading an opponent in shogi is like reading an opposing batter.

While cultural transitions are one thing, the big question is how Igawa will deal with facing major-league hitters. Jorge Posada, who caught Igawa on Thursday, said there's a lot he'll have to adjust to.

"Everything," Posada said with a laugh. "It's not going to be easy. Everything is completely different."

And Igawa's first pitches of spring training gave pitching coach Ron Guidry some cause for alarm. The first pitch sailed six feet above the plate. The next one flew wide. Guidry, a little rattled, went to ask Watanabe why the new guy was as wild as a rookie.

"Well, he hasn't pitched off the mound since November," Watanabe translated.

Given that information, and Igawa's much cleaner bullpen session yesterday, Guidry isn't concerned.

"Now you're not worried about him being precise," Guidry said. "That's going to come. The thing I noticed today was how much better he threw around the plate."

Reliever Mike Myers, who saw Igawa pitch in Japan during the off-season while playing in an all-star tour, said that getting over the language barrier with American catchers will be a hurdle. But basically, it's the same game.

"He had guys on base, he kept his composure real well," Myers says. "He worked in and out of the zone and up and down. So it's just a matter of adapting to hitters, and their strike zone is different."

Igawa describes himself as a calm pitcher, and says the biggest challenge has been getting used to American baseballs, which are smoother than what he's accustomed to. Still, he had no trouble tossing his first few curveballs yesterday.

And it only took him a day to switch over to the standard American bullpen session.

American pitchers are taught to start off by throwing fastballs to their glove side (for the left-handed Igawa, inside to a right-handed batter) as a way to establish good mechanics for the rest of the session, before working their pitches outward.

When Igawa threw on Thursday, he did the opposite, starting off throwing to his pitching hand side. It caught Posada off guard, but since that's the way they do it in Japan and the most important thing is to keep Igawa comfortable, he didn't tell the pitcher to change anything.

Igawa took care of that on his own. In his side session yesterday with catcher Wil Nieves, he started off throwing to his glove side.

Just another easy transition to his new life.

"From now on," Igawa said with a shrug, "I do it that way."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/07 02:03 PM

Yankees Doing Rivera Contract Injustice

Quote:
Source: New Haven Register

by Dave Solomon

I was thinking: Before the ink was dry on the two-year contract extension signed by Mariano Rivera in 2004, it was a horribly inadequate deal for the most valuable New York Yankee over the last decade. But I have never heard Mo demand it be ripped up, whine, threaten or rebel. That’s not his style. All he’s said is that the Yankees would be playing with fire if they let it get to the point of free agency following the 2007 season.

It sounds ominously like the Andy Pettitte situation four years ago when George Steinbrenner foolishly thought he had Pettitte in his back pocket until the home-grown lefty walked away.

I doubt that it will ever come to Rivera leaving the Yankees, but whoever is calling the shots to refuse to immediately negotiate an extension with Rivera — be it Brian Cashman, Steinbrenner or his drunk-driving son-in-law Steve Swindal — it’s a decision conceived in lunacy. Mo is the Mickey Mantle of closers, and a far more perfect role model and representative of the Yankees than Mantle ever was.

There are may be three Yankees in the last 15 years for whom you never, ever consider drawing a line in the sand. Their names are Mattingly, Jeter and Rivera.


*What did Southington’s Carl Pavano say that was so wrong? Contrary to the media frenzy, he didn’t attack the media or blame it for whatever strained relationship may exist between him and his New York Yankees teammates. What he said was, "I didn’t come (to spring training) nervous that my teammates are going to give me the cold shoulder. I know that definitely there’s respect to be earned." On the other things that were said, "I think were just things that you guys are having a lot of fun with."

You bet the media is having fun with the rift, real or perceived, between the oft-injured Pavano and the Yankees. But in no way could his words be construed as a blast of the media. If anything, it was his resignation that such stories take on a life of their own. Which they do.

*Does Roger Clemens need attention so badly he has to go through this public decision-making process every year?

*The Red Sox have no closer, no setup man, and no chance.

*If Alex Rodriguez finishes out his contract with the Yankees, he’ll have played the same number of years in New York as in Seattle — and likely have better overall average numbers with the Yankees. Does that mean he goes into the Hall of Fame as a Yankee? It just doesn’t seem proper.

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/07 02:05 PM

Old Met Knows Pride of the Yankees

Quote:
Source: New York Times

by Tyler Kepner

TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 17 — There were 55,913 fans at Yankee Stadium on Oct. 21, 2000, and millions more watching on television. Todd Pratt had the best seat of all for the moment that came to define a Yankees dynasty.

In his last season at age 40, Todd Pratt hopes to earn a job as the backup catcher for the Yankees.

Pratt is in camp with the Yankees now, trying to win a job as the backup catcher. In 2000, he started for the Mets in Game 1 of the World Series. He had scored the go-ahead run in the seventh inning, and the Mets led, 3-2, in the ninth. The Yankees had swept the past two World Series, but Pratt could sense a momentum shift.

“If we had won that game,” he said at Legends Field this week, “we might have broken the Yankees’ glow, or whatever they had.”

It was up to Armando Benítez to close it, with Pratt guiding him. Jorge Posada flied out to start the ninth. Paul O’Neill came to bat, hitting .182 since mid-September. He could not catch up to Benítez’s sizzling fastball, and was helpless against the splitter.

Benítez got ahead, a ball and two strikes. But O’Neill would not give in.

“It was just incredible,” Pratt said. “He kept fouling off tough pitches after tough pitches. It was mentally wearing me thin back there, going, ‘Come on, he’s got to swing and miss, or he’s got to put it in play.’ ”

One foul ball landed just beyond the reach of third baseman Robin Ventura, whose range was restricted by the extra box seats set up for the World Series. Benítez kept firing, and O’Neill kept fighting.

On the 10th pitch, O’Neill walked on a high, outside fastball, enough to rattle Benítez and rouse the Yankees. O’Neill went on to score the tying run, and the Yankees won in 12 innings. They captured the series in five games.

Pratt pointed to another play in Game 1, Derek Jeter’s pinpoint relay to cut down Timo Pérez at the plate in the sixth inning, as the pivotal moment. Jeter has never gotten enough credit, Pratt said, for whirling and throwing without a crow hop, somehow knowing that the speedy Pérez had not run hard all the way.

But O’Neill’s at-bat had greater symbolism, Pratt said, for what it represented about those Yankees.

“That was the heart right there,” Pratt said. “Every foul ball was a beat of the heart. It just kept them going, kept them going. That would be the description of that team.”

Much has changed for the Yankees since then. But Jeter and Posada remain, and the two Yankees who hit Pratt with pitches that night — Andy Pettitte and Mariano Rivera — are his new teammates this spring.

Pratt turned 40 this month, and he said this would be his last season in the majors. He will retire if he does not make the Yankees out of spring training. “I’m not going to take a younger guy’s job,” Pratt said.

Pratt would seem to have an excellent chance to make the team. On the first day of workouts, he caught the staff ace, Chien-Ming Wang, in the bullpen. On the second day, he caught Rivera.

He also has a low uniform number (14), the locker next to Posada and a much longer track record than the other leading candidate, Wil Nieves. The initial front-runner, the veteran Raúl Chávez, broke his hand in winter ball, prompting the Yankees to call Pratt.

Pratt was glad to accept their invitation. He was a candidate for the backup job last year until the Yankees signed Kelly Stinnett, who had experience catching Randy Johnson. Pratt signed with Atlanta and hit .207, his lowest average in five years.

But he reported here in good shape and has a strong supporter in the third-base coach, Larry Bowa, his manager in Philadelphia for more than three seasons. Bowa praised Pratt for his preparation and said he was the rare backup who could be a team leader.

“He’s not afraid to get on somebody,” Bowa said. “Even though he’s not playing, if he sees something, he’ll say something.”

Part of the reason players listen, Bowa said, is that Pratt can also laugh at himself. It was Pratt, after all, who rushed from the Mets’ dugout to hoist Ventura in the air as he rounded first base after smacking a ball over the fence to end Game 5 of the 1999 National League Championship Series. Ventura never made it to the plate, turning a grand slam into a single.

“When he plays, somebody’s going to laugh at something he does,” Bowa said. “Whether he screws himself into the ground on a swing or fouls a ball off his foot, he just has that personality.”

Pratt, whose home run clinched the Mets’ 1999 division series victory against Arizona, can appreciate the major league life because he once gave it up. In 1996, when Pratt was 29, he retired after the Seattle Mariners cut him in spring training.

He returned home to Florida, worked at Bucky Dent’s baseball school and entered the business world. Pratt’s goal was to own a Domino’s Pizza franchise, and to do so, he tried to learn every aspect of the job.

Three years before, Pratt earned a World Series bonus as a member of the N.L. champion Phillies. He spent it on a luxury car, which turned out to be an unusual way to deliver pizzas.

“I wasn’t a delivery guy, because you’re not learning much there,” Pratt said. “But there were times when we were short-handed and I had to go out. It was kind of funny, because I was delivering pizzas in a BMW. It cost me in tips. People would see the car outside and say, ‘Hey!’ But I needed the tips.”

The Mets brought him back into baseball in 1997 and improved his salary. Ten years later, Pratt has pulled up to the Yankees’ door for his final stop.

INSIDE PITCH

Position players report to spring training Sunday, but Bernie Williams will not be among them. Williams has not ruled out accepting the Yankees’ minor league offer, but he has not instructed his agent to take it. “I have not heard anything from Bernie,” the agent, Scott Boras, said Saturday night. “He’s not given me any information, so I don’t know what his timetable is.” Boras said Williams could report by March 10 and still be ready for opening day.

The Yankees’ starters threw Saturday for the second time, and catcher Jorge Posada said he was convinced that Carl Pavano was healthy again. The pitching coach, Ron Guidry, was also impressed. “I was tickled to death by how he threw the ball today,” Guidry said. “If he threw 45 pitches, he probably didn’t miss but five spots.”

Guidry also urged Kei Igawa to slow his delivery and took note of the top prospect Phil Hughes, who is working on a slider to complement his fastball, curve and changeup. Posada said Hughes, 20, was talented enough to make the team out of spring training, although that almost certainly will not happen. “It’s different from last year,” Posada said. “The way he’s walking around, waiting to take the ball — the attitude, you see it.” ... Manager Joe Torre had a cold and missed the workout.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/07 02:22 PM

Got To Have A Ring To It

Quote:
Source: Daily News

by Mike Lupica

The Yankees sell winning first, and that doesn't just mean first place. At Yankee Stadium, winning has always meant the World Series. You see it way up there on the outside wall above the players' entrance, in print almost big enough to be seen from the Major Deegan, where they list all 26 seasons in which Yankee teams have won it all.

There is no similar list about how many pennants they have won, or how many division titles in a row, as amazing as the accomplishments in both areas are.

Now the Yankees don't promise their fans a World Series every year. They don't come out and say the money they spend on ballplayers, at a rate of $200 million every year, give or take a few million, guarantees them or their fans another trip to the Series.

They still sell the winning. They still fire coaches like Lee Mazzilli when they don't last long enough in October because, well, why wouldn't you fire the bench coach when you can't beat the Tigers? Somebody's got to be blamed, right?

Even this week, when Mike Mussina wasn't talking about Carl Pavano - whose travails seem like they belong on "American Idol" - he was talking about how Yankees are ultimately judged on how they do in the postseason, not the regular season.

So no Yankee can be surprised, or hurt, or act victimized, when people get mad at them, or say mean things about them, when they can't make it out of the first round of the playoffs for the second year in a row.

The Yankees seem to have a real good plan for getting younger now, and not spending the way they have in the past. They got rid of Randy Johnson as a way of accomplishing both. But do you really think Johnson would be in Phoenix if he had pitched like Whitey Ford in October? Come on. You think money or age will be an issue when Roger Clemens is in play, whatever he's saying now about retiring?

Here is what Joe Torre said this week to the media in Tampa:

"The thing that is a little disappointing, and this is something I guess we created ourselves by having success, is that winning 97 games is disappointing. Everybody is criticized - and I don't mean me, personally, but the team - for not getting where they want you to get. That part is frustrating even though I understand it."

He ought to be less frustrated.

And when Torre talks about the criticism, he IS talking about himself, because he didn't like it that people, starting with the owner of the team, were after him when the Tigers series ended the way it did, with another team of his going down in October when it got hit and stayed down.

The Yankees who are still around - and even ones like Bernie Williams, for whom they have left a light on in the window - got rich because they won. There are a lot of reasons Torre is making more than any baseball manager has ever made, and all of those reasons have been repeated for years, but it starts with the fact that in his first six years managing the team he won four World Series.

He is still getting paid off that. Derek Jeter got paid the second biggest contract in baseball history when all that winning was going on. Bernie got paid, Jorge Posada got paid, so did Mo Rivera, even though he thinks it should have been more and wants to get paid again.

Andy Pettitte got paid bigger than ever to come back, and you better believe a lot of that money was on the table because he won here, and that does mean he won the AL East.

So this idea that the expectations for the Yankees are suddenly unreasonable are at least disingenuous, and silly. As silly as the idea that those last three games against the Tigers were some sort of aberration. As if it was just one first-round loss out of the blue, instead of the third in five years.

Guess what? The media didn't do this to the Yankees. Their fans, the ones who show up four million strong every year at Yankee Stadium, didn't suddenly develop delusions of grandeur. Torre is right about this: They did it to themselves.

You know who talks constantly about how the season is a failure if the Yankees don't win it all? The captain of the team. The owner did it for years. Reggie Jackson talks constantly about the 11 games the Yankees are supposed to win in October. Even A-Rod has become part of the sales force.

It is why they all get to do everything about the treatment they got last October except act surprised. If winning the division is enough, if they want to talk as much about the vagaries of a short series as the Atlanta Braves and Oakland A's always have, all that should be part of the marketing now.

Somebody should put it in a brochure.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/07 02:24 PM

Yankees Have Become Shrewd With Their Vets

Quote:
Source: Contra Costa Times

by Rick Hurd

The greatest closer of his era -- if not the best ever -- will be going about his business with his usual quiet class this spring, all the while wondering if his current address will remain the same when 2008 commences.

Meantime, one of the best center fielders of his era sits at home unemployed, which when you think about it, may be even less insulting than the alternative.

As for the manager? Well, one of the best of his era can probably already feel the increased warmth on his backside.

Say this for the New York Yankees: They sure give the masses who love to bash them plenty of ammunition.

Interesting thing is, Yankee bashing is coming with a new twist this spring. The Yankees should catch heat not for the money they have spent, but for the cash on to which they've clung. General manager Brian Cashman has survived a power struggle to wrestle the reins of the franchise from owner George Steinbrenner's advisors in Tampa, and under Cashman's approach, the Yankees are showing a new financial restraint.

The net result being that Mariano Rivera has entered 2007 as a lame-duck closer, Bernie Williams has essentially been told he has nothing more to offer, and Joe Torre is among the first names mentioned in those annual "Manager on the Hot Seat" essays.

At least the Yankees haven't asked the trio to turn in their World Series rings.

Now understand, it's difficult to argue for loyalty these days. The concept in baseball (and all pro sports, for that matter) never really existed, and to say players eroded the concept when free agency evolved is to overlook all those decades when owners paid most of their employees chicken feed. As for real life, well, loyalty has become as outdated as those mom-and-pop shops that helped put a generation through college.

The Yankees had a chance to go against the tide in this case, and that would've been no small thing inasmuch as they are the standard-bearers in their industry. Hey, one small gesture to a man ...

Start with Rivera. He is the Yanks' all-time leader in regular-season and postseason saves, and his trademark cutter -- one of the most unhittable pitches of all-time -- launched more parties during the past decade than Dick Clark. Yes, he is 37, and he endured elbow difficulties last season, but both in action and comportment, he has meant as much to this storied franchise as anyone who has worn the pinstripes. Not one other player _-- not even Derek Jeter -- more deserves to be designated a Yankee for life.

Yet Cashman has indicated the Yanks have no interest in discussing a new contract for Rivera until after 2007. Rivera has responded by saying the Yanks can get in line with every other team if he hits free agency next winter. It's likely that both are posturing, but it has put an ugly, unfortunate twist on what has been a beautiful relationship.

Then again, it's not nearly as unfortunate as the way Williams was treated. Williams brought a grace back to center field, manning the position long enough (16 seasons) and well enough (22 postseason home runs, 80 postseason RBI) to make Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle proud. But Cashman extended Williams only a minor-league contract and an invitation to make the team. Williams rightly refused. Williams is 38 and his best days have long been behind him, but being a key cog on four World Series champs meant he deserved better, even if that meant a clean, mutual break.

Torre deserves the same thing, though he probably won't get it. His contract also expires at the end of 2007. Torre hasn't brought home a World Series crown since 2000, but he has guided the Yanks to 11 straight playoff appearances. Just as important, he brought dignity to the job with the way he deftly handled the challenge of working for Steinbrenner.

Now, it appears, he's about to be kicked to the curb. Just as Williams has been. Just as Rivera may soon be. All of which leaves little doubt as to what the Yankees will do when the other staples of their last dynasty _-- Jeter and Jorge Posada -- find themselves in a similar spot.

Such, it appears, is the new Yankees way. Cashman has said his motivation is the long-term health of the franchise, and nobody will argue that Rivera, Williams and Torre are short-termers these days. Too, you can't fault Cashman for putting a limit to what's available in the team's vault.

But clearly, there's still plenty left to keep Rivera and Torre from twisting in the wind, just as there was enough to show Williams he hadn't outlived his usefulness. These three brought pride back to the Yankees.

Too bad Cashman couldn't give them a small token of green in return.

DIFFICULT DAYS: If spring training is supposed to be all about affirmation and renewal, then you have to wonder how Kevin Lidle must feel these days. Former A's and Yankees pitcher Cory Lidle, who perished when his small plane flew into a New York City building on Oct. 11, was Kevin's fraternal twin.

"Different days are different," Kevin told the St. Petersburg Times. "Some days, the thoughts are there more than others. I guess in a way it's sad. But the majority of the time, there's positive thoughts [and] memories I'm able to have of him."

Kevin Lidle manages a baseball facility in Lakeland, Fla., less than an hour from where the Yanks train in Tampa. He and Cory often got together during the spring, though Kevin said he has tried to avoid those thoughts as much as possible.

"Sometimes, I don't want to say I play a game, but sometimes I'll just think, 'What would Cory say about a certain situation?'," he said. "And I'll know to the exact phrase what he might say. A certain thing will just remind me of what he'd think or say. And I know I'm on the same page."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/07 02:25 PM

Silent Alarm

Quote:
Source: New York Post

by George King

February 18, 2007 -- TAMPA - With position players reporting to Legends Field today, Bernie Williams isn't expected to join the Yankees' camp.

According to GM Brian Cashman, there was no contact between the Yankees icon and the team yesterday. The Yankees offered Williams a minor-league invite, a chance to make the team as an extra player, but so far Williams has rejected that avenue to continue his stellar career.

"I believe Bernie can still play," Cashman said during a pitchers-and-catchers workout at Legends. "If he believes he can help, we would love to have him. This [minor-league contract] is the only vehicle I could create. If he doesn't want to do it, I understand. That's all I can say."

Because it's the beloved Williams, a 16-year Yankee and one of the dwindling names from the Joe Torre Dynasty, much more attention is being paid to Williams' situation than another name.

However, that will fade as the Yankees prepare for the season.

"At some point, we have to focus on who is here, and that will be quickly," said Cashman, who refused to divulge if there is a deadline on the offer.

Should Williams change his mind and report soon, he will battle right-handed first basemen Josh Phelps and Andy Phillips for the 25th man on the roster. Williams won't be considered for first base action, but the switch-hitter would give Torre options off the bench and at DH when Torre rests Jason Giambi.

Of course, Williams has to be in camp to win a job. Agent Scott Boras said yesterday, "I didn't hear anything from anybody today."

Torre, who chatted with Williams Wednesday, was out with the flu yesterday. Earlier in the week, Torre encouraged Williams to compete for a spot.

Last year, Williams, 38, convinced everybody that he can still play. In 420 at-bats, he batted .281 with 12 homers and 61 RBIs. That production and what he has meant to the Yankees led Williams to believe the team would bring him back via a major-league contract. Yet, from the start of the process Cashman has said Williams didn't fit on the major-league roster. Hence, the minor-league invite that Williams hasn't accepted.

With Melky Cabrera entrenched as the fourth and final outfielder, because Torre intends to carry a dozen pitchers, Williams doesn't have the option of the fifth outfielder to make the team. Since he isn't adept at base running, playing defense or pinch-hitting (.158; 3-for-19 last year), Williams' best spot to help is as a DH. By carrying Phelps or Phillips, the Yankees would have a right-handed-hitting first baseman to share with Doug Mientkiewicz.

If Williams doesn't report, he is basically ending one of the premier Yankees careers. Boras says Williams doesn't want to trade his pinstripes for another uniform. His 22 postseason homers are the most in baseball history, two ahead of Manny Ramirez. With 83 October RBIs, Williams is 20 ahead of David Justice, Reggie Jackson and Manny Ramirez, who are tied for second. On the all-time Yankees lists, Williams is fourth in hits (2,336), fifth in runs (1,366), sixth in homers (287) and sixth in games (2,076).

As for the reporting process, a player doesn't need to physically be at Legends Field today. All he has to do is call the Yankees and tell them he is in Florida. Physicals will be taken tomorrow, and the first full-squad workout is slated for Tuesday.

Derek Jeter, Miguel Cairo and Mientkiewicz, who have been working out at the minor-league complex, dropped off their gear Friday. Alex Rodriguez, Jason Giambi and Johnny Damon are expected tomorrow.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/07 02:27 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/07 02:30 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/18/07 02:32 PM

Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 01:22 AM

yea so anyway about them yankees lol
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 01:24 AM

Yeah, lol. I REALLY don't know what Schilling's problem is. The man REALLY seems like he has a personal vendetta against the Yankees and I'd love to know what his problem is. The Yankees and Red Sox both tried to get him and he wound up in Boston. And then someone asked him if he left after this season, would he go to New York and he said he would never pitch in New York. The guy's a complete JERK!
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 01:27 AM

and a hypocrit but we won't go into that
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 01:30 AM

Exactly. I just really cannot stand the man and don't understand why so many people love him and think he's a great role model. The man says he's a Christian and that offends me as a Christian
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 01:32 AM

i don't care for him either way, i mean sure the guy can pitch, but he's an idiot, and no play on the red sox 2004 idea either.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 01:34 AM

I agree. I hate athletes who just talk talk talk. True, Curt has backed it up on the mound (I won't take anything away from him, he WAS a great pitcher). Today, he's still passable but slowing down a bit. But just SHUT UP and pitch. Did Roger Clemens even toot his horn? No. And he's won 7 Cy Young's and 2 World Series. Just goes to show you how classy some inviduals are. But that's nothing new coming from boston (being classless that is). I supposed boston and Curt deserve each other.
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 01:36 AM

its funny though because, not all the red sox players are assholes like that, some actually play just to play and keep shut, but they could give a shit less who they play for
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 01:42 AM

Really the ONLY person I have respect for on the Red Sox is David Ortiz. Now he just seems like a likeable guy, who's out there having fun. He doesn't strut his stuff (i.e. Manny), he's seen one of his homeruns before, and he's a great player (and cluth too). I have A LOT of respect for that man and WISH Cashman would have taken Steinbrenner's advice a few years back and signed him when he left Minnesota
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 01:44 AM

ah what can you do though managers make mistakes, give it time though.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 08:17 PM

Looking doubtful
Yankees veteran Williams not likely to show for camp


TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Bernie Williams wants a guarantee, not a maybe, so it appears he won't be with the New York Yankees when position players start workouts Tuesday.

Manager Joe Torre planned to call Williams again. But catcher Jorge Posada thinks Williams can't be persuaded to accept a minor league contract.

"I called him and he hasn't returned my call," Posada said Sunday. "That just tells me something negative. That just tells me he won't be here."

After 21 years in the Yankees' organization, including 16 with the major league team, Williams feels burned and doesn't think he should have to earn a job. His agent, Scott Boras, said Saturday that Williams hasn't shown any desire to do that or to play for another team.

"I think he's hurt. I don't think there's any question," Torre said. "He's a very proud individual. I know there are a lot of players in this clubhouse who certainly feel for Bernie. But, again, unfortunately, it's the nature of the game a lot of times."

Williams' No. 51 remains in storage, his guitars are nowhere to be seen and pitcher Jose Veras has taken his corner locker in the Legends Field clubhouse. Williams' absence is as notable as the presence of any player, a hole in the fabric of the team's last great era, when the Yankees won four World Series titles from 1996-2000.

Williams is 38 -- one year older than Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle were when they announced their retirements from the Yankees.

"I no longer have it," DiMaggio said in December 1951.

"I can't hit when I need to," said Mantle in March 1969.

Players stay active into their mid-40s these days, and Williams thinks he still does have it. He just feels he shouldn't have to prove it.

"As a 16-year veteran, it's tough to come to spring trying to earn a job, especially if you're Bernie Williams," Posada said. "I see his point; I see the Yankees' point. You come to spring training, you're trying to earn a job. You've done so much. You've got to see it that way, too. They're not telling him that he's going to be the 25th guy. To be here and be fighting for a job, it's really tough to swallow when it comes to Bernie Williams."

A five-time All-Star, a four-time Gold Glove center fielder, the 1998 AL batting champion and the 1996 AL championship series MVP, Williams has a distinguished if not Hall of Fame resume. He is beloved by Yankees fans, who chant "Ber-nie! Ber-nie!" to honor his accomplishments and remind themselves of the championship days.

He could earn a spot on the 25-man roster if he shows during spring training that having him around to pinch hit would be better than platooning Josh Phelps or Andy Phillips at first base with Doug Mientkiewicz, with Jason Giambi shifted to designated hitter.

"As a player, as a teammate, I want him to be here," Mariano Rivera said. "But I don't know if it's in the best interest for the Yankees. The Yankees will decide that."

Phillips, in the clubhouse a day ahead of Monday's physicals, is rooting for Williams, too. He doesn't view it as a competition for a roster spot.

"I have the utmost respect for Bernie. He's been great for me and great to me," the 29-year-old said. "You hate to see anything come to and end at any time for a guy like that because he's been such a special guy for this place. I want the best for him because he's been great to me."

Posada understands the space squeeze.

"Giambi can't play first base anymore, so that's the thing. So we're going to need a first and it really kills Bernie," he said.

Given similar circumstances, Posada would act differently.

"I would have come. I would have been here and shown that I have a lot left and see what happens," he said. "You give it another chance. That's the way I see it. Let me try to make the club, say, `I'm better than this guy."'

Torre would like to see Williams in camp with the other position players. If Williams arrives late, his chances diminish because he has to catch up. The manager even invoked one of those Yogi Berra phrases to describe the situation.

"There are no guidelines anymore," Torre said. "You've just got to go out there and try to make yourself valuable. Or as Yogi says: `Make it necessary."'

Source: SI
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 08:18 PM

'A good working relationship'
A-Rod admits friendship with Jeter has cooled


TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- On the first day of his fourth season with the New York Yankees, Alex Rodriguez finally acknowledged his relationship with Derek Jeter has cooled.

After insisting for three years that they remained close, Rodriguez said it was "important" to him to publicly confirm what others have said since he joined the team.

"People start assuming that things are a lot worse than what they are, which they're not. But they're obviously not as great as they used to be. We were like blood brothers," Rodriguez said Monday. "You don't have to go to dinner with a guy four, five times a week to do what you're doing. It's actually much better than all you guys expect, but I just want to let the truth be known."

Jeter, the Yankees' captain, has distanced himself since a 2001 Esquire article in which A-Rod said "Jeter's been blessed with great talent around him" and "he's never had to lead."

"You go into New York, you wanna stop Bernie (Williams) and (Paul) O'Neill," A-Rod was quoted as saying. "You never say, 'Don't let Derek beat you.' He's never your concern."

Sitting in jeans and a black sweat jacket in the first-base dugout at Legends Field after his physical, Rodriguez did three rounds of interviews: English-language television, Spanish-language television and print reporters. He addressed his relationship with Jeter in all three.

"We were best of friends about 10, 13, 14, years ago, and we still get along well. We have a good working relationship. I cheer very hard for him. He cheers hard for me. And most importantly, we're both trying to win a world championship," Rodriguez said.

What's changed? He made it sound as if they had just grown apart.

"The reality is there's been a change in the relationship over 14 years and, hopefully, we can just put it behind us," Rodriguez said. "You go from sleeping over at somebody's house five days a week, and now you don't sleep over. It's just not that big of a deal."

During the offseason, former Yankee Darryl Strawberry said Jeter needs to "embrace" Rodriguez. A-Rod said he didn't feel Jeter needed to support him more.

"I'm a big boy. I'm 31 years old now, so I should be able to help myself out there," he said. "I care about what he thinks about me on the field. I think it's important for us to be on the right page. And we are. We're here to win a championship together."

When he was first asked about Jeter, Rodriguez said this would be the only time he would address the topic.

"Let's make a contract: You don't ask me about Derek anymore, and I promise I'll stop lying to all you guys," A-Rod told reporters.

While Rodriguez won the AL MVP award for the second time in 2005, he is 4-for-41 (.098) without an RBI in his last 12 postseason games dating to 2004. He got just one hit in last year's playoff loss to Detroit.

"I stunk. And when you stink, sometimes, you have to call it," he said. "I went 1-for-14 last year with an error and that's pretty lousy."

He was dropped to eighth in the batting order for the first time in a decade as the Yankees were eliminated in Game 4.

"It was very disappointing," he said. "Yes, I was embarrassed."

While Rodriguez maintained he wants to remain with the Yankees for the rest of his career, he didn't rule out exercising the clause in his record $252 million, 10-year contract that allows him to opt out after this season. Rodriguez would forfeit the $72 million owed in the final three years and could use that to become a free agent or pressure New York for an extension.

"I want to be a Yankee and I understand my contract. I understand my options. I understand the interest," he said.

He doesn't mind that his contract has made him a target.

"I love being the highest-paid player in the game. It's pretty cool. I like making that money," he said. "I was poor and broke when I grew up. I didn't have that type of money to help out children. Now I get a chance to help out children. Whatever you say is important. People listen to you. That's pretty cool. Nobody used to listen to me before."

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 09:53 PM

With Friends Like These...

Quote:
Source: Daily News

'Friends' of Bernie offer little support

BY MARK FEINSAND
DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER

TAMPA - Although there is no hard deadline, today should be decision day for Bernie Williams, who must decide whether he will be in pinstripes for the Yankees' first full-squad workout tomorrow at Legends Field.

Joe Torre planned on calling Williams, who has a standing offer to attend camp as a nonroster invitee, last night to find out if the outfielder was considering coming back for potentially a 17th season as a Yankee.

While the sentimental feeling in the clubhouse is that it would be great to see him in camp, two of his long-time teammates said Williams' presence might not be the best thing for the Yankees when it comes to putting the best team on the field.

"As a player and a teammate, I want Bernie here," Mariano Rivera said. "But I don't know if that's in the best interest of the team. The Yankees will decide that."

"To be here fighting for a job, it's tough to swallow when it comes to Bernie Williams," said Jorge Posada. "You look at it from a team point of view ... as a team, you want the team to be better."

Not only are Rivera and Posada longtime teammates, they are both facing career decisions. Rivera arrived in camp complaining about the fact he is unsigned beyond this year, and Posada also can be a free agent after this season.

Both Rivera and Posada pointed out that there isn't a spot for the 38-year-old Williams on the roster as currently constructed, with a platoon at first base. Should the team opt to use Doug Mientkiewicz as the everyday starter, Williams could take the spot that had been designated for either Josh Phelps or Andy Phillips.

Jason Giambi is slated to be a full-time DH and Melky Cabrera is set to get plenty of at-bats as the fourth outfielder, so Williams' role with the Yankees should he make the team would be limited to pinch-hitting duties.

"I don't think that would affect Bernie," Posada said. "I think he would be happy with that, but that's not the case. They're not guaranteeing he's going to be the 25th man."

As loyal as Torre has been to Williams, he can't make any assurances that he will have a spot on the roster at the end of the spring.

"I can't paint a picture that's guaranteeing him anything," Torre said. "I know there are a lot of players in this clubhouse who certainly feel for Bernie. Unfortunately, it's the nature of the game a lot of times that there's still business to take care of."

Torre, who spoke with Williams last week, said he was holding out hope that Williams would change his mind and report to camp. Posada, who hasn't been able to get in touch with his friend in a few days, thinks he has seen the last of Williams in a Yankees uniform.

"If he hasn't been here yet, he won't be here. I would love to see him walk through that door, but ..." Posada said. "He hasn't returned my calls. That tells me it's something negative. It tells me he won't be here."

GM Brian Cashman said he hadn't heard from Williams or his agent, Scott Boras. Boras did not return a call seeking comment.

If Williams plans to fight for a job, it would be wise for him to be in Tampa today to take his physical. The first full-squad workout is tomorrow, and Williams would need every break he can get to show the Yankees why he should be on the team.

"For his sake, the sooner the better," Torre said. "The more opportunities he gets to show what he contributes to our situation now, the better chance he has. ... If there wasn't any chance, I certainly wouldn't be trying to talk him into coming down."

Williams hit .281 with 12 home runs and 61 RBI in 420 at-bats last season, playing a lot more than expected due to injuries to Hideki Matsui and Gary Sheffield. When the Yankees acquired Bobby Abreu at the trade deadline, it cut into Williams' role, limiting him to just 116 at-bats over the season's final two months.

Should Williams return, it is not a certainty that a major injury to an outfielder would result in a greater opportunity. Cabrera would step in as the starting outfielder if Matsui, Abreu or Johnny Damon were injured, and if there was a second injury, the Yankees likely would go out and get whoever this year's Abreu is.

"That's not saying if we do have a breakdown somewhere that it's not going to involve more at-bats for him, because that probably will be the case," Torre said. "But we can't go into the season saying, ‘You're going to get 300 at-bats,' because you certainly don't pull for things to happen so that's the case."

Whatever Williams' ultimate decision is, it will be a difficult one.

"Being in his shoes isn't easy right now," Rivera said. "It's a decision that he has to make, and everybody will respect whatever he does."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 09:55 PM

Pitchers Practice Smart

Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

Monday, February 19, 2007
BY ED PRICE
Star-Ledger Staff

TAMPA, Fla. -- Carl Pavano missed some of yesterday's Yankees workout, but the party line is that there is no cause for concern with the oft-injured right-hander.

Pavano, his legs sore from running drills the past three days, was allowed to go inside early and skip some drills.

"I just gave him a day off, to rest," pitching coach Ron Guidry said.

"To push it would be stupid," said Pavano, still scheduled to throw a side session today. "(The legs) are just heavy."

Meanwhile, Mariano Rivera cut off his bullpen session three minutes early. But that too was described as no cause for alarm.

Rivera said he was fine, and catcher Wil Nieves and Guidry said independently that Rivera stopped because he felt TOO good.

"He said you can't get better than that," Nieves said. "If you try to get better, you would mess up."

Said Rivera: "I wanted to stop. Simple as that."

Rivera, who has established himself as a Hall of Fame closer with only a cut fastball and occasional sinker, also toyed with a change-up.

"Nasty," Guidry called it.

Rivera said he was "just messing around." Asked if he might incorporate a change-up, he said, "We'll see."

Manager Joe Torre said he would like to get Melky Cabrera, the nominal fourth outfielder, significant playing time by using other outfielders as a DH at times.

"There's going to have to be some flexibility I think," Torre said. "We have to find a way to get Cabrera a number of at-bats."

Tony Pena, the first-base coach and catching instructor, broke out his unusual pop-up drills in yesterday's windy conditions.

"He keeps it fun," Jorge Posada said.

In one drill, three catchers lined up across the home-plate area, and three balls were fired out of a pop-up machine. The catchers had to concentrate on their pop-up and avoid the other players.

Later, one catcher would be given three pop-ups in rapid succession, forcing them to catch one and then quickly find the next one in the sky. A few players were able to go 3-for-3.

"It makes you concentrate, it really does," Ben Davis said.

Torre was back after missing a day with a severe cold but stayed inside during the workout. "Better than yesterday, that's all I can say," Torre said. "I just didn't feel like getting out of bed." ... Hideki Matsui checked in at Legends Field yesterday but declined interview requests. Andy Phillips also arrived.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 09:57 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Did Roger Clemens even toot his horn? No. And he's won 7 Cy Young's and 2 World Series. Just goes to show you how classy some inviduals are.


Please. I don't call him "classy." He left the Yankees saying he was retired, claimed he was 99% retired, and then went to play for Houston.

Now, he's "failing retirement," then he's coming back, now he's 80% sure he'll retire.

That's fucking retarded.
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 09:57 PM

damnit i hate having the same first name as jeter lol i saw a quick skim of that and was wondering why my name was in there.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 10:02 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Did Roger Clemens even toot his horn? No. And he's won 7 Cy Young's and 2 World Series. Just goes to show you how classy some inviduals are.


Please. I don't call him "classy." He left the Yankees saying he was retired, claimed he was 99% retired, and then went to play for Houston.

Now, he's "failing retirement," then he's coming back, now he's 80% sure he'll retire.

That's fucking retarded.


I understand that DJ, and I agree with you. But between Curt Schilling and Roger Clemens, Roger's 1000 times classier than Curt. Now sure, Roger is still a snake in the grass, lying piece of sh*t, but at least he doesn't have the chronic foot-in-mouth syndrome Schilling's had for the past decade!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 10:22 PM

Personally, I really don't care for either of them, but there are very few players I'd label as "classy," especially if we compare them to guys like Gehrig.
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 10:32 PM

in all respects though, back in the old days the players played because they loved baseball, now its just for the money.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 11:05 PM

Originally Posted By: scarfacetm
in all respects though, back in the old days the players played because they loved baseball, now its just for the money.


I'm sure also you believed that Ted Williams was a gentlemen while playing baseball, that Babe Ruth was a nice ole chap, and that Willie Mays played forever for his love of the game.
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/19/07 11:18 PM

obviously money was involved too, but now thats all they give a shit about, getting a bigger contract than another player.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/07 12:04 AM

Its always been like that man.

Look at Ruth. It was controversial in his day that he made more dough yearly than the U.S. President. Ruth's argument?

"I've had a better year than him."(refering to President Hoover)
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/07 12:09 AM

but again, they enjoyed playing baseball too, now its more often than not strictly for the money which i think is crap, if you dont give a shit for the sport, dont play it.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/07 05:31 AM

I agree and I think what scarfacetm is trying to say is there was more loyally before. They wasn't a thing called free agnecy until the 1970s when Catfish Hunter came to the Yankees. Prior to that, the only way a player left a team was if they were traded. Today, players leave teams for the highest bidder and then whine like b*tches when they don't win (i.e. Miguel Tejada).
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/07 02:26 PM

Ruth's contract was the exception, but the overwhelming majority of ball players of his era needed additional jobs in order to make ends meet.

In the early decades of baseball, few were getting wealthy from the game, and many faced criticism from family members that they could be earning a better wage working than playing baseball. I think you can safely say these players truly played for the love of the game.

I think you'd be astounded at how relatively low salaries were even in the 1970s.

While there were a few million dollar contracts, the big money didn't really come until the mid-80s after the owners' unsuccessful attempt at collusion. I remember how utterly shocked I was when either Rickey Henderson or Don Mattingly was paid $3 million a year. Bigger deals soon followed.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/07 08:37 PM

Not Your Fathers' Yankees

Quote:
Source: Albany Times-Union

We're optimistic about the Yankees, because Randy Johnson's out West, and Andy Pettitte's back East.


Because they exported Jaret Wright, and imported Kei Igawa. Because the bullpen's a bit deeper, and the defense a tad better -- as long as Jason Giambi rarely plays it, as planned.

But the principal cause for optimism is that Brian Cashman's hands grip the reins of the Yankees' carriage harder than ever. No more must the Yankees succeed in spite of division and dysfunction between the general manager in New York and the empowered front office execs and advisors to George Steinbrenner in Tampa (can you imagine if Colts owner Jim Irsay had allowed a faction of "advisors" to undermine Bill Polian?).

No longer are the players Cashman doesn't want foisted on him, as Raul Mondesi and Kenny Lofton once were.

"For the last two years I've been able to set course on how we should proceed," Cashman said by phone from Tampa.

That is the most promising Yankees' development of all.

Cashman possesses the clout to persuade Steinbrenner not to fire Joe Torre when Steinbrenner wanted to last October, and the steely-eyed wisdom to say goodbye to Bernie Williams when Torre, blinded by sentimentality, would welcome him.

The Yankees of old would've signed Mariano Rivera to a hefty contract extension now instead of wisely waiting until after the season to see how the tender 37-year-old elbow that sidelined him for three weeks in September holds up.

The Yankees of old would've overpaid for a No. 4 starter such as Gil Meche or Adam Eaton in the hope their money and pinstripes would -- abracadabra! -- make their shortcomings disappear.

But these are the Yankees of Brian Cashman.

"We're still a big-game hunter on the free-agent market," he said.

But he's not going to waste payroll dollars on poor risks, either.

What Cashman and his staff have done that impresses most is replenish their farm system.

Nobody wants to talk about the Yankees' tomorrows; for years the Yankees focused obsessively on today. But the best sports franchises balance the tightrope between present and future. In their efforts to win every year, at any cost, the Yankees' farm had become fallow.

No more. Besides developing homegrown stars such as Chien-Ming Wang and Robinson Cano, and the useful Melky Cabrera, they've added so many promising prospects that Baseball America and Baseball Prospectus both ranked the Yankees' minor-league system among baseball's five best. They're particularly deep in pitching prospects, developing, adding to and holding onto them.

When Cashman traded Gary Sheffield to the Tigers, everyone knew the Yankees had to deal him. Yet, Cashman still acquired two of the Tigers' better pitching prospects for a player they no longer had use for.

Believe it or not, dealing Carl Pavano in the off-season would've been unwise. Yes, Pavano's "injuries" and commitment exasperate. But trading him when the Yankees need starters and his value is lowest would've made no sense. Cashman recognizes this.

None of this is to say Cashman hasn't and won't make mistakes.

But it'll be his team, and they'll be his mistakes.

We'll gladly live with both.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/07 08:41 PM

Yankees Williams A No-Show

Quote:
Source: Associated Press

Tampa, Fla. — Bernie Williams was nowhere to be seen, and New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman doesn't think that will change.

"It appears he made his decision. That's all I can take from it," Cashman said. "I'm assuming at this stage that he's not coming."

Yankees position players took physicals Monday, a day ahead of their first workout. Manager Joe Torre, fighting a cold, went home before the end of Monday's workout and didn't speak with reporters. Torre had planned to call Williams again Sunday, and Cashman said he didn't hear that a conversation took place.

Catcher Jorge Posada has called Williams several times — he placed another call Sunday — but hasn't reached Williams.

"I don't think he'll be here," Posada said. "I don't think we're going to see him unless Joe Torre convinces him."

Williams has been in the Yankees' organization since signing with them on his 17th birthday in 1985, and he came up to the major league club in 1991. With the emergence of Melky Cabrera as the fourth outfielder, the move of Jason Giambi to designated hitter and the planned platoon at first base, there's no room for a fifth outfielder on the roster.

"I'm going to work as if I'm playing first base. That's going to be up to Joe. It's not going to be my decision," Giambi said. "I'd love to have Bernie around here. He's a great teammate. I'll do whatever it takes. If that gives him an opportunity, that would be great."

Torre said Sunday that Williams was hurt that the Yankees didn't offer him a guaranteed spot on their regular-season roster. Williams doesn't want to play for any other team, and Torre said that if he wants to extend his career, he should report with or close to the other position players.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/07 08:43 PM

Yankees' Jeter Says Relationship With A-Rod Is Non-Issue

Quote:
Source: Metronews

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - Maintaining they have a fine relationship on the field and in the clubhouse, Derek Jeter resolutely refused to discuss the deterioration of his friendship with Alex Rodriguez away from the ballpark.

One day after A-Rod finally acknowledged the pair no longer are best friends, Jeter sat in the same first-base dugout at Legends Field and was asked to respond.

"I don't have a rift with Alex," the New York Yankees captain said Tuesday. "We go out there. We work together. This is our fourth year to be playing together. It's annoying to hear about it all the time. Everyone assumes they know what our relationship is. Everyone assumes - they see us on the field, if one person gives another one a look, it's a story. If we're at opposite ends of the bench, people say it's a story."

Shortly after arriving at spring training on Monday, Rodriguez said it was time for him to stop pretending that his relationship with Jeter was as close as it was in the 1990s. The pair have drifted apart since Rodriguez made critical remarks in a 2001 Esquire article.

"I don't see the relevance of it," Jeter said. "It has no bearing on us playing baseball."

Jeter refused to say how close he and Rodriguez are away from the ballpark.

"How would characterize it? I would characterize it as it doesn't make a difference," he said. "What we do away from the field, how much time we spend together, really makes no difference when we're playing."

Coming up through the Yankees' organization and becoming a key component of the unit that won four World Series titles from 1996 to 2000, Jeter has worked hard to avoid discussing his private life.

"I understand my job is public, but your personal life is your personal life. Once you open that door, it doesn't stop," he said. "Away from the field, people want to keep tabs on how many times we go out to eat, things like that. That has no bearing on what we're trying to do."

Jeter was criticized by some last year for not voicing sufficient support for Rodriguez, who struggled during the regular season and was booed at Yankee Stadium.

"From Day One I've said I support Alex," he said. "The only thing I'm not going to do is tell the fans what to do. . . . I don't think it's my job to tell fans to boo or not to do."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/07 09:04 PM

Giambi fine with position shift

TAMPA, Fla. -- Jason Giambi arrived at Yankees camp on Monday, his hair tinged with blond streaks, wearing a rock-style T-shirt and raving about his experiences at the NBA All-Star Game festivities in Las Vegas.

Giambi's personality has not changed, but his job description has. The 36-year-old said he spoke recently with manager Joe Torre and is fine with the team's decision to shift Giambi to a full-time designated hitter.

"It's more important for me to win and be in a World Series," Giambi said. "Whatever the team needs, that's what's going to be best."

While Giambi said he still enjoys playing first base, he acknowledged the superior defensive abilities of veteran Doug Mientkiewicz, who signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with New York over the winter.

"I think it's going to be great," Giambi said. "The guy is a Gold Glove first baseman. Joe and I sat down a little bit and said we'll determine [playing time] like we did last year."

The Yankees are entertaining the idea of carrying an extra first baseman in either Josh Phelps or Andy Phillips, serving as the right-handed-batting half of a platoon, which means Giambi's innings in the field could grow scarce.

Still, Giambi plans to enter Spring Training as though he expects to play the field. Statistically, Giambi has been a better hitter when he has been used defensively, batting .289 (58 hits in 201 at-bats) last season in games he played first base and .224 (54 hits in 241 at-bats) when utilized as a DH.

"Joe knows that I hit a lot better when I do [play first base], but at the same time, you think about it from the team's perspective," Giambi said. "I'm getting older."

Giambi said he has seen progress in his adjustment to the role of designated hitter and is primed to continue the transition.

"I'm getting older and taking a pounding," Giambi said. "I got a little bit better last year at being able to DH. Whatever they need."

While Giambi is not considered a rehab player entering Spring Training -- the Yankees have just one, non-roster catcher Raul Chavez -- he is expected to start slowly.


Following the Yankees' playoff elimination last October, Giambi had surgery to repair a torn ligament in his left wrist that hindered his offensive capabilities down the stretch last season.

Giambi finished the year batting .253 with 37 home runs and 113 RBIs, but required three cortisone shots in the wrist last September -- none of which completely relieved his pain.

Giambi's sixth season in pinstripes opens with careful dry swings, which he has done since early February. Hitting off a tee and live batting practice will follow, and Giambi's pursuit of October can officially commence.

Since Giambi signed a seven-year, $120 million contract after the 2001 season, the Yankees have reached the playoffs each season and played in one World Series. A championship ring has yet proved elusive.

Pointing to acquisitions like that of left-hander Andy Pettitte, whom Giambi believes will solidify the pitching staff, the slugger is banking that this will be the campaign when it finally comes.

"Everybody in that clubhouse wants to win," Giambi said. "Even though Derek Jeter has four World Series rings, he wants more, and you can tell how hungry he is every year when he shows up.

"We all want to be that guy who has four World Series rings. It's not a question of desire."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/07 09:17 PM

i don't think it is a bad idea to move giambi to DH, he can hit and it gives one of the younger players a chance to get some playing time.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/20/07 09:20 PM

Originally Posted By: scarfacetm
i don't think it is a bad idea to move giambi to DH, he can hit and it gives one of the younger players a chance to get some playing time.


The biggest thing will be the fact that his abhorrent fielding ability is no longer a liability. Say what you want about Mientkeiwicz's hitting, but he's a Gold Glove first baseman.

Still, I wish they'd ditch the Phillips/Phelps platoon and sign Bernie.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 04:28 AM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
I remember how utterly shocked I was when either Rickey Henderson or Don Mattingly was paid $3 million a year. Bigger deals soon followed.


$3 million!? Ohhhhhhh, let's not break the bank I'm just kidding. That does seem like peanuts compared to the amount of money A-Rod, Jeter, Beltran, and others are being paid
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 04:31 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: klydon1
I remember how utterly shocked I was when either Rickey Henderson or Don Mattingly was paid $3 million a year. Bigger deals soon followed.


$3 million!? Ohhhhhhh, let's not break the bank I'm just kidding. That does seem like peanuts compared to the amount of money A-Rod, Jeter, Beltran, and others are being paid

I remember when White Castle cost a quarter !
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 04:47 AM

And gas cost a nickel?
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 04:49 AM

lol i remember when vehicles were pulled by horses with a little cover over the back
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 04:50 AM

Did anyone help build Rome?
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 04:52 AM

my cousin helped build the pyramids if that helps lol
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 05:05 AM

Damon relaxed and ready

TAMPA, Fla. -- Johnny Damon officially checked in for his second season as a Yankee on Tuesday, flashing a natural smile and no regrets.
One year after he dealt his 'Idiot' status with the frat-house Boston Red Sox for the corporate image of Yankees pinstripes, Damon said he is thankful to be right where he is.

"Everyone knew it was a tough situation and decision to come here," Damon said. "In the end, every part of me is happy."

His transition was evident; the large media swarms which blanketed Legends Field last year in anticipation of seeing a clean-shaven Damon have evaporated, with Damon now widely accepted as a part of the Yankees' present and future.

"The hardest part of the transition was probably the unknown," Damon said. "I wanted to be accepted so badly. ... I knew the Yankees and always wanted to be a Yankee, even dating back to when I was a [Kansas City] Royal.

"It was kind of like the time finally came, and you just always want to do good. The fear of failure gets a lot of people going."

Damon -- who batted .285 with 24 home runs, 80 RBIs and 25 stolen bases in his first year for New York -- was a natural fit, according to general manager Brian Cashman.

"He was one of the very few who had a seamless transition to success here from success elsewhere," Cashman said. "He was the same great player for us as he was for [Boston], from the beginning."

The 33-year-old center fielder reports that a broken bone in his foot has healed to the point where he is able to begin running again, and that his shoulder has gone through a few light throwing workouts with no complaints.

He has resumed weight lifting and said he has regained strength, though part of the spring will need to be spent getting into game shape.

"I was a little banged up," Damon said. "I wanted to rest a lot."

Damon also noted that his six-week-old daughter, Devon Rose, is already balancing and standing.

"I think she'll be walking or running by six months," Damon joked.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 12:08 PM

Yankees Represent The Worst Of Sports

Quote:
Source: Phanatic Magazine (Philadelphia)

Tuesday, February 20, 2007
The Yankees Represent the Worst of Sports
By Jared Trexler

A snowflake fell just outside the steps of Fanneuil Hall in downtown Boston. It was significant because it was the first flake of the season -- and as tradition, lovebirds are supposed to seal the occasion with a kiss.
That was the dilemma facing a young gentleman in his mid 20s, sporting a brown overcoat, a five o'clock shadow and a large pin on his right chest that read,"John Kerry for President."
So, he was slightly behind the times, yet the pin wasn't his political statement. As he walked closer, his shirt's slogan became quite clear.
"Don't hate me. I love a Yankee fan."
Without further adieu, a quick-walking, dark-haired girl with a NYU sweatshirt sprinted toward the young man with passionate glee. She had seen the snow on her way to meet him, and she obviously was big on tradition.
Donning a New York Yankee hat, snugly holding together a bun in the back, the girl jumped into the guy's arms. It could have been a scene from Serendipity.
Except the man turned the other cheek, refusing to greet his woman with a kiss. She knew what he wanted, begrudgingly removing the cap.
Anyone within a shouting distance of the two could hear him explain his rationale.
"I don't hate the Yankees. I hate what they represent."
They represent big business. And greed. Yet, fans from Brooklyn to Manhattan will argue they also represent desire. Hard work. Will to win.
All fair and just adjectives, but I'll go a proclamation better.
The New York Yankees, by some of their own doing but also through no complete fault of their own, represent the worst of sports.
-----
As of Opening Day 2006, the Yankees payroll sat at $198,662,180, almost $80 million or a Powerball jackpot ahead of the next closest spender -- the Boston Red Sox.
New York's never-ending checkbook has been well documented. It's been rehashed in various novels, on Tampa Bay Devil Rays broadcasts (as they are getting pounded 13-1 in the fourth frame) and even on Seinfeld.
And it truly is no complete fault of their own. They pay luxury tax, giving countless millions to Kansas City and Pittsburgh, only to see that money enter the pocket without an increase in small-market payroll.
This isn't meant to be a history lesson on Bud Selig's tenure as MLB Commissioner or the evolution of the luxury tax.
It's more an overarching argument that the Yankees -- led by the "Boss" upstairs down through the manager in the dugout and the players on the field-- exude a sense of entitlement that comes from a river of cash as long as the Nile.
It's like spending $1000 for a hooker and expecting her to "perform her duties" like a champ. Or buying a $500,000 boat and expecting the motor to purr like a cat. Or buying an All-Star baseball team and expecting it to filter to the top after a lengthy 162-game season.
With money comes expectations, but also arrogance. Excellence, but also cockiness. A good record, but also a bad message sent to today's youth.
Money can be a great Band-Aid. If Alex Rodriguez gets hurt -- aka breaks a nail -- New York can go out and swing a deal for Miguel Cabrera. Could any other team feasibly, financially pull off such a move?
No.
Parity is no longer a dirty word in the National Football League, where a Super Bowl champion can quickly become a .500 club and a storied franchise (Oakland) can quickly become the laughingstock of the league.
Fans of almost every team enter each season with promise and hope. New Orleans was an en vogue 4-12 pick before the season commenced, then went out and won the NFC South.
Think fans filtering into PNC Park can say the same thing? Not a chance, and it's bad for sports.
Again, not to say it's completely the Yankees' fault, but the pinstripes have become the image of Major League Baseball's core deficiencies -- a corporation structured behind the ideals of the Republican party where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer.
"Major League baseball as it stands is a poorly run business economically," said an area college professor. "The NFL has proven that the level playing field has provided more excitement. The NFL has almost become a large scale March Madness, where anything can happen.
"It's a great product," he continued. "And MLB just isn't there. The league will point to an 83-win club winning the World Series (St. Louis). It's the exception to the rule. More often than not it's the Yankees then everyone else."
Everyone else can still win. Minnesota and Oakland are two examples of penny-thrift franchises that have used superb scouting departments and minor-league systems to build consistent winners.
It just doesn't happen often enough. And it won't until Major League Baseball realizes its faulty economic structure, nips the Yankees' spending spree in the bud and brings player development more into play.
The Yankees rarely develop talent anymore. Why bother when other people can do it for them. George's crew was the only front office willing to take on Bobby Abreu's contract at the trade deadline last season -- not because they wanted it more, but because they just plain had more.
----
After explaining why he dissed the kiss, the young lady quickly backed away with a stare that could have melted a typical Boston Nor'easter.
Then he pointed to his button, bringing her smile back.
John Kerry was a uniting bond. Yankees-Red Sox was a topic not up for discussion.
"We don't need to earn it. We'll win because we spend more," quipped the girl, quick to get in the last word, as the two walked hand-in-hand away from the historic building.
It's 2007 thinking spreading nationwide. And the Yankees are to blame.


Right...


  • The Yankees represent greed and big business...who the hell just paid $101 million for Matsuzaka? Who's owner just made a deal to enter in with Jack Roush racing in NASCAR?
  • The Yankees have a sense of entitlement, and are the only ones who can spend money? The Royals just blew $55 million on Gil Meche, and Barry Zito...let's not go there.
  • Lack of parity in baseball? C'mon. When's the last time the Patriots won the Super Bowl? Oh, yeah. When's the last time the Yankees won the WS? Really? Oh, you mean there hasn't been a repeat champ in MLB for ages? You mean, a ton of teams have made the playoffs with the exception of Tampa Bay, Kansas City, Milwaukee, and Pittsburgh? Shit! You're a retard!
  • Using a local college professor as a source on economics in baseball is like asking a retard to analyze thermonuclear physics.


[/END_RANT]

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 12:15 PM

Pride of the Yankees

Quote:
Source: Phanatic Magazine (Philadelphia)

By John Gottlieb

It’s unbelievable that when you play by the rules you are still chastised as the worst in all of sports. It's a lofty title to uphold, but one it becomes the Yankee moniker before the start of every baseball season.
Pardon me but boo-hoo for the rest of Major League Baseball and the rest of the whole sporting landscape for that matter.
I’m sure I don’t have to, but I will remind everyone that despite having the highest payroll for the last six years the Yankees have ZERO World Series titles. That’s right, they’ve been stuck on good ole No. 26 since the 2000 Subway Series.
The Yankees are the worst in all of sports when they win and the worst in all of sports when they lose. When they win it's because they're supposed to and when they lose it's because there is no way all of that high-priced talent can come together as a team. I guess you're damned if you do and damned it you don't. That's a pretty rough standard to be held to.
How can you blame the Yankees for the market they’re located in? Being in New York has its perks, and one of them is drawing four-plus million fans.
Do the Yankees exude some sort of arrogance? If you spent $200 million for a team you’d expect them to win. Do we equate arrogance with lofty expectations? If so, then count the Yankees guilty as charged.
The Yankees won four World Series in five years behind homegrown talent, including Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Bernie Williams, Jorge Posada and Andy Pettitte.
Other than the 2002 Angels no other team since 2000 has used as much of a core of homegrown players than the Yanks’ dynasty.
Maybe they spend their money unwisely but that goes to show that despite being in the playoffs, the team that spends the most usually doesn’t win, which should give hope this year to the Phillies, Twins and Cardinals.
Jay Leno’s got an extravagant, expensive collection of cars, but would the late night talk show host send his Porsche Carrera GT to the junkyard if it blew a transmission. I don’t think so. He’d probably replace the V10 with a V12 and up the horsepower from 605 to whatever you up that kind of machinery to.
It’s the same thing with the Bombers. If Johnny Damon breaks his leg in spring training you can bet that the first call Brian Cashman will make is to John Schuerholz in Atlanta.
I’m not sure why everyone has a problem with what the Yankees do. Is it because they put a winning product on the field (at least throughout the regular season), or is it because if they have a deficiency they go out and fix it?
Of course the Royals can’t make the same moves that the Yankees can, but their owner is David Glass. Never heard of him? He’s just the guy that owns one the biggest companies in the United States (Walmart).
The new owner of the Pirates is Bob Nutting, who is the President and CEO of Ogden Newspapers and Nutting Newspapers, a chain off 38 dailies, 43 weeklies/shoppers, 14 magazines and 51 independent telephone directories.
These guys have all the cake it takes to turn the franchises into competitors, but they spend the money poorly (Gil Meche) or they don’t spend it at all. Don’t blame the Yankees for that.
You don’t get to join the fraternity of baseball owners unless you have a lot of money and you play nice-nice with the others.
Am I to believe that David Glass can’t afford to keep up with George Steinbrenner? No, Steinbrenner just wants to win more and is willing to do whatever it takes, within the rules to do so.
Just wait until A-Rod decides that he wants a contract extension after this season and threatens to opt out of his deal if the Yanks don’t give him five more years at $100-plus million. The Bronx Bombers would tell him to take a hike.
Also keep in mind that the Yankees are only paying $16 million this season for Rodriguez. I can give you 29 other teams that would do that if they could.
Now that Brian Cashman has control of the organization the Yankees have shown fiscal restraint. If they were the big, bad Yankees with George Steinbrenner calling the shots then Carlos Beltran would be patrolling center and Barry Zito would be the talk of the town.
The Yanks added Doug Mientkiewicz, Kei Igawa and Andy Pettitte this season, while shedding Gary Sheffield, Randy Johnson, Jaret Wright and most certainly Bernie Williams. New York would’ve gotten rid of A-Rod and Jason Giambi too but they wouldn’t waive no-trade clauses.
And whom did New York get in return for these future Hall-of-Famers and Jaret Wright? Humberto Sanchez, Kevin Whelan, Anthony Claggett, Chris Britton, Ross Ohlendorf, Steven Jackson, Alberto Gonzalez and Luis Vizacaino. There is a possibility that two or three of these players will see time in the majors this year.
The Yankees are a team with weaknesses, including aging starting pitching, the lack of a dominant relief pitcher (other than Mariano), and a gaping hole at first base. I’m sure if they wanted to they could've bettered themselves with some major league ready talent if they were "the worst in sports".
Nope, they’re building for the future. The Yankees farm system was a laughingstock just a few seasons ago, but ESPN’s Keith Law ranked them in the top five this year.
When you hear baseball fans complain about what the Yankees do it’s because they wish the owners of their favorite franchise was smart or savvy enough to do the same. What would make the system fairer? Do the Yankees need to be put a competitive disadvantage because they make so much money? Why don’t we make them play with 20 guys on their roster instead of the 25 everyone else gets? How about we put a cap on the number of All-Stars one franchise can have? Where does the line get drawn?
There is no salary cap in baseball and there never will be thanks to the strongest union in the world. That is the only way to even out the playing field (just like the NFL), but don’t hold your breath. It ain’t gonna happen, baseball has gone on strike for less.
As for the Red Sox, if the Yankees are the worst in all of sports the Red Sox are not far behind. This is a team that spent $222 million this offseason behind only the Chicago Cubs. (The Yankees rank ninth in offseason spending this year.)
Sorry if my math is a little off, but as best as I can tell the Yankees’ payroll will be roughly $45 million more than Boston's this year (and that doesn’t include the posting bids for any of the import pitchers on either team), compared to last season when New York’s payroll was close to $75 million more. Boston is catching up and doing it quickly.
So while that was a beautifully disturbing love story of the couple in Boston, the Red Sox are a team going with their fifth different shortstop in the last five seasons and also signed an outfielder that won’t play with a hangnail to a five-year, $70 million contract.
Look in the mirror. The playing field is slowly but surely being leveled in baseball.
If the Yanks are the worst in all of sports because they will do whatever it takes, again within the rules, then why even pick a team and devote your time to it?
“You play to win the game.”
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 12:18 PM

Yankee Refugee Crosby Likes Camaraderie On Reds

Quote:
Source: The Cincinnati Post

SARASOTA, Fla. - When Bubba Crosby walked into the Reds clubhouse at the City of Sarasota Sports Complex for the first time, he saw something he wasn't really used to, guys hugging each other and talking about dinner plans.

Crosby, who spent the last three years with the New York Yankees, wasn't used to seeing such a level of camaraderie.

Monday's drama in Tampa was that Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter aren't best friends. In Sarasota, Ken Griffey Jr. and Adam Dunn were ganging up on Ryan Freel and busting up the entire clubhouse in laughter.

"That's something we lacked in New York. It felt like everyone would go their own separate ways. Here guys go out and do things together," said Crosby, who was signed to a free agent contract in the off-season. "I think that's a huge part of the game. The Yankees have had $200 million-plus payrolls the last few years. Money doesn't mean championships all the time. You look at St. Louis, it looks like the guys love each other and hang out."

Even though position players aren't required to report until Thursday, most of the Reds regulars are already in Sarasota and have been for a while, just hanging out in the clubhouse and working on their own. They're here to work on their skills, but also because they want to be here and enjoy being here.

"We have a bunch of guys who screw around when it's time to screw around and be serious when it's time to serious," said pitcher Aaron Harang. "That makes it more fun to come to work every day."

It didn't take too long for Crosby to feel as if he fit in, getting invited to dinner by other players and joining in the clubhouse jokes.

"I've just been here five days, and everyone's been accepting to people coming in," Crosby said. "The staff and everyone have been great."

Crosby isn't just happy to be with the Reds for the clubhouse hijinks, but because after becoming a minor league free agent following the 2006 season, he wanted to find a place where he could play his style of baseball.

Because the 5-foot-11 Crosby is fast, loves to run and is a good bunter, he knew he wanted to play in the National League, and he found Cincinnati to be the best fit.

"Even being a fifth outfielder for a National League team, you're going to get three times as many at-bats as I would if I were with the Yankees again," Crosby said. "It's exciting to know I can play my game. Sometimes I'd get the green light, but I'd get the stare from Joe (Torre) that said I better be sure. Then you hesitate and just wait for (Hideki) Matsui to hit a two-run homer."

In three seasons with the Yankees, Crosby never had more than 100 at-bats in a season, despite appearing in as many as 76 games for New York in 2005. He stole just nine bases in his three seasons, despite stealing 106 in the minors.

Crosby, who can play all three outfield positions, was used primarily as a defensive player, either starting or coming in late in the game to shore up the defense. In the 2005 American League Division Series, he started in center field for three of the five games. He went 2-for-3 with an RBI in Game 5, but was pulled for pinch-hitter Ruben Sierra in the eighth inning of a Yankee loss.

"I think I just got labeled with the Yankees as a utility outfielder. I never got a chance to hit a whole lot in New York," Crosby said. "There they used two extra outfielders, they had an offensive guy, which was Bernie (Williams) last year, and a defensive one, which was me. I'd go out and do my part, but if my spot came in the order to hit, Bernie would hit for me."

Spotty at-bats hurt his timing, Crosby said, which hurt his numbers. He hit .207 last season (18-for-87) and .276 in 2005 (27-for-98). It's not that he can't hit, Crosby said, it's that he hasn't been given a chance. Not many players get called up to the big leagues to be outfield defensive specialist. Crosby hit .361 in Class AAA Las Vegas in 2003 before being called up the Dodgers and then traded to New York. He's a career .279 hitter in the minor leagues.

"I hit every spring training. I got to the big leagues with the Dodgers because I could hit," Crosby said. "I was ready to see what I can do, hitting. I knew I could go out there in spring and lead the whole camp in hitting and it wouldn't matter, I'd still be the fifth outfielder. It's nice to go to an organization that if you produce, you're going to play."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 12:20 PM

Williams Waiting For Offer From Yankees That Might Never Come; Damon, Giambi, Tabata Updates!

Quote:
Source: Lower-Hudson Journal

By PETER ABRAHAM
THE JOURNAL NEWS
(Original publication: February 21, 2007)

TAMPA, Fla. - Bernie Williams is waiting for an offer that isn't coming.

The Yankees worked out for the first time as a team yesterday, and Williams wasn't on the field. The team has offered him a minor-league contract, but the 38-year-old outfielder wants more.

"Bernie is not retiring but is loyal to the Yankees and feels he can be an important contributor to the '07 team," agent Scott Boras told The Associated Press. "He's continuing to work out (and) will wait to see if their position changes."

It's not changing, general manager Brian Cashman said. The Yankees have no room for Williams at the moment but are willing to have him come to camp and compete for a job.

"The best chance is for him to be here and play," manager Joe Torre said.

Williams has not returned repeated telephone calls from Cashman and Torre.

"Bernie is still very sensitive," Torre said. "I like him very much, but there is nothing about Bernie that can surprise me. That's his personality."

Cashman was more blunt.

"You'd have to be stupid not to interpret the answer. He's given us the answer," he said. "If something changes, I guess he'll let us know first. But it's time to start focusing on who we have here now."

Damon takes it slow: Johnny Damon injured his left shoulder during drills at this time last season. So he plans to take it slow this spring.

"I'm going to take it easy. It doesn't need to be 100 percent right now," he said.

Damon said his various aches and pains from last season - particularly the cracked bone in his left foot - have healed.

"I've been able to run a little bit," he said. "I haven't run much because I wanted to rest a lot. This first week of spring I'm definitely going to work on getting in better shape."

Damon has defined goals for the upcoming season.

"I wasn't my normal self as far as hitting with runners in scoring position," he said. "That has to get better, and I struck out a few more times than I wanted to."

Giambi goes deep:
Jason Giambi had not taken batting practice since having surgery on his left wrist in October. But he launched four balls out of Legends Field during batting practice.

"Everything feels great," he said. "It's better than it was before I hurt it."

Extra bases: Torre was back at Legends Field after missing 1 1/2 days with a touch of the flu. ... None of the Yankees are pleased with their MLB-mandated spring-training caps, which have white piping on the brim and on the sides. "The hats are terrible," Jeter said. ... Jose Tabata, an 18-year-old outfielder from Venezuela, has his locker next to countryman Bobby Abreu. Tabata is listed at 5-foot-11, 212 pounds. "He looks like a little Manny Ramirez," Abreu said.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 12:23 PM

William Waits For Guaranteed Contract

Quote:
Source: Associated Press

Wednesday, February 21, 2007 - Updated: 03:40 AM EST

TAMPA, Fla. - Bernie Williams rejected the New York Yankees’ offer of a minor league contract and will wait to see if a guaranteed job opens up for him on the team.

Yankees manager Joe Torre spoke with Williams last week and tried to reach him, without success, on Sunday.

”Bernie told me he had talked with Joe. Other than the invite, there wasn’t any information that led him to believe he would be a member of the team,” Williams’ agent, Scott Boras, said Tuesday. ”He’s continuing to work out, will wait to see if their position changes.”

Williams signed with the Yankees in 1985 and came up to the major league team in 1991. Torre had hoped the outfielder would be on the field as position players started workouts Tuesday and that Williams would compete for a spot on the roster.



”Evidently, what I’ve said to him hasn’t been enough for him,” Torre said. ”I know he was down when I talked to him.”

Williams helped the Yankees win four World Series titles from 1996-2000 and is hurt the team hasn’t offered him a guaranteed job. Now 38, he lost his starting center field spot to Johnny Damon last year but hit .281 with 12 homers and 61 RBIs in 420 at-bats as a backup, seeing significant time after Hideki Matsui and Gary Sheffield got hurt.

”He certainly feels he can be a helpful contributor in ’07,” Boras said. ”He wants to remain loyal to the Yankees and doesn’t feel it’s appropriate for him to play for another club.”

Williams hasn’t returned calls from Yankees players or general manager Brian Cashman.

”You’d have to be stupid not to interpret the answer. He’s given us the answer,” Cashman said. ”If something changes, I guess he’ll let us know first. But it’s time to start focusing on who we have here now.”

Yankees captain Derek Jeter and others have said it will be ”weird” to go through spring training without Williams.

”I think we’re all kind of waiting to see if he walks through the door,” Damon said. ”He meant so much to our team last year. Without him, it would have been a different story. He filled in nicely for me when I was banged up. He filled in nicely for Matsui and Sheffield. Bernie’s the type of guy who can play probably another three or four years at a high level. He just wants to do it here.”

If the Yankees start the season without Williams, his corner locker at Yankee Stadium will be offered to closer Mariano Rivera, whose current locker is adjacent.

”I would take it under consideration,” Rivera said. ”My spot is a great spot. I’ve been there a few years. But, like I said, I would take it under consideration knowing the organization is thinking about it.”

Notes: Damon is upbeat about his physical condition after playing through a sore shoulder and a broken bone in his foot last season. ”The foot is completely healed,” Damon said. ”I haven’t ran much because obviously after the season I was a little banged up, wanted to rest a lot. This first week of spring I’m definitely going to work on getting in better shape.” ... Rivera threw 34 pitches during his third bullpen session and expects to be ready to pitch during the first week of exhibition games. ... Jason Giambi hit four homers, including one off the center-field backdrop, during his first batting practice session since offseason surgery on his left wrist. ”No pain at all,” Giambi said. ”We’ll see how it feels tomorrow.” ... Alex Rodriguez cleared the scoreboard in left-center during batting practice.


Bernie...I love you mang...but Joe is right. You have a near zero chance of making the team if you don't show to Spring Training, since the Yankees want to make love to a 1B platoon. You've got to make yourself known!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 12:25 PM

When Torre Talks, Yankees Listen

Quote:
Source: North Jersey Record

By PETE CALDERA
STAFF WRITER

TAMPA, Fla. -- Just before 9:30 a.m., 64 players tilted their chairs toward the center of the Yankees' clubhouse and awaited Joe Torre's spring training address.

Congested, coughing, feverish, and feeling generally "washed out" since shortly after arriving at Legends Field, Torre stayed in bed on Saturday and left camp early on Monday -- in no condition to conduct any baseball business.

But Torre was in uniform Tuesday morning, notepad and folder in hand, as he entered the room for his 12th annual speech prior to the Yankees' first full-squad workout.

Even battling a bad cold, there was no way that Torre would skip this moment to lay the groundwork for another challenging year ahead.

Chief among Torre's topics is to limit any avoidable disruptions, and to prevent minor rifts from becoming gaping wounds.

"I always mention distractions," Torre said. "It's part of being here."

Minutes earlier, Torre's team captain sat in the Yankees' dugout and announced that, "This is the last time I'm going to address" anything related to his friendship with Alex Rodriguez.

Derek Jeter declined to analyze their damaged relationship, which A-Rod described Monday as having gone from "blood brothers" to something significantly less.

"I would characterize it as it doesn't make a difference," Jeter said of his friendship with A-Rod. "Has our relationship changed? I've had a lot of relationships that have changed over the years."

As to Rodriguez's troubles on the field, and with the fans' reactions, "me and Alex have talked about it," Jeter said. "Alex has never sensed a lack of support from me."

Torre offered that A-Rod's public admission to a damaged friendship "sort of made him feel better."

As Rodriguez later told The Associated Press, "That's as honest as I've been here since I've been here. ... and that part of it felt good.

"I just found myself trying to say always the right things and trying not to screw up," A-Rod said. "And I think that came across for some people as very disingenuous and phony, perhaps -- those are the things you hear.

"If you're going to get chopped up into pieces, you might as well be as honest as you can and get ripped for it."

Last week, Carl Pavano invited Mike Mussina into a room to discuss the growing clubhouse perception that Pavano was more disinterested than injured over the past two seasons.

Mussina exited with a more favorable impression of Pavano, and a fire had been stamped out.

But where Pavano only has to pitch and win games to avoid further scrutiny, the psychoanalysis of the Jeter-A-Rod relationship has a limitless fuel supply.

"I don't have a rift with Alex," said Jeter, who had no plans to seek out Rodriguez for a deep discussion. "It's annoying to hear about it all the time.

"Everyone assumes they know what our relationship is," Jeter said. "If one person gives another one a look, it's a story. If we're at opposite ends of the bench, people say it's a story."

Shortly before 11 a.m., Jeter and Rodriguez engaged in one of the most well-chronicled games of catch ever played.

As teammates, "We support each other," Jeter said. "In terms of what happened away from the field, I'm not going to get into that."

And once more, Jeter said the fans innately want A-Rod to succeed, but that "I don't think it's my job to tell the fans what to do."

That stance has left some to believe that Jeter's chill toward Rodriguez runs deep.

"I understand my job is public, but your private life is your private life," Jeter said. "Once you open that door, it doesn't stop."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 12:26 PM

'Embarrassed' Swindal Says The Boss Backs Him

Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

Tuesday, February 20, 2007
BY ED PRICE
Star-Ledger Staff

TAMPA, Fla. -- Steve Swindal, the high-ranking Yankees executive who last week was charged with driving under the influence, yesterday expressed regret and embarrassment but also declared, "I'm here for the duration."

Swindal is a general partner of the team as well as George Steinbrenner's son-in-law and designated successor as principal owner. Swindal faces a March 15 court date in Pinellas County for an incident early last Thursday, when he was pulled over by St. Petersburg police.

"I just wanted to tell you on a personal level how embarrassed I am for my family, for the Yankees, for the fans," Swindal, 52, said in his first comments since the arrest. "I know I let a lot of people down and I promise to do better and put this behind me."

Swindal said Steinbrenner has been in his corner.

"I've been married 23 years, and guys, I've got to tell you, on a personal level, he's been a great father-in-law and that's not changed," Swindal said. "It's a family matter. He supports me. I don't feel anything but a guy who is looking out after me and supports me."

Steinbrenner spokesman Howard Rubenstein had no comment on Steinbrenner's behalf.

Swindal declined to talk about the incident, "because I've been instructed not to." He returned to work at Legends Field yesterday, coming in about 1:30 p.m., and decided to meet with the media about an hour later.

According to police, Swindal cut off a police cruiser in traffic and was then clocked going 61 mph in a 35 mph zone. The arrest affidavit described Swindal as having "slurred, mumbled speech ... swaying, stumbling, staggering motor control ... and a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath."

Jason Giambi, who underwent surgery last fall to repair a torn ligament in his left wrist, said he wants to pace himself early in spring training. The first full-squad workout is today.

"Everything's fine," Giambi said. "(Manager Joe Torre) just wants me to start slow to make sure I don't have any setbacks."

Hideki Matsui, who missed most of last season with a broken wrist, said he has "no problem" and has been swinging a bat for about a month.

Torre was at Legends Field in the morning but, still battling illness, left during the workout.... Non-roster right-hander Steven White, who had been sidelined with a strained ligament on the right side of his neck, played catch and expects to resume throwing off a mound today or tomorrow.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/21/07 07:57 PM

Zimmer defends Jeter

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- While the A-Rod-Jeter saga continued to play out in Tampa, Don Zimmer weighed in on the subject on the other side of Tampa Bay.
Make no mistake about it, Zim is a Derek Jeter man, and he sounded off Wednesday morning at the Raymond A. Naimoli Complex, where the Devil Rays conduct Spring Training.

Zimmer, who served as a bench coach for the Yankees for eight years and is now a special advisor with the Devil Rays, said he can't understand how Jeter can be criticized because of his relationship with Alex Rodriguez.

"They're making [Jeter] out to be the bad guy," Zimmer said. "What has he done wrong? Like I say, if A-Rod hits a home run tomorrow, Jeter will be on the top step, the first guy shaking his hand. What do you want [Jeter] to do, put his arm around him and kiss him?"

Zimmer said the Yankees had a "pretty good club" before Rodriguez arrived.

"Now it's his job to fit in," Zimmer said. "Is it Jeter's fault because some newscaster says [Rodriguez] hasn't done this under pressure? I'm not saying this, but I read it. We've all read it. Is that Jeter's fault? What do you want Jeter to do? Jeter goes out and gets 200 hits a year, plays like hell, plays hurt, nobody knows about it. That's the kind of person he is. If that's not leading, I don't know what leading is."

Zimmer noted the Yankees experienced a lot of changes while he was with the team.

"Fill-in here, fill-in there, everybody that came in fit right in," Zimmer said. "I would say a lot of that goes with [Manager Joe] Torre.

"We got Strawberry one day, two days later we got the first baseman, Big Daddy [Cecil Fielder]. We had a lot of guys that fit in -- [Chuck] Knoblauch. They fit in. We had a team.

"Now, here's a guy. What's [Rodriguez] make, $25 million a year? What is it that Jeter's done any different with him than what anybody else has done? How in the hell can Jeter be criticized over A-Rod? I'm trying to figure it out. I don't even understand it, but it makes me sick because I'm a Jeter man -- me and millions others."

Zimmer was asked why he thought people would side with Rodriguez

"All I know is I know what Jeter is," Zimmer said. "And for Jeter, they're making him out the villain. How in the hell could you ever make Jeter the villain, of all people, in this game?"

Zimmer expressed his opinion on how the perceived friction between Jeter and Rodriguez began.

"When it all happened, and A-Rod got the big contract, he made a comment, and you guys have to go back and look it up, he said Jeter can never get a contract like that because he doesn't hit home runs like I do," Zimmer said. "Is it Jeter's fault he's playing in New York with the Yankees and they win four World Series? You're going to hold that against him towards A-Rod, who has never won nothing?"

Zimmer recounted that three years ago he said Rodriguez was the best player in the game.

"That was my opinion," Zimmer said. "So I'm not trying to bury A-Rod, but people are trying to bury Jeter, I don't understand it.

"You take a guy [such as Jeter], who probably in 13 years that I've known him, is probably the best man I've known in those 13 years. He's never changed from '96 to today -- the way he acts. The way he acts on the field. The way he plays. The way he performs, and now, this criticism? It doesn't make sense. It's tough for me to figure it out. I'm just not smart enough to figure that one out. Jeter getting criticized, not being the captain, not being this, not being that."

Zimmer said Jeter wouldn't even care if Rodriguez was named captain of the Yankees.

"Knowing Jeter like I know him, if he thought that would help the team, making A-Rod the captain, he'd be willing to do that," Zimmer said. "That would be my guess knowing him like I do. I don't know how he could be any better [of a team guy]."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 03:22 AM

Abreu happy to not be 'The Man'

TAMPA, Fla. -- Larry Bowa can still picture a half-dressed Bobby Abreu in the Phillies' clubhouse, his head hanging and his uniform soiled by the frustration of another defeat.

With Philadelphia, everyone seemingly expected Abreu to be "The Man" -- a power-hitting icon of a blue-collar club, perennially challenging to the edge of playoff contention.

As Abreu reports for his first full season with the Yankees, that pressure appears to have been lifted off the 34-year-old outfielder's shoulders.

"He's not going to admit it, but you can see the different body language," said Bowa, Abreu's former manager with the Phillies. "He used to feel like he let everybody down because he didn't drive the run in or he didn't get the big hit. He wants to do that, but he also realizes that there are other guys who can do it."

The distance between the Yankees' Spring Training facility in Tampa and the Phillies' Clearwater home is less than one hour by automobile, but it has proven to be worlds away for Abreu.

Overshadowed by the likes of Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez and Jason Giambi, Abreu is pleased to operate in relative anonymity as he prepares for the upcoming season.

"It's nice," Abreu said. "It's a different mentality. You know you're going to have a chance to be in the playoffs, and this is what it's all about. I'm looking for a World Series ring, and this team is going to give me a lot of chances to win."

Abreu seemed to respond almost immediately to the July 30 deal, in which the Phillies traded him and the late Cory Lidle to the Yankees in exchange for four Minor League prospects.

A .277 hitter at the time of the transaction, Abreu batted .330 with seven home runs and 42 RBIs in 58 games for New York, enthusiastically approaching his first taste of postseason baseball.

The performance was not unexpected, Bowa noted.

"He realized he's surrounded by a lot of good players," Bowa said. "If he took an 0-for-4 [with the Phillies], he felt like he let the team down. Here, if he goes 0-for-4, he already knows there's a bunch of guys in this lineup that can pick him up."

Flash back one year, though, and Abreu was not nearly in as good spirits. He was the last Phillies player to report to Clearwater, and his belated arrival became a large story because of already-swirling trade rumors.

Bowa was not the Phillies' manager then, having been replaced by the more low-key Charlie Manuel. Still, the current Yankees third-base coach said he could always see Abreu grinding his teeth over each missed opportunity.

"He felt like if he didn't get any hits, [the Phillies] weren't going to win," Bowa said. "Every year, he carried the brunt of it. If he didn't hit, we didn't score runs. Over here [with the Yankees], we're going to score. He knows this lineup is laden with real good players."

With uncertainty circling his status in Philadelphia, Abreu's ultimate relief wouldn't come for several months. Once it did, Abreu said his New York experience made it worth the wait.

"It was a little tough," Abreu said. "There were a lot of rumors and that sort of stuff, but finally they made the decision [to trade me]. It was fine for me. It gave me the opportunity to play on a winner."

Abreu said that slotting in as a part of the Yanks' powerhouse lineup -- which led the Major Leagues last season with 930 runs scored -- relieved some of the pressure and allowed him to better focus on contributing to the team's success.

"Everyone in this lineup is a star," Abreu said. "Back on the Phillies, I was 'The Man' -- the one everyone pointed to over the years. It's a good thing to be here, because sometimes you'll make a mistake, and you can deal with that. On the other side [with Philadelphia], when you made a mistake, everybody pointed at you."

Yankees manager Joe Torre said that Abreu has meshed well with the team's clubhouse culture and attitude.

Though Abreu is perhaps no longer a prototypical power-hitting right fielder -- he hit just 15 home runs last season, down from 24 in 2005 and 30 in 2004 -- Torre is pleased by Abreu's patience and willingness to work walks, which contributed to Abreu's .419 on-base percentage in 2006.

"His style certainly fits in very comfortably, as far as I'm concerned, with what we'd like to believe we're about," Torre said. "Instead of knocking the cover off the ball and beating up people, we'd like to be able to methodically score runs.

"The way he's situated in the lineup, wherever it is, he's a plus. He [can] get up there in a situation where they pitch to him, and if he's going to swing at it, he's no slouch. He's a legitimately good hitter."

With his services as a team spokesman no longer in heavy demand, Abreu has taken to quietly tutoring some of the younger Yankees farmhands. His locker neighbor this spring is 18-year-old Jose Tabata, a Venezuelan prospect who has drawn physical comparisons to a young Manny Ramirez.

Abreu spoke extensively with Tabata on Wednesday in Spanish, and said that the promising outfielder has been quizzing the veteran on all aspects of life in the Major Leagues.

"I'm trying to give these young guys as much as I can," Abreu said. "Whenever they ask me for something, I'm very happy and open to them to help them and give them the best advice that I can. Some of them are going to be All-Stars one day, and I hope they'll do the same thing for the young guys someday."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 11:36 AM

Major Hurdle For Yankees Phillips, Phelps

Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

Thursday, February 22, 2007
BY ED PRICE
Star-Ledger Staff

TAMPA, Fla. -- Joe Torre still remembers Steve Bilko, who was named the Pacific Coast League MVP three years in a row, 1955-57.

About 20 years ago, Mets fans may recall, there was Randy Milligan -- The Sporting News' 1987 Minor-League Player of the Year for the Tidewater Tides.

Neither one is remembered for his big-league career.

There have been plenty of players who could hammer Triple-A pitching, but it's often a different story when they get promoted. Some struggle against the better pitching. Others are unable to handle a different role. And then there is the pressure that comes with a second deck on the stadium.

The Yankees are using this spring training to see if Andy Phillips or Josh Phelps can build on their Triple-A success. The team is likely to choose one to open the season as the right-handed half of a platoon at first base, sharing time with Doug Mientkiewicz.

Phillips and Phelps have nothing left to prove in Triple A, with lifetime averages at that level of .294 and .297, respectively. But why do some players move up the ladder with ease and then stall on the final step?

Torre, the Yankees manager, put it simply: "Because the jump is big."

Phillips, who turns 30 in April, batted .300 with 22 homers for Triple-A Columbus in 2005. But because he was out of minor-league options, he spent all last season in New York -- where he hit just .240 with 56 strikeouts in 246 at-bats.

Phelps, who turns 29 in May, was once a prized prospect in the Toronto organization. When the Blue Jays traded Raul Mondesi to the Yankees in July 2002, Phelps got a chance to play and batted .309 with 15 homers over 265 at-bats.

But the next season and a half were not as good, and Toronto sent Phelps to Cleveland in August 2004. He became a platoon player with the Indians and after that season moved on to Tampa Bay. After hitting .266 in 47 games, Phelps was sent back to Triple A for the final two months of 2005.

He spent all of last year with Detroit's affiliate in Toledo, batting .308 with 24 homers. Baltimore signed him as a free agent and then lost him to the Yankees in the Rule 5 draft. As a Rule 5 pick, he must stay with the Yankees the entire season or be offered back to Baltimore.

"I think the thing is, you have to be more consistent at the big-league level," Phelps said. "You try to do more than you're capable of, it can turn against you. As good as everybody is on the major-league level, they'll capitalize on it."

Phillips alluded to another adjustment. While some players, such as Robinson Cano, get called up to be regulars, others are immediately handed part-time work for the first time in their career.

"Sometimes you take on a different role here," Torre said, "and that sometimes causes a problem. That, I think, was Phillips' biggest problem last year."

Torre said Phillips' struggles against left-handed pitching in 2006 (.195 average with one homer in 82 at-bats) was an indication he was having trouble adapting.

"The timing becomes a problem with a young player," Torre said, "because they really don't know how to do it."

Said Phillips: "There's so many variables that go into it. The bottom line is, it's still baseball."

Much of the adjustment is simply the difference in pitching. Just about anyone with a live arm will be in the majors instead of Triple A.

"It's the quality of competition you're going against," Phelps said. "There's no pushover there (in the majors). That's the big difference. You find just as many guys who throw 95 (mph) in the minor leagues, but not as many guys that throw strikes."

Yankees hitting coach Kevin Long, who spent the past five seasons as a hitting coach in Triple A, said some minor-league hitters feast on retread relievers.

"I'd say the biggest difference is the bullpens," Long said. "It's the same guys (every year). But their stuff is not what the major-league guys have."

Long said the trained eye can often tell which .320 hitters at the Triple-A level will be able to succeed in the majors and which are so-called "Four-A" players.

But even so, there are can't-miss guys who become washouts, and "non-prospects" who surprise.

"That's (one) of the things you can't explain in the game," Torre said. "That's when you cover it by saying, 'That's baseball.'"
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 11:39 AM

Yankees Accept Williams' Absence

Quote:
Source: Associated Press

Thursday, February 22, 2007

Manager Joe Torre and the core of Yankees players that won four World Series titles with Bernie Williams are resigned to the outfielder's absence.

"It will happen to all of us," catcher Jorge Posada said Wednesday in Tampa, Fla.

Williams rejected the Yankees' offer of a minor-league contract, instead wanting a guarantee of a job when the season starts.

"It's sad," said Torre, who hasn't talked with Williams since late last week, "but not surprising in the fact that I haven't heard back from him."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 11:41 AM

The Yankees As A Soap Opera? So What's New?

Quote:
Source: Globe and Mail (CDN)

DUNEDIN, FLA. -- Word from across Tampa Bay doesn't paint a pretty picture of life in the New York Yankees' camp. No Bernie. No Rocket (not yet). A little Joe, but way too much A-Rod and Pavano and Mussina. A DUI infraction for the guy who just happens to be George Steinbrenner's son-in-law and the Yankees' managing general partner, Steve Swindal. Mariano in a contractual drama.

Yes, it all sounds as if the Yankees pretty much have the rest of the American League East where they want it. Like the rest of the baseball world, the Toronto Blue Jays know the reluctance of Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez to hang out or break bread together is meaningless insofar as it indicates the Yankees will be any less prepared to defend their division title. This is the AL East, after all. We persevere.

Rodriguez is baseball's version of the dumb blonde, and it was his air-headed musings about a deterioration in his relationship with Jeter that started the latest nonsense. Jeter has never had much time for Rodriguez's Anna Nicole Smith act -- it is one of Jeter's weaknesses, along with dating starlets -- so he responded by saying people have all along made too many assumptions about his relationship with Rodriguez. And, of course, he's right. He's Derek Jeter.

Relax, people. The division title hasn't been won or lost yet, just as it wasn't won last week when the Daisuke Matsuzaka PR machine whirred into gear at the Boston Red Sox' site in Fort Myers, Fla. The first ulnar or medial collateral ligament hasn't popped yet and already there's a great rush to read this or that into this word or that glance.

Look, this is the AL East. Stuff happens. Manny Ramirez is going to report late. J.D. Drew will probably be hurt. The Baltimore Orioles and Tampa Bay Devil Rays are irrelevant and the Yankees and Red Sox will have pitching injuries. So will the Blue Jays.

As Roy Halladay has already said, the AL Central is so good, the wild card won't be coming out of the AL East any time soon. So buckle up and know this about the Yankees' melodrama: They are Jeter's team. Rodriguez? He doesn't have enough currency within that clubhouse to cause a rift, even though the Yankees haven't been the same since the Paul O'Neills of the world starting drifting away. And even though all this appears to be Rodriguez's ham-handed attempt to signal that he will likely exercise the escape clause in his contract at the end of the season -- hey, Alex, don't let the door hit you on the way out -- both he and Jeter are such capitalists in the baseball sense (when it comes to both money and statistics) that they'll continue to realize they need each other.

As for your Blue Jays? They'll open full workouts this morning as a team of happy campers, for what it's worth. They have a surplus of veteran pitchers with something to prove, guys like Victor Zambrano pitching for just one more contract. Always a good thing. Their next major contractual issue won't surface until the end of next year, at which point A.J. Burnett has to make a call on the escape clause (what, you forgot he had one?) in the five-year contract he signed before last winter. Plenty of time to worry about that.

The Big Hurt, Frank Thomas, has already started to put his mark on the team. He and Troy Glaus seem to have adopted a "You first, no, really, after you, I insist" approach to who'll bat cleanup. And Thomas showed a remarkable sensibility in the way he approached Lyle Overbay about acquiring Overbay's uniform No. 35.

After quickly giving his blessing, Overbay didn't know what to say when Thomas said he wanted to "do something" for him. Thomas called Overbay's wife, Sarah, and asked whether she thought her husband would like him to commission a painting of Overbay by Vernon Wells Sr., a well known portrait artist and the father of the Blue Jays' centre fielder. Of course he would, she responded, especially if Wells could paint the couple's two sons, two-year-old Adam and Alex, into the picture. She sent pictures of the kids to Wells's father and made a pact with Thomas to keep it a secret from Overbay, who was caught off guard by the gesture.

"Pretty special," said Overbay, who signed a four-year, $24-million (U.S.) contract over the winter. "I mean, you don't know somebody so you don't know what their tastes or their likes are, and then somebody goes that far for you . . . it just tells you something about the type of person he [Thomas] is. To have that happen to me -- and to sign that contract and stay in a place I really wanted to stay -- it made for a pretty good winter."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 11:44 AM

The Yankee Way Can't Last Forever

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Source: Seattle Times

TAMPA, Fla. — It doesn't quite live up to the paparazzi nirvana that is Bald Self-Destructing Britney, but the public breakup this week between Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter is pretty juicy stuff, even by Yankees soap-opera standards.

Who wasn't riveted by A-Rod's plaintive (though typically misguided) revelation that the two "blood brothers" have stopped having slumber parties, and Jeter's somewhat catty reaction that foretold an even deeper freeze ahead?

But really, it's just variations on a Bronx theme. While the names and details change, frantic upheavals are a staple of Yankees camp. Nothing to see here. Move on.

Oh, something is going on with the Yankees, all right. Something big, potentially even profound.

An era is grinding to a close. The Yankees' way of doing business is in flux.

For more than a decade, what a glorious ride it has been — four World Series titles in Joe Torre's first five years, and a core of players that have earned their place in the Yankees pantheon: Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Bernie Williams, Jorge Posada.

But the signs of change are everywhere. Partly, it's the cycle of baseball. Players grow old, and they're replaced. It happened with cornerstones of the early dynasty, like Paul O'Neill, Tino Martinez and Andy Pettitte (back in pinstripes after three years in Houston), and now it's happening with Williams, who refuses to come to camp as a nonroster player. Posada and Rivera, entering the final year of their contracts, could be next out the door.

As Torre said, while discussing the likelihood that Williams' Yankees career is over, "I remember when Sandy Koufax retired after winning 27 games. Guys like that walk away, the game still goes on."

Furthermore, no one would be surprised if the needy A-Rod exercised his out clause after the season and sought his happiness elsewhere, yet again.

Owners grow old, too. George Steinbrenner, at 77, is a shell of his bombastic self, by all accounts increasingly slowed by age.

Newspaper accounts of Steinbrenner's appearance here at Legends Field on the first day of camp used phrases like "limping gait," "ashen face," "mumbled," "slurred words," and "lurched" to describe him.

He is still the boss, perhaps, but no longer The Boss in all the raging glory that moniker implied. Increasingly, Steinbrenner's son-in-law, Steve Swindal, is handling the daily business operations of the club (when he's not getting busted for DWI, yet another eruption of this spring). The implications of a Yankees team without Steinbrenner's win-at-all-costs imprint could be profound.

Then there's the beloved Torre, who is 66 years old and in the final year of his contract, too. Though Torre has left open the possibility of continuing past this year, most Yankees insiders wouldn't be surprised to see the reins handed next year to bench coach Don Mattingly.

And if the Yankees don't get to the World Series, it probably won't be Torre's choice. Remember, he just barely survived The Boss' wrath last October, when the Yankees were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by Detroit. By all accounts, general manager Brian Cashman had to plead for Torre's job. Even in his old age, Steinbrenner isn't likely to be so charitable if it happens again.

That marked the Yankees' sixth consecutive year of nonchampionship, a full-blown crisis in these parts. Starting with their epic four-game collapse to Boston in 2004, the Yankees are 3-10 in the playoffs. Since Arizona came from behind in the ninth inning off Rivera to beat them in Game 7 of the 2001 World Series, the Yankees have been ousted in the first round three times.

Cashman has set about building a new Yankees core by nurturing the next generation of young players, such as Robinson Cano, Melky Cabrera, 19-game winner Chien-Ming Wang and 20-year-old pitching phenom Philip Hughes, consistently ranked as one of the top three young arms in the minor leagues.

In a startling transformation this winter, Cashman largely stayed away from the enticing free-agent targets that the Yankees used to jump after — Daisuke Matsuzaka, Barry Zito, J.D. Drew, et al. He traded established players like Randy Johnson, Gary Sheffield and Jaret Wright for minor-leaguers, intent on stocking up on young pitching and trimming payroll.

If he has done it right — and don't underestimate the acumen of Cashman — then the Yankees have built the foundation for another long run. If they've done it wrong, they will be forced to do damage control in their time-honored manner — by becoming the Bronx Mercenaries to an even greater extent.

"As of a couple of years ago, we started adding young players to our mix," Torre said. "That hasn't really been a part of what we've done here. Now the players that are helping us are coming not only through the free-agent market, they're coming through the organization, which is something we haven't done in a while."

Make no mistake, the 2007 Yankees still are a formidable team, and still a hugely expensive ($200 million) team of superstars — as always, the team to beat.

It will be fascinating to see if Torre can coax one more title out of the old gang before the next wave of change arrives.

"Unfortunately, things can't last forever," center fielder Johnny Damon said. "But it did last for a long time."


Keep in mind, this comes from the Seattle Times...so Ichiro's way won't last forever either, especially when he wants to sign with a team that actually has a chance to win, and the M's will be in the basement yet again.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 11:46 AM

Yankees Notebook: Giambi's Wrist In Perfect Health

Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

TAMPA, Fla. -- Jason Giambi didn't drive the ball well in batting practice yesterday, but said his surgically repaired left wrist is fine.

Giambi hit only two home runs during the second day of full-squad workouts at Legends Field, but there was no concern over the wrist.

"It's fine," Giambi said. "It didn't hurt at all. I just wanted to take it slow."

Before the team took the field yesterday, Giambi met with manager Joe Torre and bench coach Don Mattingly in Torre's office to discuss the wrist and make sure there were no aftereffects from the first workout.

Giambi did not hit a baseball before Tuesday -- he took only "dry" swings before arriving at camp -- but felt so good in tee and soft-toss drills on Tuesday that he also took batting practice on the field.

"You always worry about the next day," he said yesterday. "You can get fired up and ride adrenaline the first day. But it feels good today. No pain."

Hitting coach Kevin Long was satisfied with Giambi's swings yesterday.

"I didn't see any discomfort," Long said. "He was probably a little tired today."

Derek Jeter seems to be the only member of the Yankees who has spoken to Bernie Williams in recent days.

Jeter declined to discuss the conversation with Williams, who is apparently declining a minor-league deal because he wants an assurance he will make the 25-man roster.

"For selfish reasons, I'm disappointed he's not here," the captain said.

"I can't relate. I can't say, 'Well, Bernie should do this, Bernie should do that.' Because nobody's in Bernie's shoes."

Jeter said Williams' unusual status -- not retired, not active, but in limbo because he isn't interested in signing with anyone but the Yankees -- suits his unusual personality.

"Half the time, you don't even know he's here," Jeter said. "Bernie could be in the corner (of the clubhouse) one minute and you see him like a week later in the corner and you don't see him any time in between.

"It is weird. It is typical Bernie in not doing everything by the book. ... It'll set in a little bit more, I think, as the spring goes on."

Raul Chavez yesterday caught and took batting practice for the first time since suffering a broken bone in his left hand in winter ball.

"I can do everything," he said. "I'm not behind."

But Chavez might be hard-pressed to beat out Wil Nieves or Todd Pratt for the No. 2 catcher spot.

"He'd be a long shot at this point in time only because of the injury," Torre said of Chavez. "But he certainly won't be ignored."

Starters will throw about 30-40 pitches today to hitters. The pitchers selected to throw on the main field are the projected rotation -- Chien-Ming Wang, Mike Mussina, Andy Pettitte, Carl Pavano and Kei Igawa -- plus prospects Phil Hughes and Humberto Sanchez....

Steven White, the nonroster right-hander who sat out a couple of days with a strained ligament in his neck, threw 30 pitches yesterday off a half-mound. ... Torre spoke yesterday with Brendan Shanahan, the Rangers forward who suffered a concussion in an NHL game last weekend. ... Guest instructor Goose Gossage arrived yesterday. ... Owner George Steinbrenner spent a little more than an hour chatting with members of his staff in the employee lunch room before being escorted out and shielded from the media by security guards.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 11:48 AM

2007 Could Be The End Of An Era

Quote:
Source: FoxSports.com

TAMPA - Two reporters check with Yankees catcher Jorge Posada to see if he had heard from outfielder Bernie Williams. Posada says no, and the conversation turns silent. The unspoken consensus is that Williams, after rejecting the Yankees' offer of a spring-training tryout, will not play again.

"It's going to happen to all of us," Posada says, glumly.

The ongoing Alex Rodriguez/Derek Jeter catfight is always good for drama, in an Angelina Jolie/Jennifer Aniston sort of way. But the fear and loathing on the left side of the infield is not the Yankees' most unsettling off-field issue, not even close.

The deeper tension with this club stems from the reality that the 2007 season could be something of a last hurrah. Posada, closer Mariano Rivera and manager Joe Torre — three of the four enduring cornerstones from the Yankees' four most recent championship teams, Jeter being the other — are entering the final years of contracts.

And that's not all.

A-Rod has the right to void his deal after this season. Left-hander Andy Pettitte has a player option for next season. Right fielder Bobby Abreu has a $16 million club option that the Yankees could decline if they decide to pursue a center fielder next winter, when Andruw Jones, Torii Hunter, Ichiro Suzuki and Mike Cameron will be free agents.

Such uncertainty is not atypical for teams in the free-agent era, but the emotions are more intense for the Yankees, considering the importance of Rivera, Posada and Torre to the team's late 1990s renaissance. The increased financial stakes for players further complicate the issue, following an off-season in which the free-agent market escalated sharply.

The impact of all this on the Yankees' performance this season might be as minimal as the impact of the Rodriguez/Jeter relationship — "If stuff like that affects you, you're not going to be very good at what you do, anyway," general manager Brian Cashman says.

But already, the fissures are showing.

Rivera has said that the Yankees "will not have an advantage" if he hits the free-agent market, a surprisingly bold comment from a player who rarely makes headlines with his words. A-Rod's opt-out clause will be a topic of discussion all season, as will Torre's status. Posada's situation is drawing less attention, in part because that is his wish.

Against this backdrop, Cashman's refusal to offer Williams anything more than a minor-league contract was an eye-opener, vividly illustrating that the Yankees will not be governed by sentiment in their decision-making. Rather than retain Williams, 38, as a fifth outfielder, the team is preserving a spot for a right-handed hitting first baseman, Andy Phillips or Josh Phelps.

"It's tough," Posada says. "This business is really tough. He's done everything for this organization. It's tough as a player to put it into words. If you need one more year, you would think they would do it for you. But it doesn't happen like that. If they don't have a fit for you, that's the way it is."

Rivera, 37, and Posada, 35, are in a different category than Williams; both continue to rank among the elite at their respective positions. Cashman is correct to delay offering them contract extensions when the grind of another 162-game season could affect either or both physically. But sensible as Cashman's approach might be, it works both ways.

As Rivera says, "This is business."

However remote, the possibility suddenly exists for Rivera to bolt the Yankees, his original team, and New York, where much of his family resides. The Yankees were successful in re-signing outfielder Hideki Matsui after the 2005 season and pitcher Mike Mussina after last season. Chances are, they will employ the same strategy with Rivera and Posada. But by that point, Rivera, in particular, might be curious enough to test the market.

The Yankees could actually benefit this season from the overall dynamic created by expiring contracts; players in the final years of deals often elevate their performances. On the other hand, teams facing multiple free-agent defections sometimes display fragile chemistry. When such clubs falter, it's not unusual for players become pre-occupied with their own futures.

The Yankees are unlikely to be affected in such a manner — the team is too good, Torre is too strong a leader and Rivera and Posada are too professional to suddenly turn selfish. But there's an underlying strain with this team, one that is far more significant than how often Rodriguez and Jeter make dinner plans together.

The fixtures — first Williams, and now Rivera, Posada and Torre — no longer are secure.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 11:51 AM

Steinbrenner Keeping Low Profile At Yankees Camp; Player Updates!

Quote:
Source: Lower-Hudson Journal

TAMPA, Fla. - Spring training is 10 days old, and George Steinbrenner has spoken to reporters once - and that was only for a few seconds. He has not come into the clubhouse, either.

The Yankees are determined to shield their 76-year-old owner from the public and aren't above using a little subterfuge to do so.

Steinbrenner visited the employee lunchroom yesterday at 2:45 p.m. and sat down for a meal of fried catfish, potatoes, corn, chocolate cake and a cup of coffee. Dressed in a blue jacket and wearing sunglasses, he sat there for just over an hour chatting with some friends and his son Hank.

Word filtered up to the press box, and within a few minutes, nine reporters and a camera crew were waiting to ask him questions.

Two Tampa police officers and three Legends Field security guards banned reporters from entering the room. One of Steinbrenner's assistants then parked his golf cart in front of the door. The cart is his usual means of transport.

But when Steinbrenner emerged, he was escorted through a side door by foot. When reporters tried to follow, a security guard blocked the way until Steinbrenner was out of the area.

Chalk one up for the Yankees. But spring training continues through March 31, and Steinbrenner usually finds a way to be heard at some point.

Time to get serious: Now that everybody is loose, there will be live batting practice today on the main field.

Chien-Ming Wang, Mike Mussina, Andy Pettitte, Kei Igawa, Carl Pavano, Phil Hughes and Humberto Sanchez will face Johnny Damon, Derek Jeter, Bobby Abreu, Alberto Gonzalez, Robinson Cano, Jason Giambi, Alex Rodriguez, Hideki Matsui and Doug Mientkiewicz.

Each pitcher will get 30-40 pitches.

"The hitters will have a wonderful time," Torre said.

Hendricks stops in: Yes, that was agent Randy Hendricks at Legends Field. No, he wasn't there to talk to the Yankees about Roger Clemens.

Hendricks told The Journal News that he was in town to see his other prominent client, left-hander Pettitte. But you can bet Clemens was mentioned at some point when Hendricks spoke with team executives.

Clemens is expected to be at Houston's camp within the next two weeks to work out with his son Koby. Hendricks said Clemens has not decided if he will pitch this season.

Sheff stews: Gary Sheffield told the New York Post that Torre "took the fire out of me."

Sheffield's complaint was that didn't start Game 3 of the division playoffs last season. He also said he needed an extra month or two to recover from wrist surgery, although at the time he said he was fine.

Like many a manager who has dealt with Sheffield, Torre really didn't know what to make of the comments.

"You'd like to believe that every player you manage would always have nice things to say about you," he said. "I don't really comment on stuff like that ... You do the best you can."

Extra bases: The Yankees have given up on seeing Bernie Williams. "It's sad but not surprising in the fact I hadn't heard from him," Torre said. ... Right-hander Steven White threw from halfway up the mound and seems recovered from his shoulder woes. ... The Yankees will have an intersquad game on Tuesday that will last 10 or 11 innings.
Posted By: Double-J

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Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 02:32 PM

Thanks, DJ. Great pics. However, why do I get the feeling that Jeter is mocking ARod in this one??

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 06:22 PM

Yeah, although I do think Zimmer is right...Jeter wants to win. What the hell is he supposed to do? Come out and stroke A-Rod during the 7th inning stretch (brings a whole new meaning to the term... ) to prove that they can get along?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 06:29 PM

I read the Zimmer article this morning. He's 100% right.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 06:41 PM

I seriously just wish the media would stop talking about it, since it's been dominating the newswaves. I mean, c'mon. Even A-Rod's ego isn't so fragile that if Jeter looks the wrong way, he's going to miss hitting a HR. Seriously. This has been blown out of proportion.

While I think A-Rod definitely has had serious issues adjusting to New York, I think this should be the year he "gets over" it, whether or not his contract status is the cause. Some players never do - Randy Johnson comes to mind - but A-Rod is too good of a player to keep on going like this. In fact, I wish he'd turn some of this negative into a fuel, make it really work in his favor.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 06:50 PM

Absolutely. ARod is still undoubtedly one of the best players in the game. He just can't seem to get out of his own way since he came to NY. And of course the media just feeds on it - they have from day one, with the whole Shortstop-Shortstop thing. But I can easily see that this could potentially be his last season in NY if he doesn't start to live up to the grand expectations everyone had for him.

I'm still upset about Bernie, though. I can understand Bernie's feelings. He's a huge part of why the Yankees have been so successful, but he had to see this coming, unless he thought that last year's performance made him worthy of a new contract. Hell, I thought so. But it is what it is. I still wish he would've shown up, though. I'm sure he could have made his way onto the team somehow.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 08:37 PM

Clemens, 44, still mulling his options for 2007

KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- Roger Clemens pitched to his son and two other minor leaguers at the Houston Astros' spring training camp Thursday, and is no closer to deciding whether he'll play a 24th season.

If he comes back, the 44-year-old pitching great said he'll choose between the hometown Astros, the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox.

"Everybody knows where I stand. I don't care to play, but if that decision comes up again, then it's a big decision on me," he said. "It has nothing to do with anybody else. It's a decision on me to go out and perform."

Clemens said he's not "milking" his decision in search of the highest bidder. He also said he'll have no problem walking away when the time comes.

"It's 10 times harder to make the decision to come back and try to do it again," he said. "I love what I do and I have high expectations to perform. When I don't, it's disappointing."

Koby Clemens, a third baseman starting his second full season in the Astros' minor league organization, said his father told him last week he was "80-20" leaning toward not coming back. Then again, after the 2003 season Clemens said there was a 99 percent chance he would retire.

"It's a pretty serious number right now," said Koby, the oldest of Clemens' four sons. "I go, 'Dad, right now, on the spot, if they asked you are you coming back or not, what are your percentages now?' He said, '80-20.' I go, 'Coming back or sitting out the year?' And he goes, 'Probably sitting out the year.' That was it."

Clemens is on an easier workout schedule now and won't increase the load unless he commits to playing again.

Clemens caused a bigger stir at spring training last season, pitching with more purpose to minor leaguers in preparation for the World Baseball Classic.

"I feel very good, I feel strong," he said. "But the intensity is nowhere near close to this point last year when I was getting ready for the world event. I had a lot riding on my shoulders."

Clemens said he'll work himself into shape if one of the teams comes to his agents, Alan and Randy Hendricks, with an offer he can't refuse.

He's also realistic about his age, and that his body may not respond like it once did.

"At one point, it's not going to work out," he said. "These are the questions I have to ask myself, that's why I push myself so hard to find out before I get to that moment.

"I don't know what's going to happen two months from now," Clemens said. "I could get into the middle of a training session and know that I just can't do it. That would be the easiest call for me to make."

On Thursday, he wore a black Astros cap, black Astros T-shirt and white pants. He hit grounders to Koby and shagged balls in the outfield.

Clemens says he is content to hang around the spring training complex and advise younger players. He'll also host some charity events while in Florida.

"What you saw me do today is what I plan on doing for the next month," he said. "Right now, it's going to be a slow, dead period. I'm doing what I love to do. I'm going to be running around here, throwing batting practice. I'll throw BP to the big guys if they need it. There won't be a lot of moss growing under my feet."

Clemens, who signed a $22 million contract with the Astros to pitch half of last season, didn't start in a major league game until June 22. He finished 7-6 with a 2.30 ERA in 19 starts.

If he returns, Clemens said he won't pitch until at least May. He said how the three teams are doing at that time won't affect his decision.

But Clemens said he'll only come back if he feels like he can help one of the teams contend.

"You come back to win, you come back to win it all," he said. "Your goals are set really high. I feel very flattered that those three teams still make an occasional phone call to the Hendricks brothers to ask where I'm at."

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 08:39 PM

Oft-injured starter must restore credibility

TAMPA, Fla. -- To say the Yankees' spring training controversy machine is already humming is putting it mildly: Just the other day, a member of the New York Knicks' PR staff text-messaged his Yankees counterpart and (kiddingly, we assume) asked if the Bombers would kindly give up the back page of the tabloids, even for one day.

From Joe Torre's contract to Bernie Williams' boycott of camp (and apparent retirement) to Mariano Rivera's vow to test free agency to Derek Jeter's refusal to have a Dr. Phil moment with Alex Rodriguez -- real Yankees, of course, don't do therapy -- the Bombers aren't just making news, they're giving off that slightly-out-of-control vibe that made them baseball's most irresistible freak show in the late '70s and early '80s.

Sure, most of these tempests will extinguish themselves. Rivera will get a new contract and have another terrific summer. Torre will guide the Yankees calmly and professionally, even without job security beyond 2007. Williams will enjoy a daylong love-in when he's honored at the Stadium this summer, forgetting how offended he was that he wasn't offered a guaranteed spot on the roster.

And despite the skeletal remains of their friendship, Jeter and A-Rod will nevertheless be integral parts of an offense that should score between 900 and 1,000 runs.

What the Yankees don't know, however, is how Carl Pavano will rebound from a series of mysterious injuries. And therein lies one of the most pressing questions of the coming wars with the Red Sox. Just which Pavano do the Yankees have in their midst: the one who's spent the better part of two seasons on the disabled list, or the one who used to crush right-handed hitters with his power, two-seam fastball?

Torre repeats the company line when he says "it's not fair" to assume Pavano is inevitably headed for another breakdown. Somehow, the manager thinks Pavano deserves the benefit of the doubt, even if his own teammates don't agree. Last week, Mike Mussina vocalized the suspicion that's been lurking since midsummer 2005, when Pavano disappeared onto the disabled list -- anyone who gets hurt that often is hiding something.

"The way each thing happened and the timing of each [injury] together, it didn't look good," Mussina said. "From a player's and teammate's standpoint, it didn't look good. Was it all coincidence, over and over again? I don't know."

It was a stunning implication, but it forced Pavano to acknowledge that he had a credibility problem in his own clubhouse. Until that point, the right-hander insisted such divisions were being created by the media. What Pavano needs, of course, is one long, prosperous summer, during which he can re-establish his reputation as a ground-ball specialist, not to mention a pitcher the Yankees can trust.

This much is certain: Torre needs Pavano, now more than ever. Unlike past years, when the Yankees were flush with starting pitching, they have only one real backup plan if Pavano succumbs to another injury or if Japanese lefty Kei Igawa can't make a fast transition to the big leagues.

Behind door No. 2 is rookie Phil Hughes, who might be the best Yankees prospect of the Steinbrenner era. He throws hard, features a nearly unhittable splitter as his out pitch and seems unusually composed for a 20-year-old. But the Yankees are guarding Hughes like an experimental race car still in the developer's lab. The kid, who only pitched at Double-A last year, is still too young and inexperienced to put to the test.

That's why the Yankees cling so fiercely to the hope that Pavano is ready. He spent the winter undergoing intense physical therapy at a sports rehab clinic in Arizona, where a hip dysfunction was discovered and corrected. The flaw apparently caused one of Pavano's legs to be a half-inch shorter than the other. Finally realigned, Pavano says he is ready to rejoin his teammates on an everyday basis.

Is he, though? Just three days into camp, Pavano had to be excused from PFPs (pitchers' fielding practice) because of heavy legs. Even though he participated in his regularly scheduled bullpen session the next day, the fact that Pavano experienced problems so quickly undermined the success of the winter's rehab.

Even though they continue to profess full confidence in the 31-year-old righty, some Yankees officials are hoping for a trade before Opening Day. One executive said, "We signed the wrong guy, plain and simple."

In the meantime, the front office is still investigating the traffic accident that Pavano was involved in last August, when he was on a rehab assignment in Tampa. The pitcher failed to disclose the crash to the Yankees, who later discovered Pavano suffered three cracked ribs upon impact. Even before the facts became known, the Yankees were concerned about Pavano's off-field behavior; he was so frequently seen at the Blue Martini, a popular Tampa club, the Yankees decreed it off limits.

Nevertheless, GM Brian Cashman insists Pavano is an honest ballplayer who's run into a long streak of bad luck with injuries.

"Every one of those injuries has been documented and backed up by our doctors," Cashman said. "The people who are questioning Carl, they're doing the same thing to him that people did to J.R. Richard, and it's wrong. No one believed anything was wrong with [Richard] until it was too late

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/22/07 11:39 PM

2007 could be the end of an era

TAMPA - Two reporters check with Yankees catcher Jorge Posada to see if he had heard from outfielder Bernie Williams. Posada says no, and the conversation turns silent. The unspoken consensus is that Williams, after rejecting the Yankees' offer of a spring-training tryout, will not play again.

"It's going to happen to all of us," Posada says, glumly.

The ongoing Alex Rodriguez/Derek Jeter catfight is always good for drama, in an Angelina Jolie/Jennifer Aniston sort of way. But the fear and loathing on the left side of the infield is not the Yankees' most unsettling off-field issue, not even close.

The deeper tension with this club stems from the reality that the 2007 season could be something of a last hurrah. Posada, closer Mariano Rivera and manager Joe Torre — three of the four enduring cornerstones from the Yankees' four most recent championship teams, Jeter being the other — are entering the final years of contracts.

And that's not all.

A-Rod has the right to void his deal after this season. Left-hander Andy Pettitte has a player option for next season. Right fielder Bobby Abreu has a $16 million club option that the Yankees could decline if they decide to pursue a center fielder next winter, when Andruw Jones, Torii Hunter, Ichiro Suzuki and Mike Cameron will be free agents.

Such uncertainty is not atypical for teams in the free-agent era, but the emotions are more intense for the Yankees, considering the importance of Rivera, Posada and Torre to the team's late 1990s renaissance. The increased financial stakes for players further complicate the issue, following an off-season in which the free-agent market escalated sharply.

The impact of all this on the Yankees' performance this season might be as minimal as the impact of the Rodriguez/Jeter relationship — "If stuff like that affects you, you're not going to be very good at what you do, anyway," general manager Brian Cashman says.

But already, the fissures are showing.

Rivera has said that the Yankees "will not have an advantage" if he hits the free-agent market, a surprisingly bold comment from a player who rarely makes headlines with his words. A-Rod's opt-out clause will be a topic of discussion all season, as will Torre's status. Posada's situation is drawing less attention, in part because that is his wish.

Against this backdrop, Cashman's refusal to offer Williams anything more than a minor-league contract was an eye-opener, vividly illustrating that the Yankees will not be governed by sentiment in their decision-making. Rather than retain Williams, 38, as a fifth outfielder, the team is preserving a spot for a right-handed hitting first baseman, Andy Phillips or Josh Phelps.

"It's tough," Posada says. "This business is really tough. He's done everything for this organization. It's tough as a player to put it into words. If you need one more year, you would think they would do it for you. But it doesn't happen like that. If they don't have a fit for you, that's the way it is."

Rivera, 37, and Posada, 35, are in a different category than Williams; both continue to rank among the elite at their respective positions. Cashman is correct to delay offering them contract extensions when the grind of another 162-game season could affect either or both physically. But sensible as Cashman's approach might be, it works both ways.

As Rivera says, "This is business."

However remote, the possibility suddenly exists for Rivera to bolt the Yankees, his original team, and New York, where much of his family resides. The Yankees were successful in re-signing outfielder Hideki Matsui after the 2005 season and pitcher Mike Mussina after last season. Chances are, they will employ the same strategy with Rivera and Posada. But by that point, Rivera, in particular, might be curious enough to test the market.

The Yankees could actually benefit this season from the overall dynamic created by expiring contracts; players in the final years of deals often elevate their performances. On the other hand, teams facing multiple free-agent defections sometimes display fragile chemistry. When such clubs falter, it's not unusual for players become pre-occupied with their own futures.

The Yankees are unlikely to be affected in such a manner — the team is too good, Torre is too strong a leader and Rivera and Posada are too professional to suddenly turn selfish. But there's an underlying strain with this team, one that is far more significant than how often Rodriguez and Jeter make dinner plans together.

The fixtures — first Williams, and now Rivera, Posada and Torre — no longer are secure.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 05:26 AM

Sanchez comes back to his roots

TAMPA, Fla. -- The pavement path from Yankee Stadium's press gate to the parking lot is a brief stroll, but for some players, it's just about all of the South Bronx they'll ever see.

Not Humberto Sanchez. A graduate of South Bronx High School who called 166th Street and University Avenue home, Sanchez's professional career could reach symmetry just four blocks from the building where he learned chemistry and geometry.

"It's a great opportunity to be able to play back home," Sanchez said. "That's the first thing that came into my mind. It's a great chance to be able to be in here and play with some great players, and showcase what I can do."

A bulky, hard-throwing right-hander with a mid-90s fastball, a curveball he uses as an out pitch and a developing slider, the 23-year-old Sanchez was considered one of the Tigers' better pitching prospects over the last few seasons.

He had his most successful and consistent season last year, splitting the campaign between Double-A Erie and Triple-A Toledo. Sanchez was a combined 10-3 with a 2.63 ERA, striking out 129 in 123 innings, and he held opponents to a .220 average.

"His stuff just explodes on you," recalls Yankees infielder Eric Duncan, who faced Sanchez in the Arizona Fall League. "That's the main thing you remember. He's definitely one of those guys who has second, late life with his fastball. You don't forget something like that."

After watching best friend Joel Zumaya splash on to the big-league scene with Detroit, Sanchez said he was beginning to envision himself reporting to Comerica Park, breaking in with the youthful and talented Tigers pitching staff.

That changed in November, when he was acquired by the Yankees with two Minor Leaguers -- Kevin Whelan and Anthony Claggett -- for outfielder Gary Sheffield.

Suddenly, Sanchez found himself making his annual visit to South Bronx High, speaking to young players about the importance of pursuing their dreams, but doing so as an employee of the New York Yankees.

It seemed apropos on Thursday as Sanchez -- his gold chain glinting in the Florida sun -- fired fastballs toward Yankees hitters like Jason Giambi and Hideki Matsui.

Maybe the homecoming simply realized the inevitable, that Sanchez was destined to play in the shadows of his old neighborhood.

"I'm trying to keep a level mind right now, until I actually get the chance to accomplish that feat," Sanchez said. "Nothing is set in stone yet. I feel like I've got one foot in, but you never want to have a complacent feeling."

Sanchez moved to the Bronx from the Dominican Republic when he was 10, and though he acknowledges the rough-and-tumble reputation his neighborhood carries, he also feels that he garnered a certain mental edge from being raised there.

"It was a great childhood. I can't complain," Sanchez said. "It was a little different being around that area, but there were a lot of good people in that area. They made it a good community."

He fondly recalls spending afternoons in the High Bridge complex, shooting hoops or playing backyard football until sundown and hanging out with friends on an old pedestrian bridge that crosses over to Manhattan.

His gritty mound demeanor took its cues from former Yankee Kevin Brown, who, at that time, was grunting through 230-plus innings of work for the Padres and Marlins. Years earlier, Sanchez suited up in the Rolando Paulino Little League, playing games at Macombs Dam Park with Yankee Stadium in plain sight.

He said the constant activity kept him on the field and out of trouble.

"I think that was the antidote," Sanchez said. "I was always doing something. There was always a lot of competition and you always wanted to get picked for those games."

The 6-foot-6, 270-pound Sanchez was originally selected in the ninth round by the Dodgers in 2000, but opted not to sign and trudged through a year of hour-long commutes to SUNY Rockland in Suffern, N.Y.

A shoulder injury -- one of numerous aches Sanchez has suffered in his brief career; the latest, a right elbow ailment, cost him two games last year -- kept him off the playing field until his 2002 season at Connors State College in Oklahoma, where he piqued the Tigers' interest.

Flash forward to 2007, and Sanchez is now on the cusp of life in the big leagues. After Thursday's workout, Giambi shook his head and wondered how the Tigers could have let this big boy get away.

"He's huge," Giambi said. "Boy, I don't know how you let a guy like that go."

Following the initial shock of the trade, Sanchez said he came to realize that the Yankees may offer him the opportunity to set up shop in the Majors sooner.

"I feel like I have a chance to establish myself," Sanchez said. "Not to put anything against this organization, but the rotation [with Detroit] was a lot younger."

The Yankees' 2007 rotation appears well-secured, but neither Andy Pettitte nor Mike Mussina is guaranteed to return for 2008, among other possible openings.

At some point, the Yankees may turn the reins over to the likes of Sanchez, Phil Hughes or Ross Ohlendorf. While Sanchez eagerly awaits that day, he wisely reminds reporters that prospects are still considered suspect until they prove otherwise.

Some within the Yankees believe Sanchez has the stuff to be a Major League starter; others believe his mental approach could satisfy the needs of a big-league closer.

The Yankees will use Sanchez as a starter this season at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, but he says he will keep his options open toward the late innings.

"I've always been a starter, but I'm not closed-minded about going to the 'pen," Sanchez said. "As long as I can help, it doesn't matter to me. I see myself pitching -- I don't care if it's the first, eighth or ninth inning. [I'll do] whatever I can do to help."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 12:31 PM

Yankees Young Pitchers Draw Rave Reviews

Quote:
Source: New York Times

TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 22 — There were cheers for the past at Legends Field on Thursday when fans saluted Andy Pettitte. There was the intrigue of the unknown, when Kei Igawa took the mound. But mostly, there was the promise of youth.

The Yankees’ five regular starters threw batting practice, and when they were done, Phil Hughes and Humberto Sánchez did the same. They are the Yankees’ two prized pitching prospects, and they did not disappoint.

Hughes threw 34 pitches, and the hitters put two in play. Sánchez was a bit wild, but Jason Giambi guessed that he threw 96 miles an hour. Hughes and Sánchez are the cornerstones of the Yankees’ emphasis on young pitching.

“From the first day when we all walked in, it looked like a corral — just a bunch of horses,” the backup catcher Todd Pratt said. “I’d be pretty happy if I was Mr. Cashman.”

Brian Cashman, the general manager, has no plans to put Hughes or Sánchez in the majors out of camp. But Hughes, especially, drew raves. He might be the best pitching prospect in baseball.

“He’s the real deal,” Giambi said. “He’s unbelievable. Great composure, great tempo. We could have used him last year. You forget he’s, what, 20? He reminds me of a young Rocket.”

Giambi was referring to Roger Clemens. He never actually faced a young Clemens, but that did not seem to matter. This was a day to gaze hopefully to the future. Pratt compared Hughes to a young Curt Schilling, whom he caught in Philadelphia, and a younger Brett Myers.

“You’ve just got to sit back and look at yourself in the mirror,” Hughes said. “It’s great to hear those comparisons. They feel good, but it really doesn’t mean much.”

Hughes has dominated the minors since the Yankees made him their first pick in the 2004 draft. He is 21-7 with a 2.13 earned run average in 47 games, but has never pitched above Class AA. The only thing he seems to lack is experience, and a refined slider. His fastball, curveball and changeup are outstanding.

“Hughes is just special,” said Ben Davis, who caught him Thursday. “I’m not mocking anyone on the team; I’m just saying the way the ball comes out of his hand is different than the way it comes out of other people’s hands. I mean, his fastball explodes and his curveball is devastating. That’s the only word I can say: devastating.

“The four-seam fastball away is pretty much your only shot. You miss it, you’re done. He’s got that kind of stuff. The ball just gets on you. I know what’s coming as a catcher back there, and it still surprises me how much it gets on you. He’s definitely blessed.”

Hughes says he uses his legs to generate strength, the way the best power pitchers do. But his mechanics make him seem as if he short-arms the ball, causing it to jump on hitters. Awkward swings are common.

“He’s deceptive,” the pitching coach Ron Guidry said. “Everybody knows he has great velocity, but he actually doesn’t look like he’s throwing it that hard.”

Sánchez is different. He is 6-foot-6 and 230 pounds, and seems to come hurtling at the hitter. The Yankees acquired him during the off-season from Detroit in the Gary Sheffield trade.

“He’s huge,” Giambi said. “I don’t know how you let a guy like that go. I guess when you throw 96, it’s not enough to make that ballclub. In Detroit, every player throws 100.”

Sánchez said the Yankees were a better fit for him than the Tigers, who have a staff of young starters in their prime. It is also a natural fit, because Sánchez grew up in the South Bronx.

Born in the Dominican Republic, Sánchez moved to New York with his parents at age 10. In the Dominican, his mother worked at an airport and his father for a newspaper. In New York, his mother found work as a maid, and his father worked for a company that made brakes for trains.

Sánchez loved baseball as a child — “It’s all I could think about,” he said — and his favorite player was Lee Smith, the longtime closer who saved 478 games, the second-highest career total in baseball. Sánchez did not know then that he would grow up to be almost exactly the same size as Smith.

“He threw gas, bro,” Sánchez said. “When you’re a kid, you like that stuff. He looked intimidating.”

Sánchez, 23, attended South Bronx High School and often went to Yankees games. Early in the 1996 season, he had a rain check and was given the choice of seeing the Chicago White Sox, the Kansas City Royals or the Seattle Mariners.

It was an easy choice. The Mariners were loaded with stars like Ken Griffey Jr., Alex Rodriguez and Randy Johnson. Sánchez chose the Mariners game and sat in the upper deck just past first base with his younger brother. That was the night Dwight Gooden threw a no-hitter for the Yankees.

“We were standing up the whole last inning,” Sánchez said. “We were like, ‘No shot he’s gonna do it. No way, no way.’ And the last out of the game — who was it? Paul Sorrento? — popped up to short.”

Sánchez pitched once at Yankee Stadium, at a tryout in 2000. He took a line drive off the side of his right elbow and got an emergency visit to the trainers’ room in the Yankees’ clubhouse.

“It was pretty cool,” Sánchez said. “I don’t remember much of it. I was kind of in pain, trying to see if my arm was broken.”

It was not, though other arm injuries have slowed Sánchez’s progress in the minors. He reached Class AAA with the Tigers last year, going 5-3 with a 3.86 earned run average in nine starts.

Pitching to the more famous Yankees on Wednesday did not make him feel as if he had arrived. He has not been back on the field in the Bronx since that line drive at the tryout.

“It won’t settle in until I actually step into Yankee Stadium,” Sánchez said. “I’m still at Legends Field, trying to make the squad.”
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 12:38 PM

Keeping Up With How The Yankees Turn

Quote:
Source: USA Today

Oh, good.

This spring training is so young, the Detroit pitchers have barely had time enough to blow their first bunt coverage. But already there has been unrest in the camp of the pinstripes, which is not exactly the Bronx Zoo yet but seems to be installing a few cages. And since there are few things in sport more entertaining than a good Yankee controversy — what with the New York media foaming at its minicams and printing presses — where can we apply to get updates?

The central theme of this new mini-series, of course, is how the left side of the infield is getting along. But there are subplots, too. So in case you have been out of touch, wandering the jungle or stuck on a JetBlue flight, here's your Yankee soap opera summary.

(Starring, in order of appearance, Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter, Gary Sheffield, Joe Torre, Bernie Williams, Brian Cashman, George Steinbrenner, Steve Swindal, Willie Randolph, Carlos Delgado and Bill Clinton).

Alex still likes Derek.

Derek still likes Alex.

But Alex said he and Derek aren't best pals the way they used to be. Which, presumably, means no more sleepovers, ordering pizza, talking about girls or making S'mores together. One theory is this happened because Alex got tired of being asked all the time if he wanted to see Derek's collection of World Series rings. But maybe not.

Anyway, Derek said it was no big deal and he doesn't want to talk about it anymore. Neither does Alex, who seems as relieved to get this off his chest as a guy walking out of a confession booth.

So now the Yankees have gone back to getting ready for the season. I thought they were in the market for more pitching, but it turns out they apparently could also use new best buddies for Alex and Derek.

Whether any of this should matter when it comes time for a couple of 30-something guys to produce in the ninth inning against the Red Sox is not clear. But wouldn't we all feel better if Alex and Derek were chums again? That way, when they go out to dinner, they'd only need one limo.

There's more. Gary's not a Yankee anymore, but he's still mad that Joe benched him for a playoff game against the Tigers. That's what Gary told the New York Post. Joe made him feel bad, sending him out there before the game to be with the rest of the spare tires. Gary doesn't do spare tires very well.

Meanwhile, Bernie doesn't feel very good, either. He seems to think the Yankees don't want him anymore. That's because Brian won't give Bernie the contract he wants. Joe says he thinks Bernie's feelings have been hurt. Of course, Joe came close to being sent out himself with last season's laundry.

No word from George, or even his publicist, about whether he wants Alex to like Derek or Derek to like Alex, or how he feels about losing Gary and maybe Bernie. Or even if he's mad at Steve, his son-in-law and partner, who had to be bailed out of jail the other morning after allegedly driving the streets of Florida with too much of a liquor store in his blood stream.

What George might be worried about is how good Willie and Carlos and all the other guys are looking over at the Mets' camp. Since George knows, like the rest of us, that the last time the Yankees won a championship, the president of the United States was named Bill.

That was so long ago, Alex and Derek were close enough to share the same bubble gum. Now what they share mostly is an infield, and headlines.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 12:45 PM

Here's A Bombshell: Jeet-Rod Drama Not An Issue

Quote:
Source: CBS Sportsline

Feb. 22, 2007
By Scott Miller
CBS SportsLine.com Senior Writer

TAMPA, Fla. -- Let me ask you something.

When Barry Bonds wrapped his hands around Jeff Kent's throat in the middle of that game in 2002 and was pulled away before he made like a crumpled Pepsi can with Kent, do you recall which team went on to win the National League and play in the World Series that fall?

Yep, the San Francisco Fightin' Giants.

When Steve Garvey and Don Sutton went at it in 1978, leaving Garvey with a black eye and Sutton with a bruised cheek, remember who represented the NL in the World Series that October?

Yep, the Los Angeles Dukin' Dodgers.

So there is no play date scheduled for Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez. No graham crackers and milk. They won't be sharing a bowl of Goldfish anytime soon.

So what?


New York manager Joe Torre enters his 12th season. (AP)
So Derek's no longer McDreamy in New York because he didn't take the bait after A-Rod got all clumsy (again) and dragged Jeter under the spotlight. Instead of sending flowers, Jeter professed that he was "annoyed." I don't blame him.

This whole thing is stuff for Liz Smith, not Red Smith. Who cares?

Time was when Reggie Jackson was more distasteful than liver and onions to Thurman Munson. They still managed to win two World Series' together in the Bronx in 1977 and 1978. And Rodriguez and Jeter both are professional and well-schooled enough that they're not going to come to blows, like Garvey-Sutton or Bonds-Kent.

A-Rod has been all left turns since arriving in New York, and no question his situation long since has passed Loonyville. When he's getting ripped for sunning himself in Central Park, something thousands of other New Yorkers eagerly do each summer, it's reached the theatre of the absurd.

But, what, a public ordination from Jeter is going to keep A-Rod from spitting the bit in the clutch? Pope Jeter blesses A-Rod with the sign of the cross, and now A-Rod rakes in October?

If that's what a grown man making $25 million a year needs, then the problems extend far beyond a relationship issue with one teammate.

Captain of the Yankees or not, if Jeter needs to administer a hug and a pet, he should just go out and get himself a dog.

New Yankees first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz was a high school classmate of A-Rod's. They were best buddies when they were 16. Quarterback A-Rod used to look for wide receiver Mientkiewicz under the Friday night lights in the fall, then they'd all go hang out at Mientkiewicz's house and eat and talk about sports and girls and other things high school boys discuss.

Guess what? A-Rod and Mientkiewicz are not going out to dinner every night down here, either. They are men now, not boys. There are wives and kids to spend time with when the day's work is finished.

Rodriguez's comments about Jeter to Esquire magazine in 2001 were both arrogant and stupid. There is no taking words back. They're out there.

Jeter's refusal to throw Rodriguez a public bone maybe isn't the most compassionate and mature thing he's ever done.

But the notion that these two must give each other public back rubs in order for the Yankees to win and for A-Rod to succeed is the most ridiculous thing this side of another George Steinbrenner statement.

As general manager Brian Cashman points out, it isn't like the Cold War between the two just started, and A-Rod won an MVP award the year before last while playing alongside Jeter.

So, no, as New York chooses sides, Cashman is not considering interceding and arranging a play date between his two marquee infielders.

"It's just noise," he told me Thursday, correctly.

In perhaps the most impossible city in the world to do so, Jeter has mastered the art of keeping his private life private. His Flavor of the Month romances -- Mariah Carey, Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel -- his inner-most thoughts, his relationships with teammates, nothing escapes from his lock box. Jeter once was close to then-teammate Chuck Knoblauch, too. Then they had a falling out and Jeter iced him. Details? Under lock and key, to this day.

Jeter, 32, is exceptional at compartmentalizing, and if that's what helps make him tick -- captain or no captain -- then he's earned the right to keep doing things his way. Joe DiMaggio did OK keeping things private.

I'll tell you who also didn't need to hold hands and sing Kumbaya. Paul O'Neill, that's who. And Tino Martinez. Scott Brosius never needed to share. Bernie Williams didn't need to step from the playing field to a psychiatrist's couch.

All this nonsense does is reinforce how unique and special those 1996-2000 Yankees clubs were. Williams' apparent departure for good this spring -- no guaranteed big league job, so he's still not here -- signifies the end of an era. The class and grace that went with those Yankees finally has been overtaken by insecurity and ham-handedness.

At 31, Rodriguez still doesn't have a sense of who he is. He remains a lost ball in tall weeds. That doesn't make him a bad person. It doesn't mean he'll never figure it out.

But there is something to be said for helping yourself before you can accept help from others.

This one issue is not a litmus test of Jeter's leadership skills as captain, just as Rodriguez being dropped to eighth in the batting order last October was not a referendum on the totality of his career.

Frosty relations between the two make for lots of juice and terrific people watching. What it won't do is prohibit the Yankees from winning. If you would have seen top pitching prospects Phillip Hughes and Humberto Sanchez throw live batting practice to Jason Giambi, Hideki Matsui and others under a warm Florida sun Thursday morning, you'd know that a Yankees team once in danger of aging too rapidly now -- finally -- has more where Chien-Ming Wang came from.

"He's like a young Rocket," said Giambi, referring to Roger Clemens, in the signature quote that will be attached to Hughes for years to come. "The ball jumps out of his hand."

How quickly Hughes progresses, the health of Andy Pettitte's elbow, Mike Mussina's consistency, closer Mariano Rivera fending off old age, Matsui's wrist remaining in one piece ... all of these issues are far more relevant to the Yankees winning than whether Jeter and A-Rod are buds.

"It's usually not short for stories around here, that's for sure," said Pettitte in a circus-never-left-town while he was playing for Houston moment Thursday morning. "You look at it, and you grin. It never, hopefully, affects things going on, how we perform."

It won't. Here, nobody is in charge of bringing juice boxes and orange slices after the game. This isn't a high school dance.

People need to grow up and realize that.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 12:49 PM

Five Things To Know: Yankees Report

Quote:
Source: CBS Sportsline

TAMPA, Fla. -- Five things to know about the New York Yankees:

1. The everyday lineup is set, with the possible exception of first base, where veteran Doug Mientkiewicz and Andy Phillips will do battle this spring. The expectation is that Mientkiewicz will be the first baseman and Jason Giambi the designated hitter on most nights. Mientkiewicz is coming off of back surgery but he isn't as out of sorts from that as you might imagine. "Easiest surgery I've ever had," he says. "I didn't even have a stitch when I was finished. Not one stitch." Though he batted .283 with four homers and 43 RBI in 91 games in Kansas City last season, here's an unusual stat: Remove his struggles against the Chicago White Sox from the equation (2-for-25) and he would have batted .301.

2. Closer Mariano Rivera has quieted down after early-camp complaints about the Yankees' refusal to talk about a contract extension with him this spring. Rivera can become a free agent after the season. With Bernie Williams likely gone, Rivera's future uncertain, catcher Jorge Posada's contract up after this season and the possibility that Alex Rodriguez could opt out after this season, there could be some anxious moments in the Yankees clubhouse this summer. Which isn't always a bad thing, in terms of motivation.

3. The road to the title really does go through the Bronx: The Yankees rang up their 15th consecutive winning season in Yankee Stadium last summer (50-31). According to the Elias Sports Bureau, that's the longest current home streak of any of the 30 major league clubs and the longest in the majors since Houston compiled 15 consecutive winning seasons in the Astrodome from 1976-90. Yankees nemesis Boston currently is next with nine consecutive winning seasons at home.

4. No question, the biggest key to the spring is keeping the starting pitchers healthy. The projected opening day rotation is Chien-Ming Wang, Mike Mussina, Andy Pettitte, Kei Igawa and either Carl Pavano or rookie Philip Hughes. You've gotta think Hughes has a real good chance to make the jump from Double-A to the majors, because Pavano -- who hasn't pitched in a big league game since June 2005 -- is more fragile than a carton of eggs. He actually sat out of fielding drills the other day because of "heavy legs." How do the Yankees feel about him so blatantly stealing their money? Even Mussina said the other day that the Yankees want Pavano to go out and "show us he wants to do this."

5. Tough opening of manager Joe Torre's 12th season: He was stricken with a virus the other day, was bedridden, missed a workout and he's still fighting off the effects. But he has this going for him: He's currently navigating the longest uninterrupted tenure of any Yankees manager since Casey Stengel was the skipper for 12 seasons in a row between 1949 and 1960.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 12:53 PM

Yankees Pavano, Hughes Offer Mound Of Hope

Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

Friday, February 23, 2007
BY ED PRICE
Star-Ledger Staff

TAMPA, Fla. -- Todd Pratt got a good look yesterday at the Yankees' hopes for the present and the not-so-distant future.

Star prospect Phil Hughes earned rave reviews, as Yankees pitchers threw batting practice to their teammates. But when it comes to the Yankees' fate this season, it may have been more significant that Carl Pavano also was sharp.

"Pavano was like he was with Florida when I faced him," Pratt said. "Good split, good sinker, good slider."

And Hughes? He's "one of the dirtiest young pitchers I've ever caught, seen or faced."

Seven pitchers -- the projected rotation (Chien-Ming Wang, Andy Pettitte, Mike Mussina, Kei Igawa and Pavano) plus Hughes and Humberto Sanchez -- threw on the main diamond at Legends Field as manager Joe Torre, pitching coach Ron Guidry and general manager Brian Cashman watched.

Pratt caught Igawa and Pavano and batted against Hughes and Sanchez.

Hughes, 20, is the Yankees' prized possession. Considered one of the top prospects in the game, he dominated Double A a year ago and is ticketed for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre this year only because the Yankees have five veteran starters and don't want to rush him.

Well, the Yankees front office doesn't want to rush him.

"He's the real deal," said Jason Giambi, who had a foul ball and a pop-up on his two swings against Hughes. "We could have used him last year. Great tempo. The ball jumps out of his hand.

"He's got filthy stuff. He's like a young Rocket (Roger Clemens)."

Hughes, the Yankees' No. 1 pick in 2004, has remained calm as the hype around him as grown.

"You just have to sit back and look at yourself in the mirror," he said. "It's great to hear that, but I haven't done anything to warrant those kind of comparisons. They feel good, but it really doesn't mean much."

Said Torre: "He doesn't seem to be overwhelmed by anything. ... Sometimes young kids have a tendency to be a little anxious and want things to happen right away. But I don't sense that with him."

Hughes -- who is ahead of the other pitchers because he has been working off a mound for four weeks -- threw 34 pitches. The batters took 23, and of the other 11, they had eight foul balls, a pop-up, a grounder and a line drive by Pratt.

"He's just special," said Ben Davis, who caught Hughes. "He's definitely blessed. He's got a great mound presence. I think he knows what he has but I don't think he takes it for granted. As good as he is, I know he wants to keep getting better."

Davis was effusive about Hughes' fastball ("I know what's coming when I'm catching back there and it still just surprises me how much it gets on you") and curve ("the only way I can describe it is devastating").

When Pavano took the mound, the theme from "Rocky" came over the public-address system.

"How about that?" said Pavano, who due to injuries last pitched in the majors on June 27, 2005. "I had a little chuckle about that."

Said Torre, "I don't want to say he's anxious, but I think he's comfortable with the way he feels right now."

Pavano kept the ball down, which is the key to his game. Of the 13 pitches Pavano threw that drew a swing, he induced five foul balls, six grounders, one whiff and one fly ball. (A fastball got away and plunked minor-league shortstop Alberto Gonzalez.)

Igawa, facing hitters for the first time in a Yankees uniform, was described as "sneaky" by Torre as well as Andy Phillips and Wil Nieves, who batted against him. Igawa, who threw curves but no change-ups, described himself only as "so-so."

Pratt said Sanchez had "just as good stuff" as Hughes. But Sanchez, whose mechanics are more violent that Hughes' smooth delivery, did not have good control yesterday.

"Overall, I think it was all right," Sanchez said. "I give myself a B."

Guidry said he evaluated Sanchez by the grimace on hitters' faces as they came out of the cage.

Sanchez, listed at 6-6 and 270 pounds, came over from Detroit in the Gary Sheffield deal.

In fact, what Pratt noticed the first day of camp was the size of the pitchers.

"It looked like a corral," he said. "Just a bunch of horses."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 12:57 PM

Even The Yankees' Way Can't Last Forever

Quote:
Source: Seattle Mercury Times

By Larry Stone

The Seattle Times

TAMPA, Fla. - It doesn't quite live up to the paparazzi nirvana that is Bald Self-Destructing Britney, but the public breakup this week between Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter is pretty juicy stuff, even by Yankees soap-opera standards.

Who wasn't riveted by A-Rod's plaintive (though typically misguided) revelation that the two "blood brothers" have stopped having slumber parties, and Jeter's somewhat catty reaction that foretold an even deeper freeze ahead?

But really, it's just variations on a Bronx theme. While the names and details change, frantic upheavals are a staple of Yankees camp. Nothing to see here. Move on.

Oh, something is going on with the Yankees, all right. Something big, potentially even profound.

An era is grinding to a close. The Yankees' way of doing business is in flux.

For more than a decade, what a glorious ride it has been - four World Series titles in Joe Torre's first five years, and a core of players that have earned their place in the Yankees' pantheon: Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Bernie Williams, Jorge Posada.

But the signs of change are everywhere. Partly, it's the cycle of baseball. Players grow old, and they're replaced. It happened with cornerstones of the early dynasty, like Paul O'Neill, Tino Martinez and Andy Pettitte (back in pinstripes after three years in Houston), and now it's happening with Williams, who refuses to come to camp as a non-roster player. Posada and Rivera, entering the final year of their contracts, could be next out the door.

As Torre said, while discussing the likelihood that Williams' Yankees career is over, "I remember when Sandy Koufax retired after winning 27 games. Guys like that walk away, the game still goes on."

Furthermore, no one would be surprised if the needy A-Rod exercised his out clause after the season and sought his happiness elsewhere, yet again.

Owners grow old, too. George Steinbrenner, at 77, is a shell of his bombastic self, by all accounts increasingly slowed by age.

Newspaper accounts of Steinbrenner's appearance here at Legends Field on the first day of camp used phrases like "limping gait," "ashen face," "mumbled," "slurred words," and "lurched" to describe him.

He is still the boss, perhaps, but no longer The Boss in all the raging glory that moniker implied. Increasingly, Steinbrenner's son-in-law, Steve Swindal, is handling the daily business operations of the club (when he's not getting busted for DWI, yet another eruption of this spring). The implications of a Yankees team without Steinbrenner's win-at-all-costs imprint could be profound.

Then there's the beloved Torre, who is 66 years old and in the final year of his contract, too. Though Torre has left open the possibility of continuing past this year, most Yankees insiders wouldn't be surprised to see the reins handed next year to bench coach Don Mattingly.

And if the Yankees don't get to the World Series, it probably won't be Torre's choice. Remember, he just barely survived The Boss' wrath last October, when the Yankees were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by Detroit. By all accounts, general manager Brian Cashman had to plead for Torre's job. Even in his dotage, Steinbrenner isn't likely to be so charitable if it happens again.

That marked the Yankees' sixth consecutive year of non-championship, a full-blown crisis in these parts. Starting with their epic four-game collapse to Boston in 2004, the Yankees are 3-10 in the playoffs. Since Arizona came from behind in the ninth inning off Rivera to beat them in Game 7 of the 2001 World Series, the Yankees have been ousted in the first round three times.

Cashman has set about building a new Yankees core by nurturing the next generation of young players, such as Robinson Cano, Melky Cabrera, 19-game winner Chien-Ming Wang and 20-year-old pitching phenom Philip Hughes, consistently ranked as one of the top three young arms in the minor leagues.

In a startling transformation this winter, Cashman largely stayed away from the enticing free-agent targets that the Yankees used to jump after - Daisuke Matsuzaka, Barry Zito, J.D. Drew, et al. He traded established players like Randy Johnson, Gary Sheffield and Jaret Wright for minor-leaguers, intent on stocking up on young pitching and trimming payroll.

If he has done it right - and don't underestimate the acumen of Cashman - then the Yankees have built the foundation for another long run. If they've done it wrong, they will be forced to do damage control in their time-honored manner - by becoming the Bronx Mercenaries to an even greater extent.

"As of a couple of years ago, we started adding young players to our mix," Torre said. "That hasn't really been a part of what we've done here. Now the players that are helping us are coming not only through the free-agent market, they're coming through the organization, which is something we haven't done in a while."

Make no mistake, the 2007 Yankees still are a formidable team, and still a hugely expensive ($200 million) team of superstars - as always, the team to beat.

It will be fascinating to see if Torre can coax one more title out of the old gang before the next wave of change arrives.

"Unfortunately, things can't last forever," center fielder Johnny Damon said. "But it did last for a long time."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 01:00 PM

Why Is The A-Rod-Jeter Relationship Important?

Quote:
Source: Milwaukee Journal Times

By Greg Giesen
Journal Times

Maybe the general public can answer this question for me: Whose fault is it that there are stories about the love-hate relationship between New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter and third baseman Alex Rodriguez?

Is it the media’s fault for making such a non-issue a big deal or is it the public’s fault for wanting to hear more and more about an issue that has nothing to do with baseball? Either way, a pox on both houses!

Apparently, the two were best buddies until A-Rod commented in a 2001 magazine piece about Jeter’s leadership ability. Frankly, Jeter should have just taken a picture of his jewelry collection and sent it to A-Rod — that would have ended any debate about leadership. But no, we have to keep hearing about Jeter not backing A-Rod last year and the two having a bad relationship.
Who cares! Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig were friends until Ruth made a comment about Gehrig’s mother. Gehrig, for a time, had nothing to do with Ruth. The Yankees, though, still had a pretty good team. I believe it was called Murders’ Row.

I think there are enough issues with the New York Yankees that the beat writers and columnists can find better fodder for stories, columns, Web sites and blogs.
Sadly, the issue really doesn’t matter. Jeter and A-Rod are both professionals who perform at a very high level. That level doesn’t depend on them eating dinner together, playing cards, swapping barbecue techniques or being, as A-Rod put it, “blood brothers.”

What matters is that they are paid a boatload of money to perform and it’s expected by owner George Steinbrenner that they perform at a high level so the Yankees can win another World Series while the baseball world roots against them or yawns in apathy.
So enough, let’s focus on baseball and keep the nonsense issues where they belong — buried and not talked about.


Umm...while I agree, it's Murderer's Row, and Gehrig and Ruth had their falling out after allegations that Ruth had slept with Gehrig's wife Eleanor during their honeymoon/Yankee goodwill tour to Asia, not because he said anything about Gehrig's mother.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 01:01 PM

Yankees Accepting Williams Won't Show

Quote:
Source: Associated Press

Tampa, Fla. | Manager Joe Torre and the core of Yankees' players that won four World Series titles with Bernie Williams are resigned to the outfielder's absence.

Williams rejected the Yankees offer of a minor league contract, instead wanting a guarantee of a job when the season starts.

"It's sad," said Torre, who hasn't talked with Williams since late last week, "but not surprising in the fact that I haven't heard back from him."

"It appears he's not coming," Jeter said Wednesday. "It will set in a little bit more as the spring goes on. For selfish reasons, I'm disappointed he's not here.

"I don't want to talk about his career being over yet," Jeter said. "Let him decide if he's done playing before I make comments on his career. It goes without saying what he's meant to the organization."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 01:08 PM

Just to prove everything isn't sparkling or that the grass isn't greener on the other side...it looks like the Red Sox are starting to have their own problems:

Manny Being Manny...Again

Quote:
Source: CBS Sportsline


FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Manny Ramirez changed plans and will not attend a car auction in New Jersey on Saturday while his Boston Red Sox teammates work out at spring training, the team said Thursday.


The Red Sox gave Ramirez permission to report late to camp on March 1, the day after their first exhibition game, for family reasons. The left fielder's mother recently had surgery.

Boston general manager Theo Epstein said that after learning about Ramirez's scheduled appearance at the auction, he spoke Wednesday night with Greg Genske, the slugger's agent.

"He said (Ramirez) is not going to be there, so it's fine," Epstein said Thursday. "He's dealing with a family issue. We're not going to document his exact whereabouts on an hour-to-hour basis."

Louise Cunningham, who works for G. Potter King, the Berlin, N.J., car dealer promoting the auction, told the Associated Press on Wednesday night that Ramirez was still expected at the event in Atlantic City. On Thursday, the company did not return calls seeking comment.

Red Sox manager Terry Francona said that when he spoke with Genske and Ramirez on Tuesday night, the car auction was not discussed. Francona also said he wasn't concerned that Ramirez would make plans to be at a car show during spring training.

"I don't think I can let it concern me that he might have, or he allegedly, or somebody wrote it. That's not a very productive way for me to manage the club," Francona said.

Epstein said he didn't think the auction would be a distraction, "if we manage it the right way."

"Manny certainly intends to be here as soon as he can and get ready for the season. So I think it's not the biggest deal in the world, provided he's here March 1, or even earlier if his mother's situation resolves itself," the GM said.

Red Sox president Larry Lucchino also showed little concern about Ramirez's previous plans to be at the auction.

"I think it's a stale issue," he told reporters. "You guys are making a tempest in a teapot."

Ramirez collects classic cars. His 1967 four-door Lincoln Continental Sedan convertible is listed in Saturday's auction as number 1747A. In parentheses on the auction list is a note: Owned by Manny Ramirez.

Baseball's collective bargaining agreement gives teams the right to penalize players who report to camp after Feb. 27, but Epstein said the team won't discipline Ramirez.

"We can give a player permission to show up late for certain instances, and family always comes first in this organization and will continue to," Epstein said.

The Red Sox are used to Ramirez's unusual behavior.

The slugger asked to be traded after the last two seasons and was the subject of trade talks at the July 31 deadline in 2005. He also missed most of the final six weeks last season with what the team called right knee tendinitis. There was speculation he was physically able to play.

Ramirez is scheduled to make $18 million this season, the seventh of his eight-year, $160 million contract. In each if his previous six seasons with the Red Sox, he had at least 33 homers and 102 RBI.

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 01:10 PM

Schilling Plans To Walk

Quote:
Source: CBS Sportsline

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Curt Schilling said he will become a free agent after the season and won't let that distract him during his fourth year with the Boston Red Sox.

General manager Theo Epstein wouldn't rule out in-season discussions for a new contract.

At a brief meeting between the two Wednesday, Epstein told the pitching ace that the team would not give him an extension during spring training, as Schilling had wished.

"Curt's going to be 41, and at that age we've got to be a little more conservative," Epstein said Thursday. "It doesn't mean we don't want him back. I have all the confidence in the world that if Curt wants to pitch in 2008 and he's still pitching effectively, as I expect he will, then we'll find a way to keep him in a Red Sox uniform."

Epstein also said Schilling will be the opening day starter April 2 in Kansas City and "I couldn't be happier about that."

Schilling said he didn't warn the Red Sox that it might cost them more to sign him after the season. Even if they want to keep him, he still could leave.

"I'll consider anything at that point," he said.

Schilling struggled late last season and went 15-7 with a 3.97 ERA. Bothered by injuries in 2005, he was 8-8 with a 5.69 ERA. But in 2004, his first season with Boston, he was 21-6 with a 3.26 ERA and a star of Boston's World Series sweep of St. Louis.

Late last month, Schilling said he wanted to play in 2008 after stating previously that he would retire after the 2007 season. Schilling, who represents himself, also said he would play for the same amount he's making this year, $13 million, but he wouldn't negotiate after opening day.

On Thursday, he said he was "disappointed" but understood the club's position. He also said he would not negotiate with the Red Sox during the 15 days following the World Series, when they are the only club allowed to discuss money with him.

"I will file for free agency at the end of the season and they know that," Schilling said. "I'm going to get ready for opening day and this is not going to change anything that I do or how I do it"

Manager Terry Francona, who also managed Schilling in Philadelphia, indicated the pitcher could alter his stance.

"He was also going to retire," Francona said. "You know what I'm saying. Things change."

Schilling became the first Red Sox pitcher to pitch batting practice on Thursday, throwing about 40 pitches to minor leaguers Jeff Corsaletti, Jeff Natale and Andrew Pinckney.


"It's a business, and I get that," Schilling said. "I woke up, the sun came up today and I'm getting after it."

He also said he won't let the uncertainty about the 2008 season distract him or give him any more motivation.

"The best three years of my career -- '97, 2001, 2004 -- were all first year of multiyear contracts," Schilling said. "I don't pitch for contracts."

He signed a $37.5 million, three-year contract before the 2004 season after leaving Arizona as a free agent. A $13 million option for 2007 became guaranteed because the Red Sox won the 2004 World Series.

"Regardless of whether he's signed for 10 years or one month, he will pitch like he's always pitched," Francona said, "give you everything he has."

Schilling said his meeting with Epstein on Wednesday lasted about three minutes and followed other discussions in which contract details were discussed.

"There was no offer," Schilling said. "He asked me if I wanted the long story or the short story and I said, 'Give me the short one.' So it was quick."

Schilling is the No. 1 starter in a strong rotation that includes three 26-year-old right-handers -- Josh Beckett, Daisuke Matsuzaka and Jonathan Papelbon. Tim Wakefield, 40, is the fifth starter. Boston also has promising lefty Jon Lester, 23, who appears close to full strength after offseason treatment for anaplastic large cell lymphoma.

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 01:16 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 01:20 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 01:23 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 01:32 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/23/07 08:19 PM

Double-J's Yankee Quote of the Day (2/23)

"I'd rather just take the chance." -- Carl Pavano, explaining why he doesn't use the protective net in front of the mound when he throws live batting practice.

---

Is it any wonder they call this retard the "Crash Test Dummy" ???
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 04:20 AM

Mientkiewicz excited for season

TAMPA, Fla. -- The expectations of the Yankees' universe seem to center upon Alex Rodriguez's shoulders every spring. His high school buddy, Doug Mientkiewicz, isn't offering the third baseman much sympathy.

"I always tell him, 'You think you've got it rough? Try playing the game with these skills and see how much fun the game is,'" Mientkiewicz said.

A hard-working first baseman who considers himself a "grinder" and a "lunch-pail-type guy," Mientkiewicz offers the Yankees some extra grit. He wields a self-deprecating sense of humor and shuns batting gloves in favor of hearty helpings of pine tar.

Mientkiewicz, who teamed with Rodriguez to help mold a few title-winning sports clubs back at Westminster Christian (Fla.) High School in the early 1990s, also offers the clubhouse some accumulated hotel points.

Originally a product of the Minnesota Twins farm system, Mientkiewicz has become nomadic in the last three years, playing for the Red Sox, Mets and Royals.

The experience hasn't been all bad. Mientkiewicz picked up a 2004 World Series ring after being traded to Boston in midseason, but he struggled with injuries and fell out of favor with Mets manager Willie Randolph in 2005, eventually losing his starting job to rookie Mike Jacobs.

"Trust me, I don't like bouncing around from team to team every year," Mientkiewicz said. "But you also learn a lot from each stop that you go to. You try to take what you've learned and apply it to the next year. I've been well-versed in travels."

Twice a .300 hitter with Minnesota, Mientkiewicz was probably at his lowest professional point following his 87-game experience with the Mets.

The game had humbled him; Mientkiewicz claimed he would retire if the Mets picked up his option, which they didn't. Eventually, Mientkiewicz latched on with the Royals for a 2006 campaign that he believes renewed his energy and spirit.

It wasn't that the Royals were very good; 100 losses and a fifth-place finish in the American League Central were proof enough of that.

But his production returned, batting .283 with four home runs and 43 RBI in 91 games before undergoing season-ending surgery to repair a herniated disc in August.

The birth of his son, Steel, last Oct. 11 -- Mientkiewicz wears No. 11 with the Yankees for that reason -- also worked wonders in calming his demeanor and expanding his outlook.

By the time Yankees general manager Brian Cashman came calling this winter, Mientkiewicz said he knew that his experiences in Kansas City had prepared him for a second tour of duty in New York.

"I enjoy the game again," Mientkiewicz said. "I had a good time last year -- I really did. I know people think I'm crazy when I say that, and the losing was awful. On the other hand, I got to play with some amazing teammates and a great coaching staff. I played for a franchise that deserves a winner."

Now, Mientkiewicz is taking his first hacks with a franchise that expects to win. The Yankees' early plans are to use Mientkiewicz as the left-handed batting half of a first-base platoon that would include either Josh Phelps or Andy Phillips.

Mientkiewicz said he would have no problem with the reduced workload, batting only against right-handed pitching, even though his career splits are quite similar -- .269 against lefties, .271 against righties.

"The people who make decisions are a heck of a lot smarter than I am," Mientkiewicz said. "Everything else will take care of itself. That's part of being a team. All the 'I' stuff stops when you walk in the door."

Recently, manager Joe Torre floated the possibility of Mientkiewicz serving as an everyday first baseman as a potential scenario under which Bernie Williams could make the club. Clearly, the platoon is not set in stone, and Torre said he is comfortable with what Mientkiewicz offers.

"He's going to put the ball in play and he's not a strikeout guy, which, to me, is hugely important -- especially on our club, where we feel we can move runners and do some things," Torre said. "I think his ability certainly allows us to do that."

A .270 career hitter, Mientkiewicz knows what it's like to play on a winner, a quality the Yankees appreciate.

Four years before he rode a parade duck boat down Boston's Charles River in October 2004, Mientkiewicz experienced the thrill of victory on Tommy Lasorda's gold-medal-winning Team USA Olympic squad, playing alongside teammates like Ben Sheets and Roy Oswalt in the 2000 Sydney Summer Games.

"No one remembers what you hit or what you did," Mientkiewicz said. "They just remember that you're part of a group that did something special."

A parade down the Canyon of Heroes would be a great cap for Mientkiewicz's career. He can envision it, but is insistent that no matter what, he'll enjoy every moment of the Yankees' season -- the good and the bad.

"I'm upright, I'm standing and I've got a uniform on," Mientkiewicz said. "Besides, my son is going to love me regardless of whether I go 0-for-4 or 4-for-4."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 12:34 PM

In Reserve Role, Yankees Plan To Keep Cabrera Busy; Bullpen Update!

Quote:
Source: New York Times

TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 23 — The Yankees’ starting outfielders have combined for almost 5,000 career games in the major leagues and Japan. Hideki Matsui, Johnny Damon and Bobby Abreu will all be 33 by midseason, and they all could use a break now and then.

When injuries forced outfielder Melky Cabrera into a regular spot in the lineup last season, he responded by hitting .280 in 460 at-bats.

“Someone that plays 162 games a year has a chance of being good,” Damon said Friday. “But I think a player who plays 145 or 150 games has a chance to be great. Knowing there’s one day a week when you don’t have to mentally get prepared for a game, players are so much better.”

That is one reason Damon was so pleased this winter when the Yankees kept Melky Cabrera. When Damon needs a day off, Cabrera can fill in.

The Yankees considered trading the 22-year-old Cabrera for bullpen help and bringing Bernie Williams back as the reserve outfielder. There was some sentiment to trade Cabrera while his value was high. But Cabrera also has value to the Yankees, and he went nowhere.

He has come a long way from last spring. Just how far is reflected in the tone of the Yankees’ message to him from one camp to the next.

Last spring, Manager Joe Torre saw Cabrera as a talented player with an uncertain work ethic. This spring, Torre trusts Cabrera and said he would try hard to find him regular playing time.

“We nudged him last spring early on,” Torre said. “He was someone that we knew had tools, but it just looked like he was really not applying the tools. We had a meeting with him, and you didn’t have to tell him twice. He got your attention in the spring, and when we had a problem, we never hesitated as far as where we were going.”

The Yankees turned to Cabrera when Matsui and Gary Sheffield were injured early in the season, and he responded by hitting .280 with a .360 on-base percentage in 460 at-bats.

Cabrera showed a surprisingly sophisticated approach to hitting, with 56 walks to only 59 strikeouts, and his presence gave the lineup a jolt.

“I love having him in the lineup,” Damon said. “The spark and the happiness he takes to the field are pretty cool.”

Matsui is back and Abreu came over in a trade with the Phillies last July, but the Yankees want to play Cabrera enough to make sure he keeps improving. When the exhibition season starts next Thursday, Cabrera will be busy.

“We had a meeting with him today, actually, just to let him know what our plans were, and the fact that he’s got to come to the ballpark thinking he’s a regular player every day,” Torre said.

“The only difference is he’ll get time at all three outfield positions, make road trips and D.H. on the road to get used to pinch-hitting. Even though he’s not a D.H., you can sort of simulate that by using the designated hitter as a pinch-hitter four times a game.”

Torre said he was still trying to decide on a target number of at-bats for Cabrera. Damon said he would like the switch-hitting Cabrera to play 120 games — he played in 130 last season — to help the Yankees clarify their future plans.

“There are very important decisions to make after this year,” Damon said. “Bobby has an option, and right now we have three left-handers out there full time. There are a lot of things that can happen in this game.”

Interestingly, Damon mentioned that center fielders Andruw Jones and Torii Hunter would be free agents after the season. Damon plays in center now, and he is signed through 2010. But before the Yankees decide whether to pursue Jones or Hunter, they may need to see more of Cabrera in center field.

“On any other team, Melky could be a starter right now,” Damon said. “There’s just not a spot for him here, but we’ll find a way. We need to see if he can develop to be a decent center fielder. We know he can do it in left and right. But center is what needs to be seen.”

Cabrera played winter ball in the Dominican Republic last month and said he did not worry about the trade talk surrounding him then. Through an interpreter, he said his role would be up to Torre.

“I’m going to be satisfied with what the manager says, and be prepared when I have an opportunity to do the job,” Cabrera said.

Much like last season, Cabrera can usually be found in the clubhouse near second baseman Robinson Canó, who is also Dominican. Canó is further advanced as a hitter, but they seem to bring the same intangibles to the team.

“Leche, he plays hard and he has fun, man,” said Derek Jeter, referring to Cabrera by the Spanish word for milk. “He and Robby are very similar. They go out there and enjoy themselves. You like to see that. You like to see people enjoying themselves and playing hard, appreciating that they’re on the field and not taking it for granted.”

INSIDE PITCH

The relievers threw batting practice Friday, and Joe Torre was pleased with his inventory. The Yankees acquired the right-handers LUIS VIZCAíNO and Chris Britton in trades over the winter and did not lose any relievers who pitched more than 18 games. “We have more depth now in an area that certainly doesn’t hurt,” Torre said. “We went to the well with some arms last year, and you pay the price for that.”
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 12:41 PM

Despite A-Rod's Issues, Yankees Favored To Win World Series

Quote:
Source: BoDogBeat

Memories of A-Rod’s nightmare 2006 season are still with fans, as well as Rodriguez himself as the New York Yankees continue their spring training in Tampa, Fla.

A-Rod made 24 errors at third base in 2006, matching a career high set in 1997 as a shortstop. He made just 25 combined errors during his first two years at third base.

"I never felt in control," Rodriguez told the Daily News. "I felt I was overweight, and my footwork as a result was very slow and lethargic. Good fielding comes from good feet, and my feet were bad."

His hitting in the playoffs was even worse - 1-for-14 (.071) with four strikeouts in the four-game Divisional Series loss to the Detroit Tigers.

Nevertheless, oddsmakers still believe in the Yankees (or at least they believe in their fans’ belief) and have given the Bronx Bombers 7/2 odds to win the World Series in 2007. Next closest are the Detroit Tigers at 5/1.

Odds To Win 2007 World Series Championship

Arizona Diamondbacks 45/1
Atlanta Braves 30/1
Baltimore Orioles 90/1
Boston Red Sox 9/1
Chicago Cubs 9/1
Chicago White Sox 9/1
Cincinnati Reds 50/1
Cleveland Indians 20/1
Colorado Rockies 100/1
Detroit Tigers 5/1
Florida Marlins 35/1
Houston Astros 35/1
Kansas City Royals 85/1
Los Angeles Angels 10/1
Los Angeles Dodgers 15/1
Milwaukee Brewers 40/1
Minnesota Twins 22/1
New York Mets 9/1
New York Yankees 7/2
Oakland Athletics 20/1
Philadelphia Phillies 15/1
Pittsburgh Pirates 100/1
San Diego Padres 30/1
San Francisco Giants 10/1
Seattle Mariners 100/1
St Louis Cardinals 9/1
Tampa Bay Devil Rays 200/1
Texas Rangers 40/1
Toronto Blue Jays 15/1
Washington Nationals 150/1
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 12:43 PM

Damon Helps Wounded Vets; Yankees Notes

Quote:
Source: Hartford Courant

February 23, 2007
By DOM AMORE, Courant Staff Writer

TAMPA, Fla. -- Johnny Damon has reveled in the fruits of life in America. He plays baseball for $13 million a year, and he wears fame comfortably.

Still beaming over his new baby girl, he arrived for his second Yankees training camp this week pronouncing, "Life just keeps getting better."

The shoulder-length hair is long gone, but Damon is not shy about wearing patriotism on his sleeve.

"I know we're [divided] about the war," Damon said of the U.S. involvement in Iraq. "But we need to take care of these soldiers who've made the sacrifice for our freedom. ... It's about our country. It bothers me when people dog the country. We're free, we have the ability to make millions of dollars, and people are complaining."

For Damon, his new passion is not about politics, but people. He became a national spokesman for the Wounded Warrior Project last September, and has taken a personal interest in helping wounded veterans rebuild their lives.

His father, Jimmy, was a career Army officer who served in Vietnam. Johnny Damon, 33, spent much of his early life on Army bases, and often wears military-themed attire; it's part of him.

"My father's told me things in the last few years that he wouldn't tell me as a child," Damon said. "The thing that really inspired me is when I went to Walter Reed hospital last year, for the second time, and I saw the progress people were making. Their spirits are so high, in spite of everything they've gone through, and they say they would do it again."

When Damon launched The Professional Baseball Video Game League last winter, he made sure Sgt. Steven Andrew Robison was included with the major league players who are taking part.

"When Johnny gets involved in something, you get the person," said Jason Giambi, who hopes to join Damon in some of his upcoming projects. "He's a giver. This means a lot to him. He has a ton of ideas."

The Wounded Warrior Project helps address the various needs of soldiers wounded in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. Damon is passionately concerned about the quality of life wounded soldiers return home to. If counseling is needed, Damon wants to facilitate it. If a wounded veteran has a dream that's humanly possible to reach, he wants to make sure money is no obstacle.

"We want to make sure they can have a normal life," Damon said. "We want to help set things up where they can play golf, ski, do a lot of different things. ... We want them to get what they need to do the things we're all able to do."

Damon is hoping to start a program where major league players visit wounded veterans in their area.

"That's what's important," Damon said. "These soldiers come from all over the country, and to have players from there visit with them ... It's just important to me that we not forget the sacrifices they've made to keep us free."

Adventurous Day

It's a routine part of spring training, the popup drills. But the degree of difficulty moved off the charts Friday.

"They had it set on knuckleball or something," Derek Jeter said.

For about 15 hilarious minutes, some of the highest-paid players in history could not catch simple popups, and the fans at Legends Field joined in the laughter.

"The machine has two wheels, and one was set faster than the other," manager Joe Torre said. "It took a few minutes to get it set right."

The baseballs, shot out of the machine from the plate, had a weird backspin and proved impossible to judge and catch, especially with a very high sky and a little breeze. The first one, out to left field, completely fooled Hideki Matsui, who started in, then raced back and couldn't catch up to it on the warning track. Jeter settled under one at shortstop, then lurched to his left and dropped the ball, the crowd howling. Robinson Cano had a similar experience, then Alex Rodriguez. Jorge Posada looked like he had one measured near the plate, but he stopped to avoid running into the machine itself and it fell five feet from him.

Finally, Jeter was able to hold on to one with a basket catch and the crowd cheered, Rodriguez raising both arms to celebrate.

"They're veteran players and they don't want to give the idea they weren't taking it seriously," Torre said. "They understood the main thing was to practice calling for the ball and calling each other off. But it doesn't hurt to have a little fun." ... Mariano Rivera threw live batting practice with the other relievers, so despite his extra rest time this winter, he is up to speed. "No problemo," he said. "I wasn't trying to do anything special, it was BP. Everything felt fine."

Melky's Role

Torre and the coaches sat down with Melky Cabrera to explain his role as the fourth outfielder. "We told him we want him to come to the park every day and prepare like he's an everyday, regular player," Torre said. "He'll get time at all three positions, and he'll take some road trips [in spring training] and DH for us so we can get him used to pinch hitting." ... The starting pitchers will throw BP again today. Torre is planning only one intrasquad game, next Tuesday.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 12:45 PM

Clemens Needs To Make His Decision Now

Quote:
Source: Hattiesburg American (MA)

Roger Clemens is getting away with it again.

The seven-time Cy Young winner won't make a commitment one way or the other on whether he will play this season.

He said he doesn't know if he'll play, but he's got a list of teams that he would possibly play for: New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox and Houston Astros.

I can't argue with the fact that Clemens can still pitch. He's capable of helping any of those teams reach the postseason.

My point of contention with Clemens is the arrogance that he has displayed in the past two seasons in making teams wait and see where the fireballer will fall.

He signed a $22 million contract with the Astros last year to only pitch half a season.

That massive contract translated into a 7-6 record with a 2.30 earned run average and no postseason trip for the offensively-anemic Astros.

I argued at the time he signed on the dotted line that the Astros wouldn't reach the postseason even with Clemens in the pitching rotation, and I have a feeling he knew that as well. It seemed that the only reason Clemens was back on that field was the huge payday that was promised to him.

My question is, why does he get off so easy?

I hear very little criticism of him about making teams wait and cross their fingers that Clemens will fall in their lap.

Green Bay Packers quarterback and Southern Miss legend Brett Favre was absolutely skewered last year when he waited until April 26 to decide to come back for another year.

Granted, being an NFL quarterback is a different predicament than being one of five members of a Major League Baseball pitching staff.

But I hear very little criticism, if any, of Clemens holding out for big money for only half a season.

Clemens told The Associated Press this week that he'll wait until his agents get an offer he can't refuse before he amps up his workout regimen for a possible return.

He wouldn't be doing this if he didn't know he could still pitch. Why can't he dedicate himself to a team, go out there and complete a full season or just finally decide to retire?

Does he want to be viewed as a savior when he comes in at the midway point and leads a team to the World Series?

Save us the suspense and go ahead and sign with a team or just retire, like you said you were going to do in 2003 after your last season with the Yankees.

Don't wait and see who decides to show up with a dump truck full of cash in June.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 12:48 PM

'No' Man's Land

Quote:
Source: New York Post

BERNIE ON STATUS: "NOTHING'S CHANGED"

By MICHAEL MORRISSEY

February 23, 2007 -- Bernie Williams is home alone. And now more than ever, it appears that's where he'll stay.

Williams told The Post yesterday afternoon that nothing has changed regarding his status, although he wouldn't address the issue of retirement or say whether he will eventually head to Florida to join the Yankees.

A subdued Williams, who recently spoke with former teammate Derek Jeter but hadn't returned phone calls from GM Brian Cashman, manager Joe Torre or catcher Jorge Posada, made the comment outside his Westchester County mansion.

He pulled into his gated driveway at 2:40 p.m. with what appeared to be his daughter in the passenger seat of his Chevy SUV. Asked if anything had changed, Williams said, "No."



The longtime Yankees center fielder was offered an open invitation to spring training, but only with a non-guaranteed minor-league contract. It is widely believed the 38-year-old finds the offer to be insulting.

As temperatures climbed into the mid-70s in Tampa, rain pelted Williams' SUV and washed away the remainder of a recent February snowfall. It was a dreary, miserable day, and Williams was apparently spending it with family instead of his former Yankees teammates.

The juxtaposition couldn't have been more striking.

When asked if he were retired, Williams said he didn't want to talk. The five-time All-Star refused to answer whether he'd be going down to Florida this spring.

Certain Yankees players and team officials would love to see Williams at Legends Field, but Cashman has been adamant that he cannot guarantee a roster spot, never mind playing time.

Williams would be considered the fifth outfielder, and the onus is on Torre and the Yanks to develop burgeoning youngster Melky Cabrera by giving him playing time as the fourth outfielder. Hideki Matsui, Johnny Damon and Bobby Abreu have the starting outfield jobs, barring an injury.

While Cashman all but extinguished Williams' hope of making the team by laying out the numbers game, Torre was more optimistic. Even though Williams is a sort of teacher's pet with the manager, Torre has said that the more time Williams spent in Tampa, the better chance he had of making the club.

Jeter and Posada were under the impression that Williams wouldn't be coming to camp.

"As a 16-year veteran, it is tough to come to camp and fight for a job, especially if you are Bernie Williams," Posada reportedly said a few days ago.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 01:02 PM

Unlike Sheff, No Stirring For Abreu

Quote:
Source: Newsday

Replacement in right-field is quite content to fit in and keep his mouth closed

BY JIM BAUMBACH
jim.baumbach@newsday.com
February 24, 2007

TAMPA, Fla. - When Gary Sheffield said of Bobby Abreu this past offseason, "He ain't me," he wasn't kidding. These rightfielders couldn't be more different.

Take, for example, their contractual situations.

Abreu is entering spring training the same way Sheffield did last year: with one year left on his contract plus a team option. But Abreu is going about business far differently from his predecessor.

While Sheffield - who wound up being traded to the Tigers this offseason - bickered all through camp about the status of his $13-million 2007 option, Abreu all but shrugged when asked about the $16-million option the Yankees hold for 2008. "I don't think too much about that," Abreu said.

This is how Abreu operates. He's soft-spoken and stays under the radar, exactly the opposite of how Sheffield carries himself. Aside from an occasional laugh with teammates, Abreu barely shows emotion.

Even after Sheffield's "He ain't me" quote was recited to Abreu on Friday, the rightfielder barely raised his eyebrows. "I don't really pay attention to that stuff," he said. "I just focus on me and my game. I don't worry about what other people say."

That attitude has helped Abreu succeed in an environment in which so many others have failed. When the Yankees acquired him from the Phillies just before the trade deadline last July, he said he told himself, "I'm not going to let the pressure get into my mind."

In Philadelphia, the pressure to carry the Phillies weighed on Abreu, and he was not suited for that role. "He felt that if he didn't get the hits, he was letting the team down," said Yankees third-base coach Larry Bowa, who had managed Abreu with the Phillies.

With the Yankees, Abreu became just another big bat in a lineup filled with All-Star-caliber hitters. The Yankees stressed to him that he should play his own game. He's a patient hitter, and the Yankees told him to take as many pitches as he wanted and not to worry about hitting home runs.

"They always made a big deal about home runs in Philly, but if he hits 15 or 20 here, that's fine," Bowa said. " ... Here, I think people really told him to go out and enjoy yourself, relax, and if you don't do it, we have some other people who can."

Abreu credits that for his strong second half last year; after hitting .277 in 339 at-bats with a .427 on-base percentage for the Phillies, he hit .330 in 209 at-bats with a .419 OBP in pinstripes.

"If you fail, you have guys behind you like A-Rod, Giambi, Matsui," he said. "They can take care of the job when you fail. So you're not afraid to fail because of that protection. It's different."

Bowa also has been impressed with the way Abreu has voluntarily worked with Robinson Cano and Melky Cabrera. With that in mind, the Yankees put 18-year-old outfield prospect Jose Tabata's locker next to Abreu's. Both are from Venezuela.

Abreu said he would like to have the same impact on Tabata that infielder Ricky Gutierrez had on Abreu in Astros camp a decade ago. "He told me how to work, what to expect of yourself, how to get yourself better," Abreu said. "Work ethic, basically."

Notes & quotes: Joe Torre met with Cabrera on Friday to discuss the expectations for him this season. "We still want his mentality to be that of a regular player, and not as just a backup," Torre said. The Yankees told Cabrera they intend to find him regular time at all three outfield spots ... The Yankees ran a pop-up and fly ball drill to work on players calling off teammates, but troubles with the gun that shoots the balls resulted in knucklers flying through the air. The Yankees missed the first six balls. "The combination of not finding it right away and the high sky with no clouds up there, I think we lost them early and then it just got ugly," Torre said. "We will do that again." ... Randy Baker, recently promoted to vice president of security, ordered an older couple to leave the first three rows during the workout. They turned out to be Brian Cashman's parents.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 01:07 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 01:10 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 01:12 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 01:13 PM

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 01:14 PM

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/24/07 06:54 PM

As always, thanks for the great pics DJ.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/25/07 12:41 AM

Pavano gets injury scare

TAMPA, Fla. -- Carl Pavano was hit on the left foot while pitching live batting practice to Yankees players on Saturday.
Pavano, 31, was clipped by a ball batted by infielder Alberto Gonzalez. The right-hander is attempting to make the Yankees' rotation this spring after losing the last 1 1/2 Major League seasons to an assortment of various injuries.

"It feels a little stiff," said Pavano, who later joked about having a bulls-eye on him. "It isn't the first time I got hit down there."

General manager Brian Cashman, watching the events from his perch behind the batting cage, said that Pavano "seems to be a heat-seeking missile."

"I winced like I would with anybody," Cashman said. "Obviously, we're counting on him. He's a big piece of our rotation."

For the past three days, the Yankees have been conducting live batting practice drills with starters and relievers pitching to hitters.

Some pitchers opt to use the protective 'L' screen on the mound, which likely would have blocked Gonzalez's drive. Because the drills are taking place near full speed, players like Pavano and ace Chien-Ming Wang have refused to use the screen so as not to alter their motions.

"I'd rather take that chance than sacrifice my mechanics by pitching with that screen," Pavano said. "Some guys feel comfortable with it. I don't."

Pavano said that he does not expect the injury to create a problem. He planned to report early to Legends Field on Sunday for treatment and is scheduled for a regular workout. Pavano said he would next pitch on Tuesday, the day the Yankees are planning an intrasquad scrimmage.

"I don't expect it to be hindering or anything," Pavano said.

Ironically, Pavano hit Gonzalez with a fastball during Thursday's live batting practice session, leaving the imprint of the ball's stitching bruised on Gonzalez's left bicep.

"I smiled at him and said, 'All right, payback,'" Pavano said.

Aside from Saturday's events, Pavano has been mostly healthy and is pitching well early in Yankees camp. He completed a successful offseason training program in Phoenix with trainer Brett Fischer and has earned strong endorsements thus far from manager Joe Torre, Cashman and others.

"I know the ability's there, obviously," Cashman said. "There are some good things he can do with that baseball."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/25/07 12:42 AM

Damon to miss time for personal reasons

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - Yankees center fielder Johnny Damon is expected to miss at least a few days of spring training for personal reasons.

"I think it's going to be some time," manager Joe Torre said Saturday. "A few days or something. He has some personal things he has to attend to, and we just gave him that ability."
Damon was given permission to leave camp after talking with Torre and general manager Brian Cashman following Friday's workout.

"He spoke to Joe and me about it, so obviously he's not in camp with permission," Cashman said. "When he returns, he'll be able to talk about it to whatever degree he wants to."

Damon, slowed by a sore shoulder and a broken bone in his foot last season, hit .285 with 24 homers and 80 RBIs in 149 games.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 01:35 AM

Vizcaino hopes to find home

TAMPA, Fla. -- It was Luis Vizcaino's first day at the new office, and the right-handed reliever was searching the Legends Field clubhouse, looking for the space he'd call home for the next six weeks.

A new locker to fill with personal effects; new pants to be sized for; new caps to break in. For Vizcaino, a well-traveled reliever pitching for his fourth team in four years, the exercise is nothing new.

"It seems like it changes every year," Vizcaino said. "You have to find new friends, the new cities, the new uniforms. It's what happens in the game. It is my job, but I want to stay in one spot. I hope this is the spot."

Acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks in January's Randy Johnson trade, the rubber-armed 32-year-old was 4-6 with a 3.58 ERA in 70 appearances last season, finishing 15 games and striking out 72 while walking 29 over 65 1/3 innings.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said that Vizcaino -- who features a power arm, a hard slider and a good splitter -- piqued the organization's interest last season.

Cashman recalled that he had contacted Arizona counterpart Josh Byrnes to pitch offers for the hurler. The Yankees could not reach a match then, but with the Big Unit on the table this past winter, the pieces finally fit to bring Vizcaino and three Minor Leaguers to New York.

"[The D-backs] had a whole assortment of inventory of right-handed relievers who I think everybody was talking about," Cashman said. "Vizcaino was one of the guys and no one was able to pry him. So this winter, I was happy to be able to bring him aboard."

A member of the 2005 World Series champion White Sox, Vizcaino has appeared in 70 or more games in four of the last five seasons. He ranks fifth among Major League pitchers with 359 games pitched since 2001, earning the nickname "Daily" last season from an Arizona coach.

At the mention of the moniker, Vizcaino breaks into a broad grin. Clearly, it is a reference that delights him.

"I like it," Vizcaino said. "I guess I got [the nickname] because I take the ball every day. It's good. Now I'm pitching for the Yankees, and I'll pitch whenever they give me the ball."

Vizcaino figures as a welcome addition for a Yankees bullpen that tends to ask a lot of its members.

For example, right-hander Scott Proctor was called into 83 games by manager Joe Torre last season, with even his warmup tosses creating an audible clicking in his elbow by season's end.

With assistance like Vizcaino on tap, the relief corps may be able to take more breathers. The right-hander has proven effective against both lefties and righties, limiting left-handed batters to a miniscule .163 batting average last season.

"We have some more depth now in an area that certainly doesn't hurt," Torre said. "We went to the well with some arms last year, and you pay the price for that."

Cashman said that Vizcaino's value could wind up being realized anywhere from the sixth to the eighth inning, helping move the line along to closer Mariano Rivera.

"He's someone that can go back-to-back, give you two innings, or be a setup guy," Cashman said. "He's versatile and he warms up rather quickly. He can be available at any time."

Vizcaino's assimilation into the Yankees' clubhouse is in the initial stages, but he appears to be quickly gaining acceptance.

He's comforted by the fact that he won't be a complete stranger in New York -- an uncle and brother reside in New Jersey, and Vizcaino plans to cross the bridges and tunnels often for visits -- and also by the fact that his ability to make friends quickly seems intact.

"I'm just working, the same as every year," Vizcaino said. "Now I play for the Yankees and I'm happy."

Vizcaino said he became friendly with several Yankees players as a member of the White Sox two years ago -- Robinson Cano and Alex Rodriguez among them -- but could be establishing the best rapport with Rivera, who lockers next to Vizcaino on his right.

Often, as he did Saturday, Vizcaino sits on his stool or inside his locker, polishes his leather dress shoes and pays attention as Rivera -- the elder statesman of this roster -- quietly holds court in a mixture of Spanish and English.

"He's a good person," Vizcaino said of Rivera. "I like him a lot."

Sometimes, Vizcaino chips in with a joke that creates another broad smile; mostly, he seems to be an eager listener.

"I hear he's a wonderful guy," Cashman said. "He's got a reputation in the game of being a really wonderful teammate. Hopefully he can get the job done for us the same way he's done it for others."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 01:37 AM

Pavano undergoes tests on foot

TAMPA, Fla. -- Carl Pavano was asked to undergo further testing on his left foot on Sunday, and the Yankees right-hander didn't need to ask twice for directions.

"Oh, I knew exactly where to go," said Pavano, who went for an MRI and X-rays at St. Joseph's Hospital in Tampa. "I've been there the last couple of springs."

Pavano was hit on the instep of his left foot by a batted ball while pitching in live batting practice on Saturday. One day later, the 31-year-old right-hander said there was no swelling and no bruising, just general tightness.

"It feels better than it did this morning," Pavano said. "I iced it a couple of times. I'm not really too alarmed."

The oft-injured right-hander -- who has missed the last 1 1/2 Major League seasons due to a variety of injuries -- said he wasn't holding his breath over the results of the examinations.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman left the complex before speaking to reporters, but sent word through spokesman Jason Zillo that the team would not have Pavano's results until Monday.

"I'm not really too concerned about the tests," Pavano said. "I think it was really just for precautions. I think, with the progress I made from walking out last night to today, I'm not really expecting anything."

Pavano did not work out at the Yankees' complex on Sunday. Yankees manager Joe Torre had originally planned to use Pavano in an intrasquad scrimmage on Tuesday, but now said that the hurler's status is "up in the air."

"He had his shoe on," Torre said. "All of that is a good sign. We just kept him away from running [Sunday]."

Pavano said that he felt he would be ready to pitch by Tuesday, pointing to a 2005 incident in which he was similarly hit and rebounded to make his next start.

"We're going to see how it feels [Monday]," Pavano said. "If it keeps making this progress, I don't see it being a problem at all."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 11:53 AM

What a surprise! A day or so after I posted his retarded comment, "Crash Test Dummy" doesn't disappoint and gets blasted on the foot.

Maybe they should just stick this guy in the midwest during the next hurricane/tornado season and let him take the brunt of the blow.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 11:55 AM

Spring Training Notes

Quote:
Source: NYYFans.com

By Phil Allard
NYYFans.com Staff Writer
February 20, 2007

Berniegate

Last week I wrote an article that thanked Bernie Williams for his wonderful exploits as a New York Yankee.

I stand by those words. Bernie has always conducted himself with grace and dignity. He has been a champion…..until now.

When GM Brian Cashman granted him a Spring Training invitation, Bernie had a responsibility to accept it, sign with another team, or retire. By not returning calls and not responding in any way to the team, he kept Torre, Cashman and the whole organization hanging.

Cashman’s job is to put the best team on the field. If that team includes Bernie Williams in 2007, Cashman would not be doing his job.

If Bernie wants his last dealings with the Yankees to be punctuated with such a sour note, so be it.

There is no room for Bernie anyway. And if he were to report to Spring Training, Grandfather Joe would do everything in his power to place him on the 25-man roster, at the detriment of the team.

The purpose of a 25th man is to be versatile. Bernie is not. He is a bad defensive outfielder. He can not pinch run. He can not steal, and he is a horrendous pinch hitter. If he were to be on the team, it would simply be an act of nostalgic longing on the part of Torre, and he would have to talk Cashman into the silly notion to begin with.

The last roster spot should go to Kevin Thompson, but it won’t. It will go to a 12th pitcher instead as an apparent safety net against Torre’s penchant for overusing his bullpen.

The 25th roster spot should not go to Thompson because he is a superior player to Bernie. He isn’t. He simply fits the role better.

Moose jumps ugly with Pavano

Seriously, isn’t Mike Mussina saying what most Yankee fans are feeling? After missing a year-and-a-half with an absurd amount of injuries covering supposedly most every inch of his body, Carl Pavano has something to prove. The fact that Pavano does not agree should be troublesome to Yankee fans.

Mussina said. "It didn't look good from a player's and teammate's standpoint. It didn't look good. Was everything just coincidence? Over and over again? I don't know."

Asked whether Pavano deserved the benefit of the doubt, Mussina didn't hesitate.

"Not yet," he said. "I want to see that he wants to do it."
The next day, at the behest of Torre, Mussina made his peace with Pavano. But the point was made. There is nothing worse for a player than to not have the support of his teammates.

Here’s hoping you stay healthy during Spring Training, Carl, so Cashman can trade you.

A-Rod contra Jeter

When A-Rod says something that is politically correct (as Jeter often does) people complain that he is phony. When A-Rod speaks his mind, he is often accused of putting his foot in his mouth or being “calculating.” This guy can not win, and it’s a shame.

Asked to be candid about his relationship with Jeter, A-Rod said it’s not what it once was, but they remain teammates dedicated to winning. “I cheer very hard for him. He cheers for me.”

Is there anything wrong with that? So what if the 5-time-a-week-sleepovers are a thing of the past. Yes, the crap that A-Rod spewed at Jeter in that 2001 Esquire article was fueled by jealousy. But it is beyond time for Jeter to put the team above the feud. It would do wonders for A-Rod’s fragile psyche if Jeter would pull a Pee-Wee Reese and put a symbolic arm around A-Rod and embrace him as a Yankee.

Only Jeter can do that. He knows that, and he won’t do it. Jeter holds the power. Jeter can fix it. And by doling so he might prevent A-Rod from constantly saying the wrong thing.

This is not a knock on Jeter the player. God knows I would rather have him up with the bases loaded in the 9th inning of a tie game with the Red Sox than A-Rod. But as Captain, he should step up and tell the press and the fans to support A-Rod unequivocally. A-Rod is one of the best ballplayers of his generation.

But Jeter says he won’t tell the fans what to do. Pee-Wee did.

Mo barks for an extension


Perhaps the most stunning development of the spring so far as been Mariano Rivera’s announcement that, if he is not granted an extension now, there will be no “Home Town Discount” once his contract expires.

It’s very unlike Rivera to lash out like this. There is no doubt in my mind that Cashman will re-sign Rivera after the season. Brian is too smart to let the best closer in baseball go. There will not be an Andy Pettitte repeat here. So don’t worry about it.

Word has it that Mo is working on a new pitch this Spring: a change of pace. God help the league if he can make it work.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 11:57 AM

Wang Could Draw Yankees First Start

Quote:
Source: Hartford Courant

February 25, 2007
By DOM AMORE, Courant Staff Writer

TAMPA, Fla. -- Chien-Ming Wang might be the most overlooked 19-game winner on this side of the Pacific, but not on the other side.

"I had to stay in my house," Wang said, recalling his tumultuous return home to Taiwan in November. "People were following me around for autographs everywhere."

It started when he landed at Taoyuan International Airport. There were hundreds of fans to greet him and more lined the streets, creating an unofficial parade route. Fans and reporters also camped out in his driveway.

"I wasn't surprised," he said, laughing as Taiwanese reporters stood nearby. "I knew the Taiwan media was like that."

Wang, 26, who eventually needed bodyguards to get around his home island, cashed in on his hero status with commercials for McDonald's, Nike, Ford and a local bank while he was home. But he has arrived without bells and whistles for spring training with the Yankees, who, with so many questions on their pitching staff, are counting on him to repeat what he did last year. Wang went 19-6 with a 3.53 ERA in 218 innings, good for second place behind Johan Santana in the American League Cy Young voting. The righthander was the first Yankee pitcher to throw live batting practice this week and could be their Opening Day starter April 2 in New York.

"It would be an honor to start the first game," Wang said. "I know I would be the first from Taiwan to start the home opener."

Wang arrived in Tampa in top condition; after two months in Taipei, he returned to Phoenix in January to work at the Fischer Sports Physical Therapy and Conditioning center for a third year in a row.

"We do a lot of weight training, stretching," Wang said. "Core exercises."

The Yankees are concerned about the number of innings Wang accumulated last year, especially since he had shoulder problems before. Though they were facing elimination, manager Joe Torre refused to pitch him on short rest for Game 4 of the Division Series.

"We're certainly aware of it," Torre said. "But fortunately, if you look at it, there weren't a lot of pitches to go with all those innings."

Wang's success runs contrary to most modern statistical thinking. He struck out only 76 batters, about one every three innings, and allowed more hits (233) than innings pitched, numbers hardly associated with a No. 1 starter.

But Wang countered those numbers with only 2.14 walks per nine innings. He got 75 percent of hitters putting the ball in play to hit ground balls, resulting in only 12 home runs and 57 extra-base hits. Runners managed only nine steals, with 11 thrown out, and 33 more were erased on double plays. Wang also averaged 14 pitches an inning, allowing him to last several times into the eighth with little more than 100 pitches.

All of this is made possible by a sinker ball that AL hitters have yet to translate into line drives.

"He threw his first BP and I asked him how it went and he said, `I was [terrible],'" Torre said. "He was joking. He has this inner security about him, it doesn't seem like anything has changed."

Wang has learned quite a bit of English, though he still prefers help translating for interviews. No matter how big he is back home, he still moves quietly and without swagger around the clubhouse.

"It's still the same," Wang said. "These are my teammates, my friends. No one treats me any differently."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 11:58 AM

Yankees' Villone Picks Family Over Cash

Quote:
Source: Lower-Hudson Journal

By PETER ABRAHAM
THE JOURNAL NEWS
(Original publication: February 26, 2007)

TAMPA, Fla. - As sports fans, we are conditioned to roll our collective eyes when an athlete agrees to a new contract and says, "It's not about the money." Invariably, it is about the money.

Then there is Ron Villone, the exception to our cynicism.

On the advice of agent Scott Boras, the 37-year-old left-handed reliever declined salary arbitration with the Yankees in December, believing he would get guaranteed two-year offers from other teams.

He did receive those offers, several of them. But this time, against the advice of Boras, Villone turned them all down and agreed to a one-year minor-league contract with the Yankees that includes no guarantees of making the roster.

"I'm a crazy left-hander," Villone said. "It's not about the money for me."

That wasn't the case at first. Villone knew the approval of a new collective bargaining agreement last fall would trigger a hot market for free agents.

Mike Stanton, a lefty reliever of comparable quality to Villone, had agreed to a two-year, $5.5 million deal with Cincinnati in November. Alan Embree got the same deal from Oakland a few weeks later.

"I did get offers, but they weren't lucrative ones," Villone said. "I was stubborn about it."

In a game of financial musical chairs, Villone was the last man standing.

"When people have doubts about your health and performance, you get bad thoughts," Villone said. "I was willing to take a physical for anybody. I was confident with what I could do."

Villone was one of the best relief pitchers in baseball for the first four months of last season. He allowed only 37 hits and 12 earned runs in his first 45 appearances, earning the trust of Yankees manager Joe Torre.

Perhaps too much trust.

Villone appeared in 17 of the 30 games the Yankees played in August, and nine times pitched more than one inning.

"You're sorry it happened, but we had nowhere to go," Torre said. "He had his hand up all the time. We were up against it."

As the workload increased, so did Villone's ERA. He ended the season in a tailspin, giving up 33 earned runs and 38 hits over 26 2/3 innings. His ERA swelled from 2.01 to 5.04.

"I felt fine by the playoffs, like I was back," Villone said. "But it was too late. But I wouldn't change a thing. You learn from your experiences. I was available for 162 games, and I don't regret it. My mind can be stronger than my body at times, but that's me."

But across baseball, the concern was that Torre had worn Villone out. As February approached, Villone's confidence that he would get a good deal turned to wondering why he still was unemployed.

"I was talking to several teams, and I had a few offers," he said. "I just got in my car and drove to Florida."

Along the way, Villone contemplated whether to take a guaranteed two-year deal with another American League team or try his luck with the Yankees again.

Villone knew the Yankees needed a lefty reliever. Going with only one-batter sidearm specialist Mike Myers would be a risk. A Yankees fan all his life, he also valued the idea of being in pinstripes.

The biggest issue was his family life. Villone's ex-wife and two children live in River Vale, N.J. Villone lives a few towns over in Upper Saddle River. Being a Yankee means being able to watch 10-year-old Megan play softball or bringing 9-year-old Ronnie into the clubhouse after a game.

"If I'm playing somewhere else, it's hard to see my kids," he said. "The transition every time I go away hurts. Getting to go to their school during the season was one of the best experiences of my life, so I'm back."

If he makes the Yankees, Villone can earn $2.5 million. If not, he will exercise a clause in the deal and become a free agent on April 1.

Through two weeks of camp, Villone has looked like the pitcher who dominated for four months. Torre watched him throw batting practice yesterday and came away impressed.

"His arm strength is there," he said. "He's certainly qualified, and you liked just about everything about him last year. The fact he ran out of gas, we contributed to that."

You can make a case the Yankees owe Villone one more shot, but no matter what happens, Villone is at peace with his decision.

"More money would have been nice," he said. "Making the right decision is better."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 11:59 AM

Yankees Notes: Bruney Sidelined With Side Pain

Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

Monday, February 26, 2007
BY LISA KENNELLY
Star-Ledger Staff

TAMPA, Fla. -- Reliever Brian Bruney will miss the next four to five days due to sharp pain in his left side.

Bruney received treatment yesterday but said he was still sore and didn't know when he would return to throwing drills.

"It is (significant) but there's not much we can do about it," manager Joe Torre said. "He was pitching in spite of it, and it just wouldn't go away. It's not something that's serious, it's just something that unless you just shut him down it's probably going to hang on."

Bruney was 1-1 with a 0.87 ERA in 19 appearances with the Yankees last season.

Humberto Sanchez threw his full batting practice session yesterday without any problems. The right-hander had his session pushed back a day due to tightness in his right forearm.

"Sanchez was a lot better," said Torre, who went over to Field 2 to watch. "It didn't look like he tried to muscle it today. He was a lot smoother, which gave him a better result."

While on Field 2, Torre also checked out reliever Ron Villone, who re-signed with the team on a minor-league contract at the beginning of spring training.

"(He looks) a whole lot better than he did a year ago at this time," Torre said. "Last year at this time we didn't see the arm strength I saw today."

Torre said Villone was "certainly qualified" to make the team again this season, in order to have another left-hander in the bullpen alongside left-handed specialist Mike Myers.

Joining the crowd of injured pitchers was left-hander Ben Kozlowski, who suffered a left intercostal (rib cage) strain.

He skipped batting practice yesterday and will be shut down for a few days, but the strain doesn't appear to be serious.

"I'm not too concerned about it at all," Kozlowski said.

Johnny Damon missed his second straight day of practice due to personal reasons. He is expected back in camp today.

Starter Kei Igawa is among the pitchers slated to throw in tomorrow's intrasquad game. The others are Villone, Jeff Karstens, Chase Wright, Jeff Kennard, Colter Bean, Steven Jackson, Tyler Clippard, Kevin Whelan and Chris Britton.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 12:01 PM

Yankees Notebook: Pitchers Catch Injury Bug

Quote:
Source: MLB.com

TAMPA, Fla. -- The list of pitchers checking into trainer Gene Monahan's office is growing.

One day after right-hander Humberto Sanchez was pushed back from a scheduled live batting practice session with tightness in his right forearm, two more Yankees hurlers have been sidelined with Spring Training injuries.

Reliever Brian Bruney had been complaining of a sharp sticking pain in his lower left back -- he compared it to the sensation of being stabbed by a knife -- and manager Joe Torre confirmed Sunday that the 25-year-old right-hander will be put out of action for "four or five days."

"It just wouldn't go away," Torre said. "It's not something that's serious, but it's something that if you don't shut him down, it was probably going to hang on."

Additionally, left-hander Ben Kozlowski was scratched from a scheduled session on Sunday with an intercostal abdominal strain, and is likely to be shut down for at least two days.

Kozlowski, 26, had originally been selected as one of the eight hurlers slated to pitch live batting practice at Legends Field on Sunday.

Kozlowski said that he first felt the injury while reaching back for a fastball last week during a batting practice session on a back diamond of the Yankees' complex, wincing when a sharp sensation began to pang his left side.

A non-roster invitee to Yankees camp, Kozlowski said he wrestled Saturday evening with his injury, trying to decide whether or not to inform the team's medical staff.

Eventually, Kozlowski said he reached the right decision.

"I could either throw through this," Kozlowski said, "or do the professional thing and report it to the trainers. That's what I did."

As for Sanchez, the burly right-hander returned to action on Sunday, throwing in a session on a back field with Torre in attendance. Sanchez said he "feels good, for the most part," and no longer feels the tightness that prevented him from throwing with the Yankees' starters on Saturday.

"He looked a lot better," Torre said. "He didn't look like he tried to muscle it today. He was a lot smoother."

Showing his stuff: Torre said he was pleased by the velocity shown by left-hander Ron Villone, who led a contingent of Yankees relievers pitching behind the Legends Field diamond.

Villone, 37, is in camp this year as a non-roster invitee, but Torre said he can already see a major difference between Villone's ability during last Spring Training.

Villone was 3-3 with a 5.04 ERA in 70 appearances for New York last season, and would figure to be a candidate to make the club if Torre opts to carry a second left-hander behind side-arming Mike Myers.

"Last year, at this time, we didn't see the arm strength we saw today," Torre said. "He's certainly qualified. We liked just about everything about him last year."

Facing off: Torre announced his probable pitchers for Tuesday's intrasquad scrimmage, though right-hander Carl Pavano -- who was sent for MRIs and X-rays on his injured left foot Sunday -- is not currently listed among them.

The exhibition will range anywhere from nine to 11 innings and is highlighted by the appearance of Japanese left-hander Kei Igawa, who will face Yankees hitters for the first time without a batting cage.

Other pitchers slated to pitch in the game are: Colter Bean, Chris Britton, Tyler Clippard, Steven Jackson, Jeff Karstens, Jeff Kennard, Villone, Kevin Whelan and Chase Wright.

Due back: Torre said that outfielder Johnny Damon, who has been excused from camp for personal reasons, could rejoin the club on Monday. Damon met with Cashman and Torre on Friday and informed them of the reasons for his requested absence, which have thus far remained unspecified. Torre said Damon could speak to the matter if he so chooses upon his return.

The memory card: Britton's locker neighbor is right-hander Mike Mussina, and the two spent a recent morning comparing notes from their Baltimore Orioles pedigrees.

Mussina hasn't donned the black and orange since 2000, but his memories of the club's Spring Training are still sharp.

The location may have changed, as the Birds now train in Fort Lauderdale, but most of the team-specific routines continue to be consistent with the present-day, as the 24-year-old reliever informed him.

"Amazing," Mussina remarked at one point.

The Yankees present a new beginning for Britton, who appeared in 52 games for the Orioles last season, compiling a 3.35 ERA before being dealt in November's Jaret Wright deal.

Britton said he was "totally surprised" by the news of the deal, saying that he hadn't seen a trade coming, but noted that change can be viewed as a positive thing.

"All the guys are good and the coaches are great," Britton said. "I've just got to learn a new way of doing stuff because I've been with the Orioles for so long. The biggest thing right now is trying to remember everybody's name and get everything right."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 12:04 PM

'Donnie Bench': Coach's Role Expands

Quote:
Source: Hartford Courant

TAMPA, Fla. -- Don Mattingly has emerged from the dankness of the batting cage, eager to take the next steps out under the game's bright spotlight.

"Donnie was born to be a hitting coach," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said. "That was a layup for him. The growth is going to come now that he's being exposed to things he hadn't been exposed to before."

Mattingly, after three seasons as the hitting coach, is Joe Torre's new bench coach, a job that takes on the contours of the personality in it and can be a steppingstone. Across the organization, Mattingly, 45, is viewed as solid managerial timber, something that naturally excites Mattingly, and makes no one, including Torre, uncomfortable.

"Joe tells me, just prepare every day like you're going to manage the game that day," Mattingly said. "He says, `Just be prepared when the opportunity comes.' I just want to be prepared."

Torre, 66, is in the final year of his contract and there has been no talk yet of an extension. Mattingly, who replaced Lee Mazzilli, now a Mets broadcaster, is embracing the new role with characteristic gusto.

"He's a pain in the neck," Torre said. "He's very efficient. He's always showing me things because he knows I'm going to need that information during the season."

Mattingly, the Yankees' biggest star during much of his playing career, which ended in 1995, stayed home in Indiana to be with his family for five years, then got back into the game slowly as a spring training instructor in 2000.

"You could see it at that time," Torre said. "It wasn't just a vacation for him. He didn't just come down to hang out. He wanted to do some good. I told him to let me know if he was ever thinking about doing something full time, because he definitely had the capabilities."

Mattingly took the plunge and became the Yankees' hitting coach in 2004, and over his three years, he often says, the game has been "opening up" for him. Willie Randolph and Joe Girardi both parlayed one season as Torre's bench coach into their first managing jobs.

"As a player, you're just focused on what you have to do," Mattingly said. "You don't know what's going on behind the scenes, you don't think about all the things you think about on the bench. I'm beginning to form ideas about what kind of players I like. If a guy is on the bench, does he sit there and sulk? Some guys are into the game. They're seeing things and passing it along. Those are the kinds of guys you want."

As the hitting coach, Mattingly spent much of his time in the batting cage working on individual swings and approaches. He studied opposing pitchers and readied his hitters. Now that Kevin Long has replaced him, Mattingly is free to roam, look at the Yankees pitchers, formulate opinions and devour information about tendencies. One of his models is Girardi, who was Yankees bench coach in 2005, then became Marlins manager. Girardi is back with the Yankees as an analyst for the YES Network and figures to get another chance to manage eventually.

"I really learned a lot from Joe Girardi," Mattingly said. "A guy would get on base and he'd say, `This guy steals 80 percent of his bases on the first or second pitch,' so you'd need to throw over there, pitch out, that kind of thing. I'll spend a lot of time on positioning our fielders.

"... An [opposing] outfielder may have a great arm, but he's slow getting rid of the ball or he tries to bait runners - you can challenge a guy like that. Others may not have as good an arm but they're always attacking."

This is just a snippet. Mattingly, in fact, goes on and on about such intricacies of the game. Even with the regular season still more than a month away, he talked as if there were an imaginary opponent on the schedule Saturday night.

"He's a blend of old school and new school," Cashman said. "He's really just a great baseball man. He has keen insights into the game, and he is willing to do all the detail work, and it's hard to find people like that."

Mattingly pores over stats such as OPS - on-base percentage plus slugging percentage - but doesn't see himself as strictly a numbers cruncher. He wants to be a people manager in the Torre mold.

"I just want to use common sense," he said. "Those numbers are important, but you have to take into account different things at different times of the year. You have to get guys days off to rest. If you watch Joe, he sets a tone. He sets a tone when we're struggling, he sets a tone when a player is struggling. You can't be down on a guy when he's struggling and then pat him on the back when he's doing well."

Mattingly was with the Yankees in 1985 when Billy Martin was in his fourth stint as manager and Lou Piniella, the hitting coach, was considered the manager-in-waiting, causing tension in their relationship. Torre and Mattingly seem perfectly suited to make such an arrangement work.

"Those things aren't issues when there's trust involved," Cashman said. "Joe trusts Donnie, with good reason. Joe's never been into holding anybody down."

Said Mattingly: "I'd never do anything to jeopardize my character. I just want Joe to know that I'm here for him, and I want the players to know that I'm here for them. That was one thing I remember as a player: It would bother you if you felt a coach didn't care about you. When they do well, we all do well. We're all in this together."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 08:45 PM

Abreu out two weeks with injury

TAMPA, Fla. -- Bobby Abreu will miss about two weeks with a strained right oblique muscle, Yankees manager Joe Torre said on Monday.
Abreu, 32, suffered the injury while taking batting practice at Legends Field, Torre said. The outfielder felt a twinge after one swing and then continued to hit, which further aggravated the injury.

"It's just one of those things," Torre said. "I guess the good news is that it's early and you can afford a couple of weeks right now."

Abreu left the Yankees' Spring Training complex without speaking to reporters and was sent for further examinations.

Torre said that Opening Day is not considered to be in jeopardy for Abreu, who batted .330 with seven home runs and 42 RBIs in 58 games for New York last season after being acquired from the Phillies on July 30.

"You're happy that it happened at this juncture because you do have time," Torre said. "The only thing he's going to have to do is basically keep his sanity and keep in shape. He's going to be limited on what he can do, conditioning-wise."

With Abreu unable to throw or swing -- Torre said he would be limited mostly to cardiovascular exercises such as a stationary bike -- the Yankees figure to offer more Grapefruit League at-bats to reserve outfielder Melky Cabrera, as well as other outfielders on the roster.

"The only bad part about this is that you basically shut down," Torre said. "There's nothing [Abreu] can do other than condition."

Torre noted that Abreu's injury would not figure into an opportunity for a longterm fill-in, shooting down a suggestion that it could open a chance for free-agent outfielder Bernie Williams. Torre has not spoken to the 38-year-old outfielder, who has apparently decided not to accept a non-roster invitation to camp.

"Two weeks into Spring Training, we're certainly not going to throw up any flags," Torre said

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 09:13 PM

A real shame Bernie isn't there to try and step in. I hope he realizes what a mistake it is to not get down there and work out...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/26/07 09:50 PM

Fuck!

Sanchez To Undergo MRI

Quote:
Source: Rotoworld.com

Last Updated: 2:00 Feb 26th

Humberto Sanchez again complained of pain in his forearm on Sunday night and was scheduled for an MRI on Monday. It looks like his injury could be far more serious that the Yankees suspected. However, given his issues from the second half of last year, it doesn't come as much of a surprise.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/27/07 03:53 AM

Pavano has bone bruise

TAMPA, Fla. -- Carl Pavano blocked a line drive with his left foot and was able to walk away with just a bone bruise, as precautionary tests confirmed Monday.
The way Pavano's injury-plagued last 1 1/2 seasons have gone, some would suggest that the 31-year-old right-hander should consider his slight ailment a good sign.

Pavano sees no such irony in the assessment, saying that he's more consumed with the good feelings he's getting on the mound this spring, and returning to that action.

"It hasn't even crossed my mind," said Pavano, who was hit by a batted ball on Saturday and went for an MRI and X-rays on Sunday. "I feel like this is something that could have happened to anyone.

"I feel like this is the first time I can say that I'm just going to pick up where I left off. In the past, it's been just positive words; I don't know how committed I was to it. I'm definitely committed to the fact that I feel good."

Pavano was pitching to non-roster infielder Alberto Gonzalez on Saturday when the 13th pitch of a batting practice session was smacked back through the box, hitting the instep of Pavano's left foot.

After hobbling for a moment and conferring with bullpen coach Joe Kerrigan, Pavano returned to action and completed a 40-pitch bullpen session. He later complained of tightness, but has taped and iced the bruised foot since Saturday and is reporting continued improvement.

"The foot's not an issue," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "He puts a sneaker on and he doesn't even feel it when he's walking around. The baseball shoe is a little more uncomfortable for him."

Pavano is still a possibility to throw a bullpen session on Tuesday, saying that he feels ready, but would defer a final evaluation to the team's medical staff.

Pavano said his main concern would be completing a session Thursday in preparation for his scheduled exhibition start on Sunday at Clearwater against the Phillies.

"If everything keeps progressing the way it has, I think that's a realistic goal," Pavano said. "It could have been worse. It's just a bruise, and bruises heal quick."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/27/07 03:54 AM

Just to show how "great" things are in boston's camp

A matter of time
In typical fashion, Manny leaves everyone in the dark


FORT MYERS, FLA. -- Manny Ramirez put away his sun dial, or whatever it is he uses to gauge time these days, and he appeared excited to whip out his new bats and baseball shoes on his first day in Red Sox camp.

Ramirez created a stir merely by showing in a camp that already has circus-like qualities, and he did it without hardly uttering a word or taking a meaningful swing. On this day, he managed to upstage the international sensation Daisuke Matsuzaka merely by attending, which only goes to show there are advantages to lowering one's expectations. Officially, he was later than his teammates but still earlier than his timetable.

"I like,'' he says to one of his teammates in regard to the shiny shoes. And that was close to it on Day One in terms of English words.

Beyond that one brief expression of joy, it's hard to know what or how Ramirez felt about anything. Because on this day he was doing his oft-used Marcel Marceau Manny routine.

"No thank you, sir,'' he said, politely, in response to a request for an interview.

According to Manny Time, he arrived three days early. After setting the bar unusually low and telling his Red Sox bosses he'd be in camp by March 1, which is actually two days after the mandatory reporting date, Ramirez was able to arrive to camp ahead of schedule. Well, ahead of his schedule, anyway.

But as for the questions that have been unanswered, they remained pretty well unanswered.

Ramirez's professional mouthpiece, Greg Genske, didn't exactly live up to his job title. Genske took the questions. He just didn't answer the questions.

As to whether Ramirez would still welcome a trade, Genske said he was "not going to comment on speculation.''

As to the condition of Manny's mother, Onelcida, the stated reason Ramirez was late this year, Genske said, "I'm not going to comment on the health of Manny's mother.''

As to whether Ramirez ever intended to blow off camp to attend an automobile auction, Genske said he knew nothing about the car sale.

As to whether criticisms that he stopped trying late last year had merit, Genske said. "I'm not going to talk about last season.''

This, apparently, is what a mouthpiece does. He declines to discuss, explain, excuse or elucidate.

If he did provide answers, it would be hard to know what to make of them anyway. Because in Genske's story, Ramirez gets high marks for punctuality.

"He came just as soon as he was able,'' the mouthpiece said.

"He's excited to be here,'' the mouthpiece added.

I'm not exactly sure about that. But he did appear to revel in his brand new Nikes.

Overall, the interview with the mouthpiece was more way uncomfortable than Ramirez looked in the cage, and I don't care what his teammates said about how great he looked (they all said he did, but I suspect they were just thrilled to see him at all). The truth is, he looked like it was Day One for him. Which might explain why manager Terry Francona said he might have to hold him out of the first game or possibly more.

The best part of the interview came when one Boston radio person asked Genske whether he planned to do something about Ramirez behaving like a "12-year-old.''

Stiffly, Genske answered, "I wouldn't accept your characterization.''

No need to.

Though no one else quite put it that way, Francona talked long enough and sounded angst-ridden enough about the issue to make clear he understood it is an issue, albeit an issue he'd like to avoid. He complimented the other Red Sox players for accepting that there are two clocks in Red Sox camp, one for Manny and one for everyone else.

Then, he pointed out why, ultimately, he is accepting of it, too. "My job is to win games, not to point out every flaw in everyone's personality,'' Francona said.

While he was at it, Francona also pointed out that his job is not managing Manny, but simply managing. And that's a good thing. Because Manny has grown to the point of being unmanageable in Boston.

Ramirez didn't speak, and he barely swung his first day in camp. In the most-watched showdown of the spring, Ramirez tracked three straight pitches from Matsuzaka, without lifting his bat. With his endless repertoire, nobody really hit Matsuzaka hard. It was fun to watch, and that's exactly what Ramirez did. He watched for three pitches, then he took a seat.

Afterward several teammates marveled at how well Ramirez swung, but they had to be imagining what he's done, and what they figure he will do. "April first, he'll be doing his thing ... guaranteed,'' David Ortiz said in response to a question about whether Ramirez's annual tardiness bothered him or anyone else in camp.

Ramirez is predictable in his unpredictability. Then the season will start and you can mark him down for a .300-plus batting average, 35-plus homers, and 100-plus RBIs. Just like clockwork, you can.

Source: SI
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/27/07 03:58 AM

2007 Baseball Preview

The Yankees fought hard to earn the AL's best record in 2006, overcoming serious injuries and flattening the Red Sox when it mattered most. They were stunned to be bounced in the first round by Detroit but kept most of the team intact for another run at the playoffs. Expect the Yankees to prevail again and take their chances with an aging rotation in October.

Rotation
As they fought for their playoff lives last October, the Yankees turned to Jaret Wright in game 4 of the ALDS. He didn't make it out of the third inning. It was no surprise then during the ofseason when, as prices soared for seemingly mediocre free-agent pitchers, the Yankees signed Andy Pettitte, an old reliable. Pettitte will join Chien-Ming Wang, the sinkerballer who tied for the MLB lead with 19 wins, at the front of the rotation. Like Pettitte, Mike Mussina must hope his elbow holds up. Japanese star Kei Igawa slides into the No. 4 spot in the rotation while Carl Pavano will get another shot to prove he's worth his big contract after missing a year with minor injuries. A lurking presence is Roger Clemens, who seems likely to sign with New York if he decides to continue his Hall of Fame career.

Bullpen
The Yankees shivered late last season when Mariano Rivera felt tightness near his elbow that caused him to miss three weeks down the stretch. Rivera was healthy by the playoffs, but the Yankees' starting staff gave him only one lead to protect in the division series. At 37, Rivera remains as vital as ever to the team's chances and is still an elite closer. Setup man Kyle Farnsworth impressed with his fastball but was frequently unavailable with back spasms. The emergence of Scott Proctor and, later, Brian Bruney solidified the bridge to Rivera and gave the Yanks four hard-throwing righties. Left-hander Mike Myers struggled in the second half but can still trick hitters in the right situations.

Middle Infield
It would be hard to find a team happier with its middle infield than the Yankees. Derek Jeter had the finest season of a Hall of Fame career, nearly winning the MVP award while batting .343 with 97 RBIs, and Robinson Cano made his first All-Star team. Jeter won another Gold Glove at shortstop, and Cano made great strides at second by working closely with coach Larry Bowa. Jeter and Cano also finished second and third, respectively, in the AL batting race. As Cano matures, look for his doubles (41 in 2006) to turn into homers as he establishes himself as a force in the middle of the order.

Corners
It was painful, at times, to see a player of Alex Rodriguez's skills fight himself so badly in 2006. Even before his annual playoff disappearance, Rodriguez endured long slumps in the field and at the plate and seemed to be unnerved by nearly constant criticism from fans and media. His chilly relationship with Jeter is a pressing issue for many fans, but probably overblown. Rodriguez showed in his MVP season of 2005 that he can handle New York. He must simplify his approach and let his skills take over. Across the diamond, the Yankees have finally determined that Jason Giambi should be a nearly full-time designated hitter. They signed former Gold Glove winner Doug Mientkiewicz for a defensive upgrade and could platoon him with Andy Phillips or Josh Phelps.

Outfield
The Yankees traded Gary Sheffield for prospects in November, comfortable with Bobby Abreu as their solution in right field. Abreu fit in seamlessly with the Yankees after a trade on July 30, running deep counts and seeming oblivious to any pennant-race pressure. His speed and arm also opened eyes in the Bronx. Center fielder Johnny Damon settled the lineup as the leadoff man and took advantage of the short porch in right field at Yankee Stadium for a career-high 24 home runs. He has a weak arm but played through a broken bone in his toe to cover a lot of ground in the outfield. In left, Hideki Matsui is poised to rebound after a broken wrist cost him four months and stopped a consecutive-games streak that stretched for 1,768 games, to his teenage years in Japan.

Catching
Logic says that Jorge Posada, at 35, should start to decline very soon. Yet Posada was a rock for the Yankees. Despite turnover at the backup spot, Posada ended the year strong and carried his surge into the playoffs, when he hit .500. The Yankees will rely on him heavily again -- their backup options are the well-traveled Raul Chavez and their Class AAA catcher, Wil Nieves, whose last big-league hit was in 2002.

DH/Bench
Giambi has long maintained that he hits better when he plays in the field, and the numbers prove his point. He batted .224 when he was the DH last year and .289 when he wasn't. But those numbers matter more to Giambi than the Yankees, who plan to keep him off first base this season. A wrist injury sapped him of his power late last year, and playing in the field aggravated the condition. When healthy, Giambi is still an elite power hitter with an exceptional eye. The DH transition should keep him in the lineup. Joe Torre will need to find at-bats for Melky Cabrera, who sparked the Yankees repeatedly as a regular player last summer when filling in for injured starters. Miguel Cairo, a heady player with sound fundamentals, can back up any spot on the infield.

Management
Torre enters the season as a lame duck, with no contract for 2008 and no firm sign that he wants one. In the Yankees' world, there are two outcomes: championship or failure. If Torre wins a fifth title, he can retire on top. If he doesn't, the front office might be ready for a change, anyway. Torre turns 67 in July and never expected to manage 12 seasons in New York. He's a certain Hall of Famer with the full backing of increasingly powerful general manager Brian Cashman. But with Don Mattingly clearly being groomed as his successor -- and National League Manager of the Year Joe Girardi in the Yankees' broadcast booth as another option -- it's hard to see Torre coming back for 2008.

Final Analysis
The Yankees believed they were much better than the Tigers last season, and their playoff failure left them frustrated -- and hungry. Most Yankees have never won a World Series ring, but to do it this year, they need more from their starting rotation. They have high-end depth at Triple-A for the first time in a while, and if one of the veterans goes down don't be surprised if the Yankees dip into their farm system. Their veteran rotation will be hailed for its experience, but that won't matter much if injuries sabotage the team's chances. The Yankees have always found their way to the playoffs under Torre, and the lineup is too talented not to lead them back. But with the ultimate burden on their creaky rotation, the Yankees could fall short again.

Beyond the Box Score

Fiscal responsibility

More and more in their decision-making, the Yankees are considering the impact of the luxury tax, which costs them an extra 40 cents for every dollar they spend on payroll. They liked free agent starter Ted Lilly, for example, but for them, his four-year, $40 million contract would have cost $56 million. At that price, the Yankees shied away and signed Japanese star Kei Igawa, whose posting fee ($26 million) was not subject to the tax.

Missing pitch
When the Yankees signed Chien-Ming Wang out of Taiwan in 2000, Wang did not throw a sinker. When the Diamondbacks scouted the Yankees farm system in 2004, trying to find pieces they liked in a Randy Johnson trade, Wang had not quite perfected the pitch. But he was working on it with minor league coach Neil Allen and the Class AAA catcher, Sal Fasano, and now he is a master. Wang seems to induce ground balls at will, keeping his infielders alert and his pitch count low. "It's like hitting a shot put," Yankees pitching coach Ron Guidry says. "It's harder than most sinkers, and it's got late movement."

We need some help
If anyone needed symbolism to show the difference between the old-guard Yankees and the new breed, it was there in the stat sheet from the division series loss to Detroit. Derek Jeter and Jorge Posada both hit .500. The combined average of the rest of the team was .173.

He belongs
Melky Cabrera looked overmatched in a week-long trial in 2005, but he was so confident in his future that he had a red-and-blue Major League Baseball logo tattooed on his right shoulder blade. Cabrera showed that he belonged in '06, rescuing the Yankees after injuries to outfielders Gary Sheffield and Hideki Matsui. His consistency gave GM Brian Cashman the luxury of waiting for a Bobby Abreu trade to materialize instead of rushing into a deal and giving away top prospects.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/27/07 12:28 PM

Q & A With Kyle Farnsworth

Quote:
Source: Times-Herald Record

Reliever Kyle Farnsworth, entering his second Yankee season, has the reputation for being totally no-nonsense and entirely zeroed in, so much so that former teammate Shawn Chacon once labeled him "RoboCop." Staff writer Michael P. Geffner sat down for this interview with Farnsworth, who was dripping sweat from an early morning workout, chugging down a protein shake and just unplugging from his iPod.

What music are you listening to right now?

Metallica. When I'm working out, it's always heavy metal. When I'm driving around, it's usually country.

What do you think people misinterpret about you?


That I'm this angry, unapproachable guy. I'm really not. It's just my focus when I'm here at the park.

Why is focus so important to you?

I think that if you have a job at hand and want it to be done right, you have to avoid outside distractions.

If you couldn't be a baseball player, what do you think you'd be?


A rancher.

What profession would you never want to do?

A garbage man.

Favorite hobby?

Hunting.

What's your best hunting story?

Four years ago, in Perry, Fla., I was hunting with a friend of mine. We were in the middle of the swamp and it was nighttime and I shot a 10-pointer. Well, it got really dark on us in a hurry and we got lost in the swamp for around three hours before we found our way out.

What's your most embarrassing moment playing baseball?

(He laughs) Getting dressed up funny as a rookie as part of an initiation process. I had to put on a short skirt, a little tube top and fluffy green slippers.

Yikes, you think there are any pictures of that out there?

(He laughs harder) I'm sure there's one floating around somewhere, but I hope I never see it again.

What's the worst thing you did as a kid?


I cut down my neighbor's trees with a steak knife (he laughs again, uncontrollably). I was around 8 and I got in a lot of trouble.

Who were your idols growing up?

My dad and Dale Murphy.

What would people be surprised to find out about you?


That my dad was a fighter pilot and part of an elite, top-secret squadron called the Misty FACs during the Vietnam War in the late 1960s. The Misty FACs was so legendary they even wrote a book about them.

What's your proudest moment, both on the field and off?

On, it was making the playoffs for the first time, in 2003 with the Cubs. Off, it was the birth of my son.

What turns you on?

Killing a nice big deer.

What turns you off?


Killing a nice big deer and not being able to find it.

Who's your favorite actor all time?

John Wayne.

Who's your favorite actor currently?

Val Kilmer.

Favorite actress currently?

Sandra Bullock.

What's the last great movie you saw?

"The Aviator" with Leonardo DiCaprio.

"The Aviator?" That's over two years ago.

Yeah, I know. In fact, that's probably the last movie I've seen in a theatre. It shows how much I get out.

Favorite TV show?

A hunting-and-fishing show called "Realtree Outdoors" on The Outdoors Channel.

If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say to you at the pearly gates?

Welcome.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/27/07 12:29 PM

Rasner Signs One-Year Deal With Yankees

Quote:
Source: Nevada Appeal

While Darrell Rasner has already been in spring training trying to earn a spot on the New York Yankees opening day roster, the team made his presence official on Tuesday when it signed him to a one-year contract.

Rasner, a 1999 Carson High graduate, is trying to earn a spot on the Yankees pitching staff, most likely as a reliever. The Yankees will carry 12 pitchers to begin the season.

The right-handed pitcher is scheduled to make his spring training debut on Friday when the Yankees play the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Rasner is expected to pitch in relief of Andy Pettitte. Last year with the Yankees, Rasner went 3-1 with a 4.43 earned run average.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/27/07 12:31 PM

Yankees' Camp A Zoo Far From The Bronx

Quote:
Source: Seattle Post-Intelligencer

By JIM MOORE
P-I COLUMNIST

TAMPA, Fla. -- A day with the Yankees at their spring training camp ...

At 9 a.m. Friday, 100 fans are already in line. There will be 500 by the time the gates open at 11. They aren't waiting to watch an exhibition game, just practice, but it's a chance to see their heroes close up on a glorious afternoon.

On the plaza in front of aptly named Legends Field are signs surrounded by palm trees honoring 16 Yankees greats who have had their numbers retired.

"I want to thank the good Lord for making me a Yankee," it says next to Joe DiMaggio's sign.

One of the legends, Yogi Berra, is coming this week, but his golf clubs beat him here and are in manager Joe Torre's office.

The Legends Room, the Yankees' version of the Mariners team store, is selling Yankees merchandise galore. One of the items is a $30 checkers game with Yankees caps on one side, Red Sox caps on the other.

At 9:45, the doors open to the clubhouse, and a bunch of really non-legendary guys carrying notepads and microphones stream in. One of us is lost, unfamiliar with legendary protocol. I'm not sure if you can talk to the legends without permission from God, but I'm assured you can.

There are inspirational signs in the hallway leading to the clubhouse. One says: "Do ever in all things our darndest and never, never give up." Another says: "God willing and given the chance, let me carve my name on something bigger than a locker-room bench."

It's motivational mumbo-jumbo. What they're really saying is: "God willing, let us beat the hell out of the Red Sox."

Next to a laundry basket, I wait in a small line to talk to legend Derek Jeter. I have no idea what I am going to ask him. His locker is in the same row but eight cubicles removed from Alex Rodriguez, the legend he doesn't socialize with anymore.

When it's my turn, I decide I'll ask him if he also bet on Michigan, his favorite team, in the Rose Bowl like I so stupidly did; if he remembers much about his first major league hit in Seattle off Tim Belcher; if he ever gets tired of dating celebrity hotties; and, of course, if he has a dog.

But then ...

"I've got to go to the training room," Jeter said. "I'll be right back."

Ah, but Plan B, good ol' Plan B is sitting nearby. I look at the nameplate above the locker and look at the player sorting through his mail. It says that his name is Jim Beam. I will soon find out that the Yankees prospect's real name is T.J. Beam, a 6-foot-7 reliever, but some prankster thought it would be funny to call him Jim Beam.

"Where's Jack Daniels?" I ask him.

"Around the corner," Jim Beam says.

It's early, but at this point I could use a Jack Daniel's or a Johnnie Walker, and for that matter, his brothers Blackie and Red. I am served a Ben Davis instead.

Remember him? The ex-Mariner was supposed to be the heir apparent to Dan Wilson but couldn't hit. A good guy, Davis is trying to make it in New York, New York.

"Coming in here is like being in Disney World every day," said Davis, who can't believe his locker is framed by All-Stars such as Johnny Damon and Jorge Posada. "The other thing that's shocking, they're all great people."

Closer Mariano Rivera's locker is kitty-cornered from Davis'. Next to Rivera's locker are two boxes stuffed with fan mail in all shapes, colors and sizes.

I approach Rodriguez and feel the clouds parting and the angels humming. He is looking at text messages before being interrupted.

"Seattle P-I? What brings you all the way down here?" Rodriguez asked.

He wonders what's up with Ichiro and says that Raul Ibanez is the greatest guy in the world. Right when the interview is about to start ...

"Jim, Jason Zillo of the Yankees, the clubhouse is closed," Jason Zillo of the Yankees says.

I walk out and notice Jeter coming in, right at a time when I can't talk to him anymore.

Once practice starts, fans sit six and seven rows deep behind the Yankees dugout, taking pictures, cheering everything Yankees, from catches of pop-ups to long fly balls launched at batting practice.

The Yankees hold a short meeting on the field and, after they break, fans cheered that, too.

Following batting practice, Jeter gives one of his black bats to a bespectacled little girl, and she holds it close, beaming as she calls one of her friends to tell her about it.

"That's why he's the captain!" a fan shouts.

A mini-major league park designed with similar dimensions to Yankee Stadium, Legends Field seats about 10,000 and is sold out for every game. The first two rows behind home plate are loge seats that go for $190 each, to watch games that don't count.

There are also suites, one of which is frequently occupied by George Steinbrenner. The 76-year-old Yankees owner is not here this day. He typically signs autographs after games.

It's very corporate-looking here, urban and much newer than the Red Sox complex in Fort Myers, which sprawls out of nowhere at the end of a dead-end street in a tattered neighborhood. Legends Field sits directly across Dale Mabry Boulevard from Raymond James Stadium, home of the Buccaneers.

When practice ends, Rodriguez and his teammates come back to the clubhouse. He's in a hurry to go to lunch and a book signing but has five minutes for a Seattle reporter.

Close up, A-Rod appears bigger and better-looking, minus the cap, than he does on TV in his uniform. Wearing a green Miami Hurricanes sweat suit, he is about to go out and greet two people who are waiting for him: his wife, Cynthia, and their 2-year-old daughter Natasha.

"She's definitely the greatest gift God has ever given me," he says of his little girl.

His wife and daughter are part of his "intimate circle," a handful of people he cares about most. The others, the ones outside the circle who criticize his postseason failures and wonder about his fractured relationship with Jeter -- he doesn't care what they think.

"I'm very proud of who I am. You can't believe what you read in the tabloids," Rodriguez said. "If I let things like that bother me, I'd be in a coffin somewhere."

Now 31, he will reach 500 career home runs if he hits 36 this season. Undeniably a great player, A-Rod still gets more attention for what he's not doing than what he is, his 10-year, $252 million contract being the reason for that.

He still has three years and $81 million left on the deal. Rodriguez can opt out of the contract at the end of this season and test the open market, but he has said he wants to remain a Yankee, as if he'd get more money anywhere else.

This season alone, A-Rod will earn $27 million, or $2.25 million a month. Factored over 12 months, that works out to $73,973 a day, $3,082 an hour, $51.40 a minute, and nearly a dollar a second.

That deal with the Rangers is the reason why he left the Mariners after the 2000 season. When he came back the first time, fans razzed, booed and jeered him for taking the same deal they would have taken had it been offered to them. Most memorably, one guy brought a fishing rod with a dollar bill at the end of his line and dangled it in front of A-Rod in the on-deck circle. It was a strange night.

So much time has passed. Can he admit now that it hurt his feelings?

"No, I just choose to remember the great times there. I have nothing to say but great things about Seattle," he said. "They're booing you because you're good. You had an impact on them. If you stink, they're not going to boo you."

With everything that has happened since, I wondered if he ever wishes he'd just stayed in Seattle and had his Hall of Fame run in a smaller, less-hostile place.

"No," he said. "I would do it again. You have to remember I got a three-year offer (from the Mariners). Thank God I have no regrets. But those days in Seattle were some of the fondest of my career. My wife and I talk about it all the time."

During his Mariners years, he lived on Mercer Island and downtown, calling them "the two prettiest places on Earth."

He enjoys coming back and typically visits his favorite Seattle restaurant, Flying Fish in Belltown. People who see him on the streets treat him warmly.

"I still remember my greatest day in Seattle," he said. On July 24, 1996, he turned 21, hit a home run, and Ken Griffey Jr. did, too, plus he signed his first million-dollar contract.

Asked what kind of reaction he thinks Griffey will get when he returns to Safeco Field this summer, Rodriguez said: "He'll get the standing ovation he deserves. Junior was the foundation, along with Lou Piniella and Edgar. He's why the stadium was built and why it's one of the great franchises in baseball today."

He looked more than ready to go, so I thanked him while someone else moved in and asked him for two minutes, really, two minutes, that's all he would need, just $104 of his time.

With that, it all came to an end -- a day with the Yankees and a weeklong tour of spring training camps in Florida.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/27/07 12:32 PM

Wang Gets First Call In Spring Training

Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

Tuesday, February 27, 2007
BY LISA KENNELLY
Star-Ledger Staff

TAMPA, Fla. -- The Yankees unveiled their spring training starting rotation yesterday, with Chien-Ming Wang getting the call for Thursday's opener against Minnesota and Carl Pavano penciled in for Sunday after an MRI showed he only has a bone bruise in his left foot.

The rest of the rotation has Andy Pettitte going Friday, Mike Mussina on Saturday, and Kei Igawa on Monday.

Manager Joe Torre wouldn't say if the spring training rotation could be extrapolated to the regular-season order.

"There's too far to go," Torre said. "You put those first three guys in a hat. Let's put it this way, it wouldn't startle you (if any of the three went Opening Day)."

Pavano, who missed the last two days of practice after taking a line drive off his left foot during batting practice, said he expected to take the mound against Philadelphia. The oft-injured right-hander said his bruised foot was improving daily.

Pavano had no trouble with his regular weight-room activity yesterday. He expected to begin tossing today, and hoped to throw a bullpen session Thursday.

He has not pitched in the majors in almost two years due to various injuries, several of which started off as seemingly minor setbacks, such as the most recent bruise.

But Pavano, who has impressed the coaches with his throwing this spring, said this injury was different.

"I just feel so good, the way I've been throwing the ball. I just feel like this is something that could have happened to anyone," Pavano said. "I feel like this is the first time where I can actually say, 'I'm going to pick up where I left off.' In the past it's been just positive words. I don't know how committed I was to it. But I'm definitely committed to the fact that I feel good."

Following Wang tomorrow will be top pitching prospect Phil Hughes, Ross Ohlendorf, Luis Vizcaino and Mike Myers. The Twins will start Carlos Silva, followed by Kevin Slowey, Juan Rincon, Mike Venafro and former Yankee Randy Choate.

Johnny Damon returned to camp after spending the last two days with his family attending to personal matters. The center fielder did not specify the reason for his absence, but said it was not health related and that both his father and his newborn daughter were fine.

"Everything is great," Damon said. "Fortunately the little personal matter I had to take care of was in February and not July or June or any time during the season.

"I feel a lot better today than a couple days ago," he continued. "Something was worrying on me, and I took care of it."

Damon did not practice while he was away from the team, but said he wasn't behind.

"I was ready for the season a couple days ago, I'm ready for the season now," he said.

Damon added that he was looking to drop from his current weight of 217 to 210 by the beginning of the season to improve his speed.

Torre's older brother, Frank, found out his daughter Elizabeth is a match for a kidney transplant. Frank Torre has been experiencing kidney problems due to medication he takes due to a heart transplant in 1996. He hopes the transplant can be completed before Easter.

A day after Humberto Sanchez impressed Torre with his smooth delivery during batting practice, the right-handed pitcher experienced the same right forearm soreness that had pushed back his BP session in the first place. An MRI yesterday revealed inflammation in his elbow, and he will be shut down for a few days.

Sanchez, 23, has been on the disabled list eight times in his minor-league career, twice for elbow problems. But he said the forearm tightness didn't feel like his previous injuries.

Reliever Brian Bruney also had an MRI yesterday after suffering sharp pain in his left side. His test was negative, though Bruney said he felt no improvement yesterday.... Left-handed pitcher Ben Kozlowski is still shut down with a strain in his left rib cage.

Igawa will start today's intrasquad game for the home team, with Jeff Karstens going for the visitors. The rest of the home pitchers will be Steven Jackson, Tyler Clippard, Mike Myers, Chris Britton, and Jose Veras. The other visitors' pitchers will be Chase Wright, Jeff Kennard, Colter Bean, Ron Villone and Kevin Whelan.

Reggie Jackson, a guest instructor at Yankees camp, arrived yesterday. Yogi Berra was due to arrive in Tampa yesterday.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/28/07 03:46 AM

Manager could be in Mattingly's future

TAMPA, Fla. -- On a recent afternoon at Legends Field, Don Mattingly was perched behind the Yankees' batting cage as four of the team's top hitters ripped drives around the ballpark.
To the untrained eye, the swings looked crisp, tight and absolutely right. But not to Mattingly, who assembled the group behind the plate and broke down each swing with unfettered accuracy.

Lesson learned, Mattingly clapped his hands together and stretched out his arms as if to say, "See?" And as Jason Giambi, Hideki Matsui, Doug Mientkiewicz and Alex Rodriguez nodded and scattered, another Mattingly mini-clinic was complete.

Mattingly may have been promoted to become Joe Torre's bench coach this season, ceding his duties as hitting coach to Kevin Long, but he can't resist the urge to chip in with a few pointers for his love of hitting.

"You've got to be ready to help these guys out," Mattingly said. "You've got to be here for them -- not for yourself. I'm here for their success, not my success."

It is that passion that leads at least one Yankee to believe that, when Torre's highly successful run as the team's manager comes to an end, Mattingly will be the one assuming the dugout reins.

"He'll be perfect. He'll definitely be, in the next couple of years, the manager of the Yankees," Giambi said.

"He's got a great name to play in New York, he knows how to handle the press and he knows a lot about the game. I think that's one of the main reasons he went to bench coach."

Taking the helm of a Major League club is a thought that prompts Mattingly to grin slightly, if not awkwardly.

As he spoke of the possibility of someday managing the Yankees, his mentor, Torre, sat about 15 feet away in the manager's office, kicking back in a reclining chair as he dutifully completed paperwork.

Mattingly is not looking to push Torre, who is in the final year under contract with the Yankees, out the door. But Mattingly also can not ignore those, like Giambi, who have touted him as Torre's likely successor.

"I don't worry about it, to be honest with you," Mattingly said. "I don't worry about the future. I'm 45 years old, and it's not like you're a player and the clock is running on your skills.

"No question, it's something I want to do, but I don't control that. I'm simply here this year to help Joe and these guys. I'm young and I've got a lot to learn. If the opportunity presents itself, I'll be ready for it."

For Torre, Mattingly's work ethic became evident during seven seasons as a guest instructor at Yankees Spring Training from 1997-2003, long before he ever tinkered as the team's official hitting coach.

One of the most popular players in the franchise's history, it would have been easy for Mattingly's spring excursion to have taken on little more meaning than showing up in Tampa, putting on a No. 23 jersey and waving to fans.

Mattingly wouldn't dream of it, annually exhibiting the same workmanlike nature that led him to stroke 2,153 hits in the Major Leagues.

"It wasn't just a vacation for him," Torre said. "He didn't just come down to hang out. He wanted to do some good. I told him to let me know if he was ever thinking about doing something full time, because he definitely had the capabilities."

Mattingly finally made that call for the 2004 season, with the blessing of his wife, Kim, and their three sons -- Jordon, Taylor and Preston.

After his retirement following the 1995 season, Mattingly said he spent most of his time back in Evansville, Ind., "chasing kids around Pony League fields," tending to horses and tweaking the designs of what would eventually become his budding Mattingly Baseball bat company.

"I didn't want to be in New York until I was 39, and the kids would be out of high school and not even know who their dad is," Mattingly said. "I was able to do that, and as the kids grew up, they were kind of like, 'Go ahead, Dad.' It made it easier for me to make the transition."

The Yankees have not even played their first exhibition of 2007 yet, and already Torre has acknowledged Mattingly's dedication and efficiency.

Each day at Legends Field, Mattingly arrives early and leaves late, digging through statistical data and scouting reports looking for something -- anything -- that could give the Yankees an edge during the regular season.

"I do look at a lot more stuff," Mattingly said. "When I was the hitting coach, all I did was study the opposing team's hitters. That was the sliver of the game I was responsible for.

"Now, I'm here to help any way I can and assist Joe. I can be another set of eyes for him. There's so many decisions to make in the course of a game, and I want to make it easier for him. The information will be at his fingertips. We'll be prepared."

The Yankees would expect nothing less.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/28/07 03:47 AM

Igawa impressive in outing

TAMPA, Fla. -- It wasn't the real deal for Kei Igawa, but it was pretty close.
Wearing his Yankees pinstripes, the 27-year-old left-hander connected with batterymate Jorge Posada, worked with the Major League infield of Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter, Robinson Cano and Doug Mientkiewicz behind him, and pitched well.

So what if it was just an intrasquad game, and the first batter -- speedy leadoff man Brett Gardner -- shocked Igawa with a perfectly-placed bunt single?

With 19 pitches, 14 strikes and two scoreless innings in the books, Igawa has wet his feet in preparation for a Grapefruit League debut on Monday against Detroit.

"I'm very honored to play with these teammates," Igawa said through interpreter Yumi Watanbe. "I was not nervous, but I was definitely excited."

Before his performance at Legends Field, pitching coach Ron Guidry took Igawa aside and told him to have fun. Igawa has shown improvement since a rusty bullpen session two weeks ago, and Guidry's message was to not try and impress anyone in this setting -- as he put it -- don't try to make the ballclub in one day.

"It was a good outing for him, to get this kind of stuff out of the way in a game situation," Guidry said. "The game didn't mean anything, but it meant a lot to us just to watch him throw so we can familiarize ourselves with how he goes about his work."

Pitching for guest manager Yogi Berra and facing a lineup commanded by Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson and comprised mostly of Minor Leaguers, Igawa kept the ball on the ground, worked quickly and showed good mound presence.

"He's very efficient," manager Joe Torre said. "There's really no wasted motions. He's very compact and he goes after hitters. I think that's a sign of knowing what you want to do."

After Gardner's leadoff bunt single, Igawa induced Bronson Sardinha to bounce a double-play ball to Jeter, then got Jose Tabata to ground out.

In the second inning, Juan Miranda hit a sky-high pop-up on the infield that Doug Mientkiewicz snagged, then retired Josh Phelps and Marcos Vechionacchi on infield outs.

"The fastballs were well located," Phelps said. "It looked like he had an idea."

Igawa has worked two batting practice sessions with the Yankees' hitters, plus the two-inning performance on Tuesday, so he is becoming less of a mystery within the clubhouse.

Opposing clubs -- like the Tigers next week -- should still regard him as a curiosity, and the Yankees hope that Igawa's abilities will continue to be a great unknown, at least a few times around the American League.

"The word gets out quick," Mientkiewicz said. "That's why they've got 15 people [scouts] checking you out each game. I'm sure they've got tapes on him already, but until you're in the box facing someone like that for the first time, it's going to take some time."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/28/07 03:48 AM

Abreu turns spectator

TAMPA, Fla. -- As the Yankees played their annual intrasquad game Tuesday, Bobby Abreu was a mere spectator.
The 32-year-old outfielder suffered a strained right oblique muscle while taking batting practice on Monday and is expected to be sidelined for two to three weeks of action.

"It was painful," Abreu said Tuesday. "You just have to hang with it, and don't try to worry about too much. It's sore. I felt a little pain there and thought it was nothing to worry about. I kept swinging and then, after one swing, [I felt] a big pain."

Abreu, who batted .297 with 15 home runs and 107 RBIs last season for the Phillies and Yankees, is projected as New York's starting right fielder.

He expects to return to action in mid-March and will be available for the Yankees' regular season opener on April 2, suggesting that his recovery could take as little as 10 days.

"I'm just doing treatment right now and just trying to get better," Abreu said. "I don't think it'll take that long. I'll take a couple of weeks, just get treatment and I think I'm going to be ready for the season."

Yankees manager Joe Torre said on Monday that Abreu would be limited to basic cardiovascular exercises, such as riding a stationary bicycle, as the team moves forward into their exhibition schedule. Because of the nature of the strain, Abreu is unable to swing a bat or throw.

"They're the ones who are going to tell me when to start throwing and running," Abreu said. "Right now, I'll just get treatment, get better and get ready."

In Abreu's absence, 22-year-old outfielder Melky Cabrera is expected to receive additional plate appearances.

Cabrera took Abreu's place for honorary manager Yogi Berra's team in Tuesday's intrasquad game, starting in right field against a roster led by Reggie Jackson.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has said that a number of additional players, like Kevin Thompson and Kevin Reese, will also see additional innings in the outfield.

The Yankees open their exhibition schedule on Thursday against the Twins.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 02/28/07 11:55 PM

Rivera could make debut Monday

Yankees closer Mariano Rivera could make his 2007 spring training debut Monday.

Rivera, sidelined from Aug. 31 to Sept. 22 last year because of a muscle strain near his right elbow, has felt fine since spring training began. The 37-year-old right-hander threw off a bullpen mound Wednesday, and wants to throw another bullpen session Friday.

"No rush," Rivera said. "We'll go from there, see how I feel throwing. I feel real good."

Rivera went 5-5 with 34 saves and an 1.80 ERA last year.

"We don't what to change anything we've done with him," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "He tells when he's ready to go and we go accordingly."

Torre said the team likely will stay with its plan of recent years to have Rivera pitch only at home during spring training.

"You won't see a road uniform, my guess is," Torre said.

Carl Pavano, hit on the left instep by a liner during batting practice last Saturday, is to pitch off a bullpen mound Thursday. If that goes well, he would start Sunday.

Notes: Yankees general partner Steve Swindal and president Randy Levine watched part of the workout with representatives of the Chinese Baseball Association. ... Torre has been impressed by LHP Ron Villone, who came to camp with a minor league contract. ... RHP Brian Bruney (back) has resumed throwing on level ground. ... LHP Kei Igawa is teaching Villone how to play shogi, a Japanese version of chess.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/01/07 01:23 AM

Yankees Weigh Other Half Of Blockbuster Trade

Quote:
Source: New York Times

By PAT BORZI
Published: February 28, 2007

TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 27 — For someone with the telltale high number of a minor-leaguer (83), pitcher Ross Ohlendorf drew a lucky locker location in the Yankees’ spring training clubhouse. He dresses near the corner just left of the main entrance, within handshake distance of the veteran Mike Mussina.




So whenever Mussina holds court on a pitching topic, Ohlendorf — one of the four players the Yankees acquired from Arizona in the Randy Johnson trade in January — need only turn slightly to his left to listen in. That was the pose Ohlendorf had Tuesday morning, even though Mussina was talking about fishing.

“I’m pretty confident in my ability, but I know I have a lot of work to do to be the pitcher I want to be,” said Ohlendorf, a 24-year-old right-hander in his first big-league camp. “Guys like Andy Pettitte and Mike Mussina are willing to talk to us, and other pitchers are, too.”

Every player acquired for Johnson is in the Yankees’ camp, with the veteran reliever Luis Vizcaíno and infielder Alberto González on the major league roster, and Ohlendorf and his fellow right-hander Steven Jackson attending as nonroster invitees. Jackson, a tall sinkerballer like Ohlendorf, gave up one run in two innings in Tuesday afternoon’s intrasquad game.

Vizcaíno, a workhorse whose 359 appearances since 2002 rank second in major league baseball among right-handers, is expected to provide immediate bullpen help. But the two young pitchers, who are good friends and were minor league roommates the past two seasons, may prove the keys to the deal.

Multiplayer packages for one big-name star rarely turn out equitably. Johnson was considered a disappointment as a Yankee despite winning 34 games in two seasons, but Ohlendorf or Jackson will have to develop into a consistent major league starter for this deal to look good for the Yankees. Jackson already knows the perils of being traded for a likely Hall of Famer, even as only part of a package.

“Most of my friends thought I was going straight to the major leagues, until I explained it to them,” said Jackson, a 24-year-old who has never pitched higher than Class AA and whose spring locker is in a row where the lowest assigned number is 70.

The Yankees are not looking to rush Jackson or Ohlendorf. Both are likely to begin the season with Class AAA Scranton. For now, Ohlendorf appears to have more potential. He mainly played basketball until the summer after his junior year at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School in Austin, Tex., where he realized that Division I teams had little use for a 6-foot-4 post player. At the urging of the school’s new baseball coaches, including the former major league catcher Keith Moreland, Ohlendorf took up pitching.

The University of Texas and Baylor each showed interest in him, but Ohlendorf chose Princeton for its academics. He arrived with a heavy sinker and an eagerness to learn that impressed the Tigers’ coach, Scott Bradley, a former major league catcher. Bradley said that Ohlendorf’s sinker reminded him of Billy Swift’s; Bradley caught Swift in Seattle.

“As a catcher, you have to keep your thumb turned up or he’ll take the glove off your hand,” Bradley said in a telephone interview.

Ohlendorf and the 6-5 Jackson, a native of South Carolina who went to Clemson, benefited from rooming and playing together at Class A South Bend in 2005 and at Class AA Tennessee last season. The Diamondbacks chose both in the 2004 draft, Ohlendorf in the fourth round and Jackson in the 10th.

At South Bend, Ohlendorf and Jackson combined for 21 victories to help the Silver Hawks take the Midwest League title, with Jackson winning the championship game. Ohlendorf returned to Princeton after the season to complete his degree in operations research and financial engineering.

Last year at Tennessee, Ohlendorf went 10-8 with a 3.29 earned run average, led the Southern League with four complete games and earned a promotion to Class AAA Tucson for one playoff start. Jackson’s 2.65 E.R.A. ranked second in the league, but poor run support left his record at 8-11.

Jackson usually followed Ohlendorf in the rotation and charted his games. After each of their starts, they would stay up late dissecting their performances and exchanging ideas. They were excited to learn they were part of the same trade and would start the spring surrounded by some of baseball’s biggest names. “The first few days, it was kind of surreal to be in this locker room with these guys,” Jackson said. “Now I’m settled in and going about my business.”

On Tuesday, Jackson pitched for the major league side against a minor league lineup. He drew five groundball outs out of six with his sinker and allowed one hit, a run-scoring double by Juan Miranda after his only walk.

“I just like his arm,” Manager Joe Torre said of Jackson. “He’s really loose, and it looks like the ball comes out of his hand fairly easily.”

Ohlendorf is scheduled to get a chance Thursday against Minnesota in the exhibition opener. Before then, Ohlendorf has plenty more listening to do, and Mussina is happy to oblige.

“I’ve talked to him four or five times already, and not just because he’s sitting right here,” Mussina said. “I think he’s got good stuff, and if he makes some minor adjustments, he can be even better.”

INSIDE PITCH

The left-hander KEI IGAWA started and pitched two scoreless innings in the Yankees’ intrasquad game Tuesday. Igawa retired five straight batters after BRETT GARDNER’s leadoff bunt single. ... BOBBY ABREU, who strained his right oblique muscle in batting practice Monday, said he would be healthy by opening day. “You have to be careful, and that’s what I’m going to do,” said Abreu, who added that he would not swing a bat for two weeks. ... CARL PAVANO (sore left foot) played catch Tuesday and is scheduled for a bullpen session Thursday, Manager JOE TORRE said.


BTW - Cashman = genius? Johnson is going to start the season on the DL!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/01/07 01:25 AM

Pettitte Seems Back At Home With Yankees

Quote:
Source: Associated Press



Andy Pettitte was at home in Texas, packing all his clothes to be shipped to spring training.

''The closet in here is empty,'' he remembered thinking. ''That's when it really hit me.''

And then he arrived in Tampa on Tuesday night. The feeling was eerie.

''Me and my wife just looked at each other. It's like, 'Man, it seems like we never left. It's all the same as it was,''' he said.

After three seasons with his hometown Houston Astros, Pettitte is back with the New York Yankees, his hair a little shorter and some hints of gray starting to show.

New York's starting rotation has been unsteady since Pettitte and Roger Clemens departed after the 2003 World Series, shifting like sand in the wind, and the Yankees haven't won any pennants since the pair bolted the Bronx to play for Houston.

Pettitte seemed to be right back at home in the Legends Field, his gear stored in its old stall, just to the left of the television in the clubhouse. His family is never far from his mind, and as he started to speak with reporters Wednesday, his cell phone rang with the special tone he assigned to wife Laura, the lyrics ''I'm so in love with you'' from Lonestar's ''Amazed.''

''You know what I told her?'' he said after saying he'd call back. ''It was so funny, 'Like, man, before I get to the ballpark, I got to get rid of that ringtone.'''

Later, when another call came in, it rang with the theme from ''Rocky.''

''That's my fight song,'' he said.

A smile on his face, Pettitte is starting spring training on a happy note. His elbow feels fine and he's returning to the team he helped win four World Series titles and six AL pennants — he even got a house in Westchester, just 1½ miles from his old one.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman remembered the conversation he had with Pettitte the day the two-time All-Star decided to sign with the Astros.

''You never know, you might come back this way again,'' Cashman said then.

With the Yankees telling Bernie Williams he doesn't fit on their roster, Pettitte, Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera and Jorge Posada are the last links to the glory days. Alex Rodriguez, Mike Mussina, Jason Giambi are nouveau riche for many Yankees fans, baseball nomads who put on the pinstripes in search of rings. The guys who won the titles are the most beloved.

''What we did was special. I don't know if it will ever be done again,'' Pettitte said in that soft, twangy voice. ''Obviously, we hope we can.''

He's 34 now, trying to add to titles won when his body was younger and more limber. He says he's completely recovered from the August 2004 surgery to repair a torn left flexor tendon and that pitching with elbow problems led to a rediscovery of his changeup.

Clemens is sure his friend will succeed.

''He's been having trouble with his 'bow for a long time, and it's because he puts a lot of stress on it,'' the Rocket recently said. ''Yet he goes out there and he pitches great. The days that he comes in and tells me that he feels good, I worry about him, because then he just gets out there and throws. The other days, he's concentrating real hard and he's tremendous.''

Pettitte laughed when he talked about Clemens, who appears likely to pitch this year but isn't sure whether it will be for the Astros, Yankees or Boston Red Sox.

Pettitte joked that in Houston, Clemens ''wasn't around a whole, whole lot'' and said that ''whenever we get together, he does a lot of talking, that's for sure.''

''I know he's going to be down here and we'll play golf together. I know he's going to be over at their camp, at Astros' camp,'' Pettitte said. ''He threw at Minute Maid for an hour or something the other day. If I threw for an hour right now, I wouldn't pitch the rest of the year.''

Pettitte was 149-78 during his first nine seasons with the Yankees. More significantly, he was 13-8 in the postseason. On cold October nights, cap pulled low, he came up with big wins.

He's not sure how much longer he wants to pitch. That's why he agreed to a $16 million, one-year contract with a $16 million player option for 2008 and told the Yankees he wouldn't exercise the option if he was hurt. Pettitte didn't want to guarantee two years, because then he would have felt obligated to pitch in 2008.

''However my elbow feels, really doesn't matter,'' Pettitte said. ''Whatever I got that day, I just go with it. That's the life that I have now.

''I feel good and I feel like I'm going to be strong and I'm going to hold up, or I wouldn't gave done this. I don't want to go through it. I don't want to go through the agony of feeling like I let everybody down if I'm not able to toe the rubber. To me it's just not worth it. I've made plenty enough money to live in Deer Park, Texas, for a long, long time.''
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/01/07 01:26 AM

Wang Gives Yankees Bang For Their Buck, But Quietly

Quote:
Source: Newsday

TAMPA, Fla. - The absolute last thing you ever will hear in the New York Yankees' clubhouse is someone yelling at Chien-Ming Wang, saying, “Hey, keep it down!”

That takes in his pitching, because keeping it down goes without saying for the man with a devastating sinker. Mostly it refers to the fact that he is the club's least voluble player.

He minds his own business, smiles easily and razzes teammates after they razz him. For the most part, though, he is seen and not heard. As pitching coach Ron Guidry said, “You wouldn't know he was there unless you spoke to him.”

You wouldn't know Wang was on the Yankees if he weren't the only one who won a postseason game for them last year, if he didn't tie for the most wins in the major leagues in 2006, if he weren't one of the best starters in baseball.

“Under the radar” doesn't describe the pitcher who won 19 games (only American League Cy Young Award winner Johan Santana won as many). Wang is under the sonar.

“I was lucky,” he said about his 19-6 record with a 3.63 ERA 2006, as he sat in his chair at Legends Field, near a large white carton filled with fan mail.

Wang, a 26-year-old from Tainan, Taiwan, spends about 20 minutes every day answering such mail, mostly photos, cards and baseballs to be signed. He patiently seals every envelope in the meticulous way he does everything. When he was a child, he used to help in his parents' utensils business by packing spoons and chopsticks into cartons.

What really is impressive about Wang is that he is Exhibit A in the argument that an unassuming person can survive New York's tumult. Heck, Wang comes to New York for the peace and quiet.

The stir that happens when he leaves his house in Taiwan is what you'd expect here if Tiger Woods went to dinner with Tom Hanks and Britney Spears, which is why he described his off-season this way, “I didn't go out.”

During baseball season, he doesn't go out of his way to get noticed. He lives outside the city. “More relaxed. No traffic,” he said in English.

He isn't flamboyant on the mound or on the bus, only on the statistics sheets. “It's something I don't know if you can teach,” said Larry Bowa, the Yankees coach and chief needler, who uses Wang as one of his favorite pin cushions. “It's the way the ball comes out of his hand. People don't realize that this guy throws hard, too. It's one thing to have a sinker that's 87 or 88 (miles per hour), but he's 93.”

Relief pitcher Mike Myers, one of Wang's closest friends on the team, said: “He has a pitch that really nobody else in the big leagues has.”

These are nice compliments, but the true measure of respect in a baseball clubhouse is being verbally disrespected. So the Yankees get on him.

With Robinson Cano, who came up through the system with him, “It's my Spanish,” Wang said. Does he speak Spanish? “A little,” the pitcher said. “Como esta?”

There's a huge difference between “quiet” and “boring.” Cano, the second baseman from the Dominican Republic, said: “He's not nice, he's very, very nice. He's a humble guy. I know it's hard for him because he's the only one from his country here, so I try to talk to him, make him feel comfortable.”

Bowa, the third-base coach, asks Wang before every start how many runs he is going to need. “He always says six. I said, `I could go out there and win with six,' ” the coach said. “Well, I was getting him five or six a game. But once we only got him one and he comes up to me and says, `Where's the six?' ”

After a rocky first outing in live batting practice at this camp, Guidry deadpanned, “Whatever you did in Taiwan this winter, never do it again.” When Joe Torre asked Wang about his effort that day, the pitcher used a nine-letter word that begins with “horse.”

So Wang is getting there. And he really is a true Yankee even though he doesn't have a massive ego or get into verbal hair-pulling episodes.

You know he's around by the way he pitches, and by the stacks of letters he gets now. “Last year,” he said, “only a couple.”

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/01/07 01:27 AM

Igawa's Efficient Effort Looks Good To Yankees

Quote:
Source: Lower-Hudson Journal

TAMPA, Fla. -- The Yankees spend little time in spring training concerned with the Boston Red Sox. There will be enough energy spent on that once the season starts. Too much, really.

But any snippet of news about new Boston starter Daisuke Matsuzaka quickly makes the rounds. Like the rest of baseball, the Yankees were amazed to hear about his 103-pitch bullpen session last week.

They wonder aloud about whether he really throws a gyroball. Even his wife, a voluptuous television announcer, makes news.

"You hear a lot of stories about him," first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz said. "It's like he's Paul Bunyan."

The other new Japanese pitcher in the American League East, Kei Igawa, is not the stuff of myth and intrigue. The only amazing thing he has ever done is stay up all night playing video games.

But the Yankees seem to like the left-hander just fine. Igawa made a low-key debut Tuesday, pitching two strong innings in an intrasquad game before a few thousand fans at Legends Field.

"Go out, have a little fun and get your work done," pitching coach Ron Guidry told Igawa before he faced a lineup of minor-leaguers.

Igawa's first pitch was drag bunted for a single by outfielder Brett Gardner. But he got Bronson Sardinha to ground into a double play. Three more grounders and a popup followed.

Igawa finished his two innings having thrown only 19 pitches, 14 for strikes. Matsuzaka probably throws 19 pitches as he brushes his teeth, but the Yankees were pleased with Igawa.

"That was great; it was no struggle. It was a good outing for him," Guidry said. "I know the game didn't mean anything, but it meant a lot to us just to watch him throw so we can familiarize ourselves with how he goes about his work. ... What we looked for is what we got."

Igawa threw fastballs, sliders and change-ups to Jorge Posada. He didnt use his curveball often in Japan, but the Yankees are encouraging him to develop it. Matsuzaka also is talking with Andy Pettitte about his cutter.

"I was not nervous, but I was definitely excited," said Igawa, who will start Monday's game against Detroit at Legends Field. "It was the first time he (Posada) and I worked together. I will continue to learn from him."

The Yankees have Igawa lined up to be their No. 5 starter, but that could change depending on whether Carl Pavano can stay on his feet. Regardless of where he sits in the rotation, Guidry believes Igawa can be effective.

"I think he's going to help, yeah," Guidry said. "Here's a guy who's been averaging 200 innings over there in Japan. He can do that here, too. That's all you want, a guy who can go out every five days."

Said Joe Torre: "He's very efficient. There are no wasted motions. He's very compact, and he goes after it. That's a sign of knowing what you want to do."

Igawa played Tuesday for the Yogi Berra Team. He was asked whether he knew who the Hall of Famer was. After a quick translation, he smiled.

"I saw him in the pictures," Igawa said. "I have heard that he won 10 World Series."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/01/07 01:28 AM

Yankees Rivera Could Return Monday

Quote:
Source: Tampa Bay Online

TAMPA - Yankees closer Mariano Rivera could make his 2007 spring training debut Monday.

Rivera, sidelined from Aug. 31 to Sept. 22 last year because of a muscle strain near his right elbow, has felt fine since spring training began. The 37-year-old right-hander threw off a bullpen mound Wednesday, and wants to throw another bullpen session Friday.

"No rush," Rivera said. "We'll go from there, see how I feel throwing. I feel real good."

Rivera went 5-5 with 34 saves and an 1.80 ERA last year.

"We don't what to change anything we've done with him," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "He tells when he's ready to go and we go accordingly."

Torre said the team likely will stay with its plan of recent years to have Rivera pitch only at home during spring training.

"You won't see a road uniform, my guess is," Torre said.

Carl Pavano, hit on the left instep by a liner during batting practice last Saturday, is to pitch off a bullpen mound Thursday. If that goes well, he would start Sunday.

Notes: Yankees general partner Steve Swindal and president Randy Levine watched part of the workout with representatives of the Chinese Baseball Association. ... Torre has been impressed by LHP Ron Villone, who came to camp with a minor league contract. ... RHP Brian Bruney (back) has resumed throwing on level ground. ... LHP Kei Igawa is teaching Villone how to play shogi, a Japanese version of chess.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/02/07 12:09 AM

Flying start
Damon launches Yankees' exhibition season in style


TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Johnny Damon gave George Steinbrenner quite an early eyeful.

Damon hit a leadoff home run, Jason Giambi also homered and Chien-Ming Wang pitched two perfect innings as the New York Yankees beat the Minnesota Twins 6-1 Thursday in an exhibition opener.

Steinbrenner, who has rarely been seen at Legends Field this spring, watched from his suite on the first-base side of the stadium.

Damon homered off Carlos Silva to start a three-run first inning.

"It's only downhill from this," Damon joked.

Giambi, coming off surgery on his left wrist, walked in the first and hit a two-run homer the next inning to make it 5-0.

"I hope it's a good omen," Giambi said. "The wrist feels great. I feel good up there."

Wang, a 19-game winner last season, needed just 19 pitches. He began the game by inducing three straight groundouts.

"He wasn't down in the zone like he needs to be," Yankees catcher Jorge Posada said. "It's normal. First time out, probably felt too strong. But he got the ground balls, that's all you can ask for."

Silva allowed five runs and four hits over two innings. He threw 42 pitches, including 26 in the first.

Top Yankees pitching prospect Phil Hughes followed Wang and gave up one run on a hit and two walks in 1 1/3 innings. He struck out AL MVP Justin Morneau with his last pitch.

"He was high a lot," New York manager Joe Torre said. "He may have had some butterflies. He recovered real well. He struck out a pretty good hitter to say goodbye."

Yankees left fielder Hideki Matsui made a nice sliding catch near the foul line on Nick Punto's two-on, two-out fly in the third.

Twins left fielder Jason Kubel making a diving catch on Robinson Cano in the third. Kubel drove in the Twins' run with a fourth-inning single.

Andy Phillips, trying to win the right-handed half of the Yankees' first base platoon, will be gone for at least a couple days after his mother was seriously injured Wednesday in a car accident in Alabama.

"As long as he needs," Torre said. "We all hope and pray that everything will be OK, but it's pretty serious right now."

Notes: A moment of silence was held before the game for former Yankees Hank Bauer and Cory Lidle. ... Damon built a gym during the offseason at his Orlando home. "Look good with the shirt off ... wife still digs me," Damon said with a smile.... New York RHP Carl Pavano (bruised left instep) threw 45 pitches off a bullpen mound and is scheduled to pitch Sunday. "I can't wait," Pavano said. ... Minnesota LHP Dennys Reyes, who left camp for the birth of his daughter, is expected to rejoin the team Friday. ... New York RHP Humberto Sanchez (elbow inflammation) hopes to throw this weekend.

Source: SI
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/03/07 12:54 AM

Gardner makes fast impression in camp

TAMPA, Fla. -- A bunt?
A bunt to start an intrasquad game against Kei Igawa and what most likely will be the Yankees' Opening Day lineup?

"I was completely surprised," Igawa said. "I never thought he'd bunt to lead off the game. I thought, because I was a new pitcher and he had never seen me pitch before, he would, at least, see one pitch go by."

But the left-handed-hitting Gardner didn't work the count, instead placing a bunt cleanly between Igawa and first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz.

"That's part of my game," said the 23-year-old Gardner, who batted .298 and had 58 stolen bases last season in 118 games with Class A Tampa and Double-A Trenton. "I talked to the [coaching staff] before the game and they said to try bunting sometime during the game. I said, 'Hey, I'm facing a lefty right here, so I might as well get it out of the way now.' I'm pretty confident with it and that's one of the main ways I use to get on base. I'm happy the way it worked out."

It might sound outlandish or even a bit bold, but Gardner's actions are indicative of the type of player he is. And it is his energy and effort that make teammates happy to be playing alongside him.

"We weren't surprised at all," said third-base prospect Eric Duncan, who played with Gardner last year at Trenton. "He knows what it takes to be successful on the field, and his work ethic and energy translates to the rest of the team. He's going hard all the time, sliding headfirst into first base, stretching doubles into triples. That type of play resonates through the dugout, and the other guys want to put forth that same type of effort."

Standing at 5-foot-10 and 180 pounds, Gardner doesn't come across as imposing a player as his locker neighbor in training camp, Alex Rodriguez (6-foot-3, 225), does, but that hasn't prevented the College of Charleston graduate to aspire past expectations.

Undrafted after his junior season, Gardner, whose dad played with the Phillies, overcame doubters to be the Yankees' third-round pick in the 2005 First-Year Player Draft. Because of his blazing speed and overwhelming talent, Baseball America rated him as the fastest baserunner and best defensive outfielder in the organization. The lefty utilizes his speed to change the game in various ways, both on offense and defense.

He proved that after he reached base in the first inning against Igawa. Outfield prospect Bronson Sardinha came up to bat after Gardner and saw a full plate of fastballs strictly because of the Igawa's fear that Gardner would attempt to steal second base.

"I was talking to Sardinha later and was asking him what Igawa's breaking-ball stuff was like, and Sardinha said he never saw any," Duncan said. "I'm sure Igawa was cognizant of his speed on the basepaths. And that's the way he changes the way pitchers think. He makes them quicken up a bit when they go out of the stretch. And, then, if you're following him [in the lineup], you see better pitches because pitchers have to throw types of pitches they wouldn't normally want to toss."

Pitchers love to have Gardner playing the field when they're on the mound, however.

"From an impact standpoint, he's one of those guys you want to go to battle with all the time," said pitching prospect Matt DeSalvo, who played with Gardner last year in Trenton. "He covers so much ground out there that you know you can throw certain pitches with the feeling that he'll be able to get line drives in the gap. If someone does drop one in there, he'll keep a guy at first instead of someone typically stretching it into a double. His speed helps a pitcher out, as well, because if you're in a jam, then maybe you can throw that two-seamer over the plate and get a double play. He's one of those guys that can make things happen in so many ways."

Gardner has taken advantage of his first invite to Major League camp by noticing the way professionals around him like Derek Jeter and Johnny Damon act. And he's also made the most of his time with bench coach Don Mattingly and special instructor Reggie Jackson.

"This has been a pretty cool experience and a great learning environment," said Gardner. "It's something I'll definitely remember and learn from. I've talked to Mattingly about hitting and gotten advice from Reggie about being a professional and making it to the next level. I haven't really talked to the players, but I've learned a lot just from watching how they handle their business and the way they present themselves."

Gardner idolized Pete Rose when he was growing up and emulates the hustle and energy Rose brought to every game. He watched ESPN Classic as often as he could and made sure to catch highlights of baseball's all-time hit king who spent his glory days with the Cincinnati Reds.

"He played the game so hard and gave it everything he had on every play," said Gardner, who scored 59 runs in 55 games with Trenton in 2006. "That's how I am and how I like to play the game. I just go hard all the time. Hopefully, that's something that will be noticed and will take me to the big leagues soon."

If Gardner keeps giving this all-out approach in everything he does, Yankees fans may soon be seeing his hustle and energy in the Bronx.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/03/07 12:54 AM

Gardner makes fast impression in camp

TAMPA, Fla. -- A bunt?
A bunt to start an intrasquad game against Kei Igawa and what most likely will be the Yankees' Opening Day lineup?

"I was completely surprised," Igawa said. "I never thought he'd bunt to lead off the game. I thought, because I was a new pitcher and he had never seen me pitch before, he would, at least, see one pitch go by."

But the left-handed-hitting Gardner didn't work the count, instead placing a bunt cleanly between Igawa and first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz.

"That's part of my game," said the 23-year-old Gardner, who batted .298 and had 58 stolen bases last season in 118 games with Class A Tampa and Double-A Trenton. "I talked to the [coaching staff] before the game and they said to try bunting sometime during the game. I said, 'Hey, I'm facing a lefty right here, so I might as well get it out of the way now.' I'm pretty confident with it and that's one of the main ways I use to get on base. I'm happy the way it worked out."

It might sound outlandish or even a bit bold, but Gardner's actions are indicative of the type of player he is. And it is his energy and effort that make teammates happy to be playing alongside him.

"We weren't surprised at all," said third-base prospect Eric Duncan, who played with Gardner last year at Trenton. "He knows what it takes to be successful on the field, and his work ethic and energy translates to the rest of the team. He's going hard all the time, sliding headfirst into first base, stretching doubles into triples. That type of play resonates through the dugout, and the other guys want to put forth that same type of effort."

Standing at 5-foot-10 and 180 pounds, Gardner doesn't come across as imposing a player as his locker neighbor in training camp, Alex Rodriguez (6-foot-3, 225), does, but that hasn't prevented the College of Charleston graduate to aspire past expectations.

Undrafted after his junior season, Gardner, whose dad played with the Phillies, overcame doubters to be the Yankees' third-round pick in the 2005 First-Year Player Draft. Because of his blazing speed and overwhelming talent, Baseball America rated him as the fastest baserunner and best defensive outfielder in the organization. The lefty utilizes his speed to change the game in various ways, both on offense and defense.

He proved that after he reached base in the first inning against Igawa. Outfield prospect Bronson Sardinha came up to bat after Gardner and saw a full plate of fastballs strictly because of the Igawa's fear that Gardner would attempt to steal second base.

"I was talking to Sardinha later and was asking him what Igawa's breaking-ball stuff was like, and Sardinha said he never saw any," Duncan said. "I'm sure Igawa was cognizant of his speed on the basepaths. And that's the way he changes the way pitchers think. He makes them quicken up a bit when they go out of the stretch. And, then, if you're following him [in the lineup], you see better pitches because pitchers have to throw types of pitches they wouldn't normally want to toss."

Pitchers love to have Gardner playing the field when they're on the mound, however.

"From an impact standpoint, he's one of those guys you want to go to battle with all the time," said pitching prospect Matt DeSalvo, who played with Gardner last year in Trenton. "He covers so much ground out there that you know you can throw certain pitches with the feeling that he'll be able to get line drives in the gap. If someone does drop one in there, he'll keep a guy at first instead of someone typically stretching it into a double. His speed helps a pitcher out, as well, because if you're in a jam, then maybe you can throw that two-seamer over the plate and get a double play. He's one of those guys that can make things happen in so many ways."

Gardner has taken advantage of his first invite to Major League camp by noticing the way professionals around him like Derek Jeter and Johnny Damon act. And he's also made the most of his time with bench coach Don Mattingly and special instructor Reggie Jackson.

"This has been a pretty cool experience and a great learning environment," said Gardner. "It's something I'll definitely remember and learn from. I've talked to Mattingly about hitting and gotten advice from Reggie about being a professional and making it to the next level. I haven't really talked to the players, but I've learned a lot just from watching how they handle their business and the way they present themselves."

Gardner idolized Pete Rose when he was growing up and emulates the hustle and energy Rose brought to every game. He watched ESPN Classic as often as he could and made sure to catch highlights of baseball's all-time hit king who spent his glory days with the Cincinnati Reds.

"He played the game so hard and gave it everything he had on every play," said Gardner, who scored 59 runs in 55 games with Trenton in 2006. "That's how I am and how I like to play the game. I just go hard all the time. Hopefully, that's something that will be noticed and will take me to the big leagues soon."

If Gardner keeps giving this all-out approach in everything he does, Yankees fans may soon be seeing his hustle and energy in the Bronx.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/03/07 12:55 AM

Pettitte looks good in debut

ST. PETERSBURG -- With a few more gray hairs and a broader outlook, Andy Pettitte officially began his on-field return to the Yankees on Friday.
Making his first Grapefruit League appearance for New York since 2003, Pettitte threw two scoreless, hitless innings against the Devil Rays at Progress Energy Park. The left-hander threw 20 pitches -- 15 for strikes -- and recorded a strikeout.

"It was really nice to be back out there," Pettitte said. "Once you get out on the mound, you forget what [uniform] you have on. It's still just the mitt and trying to make quality pitches. It was great to be back out there and get the first one under my belt."

Pettitte used the appearance to tinker with different grips on his curveball, but his greatest satisfaction seemed to come from his changeup, which he has vowed to continue using in order to be more of a complete pitcher.

"He was a guy you counted on all the time, even though you always mentioned another guy's name first," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "What you see now is more polished. One thing Andy did every year was get better."

The one strikeout Pettitte recorded in the contest, getting Jorge Cantu swinging in the second inning, came on a change.

"If I can throw that all year," Pettitte said, "I'd be all right."

Watching Pettitte throw darts in a Yankees uniform fit so well, it was almost as if he'd never left. It was even more incomprehensible that Pettitte actually considered retirement after last season.

As the Houston Astros' 2006 campaign wore down to its final days, Pettitte's left elbow began barking, further complications in a 14-13 season that Pettitte felt should have turned out much better than it did.

Torre had kept in close contact with Pettitte following his departure for Houston after the 2003 season and connected for friendly chats with the left-hander over the summer, describing Pettitte as disappointed and somewhat confused.

On the mound, Pettitte felt good enough, on his way to a second consecutive 200-plus-innings season. But the results weren't matching the effort, and as Pettitte's ERA rounded out to a 4.20 mark, he wondered if his pitching days had come to an end.

"I didn't think my arm would allow me to pitch past the '06 season," Pettitte said.

He voiced those concerns to Torre, who now admits that he didn't believe him.

"I dismissed it, based on the fact that at the end of the year, we're all frustrated," Torre said.

The manager's instincts proved correct as Pettitte began tossing in the offseason, surprising himself by how good he felt.

The timing was right for Torre's recruitment pitch, which commenced over numerous offseason telephone calls, one reunion dinner of the 1996 Yankees at Chelsea Piers in New York, and culminated in a one-year contract in December.

Pettitte remembered Torre's pleas as such: "We want you back. Just come back." Eventually, after the initial shock of the Yankees' continued interest, Pettitte did just that, inking a one-year agreement with an option for 2008.

On a breezy March afternoon in St. Petersburg, his pitches sending two innings worth of Devil Rays batters back to the bench empty-handed, it appeared Pettitte had made the correct decision.

"You want to go where you feel like you're wanted," Pettitte said.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/04/07 12:22 AM

Yanks pitching looks in midseason form

TAMPA, Fla. -- Here in the non-Daisuke Matsuzaka portion of Florida's Gulf Coast, you are reminded that the New York Yankees also have some starting pitchers of significant stature.
The first three Yankees pitchers of the Grapefruit League schedule have faced 19 batters and recorded 18 outs, leaving little room for either improvement or second-guessing.

Whatever questions there are regarding the Yankees' pitching, one through three in the rotation, in whatever order you want -- Chien-Ming Wang, Andy Pettitte, Mike Mussina -- are not among them.

Wang, a 19-game winner last season, and Pettitte, whose work requires no introduction in these precincts, were both perfect in their two innings of work.

Mussina, working against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday, actually gave up two hits, one of them a home run to Brad Eldred. The other one was a ground ball by Andrew McCutchen off the glove of shortstop Derek Jeter. It might have been an error, but this was Spring Training and this was Jeter, so, fine, a single. McCutchen subsequently was erased attempting to steal second.

Mussina has been a rotation stalwart for 15 seasons. Although he has never had a 20-victory season, his 239 career victories, fifth among active pitchers, point toward the quality and durability of his work. He is one of only 12 pitchers in the history of the game to win 10 or more games in 15 consecutive seasons.

But every time is a new time when Spring Training appears. So it was on Saturday, Mussina's first start.

"It felt strange, it was the first time," he said. "But you want to at least get the ball over the plate, and I did that, for the most part. That's all you're trying to do, just get used to it again."

With a repertoire as large as Mussina's, you wonder which pitches require the most work at this time of the year.

"Sometimes, command of the baseball takes the most time," he said. "It depends on what isn't working that particular year. I felt pretty decent with my curveball today, and I had decent location, but it felt like it was going about 81 mph out of my hand. But that's just stuff you've got to work on. It's just pitching again, just getting out there and pitching again, that's all.

"I'm sure it's changed from when I was 25. When you're 25, you expect to got out there and have it the first day you go out there. Now, I don't expect it to be great the first day, I just expect to find a feel for it and work up from wherever the starting point is."

Asked about how his slider was working, Mussina smiled.

"The same pitch that got called for a ball on the first pitch to [Eldred]," he said. "This time he hit it out of the park. That's all right. Midseason form on the homer, because that was a pretty good one."

All of the available evidence suggests that Mussina will once again be part of the solution for the Yankees. The same could be said of Wang and Pettitte, although sooner or later they will start allowing baserunners.

The questions are further down in the rotation. Carl Pavano's array of injuries over the past two years open up a whole new line of questioning, about not only his potential fitness, but his desire to pitch. Lefty Kei Igawa, the Yankees' own Japanese pitching import, has a track record of success, winning 75 games over the past five seasons. Americans have learned by now not to dismiss the achievements of players in Japanese baseball. For all of that, Igawa is a rookie in Major League Baseball, and the natural questions flowing from that status will linger until he establishes himself in this hemisphere.

Typically, at this early stage of Spring Training, expectations are minimal for starters. The most important components of their early work are regaining the feel for their craft and simply remaining healthy.

"That's the thing when you watch these guys pitch, especially early in Spring Training," manager Joe Torre said. "It's just that they get through it, they feel fine; there are no physical issues.

"The other part, they've been around long enough that they know what works. I think Mike threw a lot of fastballs today, which is good. That's why he started out last season so well, because he used his fastball in the spring and built up his arm strength."

But given the particular circumstances, there will be an unusually high level of interest in Pavano's first start of the spring, which is scheduled to occur Sunday against the Philadelphia Phillies.

"I'm looking forward to it, and I think he's looking forward to it," Torre said. "He seems like he's ready to do this. Basically, it's step one, get him on the mound. He's in this the first time around, there's no special covenant here, he's up with everybody else."

The questions about the Yankees rotation center not on quality, but on depth. The quality in the first three spots is indisputable. The worst you can say about Mussina, Wang and Pettitte is that they will be very difficult acts to follow. If the rest of the rotation could approach their level, the Yankees would be what they always hope to be.

Source: MLB
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/04/07 08:38 AM

Those were the days
Bronx Zoo set standard for spring training melodrama


In recent years, one of the annual rites of spring for the New York media has been to proclaim the return of The Bronx Zoo. This year, Mariano Rivera's expiring contract, the absence of Bernie Williams, and the Alex Rodriguez-Derek Jeter affair have prompted New York writers to invoke the name of the old Zoo. You can hardly blame them.

As David Falkner noted in his fine book about spring training, The Short Season, "There is probably no other single body of prose in the English language in which writers seem quite so hard-pressed to come up with something, anything, than the collected newspaper accounts of spring training over the last half century."

We all know the standard spring training stories: the promising rookie, the aging veteran, the holdout, the wacky clubhouse prankster, the late-arriving star. The wilder the story, the better. In 1985, SI published the remarkable tale about uber-phenom Sidd Finch, a pitcher whose fastball was clocked at 168 mph -- wait, no, that actually was too good to be true. But four years later, Jim Abbott, a one-handed pitcher for the Angels, made a splash in the Cactus League. It seemed stranger than fiction, yet Abbott went on to enjoy a productive career. In '86, veteran reliever Rollie Fingers walked away from a chance to extend his career with the Reds when he refused to lose his trademark mustache. "I'm not about to shave it off just to play baseball," he said. Then in 2002, outfielder Derek Bell chafed at the prospect of having to compete for a position with the Pirates (even after hitting only .173 the year before).

"If there is competition, they better eliminate me out of the race and go ahead and do what they're going to do with me," Bell told reporters. "I ain't going out there to hurt myself in spring training battling for a job. If it is [a competition], then I'm going into 'Operation Shutdown.'" Bell's big league career was shut down before the end of the spring.

But this is tame stuff when compared with the glory days of The Bronx Zoo, which began in earnest in 1977 and ran in full-force through the early '90s. Despite the intense media coverage the Yankees generate nowadays, The Bronx Zoo is a thing of the past. The reason is simple: The maestro of mayhem, George Steinbrenner, is no longer visibly running the show. The last true gem he offered was in '99 when he called pitcher Hideki Irabu a "fat, pussy toad." Without the Boss, well, it just ain't the same.

"Spring training is like opening night in the theater," Steinbrenner once said. "There is nothing like it, nothing!" The Boss was famous for guaranteeing his manager's job security during the spring. In 1982, he said, "Bob Lemon's going to be our manager all year. You can bet on it." Lemon was fired after 14 games. In '85, Steinbrenner said, "Yogi [Berra] wil be the manager this year ... A bad start will not affect Yogi's status." The Yankees started the season 6-10 and Berra was canned. In '90, the Boss said, "Bucky Dent will be the manager all year. I'm very strong on loyalties." After 49 games, Dent was history.

The arrival of Reggie Jackson in 1977 is what really kicked-off the Bronx Zoo. Jackson was the owner's pet, flamboyant and outspoken. "I didn't come to New York to be a star," he said after signing, "I brought my star with me." But Jackson was not welcomed with open arms in the clubhouse. Team captain Thurman Munson was instantly envious of Jackson, as was manager Billy Martin. That spring, Jackson sat down with Robert Ward, a writer from Sport magazine, and made the infamous comment that he was "the straw that stirs the drink." Though the article was not published until months later, it accurately portrayed a spring training camp full of drama.

But even in Steinbrenner's first season with the team, there was commotion. In a scene directly out of The Ice Storm, pitchers Fritz Peterson and Mike Kekich, the best of friends, announced that they were not only swapping wives, but entirely families too, right on down to their dogs. Said Yankees GM Lee McPhail, "We may have to call off Family Day."

Perhaps the most bizzare Steinbrenner spring came in 1982 when he decided to transform the Bronx Bombers into the Bronx Burners. "You can't underestimate the importance of speed," said Steinbrenner. After losing the '81 World Series to the Dodgers, Jackson was allowed to walk as a free agent, and Davey Collins was signed ostensibly to replace him. Harrison Dillard, a former Olympic hurdling champion, was brought into camp to teach the Yankees how to run. One day, the team was instructed to wear sweat suits instead of their uniforms and ran sprints in the outfield as Dillard took notes. Steinbrenner had run hurdles in college, prompting third baseman Graig Nettles to say, "They must have used ankle-high hurdles in those days." The speed experiment failed and the Yankees ended the season with their worst record since 1967.

As wild as Yankee springs in the past have been, they are not alone. From the mid-'80s through the early '90s, the Mets were the glamour team in New York and no strangers to controversy. In 1989, the tension between right fielder Darryl Strawberry and first baseman Keith Hernandez reached a boiling point. Dubbed "The Prince of Darkness" by Daily News columnist Mike Lupica, Hernandez had lobbied, off-the-record, for teammate Kevin McReynolds to win the 1988 NL MVP over Strawberry (Kirk Gibson won the award). When a reporter revealed this to Strawberry the following spring, the right fielder was primed for a confrontation. During the taking of the team photo, Strawberry -- who was positioned next to Hernandez -- said, "I don't want to sit next to no backstabber." Hernandez replied, "I'm tired of your baby crap." The two then exchanged punches in full view of TV cameras. Steve Wulf quipped in SI that Strawberry "finally hit the cut off man."

But the most vicious spring training fight came in '77. The Rangers made headlines when mild-mannered second baseman Lenny Randle attacked his manager, Frank Lucchesi, after being replaced by the rookie Bump Wills. Randle had never shown any signs of having a temper. He practiced yoga, was always accomodating with the fans and was the most popular player in the Rangers clubhouse. But when Lucchesi called Randle a punk for not handling the demotion well, Randle freaked and punched Lucchesi in the face repeatedly, shattering the manager's cheekbone. The Rangers suspended Randle for 30 days, fined him $10,000 and by the end of April, traded him to the Mets. Lucchesi, fired by Texas before the end of the season, sued Randle.

"It's not that I want a pound of flesh," Lucchesi said, "I want 175 pounds of justice." A year later, the two settled out of court and shook hands. "I hope he has 10 years of good luck in the big leagues," said Lucchesi. Randle played in the big leagues through '82, and then in Japan before retiring and trying his hand at stand-up comedy

Source: SI
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/04/07 08:40 AM

Calling on A-Rod
Eight teams sought superstar; opt-out still possible


TAMPA, Fla. -- If Yankees superstar Alex Rodriguez exercises his opt-out clause after this season and walks away from the $81 million and three years remaining on his record contract, he may be subjected to even more boos in the Bronx. But if he stays without at least leveraging the clause in question, he surely will be giving up a lot of loot.

Though A-Rod the Yankee hasn't quite lived up to every ounce of hype, he has continued to produce big numbers in New York and assuredly will have plenty of teams begging for his services if he hits the open market next winter.

That's extra clear from the outside interest he attracted last summer. People familiar with trade inquiries made for Rodriguez last summer tell SI.com that no fewer than eight teams -- some of them shocking -- asked about him. One person with connections to the Yankees identified the teams as the Angels, Dodgers, White Sox, Cubs, Giants, Phillies, Diamondbacks and Indians.

"It was a lot of teams," is the way Yankees general manager Brian Cashman put it. "And some of them would surprise you."

And it's no stretch to believe that some of those teams would have been willing to extend his record 10-year, $252 million contract an extra three or four years, maybe even more. And that some of them would still be willing to do that should A-Rod walk away from the Yankees.

That means Rodriguez probably could double the money due him, to $162 million, if not more. (Alfonso Soriano, seen as barely a bit player in A-Rod's trade to the Yankees three years ago, recently got $136 million over eight years from the Cubs in an exploding market reflective of the industry's revenues doubling to $6 billion in a matter of a few years.)

The list of eight could even grow this winter assuming A-Rod puts together a more typical season. Last year he turned in perhaps his worst as a big leaguer, batting .290 with 35 home runs and 121 RBIs while struggling at times at third base.

It's no surprise both Los Angeles teams and both Chicago teams called for A-Rod. Both of the L.A. clubs have prospects aplenty to offer and the wherewithal to compensate A-Rod. White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf (who once employed Michael Jordan and made a run at Rodriguez six winters ago) is known to be an A-Rod admirer, and the Cubs had a third-base question last summer, thanks to Aramis Ramirez's own opt-out clause. The Cubs, on the other hand, were a few months away last summer from embarking on a $300 million spending spree, which started with the hiring of Rodriguez's first big-league manager and close confidant, Lou Piniella.

According to someone familiar with the inquiries, the White Sox and Dodgers were among the most persistent pursuers for A-Rod. However, should A-Rod hit the open market, many will view the Angels as the favorite. They are known to be searching for a big bat and have put themselves into position to acquire big players through a series of shrewd business moves. Additionally, the Angels have yet to make the "major" move club owner Arte Moreno foresaw heading into this past offseason.

The list of A-Rod inquirers shows the type of interest A-Rod can generate, as it runs the gamut from big-to-small market clubs. Even Arizona and Cleveland, two teams with fairly tight payrolls, dreamed of jumping into the fray.

The other two interested teams are intriguing for the killer combinations they could have created: A-Rod and Barry Bonds would have made an all-time tandem. And what about A-Rod and Ryan Howard?

One top baseball decision maker on one of the eight teams claimed, "We offered the house, but [Cashman] wouldn't even respond." While the interest in Rodriguez was great, it appears that talks never got off the ground.

From the start, Rodriguez made clear to Cashman he had no interest in waiving his no-trade clause and wanted to remain a Yankee. And despite A-Rod's perplexing summer slump, which briefly infected his fielding, Cashman didn't try to sway him on that score, either.

"Not only is he one of the premier players in the game, he's not an easily replaceable individual," Cashman explained. "We knew then we weren't going to have [Gary] Sheffield. You can't take two right-handed hitters out of the lineup like that. It would make no sense."

Besides, A-Rod rendered the point moot with a four-word message to Cashman regarding the possibility of a trade. "No thank you, Cash."

So even if the Yankees' interest could have been piqued a tad by a team like the Dodgers, which possess a multitude of exciting and talented young players, exactly the type of players Cashman covets, the Yankees GM didn't want to waste anyone's time, including his own.

"I knew Alex well enough to know that he was not waiving his no-trade clause," Cashman said. "It was a combination of A) not having any interest in trading him, and B) him not wanting to go anywhere ... It would have made entertaining offers senseless."

Rodriguez never wavered in his resolve to remain last summer. But that doesn't mean it's a certainty Rodriguez will make the same call this winter. Technically speaking, there are three possibilities: A-Rod could opt out of the most lucrative contract in the four major team sports and sign elsewhere; he could try to enhance his contract with an extension from the Yankees; or he could just stay, keep the $81 million in hand and play out the original contract.

"I understand my options. I love New York, and I want to be in New York," Rodriguez said. "I understand there's interest."

"He's very happy," agent Scott Boras adds. "His goal was to go there and win a world championship, and his entire focus is on the '07 season. Like any player with a contract provision ... he will take the chance to evaluate things at the end of the year. Just as a team will weigh its options, the same goes for a player. As of now Alex is happy in New York."

This spring Rodriguez looks like a new and happier man. He's slimmed down to an ungodly low 9 percent body fat for a man his size, and if a team is interested in A-Rod as a shortstop, he now looks slim enough to switch back to his original position after willingly surrendering it for Derek Jeter. Rodriguez has shown no outward interest in returning to his original position, but beyond the fact he is only one home run shy of Cal Ripken's home run record for a shortstop, he may still be worth even more as a shortstop.

Besides, how many players surrender a chance to double their pay?

This past winter both stars with opt-out clauses, J.D. Drew and Ramirez, used the opportunity to greatly increase their contracts. Drew left the Dodgers for Boston and Ramirez extracted an extension out of the Cubs. And neither of those players is anywhere near A-Rod's caliber.

A person could be cynical and say A-Rod's choice to stay last summer was a business decision, that if he surrendered his shot at succeeding in New York so quickly, his star would dim. But it's much more likely that his call was more about unfinished business than just plain business.

If A-Rod and New York haven't been quite the perfect pairing thus far, the marriage hasn't been nearly as bad as it's seemed in some quarters. He may not always please tough Yankees fans and his occasional struggles may even puzzle Joe Torre at times. But he's also shown a continuing ability to put up enormous numbers under the glare of New York's spotlight, won a second MVP and helped the Yankees become an even hotter ticket with his obvious star power. He didn't make the pinstripes, but he's added to the allure.

The Yankees are surely disappointed that A-Rod and his teammates have failed to deliver on their ultimate goal of winning the World Series during his three seasons in New York. They're also undoubtedly bewildered over his surprisingly unclutch play in two straight October series. And yet it's hard to think they'd want him to opt out. Beyond the fact that he's one of the greatest all-around talents ever, it's an all-around great deal for the Yankees, who benefit by Rangers owner Tom Hicks paying about one third of A-Rod's salary, as agreed upon when the Rodriguez-to-the-Yankees trade was agreed to on Valentine's Day 2004. His salary is scheduled to be $27 million from 2008 through '10, but could rise by as much as $5 million in each of the last two years if he plays out the whole contract.

But should A-Rod walk away from the Yankees after this season, one baseball person pointed out, "Hicks would be the happiest man on Earth .... In fact, he's probably sending A-Rod brochures of Laguna Beach and Michigan Avenue." Should A-Rod walk away from the current deal, Hicks would save exactly $29 million.

While there's no percentage in the Yankees publicly speaking about the possibility they'd give Rodriguez an extension to stay, that can't be ruled out. The Yankees of Cashman are now keeping a much closer eye on the budget and have few qualms about letting big names leave, as was the case with Sheffield and Randy Johnson. Although, as an all-time great who'd have a good chance to break the lifetime home-run record in the next Yankee Stadium, A-Rod is a different case altogether. And unlike in the cases of Sheffield and Johnson, Cashman has appeared to be much more in A-Rod's corner from the start.

But for now, there are no promises on either side. Cashman would prefer to put the ball in A-Rod's court. Referring to the opt-out clause, Cashman said, "It's something he earned in negotiations, and it's a personal decision he will have to make at the end of the season ... He's got a contract in place. He has a decision to make. If he wants to opt out, he can opt out. Though we hope he doesn't opt out."

The intrigue has just begun.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/04/07 02:32 PM

Yankees Prospect At A Crossroads

Quote:
Source: Lower-Hudson Journal

By PETER ABRAHAM
THE JOURNAL NEWS
(Original publication: March 4, 2007)

TAMPA, Fla. - Eric Duncan was home in New Jersey in December when he heard that the Yankees had signed Doug Mientkiewicz to play first base.

He could not help but feel the pain of an opportunity lost.

"It was a rough few months. They had Gary Sheffield playing first base at the end of the season, then they signed Doug. It was incredibly frustrating to see that,'' Duncan said yesterday. "It could have been me.''

Duncan impressed the Yankees during spring training last season, collecting six extra-base hits and eight RBI in 20 at-bats. He didn't make the team, but it appeared he would get his chance within a few months.

The worst season of his career followed. Now the former first-round pick needs to remind the Yankees why they liked him so much in the first place.

"It's time,'' hitting coach Kevin Long said. "It's time for him to turn the corner and start figuring some things out. He's fully capable of doing that.''

The Yankees selected Duncan with the 27th pick of the 2003 draft. He gave up a scholarship to LSU in exchange for a $1.25 million signing bonus.

"No regrets. My lifelong dream was to be a professional baseball player. It wasn't to be a college player,'' he said. "I've learned more playing pro ball than I could have at LSU.''

But Duncan has hit only .253 in four seasons with 49 home runs. He started last season at Triple-AAA Columbus but hit .209 and was demoted after two months. A .248 average for Double-AA Trenton didn't change the perception that he was overmatched.

Duncan was once a regular on Baseball America's list of the top 100 prospects in the game. He vanished from those rankings this season. As he slides, the Yankees now call Phil Hughes, Jose Tabata and Dellin Betances their best prospects.

But had Duncan gone to college, he would be midway through his senior year. His four years in the organization make it easy to forget he is only 22 years old.

"You see him a few springs and you think he's older than that,'' Joe Torre said. "He's got a long way to go.''

In Duncan's defense, he played most of last season with a degenerative disc in his back. The injury robbed him of his power. He did not require surgery but was forced to undertake an extensive rehabilitation program.

"I had a check swing in Norfolk where I really felt it pop. The disc was bulging then,'' he said. "I never make excuses. I had some struggles when my back wasn't bothering me. But my back was part of it.''

Said Long: "I'd blame a third of his problem on his back. He's responsible for the rest and so am I. As a coach, I wasn't able to help him through it. It was a good experience in that he learned he has to make some adjustments.''

Duncan admitted he grew impatient early last season and become undisciplined.

"I gave up on my approach way too early. I struggled and I went away from what I should do,'' he said. "I was trying to do too much. I'd have four bad at-bats and try to get back all at once.''

Duncan played first base but did not get an at-bat in yesterday's 4-3 victory against the Pirates. There is little chance he will make the team but Torre plans to watch him closely.

"He's a good kid, he's just going to have to continue to work hard. It'll start to get a little easier for him,'' the manager said. "He's got talent and he's got big-league potential. It's just a matter of having that feeling and finding something that will work for him.

"His work ethic and his temperament are outstanding. Hopefully all those things will mean a breakthrough for him because this is an important season for him.''
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/04/07 02:33 PM

Yankees First Team To Make Cuts, Reassignments

Quote:
Source: Rotoworld.com

Yankees reassigned RHP Steven White, INF Marcos Vechionacci, INF Ramiro Pena, C Francisco Cervelli, C Omir Santos and C P.J. Pilittere to their minor league camp.

The Yankees become the first team to make a round of cuts. White likely would have stuck around longer if not for his shoulder problems earlier in camp, but he wasn't a candidate to make the team.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/04/07 02:34 PM

Yankees' Henn Pitches Two Scoreless Innings

Quote:
Source: Rotoworld.com

Sean Henn worked a pair of hitless innings of relief Saturday in the Yankees' 4-3 win over the Pirates. Henn appeared to have a decent chance of making the Yankees before Ron Villone was re-signed last month. Now he's a long shot, and since he's out of options, his days in the organization could be winding down. It's doubtful he'll be of a lot of use this year, but because he's a lefty with a live arm, it seems unlikely that he'd clear waivers.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/04/07 02:39 PM

Mussina Takes Hill For First Time; DeSalvo Impresses Torre; Looking Forward For Pavano

Quote:
Source: Yankees/MLB.com

TAMPA, Fla. -- Before Saturday's outing, Mike Mussina reminisced about his Spring Training days with the Orioles, who he spent an entire decade with from 1990-2000.

From the sound of it, the experience was somewhat of a long, strange trip through Florida. He spent his first big-league camp in Sarasota, Fla., in 1991 and then in St. Petersburg the following season when the Orioles began training at the Huggins-Stengel complex formerly used by the Cardinals.

For the next three seasons, the Orioles split their Spring Training between the fields in Sarasota and St. Petersburg, where they'd practice at one site and play games at another, before moving to their current site in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., in 1996.

"It would be a workout just getting between each place," said Mussina. "There'd be times where we'd do early morning workouts and then hustle to play. We'd pack our stuff up and rush to get to the other field in time for the game."

Listening to Mussina recount stories from early in his career is a reminder that the 38-year-old Stanford graduate has aged and matured despite his still-youthful appearance. And, after his two-inning outing on Saturday against the Pirates during which he allowed two hits, including a towering solo homer to Brad Eldred, Mussina's self-evaluation further exemplified his status as an elder statesman.

"When you're 25, you expect to go out there and have it the first day you pitch," said Mussina, who threw 34 pitches, 24 for strikes. "Now, I don't expect to be great the first day. I just expect to find a feel for it and work out from whatever that starting point is."

His starting point on Saturday involved Pirates left fielder Andrew McCutchen, who fouled off four consecutive pitches on a 2-2 count before reaching first on an infield single. By the time the first inning had ended, Mussina had tossed enough pitches (19) for a full Spring Training day's work where he didn't have to add any in a bullpen session.

"I definitely used up enough in the first inning," said Mussina. "It felt strange for the first time. But your goal is to at least get the ball over the plate, and I did that, for the most part."

Mussina said he felt good about his curveball and had decent location with it, but he was disappointed that it came off his hand so slow. But his analysis of his work equates to someone understanding how life is as a veteran pitcher.

"You just don't go out and do full speed immediately, especially before you're out there in a game," said Mussina, who gave up two hits with no walks or strikeouts. "You have to get used to game speed again. Sometimes the command of the baseball takes the most time. Once you get used to that, then you're fine. But that's just stuff you've got to work on throughout spring."

Manager Joe Torre understands just as much where older pitchers like Mussina are as well, and knows that the first outing is more about surviving as opposed to dominating.

"He wasn't pleased, obviously," said Torre. "He might have been overstriding a bit, but he came through it and felt fine. That's all you really want. That's the thing, when you watch these guys in Spring Training, that there's no physical issues. They've been around long enough to know what works."

One of the things that worked was Mussina's fastball, which Torre said was a key to Mussina starting so well last season, when he won six of his first eight first games.

"He threw a lot of fastballs today, which was good," said Torre. "He did the same thing last year, which built up his arm strength."

And, amidst the dreary day that reminded many of New York in April or May, the cheery Mussina also knows how to have a good time with his first appearance as well.

When asked if he's where he wants to be at this point of the season, Mussina joked: "Well, I threw the same pitch where the [umpire] called it a ball before and then [Eldred] hits it out a long way. So, I guess, I'm in midseason form when it comes to that."

Field of hopes and dreams: Torre was impressed by 26-year-old righty Matt DeSalvo on Saturday. The non-roster invitee allowed three hits and one run, but the Yankees skipper praised DeSalvo for the confidence he showed on the mound.

"He's throwing the ball really good," said Torre. "He's comfortable to watch this spring. Last year, he struggled at the start and tried to make up for it and that he eventually found himself in Double-A ball. Your mind rules your body and, I think, last year, he fought it so much that he lost everything. Now, he's in such a positive frame of mind that his stuff is so good, we just have to keep him there."

Torre also has liked what Kevin Thompson has shown in the field and at the plate. Thompson started in place of Bobby Abreu in right field on Saturday and had a double in two at-bats.

"He's got the tools," said Torre. "He got our attention last year. The more you see him, the more he's exposed to the big leagues, he's going to eventually stay here. The most important thing for him is to play. We know that, in the event of an S.O.S., then we'll have him and Kevin Reese ready to fill in."

Step one: Torre is looking forward to watching Carl Pavano pitch against the Phillies on Sunday, describing the outing as "step one."

"It seems like he's ready for this," said Torre. "There's no special covenant here, so hopefully he has no physical issues when he pitches his two innings."

Gone, but not for good: The Yankees sent Francisco Cervelli, Ramiro Pena, P.J. Pilittere, Omir Santos, Marcos Vechionacci, and Steven White to Minor League camp following Saturday's game. ... White threw off flat surfaces in a bullpen session in what Torre described as "very impressive."

So cool: Johnny Damon and Jason Giambi have been big believers in wearing sunglasses since early in their careers. But a lot has changed in terms of technology and they appreciate the innovations in design of the light blockers.

On Saturday, the two locker neighbors had a chance to see the newest style from Rooly sunglasses. Two representatives from the company, Larry Maddox and Bryan Hooper, who had already fitted the players in earlier visits, brought a few of the specially-made pair for them to try out in different conditions.

It's a far cry from when Damon and Giambi first started playing, when they used to wear flip-down types.

"Those were so uncomfortable and difficult to manage," said Damon, who used to sport the style during his days with the Royals. "They would be too dark and it would make it tough to pick up the ball a lot of times. The ones now are so advanced that you have ones that you can wear when it's overcast, when it's super bright and you don't have to worry about flipping them down. You can just wear them throughout the game and feel like they're not even on your face."

I feel good: Abreu said he has been feeling substantially better in the past two days. He was in good spirits on Saturday after a morning workout in which he ran on the treadmill for 30 minutes.

"I feel real happy with where I am and the way things are going," said Abreu, who strained his oblique muscle earlier in the week. "It's too early to say, but I feel optimistic with the way it's getting better."

When asked if he'd be ready sooner than expected, though, Abreu grinned and said, "Well, I don't know about that, but, hey, you never know. We'll see."

Coming up: The Yankees go for their fourth consecutive win of the exhibition schedule on Sunday when they travel to Clearwater, Fla., to face the Phillies in a 1:05 p.m. ET start.

Pavano will make his first start of the spring, with lefty Cole Hamels taking the mound for the Phillies.


I'd love to see DeSalvo get a shot at the team. He seems like the kind of set-up man that would transition well to the big leagues by his performance in the minors, and seems to have some stuff described as "filthy."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/04/07 02:42 PM

First Blood

Quote:
Source: New York Post

By GEORGE KING

March 4, 2007 -- TAMPA - "American Idle" is about to be canceled. How long it stays in mothballs is yet to be determined.

Today at Bright House Networks Field in Clearwater, Carl Pavano will don a Yankees uniform and face the Phillies in a much-anticipated two-inning stint. Since Pavano hasn't hurled for the big-league club since June of 2005, more than a few organization eyes will be on the oft-injured right-hander.

"To be part of the team will be nice," Pavano said yesterday.

Since he was shelved with a right shoulder in jury in 2005, Pavano has suffered more injuries and an ocean of criticism in the Yankees' clubhouse. That came to a head this spring when Mike Mussina said, "He has to prove to us he wants to pitch."

Now, Pavano has a chance to take a baby step toward regaining a morsel of respect from teammates. Sure, it's two innings in March's infancy, but they are six very important outs for Pavano. And it goes without saying he can't get hurt.

"I don't think I will be more excited or less excited, but when I pitched last year it was in rehab starts and not at this level," said Pavano, who has given the Yankees 17 games for $40 million and posted a 4-6 record and 4.77 ERA. "There will have to be some control behavior out there."

"I am looking forward to it and he seems ready to do this," Joe Torre said. "It's basically Step 1. Get him on the mound and he is in the rotation and it's the first time around. There is no special covenant here. He is up with everybody else. Hopefully, he has no issues when he pitches his two innings."

Former big league catcher, Blue Jays manager and current television announcer Buck Martinez spotted Pavano in a Legends hallway yesterday and wished the pitcher luck against the Phillies.

Pavano said what many Yankees and fans of the team strongly agree with: "It's about time."

Pavano should be excited about facing Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Pat Burrell.

It may only be an exhibition game, but it offers Pavano a chance to show he is fully healthy - even after taking a liner off the left foot in batting practice eight days ago.

Pavano was shut down in 2005 with a shoulder problem that didn't require surgery.

Prior to the beginning of camp in 2006 Pavano developed a balky back.

When he did return in the final week of the exhibition schedule Pavano suffered a bruised buttock when he fell covering first base. While working his way back from that Pavano was diagnosed with bone chips in the right elbow and underwent surgery. During a rehab assignment he suffered broken ribs in a car accident Pavano foolishly hid from Yankee brass.

With $22.95 million ($10 million this year; $11 million next year and a $1.95 million option on a $15 million option the Yankees won't pick up in 2009) remaining on the contract, Pavano will join Kei Igawa in the back end of the rotation or be dealt.

If he is traded, the Yankees will no doubt have to swallow some money Pavano is owed.

With Jeff Karstens and Darrell Rasner ready now to be the No. 5 starter and Ross Ohlendorf and Phil Hughes not far away, the Yankees could afford to deal Pavano to further replenish their system.

Pavano was impressive during early bullpen sessions but raised eyebrows when he wasn't able to participate in pitcher fielding drills (PFPs) because of "heavy legs."

However, he didn't miss a pen before Alberto Gonzalez drilled him in the foot with a liner. Pavano bounced back to throw a pain-free bullpen session this week.


Frankly, Rasner and Karstens really showed me something when they came up last year with all the injuries, and Karstens in particular had maturity that defied his years. Pavano is becoming more and more expendable as the days go by, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him dealt by mid-season if he can pitch even half-way decent. Move him for some better 1st basemen (or, gasp, dare I say, a successor to Jorge Posada, since our phenom Venezuelan prospect Jesus Montero is only 16?).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/05/07 01:04 AM

I know it's not Yankee news but it could be in the near future

Santana eager to negotiate new deal with Twins

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Despite the fact the he won't be a free agent until after the 2008 season, Johan Santana says that the Minnesota Twins should try to sign him to a long-term extension sooner rather than later.


"If Minnesota wants to keep me, the earlier the better for a contract negotiation," Santana told ESPNdeportes.com. "The closer I get to free agency the more difficult it will be."

The native of Venezuela won his second AL Cy Young award in three years in 2006, taking the pitching triple crown in the junior circuit with 19 victories, a 2.77 ERA and 245 strikeouts. In addition, Santana led the league in starts (34) and innings pitched (232).

Santana will make $12.2 million this season, the third of a four-year, $39.7 million deal he signed with the Twins in February 2005.

"I'm happy the way things have gone in Minnesota and I'd like to stay here for a long time, but if I do opt for free agency, my agent will be the one in charge of the next contract," said Santana. "I'm not really concerned with the specifics of what we'd ask for right now, because I've still got two years left with the Twins … but after that, whatever has to happen will happen."

Santana gave up three hits and one run in two innings against the Red Sox in his spring training debut in Florida on Sunday, losing to Curt Schilling and Boston 6-1. The left-hander was unusually wild, waking three of the ten batters he faced.

"I felt good, especially being that it was my first start since last year's playoffs," he said. "My arm and legs were fine. This is just the first spring training start."

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/05/07 01:06 AM

Pavano pleased with debut

CLEARWATER, Fla. -- The first pitch sequence of Carl Pavano's return to the Yankees had just been ended, and already the training staff was jogging onto the field.
For those who have watched and waited over the past1 1/2 years while the oft-injured right-hander has struggled to maintain his health and return to the Major Leagues, Sunday's scenario seemed quite unsettling.

Maybe this is where things begin to turn around for the 27-year-old right-hander.

For starters, the player being checked out was not Pavano -- it was left fielder Jose Tabata, who attempted a diving catch and was not injured. Manager Joe Torre called Pavano's two-inning appearance against the Phillies at Bright House Networks Field "Step 1," and every big event has to begin somewhere.

"Sometimes, you're out there just trying to survive instead of trying to win the battle," Pavano said. "I've definitely dealt with both those emotions. It's not always going to be perfect, it's not always going to be in your favor. But what I've dealt with in the past, hopefully, I can keep that behind me."

Pavano has not appeared in a Major League game since June 27, 2005, missing all of last season with numerous ailments.

The laundry list of Pavano's injuries reads like a preschooler's book on anatomy: shoulder, back, buttocks, elbow and ribs. Sunday presented an opportunity to put the medical report behind him for at least one afternoon, as he allowed one run and two hits in a 33-pitch (16 for strikes) effort against Philadelphia.

"I just wanted to go out there and pitch and have fun again," Pavano said.

Pavano said that his consistency in the strike zone could have been better, but all things considered, he was pleased. His fastball had good downward plane, catcher Wil Nieves said, and Pavano's slider was darting around the zone.

"He looked great," Nieves said. "He looked like he's been pitching for a while. I liked what I saw, and I know he's going to get better. I'm going to keep praying for him to stay healthy all year."

Though Pavano fell behind in the count early and issued two walks, he induced the always-dangerous Ryan Howard to ground out, ending the first inning. The run Pavano allowed in the second inning came on an Aaron Rowand fielder's choice, which Pavano remarked was the double-play ball he coveted, just too slowly hit.

"I thought I fell into a good groove," Pavano said. "My consistency can only get better."

Pavano attempted to downplay the importance of his Spring Training, even though he admitted earlier in the week to being "excited" for the upcoming appearance.

His left foot, bruised by an Alberto Gonzalez line drive during batting practice drills, has healed and showed no ill effects Sunday.

But even Pavano was surprised by how good he felt in the start. He pulled pitching coach Ron Guidry aside and spoke about a little extra bounce in his step for this effort; later, Pavano admitted to feeling some additional adrenaline coursing through his body as he threw his first pitch -- a called strike to Jimmy Rollins.

"I didn't know it until I woke up, but I was definitely antsy and anxious," Pavano said. "I thought that was all positive. I was just excited get out there, get the season started and make those first couple of pitches. I definitely had some extra energy."

He also had a few items to continue working on. Nieves needed to remind Pavano to keep his shoulder closed and maintain his mechanics, and Pavano said he had to remain conscious of holding the ball and slowing the game down.

It was a long way from Game 4 of the 2003 World Series. Even so, Torre said he had no doubts that Pavano could return to the form that prompted the Yankees to issue him a four-year, $39.95 million contract after the 2004 season.

"He's a young man and he's healthy," Torre said. "But again, he hasn't competed in a couple of years. It's still going to take him a little time to get that feeling."

Two innings of Grapefruit League work don't exactly cement Pavano's place on the Opening Day roster, but they indicate progress.

Now, Pavano can at least turn the clock ahead to his next start. He fits into a regular five-man rotation, the words "bullpen session" no longer hold a negative connotation, and that's good enough.

"He's one of the guys, and I think that's the most important thing," Torre said. "He's here, and he's not getting any sort of special treatment or program. You hand him the ball with no restrictions."

It's been a while since the Yankees could state that about Pavano. They can only hope they'll never have to question it again.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/06/07 12:40 AM

Sheffield: A-Rod primed for great year

TAMPA, Fla. -- Gary Sheffield believes that Alex Rodriguez is destined for the best year of his Yankees career.
Sheffield, now with the Detroit Tigers, said Monday that A-Rod is heading into the 2007 season with a clear mind, finally having unloaded the mounting stress of concealing his fractured relationship with shortstop Derek Jeter.

"I guarantee you one thing, and I say this right now: Alex is going to have the best year since he's been [with the Yankees]," Sheffield said. "I think what he did, stood up, that's what's going to get him over the top. He expressed how he felt. He was honest, and that goes a long way. I guarantee you, when he went home, it was a peaceful night."

Last month, Rodriguez admitted to reporters that he and Jeter are no longer as close as they used to be.

"We were like blood brothers," Rodriguez said on Feb. 19. "You don't have to go to dinner with a guy four, five times a week to do what you're doing. It's actually much better than all you guys expect, but I just want to let the truth be known."

The 31-year-old Rodriguez batted .290 with 35 home runs and 121 RBIs in 154 games for the Yankees last season, but he suffered through several extended slumps. He also struggled in the postseason, going 1-for-14 in the ALDS loss to the Tigers.

Sheffield, 38, has spoken with Rodriguez periodically over the winter. Sheffield believes that the persistent public speculation over Rodriguez's relationship with Jeter contributed to A-Rod's troubles.

"He really wanted to say these things a long time ago," Sheffield said, "but Alex is just a passive guy in that area. He didn't want to touch that subject. That could be borderline controversial. He did it, and I think he's going to benefit from it.

"I talked to Alex about it all the time. He's got to be his own man. You can't force a guy to deal with bullets when they are not used to having bullets shot over in a window. I grew up with bullets shot at me. It's a different thing, and I can understand it."

Sheffield fancied himself a guiding influence on Rodriguez in their three seasons together in New York, often pulling the All-Star aside to whisper in his ear to alternately commend and challenge.

Sheffield fought injuries last season and, limited to 39 games, eventually lost his starting role when the team acquired Bobby Abreu from Philadelphia on July 30. He hinted that he would accept some responsibility for Rodriguez's struggles in 2006.

"I wasn't there to stay in his ear," Sheffield said. "Even when he didn't want me in his ear, I'd make sure he was going to listen. Certain things have to be said. I knew when to approach Alex and when not to, when he's having his moments. I'd pull him to the side, say it, and keep walking."

Rodriguez said he appreciated Sheffield's contributions during their years as teammates.

"Sheff was always very good for me," Rodriguez said. "He's a good friend and a good teammate. I enjoyed having him. We're going to miss him."

Rodriguez added that, weeks later, he is satisfied with the outcome of the statements.

"It just felt good ending it," Rodriguez said.

The Yankees traded Sheffield on Nov. 10 to Detroit, where he is preparing for life as a designated hitter and a pursuit of the 45 home runs he needs to reach 500.

Though he is pleased to be reunited with manager Jim Leyland, one of his all-time favorites, Sheffield said he would miss a great deal about playing in New York. He said he hoped to receive a warm reception when the Tigers visit Yankee Stadium in August.

"Just thinking about it, man, I get chill-bumps," Sheffield said. "I'm going to miss that. I'm going to miss 50,000 people screaming and the stadium about to come down. It's the best atmosphere to play in, by far."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/06/07 12:41 AM

Igawa gets off to rough start

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - Kei Igawa had an adventurous debut.

The Japanese left-hander allowed two runs, two hits, three walks Monday in the New York Yankees' 6-5 win over the Detroit Tigers.

Igawa struck out three and faced eight batters, getting three outs before leaving in the second.

"The only thing I saw was overstriding," Yankees catcher Jorge Posada said. "When you strike the guys out, you obviously made some good pitches. When you walk the guys, everything is up in the zone."

Igawa loaded the bases on two walks and a single, with no outs in the first. After striking out Carlos Guillen, Ryan Raburn walked to put the Tigers ahead 1-0. Igawa avoided further damage when he struck out Brent Clevlen and Brandon Inge.

"He looked like he rushed himself a little bit," New York manager Joe Torre said. "He just didn't seem to finish off pitches. The first time out, maybe getting a little over anxious."

Igawa was pulled after Sean Casey's second-inning leadoff single on his 40th pitch. Casey scored later to make it 2-0.

"The result was not good, but it's something I can learn (from) and go forward," Igawa said through a translator. "It's the same as Japan right now during the same time. My pitches are usually higher."

Clevlen was hit in the head by a Tyler Clippard pitch in the sixth - the Tigers said later that he was OK.

New York closer Mariano Rivera worked a perfect third in his first spring training appearance. He had two strikeouts.

Rivera, sidelined from Aug. 31 to Sept. 22 last year because of a muscle strain near his right elbow, has felt fine since spring training began.

"I feel really, really good," he said.

Minor leaguer Bronson Sardinha hit a winning, two-run homer off Felix Heredia with two outs in the ninth as the Yankees improved to 5-0, their best spring training start since opening 1993 with eight victories in a row.

"I'm trying to take advantage of every opportunity I get to play," Sardinha said. "Every time I go in, show something so later in the season if there are injuries they'll have a feeling of what I can do."

Hideki Matsui hit a two-run homer during a three-run second off Justin Verlander. The reigning AL Rookie of the Year gave up three runs and three hits in two innings and had one strikeout during a 34-pitch outing.

Alex Rodriguez hit an RBI single in the fourth that extended the lead to 4-2. Detroit went up 5-4 on Placido Polanco's two-run double in the fifth.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/06/07 07:56 AM

Murcer plans to return to broadcasting

TAMPA, Fla. -- Bobby Murcer has completed a six-week program of radiation and chemotherapy, and he has set his sights on returning to work at Yankee Stadium.

"I plan on being back with the [YES] Network for sure, doing the Yankees games," Murcer said. "That's what I love to do and nothing's going to stop me from doing that. ... I can't tell you when that's going to be, but the way I feel, it feels like it's going to be pretty soon."

Murcer, 60, had surgery at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston on Dec. 28, removing a malignant brain tumor. A five-time All-Star outfielder and long-time Yankees broadcaster, Murcer's condition was diagnosed on Christmas Eve after he complained of headaches and a general loss of energy.

Murcer spoke to reporters in a conference call Monday from his home in Oklahoma City, Okla. In an upbeat mood and sounding much like he does on television broadcasts, Murcer spoke while he watched the Yankees' Spring Training game against the Detroit Tigers.

"It's nice to have baseball on TV, at least," Murcer said.

Murcer had hoped to make his way to Legends Field in Tampa, Fla., before the conclusion of the exhibition season, but that no longer appears to be a possibility.

Murcer will return to Houston on March 18 and spend more than a week at the hospital, undergoing further tests that will include an MRI exam.

"From that point on, it will determine what my long-term goals are going to be," Murcer said.

If the MRI exam reveals no further cancerous activity, Murcer may take part in a clinical trial for experimental vaccines. He said that it has not been difficult for him to keep his good spirits throughout the ordeal of chemotherapy and radiation treatment, saying that he feels blessed.

"God has blessed me so much," Murcer said. "The treatments, there were some rough spots there, but all in all, the treatment and side effects were pretty minimal. I have some down days, but everybody's going to have that when you're taking that kind of treatment."

Murcer said that an outpouring of love and support has helped boost his spirits and those of his wife, Kay. The Murcers have received great numbers of cards, e-mails and telephone calls.

"I wish I had words to describe it," Murcer said. "During these times, that really sustains you. It really gives you an uplift; you feel good. You know people are behind you and they're praying for you all over the world.

"How much better can it be than that?"

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/07/07 04:30 AM

Rocker took steroids?

ALBANY, N.Y. -- Two more people linked to a nationwide investigation into the illegal sale of steroids were arraigned Tuesday on drug-related charges as published reports implicated more athletes, including former Atlanta Braves relief pitcher John Rocker and veteran third baseman David Bell.

Steven and Karen Lampert of Anti-Aging Centers in Nanuet pleaded not guilty in an Albany County, N.Y., courtroom and were released without bail. They are charged with submitting prescriptions to a Florida pharmacy -- some "obviously forged," according to the district attorney -- for drugs totaling more than $50,000 for people without a medical need.

Steven Lampert is charged with 20 counts, his wife with two.

"It seems as though our clients have much less involvement than the others," said Jay Golland, a lawyer for Karen Lampert.

Prosecutors describe the Lamperts as "criminal associates" of Signature Pharmacy in Orlando, Fla. Albany County District Attorney David Soares says Signature was at the center of a web of businesses and doctors that illegally wrote prescriptions for steroids.

The arraignments come a day after not guilty pleas were entered in Albany by 11 other defendants, including four Signature Pharmacy officials.

Also Tuesday, SI.com reported Rocker, Bell and 1996 Olympic wrestling gold medalist Kurt Angle all showed up on a client list of Applied Pharmacy, a Mobile, Ala., company raided in connection with the investigation.

Rocker's publicist told the New York Daily News that Rocker admitted using HGH but he said he needed the substance for medical reasons.

"That was a growth hormone that was prescribed by a doctor in relation to his rotator cuff surgery in 2003, so I don't really think there is anything to the story," Debi Curzio told the paper.

Human growth hormone, however, is generally prescribed in adults for AIDS related wasting and growth hormone deficiency -- usually caused by a pituitary tumour -- not for the procedure Rocker underwent.


Bell, a veteran third baseman who is not on a major league roster for 2007, told SI.com he received the shipment of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) last April but said the drug was prescribed "for a medical condition," which he declined to disclose.

Soares also acknowledged that bodybuilder Victor Martinez was an "unindicted co-conspirator" in the case and is linked to the Lamperts' Anti-Aging Centers. Martinez won the Arnold Classic bodybuilding competition Saturday in Ohio.

A spokesman for Schwarzenegger said he wants bodybuilders to stop using steroids.

"He's clearly opposed to these steroids," said Aaron McLear. "And he's working with top officials in the bodybuilding community to come up with a system where they rid the sport of steroids."

Martinez told The New York Times he bought testosterone from the Lamperts after their clinic told him he had low levels of the hormone. He also said the company asked him to become a partner, but he declined.

"I didn't trust them, and other people were warning me not to do business with them," Martinez told The Times.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/07/07 08:31 PM

Hughes represents Yankees' new direction

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. -- It isn't often in life that we can see the future. But the New York Yankees can.

And its name is Phil (Don't Call Me Philip) Hughes.

But not just because Baseball America ranked this 20-year-old buzz-master as the No. 2 pitching prospect in the whole sport, behind only Daisuke Matsuzaka.

And not just because a bunch of Yankees legends have been tossing around a torrent of "young Rocket" Roger Clemens comparisons all spring.

And not just because his minor-league career has been so spectacular (21-7, 2.13 ERA, only 150 hits in 237 1/3 innings).

None of that, to be honest, is the big news here. The big news is that, for maybe the first time in the Emperor Steinbrenner era, it's finally safe to sit back in spring training, watch a sensational Yankees pitching prospect do his thing and not pose what used to be an automatic question:

What team are they going to trade him to?

Asked Tuesday, on an afternoon when Phil Hughes spun two shutout innings against Cleveland, if Hughes is a sign that those days -- the not-so-good-old trade-'em-all-away days -- are over, GM Brian Cashman replied, succinctly: "Yes."

Phil Hughes, you see, is the symbol of a staggering new development in this sport: The Yankees are trying to be a baseball team again.

As opposed to the universe's most expensive A-Plus Rental Center.

Not that it wasn't fun running the payroll up to $220 million, having a pitching staff that made more than the entire AL Central and cornering the market on all living multi-Cy Young Award winners. But the Yankees finally have caught on to something:

Bringing in those gazillion-dollar, superstud hired guns hasn't worked so well.

But those Chien-Ming Wangs and Robinson Canos and Melky Cabreras -- who must have slipped into town while everybody was busy watching the A-Rod and Randy Johnson news conferences -- all seemed to manage just fine. And the Yankees finally have concluded that might not have been an accident.

"Wang and Cano and Cabrera all basically came up, and the expectation from the press wasn't there to impede their efforts," Cashman said. "And so, all of a sudden, before you know it, you have a guy (Wang) who finished second in the Cy Young award voting. And you have a guy (Cano) who made the All-Star team.

"And it's like wow, it just happened so quietly and quickly -- versus the other way, where you have some big press conference for some massive free-agent signing or trade in the winter, and they're supposed to be the reason that you're going to win the next five World Series in a row. And then they're getting booed for going 0-for-4, or having back-to-back bad pitching outings. It's almost like the cards are stacked against you that way. So this is a better way to do it -- and certainly a cheaper way, if you get the right talent."

Well, if there's one thing they all seem to agree on, it's that Phil Hughes is exactly the right talent.

He's 6-foot-5, 220 pounds. He launches baseballs with a smooth, compact delivery that has drawn comparisons to Clemens and Curt Schilling and Mike Mussina. And his four-pitch repertoire is so dominating, he turned the entire Eastern League into a collection of .179 hitters last year.

So Hughes is shaping up as the centerpiece of Cashman's new, welcome-to-the-21st-century blueprint for the Yankees. Why buy an ace down at the old Mercenary Mart for 100 million bucks -- when you can grow your own?

But before we hand him his first Cy Young trophy, let's remember something:

He's only 20.

He's younger than Tyler Hansbrough and Acie Law IV and Darryl Strawberry Jr.. He's so young, he thinks of the wild card as a baseball phenomenon that has been around most of his life.


So even if Hughes already knows he won't be allowed to make this team out of spring training, he also knows -- because everyone knows -- that it won't be long. Which means the biggest question most people will have about him isn't whether he's talented enough to pitch for the Yankees.

No, the biggest question is whether he's mature enough to handle the most turbocharged universe in baseball.

Amazingly, everyone who knows him has no doubt whatsoever that he has the maturity.

"His age, to me, is irrelevant," said his agent, Nez Balelo. "He could pass for 25 years old. You could have a legitimate conversation with him about business. Or you could have a legitimate conversation with him about the game. He could sit down with Andy Pettitte or Mike Mussina and have a conversation about how to set up hitters. You can see this guy's maturity level. He doesn't act like a guy who's 20."

"It's really unusual to see a guy that young who handles himself the way he does," said 32-year-old catcher Jason Brown, who caught Hughes in Trenton last year. "He's not like a normal 20-year-old. I know, looking back, how I was when I was 20. And man, it was nothing even close."

But people have been saying stuff like this about Hughes since he was 17. Balelo tells a story about the day in 2004, when the Yankees invited Hughes -- their new No. 1 draft pick, out of Santa Ana, Calif. -- to meet them on a trip to Dodger Stadium.
They gave him a uniform, then marched him out to the bullpen before a game to throw for Joe Torre and pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre.

When a group of fans around the bullpen began hooting at him, Stottlemyre walked over to Hughes and asked: "Is all the yelling bothering you?"

"I don't even know what you're talking about," Hughes replied.

"And he really didn't," Balelo said. "He was in such a zone. And he's been that way his whole career."

We've seen enough players get overwhelmed by New York to know it isn't for everybody (not mentioning the names of any 6-foot-10 left-handers here). But it doesn't seem to faze Hughes, even though he grew up nearly 3,000 miles away.

"I'd rather be in a situation like the Yankees," he said, "where there's all this attention and media coverage. Some people think it's added pressure. But I just try and enjoy it."

If there's one word that describes his demeanor, he said, it's "calm." He gets that from his dad, Phil Sr., a retired Naval officer and "the most unrattled guy you'll ever meet." It's a quality, Hughes said, that "has really helped me a lot.

"I'll get in situations sometimes where I'll get a little bit rattled," he said. "But it never really snowballs. I always have the ability to slow down and take everything back to the basics. And that's definitely something I'm thankful to have."

We wish him luck maintaining that calm when it's September in Fenway, and Big Papi is standing 60 feet away, and the entire fate of Yankees-Red Sox civilization rests on his next pitch. But if you review Hughes' minor-league career, it's obvious nothing has discombobulated him yet.

His highest ERA at any stop was 2.27 (in the Florida State League). He has averaged at least one strikeout one per inning at every level, and at least four times as many strikeouts as walks at every level. And he never has allowed a baserunner per inning anywhere.

So Torre says the Yankees would like to see him experience a little failure someplace before they beam him into the Bronx. But they're running out of places he could experience that failure before the big leagues.

The closest Hughes thinks he has come to tasting any negativity was last year in spring training, when the Yankees ran him into a couple of big-league exhibition games at age 19, "and I didn't do well at all, and it was a big shock to me."

But he reacted exactly the way the Yankees hoped he would -- by realizing he couldn't get by with the fastball-curve combo he'd been using to cruise through A ball. So he dedicated his summer to mixing in his slider and change, and really pitching. And he has an Eastern League ERA title to show for it.

So by the time Hughes rolled into his second big-league camp, he was almost as big a story as the Jeter/A-Rod No More Sleepovers Saga. If the GM was holding out any hope he could just sneak this guy into the big leagues some month with no pressure or expectations, well, he knows now there's no shot of that.

"Yeah, his [expectations] now are starting to get overblown," Cashman said. "For instance, the day last week he pitched a batting practice and he wound up on the back pages being compared to Roger Clemens. That's probably not healthy."

But one guy who isn't worried is Yankees scouting director Damon Oppenheimer. There has been so much focus on Hughes for so long already, Oppenheimer says, "it was a more gradual thing for him to get used to. It's not happening all at once."

And the mere prospect of being a Yankee -- so foreboding for some people -- isn't as intimidating for a guy like this, who has known nothing but being a Yankee, he says.

"You can be sitting there in Tampa, getting ready to start up a workout, and in walks George Steinbrenner," Oppenheimer said. "So I don't know if there's the same pressure to being a Yankee when you grow up with the expectation of doing things like a Yankee."

Well, if it means anything, Hughes says he wouldn't want any other kind of expectation. He likes the idea of looking around the clubhouse at "eight or nine future Hall of Famers." He likes the idea that, on the day he was drafted, he had to do a conference call "with about 20 newspapers." He's excited by the thought of having "to make that big pitch in front of 50,000 people."


And if he's as sincere about that as he sounds, he is on the cusp of doing something no Yankees No. 1 draft pick has done in 38 years -- actually win a game for the Yankees. (Bill Burbach, the Yankees' top pick in the first-ever draft in 1965, went 6-8 lifetime)


"Hopefully," said Phil Hughes, "I can wipe that stat out. Soon."

Source: ESPN

-----------------------------------------------------------

"Why buy an ace down at the old Mercenary Mart for 100 million bucks -- when you can grow your own?"

Perhaps this is the reason the Yankees didn't go so hog wild on Matuzaka. I'd love to see Hughes this year but only if he's ready. If he comes in and dominates, while Matsuzaka flatlines after a season or 2, the Yankess will look like geniuses while boston will be the laughing stock of baseball.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/07/07 08:32 PM

Mientkiewicz admires Jeter

TAMPA, Fla. -- Doug Mientkiewicz can remember channel surfing through a seemingly endless parade of sitcoms, news programs and sporting events, landing every now and again on Derek Jeter's grinning image.
In a long-running television commercial for Major League Baseball, Jeter summed up life as a Yankee by saying, "You either love us or you hate us."

As an opposing player, Mientkiewicz agreed with the sentiment. Now that Mientkiewicz has found his way into pinstripes, he takes it to heart even more.

"You know you have to bring your 'A' game every night," Mientkiewicz said. "I've been on the other side. I've been with the Twins, trying to see where we stand up against the Yankees. You get everybody's best, every single night."

Mientkiewicz, 32, is in his first Spring Training with the Yankees, and he now lockers just a few stalls away from the shortstop at the Legends Field complex. But from afar, Mientkiewicz has long admired Jeter's professionalism.

Mientkiewicz recalls rifling through the New York tabloids as a visiting player with Minnesota, noting Jeter's press savvy. Most quotes had the same underlying meaning -- the Yankees were going to try to beat you -- but they always seemed acceptable to opponents, never rankling or delivered with ill intent.

Mientkiewicz said he has even tried to emulate Jeter's commentary and demeanor, with mixed results.

"You've got to respect a guy from whom you never hear an 'I.' It's always 'We,'" Mientkiewicz said. "I think that's genuine, that's class. That's why he's the best. He kills you with kindness.

"There's just a good group of professionals here. It's hard not to fit in. Not only are they great players, but they enjoy the game and they have fun doing it. If you can't fit in with some of these guys, you shouldn't be playing."

In line to serve as the Yankees' first baseman against right-handed pitching, Mientkiewicz is coming off a campaign in which he batted .283 with four home runs and 43 RBIs in 91 games for the Royals.

Even through a losing campaign in Kansas City, Mientkiewicz said the Royals were able to keep their positive demeanor, reinvigorating for the lefty-hitting glove man. He has been pleased by his first experiences in the Yankees' clubhouse, which has not seemed nearly as stuffy or corporate as some might portray it to be.

"It's been a lot more laid back than I expected," Mientkiewicz said. "It's a nice atmosphere. We cut up, but when it comes time to work, you work. That's why these guys are accustomed to winning. They know how to balance the two. You have a good time, but you work your rear end off.

"So far, it's been everything I wished it could have been. I'm extremely happy."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 04:19 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
the Yankess will look like geniuses while boston will be the laughing stock of baseball.
isn't that already the case
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 04:25 AM

Spring training is fun to watch, but its really meaningless. Igawa has control issues, Matsuzaka is striking out college kids...I mean, none of this is going to matter until they get out there and face the regular nine guys who make up the big-league roster.

Anyways, glad to see Pettitte duck that flying bat shard tonight, got scared. What the fuck is up with Roger Clemens? I believe 100% now he's coming back to the Yankees. He was schmoozing with Torre and the media before the game, claiming he wanted to see Andy pitch, and then said he'll decide by May if he's going to go or not. Bah. I don't care. Just make up your mind. At least if Clemens comes back, we can deal Pavano for a power hitting first-baseman (a nice package with some of the minor league pitchers for Texiera? Anyone else salivating?)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 05:54 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
At least if Clemens comes back, we can deal Pavano for a power hitting first-baseman (a nice package with some of the minor league pitchers for Texiera? Anyone else salivating?)


You'd really do that? Clemens would just last the year. Pavano still has this year and next on his contract. What are we going to do for a starter then?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 05:55 AM

Rocket visits Yanks; no decision yet

TAMPA, Fla. -- As Andy Pettitte warmed up on the mound before Wednesday night's game against the Reds, Roger Clemens settled into a seat next to the Yankees dugout, just behind Joe Torre.
The crowd murmured as Clemens reached out and shook Torre's hand.

Then, three innings later, after Pettitte finished his three-inning stint, Clemens made his way up to the third floor of Legends Field and turned out of the elevator toward owner George Steinbrenner's suite.

And, finally, The Rocket stepped into the YES Network's booth to talk with broadcasters Al Leiter and Ken Singleton.

Was it time? Did this mean the 44-year-old righty was ready to announce his return to the Bronx?

"No, I'm just here as a fan and a friend," Clemens said. "My position hasn't changed. At this point, I'm not thinking about coming back. But there are times when I feel like doing so."

Pettitte spent last year with his good friend on the Astros and understands the grind of the season.

"My guess is that he'd pitch, but it's always tough," said Pettitte, who has been playing golf with Clemens on his off-days. "But I know he's still working out and he keeps himself in good shape. And I think he once he gets that itch, he might choose to play again."

Clemens had spent the day in Orlando pitching in the Astros' Minor League camp, where his son, Koby, is participating. He faced six batters during the session, which amounted to about 60 pitches.

"My arm feels good and my body feels good," said Clemens, who pitched to his son during the rotation. "I was further along last year because of the World [Baseball Classic], but when I've gone out there and pitched to the Minor Leaguers, it feels good and then things seem appealing. But then, when I'm back home and I sit for a few days, I then say, 'There's no way I can do this.'"

Clemens said he would not make a decision until May about if, when and where he'd return to play.

The clear choices are the Yankees, Red Sox or the Astros, but the ultimate decision depends on whether he's physically and mentally prepared to do so.

"I have to get back up to speed," said Clemens. "I'm not at the point to be competitive and to get the job done. I've had enough word from teammates where it does sound appealing, though."

On Tuesday night, Derek Jeter joined him for dinner in Tampa, but the subject of whether Clemens will return did not come up. Yet, that did not preclude the All-Star shortstop from guessing Clemens' decision.

"We never talked about baseball," said Jeter. "I'm sure he's done enough of that with you all, so he doesn't want to have to hear it from me. But I think that he'll pitch again. If I had to guess, I'd say he will."

Torre hadn't talked to Clemens in more than a year and hadn't seen him in over two years, but the Yankees skipper still believes Clemens has the right stuff to come back and perform well.

"It's only because he keeps himself in such good shape and he has a good time pitching," said Torre, who spoke briefly with Clemens before and during the game.

"I don't think he knows where he wants to pitch, and I wouldn't go about trying to recruit him for here. I think that would only make it more difficult for him."

Nevertheless, the drive into Tampa before Wednesday's game brought back memories for Clemens and his son.

"It was fun coming in today," said Clemens. "Koby reminisced about all the years spent here in February and March."

Which might mean the longing to wear Yankees pinstripes again could be in the picture soon.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 05:58 AM

Focus for Jeter is on winning a title

TAMPA, Fla. -- A cursory glance at the Yankees' last campaign reveals promising highlights and opportunities for the members of the 2006 squad to thump their collective chests and look back with some fondness.

Yes, the Yankees' season ended too early for the organization's taste, abruptly coming to a close by dropping the American League Division Series to the Detroit Tigers. But the Yankees brought home their ninth straight division title, tied for the Major League lead with 97 wins, and led the big leagues with 930 runs scored.

Shouldn't that count for something? It's not good enough, Derek Jeter says.

"A lot of guys who haven't won might say that," Jeter said. "A lot of guys with other teams might say that. Here [in New York], it was a wasted year. That's the bottom line, and that's how it goes. Nobody is walking around saying, 'Oh, we had a great year last year.' It was a wasted year, because we play to win."

As Jeter spoke, he sat at his Legends Field locker, stuffing items into a midnight blue duffel bag for an afternoon road trip. Even with his attention diverted and three exhibition at-bats at St. Petersburg on tap, it's clear that Jeter's focus never wavers.

Jeter arguably gave the Yankees his finest all-around season last year, finishing second in the AL Most Valuable Player voting, while bringing home a Silver Slugger Award and his third consecutive Rawlings Gold Glove Award.

Those sorts of personal achievements might play in other locales or organizations where playing in October isn't considered an annual right, but Jeter is wise enough to understand that the street credibility of such honors loses quite a bit of value within the city limits of New York.

Perhaps more than ever, with a six-year title drought hanging over the Yankees' heads, the ring is the thing up around 161st Street and River Avenue in the Bronx.

"It's no good. You sense it because you're going home," Jeter said. "You're watching another team win, that's how you sense it. You put a lot of work in to win a championship. If you don't do it, man, it's a wasted year. The only sign is how you feel afterward."

So Jeter looks toward the reconstruction of the Yankees and barely bats an eyelash. The corner locker previously owned by Bernie Williams no longer houses either the outfielder's sweet stroke or his music, perhaps the only roster change in the Spring Training clubhouse that disappoints Jeter.

Everything else is just icing. Among the more notable moves, Andy Pettitte is fitting in like he never left, filling the role of left-handed starter vacated by Randy Johnson, who never really quite adjusted to life as a Yankees hurler.

And top to bottom, the Yankees' lineup has already drawn rave reviews -- notably, both Jason Giambi and Johnny Damon have crowed that it must be a frightening proposition for any pitcher to face such a solid lineup.

Robinson Cano, the Yankees' projected No. 7 hitter, finished third in the AL with a .342 batting average last season. If that's not a wealth of offense, what is?

"We've got a solid lineup," Jeter agrees, "but really, scoring runs has never been a problem for us. We've been scoring runs for a while. We've got a lot of guys who can hit and a lot of guys who can beat you. We're capable in scoring in a lot of ways."

It all translated to a grand total of 14 runs in the AL Division Series, and just six after Game 1. So excuse Jeter if he appears nonplussed by exhibition game rallies against a variety of pitchers who may or may not taste the big leagues this season.

"It's the first days of Spring Training," Jeter said. "It's the first days for us, it's the first day for pitchers. What happens really for the first few weeks of Spring Training has no bearing whatsoever on the season. You just want everyone to get ready. You want no injuries and you want just to be rolling into the regular season."

It has been suggested that the clubhouse might feel a little fresher and more relaxed, but Jeter doesn't see it that way. He'll reserve judgment until he sees it play out on the field. Jeter has seen the assemblage fall short of the dreams far too many times this decade.

"Ever since we lost in 2001, it's always new guys coming in and new guys coming out," Jeter said.

As Jeter points out, there are still only four players in the Yankees' clubhouse -- Pettitte, catcher Jorge Posada, closer Mariano Rivera and himself -- who can claim ownership of a World Series ring from the team's four-title dynasty.

A new piece of hardware, Jeter said, that is long overdue.

"There's restlessness for everyone -- not just us four," Jeter said. "It's everyone who's in the organization. We play to win here. It's not to get to the playoffs or get to the World Series. It's to try and win a championship. Everyone should be restless.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 01:13 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: Double-J
At least if Clemens comes back, we can deal Pavano for a power hitting first-baseman (a nice package with some of the minor league pitchers for Texiera? Anyone else salivating?)


You'd really do that? Clemens would just last the year. Pavano still has this year and next on his contract. What are we going to do for a starter then?


I'd do it in a heartbeat.

Phil Hughes? Humberto Sanchez? Those names ring a bell? Our minor league system is clogged with pitchers, some who have hit a ceiling and will never play for the Yankees simply because there are better guys in front of them (DeSalvo comes to mind). Both of those guys are ready to go. If not, Darrell Rasner or Jeff Karstens will make a fine, reliable #5 starter that allows the Yankees to abide by their 180 inning pitch schedule for Hughes, and they can start "Dirty" Sanchez slow out of the bullpen.

Pavano blows, and I have no doubt Cashman will unload him when he can assemble a nice package for a position player he feels will really take this team over the top, like a Mark Texiera.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 07:05 PM

Pettitte shakes off scare

TAMPA, Fla. -- It was a scary moment.
The barrel of the bat came hurling at Andy Pettitte in the first inning with the ball just feet away from it. Which one should he shy away from?

"That was easy," the Yankees left-hander said following his three-inning outing against the Reds on Wednesday night. "The bat's going to hurt a lot more if I get hit with it than the ball."

Pettitte, though, was nicked on the ring finger of his pitching hand by a sliver of wood, causing some blood and swelling. The medical staff looked at it and, with some urging by the left-hander, gave Pettitte the go-ahead to finish his stint.

In the next inning, Pettitte showed his moxie when he worked out of a no-out, loaded-bases situation.

He struck out Javier Valentin on three straight pitches, then induced Juan Castro into an inning-ending double play when he threw his only cutter of the night.

"My command wasn't the best tonight, but I was able to work all my pitches," said Pettitte, who threw 49 pitches, 27 for strikes. "I don't know what it was tonight. Getting hit on the hand might have affected it a bit, or it might have been pitching at night. But the good thing was that I was able to face some situations to work out of."

After the game, in which Pettitte allowed three hits, walked two and struck out one, he said the swelling had gone down and his finger had been bandaged.

Joe Torre didn't seem too worried, either. Torre said trainer Gene Monahan looked at Pettitte when they visited him on the mound and allowed him to keep pitching.

"Geno, who I trust, felt it was no danger, and Andy understands the situation," said Torre. "During the season, he might go out there and keep pitching only because of the nature of his competitiveness. But here, in Spring Training, he knows whether it's bad enough that he should take himself out of the game."

Catcher Jorge Posada said Pettitte's command was a little erratic, but he was happy with how he battled out of trouble.

"His command was a little bit all over the place," said Posada. "But he got the pitch when he needed it. He was good. Good changeup, good curveball. He worked all the pitches, which is good for him."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 07:07 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Pavano blows, and I have no doubt Cashman will unload him when he can assemble a nice package for a position player he feels will really take this team over the top, like a Mark Texiera.


Tu shae. I forgot about the young arms. I just hope we don't have the problem Boston had last year. They thought they could plug their rotation holes last year internally and look at how well that panned out. But yeah, if the guys in the minors are supposed to do what everyone says/thinks they're going to do, then I'd trade Pavano and get someone too. Although I do hear Ichiro is a free agent at the end of the year. Any chance Seattle needs pitching Or even Minnesota
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 08:45 PM

Boston still hasn't learned their lesson. Look at their closer situation. I bet that Papelbon will be back in that role before the end of May.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 09:20 PM

I hope not
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 09:27 PM

Yeah, I'd love to watch the Yankees belt Piniero a few times, but hey, beggars can't be choosers. Papelbon still has to return from injury. And Beckett has to turn around and be a productive AL pitcher. Otherwise, you've got an unproven in Matsuzaka (who can sure strike out college kids, but let's see when the lineup faces him three or four times in an MLB game) and a 40+ Curt Schilling, who is more interested in landing in the free agent market, he's already said he won't return to beantown.

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 09:49 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
a 40+ Curt Schilling, who is more interested in landing in the free agent market, he's already said he won't return to beantown.



I think he'll return. They'll get something worked out in the offseason. Curse Theo!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 11:34 PM

Why are you mad? Curt Schilling is going the way of RJ - to the DL. Please. Schilling isn't anything close to dominant anymore, and I predict a pretty big decline this year.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/07 11:48 PM

I just hate him and wish he would retire. He said this was his last year and now his family "talked" him into playing next year. PLA-LEZE! He's a primadonna, self-centered, a$$hole who for one reason or another has a personal vendetta against the Yankees. In 2004, he acted like the Yankees wwere the worse thing on the face of the earth (that's including terrorism). Then someone asked him if he would pitch for the Yankees next year and he said there's "no way he would/could pitch in New York." He gives Christian's a bad name with him pompus attitude and I just hate him as a player.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/09/07 12:29 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I just hate him and wish he would retire. He said this was his last year and now his family "talked" him into playing next year. PLA-LEZE! He's a primadonna, self-centered, a$$hole who for one reason or another has a personal vendetta against the Yankees. In 2004, he acted like the Yankees wwere the worse thing on the face of the earth (that's including terrorism). Then someone asked him if he would pitch for the Yankees next year and he said there's "no way he would/could pitch in New York." He gives Christian's a bad name with him pompus attitude and I just hate him as a player.


Plaleze... You would think he ate your dog or something.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/09/07 03:54 AM

No, it's not that he's just a dick. And it looks like his young "protege" Josh 'I've got a 5.00 ERA in the AL' Beckett looks to take his place when he leaves.

DJ, what do you expect from Beckett this year? Personally, I think he's too good of a pitcher to not bounce back. I hope I'm wrong but I don't think he can get any worse.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/09/07 09:14 AM

Rocket signals
Yankees eager to give Clemens $4 million per month


NEW YORK -- The New York Yankees took advantage of Roger Clemens' attendance at Legends Field on Wednesday to ask Clemens back to the Bronx, SI.com has learned.

However, Clemens' answer to the Yankees didn't exactly clear up the situation. He told Yankees owner George Steinbrenner that he wasn't close to deciding his comeback plans.

A source on another team said Clemens is believed to be seeking $4 million a month, which would represent a slight raise over the pro-rated $22 million he made in 2006. That figure probably won't scare off the Yankees or Boston Red Sox but might give the Houston Astros pause. Those are the three teams in the Clemens derby.

It is believed Clemens is planning a June return, like last year when he returned for his third season after "retiring.'' He is 38-18 with a 2.40 ERA since he announced his "retirement'' following the 2003 season.

Clemens was asked by writers in Tampa what Steinbrenner said to him during their visit, and Clemens responded by saying, "I'll pass on that one.'' However, it was learned that the Yankees took the opportunity of Clemens' visit to watch good friend Andy Pettitte pitch against the Reds to apply a little pressure. Or at the very least, ask him the $24 million (pro-rated) question.

"I don't know what's going to happen,'' Clemens told Yankees writers.

That's about what he told Steinbrenner as well. The intrigue continues.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/09/07 12:44 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I just hate him and wish he would retire. He said this was his last year and now his family "talked" him into playing next year. PLA-LEZE! He's a primadonna, self-centered, a$$hole who for one reason or another has a personal vendetta against the Yankees. In 2004, he acted like the Yankees wwere the worse thing on the face of the earth (that's including terrorism). Then someone asked him if he would pitch for the Yankees next year and he said there's "no way he would/could pitch in New York." He gives Christian's a bad name with him pompus attitude and I just hate him as a player.


If that's how you feel, then you have to hate Roger Clemens as well, since he's another prima donna. Schilling has ridden the wave of his World Series win with the Diamondbacks to make quite a bit of money and another ring with the Red Sox. But he's almost going to be to the point of irrelevance after this year, since I doubt most teams would pay the ace-money he demands for a 40-something Curt Schilling who has injury concerns.

Then again, we did trade for Randy Johnson.

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
DJ, what do you expect from Beckett this year? Personally, I think he's too good of a pitcher to not bounce back. I hope I'm wrong but I don't think he can get any worse.


Very few of the NL pitchers have success switching to the AL, and Beckett is no different. Look at Pavano as well. Beckett's strikeout attitude may be good for his confidence, but when the balls fly over the fence, its time to try and pitch with more strategy than vehemence. Either way, I still think the vast majority of NL to AL converts will struggle (with the possible exception of a Chris Carpenter or Roy Oswalt). Beckett will probably have a better year this year, I'd say an ERA in the mid-to-low 4.00 range, but that's only if Matsuzaka proves to be a great success. If the rotation is forced to rely on Schilling and Beckett again, say hello to 5.00+ ERA and Toronto beating out Boston for the Wild Card spot.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/09/07 12:57 PM

Phillips Rejoins Team

Quote:
Source: Associated Press

Friday, March 9, 2007 - Updated: 06:09 AM EST

TAMPA, Fla. - Yankees first baseman Andy Phillips rejoined the team Thursday after missing one week to be with his mother, who was critically injured in a car accident last week in Alabama.
Phillips said his mother, Linda, is improving and in stable condition. She has undergone two operations, including one on her hip.

”She’s doing better everyday,” Phillips said. ”The doctors seem really optimistic about what she’s doing and what they’ve been able to do. It’s very encouraging.”

Yankees manager Joe Torre said Phillips will work out for a few days before maybe playing in a game by the end of the weekend. Phillips is trying to win the right-handed half of the Yankees’ first base platoon.

”Everything seems to be going well at home,” Torre said. ”That’s the important thing.”

Phillips had spoken with his mother two hours before the accident on Feb. 28.

”It was an emotional roller-coaster for a while,” Phillips said. ”It’s a little difficult because she’s still not as alert as I would have liked, to leave. I felt comfortable with where she was. It’s always difficult when you leave that situation, but at the same time I was ready to get back.”

Phillips said the situation could been worse if his pregnant sister, Erin, hadn’t decided not to ride with their mother.

”I look at things that could have happened,” Phillips said. ”It’s absolutely a miracle. First off, my sister could have very easily been in the car. She’s two weeks from having her first child. She decided to stay home. The fact that my mom is alive is a miracle.”

Phillips got emotional when talking about the ”overwhelming” support from his teammates.

”To see guys reach out like that because it’s been tough,” Phillips said. ”It makes you proud to call these guys teammates and friends.”

Josh Phelps also is trying to become the right-handed half of a platoon that will include Doug Mientkiewicz.

Notes: Torre said LHP Andy Pettitte will pitch in a simulated game Monday instead of traveling to Fort Myers for a night game against Boston. ... Yankees GM Brian Cashman said RF Bobby Abreu (strained right oblique) should resume swinging a bat this weekend. Cashman added that Abreu’s opening-day status has not been determined. ”I think if you ask him he’ll say, ’Yes,”’ Cashman said. ”If you ask the trainers, they’ll probably say, ’Yes.’ I’m not ready to say yes. These things are very tricky.” ... Cashman said the Yankees would want to sign Roger Clemens should the seven-time Cy Young Award decide to pitch this season. ”It’s like last year. If he wants to play and he wants to play for the Yankees, we have an interest,” Cashman said.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/09/07 12:59 PM

Yankees Notebook

Quote:
Source: MLB.com

Moose hacks: Mike Mussina allowed two runs and four hits in three innings on Thursday against the Braves, including a solo home run to Jeff Francoeur in the second inning.

He was more satisfied with his feel on the mound in his second spring effort than his first, but it was a third-inning at-bat against Braves starter Tim Hudson that truly tickled Mussina's fancy.

Mussina -- a career .178 hitter in 45 at-bats -- flied out to Francoeur in right field, laughing as he returned to the dugout. Mussina said he told Hudson, "Thanks," for throwing him a hit-me fastball; Hudson returned a grin.

"I wasn't even going to swing," Mussina said. "I was going to take three pitches, but when you're throwing 87 [mph] right down the middle, I've got to at least put it in play."

Mussina said that his 44-pitch effort was fine for this point in the spring.

"I had to work a little bit today," Mussina said. "It's still the first 10 days of March. It's still new. It's getting the ball down and away, it's getting breaking balls over the plate. It's the same stuff."

This and that: Right-hander Humberto Sanchez (right forearm tightness) continues to soft-toss on flat ground and could return to a mound by the weekend. He has reported no further stiffness. ... Outfielder Bobby Abreu (strained oblique) has attempted swinging a broomstick and felt no pain. He may begin taking dry swings with a bat this weekend. ... Pettitte will be held back from Monday's game against the Red Sox at Fort Myers, Fla., given the long trip for a night game. Torre said that right-hander Ross Ohlendorf is likely to be awarded the assignment instead.

Quotable: "He'd either have to be hurt, or all his kids are going to have to graduate from high school. I don't know what it's going to take." -- Mussina, on what might eventually prompt Clemens to declare his retirement

Coming up: Carl Pavano (0-0, 4.50 ERA) makes his second start of the spring on Friday against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, facing off at Legends Field at 7:15 p.m. ET. Pavano went two innings in his Grapefruit League debut at Clearwater on Sunday, allowing one run. Jeff Karstens, Chase Wright, Kyle Farnsworth and Sean Henn are also scheduled to pitch for New York.

Right-hander Tim Corcoran (0-0, 0.00 ERA) counters for the Devil Rays, who are also planning to throw J.P. Howell, Jae Kuk Ryu, Al Reyes and Gary Glover.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/09/07 01:00 PM

Yankees Get Ready For Another Wild Ride

Quote:
Source: Reuters

By Robert Green
TAMPA, Florida

After a season that ended in shock, frustration and tragedy, the New York Yankees are back in Florida getting ready for what could be another tumultuous year.

"It's a great time of the year for me because you don't have the pressure to win," manager Joe Torre said.

That laid-back attitude will end on April 2 when the Yankees open their season against the Tampa Bay Devils Rays and Torre once again finds himself in the spotlight at the helm of one of the world's most recognisable teams.

The Bronx Bombers won a major league high 97 games in 2006 but then were blown out of the post-season playoffs by Detroit, three games to one in a best-of-five series.

Owner George Steinbrenner called the playoff loss "not acceptable" and said he expected much more from Torre and his highly paid players in 2007.

Four days later, on October 11, pitcher Cory Lidle and his flight instructor were killed when their small plane crashed into an apartment building in New York.

The Yankees will wear black armbands on their uniforms this season in Lidle's memory.

Torre, 66, is starting his 12th season as Yankee manager and the last year under his current contract. The Yankees have won four World Series and six American League championships under Torre, but none since 2003.

He said spring training had changed greatly in recent years from a time when the only type of conditioning was running.

"The training is so much more sophisticated," Torre told reporters before a recent spring training game against the Devil Rays. "It's so much more organised.

"I told the players you are here to get ready to start the season. They're judged on how hard they work."

Torre said pitching would be the key to the Yankees' season. They have three proven starters in Chien-Ming Wang (19-6 last season), Mike Mussina (15-7) and Andy Pettitte (14-13 with Houston last year).

They expect their other two starters to be Kei Igawa, who had a 14-9 record in Japan, and Carl Pavano, who has not pitched since 2005 because of injuries.

Igawa's first spring training start was on Monday against Detroit and the 27-year-old southpaw gave up two runs in one inning with three strikeouts and three walks. Pavano's season debut was on Sunday and he gave up one run on two hits in two innings.

The training camp opened in February amid controversy when the Yankees' top two names, shortstop Derek Jeter and third baseman Alex Rodriguez, acknowledged they were not as friendly off the field as they had been.

Both players insisted it would not affect their play and Torre said things had gone well so far.

The good atmosphere may end quickly if New York fails to get out of the gate quickly, giving the mercurial Steinbrenner a reason to send Torre or his high-priced talent packing.

For now, though, everyone is having fun in the Florida sunshine.

"Everybody is working hard," said Torre. "They seem to be having a good time."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/09/07 01:04 PM

Do The Yankees Have The Next Manny?

Quote:
Source: Newsday

BY KAT O'BRIEN

March 8, 2007, 8:32 PM EST

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Yankees outfield prospect Jose Tabata is only 18 years old. Yet his talent and potential have led scouts to liken him to a young Manny Ramirez.

Even general manager Brian Cashman had to stop himself from drawing that comparison when he was asked which major-leaguer Tabata has the potential to be like.

"In fairness to the kid, he's just got to continue to make his own name," Cashman said. "He's got high-end ability. I won't say [Ramirez] pops into my mind. That's what I keep hearing other people say about him. There's only one Manny. A guy like Manny comes along, it seems, like once every 40 years. It'd be nice to say that you've got another one on the way, but it would be disrespectful to someone of Manny's abilities."

Tabata himself has heard the "Baby Manny" talk. He appreciates the compliment but would rather do what Cashman advised and make his own name.

"It's nice for them to say you have talent like a superstar," Tabata said in Spanish, "but I feel like I have my own identity. I want to be myself."

Invited to major league spring training for the first time, Tabata was given a locker next to fellow Venezuelan Bobby Abreu. The hope is that Tabata will learn from being around the established big-leaguers even though he will begin the year at high Class A Tampa.

Abreu and Mariano Rivera both praised their teenaged teammate. Abreu said, "This is the first time that I met him, but I've heard a lot of good things about him. I'm just trying to give him the best advice I can."

Rivera, who takes many young Spanish-speaking players under his wing, said, "He's a great kid. He's come highly recommended. I spoke to him, just always reinforcing to work hard and stay humble. That will help him go a long way."

Tabata's outward demeanor is confident but not too much so. The muscular outfielder has his hair cut in a curly approximation of Derek Jeter's -- shaved on the sides but longer on top -- and he grins when Jeter jokes with him on his way to the clubhouse. He acts respectful but not intimidated by the stars' presence.

"I was born without nerves, thanks to God," Tabata said. "I'm always cool."

One day, Tabata expects to be among the all-stars. His early minor league career indicates he will be. In his professional debut with the Rookie League Yankees in 2005, he hit .314 with 25 RBIs, 30 runs scored and 22 steals in 44 games. At Class A Charleston last year, he hit .298 with 51 RBIs and 50 runs scored in 86 games despite missing significant time with a left thumb injury. Tabata played in the All-Star Futures Game, which was televised in Venezuela, and he said his parents, Milvio and Divisai, were "so happy that they cried from their joy."

Tabata signed with the Yankees on his 16th birthday, picking them over the Phillies, Mariners, Pirates, Dodgers and his favorite childhood team, the Red Sox. He's all Yankee now, he insists.

Though learning English has been a challenge, Tabata says, he likes life in the United States. He finds it calmer. He does miss his mom's cooking, especially chicken with rice and beans, so he is looking forward to his parents' first trip to the United States later this month.

By then, Tabata likely will be on the minor league side of camp, though he is hitting .400 (4-for-10) so far in Grapefruit League play.

"He's a big, strong guy that just has a great look about him," Joe Torre said. "The little I've seen of him I like."

Most scouts seem to concur. Baseball America and Baseball Prospectus both named Tabata the second-best Yankees prospect (behind Phil Hughes), and Baseball America ranked him the No. 27 prospect in all of baseball.

Just wait, though. Tabata has more in mind.

His career goals? "To get to the major leagues," he said, "and to decide a game in the World Series."


Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/09/07 01:11 PM

Two For The Show

Quote:
Source: NYYFans.com

By Dan McCourt
NYYFans.com Staff Writer
March 6, 2007

The best news to come out of the Yanks' first loss of the spring season, 6-5 to the Indians in Winter Haven, is perhaps the performance of Phillip Hughes in his second time out. Despite the fact that he took the loss, the second best report concerns the work of Russ Ohlendorf. The two prospects pitched the fourth through seventh innings and posted four strike outs, and should have been clear with no runs scored and just three hits.

Tribe center fielder Grady Sizemore threatened to win this game for the home team all by himself at the start. Once Fausta Carmona escaped a Johnny Damon walk and Hideki Matsui single in the first by coaxing a double play grounder from Alex Rodriguez, the Indians center fielder and leadoff man blasted a home run on Chien-Ming Wang's third pitch. In the third, Sizemore denied Derek Jeter the equalizer by diving for his long drive in the right center field gap with Wil Nieves poised to score from second base. And finally, Grady doubled the Cleveland lead with a hard liner to center after second baseman Mike Rouse's triple in the bottom half.

The Yanks have largely used the home run to win three of the five straight victories they had strung together to start this season, and it was the long ball that got them back in this one. There was a near miss in the fourth when Alex Rodriguez boomed what appeared to be a 500-foot moon shot off Roberto Hernandez. It not only cleared the left field fence, but a practice field and two parking lots beyond. Had it been a line shot, it would not have had the time to curve foul, but this one drifted foul before finally landing. The Yanks then tied it at 2-2 when Kevin Reese homered to right in the fifth after Miguel Cairo had singled. In the sixth, Josh Phelps took a Brian Sikorski fastball the opposite way to right after Matsui had singled leading off and the Bombers had a 4-2 lead.

Wang allowed the two Sizemore rbi's over three innings, serving up five hits while throwing 35 pitches. He threw 11 of 13 first-pitch strikes and garnered six of nine outs on the ground. Hughes took over in the fourth, and walked David Dellucci on four pitches, but never missed by much. He picked Dellucci off while striking Ryan Garko out swinging, and closed the frame on a grounder. Phillip followed a fifth-inning single with two ground balls, one a double play. Ohlendorf got a grounder, a popup and a swinging strike out in the sixth around a single and a walk. He sandwiched a seventh inning single in between two strike outs, both taking, and showed a lot of athleticism in a smooth and relentless pickoff move. Once a two-out grounder evaded Gonzalez at third, ex-Twins infielder Luis Rivas beat him with a double to center, a hard drive that Kevin Thompson could have caught had he not stumbled. Michael Aubrey singled to right for the lead, but Ohlendorff opened eyes with his fastball, his offspeed stuff, and his mound presence.

Kyle Farnsworth surrendered a decisive run in the eighth, forcing the Yanks to attempt a ninth-inning rally from two down. They plated one on a hit by pitch, a single, and a sac fly. The hit was by Kevin Reese, who was 3-for-4 with the home run. Reese ran from first on a 2-2, one-out pitch to Monday hero Bronson Sardinha. The young outfielder blasted a hard liner down first that would have tied the game if it got through, but Aubrey speared the sphere and doubled Reese off to end the game.

Cleveland grabbed an early lead with lineup stalwart Sizemore leading the way. And they earned a hard-fought win on a few late nonroster performances from pitchers Tony Sipp (a two-strikeout seventh) and Aaron Laffey (a one-walk eighth), and a big blast from Luis Rivas, a nonroster guy seemingly certain to earn a spot.

But Yankee fans will be thrilling to the exploits of Phillip Hughes and Russ Ohlendorf for seasons and seasons to come. The 1955 Carl Perkins hit Blue Suede Shoes, given worldwide exposure by Elvis Presley, tells us that "It's one for the money, Two for the show." Once they "get ready," I give you Phillip Hughes and Russ Ohlendorf:

Two for "The Show"
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/09/07 01:25 PM

Yankees Beaned By Lawsuit

Quote:
Source: New York Post

By DENISE BUFFA

March 9, 2007 -- The man Yankee pitcher Carl Pavano slammed his Porsche into in Florida last year is suing the Bronx Bomber and the team.

Ernest DeLaura, 47, of Port St. Lucie, Fla., has had shoulder surgery, and is likely to need neck surgery as a result of the August crash, his lawyer, Paul Edelman, said yesterday.

"If Mr. DeLaura had minimal injuries, believe me, this lawsuit would have never been filed. He's hurt," Edelman said.

"Look, it was an accident. No one was looking for anyone to get injured," he said. Pavano's car "was basically was doing 360s in the middle of the roadway. [DeLaura] was in the wrong place at the wrong time."

No one was charged in the crash, which occurred when Pavano's 2006 Porsche Carrera hydroplaned Aug. 15 on a rain-slicked road in West Palm Beach.

Pavano was with his brunette bombshell girlfriend, Gia Allemand, 22, a model and aspiring schoolteacher, who defended her beau, saying he couldn't have avoided the crash. The two were returning home from breakfast.

The Carrera spun into the 18-wheeler driven by DeLaura, a driver for the Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County. He was stopped at a stop sign, Edelman said. The Porsche incurred $30,000 in damages, the truck, $20,000.

Pavano, 30, raised the ire of the Yankees by keeping the smashup a secret from the team for two weeks, until the pain was unbearable. Two cracked ribs were found, and he was told to go to physical rehabilitation.

The $39.95 million hurler, who's been beleaguered by injuries, has not pitched in a major-league game since June 2005. He is in spring training now. An effort to reach him through the Yankees yesterday was unsuccessful.

Pavano's agent couldn't be reached late yesterday afternoon.

DeLaura had surgery on his shoulder in October. But the extent of his injuries remains unknown.

"We still don't know if they are going to remove any discs from his neck," Edelman said. "It's a major thing. Most people don't want to get surgery on their neck unless they absolutely have to."

In papers filed in Bronx Supreme Court, DeLaura charges that Pavano was "careless, reckless and negligent" in driving "at a dangerous and careless rate of speed under the prevailing conditions."

"Based on the facts and events of the accident, it was pretty clear Mr. Pavano was at fault," Edelman said.


Carl Pavano - The "gift" that keeps on "giving."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/10/07 07:45 PM

Karstens steps in nicely for Pavano

TAMPA, Fla. -- There was an audible gasp from the Legends Field crowd when the starting lineups for Friday's Yankees game were announced, with Jeff Karstens suddenly replacing scheduled starter Carl Pavano.

The only one not surprised by a sudden change in starting pitchers may have been Karstens himself. The 24-year-old right-hander stepped in and didn't miss a beat, scattering two hits and striking out four Devil Rays over three scoreless innings in the Bombers' 5-1 win.

"It's nice just to give them that liberty," Karstens said. "If I have to do it, I can do it. If they want to use me [as a spot starter], they can."

The effort took Karstens -- who was scheduled to pitch in relief of Pavano -- from his usual pregame rituals of arm warming and repeating iPod shuffles to the mound, where his second victory of the Grapefruit League season took shape.

Making his bid for a role on the Yankees' projected 12-man pitching staff, Karstens has now pitched five scoreless innings to open the month, allowing four hits, no walks and striking out five.

"He's quietly pitching pretty well, isn't he," said manager Joe Torre. "He's been very impressive. His velocity was more than it was when we saw him last year."

Karstens appeared in eight games (six starts) with New York last season, going 2-1 with a 3.80 ERA. He had struggled mightily at Triple-A Columbus earlier in the year and was demoted to Double-A Trenton after beginning the season 0-5, but rebounded to go 6-0 at Trenton and eventually work his way into position for his first big-league callup.

"I think I matured a little bit, to know that I can't do any more than what I'm capable of," Karstens said. "I can't pitch like [Phil] Hughes or [Steven] White or [Darrell] Rasner. I've got to pitch how I pitch."

Karstens prefers starting, but he understands that those slots are in short supply with the Yankees. He said he would be fine with a role as the Yankees' long reliever and spot starter, which could be his best shot to make the team.

"The big leagues are the big leagues," Karstens said. "You ask anybody in here. As long as you're contributing somehow to help them win, that's all that matters."

For that task, Karstens would be in competition mainly with Rasner, a 26-year-old right-hander who has also compiled five scoreless innings in two spring appearances.

"He seems to be pretty aware of what he can do," Torre said. "He really doesn't complicate things for himself, and I think that's really going to help him in whatever role he has to take on. We're not sure what we're going to do leaving here, but he certainly has made a case for himself."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/07 04:02 AM

Just like Boston to almost get into a bench clearning brawl during Spring Training

Tigers' Ordonez taken to hospital after being hit in head

LAKELAND, Fla. -- Magglio Ordonez was hit in the side of the head by a breaking ball from Josh Beckett on Saturday, sending the Detroit slugger to the hospital and leading to a near scuffle between the Tigers and Boston Red Sox.

Beckett plunked Gary Sheffield with a first-inning pitch and hit Ordonez in the third, forcing him from the game. He was treated at a hospital.

Detroit reliever Todd Jones then threw behind Boston's J.D. Drew in the fifth, and the benches and bullpens emptied. Players converged near home plate, but no punches were thrown.

Jones and Tigers manager Jim Leyland were ejected. In the clubhouse after Detroit's 7-6 loss, Ordonez wore a bandage that covered much of his head.

"He was groggy, but that was to be expected," Leyland said. "Josh throws a hard breaking ball. I'm sure he won't play tomorrow. I'm sure he'll have a headache."

Ordonez declined to comment.

Red Sox reliever Travis Hughes also hit Chris Shelton with a pitch in the eighth.

Eric Hinske's grand slam off Justin Verlander keyed Boston's five-run first inning.

Verlander, who struggled to keep the ball down, was touched for six runs and five hits in two innings. In his only previous spring training start, he gave up three earned runs in two innings against the New York Yankees.

"I kept missing up," Verlander said. "I tried to make the adjustment to get it down but didn't."

Verlander allowed two hits and two walks against his first five batters. Hinske then cleared the bases with a one-out shot to left-center. He finished 2-for-4 and was one of five Boston players with multiple hits.

Beckett gave up four hits and five runs -- two earned -- in 3 2-3 innings.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/07 04:03 AM

St. Louis, Colorado and Seattle showed interest in Carl Pavano earlier in the winter and presumably would still like to discuss him. The Yankees can afford to deal Pavano because they have Jeff Karstens and other young pitchers knocking on the big-league door.
-- New York Post

Source: SI
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/07 03:15 PM

Carl Pavano in Colorado...oh my lord.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/07 11:23 PM

Hey, if they're dumb enough to trade for him
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/07 11:57 PM

Matsuzaka roughed up in loss

Matsuzaka struggled for the first time this spring, giving up six hits and four runs (three earned) over four innings. The righty didn't walk anybody and struck out three.

Source: MLB
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/07 11:58 PM

Pavano addresses abrupt departure

TAMPA, Fla. -- Carl Pavano addressed his recent abrupt departure from the Yankees, saying on Sunday that he had to attend to a personal matter involving his girlfriend, 22-year-old Gia Allemand.

Pavano had been scheduled to start Friday's game against the Devil Rays, but left Legends Field less than an hour before first pitch after being informed of a "severe medical condition" involving Allemand, which Pavano didn't comment on.

"It was definitely weighing on me," Pavano said. "There was definitely a little bit of struggle about me wanting to pitch. I needed a voice of reason because my head was going in both directions. Sometimes there's things you've got to take care or that take precedent over the situation at hand."

Pavano said that Allemand was "doing well" following the unspecified issue. He said he was grateful to manager Joe Torre, pitching coach Ron Guidry and general manager Brian Cashman, who cleared Pavano to leave Legends Field on Friday.

Because of Pavano's injury-checkered history with the Yankees -- he has not appeared in a Major League game since June 27, 2005 -- the 31-year-old right-hander said he wrestled with the decision to leave what would have been his second start of the spring.

"My mind was playing games with me a little bit," Pavano said. "Joe's a voice of reason. Joe is a wiser man than I am. He made the right decision."

Pavano said that Allemand's situation will not be an ongoing distraction. Torre has said that Pavano's absence from the club was a one-day matter, and that any further attention Pavano needs to pay to it will have to be done on his personal time.

Pavano also said his involvement in a pending civil lawsuit relating to an August 2006 automobile accident is not a concern. A report surfaced last week that Pavano and the Yankees had been sued by Ernest DeLaura, 47, of Port St. Lucie, Fla., for monetary compensation relating to injuries allegedly incurred in the collision.

"It's not the first time I've had issues or things going on," Pavano said. "As much as baseball is a part of my life, there's another part of my life where things aren't always perfect. I don't think it's going to be on my shoulders at all."

Pavano is now slated to start on Monday against the Red Sox in Fort Myers, Fla., an event he said he was looking forward to. Pavano had long-tossed in the outfield in preparation for Friday's appearance and threw a 10-minute bullpen session on Saturday with catcher Todd Pratt.

"It's going to be nice," Pavano said. "It's always nice to get out there every fifth day, especially over the course of the last two years. Just to be able to be healthy and to have that team behind me and be able to go work on things -- I think that's nice."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/07 11:59 PM

Hughes bound for Triple-A

TAMPA, Fla. -- Even if he had compiled great numbers this spring, Phil Hughes would have been a long shot to open the season in New York, with Yankees officials tabbing him for seasoning at Triple-A.

Three appearances into his second Major League Spring Training, the 20-year-old right-hander has not changed the organization's thinking.

Unable to throw his curveball and changeup for strikes on Sunday, Hughes surrendered three runs and four hits in a 1 1/3-inning performance against the Indians. Afterward, he lamented not making the Yankees' decisions more difficult.

"It's a little bit frustrating to not go out and pitch the way I know I can," Hughes said. "At the same time, I think [the Yankees] had their minds made up from the beginning, so it wasn't like I could really go out there and do anything special to change their minds.

"It's Spring Training. Stuff-wise, I felt much better than the first two times. It's just that the results weren't there."

With starting pitchers beginning to work deeper into games, the Yankees have a second round of reassignments to Minor League camp plotted for execution on Tuesday. Accordingly, Minor League intrasquad games begin on Wednesday.

It is not known if Hughes will be on that list, but it has already been made clear that -- at some point -- he will be taking his belongings across the street to the Minor League complex.

"I have no idea how much longer I'll stay," Hughes said. "It doesn't make too much of a difference. I'm still getting the same work. It's probably a little bit better to face big-league hitters rather than Triple-A guys."

In 4 2/3 innings this spring, Hughes' results have not matched up to his impressive Minor League career. His ERA is an unsightly 7.71, and after averaging just 2.09 walks per nine innings last season, he has already walked six in Grapefruit League play.

Yankees manager Joe Torre said he was pleased to see Hughes continue grinding through his performance Sunday, and noted that Hughes never appears to lose his composure -- a good sign.

"This is all about experience for him," Torre said. "He's got an opportunity to pitch here in Spring Training for us, and I think whatever the results, it's all good for him."

Hughes said that the experiences from this spring will remain with him after he leaves Legends Field, whenever that may be.

"It's a huge eye-opener," Hughes said. "I can remember a couple of occasions where if I throw that breaking ball for a strike, I'm probably in a lot better spot. It's just a matter of doing it."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/12/07 12:10 AM

Gary Sheffield desperately wanted to cross enemy lines. The former Yankees slugger had only one team on his wish list as last season wound to a close, though he dared not disclose it. Assuming the Yankees failed to pick up his $13 million contract option, Sheffield had every intention of playing for the Red Sox this year.
-- Boston Herald

According to several teams who are hunting for starting pitching, the Yankees aren't shopping Carl Pavano.
-- New York Post

Daisuke Matsuzaka has been expressing concern to Japanese reporters about the high mound in the bullpen at City of Palms Park.
-- Boston Globe

SI
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/12/07 03:23 AM

Pavano eager to face rival Red Sox

TAMPA, Fla. -- Red Sox righty Daisuke Matsuzaka has been the toast of the Grapefruit League this spring, with a legion of Japanese reporters trailing his every move to beam updates back to Japan.

Hideki Matsui can relate. His status as the Yankees' left fielder may have become universally accepted, but five years ago, those packs of cameras and notepads were even more abundant than they are now.

When the Yankees venture to Fort Myers, Fla., on Monday for their first and only exhibition meeting of 2007 with the Red Sox, Matsui will get a closeup look at the media circus in action. He said he might run across Matsuzaka -- who is not pitching in the game -- but wasn't quite sure what he would say.

"I don't really have any special message or anything like that," Matsui said. "I'm sure, because of the attention he's getting, it's not easy. My first year in the Major Leagues was very similar. I can certainly understand what he's going through."

Matsui -- who played in a different league than Matsuzaka in Japan and said he does not know him well -- is one of four regulars the Yankees are bringing to Fort Myers on Monday. Melky Cabrera, Robinson Cano and Jason Giambi are also scheduled to make the trip.

Those anticipating a preview of what the capacity crowds will see this summer at Fenway Park or Yankee Stadium will have to wait; the parts of Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter and Jorge Posada will be played by the likes of Miguel Cairo, Alberto Gonzalez and Todd Pratt.

That's not to say the game is unimportant for the Yankees. A frenzied working atmosphere awaits New York's starting pitcher, Carl Pavano, who is attempting to make his way back to the Major Leagues after 1 1/2 seasons of injury-related troubles.

Pavano was scheduled to pitch on Friday against the Rays, but left Legends Field shortly before game time to attend to personal issues. His second start of the spring instead will come against the Yankees' most storied rival, and Pavano said he welcomes the challenge.

"It's definitely going to be nice to get down there," Pavano said. "Especially with the home field, you know you're going to face their 'A' team. I'm definitely looking forward to it."

So is what figures be a packed house at City of Palms Park. Less than 24 hours before game time, tickets were still in high demand; ducats have been spotted whirling around third-party outlets for many multiples of the printed ticket price.

"Really?" Pratt said. "That's insanity."

You don't have to have experienced a regular-season Yankees-Red Sox affair to know that the atmosphere can be terrific. Even so, March can never double for September or October, and the standings or final results never mean much in the end.

But for players like Pratt, who is fighting to win a spot on a Major League roster for one more season before retirement, or young prospects looking to make names for themselves, these games do count.

"It means everything, every game," Pratt said. "It doesn't matter whether we're playing the Pirates or the Red Sox. It's game on. It's a war."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/12/07 12:43 PM

Karstens looks great, and as far as I'm concerned, his emergency work last year warrants giving this kid a role as the long man and spot starter in the bullpen, if not to say the 5th starter on the Yankees. He's certainly showed me more in a few starts than Pavano has shown me in three years.

---

Hughes hasn't impressed me in Spring Training. I'm sure maybe its nerves, but his control just hasn't been there. I'm very glad to see he's going to Triple-A. This should let him see better hitters than in Double-A, and its going to let him develop more naturally. Don't push this kid. I've only seen him pitch a handful of times for very short periods, so if he really is the next phenom, then they are smart having him work through the minor leagues. He just turned 21. He's got plenty of time, especially if he is the next Clemens.

---

The Red Sox/Tigers near brawl was hilarious. Boston are a bunch of fucktards. Only in Spring Training would they try to get a near altercation going. Even though I don't like the team, I still think Francona is a great manager.

---

Igawa's start made me feel a lot better about his control. He gave up a home run, but his control was back, and he stuck out some solid hitters (including Adam LaRoche). Glad to see that his first start appears to be jitters. His slider is nasty!

---

Matsuzaka...get rocked? OMFG! The sky is falling! Jesus Christ is coming back! Armageddon! Fuck!

I like how this got zero press coverage on ESPN. Yet, I've heard how great he was against Boston College. God, I hate ESPN.

---

Pavano is eager to face the Red Sox? He should be eager to just stay healthy, before he goes from being Crash Test Dummy to Emergency Room Patient, Part 5.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/12/07 07:31 PM

Pettitte gets work in at Legends Field

TAMPA, Fla. -- Andy Pettitte bounded off the mound, raced to the bag and, after accepting a flip from first baseman Don Mattingly, recorded the putout.

It was a scene straight out of 1995, as Pettitte threw 65 pitches at Legends Field on Monday, substituting for his third start of the spring.

With Andy Phillips notching nine at-bats against Pettitte, Mattingly -- now the Yankees' bench coach, and the team's regular first baseman when Pettitte broke into the Majors -- filled in at first base and showed he can still pick it at age 45.

"That was definitely funny," Pettitte said. "He gave me a bad break on a ground ball to first. His reaction time is not real good. I just told him, 'Dude, don't get hit, whatever you do.' I'd feel terrible if he took a bad hop."

With Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter making up the left side of the infield and Minor Leaguer Kevin Russo manning second base, Pettitte teamed with catcher Jorge Posada to work four simulated innings against a rotation of Phillips and Minor Leaguers Cody Ehlers and Justin Christian.

By pitching in the afternoon workout, Pettitte was spared the lengthy bus ride to Fort Myers, Fla., where the Yankees are scheduled to take on the Red Sox on Monday in their only spring meeting.

It has been suggested that the logic behind the maneuver was to disallow Boston an advance look at Pettitte, who is returning to the American League after three seasons with the Astros. Pettitte said skipping the bus ride wasn't his idea, though he also wasn't complaining.

"That wasn't my theory," Pettitte said. "The Red Sox know what I throw. I guess they're taking care of a guy that's got a little bit of [Major League] time in. There's a lot of road trips I'll be taking this Spring Training, so they let me stay here for one of them."

Pettitte said his left ring finger felt no ill effects from his start on Wednesday against the Reds, when he was nicked by a sliver of a broken bat, drawing blood. Pettitte stayed in that game and completed a 49-pitch outing, but he said that he felt a difference on Monday.

"I think my command was maybe a little affected when I stayed in the game," Pettitte said. "It's normal because my finger was a little numb. I was controlling the ball a lot better [Monday] than I did in that Reds start."

Pettitte recorded two strikeouts, walked none and allowed four hits in Monday's simulation, throwing 38 pitches for strikes.

"His stuff was pretty good," Phillips said. "We talked about it. He had some life on his fastball today, and his breaking ball was sharp. He made some adjustments with his changeup. He looked pretty good to me."

Throwing a few cutters now that his arm strength is increasing, Pettitte allowed two runs in the four innings -- run-scoring hits by Christian and Phillips -- but those numbers are not completely accurate because the Yankees put extra runners on base without hits, forcing Pettitte to work from the stretch.

"For a simulated game, I felt good," Pettitte said. "Mechanically, I felt real good. I got some good fatigue in my shoulder and worked it good.

"Everything was good today. I feel like I'm getting stronger. It's Spring Training, you know? It's time to get my endurance up."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/12/07 07:36 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Karstens looks great, and as far as I'm concerned, his emergency work last year warrants giving this kid a role as the long man and spot starter in the bullpen, if not to say the 5th starter on the Yankees. He's certainly showed me more in a few starts than Pavano has shown me in three years.


I heard he was pretty impressive so I'm looking forward to seeing the kid. I'm sure he'll have at least a couple of starts this year. I know someone's gonna go down (Moose, Pettitte, Pavano, etc).


Originally Posted By: Double-J
Hughes hasn't impressed me in Spring Training. I'm sure maybe its nerves, but his control just hasn't been there. I'm very glad to see he's going to Triple-A. This should let him see better hitters than in Double-A, and its going to let him develop more naturally. Don't push this kid. I've only seen him pitch a handful of times for very short periods, so if he really is the next phenom, then they are smart having him work through the minor leagues. He just turned 21. He's got plenty of time, especially if he is the next Clemens.


I agree, don't push the kid. If he's as great as everyone says he is, give him a year or 2 in Triple-A. Hopefully by then he'll be ready. To push him too soon or else he may never be as good as he "should" be.


Originally Posted By: Double-J
The Red Sox/Tigers near brawl was hilarious. Boston are a bunch of fucktards. Only in Spring Training would they try to get a near altercation going.


EXACTLY! What a "classy" organization. Just one of the many reasons I f*cking hate Boston!


Originally Posted By: Double-J
Igawa's start made me feel a lot better about his control. He gave up a home run, but his control was back, and he stuck out some solid hitters (including Adam LaRoche). Glad to see that his first start appears to be jitters. His slider is nasty!


I haven't been able to see him yet so I'm glad he had a better outting than his previous one. I'm really not expecting too much from this kid but I am looking forward to seeing him pitch.


Originally Posted By: Double-J
Matsuzaka...get rocked? OMFG! The sky is falling! Jesus Christ is coming back! Armageddon! Fuck!

I like how this got zero press coverage on ESPN. Yet, I've heard how great he was against Boston College. God, I hate ESPN.


Yeah, they were pretty quick to point out how Dice-K was mowing down college kids and the Devil Rays. STIFF competition there guys


Originally Posted By: Double-J
Pavano is eager to face the Red Sox? He should be eager to just stay healthy, before he goes from being Crash Test Dummy to Emergency Room Patient, Part 5.



I also agree. I'm looking forward to having a healthy Pavano because I really want to see what the guy can do with a solid year in front of him. But he needs to shut up and stop making himself look so foolish. Boston will probably tear him apart. DJ, what do you think about Sheffield's comments about wanting to play for Boston?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/12/07 08:36 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
DJ, what do you think about Sheffield's comments about wanting to play for Boston?


Sour grapes. Trying to cause dissension among the Yankees ranks. I don't know. If he had any class, he'd be talking about how great the Tigers organization is and what a great team they'll be this year. Instead, he's still jabbering about how he wanted to play for Boston and stick it to the Yankees. Yeah. Sorry. Bobby Abreu is better at this point in your career. Sorry Sheff.

Also, I'm surprised Sheff would want to go back to playing in Fenway's right field after his near fistfight incident with a beer-swilling Red Sox fan a couple of years ago?

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/12/07 08:45 PM

Originally Posted By: ESPN

Today, Dice-K was mowing down college kids and the Devil Rays. STIFF competition.


Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/12/07 09:54 PM

Looking back, now I wish the Yanks would have signed Vlad instead of Sheff. Sheff only lasted 3 years. I don't know how long Vlad's is but he did win the AL MVP in his first year with the Angels.
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/12/07 10:46 PM

i'm sure to watch the yanks-sox game thats on in about 15 minutes
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/12/07 11:51 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Looking back, now I wish the Yanks would have signed Vlad instead of Sheff. Sheff only lasted 3 years. I don't know how long Vlad's is but he did win the AL MVP in his first year with the Angels.


Vlad wouldn't have made a difference...it wasn't Sheff that kept the Yankees from winning the World Series the last few years. It was horrible pitching and a lack of playoff swagger.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/07 12:35 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Looking back, now I wish the Yanks would have signed Vlad instead of Sheff. Sheff only lasted 3 years. I don't know how long Vlad's is but he did win the AL MVP in his first year with the Angels.


Vlad wouldn't have made a difference...it wasn't Sheff that kept the Yankees from winning the World Series the last few years. It was horrible pitching and a lack of playoff swagger.


True, but at least we'd still have Vlad at this point. Now we're without Sheff. Sure we have Abreu but how long are we going to have him?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/07 01:44 AM

Did anyone see the Yankees/Red Sox game? How did Pavano do? I missed all of it except for the last inning, so I know that they lost. Ah, well.
Posted By: scarfacetm

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/07 01:57 AM

eh pretty shitty, 3 innings pitched, 4 hits, 2 runs, 2 strike outs and a 5.40 ERA
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/07 02:19 AM

Peter Gammons said Mike Timlin is gonna be Boston's closer this year. As soon as I heard the name I laughed. Hopefully Boston is that stupid!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/07 03:14 AM

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Did anyone see the Yankees/Red Sox game? How did Pavano do? I missed all of it except for the last inning, so I know that they lost. Ah, well.


Pavano sucks. Yet again, I can't see why there isn't a push to move him for someone like Texiera or a catching prospect. It boggles the mind. Give Karstens the #5 spot.

In other news, Josh Phelps had a great night...I think that he's going to win out the 1B job, if Torre has any sense. Phillips is expendable...he's a 30 year old "prospect" with no offense and even though he's a Gold Glove-quality defenseman, the 9th hitter in the order with great defense and zero offense role has already been filled by Mientkeiwicz. Sorry Andy, I really liked you, but bye!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/07 03:22 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Peter Gammons said Mike Timlin is gonna be Boston's closer this year. As soon as I heard the name I laughed. Hopefully Boston is that stupid!


I'm sure that move will strike fear into the hearts of American League hitters everywhere!

Gammons is such a Boston homer anyways. I wouldn't be surprised if he starts acting like this is going to solve all of Boston's problems and they are now instant World Series candidates.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/07 03:26 AM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Did anyone see the Yankees/Red Sox game? How did Pavano do? I missed all of it except for the last inning, so I know that they lost. Ah, well.


Pavano sucks. Yet again, I can't see why there isn't a push to move him for someone like Texiera or a catching prospect. It boggles the mind. Give Karstens the #5 spot.


I think they will. They'll let him pitch for the first half of the season and see how he does. If he does better than their expections, they might keep him (he's only under contract for 1 more year). If he's sorry he's gone. But Peter Gammons did say his mindset is that he's not listening to the tabloids and rumors. He just wants to go out there, pitch and prove everybody wrong. To me, that's the right frame of mind. Only time will tell.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/07 07:51 PM

Pavano clears head on drive

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- By the time the Yankees' bus pulled up to City of Palms Park on Monday, Carl Pavano was already in the building and in an anxious frame of mind, having driven down from Tampa ahead of the team-provided transportation.

Manager Joe Torre arrived at the complex, found his vehicularly-challenged right-hander and kiddingly let out a heavy exhale of relief. Pavano's August 2006 traffic accident has not been forgotten, but it apparently has become a valid topic to joke about in the Yankees' clubhouse.

"It was a nice ride just to clear my head a little bit and get down here before the bus," Pavano said. "Me and [Torre] had a little bit of a laugh about that, like, 'Whew.' I figured I'd get here and let them know that I'm all right."

Pavano, 31, returned from an eight-day layoff to throw three innings in the Yankees' 7-5 loss to the Red Sox on Monday, his second appearance of the spring.

Concentrating mostly on his fastball and building arm strength, Pavano allowed two runs and four hits, throwing 48 pitches (29 for strikes).

"He looked like he was free and easy," Torre said. "That's the best part about it. I didn't care about results as much as I did about how he pitched. He looked like he was very aggressive and there was a lot of life in his body. He felt good."

Though he allowed a two-run double to Red Sox backup catcher Doug Mirabelli, Pavano said he was able to gain some confidence from shutting down Boston's biggest bats.

David Ortiz grounded out and lined to right in his two at-bats against Pavano, while Manny Ramirez was caught looking at a called third strike in the second inning. Pavano's final pitch of the evening recorded his second strikeout, ringing up J.D. Drew.

"They've got a tough lineup, and it doesn't get any easier when the season starts," Pavano said. "It's always nice facing this team. You know that their one-through-nine is probably as good as it gets.

"As the season goes, they're going to have their hits. You can't keep them in their cages all of the time. They're going to get out and get their runs and their hits. It's just about damage control."

During the trip of more than two hours, Pavano said he was hit by a flood of memories. Originally drafted by the Red Sox in 1994, Pavano broke in with Fort Myers in the Gulf Coast League and recalled pitching off that very same mound as he was trying to establish his career.

Now that Pavano is attempting to prove that he can be a healthy and reliable piece of the Yankees rotation, it's fair to point to what Pavano eventually became after that summer 13 years ago.

Catcher Todd Pratt faced Pavano numerous times in the National League when the right-hander was at his finest for the Florida Marlins, and Pratt believes that Pavano can return to those levels of performance.

"It's sad that New York hasn't seen the best of Carl," Pratt said. "I definitely faced him many times. You talked about A.J. [Burnett] and Josh [Beckett], and he was as dominating as those two guys when he was at his best. I saw some of the stuff today that I saw in the past. There just needs to be more consistency."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/07 08:02 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
He just wants to go out there, pitch and prove everybody wrong.


Sorry, I don't buy it. This is the guy who said he wasn't really "committed" to returning to the Yankees after his injury. Pavano is the worst kind, in my opinion, and should be dealt as soon as a satisfactory offer becomes available. We've got a glut of pitching. Moving Pavano isn't going to make a difference...in fact, it will help by keeping Rasner or Karstens up with the MLB club, and preventing guys like Ohlendorf or Clippard from having to go back down to AA because the AAA roster is full.
Posted By: BDuff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 01:43 AM

Hearing you say Pavano makes me as a Phillies fan happy since we have 6 starting pitchers...you guys want Lieber back?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 01:54 AM

Don't get too excited BDuff. I still predict the Mets to win the NL East
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 02:10 AM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Looking back, now I wish the Yanks would have signed Vlad instead of Sheff. Sheff only lasted 3 years. I don't know how long Vlad's is but he did win the AL MVP in his first year with the Angels.


This boggled my mind at the time. I was amazed that there was no consideration of Guerrerro at the time. He is better in all facets of the game than Sheffield ever was.

Having seen Guerrerro many times as he played his double a ball in my hometown, I know that he is a quiet and private person, and would have no interest in the circus that surrounds NY teams.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 02:16 AM

Originally Posted By: BDuff
Hearing you say Pavano makes me as a Phillies fan happy since we have 6 starting pitchers...you guys want Lieber back?


Lieber will likely be the guy dealt, and apparently there are several teams willing to overpay for him. By the way, Brett Meyers has volunteered to be considered for a closer role, which I don't see happening. According to one report, that would then put Lieber in the rotation, and Tom Gordon would be sent to Boston.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 03:02 AM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
and Tom Gordon would be sent to Boston.


THAT better NOT happen. I love Flash and wish he never left New York. He's a 1,000 times better than Farnsworth and would be PISSED if he went to the real Evil Empire
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 12:20 PM

Originally Posted By: klydon1
Originally Posted By: BDuff
Hearing you say Pavano makes me as a Phillies fan happy since we have 6 starting pitchers...you guys want Lieber back?


Lieber will likely be the guy dealt, and apparently there are several teams willing to overpay for him. By the way, Brett Meyers has volunteered to be considered for a closer role, which I don't see happening. According to one report, that would then put Lieber in the rotation, and Tom Gordon would be sent to Boston.


We'd love to have Lieber back. It was retarded to let him go, especially since he had proven to be a solid mid-rotation guy in the AL East. As Carl Pavano, Kevin Brown, Randy Johnson, Jaret Wright, etc. all prove, that is an increasingly rare commodity.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 12:40 PM

Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Originally Posted By: klydon1
and Tom Gordon would be sent to Boston.


THAT better NOT happen. I love Flash and wish he never left New York. He's a 1,000 times better than Farnsworth and would be PISSED if he went to the real Evil Empire


Tom Gordon's Stats
Code:
SEASON 	TEAM 	G 	GS 	CG 	SHO 	IP 	H 	R 	ER 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	SV 	HLD 	BLSV 	ERA
2006 	Phi 	59 	0 	0 	0 	59.1 	53 	23 	22 	9 	22 	68 	3 	4 	34 	0 	5 	3.34

Right / Left 	AB 	R 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	RBI 	BB 	HBP 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS
vs. Right	119	23	33	6	0	6	18	11	1	26	3	0	.277	.344	.479	.823
vs. Left	108	0	20	2	1	3	11	11	0	42	3	0	.185	.254	.306	.560

By Situation 	AB 	R 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	RBI 	BB 	HBP 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS
None On/Out	47	0	9	3	0	1	1	7	1	18	0	0	.191	.309	.319	.628
Close and Late	161	16	36	6	1	6	24	20	1	48	4	0	.224	.308	.385	.693
On Third	5	0	0	0	0	0	1	2	0	2	0	0	.000	.250	.000	.250
First and Third	10	3	4	0	0	0	4	2	0	2	0	0	.400	.500	.400	.900
Bases Loaded	12	2	0	0	0	0	2	1	0	1	0	0	.000	.077	.000	.077
Scoring Posn, 2 out	35	11	7	1	1	0	7	4	0	9	1	0	.200	.282	.286	.568
None On, 1/2 out	72	10	17	4	0	2	2	2	0	26	0	0	.236	.257	.375	.632
Lead Off Inning	46	0	9	3	0	1	1	7	1	18	0	0	.196	.315	.326	.641
None On	119	10	26	7	0	3	3	9	1	44	0	0	.218	.279	.353	.632
Runners On	108	13	27	1	1	6	26	13	0	24	6	0	.250	.323	.444	.767
Scoring Position	75	11	14	1	1	2	18	10	0	16	1	0	.187	.276	.307	.583
On Second	21	2	4	0	1	0	2	3	0	7	0	0	.190	.292	.286	.577
First and Second	22	1	5	1	0	2	8	1	0	2	1	0	.227	.250	.545	.795
Second and Third	5	3	1	0	0	0	1	1	0	2	0	0	.200	.333	.200	.533
6+	29	3	7	0	0	1	3	5	0	5	1	0	.241	.353	.345	.698
0	60	8	16	3	0	3	11	3	0	18	4	0	.267	.292	.467	.759


Kyle Farnsworth's Stats
Code:
SEASON 	TEAM 	G 	GS 	CG 	SHO 	IP 	H 	R 	ER 	HR 	BB 	SO 	W 	L 	SV 	HLD 	BLSV 	ERA
2006 	NYY 	72 	0 	0 	0 	66.0 	62 	34 	32 	8 	28 	75 	3 	6 	6 	19 	4 	4.36

Right / Left 	AB 	R 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	RBI 	BB 	HBP 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS
vs. Left	107	0	23	6	0	3	11	6	1	42	3	1	.215	.256	.355	.612
vs. Right	148	34	39	4	0	5	25	22	0	33	3	1	.264	.355	.392	.747

By Situation 	AB 	R 	H 	2B 	3B 	HR 	RBI 	BB 	HBP 	SO 	SB 	CS 	AVG 	OBP 	SLG 	OPS
On Second	17	6	4	0	0	1	4	2	0	5	0	0	.235	.300	.412	.712
On Third	3	0	2	1	0	0	2	0	0	0	0	0	.667	.667	1.000	1.667
First and Second	26	10	9	0	0	2	12	1	0	8	0	0	.346	.370	.577	.947
First and Third	6	2	1	0	0	0	3	2	0	3	4	0	.167	.300	.167	.467
Second and Third	5	1	1	0	0	0	2	5	0	3	0	0	.200	.600	.200	.800
Bases Loaded	11	5	1	1	0	0	6	1	0	3	0	0	.091	.167	.182	.348
Scoring Posn, 2 out	35	21	9	2	0	3	18	7	0	10	1	0	.257	.381	.571	.952
Lead Off Inning	60	0	9	2	0	1	1	3	1	22	0	0	.150	.203	.233	.436
None On	153	9	32	7	0	4	4	11	1	47	0	0	.209	.267	.333	.600
Runners On	102	25	30	3	0	4	32	17	0	28	6	2	.294	.379	.441	.820
Scoring Position	68	24	18	2	0	3	29	11	0	22	4	0	.265	.354	.426	.780
None On/Out	61	0	10	2	0	1	1	3	1	22	0	0	.164	.215	.246	.461
None On, 1/2 out	92	9	22	5	0	3	3	8	0	25	0	0	.239	.300	.391	.691
Close and Late	166	19	36	2	0	5	23	17	1	48	5	2	.217	.287	.319	.607


The WHIP's say it all. Farnsworth has had a WHIP consistently around 1.300, while Gordon has been a bit better, around 1.200. In fact, Gordon's WHIP his last year with the Yankees was a 1.091.

Getting rid of Flash was stupid, but I think Cashman has the age factor in mind. Farnsworth, if he can stay consistent, should be dynamite for another few years, until some of our prospects turn the corner.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 01:56 PM

A-Rod on Mike and the Mad Dog: "I want to 100 percent stay in New York."

Quote:
Source: ESPN.com

TAMPA, Fla. -- Alex Rodriguez tried to leave no doubt: He wants to finish his career with the New York Yankees.

Then he left it all up to the fans.

"It's a do or die situation," he said on WFAN-AM's "Mike and the Mad Dog" show. "Either New York is going to kick me out of New York this year, say 'I've had enough of this guy, get him the hell out of here,' and we have an option. Or New York is going to say, 'Hey, we won a world championship, you had a big year, you were a part of it and we want you back.'"

Later, Rodriguez said the rapid-fire nature of the interview -- he described it as "an absolute dogfight for 15 minutes" -- led to those comments.

"You're asking me what my sincere feeling is. I want to 100 percent stay in New York. Period. That's it. I don't know how many ways I can say it," he said on the show.

Rodriguez told hosts Mike Francessa and Chris Russo that in his MVP year of 2005, the fans at Yankee Stadium were incredibly supportive.

"In 2005, riding the wave of the fans was an unbelievable experience," he said, according to the New York Daily News. "Sometimes, you come out a little tired, but the fans get behind you, chanting 'MVP!' and before you know it, you have two home runs and five RBIs."

That wasn't the same in 2006, when he was booed at Yankee Stadium and by his own admission, tried to do too much to turn the boos into cheers.

"When you try to fight that wave of the fans being negative, expecting you to do things and you're playing pretty lousy on top of it," Rodriguez told Mike and the Mad Dog, "then you try to do a little more than you have to."

Rodriguez told the pair there were probably five or six teams interested in acquiring him this offseason, but he had no interest.

"The next time we're going to talk about this is hopefully in very late October," Rodriguez said. "I want to be here. I want to stay here."

The two-time MVP is entering the seventh season of his $252 million, 10-year contract, a deal he signed with the Texas Rangers. He can opt out of the agreement after the season, forfeit the $72 million owed in the final three years and become a free agent.

"You never want to feel that you're holding a team hostage," Rodriguez said. "I want to be in New York. This is the place I want to finish my career. That's it.

"We had options and we all know that, but I want to be in New York. That's it."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 02:03 PM

Yankees Mussina Still Struggling; Yankees Notebook

Quote:
Source: Lower-Hudson Journal

By PETER ABRAHAM
THE JOURNAL NEWS

Yankees report
Score: Reds 6, Yankees 3
Spring record: 8-4-1
Game breakdown: Mike Mussina allowed three runs in three innings as the Yankees lost their third straight. Robinson Cano was 3 for 3 with one RBI.
Clubhouse chatter: Mariano Rivera was inducted into the pitchers' wing of the Ted Williams Hitters Hall of Fame in St. Petersburg during an afternoon ceremony. He later threw a scoreless inning.
What's next: Today vs. Minnesota at Tampa, 7:15 p.m. (YES)

Peter Abraham
(Original publication: March 14, 2007)

TAMPA, Fla. - Mike Mussina has three weeks to get it straight, but for now he's struggling.

The right-hander allowed three runs on five hits in three innings in last night's 6-3 loss against the Reds. Brandon Phillips started the game with a long home run off Mussina.

"Can't get location down, can't get breaking balls over the plate, getting in bad counts. It's a little bit of everything,'' Mussina said. "It's frustrating. But you know sometimes it can be this hard.''

In three starts this spring, Mussina has a 5.63 ERA. He has allowed 11 hits - three of them home runs - in eight innings.

"I need to do some work," Mussina said.

So long for now: The Yankees reassigned infielder Eric Duncan, outfielder Brett Gardner, infielder Alberto Gonzalez, right-hander Steven Jackson, right-hander Jeff Kennard, first baseman Juan Miranda, outfielder Jose Tabata and right-hander Kevin Whelan to the minor-league camp.

Tabata, the team's top offensive prospect, was 6 of 13 with a homer and two RBI in nine games.

"It comes easy for him,'' Joe Torre said. "We'll see him again.''

Right-hander Phil Hughes will be reassigned today after he throws a bullpen session.

Injury updates: Brian Bruney worked a scoreless inning in his first game of the spring. He walked two and struck out two. He had been out with a sore back and the flu.

The MRI on Wil Nieves' sore right arm came up clean, and the backup-catcher candidate may be only a day or two away from playing again.

Right-handed reliever Jose Veras, who was ticketed for Class AAA, has been shut down with a sore elbow.

Rookie right-hander Humberto Sanchez (right elbow) will throw from halfway up a bullpen mound today.

Notes: Bench coach Don Mattingly left the team to return to Indiana after the death of his father. According to a team spokesman, William Mattingly had undergone several brain operations in the past week. ... Third-base coach Larry Bowa, bullpen coach Joe Kerrigan and right fielder Bobby Abreu were excused to attend the funeral of longtime Phillies coach and executive John Vukovich. ... Andy Phillips played in his first game of the spring and grounded into a double play in his only at-bat. ... The Yankees will have Andy Pettitte face the Phillies on Saturday in Clearwater. Carl Pavano will pitch in a minor-league game in Tampa. For now, both starters will work on the same day until pitching coach Ron Guidry adjusts the schedule.


I feel so bad for Donnie Baseball, I hope that he and his family can get through this tragic time.

So far, these are my thoughts on Spring Training:

- Phil Hughes needs time to develop in AAA.

- As of right now, Ben Davis should win the backup catchers job. It doesn't mean he will. I still think Torre will go with Pratt.

- Kei Igawa should start the season as the 4th starter, and alternate as a reliever if necessary.

- Jose Tabata may be scary good.

- Jeff Karstens or Darrell Rasner deserve the 5th starter spot. Karstens still can be moved freely between AAA and MLB, but Karstens is out of options. The Nats, who lost him on waivers to the Yankees last year, have already said they'll snatch him back up if he heads onto the wire, so the Yankees need to either play him or move him.

- Josh Phelps has won the backup first-baseman job. His bat is better than anyone we're considering, including Mientkeiwicz.

- Carl Pavano should be shipped out with a package for Mark Texiera as soon as possible.

- Matsui will return to his old form.

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 02:06 PM

BTW - For those who want to see Karstens pitch, he's going to start the game tonight against Minnesota (SB, I12?), and will be televised on YES at 7 PM (ET).
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 02:45 PM

Thanks, DJ. I'll make sure to watch. It's so great to have baseball back, even if the games don't count yet.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/07 07:19 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
BTW - For those who want to see Karstens pitch, he's going to start the game tonight against Minnesota (SB, I12?), and will be televised on YES at 7 PM (ET).


Thanks for the invite but unfortunately I can't. I don't have YES down in texas. I have to wait until games are on ESPN until I'm back in the great state of New York in late May/early June
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/15/07 01:09 AM

Touchy subject
Torre hasn't discussed opt-out clause with A-Rod


TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Yankees manager Joe Torre hasn't spoken with Alex Rodriguez about the opt-out clause in the New York third baseman's contract.

Rodriguez, a two-time AL MVP, is entering the seventh season of his 10-year, $252 million contract, a deal he signed with the Texas Rangers. He can opt out of the agreement after the season and become a free agent.

"I hope he doesn't add that to everything he has to deal with at this point in time. It's tough enough playing this game without looking for the finish line to soon," Torre said before Wednesday night's game against Minnesota.

"Whatever the result is at the end, you have to make a decision. I'm sure he's going to be asked on a daily basis about what's going to happen at the end. I know it's not going to be easy for him to say I'm not thinking about it."

Rodriguez told reporters Tuesday night that he wanted "100 percent stay in New York. Period." In an interview earlier Tuesday on WFAN radio's Mike and the Mad Dog program, Rodriguez indicated the fans reaction this season could be a determining factor.

"The fans are a pretty good indication on a daily basis on how they feel about you," Torre said. "But again, they're here to enjoy themselves. They're not here to necessarily make you feel good about yourself. They're going to give you an instant reaction to how you're doing."

Torre believes many of the questions involving A-Rod would subside if he joined the likes of former Denver quarterback John Elway, who won a Super Bowl late in his Hall of Fame career.

"I think a big portion of all the questions that are being asked would go away," Torre said. "Elway, to me, was a perfect example of a Hall of Famer that always had a but attached to his name."

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/15/07 01:08 PM

Who gives a shit? A-Rod doesn't want to be here, and if he's so emotionally fragile that he has to issue an ultimatum to fans that its "up to them" whether he stays or not...good riddance. I honestly think now that A-Rod thinks he is better than he is. His defense (as shown last night) is lacking; he's one of the worst defensive third basemen in the league (stats wise). His offense is good, but is it A-Rod good? No. It's also not worth the huge contract.

I say we go back to the old formula - get someone at the hot corner who can play defense...maybe we can give Scott Brosius a call. Hell, Graig Nettles would be better at this point.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/15/07 01:44 PM

Originally Posted By: Double-J
Who gives a shit? A-Rod doesn't want to be here, and if he's so emotionally fragile that he has to issue an ultimatum to fans that its "up to them" whether he stays or not...good riddance. I honestly think now that A-Rod thinks he is better than he is. His defense (as shown last night) is lacking; he's one of the worst defensive third basemen in the league (stats wise). His offense is good, but is it A-Rod good? No. It's also not worth the huge contract.

I say we go back to the old formula - get someone at the hot corner who can play defense...maybe we can give Scott Brosius a call. Hell, Graig Nettles would be better at this point.


You hit on a good point. While A-Rod was a great defensive shortstop, and I have to believe still is, third base is a completely different position. Whereas greatness at shortstop largely emphasizes range and speed, third base emphasizes reaction, and frequently involves the hardest ground ball to field- the hard hit ball hit right at you at point blank range.

Few shortstops can make the successful conversion to third base. I don't think A-Rod was ever fully comfortable there.

I remember an all-star game where Ripken, then a thirdbaseman (who made the transition pretty well), entered the game with A-Rod at short. A-Rod spontaneously flipped positions with him in a nice gesture, and casually remarked after the game how different it was for him to be at third base. He is an incredible athlete, who may still improve defensively at third, but the best thirdbasemen seem to be naturals.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/15/07 01:49 PM

My biggest problem isn't even his defensive skills, which, if his offensive production was what it should be, would make up for it. He can be a mediocre third baseman. What he can't be is a mediocre hitter.

Of course, mediocre in this lineup is relative, but I'd almost rather have a gritty defensive player (Miguel Cabrera would be ideal, of course) with some offensive skills, but leaning more towards speed and utility than power hitting, rather than A-Rod.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/15/07 06:59 PM

A trip inside Gary Sheffield

Gary Sheffield has always approached the pulpit with the same hammer and tongs he takes to the plate.

Yet for all of his bat-waggling brutality and fire-breathing bluntness, Sheffield speaks in hushed tones, with a cool confidence. He knows you can't shut him up even if you wanted to.

And you don't.

This is what makes Sheffield uniquely suited to serve as a tour guide through the good, the bad, and the steroid that is modern major league baseball in his memoir "Inside Power" (Crown, April 3).

With a pen as punishing as his bat and as provocative as its proprietor, Sheffield writes about not knowing his real father, handling the finger-numbing fastballs of uncle and backyard throwing mate Dwight Gooden (and the off-field temptations that derailed his uncle's playing career), and dealing with some of the game's most feared execs -- often without the help of an agent -- during his seven-team, 19-year career inside the wicked business of baseball.

That spirit reared its head during a recent conversation about some of the topics covered in his book, including the travails of playing in pinstripes, steroids and racism in baseball, his troubled uncle's plight, and his penchant for telling the brutal truth.


Alipour: From the feedback you've gotten, what is shaping up to be the most controversial revelation in the book?

Sheffield: I think it's actually my departure from the Yankees. People think I'm bitter and angry that I left, but I was just talking about the conditions of what went on.

In the book, you give much love to your teammates, but you were quite critical of the organization, which you call "The Corporation." How do you look back on your time with the Yankees?

There's a lot of things that go on there that you don't know until you get there. I heard stories about how they're a first-class organization. That they're everything you want in playing for a team. I'm not saying they're not first-class. But I've played for teams that were family-oriented organizations. They made you feel like family. The Yankees are strictly a business. Baseball is your life and everything else is secondary.

So if a player came to you for advice on playing with the Yankees, what would you tell him?


If winning is everything to you, go there. If it's not, don't. If you can't handle everything else that comes with it, it's not the place for you. There are things that you have to deal with every day, until the next pitch is thrown. So I'd say, if you're not mentally strong, if you don't have a deaf ear to a lot of things, don't go there.

You write that much of that is due to the cozy relationship between the New York press and George Steinbrenner. You also call The Boss "cold-blooded" and Torre "an owner's manager," as opposed to "a players' manager." What would you tell that player about dealing with The Corporation itself?

Stay out of their way. The Corporation is bigger than any one person. It's not something you can do damage to. Just stay out of their way. As long as you protect yourself, and keep another door open, keeping in mind how many years you want to play and not leaving the Yankees as damaged goods, then you'll be fine.

You assign some blame to Joe Torre for the Yankees' quick ouster …

No, one thing I did not do is "blame." I might've said what's on my mind, but I don't blame anyone.

Well, I don't want to put words in your mouth, but in the book, you criticize Torre …

See, that's not blaming. You show me where I blamed him.




OK, gotcha. You criticized Torre for dropping A-Rod to eighth in the order and benching you in Game 3 (against Detroit). Is that fair?

That's saying what Corporate America -- or any person in America -- saw. That when I wasn't playing and A-Rod is hitting eighth, something is wrong. If something is wrong, who writes the lineup? Joe Torre writes the lineup. I'm not really blaming. I'm telling you factual stuff.

At the moment, seems everybody is caught up in the Jeter and A-Rod dynamic. What are your thoughts on your two former teammates and their relationship?

I don't know how they were before, but in my three years there, I haven't seen a change in their relationship. As far as I'm concerned, I saw a good working relationship.

You wrote that you used anger, or "the rage," as fuel, particularly in the early stages of your career. How did anger help you? Because it was like a fight to me. When you challenge me, I like my chances in a fistfight. On the field, I use the same approach. I'm going to win. And I'll do it by any means necessary. If you're not willing to go that route, don't come my way.

You certainly approached the business of baseball that way. You've chosen to represent yourself in recent deals and you wrote vivid accounts about slamming the door on [former Dodgers chairman, managing partner, and CEO] Bob Daley and Steinbrenner. How did being "a fighter" help you in business?

It helped me because I wasn't intimidated that they had a ton of money. You can't just use me. I won't allow that. I let that be known to Daley and Steinbrenner. On the outside, people called me arrogant. But I do business aggressively to benefit me, and they do the same to benefit them, so we can find a middle ground.

As time went on, you sought what you call "The Calmness." Have you finally found that calmness?


I found it. That's the thing. If you have that in you, nothing can trigger you. I might have dealt with things differently when I was, like, 25, but when I go through something now, I look at the source and deal with it accordingly.

You've got a reputation for expressing the brutal truth, so now that you've found The Calmness, do you have any specific regrets as a mature, calm adult?

Not at all. Because the rage was in me, and if it wasn't for the rage, then I wouldn't know how to be calm. They feed off of each other. Just like when Malcolm X fed off Martin Luther King. They needed each other.

You credit your former teammate Terry Pendleton with helping you find The Calmness through God. How did God help you?

Terry Pendleton is a guy I watched closely. Even if he'd get upset, he'd deal with it a different way. Finding God was a major step in my life. You start to understand that a lot of things happen for a reason, and you know it before they happen, and when they happen, you know exactly who to turn to and how to deal with it.

In the book, you blamed race for some management decisions -- like when the Brewers moved you to third base so Billy Spiers could play your preferred position of shortstop, and when the Marlins made Jeff Conine their "posterboy" and not you. Do you still feel race is an issue in baseball?


Jeff Conine is a good friend of mine, but that's an example. I've been the best player on every team that I played on, so if I can't be the poster child of your team, then what else is it? It's got to be a black-white issue. Every white player I know who's the best player on their team is the poster child of that team. But you need to know when to fight your battles. It's a part of society.

You wrote that Derek Jeter is well-liked because he's biracial. You feel that helps in the clubhouse?

It doesn't have everything to do with it. It also has to do with him being a quality person. That's what I look at first. But when a black player walks in the room, he's got to fit in with what's in there: a majority of whites. We don't ever walk in a room and already fit in. I ain't never heard of that. I've seen squeaky-clean black players walk in the room and people ask me, "What kind of guy is he?" But when a white player walks in the room, nobody ever asked me that question.

You wrote at length about your close relationship with your uncle, Doc Gooden, a man who saw his can't-miss Hall of Fame career unravel due to drug abuse. You wrote that he was never "a fighter" like yourself. How, in your mind, did that hurt him?

He got walked over. He let corporate America use him. If somebody tells you what to say and how to say it, is that really you? I was there when he was doing interviews and I saw the Mets' PR department telling him what to say. He was their poster child. He was "Doctor K." The Michael Jordan of baseball. So I studied him, and thought, "OK, when I make it, how is it going to benefit me to be told what to say? How can I go home and live with that?" He wasn't being himself. He got caught up in a character: "Doc." But he's Dwight. He became his nickname. Now, Doc is on drugs, and he's about to kill Dwight. That's what happened. I've been called "Sheff," but I'll always be Gary. That's who I am.

Speaking of, you never had a cool nickname. They riffed off the cooking show and called you "Iron Sheff" for a while, but that's kind of weak.

[Laughs] And if I let them call me that, I'd believe it, and then I'd think I could run through walls and stuff. I take it in jest, but when I get off the field, I'm back to normal.

You write a vivid account of your workout with Barry Bonds and your link to the steroids controversy. You have said that you never knowingly took steroids. But while working out with Bonds after the 2001 season, you wrote that you received some cream from his trainer Greg Anderson -- which you applied to some busted stitches -- and you also took some vitamins from Bonds, who got them from Anderson, who got them from BALCO head Victor Conte. Later, you made a check out to BALCO, linking you to this scandal forever. For the record, were those substances -- the vitamins and cream -- tainted? And if not, how can you be sure?

I know they weren't tainted. Tell me how rubbing something on me will make you feel any different? That's the most preposterous thing I've ever heard. Tell me this: Have you ever gone to a store and had a steroid-based cream put on you?

Can't say that I have.

OK then, so are you on steroids?

No.

OK, that's my point. If it's that simple, why do I have to debate this with anyone?

You say the proof is in the photos and your numbers. What do you mean by that?

Look at McGwire and Barry's numbers. Then look at my numbers. Have they changed? No. Then look at their head sizes. Look at my cap size from when I started and where I'm at now. Has that changed? No. Look at my body from when I was a rookie. Have I changed? No. So you tell me what it is. I don't control where my name goes. You can waste your time trying to investigate me, but I'm going to keep moving forward.

How do you feel about the players who've been implicated in this mess? And do you feel that Mark McGwire and Bonds, specifically, should be in the Hall of Fame?

They were Hall of Famers yesterday, they're Hall of Famers today, they're Hall of Famers forever. Willie Mays drank red juice back in the day. Nobody said they took milk and cookies. Babe Ruth and those guys, they did stuff too. They drank coffee. You're always going to take protein shakes and multivitamins. If it's going to give you energy, why not use it? It's OK if it's legal. I have never supported the illegal use of anything. People fail to realize, I was the first person to speak about this stuff with Bryant Gumbel. I've been trying to be a spokesperson for illegal stuff. If it's illegal, why should it be in the game? Why should my kids be exposed to this if they ever decide to play baseball?

You walked out on Bonds' offseason workout due to his controlling behavior -- which included making you sleep in his house. Have you talked to him since?

No, we've never run into each other. If I see him, we'll talk. We're two grown men. We've never connected, though.

You've been given a fresh start in Detroit with a manager you love in Jim Leyland. Will you finally be able to do what almost every team has promised you: Will you retire a Tiger?

[Laughs] That's a question for them. I control what I can. If I could control not playing for seven different teams, I would have. You look at my numbers, why have I been on seven different teams? Because I was a problem? I haven't been a problem except with one organization.

Your wrist is good now. But you're obviously nearing the end of your career. How much longer do you feel you can perform at a high level?

Well, I look at it like this. I'm better than I was when I first came back from my wrist injury [last season]. Going into last year, I was anxious to put up bigger numbers than I ever put up. Then I had my injury, and I had a chance to reconnect with myself. I know how close I was to saying, "This is over." Now I have another opportunity, three years, so I have a renewed energy.

Do you have a benchmark that you want to reach before you retire?

I was looking to get to 600 home runs, but I want 500 [he enters the season with 455]. I don't want to walk away until I put that number up. Other than that, it's about winning. I've done everything I've wanted to do in this game. Look at the numbers, the postseason. I have nothing to hang my head over.

Is 600 still a realistic goal?

It's possible if I stay healthy. If I'm on the field for 150 some games, that's reachable.

What's the one thing you want readers to take away from this book?

That they'd see I'm a sincere person, a likable person, and if they got to know me, they'd like me. No doubt about it.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/15/07 07:02 PM

Mientkiewicz scuffling at plate
First baseman 1-for-19; Hughes sent to Minor League camp


TAMPA, Fla. -- There have been springs where Doug Mientkiewicz has wished his offensive numbers could carry over into April. This hasn't been one of them.

The Yankees first baseman was signed for his superior defensive play, with his offense generally viewed as a bonus. However, Mientkiewicz has just one hit to show for his Grapefruit League efforts through 19 at-bats. But he isn't about to push the panic button.

"I'm having good at-bats," Mientkiewicz said. "I'm just not getting good results, which is kind of what you want down here. I feel like my pitch recognition is good. The other stuff is just a matter of time."

Mientkiewicz feels he should be able to meet whatever expectations the Yankees have for him as their No. 9 hitter. He batted .283 in 91 games for the Royals last season before undergoing season-ending back surgery in August, and the Yankees would likely be more than satisfied if Mientkiewicz is able to duplicate that production in pinstripes.

Manager Joe Torre believes that Mientkiewicz can be a productive member of the lineup, even if hits grow scarce during a dry spell. Mientkiewicz is reasonably adept at putting the ball in play; he struck out 50 times in 314 at-bats last season and has averaged better than one strikeout per six at-bats over his career.

"He doesn't necessarily have to get a hit to be a contributor," Torre said. "If you want to move runners, I think he can help you in that regard. He doesn't swing and miss a lot. You can do a lot of things [to] keep the inning going."

Even though the Yankees have been widely projected to be slotted to carry a platoon at first base, using Mientkiewicz against right-handed pitching and either Josh Phelps or Andy Phillips against left-handers, Torre said Wednesday that the arrangement is not necessarily set in stone.

Though Mientkiewicz is likely to receive the majority of the club's at-bats by first basemen, Torre said that would be determined by Mientkiewicz's production.

"We'll see what his stroke looks like going into the season, and then I think we'll make that decision," Torre said. "I think he's capable of doing that, but I don't want to bury him either if he's struggling."

Mientkiewicz has been insistent that no matter what Torre decides, he will be fine with the setup. Mientkiewicz said his 2006 season with Kansas City reignited his passion for the game, and his enjoyment factor has only increased following surgery by Dr. James Watkins in Los Angeles on Aug. 29 to remove part of a herniated disk.

"The back's great," Mientkiewicz said. "If you'd told me two months ago that I would feel like this, I'd have told you that you were crazy. It's kind of frightening how good I feel right now. It's been so long since I actually had no pain. It's a different, nice feeling."


Bye for now: The Yankees reassigned top prospect Phil Hughes to Minor League camp following his bullpen session on Wednesday, with pitching coach Ron Guidry seeking out the 20-year-old shortly before 5:45 p.m. ET.

Hughes' three spring appearances were underwhelming. The right-hander appeared against the Twins once and the Indians twice in exhibition play, allowing four runs and six hits over 4 2/3 innings for a 7.71 ERA. He walked six and struck out two.

Hughes said that his last outing in particular -- a 1 1/3-inning appearance against Cleveland at Legends Field on Sunday -- opened his eyes. Unable to throw his curveball and changeup for strikes, Hughes allowed three runs and four hits to the Tribe.

The experience, Hughes said, convinced him that there was work to be done at Triple-A. He possesses a Major League fastball and a curveball that is considered a plus pitch, but his changeup and slider will need to be further developed.

"You can't come in here and expect to get big-league hitters out with just two pitches," Hughes said. "I knew that from the start, but it's a matter of going out there and being able to command the third and fourth pitches. That'll be a key for me."

Before Wednesday's game, Torre volunteered that Hughes' demeanor contrasts strongly with that of a former touted prospect in the Yankees organization, third baseman Drew Henson. Torre recalled that Henson seemed to take each demotion to the Minor League camp as a failure.

"[Hughes] seems to be pretty level-headed, knowing what our plans are," Torre said.

The Yankees have been consistent in stating that their desire is for Hughes to pitch as much as possible at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. General manager Brian Cashman said earlier this spring that Hughes could spend the entire season at Triple-A, with perhaps a September callup, and that the organization is in no rush to hurry Hughes to Yankee Stadium because of his value as a long-term asset.

Hughes said that he would love to pitch in the Major Leagues sometime in 2007, but he also said he understands his situation. If Hughes appears in New York this year, it would be because one of the Yankees' starting pitchers is unavailable or unreliable.

"It's not really my decision to make," Hughes said. "I can just take what I learned here, work on some stuff and do what I need to do. At some point, we'll see."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/15/07 07:04 PM

Karstens continuing to impress Yanks

TAMPA, Fla. -- Jeff Karstens has remained silent as pitching coach Ron Guidry roamed the Yankees' clubhouse this week, seeking out pitchers to inform them that their time in Major League camp has come to an end.

The whittling of the Yankees Spring Training roster will continue, but for now, Karstens is keeping himself safe from a tap on the shoulder. The 24-year-old right-hander continued a stellar exhibition slate on Wednesday, throwing four innings of one-hit ball in a 4-1 win over the Twins.

Karstens has now reeled off nine shutout innings in Grapefruit League play, striking out nine and walking none, but he still intends to keep his profile low -- just in case Guidry sets out on another set of rounds.

"I'm just going to come in [Thursday] and do what I've been doing," Karstens said. "I'm going to sit in my corner and hide."

Chances are, Karstens doesn't need too low a profile. In fact, as surrounding lockers begin to clear out, Karstens' chances of making the Major League roster appear more realistic.

On Wednesday, the Yankees reassigned four pitchers -- Matt DeSalvo, Phil Hughes, Ross Ohlendorf and Karstens' spring roommate, Chase Wright -- to Minor League camp.

None were serious candidates to go north with the Yankees in April, but as starters begin to gain strength and log more innings, Karstens is making it difficult for the Yankees to look elsewhere.

"He's been doing the same thing every time out," manager Joe Torre said. "He's been that way from the first pitch he threw in Spring Training. He really doesn't waste any time. He works quickly and basically has kept the offense on the defensive."

Karstens feels that his fortunes have been on the rise since May, when he was demoted to Double-A Trenton after starting the season 0-5 in seven starts at Triple-A Columbus.

Karstens went 6-0 with a 2.31 ERA in 11 starts for Trenton before moving back up to Triple-A and continuing his dominance for Columbus, parlaying a 5-0 record and a 1.85 ERA across seven starts into his first Major League callup on Aug. 19.

"Just the way things have been going, it feels like they've been going up and up," Karstens said.

The San Diego, Calif., product admitted that he was slightly fatigued by the time he arrived in New York, having logged 147 2/3 Minor League innings to that point, but he still posted a 2-1 record with a 3.80 ERA in eight games (six starts).

That familiarity takes some of the shine off of Karstens' spring appearances, but they haven't dulled their value.

"We were aware of him before Spring Training started, because he helped us last year," Torre said. "It's not like he's surprising us. He's just continuing to impress us."

This spring, Karstens said he gained the courage to confer with a few of the Yankees' veteran pitchers on work-related topics. Andy Pettitte coached Karstens on keeping the same mindset from pregame bullpen sessions to the mound, and Mariano Rivera told Karstens to abandon a cut fastball that wasn't effective against Major League hitters.

When it comes to cutters, after all, Mo would know.

"You're so scared to talk to these guys, as a young guy in the clubhouse," Karstens said. "All you've got to do is ask and they're more than willing to give information out."

It's Karstens' goal to see to it that those words of wisdom don't go to waste.

"I'm trying to stay level-headed and relax," Karstens said. "I'm just going about my business. I don't say too much. I'd rather have what I do on the field speak for itself."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/15/07 08:37 PM

So, Mientkeiwicz blows on offense?

Surprise.

Seriously though, I've been watching Phelps' defense, and he's made a couple of nice scoops out of the dirt that would've boggled Giambi and befuddled Sheffield last year. I'm wondering if it is worth it to keep Mientkeiwicz on at all and instead keep Phelps, cut Mientkeiwicz and Phillips, and *gasp* resign Bernie Williams?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/16/07 01:08 AM

Watching them right now. Bottom of the 7th and they're down 2-0 to the Braves.

EDIT: The 7th inning just ended, and the Yankees are now leading 3-2. I know it doesn't count, but it makes me happy.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/16/07 03:56 AM

Talented Tabata a work in progress
Sky is the limit for gifted 18-year-old Yankees outfield prospect


TAMPA, Fla. -- At first glance, Jose Tabata blended in with the roughly 11 dozen Minor Leaguers roaming the back fields on Himes Avenue, jogging across diamonds carrying their gloves, bats and big-league dreams.

Upon closer inspection, the Yankees' touted Venezuelan outfield prospect reveals himself to be a cut above. Tabata is just 18 years old, but everything about his muscular build and the decibel level of each batting practice stroke seems to scream "Yankee Stadium."

"I leave everything in God's hands," Tabata said through an interpreter. "If I keep improving and keep doing what I've been doing, hopefully in two or three years, I would love to be there. If I stay healthy, I believe I am capable of making it."

Ranked as the Yankees' No. 2 prospect by Baseball America entering this season -- behind only right-hander Phil Hughes -- Tabata spent three weeks as a non-roster invitee to Major League camp before being reassigned to Minor League camp on Tuesday.

His presence was noticeable, chatting with established stars like Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera, taking advantage of the opportunity to soak up their knowledge. Assigned a locker next to fellow Venezuelan Bobby Abreu, Tabata spoke often in Spanish with the veteran outfielder, whom he grew up watching on television from time to time.

"It's an amazing thing," Tabata said. "I've been watching him all these years and I never imagined being next to him in a locker. I thank God for this opportunity that the Yankees have given me.

"Bobby has taught me how to be patient and to just do what I can do. Don't try to do extra, because when you try to do too much, that's when mistakes come."

Tabata has made relatively few to this point. Signed by the Yankees on his 16th birthday, Tabata served three stints on the disabled list last season with an injured thumb, though he finished batting .298 with 22 doubles, five home runs and 51 RBIs at Class A Charleston.

A South Atlantic League All-Star, his performance included a string of 24 straight games in which he reached base, 15 stolen bases in 20 attempts and a selection to the All-Star Futures Game in Pittsburgh.

Tabata said that he had just returned from the South Atlantic League festivities in Eastlake, Ohio, when a Charleston Riverdogs official told him that he'd been summoned to PNC Park to play for the World team.

Tabata thought the notification was some sort of practical joke and didn't believe the official until the original letter and its plane ticket could be retrieved.

"[I was] real surprised," Tabata said. "I wasn't expecting to be there."

In nine Grapefruit League games for New York this spring, Tabata amassed a gaudy .462 batting average, stroking six hits in 13 at-bats while hitting a home run and driving in two runs.

The long ball came off Jeff Harris in the ninth inning of a loss to the Cleveland Indians on Sunday, an opposite-field blast over the right-field wall that served as a microcosm of Tabata's power potential.

"He just swings the bat and has the ability to hit the ball deep both ways," said manager Joe Torre. "He's just a baby. There's a lot of raw talent there that we're certainly aware of.

"We just hope he progresses the way he should, basically. It's all about working and not trying to rush it, because it's going to take its time."

Tabata is scheduled to open the 2007 season at Class A Tampa in the Florida State League, and Yankees officials have said that there is no reason to rush him to higher levels. His development and production will set the pace for his progression toward the Major Leagues, but Tabata clearly has a timetable in mind for moving up to the Bronx.

"I'm going to work hard and put into practice everything that I learned here, so I can keep moving up," Tabata said. "Hopefully I will go to Double-A and keep going up. That's what all the players want."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/16/07 03:57 AM

Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Watching them right now. Bottom of the 7th and they're down 2-0 to the Braves.

EDIT: The 7th inning just ended, and the Yankees are now leading 3-2. I know it doesn't count, but it makes me happy.


Man I just saw the Yanks record. They're 10-3-1 thus far. Man DJ, when was the last time the Yanks had a spring this good?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/17/07 12:05 AM

Igawa still making adjustments

TAMPA, Fla. -- Eight of Kei Igawa's first nine pitches missed the strike zone Thursday, and with two Atlanta Braves on base and none out, Ron Guidry made an unexpectedly early trot to the mound.

Communication has been just one hurdle for the Japanese left-hander this spring, but whatever Guidry said in his Louisiana twang, it seemed to help.

Igawa struck out the side to end the inning and, even as he battled spotty control, finished off three scoreless frames to complete his third Grapefruit League start.

"I'm not sure how Gator communicated with him," Torre joked later. "Maybe Cajun is close to Japanese."

Preparing for his first Major League season, Igawa's adjustments are continuing. The 27-year-old needed 62 pitches to get through three innings of work, and recorded just 29 strikes.

He was continuously behind in the count, throwing just one first-pitch strike to Atlanta's first nine batters -- a called strike to free-swinging former Yankee Craig Wilson, who eventually struck out.

The performance was "effectively wild," as catcher Jorge Posada put it. Igawa walked four but struck out five, and the Yankees seem encouraged by Igawa's ability to throw offspeed pitches behind in the count and his willingness to respond to tweaks.

Guidry's spoken words and assorted gestures told Igawa that he needed to reach out further and finish off his pitches -- a lesson that has been repeatedly stressed in bullpen sessions, not just under the lights at Legends Field.

But, as Torre revealed earlier on Thursday, Igawa has taken conditioning drills into his own hands on occasion.

Two days after his March 5 debut against the Detroit Tigers, an unsatisfied Igawa walked out to the adjacent Field 3 bordering Legends Field and repeatedly threw baseballs against a chain-link fence from flat ground.

"I only do that when I feel I need to keep my balance," Igawa explained through interpreter Yumi Watanbe. "It's just a way to shift my weight from one leg to the other."

Igawa said that the exercise is fairly common among Japanese pitchers, except it is usually conducted with a netted screen that could catch the thrown balls. Lacking those amenities, Igawa instead opted for the clanging of horsehide against metal.

Torre said that Guidry later instructed Igawa that the Yankees would prefer if he conducted those types of drills with the supervision of a coach.

"We're here to support him, not to change him," Torre said.

Igawa seems to be making plenty of other adjustments on his own. Though Posada said he was pleased with Igawa's slider and called his changeup "good," the catcher said that Igawa's demeanor may have seen the most improvement over the past 10 days.

"His presence around the mound is better," Posada said. "Before, he was walking around.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/17/07 12:07 AM

Notes: Wang on pace to pitch opener

KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- The Yankees have not officially decided on their Opening Day starter, but Chien-Ming Wang continues to appear as likely a choice as any.

Wang was efficient in a five-inning performance Friday against the Houston Astros, allowing one run and four hits in the Yankees' 4-3 loss.

The right-hander said he was especially pleased with his changeup and slider, and he had good command for most of the effort -- Wang threw 46 of his 61 pitches for strikes, with just a momentary blip in the second inning when he left fastballs up on doubles to Carlos Lee and Luke Scott.

"Every time, better and better," Wang said.

One season after tying Minnesota's Johan Santana for the American League lead in victories, Wang is generally regarded as the Yankees' ace and the likeliest candidate to lock heads with Tampa Bay's Scott Kazmir on April 2.

Through four Grapefruit League appearances -- including the Yankees' Grapefruit League opener on March 1 against Minnesota -- Wang has compiled a 2.54 ERA, allowing four runs and 12 hits in 14 innings.

"He's getting there," manager Joe Torre said. "He's not all the way there yet. He's not as sharp as he's going to be, but he's not having any problems."

Of importance is Wang's improving slider, which Torre said has come a long way from his debut season in 2005. It made a great leap last year and has been a focal point of Wang's sessions in Spring Training, making him more likely to tap it from his arsenal in a tight spot during the regular season.

"If you have the pitches, the more comfort you have with them, the more likely you are to use them," Torre said.

Torre said that the team has not yet set any plans for the season opener, with Wang, Andy Pettitte and Mike Mussina in the running for the assignment.

"We just want to make sure these guys get through their next start or two," Torre said. "The most important thing for me is that, any one of the three of them that you decide, the other two of them won't take exception."

Bobby swings: Bobby Abreu (strained right oblique) took 55 swings in an indoor cage at Legends Field on Friday, The Associated Press reported.

Torre said that he hadn't heard any updates from the Yankees' camp during their game in Kissimmee, Fla., which the manager took to be a good sign. No news is good news, he reasoned.

"All systems were go today," Torre said. "He had a pretty good look on his face this morning."

Without any further setbacks, Torre suggested that Abreu could make his Grapefruit League debut on Thursday at Sarasota against the Cincinnati Reds, the day following New York's lone off-day of the spring.

That would give Abreu 10 exhibition games to round into shape for his projected Opening Day assignment at Yankee Stadium, which Torre said was realistic. Abreu was injured while taking batting practice in Tampa on Feb. 26.

No liftoff: Roger Clemens kept his fastball and splitter in his back pocket on Friday, instead tossing lob batting practice to his children on Field 4 of the Astros' Spring Training complex.

Clemens also kept to himself and did not speak to reporters, 10 days after he made an appearance at Legends Field to watch good friend Pettitte pitch.

Torre said he did not intend to seek out Clemens for another informal chat, but said that he believed Clemens already knows whether or not he intends to pitch in 2007.

Clemens and his representatives have continually maintained that if Clemens decides to play this year, it would only be for the Yankees, Astros or Red Sox.

"Just knowing Roger the way I do, in the event he decides to play again, he's certainly going to be ready to do it," Torre said. "That's part of his lifestyle. ... I think Roger has it all figured out anyway."

Bernie a topic: In discussing the talents of outfielder Bronson Sardinha -- who is batting .345 this spring after an 0-for-4 collar Friday -- Torre couldn't help but mention Bernie Williams' name.

The 23-year-old Sardinha has made great strides after working with hitting coach Kevin Long last season at Triple-A Columbus, and Torre said he was one of the biggest surprises of camp.

That said, Torre would prefer a more veteran presence as a fifth outfielder, if the Yankees intended to carry one. That prompted the manager to bring up Williams, reiterating that "Bernie at least had a chance to be a part of this ballclub, coming off the bench."

Torre said that his two recruitment calls to Williams, urging him to consider accepting the Yankees' standing non-roster invitation to Spring Training, went unreturned. Torre said that he would be surprised if Williams latched on with another team in 2007, but also handicapped the 38-year-old outfielder's chances on reappearing with the Yankees.

"I think it would be a very, very long shot," Torre said. "Spring Training would have been important for him and for us, too, just to try to put things together."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/07 12:49 AM

Well, once again - Pettitte is stellar today, and Carl Pavano proves why Charlie the Tuna could throw a better game. \:\/
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/07 12:56 AM

And yet the Yankees lose. What happened? On the Yankees website they just said Pettitte threw 5 scoreless innings. Who gave up the final 2 runs?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/07 01:01 AM

Crash Test Dummy.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/07 06:02 AM

Clemens takes wait-and-see approach

ORLANDO -- Roger Clemens made it clear on Saturday that a decision on whether he will play this year won't come until May. And as far as speculation on who holds the cards, he stated that ultimately the Astros, Yankees and Red Sox having the final say.

"From what I understand, all three teams want to see where they are as far as their rotation ... and how their pitching lines up," Clemens said in an exclusive interview with MLB.com after his question-and-answer session with fans during the MLB FanFest at Universal Orlando. "Not a one of them wanted an April or May [deal] anyways. All three teams look good as far as their pitching staffs go. My agents will let me know if and when they call."

The 44-year-old right-hander, who entertained fans in a lengthy informal interview with BaseballChannel.TV host Vinny Micucci, was candid about his position and stated it had nothing to do with a limited position with a club.

"The thing that's been misconstrued quite a bit is that I have a deal in Houston where I pitch and then don't show up," said Clemens, who spent about 15 minutes signing autographs for fans following his chat. "I'm working more than I'm pitching down there. It's not like I'm pitching and then going home and sitting around."

Clemens, who has been helping coach in Minor League camp during Spring Training with the Astros, discussed at length how he was upset that his situation with the Astros was made out to appear as a luxury-type deal and that he was afforded unique concessions. The Houston native first came out of retirement in 2004 after Andy Pettitte signed with the Astros. Clemens ultimately retired and un-retired two more times, with the last deal signed in 2006 after his appearance in the World Baseball Classic for Team USA.

The deal, in which he received a pro-rated portion of $22,000,022, was constructed as a "personal service contract" in which Clemens agreed to mentor and coach in some facet for Houston's Minor League clubs. While he mentioned that coaching is something that isn't in the near future for him, he loves the chance to take part in helping teach the younger players.

"I would have signed a similar deal with the Yankees had Andy stayed in New York," said Clemens. "I thought he was a lifer there. I know when we were in the playoffs in 2003 and Andy's contract was coming up, he wasn't sure about what he was going to do because he knew I was retiring. He was like, 'I don't know what I want to do and if I want to stay here.' And I told him I'd come visit a couple times a month, play some golf and possibly work for some TV people."

Clemens, though, was persuaded to un-retire after Pettitte became an Astro.

"Andy mentioned how he was going to talk to his good buddy, and then I ended up with some 50 odd-some people outside my gate begging me to play," Clemens said. " That's how I ended up in Houston. We thought it would be fun and it worked out where we took the organization further than it's ever been. Now, here I am at a crossroads again."

Clemens admits that he wavers back and forth about his desire to return again, knowing how much effort and commitment it takes. But he also said he understands how to manage it, considering he has run his charity foundation for years in addition to recently becoming a part of an ownership group in two Astros Minor League affiliates, the Round Rock Express and the Corpus Christi Hooks.

"I have a lot of stuff going on, but I can balance it," said Clemens, whose wife, Debra, helps manage the Roger Clemens Foundation. "That's another thing that people don't realize about my deal with the Astros, is that, when I wasn't traveling with the team, I was going all over the place to handle business."

So, while Clemens may not have said point-blank where he would end up playing, his words on Saturday alluded to the attractive value of each city.

In New York, his good friend plays there. Pettitte was the main reason Clemens returned to the game the last time.

"I'm talking to different buddies around the league right now, including Andy and getting them ready for the long ride ahead," said Clemens. "The talks we have in private time is just as important as going out and performing, and it's important to know how much you have to invest, both physically and mentally. I was strong last year and I know what it takes to get back into it full-strength."

In Houston, he can be near his family. While his oldest son, Koby, is now playing in the Astros organization after being drafted last year, his other sons, Kory, Kacy, and Kody are at the age where he can help coach them.

Finally, in Boston, not only does he have his legacy there, having played 12 seasons with the Red Sox, he has another part of history that intrigues him.

"My biggest idol growing up was John F. Kennedy, and when I was there, I was lucky enough to meet the family and become friends with them," said Clemens, who is a history enthusiast. "That's another thing about Boston. When I'm there, I can visit their family, which is a pretty cool thing."

Kennedy once said that, "Change is the law of life." For Clemens, it seems change is again on the horizon.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/07 06:03 AM

Cano 'always worried'

CLEARWATER, Fla. -- Don't get Robinson Cano wrong. Cano grinned plenty when he popped his first home run of the spring this week, and for that matter, he probably smiles as much as any Yankee.

But while the 24-year-old second baseman has his stroke intact, batting .333 with nine RBIs in Grapefruit League play, he harbors a sneaking suspicion that his next slump could be right around the corner.

"Let me tell you something: I'm always worried," Cano said. "If you get two hits today, sometimes you don't get hits for the next five or 10 games. I'm always worried how it's going to be the next game. It's not easy -- just go into the game and get some hits. I'm always worried about how it's going to be."

The Yankees have no such qualms about Cano's play. After he finished third in the American League batting race last season, New York is looking for big things from the All-Star as he plays his third Major League season.

A compact left-handed batter who hit 15 home runs in 482 at-bats last season, Cano has a stroke that some have suggested could be ripe to add power potential in future seasons.

His three-run shot off Houston's Woody Williams on Friday wasn't exactly an aberration, though Cano said he continues to simply try to drive the ball for doubles. In a lineup flush with power hitters, Cano said he is content to stick to the form that has made him one of the game's most dynamic young hitters.

"It's a different game than that," Cano said. "I wish to improve my power, but not in a home run way. Sometimes I'll try [to hit home runs in batting practice], but I'm a line-drive hitter."

Yankees manager Joe Torre said that he hasn't seen any signs of slowing from Cano, who continues to report to Legends Field three times a week for early-morning defensive drills with infield coach Larry Bowa -- an exercise package that Cano believes has helped him markedly.

A contractual bargain for the Yankees, having signed a one-year contract worth $490,000 earlier this month, Cano still exhibits an innocent, joyful approach to the game that Torre said is "great to see."

"You sense if somebody's forcing the issue," Torre said. "We've talked to him about several things in regard to hitting and his contract, all that stuff. We've tried to cover all the bases. He seems to be having fun. Hopefully that's the case."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/07 06:05 AM

Pavano thrown off routine

CLEARWATER, Fla. -- As Andy Pettitte retired a succession of Phillies on Saturday afternoon, Carl Pavano was killing time behind Bright House Networks Field, trying to wait until the sixth inning when his turn rolled around.

Pavano said that Rob Thomson, the Yankees' Major League field coordinator, had to continuously send text messages across to the dugout to find out when the 31-year-old right-hander should begin warming up for a scheduled four-inning relief stint.

"It was an awkward day," Pavano said. "I was away from my routine, but I don't think it affected me that much. I just felt a little rushed."

Slated to pitch behind Pettitte, Pavano entered the Yankees' eventual 3-2 loss with a tough act to follow. Pettitte shook off early command problems and swirling, cool winds to retire the final 13 Phillies he faced, handing a one-run lead over to Pavano.

As Pavano attempts to return to normalcy following a 1 1/2-year layoff, even his smallest steps are considered progress, though nothing seems to come without one quirk or another.

Pavano allowed three runs (two earned) in three innings, scattering four hits while walking two and striking out one. The line was misleading.

Saying that he "definitely felt a little funky out there," Pavano was impacted by Andy Phillips -- playing out of position at third base to garner extra at-bats -- on a muff of Carlos Ruiz's grounder in the sixth inning, leading to Philadelphia's first run.

In the seventh, a two-run Aaron Rowand single was originally ruled an error, but the official scorer changed it to a single after the game.

Yankees manager Joe Torre acknowledged that each time Pavano competes and emerges healthy, it's worthy of a larger spotlight than an average hurler just based upon his recent history.

"He hasn't done this for a couple of years," Torre said. "I think he's got to get a feel for it again. It's something he's done for a number of years, but he hasn't done it recently. This game has a way of reminding you."

With the game having ended, but the Yankees looking to raise Pavano's pitch count above 65, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel agreed to unofficially have his club bat in the bottom of the ninth inning.

Before a scattered crowd of confused onlookers, Pavano faced three batters, striking out former Yankee Karim Garcia before hitting Brennan King.

Center fielder Kevin Thompson dropped what would have been the second out of the inning, a fly ball by Ron Calloway, at which point the Yankees walked off the field and allowed the Phillies -- finally -- to shake hands and shower.

Torre said the outing was satisfactory for Pavano's third appearance.

"He looked fine," Torre said. "He just might be a little flat right now. [Pavano had] no complaints. He felt all right, and I thought he did all right."

Coming off a three-inning start against the Red Sox in Fort Myers, and pitching on the normal fifth day, Pavano reported good fatigue following Saturday's effort.

"It's probably the first time when my body felt a little dead and I had to work a little harder, which I think is good, because that's just part of Spring Training," Pavano said.

Pavano's Spring Training has been interrupted twice -- first by a batting practice line drive that bruised his left foot and a serious medical issue involving his girlfriend, Gia Allemand, that excused him from a start against the Rays. He now appears to be gaining some rhythm.

"I actually feel my body breaking down and getting stronger," Pavano said.

Pavano said that his next bullpen session and the following scheduled start, which Torre said would be Thursday on the road against the Reds, would be important in continuing to gather steam for the regular season.

"This time of year, you want to build from activity and go [with] more activity," Pavano said. "The next bullpen and start are going to be the progression that I missed. ... You've just got to hit your checkpoints."

Torre said Pavano is slightly trailing the other Yankees starters because of the two incidents, but that he could make up that ground quickly. Next week would be the time to do it.

"I think there's always something we're going to look for to be a little better," Torre said. "When it's time to break camp, the whole package has to be there. It's a step forward."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/07 01:10 PM

Watched Game 4 of the 1998 World Series last night on YES. My, oh, my, Jeter looked about 11 years old!!! What a great game that was, and what a great team!
Posted By: BDuff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/07 03:40 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Don't get too excited BDuff. I still predict the Mets to win the NL East ;\)


What wins baseball games? Pitching does, something the Phillies have and the Mets don't. The Mets will rely on Glavine, El-Duque, Sele, Maine, and Pelfrey. Pedro is out till August too and outside of Glavine their starting pitching stinks.

The Phillies have Myers (14-7), Garcia (16-9), Hamels (led NL in strikouts after the All Star break as a rookie), Moyer (7-3 after he joined the Phillies), and Eaton/Lieber. The Phillies also ranked 1st in run scored last year in the NL.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/07 04:30 PM

RRA Tired of Non-Important Yankee Camp Tidbits

EAST TENNESSEE - While the New York Yankees are enjoying a nice series of internet and newspaper articles regarding storylines and minor events, not everyone is happy.

"There are some legitimate stories for the Yankees at Spring Training. Is this Joe Torre and A-Rod's last season at New York? Can Derek Jeter deliver another MVP-like season of numbers? Can the bullpen get its act back together? But when it becomes little stories of Cano always being worried, or frequent hypercondriac Pavano crying about being out of routine, is that really news?"

This comes from RonnieRocketAgo(which we will refer to him as such, since he doesn't want his full name Joe Gayeski exposed to the public), a lifelong baseball fan and even a rare fan outside of New York City that doesn't hate the Yankees.

"In a way, the media coverage of Yankees camp is like the real world I guess. We have a bloody civil war that we're stuck in at Iraq. AIDS and Famine own Africa. Osama Bin Laden is still out there. Obama and Hillary are slugging each other. Instead, we only pay attention to stories that don't matter, like Anna Nicole Smith's death and Anne Coulter calling John Edwards a queer."

But "RRA" wants everyone to know he doesn't hate the Yankees at all.

"Unlike most baseball fanboys, like say Boston, the Yanks are not an evil empire. Its just a commercial imperialist club that exploits the hell out of the legality that Bud Selig allows. But Papa George Steinbrenner is evil. He was a roommate of Bob Novak, Idia Amin, and Lucifer over at Princeton."

Source: REUTERS & THE ONION
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/07 05:10 PM

I didn't realize you had to go into the Yankee thread.

Why not start another thread for disgruntled baseball fans instead of polluting this one? \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/07 11:53 PM

Giambi wishes Opening Day was here

TAMPA, Fla. -- Pitchers, these two weeks are for you.

At least that's the mind-set of Jason Giambi, who slugged a mammoth grand slam on Sunday off the Pirates' Zach Duke, leading the Yankees to an 8-1 Grapefruit League victory at Legends Field.

After the game, Giambi said New York's offense is ready to roll the calendar forward to Opening Day. Twelve more exhibition games remain on the slate, so the hitters will have to busy themselves with a few more free at-bats.

"We can definitely break camp right now," Giambi said. "The hard part is to fight through and get some intensity and a little adrenaline flowing. You're basically here now for the pitchers."

Though the 36-year-old slugger has three home runs this spring, Giambi ended Sunday afternoon batting just .206. He hasn't been concerned by a spotty showing thus far; in fact, Giambi is elated by how good his surgically repaired left wrist has felt in his plate appearances.

Yankees manager Joe Torre said that Giambi has looked "free and easy" and said that he has been very comfortable with his projected designated hitter, believing that "his at-bats are right where they should be."

Torre said his coaches have been comparing data on at-bats from appearances at this point last season, up and down the lineup, and they compare favorably to March 2006. That's encouraging, but for hitters ready to sniff out the regular season, tough luck.

"They're going to get a little bored here, but they understand the last week is when you have to start locking yourself in and getting mentally ready for the season," Torre said.

Giambi wasn't expecting to do much this spring, having undergone a procedure to repair ligament damage in the wrist after the Yankees' playoff elimination last October. He has been hitting the ball hard and feeling no pain, which in itself is a minor achievement.

"I'm excited where I'm at," Giambi said. "I thought it'd be a little bit longer where I'd have to get my swing back a little bit, and get a little more work. Everything's gone faster than expected, no doubt about it."

Giambi said that his fourth-inning home run off Duke was a good indication of his rehabilitated stroke. Giambi turned on an up-and-in fastball and launched it inside the right-field foul pole, driving it through a stiff wind and over the wall.

"That tells me I'm swinging the bat good, when I can keep that ball fair," Giambi said. "Especially with that wind pushing it foul, when I can stay inside the baseball like that and keep it fair down the line, that's exactly what I'm looking for."

Giambi has joked often this spring about "letting the 'Big G' loose," which is his personal term for the afternoons he gets to take on the challenge of playing first base.

The first time he did so, Giambi took Don Mattingly aside and kidded the Yankees' bench coach about taking the blanket off the horse and letting it run around outside the stable.

The Yankees aren't asking much defensively of Giambi this season; not with former Rawlings Gold Glove Award winner Doug Mientkiewicz locked in to see the majority of innings at first base, plus Josh Phelps and Andy Phillips competing to win a reserve role.

Still, "Big G" is remaining prepared for unexpected possibilities. He wasn't supposed to play as much first base as he did in 2006 -- 64 starts, compared to 70 at designated hitter -- and said he is entering the season with that same mind-set.

If Giambi winds up being used as a designated hitter more, he's fine with that. But if not, at least he'll be ready.

"The best thing to do is just go as if you're going to be in there," Giambi said. "I think I could see anywhere from half [the games at DH] and half [at first base]. You've got to be prepared to play.

"I still go out there and prepare. I want to. They know I've done it for so long that I'll be ready. When you haven't played for a while, you have to get the speed of it back. When you have, that doesn't take very long at all."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 02:30 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I didn't realize you had to go into the Yankee thread.

Why not start another thread for disgruntled baseball fans instead of polluting this one? \:p


RRA: DoubleJ needs to Chill

EAST TENNESSEE - Earlier on his 22nd birthday, ronnierocketago wrote a posting indicating that only "serious" storylines should be reported by the media from Yankees spring training camp. Later that day, DoubleJ responded that RRA should "start another thread for disgruntled baseball fans."

Ronnie was shocked, but not surprised. "Many Yankee fans are very defensive whenever anything, even simple meaningless criticism of the media, is uttered. I mean, I'm not disgruntled, I just rather read hard news instead of the soft-scoop ice cream pointless news that ESPN and other news outlets report from baseball camps that just don't matter."

Ronnie later adds, "Surely if Derek Jeter took a shit, we'll read about it tomorrow in the Post. If I question why this is news, I'll get attacked because some fans want to know important questions like, did Jeter eat corn or sausage last night?"

After the interview-by-phone ended, RRA's public relations camp then asked DJ's camp whatever bitchings about the Boston Red Sox' training camp constitutes a whole new thread, since *technically* its not about the Yankees.

No comment has been reached from DoubleJ's camp.

SOURCE: ESPN
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 01:07 PM

The Red Sox and Yankee rivalry is well documented. Therefore, such discussions are relevant in the thread.

However, while we appreciate Mr. Rara's interest in our thread, we stand by our original statement. Thank you.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 01:52 PM

Oh, come on, leave the guys alone. Let them have their own little place to enjoy. You have your movie thread and your movie ratings don't you.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 07:11 PM

Wait, I do have my movie ratings!

HOW BOUT THEM YANKEES!? (2005-Present) - ***1/2

At times, this long-running thread at BB.Net has some wonderful baseball/Yankees sports commentary. God bless the soul of the wise Plawrence. At least fathersson is still here.

Otherwise, people complain when Red Sox get biased camp coverage of how wonderful and sunny it is, I agree with them(though I think all MLB camps have soft news that are about as meaningful as my reviews)...yet I discuss this same problem with Yanks camp, people complain.

If this thread was a TV show, it jumped the shark when Plawrence left us. What a pity. Sort of the SEALAB 2021 of BB.Net threads.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 07:45 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
At least fathersson is still here.


Look who's returned from the dead So were you going for the Cards in the World Series or was it Detroit all the way since they beat the awful and evil Yankees?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 07:51 PM

I didn't care. I figured Tigers if only because they displayed a more impressive ALCS, but people counted the Cardinals out way too much simply because they failed to field a title in the previous years with many of the same players.

In other words, I figured it might be a 7 game series. Well, I only overpredicted by two games. LOL
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 07:52 PM

I'm sorry ronnie, my question wasn't directed at you, it was to fathersson. But yes, I counted out both Detroit and St. Louis last year. In fact, out of all 7 series of last year's postseason, I only got 1 right (Mets over Dodgers)
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 08:15 PM


I will have to get back to you on that Irish...
I'm still busting a gut after reading the post where you whined about how many stars this thread gets!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 08:18 PM

No problem, just get back to me when you can. I know you've got a lot of catching up to do since you've been gone for so long.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 08:49 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Otherwise, people complain when Red Sox get biased camp coverage of how wonderful and sunny it is, I agree with them(though I think all MLB camps have soft news that are about as meaningful as my reviews)...yet I discuss this same problem with Yanks camp, people complain.


We here at the Yankees Fanzone™ feel that because this thread is a micro topic and specific with regards to one team, such "soft" news as described by Mr. Rara is both welcomed and appreciated in this thread. The Yankees Fanzone™ would like to point out to Mr. Rara that if he feels the need for less Yankee-centric news, it would be more appropriate to start a general thread himself, and to abstain from any more intrusions into the Yankee Fanzone™ authorized thread, "How bout them Yankees!?"

Thank you.

Regards,
The Yankee Fanzone™
1903-2007
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 09:31 PM

Nice DJ. Man, you guys there at Yankee Fanzone™ have GREAT customer service! ;\)
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 10:26 PM

Yeah, I love how the customer service [deleted] for absolutely free.

Amazing!

Edited by Don Sicilia
Edit Reason: Vulgar content
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 10:41 PM

Momentous occasion... This is my first "Out of the Sandbox" post in the Sports section.

Keep it cool guys. Keep sports clean.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 10:51 PM

Alright, I'm fine with that.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/19/07 10:57 PM

I've been fine with. Usually DJ, SB, scarfacetm and other Yankees fans are usually the regulars in this thread. Although, we get those few "outsiders" from time to time \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/20/07 03:26 AM

Karstens hits bump in road vs. Jay

DUNEDIN, Fla. -- It can be difficult to tell when Johnny Damon is joking around. It's even more challenging while he's wearing sunglasses and an unbuttoned Hawaiian shirt.

But the Yankees center fielder said he was being honest when he approached right-hander Jeff Karstens following the Yankees' 9-1 loss to the Blue Jays on Monday, boosting the hurler's spirits before hitting the road.

"You're good," Damon told Karstens. "You're a good pitcher. Seriously."

Karstens' bid as a dark-horse candidate for the Yankees' rotation hit a snag against Toronto's lineup, with windy conditions and an inexperienced left fielder combining to snap the 24-year-old's spring scoreless-innings streak at 10.

Karstens allowed four runs and six hits in a 75-pitch performance Monday, spanning 4 1/3 innings. He struck out two and still has yet to issue a walk in 13 1/3 spring frames.

"We've still got a lot of time left," Karstens said. "I learned a lot today about what I can and cannot do when I'm out there. You can't throw fastballs at 91 [mph] by people, especially when you're behind."

After recording the first four outs, Karstens thought Troy Glaus stroked enough of a pitch to homer, but a swirling breeze held it in the ballpark. Utilityman Miguel Cairo -- attempting to stay sharp in left field just in case of a future emergency -- then couldn't corral an Alex Rios fly ball that was scored a double, putting two aboard.

One out later, on what Karstens thought was a much better pitch than the previous two hits, Aaron Hill brought in both runs with yet another two-bagger off the wall.

"They were playing wall-ball, it seemed like," Karstens said.

Karstens would be charged with two additional runs when reliever Chris Britton surrendered a two-run single to Lyle Overbay in the sixth. Manager Joe Torre said the effort didn't change much relating to Karstens' continued bid for a Major League role.

"It's just more information," Torre said. "He's been [darn] near perfect, so I don't think he could hold up against that."

Karstens said he wasn't too deeply troubled by his spring string being nixed.

"You're going to give up runs at some time," Karstens said. "If that wasn't the case, I'd be in the big leagues. But everybody gives up runs."

After pitching in eight games (six starts) for New York last season, Karstens believes he came into camp better prepared for life in the Majors.

His velocity has ticked up a few mph after spending three months working out at Athlete's Performance in Los Angeles, shacked up in a hotel and training five days a week alongside established big leaguers like Chase Utley, Garrett Atkins, Nomar Garciaparra and Chad Cordero.

"You don't have any idea how hard these guys work in the offseason to put up the numbers they put up," Karstens said.

Karstens said that he was given a CD-ROM by the training center that shows a side-by-side photo comparison of the right-hander in November and on Jan. 19, the day he returned home to San Diego.

The results, he said, look like a magazine advertisement for 'Before' and 'After.' The change, visible most in Karstens' broader shoulders, has been striking to teammates and friends who hadn't seen him since last fall.

"My posture even got better," Karstens said.

If Karstens isn't a candidate to make the Yankees' starting rotation -- Torre said Monday that the team wants left-hander Kei Igawa, the likeliest candidate to be bumped, to be one of the starters -- he could serve as a long reliever and the 12th man added to the staff.

"You're adding just another layer to him right now," Torre said. "I have a sense he'll handle it fine, because he didn't shake last year when we brought him up."

Likewise, this isn't the time for Karstens to begin worrying and pressing. With probably two spring starts remaining, Karstens prefers to think as though he is operating on bonus time.

His Double-A and Triple-A teammates from last season have already been playing across the way from Legends Field on Himes Avenue for several days, and Karstens said he'll enjoy every minute he's still pitching for the big club.

"I came into camp thinking I'd probably hang around for a little while, and once games started at the Minor League complex, I'd be back over there," Karstens said. "I'll just make the most of it [and] have fun."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/20/07 03:30 AM

Mientkiewicz moving forward

DUNEDIN, Fla. -- Doug Mientkiewicz finally stroked his second hit of the spring on Monday, doubling off Toronto's Victor Zambrano and raising his batting average to .076.

Luckily for Mientkiewicz, those numbers will soon reset to zero. Now 2-for-26 in his first Grapefruit League action as a Yankee, Mientkiewicz said he has given up on improving his offensive statistics and is more focused on preparing for the regular season.

"No one ever flipped over the back of a baseball card and saw your Spring Training stats," Mientkiewicz said.

The 32-year-old Mientkiewicz was signed primarily to lend his strong defensive skills to the infield, and he has shown flashes of the deft error-saving play that the organization envisioned.

Even with a powerhouse offensive lineup around him, Mientkiewicz must produce at least a little from his projected No. 9 spot to make the arrangement work.

"Everyone keeps saying, 'You're on the team,'" Mientkiewicz said. "I understand that, but you also want to earn your way on the team. I didn't expect to come in here and hit .400, but I didn't expect to do this either."

On the positive side, manager Joe Torre pointed out that Mientkiewicz has been making contact -- he has struck out only twice this spring -- and has been smacking line drives in a number of his appearances.

"He seems to be having better at-bats," Torre said. "That's why it's advantageous to watch guys instead of just looking at results."

Mientkiewicz said he spent about 1 1/2 hours on Sunday working with bench coach Don Mattingly and hitting coach Kevin Long, going through batting drills on a back diamond at Legends Field.

While he had resisted those types of heavy workouts earlier in camp, preferring to remain cautious so as not to irritate his surgically repaired back, Mientkiewicz said he enjoyed the experience, grueling as it may have been.

"It seemed like three weeks," Mientkiewicz said.

Mientkiewicz said that he felt more confident going into Monday's game, the lessons from Long and Mattingly ringing in his ears. He spoke of being more aggressive and loose at Knology Park, comparing the feeling of rapping his bat against home plate to carefree hitting in the backyard as a child.

"If the season started tomorrow, I'm going in the right direction," Mientkiewicz said. "I'm better than what I've shown."

Abreu ready for duty: Bobby Abreu said he is prepared to serve as the Yankees' designated hitter on Tuesday against the Phillies at Legends Field. Abreu strained his right oblique while taking batting practice on Feb. 26 and has spent most of the last three weeks receiving treatment.

"Three weeks inside the training room," Abreu said. "I don't think that's good at all."

The Yankees plan to bring Abreu along cautiously so as not to duplicate the injury. Tuesday was selected because it is a home game and the Yankees can better control Abreu's play, compared to Thursday and Friday, which are road games at National League parks.

"We've invested so much time, I think we'd be making a big mistake if we tried to rush things," Torre said.

Abreu said that he still feels some tightness in his side, though he has taken batting practice, played the field and run the bases with no issues. It remains possible that Abreu could stay behind in Tampa when the Yankees go north, just to be safe, but Abreu said that he expects to be in New York on Opening Day.

"I feel stretching in there when I make a move or anything," Abreu said. "There's no pinching and no pain, so no problem."

'Pen proud: Torre said that Guidry called Carl Pavano's bullpen session Monday "outstanding." Pavano said following his last start on Saturday that his upcoming bullpen would be a major checkpoint in his effort to return to some sort of normalcy in his routine.

"To me, that's the best news of all," Torre said. "The more you pitch without any setbacks physically, the closer you are to getting the guy that you signed back."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/20/07 03:40 AM

Karstens pushes for Igawa's spot
Japanese lefty might begin season in minor leagues


DUNEDIN, Fla. (AP) -- Jeff Karstens has put himself into consideration for Kei Igawa's spot in the New York Yankees' rotation.

"I'm just taking it in stride," Karstens said Monday after New York's 9-1 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays.

Karstens allowed his first runs of the year, giving up four over 4 1-3 innings. He had pitched 10 consecutive scoreless innings before Aaron Hill's two-run double with two outs in the second. Two more runs scored when reliever Chris Britton gave up a two-run single to Lyle Overbay in the fifth.

Karstens' emergence could alter plans for Igawa, who signed a $20 million, five-year contract after the Yankees bid $26 million for his rights.

"We want Igawa to be one of the starters," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "The only way that wouldn't happen is if we think, he could improve here."

Torre didn't rule out the possibility that Igawa could begin the season in the minors. The left-hander, who has struggled with his control, is to pitch Tuesday night against Philadelphia.

"I think we have a lot of options that we have to consider," Torre said. "But the first consideration for us is do what's best for the player, especially someone you feel is going to be a big part of what you do."

Torre said Igawa had a good bullpen session Monday.

"We're anxious to see how it translates tomorrow," Torre said. "He's gotten better in areas through the three starts. Hopefully tomorrow we'll see a little better demeanor as far as his command and stuff."

In 13 1-3 innings, Karstens has given up 11 hits, struck out 11 and walked none. He was 2-1 with a 3.80 ERA in six starts and two relief appearances for the Yankees last year.

"I came into camp thinking, probably hang around for a little while and then once games start at the minor league complex I'll be back pitching over there," Karstens said. "I was thinking more, come get my work in and try and learn as much as I can while I'm there."

Gregg Zaun hit a three-run homer off Britton, who allowed five runs and four hits in one-third of an inning.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/20/07 04:25 PM

If anything, Karstens deserves the 5th spot, Igawa the 4th. I can't believe this is even a discussion. While Igawa has control issues, his stuff has been electric. He's struck out guys, making them look silly. He just needs to adjust to MLB mounds and umpires.

Pavano, on the other hand, is total shit. He has gotten bombed on every occasion, his stuff has no action, and he's not going to get better even if Ron Guidry puts on a happy face and says he's had a "great" bullpen session with an imaginary, nonexistent hitter.

Please, please, please...package Pavano and some pitchers and get Texiera. Please.

Or, at worst, we get rid of Eye-Chart over at first base and trade Pavano for Richie Sexson, straight up.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/21/07 04:10 AM

Igawa heeds Guidry's advice

TAMPA, Fla. -- On the day Kei Igawa was introduced at Yankee Stadium, general manager Brian Cashman cautioned that the hurler's first season in the United States would be a period of transition, with the Japanese left-hander making countless adjustments.

Some tweaks are coming quicker than others. After battling command issues over his first three Spring Training appearances, Igawa followed pitching coach Ron Guidry's advice to better finish his delivery, allowing him to pin his pitches down in the zone.

The effort flowed into Igawa's sharpest performance as a Yankee. Igawa blanked the Phillies over five innings on Tuesday night at Legends Field, allowing just two hits in New York's 2-0 Grapefruit League victory.

Yankees manager Joe Torre said that he has been pleased by Igawa's continued progress. With two starts likely remaining before the regular season, Igawa has come a long way from a shaky March 5 debut against the Tigers, in which he lasted just one-plus inning.

"Each outing, you can take something from it," Torre said. "Last outing, even though his command wasn't good, I thought his slider was real good. Tonight, it just looked like all his pitches were working. And again, we're not finished yet."

Igawa threw 38 of 65 pitches for strikes, walking three and striking out three. The start was far more economical than his previous one, a March 15 outing against the Braves in which Igawa used 62 pitches to squeak through three innings.

"I think he'll probably sleep better tonight," Torre said. "He's been frustrated with the fact that he knows he can do better. That's what's tough about being a starting pitcher; you've got to wait five or six days for your next time."

Igawa had shown flashes of dominance in his Grapefruit League starts, but they were often obscured with counts that placed him at a disadvantage behind hitters. Igawa has allowed four runs in 12 innings, but he has also struck out a team-high 15 this spring.

"Results are important, but as of now, I just want to prove and learn my way of pitching -- the style," Igawa said through translator Yumi Watanbe. "That's the important thing right now."

The next step, Torre said, would likely be a six-inning effort projected at 85 pitches.

With 24-year-old Jeff Karstens campaigning for a rotation slot, Igawa may have needed a strong game to quell any lingering doubts about his status in the rotation, keeping Karstens shooting toward a role as a long reliever and spot starter.

On Monday, Torre floated the idea that Igawa could begin the year at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, adding fuel to that fire. But his performance against Philadelphia showed a microcosm of what could translate to the Bronx, sparing Igawa a trip to Lackawanna County.

Igawa changed speeds well and made good use of a slider that rescued him from a few tough counts, and even continued his dominance of dangerous Phillies slugger Ryan Howard.

Igawa recalled facing Howard three times during the United States' tour of Japan after the 2006 season, retiring the reigning National League MVP all three times with one strikeout. Howard was retired twice more on Tuesday, flying out to center field and grounding to first.

"I was able to throw the ball low, and that's the good part about today," Igawa said.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/21/07 04:12 AM

Pettitte likely to miss next start

TAMPA, Fla. -- Andy Pettitte is likely to miss his next scheduled Spring Training start on Friday with back spasms, Yankees manager Joe Torre said on Tuesday.

Pettitte, 34, began to experience tightness and spasms following a regular workout involving squats on Monday. Pettitte felt fine leaving Legends Field but said his back stiffened at home, then again on Tuesday morning.

"I'm pretty locked up," Pettitte said.

Torre said that that the left-hander would probably not be available to pitch on Friday, the next day his turn would have come around the rotation.

"I think it's safe to assume that," Torre said. "During the season, you may think differently."

Pettitte had originally been scheduled to throw on the side Tuesday, and Torre said it was doubtful that Pettitte would be able to take part on Wednesday. Pettitte had been slated for a Minor League game on Friday, with right-hander Darrell Rasner tabbed to start for the big-league squad against the Pirates.

"I want to stay on schedule," Pettitte said, "but I also realize that it's early."

Torre said he was not aware of any further tests, as the general consensus seems to conclude that the back spasms are not indicative of anything larger.

Pettitte said he had received treatment on Tuesday and was feeling looser.

"We're proceeding very cautiously here, even though it doesn't appear to be anything more than what it is," Torre said.

Pettitte -- back with the Yankees after three years in the National League with the Astros -- has not allowed a run in 10 spring innings this season, limiting opponents to five hits while walking two and striking out seven.

Along with Chien-Ming Wang, Pettitte is one of the Yankees' leading candidates to pitch on Opening Day, April 2, against the Rays. Torre said that missing one start is not likely to jeopardize Pettitte's standing for the regular season.

"Obviously, if they don't go away, it's going to mean something," Torre said. "You're getting close to the finish line. I don't anticipate it being a major problem."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/21/07 11:56 AM

Pettitte is going to be fine, they shouldn't push him now though. It's only ST, nobody cares.

Igawa's looking great, again, he deserves the 4th spot.

Pavano still is shit, he needs to be traded...give me Sexson or Texiera any day...one mediocre, injury prone pitcher, cash, and a prospect or two for Texiera should be enough. We could get Sexson straight up for cash + Pavano.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/21/07 05:48 PM

Don't you think it's a little late to get Sexson? I mean, we just got Mientkiewicz this season? I've heard how great Doug's glove is but we all know how bad his bat is too. I know Sexson is a MUCH better hitter than Doug but how about defensively?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/21/07 06:31 PM

Yanks to decide who stays, who goes

TAMPA, Fla. -- In the first of several planned group conferences, members of the Yankees' decision-making team gathered this week at Legends Field, attempting to feel each other out on the remaining issues that press the team's camp.

Much of the veteran Yankees roster has been set, with a number of players who reported to Tampa in February's second week already guaranteed a place on the baseline when the season opens on April 2 against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.

With just 10 Grapefruit League games left before trucks are loaded and planes are boarded, the Yankees have several unsettled issues to tackle.

That's why manager Joe Torre, general manager Brian Cashman, the coaching staff and administrative personnel, such as special advisor Gene Michael, gathered on Tuesday to hammer out the remaining questions in a roundtable format.

"The best part of these meetings," Torre said, "is not that the manager says something and has other people agree. You want everybody's opinion. The manager will be the last one to talk after each individual. I've got some great minds, as far as I'm concerned, on my staff."

Now that right fielder Bobby Abreu has returned to action following three weeks on the sidelines with a strained right oblique, it's realistic to project that the Yankees' Opening Day lineup will be just as it was when pitchers and catchers reported on Feb. 13. From Johnny Damon on down, the order has endured no major setbacks.

Likewise, the pitching rotation has not been altered in any fashion, though Andy Pettitte's brief battle with back spasms this past week raises the possibility that changes could be necessary at some point.

For the moment, the Yankees have not tabbed their Opening Day starter, but speculation reigns that 19-game winner and American League Cy Young Award runnerup Chien-Ming Wang will receive the nod, matching up against Rays left-hander Scott Kazmir.

Pettitte would be the likely No. 2 starter, with Mike Mussina, Carl Pavano and Kei Igawa, who dodged speculation of opening the year at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre with a fine outing on Tuesday against Philadelphia, filling in the final three slots.

That leaves Torre, Cashman and the rest of the Yankees' minds to ponder how to fill in the rest of New York's 25-man roster. Step one toward whittling down the remaining 45 nameplates hanging in the home clubhouse at Legends Field began on Tuesday, with imminent reassignments to the club's Minor League complex on Himes Avenue.

"In all likelihood, there are going to be more names than spots," Torre said. "There are no rules on this one. We're going to see how many guys are thinking the same way."

Among the major issues that must be tackled before April 2:

Yankees bullpen: The Yankees plan to carry seven relievers to open the season, and five of the spaces can be projected in ink. Mariano Rivera returns as one of the premier closers in the game, having spent his spring toying with a changeup, a pitch that raises eyebrows as an additional weapon for a pitcher who compiled many of his 413 career saves on the strength of his legendary cutter.

Setting up for Rivera will be right-handers Kyle Farnsworth and Scott Proctor. Farnsworth's first season in New York was a feeling-out process, and Torre believes that he has learned how to better manage the hurler to maximize his efficiency. Proctor led the American League with 83 appearances last season and wears that badge of honor proudly, hoping to approach that level of trust in 2007.

Right-hander Luis Vizcaino, 32, was acquired from Arizona in the Randy Johnson trade and has appeared in at least 70 games in four of the past five seasons. The Yankees are especially intrigued by Vizcaino's success against left-handed batters -- he handcuffed them to a .163 batting average in '06 -- which could negate the need for a second left-hander behind specialist Mike Myers.

"The thing I like about the bullpen is we have a lot of choices," Torre said. "If we [ran] into some problems in past years, you'd scratch your head and wonder where we're going."

Ron Villone, a non-roster invitee who appeared in 70 games last season for the Yankees, opened eyes earlier in camp with his velocity, but he has tailed off as the finish line nears. The 37-year-old Villone has shown signs of overthrowing, which could open the door for fellow lefty Sean Henn, who has quietly held opponents hitless and scoreless in five appearances this spring.

"You can't ignore what he's done here," Torre said of Henn.

The Yankees also project to carry a long reliever and spot starter, with right-hander Jeff Karstens stating his case most convincingly up to this point.

Karstens had pitched the equivalent of a shutout this spring -- nine innings, no runs, no walks and nine strikeouts -- before allowing four runs in his last start on Monday against the Blue Jays. Right-hander Darrell Rasner has also had a solid spring, doing little to hurt his standing.

Other candidates figure into the mix, such as right-hander Colter Bean, who has struck out eight in 6 2/3 scoreless innings. Bean leads a group that appears more likely to begin the year at Triple-A, being among the first to be summoned in case reinforcements are needed.

Right-handed first baseman: When they signed Doug Mientkiewicz to a one-year contract in the offseason, the Yankees also envisioned carrying a right-handed-batting first baseman in a platoon situation at first base.

That sparked a spring-long competition between Andy Phillips and Rule 5 Draft selection Josh Phelps, though in fairness, Phelps spent much of the spring uncontested when Phillips had to return to Alabama, tending to his mother, Linda, after a serious automobile accident.

Phelps has taken advantage of the opportunity, batting .481 with one home run and seven RBIs in 23 at-bats, chipping away at a "slight edge" that Torre said Phillips held because of his continued service in the Yankees' system.

The team does not want to penalize Phillips for attending to his family, but the absence cost him vital playing time, and he has been in a scramble to make it up with just 12 spring at-bats through Wednesday.

Backup catcher: Catching instructor Tony Pena predicts that Jorge Posada, 35, is primed for one of his best all-around seasons. That may very well be the case, but he'll still need a little help every now and then.

The race for the honors of backing up Posada have been split mostly between 40-man roster member Wil Nieves and 40-year-old Todd Pratt, though Raul Chavez has creeped into consideration.

All three candidates have had injury problems this spring, with Nieves most recently returning from a sore right forearm. Pratt missed time with plantar fascitis in his left foot, and Chavez started behind due to a broken left hand suffered while batting in winter ball.

The Yankees like Pratt's veteran presence -- third-base coach Larry Bowa, who managed Pratt in Philadelphia, raves about him -- his ability to pop a home run and his New York experience in five seasons across town with the Mets, most of it spent as an understudy to Mike Piazza.

But Pratt has just two hits this spring, which could cost him in the race. Nieves only has two hits as well, but he's considered to be a superior defensive catcher. Given his status on the Yankees' 40-man roster, Nieves could hold an advantage as the final days of camp approach.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/21/07 06:41 PM

Yankees won't bid on A-Rod
Rodriguez as good as gone if he opts out of contract


Alex Rodriguez will attract interest from at least a handful of teams if he opts out of his $252 million contract at the end of the season, with the Angels perhaps first in line. But Yankees general manager Brian Cashman made clear in an interview on Tuesday that Rodriguez's current team will not chase A-Rod and will not be part of any bidding war.

"He has a significant contract as it is," Cashman told SI.com. "So I don't anticipate any dialogue regarding an extension."

In other words, Cashman is leaving the ball in A-Rod's court. If Rodriguez wants to remain a Yankee and keep the $81 million and three years remaining on his contract, he can do that. But if he wants to forego that $81 million to seek even greater riches, that's his choice, too. He just won't be getting those extra riches in pinstripes -- at least not this winter.

"I hope he stays," Cashman says. "He knows how I feel about him."

Cashman is a proven A-Rod fan, one of the main powers behind the megatrade that moved Rodriguez east from Texas. But Cashman has shown since taking over full GM powers in recent months that he is fully cognizant of the bottom line, and that means dollars and cents as well as wins and losses. He traded away Gary Sheffield and Randy Johnson (though those are two players he appeared far less enamored of than A-Rod), and the only megabucks deals he signed off on this winter were for Andy Pettitte (one-year, $16 million with a player option for 2008) and Kei Igawa (five years, $20 million, with a $26 million posting fee).

Cashman likes Rodriguez enough that it's believed he'd consider an extension at some point, but not an extension merely to prevent A-Rod from opting out of his current deal. "That's smart," one competing GM says. "This way all the pressure's on A-Rod, and there's no blood on [Cashman's] hands."

With plenty of teams likely to line up, including the Angels (the favorite for Rodriguez can offer a contending team, a stadium where he hits big, the American League and probably even a chance to switch back to shortstop), no one should be surprised if A-Rod does opt out. And no one should blame him if he does, though plenty will.

There's nothing wrong with exercising an option that was bargained for in good faith. J.D. Drew opted out of the $33 million that remained on his Dodgers deal, and more than doubled it, to $70 million, with Boston. And Aramis Ramirez more than tripled his pay, from $22 million to $75 million, when the Cubs made the opposite call and decided to re-sign him after he opted out of his deal.

Some Yankees fans might applaud A-Rod's departure, but his loss would sting since they'd also lose the $29 million Rangers owner Tom Hicks has to contribute toward A-Rod's contract through 2010, so long as he remains a Yankee. And perhaps even worse for Yankees fans, there isn't much right-handed power available, except Andruw Jones, who'll have plenty of suitors. As for right-handed power, not counting free-agent switch-hitter Jorge Posada, the Yankees will be down to Derek Jeter if A-Rod leaves.

Some will criticize Cashman if A-Rod walks away after at least eight teams called last year to inquire about acquiring the superstar in trade, including both Chicago teams and both L.A. teams. However, it wasn't really Cashman's call to keep him then; A-Rod made it clear to Cashman last summer that he wouldn't consent to a trade -- and as long as the Yankees are in the race, he still won't.

That was all A-Rod's call last summer. And once again, it will be his call again this winter.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/22/07 12:25 PM

Good. A-Rod doesn't deserve a new contract, which is the main point Cashman is trying to make. He can either prove his mettle on the field, and stay with the Yankees (which he claims is his true calling or whatever) or he can leave after the year, sign a monster deal somewhere else, and go back to playing shortstop (Cubs?).

Hell, if I were Cashman...I'd be on the horn with the Cubs right now. Let's trade our one year contract players - we'll give you A-Rod for Carlos Zambrano. Hooah. Piniella and the Cubs want A-Rod bad at shortstop, and they can't afford Zambrano AND A-Rod. So give them what they want. We get a young, awesome starting pitcher with an attitude and edge, and they get...chokey.

It's pretty clear we can do without A-Rod in the playoffs, since he makes zero contributions. On the other hand - having another young, experienced arm will give us great help down the stretch and into October. Just imagine this rotation:

Wang
Zambrano
Clemens (?)
Pettitte
Mussina

or, since the Zambrano trade would negate Clemens...

Wang
Zambrano
Pettitte
Mussina
Igawa/Karstens/Hughes

Nice! \:o

---

Jon Lieber is on the trading block. Can't we just send them Pavano and get good old Mr. Reliable back? We should've never let him go a couple of years ago, and I hated the decision then, and still do now. He'd be a great end of the rotation guy for us, especially if we get rid of Pavano.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/22/07 06:24 PM

I agree about Lieber DJ. I must admit, I had never heard of him prior to his season he spent with the Yankees. I just remember him mowing down the Red Sox.

As for A-Rod, we lose him we lose ANOTHER big bat in the lineup like we did with Sheffield. An analyist on ESPN (forgot which one) doesn't think he'll leave unless the Yankees win the World Series this year. He's too image conscience and if he leaves without winning one, everyone will blame him and it'd be a black mark on his record. It makes sense to me.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/22/07 06:36 PM

Lidle's widow may throw out first pitch

TAMPA, Fla. -- Melanie Lidle, the wife of the late Cory Lidle, may throw out a ceremonial first pitch at the Yankees' season opener.

Plans have not yet been finalized, though discussions are ongoing, a Yankees spokesman said.

The club's interest in honoring Lidle at the Yankee Stadium contest was first reported by The Associated Press on Wednesday. The Yankees are scheduled to open their season on April 2 against the Devil Rays.

The Yankees have announced that they will honor Lidle, who was acquired from the Phillies with outfielder Bobby Abreu on July 30, this season by wearing a black armband on the sleeves of their uniforms.

Lidle, who was 34, died Oct. 11 along with a co-pilot, Tyler Stanger, when Lidle's private plane crashed into an Upper East Side apartment building.

Lidle had been planning to fly across the country following the Yankees' elimination from the American League Division Series, and had apparently taken off on a sightseeing excursion of New York from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey.

Lidle was 4-3 with a 5.16 ERA in 10 appearances (nine starts) for New York following his midseason acquisition. Lidle pitched 277 games in the Major Leagues over nine seasons with seven different clubs, and he had a career record of 82-72.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/23/07 03:05 AM

A-rod goes deep, talks contract

SARASOTA, Fla. -- As Alex Rodriguez returned to the dugout following his first home run of the spring Thursday, manager Joe Torre pulled him aside to deliver a quick message.

"I can't guarantee you two days off before every game," Torre said he told Rodriguez.

After an excused absence from the Yankees' game against the Phillies on Tuesday, plus New York's lone off-day of the spring on Wednesday, Rodriguez returned to Grapefruit League play and delivered just his third extra-base hit of the spring, blasting a long homer off Cincinnati starter Kyle Lohse.

"I've actually enjoyed this spring," said Rodriguez, who is batting .317. "It's been good. It's gone by pretty quickly. I feel like I'm right on schedule."

Rodriguez's two days off may have been restful -- he spoke about having no greater aspirations for Wednesday than taking an hour-long nap with his daughter, Natasha -- but they weren't uneventful.

A news story surfaced Wednesday in which general manager Brian Cashman said that the Yankees are not inclined to negotiate a contract extension or restructuring with Rodriguez.

Such a deal may have circumvented a looming opt-out clause Rodriguez holds that can be triggered following the 2007 season, but the Yankees have stated they are not inclined to negotiate in-season contract extensions. In Rodriguez's case, the third baseman already holds a substantial deal that would not be renegotiated.

Earlier Thursday at Legends Field, Rodriguez told reporters that he was "not surprised" by Cashman's comments and that nothing has changed in his situation.

"It can come up every day of the year, I'm going to give you the same answers," Rodriguez said. "You guys ask the questions, I'm going to answer you the same way. It's really not a big deal."

Rodriguez batted .290 with 35 home runs and 121 RBIs last season, in what was considered by many to be an "off" year for the two-time American League Most Valuable Player.

With nine Grapefruit League exhibitions remaining on the slate, the Yankees are looking ahead to the regular season, said A-Rod.

"Regardless of how it looks now, we've got to go out there and perform and get it done on the field," Rodriguez said.

Powering up: Rodriguez wasn't the only Yankee going deep on Thursday. Right fielder Bobby Abreu homered in just his fourth at-bat of the spring, launching a three-run homer off Lohse inside the right-field foul pole. Josh Phelps added a solo shot in the seventh inning.

"That was pretty good contact [on a] ball inside, which is good," Abreu said. "Pitches inside are the ones that are going to cause me a lot of problems. Right now, I'm just more worried about reactions to balls inside."

Returning to action after a strained right oblique muscle suffered on Feb. 26 in Tampa, Abreu had served as a designated hitter for three at-bats on Tuesday. Abreu said he also had no physical problems as he returned to the outfield.

"I feel like I can move side-to-side with no problems, react with no problems, and especially throw to the bases," Abreu said. "That's a lot of progress."

Pettitte getting closer: Andy Pettitte will miss a scheduled start Friday after suffering back spasms earlier in the week, which the left-hander said have largely subsided.

But because the Yankees are counting heavily on the 34-year-old left-hander to help anchor their rotation, the club has insisted upon a cautious approach with Pettitte.

It may even be a bit too slow-moving for the hurler, who insists he is ready to resume throwing activities.

"I feel a lot better, but I forgot how little of a say you have sometimes," Pettitte said. "I'm feeling better and that's really it. Every time I tell them what I want to do, they tell me how it's going to be."

With his start Friday scratched, Pettitte will probably have just one more Grapefruit League start before he prepares to face the Devil Rays in the Yankees' first series of the year.

Torre has told Pettitte that he has looked good enough in Spring Training to make just one more tune-up start, and the numbers bear that out.

Pettitte has allowed just five hits in 10 shutout innings over three starts, walking two and striking out seven. Still, he sounded like a man who was aching to pitch on Friday.

"My Spring Training numbers have been good, but I could care less about that," Pettitte said. "It's more how I feel."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/23/07 03:06 AM

Pavano continues to show improvement

SARASOTA, Fla. -- It's been a while since the Yankees would say that Carl Pavano was being viewed as a trusted member of their rotation.

That day has finally arrived. Pavano impressed with his arm strength and grit in an 8-7 loss to the Reds on Thursday, after which manager Joe Torre said the Yankees are prepared to look to Pavano every fifth day.

"We're definitely counting on him," Torre said. "The spot was his to have, and he certainly has seized the opportunity."

Completing his fourth start of the spring for New York, Pavano allowed three runs and eight hits in 4 1/3 innings, though his defense wasn't particularly helpful.

First baseman Jason Giambi couldn't see a pair of balls hit to his right, covering first base instead and then pointing to his chest, claiming responsibility. One of the hits was a two-run single for Cincinnati starter Kyle Lohse in the fourth inning.

"Nothing's ever going to be perfect," Pavano said. "It's a constant battle and grind. I think Spring Training is a good time to get your feet wet and your momentum going."

A good sign of Pavano's returning mound mettle came in the bottom of the first inning, when the 31-year-old right-hander looked up and saw the bases loaded with nobody out after three well-placed singles.

Spotting Cincinnati cleanup hitter Adam Dunn striding to home plate, Pavano said he was able to analyze the situation and come up with a solution.

"I'm thinking, 'Adam Dunn is up right here, and I need to get this guy out and go for the double play,'" Pavano said. "The smart way to go about it is to be willing to give up a couple of runs and don't give them a huge inning."

Pavano did better than that. Dunn flew out to right fielder Bobby Abreu, shallow enough that Ryan Freel could not tag up from third base, then Pavano induced Edwin Encarnacion to chop an inning-ending double-play ball to shortstop Derek Jeter.

As he bounded off the mound, Pavano received an assortment of fist-pounds in the Yankees' dugout, a grin quickly spreading across his face.

"What I'm feeling and seeing, and working on right now, feels like a positive," Pavano said. "We'll just go from there."

Pavano walked two and struck out two in Thursday's effort, throwing 72 pitches.

He appeared reasonably loose on the mound and even made a deft fielding play in the second inning, jumping off the mound to retire Lohse on a tapper toward third base.

"This is what we hoped we'd see," Torre said. "He certainly hasn't let us down."

Pavano could have two Grapefruit League starts remaining before the Yankees head north.

Catcher Jorge Posada said that Pavano has been shaking off signs of rust consistently, rounding into a more polished performer.

"I think he's almost there," Posada said. "He's going to feel better as he continues to go out there. The more he pitches, the better he's going to get."

There are still items that Pavano would like to tackle before reporting to Yankee Stadium.

The hurler said that he is looking forward to raising his pitch count to 100 and going deeper into games.

"I want to get to see hitters the third or fourth times through, and mix up my pitches a little more," Pavano said.

As for the regular season, if everything remains on turn, Pavano would likely see his return to a Major League mound occur against the Orioles at Yankee Stadium.

Asked if he has thought about what that event might hold, Pavano insisted that he is looking no further than his next bullpen session and the ensuing start.

It's worked so far, and as close as he is to erasing June 27, 2005, from consciousness, Pavano isn't in a position where he can be skipping steps.

"I don't want to get too far ahead of myself and lose what I'm trying to do now," Pavano said.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/23/07 01:01 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J

Jon Lieber is on the trading block. Can't we just send them Pavano and get good old Mr. Reliable back? We should've never let him go a couple of years ago, and I hated the decision then, and still do now. He'd be a great end of the rotation guy for us, especially if we get rid of Pavano.


Actually, the last thing the Phillies want is another starting pitcher, especially an enigma. I think they'll trade Lieber, who's decent, for bullpen help and possibly a prospect. They're probably going to cut the best deal they can before Opening Day. Right now they have 6 solid starters.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/23/07 01:10 PM

I heard they were going to move Lieber to the bullpen
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/23/07 02:14 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I heard they were going to move Lieber to the bullpen


There has been some talk about it as he's the odd man out of the lineup, but I think they're looking for an experienced set up guy, who can handle a lot of appearances.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/23/07 11:17 PM

What happened to Flash? They still have him, right? As a Yankee fan, I wouldn't mind seeing Leiber back. He was an innings eater
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/07 12:14 AM

Wang injures right hamstring

BRADENTON, Fla. -- The Yankees' pitching rotation endured another scare on Friday as right-hander Chien-Ming Wang experienced discomfort in his right hamstring during conditioning drills at Legends Field in Tampa, Fla.

Wang, 27, was running lightly at the complex when he "felt something," according to general manager Brian Cashman, who relayed word of Wang's situation to reporters in Bradenton.

Speaking after the Yankees' 3-2 loss to the Pirates, manager Joe Torre characterized the injury as a cramp. Wang, who was shut down for the afternoon and is expected to address reporters in Tampa on Saturday, was not sent for additional tests.

"He had a cramp, that's all I got out of it," Torre said. "I've had no emergency calls."

A candidate to pitch on Opening Day on April 2 in the Bronx, Wang was the runner-up in last season's American League Cy Young Award vote in 2006 and tied for first in the league with 19 victories.

The injury scare is the second this week for the Yankees, who also sidelined left-hander Andy Pettitte with back spasms. Pettitte felt the injury while performing squat exercises on Monday and received treatment on Tuesday.

The 34-year-old had originally been scheduled to pitch on Friday, but the southpaw instead only permitted to throw softly and stretch with the team at Legends Field.

"I'm feeling better every day," Pettitte said. "I convinced them enough where I can play light catch."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/07 12:25 AM

If A-Rod splits, the Yankees will be in need of a right-handed bat and could go after outfielder Andruw Jones, another Scott Boras client. -- New York Post

Source: SI
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/07 02:30 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
What happened to Flash? They still have him, right? As a Yankee fan, I wouldn't mind seeing Leiber back. He was an innings eater


Gordon's still with the Phillies, and needs to be solid if they're going to contend.

You're right about Leiber. Guys, like him, might appear to be run of the mill, but he gives you quality innins and a chance to win.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/07 02:33 AM

I wish the Yankees never let Flash leave. I always liked Flash. I was SUPER pissed when I heard Boston was gonna try to get him him from the Phillies
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/07 01:18 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
If A-Rod splits, the Yankees will be in need of a right-handed bat and could go after outfielder Andruw Jones, another Scott Boras client. -- New York Post

Source: SI


That would be f'ing retarded. Because we don't already have a glut of outfielding talent.

Now, give me, say, Carlos Zambrano, or Miguel Cabrera? Now we're talking.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/07 08:42 PM

Henn pecking at Bronx's door

BRADENTON, Fla. -- Dozens of boxes packed with personal effects are lined up against an interior wall leading to the Yankees' clubhouse at Legends Field, waiting to be sent north to the Bronx.

They are an unmistakable sign that Spring Training is entering its final days. For Sean Henn, it's a foreign development.

"I've never been in camp this long," Henn said. "[I never] had to worry about shipping my car to New York or the things they're winding down camp with.

"Extra luggage? I don't know what you guys are talking about."

Henn appeared in four September games with the Yankees in 2006 after being converted from a starter to a reliever.

Last season, the southpaw commuted to Yankee Stadium by purchasing railroad tickets in upstate Poughkeepsie, N.Y., and then rode the Hudson Line for about an hour, departing at 125th Street in Harlem and switching to the subway for the final approach.

With the Yankees switching their Triple-A affiliate to Moosic, Pa., for the 2007 season, Henn is at least assured of having an automobile at his command somewhere within a 90-mile radius of the Bronx.

And with the way he's pitching, it may be more likely that Henn will scribble his name on the sign-up sheet for New York shipment.

Henn has prospered this spring, pitching six scoreless, hitless innings and picking up a victory.

"I just wanted them to see that I'm comfortable," Henn said, "and do my best to make the decision on them hard."

In his most recent appearance on Friday, Henn relieved Darrell Rasner in the fifth inning, sawed off Pittsburgh's Jason Bay and then pitched a perfect sixth. Henn completed his outing with a strikeout of Jose Castillo.

"Right now, he looks like a different animal out there," manager Joe Torre said. "He just lets the ball go. Before, it looked like he was wishing. Now, he's willing."

Henn spent most of last season at Triple-A Columbus in the International League, going 3-1 with a 4.01 ERA in 18 games (six starts).

A starter throughout his professional career, Henn had enjoyed the rhythm of pitching on a regular schedule that starters are afforded, but he said he jumped at the opportunity to become a reliever when it was explained to him.

General manager Brian Cashman and pitching coordinator Nardi Contreras reasoned that Henn, who features a fastball, a hard slider and a developing changeup in his arsenal, would be able to find a regular Major League assignment quicker out of the bullpen.

"That's all you need to hear," Henn said. "You'll do whatever to get there."

The Yankees came into camp considering Henn, who was touted repeatedly as an internal candidate by Cashman, for a roster spot. Henn's odds only seem to grow more realistic by the day.

"We never stopped looking at Sean Henn," Torre said. "He's had enough of a taste up here over the last few years. From what we saw last fall and this spring, he's much improved and seems much more relaxed."

To date, Henn's Major League statistics are underwhelming -- in seven appearances over the last two seasons, Henn is 0-4 with an 8.27 ERA. He said that the experiences compiled during his 36 days of Major League service time could help him in 2007.

"I think when you go over something time and time again, it becomes routine," Henn said. "For me to sit in the bullpen and be all wide-eyed because there's 50,000 people there, just listening to the fans and getting caught up in it ... by two or three weeks of it, it's like, 'OK, it's not a big deal anymore.'"

While Henn has done little to hurt his chances this spring, 37-year-old Ron Villone's chances of making the Opening Day squad appear to be fading.

Villone had opened eyes early in camp with higher velocity than last spring, but his outings have grown rocky as the finish line nears. In seven appearances this spring, Villone is 2-0, but he has allowed 10 hits and five runs in five innings for a 9.00 ERA.

"Initially, when I saw him throw earlier this spring, it looked like he was ahead of last year," Torre said. "But after watching [Thursday] and a couple of other outings, it looks right now like he's trying to impress by creating more velocity. It is what it is."

Henn said he was even unaware that the Yankees had inked Villone to a Minor League contract in February, relaying the surprise he felt when he walked into the clubhouse and spotted his eventual competition for the roster.

"I was shocked he was there," Henn said.

Henn said that he still considers Villone the front-runner to serve as the second left-hander behind Mike Myers in New York's bullpen.

On Day 1, Henn put himself in the mind-set of pursuing what he believed was already secured by Villone. Now that he may be pulling closer to the lead, Henn prefers to think as though he is still a step or two behind, saving one last burst for the finish.

"Because of what he's done, he's obviously the front-runner," Henn said. "You can't take that away from him. It's definitely his spot and I'm chasing it."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/07 08:43 PM

Murcer 'entirely clear' of brain tumor

TAMPA, Fla. -- Bobby Murcer will begin experimental cancer treatments next week after tests revealed that chemotherapy and radiation have been effective in fighting his brain tumor.

The New York Daily News reported Saturday that Murcer, 60, will undergo his first treatment on Monday at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

"I'm happy to report that the tests have shown that I'm entirely clear in regard to the tumor," Murcer told the newspaper.

"Obviously, this is encouraging news for me, although I know that we're still dealing with an incurable cancer here and just trying to contain it."

Murcer will return for additional treatments every two weeks until May. He originally had surgery on Dec. 28 to remove a malignant brain tumor after complaining of headaches and a general loss of energy.

A five-time All-Star during a Major League career that stretched from 1965-83, Murcer has been a mainstay in the Yankees' broadcast booth dating back to his retirement.

He has set his sights on returning to the team's YES Network television broadcasts at some point early in the 2007 season.

"That's what I love to do and nothing's going to stop me from doing that," Murcer said earlier this month.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/24/07 08:44 PM

Wang to start season on disabled list

TAMPA, Fla. -- The Yankees will begin the season without the services of ace right-hander Chien-Ming Wang, who suffered a Grade 1 strain of his right hamstring while performing conditioning exercises on Friday.

Wang, who turns 27 on March 31, is expected to miss at least the first three weeks of the season.

"I don't look for him to touch our Major League roster until sometime in late April," general manager Brian Cashman said.

Wang was running sprints following fielding practice at the Yankees' Legends Field complex when he said he felt a "pop" in his right hamstring. The right-hander was sent for an MRI exam on Friday evening, which revealed the strain.

Wang said he hopes to be able to return to a mound in "hopefully 10 days," which may be optimistic thinking. The Yankees plan to place Wang -- who said he was "very, very sad" -- on the disabled list retroactively at the conclusion of Spring Training.

"I want to come back 100 percent," Wang said. "I hope it gets better."

A candidate to pitch on Opening Day on April 2 in the Bronx, Wang was the runner-up in last season's American League Cy Young Award voting.

The hurler tied Minnesota's Johan Santana for the league lead in victories, finishing 19-6 with a 3.63 ERA in 34 games. In four starts this spring, Wang was 1-1 with a 2.57 ERA.

"You don't want stuff like this to happen, but unfortunately, this does happen," Cashman said. "It's in front of you; you deal with it. This won't be the first and it won't be the last, unfortunately."

Cashman said that Wang's injury will open up a roster spot for another pitcher currently in Major League camp. The team still intends to carry 12 pitchers.

Right-hander Jeff Karstens would appear to be a leading candidate to join the rotation. The 24-year-old has been a standout in Spring Training, compiling nine scoreless innings before he allowed four runs in 4 1/3 innings to the Blue Jays in his last start Monday.

"We have depth and we have choices," Cashman said. "We have people who have impressed this spring. It's a short-term issue that you're dealing with. We'll wait until we get Wang back and then, in the meantime, someone else will get that opportunity."

The injury is the second this week for the Yankees, who also sidelined left-hander Andy Pettitte with back spasms. Pettitte felt the injury while performing squat exercises on Monday and has been receiving continued treatment.

"It's definitely still a little sore, but I'm a lot better," Pettitte said Friday.

The 34-year-old had originally been scheduled to pitch on Friday, but the southpaw instead was only permitted to throw softly and stretch with the team at Legends Field. He said he has been "feeling better every day."

"I've been told it's just back spasms," Cashman said. "Nobody has told me to worry about Andy, so I'm not going to worry about it right now. Obviously I'd like to see him back on the mound and throwing well, but all in due time."

Because of the scratched start, Pettitte will likely have just one more Grapefruit League appearance before the Yankees open the regular season.

He said that he would not mind pitching in a Minor League game if need be, saying that the most important thing would be to head north with the team on April 1.

"I just want to make sure I get out of here," Pettitte said. "Tampa is not the place to be."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/25/07 01:49 AM

Pavano likely to go Opening Day

TAMPA, Fla. -- The Yankees learned Saturday that their Opening Day starter won't be Chien-Ming Wang, who will miss most of the season's first month with a Grade 1 strain of his right hamstring.

Because of the way the rotation aligns for the season opener, it won't be Andy Pettitte or Mike Mussina, either. Manager Joe Torre said that the Yankees will select from a group including Carl Pavano, Kei Igawa and Jeff Karstens to throw the season's first pitch on April 2.

Of those three -- unbelievable as it might seem -- Pavano has become the likely favorite.

The 31-year-old right-hander has missed the last 1 1/2 Major League seasons due to a variety of injuries, but he is the most experienced of the hurlers left standing to accept the assignment.

"It's Opening Day, but there are 161 other games," Torre said. "It certainly is an important game, but so are the other ones."

The Yankees are planning a meeting on Monday to discuss the possibility of Pavano kicking off their 2007 campaign, along with a variety of other issues. Pavano hasn't appeared in a Major League game since June 27, 2005, and has never pitched on an Opening Day.

He does have experience, though, compiling a 61-64 record in 184 Major League games dating back to his 1998 debut. Separated from his teammates for nearly all of last season, Pavano has also made strides in winning back members of the clubhouse this spring.

In four Spring Training games (three starts), Pavano is 0-1 with a 5.84 ERA. In 12 1/3 innings, he has allowed 18 hits, walking seven and striking out five.

Torre said that dealing with the atmosphere of a season opener will come into consideration for the assignment. Opening Day at Yankee Stadium is a frenzied ritual of celebration, an energetic environment created by a baseball-starved capacity crowd.

Those may not be the ideal conditions under which Igawa, a 27-year-old Japanese import, would make his Major League debut. Karstens -- now securely projected as New York's fifth starter in Wang's absence -- has just eight games of big-league experience.

"If you think somebody's going to be a little bent out of shape over it, it would probably enter into it," Torre said. "But to me, if the guy is going to pitch at Yankee Stadium -- whether it's Monday or Wednesday or Thursday -- there's going to be a lot of people there.

"I give you, Opening Day -- all the introductions -- you have a tendency to certainly make more of it. I'm not saying that's wrong. Anytime you really count on somebody at this level for this team, you take that into consideration."

The Yankees are moving past Pettitte and Mussina due to scheduling concerns. Pettitte has been suffering from back spasms, and while he is feeling better, the veteran southpaw is not expected to pitch before Thursday, which will place him off turn.

If Pettitte pitched Friday against the Tigers at Lakeland, he would be on regular rest for Game 2 of the regular season on April 4, though the Yankees might not use him until April 5.

Likewise, Torre said the Yankees will not allow Mussina to pitch on three days' rest against Tampa Bay following a scheduled exhibition start on Thursday against the Blue Jays at Dunedin.

"That's something we certainly don't want to do," Torre said. "I don't see any reason to do that. It's one game. Whether you win Game 1 or Game 2 or Game 3, you still have to pitch one of those games. We certainly want to get him as comfortable as we can get."

Torre said that the Yankees had been aligning their rotation for Wang to pitch the season opener, though they never officially informed the right-hander -- or the media -- that Wang was being tabbed.

"He was lined up for it," Torre said. "It was pretty much understood, even though he was never told that. That's what we were sort of looking to."

No one would have guessed where their search might eventually wind up.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/25/07 01:51 AM

Karstens will get his shot

TAMPA, Fla. -- Like most baseball fans, Jeff Karstens read the newspaper Saturday morning and set off for the day believing that Yankees ace Chien-Ming Wang had suffered just a leg cramp.

It wasn't until reporters approached Karstens that he learned the whole story -- a MRI taken Friday evening revealed a Grade 1 strain of Wang's right hamstring, knocking the probable Opening Day starter out of commission for most of the season's first month.

The 24-year-old right-hander needed an opening to make the Yankees' pitching staff, but the turn of events was of little consolation to Karstens, who termed it "unfortunate."

"If it was [between] me going to the big leagues or him being healthy, I'd definitely want him to be healthy," Karstens said. "He's an awesome guy."

But as the Yankees come to grips with the reality that they will be sans the services of last year's American League Cy Young Award runner-up, the club has turned its attention to current needs. With Wang down, the Yankees can make use of an additional starting pitcher, and Karstens is as good a bet as any to fill that role.

He has been a standout this spring, going 3-1 with a 2.70 ERA in four appearances (three starts). In 13 1/3 innings, Karstens has allowed 11 hits, struck out 11 and walked none.

Yankees manager Joe Torre said that the team had been looking to make room on its projected 12-man pitching staff for Karstens. While the Yankees will need a fifth starter just once in their first 17 games, Karstens can also be utilized as a long reliever and spot starter.

"I don't want to say it's obvious, but he certainly is the guy who comes to mind," Torre said.

Karstens could wrap up his candidacy for the fifth starter's spot with a strong effort Sunday against the Tigers in Lakeland.

Karstens had reeled off the equivalent of a complete-game shutout, with nine strikeouts in his first three spring appearances, before being touched by Toronto for four runs in 4 2/3 innings in a 9-1 loss at Dunedin on Monday.

"I'm just going to go out there and try to do the same thing I have been doing," Karstens said. "[I want to] be a little better than last time out. They were getting a lot of 0-2, 1-2 hits.

"It helps the situation a little bit, I think. I'm not going to look at tomorrow as any different. I'm just going to go out there and get my work in. We'll see what happens."

Torre said that he expected New York baseball fans to soon become more familiar with Karstens, a 19th-round selection from the 2003 draft who grew up in San Diego, worked out this winter in Los Angeles with Chase Utley and Nomar Garciaparra, and now appears poised to make his leap to the Bronx.

"At least up until today, he's gone through this anonymously," Torre said. "I have a feeling that he's going to have to answer more questions here in the next couple of days."

Good enough: Mike Mussina came away from his fifth Grapefruit League start satisfied with the results, having settled down after a shaky opening.

"It was better," Mussina said. "It didn't look that great, but I thought it was OK."

Mussina faced eight Blue Jays in the first inning -- a frame extended by a catcher's interference call on Wil Nieves -- and put the Yankees in a 3-0 deficit before Johnny Damon could even lead off. Mussina also allowed a run in the second, but then blanked the Jays on two hits over the next four innings.

He finished a 79-pitch performance having allowed four runs (three earned) and seven hits, walking two and striking out one. He said he was pleased to face the "A" Toronto lineup, which made the half-hour trip from Dunedin and included Lyle Overbay, Vernon Wells, Frank Thomas and Troy Glaus.

"It's satisfying," Mussina said. "They brought over almost all their frontline players. I struggled through the first inning or so, and made some adjustments. We'll just keep going."

No holding back: Given his three-week layoff, Bobby Abreu was in the mood to test his legs Saturday, rounding second base and trying for a triple as he led off the sixth inning against Toronto's Casey Janssen.

Abreu slid safely into third base and said he felt nothing running, another good sign as he continues to put his strained right oblique behind him.

"I just wanted to try it," Abreu said. "I'm starting to make my legs strong. I'll be ready for Opening Day."

The Yankees are giving Abreu a scheduled off-day on Sunday, with Torre telling the right fielder not to report to Legends Field. Abreu has appeared in four exhibition games and has logged 12 at-bats, batting .333. Beginning Monday, he has six contests remaining to hit a personal target of 30 to 40 plate appearances before the regular season.

"You always need the at-bats to work on getting ready," Abreu said. "I'm working on some things."

That's just me: Reliever Jose Veras appeared in the Yankees' clubhouse Friday, his right arm in a sling and a small jar in his hand. Veras had a bone spur removed earlier in the week by Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, Ala., and was showing off the remainder to his teammates.

Veras pitched 3 1/3 scoreless innings for the Yankees this spring before being sidelined with elbow pain. He is expected to be out for two to three months, general manager Brian Cashman said.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/25/07 11:43 AM

I canNOT believe that we're starting off the season with one of our best starting pitchers on the DL!! I hope it truly is only for April, since there will be plenty more opportunities for him, but it still stinks.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/25/07 01:10 PM

I agree SB but I don't think it'll be more than April. I just don't think it's that serious (hopefully)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/25/07 07:28 PM

Well, better now than in August or September, I guess. I was just hoping to start the season healthy.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/25/07 07:58 PM

It's not serious; Wang is known as a fast healer, has shown it in the past, and threw a session this morning. He'll still go on the DL, just to be safe, but it may mean 1 rehab start rather than two.

---

I can't believe the press - they're saying Carl Pavano is going to be the Yankees opening day starter. Scary thought. Can't we just trade A-Rod and Pavano for Zambrano NOW?

---

Pettitte should be back in time for opening day, even though no one is paying any attention to him. He's been rested, and I see no reason why he still couldn't be an option. Why is Mike Mussina being ignored? I realize it will "screw up" the rotation schedule, but I've never believed that rest too much was going to kill a pitcher. 1 day can't hurt.

And, after all, its the Devil Rays. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/07 12:03 AM

Karstens leaves with elbow stiffness

LAKELAND, Fla. -- Six runs were already in for the Tigers on Sunday when Todd Pratt took a seat next to starting pitcher Jeff Karstens, trying to figure out how to handle the next turn of Detroit's potent lineup.

Before Pratt could get into specific details for Sean Casey, Ivan Rodriguez and Brandon Inge in the third inning, Karstens interrupted his catcher. The Yankees now had much larger problems to contend with.

"Man, I'm hurting," Karstens told Pratt, pointing to his stiff right elbow.

"I've got to tell Gator [pitching coach Ron Guidry]," Pratt replied. "There's no reason to be a hero."

Karstens, 24, could have wrapped up his candidacy for the Yankees' fifth rotation spot with a solid effort on Sunday, but instead left Joker Marchant Stadium having secured an appointment on Monday in a Tampa, Fla., doctor's office.

Though Guidry said he saw nothing out of the ordinary in Karsten's pregame bullpen session, Karstens admitted he was never able to get loose. He continued to throw anyway, hoping his stiffness might evaporate by the time he reached the mound.

It never did. Karstens threw 46 pitches in a two-inning appearance, allowing six runs and six hits -- including a three-run home run to former Yankee Gary Sheffield -- before finally coming clean on his condition.

"I didn't want to push it too much and have something really [bad] happen," Karstens said.

Pratt also caught Karstens in his previous start against the Blue Jays last Monday in Dunedin, when the right-hander surrendered four runs in 4 1/3 innings -- the first rocky effort of the spring for Karstens, who opened camp with the equivalent of a complete-game shutout, striking out nine and walking none in nine innings.

"He basically had the same stuff [Sunday] he had in Dunedin," Pratt said. "I haven't really caught him when he was dealing. He couldn't make a difference. He basically didn't have the control that I've heard he has. It looked like he was forcing some pitches."

With the Yankees' preparations for the regular season nearing completion, Karstens said it would be disappointing if he learned of a setback this late in camp, but said he understood the situation.

"If I'm not 100 percent healthy, I can't really help them anyway," Karstens said. "Anytime you've got something wrong, it kind of worries you a little bit."

The injury is the second this week for the Yankees' suddenly beleaguered pitching staff, which took a major hit on Saturday when it was revealed that ace Chien-Ming Wang had been diagnosed with a Grade 1 strain of his right hamstring.

Wang is expected to be sidelined until late April at the earliest, and it was believed that Karstens would fill the void in the rotation until then.

"Obviously, he's going to be shut down for a time, which is going to muddy the waters," Yankees manager Joe Torre said.

Torre said that the team would discuss potential solutions, among other topics, in an organizational meeting on Monday. It's probable that right-hander Darrell Rasner -- who has allowed two earned runs in 12 innings this spring, compiling a 1.50 ERA -- has vaulted into serious consideration for the roster spot.

"The first concern is for [Karstens]," Torre said. "The team is obviously important, but you need to have these players taken care of, especially when they have bright futures ahead of them. Hopefully, it's not a big issue."

Karstens said that he only recalled having elbow problems once before, and it was of a dissimilar nature.

As a freshman at Mount Miguel High School in Spring Valley, Calif., Karstens suffered from bone chips in his growth plate, an injury which restricted him from everyday activities as mundane as combing his hair.

He said the sensations he felt Sunday were more of stiffness than pain. Either way, the Yankees will likely have to look elsewhere to fill their needs for the Opening Day roster.

Jason Giambi said that there is concern in the clubhouse, but stressed that the team still has time to rebound.

"I don't know if you hit the panic button," he said. "It's not like we're at the All-Star break. The biggest thing is just to take care of it and hopefully it won't be as bad."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/07 02:26 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
It's not serious; Wang is known as a fast healer, has shown it in the past, and threw a session this morning. He'll still go on the DL, just to be safe, but it may mean 1 rehab start rather than two.

---

I can't believe the press - they're saying Carl Pavano is going to be the Yankees opening day starter. Scary thought. Can't we just trade A-Rod and Pavano for Zambrano NOW?

---

Pettitte should be back in time for opening day, even though no one is paying any attention to him. He's been rested, and I see no reason why he still couldn't be an option. Why is Mike Mussina being ignored? I realize it will "screw up" the rotation schedule, but I've never believed that rest too much was going to kill a pitcher. 1 day can't hurt.

And, after all, its the Devil Rays. \:p


Re: Wang. It's best to sit him because hamstring injuries are recurrent. Even after you're feeling fine, the injury is still there.

Re: Pavano. The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstoe. Okay, not really. But the Yankees always start the season 1-0.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/07 06:18 PM

Notes: Pettitte to throw on Monday

LAKELAND, Fla. -- After spending most of his week in the trainer's room receiving treatment for back spasms, Andy Pettitte is more than ready to get back on the mound.

The left-hander will have his chance on Monday. Pettitte is scheduled to throw the first of two bullpen sessions in preparation for a final Spring Training start on Friday against the Tigers, though he admits the spasms haven't completely subsided.

"I still feel it a little bit," Pettitte said. "But there's a point when you have to do something. That's my take on it."

Because Yankees pitching coach Ron Guidry wants Pettitte to throw two bullpen sessions in preparation for each start, the lefty is unlikely to be prepared to pitch Wednesday, which would have put him on turn to pitch Opening Day in New York.

Guidry's demands are consistent with Pettitte's normal schedule; he is accustomed to throwing one normal bullpen and one light session between starts, which likely sets Pettitte up to throw bullpens on Monday and Wednesday.

Pettitte said he has felt improvement -- from the beginning, he has said the spasms have been relocating around his back, a good sign that the situation is not something larger.

"I'm moving a little better," Pettitte said. "I've never had anything like this. If it was something to do with my arm or my elbow, it'd be a lot easier for me to tell you."

Pettitte said he will not know how his command and stuff have been affected until he gets on a mound and throws with the downward slope. He played catch on Saturday and reported no problems, though he has been somewhat frustrated this week with the slow pace of his recovery.

"Obviously, I would love to just pitch," Pettitte said. "I need to be realistic and use my head right now, and realize that I have all kinds of time. I just don't want to push anything and get in a game and aggravate it."

Wang still throwing: With his strained right hamstring lightly wrapped in a bandage, Chien-Ming Wang played catch across the outfield of Legends Field on Sunday morning, tossing for about 10 minutes with Guidry.

Yankees manager Joe Torre said that the activity will keep up Wang's strength as he recovers from his injury, though his projected timetable remains the same. General manager Brian Cashman has said the Yankees do not expect Wang to appear on a Major League mound until late April, at the earliest.

"It's a long way from pitching, but it's good that he's able to do that," Torre said. "Maybe by next weekend, he'll be able to start on his way back."

Wang faces a progression of rehab starts and bullpen appearances ahead. He'll stay in Tampa when the Yankees go north, and even though his strain has been termed mild -- the diagnosis of Grade 1 is the least severe of three possible levels -- Torre said a "quick" recovery could be just the difference of one turn around a rotation.

"The thing is, even between one rehab starts and two rehab starts, it's the difference of a week," Torre said. "You're not dealing in days like you would a regular player."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/07 06:19 PM

Opening Day big chance for Pavano

LAKELAND, Fla. -- Jason Giambi remembers what it's like to be the huge question mark in Yankees pinstripes, desperately trying to reacclimate after a variety of injuries and health issues.
That's why he can sympathize with Carl Pavano.

The oft-injured right-hander is on the cusp of returning to Major League action after a 1 1/2-year layoff, and is a likely choice to be the Yankees' Opening Day starter, if only by default. The assignment should fall to Pavano with ace Chien-Ming Wang down to injury and both Mike Mussina and Andy Pettitte projecting to be off-turn for April 2.

"I hope he embraces it," Giambi said Sunday. "This is a chance for him to stand up front and show everybody the type of pitcher he is. I'm excited for him, and I hope he's excited that he gets that opportunity. You want to harness that excitement.

"This is a big chance for him. I know what it's like to come, basically, from hell."

The "hell" Giambi speaks of was his miserable 2004 campaign, in which he served two separate stints on the disabled list, sidelined for the first times of his career.

A sprained right ankle, an intestinal parasite and a benign tumor limited Giambi to just 80 games for New York, as he batted a career low .208 and was forced to slowly distance himself from the Yankees' postseason aspirations.

Upon Giambi's return a year later, a season that the slugger parlayed into an AL Comeback Player of the Year Award, Derek Jeter had been among the first to welcome the slugger back into the Yankees fold. It is a gesture Giambi has not forgotten to this day.

It's that brand of in-house acceptance that could help Pavano take a step toward fulfilling some of the promise the Yankees saw after the 2004 season, signing him to a four-year contract.

Barring unforeseen circumstances, Pavano will be announced by legendary public address announcer Bob Sheppard on the afternoon of April 2, warming up in the Yankees bullpen as Joe Torre and Devil Rays manager Joe Maddon stand face-to-face at home plate.

It's unclear how a projected capacity crowd will receive Pavano after a multitude of injuries and mishaps prevented him from contributing to the club over a span of 643 days, but Giambi said he hopes his Yankees teammates will be applauding.

"I hope they ... give him that second opportunity to stand up," Giambi said. "Go show him that, 'Hey, we're behind him.' I think that's important for the guys to rally around him and make him feel like he's really wanted, because I know that was important to me."

The odds of Pavano throwing the first pitch of the Yankees' season would have been unbelievably long had they been handicapped on Feb. 13, the day pitchers and catchers reported to Legends Field in Tampa. Pavano said he considered the likely nod "an honor" but admitted that even he hadn't envisioned the thought of an Opening Day assignment.

"It's unfortunate," Pavano said. "We've got some of the best pitchers on our staff now injured. With the turn of events, if I get that opportunity, it's my time to pick up some slack. I guess it's a positive for me, because I was always on the other end."

Pavano's spring performances have been solid, not spectacular. Early in camp, the Yankees were simply content to see Pavano make his scheduled turns around the rotation without setbacks, and he did so, excepting for an excused absence from a March 9 game to attend to a personal matter.

With pitch counts rising and starters being stretched out, however, the Yankees have been looking for more from Pavano. His statistics are underwhelming -- 0-1 with a 5.84 ERA in four games, with 18 hits plus seven walks and five strikeouts in 12 1/3 innings -- but Torre believes there's more to Pavano's spring than just the raw numbers.

"I like what I've seen from him," Torre said. "Not only the stuff on the mound, but his whole demeanor. I think it would be a progression if he was the one [to start Opening Day]. I don't think it would make any kind of statement other than that we're comfortable where he is."

Apprised of his looming potential start, Pavano was quick to state that he hadn't heard of the opportunity until he arrived at Legends Field on Sunday -- Torre had announced the scheduling problems of using Mussina or Pettitte after Pavano left the stadium Saturday -- but said that he would have to think of the start as he would any other.

After his laundry list of trials and tribulations, some of it misfortune and some of it self-induced, just the fact that Pavano will be receiving a game ball in a Major League stadium is noteworthy. The fact that it's probably coming on Opening Day just adds to the drama of it all.

"One game of 162," Pavano said. "It's an important start, but every start for me is important."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/07 06:20 PM

Karstens leaves with elbow stiffness

LAKELAND, Fla. -- Six runs were already in for the Tigers on Sunday when Todd Pratt took a seat next to starting pitcher Jeff Karstens, trying to figure out how to handle the next turn of Detroit's potent lineup.

Before Pratt could get into specific details for Sean Casey, Ivan Rodriguez and Brandon Inge in the third inning, Karstens interrupted his catcher. The Yankees now had much larger problems to contend with.

"Man, I'm hurting," Karstens told Pratt, pointing to his stiff right elbow.

"I've got to tell Gator [pitching coach Ron Guidry]," Pratt replied. "There's no reason to be a hero."

Karstens, 24, could have wrapped up his candidacy for the Yankees' fifth rotation spot with a solid effort on Sunday, but instead left Joker Marchant Stadium having secured an appointment on Monday in a Tampa, Fla., doctor's office.

Though Guidry said he saw nothing out of the ordinary in Karsten's pregame bullpen session, Karstens admitted he was never able to get loose. He continued to throw anyway, hoping his stiffness might evaporate by the time he reached the mound.

It never did. Karstens threw 46 pitches in a two-inning appearance, allowing six runs and six hits -- including a three-run home run to former Yankee Gary Sheffield -- before finally coming clean on his condition.

"I didn't want to push it too much and have something really [bad] happen," Karstens said.

Pratt also caught Karstens in his previous start against the Blue Jays last Monday in Dunedin, when the right-hander surrendered four runs in 4 1/3 innings -- the first rocky effort of the spring for Karstens, who opened camp with the equivalent of a complete-game shutout, striking out nine and walking none in nine innings.

"He basically had the same stuff [Sunday] he had in Dunedin," Pratt said. "I haven't really caught him when he was dealing. He couldn't make a difference. He basically didn't have the control that I've heard he has. It looked like he was forcing some pitches."

With the Yankees' preparations for the regular season nearing completion, Karstens said it would be disappointing if he learned of a setback this late in camp, but said he understood the situation.

"If I'm not 100 percent healthy, I can't really help them anyway," Karstens said. "Anytime you've got something wrong, it kind of worries you a little bit."

The injury is the second this week for the Yankees' suddenly beleaguered pitching staff, which took a major hit on Saturday when it was revealed that ace Chien-Ming Wang had been diagnosed with a Grade 1 strain of his right hamstring.

Wang is expected to be sidelined until late April at the earliest, and it was believed that Karstens would fill the void in the rotation until then.

"Obviously, he's going to be shut down for a time, which is going to muddy the waters," Yankees manager Joe Torre said.

Torre said that the team would discuss potential solutions, among other topics, in an organizational meeting on Monday. It's probable that right-hander Darrell Rasner -- who has allowed two earned runs in 12 innings this spring, compiling a 1.50 ERA -- has vaulted into serious consideration for the roster spot.

"The first concern is for [Karstens]," Torre said. "The team is obviously important, but you need to have these players taken care of, especially when they have bright futures ahead of them. Hopefully, it's not a big issue."

Karstens said that he only recalled having elbow problems once before, and it was of a dissimilar nature.

As a freshman at Mount Miguel High School in Spring Valley, Calif., Karstens suffered from bone chips in his growth plate, an injury which restricted him from everyday activities as mundane as combing his hair.

He said the sensations he felt Sunday were more of stiffness than pain. Either way, the Yankees will likely have to look elsewhere to fill their needs for the Opening Day roster.

Jason Giambi said that there is concern in the clubhouse, but stressed that the team still has time to rebound.

"I don't know if you hit the panic button," he said. "It's not like we're at the All-Star break. The biggest thing is just to take care of it and hopefully it won't be as bad."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/26/07 06:23 PM

I know this isn't "technically" a Yankees story but SI already believe Zambrano is going to be a Yankee next season

Z-Day
Time running out for Cubs to get Zambrano signed


MESA, Ariz. -- The guy standing near the dugout at Ho Ho Kam Park last week was a Yankees fan. By definition, that meant he had something to say. And he was damn well going to get it said.

"Hey, Carlos," the young Bronx Babbler yelled as the Cubs' man-mountain of an ace, Carlos Zambrano, strode off the field after another Spring Training workout. "See you next year with the Yankees."

Zambrano stopped dead in his spikes on the top step of the dugout. He cocked his head, ever so slightly. He pointed at Yankee Fan, just to let him know the comment was heard. He smiled. And then he loped down into the darkness of the dugout and up into the Cubs' clubhouse without a word.

This is it for Zambrano and the Cubs. This is the week. This is where all the talk has led us. Either he and his agents and the Cubs come to some kind of an agreement on a contract extension before Opening Day -- next Monday afternoon in Cincinnati -- or Zambrano calls off all the contractual shop talk as he's said he will, pitches the 2007 season with the not-insignificant contract he already has and, next winter, instantly becomes the most drooled-over pitcher on the free-agent market since Barry Zito.

If he signs this week, Zambrano probably won't get Zito-type money, at least not in total dollars. (His annual average salary could come close, though. More on that a little later.) But barring a signing this week, or a debilitating injury sometime this season, Zambrano would almost certainly land a deal next winter from some overheated team that would make Zito's seven-year, $126 million contract with the Giants -- the richest ever for a pitcher -- look like something you'd pick out of the greeting card aisle at a SuperTarget.

Gentlemen, start your rhetoric.

To be fair, the two sides in this high-stakes negotiation have been talking for weeks now, managing admirably to keep a lid on any public posturing. The reason for that is refreshingly simple in this often complicated contract pas de deux: Zambrano wants to stay in Chicago. And the Cubs want him to stay. It makes sense for both sides -- almost too much sense in a game where fiscal sanity struck out a long time ago -- for Zambrano to re-up with the Cubs.

But will it happen? Will the Cubs swallow hard and pay a pitcher the kind of dough Zambrano commands? Will Zambrano forsake a chance at possibly millions more on next winter's free agent market for the security and relatively hassle-free chance to make millions now? (Or, of course, possibly risk millions by not signing and getting injured.)

Nobody knows at this point, but there is a recent trend in baseball toward locking up young talent before it hits the dollar-dopey free-agent market. A couple very cogent examples:

• The Astros gave their ace, Roy Oswalt, a five-year contract extension last August worth $73 million. It already looks like a bargain.

• The Cardinals slapped down $63.5 million for five seasons' worth of a contract extension for their stud starter, Chris Carpenter. A veritable blue-light special, that one.

The Cubs, too, have been all-too happy to try to keep their players happy recently. A few examples:

• Among the nearly $300 million that Cubs general manager Jim Hendry shelled out this winter for players was $75 million (over five years) to lock up third baseman Aramis Ramirez before he had a chance to wade into the free-agent market.

• Last April, Hendry signed first baseman Derrek Lee to a five-year, $65 million extension.

• Hendry also talked pitcher Kerry Wood into a one-year contract over the winter during the period that the Cubs had exclusive negotiating rights to him, and the year before that the GM signed closer Ryan Dempster to a three-year extension.

So, given some of those hefty numbers and the certainty that, next winter, they'll probably be even heftier, both sides are busy burning up calculator batteries and wording contract proposals just right. Yet the question remains: Can Hendry and Zambrano -- represented by agents Barry Praver, Tommy Miranda and Scott Shapiro -- pull this off?

Indications are that they're getting there. Sources close to the talks say that the two sides have agreed that any extension will be for five years. That could be five years in addition to the 2007 season -- Zambrano and the Cubs beat the salary arbitration buzzer earlier this winter when they agreed on a $12.4 million contract for '07 -- or the two sides could rip up this year's contract and start anew. That's not clear. Neither Hendry nor Zambrano's reps are being very forthcoming about terms, which is probably a good sign that they're heading in the right direction.

The fact that the two sides are talking is encouraging for those who want this deal to get done. Praver was in Arizona last week, where he talked with Hendry. He left late in the week without a deal, but both he and Hendry point out that they don't need to be in the same room, or even in the same time zone, to get this thing nailed down.

As the Cubs and Zambrano's people do their things, the pitcher is busy doing his, preparing for the season as the team's most flamboyant and important player. "The Bull," it says on the back of his chair in the Ho Ho Kam clubhouse, and nobody in Chicago -- or anywhere else for that matter -- doubts it.

Zambrano has made at least 31 starts and thrown no less than 209 2/3 innings in each of the past four years. He is imposing (6-foot-5 and probably more than the 250 pounds at which the Cubs list him), a hard thrower with a fiery streak who has been in the National League's Top 10 in strikeouts in each of the past three years and in the NL's Top 10 in ERA in each of the past four. During the past four years, he ranks behind only the Twins' Johan Santana and Oswalt in ERA [see chart]. He's also, arguably, the best-hitting pitcher in baseball. He certainly is the strongest, with 10 career home runs, more than any other active pitcher.

And did we mention that he's not 26 until June 1, which makes him younger than anybody else on that Top 10 list but Marlins lefty Dontrelle Willis? With all that going for him, "El Toro" is not about to get all worked up about a little piece of paper that spells out what he might get paid in the future. Not a chance.

"I don't have any distractions about that at all. Believe me. I know, if I don't sign with the Cubs, there are many other teams interested. I don't think about it," Zambrano said the day after Yankee Fan made him laugh. "Look, last year, I made good money. This year, I'm making good enough money to live. Let's say if I got hurt ... who can't live on $12.4 million? I think you can live on that, with a good life. That's why I don't worry about that."

The truth is, if anybody should be worried in this negotiation, it's the Cubs. Granted, it has to be hard to open up the Tribune Co. coffers and pay the kind of money that Zambrano must be asking. But the Cubs have millions of fans to please. They need a leader like Zambrano for their fractured pitching staff. You could argue, without much effort, that signing Zambrano is the fiscally prudent thing to do, given the rapidly rising cost for starting pitching.

Signing him won't be easy, by any stretch of the checkbook. Just as an educated guess, the two sides are probably talking about a figure north of Oswalt's average annual value of $14.6 million and one that is closing in on Zito's $15.75 million. And don't be surprised, given this market, if it's more.

So, the total for the deal, over five years: Think somewhere between $75-78 million. And, yeah, it could be higher.

Hendry, understandably unwilling to say too much as this negotiation winds its way into the final fragile week, can't help but praise his ace. How could he? "He's got as good a stuff as you'll see," the general manager said last weekend. "And he's never been anything but a good kid."

Zambrano, as he has often in the past months and years, reiterated his desire to stay with the team that signed him as an undrafted free agent almost 10 years ago. "El Toro" also talks of winning a World Series with the Cubs -- it's been a while, you may know -- and of winning a Cy Young award to match his fellow Venezuelan, the Twins' superb left-hander, Santana.

"This is the team that saw me grow up, in the minor leagues and now in the big leagues," Zambrano said, his voice soft in a nearly deserted clubhouse. "Even if it doesn't work out long-term with the Cubs, I still have to do a good job [this season], 'cause I love this game. And I feel, for this team. For many years they haven't won anything.

"You know how many people in the past, past Cubs players -- Ernie Banks, Ferguson Jenkins, Billy Williams -- many good players that haven't won a World Series? So if we do it this year, it'd be special. You'd be part of something special. It's being in the right time, the right place -- the right year. I think this is the right year to do it. We have a great team, great chemistry. We want to do it."

If not this year with the Cubs, will Zambrano be able to try again next year, and the year after, and for a few more after that? Or will the Cubs stumble in their attempt to sign him and allow him to see what's out there?

Will the Evil Empire and Yankee Fan get a crack at Zambrano next winter?

"I like the Yankees, but I don't see myself pitching at Yankee Stadium. Too many rules," he said with a laugh. "If I play in New York, it's going to be with the Mets. First of all, because I get to hit. And I love hitting.

"I can't say ... that I would never play for the Yankees. Hopefully no, but you never know. This is a business."

Never more for Zambrano and the Cubs than this week.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/27/07 12:42 AM

Even though Zammy likes to bat, it's pretty clear with his attitude he wants the paycheck. On one hand, his cockiness could be a nice change, and a contrast to the Pettitte humility. I do think though it would be interesting to see if they would actually try to bat Zambrano in some occasions and switch out the DH, forcing the pitcher into the lineup...it would be interesting.

Either way...the good news seems to be Rasner should make the team, Karstens will be optioned back to AAA to heal, and Pettitte and Wang look to be coming along nicely. No need to push the panic button yet.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/27/07 06:28 PM

Notes: Rivera changing it up a little

TAMPA, Fla. -- Spring Training is never a time of much concern for Mariano Rivera.

His valued right arm healthy and recording Grapefruit League outs with regularity, the Yankees closer has occupied his time by toying with a changeup, which he coyly says may or may not see the light of day this season.

Either way, it has raised a few eyebrows, prompted a few laughs and -- perhaps most importantly -- has achieved swings and misses from opposing batters. Rivera pitched yet another scoreless inning in the Yankees' 5-1 victory over the Phillies on Monday, running his spring total to nine blank frames.

"When I come here, I'm thinking to get ready as quick as possible and throw my innings," Rivera said. "Whatever the results will be, that's fine with me. I don't come here to impress. I do what I have to."

The 37-year-old closer has shown no signs of slowing this spring, reeling off outs with surgical precision. When Rivera allows a baserunner -- as he did Monday -- it has become noteworthy; he has surrendered just four hits and no walks this spring, striking out nine.

"He looks comfortable, and that's the best news for me," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "He's out there with that changeup and he's not afraid to throw it back-to-back. He looks pretty determined right now."

As the days of Spring Training have whittled down to single digits, Rivera has continued to experiment with the changeup, a pitch that almost seems like an unfair addition for this era's most dominant closer.

"I don't know why," Rivera said. "Just having fun, I guess."

The Yankees have supported the expansion of Rivera's repertoire, cautioning only that he should use it against experienced Major League hitters. Younger players do not provide an accurate enough read of the surprise factor, as some may simply hack at any pitch they can make contact with.

"I just throw it in there and let it float, you know?" Rivera said. "I'm just having a good time."

He's looking A-O-Kei: Making his fifth start of the Grapefruit League season, Kei Igawa appears to have put some early concerns behind him.

The 27-year-old left-hander focused the crux of his effort against the Phillies on improving his changeup, and while he wasn't completely satisfied with his performance, the results were fine. Igawa allowed one run and three hits in five innings, walking two and striking out four to increase his team-leading whiff total to 19.

"I think he's beyond the point of trying to impress people," Torre said. "Now he's understanding what he needs to improve or feel better about going into the season. To me, that was a good step."

The 87-pitch outing was the second straight start of five innings for Igawa, both against the Phillies. His fastball command has improved over the last three weeks, dating back to a wild March 5 debut against the Tigers, and Igawa's slider appears to be a pitch that could garner strikeouts of Major League hitters.

"I've been pitching pretty well lately," Igawa said, through interpreter Yumi Watanabe. "I'm just getting into my style of pitching. ... As I throw more, I'm getting a lot better. There are a couple of things I have to still work on."

Back in the 'pen: Left-hander Andy Pettitte threw 25 pitches in a bullpen session on Monday morning, reporting no further issues with the back spasms that have kept him off the field for a week.

"I didn't want to feel anything, and I didn't," Pettitte said. "This was as good as I could expect."

The bullpen session was the first of two that the 34-year-old Pettitte is projected to throw this week, with another tentatively scheduled for Wednesday.

That would permit Pettitte to throw in game action on Friday, a performance which Torre said would likely come in a Minor League game. Such an arrangement would save Pettitte a trip to Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland.

If Pettitte rejoins the rotation on Friday, he would still be unavailable to pitch the season opener April 2 at Yankee Stadium. The assignment could go to either Carl Pavano or Igawa, with Pavano widely considered a front-runner.

"We've got to remember that there are 162 games," Torre said. "It's the long haul that we're concerned about. Whenever we're comfortable that [Pettitte is] ready to take the ball and go out there, that's when it'll be."

Good news on Karstens: The Yankees received "normal" reports on Jeff Karstens, the best possible outcome of a battery of examinations on the hurler's tight right elbow.

Karstens, 24, left his start Sunday against the Tigers after just two innings. He was sent for diagnostics later that evening and had a MRI and X-rays taken on Monday, and said that doctors had actually pinpointed the triceps instead of the elbow -- a good sign.

"It's just a little stiff," Karstens said. "I don't want to chance it too much. If you keep pushing it and pushing it, you're going to make it worse."

Torre called the news "outstanding." The Yankees plan to re-evaluate Karstens in the next few days, though general manager Brian Cashman was non-committal when asked if Karstens could avoid a stint on the 15-day disabled list.

"We'll see," Cashman said.

Karstens had been in serious competition to serve as New York's fifth starter, especially after ace Chien-Ming Wang went down to a Grade 1 right hamstring strain.

"That's why you try to line up as much depth as you can," Cashman said. "The season's going to start and we'll plug people in."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/27/07 06:46 PM

For love or money
Just like Wilt, A-Rod blessed, cursed by his talent


It was exactly 50 years ago this week that Wilt Chamberlain lost the NCAA championship, as North Carolina beat his Kansas team in triple overtime. It was hardly Wilt's fault. He was named tournament MVP, but it was then that he was christened a loser, a tag he would carry most of the rest of his career. Eventually, one of Wilt's coaches, the estimable Alex Hannum, said, "Nobody loves Goliath," a phrase Wilt would often woefully recite himself.

Indeed, Chamberlain is the only great athlete I've ever known who seemed to be so much happier once his playing days were over. So much was expected of him that even if he did finally win two NBA titles, he understood he could never be loved.

I never thought Wilt would remind me of anyone else.

But along came Alex Rodriguez.

I will not try to stretch comparisons. Wilt was a force of nature, Rodriguez merely an extraordinary talent, the best in his game, natural enough to play in the major leagues at the age of 18, which is virtually unheard of. But there seems in A-Rod -- or "A-Fraud," as his critics like to call him, painting a mustache on the Mona Lisa -- there seems almost an embarrassment that he could be that naturally gifted. Wilt was that way. When scoring points could not make people adore him, he sought to get the most assists -- and beyond that, ultimately, as we know, he boasted that he had had the most women.

Rodriguez was happy in Seattle, where he found in his manager, Lou Piniella, a surrogate father. He positively gushed on and on about Sweet Lou when I talked to him last month. He even remembered how Piniella had kissed him when he cried as a rookie after he struck out. However, Seattle was too far out of the mainstream, so A-Rod took a monster contract to become a mercenary for a losing team, Texas.

But the great amounts of money, like Wilt's great amounts of points or women, didn't buy him respect, only the same sort of charges of greed. It was fool's gold. So A-Rod came to New York, to the fabled Yankees, where he would be, at last, in the center of the baseball universe. There, he cheerfully gave up his shortstop position, played the unfamiliar third base magnificently, won the league's MVP trophy ... but still, still couldn't earn the fancy of the fans.

Isn't it funny? Of course, Rodriguez talks of only wanting to win a championship, but somehow it seems that what matters more for him is to win the hearts of the people who root for his team. Maybe when you know you're that good, good isn't good enough. There are even rumors that A-Rod really only wants to find comfort, go re-join Piniella, who is now managing the Cubs.

I always thought Chamberlain would have been better in an individual sport, where the complications of team didn't intrude upon his personal majesty. Maybe Rodriguez is miscast in the same way. Sometimes, I suppose, an athlete can be trapped by his own brilliance. Like an actress who is so beautiful nobody believes she can act in a role, A-Rod is so great nobody can believe he needs to be reassured on a team.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/28/07 12:35 AM

After today's start (have no idea why so many said it went "well," much was because of good Yankee defense, not great pitching. His fastball barely crept over 90 mph), Igawa should definitely be the opening day starter.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/28/07 03:57 AM

Glad to hear Igawa's been doing better as of late.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/28/07 05:57 PM

Clemens no closer to decision

HUMBLE, Texas (AP) - Roger Clemens was greeted by a group of autograph-seeking fans as he walked off the 18th green during a pro-am event at Redstone Golf Club on Wednesday.

"Are you coming back?" someone asked.

"I'll know in about a month," Clemens answered.

The 44-year-old is no closer to deciding whether he'll return for a 23rd season. He set no timetable, but repeated that he'll choose among the Houston Astros, New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox.

Clemens said his agents, Alan and Randy Hendricks, will let him know when he can't put off his decision any longer.

"They're great at what they do and they'll call me and say, 'Listen, it's time to either make a decision or not,"' the seven-time Cy Young Award winner said. "It could come next week, it could come in 2-3 months, who knows?"

Clemens hinted that he'll pick the team he thinks has the best chance to win the World Series.

"I need a solid reason to do this," Clemens said. When asked what a solid reason would be, Clemens said, "To feel like I could contribute and to win, to know we have an outstanding chance to win and to be a part of something special."

Clemens said he's healthy and ready to pitch, but still needs to mentally prepare for a season.

"My arm's not too far off, my body is not too far off," he said. "My mind's just not there yet."

During Wednesday's round with Lee Westwood, who's competing in this week's Houston Open, Clemens wore a white baseball cap with "World Series 2005" emblazoned on the front. Clemens said he's heard from Chris Burke and other former Houston teammates, urging him to come back.

The only firm plan Clemens has now is to follow his oldest son, Koby, a minor-leaguer in the Astros system.

Clemens also said he'll fly to New York in the coming weeks to see close friend Andy Pettitte pitch for the Yankees. Pettitte said Tuesday his sore back is feeling better and the Yankees are confident he'll make his first regular-season start.

Clemens and Pettitte spent four seasons together in New York and most of the last three in Houston.

"I told him he's getting older and he needs to use a weight belt on his squats," Clemens said. "It's good for all of us."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/28/07 10:09 PM


This is great! (Despite being scary.)

Yankees in trouble? (Arguably.)

By Jeff Passan, Yahoo! Sports
March 27, 2007
 Quote:

LAKELAND, Fla. – It looks like Carl Pavano is going to start on Opening Day for the New York Yankees.

(Right.)

That's a joke. You're supposed to laugh.

(Sorry. It's true.)

Wait. Carl Pavano, who last threw in a major league game June 27, 2005? Carl Pavano, who was so reviled by teammates that earlier this spring Mike Mussina took a Ginsu to what was left of his reputation? Carl Pavano, who pulled off the rare feat of having a pain in the ass (bruised buttocks) and being one?

(Carla herself.)

What in the name of Hensley Meulens is going on in the Bronx?

(Remember, Chicken Little, it's just one game. Yet Opening Day still is supposed to be loaded with promise and anticipation and potential, and if Pavano best exemplifies that for the Yankees, WFAN's phone lines might spontaneously combust. It's not even April 1, and Chien-Ming Wang's hamstring injury has left the Yankees looking particularly vulnerable for the season's first month.)

Which, excepting the 2005 season, has been a bountiful one in Joe Torre's tenure as manager. In the last 11 Aprils, the Yankees are 160-107. On Opening Day, they have started Roger Clemens four times, Randy Johnson and David Cone twice and Andy Pettitte, Mike Mussina and Orlando Hernandez once.

(And now Carl Pavano once.)

"It's something you always dread as a manager," Torre said.

(Now, come on! No taking quotes out of context. What Torre really said was: "It's something you always dread as a manager, that something happens to your pitchers." Losing Wang hurts. His replacement in the rotation, Jeff Karstens, is ailing, too. Darrell Rasner is next in line. And after that come the groundskeeper, the batboy and, if worst comes to worst, the dude selling pagers out of his pizza joint on 161st.)

Actually, next could be Phil Hughes, even though this spring he looked nothing like the best pitching prospect in baseball. It's probably too late to stretch out Ron Villone to start, and the waiver wire usually is barren by the time the Yankees get their shot at players. The Yankees want Hughes to spend at least a few months in Triple-A before he debuts in the big leagues.

(And by that time, they probably won't need him because Roger Clemens will be in their rotation.)

You say that like it's fact.

(See, this is why the Yankees' whole skinflint routine is, at its core, somewhat misleading: How many teams can afford to throw $15 million at someone midseason? Clemens is coming back. Don't believe otherwise. He is throwing. And even if Wang returns full strength, Pavano resurrects his career and Kei Igawa keeps the ball over the plate, the allure of Clemens' return is too great for the Yankees to let him slip away to an average Houston Astros team or, heaven forbid, the Boston Red Sox.)

So maybe the Pavano panic was a little overboard.

(Yankees fans? Panic unnecessarily? You don't say.)

Hey, the lineup still can mash. Alex Rodriguez almost certainly will be better than last year, provided he spends his time worrying about getting hits and not sending Derek Jeter cloying text messages.

(JEET WUD U LIKE 2 GET SUM ICE CREAM?)

A-Rod seems like the kind of guy who would use all caps, doesn't he?

(Yep.) [ ]

Jeter should have won MVP last season. Jason Giambi could come close to his BALCO-era numbers. Hideki Matsui is due an MVP-type season one of these years. And listening to Torre fawn over Bobby Abreu's ability to take a walk only reinforced the notion that the Yankees' lineup, over a 162-game season, is unparalleled.

(And there, of course, is the problem: Even if the lineup can carry the Yankees in a very difficult division, they're susceptible in a short series without pitching. They couldn't pound their way past Detroit last year, and their rotation swapped an aging Andy Pettitte, an unproven Igawa and a, well, enigmatic Pavano for the aging Randy Johnson, underachieving Jaret Wright and mish-mash of No. 5 starters. Improvement? Sure. Significant improvement? Hardly.)

Heaven help them.

(Why?)

Well, Carl Pavano is starting on Opening Day.

(Time to live with it. He hasn't been terrible this spring. The 5.84 ERA looks unsightly, as do the 25 base runners against five strikeouts in 12 1/3 innings. Torre is convinced he's getting better.)

Torre also is nervous: "Pressure-wise, I'm not concerned. But again, the competition being away for a couple years is still something that's first and foremost in my mind that he needs to feel on a consistent basis. It has nothing to do with his personality. It's just that you haven't competed. It's something you have to gradually get yourself into. You can't turn that switch on."

(There's a joke to be made somewhere about Pavano and turning a switch on, isn't there?)

Nah. Pavano is starting on Opening Day at Yankee Stadium. Tough to get funnier than that.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/29/07 05:21 AM

Notes: Pavano's final tuneup a success

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Manager Joe Torre isn't prepared to name Carl Pavano as the Yankees' Opening Day pitcher, but the right-hander said he's ready for the assignment.

Making his final tuneup start of Spring Training on Tuesday, Pavano turned in a solid six-inning showing against the Twins at Hammond Stadium, breaking several bats and earning a passing grade for his final exam before the regular season begins.

"Just because we saw this doesn't mean that automatically makes him the Game 1 starter, but it certainly is nice to see," Torre said. "He's come a long way."

Pavano scattered six hits and allowed two runs, walking one, but he let the Yankees' defense and the late movement of his two-seamer do most of the work. Pavano induced four double plays and recorded 14 of 18 outs on the ground.

"I think I've shown that I'm healthy," Pavano said. "I'm going to go out there and compete."

With less than a week remaining before the Yankees' season opens at home against the Rays, Pavano appears to be the likeliest candidate to draw the assignment.

Torre said Tuesday that the Yankees would like to see one more Grapefruit League start from left-hander Kei Igawa, and fifth starter candidate Darrell Rasner -- who pitches Wednesday against the Astros -- is not thought to be a likely choice.

Though he has not pitched in a Major League game since June 27, 2005, Pavano points out that he is no stranger to big games and frenzied atmospheres -- after all, it was his World Series performance against the Yankees in 2003 that helped pique the club's interest in signing Pavano as a free agent a year later.

Pavano admitted he would be "excited" for the Opening Day assignment, but said he did not believe it would be different than any other start. Either way, it would be a long way from what Pavano had been envisioning when he reported to the Spring Training in mid-February with the other pitchers and catchers.

"I definitely had some other things on my mind," Pavano said. "But there were times when I was down and guys were picking up my slack. It's unfortunate, the course of events that some of the guys went down, so it's my turn to pick that up."

If Pavano had known he'd be here back in February, he'd have been elated. The road through the Grapefruit League wasn't uneventful -- he suffered a bruised left foot in batting practice, left a start 45 minutes before first pitch to attend to personal issues and was nearly attacked by a swarm of bees in Sarasota.

All things considered, Pavano insisted he is ready for the long wait to end.

"I don't have all the answers for the future, but I was hoping that this would one day come to fruition," Pavano said. "It looks like it did."

Final days of battle: The Yankees' ongoing competition for a right-handed first baseman could not have taken a more stark contrast on Tuesday.

Both Andy Phillips and Josh Phelps played the full game against the Twins, batting back-to-back, with Phillips manning first base and Phelps serving as the designated hitter.

While Phelps continued to slug, hitting his third home run of the spring in the second inning off Minnesota's Boof Bonser, Phillips struck out in all four at-bats and lowered his spring batting average to .190.

"Certainly you're aware that time is dwindling and decisions are coming," Phillips said.

The Yankees are likely to wait until at least Friday before any final decisions are revealed, but Phillips' chances of making the roster have taken a hit.

While the Yankees value Phillips' years of contribution as a homegrown player and are expected to take his past Major League service into consideration, he has been trying to catch up after missing more than a week of camp while attending to his injured mother, Linda, in a Birmingham, Ala., hospital.

Because of his absence, the Yankees have been pressed to find Phillips at-bats. He has hit in Minor League games and even batted nine times in a simulated game against Andy Pettitte, but still has just 21 at-bats.

"It's like starting all over," Phillips said.

Then again, you would have to excuse Phelps if he remained a bit wary, unsure if he's done enough to convince the Yankees to carry him.

As Phelps points out, he's had the same high-caliber spring two seasons in a row. He batted .531 with three homers and nine RBI in 15 games for the Tigers last spring, only to spend the season at Triple-A Toledo.

He attributes his success this season to a clearer mental approach.

"I think I've gotten better as I've gotten older as a player, mentally," Phelps said. "I'm just trying to improve on the game as much as I can. I've just focused on going up there and playing, and not worrying about mechanics or if I get a hit or not."

No problems for pitchers: The three hurlers expected to play major roles for the Yankees in 2007 -- Chien-Ming Wang, Pettitte and Jeff Karstens -- all arrived at Legends Field separately on Tuesday morning, but their stories were consistent. The trio had some collective good news to report.

Hoping to keep his arm strong as his right hamstring recovers, Wang threw with pitching coach Ron Guidry at distances of 60 and 90 feet. Wang said he feels a lot better and hopes to beat the Yankees' projected Major League return date of late April.

Pettitte said that he felt no ill effects from a light bullpen session conducted in Tampa on Monday, meaning that he could have a more challenging workout off the mound on Wednesday. That could line Pettitte up to pitch in a Minor League game on Friday.

"I definitely didn't go backwards at all," Pettitte said. "I feel good. It's definitely positive."

Finally, Karstens could be closer to resuming baseball activities than many expected. The right-hander left his last start on Saturday with tightness in his right elbow, but MRIs and CT scans taken Monday revealed nothing out of the ordinary.

Karstens is now just wearing a protective sleeve to keep his arm warm and is taking anti-inflammatory medication, but said he had feared the examinations would reveal something much more sinister.

"I'm relieved at the fact they didn't find anything," Karstens said. "You never know."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/29/07 05:23 AM

Notes: Good signs for Pettitte

TAMPA, Fla. -- With the days of camp waning, the Yankees still need to finalize exactly who is heading north with them when the calendar turns to April.

While those matters remained unsettled after Wednesday's 12-2 loss to the Astros -- and some became more murky -- one issue became perfectly clear.

Andy Pettitte, pack your bags.

"Let's put it this way: We'll leave Florida with him," manager Joe Torre said, "which is something we weren't sure about a week ago."

Pettitte threw 31 pitches in an early-afternoon bullpen session, dialing up his velocity and making use of his complete repertoire. Afterward, he said that he never dreamed the back spasms -- first incurred on March 19 -- would last as long as they did, but said he is "relieved" they've finally dissipated.

"I got good and heated up today -- it was hot," Pettitte said. "I felt really loose, probably as loose as I've felt all spring as far as my body [is concerned]. This was a bullpen where I was throwing the ball and cutting it loose pretty good."

Both Pettitte and the Yankees were pleased that the back spasms that sidelined the left-hander showed no signs of recurring.

"He was nice and easy," said Wil Nieves, who caught the session. "He was letting it go a little bit. He wasn't throwing 100 percent. He threw everything -- fastball, curveball, slider, changeup -- and threw it real well."

Hours later, when potential fifth-starter candidate Darrell Rasner had a tough time against Houston's lineup, the hope of Pettitte's presence in the first turn of the rotation took on even greater importance.

Pettitte is slated to pitch at the Yankees' Minor League complex on Friday, either in a game or in a simulated game created for him.

"I just need to see some hitters. It's been a long time," he said.

If Pettitte passes that test, he would be projected to be available for the Yankees in their first regular-season series, against the Devil Rays.

Torre has previously cautioned that Pettitte is likely to begin the season behind the other starters in terms of stamina. Pettitte worked no more than five innings in any of his three Grapefruit League efforts, but Torre found nothing but good signs out of Wednesday's mound session.

"I know he was excited about what he felt, just from watching him [Wednesday]," Torre said. "We'll see what Friday is."

Something in the bank: The 2006 performances of both Rasner and Ron Villone continue to weigh into the Yankees' collective decision-making process, which is a positive thing for their hopes of making the 25-man roster.

Unfortunately for both, they also gave the Yankees a few negatives to consider on Wednesday, which is particularly noteworthy because Torre hopes to have his final decisions revealed by Friday afternoon.

Rasner had been enjoying a solid spring, having allowed just two runs in 12 spring innings before surrendering seven runs and nine hits to Houston in 4 2/3 innings on Wednesday.

"Last year, to his credit, he pitched well for us in games that were very important," Torre said. "You can't discount that. But tonight wasn't very good."

Rasner walked two and struck out two, surrendering a solo home run to right fielder Luke Scott.

"The frustrating thing about it was that I was getting beat on secondary pitches, and that should not be happening now," Rasner said.

Rasner was relieved by Villone, who faced three batters and allowed a walk, single and two-run triple before being lifted. A non-roster invitee, Villone has struggled with his command and knows that his potential roster spot is in danger. Wednesday's outing increased his ERA to an unsightly 14.40.

"Time's running short," Villone said. "I don't feel good about it."

Torre believes that Villone has been trying to manufacture velocity on the mound, a similar he was in at this point last spring.

The difference is that Villone had a guaranteed contract in 2006, whereas the veteran likely needs to fend off 27-year-old Sean Henn to earn a trip north this year. Torre said that Villone isn't out of the running yet, but Wednesday's outing gave the coaching staff more to talk about.

"If he wasn't here last year, then it would be tough to even consider him," Torre said. "But with what we know about him and know about his makeup, I think you still have to make a decision with that information being a part of it."

Checking in: Torre said that he sat down on Wednesday for a chat with right-hander Carl Pavano. The Yankees are still not prepared to name Pavano as their Opening Day starter, but with Rasner the only plausible candidate, Pavano appears to be a near lock.

Torre said that the Yankees have not made up their minds completely, but that Pavano has regained a positive, confident attitude that the manager believs had been missing in his recent history.

"He's back, as far as one of the guys that's going to go out there and compete on a regular basis," he said.

Pleading the fifth: Jeff Karstens' chances of breaking camp with the Yankees are alive and well.

The 24-year-old right-hander is scheduled to throw from halfway up the mound on Thursday, his first baseball activities since leaving his start on Saturday against the Tigers with a sore right elbow.

"It's not as stiff," Karstens said. "It doesn't hurt at all."

Torre said that if Karstens comes through his remaining mound work with no ill-effects, he could be with the Yankees on Opening Day. Karstens was sent for an MRI and a CT scan on the elbow, and the Yankees were pleased to find only normal results.

"He could be in the back end of the rotation at this point in time," Torre said. "He hasn't been off that long."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/29/07 05:25 AM

Swindal may have lost chance to take over Yankees

TAMPA, Fla. -- George Steinbrenner's daughter filed divorce papers this week against her husband, Steve Swindal, a move that appears to end his chance to take over as head of the New York Yankees.

Jennifer Swindal filed the papers Tuesday in Hillsborough County Circuit Court's family law department, Yankees spokesman Howard Rubenstein said Wednesday. Rubenstein said the papers cited "irreconcilable differences."

"Steve and Jenny Swindal announced today that they are amicably ending their marriage of 23 years," Rubenstein said in a statement. "Although their marriage is dissolving, they remain friends and maintain a strong mutual respect. They are devoted to their two children and will make them their shared focus."

Reached by telephone, Swindal said he didn't want to comment beyond the statement or address his role with the team.

In June 2005, Steinbrenner said Swindal eventually would succeed him as head of the Yankees. Swindal currently is a Yankees general partner and chairman of Yankee Global Enterprises LLC. The New York Times, citing a source with direct knowledge of the situation, reported on Wednesday that Steinbrenner now has no intention of promoting Swindal, but removing him from the team altogether could be complicated since he is a partial owner of the club.

"I'm the boss," Steinbrenner said in a statement issued by Rubenstein. "I continue to be the boss. I have no intention of retiring, and my family runs the Yankees with me."

Swindal was arrested by St. Petersburg police at about 4:30 a.m. on Feb. 15 and charged with driving under the influence, a misdemeanor.

Swindal said the week following the arrest he felt embarrassed, and when asked whether his status with the team would change, Swindal responded: "Hopefully, not." Asked whether he still viewed himself as Steinbrenner's successor, Swindal replied: "I can't answer that other than it would be speculation." Asked whether Steinbrenner supported him, Swindal said: "He's been a great father-in-law and supportive. He supports me. I don't feel anything but a guy who is looking out after me and supports me."

Steinbrenner, who has hardly spoken publicly during spring training, didn't reply to questions as he walked past reporters before Wednesday night's exhibition game against Houston.

Swindal pleaded not guilty March 15, and a pretrial hearing is scheduled for April 5 at South County Traffic Court in St. Petersburg.

Swindal, who is 52, was weaving and driving 61 mph in a 35 mph zone when he was pulled over, police spokesman Bill Proffitt said shortly after the arrest.

Steinbrenner has four children. Son Harold Steinbrenner is executive vice president and treasurer of Yankee Global Enterprises LLC and Hank Steinbrenner is a senior vice president of the team. Felix Lopez, married to daughter Jessica Steinbrenner, is a team senior vice president.

Jessica Steinbrenner, along with Lopez, were among a group of people with Steinbrenner in the Legends Field dining room.

Swindal also heads a group competing for the franchise to operate thoroughbred racing in New York.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/29/07 09:52 PM

Lidle's wife, son to throw out first pitch

TAMPA, Fla. -- The Yankees will open their 2007 season with a ceremonial tribute to the late Cory Lidle, a right-handed pitcher who died in a plane crash last Oct. 11 in New York City.

Lidle's wife, Melanie, and son, Christopher, are scheduled to throw the ceremonial first pitches before the Opening Day game against the Devil Rays on April 2, the team announced Thursday.

Also in attendance for the ceremonies will be Lidle's parents, Doug and Lisa, and his twin brother, Kevin.

Lidle was acquired last July 30 with outfielder Bobby Abreu from the Philadelphia Phillies in a six-player transaction. He appeared in 10 games for New York, going 4-3 with a 5.16 ERA, plus one game of the American League Division Series against the Detroit Tigers.

An avid aviator, Lidle had planned a cross-country flight home to California. He and a 26-year-old flight instructor, Tyler Stanger, took off from New Jersey's Teterboro Airport on Oct. 11 in what appeared to have been a brief sightseeing excursion.

Both were killed when Lidle's single-engine Cirrus SR-20 plane crashed into an Upper East Side apartment building.

Lidle pitched 277 games in the Major Leagues over nine seasons with seven different clubs, compiling a career record of 82-72.

In addition to the ceremonial first pitch, the Yankees also plan to have the West Point Color Guard present the colors of the United States flag. A stadium flyover by two U.S. Navy F-18s, piloted by the Strike Fighter Squadron 34 (the Blue Blasters), is scheduled.

The Yankees said that a West Point soloist will perform the national anthem. Irish tenor Ronan Tynan, a familiar face at Yankee Stadium for several years, will perform "God Bless America" during the seventh-inning stretch.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/30/07 02:15 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Lidle's wife, son to throw out first pitch



Mrs. Lidle might have better stuff than Pavano.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/30/07 12:11 PM

Even though he didn't have the stuff last week, I still think that the Yankees have invested a bit too much time in Rasner to send him down (aka having to put him on the waiver wire and the Nats, who have already said so, will snatch him back), and Karstens still can move freely between MLB and AAA without fear of being grabbed on the wire. So I think Karstens, by default, will head to Scranton-Wilkes Barre, if for no other reason than to make sure that he's fully healed, and to give Rasner a shot as a starter.

---

Once again, totally impressed by Josh Phelps, he is crushing the ball, and looks good on defense as well. Can't believe other teams let this guy get away. He makes both Eye-Chart and Phillips look silly in comparison. I'd be totally happy having Giambi and Phelps as my two first basemen (read: bring back Bernie!!!)

As it stands now, we're going to carry THREE first basemen, which is total crap. I mean, let's look at the rest of the bench:

Outfield - Melky Cabrera, Kevin Thompson (if necessary)
Infield - Miguel Cairo, Chris Basak/Andy Cannizaro (if necessary)
Catcher - Todd Pratt/Wil Nieves/Raul Chavez/Ben Davis
First Base - Giambi, Mientkeiwicz, Phelps

I mean, we're carrying three first basemen, two of whom will be on the bench in interleague play, and granted, Phelps doubles as a catcher, but still. I'd rather see them keep up utility like Kevin Thompson (or hell, get Bernie back) than keep Eye-Chart, but maybe they'll figure this out by the midway point of the season...

---

I still don't see how Mussina and Igawa can be ignored as opening day starters. For the longest time, all we've heard was it should be Wang, Pettitte or Moose as the man. Now, what the hell, because of a scheduled start, Moose is out of the picture? WTF? C'mon.

And for the record, these are the spring stats of Igawa vs. Matsuzaka:

Kei Igawa
 Code:
IP   H    R   BB  K
17   13   5   12  19


Daisuke Matsuzaka
 Code:
IP     H    R   BB  K
17.6   9    4    7  19


Now, let's do some adjusting. Igawa had a hard time adjusting to the Major League hill, and it hurt his control in the early going. By that same token, Matsuzaka kicked the shit out of Boston College (I hear they're going to be an expansion team in the MLB next year, right? ), which has inflated his numbers some to look better than they are. Adjusted:

Kei Igawa (adjusted)
 Code:
IP   H    R   BB  K
16   10   5   9   22


Daisuke Matsuzaka (adjusted)
 Code:
IP   H    R   BB  K
19   10   5    8  17


Considering their respective price tags and expected roles...who's looking smart now?

---

Steve Swindal has been done like Tom Hagen. "You're out, Steve." Divorcing George's daughter probably finishes off any chances he'll end up as the leader in Yankeedom. It probably should go to either Hank or Hal, his sons, or Felix Lopez, his other son in law and a Senior VP in the Yankees organization.

Or, maybe Brian Cashman should marry a Steinbrenner daughter and take the reigns himself? \:\)

---

One last thing. Abreu looks like a MONSTER since returning. He's pounding the ball, and he's got great speed. I'll miss you, Sheff, but not your attitude. Abreu has some class, and tremendous skill...and unlike you, he doesn't strike out. \:D

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/30/07 12:20 PM

Also, just coming across the waiver wire...looks like Phelps will get his shot:

Andy Phillips Waived

 Quote:
Source: NJ Star-Ledger

Thursday, March 29, 2007
BY ED PRICE
Star-Ledger Staff

TAMPA, Fla. -- Josh Phelps has apparently won a spot on the Yankees roster.

Andy Phillips, who had been competing with Phelps to platoon at first base with Doug Mientkiewicz, yesterday was placed on outright waivers. The move (which was revealed by a major-league official who asked not to be identified because waivers are confidential) means that by tomorrow Phillips will be claimed by another team or sent to the minors by the Yankees.


Sorry Andy, I really liked you, I think you had some versatile infield experience, but damn, you can't hit the ball! You could be a Gold Glove fielding first baseman, but we've already overpaid someone to be the instant out at first base, and his first name is D-O-U-G (I bet his last name isn't M-A-Y-E-R, though he pals with A-Rod the hot dog).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/07 06:19 PM

Pavano begins redemption quest

The long wait is over for Carl Pavano, who will make his return to the Major Leagues on the grandest stage baseball can provide in April -- Opening Day at Yankee Stadium.

Even Pavano admits that it wasn't the likely scenario he'd envisioned when the 31-year-old right-hander reported to Spring Training in February. After 1 1/2 years of big-league inactivity, Pavano would have been thrilled just to know he'd make it through the Grapefruit League gauntlet.

"I was hoping all this would fall into place," Pavano said. "That was my goal. That's why I spent so much time in the offseason trying to improve myself physically.

"I don't have all the answers for the future, but I was hoping this day would come to fruition. It looks like it is."

A perfect storm of events precipitated Pavano's reappearance against the Devil Rays, taking place on what has traditionally played out to be a ceremonial afternoon of pomp and circumstance.

The Yankees had planned to name Chien-Ming Wang as the Opening Day starter, but he pulled up with a strained right hamstring late in Spring Training and is expected to miss at least the first three weeks of the season.

Andy Pettitte dealt with a bout of back spasms that put him behind the Yankees' other starters in terms of stamina, and the team did not want to rush Mike Mussina back on short rest for what -- celebratory atmosphere aside -- is just one game of 162.

So it is the date April 2, 2007 that finally replaces June 27, 2005 -- Pavano's last Major League appearance -- in his career game log. The Yankees say they are prepared to play behind Pavano and call him a teammate.

"We want him out there," said catcher Jorge Posada, who volunteered to take a 2 1/2 hour bus ride to Fort Myers in order to catch Pavano's final spring start. "He wants to be out there. It's a lot of fun to see the way he's working, doing things right."

Yankees probable lineup
Pos. Name
1. CF Johnny Damon
2. SS Derek Jeter
3. RF Bobby Abreu
4. 3B Alex Rodriguez
5. DH Jason Giambi
6. LF Hideki Matsui
7. 2B Robinson Cano
8. C Jorge Posada
9. 1B Josh Phelps

While Pavano admits that he will be excited to rejoin the competition he'd missed -- "I don't want to downplay that," he said -- he does not view the game as any sort of opportunity for redemption.

"I've pitched in a lot of big games," Pavano said. "I don't think it'll be different than any other game, to tell you the truth."

More to the point, Pavano is aware of the fact that he has given the Yankees just 17 starts and four victories in his first two seasons of a four-year contract. He's hopeful that the final two seasons will be much more productive and enjoyable.

An offseason workout program conducted in Phoenix helped Pavano strengthen his core and regain some of the flexibility he lost over numerous battles with injuries and maladies.

His Spring Training wasn't exactly uneventful, either -- he suffered a bruised left foot when he was hit by a batting practice line drive, left a start 45 minutes before game time to attend to a medical issue involving his girlfriend, and was nearly attacked by a swarm of bees during a start against the Reds in Sarasota.

But Pavano made it through his five Grapefruit League appearances, compiling a 4.91 ERA and throwing 18 1/3 pain-free innings. It was enough to help restore some of the Yankees' confidence, who have no issues looking to Pavano as a contributor for 2007 on every fifth day.

"He's come a long way. His spring certainly has been consistent," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "His body language has been really good. He's worked hard this spring and now it's starting to pay dividends."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/07 06:21 PM

Q&A with manager Joe Torre

Joe Torre is reclining in his Legends Field office two hours before game time, his feet kicked up on the desk and his uniform suddenly half-assembled after watching his club take batting practice under the Florida sun.

The manager of the New York Yankees has less than 10 minutes to spare, and as he gestures for a club official to shut off a television replaying NBA highlights, Torre agrees to spend them discussing his club with MLB.com.

Entering his 12th season at the helm of the game's most storied franchise, the 66-year-old Torre made it clear that he still enjoys what he does and expects big things from the year ahead.

MLB.com: When you head to New York, you'll have had the clubhouse together for about seven weeks now. When you compare it to last season, do you see any changes in chemistry, based upon some of the roster moves that were made?

Torre: Well, this ballclub has been pretty stable in the way it goes about its business. For the most part, they're experienced players. A couple of years ago, when we brought Robbie Cano in and Chien-Ming Wang, and last year when Melky Cabrera all of a sudden came upon the scene the way he has, it's the first time in a long time that the Yankees have really relied on young players. It's given us a little more energy.

To me, we're very business-like in what we do, and there's a lot of pressure in what we do -- not that other teams don't experience the pressure. As far as chemistry, the thing about it for me is that I think winning creates chemistry, as opposed to the other way around.

When you have a lot of veteran players -- as I like to use the expression, 'true professionals' -- they understand even if you don't feel like going out to eat with somebody, you still have to go out there and play alongside them. The fact that we're all trying to do the same thing is reason enough to get along real well.

MLB.com: In the first weeks of Spring Training, much was made of the Yankees' depth in pitching. Could you have foreseen a test coming like the one the Yankees recently endured, losing Chien-Ming Wang to injury and having Andy Pettitte's availability placed into question?

Torre: You never see it coming, but I think from my experience, all managers come to Spring Training knowing that you're going to have some surprises. You hope the surprises are good ones, but that's not always the case.

The thing is, when it happens to a pitcher, it's so much more detrimental than if it happens to a player. A player can hurry up and get in shape once he's turned loose to go ahead and do what he does, and then he can do it every day. Pitchers can't do it every day. They can throw one day, rest a day, and if they're starting pitchers they have to wait four days.

Two starts, really, for a starter -- say, in Wang's case. When he's ready to physically get back on the mound and pitch a game, if we want him to pitch two games -- he's got the five days before, the five days after, and he's got the five days before he can pitch for us. We're talking about two weeks, even though it's only two games and he's felt good for two weeks. He's got that long to get that work in.

In Spring Training, you have to pretty much take what comes. If it happens to your pitchers, it's bad luck, but that's the way it goes. You just have to do the best that you can.

MLB.com: You've said often this spring that you're very comfortable with the state of the bullpen. Do you feel like that was the biggest improvement this team made going forward?

Torre: Leaving here, I think we've improved it, because we added [Luis] Vizcaino. To me, that was a huge get for us. We really wore [Ron] Villone down last year, we wore [Scott] Proctor down last year. Vizcaino is durable to the point where, not that we're going to use him multiple innings, but he's probably going to pitch multiple days and I think that's important.

[Kyle] Farnsworth, after the first year, figures to be more comfortable here. Proctor, after last year, he came as an extra pitcher at the end of Spring Training and turned into somebody very necessary. So I'd like to believe that our strength was there.

But again, the strength of your bullpen only depends on how well your starters do. Last year, your fourth and fifth starters, we didn't get a great deal of length out of them, so we really had to go to the bullpen more times than we wanted to.

MLB.com: One of the more memorable quotes from this spring, I thought, was that if the Yankees aren't scoring runs this year, you'll have a hard time pinning it on Doug Mientkiewicz. As the only new player in the everyday lineup, how much do you think he'll need to hit?

Torre: It's interesting. If a club is winning, you never pay attention to a guy who's 0-for-10. If a club is losing, all of a sudden you'll find that he's the main reason why you're losing, which is absurd for me.

A lot of it depends on how we're doing. Obviously, if you need offense, you'll move people around and try to force the issue. Doug is here basically for one reason -- he's going to play first base. Is it going to be a platoon? I'm not sure.

But the things he can do, aside from the defensive aspect of it, is that he can put the ball in play. When you put the ball in play, we can do some things with our offense. That's encouraging for us, because swinging and missing really curtails some of the things you can do.

MLB.com: When you look at what Boston just went through with shuffling Jonathan Papelbon back and forth, trying to figure out a closer, does it make you appreciate what you've had in Mariano Rivera all that much more?

Torre: Well, Mariano, God love him. For the 11 years I've been here, he's been terrific. His first year, he wasn't a closer, but he pitched two innings a game for us. Papelbon, last year, was terrific. He was intimidating and I'm sure Terry [Francona] is pleased that he has him back in the bullpen, because he certainly makes a difference.

You realize over the years that a closer is worth his weight in gold at this point in time, because he's like a regular player out there. But Mariano is the best. I've never seen a relief pitcher pitch for as long as he has with the same stuff, and still maintain his degree of success. It's great.

I grant you, he works hard and doesn't have some issues that others may have -- weight [problems] and all that stuff. But he's as good as they come, and I think what he's done in the past and the postseason really solidifies his place in Yankee lore and down the road, when it's time for him to take that walk up the steps to Cooperstown. I think there'll be a spot for him.

MLB.com: Through the course of this spring, has there been anything that has come up to tell you that you're enjoying this and you can see yourself doing this in the future?

Torre: I'm enjoying it, there's no question. Spring Training is a fun time for me. Winning isn't what it is during the season, let's put it that way. You're here to get players in shape to start the season and it's fun.

I'd like to believe that if I felt this way next year at this time, I hope I'm doing the same thing. I hope I'm still managing. But that being said, at my age, once you walk away from something, it's tough to say, 'Well, I miss that.'

So you decide to go back, and all of a sudden you realize you're 110 years old. You don't want to do that. As of right now, I'm enjoying it. It's not drudgery for me, and hopefully I continue to feel that way.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/07 06:24 PM

Yankees Opening Day outlook

A rash of pitching injuries late in Spring Training interrupted what had been an enjoyable camp for the Yankees. It wasn't exactly "Camp Quiet," the tranquil ideal that general manager Brian Cashman continually dreams of but never achieves, but the Yankees had been progressing through the Grapefruit League and keeping their players on the field.

With ace Chien-Ming Wang down for much of April, the Yankees' Opening Day performance fell largely by default to right-hander Carl Pavano, who hasn't pitched a Major League game since June 27, 2005.

Until the Yankees can recoup their starting five to full strength, they'll lean on one of the most dominant offensive lineups in the game and a bullpen that manager Joe Torre projects as improved over last season's assemblage.

Talent is not the question for the Yankees, who figure to blast past much of their American League competition. Finishing off the goal of a world championship is more of the mission, an achievement they have been unable to duplicate since 2000.

BATTING ORDER
1. Johnny Damon, CF

Damon returns for his second season in Yankees pinstripes, having set a career high with 24 home runs last year. The 33-year-old knows how to set the table, and he became the fourth player in team history to hit at least 20 homers and steal at least 20 bases in his first season with New York.

2. Derek Jeter, SS
Jeter had one of his best all-around seasons in 2006, finishing second in the AL MVP balloting while securing his third-consecutive Gold Glove Award. Though nothing but a World Series ring satisfies Jeter, the Yankees had plenty to be happy about with their shortstop's performance.

3. Bobby Abreu, RF
Abreu lends a patient approach to the lineup as he returns for his first full season, which should tire out starting pitchers and help the Yankees to see more soft middle relievers. Abreu has reached the 100-walk plateau in eight consecutive seasons.

4. Alex Rodriguez, 3B
Beyond whatever off-field issues may linger, Rodriguez is poised for a monster season. Motivated in part by his inconsistent performance in 2006, Rodriguez trimmed his body fat over the winter and is entering the season with a lithe physique. He hit 35 home runs and drove in 121 runs last year, but A-Rod wants to do even more.

5. Jason Giambi, DH
Time will tell how Giambi responds to his transition into a full-time designated hitter, but so far, the 36-year-old slugger is taking it in stride. Giambi has historically hit better when he plays the field, but the Yankees are hoping to squeeze an uninterrupted season out of Giambi by limiting his innings at first base.

6. Hideki Matsui, LF
With a healed left wrist and sans his consecutive games streak, Matsui enters his fifth year of service for the Yankees looking to make up for the four months he missed in 2006. The Yankees hope his contributions can be similar to 2005, when Matsui set career highs in batting average, hits, doubles and RBIs.

7. Robinson Cano, 2B
A superstar in many other lineups, the Yankees flash their wealth by permitting Cano to blend into the bottom of their order. The 24-year-old finished third in the AL batting race last season and has developed into one of the game's most dynamic young players.

8. Jorge Posada, C
Leaner and continuing to work on his defense, Posada has tweaked his game to account for his advancing years. The Yankees have come to rely on Posada's contributions to the point where his skills may actually be underappreciated, a tough scenario to have happen in New York.

9. Doug Mientkiewicz, 1B
A talented glove man, Mientkiewicz's true contribution to the stacked Yankees roster will be his deft defensive performance at first base, patrolling the right side of the infield and saving errors from his teammates. Mientkiewicz did not hit much in Spring Training but the Yankees would be thrilled if he could duplicate his performances from 2006, when he hit .283 for the Royals.

ROTATION
Carl Pavano, RHP

Even Pavano admits that he wouldn't have anticipated drawing an Opening Day assignment, though he continues to have high hopes for authoring a comeback story in New York. Pavano has shown signs of rust from his long layoff, but the Yankees have been pleased when flashes of his talent break through.

Andy Pettitte, LHP
The return of the lanky lefty was among the more satisfying storylines of the Yankees' Spring Training. Nostalgia aside, the Yankees will be looking for Pettitte to put up results and help anchor their staff. He's done it before on the Bronx stage, so nerves aren't a concern. If Pettitte can hit the 200-inning plateau for a third straight year, the team will be elated.

Mike Mussina, RHP
Aging gracefully, Mussina is relying more on his veteran guile as his velocity ticks downward, but it didn't hurt him much during his 15-win campaign in 2006. Mussina can still mix pitches and hit his spots with the best of them.

Kei Igawa, LHP
The Japanese import seemed to round into form as March wore on, using exhibition starts more to tweak his command. That pleases the Yankees, who were concerned earlier about Igawa's need to prove himself in the United States. He has shown a knack for the strikeout early in his Yankees tenure, but also wildness.

Darrell Rasner, RHP
The rotation is weaker without Wang, but young pitchers like Rasner will help hold the fort until his return. The 26-year-old picked up a spot on the roster when Jeff Karstens was sidelined with an elbow injury late in camp. He won three games for the Yankees last season and can serve as a long reliever as well.

BULLPEN
The Yankees have four familiar faces returning for their projected 2007 bullpen, with all arms leading to the best in the business, Mariano Rivera. Setup men Kyle Farnsworth and Scott Proctor are poised to again handle the brunt of the seventh- and eighth-inning duties, though the Yankees will tread cautiously to avoid overuse. Mike Myers is back as a situational left-hander, but one addition the Yankees believe will make a major impact is right-hander Luis Vizcaino, who has appeared in 70 or more games in four of the last five seasons. He can handle both lefties and righties, which provides another go-to option in a bullpen that has become no stranger to ringing telephones. As the season goes on, the Yankees can mix and match from a crew of candidates that includes Brian Bruney, Sean Henn and Colter Bean, according to their needs.

BURNING QUESTION
Can the pitching staff hold up for a run at the World Series? Even before Wang went down with a hamstring injury, there were concerns about the Yankees' rotation, particularly the back end. The Yankees' starting pitching is decent but not spectacular, and always open to a midseason acquisition (this means you, Roger Clemens). The Yankees should have little trouble providing plenty of run support, which was one of the reasons an aching Randy Johnson still compiled 34 victories in his two seasons with the Yankees. There's no reason to think that the 2007 starters won't be similarly able to pick up a few cheap wins here and there, but October is always a different animal. Pitching wins in the playoffs and it remains to be seen if the Yankees have enough.

ON THE RECORD
"We're a little limited right now on options for our rotation. We've got some of it figured out. It's sort of like a puzzle. We're going to have to fill in spots that we were hoping we wouldn't have to fill in." -- Torre

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/07 06:25 PM

Yanks have one goal in mind

TAMPA, Fla. -- When the Yankees open their 2007 campaign on Monday, they will do so with the usual celebratory pomp and circumstance that has been accepted as part of the organization's flavor.

They'll also line the chalk at Yankee Stadium thinking somewhat of their unsettled pitching rotation, slapped together in patchwork fashion after several physical issues interrupted the final weeks of what had been a fairly pain-free Spring Training.

While no one could have projected that oft-injured right-hander Carl Pavano would be the one warming up in New York's bullpen as introductions begin, making his Major League return after 1 1/2 years on the shelf, the Yankees aren't outwardly fretting.

Even with ace Chien-Ming Wang down to a strained hamstring and in-season changes to the rotation a near certainty, the Yankees' strength entering the campaign wasn't really centered around starting pitching anyway.

More to the point, their strength was of the brute variety. The Yankees scored a Major League-leading 930 runs last season and did little to mess with a good thing, bringing back much of the same cast of characters for another year of assaulting American League pitching.

Though their lefty-laden lineup may prompt teams to lean toward arranging southpaws against the Yankees, the order presents a nightmare for a hurler, no matter which arm he throws with.

Top to bottom, there simply aren't many easy outs to seek, and an emphasis on plate patience -- headlined by right fielder and probable No. 3 hitter Bobby Abreu -- figures to help the Yankees work into the soft underbelly of middle relief.

"It's great," said leadoff hitter Johnny Damon. "The whole lineup, after me, you've got to face all of these other guys. It's got to be scary for a pitcher coming in."

Of course, as Derek Jeter points out, scoring runs has never really been an issue for the recent Yankees clubs.

"We've been scoring runs for a while," Jeter said. "We've got a lot of guys who can hit and a lot of guys who can beat you. We're capable in scoring in a lot of ways."

The biggest difference, manager Joe Torre believes, will be improvements in the bullpen.

With the manager steadfastly promising to use 37-year-old closer Mariano Rivera for just three outs a night, thus ensuring that the right-hander's valued arm is available for September and October, middle relief and setup men will be increasingly relied upon to record outs.

The Yankees feel well-equipped to handle those demands, bringing back setup men Kyle Farnsworth, Scott Proctor, plus lefty specialist Mike Myers from last year's relief corps. New to the mix is a trusted reliever in 32-year-old Luis Vizcaino, a rubber arm acquired from the Diamondbacks in January's Randy Johnson trade.

"With our bullpen," Torre said, "we feel like if we get five innings out of a starter, we can fill it in."

On the flip side, while many regular-season games have turned into swelled number slugfests, the Yankees have spent the last six seasons with a zero in the category that really counts around 161st Street and River Avenue -- World Series titles.

Jeter said he senses a certain hunger and restlessness enveloping the organization.

"You sense it because you're going home," Jeter said. "You're watching another team win, that's how you sense it. You put a lot of work in to win a championship. If you don't do it, man, it's a wasted year."

The emphasis on championship baseball has not changed in the Bronx and certainly never will under George Steinbrenner's stewardship. But the results are what count in the end, the sort of mindset that left a player like Jeter unfulfilled after what is generally considered his finest all-around campaign in 2006.

"Definitely, over the last couple of years, everybody has said, 'Oh, Mr. Steinbrenner has spent a ton of money,'" Jason Giambi said.

"It doesn't guarantee you a world championship. If you had a phenomenal football team and spent $200 [million], you could have a dynasty. In baseball, any team can beat any team on any given day. That's what makes baseball so great."

But while the Yankees still aim to bring the 2007 World Series to New York, general manager Brian Cashman spent much of the winter shuffling the deck of the organization, planning for pennant pushes to come.

The Yankees have held onto young rising talent like Wang and second baseman Robinson Cano, changing the organization's attitude somewhat.

With more promise like top Minor League hurler Phil Hughes on the horizon, Cashman added pitchers Ross Ohlendorf, Humberto Sanchez and Kevin Whelan in winter deals -- names that may not impact the Yankees right now, but are good bets to see big-league time in pinstripes.

"I think we've been pretty clear that our preference is to keep our prospects for ourselves," Cashman said.

But those are stories for another day. The Yankees are ready to begin their march toward that elusive 27th World Series title, doing so with a celebrated roster and on arguably the biggest stage in professional sports.

It's a scenario that creates legends out of success stories, but also magnifies the shortcomings immensely -- it may be a new season, but no one who was in the clubhouse at Detroit's Comerica Park has forgotten the sting of last year's abrupt American League Division Series exit.

It's the Yankees' goal to not let that sort of disappointment back into their storybook.

"That's a New Yorker thing," Giambi said. "When you're down, they want to see how you're going to get back up. It's a tough town. But at the same time, when you're an athlete, you cannot ask for a better place to play."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/07 06:27 PM

Notes: Pettitte gets back to game action

TAMPA, Fla. -- Facing the Blue Jays' Triple-A lineup Friday, Andy Pettitte made it through two innings unscathed, prompting him to wonder aloud if he would get some runners on base to work from the stretch position.

It was at that point that pitching coach Ron Guidry leaned over to manager Joe Torre and muttered, "Be careful what you wish for."

Pettitte completed his first mound action since a March 17 start in Clearwater, Fla., against the Phillies, but his stamina wasn't quite where he expected it to be.

Soon after Pettitte spoke those words, the Blue Jays obliged, putting up a four-run fourth inning before Guidry ended the left-hander's afternoon after 66 pitches. Pettitte allowed four runs and seven hits in the start, walking one and striking out three.

"I was good and gassed," Pettitte said. "I lost my release point that last inning, and lost my mind a little bit, and my legs. But I got right back to where I was.

"It was a real good work day for me. I hadn't pitched in two weeks. I needed it -- I needed it real bad."

Pettitte said that one lasting effect from his back spasms -- which did not recur Friday and are believed to be a past hindrance -- was that the Yankees medical staff still discourages him from running in-between starts, an activity that Pettitte feels helps him build stamina.

As such, Pettitte's scheduled outing Wednesday against the Devil Rays will probably be capped at five innings.

That's the major reason the Yankees decided to scrap a looming plan that would have had Pettitte face about six hitters Friday, then bounce back for what could have been an abbreviated, adrenaline-fueled start against Tampa Bay on Opening Day.

"We talked about it a little bit," Pettitte said. "That's what we were scratching our heads about. We didn't know how much stamina there'd be."

Meanwhile, as Pettitte worked against the Double-A order, right-hander Mike Mussina had no problems ripping through Toronto's Triple-A club one diamond over.

Making his final appearance before his scheduled start Thursday, Mussina struck out five in seven shutout innings, scattering four hits.

"It's time to go," Mussina said. "I felt good throwing the ball today. I've felt good the last three times. We've done a lot and there's still more to work on, but I feel like I've got a decent idea where the ball is going."

Mussina jokingly told Torre that he had been offended when the manager left the Himes Avenue complex following Pettitte's four-inning stint. Torre's area of concern was with Pettitte -- whom he personally delivered back to the door of the Yankees' clubhouse in his designated golf cart.

"I was the chauffer," Torre said. "I had no choice. I couldn't leave one guy out there sweating and waiting to ice himself."

Lefty left out: Left-hander Ron Villone has been asked by the Yankees to report to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, an alternative he said would take some time to mull over.

The 37-year-old left-hander was in Spring Training on a non-roster invitation, and would have earned $2.5 million if he had made the Yankees' roster. But Villone didn't give the Yankees enough reasons to consider carrying him, allowing eight earned runs and 13 hits in five innings.

"I don't expect much in this game," Villone said. "You expect to earn stuff. I haven't pitched well lately, but again, I know what I'm capable of doing. It seems right around the corner."

Villone said he expected that he would receive consistent work to regain his command if he reported to Triple-A, but he wanted to confer with his representatives and family before making a decision.

Cashman said that Villone will be released so that he may negotiate with other clubs, but he could always re-sign with the Yankees.

"I get the feeling they still want me around," Villone said. "Obviously, I need to be a little bit sharper."

Additional roster moves: The Yankees announced Friday that Andy Phillips -- who lost out to Josh Phelps as a right-handed batting first baseman -- cleared waivers and has been outrighted to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes Barre.

"It's one of those catch-22 things," Torre said. "You pull for the kid to get claimed so he can go to the big leagues, but it's nice having him here. He's a class act."

Infielder Chris Basak was reassigned to Triple-A, while catcher Todd Pratt was released. Pitchers Colter Bean and Chris Britton did not make the roster and also will be sent to Triple-A.

The Yankees plan to open the 2007 season with four pitchers on the disabled list -- Jeff Karstens, Humberto Sanchez, Jose Veras and Chien-Ming Wang.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/01/07 02:14 AM

Notes: Matsui determined to stay healthy

TAMPA, Fla. -- His fractured left wrist still throbbing from an injury suffered the previous evening, Hideki Matsui released a statement last May, saying that he was "very sorry" and "disappointed" that he had let his teammates down.

The Yankees outfielder points to that May 11 game against the Red Sox as the most painful moment he has had on a baseball field, but the following four months of inactivity leading up to his September return weren't much easier to handle.

That's why Matsui plans to do everything in his power to avoid another stint on the disabled list.

"I just want to make sure I do my due diligence in terms of being on the field," the 32-year-old said through an interpreter. "I will make sure I'm prepared for every game. As long as I can achieve that, I think everything will come together."

Matsui's injury altered the landscape of the Yankees' 2006 season and ended a personal playing streak of 1,768 consecutive games, dating back to his service for the Yomiuri Giants in Japan.

"As a starter, your teammates and everybody expects you to be out there, helping the team," Matsui said. "Not being able to be out there and fulfill expectations was something, basically, that I was apologetic about."

While the Yankees had respected and honored Matsui's iron-man status, tabbing him to play in 518 consecutive games as he opened his Major League career, the team's outfield projects for a certain measure of added flexibility with the string no longer intact.

With Matsui sidelined, young outfielder Melky Cabrera embraced the opportunity to display what he can do on the Major League stage, a performance that the Yankees hope Cabrera can reprise in a reserve role.

Earlier this spring, manager Joe Torre said that he hopes to find at least 300 at-bats for Cabrera, the lone backup outfielder heading north with the club for Opening Day.

Certainly, center fielder Johnny Damon and right fielder Bobby Abreu will enjoy their share of days off. Now Matsui can expect to have those occasional respites as well.

"When it comes to off-days and all that, I'm not really in a position to say I want to be off this day or off that day," Matsui said. "I'm just going to continue to do what I have been doing in the past, and that is to prepare for every game. Whatever Joe says, I'm just going to follow."

Matsui said he does not believe anything has changed as a result of the injury. He proved that right away by going 4-for-4 in a Sept. 12 contest against the Devil Rays -- Matsui's first game after being activated from the disabled list, but furthered the point with a strong Spring Training.

Matsui batted .339 with one home run and six RBIs this spring, going 1-for-2 in the Yankees' Grapefruit League finale Friday.

"I never really had pressure or anything like that when the streak was still on," Matsui said. "Nothing changes with what I had been doing or my attitude. It's still going to be the same."

First game, first base: Josh Phelps was called into Torre's Legends Field office on Friday morning, where he was informed that he had been selected to go north with the Yankees.

Recounting the conversation on Saturday morning, Phelps said he thanked Torre for the opportunity to be on the club. Torre told Phelps, "Don't thank me. You did it."

Phelps left little doubt about his abilities through a Grapefruit League campaign in which he batted .395 -- including his fourth home run off Detroit starter Mike Maroth on Saturday -- but his addition to the roster brings a whole new set of questions.

The Yankees entered Spring Training envisioning a platoon in which Doug Mientkiewicz garnered the majority of at-bats against right-handed pitching and either Phelps or challenger Andy Phillips batted against lefties, but that may no longer be the case.

Mientkiewicz's spring got off to a tough start and, though he rebounded late in camp to finish batting .159, Torre has hinted that the Yankees may reconsider the platoon. Informed of this, Mientkiewicz did not flinch.

"If you play well, you'll play," Mientkiewicz said.

Exhibit one of what could be a season-long swap will come on Monday, when the Yankees open up the regular season against Devil Rays left-hander Scott Kazmir. Mientkiewicz said he would love to be a part of the Yankees' Opening Day festivities, but said he would understand if Phelps got the call instead.

"Of course I want to play," Mientkiewicz said. "But that being said, whatever makes us better as a group, that's what I'm concerned about."

As for Phelps, who has been handling an endless avalanche of cell phone messages and e-mails since he received the good news on Friday, also left the decision in Torre's hands.

"I just want to be a piece of the puzzle," Phelps said. "I'll do whatever I can do to help the team win."

New kid in town: Kei Igawa was assured of at least one win before he took the mound Saturday against Detroit, starting the Yankees' final game of the Spring Training schedule.

Before the afternoon contest, Igawa was honored with the James P. Dawson Award, issued annually to the most outstanding Yankees rookie in Spring Training. Igawa picked up a no-decision in his six-inning start, allowing three runs on six hits while walking none and fanning three.

"He's certainly progressed every time he went out there," Torre said.

Igawa finished with a 3.13 ERA in six starts. His next outing is scheduled to be his Major League debut on Friday against the Orioles at Yankee Stadium.

"I'm very excited," Igawa said through an interpreter. "I'm looking forward to it. My goal is not to walk any batters."

The James P. Dawson Award was established to honor a New York Times sportswriter who died while covering the Yankees' Spring Training in 1953. Igawa was presented with an engraved Raymond Weil watch from William Barthman Jewelers.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/01/07 02:59 PM

Good for Phelps, maybe they can trade or waive Mientkeiwicz, and (gasp) bring back Bernie?!? Phelps is infinitely cheaper, and Eye-Chart's $2+ million salary could be better spent on Bernie.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/01/07 11:55 PM

Notes: Pavano out to prove

NEW YORK -- Carl Pavano's bizarre transformation from oft-injured and even more often maligned free-agent signee to the Yankees' Opening Day starter Monday has been reported to death by now. The gory details, twists and turns are well documented.

One remaining curiosity is how a sellout Yankee Stadium crowd will react to Pavano as he pitches his first game since the middle of the 2005 season.

Manager Joe Torre figures the Bronx faithful will give the right-hander a positive beginning to the 2007 season.

"I think the fans are going to be very supportive of him," Torre said. "Knowing the personality of the fans, they give everybody a helping hand. Then if you don't do the job, they let you know about it, which is certainly fair."

Whether Pavano can do the job is the real curiosity. Pavano admits there's not much he can do about how the fans greet him when he first steps out. Pavano also knows what he does over six or seven innings Monday will determine how fans say good-bye to him as he walks off.

"I don't know what kind of response I'm going to get when I'm entering the game, walking out to the mound, but obviously, when I'm done pitching, that's the only thing I have control over," said Pavano. "When I'm coming off the mound I'm hoping to have put together the performance I expect from myself."

Pavano, if he wants, can also get plenty of advice about pitching on Opening Day. Pitching coach Ron Guidry is expected to offer a few words on Monday, and Pavano could also seek out Mike Mussina.

He certainly won't have to travel far for one source. Pavano's locker was moved to the other side of the clubhouse for 2007, placing him right next to Andy Pettitte, who returns to the Yankees after three years in Houston and is someone whom Pavano built a rapport with during Spring Training.

"I just told him to go out and savor the moment," said Pettitte, who experienced back tightness earlier in the week but threw without issue early Sunday before a team workout at Yankee Stadium.

New digs: Speaking of changing lockers, closer Mariano Rivera started his 2007 campaign getting to know his new personal space -- the corner locker previously used by outfielder Bernie Williams, whose 16-year career in pinstripes came to a close this offseason when the Yankees chose not to bring him back.

"I don't know; what can I say?" Rivera said of his new cavernous locker. "The only thing I can say is that good things come from this corner. It's a lot of pressure; you have to do the job now."

Previous tenants of that corner locker include Sparky Lyle, Dave Righetti and Don Mattingly.

Williams didn't leave anything behind and Rivera said it will take him some time to figure out how he will personalize his new space.

"I've got to do a lot of things, a lot of shuffling," Rivera said.

Some concerns: Asked for his impressions of the team heading into the season opener, Torre appeared confident about nearly everything, but he expressed some anxiety about his starting rotation -- especially with right-handers Chien-Ming Wang (hamstring) and Jeff Karstens (elbow stiffness) ailing. Wang will start the season on the disabled list and probably miss about three weeks. Karstens' situation is less clear.

"When you leave Chien-Ming Wang and Jeff Karstens -- who both figured to be a part of this staff -- in Florida, it's not a comfortable thing," Torre said.

Right-hander Darrell Rasner will take over as the fifth starter in Karsten's absence -- behind Pavano, Mussina, Pettitte and left-hander Kei Igawa -- and will probably pitch next Sunday against the Orioles.

Torre didn't seem worried at all about Igawa, the Yankees' latest Japanese import. Torre said Igawa improved with each Spring Training start and made the correct adjustment, from throwing to impress the coaching staff to throwing what he needed to work on.

"There was one start where he was throwing a lot of strikes, but he was having trouble locating the changeup," Torre recalled. "So he threw probably more changeups than he'll ever throw in a game. That confidence made me feel good."

Batter up: The Yankees' Opening Day lineup will be as follows: Johnny Damon (center field), Derek Jeter (shortstop), Bobby Abreu (right field), Alex Rodriguez (third base), Jason Giambi (designated hitter), Hideki Matsui (left field), Jorge Posada (catcher), Robinson Cano (second base) and Josh Phelps (first base).

Phelps is getting the start with Tampa Bay starting left-hander Scott Kazmir on Monday, and he will probably continue platooning with Doug Mientkiewicz at first base in the early going.

Phelps, however, could get himself more at-bats should Mientkiewicz get cold at the plate. The 28-year-old Rule 5 Draft pickup is a career .293 hitter against lefties, as opposed to .257 against righties, but Phelps also has a respectable 36 home runs and 145 RBIs in 803 career at-bats against right-handers.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/02/07 12:38 PM

I predict that by May, Phelps should lock up the first baseman's job, since his defensive skills are better than average, and even Eye-Chart's sparkling Gold Glove play couldn't keep Torre and Cashman from being disappointing in his anemic offensive production.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/02/07 08:13 PM

Glad I actually got to see the game today on ESPN. Pavano gave up his usual 4-5 runs, the defense was VERY sloppy (giving up 3 errors) but the important thing is they got the W. Jeter came through as usual tying the game at 5 and I'm REALLY happy A-Rod got his last at bat. I was praying eye chart would be safe so A-Rod could get up and he didn't disappoint. He struggled early and had an error but I think the home run was a nice way to cap off his first game of the season. We're on a way now!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/02/07 09:41 PM

Notes: Bernie checks in with Torre

NEW YORK -- It was three hours before Carl Pavano would throw the season's first pitch, and Joe Torre's telephone was ringing. The voice on the other end was a familiar one, and it made the Yankees manager break into a grin.

Bernie Williams, the longtime veteran outfielder and a cornerstone of the team's four most recent World Series championship rosters, had checked in to wish his club luck for the coming season.

"It was very nice," Torre said. "It certainly put a smile on my face. He was the same guy: 'How you doing, you ready to go?' He's a caring individual, and I think that's what makes him so special."

Williams, 38, did not accept a standing non-roster invitation to the Yankees' Spring Training, and Torre has expressed regret that Williams didn't report to Tampa, Fla. As the manager has said, no one will ever know what could have happened in that camp.

So as the Yankees and Devil Rays lined the chalk at Yankee Stadium on Monday, an April chill cutting through the air, Williams was miles away, preparing for the reality of missing his first Opening Day experience in 16 years. After a brief conversation, Torre passed the telephone along to some of Williams' longtime teammates.

Mariano Rivera, who has now dropped his belongings into Williams' corner locker as the longest-tenured player in pinstripes, was nowhere to be found.

But both Derek Jeter and Jorge Posada were nearby and found their way to the line, greeting their soft-spoken former teammate, exchanging new cell phone numbers and accepting his well wishes for the coming season.

"He sounded pretty positive," Posada said. "Bernie's going to miss it more than us."

Jeter said that the concept of Williams not being in a Yankees uniform was "weird at first," but he believes the team has -- for the most part -- adjusted to the reality.

Small reminders do pop up now and again, though; Jeter said that Williams always used to take the seat behind the captain's on Yankees team charters, passing the hours of flight by strumming some licks on his guitar.

"I didn't have to listen to that [on] this trip," Jeter said.

Torre said that Williams still has not completely ruled out the idea that he could play in the Major Leagues this season. Posada said he believed that Williams would be physically capable of pulling off a return, though the Yankees -- as of now -- do not appear to have any place for Williams to play.

"It's all up to him," Posada said. "I have no idea. It'd be a tough thing to do, especially being 38. I'm pretty sure he can do it if he puts his mind to it."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/02/07 09:42 PM

Damon leaves game with calf cramps

NEW YORK -- Yankees outfielder Johnny Damon left the club's Opening Day game on Monday after five innings with cramps in both calves, the team announced.

Damon, 33, was 1-for-2 with a run scored and a walk in three plate appearances against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, beginning his second season with the Yankees.

He was replaced in center field by Melky Cabrera for the beginning of the sixth inning. Damon batted .285 with 24 home runs and 80 RBIs in 149 games for New York in 2006.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 05:50 AM

Homer caps A-Rod's whirlwind day

NEW YORK -- It doesn't take long for a Yankee Stadium crowd to switch from booing to wanting a curtain call. Just ask Alex Rodriguez.

A-Rod heard the worst and best from the crowd on Monday afternoon against the Devil Rays, a continuing saga of the two-time American League MVP and his relationship with Yankees fans.

It started in the first inning. Rodriguez chased a Ty Wigginton foul pop halfway between home plate and third base, moving right, ducking left -- he never looked comfortable. At the last second, he reached backward and missed the ball. It never touched his glove. Then, in the bottom of the first, Rodriguez came to bat with Johnny Damon and Bobby Abreu aboard, but he struck out swinging.

The fans booed.

"I kind of started like a moron there, felt really goofy about it," Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez's fortunes changed in the eighth inning.

With Abreu on base, Rodriguez smacked a two-run homer to left-center field into the Yankees bullpen. The drive put the Yankees up, 9-5, capping the scoring for the afternoon as closer Mariano Rivera struck out the side in the ninth.

Rodriguez said that the crucial at-bat in the eighth was Abreu's single between third base and shortstop. After that hit, Rodriguez went to the plate thinking single.

"I was actually trying to do the same thing [Abreu] did and got fortunate with a home run," he said.

Rodriguez said that his single to left and stolen base in the seventh felt just as gratifying as his four-bagger. He stole second on his own, trying to get something started for the Yankees.

Having totaled 15 stolen bases last season, Rodriguez said that he wants to steal more in 2007. And since opposing catchers threw him out only four times last year, Rodriguez would seem to have promising chances of swiping a few more bags.

"I enjoy that part of the game," he said. "I don't like to do it just to do it. I like to do it to help win a game."

"We're trying to establish little baseball. To beat good pitching, you have to do the little things. That's why I was so excited about Jeter's hit, and Bobby Abreu's hit, and then [Jason] Giambi's hit. The home run is icing on the cake, but small ball is what we're looking for."

After hitting his home run, Rodriguez circled the bases and the crowd erupted. The cheers continued as he went into the dugout, and Rodriguez then answered a brief curtain call, taking a few steps up from the dugout and waving his helmet.

Redemption came to Rodriguez on the outer half of the plate, a pitch from Devil Rays right-hander Juan Salas that caught too much of the strike zone.

"It changed so much in five at-bats, like the stock market," said Rodriguez, who finished the afternoon 2-for-5 with two RBIs. "But I'll tell you what, the curtain call made me feel really good. You just build from the positive."

Despite what he described as a "pretty embarrassing" play and a "very slow" start, Rodriguez came away from his Opening Day performance smiling.

"That's one of the great things about this game. You can go from zero to hero in a heartbeat," Giambi said.

And judging from the fans, Rodriguez will stay that way -- at least until Wednesday afternoon, when the Yankees take on the Rays in Game 2 of the three-game series.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 05:51 AM

Murcer pays Yanks unexpected visit

NEW YORK -- As the Yankees prepared to bat in the bottom of the third inning on Monday, waves of applause gave way to a roaring standing ovation, working its way up from the dugout floors to the top decks of the stadium.

Bobby Murcer had returned.

The longtime Yankees broadcaster and former All-Star outfielder made a surprise appearance on Monday for what he astutely noted will be the second-to-last Opening Day at the current Yankee Stadium.

"I just think it's one of the most special days that you could ever have in baseball," Murcer said. "If you have an opportunity to be at Yankee Stadium ... I think that's very special."

That alone would make the trip a memorable and worthwhile one, but for Murcer -- who continues his fight after being diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in December -- the trip took on added importance.

His lost locks of white hair are beginning to grow back in as fuzz, and he sports a scar from the surgery, just one reminder of frequent and continuing trips to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

But Murcer's voice -- the rich, warm Oklahoma twang that has greeted Yankees fans for years -- remains strong. With his body beginning to follow suit, Murcer vowed that he will return on a full-time basis to deliver broadcasts for the team he loves "very soon."

"I feel terrific, I really do," Murcer said. "My strength is pretty much all the way back now.

"I'm pretty much doing the same workouts today as before I had surgery. We're glad about that. God has been good to us and blessed us."

About 90 minutes before Murcer found himself waving toward the playing field, looking down as the Yankees ascended their dugout steps and applauded, he was reminiscing about his many Opening Days at Yankee Stadium.

The first one, back in 1966, wasn't a World Series title year, but so many of those that followed seemed to be, sprinkled among Murcer's playing and broadcast careers as sparkling gems of attendance.

"It's hard to miss Opening Day," Murcer admitted.

Before the game, Murcer was led through the Yankees clubhouse by manager Joe Torre and into the trainer's office, where a parade of players -- including Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera and Andy Pettitte -- halted their pregame routines, abandoned their lockers and ventured over to wish Murcer well.

As Murcer recalled, Pettitte even went out to lunch with Murcer in Houston before reporting to Spring Training. Murcer said that the left-hander picked up the tab, though with Murcer's treatment regimen, he hadn't taken full advantage of Pettitte's generosity.

"It was only $7.95," Murcer said. "I wasn't eating much in those days."

Murcer continues to be appreciative of the overwhelming support he has received from baseball fans as his battle continues. As his energy level continues to increase, he has marveled at the love and affection that has come from all corners.

Murcer joked that he had realized he was doing pretty well in the prayers department when he started getting fan mail postmarked from pockets of Red Sox faithful along with the countless parcels of Yankees fan mail, joining in sending along warm wishes.

Murcer's wife, Kay, said that her husband has been doing "incredible."

"He's surprised all the doctors," she said. "Because he was in great physical condition going into the surgery, he has not been typical at all. I kind of knew he has not been typical for a long time."

"Now what do you mean by that?" Murcer retorted, laughing.

Indeed, Opening Day is always a day when optimism and hope reign supreme. With Murcer's arrival and presence, an overcast day in the Bronx appeared just a little bit brighter.

"It's always good to say, 'Yes, I was at Opening Day at Yankee Stadium in 2007,'" Murcer said.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 05:52 AM

Lidle's memory honored by Yankees

NEW YORK -- For a few moments on Opening Day, the loud sounds of a bustling crowd stopped. Footsteps quieted, claps sputtered out, a hush fell over the loud speakers. Yankee players donned black bands around their arms -- a tribute to the late Cory Lidle, who died in a plane crash Oct. 11, 2006.

Eager fans at Yankee Stadium looked toward the mound, where Melanie and 6-year-old Christopher Lidle stood just outside the first-base dugout, ready to throw out the ceremonial first pitches of the 2007 season. Both wore Yankees hats and held baseballs.

Parents Doug and Lisa Lidle, along with Cory's twin brother, Kevin, also huddled close.

Jason Giambi stood with his arm around Melanie as the Lidles and a packed crowd watched a video of the right-hander's life and career. Melanie looked toward the ground, tapped her hands together and took deep, jerky breaths. She pulled Christopher to her side and -- with ball in hand -- raised a couple of fingers to her face, wiping away tears.

As part of the pregame ceremony, Sgt. First Class Mary Kay Messenger, a West Point soloist, performed the national anthem, while a giant American flag was unfurled in the outfield by 40 West Point cadets. A flyover by two U.S. Navy F-18s, piloted by the Strike Fighter Squadron 34, punctuated the experience with an exclamation point.

After the video ended, Melanie reached around Christopher and squeezed him into her embrace. Cheers followed as Giambi escorted them to the mound.

Set to throw out his pitch, Christopher ran a few steps toward the plate before releasing a perfect throw to Yankees outfielder Melky Cabrera. Melanie followed with a strike to backup catcher Wil Nieves.

"It's special," Kevin Lidle said. "Getting down on the field and seeing that memorial that they had was kind of rough, kind of touching -- a little bit of everything. Made you happy. Made you sad. Got some tears out of me, but that's OK."

Lidle died in his private plane alongside flight instructor Tyler Stanger when the aircraft crashed into an apartment building on Manhattan's Upper East Side.

Yankees right fielder Bobby Abreu knew Lidle better than most Yankees. They spent the whole 2006 season together, half with the Phillies and half in the Bronx after a midseason trade. The two were friends.

But four days after the Yankees' season ended, Abreu heard the news: He wouldn't be chumming around with Lidle anymore, wouldn't be bluffing him in a game of poker and wouldn't be hearing of his flying escapades.

"It hit me very hard," Abreu said. "[The] last time I saw him, I said, 'All right, buddy, we'll see you next year.'"

Lidle died an active member on the Yankees' 40-man roster, his last start being against the Tigers in the American League Division Series. Most of his family didn't see his last start because they expected the Yankees to go deep into the playoffs.

"They said, 'We'll see them in the [AL Championship Series],' and that never happened," general manager Brian Cashman said.

Cashman remembers spotting Lidle regularly in the corner of the clubhouse last season. He would be reclining alongside ex-Yankees Sal Fasano and Craig Wilson, duking it out in "a little chess club." That was Lidle -- he enjoyed life and lived on his own terms, as Yankees center fielder Johnny Damon recalled.

Though Lidle didn't produce stellar numbers while with the Yankees -- he went 4-3 with a 5.16 ERA -- Cashman remembers two of the right-hander's crucial victories: one vs. the Blue Jays, the other against the Red Sox.

Both games were in August, and Lidle recorded two victories over 12 1/3 innings while allowing just one earned run. He struck out a combined 10 batters during those contests.

Yankees first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz held a decent line against Lidle, batting .294 in 17 at-bats with a homer, but he struck out five times in those plate appearances. Mientkiewicz never liked entering the batters box against Lidle.

"I hated it," he said. "Nasty split. Good sinker. It wasn't a day at the park. He had really, really good stuff."

Shortstop Derek Jeter never hit well against Lidle, either, recording five hits in 23 at-bats for a .217 average. The Yankees' captain remembers Lidle as a savvy pitcher who outsmarted batters with less-than-overpowering stuff, not to mention a quiet guy with a personality -- one taken away from him too soon.

"You're around your teammates pretty much more than you're around your family," Jeter said. "[The plane crash] was a terrible tragedy, something that will never be forgotten."

News of Lidle's death had Yankees manager Joe Torre musing about life and its fragile state of being. He said that the heartbreaking event should make everyone appreciate living.

Catcher Jorge Posada and third baseman Alex Rodriguez shared that same sentiment. Lidle and Posada were locker neighbors, and Posada said he wished he could go back in time and talk with Lidle. Now, the catcher said, he spends more time with his kids.

"When you talk about life and death, it just reminds you that sometimes, things can be pretty trivial," Rodriguez said. "[I'm] certainly going to miss him."

Giambi attended high school with Lidle, and both suited up as members of the 2001 Athletics. Even when they played on separate teams at the big-league level, the two would go out to dinner after their teams had faced each other. They always seemed to talked about the same thing -- who got the better of whom.

"It was fun," Giambi said. "One of your high school buddies, you know? If he got me out that day, he would call and get on me. And I took him deep a few times."

Pitchers Darrell Rasner and Sean Henn remember Lidle for his genuine interest in them as rookies last season. The two said that Lidle mentored them in their pitching and always extended invitations if he was going out to eat. Rasner remembers eating and chatting with him at an ESPN Zone restaurant near the end of the season last year.

"He really took us young guys under his wing," Henn said. "He was the first one who came up and introduced himself when I was up in September. That was kind of my lasting impression of him. He was a class-act guy."

Just before the memorial video started, Bob Sheppard announced over the loud speakers: "Now pitching ... for the Yankees ... No. 30 ... Cory ... Lidle."

The words sent chills through veins -- the last echo of a pitcher, a person, a life.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 05:53 AM

Giambi keys Yanks' comeback win

NEW YORK -- For Jason Giambi, Monday afternoon at Yankee Stadium became a public dedication to his former high school and professional teammate, Cory Lidle, who was honored in a touching pregame ceremony.

Giambi stood feet away on the infield grass as Lidle's wife, Melanie, and 6-year-old son, Christopher, lobbed first pitches toward home plate. As the crowd of 55,035 applauded the moment, Giambi choked back his emotions, enveloped in memories of the 34-year-old right-hander who perished in a Manhattan plane crash on Oct. 11.

"That was probably one of the toughest things I've ever had to do in my life, no doubt about it," Giambi said. "I've known him for a long time [and] seen his son grow up. It was a big day for us, especially when you have that kind of beginning for a player like Cory."

The Yankees' 2007 season opened Monday with raw emotion, featured the awaited return of a long-lost contributor, saw a superstar ride a roller coaster from boos to a curtain call over the course of eight innings and concluded with six unanswered runs to send the crowd home happy with a 9-5 victory over the Devil Rays.

In other words, just another day at the ballpark.

Jorge Posada and Alex Rodriguez both homered and Giambi drove in three runs -- including the tiebreaker in the seventh inning -- as the Yankees won their 10th straight home opener.

"It's emotional, but you just try to turn it into a positive and try to play well," Giambi said. "You put it in perspective. The way Cory lived life, from flying to poker to all his passions, he was one of those go-getters. I got the big hit out of the way, so I'll take it."

Opening Day always represents rebirth on the schedule, when every hitter enters the stadium tied for the league lead in batting, every pitcher is considered available in relief and most stained slates are suddenly wiped clean.

That made it a perfect opportunity for Carl Pavano -- the injury-prone right-hander who missed the last 1 1/2 seasons to a laundry list of maladies and mishaps -- to state his case for redemption.

Appearing in a Major League game for the first time since June 27, 2005, Pavano cranked his neck back and forth, twisting his body while a West Point soloist performed the national anthem. He'd later claim to have been lost in his own world of thought as the seconds to first pitch ticked down, a smattering of boos interfering with polite applause as public address announcer Bob Sheppard introduced him.

With the first pitch of New York's season -- a ball, high and away to Tampa Bay outfielder Carl Crawford -- Pavano started his long climb back.

"Every start is special for me," Pavano said. "I think every day you get to go out there and pitch is a good day, and it's something you should be excited about. ... You want to have some feedback from all the hard work. Now it's coming to fruition."

The right-hander allowed a run in the second inning and, gritting past some sloppy defense, was rapped for four runs (three earned) in the fifth inning before Yankees manager Joe Torre, hands in jacket pockets, finally snatched the ball.

With six hits, two walks, two strikeouts, a home run -- prospect Elijah Duke's first Major League hit -- and 14 total outs in the books, Pavano wasn't elated, but the Yankees viewed the start as progress.

"I think it's a good place to start from," Pavano said. "You have to start somewhere."

Four days from the moment his cleats hit the dugout concrete, Pavano is expected back on the mound at Yankee Stadium to stare down the Baltimore Orioles lineup, and that sort of accountability is progress in the team's universe.

"He still picked everybody up," Torre said. "He managed to come out of the game with what I thought was a good outing. He may have started wearing down a little bit when I came to get him, but I thought he competed."

Likewise, the Yankees offense -- one of the best bets to score 1,000 runs this season, something that was last accomplished by the 1999 Cleveland Indians -- wasted little time revving up against Tampa Bay starter Scott Kazmir.

Johnny Damon and Bobby Abreu stroked first-inning singles and came around to score on a two-run Giambi single, and in the fourth, Posada clubbed the Bombers' first home run of the year, a solo shot.

By that point, Rodriguez -- the Yankees' own personal lightning rod for controversy -- had already descended into the pit of boos at Yankee Stadium, no unfamiliar place for the two-time American League MVP.

Rodriguez was cheered in introductions, but he flubbed a foul pop in the first inning and struck out in the bottom half, prompting negative reactions.

But by the late innings, with Pavano long since having headed to the showers, Rodriguez began to state his own case for redemption.

He smashed a single off the glove of Tampa Bay shortstop Ben Zobrist to open the seventh inning, then stole second base -- on his own, he said -- to get the Yankees' engine in motion.

Rodriguez raced home to become Giambi's third RBI of the game, then -- for insurance purposes -- unloaded on a Juan Salas offering to club a two-run homer, the 465th on an illustrious and growing list of deep drives.

The blast earned Rodriguez a curtain call out of the Yankees dugout, leaving the third baseman to ponder the turns of a game with so many splintering storylines.

"It changed so much in five at-bats, like the stock market," Rodriguez said. "But I'll tell you what -- the curtain call made me feel really good. You just build from the positive."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 05:55 AM

I know there are a lot of Yankee fans here on this board, so with complete respect, as a Californian, are Yankee fans really as fickle as they seem? From way over here on the west coast it seems like New Yorkers are always boo'ing someone on their own team. Lately A-Rod. But as soon as something good happens it's all cheers again. How long before he starts getting booed again?

Am I imagining things? Or are Yankee fans, at least the hardcore fans, really this up and down all the time?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 06:05 AM

Umm, there's a mix. It's not like a "unamious" thing, you know? When A-Rod came to bat people were booing and cheering. I personally was cheering for him. I like A-Rod and if he does leave at the end of the season, people will FINALLY realize how much we need him. There's fickle fans everywhere, not just in the Yankees camp.
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 06:11 AM

True, there are fans like that everywhere, but it's amazing how quick an entire Yankee stadium of people will turn on a player. In San Francisco Armando Benitez has been booed towards the end of last season after a year and a half of blowing save after save as well as wrongfully blaming his teammates. I get the feeling that if Benitez were a Yankee, he would have been booed five games into his career in pin stripes.

I'm not saying that fans anywhere else are better than others, they are just different. I think maybe Yankee fans are more openly passionate and emotional about their team. I was just wondering how Yankee fans see themselves I guess.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 06:17 AM

 Originally Posted By: Blibbleblabble
I think maybe Yankee fans are more openly passionate and emotional about their team.


I agree with that statement. The thing I've always noticed about New York is they'll love you when you're performing. However, when you're not, they'll let you know about it and boo. But the booing I don't think needs to be taken so personally. From my perspective, it's just a kick in the a$$ to the player. The fans know they can perform better than they are and the booing is really just a wake up call.

However, in A-Rod's unfortunate case, the deck is stacked against him because of his huge contract. Sure maybe he "should" have won a World Series with the Yankees already but I'm still pulling for him to do it this year. Last year I was on A-Rod's case somewhat by midseason because last year was a "subpar" year for A-Rod in my eyes (he still had a very good year though statistically). But again, watching the game on ESPN yesterday, I heard a lot of boos and a lot of cheers so I wouldn't say it was the entire Yankee Stadium one way or the other ;\)
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 06:24 AM

In a way I have a hard time understanding people who "boo" their own team unless the guy is a total jerk and open about it by ripping on his teammates and fans. If he's acting that way and isn't performing the way he is paid to perform, then he should be booed.

I guess if my team had an almost 200$ million budget, I'd expect the team to win a world series every year and probably boo as well. It's sad that the money is what determines how a player is perceived by the fans.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 06:31 AM

 Originally Posted By: Blibbleblabble
It's sad that the money is what determines how a player is perceived by the fans.


It is but to a lot of fans it's justified. I can agree too that people "have a hard time understanding people who "boo" their own team unless the guy is a total jerk and open about it by ripping on his teammates and fans." But then again, it's New York. In New York you're expected to win every year. And most recently, just making it to the playoffs isn't enough. I know the guys want to win but for whatever reason, especially the past 2 postseasons, the Yankees have been flat COLD. I don't know if it's pride or what, but I think the fans want to win just as much if not more than the players (if that's possible).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 10:51 AM

Bleacher creatures! We boo everyone and everything! \:p
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 05:48 PM

You should take a look at the masters of booing- Philadelphians. I've personally seen children booed, Little Leaguers, who took the field prior to a Phillies game and made some errors.

Once, on the day before Easter they had an egg hunt on the field and the fans booed the kids, who couldn't find the eggs.


At halftime at an Eagles game, a man entertained on the field by having his dog catch thrown frisbees. When the dog raced thirty yards for a descending disc, and then missed it at the last second, thundering boos from 60,000 filled the stadium.

That year, Santa Claus was booed lustily.

Speaking of Eagle fans, the crowd cheered wildy when Michael Irvin suffered a neck injury, was placed in traction and crted him off the field as he lay motionless.

The most shocking display came from fans, who made fun of visiting wide receiver Joe Jurevicius before a playoff game because his young son had recently died from an illness. While this incident didn't represent a large segment of fans, it involved more than a dozen.

Also, Mike Schmidt was booed throughout most of his career, largely because he was the highest paid player in the game ($250,000) in the 70s, and their expectations were unrealistic. On the bright side, when he was inducted into the Hall, fans showed up in record numbers.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 07:00 PM

Pettitte prepared to do what it takes

NEW YORK -- Derek Jeter marveled as he considered the vision of Andy Pettitte, his cap dragged low over his eyes, making that slow walk to the mound once more in Yankees pinstripes.

Pettitte's familiar delivery, demeanor and Texas twang have been reintroduced to the clubhouse universe for some seven weeks now, and as the Grapefruit League ran its course, the seamless nature of Pettitte's readjustment was appreciated.

His presence wasn't a novelty, a gimmick concocted to sell souvenir T-shirts and fill seats. It was a return born out of necessity. Most importantly, it felt right, as though Pettitte wandered out of a time machine and knew nothing different.

"It seems like he never even left," Jeter said. "Once he got here, he fit right in. He knows how everything works. It's hard to believe it's been three years since he's been gone. It wasn't even weird when he was out there in Spring Training. It's just like he picked up from 2003."

On Wednesday, Pettitte's return to the organization's title pursuits will become official, as he throws his first pitches as a Yankee since the 2003 World Series.

Watching the Opening Day festivities unfold as a spectator on Monday, Pettitte was struck by the sameness of it all.

He had walked on the field at Yankee Stadium following a January press conference, a wintry chill whipping the flags atop the ballpark and interrupting a ceremony that was more reunion than introduction, but that wasn't the most accurate measure of the Yankee experience.

With a capacity crowd and the unspoken emphasis upon winning again enveloping the facility, as it did Monday, Pettitte could truly appreciate his return.

"It's hard to explain," Pettitte said. "I feel so comfortable and everything is exactly like it was when I left. There's just something that makes you feel good."

As a homegrown product of the Yankees' system, Pettitte may have abandoned some of his New York habits over a three-year National League stint with the Astros, but he hasn't forgotten how things work up here.

The traffic patterns and pathways from a Westchester neighborhood to Yankee Stadium remain the same. No longer can Pettitte drive home after games and play rancher on the open fields of Texas, but that's a sacrifice that the left-hander was willing to make.

Instead of tending to cattle, Pettitte has headed up the role of herding along some of the Yankees' younger or needy pitchers. When Carl Pavano's Yankee Stadium locker was adjusted to neighbor Pettitte's, it was a calculated realignment, reflecting the hours of advice and tutelage that Pettitte had delivered to the once-beleaguered hurler during Spring Training.

Pavano carried a refreshed outlook into his Opening Day start on Monday, and when Pettitte makes that same walk on Wednesday, he'll do so having joined Mike Mussina and Mariano Rivera as the elder statesmen of the Yankees' staff.

As Joe Torre said, "He's coming back here, basically, as a senior citizen." At 34, Pettitte might be slightly offended by the suggestion of his Social Security years approaching, but the point is valid.

"It's strange to see how your career goes," Pettitte said. "When you get to a certain age, you just switch over to that role of trying to help out, and trying to be a little bit of a pitching coach and mental coach to guys. You want to try to make a difference, and, hopefully, help somebody along the way."

The Yankees take a certain confidence in the fact that Pettitte has traveled these roads before, understanding the World Series projections that are annually levied upon the roster out of camp. Pressure is just a fact of life, something to deal with, tuck away and reanalyze later.

As Jeter said, "There's no situation that he's going to be overwhelmed with."

Though the Yankees haven't reached a Fall Classic since Pettitte's departure, the expectations haven't changed. If anything, the clamor for a 27th World Series title has actually grown.

Recalling the last time he passed through the Bronx, Pettitte said he hadn't had opportunities to stop and soak it all in -- a world of memories were racing past, but Pettitte's vision was tunneled. All that seemed to matter on every fifth day was staring ahead and down into the pocket of Jorge Posada's glove.

If a given start didn't end with a victory, it was a unsuccessful. If the season didn't end with a parade down the Canyon of Heroes, it wasn't enough. Pettitte doesn't exactly relish that part of the business, but he understands it.

As the Devil Rays -- and each lineup to follow -- stride to the plate against Pettitte, his attention will be trained in much the same area. But Pettitte hopes that once in a while, he'll be able to take a step back, walk off the mound and take a few mental snapshots for later appreciation.

"You go so hard for so many years, it kind of wears on you a little bit," Pettitte admits. "You always can't win. You want to win, but you always can't. Somewhere in the mix, you want to try to enjoy it."

As he noted Monday, a brief span of time went by this offseason when Pettitte was ready to hang it up and walk away from the game, his passions sapped somewhat by the elbow injuries that still remain a concern in the darkest corners of the Yankees' minds.

Pettitte's contract offers, at minimum, just one season of service to the Yankees -- a decision agreed upon by Pettitte, so as not to feel as though he'd be letting the Yankees down if he decided not to return next year.

In simplest form, it's one more turn around the league, enough of a taste for Pettitte to decide if he still loves it enough to suit up for another go-round.

"I'm taking it one year at a time," Pettitte said. "I want to try to give this team everything I've got this year, then evaluate everything at the end of the season."

The journey begins Wednesday.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 07:06 PM

If I can explain it...some of the fans who really were bandwagoners since the late 90's/early 2000's success and dynasty years are spoiled, and I run into them quite a bit...part of the reason why the Bobby Murcer appearance yesterday was so great, because people forget how he was one of the few bright spots on a really shitty Yankee era during the late 60's and early 70's.

Many fans are spoiled...just like every year there are bandwagoners on the Red Sox, ChiSox, and now Cardinals bandwagons, there have been Patriots, Steelers, and Colts bandwagoners, etc. etc.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 07:12 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Many fans are spoiled...just like every year there are bandwagoners on the Red Sox, ChiSox, and now Cardinals bandwagons, there have been Patriots, Steelers, and Colts bandwagoners, etc. etc.


PLEASE let us not forget about all of the Tigers bandwagoners. Crap did all of those people come out of the "wood works" and are now Tiger "fans"
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 07:38 PM

Yeah, definitely. Actually, some of them are Red Sox converts in my classes. It must be the best team is whoever is beating the Yankees at the moment.

Ask them who Al Kaline or Alan Trammell are, and they look at you like you're a retard.

Go Royals! \:\)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 07:44 PM

Here's something for you, I12 - Schilling after getting OWNED by the Royals:



Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 08:14 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Yeah, definitely. Actually, some of them are Red Sox converts in my classes. It must be the best team is whoever is beating the Yankees at the moment.

Ask them who Al Kaline or Alan Trammell are, and they look at you like you're a retard.

Go Royals! \:\)


Speaking of which, our "frequent" visitor fathersson dodged this question on multiple ocassions. I asked him if he was going for St. Louis or if he was always pulling for Detroit since they beat the "evil" Yankees. You know what? The man could never give me a straight answer.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 08:17 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Here's something for you, I12 - Schilling after getting OWNED by the Royals:





Thanks DJ! You're always good with the pictures. OUCH, 4 innings, 8 hits, 5 runs, 2 BB, 5 SO, 89 pitches with a 11.25 ERA! I realize it's the first game of the season but come on, it's THE ROYALS!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/03/07 11:50 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Yeah, definitely. Actually, some of them are Red Sox converts in my classes. It must be the best team is whoever is beating the Yankees at the moment.

Ask them who Al Kaline or Alan Trammell are, and they look at you like you're a retard.

Go Royals! \:\)


Speaking of which, our "frequent" visitor fathersson dodged this question on multiple ocassions. I asked him if he was going for St. Louis or if he was always pulling for Detroit since they beat the "evil" Yankees. You know what? The man could never give me a straight answer.


Just because I didn't rush back to post something then I'm DODGING the question? Or not giving a stright answer? Grow up Irish, you sound like an annoying little brother that no one likes. \:p

I don't post much, because all you post here are news-clippings and or dumb comments with half truths like I just addressed. Just so you know.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 12:11 AM

You can tell it's baseball season when the Red Sox-Yankee rivalry has already yielding message board flamewars from last year's world series, which involved neither the New York or Boston teams. \:p
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 02:02 AM

One of the guys serving as the mascot for the Yankees' AAA team in Scranton was arrested for soliciting sex over the internet from what he thought was a 14 year old boy. He was busted in a shopping mall where he had made arrangements to meet the boy. This guy served as the "Grump" at parades and children's outings.
The team suspended him without pay,pending the charges.

The good news is that there is a job opening for Steve Swindal in Scranton.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 03:30 AM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Yeah, definitely. Actually, some of them are Red Sox converts in my classes. It must be the best team is whoever is beating the Yankees at the moment.

Ask them who Al Kaline or Alan Trammell are, and they look at you like you're a retard.

Go Royals! \:\)


Speaking of which, our "frequent" visitor fathersson dodged this question on multiple ocassions. I asked him if he was going for St. Louis or if he was always pulling for Detroit since they beat the "evil" Yankees. You know what? The man could never give me a straight answer.


Just because I didn't rush back to post something then I'm DODGING the question? Or not giving a stright answer? Grow up Irish, you sound like an annoying little brother that no one likes. \:p

I don't post much, because all you post here are news-clippings and or dumb comments with half truths like I just addressed. Just so you know.


And yet AGAIN, you beautifully avoid the question. What are you so afraid of there good ol' fathersson? The truth hurts I guess ;\)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 11:08 AM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
One of the guys serving as the mascot for the Yankees' AAA team in Scranton was arrested for soliciting sex over the internet from what he thought was a 14 year old boy. He was busted in a shopping mall where he had made arrangements to meet the boy. This guy served as the "Grump" at parades and children's outings.
The team suspended him without pay,pending the charges.

The good news is that there is a job opening for Steve Swindal in Scranton.


Mascots...smell like cabbage...small hands... \:p
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 04:33 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: fathersson
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Yeah, definitely. Actually, some of them are Red Sox converts in my classes. It must be the best team is whoever is beating the Yankees at the moment.

Ask them who Al Kaline or Alan Trammell are, and they look at you like you're a retard.

Go Royals! \:\)


Speaking of which, our "frequent" visitor fathersson dodged this question on multiple ocassions. I asked him if he was going for St. Louis or if he was always pulling for Detroit since they beat the "evil" Yankees. You know what? The man could never give me a straight answer.


Just because I didn't rush back to post something then I'm DODGING the question? Or not giving a stright answer? Grow up Irish, you sound like an annoying little brother that no one likes. \:p

I don't post much, because all you post here are news-clippings and or dumb comments with half truths like I just addressed. Just so you know.


And yet AGAIN, you beautifully avoid the question. What are you so afraid of there good ol' fathersson? The truth hurts I guess ;\)


Hush now little boy, the more you say, the more childish you sound. You should have learn by now that no one is going to jump to your whining or demands. Good parents know that you can't give in, or children turn into whining little brats. \:D

Now run along and play.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 05:52 PM

It's OK fathersson. I know the answer now. You're too afraid to admit that you're a fickle fan. You were pulling for Detroit against the Yankees and once they won, you dropped them like a bad habit and rooted for the Cards. But it's OK, at least I have enough faith and love in my team to cheer for them whether they're winning or losing. So who's the new team you're gonna root for this year? The Mets? The Red Sox? Or the other team that plays the Yankees in the playoffs?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 06:26 PM

Curt Schilling says he'll go elsewhere next season. The Red Sox, of course, don't believe him. They think he's settled here in Boston and wouldn't want to disrupt his family or his business or his many charitable endeavors.
-- Boston Herald

Source: SI

Yeah RIGHT. I'll believe it when I see it and I don't see it happening (as much as I would want to)
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 06:48 PM

Where in the world do you get this stuff? I have a good feeling that you spend your whole day arguing with tons of other people about the Yankees and baseball? You should change your title to "the Yankees fan even others Yankee fans hate!"

You sure give Yankee fans a bad name. But you already knew that didn't you. Oh wow...it is past your nap time, so be a good lad and give it a rest. I don't think your diaper can hold to much more!
And you whine about this thread only having two stars
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 06:58 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
I have a good feeling that you spend your whole day arguing with tons of other people about the Yankees and baseball?


HA! Please don't presume to think you know me. As a matter of fact, this is the only board I frequent so you "lovely" people are the only ones who I argue with about the Yankees. Don't you just feel so honored?

But, as we asked ronnie, you can show yourself the door there fathersson. This is a thread for Yankees fan. If you're not a Yankee fan, then what may I ask are you doing in here? Why not start up your own favorite MLB team thread much like pizzaboy did with his "Let's Go Mets!" thread. Oh that's right, it's such a BIG BAD secret who's nearest and dearest to fathersson's heart. More than likely, probably just embarrassed since he has to feel better about himself by trying to bring me down. Not gonna work, sir! Adios!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 07:27 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: fathersson
I have a good feeling that you spend your whole day arguing with tons of other people about the Yankees and baseball?


HA! Please don't presume to think you know me. As a matter of fact, this is the only board I frequent so you "lovely" people are the only ones who I argue with about the Yankees. Don't you just feel so honored?

But, as we asked ronnie, you can show yourself the door there fathersson. This is a thread for Yankees fan. If you're not a Yankee fan, then what may I ask are you doing in here? Why not start up your own favorite MLB team thread much like pizzaboy did with his "Let's Go Mets!" thread. Oh that's right, it's such a BIG BAD secret who's nearest and dearest to fathersson's heart. More than likely, probably just embarrassed since he has to feel better about himself by trying to bring me down. Not gonna work, sir! Adios!




Your not hard to see though. I still bet you argue with everyone you meet and talk sports with. AND to strighten you out once more....This is not "thread for Yankees fan". Its title is "How bout them Yankees!?" So that means the Yankees are the subject...Good Bad or anything else that someone would like to post.

So get off your high horse and stop making a fool of yourself by
saying " as we asked ronnie, you can show yourself the door there"

In fact, you should go back and read some of the crap you have posted. I think like the rest of us, that you will see some real humor in it.

The only one who has posted anti Yankee thoughts on here this week is you! I haven't said one word against the Yankees now have I. \:D

I would have thought that you may have learned your lesson after the last two years, when you had to eat crow after your taunts against any non-Yankee fan, or try and twist things around to make other teams look as sad.

You better be careful or this thread may get closed because you are starting crap against posters who stop in and want to post a few thoughts. You BULLY!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 07:38 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
I still bet you argue with everyone you meet and talk sports with. AND to strighten you out once more....This is not "thread for Yankees fan". Its title is "How bout them Yankees!?" So that means the Yankees are the subject...Good Bad or anything else that someone would like to post.


Yes I do engage in conversations with others when they try to pull that "the Yankees buy championships" ignorant mentality. In fact I rubbed it in a classmates face last night that the Yankees won on Monday and her precious Astros lost (by blowing the lead in the 9th). It's usually all in good fun but some, like yourself, have to take it too far and personal. JEEZ! Oh and by the way, I can easily change the title of this thread to Yankees Fans Only. Would you prefer that?


 Originally Posted By: fathersson
The only one who has posted anti Yankee thoughts on here this week is you!


What did I post that was anti-Yankee?

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
I would have thought that you may have learned your lesson after the last two years, when you had to eat crow after your taunts against any non-Yankee fan, or try and twist things around to make other teams look as sad.


But see, that's where you went wrong fathersson, you thought (and you thought wrong). It's a brand new year, the Yankees STILL have the best lineup in baseball. The pen's looking better. Really the only question mark is the rotation. And if the Yankees get Clemens at the All-Star break, that shouldn't be too much of a problem anymore. You're Tigers might flop though due to the enormous expectations that are on them this season. Only time will tell. Come talk to me in October. Between now and then, we have nothing further to discuss.

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
You BULLY!
Aww, everyone let's hear it for fathersson It's ok, have a warm glass of milk and just cry yourself to sleep.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 07:42 PM

Its just a game.

Besides IRISH, I didn't show myself out the door. I agreed to quit pissing on your bowl of cheerios if you quit being a dick in my own birthday thread.

But yeah, with your knack for interpreting the past, Anne Coulter bows to you.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 07:50 PM

You're one to talk ronnie about "getting the facts straight"
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 07:51 PM

Back it up big mouth.

;-0
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 07:57 PM

Where's that Bad Boys review that I "just wrote a couple of weeks ago"? You ALWAYS make these wild accusations about me but can NEVER back it up with the hard proof.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 08:07 PM

Huh? You're still pissed over a Michael Bay movie?

Besides, you mentioned that you saw BAD BOYS....and I wondered whatever or not you had reviewed it. I believed at the time that you had. Also, you had comments of how you *liked* it.

Anyway, How is this Yankee related anyway? ;\)

I do have a question....do winning the first game of the season really matter as much, or is it just a nice morale boast for fans and the dugout?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 08:24 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Huh? You're still pissed over a Michael Bay movie?

Besides, you mentioned that you saw BAD BOYS....and I wondered whatever or not you had reviewed it. I believed at the time that you had. Also, you had comments of how you *liked* it.


I'm not pissed, I'm using it as an example to prove my point. And again, I haven't seen Bad Boys in years, so I don't know why you continue to say that I saw it. Yes I've seen them and own both the movies on DVD.


 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
I do have a question....do winning the first game of the season really matter as much, or is it just a nice morale boast for fans and the dugout?


Nice morale boast. It is only the first game of the season with 161 left, but when your closer blows the lead in the 9th and your team losses, it doesn't build a lot of confidence with the fans in that player.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 08:25 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: fathersson
I still bet you argue with everyone you meet and talk sports with. AND to strighten you out once more....This is not "thread for Yankees fan". Its title is "How bout them Yankees!?" So that means the Yankees are the subject...Good Bad or anything else that someone would like to post.


Yes I do engage in conversations with others when they try to pull that "the Yankees buy championships" ignorant mentality. In fact I rubbed it in a classmates face last night that the Yankees won on Monday and her precious Astros lost (by blowing the lead in the 9th). It's usually all in good fun but some, like yourself, have to take it too far and personal. JEEZ! Oh and by the way, I can easily change the title of this thread to Yankees Fans Only. Would you prefer that?


 Originally Posted By: fathersson
The only one who has posted anti Yankee thoughts on here this week is you!


What did I post that was anti-Yankee?

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
I would have thought that you may have learned your lesson after the last two years, when you had to eat crow after your taunts against any non-Yankee fan, or try and twist things around to make other teams look as sad.


But see, that's where you went wrong fathersson, you thought (and you thought wrong). It's a brand new year, the Yankees STILL have the best lineup in baseball. The pen's looking better. Really the only question mark is the rotation. And if the Yankees get Clemens at the All-Star break, that shouldn't be too much of a problem anymore. You're Tigers might flop though due to the enormous expectations that are on them this season. Only time will tell. Come talk to me in October. Between now and then, we have nothing further to discuss.

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
You BULLY!
Aww, everyone let's hear it for fathersson It's ok, have a warm glass of milk and just cry yourself to sleep.


It is called Sarcasam. Like you could ever be a bully-
In fact I bet you had a lot of people picking on you over the years.

 Quote:
Yes I do engage in conversations with others when they try to pull that "the Yankees buy championships" ignorant mentality. In fact I rubbed it in a classmates face last night

Yes, you love hearing that about the Yankees don't you. Sets you right off doesn't it. The real facts is that the Yankees couldn't even BUY the Championship now could they.
and yes, I can see why you are so popular around school you try to rub things in your classmates faces, so sad. They all seem to find you out and pick on your poor Yankees now don't they. You need to take anger management courses or go to the Yankee withdrwal ward at least.


 Quote:
It's a brand new year, the Yankees STILL have the best lineup in baseball. The pen's looking better. Really the only question mark is the rotation. And if the Yankees get Clemens at the All-Star break, that shouldn't be too much of a problem anymore.


Read PLawrence post on page #1- some people will never learn-

My Tigers, My Redsox, My Cards....you are the one giving me all these teams. I hate to tell you Irish- I am a YANKEE FAN!

and like I said before - YOU ARE the Yankee fan that other Yankee fans love to hate

So stop giving us a bad name.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 08:29 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Huh? You're still pissed over a Michael Bay movie?

Besides, you mentioned that you saw BAD BOYS....and I wondered whatever or not you had reviewed it. I believed at the time that you had. Also, you had comments of how you *liked* it.

Anyway, How is this Yankee related anyway? ;\)

I do have a question....do winning the first game of the season really matter as much, or is it just a nice morale boast for fans and the dugout?


Ronnie, now leave Irish alone. After reading that review on ROUNDERS, I have a new respect for this talent as a writer.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 08:31 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Yes, you love hearing that about the Yankees don't you. Sets you right off doesn't it. The real facts is that the Yankees couldn't even BUY the Championship now could they.


Then what's the problem? For most problem #1 in baseball is that the Yankees continue to win and "buy" players. Yet they haven't won a World Series since 2000. Now if they win this year, that's all you'll hear is the Yankees bought it.

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
and yes, I can see why you are so popular around school you try to rub things in your classmates faces, so sad. They all seem to find you out and pick on your poor Yankees now don't they. You need to take anger management courses or go to the Yankee withdrwal ward at least.


Kind of like yourself, if they're gonna shovel sh*t and say the Astros are the greatest, then they need to be able to take it when they lose and the Yankees win. And I'm good on the anger management/Yankee withdrawal wards. Just passionate baby! Whether loved or hated, I'm proud to be passionate. And it's funny how I don't see many Astro fans out anymore. When they were in the series back in 2005, everywhere you turned their was an Astros fan. I think it's safe to say those bandwagon fans are onto other bandwagon's now.


 Originally Posted By: fathersson
My Tigers, My Redsox, My Cards....you are the one giving me all these teams. I hate to tell you Irish- I am a YANKEE FAN!


BLASPHEMOUS!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 08:32 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Huh? You're still pissed over a Michael Bay movie?

Besides, you mentioned that you saw BAD BOYS....and I wondered whatever or not you had reviewed it. I believed at the time that you had. Also, you had comments of how you *liked* it.

Anyway, How is this Yankee related anyway? ;\)

I do have a question....do winning the first game of the season really matter as much, or is it just a nice morale boast for fans and the dugout?


Ronnie, now leave Irish alone. After reading that review on ROUNDERS, I have a new respect for this talent as a writer.


Speak for yourself And I never said I was a talented writer or film critic. You 2 continue to give me those accolades
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 08:38 PM

--> ONTOPIC SO THE THREAD DOESN'T GET CLOSED...

---

Yankees got rained out today...boo. I had set my VCR, so now I have about three hours of commercials. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 08:48 PM

Notes: Damon remains hobbled

NEW YORK -- A day of rest and treatment did little to ease the concerns and pain of Yankees outfielder Johnny Damon, who said he could "barely walk" on Wednesday and was held out of the lineup for a rained-out contest against the Devil Rays.

Damon left the Yankees' Opening Day game after five innings on Monday, suffering from what were originally described as cramps. General manager Brian Cashman amended that diagnosis Wednesday to reflect a calf strain of an unknown degree.

"It's more than cramps," Damon said. "It felt like cramps [Monday], but I've got to go in and figure it out, [and] make sure it's something that could heal as I continue playing.

"I don't want to jump to any conclusions, but I've really got to get it taken care of right now."

Damon spent about an hour on the trainer's table on Wednesday before the scheduled afternoon contest was washed out. The Yankees did not plan to send Damon for tests on Wednesday, though Cashman said it would be a possibility Thursday if Damon does not show improvement.

"The fact that he's still sore today would eliminate the word 'cramp,'" Cashman said. "He's probably got a little strain we're dealing with now."

Yankees manager Joe Torre did not want to look ahead to the worst-case scenario of a disabled-list stint, hoping that one more day of rest could cure what ails Damon.

"I think we'll know more in the next couple of days," Torre said. "He was in here [Tuesday], and it was pretty sore. Hopefully, it's nothing more than a sore calf. Obviously, if it doesn't start getting better, then you become more concerned."

In a pinch, the Yankees would plan to get by with Miguel Cairo as an emergency outfielder behind reserve Melky Cabrera, who would have started in center field Wednesday. They could also promote a Triple-A outfielder such as Kevin Reese or Kevin Thompson if a trip to the DL is necessary.

Both Reese and Thompson have brief Major League experience and were in Spring Training with the Yankees, vying to be the fifth outfielder that the club eventually decided would have been extraneous, favoring a 12th pitcher on the Opening Day roster instead.

"Right now, we're not in that situation," Cashman said.

Wang progressing: Injured ace Chien-Ming Wang continues to rehab his strained right hamstring at the Yankees' Legends Field complex in Tampa, Fla., and appears to be ahead of schedule.

Torre said that Wang could throw in simulated-game conditions by the weekend. He remains on track for a projected late-April return to the Yankees' Major League rotation, with a yet-unspecified number of Minor League rehab starts along the way.

"Everything's good; he's been doing all his drills," Torre said. "Right now, we're very pleased with where he is."

A-Rod joins Winfield: Alex Rodriguez's two-run homer in the eighth inning on Monday tied him with former Yankees outfielder Dave Winfield for 28th place on baseball's all-time home runs list. Yankees bullpen catcher Mike Borzello caught the blast -- the 465th of Rodriguez's career -- in the bullpen after the ball sailed over the left-center-field fence.

Rodriguez said he doesn't give much thought to the milestone, but the third baseman added that he enjoyed watching the Hall of Famer play.

"I love Dave Winfield," he said.

The shot came off of Devil Rays right-hander Juan Salas and left Rodriguez 35 homers shy of the 500-homer plateau. Even so, A-Rod said that he isn't concerned with reaching the milestone this season, though it would certainly appear within reach.

"It's too far away right now," he said.

Villone returns: Left-handed reliever Ron Villone signed a Minor League contract with the Yankees on Wednesday, returning to the organization after a few days away to weigh his options. Villone will report to the Yankees' Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre club.

Villone, 37, was a non-roster invitee to the Yankees' Spring Training camp and had been considered a candidate to be a second left-handed reliever behind Mike Myers. That spot went to Sean Henn instead, as Villone struggled with his command and posted a 14.40 ERA in nine spring appearances.

"Ronnie was an important member of this team last year," Cashman said. "We saw the arm strength there this spring, without a doubt. I believe he's still got a lot to give."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/04/07 08:51 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Huh? You're still pissed over a Michael Bay movie?

Besides, you mentioned that you saw BAD BOYS....and I wondered whatever or not you had reviewed it. I believed at the time that you had. Also, you had comments of how you *liked* it.

Anyway, How is this Yankee related anyway? ;\)

I do have a question....do winning the first game of the season really matter as much, or is it just a nice morale boast for fans and the dugout?


Ronnie, now leave Irish alone. After reading that review on ROUNDERS, I have a new respect for this talent as a writer.


Oh yeah, eat your heart out IMDB!

Anyway, Damon will be fine.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/07 12:12 AM

Why not put Damon on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to Monday just as a precaution? Melky would be just fine in center field. That's why we have him. Damon is too valuable to take a chance with trying to "heal while he plays" like we did last year, and unless it is just a little tenderness (try a little tenderness?), then I'd shelve him for the time being. He'd come back just in time for the big push in mid-April against the Indians and Red Sox.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/07 03:31 PM

Breaking News: Damon May Be Out "Long-Term"

Just announced on 1050 ESPN Radio. He won't be in the lineup in the "near future" and it might be a "long term" injury. He said he could barely move his right leg.

---

Crap! Makes me glad we kept Melky though instead of trading him away. I guess this means Kevin Thompson will get a call-up. Also, hey...Bernie Williams phone could ring???
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/07 03:36 PM

I think Joe would call Bernie in a heartbeat. Cashman, however, won't be as forgiving. They could use him now, I hope Cashman puts his pride aside and makes the call.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/07 03:40 PM

Yeah, but GEORGE will tell Cashman to become a "forgiving" sort of person.

Call BERNIE!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/07 03:49 PM

No Calfing Matter; Bernie Is Not An Option

 Quote:
Source: New York Post

DAMON'S LEG STRAIN COULD BE PROBLEM
By MICHAEL MORRISSEY

April 5, 2007 -- The cramps Johnny Damon suffered on Monday have turned into something more serious - something that might require an MRI.

Damon was missing from the lineup with a strained right calf even before yesterday afternoon's game with Tampa Bay was rained out. So with only one game in the books, the Yankees already are battling the injury bug.

Melky Cabrera was slated to start in center and Robinson Cano was listed as the leadoff hitter, so the Yankees wouldn't have suffered too badly in the outfield or lineup. Still, the injury is a concern for someone who never has been on the DL in his career.

"It hurts like hell," Damon said when reporters greeted him.

Although Damon hoped he wouldn't miss more than one game, he couldn't give a timetable. He also speculated an MRI tube could be in his future.

"If it doesn't get better overnight, I'm sure that's a good possibility," he said.

After coming in for treatment Tuesday, Damon met with team physician Stuart Hershon yesterday. Hershon declined to send the outfielder to the hospital and told GM Brian Cashman that no tests are planned, but the doctor wants to see how Damon feels today. The DL isn't a consideration at this point, though.

"I'm not saying it's not possible," Cashman said. "It's not something that's being recommended right now.

"Could it be as early as tomorrow? It could be. It could be something that doesn't get recommended at all. I can't rule any of that stuff out."

Cashman did rule out any move involving Bernie Williams, who hopes to play again and is working out on his own. When asked if it opens the door for Williams, Cashman said, "No." If another outfielder goes down before Damon can return, Miguel Cairo is the next backup outfielder.

Cairo, now in his 12th season, has played only 62 games in the outfield.

"What led into the decision-making process that we made this winter is knowing that Cairo can go into the outfield," Cashman said. "If there's a disabled-list situation, then you go get an outfielder from [the minors]."

On Opening Day, Damon was removed for what he thought were cramps in both legs. He said the legs were fine on Tuesday when he came in for treatment, but Joe Torre said Damon was "pretty sore."

"I came [Tuesday] and might've stretched it a little too much," Damon said.

Damon spoke with reporters twice yesterday, before and after he received the initial treatment. When he returned to his locker in the late morning, his right calf was bandaged tightly.

"I can barely walk, so [I'll] try to get moving . . . somehow," he said. "It felt like cramps the other day, but it's definitely much worse than that."

Damon has played in at least 145 games in the last 11 seasons, so he will try to gut it out when he can. When that is, nobody knows at the moment.

SOGGY-TIX EXCHANGE

The Yankees announced that fans holding paid tickets for yesterday's rainout may use them for the rescheduled game between the Yankees and Devil Rays when the date is announced, or may exchange them for any regular-season game at Yankee Stadium within 12 months (subject to availability).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/07 09:58 PM

Damon MRI Shows Calf Strain; May Go To DL

 Quote:
Source: Lower-Hudson Journal


(Original publication: April 5, 2007)

NEW YORK - Johnny Damon underwent an MRI today, and the Yankees' center fielder was found to have a mild strain of his right calf.

Manager Joe Torre didn't rule out putting him on the 15-day disabled list, but he said he had to speak with Damon and consult more with general manager Brian Cashman. Damon came out of Monday's season-opening win over Tampa Bay at Yankee Stadium after five innings with what was believed then to be cramps in both calves.

"Here's a guy who's never been on the disabled list in his life," Torre said. "It's not something he would look forward to."

Melky Cabrera has been inserted into the lineup to take Damon's place in center for tonight's game against the Devil Rays, and Robinson Cano has been penciled in as the leadoff batter in Damon's place.

Andy Pettitte will make his first regular-season start for the Yankees since 2003. First pitch is scheduled for 7:08. The game will be telecast on YES and be broadcast on WCBS-880.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/07 10:15 PM

Well, Bernie should have shown up for spring training. I know he felt that he was owed more than what they offered, and I don't disagree, but he should've swallowed his pride and shown up anyway.

I'm very eager to see tonight's game. I missed opening day, as we were in NH touring a college with my daughter. In a way, I'm rather selfishly glad that Pettitte's game was rained out yesterday so that I can watch him tonight.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/07 10:32 PM

Enjoy it guys. I don't think I'll be able to see another Yankee game until Monday night on ESPN (and then after that it won't be for another 2 weeks)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/07 10:32 PM

I agree, Bernie could have definitely helped his cause by showing up to Spring Training, but he really can't play the outfield anymore anyways...he'd basically be limited to the DH role, which is already filled by Giambi.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 12:50 AM

He did pretty well last year, filling in when the outfield imploded due to injuries.

I12, the Yankees are winning 4-2 in the top of the 5th, 2 on, one out, Proctor's in already.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 01:54 AM

Sorry, spoke WAY too soon. Bottom of the 7th, Yankees LOSING 6-4, 2 on, 2 out. Giambi's up, Matsui's on deck.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 03:18 AM

Thanks for the update SB. I saw it while we were in a break during class. I saw the final, 7-6. Vizciano blew it I guess? I haven't seen the highlights or anything, I'm just going off the boxscore.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 03:28 AM

This is the coldest Easter week I ever remember, although I do recall an Easter snowstorm in the late 70's. The game shouldn't even count!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 03:32 AM

Yeah and everyone is going ga ga for Dice-K today with his debut. He went 7 innings, giving up 6 hits, 1 run, 1 BB, 10 SO with a 1.29 ERA. Not bad but it was against the Royals. Let's see him against a lineup like the Yankees, Angels, White Sox, Tigers, etc.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 12:12 PM

The Yankees played like shit, and deserved to lose. I don't care how cold it was - the fucking Florida team seemed to have no problems. The team didn't play defensively sharp...I shudder to think of what will happen when Wang comes back if they haven't improved. On a more general note, Matsui played well as always.

One thing to keep in mind - this game definitely helps my point that the Devil Rays will finally make it out of the basement this season. They have the talent on offense and defense, all they need is a bullpen...then again, it took Seo, (Rudy) Lugo, and Reyes to shut down the Yankee lineup, so maybe they aren't so bad after all...
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 12:30 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Yeah and everyone is going ga ga for Dice-K today with his debut. He went 7 innings, giving up 6 hits, 1 run, 1 BB, 10 SO with a 1.29 ERA. Not bad but it was against the Royals. Let's see him against a lineup like the Yankees, Angels, White Sox, Tigers, etc.


Your "Jerk" is showing again. Give the guy his due. If he was in pinstrips you would be shouting to the stars. No pitcher will be perfect and even the best pitcher may have an off day against any team. If memory serves me. Our Yankees were bombed more then once by the last place teams.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 12:36 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
The Yankees played like shit, and deserved to lose. I don't care how cold it was - the fucking Florida team seemed to have no problems. The team didn't play defensively sharp...I shudder to think of what will happen when Wang comes back if they haven't improved. On a more general note, Matsui played well as always.

One thing to keep in mind - this game definitely helps my point that the Devil Rays will finally make it out of the basement this season. They have the talent on offense and defense, all they need is a bullpen...then again, it took Seo, (Rudy) Lugo, and Reyes to shut down the Yankee lineup, so maybe they aren't so bad after all...


Very True D-J.
but to shut down one of the best lineups in baseball.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 12:38 PM

My thoughts on Matsuzaka at this point parallel Pavano...I'm not going to give them a salute or nod at this point because a.) they've only had one start and b.) they've both faced mediocre lineups.

Let's wait until these guys have about 10 games under their belt, and then we can go gaa-gaa. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 01:12 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Yeah and everyone is going ga ga for Dice-K today with his debut. He went 7 innings, giving up 6 hits, 1 run, 1 BB, 10 SO with a 1.29 ERA. Not bad but it was against the Royals. Let's see him against a lineup like the Yankees, Angels, White Sox, Tigers, etc.


Your "Jerk" is showing again. Give the guy his due. If he was in pinstrips you would be shouting to the stars. No pitcher will be perfect and even the best pitcher may have an off day against any team. If memory serves me. Our Yankees were bombed more then once by the last place teams.


I said he didn't pitch bad but it was ONLY against the Royals. Let's wait until he faces a real playoff contending team (a la the Yankees, Angels, White Sox, Tigers, etc.)
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 02:03 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: fathersson
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Yeah and everyone is going ga ga for Dice-K today with his debut. He went 7 innings, giving up 6 hits, 1 run, 1 BB, 10 SO with a 1.29 ERA. Not bad but it was against the Royals. Let's see him against a lineup like the Yankees, Angels, White Sox, Tigers, etc.


Your "Jerk" is showing again. Give the guy his due. If he was in pinstrips you would be shouting to the stars. No pitcher will be perfect and even the best pitcher may have an off day against any team. If memory serves me. Our Yankees were bombed more then once by the last place teams.


I said he didn't pitch bad but it was ONLY against the Royals. Let's wait until he faces a real playoff contending team (a la the Yankees, Angels, White Sox, Tigers, etc.)

He didn't just pitch OK or not that bad, he did great for a major league debut.
Discount his day if you really have to,(yes he was wearing a Boston Redsox uniform) but those who watched the game seem to think that he is the real deal. I know one thing, many people would give a right nut to have all their pitching staff do that well even against an off team as you post.
Sure, he may face harder lineups, but who is to say that he isn't going to get better as he settles in?

He looked like he pitched well, mixed up his pitches, his fast ball looked good and he also had some rather good offspeed stuff as well. He even handle some ground balls hit to him. I would give him a job well done, being his first time with all the attention and pressure everyone put on him.

but the old come back will still be, "Time will tell", but for now you have to give him his due, no doubt about it.

And we know you are praying for him to get rocked so you can
grin from ear to ear and say I told you so. But for now you have to wait. After all we have all be disappointed before on pitchers who were thought were the cats meow when they dressed in pinstripes.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 04:08 PM

I've been very impressed with Matsuzaka so far. While I don't think anyone can live up to the hype surrounding him, I think he's displayed a wide arsenal of effective pitches, and I don't think we've seen him at his best yet. How good a pitcher he'll be will be determined later, but I think his talent is uncommon, and his approach and demeanor are sound. I don't think he's going to get sucked in by the hype of the Boston/NY rivalry. I think this kid flies the course of Daedalus.

I actually was kind of expecting a reincarnation of that meatball, Hideki Irabu, but this guy, I think, is far more uniquely talented. I hate to admit it, but he's pretty fun to watch pitching.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/07 07:29 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
but the old come back will still be, "Time will tell", but for now you have to give him his due, no doubt about it.


The problem is though that time, and with time, repeated at-bats, really will tell. Many pitchers, especially when switching leagues, often benefit from the extremely limited exposure to either AL or NL hitters. In Matsuzaka's case, neither the AL nor NL has seen him in action, except in very limited cases at the World Baseball Classic and in Spring Training.

I agree, you have to concede his first outing went about as well as could be expected, no doubt, and I think he probably is a very remarkable pitcher. But like you said, time, and scouting reports, and repeated viewings, particularly in the unfriendly pitching environment of the AL, can change the way a pitcher performs over the course of a season, and ultimately, a career.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 12:24 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I agree, you have to concede his first outing went about as well as could be expected, no doubt, and I think he probably is a very remarkable pitcher. But like you said, time, and scouting reports, and repeated viewings, particularly in the unfriendly pitching environment of the AL, can change the way a pitcher performs over the course of a season, and ultimately, a career.


Plus, I don't think he has pitched as long of a season as he'll have to pitch this year. I'm not sure how long Japan's season is but I've heard a few guys wondering if he'll simply burn out by the end of the season.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 12:49 AM

Notes: Damon raring to go

NEW YORK -- Johnny Damon has played in 1,705 Major League games, and he has never spent a day on the disabled list. It would appear that his run of good fortune will continue.

The 33-year-old center fielder on Friday reported "massive improvement" in the strained right calf that has sidelined him for three days, rejoining the Yankees' early workouts before the evening contest against the Orioles.

A smile on his face and the spring slowly returning to his step, Damon said that he could be available for pinch-hitting duties on Friday, with possible starting duties on deck for the weekend series with Baltimore.

"It's feeling pretty good today," Damon said. "I'm definitely going to make myself available to the skipper if he needs me for anything. Hopefully, it keeps on improving, but there was massive improvement last night. I'm close to being ready."

Damon left Monday's Opening Day contest after just five innings, replaced by Melky Cabrera.

With two full days of rest following Tuesday's off-day and Wednesday's rainout, Damon had unsuccessfully lobbied to be used as a ninth-inning pinch-hitter in Thursday's game.

Manager Joe Torre declined, saying that he didn't think it was the best idea, and maintained that he would try to stay away from using Damon in that role against the Orioles. Torre said it remained a possibility, though.

"The fact that he was in the weight room, riding the bike, and [he] went out and did some light jogging, I think that's a good sign," Torre said. "I think we're headed in the right direction."

Either way, general manager Brian Cashman has ruled out a stint on the disabled list, saying that Damon will remain available to Torre but that the manager will need to be "careful" in using him.

The prospect of avoiding two weeks on the shelf restored Damon's perky nature after a couple of days in which his demeanor had appeared reserved.

Damon was far more fluid on Friday, working out in the weight room and swinging in the underground batting cages, where he said he felt no stress on the right calf.

"I'm just happy I could possibly go out there and help the team," he said. "Whether I'm in the starting lineup or coming off the bench, they know what kind of player I am. I know my body the best."

He said the fact that he has never being placed on the disabled list is a career note he has grown fond of.

"I think ... I've been very fortunate," he said. "I have been able to take care of my body over the years. The unfortunate thing is that when you start getting older, you start feeling a few aches and pains a little more. I can find a way to play."

Jeter's milestone surprise: Players don't always realize a milestone once they've reached it. Just ask Derek Jeter, who logged one on Thursday.

Jeter legged out an infield single in the seventh inning, giving him 2,153 hits for his career, tying him with Don Mattingly for sixth on the Yankees' all-time list. Devil Rays first baseman Ty Wigginton walked over to Jeter and offered words of praise.

"Honestly, I wasn't even aware of it until Wigginton said, 'Congratulations,' " Jeter said. "I didn't even see it on the scoreboard, so I was unaware of it."

The next Yankee in Jeter's sights is Joe DiMaggio, who leads Jeter by 61 hits. Following DiMaggio would be Bernie Williams. Jeter trails Williams by 183 hits and, considering he's had five 200-hit seasons, could pass him late this season in what would be a bittersweet moment.

Though the numbers don't mean much to the shortstop, being listed among the organization's great players is a source of pride.

"Any time you're on a list with guys like that, it makes you feel good," he said.

Ready to go: Less than 24 hours away from his Major League debut, Kei Igawa greeted about three dozen reporters in an auxiliary clubhouse at Yankee Stadium, saying that he was "very excited" but "not nervous."

Igawa, a 27-year-old left-hander, will throw his first pitches in the big leagues on Saturday afternoon against Baltimore, following up on a spring that started shaky and gained smoothness as the Grapefruit League schedule went along.

"I think in the early part of the spring, he was trying to make an impression," Torre said. "After two starts or so, he kind of settled in to get himself in shape and sharpen up what he does.

"He seems to be pretty calm. He gets out there and is pretty animated, and works fairly quickly."

Igawa noted that he watched Boston's Daisuke Matsuzaka in his 10-strikeout Major League debut on Thursday, but wasn't surprised by the ace's dominance over the Royals.

"It's normal for him," Igawa said.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 02:33 AM

This time, Moose shows his age (is this the year when his control finally fails him?) and the Yankees fall to the Orioles, 6-4, despite some great play by my man Hideki Matsui and improved defense. Big bats like A-Rod and Giambi didn't come through, and when they had men on, they seemed to lose their patience at the plate. Henn et al in the bullpen did a great job in relief, but Moose had zero control tonight and got blasted. His velocity was terrible as well, averaging around 85 on the fastball...that's Wakefield speed. \:x

Still a bit early to hit the panic button, obviously, but it does make you wonder: Cashman looked pissed the couple of times they cut to him...It does bring all these young arms into focus. It wouldn't surprise me if Humberto Sanchez and possibly Chase Wright (who looked awesome in Spring Training) could be into the starting rotation, and Mussina (gasp) could end up in the long-reliever role.

[/not_pushing_panic_button_after_3_games]
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 12:02 PM

Oh, I am so sick of the ARod train. Two nights in a row, he was in a position to either tie up the game or pull ahead, and failed. Thursday night he popped it up (there's a shock) and last night he struck out. Yes, he scored blahbity-blahbity runs in his career, but lets see how many of them were necessary runs. Let's see how many of those were NOT scored when the team was already winning 10-2. At least Giambi can come through when the team needs him, unlike ARod. Whenever the bases are loaded, the score is down, and ARod comes up to the plate, my husband and I take bets on whether he'll pop it up or ground out.

Moose will be OK and so will the Yankees. It's been a rough start, but I have faith. The Yankees are unusual in that just when the other teams are starting to fade in August, they somehow build up steam and move ahead.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 02:43 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Oh, I am so sick of the ARod train. Two nights in a row, he was in a position to either tie up the game or pull ahead, and failed. Thursday night he popped it up (there's a shock) and last night he struck out. Yes, he scored blahbity-blahbity runs in his career, but lets see how many of them were necessary runs. Let's see how many of those were NOT scored when the team was already winning 10-2. At least Giambi can come through when the team needs him, unlike ARod. Whenever the bases are loaded, the score is down, and ARod comes up to the plate, my husband and I take bets on whether he'll pop it up or ground out.

Moose will be OK and so will the Yankees. It's been a rough start, but I have faith. The Yankees are unusual in that just when the other teams are starting to fade in August, they somehow build up steam and move ahead.


The Yankees don't built up stream, they have great depth on the bench. Hurt players, worn out players, players in slumps just replace him with another great player. Problem was they couldn't do this with their pitching staff last year.
I would have gotten rid of A-rod and his money and ego problems because as you say he doesn't bring it home in the pinch. Nothing bothers the Yankee office as giving away a player to another team and having to carry the player payroll while he plays for another team. And that is what they would have to do to get rid of A-rod and his big buck spot.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 06:09 PM

Dice-K had a good debut, and Pavano did better than expected.

But really, beyond the juvenile Boston-NYC pissyness, thats it so far.

Dice-K could still become the most expensive flop in baseball history(alongside the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, which YAnks somehow lost to neverless) and Pavano could still ultimately play out his rep as the most expensive broken toy in the Yankees toychest.

One game at a time.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 07:07 PM

Ugh. Yankees looking ugly. Igawa got a rough first outing, with pretty minimal offensive support...I had to shut the game off after it became 7-2.

Oh, and Abreu showed me for the first time how he takes plays off...that little bloop into right, Mientkeiwicz was fucking booking on, Cano came too, and Abreu trotted like he had no place to be that was important...he definitely could have made that play.

Playing like they've already won the division, and its only the first week of the season...poo. \:x
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 08:00 PM

Ah, but then The Giambino comes through in the clutch!! 1 more to tie it up.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 08:26 PM


A-Rod!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 08:26 PM

Alex Rodriguez is the salt of the earth.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 08:30 PM

OK, sure, after trashing him in my previous post, he comes through in the clutch! Well, thank goodness he did! And good for him. Maybe this will be the year that he finally becomes comfortable in NY.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 08:38 PM

Matsui leaves game with injury

NEW YORK -- Yankees outfielder Hideki Matsui left Saturday's game against the Baltimore Orioles with a strained left hamstring.

Matsui started in left field for New York and suffered the injury during his lone at-bat of the contest, grounding out to catcher Alberto Castillo in the second inning.

Miguel Cairo replaced Matsui as a pinch-hitter in the fourth inning and took over in left field. The 32-year-old Matsui will be re-evaluated on Sunday, the Yankees announced.

Matsui played in just 51 games for New York last season after suffering a broken left wrist in a May 11 contest against the Boston Red Sox, costing him four months and snapping a consecutive games played streak of 518 games to open his Major League career.

Matsui batted .302 with eight home runs and 29 RBIs in 2006. In four games this season, he is 3-for-12 (.250) with three runs batted in.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 08:40 PM

Hughes wins his Triple-A debut


With temperatures near freezing, one of the Minor League's hottest prospects made his Triple-A debut.

Phil Hughes pitched five efficient innings for the win Friday night as the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees defeated the Norfolk Tides, 6-3, at PNC Field.

A crowd of 7,269 braved 34-degree temperatures and 14 mph winds to see Hughes (1-0) make his first start of the season. The 20-year-old prodigy did not disappoint, throwing 50 of 74 pitches for strikes.

"I definitely wasn't the coldest guy out there," he said. "But with all the adrenaline, I didn't mind it too much."

Despite striking out six batters, Hughes' control was slightly off as he gave up two runs on two hits and two walks with a hit batter and a wild pitch. Although he is known for a blazing fastball and hard breaking pitches, he was busy working on a third weapon -- a changeup.

"I had a pretty good fastball coming into tonight and I had a pretty good curveball as well. It doesn't make the changeup so important right now, but down the road, I'm definitely going to need [it]," Hughes said.

"Overall, I think I threw it pretty well. I feel confident throwing it. It was kind of a tough night to throw a changeup because it was so cold and dry. I'm going to have better days, but I'm also going to have worse days."

Once Hughes left, the Yankees bullpen clamped down on the Tides, yielding one run on two hits over four innings. Chris Britton worked a scoreless ninth for the save.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre took control with a two-run second. Alberto Gonzalez worked a two-out walk from Norfolk starter Jon Leicester and Chris Basak drilled a two-run homer. Gonzalez was 2-for-3 with two runs scored, while Basak went 2-for-4.

Leadoff man Kevin Thompson also chipped in two hits, stole three bases and scored a run. Eric Duncan contributed a two-run homer in the fifth.

Norfolk got to Hughes in the opening inning, when Mike Cervenak was hit by a pitch with two outs, moved up on a wild pitch and scored on Jon Knott's single.

J.R. House was 2-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored for the Tides.

Leicester (0-1) took the loss after giving up three runs on three hits and three walks with four strikeouts in three innings.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/07/07 08:40 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

A-Rod!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


I just heard. Good for A-Rod and a good come from behind win for the Yankees!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/07 04:57 AM

A-Rod rescues Yanks

NEW YORK -- Alex Rodriguez jokes that one way or another, he always seems to wind up in the middle of something.

He didn't seem to mind on Saturday, grinning from the center of a pile at home plate, his Yankees teammates alternating between slapping his head, offering high-fives or embracing the third baseman's body in appreciative hugs.

Rodriguez hit a game-winning grand slam off Chris Ray in the bottom of the ninth inning to sink the Baltimore Orioles, 10-7, and set off a raucous celebration at Yankee Stadium.

"It felt awesome," Rodriguez said. "I was so excited, I felt like a fool running around the bases, like it was Little League. I just remember I almost knocked [coach Larry] Bowa over at third. I saw the fans rocking behind him. That was kind of cool."

The grand slam -- Rodriguez's second home run of the game -- capped a Yankees' rally against the Orioles, bailing out starter Kei Igawa, who surrendered seven runs in a five-inning Major League debut.

Trailing by a run as they headed to the bottom of the ninth, Rodriguez said that he somehow knew the game was going to come down to him.

"You relish it," Rodriguez said. "As an athlete, you always want to be in that opportunity."

Trying to preserve a victory for Orioles starter Steve Trachsel, Ray retired the first two batters in the inning before Robinson Cano rapped a single up the middle and Derek Jeter walked, representing the winning run.

Bobby Abreu was then hit by a pitch on the left knee, hobbling the Yankees' right fielder as he limped down to first base. That set the ultimate stage for A-Rod, the one that plays out in the minds of sandlot players everywhere -- bases loaded, two outs, bottom of the ninth.

So much of Rodriguez's tenure has been mercurial, even boiled down to Opening Day. On Monday, Yankees fans needed just six minutes to boo him for a dropped foul popup, then cheered him as he came back later that afternoon with a home run.

The Yankees watch and wonder when the big moment is coming, the landmark occurrence that puts an end to these types of hot-and-cold receptions. As Torre said, "You'd have to be in that dugout to appreciate how much people pull for him."

Ray worked the count to a ball and two strikes against Rodriguez before a fastball rode up on Rodriguez. The Orioles' right-hander instinctively leapt as Rodriguez triggered a swing, as if to acknowledge his mistake and cry out for a do-over, but it was too late.

Rodriguez ripped the offering into the black seats beyond center field, with the ball making a jagged bounce up and to the left before being retrieved and landing in its ultimate destination -- a center shelf in Rodriguez's locker.

Rodriguez jumped as he approached home plate, discarding his helmet and sending it spinning toward Baltimore's third-base dugout, accepting a pounding at the hands of his teammates. He called it "one of the best moments for me" as a Yankee.

As Rodriguez made his way to the first-base dugout, Torre placed his left hand on A-Rod's cap, ruffling his hair underneath the polyester covering.

Torre has been steadfast in his belief that too much attention is paid to A-Rod -- in the stands, in the newspapers, on 24-hour sports radio -- but he probably won't have concerns with what could be said after Rodriguez's Saturday in the park.

"It's one of those things when you get to a point," Torre said. "When do you have to stop proving yourself? I think that's what it's all about. When you set the bar as high as his is set, people sort of expect it all the time.

"This game has helped him. It's an important game, but it wasn't a game where the home run didn't mean anything. It was a huge lift for everybody. That's sort of a plateau -- people say [that] with men on base, he can't do this or can't do that. Well, there it is. Let's shut the book on that one and wait for the next chapter."

As a postscript, what remained of a Saturday afternoon crowd that endured Igawa's shaky opening cried out for their just rewards -- a Rodriguez curtain call.

It was an unlikely candidate who eventually alerted Rodriguez to their clamors, making contact with the third baseman's lower back and gently shoving him up the dugout steps to accept the crowd's warm embrace.

"I'm happy for him, that he came through," Jeter said. "That was a big hit for us. We needed that. We didn't want to waste another game."

Rodriguez said he appreciated the curtain call and the continuing applause and roars from the fans, which followed the Yankees as they made their way down the tunnel, satisfied with a win in the season's fourth game that some players had even gone so far as to call "urgent."

"That felt really good," Rodriguez said. "They've been wanting to explode for three days. It was rocking right then."

Even through the tumult that seems to trail Rodriguez's every comment and mannerism, the All-Star maintains that he feels at peace; he has since reporting to Legends Field in Tampa, Fla.

Maybe it was uncovering the state of his friendship with Jeter, maybe it's because he claims to no longer over-analyze every single comment made about him in the mainstream media, or maybe it was just his due time.

Torre scoffs when players claim they don't hear the boos and cheers; they're described as ever-present, even if the best players can tune them out and work past the distractions.

Either way, Rodriguez walked off Saturday as a winner. No one would dare say otherwise.

"He's such a big part of this club," Torre said. "He sits in the middle of our lineup and the expectations are high. It's really tough for him to live up to them. Today, he did."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/07 03:39 PM

Wow, glad I turned my TV back on to see Giambi park it, and (gasp) A-Rod come through in the clutch! Can you believe, even with our horrid pitching and defense, we're atop the AL East? Amazing.

Let's hope Rasner can give us at least 4 innings today. \:p

BTW - Matsui will be out 5-7 days, he should return on Friday.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/07 03:47 PM

Jeter: "Chu ok Alex?"

AROD : " Ahh let em boo me for now Derek. I give dem a clutch hit and dey gonna luv me again."
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/07 03:55 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
Jeter: "Chu ok Alex?"

AROD : " Ahh let em boo me for now Derek. I give dem a clutch hit and dey gonna luv me again."



Ha Ha. That's a great analogy. He's safe today, I gotta say that much. But if he strands 3 guys tomorrow, he's gonna get booed again. It's crazy.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/07 11:42 PM

Matsui placed on 15-day disabled list

NEW YORK -- The Yankees placed Hideki Matsui on the 15-day disabled list on Sunday, one day after the outfielder strained his left hamstring while running out a ground ball.

The assignment is the second in less than a year for Matsui, who missed four months last season with a broken left wrist. He strained the hamstring in the second inning of Saturday's game against the Baltimore Orioles.

"When you play baseball, these things happen," Matsui said through an interpreter. "You just can't help it. I look forward to just getting back as soon as possible."

To fill Matsui's place on the 25-man roster, the Yankees recalled outfielder Kevin Thompson from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Thompson batted .300 in 19 games for the Yankees last season across three stints, and is expected to assume Melky Cabrera's role as a reserve when he meets the team in Minnesota on Monday.

Manager Joe Torre had been optimistic in his earliest assessment of Matsui's condition, saying that the outfielder could perhaps rejoin the club within three to five days.

But an MRI exam performed on Sunday showed some blood, indicating a strain, and Torre said that the move to the disabled list was triggered in Matsui's interests.

"He certainly understood," Torre said. "I think the biggest thing is that you protect the player against himself at this point in time."

General manager Brian Cashman said that the club's history with strained hamstrings has generally spelled at least a two-week recovery period. He cited the case of second baseman Robinson Cano, who missed 35 games last season after straining his left hamstring in a late-June game.

"It's something we just don't want to play with," Cashman said. "It's something that we could have held back for five or six days, but with hamstrings, it's just not worth the gamble.

"We're going to take the safe route and make sure that this is not an issue that carries us deeper into the season, so we want to get it out of the way. As hard as it is to put a guy like Hideki Matsui on the DL, it's the right thing."

Matsui believes that the assignment will offer him more than enough time to recuperate and rejoin the lineup. He said that he did not attempt to dissuade Cashman or Torre from the move.

"It's a fact that I will not be able to play a couple of games," Matsui said. "That would mean that by not being on the DL, I wouldn't be a factor to the team, and I'm actually inconveniencing the team in that process."

He suggested that the chilly conditions in the Northeast -- Saturday's first pitch was thrown with a recorded 39 degrees -- may have contributed to the injury, but added that his preparation for the season may have not been adequate.

"From my perspective, I gave it my best," he said. "The fact that this happened means somewhere, something wasn't right."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/07 11:44 PM

Notes: Cold keeps Damon on bench

NEW YORK -- Johnny Damon left for Yankee Stadium on Sunday morning believing that he would be in the lineup against the Baltimore Orioles.

Joe Torre had thoughts along the same lines, but the manager reached a late decision upon further review to scratch the center fielder.

Torre said that he had thought back to the second inning of Saturday's game, when Hideki Matsui sustained what has been termed a mild strain of his left hamstring running out a ground ball.

Citing the fact that Matsui never seemed to take a misstep as he made his 90-foot dash, Torre could only come to the conclusion that the chilly conditions -- Kei Igawa's first pitch was thrown with the temperature recorded at 39 degrees -- had been a major contributing factor to the injury.

"The weather is the only excuse I can give you for that one," Torre said.

Damon was informed of the lineup switch as he dressed for Sunday's game, preparing to take indoor batting practice about 90 minutes before the scheduled first pitch. Though he was caught by surprise, Damon grasped the logic behind Torre's decision.

"I understand," Damon said. "Joe does not want any more guys to get hurt."

Instead, Damon -- who has been battling a strained right calf, an injury sustained in Monday's season opener -- will remain available as a pinch-hitter and late-inning defensive replacement. He could return to action on Monday at Minnesota.

"It's great having the coaches and manager here who have played and understand the cold," Damon said. "It makes everything so much easier for us."

Damon said that the Metrodome's artificial turf would not be a major concern, and he looked forward to shagging fly balls and attempting to get ready for three games.

The climate-controlled atmosphere would be a welcome change for Damon, who has been openly critical of the scheduling decision to have such teams as the Yankees open their seasons in what are typically cooler climates.

"We just need to get to warmer weather," he said. "I cannot stress that enough. I sure hope next year we don't start here [in New York] until April 15 or so. ... There's no reason why there should be games in Cleveland and Chicago. It's crazy. And unfortunately, guys have to brave this cold weather."

Infielder out: With Damon scratched, Torre assigned utilityman Miguel Cairo to start in left field for Sunday's contest.

Cairo entered to replace Matsui on Saturday and is generally considered the Yankees' emergency fifth outfielder. Cairo made one start in left field last season and appeared there in Spring Training, though the results weren't pretty.

In a March 19 game against the Blue Jays in Dunedin, Fla., Cairo misplayed a handful of wind-blown fly balls as fifth starter candidate Jeff Karstens had his first shaky outing of the Grapefruit League campaign.

Cairo said that he felt he'd received enough work in Spring Training to get the job done in left field.

"Of course," Cairo said. "I'm ready. I come ready to play every day."

Even though Torre said that Cairo's defense wouldn't supplant that of any of the regulars, he said it would be passable.

"He's a pro," Torre said. "We're pretty comfortable he knows what he's doing."

Making history: Alex Rodriguez's game-winning grand slam on Saturday made him just the third player in Major League history to accomplish that feat three times. Rodriguez joined the St. Louis Browns' Vern Stephens (1946, '49, '50) and the Phillies' Cy Williams (1924 and twice in '26).

Rodriguez hit his other walk-off grand slams for the Rangers (July 27, 2002, against the A's) and on July 31, 2003, against the Red Sox.

Injury updates: Torre said that right-hander Chien-Ming Wang (strained right hamstring) threw 45 to 50 pitches off a mound earlier this week.

Wang has been in contact with pitching coach Ron Guidry, who has told the hurler to expect to make at least two rehab starts as he works toward a projected late-April reunion with the Yankees' Major League rotation.

Karstens (right elbow tendinitis) is closer to rejoining the squad, as he is eligible to come off the disabled list on Tuesday. Karstens threw batting practice on Saturday in Tampa, Fla., and Torre said that he could expect game action soon.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/07 12:26 PM

Melky Cabrera has zero patience at the plate this year, so I'm glad to see Kevin Thompson come up and get a shot. He looked good in Spring Training. I realize Melky has sparkling defense, but he...umm...can't hit the ball. KT is at least a speedy baserunning who gets decent line hits and can be a nice utility player.

---

Rasner solidifies the terrible first pass through the rotation of the 2007 season. I wouldn't be surprised if he's moved to the long-reliever role, or rule 5 drafted back to the Nats. He's not a viable option as the 5th starter. Karstens needs to come back as soon as possible. I've never been thrilled with loose change we pick up from other clubs via rule 5, but Rasner really looked bad.

Not that any of the Yankees pitchers looked really good, either...

---

Pettitte pitched a relief appearance yesterday, which was nuts, imho. I realize they wanted to test him and his back, but his start is Tuesday...really shocked me that they'd risk pitching him so close to his start. He looked pretty good though. Let's hope that getting inside the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome and its controlled climate temperatures will help get the Yankee pitching back on track.

---

The H.H.H. Metrodome should also let us know what's happening with Mike Mussina. We all know he's a hypercontrol pitcher, and he can no longer rely on his "burning" 87-89 fastball to get the job done anymore (it was more like 84-86 the other night...). Was it just the cold, ruining his "feel" on the ball, that made his curve not break, his change not change, and his fastball act like a BP fastball? We'll soon know.

Moose could be fading fast. If his bad performance continues...I don't think he has much left in the tank. I hope Roger Clemens' number is on speed dial.

---

Can Pavano actually pitch two decent outings in a row? They gave the Yankees rotation a hard time (deservedly) for the first week of the season, but Pavano wasn't (gasp) half bad. Uh-oh. I still can't believe he's the "ace" of our rotation right now. Oh, untimely death!

---

A-Rod comes through in the clutch.


Shocking, isn't it?

---

Who else thinks Abreu is hurt? He looks like he can't run as fast as he has in the past, and has a little gimp in his giddyup when he's chasing down balls in the outfield. I know I criticized him for taking plays off, particularly since he's had two balls well within his range drop for bloop RBI hits, and I know Phillies fans sometimes questioned his work ethic, but...I haven't seen anything since he came to the Yankees that indicates that is the case. I don't know. It's hard to say, because the first bloop the other night happened before he took a Chris Ray fastball of the shin two days ago, and the second in yesterday's game came after.

---

Derek Jeter is hurt, but his range to his left had issues before that. Let's hope the Gold Glove defenseman can work through it, but he looks horrible trying to run. If the Yankees can get ahead in a game (I know, at this point, its tantamount to locating the holy grail), I hope they swap Miggy in at short (or, gasp, move A-Rod to short and play Cairo at third?)

---

Godzirra is hurt (you frucking strupide Amelicans!), which is a bad deal, because he's been the Yankees most consistent AB this season (as usual). He says it's not that bad, but they found blood and swelling on the MRI, so its a nifty little strain, and will keep him out on the DL for 15 days. Crap.

He does say though that it will be more than enough time to come back healthy, and should come right back out the box (hit 'em, Luke) and hopefully the Yankee offense will do the same.

---

Johnny Damon has a cold. I'd buy him some Cold FX, if that shit didn't cost $25.

---

Josh Phelps can play defense? Holy shit. What a snare at first yesterday. Gold Glove type play.

Too bad that he's actually offensively behind Doug Alphabet.

 Code:
	Doug Mientkiewicz
G      AB   	R   	H       2B   	3B   	HR     RBI     TB   	BB   	SO   	SB   	CS     OBP   	SLG   	AVG

4 	9 	2 	3 	0 	0 	0 	1 	3 	1 	0 	0 	0 	.400 	.333 	.333
		
 	
        Josh Phelps
4 	8 	0 	2 	0 	0 	0 	0 	2 	2 	2 	0 	0 	.400 	.250 	.250


I think he needs to show a little plate discipline. And no, that doesn't mean skipping seconds at KFC.

---

Giambi is, as usual, feast or famine. When he strikes out, he looks horrid, but as seen two days ago, he can crush the ball.

I'd like to apologize...for something.

---

Who else thinks that Tyler Clippard or Chase Wright could have pitched better than Darrell Rasner.

Hands?

---

Things aren't greener on the other side. Super ace Johan Santana had a rough first outing, earning a 6.00 ERA. His last start was stellar, though, and now he's back in gear.

Let's hope the Yankees follow suit.

---

Sidney "The Drunk Aruban Assault Fatty" Ponson is actually under weight, and working hard on ground balls this spring for the Twins.

What the fuck? Don't you know pinstripes are slimming?

---

Let's hope for some good starts against the Twins. The Yankees really started to turn things upward offensively and defensively in the A-Rod "king of the world" game, now let's hope the pitching follows suit.

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/07 03:57 PM

Lets see if Pavano can continue on his resume for 2007 Comeback Player of the year.

Anyone heard Mike Greeny's story of taking his kid to the Yankees game last week this morning? Funny stuff.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/07 08:36 PM

I'd settle for mediocrity with Pavano (i.e. 10 wins would make me ecstatic)...
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/07 09:52 PM

Whoa whoa man, one win at a time. That's my philosophy.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/09/07 10:37 PM

I hear Damon's gonna be back in the lineup tonight. Is that true?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/10/07 01:34 AM

Damon is in, and he's on fire. He's clearly a bit hobbled in the outfield, and his baserunning is probably at about 75% capacity, but he's gone 2 for 4, with a .556 average this season.

Cano and Melky still have zero patience at the plate, but Cano had a 5 game hit streak on the line in this game, and he went 0 for 5 at the plate tonight. Oh well. Melky was the lead off man I think 4 times this game (as the 9th hitter) and went 0-4. \:\/

A-Rod does it again...he really looks great this year, and is off to an amazing start. Let's hope he keeps it rolling.

One thing this game I've seen is massively improved defense, Cano and Jeter have made some amazing plays up the middle on the superfast fake grass on the Metrodome.

Pavano pitches 7 innings and only allows 2 runs? Whoa! This is the kind of start he (and the rotation) needed. Let's hope Pettitte can improve on that tomorrow, but you can't expect anything more out of him. Great job for the Crash Test Dummy.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/10/07 01:54 AM

Also of note: A-Rod has just set a Yankee record, something no other Yankee - not Ruth, not Gehrig, not DiMaggio, not Mantle, not Berra, not Maris, not Jackson has done - he is the first Yankee to reach five homeruns in a season within the first 6 games.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/10/07 01:56 AM

Great, now fans have another reason to hate him when the time comes.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/10/07 01:58 AM

Let's trade him for mediocre starting pitching! \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/10/07 02:48 AM

I knew when A-Rod came up I felt he might hit another homer and he did. I watched some of the game but didn't tune in until the 3rd inning (miss Abreu's shot). Boy A-Rod is off to his best start as a Yankee. He could definitely win his 3rd MVP the way he's starting off. Good win for them to get back on track!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/10/07 10:57 AM

And just wait till the playoffs when he is impotent again!

Really, its like seeing a car wreck ahead by 10 miles...and you can not halt in time...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/10/07 01:59 PM

Gloom and doom, Ronnie?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/10/07 07:46 PM

More like cyclical history.

I hope for the best, but this just seems so similar to 2004.

Then again, history bites you in the ass when it bucks against expectations. Maybe A-Rod gets cheers, maybe he becomes a potent hitting stud in the playoffs, maybe he stays. I really don't know.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/07 12:22 AM

Yanks 2-0 over the Twins in the 2nd. Can Andy get his shit together tonight?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/07 12:43 AM

Another homerun from A-Rod...#6.

Bitchin.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/07 02:27 AM

2 wins in a row? Is it possible??
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/07 04:17 AM

Sweet, another Yankee win and another A-Rod homer! Pettitte puts up some impressive number: 6 innings, 4 hits, 0 runs, 1 BB, 3 SO with a 1.64 ERA
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/07 08:12 PM

Perhaps good news for the Yankees?

Here Today ...
... but gone after '08? It's starting to look that way for Johan Santana, who has broken off contract talks with the Twins


The Twins may be fighting a losing battle in their efforts to extend Johan Santana's four-year, $40 million contract, which expires at the end of next season. A league source told SI that Minnesota recently offered to add two years to the deal, at around $18 million per season, plus a club option for 2011. That offer, however, falls well short of the seven-year, $126 million figure that Barry Zito received from the Giants this winter and virtually assures that Santana, the Koufax of his generation, will be the hottest free agent in the class of '08. Having set this past Opening Day as his deadline for securing a new deal, Santana has told the Twins that he won't negotiate again until he hits the open market -- when, it should be added, he will only be 29.

The more immediate concern to the Twins, though, is the rest of their starting five, which features one promising youngster (Boof Bonser) and three veteran journeymen (Carlos Silva, Ramon Ortiz and Sidney Ponson). "Every year you have question marks," says G.M. Terry Ryan. "Last year it was the position players, especially on the left side of the infield. This year it's the rotation."

As he did last season, when he patched holes in the lineup with such retreads as Tony Batista and Rondell White, Ryan has invited scrutiny by choosing veteran mediocrity over a promising cast of youngsters that includes hard-throwing righty Matt Garza. But there are reasons to give Ryan, who has a well-earned reputation as a player-development mastermind, the benefit of the doubt.

1) For a budget-conscious franchise like the Twins, service time is a vital consideration. Identifying when a prospect is ready to make a valuable contribution in the majors can mean another productive season before the player hits free agency. The extra seasoning for Garza and others could prove beneficial for everyone.

2) A $71 million payroll, not high for a franchise with a largely taxpayer-funded new stadium opening in 2010, limits Ryan's choices. It's not as if Ryan wasn't interested in higher-caliber starters during the off-season. The front office eyed, among others, Gil Meche but backed off when the market got out of hand. "I think it's important to know who you are," says Ryan, who's never complained about his budgets. "You know what the resources are. You know what the revenues are."

3) It's a very small sample, but the Twins got impressive outings last week from Ortiz and Bonser (the underrated third piece of the Heist of the Decade that also brought Joe Nathan and Francisco Liriano from San Francisco for A.J. Pierzynski). Both pitched wonderfully in wins over the Orioles, and Silva pitched solidly in a loss to the White Sox. With the game's deepest bullpen (a 2.91 ERA in '06, best in baseball), the starters usually only need to get into the sixth to have a chance.

4) The Twins still have Santana, who pitched seven innings of one-hit ball against the White Sox on Sunday. If he goes 18--6 (his average record the past three seasons), he'll have a four-year mark of 73-25, very close to Pedro Martinez's 77-25 from 1997 through 2000. Despite the recent setback in negotiations, the Twins aren't abandoning hope that they can get a deal done with their ace.

And why not? Surprising results are their trademark.

Source: Sports Illustrated
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/07 10:04 PM

Santana will be a free agent, unless they can convince him that they'll have all the right tools in Minnesota to make a meaningful push for the World Series right now. They have some of the pieces - Torii Hunter, Joe Mauer, Justin Morneau...if they could get Francisco Liriano back, it may mean something. But their division is extremely competitive, and I don't know if the whiff of competitiveness will be enough to get him to stay.

---

Pettitte looked fantastic last night, and really rebounded well after his last outing. Let's hope Moose continues the trend.

---

Say it with me: A-Rod!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/07 11:37 PM

My question of the night....what will A-Rod do to ensue wrath from the fans again?

Anyway, maybe history doesn't repeat itself this year.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/07 11:49 PM

This is enemy territory, but watching the Mariners/Red Sox game. The big deal is Dice-K facing off against old nemesis Ichiro Suzuki, who just happens to be one of the perennual best hitters in the game(nevermind AL MVP). So far Ichiro is rolling snake eyes against him, 0-2.

But what I dont get is, ESPN keeps comparing Dice-K's Fenway premiere in the same likeness of Clemens, SChilling, and Pedro.

Hey, he could maybe end up as great as them but...he hasn't done shit yet. Schilling had won a ring at Arizona. Pedro was a Cy Young winner at Montreal. Clemens was a prodigy(before Boston threw him out....opps).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/07 01:24 AM

Great, another one bites the dust

Mussina leaves start in third inning

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Yankees starter Mike Mussina was taken out of Wednesday's game at Minnesota three batters into the third inning.

After allowing consecutive hits to Luis Rodriguez and Alexi Casilla at the start of the inning, Mussina went to a 2-1 count against Luis Castillo, then motioned for someone to come from the dugout. Pitching coach Ron Guidry visited the mound, followed by a trainer and manager Joe Torre, and Mussina walked off after the brief conference.

There was no immediate word on what was wrong with Mussina, who is beginning his 17th major league season. He gave up a walk and a double in the first two innings against the Twins.

Source: Sports Illustrated
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/07 01:40 AM

Uh oh.

Random Yankee Fan: "Moose is gone! This means we can sign Santana in November!"
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/07 01:44 AM

Or Clemens in June
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/07 01:45 AM

Indeed. Indeed....

"George, if you want me in, I want the toupee."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/07 02:49 AM

THANK YOU Kyle Farnsworth for coming in and giving up 4 hits and 4 runs. Anyone else STILL missing Tom 'Flash' Gordon right about now?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/07 03:09 AM

Well, this day sucked for Yank fans.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/07 03:13 AM

What's the story on Mussina?

I think Clemens' price tag just went up.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/07 03:17 AM

Klydon, remember that money cheat code on the GTA games, where the money keeps going upwards for many minutes?

Thats Clemens right now.

I think we'll find out tomorrow about the Moose.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/07 05:25 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
This is enemy territory, but watching the Mariners/Red Sox game. The big deal is Dice-K facing off against old nemesis Ichiro Suzuki, who just happens to be one of the perennual best hitters in the game(nevermind AL MVP). So far Ichiro is rolling snake eyes against him, 0-2.

But what I dont get is, ESPN keeps comparing Dice-K's Fenway premiere in the same likeness of Clemens, SChilling, and Pedro.

Hey, he could maybe end up as great as them but...he hasn't done shit yet. Schilling had won a ring at Arizona. Pedro was a Cy Young winner at Montreal. Clemens was a prodigy(before Boston threw him out....opps).


I was flicking inbetween ESPN and YES last night...it's pretty clear that the whole baseball tonight crew wants to have Dice-K's love child...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/07 05:32 PM

This is the latest poop on Moose, according to Abraham's LoHud Yankee blog:

 Quote:


I have to make this quick because I am on deadline. But Mike Mussina seems to think that he will miss his next start but not go on the disabled list. Joe Torre said the same thing.

But the Yankees said that about Robinson Cano last year and he was out for nearly two months. Hamstrings are always worse than a team says at first.

Mussina is honest with the media and he said he didn’t think it was a big deal. For now, that’s what we have to go on.

Also, as I said a few weeks ago, Farnsworth is not a championship player. Walking the leadoff hitter on four pitches in a 1-1 game is inexcusable.


For those who would like to see a change of scenery for Farnsy - news is that Brad Lidge is available... ;\)

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/07 06:47 PM

I'd still rather have Flash Gordon. I wouldn't mind seeing some kind of trade between the Yankees and Philies involving Gordon AND Lieber. What do you think DJ?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 02:11 AM

The only good thing about this is that it's April and not August. Hey, I'm just trying to find the silver lining in a VERY big cloud!!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 03:11 AM

A-Rod making it look easy

OAKLAND -- Don Mattingly knows a thing or two about being locked in on an offensive tear.

It was 20 years ago that Mattingly's summer home run barrage thrilled Yankees fans, as the first baseman hit round-trippers in eight consecutive July games. The run remains a Major League record.

Now the Yankees bench coach, Mattingly watched this week as Alex Rodriguez went halfway to the big-league record, homering in four straight contests and doing so to all fields. Somewhere within that assault on American League pitching, Mattingly laughed and marveled at just how easy this all seems to come sometimes for A-Rod.

"For him, it takes a lot less than it took for me," Mattingly said. "When you're seeing the ball good, your confidence is just sky-high. You're not worried about getting behind in the count, you're laying off bad pitches, you're not swinging over strikes. When you're in that situation, everything seems like it slows down for you a little bit. Everything's going your way."

Rodriguez seems determined not to discuss his hot start in any terms of length, instead replying to inquiries with quotes that barely illuminate more than your average television highlight. Indeed, as he says, Rodriguez is seeing the ball well and hitting it where it is pitched.

But can it really be that simple?

"I think for him, it can be," said Yankees hitting coach Kevin Long. "What he's saying is that there's not a whole lot of thinking going on right now. He's up there seeing and reacting to it. By the pitches he's hitting -- fastball, curveballs, sliders, changeups -- it looks that way."

Rodriguez set a new Yankees record with six home runs in the first seven games of the season. Just one player, Phillies Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt, had hit more, slugging eight to open the 1976 campaign.

"When you're hot, there's really not a lot to think about," manager Joe Torre said. "You just react. A lot of times, when you're in a little bit of a slump, you over-try and start thinking about it. I think where he is now, he doesn't want to think about it, because it's working so well for him."

Rodriguez has credited his batting cage work with Long as a major reason for the historic start. Long said that Rodriguez has maintained much the same workout regimen from the first day of Spring Training, a seven-week period in Tampa, Fla., when those in uniform noted how much more comfortable and confident Rodriguez looked going into the season.

"I've been at peace for a while," Rodriguez said.

Long said that Rodriguez's daily routine has provided structure for Rodriguez, a player who thrives upon his preparation.

"He's diligent with his work," Long said. "He does it every day; it starts off with the tee, just working on staying square and staying short, and staying compact to the ball while using all fields."

Rodriguez's association with Long, the Yankees' first-year hitting coach, actually began during the winter months, when Long paid a visit to Rodriguez's Florida neighborhood. Catching up with the two-time MVP as he conducted some of his workouts at the University of Miami facilities, Long said the encounter was productive for both parties.

"That was a great opportunity for us to get a head start, not only on Spring Training but the season," Long said. "I think we're seeing some of those dividends. I think it's everything I expected. I know sometimes he's fought himself a little bit [in the past], but he hasn't fought himself at all."

Doug Mientkiewicz -- a teammate of Rodriguez's at Westminster Christian High School in Florida -- briefly stopped by the campus to work out with Rodriguez, or at least attempt to. What Mientkiewicz soon learned was that he could no longer keep up with the player who, in his youth, once served as a speedy, get-on-base leadoff man for Mientkiewicz to drive in.

"You can't really describe it," Mientkiewicz said. "The guy lived, ate and drank conditioning himself. He kills himself every winter, but I would say that the attention to detail this winter was insane. If I did that one day with him, I wouldn't have been able to walk for three weeks."

It's not just the frequency of Rodriguez's home runs that impresses observers. Perhaps even more importantly, Rodriguez has already shown the mind-set that he will hit the ball with authority to all fields, having already homered over every wall during his first eight games at Yankee Stadium and Minnesota's Metrodome.

"No question I'm a better hitter when I'm spraying the ball around," Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez's most memorable home run may have been his game-winning grand slam to dead center field in the Bronx on Saturday, bailing out an ineffective Kei Igawa from suffering his first Major League loss, but the Yankees have found reason to celebrate each and every deep drive.

"He's having fun and he's not forcing it," Mattingly said. "You see it all over -- everything about his game. It's just obviously one of those grooves right now."

In a first-inning display on Tuesday, Rodriguez went down and banished a Boof Bonser changeup to more than a dozen rows deep in the Metrodome's left-field seats, a drive that the former Twin Mientkiewicz opined was one of the three hardest-hit balls he'd ever seen in Minnesota.

Of those three, Mientkiewicz said, Rodriguez owned two.

"You can't pitch him one way, because he doesn't hit to one field," Torre said. "I think that's a big advantage. As a former catcher myself, those guys who hit balls all over the place, they really didn't give you any part of the plate to pitch to.

"I'm not saying he's always going to be this way, but when he's hitting right, it's really tough to find a soft spot. He doesn't have to hit the ball on the screws to do damage."

Torre has said that even Rodriguez's outs are loud, prompting Yankees players to wonder if each and every fly ball to the outfield is destined to clear the wall. It doesn't exactly work that way, of course, but even when Rodriguez doesn't homer, he's been productive, driving an extra-base hit in each one of New York's eight games -- and 11 straight dating back to last season.

Rodriguez did not homer in Wednesday's 5-1 loss, but he drove in the Yankees' lone run with a sacrifice fly and ripped a ground-rule double to left-center off Joe Nathan in the ninth inning.

But as Mientkiewicz said this week, Rodriguez doesn't always need to bash balls up the gaps to be impressive.

Rodriguez's best at-bat during the Minnesota series, Mientkiewicz believes, came in the eighth inning of New York's 10-1 blowout victory on Tuesday. Instead of swinging for the fences and trying to pad his stats, Mientkiewicz said Rodriguez "spit on" some subpar offerings and wound up trotting to first base with a walk.

"To me, that stuck out more in my head than the homers," Mientkiewicz said. "He gets that he's feeling good and he gets that it can change that quick. I talked to him about it: I said that I was more proud he didn't give that at-bat away than the home run you hit."

It isn't as though Rodriguez has never experienced an offensive tear before; no player bearing his career credentials would consider such a hot streak foreign territory.

But it is coming at a time when many are paying attention to Rodriguez, unwrapping the bow on a fresh Major League season and doing so in the spotlight of New York which suddenly has taken to -- once more -- shining favorably upon A-Rod.

As catcher Jorge Posada said earlier in the week, nobody wants to look away when Rodriguez is batting, for fear of missing the next memorable highlight.

"The scary thing is, I don't think he's locked in, full-tilt," Mientkiewicz said. "I guess I have higher expectations of him, but he's getting one hit a night. It happens to be a 700-foot home run, but I've seen him also where he's hitting balls gap-to-gap at will. I just look at it like he's having good at-bats right now."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 12:15 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I'd still rather have Flash Gordon. I wouldn't mind seeing some kind of trade between the Yankees and Philies involving Gordon AND Lieber. What do you think DJ?


The problem is how you would convince Philadelphia that it would be worth unloading Gordon (who is, unarguably, the better reliever) AND Lieber for what...Farnsworth? No. They'll want prospects. They'd want either Clippard, Whelan, or Sanchez, none of which the Yankees are willing to part with right now.

Our bullpen is still in great shape - Henn is fabulous (though he showed why they converted him to middle relief...he's terrible as a starter/long man), Proctor is decent, Myers is really, really good (even I am shocked), and Vizcaino looks to be the innings-eater as advertised. Bruney is fine as long as he has control.

Farnsworth is just one of the tools that Torre has to use, and it becomes more and more obvious that he can only be used every other game, for some reason. I don't know. I've actually heard rumours on some other boards that he is a drunk, and routinely gets trashed after every game (this comes from fans who frequent NY bars). I can't verify that, so I don't know. But it would explain why he can't pitch the next day - he gets himself loaded after a good outing, and has a wicked hangover the next day. Probably a bit hard to see the plate when you can't even see straight...

Then again, maybe he fatigues a great deal. I can't tell you. What I can tell you is that when he is on, he is really good. I can tell you that Lidge is on the wrong side of 30, and he is rapidly declining in the NL, which is a big steaming pile of red flags for us not to bring him to the AL (plus Houston would want Hughes and a bag of chips).

Gordon (and Lieber) could be an option but I would say not until the summer. If the Phillies are hot and really pushing in their division, no way they give up Flash. However, if they're really struggling, and need some BP help overall, I could see dropping a few guys (Karstens/Rasner/etc.) to get Gordon, but I really don't think it will happen, Irish.

Gordon is too good, and Philly is too good of a team to trade away their closer right now. Plus, Cashman is holding on to his prospects for big offseason deals or, according to the New Yankee Testament, to actually utilize them and make them into Yankees.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 01:54 PM

Well, considering how the Philly ship is sinking, Yanks could get Gordon in July.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 02:29 PM

Well, I guess we should root for the Mets then? \:p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 08:58 PM

Moose and Cashman seem to agree this is a tweak, and that he'll only miss his next start. That's the good news, as Moose pitched really well before he came out.

The bad news?

Darrell Rasner will take his spot in the rotation. \:x
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 09:04 PM

I read that this morning. However, the reporter reminded everyone that that's what they said about Cano's hamstring last year, and he was out for two months!! I hope that it's exactly what they're saying, and that he's back in the rotation ASAP. Btw, I heard that Hughes got his ass handed to him the last time he pitched.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 09:08 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Moose and Cashman seem to agree this is a tweak, and that he'll only miss his next start.


Where did Dr. Cashman get his medical degree? \:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 09:08 PM

Hughes is getting a real shock. Ever since he got rocked in Spring Training, I've really kind of questioned whether he has the tools. He's burned up A and AA, but I think he's got a rude awakening in AAA. I'm hoping to see him when Scranton-Wilkes Barre comes to play the Buffalo Bisons this summer. I'll give you my personal scouting report. \:D

But yeah, its good to have a wealth of pitching talent prospects...and it doesn't hurt to maybe sign Johan Santana, either. ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 09:10 PM

DJ, it certainly wouldn't hurt now, would it??
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 09:16 PM

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/schedule/index.jsp?sid=t422&m=06&y=2007

The Bisons play the Yankees four days in June, so hopefully Hughes will pitch. I can't wait. I'll go to every game for sure.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 09:19 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Hughes is getting a real shock. Ever since he got rocked in Spring Training, I've really kind of questioned whether he has the tools. He's burned up A and AA, but I think he's got a rude awakening in AAA. I'm hoping to see him when Scranton-Wilkes Barre comes to play the Buffalo Bisons this summer. I'll give you my personal scouting report. \:D

But yeah, its good to have a wealth of pitching talent prospects...and it doesn't hurt to maybe sign Johan Santana, either. ;\)


I have an office 5 minutes from the Scranton/WB stadium (the area where I was born and raised). My scouting report on Hughes:

He may not be tearinfg up the International League hitters, but he's going through cocktail waitresses like nobody's business. ;\)

Actually, I think the kid is keeping a low profile.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 10:27 PM

Surprise, Surprise!! I just saw on the news that Pavano will miss his next start because of a "strain in his forearm". WTF????
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/07 10:36 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Hughes is getting a real shock. Ever since he got rocked in Spring Training, I've really kind of questioned whether he has the tools. He's burned up A and AA, but I think he's got a rude awakening in AAA. I'm hoping to see him when Scranton-Wilkes Barre comes to play the Buffalo Bisons this summer. I'll give you my personal scouting report. \:D

But yeah, its good to have a wealth of pitching talent prospects...and it doesn't hurt to maybe sign Johan Santana, either. ;\)


I have an office 5 minutes from the Scranton/WB stadium (the area where I was born and raised). My scouting report on Hughes:

He may not be tearinfg up the International League hitters, but he's going through cocktail waitresses like nobody's business. ;\)

Actually, I think the kid is keeping a low profile.


Kind of surprising, because I heard he is married.

---

Yeah, SB, Joe confirmed on Mike and the Mad Dog today Pavano has a little tweak, but he'll start Tuesday. They're attributing it to him not pitching in like 2 years. Ugh. Oh well.

Lodger Cremens fee just went up by another million!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/07 12:04 AM

Wang to pitch Saturday

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- The New York Yankees' Chien-Ming Wang is scheduled to pitch Saturday in an extended spring training game, his first action since injuring his right hamstring while running on March 23.

Wang will likely throw around 50 pitches against Tampa Bay minor leaguers. The Yankees hope the 19-game winner will rejoin the major league team in late April.

A second injured starter, Jeff Karstens, is slated to pitch for Class-A Tampa on Monday night. He has been sidelined since experiencing right elbow stiffness during a spring training start March 25.

Wang and Karstens played catch and took part in fielding drills Friday at the Yankees' spring training complex.

Source: SI
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/07 01:25 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J


Kind of surprising, because I heard he is married.



Wade Boggs was married too.

I was going to school when the Margo Adams "scandal" broke in (I'm guessing)1987. The popular t-shirt in Fenway was ".333 Lifetime Average...and you thought it was the chicken."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/07 04:42 AM

Pavano scratched from Saturday's start

OAKLAND -- Before this month, Carl Pavano missed the last 1 1/2 seasons with a multitude of injuries and mishaps. A sore right elbow and forearm have become the newest additions to the Yankees right-hander's unwelcome collection.

Pavano has been informed that he has been scratched from his scheduled start Saturday at Oakland with what he called "muscle soreness" and what manager Joe Torre called "soft-tissue problems."

The issues popped up late in his start on Monday, when Pavano was New York's winning pitcher in an 8-2 decision over the Minnesota Twins.

"It was just a little tight," Pavano said. "I decided to say something because of what happened last year. I thought that was the best way to go about it, [to] just get it out there so they can take care of it."

Pavano said he noticed the tightness in his right elbow area during the final two innings of his appearance at Minnesota, logging his first big-league victory since May 2005. Pavano was economical in the outing, throwing just 79 pitches, but he surrendered a pair of doubles in the seventh inning and was relieved by Brian Bruney for the eighth.

Torre suggested that Pavano's long layoff may have had something to do with the injury. Pavano said that reasoning would make sense, and the Yankees -- for now -- are considering Pavano's setback a minor annoyance.

"We don't think it's something to worry about, but we're certainly going to keep a close watch," Torre said.

Right-hander Darrell Rasner will start Saturday in Pavano's place, with the Yankees aiming to push Pavano back to Tuesday against the Cleveland Indians at Yankee Stadium.

"As long as he feels it, even though it's not necessarily pain, we're going to take the safe way out," Torre said. "We hope by Tuesday that it won't be an issue."

Pavano had been receiving a treatment package that included muscle relaxers to relieve tension since earlier this week.

He threw on Tuesday and Wednesday in Minnesota, part of his usual long-toss routine, but said that he realized the elbow did not feel like he thought it should.

"I'd like to get out there on the mound and have it feel looser and better," Pavano said.

Pavano said that he did not expect to go for further tests, but said he would have preferred not to miss Saturday's start, especially given the state of the Yankees' rotation.

Ace Chien-Ming Wang has been sidelined since last month with a strained left hamstring, while right-hander Mike Mussina strained his left hamstring on Wednesday, with a disabled list assignment still considered to be possible.

"With the way things have gone with Chien-Ming and now Moose, yeah, it's disappointing," Pavano said. "I want to be out there. I think the wise course of action is [the way] we're going about [it]."

Source: Yankes
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/07 01:17 PM

What, did his arm fall off or something?

"Get da crazy glue!"
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/07 08:18 PM

Igawa showed flashes of brilliance last night...I was quite pleased.

Maybe Darrell Rasner will shock us all and pitch well.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/07 02:22 AM

Finally some good news:

Yanks' Wang throws hitless, scoreless five innings


TAMPA, Fla. -- Yankees right-hander Chien-Ming Wang didn't allow a hit over five scoreless innings in an extended spring training game Saturday.

It was Wang's first outing since he hurt his right hamstring while running on March 23. The 19-game winner last season is scheduled to pitch in another minor league game Thursday -- likely with Class-A Tampa -- and might rejoin the Yankees' rotation for a start April 24 at Tampa Bay.

"He's going to pitch one more time here and then we'll see what happens after that," Yankees vice president Billy Connors said. "He's almost right there."

Pitching against Tampa Bay minor leaguers, Wang struck out six and walked one. He threw 35 of 55 pitches for strikes.

"I thought it was very good for the first time out," Connors said. "He did a great job."

Wang struggled with his control early on, walking one and throwing seven of 14 pitches for balls during the first. He then struck out two in each of the next two innings.

"No problems," Wang said. "I felt stronger [each inning]."

Wang will play catch Sunday and is scheduled to have a bullpen session Monday.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/07 03:40 AM

Tied again. I can barely stay awake for these CA games, you think that they'd try not to go into extra innings.

I hope that Wang is as strong as is being stated.

Did anyone see that great catch that Jeter made, he flipped it to first, and then Phelps couldn't keep it in his glove. This sucks, but Posada's homeun provided an excellent sense of pride!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/07 03:50 AM

Notes: Farnsworth spots flaw

OAKLAND -- After he was lifted from Friday's game at McAfee Coliseum, Kyle Farnsworth immediately headed inside the Yankees' clubhouse to review game film.

It didn't ease the sting of a performance in which Farnsworth could not protect a lead for New York starter Kei Igawa, surrendering a game-tying home run to Nick Swisher, but at least Farnsworth might have a better idea of what he can do to fix the problem.

"I just need to get on top of the ball more," Farnsworth said. "I think I'm rushing myself a little too much. It's still early in the season, but it's something that I've got to get done right now. I don't want it carrying over."

Farnsworth, 31, is off to a shaky start this season, which is particularly troublesome because the Yankees believed they had found a way to better utilize the right-handed setup man.

By not using Farnsworth on back-to-back days, Yankees manager Joe Torre believed he could keep Farnsworth fresher and not run the risk of losing his availability to conditions like the persistent back spasms which nagged Farnsworth last season.

But Farnsworth -- who showed promise in Spring Training by compiling a 1.80 ERA in 10 relief appearances -- has not been able to make that early success translate to the regular season. In five appearances, his ERA is 10.38.

Torre said he spoke with Farnsworth before Friday's appearance and warned against trying to be too fine with his offerings. With a fastball that regularly clocks in the high 90s and has been known to touch triple digits, Farnsworth may simply not be leaving enough room for error.

"He's still having trouble locating," Torre said. "It'll come around, because physically he's fine. It's just a matter of finding that release point and groove, and being confident that it's going to find its way."

Farnsworth said that the adjustment is one that he has made before in his career, and that it does not require any tinkering in-between appearances.

Instead, Farnsworth said, he will warm up as usual when called upon and consciously make an effort to get on top of his pitches, trying not to drop his arm as he delivers.

That, he said, should cure the problem in a single day.

"Sometimes there's just something you try to overcompensate for and try to do too much," Farnsworth said. "The main thing is just not rushing and allowing myself to catch up."

Changing of the guard: With Doug Mientkiewicz mired in an 0-for-21 slump, Josh Phelps was given the start Saturday at first base, even though a right-hander -- Joe Blanton -- was on the mound for Oakland.

Torre said he took Mientkiewicz aside and explained the situation, saying that the move is not permanent. Mientkiewicz is batting just .125 in 24 at-bats and has not had a hit on this road trip.

"He certainly understands," Torre said. "In the next day or so, we'll get him back in there. Right now, he's fighting himself."

Meanwhile, Phelps said he has pleasant memories of facing Blanton, having gone against the hurler in his rookie season of 2005. Phelps has two doubles in four at-bats against Blanton, with six walks.

"I knew it was a possibility," Phelps said. "I figured one of these games here, I'd get in, just so I wouldn't get two series off in a row."

Comeback trail: Chien-Ming Wang pitched five scoreless, hitless innings in an extended Spring Training game against a roster of Devil Rays players Saturday in Tampa, Fla. It was his first rehab start as the right-hander makes his way back to New York's rotation from a strained right hamstring.

Wang threw 55 pitches, walking one and striking out six in the performance. He is scheduled to make his second rehab start on Thursday, which could come with Class A Tampa of the Florida State League.

"No problems," Wang told the Associated Press. "I felt stronger [each inning]."

Right-hander Jeff Karstens -- who hit the disabled list when right elbow tendinitis set in late during Spring Training -- is scheduled to pitch in a rehab game on Monday. Following that start, the Yankees will discuss the prospect of Karstens being activated to the Major League roster.

"Off of what he did in Spring Training, if the people who are watching him feel this is where he should be, we'd obviously take that advice," Torre said.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/07 03:54 AM

Glad to hear A-Rod homered again. Can you say AL MVP? Sure it's only 10 games into the season but he's never opened the season like this. It's good because we need the offense since our pitchers are going down faster than a rollercoaster. Why is it these guys continue to go down so much the past couple of years? Back in the "glory" days (1996-2001) our guys were there when we needed it. I know age plays into it (Andy Pettitte, Mike Mussina, Kevin Brown, Randy Johnson) but now even the younger guys are going down (Wang, Pavano, etc). I think there's something in the water or else it's something else. Watch Boston's rotation and see how long their starters (Schilling, Dice-K, Beckett, Wakefield and their 5th) are out compared to ours (Wang, Pettitte, Moose, Pavano and Igawa).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/07 01:25 PM

The Red Sox rotation faced the same situation last year. It happens. The Yankees have an old AND injury-prone rotation. Mussina is on the wrong side of 35. Pettitte is near ancient, and has had injury issues in the past. Pavano is the Crash Test Dummy...he can't go more than a start without getting a hangnail. Wang is just a kid, and his injury from last year and this year are unrelated, so its too early to tell, but he's probably the only stable workhorse in the rotation. Rasner and Karstens? They're really long relievers anyways, and both have had injury issues in the past.

That leaves Kei Igawa as the only true healthy, non-injury prone pitcher on our starting rotation at this point. Luckily, every game he seems to be edging closer to the control-freak we expected from the Japanese league. His curveball is increasingly nasty. That's good. We're going to need it.

---

A-Rod's performance is a God-send. If I'm not mistaken, he's very close to breaking Mattingly's eight home runs in eight games record. Good for Alex. We need it bad.

---

Hopefully Giambi has turned the corner now as well. Because the spotlight has been on A-Rod, everyone is ignoring Giambi's slow start, but his cannon was loaded for bear last night.

---

Phelps nor Mientkeiwicz are proving to be the answer at first. Yes, Eye-Chart has sparkling defense, we knew that coming in. But I really wonder if Cashman won't make some kind of deal for Richie Sexon before the All-Star break. That position is generating zero offense for us right now, and is the only major black hole in our lineup.

---

I read a line that said Melky is a starting outfielder in backup outfielders clothing. I don't think its true. I've never been impressed with his offensive production; he has very little patience of the plate, and doesn't demonstrate the power he carried through the minor leagues. He's a great fielder, no doubt, but maybe he needs to spend a bit of time with Mattingly to figure out how to develop a stroke. His average is a mediocre .179, and while his OPS isn't too bad for a backup outfielder (.399), it isn't good for an everyday player.

Someone get this kid some time in the batting cage.

---

Without a doubt, the Yankees have one of the best bullpens in baseball. I can't believe I'm saying that. And yes, that includes Kyle Farnsworth. 5 out of our 7 relievers have an ERA at or better than 1.29. Proctor and Farnsworth are the only two over (with 3.68 and 8.44, respectively).

Vizcaino has been a great pickup, and probably should be moved into the 7th/8th inning eater role. Mike Myers can pitch! Who knew? Sean Henn is 100 times the reliever he was the starter. It may have saved his career. Bruney is getting his control better. Proctor will come around. Mo is Mo.

Farnsworth is the only question mark, and we still have a number of minor league options, including Chris Britton, Kevin Whelan, Ron Villone, TJ Beam, and Chase Wright waiting in the wings.

---

Strange brew: Guess who has the highest batting average, slugging percentage, and OPS on the Yankees?

A-Rod? Nope.

Damon? Nope.

Posada? Nope.

Kevin Thompson.

Yeah. That guy.

Someone get him a uniform.

---

Wang is getting stronger (hence my new title) which bodes well for the rotation, particularly if he can get back in time for the Red Sox series.

---

A real pitching battle today. Rich "Dick" Harden is the new ace of the A's rotation now that Zito sailed for greener pastures (hah! pun), and he has done a good job thus far. Pettitte's ERA comes in under 2.00 and really is looking sharp as well. If you've missed the first two games of the series, this would be the one to watch. It should be a pitchers duel.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/07 10:58 PM


Freakin' Mo!

4-2 Yanks, 2 outs in 9th...
5-4 A's Final.
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/07 10:58 PM

Ouch....
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/07 11:30 PM

the irony is that he blew the save in the very same day of the #42 homage to Jackie Robinson.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/07 01:22 AM

 Originally Posted By: Tony Mosrite
the irony is that he blew the save in the very same day of the #42 homage to Jackie Robinson.


But its kind of irrelevant, since Mo always wears #42...

---

Well, I guess I called it in my previous post. Chase Wright is going to make his first MLB start, for better or worse. He's lighting up the Eastern League. Here's hoping he can just avoid getting rocked...

---

So, umm...I hope Roger Clemens phone is ringing?

---

Who better than Doug Mientkeiwicz Richie Sexon?

---

Mo didn't have his control today. It happens to the best closers. He looked sharp in his previous outings. It's nothing to worry about.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/07 03:26 AM

Hey, everyone has an off day, even Mo. However, it was still a very disappointing loss.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/07 11:42 AM

Especially disappointing considering we're near the basement of the Al East, and the Blue Jays (yes, Toronto...) are on fire.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/07 01:51 PM

On fire eh?

"Eyes
Boring a way through me
Paralyse
Controlling completely
Now
There is a fire in me
A fire that burns

This fire is out of control
I'm going to burn this city
Burn this city
If this fire is out of control
I'm gonna burn this city
Burn this city

This fire is out of control
I'm going to burn this city
Burn this city
This fire is out of control
I'm going to burn it

Then I
I'm out of control and I burn

Eyes
Burning a way to me
Overwhelm
Destroying so sweetly
Now
There is a fire in me
A fire that burns

This fire is out of control
I'm going to burn this city
Burn this city
If this fire is out of control
I'm going to burn this city
Burn this city

If this fire is out of control
I'm going to burn this city
Burn this city
If this fire is out of control

Then I
I'm out of control and I burn
Oh how i burn for you
Burn, oh how I burn for you
burn
how I burn
How I burn

This fire..."

Oh sorry, got carried away.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/07 02:14 PM

For those wondering about who the hell Chase Wright is...

2006 Florida State League Stats
 Code:
W	L	ERA	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	SO	GO/AO	AVG
12	3	1.88	37	14	1	 1       0	119.2	95	32	25	1	43	100	1.65	.218



2007 AA-Trenton States
 Code:
W	L	ERA	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	SO	GO/AO	AVG
1	0	0.00	2	2	0	0	0	14.0	4	0	0	0	1	19	2.29	.085



Yep, that's a 0.00 ERA folks. And, yes, this is that kid who held the Tigers lineup to 2 hits and 1 run 6.2 innings of a Spring Training game, which is why they are giving him the nod. He throws a low-90's fastball, a nasty changeup, and a decent curveball.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/16/07 04:55 PM

Yanks put Mussina, Pavano on DL

OAKLAND -- The Yankees' beleaguered pitching rotation suffered another major hit on Sunday, as right-handers Mike Mussina and Carl Pavano were both placed on the 15-day disabled list.

Both players were disabled retroactively, with right-hander Chris Britton joining the club from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to help a staff that entered Sunday having played two consecutive extra-inning games at Oakland.

The Yankees have announced that Double-A left-hander Chase Wright -- who leads the Eastern League with 19 strikeouts in 14 scoreless innings and is already on the 40-man roster -- will be recalled in time to start on Tuesday against the Indians, making a start that was envisioned to go to Pavano.

Mussina strained his left hamstring in the third inning of his appearance on Wednesday at Minnesota, and Pavano was scratched from a scheduled start Saturday due to stiffness in his right forearm.

The hurlers join a corps of walking wounded that includes right-handers Chien-Ming Wang and Jeff Karstens, who were expected to be members of the Yankees' starting rotation but suffered injuries in Spring Training and have not yet pitched in the Majors this season.

"You just find a way to get through it and deal with these things," Mussina said. "It's unfortunate, but you have to deal with what you have to deal with. Nobody's having surgery, nobody's out for three months. Nobody's having a situation like that. It's a couple of muscle pulls and a strain. It'll be fine."

The rash of injuries are especially striking because they involve Pavano, who missed the last 1 1/2 Major League seasons before finally progressing through Spring Training healthy and making two starts for New York this season.

"For one reason or another, these things happen," Pavano said. "I've been through this before. I've just got to keep working. We're going to get on top of this, and we'll do what it takes. I'm going to get back out there."

Pavano said that his right forearm began to tighten up in the final two innings of his start at the Metrodome on Wednesday, when he logged his first Major League victory since May 2005.

He suspects that one of the sidearm throws he made in the contest -- one on a double play of Joe Mauer in the first inning, and another on a pickoff throw to first base -- could have caused a strain in the muscular area between his elbow and forearm.

Pavano had been slated to pitch on Saturday at Oakland, but he was pushed back to allow the stiffness time to clear up, with an effort for Tuesday against the Indians in New York targeted. But with Pavano still reporting issues as of Saturday, the Yankees will need to find another starting pitcher for that contest.

"It's not where I want to be and not where I need to be," Pavano said. "It just doesn't feel good. It doesn't feel good to have a time like this when guys are going down. I need to be part of the staff, but it's not something that's going to get any better by going out there and trying to be a hero."

Both Mussina and Pavano tested their respective injuries early Sunday at McAfee Coliseum, but neither was pleased with the results each received.

Mussina performed some light running and briefly attempted to throw off a mound, but he stopped himself; Pavano performed long-toss and never even took the bullpen rubber, concerned that revving up his pitch velocity might cause further discomfort to what he believes is a muscular issue.

"I was going to take a shot and just go out there, and see if I got up on the mound and it loosened up," Pavano said. "It hasn't been responding the last three or four days the way I'd like it. Sometimes, a little bit more time would have taken care of that, and we gave it that little bit extra time. It's just not good enough."

Mussina said that he is able to play catch and throw, and all things considered, he believes his situation could have been a lot worse just four days after suffering the initial injury.

As a right-hander, the left leg affects Mussina's ability to stop, as he delivers on the mound's downward plane. Mussina said that if the situation progresses as much in the next four days as it did in the previous four, he would be in good shape.

"It's smarter to get rid of it and then go pitch," Mussina said. "We'll take our time and go do it right. If I can improve this much in the next four days, I'll feel pretty good.

"I don't want to come back to the beginning. I've made a lot of improvements. I don't want to start over."

The Yankees' rotation picture might begin to appear a little brighter in the coming days, as Wang moves closer to rejoining the Major League club.

Wang pitched five scoreless, hitless innings in an extended Spring Training game against the Devil Rays on Saturday and is scheduled to pitch for Class A Tampa on Thursday in a Florida State League contest. After that point, the Yankees will consider activating Wang, who suffered a strained right hamstring while performing conditioning drills on March 23.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/07 07:54 PM

Staff infection

Nobody has had a better first two weeks than Roger Clemens, whose price is probably up to $7 million a month now. (OK, maybe that's an exaggeration. But it certainly is escalating.)

With Mike Mussina and Carl Pavano on the disabled list, the Yankees are struggling to fill out their rotation, which now includes Double-A callup Chase Wright, who has a low 90s fastball, nice changeup and Hollywood name. Wright, who gets the call Tuesday night against the hard-hitting Indians, has wowed the Yankees with 19 strikeouts in 14 innings so far. Of course, those whiffs came in Trenton, which is an unimaginably long 77 miles from the Bronx.

If the Yankees are the favorites to land Clemens over the Red Sox and Astros -- and there seems to be momentum their way now -- it probably has something to do with their desperation. "We're going through a crisis right now because of the injuries,'' general manager Brian Cashman admitted on Monday.

The Yankees have tried to speed up Clemens' timetable, with no luck. They've also tried to enhance their chances, with George Steinbrenner issuing a personal invitation during spring, Robinson Cano switching from Clemens' No. 22 to 24 and many other little things, just the sort of things that impress Clemens, according to his friends.

The possible early working title for New York's season: From Crisis to Clemens.

They hope, anyway.

Cashman remains the most outwardly positive and patient GM in baseball (he actually asserted Monday he thinks Pavano is not a slacker and will return in a reasonable amount of time.) But even he's starting to wonder what's up, with three-fifths of their rotation on the disabled list. The only ones who aren't out are Clemens' buddy, Andy Pettitte, who suffered a back injury late in spring but is toughing it out, and Kei Igawa, who is unproven at the major league level.

The injury epidemic is such that there are even clubhouse whispers questioning the new training methods instituted by the just-hired duo of "performance enhancers.'' The question is being raised among uniformed personnel about whether the players did enough running in spring training. As to that claim, Cashman asserted that the team does everything "to the benefit'' of the player, but he added that he is investigating the cause-and-effect issue.

Of course, it takes no investigating to know that the Yankees need Clemens even more than before.

Cashman's defense of Pavano

One early effect of the latest spate of Yankees injuries is that the game-worn jersey of Pavano's that was on e-Bay this spring is increasing in value. It's easy to think Pavano, a man who didn't pitch for 643 straight days because of an unusual array of pains, will be out longer than projected. "I hope not. I can only go by what they tell me,'' Cashman said, asserting he doesn't believe that Pavano is disinterested in pitching for the Yankees.

"I never believed that. I never bought into that,'' Cashman continued. "I just think his body has prevented him from pitching. I know he's working hard.''

He may be working hard, but once again he isn't technically working. He's in his usual spot on the sidelines.

Source: SI
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/07 12:31 AM

Yankees are winning 8-2!! Hooray!!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/07 12:54 AM

I can't see the game because I don't get My9 or whatever it is in my local package from DirecTV. However, I'm watching on Gamecast, and though its a bit clinical, it *appears* that Wright is pitching his heart out (and possibly earning a spot in the rotation...)

Wow! A Wright that can pitch for the Yankees...it's unprecedented!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/07 01:07 AM

Well, through 5 innings, Chase Wright has allowed three runs, and struck out a few. He's getting great run support. Let's hope it continues! \:\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/07 01:50 AM

Well, it's 8-3, bottom of the 7th, 1 on, 1 out, Melky's up at bat, the count is 1-1.

And you are right about Wright. He did a very nice job.

Melky just got a single, btw.

Although we do get My9, there's something screwed up with the audio. We can only hear the crowd, and not the announcers.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/07 11:39 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Although we do get My9, there's something screwed up with the audio. We can only hear the crowd, and not the announcers.


Sometimes, that isn't necessarily a bad thing. I can't stand Michael Kay.

Too bad John Sterling is only on the radio...I'd rather here his calls than Kay's.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/07 12:19 PM

So, the Yankees bats finally come through, and in a big way. We've been waiting for a game like this all season long, and it couldn't have come at a better time - with a rookie on the mound - and against one of the better teams in the AL. If they can keep the ball rolling, it will be good momentum against the Red Sox in the series later this week.

---

Chase Wright who? Yeah. He's definitely above Philip Hughes in my book...he has the control, and the nasty strikeout pitches, to be a very effective major league pitcher. Granted, this was the first time that these hitters have seen him, but he did a good job to not get rattled.

Can we dump Pavano if this kid has a few more decent starts?

---

Daisuke Matsuzaka doesn't have spot-on control? What the fuck? No. It can't be. Hell has frozen over. Peter Gammons uterus has shriveled up. There shall be no Dice-K love child.

He had 10 strikeouts against the Blue Jays last night, but still managed to lose to...not Roy Halladay...not AJ Burnett...but Gustavo Chacin. There is no denying that Dice-K has filthy stuff. But he is also a walk machine in spots, since most MLB hitters are more patient than Japanese league hitters (which is why Matsui was so good there and had little problem adapting here).

I'm excited to face him, particularly if we have an Igawa-Matsuzaka face off. I'd rather see Wang, but since he's still DL'ed, that's the next best thing.

---

Who expected Mike Myers to be tied with an ML-leading ERA of 0.00? Is he on steroids or something (no longer a facetious comment in today's baseball, unfortunately)? Seriously though, he has developed into our left-handed setup man. It's amazing what happens when he isn't used as the LOOGY, and is used as a traditional lefty reliever in late innings.

---

It appears Jeff Karstens will get the start for the Yankees Saturday against the Red Sox. He had 3 hits, 5 strikeouts, and a walk over four innings in a rehab start for Class A Tampa. From what I've read, and what Torre has indicated, it looks like they're confident he can jump right back in and get the job done. Clearly, given the depth of the Yankees minor leagues, it says something that Torre is willing to give Karstens the nod.

---

Matsui is back and should be rolling as he makes some Class-A rehab starts this week. He seems to be progressing well, and should be back with the big club next week Monday against the Devil Rays.

---

Derek Jeter had a near webgem last night. His defense this season has you on a rollercoaster ride - it seems like plays he used to make in his sleep are like differential calculus, while the Gold Glove efforts are still as gorgeous as ever. What gives? Did he accidentally grab A-Rod's cup from the water cooler?

---

Igawa spelled backwards is 2winsinarowfortheYanks.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/07 02:55 PM

The announcers that Mr. Babe hates are the Fox announcers. He will actually mute the TV and put on the radio. Unfortunately, the radio is a few seconds ahead, which makes for an odd viewing experience, but anything is better than listening to Buck.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/07 08:08 PM

Congrats to you Yank fans a win against the Tribe.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/07 09:25 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
The announcers that Mr. Babe hates are the Fox announcers. He will actually mute the TV and put on the radio. Unfortunately, the radio is a few seconds ahead, which makes for an odd viewing experience, but anything is better than listening to Buck.


I have a similar experience with hockey...the OLN/Versus/NBC announcers are on crack...so I use the local radio to pick up the broadcast feed from our announcers.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/18/07 09:34 PM

Personally, my favorite duo are Joe Morgan and not John Sterling, but the other portly white man with white hair. His name escapes me now but they usually do games together for ESPN. Anyone else still miss Harold Reynolds too?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 01:33 AM

9 homers for A-Rod in 13 games. This is un-f*cking-believable! I'm so happy for him, he needs this right now. Any with his opt out clause being the talk of the season, his stock is rising even more. Igawa gave 6 good innings, lowering his ERA by only give up 2 runs (I'm still curious to see him pitch).
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 01:52 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Personally, my favorite duo are Joe Morgan and not John Sterling, but the other portly white man with white hair. His name escapes me now but they usually do games together for ESPN. Anyone else still miss Harold Reynolds too?
John Miller is the other guy. Joe Morgan is an exceptional analyst. I always learn some nuance from him.

An example. In a game with runners on first and second, nobody out and the team batting was trailing by three runs, a batter grounded a single to right and the third base coach held the lead runner on third.

Morgan immediately replied that they should have sent the runner as he almost certainly would have scored as the young right fielder came up throwing home. He made the excellent point that the ball was on the ground, the fielder was deep and needed a perfect throw to get him out and although he has a strong and over aggressive arm, he hadn't made a perfect throw in his time in the majors. In fact, the guy gunned it home over the head of the cut-off man and significantly off line.

By sending the runner home and drawing the throw home, you would then have the batter (the tying run) on second with nobody out, which meant that you could conceivably tie the game without a base hit and the other team had Gagne in the bullpen, which meant that this late in the game your opportunities to win were limited.

Sure enough, the trailing team ended up with the bases loaded and scored only two that inning and lost by one.

I was impressed by Morgan.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 01:56 AM

Yes, Morgan is very knowledgeable and has a great voice. John Miller was the name. Thanks klydon! Yes, those 2 are such a perfect combo.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 05:27 AM

Overlooked Hughes rebounds against Chiefs

Phil Hughes bounced back from a shaky outing and tossed six dominating innings as visiting Scranton/Wilkes-Barre blanked Syracuse, 4-0, on Wednesday.

Hughes (2-1) surrendered two hits and struck out 10 without a walk after yielding five runs in five innings against Richmond on April 12.

Needing a starter Tuesday to fill in for injured pitchers Carl Pavano and Mike Mussina, the Yankees bypassed Hughes -- their consensus No. 1 pitching prospect -- and awarded the spot start to fellow rookie Chase Wright.

If Hughes was disappointed by the decision, he didn't show it as he didn't allow a baserunner to get in scoring position and retired 15 batters in a row before Russ Adams' sixth-inning single. It was the first time Hughes had fanned 10 batters since a June 23 game against Connecticut.

Andrew Beattie ripped a two-run single in the fourth inning, and Alberto Gonzalez lifted a sacrifice fly in the fifth. Chris Basak scored on a wild pitch in the ninth for the Yankees (7-4).

Mike Vento and Kevin Barker each had two hits for Syracuse (4-7).

Chiefs starter Dustin McGowan (0-2) yielded three runs -- two earned -- on four hits and five strikeouts in five frames.

Source: MILB
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 05:28 AM

A-Rod's tear continues in win

NEW YORK -- Alex Rodriguez's blistering April has progressed to the point where even his teammates aren't sure what to make of it.

Rodriguez slugged his Major League-leading ninth home run Wednesday, helping cushion Kei Igawa to his first Major League victory as the Yankees pulled off a 9-2 drubbing of the Cleveland Indians.

For his part, Rodriguez has remained cool, perhaps not wishing to interrupt a terrific run that has taken him to the periphery of the record books.

"I'm just feeling good," Rodriguez said. "Even when I get myself out, I know exactly what I did. I can't wait to get up there and fix it."

Rodriguez said he hasn't smiled this much since the birth of his daughter, Natasha, who was born in Nov. 2004. That's a pretty good stretch of time, and now that Rodriguez is simultaneously grinning and hitting, his teammates seem to be enjoying the run just as much.

"These are the times you dream about as a player," Jason Giambi said. "He's getting no cheapies. It's great to see, and I'm glad he's started out like this. For him, it's got to be exciting."

While Rodriguez maintains there is no secret behind his hot streak, the third baseman has hit safely in all 13 of New York's games this season and leads the Majors with 23 RBIs. He is just five homers shy of equaling the big-league record for the month of April, set last season by Albert Pujols.

"I don't know how you do it," said Derek Jeter, who had three of the Yankees' 14 hits Wednesday. "He's as hot as I've seen a player. Everything he hits is a home run. When he makes outs, he hits it hard. All he has to do is make contact, and it seems like it's going out."

Rodriguez and Giambi provided the long ball portion of the Yankees' attack, going back-to-back against relievers Tom Mastny and Aaron Fultz, respectively, in a three-run sixth inning.

After a slow start, Giambi has now reached base in nine of his last 13 plate appearances, a stretch that includes two home runs and a double.

The improved performance may be part weather -- Giambi said the trip to more favorable atmospheres in Minnesota and Oakland helped him -- but credit may also be due to a small tweak Giambi has made, leveling out his swing.

"I'm just making a few adjustments, working on things," Giambi said. "I started out and got a few hits, then went cold a little bit. It's starting to come together at a good time, especially as hot as Alex is, to give him some pitches in front of me."

The heart of the Yankees' damage against Cleveland pitching occurred in the third, as New York sent 10 men to the plate in an inning -- doing so for the second consecutive evening.

This time, the brunt of the barrage came against Indians starter Jeremy Sowers, who faced nine batters in the third inning and was lifted after just 2 2/3 frames, charged with six runs and nine hits. Five Yankees had run-scoring hits in the frame.

The outbursts provided more than enough support for Igawa, who recorded his first Major League victory and took home the lineup card as a congratulatory gift from manager Joe Torre.

Top to bottom, the Yankees' order serves as a reminder of what backed him to a 'W' on Wednesday, but it also is a comforting thought for Igawa's future contests.

"I have the best lineup in the world," Igawa said through an interpreter. "I'm very happy to have that."

Making his third start and coming off a solid 5 1/3-inning effort his last time out at Oakland, Igawa allowed two runs in the third inning, surrendering run-scoring hits to Jason Michaels and Travis Hafner.

But Igawa -- who came into this season as a great unknown and has seen his role take on added importance with injuries to veterans Chien-Ming Wang, Mike Mussina and Carl Pavano -- made good use of his changeup and curve, to keep the Indians off balance.

"Right now, he's got it together, as far as I'm concerned," Torre said.

Igawa kept the Tribe off the board in five other frames before Scott Proctor and Sean Henn followed with scoreless innings. Chris Britton polished off Cleveland with a blank ninth.

Pitching coach Ron Guidry said that he noticed Igawa threw fewer pitches in his bullpen session on Wednesday, cutting off his pregame workout after apparently finding the proper feel on his changeup.

Guidry said that he would remind Igawa of that fact when he prepares for his next outing, but Guidry believes that Igawa's biggest obstacle will be continue to be learning American League hitters and adjusting on the fly.

Igawa said he was unfamiliar with the Indians lineup until he saw them in action against rookie Chase Wright on Tuesday, and it would figure that his added and continued exposure could only help him gain comfort in his new surroundings.

"He might develop into the guy that we think he's going to be," Guidry said. "But that's going to take some time."

Good news for Yankees fans: Igawa, who has already drawn attention for a devoted work ethic, only seemed mildly satisfied with the effort, in which he scattered five hits, walked one and struck out five, but also threw a wild pitch and hit a batter.

"This is considered my minimum," Igawa said. "There is still room for improvement."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 12:00 PM

Igawa looked great last night, I was really impressed with him. He's (hopefully) turning into a stable backend of our rotation, and come up with a strikeout in a big situation.

---

So, which Yankee is going up against Dice-K on Sunday?

Mmmhm. Chase Wright. Sure, there is no one else who fit in with the rotation schedule, but can you imagine Every Sox Player Nationwide going ape shit if this kid was able to get a no-decision or even a win against the immortal Dice-K? I would buy a Chase Wright jersey straight away. Also, the Red Sox lineup (arguably) isn't as dangerous right now as the Indians one has been that we are facing, so that seems to be a good sign for Wright. Plus, he seems to have a nice pitch to get lefty's out - that hot change.

---

A-Rod strikes again. Whoop. Who let the dogs out. Who. Who. Who.

---

Giambi is no longer Cecil Fielder. Congrats. Hopefully he finally has got his power stroke back that he had during Spring Training. This weather has been shitty (poor Indians have had the worst effects, with games snowed out), but I think he may have turned the corner. With Matsui coming back, the 4-5-6-7 hitters should be amazingly strong, with A-Rod, Giambi, Matsui, and Cano/Posada really packing a punch.

---

By that same token, that backend of the Yankee lineup has looked decent on paper, but up until now, has fizzled and been mediocre at best. Melky Cabrera seems to have absolutely no clue what to do with the bat. Eye-Chart had a nice home run the other day, but he was still 1 for 20-something before that. Josh Phelps has been more consistent, with a couple of nice hits last night.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 02:05 PM

I like Igawa's attitude. This is my minimum.

I hope that Chase Wright does well. Man, oh man, why don't they just soak him in BBQ sauce, tie a pork chop around his neck, and toss him into a pit of wild dogs?? He was quoted as saying he's never even BEEN to Fenway. Well, he's going to be there in a big way in a few days!!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 08:47 PM


PANDEMONIUM IN THE BRONX!!!!

A-ROD WALK-OFF GAME WINNING HOMER!!!!!

WOOT!!
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 08:49 PM

If A-Rod had Jeter's start and vice-versa, they'd have publicly flogged him out by the monuments by now.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 08:55 PM

A-Rod does it AGAIN! GULP! Good for him!! I thought the game was over because I checked the box score and it was 5-2 in the 8th (Vizcaino gave up the 4 runs). This is A-Rod's year guys (and they both occured in Da Bronx)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 09:18 PM

Notes: Pettitte ready for Fenway fanfare

NEW YORK -- With the Yankees' first trip this season to Fenway Park looming, rookie left-hander Chase Wright pulled Andy Pettitte aside on Thursday morning, picking the veteran's brain about an assortment of Boston-related topics.

The role of trusted veteran voice has been a constant and accepted one this year for Pettitte, who has fit right back in with the Yankees after three campaigns in the National League. He will receive his official reintroduction to the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry in a start on Friday.

Though Pettitte was always considered to be an intense competitor on the field and generous with his time off of it, Yankees manager Joe Torre said that he has noticed a change in Pettitte's second New York go-round.

"The fact that he has taken on this role of 'mentor,' so to speak, it's a little different for him," Torre said.

"He looks around and sees where he can help someone. He doesn't do it in an arrogant way. He does it in becoming a friend or a counselor, or whatever that person happens to need. Andy's very aware of the clubhouse and the atmosphere."

Pettitte said he has enjoyed pitching at Fenway Park, where he is 5-2 with a 2.98 ERA in 10 regular-season games (nine starts).

He tried to impart that knowledge on Wright, and planned to do so again with Saturday's scheduled starter, rookie Jeff Karstens, opining that the most important piece of competing in the craziness of the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry is to simply block it out.

"It's all about trying to control yourself," Pettitte said. "It's going to be a different environment, and if you get all wrapped up in who's at the plate or whatever, you can get distracted and that causes more problems.

"The best advice I can give them is to be oblivious to what's going on. No matter what happens, you've just got to continue to try and make quality pitches. That's all you can do. If you look at it from that standpoint and remember we've got a pretty doggone good team behind us, you don't have a lot to worry about."

Asked if he had a favorite memory from his contests at Fenway, Pettitte first pointed to a 1996 matchup against Roger Clemens -- the second-to-last game of the season, and Clemens' final performance in a Boston uniform -- before chuckling and recalling the incident between Don Zimmer and Pedro Martinez in the 2003 ALCS.

"It's always fun," Pettitte said. "I'm looking forward to getting back there and getting involved in it again."

Though Pettitte faced the Red Sox twice in that 2003 postseason, winning ALCS Game 2 and taking a no-decision in Game 6, both of his performances were at Yankee Stadium.

His last start in Boston was back on Sept. 5, 2003, when Pettitte suffered a loss and didn't make it out of the third inning. He said he is looking forward to facing a Red Sox lineup that has changed quite a bit since Aaron Boone delivered the final crushing blow to end that thriller series.

The names may have changed, but the passion and vigor of the hometown fans probably haven't. Pettitte said he had no idea if that was true, but said, "I guess I'll find out."

When you're hot, you're hot: Torre said he could relate a small amount to Alex Rodriguez's recent run of success, in which some of his teammates have marveled that every swing seems to produce a home run.

That may be exaggerating the case, but Rodriguez dug down and cranked a two-run homer Wednesday on a Tom Mastny offering that was low and out of the strike zone.

Thinking back to his 1971 season for St. Louis, when Torre batted .363, the manager said he could appreciate the feelings Rodriguez must be having right now.

"You go to sleep at night, and you know who you're facing the next day," Torre said. "You know what pitch you're going to hit off this guy. That's the way I went to sleep."

Rodriguez entered play Thursday leading the Major Leagues with nine home runs and 23 RBIs. Torre said he believes Rodriguez is having more fun and is more comfortable, thoughts that have been echoed by the third baseman.

"He's put in his time here," Torre said. "He's taken criticism, he's gotten a lot of attention, and he got a little worn down last year. Hopefully his energy will stay where it is."

Waiting for delivery: Torre is mildly surprised that Melky Cabrera hasn't responded offensively to his extended playing time, assuming the role of regular left fielder while Hideki Matsui mends a strained left hamstring.

Matsui is working out at the Yankees' Spring Training facilities in Tampa, Fla., and is on target to rejoin the club Monday at Tropicana Field. It will be an easy decision for Torre to reinsert Matsui to the starting lineup and relegate Cabrera to a reserve role.

Cabrera went 1-for-4 in the Yankees' victory Wednesday but carried just a .180 average into play Thursday, and part of the reason has been an inclination to become too pull-happy.

"I think if we can keep him in the middle of the field, he'll have success," Torre said.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 09:23 PM

My Jeter can do no wrong, PB! Don't you know that by now?

Good for ARod. And all those fans who were booing him last year (OK, the last few years), didn't they realize how much harm they were doing to him AND the team?? Maybe getting the whole "Jeter and I aren't friends any more" thing off his chest, which seemed so ludicrous at the time, really helped? Who knows? Who cares? Let him just keep coming through in the clutch!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 10:04 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Vizcaino gave up the 4 runs


Makes you appreciate Farnsworth, eh? \:p

Great job A-Rod. Can't wait to see if we can get a leg up on Boston and improve our standings in the AL East.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 10:18 PM

Just wanna save this \:D

Yanks down 2-6 going into bottom of 9th...

New York - Bottom of 9th Score
CLE NYY
Blibbleblabble's Borowski relieved R Betancourt. 62
R Cano flied out to center. 62
M Cabrera grounded out to shortstop. 62
J Phelps homered to left. 63
J Posada singled to center. 63
J Posada to second on fielder's indifference. 63
J Damon walked. 63
JG's Jeter singled to left, J Posada scored, J Damon to second. 64
B Abreu singled to left, J Damon scored, D Jeter to second. 65
D Jeter to third, B Abreu to second on wild pitch by J Borowski. 65
JG's A Rodriguez homered to center, D Jeter and B Abreu scored. 68

6 Runs, 5 Hits, 0 Errors

All that with 2 outs in the bottom of the 9th \:\)

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/07 10:35 PM

Phelps too shows why its a good thing Eye-Chart isn't the only one who can play 1B... \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/07 03:08 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Vizcaino gave up the 4 runs


Makes you appreciate Farnsworth, eh? \:p


No it doesn't. It makes me afraid of the pen actually. But seriously, I've heard Vizcaino had been reliable prior to today's game so let's just hope it was one bump in the road and he can learn and move on from here (unlike Farnsworth).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/07 03:10 AM

A-Rod makes AL history with tear

NEW YORK -- Derek Jeter cautions that Yankees fans shouldn't get too used to seeing Alex Rodriguez homer on a daily basis, but then again, even the guys in pinstripes are starting to become a bit spoiled.

The Yankees have played 14 games this season and Rodriguez has homered in nine of them, leaving observers to wonder this after the odd games when A-Rod doesn't homer: What happened?

"Everyone should enjoy it, because I don't know if we'll see it happen again," Jeter said.

With his game-winning, three-run home run off Cleveland's Joe Borowski on Thursday, Rodriguez boarded the Yankees' charter flight to Boston as the first player in American League history to homer 10 times in his club's first 14 games.

The historic barrage has left Rodriguez leading the Major Leagues in home runs and RBIs (26), while having hit in all of the Yankees' first 14 games in 2007 -- plus three more at the end of 2006 for a 17-game streak.

His shot to sink Cleveland was the All-Star's second game-winning blast of the young season, having also cracked a walk-off grand slam off Baltimore's Chris Ray on April 7 in New York.

"I'm just trying to keep it simple," Rodriguez said. "I've been telling you [reporters] for seven or eight weeks, since down in Tampa, I'm feeling pretty good."

Rodriguez's home runs have come off lefties and righties, starters and relievers, to all fields, early in games and late, in close situations and in blowouts.

One season after Rodriguez stressed over criticism that he couldn't come up in certain situations, he's pretty much handled all of them early in 2007.

"I'm just trying to enjoy the moment," Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez started his whirlwind campaign with an eighth-inning home run off Tampa Bay's Juan Salas on Opening Day, providing extra cushion for New York's April 2 victory.

In his only multihomer game of the season to date, Rodriguez reached Orioles pitching twice on April 7, tagging Steve Trachsel in the first inning for a two-run shot and then capping his afternoon with the memorable grand slam off Ray in the ninth.

A-Rod's very next at-bat brought another home run and a curtain call, as he reached Orioles lefty Erik Bedard for a two-run shot in the first inning on April 8.

Rodriguez homered three times in the Yankees' sweep of the Tribe, reaching Jake Westbrook on Tuesday, Tom Mastny on Wednesday and finally Borowski on Thursday.

Rodriguez maintains that he feels at peace and has since early in Spring Training, which helps him keep his mind clear as he continues to be arguably the most dangerous hitter in the Majors.

His mechanics are firmer, as well, as Rodriguez worked with hitting coach Kevin Long extensively over the winter. The duo eradicated a leg kick and helped the leaner, more muscular A-Rod shorten his swing and simply meet the ball.

So far, the combination has proven lethal.

"It's what Alex is capable of," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "You talk about the sky is the limit -- he's just got incredible ability. He's basically letting it speak for itself."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/07 03:11 AM

Yankees' newest video: 'A-Rod Gone Wild!'

Nah. Can't be. Alex Rodriguez hit another home run? Wait-not just another dinger, but another walk-off, drama-king homer that traveled almost as far as the quickie charter flight the New York Yankees took to Boston immediately after Thursday afternoon's come-from-behind victory.

This time A-Rod sent a nothing pitch from a one-time Maidenform bra factory worker into the far reaches of Yankee Stadium. One moment the pitch was leaving the right hand of Cleveland Indians closer Joe Borowski, who took the mound in the bottom of the ninth with a 6-2 lead. The next moment the ball was clearing the center-field wall, the Yankees were celebrating another improbable victory, and Rodriguez was taking a dugout curtain call after his mind-boggling 10th home run in just 14 games.

As the Yankees prepare for the first of six series meetings with the division-leading Red Sox, there is absolutely no disagreement as to why New York is 8-6 rather than the other way around, or worse. They are being carried on the previously fragile shoulders of Rodriguez, who is shoving Barry Bonds, Dice-K, the Philadelphia Phillies Phree-fall-and anyone else to temporary baseball irrelevancy.

A-Rod leads the big leagues in homers, RBIs, and Standing Ovations. His 10 dingers are only four shy of the April record set by Albert Pujols a season ago. With just 10 games remaining in April, I'd say he has no chance at the 20-home run month set by Sammy Sosa in June of 1998, but apparently this is the new and ungodly improved Rodriguez.

Of course, the only reason he made it to the plate in the bottom of the ninth Thursday was because Borowski ralphed on himself. The likeable, blue-collar reliever retired the first two Yankees hitters and then gave up a so-what homer to Josh Phelps. But then came a single by Jorge Posada, a Johnny Damon walk, a Derek Jeter single, a Bobby Abreu single, and then the 3-run A-Rod rocket launch.

I'm sure with first base open, Indians manager Eric Wedge had his reasons for pitching to the planet's hottest hitter. The book says take your chances on the righty-righty matchup between Borowski and A-Rod, rather than walk him and face lefty Jason Giambi, who had homered three innings earlier. But Rodriguez is rewriting every page of every scouting report these days.

As Rodriguez rounded third base he tossed his batting helmet and then prepared for another stomp on home plate. The first player to stake a spot in the celebration was none other than Yankees captain Jeter, whose relationship with A-Rod has been a tiny bit strained at times. But Jeter is about Ws, championship rings and victory parades. And right now, nobody on the Yankees is doing more to make that a reality than Rodriguez.

Think about it: the Yankees are down three starting pitchers-Carl Pavano, Chien-Ming Wang and Mike Mussina. But yet, the Yankees are only a game behind the Red Sox. They arrive at Fenway Park on a three-game win streak.

Red Sox followers can and will hate the Yankees, but they can't dismiss Rodriguez's numbers. A-Rod is slowly dispelling the assorted criticisms that have stuck to him like a wad of gum. For instance:

You can get inside A-Rod's head.

Not right now, you can't. The guy is locked in. At Thursday afternoon's end, he had more home runs this season than Bonds, Pujols and Ryan Howard combined. He's playing like the kid in his athletic wear commercial. Poor Borowski, who had already thrown 29 pitches by the time A-Rod arrived in the batter's box, didn't know what to do with him. So he threw and hoped. Didn't work. And did you notice A-Rod didn't go into a funk after going hitless his first four at-bats and then committing a ninth-inning throwing error that resulted in an Indians' run.

Who cares if he's Mr. April? We want to see Mr. October.

Look, without A-Rod's April, there might not be a Yankees October. Every win counts, including the ones during the first month of the season. Rodriguez has already hit two walk-off homers. Is that any good?

Plus, you get the feeling that A-Rod isn't sweating the small stuff as much. He's heard the rip jobs about his postseason nightmares. But he can't do anything about October until, well, October. For now, he does the Roy Hobbs thing in April.

Rodriguez isn't going to keep this up. If he does, he'll finish with 116 homers and 301 RBIs. I guarantee you, Hank Aaron will fly cross-country to see that.

Whatever happens, A-Rod has become the most compelling story of an infant baseball season. Now he gets to deal with the Red Sox and the always delightful Boston fans, who will welcome Rodriguez and the Yankees with open jeers.

Something tells me A-Rod won't mind them at all.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/07 03:12 AM

Mr. April

NEW YORK (AP) -- Alex Rodriguez kind of chuckled, and declared the best thing about his game-winning homer Thursday was trying to hit Yankees coach Larry Bowa in the head as he rounded third.

Yes, Rodriguez is one happy superstar right now, and the Yankees are winning because of it.

Rodriguez hit a three-run homer that capped a comeback from a four-run deficit with two outs in the ninth inning, giving the New York Yankees an 8-6 victory over the Cleveland Indians that completed a three-game sweep.

By homering for the third straight game, Rodriguez increased his major league-leading totals to 10 homers and 26 RBIs. His latest drive came after he went hitless in his first four at-bats and committed a throwing error that allowed the Indians' final run to score.

"It's just fun," Rodriguez said. "It's going out and not trying to do too much, and help the team win."

A-Rod connected on a belt-high pitch from Joe Borowski (0-1) and sent the ball soaring to center. Rodriguez knew immediately it was gone, flipping his bat toward the Yankees' dugout and raising both hands in triumph.

He slapped the hands of Bowa after rounding third, then slammed his helmet to the ground.

"It's what Alex is capable of," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "He's got such incredible ability and now he's letting it speak for itself."

Sean Henn (1-0) pitched one inning, following Chase Wright and Kei Igawa to become the third Yankees rookie in three games to get his first major league win. That hadn't happened since Norm Branch, Charlie Stanceu and Steve Peek did it from May 20-22, 1941, according to Elias Sports Bureau.

The Yankees (8-6), two games over .500 for the first time this season, headed to Boston for their first trip to Fenway Park since they won five straight there in one series in August. Andy Pettitte opposes Boston right-hander Curt Schilling in the opener of the weekend series Friday night.

"We needed this win going to Boston," Rodriguez said. "Every game in Boston is a war."

Rodriguez matched Albert Pujols (last year) and Luis Gonzalez (2001) for the second-fastest to 10 homers behind Mike Schmidt (12 games in 1976), according to Elias. A-Rod is the first player with two game-ending homers this early in the season since Philadelphia's Pat Burrell had two in the first nine games in 2002.

"You enjoy it. You appreciate it. I can't relate to it," Yankees captain Derek Jeter said. "You'll never see me do it. It's fun to watch. Like I said, it hasn't been done. No one's ever done it so everyone should enjoy it because I don't know if you'll see it happen again."

With the Yankees trailing 6-2, Borowski relieved to start the ninth and retired the first two batters. Three times, he came within one strike of sealing a win, but couldn't get the job done.

"They hit everything," Borowski said. "They got locked in."

Josh Phelps started the comeback with his first homer since May 27, 2005, for Tampa Bay against Seattle.

Jorge Posada singled on a 2-2 pitch, Johnny Damon walked with a full count, and Jeter slapped an RBI single to left. Bobby Abreu, down 1-2 in the count, poked an opposite-field run-scoring single to left for his fourth hit.

That brought up A-Rod, who hit a game-ending grand slam against Baltimore with two outs in the ninth for a 10-7 victory on April 7. Borowski started him with a wild pitch in the dirt, and Rodriguez deposited his next offering into the Yankees bullpen, extending his hitting streak to 19 games dating to last season.

Borowski said the Indians decided not to walk Rodriguez with first base open after the wild pitch because Jason Giambi was in the on-deck circle. Giambi had homered for the second consecutive game earlier.

"The at-bat got a little more confusing with the wild pitch," Rodriguez said. "We really didn't know what was going to happen but I was in the moment, just wanted to hit a ball hard somewhere."

Victor Martinez hit a three-run homer, and David Dellucci homered and drove in two runs for the Indians, who were swept in a three-game series at Yankee Stadium for the first time since July 2002. Travis Hafner had three hits and went 8-for-12 in the series.

"It's a tough loss, obviously," Indians manager Eric Wedge said. "You get two outs and the four-run lead and they keep stringing hits together. They are swinging good right now."

Rodriguez's hit cost Fausto Carmona what would have been his first victory since he beat Detroit in his major league debut on April 15, 2006. Carmona allowed two runs and six hits in six innings.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/07 11:46 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Vizcaino gave up the 4 runs


Makes you appreciate Farnsworth, eh? \:p


No it doesn't. It makes me afraid of the pen actually. But seriously, I've heard Vizcaino had been reliable prior to today's game so let's just hope it was one bump in the road and he can learn and move on from here (unlike Farnsworth).


Well, Vizcaino has been great until yesterday.

But Farnsworth pitched well too.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/07 11:49 AM

I was reading some comments on the news stories on Every Sox Player Nationwide. I love how the BoSox fans are like, "A-Rod should learn how to celebrate, he acts like he never hit a homerun before, blah blah blah."

I had been critical of the Tigers last year after they had a big overtime win against the Yankees with a huge celebration, but I think this is a bit different. A-Rod has been so anti-clutch that now when he comes through, it really is a big deal. Plus, unlike the Tigers, this was in Yankee Stadium, so the reaction is a bit heightened. Oh well.

BTW - Not only did A-Rod pass Manny on the HR list, Manny has taken this long just to hit his first homerun this season, against the Blue Jays, yesterday.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/07 01:45 PM

BTW - Yankees #2 or #3 pitching prospect (and the one thought most Major League ready by scouts) Humberto Sanchez, acquired in the Gary Sheffield deal, is out for the season after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his pitching arm. \:\/
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/07 08:47 PM

From Mike and the Mad Dog - Darrell Rasner has been optioned down to AAA Scranton, and the Yankees have called up Colter Bean.

Ugh.

http://freecolterbean.com/default.aspx
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/07 11:28 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
BTW - Yankees #2 or #3 pitching prospect (and the one thought most Major League ready by scouts) Humberto Sanchez, acquired in the Gary Sheffield deal, is out for the season after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his pitching arm. \:\/


It's alright, Sheffield hasn't panned out that well either as a DH. Currently he's hitting .132 with 1 HR and 5 RBI. However, these numbers will skyrocket before the season ends.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/20/07 11:52 PM

Anyone watching the Boston game? The Red Sox look ridiculous. I know they're wearing the Celtic's colors for Red what's-his-name, but the green shirts together with the red socks and the white pants??? My husband said that they look like Christmas elves or like they should be baking cookies in a tree!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 12:07 AM

Yeah I'm watching it. I didn't know it was on ESPN. WOO HOO, GO YANKS!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 12:07 AM

A-ROD!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 12:08 AM

A-ROD HOMERS AGAIN! F*CK YOU SCHILLING
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 12:10 AM

Good for ARod and good for the Yankees. I know it's only the 4th inning, but 2-0!! NICE!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 12:44 AM

A-RODDDDDDDDDDDDDD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 12:49 AM

Geez, I thought that Coco Crisp got hurt when he tried to catch that. An A-Bomb from ARod!!!
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 02:28 AM

The Red Sox win! THE RED SOX WIN!
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 02:30 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
The Red Sox win! THE RED SOX WIN!


Predictable, funny, but predictable.... ;\)

You forgot to tell the Opposing Pitcher F U though \:\/
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 02:36 AM

 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

You forgot to tell the Opposing Pitcher F U though


I'll save that for others to do.

I'm somewhat of an old-timer... I still remember when the season started around the 10th (of April)... I'm AMAZED that as of the 20th, A-Rod has 12 homers!!??!! \:o
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 02:51 AM

The thing I find funny is that even with 12 homers and 2 walk offs, if he strikes out again in the 9th he'll go back to being the most hated man in America lol
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 02:53 AM

Thats part of making $250 million.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 02:56 AM

How the f*ck did they blow that game?
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 06:50 AM


Rivera ...again!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 12:13 PM

 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone
 Originally Posted By: SC
The Red Sox win! THE RED SOX WIN!


Predictable, funny, but predictable.... ;\)

You forgot to tell the Opposing Pitcher F U though \:\/


Yes, some people have no class or sportsmanship.
They think it is a sign of being a great fan.
It makes real fans shake their heads because it insults rather then cheers on our team.
It surely doesn't show respect for our players or the other teams players who are some of the best in the game.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 01:25 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

Rivera ...again!


Cashman was right. Rivera may have lost something this year. This could be the end of Mo.

Obviously, he has the benefit of the doubt in my book, but it is an aberration to blow saves against two less-than-average hitters.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 03:35 PM

All great things come to an end...Rivera's definitely on the decline.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 03:54 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone
 Originally Posted By: SC
The Red Sox win! THE RED SOX WIN!


Predictable, funny, but predictable.... ;\)

You forgot to tell the Opposing Pitcher F U though \:\/


Yes, some people have no class or sportsmanship.
They think it is a sign of being a great fan.
It makes real fans shake their heads because it insults rather then cheers on our team.
It surely doesn't show respect for our players or the other teams players who are some of the best in the game.


So I don't like Curt Schilling or the Boston Red Sox. Sue me
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 08:46 PM

SC, I'm sure that you were thrilled last night. It was a great game, but I was obviously disappointed. I fell asleep during the 8th inning (actually, I dozed off before then, but that's the last time I remember seeing the score) and it was 6-2 Yanks. Then, I woke up again around 2 in the morning, and Mr. Babe told me about the loss.

I think that it's not even the first month of the season, and you certainly can't make predictions about who may be declining and who may not. Everyone's been saying for years that Posada is going downhill, and he's been playing phenomenally well so far. So has ARod. Jeter was leading the league in errors. Is he losing it? Give them all some time.

In the meantime, the Yankees are winning right now. Of course, there are 7 more innings to play, so we'll see!!

Irish, I think the point of being sportsmanlike is not to jeer the other team's players. You can dislike the Red Sox and any and every one of their players, but I don't believe that you need to resort to the sort of posts that you often do. Of course, it's the Red Sox, the Yankees' big rival. It's natural to be excited when the Yankees are playing well against them, but sometimes you get carried away. Especially since, in games like last night's, it can turn around and bite you in the ass!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 09:56 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Irish, I think the point of being sportsmanlike is not to jeer the other team's players. You can dislike the Red Sox and any and every one of their players, but I don't believe that you need to resort to the sort of posts that you often do. Of course, it's the Red Sox, the Yankees' big rival. It's natural to be excited when the Yankees are playing well against them, but sometimes you get carried away. Especially since, in games like last night's, it can turn around and bite you in the ass!


True but I hate Curt Schilling and Boston THAT much. If it's unsportsmanlike, then it's unsportsmanlike. My comments are not directed at any member. I know I get carried away but I always love to see Curt fall flat on his face because it usually doesn't happen that often.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/07 11:55 PM

Schilling is a smuck.

ds
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/07 12:03 AM

Thank you DS!
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/07 08:28 AM

^^ Looks like Irishman found a new friend.

Two in a row!!

WooooHoooo!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/07 12:13 PM

Both losses for Yankees fans will be meaningless if rookie Chase Wright can best the $151 million dollar man in his second career MLB start...I think ESPN might just explode. Fans across Red Sox nation could be demoralized. The war is not over.

Of course, that's a mighty gigantinormous if...and I don't think I like our odds...
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/07 03:35 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Both losses for Yankees fans will be meaningless if rookie Chase Wright can best the $151 million dollar man in his second career MLB start...I think ESPN might just explode. Fans across Red Sox nation could be demoralized. The war is not over.
:


Who do you think that you are bullshiting on these borads with this kind of crapola.

Two loses from Boston Hurt and they hurt big time.

and the worst part, The Mets also took a beating from the braves this weekend. \:\/
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/07 03:46 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
^^ Looks like Irishman found a new friend.

Two in a row!!

WooooHoooo!!


As you can tell SC, we spoil out children,
or you can slap them across the face and yell:

"You can act like a man"
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/07 03:51 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Especially since, in games like last night's, it can turn around and bite you in the ass!


True, So true.
and they always seem to be so quiet after they have to eat crow.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/07 05:03 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Who do you think that you are bullshiting on these borads with this kind of crapola.

Two loses from Boston Hurt and they hurt big time.


Not for the Yankees fans who think in the grand scheme of things (i.e. a 162 game season). ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 12:09 AM

Hey, it's VERY early in the season for everyone! Just like I think that it's way too early to say that this is Mo's last season because of two blown saves in the first 3 weeks, then it's way too early to make any other predictions. Two of the Yankees most dependable starting pitchers are on the DL, and they've had to go to extremes. And for those who are rejoicing, might I also remind you of 2005, when they won their division with the likes of Al Leitner, Shawn Chacon and Aaron Small??

Granted, the Red Sox are hot right now, especially Ramirez and Ortiz, always a scary duo for any pitcher. But before ANYONE starts doing any dances, let's check in again in late August!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 02:24 AM

True SB. It's only 16 games into the season. I'd rather get the injuries over with now instead of August/September like Boston last year
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 02:41 AM

I'm not trying to detract from the team or their talent, but could these announcers on ESPN be pimping DiceK any more?? I am so sick of hearing about his wind sprints, and his game of catch and their excuses for him hitting ARod and Jeter. I'm sure he's a very good pitcher, but could we show him just a LITTLE bit more??

And what is up with The Proctologist?? GEEZ! 3 runs on 3 hits????
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 02:42 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I'm not trying to detract from the team or their talent, but could these announcers on ESPN be pimping DiceK any more?? I am so sick of hearing about his wind sprints, and his game of catch and their excuses for him hitting ARod and Jeter. I'm sure he's a very good pitcher, but could we show him just a LITTLE bit more??


Nothing more than good ol' fashion Yankee hating. If the situations were reversed, all you'd hear about is how he's getting roughed up by Ortiz and Ramirez
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 02:51 AM

The Yankees bullpen SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OK, I feel better now!!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 02:55 AM

Damn, I think the Red Sox just hit another homer.

Seriously though, people should not be surprised by the Red Sox love. Although they spend just a little less than the Yankees, they are media darlings and are loveable losers simply because they're the "alternative" to the "Evil Empire."

Yes, they do spend quite alot, almost at Yankee levels, but people just gravitate to them more.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 05:26 AM

Don't pat Dice-K on the back too hard:

7 innings, 8 hits, 6 runs, 1 BB, 7 SO and he's 2-2 with a 4.00 ERA
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 06:31 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Don't pat Dice-K on the back too hard:

7 innings, 8 hits, 6 runs, 1 BB, 7 SO and he's 2-2 with a 4.00 ERA


You forgot one stat, Irishman.... The most important one. "W".

Big Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep.

Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 11:52 AM

Some people never get tired of putting their feet in their mouths. Gee wiz...like the Yankees pitchers did any better?
After all, he was facing the mighty Yankees the best team in baseball....

You must excuse the young lad SC
I'm even surprised to hear from the young lad, I thought he may just be under his bed or maybe in the closet refusing to come out. Because he knows that he is going to catch major shit from everyone who he pisses off avery chance he gets.

Crow is always hard to eat. Its the dry feathers I guess.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 12:04 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Don't pat Dice-K on the back too hard:

7 innings, 8 hits, 6 runs, 1 BB, 7 SO and he's 2-2 with a 4.00 ERA


You forgot one stat, Irishman.... The most important one. "W".

Big Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep.



It's okay. Feel good early, now, while our rotation is down and out. You beat up on our rookie pitchers. Congrats. It seems like there was eerily similar confidence early last year oozing from Red Sox nation, and then the Massacre Part Doux happened.

We didn't do too shabby against your starters; if we didn't have rookies on the mound, it may have been quite different - Schilling wasn't great (rocked for 2HR's by A-Rod), and Beckett got slammed as well. Dice-K certainly wasn't an enigma...and not worth $151 million, as Irish's stats prove. I mean, sure, the sweep was big for the Red Sox, and Manny getting his power stroke is a plus as well.



But again, let's wait until next weekend...we'll have our rotation back, and by then, maybe Dice-K can save starving children in Uganda and solve the Middle Eastern crisis.


---


---

SB - That's why I call it Every Sox Player Nationwide...I muted it after the second inning. Even the usually good Jon Miller and Joe Morgan were orgasming just talking about the way he stands on the mound. I'd love to hear them call his bowel movements. "Oh, was that a gyroturd, Jon?" "Yes, I think it was Joe. Man, he lays it in there like no other pitcher I've ever seen."

---

Vizcaino got robbed. Home plate randomly shrank and expanded all night long, depending on which pitcher was on the mound. I think you can guess who got the benefit of the doubt.

---

One thing this game proves is that, well, Torre still has his knack of keeping pitchers in too long. I realize it was early in the game, but I think after the second home run, you pull the kid. "I didn't want him to get shell-shocked." Okay, then what the fuck is four homeruns? Have him grab his arm in pain, and let Henn or Proctor warm.


---

---

Given the earlier woes with home plate, its hard for me to criticize the Yankee offense for not being patient. But I will, anyways. Dice-K cannot pitch inside to save his life. Get a man on base, he can't throw accurately from the stretch. Jesus. I realize Abreu has been good with men on this year, but couldn't you work a walk? Seriously.

---

Pedroia doesn't make that webgem? Whole new ballgame.

---

Yankee fans, don't fret. Even without Matsui and Posada, the Yankees rocked Schilling, Beckett, and Dice-K. Again, and this can't be stressed enough - the pitching for the Yanks just wasn't there. Don't be too hard on those lovable lads in the gray and blue.

---

Anyways, congrats to the Red Sox on drawing early blood this year. Perhaps next time, you might have to try winning against Major League pitchers (Pettitte notwithstanding). \:p

Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 01:32 PM

D-J please don't became a stroker like some people we all know and hate.

Rookie pitching shouldn't be an excuse, It has been a weak spot for some time now. just as putting that old man Schilling up as an excuse would be for Boston fans. And give Beckett who pitched good enough or any other pitcher there due. They face a hard Yankee lineup. Every pitcher in the league hates to face these guys.

Just like they hate to pitch to Manny. But don't put a pitcher down because he give up hits to A-rod, who is red hot so far this season.
The truth is we lost and three big games that we really hated to see lose. It is always tuff to lose to your #1 Rivals.

It hurts to see the METs get taken down by their rival too. Hell, it was a tuff weekend for baseball.

Things like, "just wait, it is early yet," or "look what happen last year" or our guys are hurt are just hot air. You can't try to talk the Boston win away with hot air. It only makes us look bad.

It is baseball man, every game, every out and every pitch stands by itself. Otherwise you should turn off your sets and just watch the playoffs.

Now if we lose to Tampa Bay this week ..........
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 02:11 PM

Just wanted to ask if anyone else thought that the "Hip Hip Jor-ge! ad was as hilarious as I did??
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 02:55 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
D-J please don't became a stroker like some people we all know and hate.

Rookie pitching shouldn't be an excuse, It has been a weak spot for some time now. just as putting that old man Schilling up as an excuse would be for Boston fans. And give Beckett who pitched good enough or any other pitcher there due. They face a hard Yankee lineup. Every pitcher in the league hates to face these guys.

Just like they hate to pitch to Manny. But don't put a pitcher down because he give up hits to A-rod, who is red hot so far this season.
The truth is we lost and three big games that we really hated to see lose. It is always tuff to lose to your #1 Rivals.

It hurts to see the METs get taken down by their rival too. Hell, it was a tuff weekend for baseball.

Things like, "just wait, it is early yet," or "look what happen last year" or our guys are hurt are just hot air. You can't try to talk the Boston win away with hot air. It only makes us look bad.

It is baseball man, every game, every out and every pitch stands by itself. Otherwise you should turn off your sets and just watch the playoffs.

Now if we lose to Tampa Bay this week ..........


But there are plenty of positives to take away from this series. First, none of the Boston pitchers dominated. Schilling should have lost game one w/o the blown save. Beckett got rocked. Matsuzaka isn't invincible, and can't pitch inside. I agree that this hurts as a fan, but in the big picture, the Yankees have been worse off (see 2005 with 11-19 start and basically no injuries, compared to our start this year).

In the grand scheme of things, these are just four games we'll have to earn back when they come to Yankee Stadium.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 03:47 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J

Yadda, yadda, yadda, yadda, yadda, yaaaaaaaaaawn, yadda, yadda, yadda..... Okay, then what the fuck is four homeruns?


I was thinking about that last night. Four in a row.

Hmmmm, when did I hear about the Red Sox/Yankees four in a row before?

Oh yeah, October, 2004.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 03:55 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Double-J

Yadda, yadda, yadda, yadda, yadda, yaaaaaaaaaawn, yadda, yadda, yadda..... Okay, then what the fuck is four homeruns?


I was thinking about that last night. Four in a row.

Hmmmm, when did I hear about the Red Sox/Yankees four in a row before?

Oh yeah, October, 2004.


SC, I love you when you're feisty!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 05:52 PM

It's OK DJ, fathersson just enjoys "eating crow. Crow is always hard to eat but for some reason FS enjoys it. It must be the dry feathers I guess"
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 06:03 PM

I can't get over the amount of fans calling for Torre's scalp on talk radio today.

Relax people, it's only April.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 06:20 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
Relax people, it's only April.


PB, did you ever get THAT right!! Look, if I were a Boston fan, I'd be dancing in the streets, too. We sure did after Yankees swept them last August. However, there's no reason for that kind of talk. Torre's working with what he's been given. And the truth is, if the starters can't last, the bullpen is going to get used up and end up costing them games. Who the hell didn't he try over the last few days? And now they're facing 7 games in a row, with a bullpen that's demoralized as well as physically exhausted.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 07:10 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
Crap, crap, crap, 2004!, crap, crap, (orgasm), crap


I was actually thinking about a different number. I think it was 26.

Regards,
Double-J
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 07:37 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
It's OK DJ, fathersson just enjoys "eating crow. Crow is always hard to eat but for some reason FS enjoys it. It must be the dry feathers I guess"


What the hell are you talking about?

...Why don't you go...and sit in the corner.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 07:59 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
It's OK DJ, fathersson just enjoys "eating crow. Crow is always hard to eat but for some reason FS enjoys it. It must be the dry feathers I guess"


YES, You are so right. I enjoy watching YOU have to eat crow. I admit it. I do love you having to take it, because you my young lad can't talk baseball without your bullshit smack talk. Against another team or its players.
If they lose, it is the bright side of the lost to me. Knowing a sweep like this is killing you most of all. A sweet revenge in a way. Like having the big mouth bully being dragged inside and having his mother wash his mouth out with soap.

Someday you will learn that it is fun to have a rival and take sides, but without anger or mind closing thoughts. Loving the game enough to show respect for both teams and their players. For some it just takes a little longer to became a true fan of the game.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 08:44 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
It's OK DJ, fathersson just enjoys "eating crow. Crow is always hard to eat but for some reason FS enjoys it. It must be the dry feathers I guess"


What the hell are you talking about?

...Why don't you go...and sit in the corner.


Why don't you go...and stay in your Marlins thread?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 08:47 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Someday you will learn that it is fun to have a rival and take sides, but without anger or mind closing thoughts. Loving the game enough to show respect for both teams and their players. For some it just takes a little longer to became a true fan of the game.


Now isn't this funny, getting advice from FS on how to be a "true fan of the game." This coming from Mr. Fickle fan himself. The self proclaimed Yankee fan who, correct me if I'm wrong, cheers when the Yankees lose? Some fan Again, it's OK FS, you lack passion. But just because YOU do, please don't come in here and start pointing you're fingers at fans telling them what kind of fans they are. I know what type of fan I am and I'm fine with it. People want to hate me for loving the Yankees, f*ck 'em ;\)
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 09:06 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe


I fell asleep during the 8th inning


I fall asleep on every Yankees game! \:p
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 09:53 PM

4 straight home runs ?

Hasn't the guy ever heard of a "brush back" ?

20 years ago the third batter would have been on his ass.

God forbid it was Bob Gison or Don Drysdale pitching, someone might have gotten their head taken off. Then again, neither of those guys would have given up that many straight long balls.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 10:07 PM

True but today's umpires can get "ejection happy." Today if there's any chance a ball is intentionally thrown towards a better the umps throw them out (I think El Duque got ejected a couple of weeks ago for this, no?) 20 years ago is was more accepted and an unwritten rule in baseball. Whereas today, they'll just throw you a$$ out. True it would have gotten him out of the game, but maybe he thought he could bounce back and I'm sure he didn't plan on giving up the final 2 home runs either.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 11:11 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
It's OK DJ, fathersson just enjoys "eating crow. Crow is always hard to eat but for some reason FS enjoys it. It must be the dry feathers I guess"


What the hell are you talking about?

...Why don't you go...and sit in the corner.


Why don't you go...and stay in your Marlins thread?


I'll make a deal with you, I'll stay in the Marlins thread if you stay trolling in the games forum. Deal?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 11:28 PM

A-Rod homers AGAIN!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/07 11:28 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
It's OK DJ, fathersson just enjoys "eating crow. Crow is always hard to eat but for some reason FS enjoys it. It must be the dry feathers I guess"


What the hell are you talking about?

...Why don't you go...and sit in the corner.


Why don't you go...and stay in your Marlins thread?


I'll make a deal with you, I'll stay in the Marlins thread if you stay trolling in the games forum. Deal?


Umm, no. I'll stay out of the Marlins thread if you stay out of this thread. Deal?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 12:10 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

People want to hate me for loving the Yankees, f*ck 'em ;\)


you sound so intelligent. Mr Tuff Guy.

You better run now and cut your deal about what threads you can go into. Yes, you better go before the teacher calls nap time.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 12:13 AM

-Glad to see Matsui back tonight
-Glad to hear Wang's pitching tomorrow
-And I hear Hughes is finally gonna get the call Thursday against the Jays. I wish I had YES
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 12:15 AM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

People want to hate me for loving the Yankees, f*ck 'em ;\)


you sound so intelligent. Mr Tuff Guy.

You better run now and cut your deal about what threads you can go into. Yes, you better go before the teacher calls nap time.


Hey, I'm FS

Man, you must just CRACK yourself up you comedian you. BTW, haven't heard back from Andy so I guess I'll just roam free until then [/sarcasm]
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 12:21 AM

I wish I had your head for the big deals.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 12:23 AM



Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 12:37 AM

Irish, you getting owned in this thread too? Too bad.

Meanwhile, 4 consecutive homeruns. I mean DAMN...
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 12:39 AM

NOW you know that everyone is laughing at YOU
And right here in the YANKEE THREAD.

That make syou an allstar! \:p
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 12:40 AM

NOW you know that everyone is laughing at YOU
And right here in the YANKEE THREAD.

That makes you an allstar! \:p
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 12:52 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
This is A-Rod's year guys


That is until he makes an error or strikes out with runners in scoring position, then the Yankee fans will forget everything that he's done this year, and the boos will start all over again! Jeez, you Yankee fans were ready to write off Jeter last week! \:p ;\)

Seriously though, I think that you are right. Arod might even win the MVP this year. How about two New York players winning it : Arod and Beltran! Niiiiiice. ;\)
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 01:00 AM

...his praises will be sung, until of course he makes an error or K's, and then Irish will probably be the quickest one to start booing and bad mouthing.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 01:38 AM

 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew
and then Irish will probably be the quickest one to start booing and bad mouthing.


Glad to think you and others know me so well. It's very touching and laughable at the same time
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 02:38 AM

Stop, stop, stop!!! This was a nice thread, where SOME people could post about their love of the sport and the team. It has turned into personal and vicious backbiting, and it's disgusting! You ALL sound like a bunch of jerks who are trying to see who can piss the greatest distance.

I'm a Yankee fan, through thick and thin. That doesn't mean that I don't appreciate another team's achievements, it doesn't mean that I don't despair when the Yankees are down, and it doesn't mean that I don't recognize their weaknesses. But cheer for them I will, and I think that the ridiculous and personal remarks that have been exchanged here take away from what USED to be a fun place to post and pick up gossip about the team, find out who was on the DL, who was being traded and for whom, and just general appreciation of the team and the game.

Stop, stop, stop!! And go sit in the corner is RIGHT.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 02:43 AM

I agree with you SB. This thread is fine when you, DJ, scarfacetm, myself and other Yankee fans can come in here and talk about the Yankees in a peaceful manner. But when fathersson, ronnie and Andy come in, they hijack the thread and it all goes to hell. I've stayed out of their "precious" Marlins thread and wish they would show us the same respect. Fathersson comes and goes like the wind so we should just pay him no nevermind.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 03:03 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Stop, stop, stop!!! This was a nice thread, where SOME people could post about their love of the sport and the team. It has turned into personal and vicious backbiting, and it's disgusting! You ALL sound like a bunch of jerks who are trying to see who can piss the greatest distance.

I'm a Yankee fan, through thick and thin. That doesn't mean that I don't appreciate another team's achievements, it doesn't mean that I don't despair when the Yankees are down, and it doesn't mean that I don't recognize their weaknesses. But cheer for them I will, and I think that the ridiculous and personal remarks that have been exchanged here take away from what USED to be a fun place to post and pick up gossip about the team, find out who was on the DL, who was being traded and for whom, and just general appreciation of the team and the game.

Stop, stop, stop!! And go sit in the corner is RIGHT.


I concur. Please cut the shit. This thread has now twice teetered on the verge of closing (I'd suspect) because of this stuff. Can we all just stop and talk about baseball please? Christ. \:\/

---

I really don't like the Hughes call up. On one hand, I'm very excited to finally see them give the kid a chance. On the other, I think this is a move made in haste (maybe by Papa George?) to try and keep the Yankees afloat early on in the season.

Granted, he has looked sharp in AAA, and we all know his dominance in the lower leagues. And, they are bringing him in "gently" by playing him against the Jays rather than the Red Sox (who, coincidentally, lost 7-3 to Toronto tonight).

He's clearly the best pitching prospect in baseball. But they need to make sure he doesn't end up as the biggest bust either. I still think its too early. He's only 20. WTF.

---

Rumour mill, according to Mike and the Mad Dog, is that Dontrelle Willis may be heading to New York before too long. I've never been high on Willis because I don't think he'll transition well to the AL East (given the previous transitions of former Marlins like Beckett, Pavano, etc.). But at this point? I'd ship Rasner and prospects for him.

---

Maybe George has a big birthday present for us. Roger Clemens has been training since late March, and will be ready to play the first week of May.

---

The Yankees bullpen is, on paper, much better than it is in reality. 95% of that is due to overusage at this point in the season. I'm really surprised the way Torre burned up relievers tonight. Igawa already was the sacrificial lamb...plug in Colter Bean and just let him go.

---

Wang's return hopefully can right this ship. It really sucks with Kei Igawa as the anchor of the rotation. Now, with Wang and Pettitte, we at least have two pitchers that can pitch more than 5 innings (effectively no less). We need innings eaters. I hope you're hungry, Chien.

---

Surprise! Injury rumour - Carl Pavano is out for the season. No kidding. According to Sweeney Murti on Mike and the Mad Dog, Pavano told him today he has "shooting pains down his arm" and he doubts he'll be able to play again this season.

Can we just shoot this bastard and collect the insurance money? Ugh.

---

Gil Meche doesn't seem so bad right now.

---

Josh Phelps is still on pace to prove my prediction correct - he'll be the everyday first baseman by the end of May. His offense has remained solid, and he's come up with some big hits.

---

Wil Nieves? Ugh. I think I could catch and hit better than he can. You can't tell me that Javy Lopez is worse than this.

---

Thank God A-Rod's going on his tear. I still think Abreu is overrated, and Giambi still has signs of Cecil Fielder syndrome.

---

Let's hope Damon being spelled by Melky happens as infrequently as necessary. Melky as the leadoff hitter...ugh. He's hovering just barely above the Mendoza line.

Seriously...who else regrets not shipping him off for Mike Gonzalez in the offseason?

Hands? I'd expect a chorus.

---

Nobody can make that off-balance throw like D-J. A-Rod came close though.

---

The Good:

- It's still early
- Wang is back tomorrow
- Matsui is back
- A-Rod streak continues

The Bad:

- The bullpen is overworked and tired
- No break until next week
- Mussina still not sure of return date
- Melky and Eye-Chart's nonexistent offense
- Colter Bean is "free" but still isn't MLB quality relief

The Ugly:

- Management is panicking and bringing up Hughes early
- Pavano looks to be done for the season (and his career)
- Chase Wright will probably run the gauntlet again
- Hughes' call-up means we have to throw someone on the waiver wire before sending them down
- Andy Pettitte is our best reliever
- Yankees tied for lowest # of save opportunities in MLB
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 07:15 AM

I agree, Double-J. The biggest problem with the bullpen is the fact that they're called in by the fifth inning too often. Sure, it's not the best bullpen, but they're not going to bbe effective if they're overused.

Also, I think you hit the nail on the head with Willis. He's good, but not the dominant guy many claim he is. In fact, one of the best things about him is his ability to hit, which would be lost in the AL.

As you know, I'm not a Yankee fan, but while they have some problems, this pennant race hasn't started yet.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 11:56 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Stop, stop, stop!!! This was a nice thread, where SOME people could post about their love of the sport and the team. It has turned into personal and vicious backbiting, and it's disgusting! You ALL sound like a bunch of jerks who are trying to see who can piss the greatest distance.



Well said SB! It seems that there are some who just come on here from time to time with the intention of starting up trouble. They contribute nothing to the topic itself and just try to start trouble one post after another. This is a sports thread with a topic about a sports team. You want to goof around with another fan, that's fine, rag on a player, that's ok too. We all kid around and rib each other about our teams. Nothing wrong with that as long as it's done in fun. But for those who just seem to come in here when they feel like it and make posts intentionally attacking and berating others, perhaps it's time for you to go and find some other mickey mouse website where you can have your pissing contests and make your attacks. So if you can't play nice here, then it's time to take your toys and go elsewhere. There's no room on these boards for the occasional poster who gives absolutely nothing but personal bullshit to a discussion.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 12:00 PM

BULLSHIT! THe problem is that as soon as someone come in here and makes a comment you have Irishman busting peoples balls like he is GOD and this is a private thread. He challanges you like you have to swear that you are a loyal Yankee fan or something.
Then he acts like a child swearing and bitching at Boston like a kid that has special needs or something.

Then you have him saying shit like I come and go, like I have no rights to post. Like I told you once before:
Sure no one came here to comment when all there was was reposted news reports over and over again, but now the season has started and we all get to post here so Irish grow up. This thread is fine when you, DJ, scarfacetm, myself and other Yankee fans can come in This is not a private thread, You don't get to pick the people who gets to post here, no rules have been broken so....

Oh and the best is him trying to cut deals to stay out of a the thread, if you want your won little club open up your own website and keep it private.

If Irish doesn't like what you post then it is being hijack? What kind of crap is this?

So if you want it peaceful my mick friend leave people alone and act like a true fan and not a punk kid.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 12:21 PM

Guys, the personal insults and references have to stop.

Rank on the opposing teams (if thats your style), denigrate an opposing player (if thats your style), but be prepared for others to respond negatively. Nobody has the right to tell someone else that he can't post here simply because he doesn't care for the other member's thoughts. If you're willing to dish it out you have to be prepared to take it, too.

Every member CAN, however, expect to be responded to in an adult-like manner (meaning no personal attacks). Stop the name calling!!!
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 01:50 PM

Well said, SC.

How about posting in a respectful manner, guys? The way you guys are acting are sandbox like - at your age, why on earth do we have to tell you to stop picking on other members (not just in this thread but any thread), stop baiting each other, stop getting baited...

I think the general theme is "Grow Up."
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 03:04 PM

Sure, they are chewing up this young pitching staff. What is going to happen is these young kids are going to be shell shocked and will never get up into their grove. They we will trade them off and they will become great pitchers for another club.

We never seem to get a workable balance between having a good healthy line up and a good healthy pitching staff.

It is not hard to see what George will do, as in the past George's ego will have them going out and overpaying for some quick fix. The real problem is that what once got you a great pitcher now only get you some Avg. Joe. The pitching shortage is a league problem. You just can't get some young talent to pop in here and face these kind of lineups. It just isn't that easy any more.

You then go out and overpay for some pitcher who is on his tail end of his game and is not again not a long term fix.

Even with one of the best lineups in baseball, with A-rod hitting them out left and right, we are still losing. The bullpen is toasted and we have a long way to go before a break. Oh, and Boston is once again in our sights starting Friday.

A whole new season with the same old problems.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 03:57 PM

You hit the nail right on the head, FS. That's exactly the problem. If there was young, talented pitching to be bought, the Yankees would have done it already. Instead, they'll make moves for pitchers like Johnson and Clemens, expecting them to be a fix, when they won't be. There's enough talent in the lineup, even in the face of potential injuries, that if the bullpen could hold onto a lead, there wouldn't BE a problem.

Btw, it was nice to see Mo back in form last night. 8th inning, 3 batters, what did he throw? Maybe 10 pitches?? I know it wasn't a save situation, but seeing him pitch like that certainly made ME feel better.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 04:57 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Sure, they are chewing up this young pitching staff. What is going to happen is these young kids are going to be shell shocked and will never get up into their grove. They we will trade them off and they will become great pitchers for another club.


I don't know. Up until this point, the Yankees have been very careful about protecting and acquiring valuable minor league prospects. Chase Wright was a forced exception because the Yankees had nobody else to chuck in there. Hughes was (until yesterday) off limits until at least after the all-star break, but I think George may have threatened Cashman's job if he didn't bring him up now. Seriously. Maybe a bit Seinfeld-ish, but George doesn't like being embarrassed. And that's what a Boston sweep makes him. Embarrassed.

Truth be told, there will most certainly be two major moves this season in the Yankees pitching staff, and one of them depends on Phil Hughes. 1.) Without question, the Yankees will go full speed ahead for Clemens. The Red Sox have invested too much in Matsuzaka and have a solid rotation at this point for them to go and get Clemens at his exorbitant rate. Similarly, Houston's playoff chances could be slim again, and we know how Clemens desires the ring. I think Cashman (vis a vis George) will pull out the stops to get him now that our rotation is in tatters.

2.) We trade for Johan Santana. That's all there is to it. UNLESS Phil Hughes can come in an be effective, AND Pavano can return, you can wave bye-bye to at least three major prospects in the Yankee system - and I wouldn't doubt it if that included Clippard, Jackson, and *possibly* Tabata. None of which we want to see - Tabata especially, since he is projected to have the bat of Manny Ramirez and the fielding of Ichiro, but it may need to be done to save this season. Meanwhile, the Twins want to unload him before he hits the FA market after next year and get as much as possible. The Yankees are shopping as we speak.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 05:04 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Stop, stop, stop!!! This was a nice thread, where SOME people could post about their love of the sport and the team. It has turned into personal and vicious backbiting, and it's disgusting! You ALL sound like a bunch of jerks who are trying to see who can piss the greatest distance.



Well said SB! It seems that there are some who just come on here from time to time with the intention of starting up trouble. They contribute nothing to the topic itself and just try to start trouble one post after another. This is a sports thread with a topic about a sports team. You want to goof around with another fan, that's fine, rag on a player, that's ok too. We all kid around and rib each other about our teams. Nothing wrong with that as long as it's done in fun. But for those who just seem to come in here when they feel like it and make posts intentionally attacking and berating others, perhaps it's time for you to go and find some other mickey mouse website where you can have your pissing contests and make your attacks. So if you can't play nice here, then it's time to take your toys and go elsewhere. There's no room on these boards for the occasional poster who gives absolutely nothing but personal bullshit to a discussion.


THANK YOU DC! I couldn't agree with you more
Posted By: Yogi Barrabbas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 05:53 PM

I watched this game at work on Sunday night!
As a UK chap who does'nt know too much about baseball i take it 4 home runs in a row does'nt happen very often right?
I was watching as a neutral cos i know there is rivalry between these 2 teams but there was'nt near enough any fighting for my liking
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 06:16 PM

 Originally Posted By: Yogi Barrabbas
4 home runs in a row does'nt happen very often right?


Not since the 1960's...yes, its rare.

And stupid. Holy shit. Wright should've knocked the batter on his ass after the second HR. \:p
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 06:26 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
BULLSHIT! THe problem is that as soon as someone come in here and makes a comment you have Irishman busting peoples balls like he is GOD and this is a private thread. He challanges you like you have to swear that you are a loyal Yankee fan or something.
Then he acts like a child swearing and bitching at Boston like a kid that has special needs or something.

Then you have him saying shit like I come and go, like I have no rights to post. Like I told you once before:
Sure no one came here to comment when all there was was reposted news reports over and over again, but now the season has started and we all get to post here so Irish grow up. This thread is fine when you, DJ, scarfacetm, myself and other Yankee fans can come in This is not a private thread, You don't get to pick the people who gets to post here, no rules have been broken so....

Oh and the best is him trying to cut deals to stay out of a the thread, if you want your won little club open up your own website and keep it private.

If Irish doesn't like what you post then it is being hijack? What kind of crap is this?

So if you want it peaceful my mick friend leave people alone and act like a true fan and not a punk kid.



Welcome to my world.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 06:29 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
2.) We trade for Johan Santana. That's all there is to it. UNLESS Phil Hughes can come in an be effective, AND Pavano can return, you can wave bye-bye to at least three major prospects in the Yankee system - and I wouldn't doubt it if that included Clippard, Jackson, and *possibly* Tabata. None of which we want to see - Tabata especially, since he is projected to have the bat of Manny Ramirez and the fielding of Ichiro, but it may need to be done to save this season. Meanwhile, the Twins want to unload him before he hits the FA market after next year and get as much as possible. The Yankees are shopping as we speak.


See thats why I like you DJ. You back your shit up.

Anyway, wouldn't the TWins demand an arm, leg, fingers, and roller skates, plus the kitchen sink for Santana?

As for Willis, even Marlin fans can tell you that hes not that dominant. Desperation makes people go foolish sometimes.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 06:32 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
This is not a private thread, You don't get to pick the people who gets to post here, no rules have been broken so....


Fine, then when people such as myself and DC tell you to grow up and stay on topic, don't get all pissy. You do come in here with the sole intention of attacking me. I have no problems with the Yankee fans in here, but whenever you and other outsiders come in, that's when it all goes to hell. Hmmmm.....

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
if you want your won little club open up your own website and keep it private.


No, I shouldn't have to. This website is fine and again, the majority of members who come in here don't start sh*t


 Originally Posted By: fathersson
So if you want it peaceful my mick friend leave people alone and act like a true fan and not a punk kid.



I'm not the one starting sh*t. Look in the mirror sir! ;\) And again, don't talk to me about being a true fan, we've already had this discussion.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 06:34 PM

Give it a rest already, Irishman!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 06:37 PM

whats with the mirror analogies Irish? Are you like Bush Sr., who was a broken record with his thousand points of light back in the day?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 06:38 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
 Originally Posted By: fathersson
BULLSHIT! THe problem is that as soon as someone come in here and makes a comment you have Irishman busting peoples balls like he is GOD and this is a private thread. He challanges you like you have to swear that you are a loyal Yankee fan or something.
Then he acts like a child swearing and bitching at Boston like a kid that has special needs or something.

Then you have him saying shit like I come and go, like I have no rights to post. Like I told you once before:
Sure no one came here to comment when all there was was reposted news reports over and over again, but now the season has started and we all get to post here so Irish grow up. This thread is fine when you, DJ, scarfacetm, myself and other Yankee fans can come in This is not a private thread, You don't get to pick the people who gets to post here, no rules have been broken so....

Oh and the best is him trying to cut deals to stay out of a the thread, if you want your won little club open up your own website and keep it private.

If Irish doesn't like what you post then it is being hijack? What kind of crap is this?

So if you want it peaceful my mick friend leave people alone and act like a true fan and not a punk kid.



Welcome to my world.


Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 06:39 PM

I'm not going to ask you again, Irishman!

Stop it now.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 07:01 PM

Phil of the future

The most important man in the American League East has made himself known. It took just 18 games, 18 ridiculously messy New York Yankees games in which:

• Andy Pettitte, a guy with a checkered history when it comes to his left elbow, pitched twice out of the bullpen.

• Manager Joe Torre broke his spring vow to keep Mariano Rivera out of the eighth inning.

• And Chase Wright turned himself into an infamous trivia answer, if not an outright public hazard because of the carpet bombing of home run balls he engendered on Lansdowne Street.

It took 18 games for Yankees GM Brian Cashman, who tried to sell everyone on a rotation that included Carl (the Tin Man) Pavano and Kei Igawa (Japanese for "Jaret Wright"), to cry uncle.

Cashman is bringing up Phil Hughes, 20, the best pitching prospect in baseball, simply because it made no sense for the top pitcher in the organization to be getting outs for Scranton when nobody on the big league club could do so with even half his efficiency. Hughes, on Thursday, will become the team's ninth starting pitcher in the first 21 games of the season.

Cashman didn't want Hughes this early, perhaps not even at all this year -- not when the organization babied him last year while holding him to 146 total innings. Now he says Hughes may be around only for one start. Right. He is the best arm the Yankees have -- the one Torre wanted last August -- and they'd rather keep giving the ball to Igawa or counting on Pavano? Sure.

There's no way Hughes should be allowed to pitch 175 innings this year, but good luck getting him out of the rotation now. You try telling Torre that Hughes shouldn't pitch in September because his arm isn't ready for a sixth month and 30 more innings than he's ever thrown in a season.

Cashman simply couldn't afford to wait any longer. No matter the bill of goods he was selling this spring about the health of Pavano or the "craftiness" of Igawa -- a professional nibbler who has good reason, with his mediocre stuff in the AL, to be afraid to throw the ball over the plate -- the Yankees' fate this season always has rested with Cashman on two decisions:

1.) When does he bring Hughes to the big leagues?

2.) How badly does he bend team rules and his own "fiscal responsibility" kick (the same philosophy that wrongly cost him any shot at Daisuke Matsuzaka) to empty the piggy bank for Roger Clemens?

It's only been three weeks, but a pecking order has been established in the AL East. "The Red Sox are the best team in the division," one veteran GM says. That is so because the Red Sox's starting pitching has been as good as advertised, and the Yankees' rotation as poor as they could have feared. The Blue Jays? They haven't been the offensive force they expected, and need Frank Thomas to awaken and Troy Glaus to return next week before that status can be properly judged. The Orioles? With their improved bullpen and a big year from Erik Bedard, they might continue to surprise.

The Yankees have been every bit the offensive power that people expected. Through 18 games they led the AL in scoring (116 runs), had scored more runs to that point than all but 11 Yankee teams in history (nine of whom were pennant-winning teams) and featured one player, Alex Rodriguez, having the greatest April the game ever has seen. And even with all that offense, the Yankees somehow were a losing team: 8-10.

No team since the 1994 A's had managed to score as many as 116 runs in its first 18 games and still post a losing record.

Yes, the Yankees' rotation should get some stability with Chien-Ming Wang back on Tuesday and Mike Mussina perhaps next week from the epidemic of muscle strains and pulls around this club (perhaps traceable to Cashman's call to change the club's strength training program and instructors). New York is bound to pitch better sooner rather than later.

But even with those two veterans coming back Cashman needed Hughes now, his version of "Break Glass in Case of Emergency." It wasn't what he wanted, not this early, and it threatens to blow up the conservative growth schedule for Hughes. (See Prior, Mark and Wood, Kerry for how badly such accelerated workloads for pitchers can turn out.) But it's a move Cashman needed to make.

Next up: the call on Clemens. Cashman whiffed on Matsuzaka because he was rightly fixated on removing bloat from the payroll -- but his mistake was not realizing that Matsuzaka was the outlier, the exception who was worth the expenditure, especially at 26, to ride in the rotation with Hughes and Wang for years. Clemens, too, is an outlier. On the face of it he does not fit with Cashman's goal to run a leaner and younger organization, but Cashman must step outside his own chalk lines to swing the power in the division back to his side. It took 18 games for Hughes to get here. We'll know in another 30 games or so if Cashman steps up again.

Source: SI
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 07:40 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
The Red Sox have invested too much in Matsuzaka and have a solid rotation at this point for them to go and get Clemens at his exorbitant rate. Similarly, Houston's playoff chances could be slim again, and we know how Clemens desires the ring. I think Cashman (vis a vis George) will pull out the stops to get him now that our rotation is in tatters.


Pitchers are like wine. If we would have left them age a bit then we would have had one hell of cellar to select from. But no, we beat the hell out of the old farm club to get the big Hollywood lineup and even after we went hog wild on getting some stock back in the cellar, they just aren't aged enough.

Now Clemens chases a ring like a gold digger, but I wonder if he wants to come to a club with a pitching staff that is in tatters.
There would be to much pressure on him, while in Boston he would just have to play his part and relax a whole lot more. I don't think money is the big issue. It is the time to relax and less pressure for him. He doesn't want the pressure that A-rod or Jeter gets from the New York fans and the NY papers.
And hell, the smart more for Boston is to keep any or all pitchers away from the Yankees, it hurts NY by taking them off the market. Let's face it, Boston has shown that it will open the pocket book a bit more.

They have once again had a taste of being kings and I think they liked it a whole lot.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 08:16 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Now Clemens chases a ring like a gold digger, but I wonder if he wants to come to a club with a pitching staff that is in tatters.
There would be to much pressure on him, while in Boston he would just have to play his part and relax a whole lot more. I don't think money is the big issue. It is the time to relax and less pressure for him. He doesn't want the pressure that A-rod or Jeter gets from the New York fans and the NY papers.


But overall, I still think the Yankees have a better bullpen (although as of late they're not showing it) and a much better lineup. Plus, hopefully the lure of playing with BFF Andy Pettitte will be enough to get him back in pinstripes. But I agree, as of now boston seems like the ideal fit if he doesn't want to be in the lime light. However, it is only April. Let's see how badly the injury bug bites boston too
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 08:24 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
The Red Sox have invested too much in Matsuzaka and have a solid rotation at this point for them to go and get Clemens at his exorbitant rate. Similarly, Houston's playoff chances could be slim again, and we know how Clemens desires the ring. I think Cashman (vis a vis George) will pull out the stops to get him now that our rotation is in tatters.


Pitchers are like wine. If we would have left them age a bit then we would have had one hell of cellar to select from. But no, we beat the hell out of the old farm club to get the big Hollywood lineup and even after we went hog wild on getting some stock back in the cellar, they just aren't aged enough.

Now Clemens chases a ring like a gold digger, but I wonder if he wants to come to a club with a pitching staff that is in tatters.
There would be to much pressure on him, while in Boston he would just have to play his part and relax a whole lot more. I don't think money is the big issue. It is the time to relax and less pressure for him. He doesn't want the pressure that A-rod or Jeter gets from the New York fans and the NY papers.
And hell, the smart more for Boston is to keep any or all pitchers away from the Yankees, it hurts NY by taking them off the market. Let's face it, Boston has shown that it will open the pocket book a bit more.

They have once again had a taste of being kings and I think they liked it a whole lot.


Boston is willing to open up the pocketbook only so far. They still like to keep their fans in an illusory state about how the Yankees still have the highest payroll, while they are just trying to "survive." Clemens is going to demand an enormous prorated contract that I don't think Boston is willing to give out, after spending on Matsuzaka, Drew, and the bullpen.

That being said, obviously your strategy analysis makes sense, but I really can't see Clemens going back to Boston unless their pitchers go down like the Yankees'.

And pressure never bothered Clemens before. Of course he is in it for the money. He'll go to whatever team he feels will receive the most impact and best chances of getting to the World Series. Period.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 08:24 PM

I believe that Clemens has made his decision whether to pitch, and for what team. He will get paid handsomely wherever he goes, and will not waste time with negotiations. I don't think he'll be ready to take the mound the day he signs. I'm sure he's working out, but he hasn't had anything close to a spring training. Plus, what is he...44 years old? His body isn't going to respond the way it did between starts 20 years ago.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 08:33 PM

I was just thinking....What if the trade was made that many had talked about after last season: A-Rod for Zambrano - with the Yankees paying a chunk of A-Rod's salary. Heads would be rolling.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 08:34 PM

I agree. He already has his mind made up, I'm sure. Hopefully its for New York. But who knows.

And yes, even if he signs, hypothetically, on May 1st, he most likely wouldn't be able to pitch until at least June. \:\/
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 08:36 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
I was just thinking....What if the trade was made that many had talked about after last season: A-Rod for Zambrano - with the Yankees paying a chunk of A-Rod's salary. Heads would be rolling.


Yep. I think Cashman must be smarter than the rest of us.

Although you couldn't tell by the record of the pitchers he's signed - Jeff Weaver, Kevin Brown, Jaret Wright, and, of course, Carl Pavano. Ugh.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/07 11:49 PM

If Cashman traded A-Rod now...wouldn't Yank fans call for Casman's head on a lance?

But if Cashman can squirt out Santana for a reasonable price, and get Clemens as well...talk about a morale ball-buster that should shatter the BoSox fans.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 01:30 AM

WTF!!!!! Wang pitched an excellent first game, and now THIS!!!!!! A grand slam home run in the bottom of the 7th??? All they needed was one more strike, and what do we get instead?? A grand slam home run! This SUCKS.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 02:02 AM

. HELP Tampa Bay takes another one from us...Sweep by Tampa Bay shit that hurts

five loses in a row \:\(
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 03:33 AM

A-Rod calm and cool amid frenzy

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- For everyone who booed him last season, he must have struggled to hold his tongue. For all that's happening at the plate this season, sitting still must have been a monumental task.

But yet there Alex Rodriguez was on Tuesday, calm and cool. Talking about his love for New York and spending time with his daughter. His offseason weight loss, his contract and, most important, the reason he was in the dugout pregame, nestled at the hub of 30-plus media members.

His hitting.

"I can't explain it," Rodriguez said. "I know you're looking for some profound answer, but I don't have one. I'm just trying to have as much fun as I can and really not care about what most people are thinking or saying."

Everyone is talking about A-Rod these days. The third baseman entered Tuesday with a Majors record-tying 14 home runs in April after he slugged two on Monday. He needed just 18 games to hit 14, the quickest in history. He has 30 hits, and 21 of them went for extra bases.

Going into Tuesday's game, A-Rod was hitting .400, tied with Minnesota's Joe Mauer for tops in the league. He also owns the highest slugging percentage (1.053) and has driven in 34 runs, as many as the next two highest AL players combined (teammate Jason Giambi and Boston's David Ortiz each have 17 RBIs). The record for RBIs in April is 35, set by Juan Gonzalez in 1998.

"It's video-game-type stuff, what he's been doing," said Rays right fielder Delmon Young. "The main thing he's doing is putting that barrel on every ball he hits. All of his home runs are like that.

"You don't even have to run at it, you just stand there and see where they go."

With 70 percent of A-Rod's hits going for extra bases and 67 percent of those leaving the park, it's almost expected each time he bats that the result will be one awesome display of power or another. So what happens if pitchers decide to start avoiding him?

"I don't care," he said. "The way Jason [Giambi] is swinging the bat right now ... there are three studs in front of me. It's a great place for me to be. [Opposing pitchers] can pick their poison. And if they walk me, I can always use my athleticism to steal a base or two."

Folks had their eye on the 10-time All-Star long before April 7, but it was on that day that his power catapulted him back into the national spotlight.

Rodriguez had already hit his second homer of the season during the first inning against Baltimore when he jacked the game-winner into the bleachers for a walk-off grand slam to push New York to victory, 10-7, at Yankee Stadium. Rodriguez maintains, though, that he felt this success coming a long time ago.

"Everyone talks about the walk-off," he said. "Ever since the first day, I've been feeling like I'm in a good place. I've been feeling comfortable. And even leading into the season, I thought I was feeling comfortable. I hit three or four home runs the last week. The walk-off was great, but I felt great before that."

Not the first day of the season, he said, but the first day of full workouts in Tampa, Fla., back in February. He dropped more than 10 pounds during the winter and reported to camp feeling younger and "a bit more athletic." Best of all, he said, he no longer felt the pressure to perform up to everyone else's expectations.

"There are certain things that you use, whether it's motivational, or just to relax yourself. You dangle carrots for yourself all the time," manager Joe Torre said. "I don't know what he's using, if there is something other than just baseball itself. Baseball and life are all about perspective.

"To me, he's probably as fresh as I remember him in the whole time since he's been there."

It's a peace of mind that's greatly aided his April tear, and at the same time caused a roar in baseball, with murmurs of "Barry Bonds" and "73 home runs" bubbling to the surface.

"That's a much better question in mid-August," said A-Rod of the possibility of surpassing Bonds' single-season record. "Right now it's kind of a moot point to even think about it.

"Let's see how far I can fly, and then I can tell you. I'm in the middle of flight right now."

Plus, he said, it's hard to plan a one-man celebration. The Yankees were just 8-10 entering Tuesday's game, and were in the middle of a four-game losing streak after a nasty sweep at the hands of the archrival Red Sox. New York's pitching staff is battling through a down period, injuries abound and not much is going right for anyone but A-Rod.

"You always enjoy playing well, but when you come to the park every day, it's about getting the win," he said. "You want to be a part of it somehow. It's obviously 100 percent more enjoyable when you win the game. Everyone wants to do well, every single game."

There was a time not too long ago, he remembered, when the team surged as he foundered. Now the tables are turned, and he is focused on doing what he can to make sure that both he and the team go forward together. New York, he said, has a special place in his heart, and because of that he has no worries as to where he'll be when his contract ends after this season.

"It got ugly last year for a while, and I just kept saying, 'I love New York.' It's the greatest place for me to play," he said. "I've always thought that, even when I was [really bad] last year. Things haven't changed.

"I want to stay in New York, no matter what."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 03:36 AM

Hopefully this will put an end to all of the speculation but probably not

----------------------------------------------------------------

A-Rod doesn't want to leave NY next season

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Alex Rodriguez's torrid start has reaffirmed his intentions for after this season: He wants to stay in pinstripes.

Rodriguez, whose 14 homers are tied for the most ever in April, said Tuesday that he has no plans to leave the New York Yankees after the season, when the third baseman can opt of his contract.

"I want to stay in New York, no matter what," Rodriguez said in the Yankees' third-base dugout before Tuesday night's game at Tampa Bay.

"I love New York. It's the greatest place for me to play."

Rodriguez is entering the seventh season of his $252 million, 10-year contract, a deal he signed with the Texas Rangers. He can terminate the agreement after the season, forfeit the $81 million owed in the final three years and become a free agent.

"Abilitywise, we certainly want him here," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "Sitting in the middle of our lineup and making the statement he is right now, we certainly don't want him to go anywhere. That's without question. I'd like to believe he's going to be here."

Rodriguez entered Tuesday night's game at Tampa Bay hitting .400 with a league-leading 34 RBIs in 18 games, and he's already matched the record for April homers set by Albert Pujols last year.

When asked if he could explain his start, Rodriguez said simply, "No."

"I know you guys are looking for some profound answers, but I don't have them," Rodriguez said. "I'm having as much fun as I can. I'm trying to keep it simple. Just try to prolong it as long as possible and enjoy it."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 03:41 AM

Pressure's on rookie to deliver for pinstripes

The word "panic" has historically been blacklisted in baseball, and for good reason. To acknowledge it means feeling it, surrendering to it and making decisions based on its overwhelming presence.

No one wants to admit they're panicking, but what else can the Yankees' summoning of rookie Phil Hughes from Triple-A be except just that -- panic, following a disastrous weekend sweep at Fenway?

Even using the milder description (worry) or the politically correct term (concern) doesn't minimize the Yankees' crisis. Losers of four straight, the Bombers are getting just 4.9 innings per appearance from their starters, which the Elias Sports Bureau says is last in the majors.

Everyone is hurt, including Mike Mussina, Carl Pavano and Chien-Ming Wang, who finally comes off the disabled list tonight against Tampa Bay. But the franchise's foundation was further rocked on Friday when Mariano Rivera blew a disastrous save against the Red Sox, and was clocked at just 88 mph on the radar gun.

The rest of the bullpen has been so unreliable that Andy Pettitte has already made two relief appearances. The other relievers, it seems, are just waiting for their next flogging, with no cure on the horizon.

No one's going to clone Aaron Small's 10-0 miracle performance in 2005. The landscape is so littered with problems, even Randy Johnson's 5.00 ERA looks good in retrospect.

Through it all, however, the Yankees vowed they wouldn't dare touch Hughes, the farm system's shining star. Some scouts liken the kid to a young John Smoltz, which is why GM Brian Cashman promised -- no, insisted -- that Hughes wasn't ready for the big leagues. Not at age 20.

But 17 games into the season, the Yankees have rewritten the business plan, calling up Hughes from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He'll start Thursday in the Bronx against the Blue Jays with the chance to become a permanent fixture in the rotation.

Did the Yankees panic? Cashman says no, not exactly. But in a telephone interview on Monday, he admitted: "With the injuries we've had over the last three weeks, it just necessitated the move. Our needs overmatched his development process.''

Hughes has had mixed results in the minors, pitching effectively in his first start, getting roughed up in his second, before finally mixing and matching his weapons to perfection in overwhelming Syracuse. In six scoreless innings, he allowed just two hits and struck out 10. Pitching coach Dave Eiland told the Scranton Times-Tribune, "If [Hughes] pitches the way he pitched the last time in Syracuse, he's not going to have any problems."

Of course, there's a wide gulf between Triple-A hitters and facing big leaguers in Yankee Stadium. The obvious question is whether Hughes is really ready, his talent and outward poise aside. The last time the Yankees relied on a rookie in a pressure situation, the results were monumentally bad.

Chase Wright, making only his second major league start, gave up four consecutive home runs Sunday night in Fenway. He was mercifully returned to the minors on Monday morning, and it's anyone's guess what kind of psychological scarring he has suffered.

What was so disheartening for the Yankees is that the weekend could've been so profitable. They scored four runs in the first two innings against previously unhittable Josh Beckett on Saturday. And the next night, the Bombers punctured the myth of Daisuke Matsuzaka's invincibility, ambushing him for six runs in seven innings.

But the Yankees couldn't win either game, which prompted some players to quietly question why Cashman had yet to address the roster's glaring deficiencies. As one veteran put it, "What we have right now, I'm not sure it's enough."

The player said the Yankees need a two-step remedy. The first is calling up Hughes, the second is making sure the Bombers don't get outbid for Roger Clemens the way they were for Matsuzaka.

Hughes and Clemens could, theoretically, fix what's wrong with an old, fragile rotation. Even when Mussina returns from the DL, he'll have to prove he can throw harder than 85 mph. At 38, it's fair to wonder if Mussina's diminished velocity is nothing more serious than a sluggish April or, more insidiously, an age-related decline.

And Pavano will have to demonstrate he wants to pitch, period. He's reported yet another mysterious injury -- this time it's a forearm strain that keeps "grabbing" -- that kept him off the mound while the Yankees were being swept.

When asked what the Yankees can realistically expect of Pavano -- who swore, hand on his heart, he was healed physically and spiritually in 2007 -- one member of the organization shook his head and said simply, "Who knows."

This isn't exactly the soft landing the Yankees wanted to give Hughes. He's being asked to do more than simply hold his own; the Yankees need him to win decisively. Even beyond that, the Yankees want the kid to succeed where Mussina, Pavano and Kei Igawa have so far failed: restore the Yankees' aura of invincibility, even if it's for one night.

Don't think people aren't noticing how vulnerable they are. One major league executive said, "I wouldn't say this is one of the better Yankee teams of the last few years."

No wonder the Yankees are looking for help. If it's not panic, it's close enough. They're turning a desperate gaze toward Hughes, one that needs no translation: help.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 08:58 AM

I'm beginning to think that Joe Torre won't see the end of the season in pinstripes.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 10:15 AM

Papa George will be foolish to do that. Who will he hire then? Don Mattingly? Surely Papa George has learned from his nonsense with Yogi Berra.

Torre is walking at the end of this year anyway. Besides, its only a 8-11 record. Don't panic.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 10:19 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
I'm beginning to think that Joe Torre won't see the end of the season in pinstripes.

Managers always seem to be between a rock and a hard place.
If Torre goes, then Cashman should also go.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 11:54 AM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Papa George will be foolish to do that. Who will he hire then? Don Mattingly? Surely Papa George has learned from his nonsense with Yogi Berra.

Torre is walking at the end of this year anyway. Besides, its only a 8-11 record. Don't panic.


I know Joe Girardi is available... ;\)

---

Wang pitched a gem, and really showed why he is the ace and anchor of the rotation. He got no love from the Yankees bullpen...I've lost complete faith in Vizcaino, and Myers is failing as a lefty specialist.

I'd really start to consider moving some of these guys. I know Matt DeSalvo had a great spring training for the Yankees, I'd like to see them call him up and send down Bruney. At least get some fresh arms in there. Whatever happened to TJ Beam? He's still in our minor league system, and pitched decently in relief last year.

ANYTHING has to be better than our fatigued 'pen right now. Seriously. You know you are fucked when the Devil Ray bullpen beats you. Ugh.

---

Matsui returns! Matsui returns! Hell, I'd bat him in front of Giambi, until Giambi realizes he isn't Cecil Fielder. It's pretty clear the whole DH thing is not working out well for him. Still, Matsui is going to bring back consistency and clutch, a nice safety net if A-Rod can't homer and just gets on base late in a game.

---

Who else thinks Bobby Abreu...umm...sucks? He hasn't shown his "awesome plate discipline" (which Michael Kay feels the need to orgasm about every time he comes to the plate), he has been going after horrible pitches, and while his fielding has come around, at times he looks half-hearted out there in left field. I think this is Abreu's walk year (the club has a $16 million option for 2008).

Guess who else is an FA after this year?

Ichiro.

That would be awesome. He'd be a great leadoff hitter, insane fielding and arm. Whoo. Cashman, get on your horse.

Another FA? Torii Hunter. I'd rather have Ichiro, but since Hunter said he's "all but gone" on an ESPN interview recently, I'd try moving him to right or moving Damon to right and letting him play center.

Gah! It makes me want to pull me hair out when I remember we could've had Vlad Guerrerro instead of Sheffield three or four years ago. \:\/

---

The Yankees got all they could possibly want from Wang, and they blew it big time. Kasmir had no control last night, they could've walked at least half a dozen times in my view. And seriously. I know he probably didn't hit Jeter on purpose, but when the fuck are the Yankees going to start brushing back pitchers? Egads! How I miss Randy Johnson...

Oh, never mind. He got rocked in his first outing with the D-Back's last night. Okay, I miss...Roger Clemens.

---

Josh Phelps, yet again, comes up nicely. Really great job. Makes Mienkeiwicz obsolete except as a late defensive substitution. Of course, we can't get through 6 innings, so who needs him?

---

Anyone else think the Yankees should've brought in Mariano in the 8th instead of Myers?

---

I think George must be going mental. There's probably half a dozen guys on that team he'd enjoy strangling right now, including the new "performance" coach.

---

Joe Torre and Brian Cashman need to shake things up. I don't care what you do...make a trade for some bullpen help, rearrange the batting order, send Desmond Tutu out there at first base...I don' give a shit.

The best thing to do, in my opinion, is to bring up some more minor league bullpen help (Rasner, Beam, DeSalvo can bring some nice BP work).

---

The "good" news for the Yankees is that BJ Ryan is fucked for at least six weeks, from what I hear on Rotoworld. Also, a number of guys are out for the Jays, like Glaus, Zaun, League, and Reed Johnson.

Can we finally pick someone else's bones instead of the other way around?

---

Whoo! Andy Pettitte on the mound. Hopefully we can actually give him some run support and now that Proctor and Henn have been sitting the last couple of games, maybe they'll be fresh enough to grind out the 7th and 8th, and bring in Mo in the 9th.

You remember, the old fashioned way to win games...

---

I'm on both sides of the fence with Phil Hughes (btw - I HATE Kay not pronouncing his "H's"...Phil YUUUUGHES! Get some hooked on phonics, you shithead).

Yes, he has been dominant in the minors. Yes, in his final spring training start, he struck out 10, allowed 2 hits, all over six scoreless innings. But he's only 20 years old! Is his arm ready for Major League duty? They'll want to use him as the 5th starter, hopefully pitching every other week as needed.

I'm really afraid though he'll end up forced as a workhorse and taxing his arm.

I know I just said they need to shake things up. I'm just not sure this is the answer.

I guess we'll know tomorrow though...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 12:18 PM

Scary thought...?

Attached picture 101-matichiro.jpg
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 12:36 PM

Some of you Yankee fans are just unbelievable!

"HURRY! HIT THE PANIC BUTTON!! IT"S APRIL AND WE AREN'T IN FIRST PLACE! FIRE JOE! FIRE CASHMAN! JETER SUCKS! MARIANO SUCKS! BREAK UP THE TEAM!"

Spoiled, spoiled spoiled!


Under Brian Cashman : Five American League pennants and three World Series championships, with the team finishing first in its division every year!

Under Joe Torre : Brought the Yankees to the playoffs for eleven straight years. Six trips to the World Series, winning 4 of the six. And three straight within those 4 WS wins!



Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 12:42 PM

Ichiro is one of the best overall ballplayers in the game, if not in the last 10 years...

...but long-term, Tori Hunter is a better investment. He's also pretty damn great too.

Anyway, one problem that Ichiro has in Seattle is that hes not friendly with the press. If he had problems with the Seattle(and apparently, with the past Japanese) media, would he survive New York, or become a new Randy Johnson "Shove-Off-Gate"?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 12:44 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
Some of you Yankee fans are just unbelievable!

"HURRY! HIT THE PANIC BUTTON!! IT"S APRIL AND WE AREN'T IN FIRST PLACE! FIRE JOE! FIRE CASHMAN! JETER SUCKS! MARIANO SUCKS! BREAK UP THE TEAM!"

Spoiled, spoiled spoiled!


Under Brian Cashman : Five American League pennants and three World Series championships, with the team finishing first in its division every year!

Under Joe Torre : Brought the Yankees to the playoffs for eleven straight years. Six trips to the World Series, winning 4 of the six. And three straight within those 4 WS wins!


I agree. Again, wasn't Papa George the same one that fired Yogi after only the first 10 games back in the day?

Hell DC, you're absolutely right. Remember when JEter had his horrid April batting slump, and New York went apeshit?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 12:45 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
Some of you Yankee fans are just unbelievable!

"HURRY! HIT THE PANIC BUTTON!! IT"S APRIL AND WE AREN'T IN FIRST PLACE! FIRE JOE! FIRE CASHMAN! JETER SUCKS! MARIANO SUCKS! BREAK UP THE TEAM!"


Who said any of that?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 12:46 PM

Irishman?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 12:47 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Ichiro is one of the best overall ballplayers in the game, if not in the last 10 years...

...but long-term, Tori Hunter is a better investment. He's also pretty damn great too.

Anyway, one problem that Ichiro has in Seattle is that hes not friendly with the press. If he had problems with the Seattle(and apparently, with the past Japanese) media, would he survive New York, or become a new Randy Johnson "Shove-Off-Gate"?


I like Ichiro's consistency at the plate more though. Both are great fielders, but Ichiro has better speed and a better arm.

And, I think having Matsui already established would help Ichiro, because he could kind of have a media ally if you will.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 12:47 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
Some of you Yankee fans are just unbelievable!

"HURRY! HIT THE PANIC BUTTON!! IT"S APRIL AND WE AREN'T IN FIRST PLACE! FIRE JOE! FIRE CASHMAN! JETER SUCKS! MARIANO SUCKS! BREAK UP THE TEAM!"

Spoiled, spoiled spoiled!


Under Brian Cashman : Five American League pennants and three World Series championships, with the team finishing first in its division every year!

Under Joe Torre : Brought the Yankees to the playoffs for eleven straight years. Six trips to the World Series, winning 4 of the six. And three straight within those 4 WS wins!


I agree. Again, wasn't Papa George the same one that fired Yogi after only the first 10 games back in the day?

Hell DC, you're absolutely right. Remember when JEter had his horrid April batting slump, and New York went apeshit?


I hear Joe Girardi is available...and already under contract in New York.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 12:50 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I hear Joe Girardi is available...and already under contract in New York.



Yep. He's already under contract in New York --- for the Buffalo Sabres job after they get knocked off by the New York Rangers. \:p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 01:21 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
Under Brian Cashman : Five American League pennants and three World Series championships, with the team finishing first in its division every year!

Under Joe Torre : Brought the Yankees to the playoffs for eleven straight years. Six trips to the World Series, winning 4 of the six. And three straight within those 4 WS wins!


Here are the problems with that:

1.) George Steinbrenner. Although "The Boss" has cooled his heels in recent years and stopped his Billy Martin tirades, this may be the year Torre gets canned. His contract is up at the season, and won't be renewed, given that both 2006 NL Manager of the Year Joe Girardi and Yankee icon Don Mattingly both have thrown their proverbial hats in the ring as successors to the Torre throne.

Given that Torre has been present for some of the more memorable Yankees meltdowns of late - the Marlins in the World Series 2003, Boston in 2004, Detroit in 2006 (even though the Tigers were arguably hotter and also given Kenny Rogers pine-tar power), and that the Yankees haven't been to the World Series since 2003.

I realize the you and I probably would still look at his record and say, w00t! Amazing! But George doesn't see it that way. He wants to win, and win often. At Torre's current rate, I'm honestly surprised that he wasn't canned after last year. He has begun to show some serious traits - he has no fire whatsoever, never challenging calls. He doesn't retaliate after the Yankees get hit. He overuses the bullpen (this year excepted). Now, you could argue his starters have been poor, forcing him to the 'pen, but he rode Scott Proctor and Ron Villone so hard last year, it likely ended Villone's career and Proctor still shows the effects of overuse.

2.) Brian Cashman and pitching. I know, I really like (for the most part) what Cashman has done on the offensive side of the ball. He's protected and nurtured guys like Cano and Melky. But Cashman has virtually nothing to show for on the pitching end other than Chien-Ming Wang, who was essentially a fluke and surprise since he was projected as a strikeout style pitcher as a 4th starter, until he was injured and learned a sinkerball (and the rest is history).

Can you tell me that Jeff Weaver, Kevin Brown, Jaret Wright, and Carl Pavano have been good decisions? Pavano gets a slide, since of course there were at least 5 teams willing to jump at him as a free agent, an no one figured he was going to be the Crash Test Dummy. But Weaver sucked. Kevin Brown was 5 years past his prime (and reinforces my thoughts that a team should never sign a pitcher who they have bombed, like they did Brown in the playoffs when he played for the Padres). Jaret Wright was already injury prone and a mediocre National League pitcher who had one good playoff round.

Other reasons that get honorable mention? Letting Roger Clemens get away. That probably isn't fair, considering that he said he was 99% retired, but still. Andy Pettitte leaving the first time? Ugh. From my sources, that was a Papa George decision more than Cashman, but that can't be verified.

Seriously, I think Cashman may need his head examined on some of these pitching decisions.

3.) What have you done for me lately? The Yankees haven't sniffed the World Series since their abrupt exit in 2003. Their team has tried to get younger, but at the same time, a number of teams have tasted victory, including Chicago, St. Louis, Florida, and most heinously ( \:D ), Boston.

I think that serious questions have come up surrounding the composition of the Yankees over the last few years. I think much of this is due to the huge contracts that have them tied to older players, but the Yankees have failed to get a stable pitching staff and have failed to keep their bullpen fresh (this year's injuries notwithstanding).

We all know pitching wins the World Series. The Yanks have not had a decent rotation since Clemens left. Our team is just about due for a watershed event, irregardless of how well or poorly they do this season. It may come within the next three years, but the old guard will nearly be gone - Posada will probably play another year or two, Matsui's contract is up in 2008, Damon's in 2009, Rivera is a free agent after this year, Giambi is done after 2008, and A-Rod could leave after this year. A bit scary.

Now, by this time, Mussina will be done (if he isn't already), Pavano too, Pettitte too, leaving Wang and Hughes to anchor a new rotation, hopefully made up of a youth movement.

If I had to construct a plan for the Yankees to succeed by 2010, this is what I would do:


  • First Base, Play A:Sign First Baseman Mark Texiera after the 2007 season. He'll be a free agent. He brings power and defensive ability to the first base position, something we haven't had since Don Mattingly vacated.

    Plan B: Find a way to get Albert Pujols from the Cardinals. Virtually impossible, and he's locked until 2010 with a club option in 2011.
  • Second Base, Plan A: Resign Robinson Cano. His contract is up after 2007.

    Plan B: Infielder Alberto Gonzalez, acquired in the Randy Johnson trade, is performing well. He could be a nice replacement if Cano walks.
  • Third Base, Plan A: If Alex Rodriguez stays, then keep him locked up.

    Plan B: If A-Rod goes, Miguel Cabrera is a free agent after 2007.
  • Shortstop, Plan A: Jeter is under contract until 2011, but by this time, one has to wonder how his skills will be. Again, Alberto Gonzalez is an unknown at this point, but could be a decent solution. I'd start acquiring lots of young infield prospects now. Possibly get Alex Gordon from the Royals. He is a FA after 2007. Obviously a reach, but he may be available given the Yankees payroll.

    Plan B: Move A-Rod to shortstop, and Jeter to third. Jeter's range of motion (or lack thereof) won't hurt him as badly as it would at short, and if Texiera is at first, they have no place to put him. A-Rod seems to still have good lateral movement, it may not be a bad idea.
  • Left Field, Plan A: Matsui is under contract until 2009. Good. He's still solid. Now however is the time to find out whether Melky Cabrera has what it takes to be an everyday major leaguer. If he does, look for Melky to replace Matsui in 2010.

    Plan B: Jose Tabata.
  • Center Field, Plan A: Damon is locked until 2009, but his body is catching up with him as he's nicked nearly every game. Maybe traded in some sort of package deal. Sign either Andruw Jones or Torii Hunter as free agents.

    Plan B: Jose Tabata.
  • Right Field, Plan A: Abreu's contract ends this season, and so does Ichiro Suzuki's. Pull out all the stops to sign Ichiro. I realize he's over 30, but his consistency is something we desperately need.

    Plan B: Torii Hunter, Jose Tabata (yes, I realize I've used him too much now \:p )
  • Pitching, Plan A: Wang should anchor a rotation. Johan Santana can either be traded for or signed after 2008. Phil Hughes can develop into a Clemens-style power pitcher. Tyler Clippard, Steven White, and Steven Jackson should be anchors at the end of the rotation. Kei Igawa may learn how to pitch in the United States. Trade for a solid veteran pitcher. Pitching,

    Plan A:
    Pray.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 01:25 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I hear Joe Girardi is available...and already under contract in New York.



Yep. He's already under contract in New York --- for the Buffalo Sabres job after they get knocked off by the New York Rangers. \:p


Actually, he's under contract with YES.

And besides, I hear he's already got an interview with the New York Rangers, who underestimated the Sabres and opened their mouths and forgot to play hockey, getting trounced in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. \:p
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 01:48 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J

I know he probably didn't hit Jeter on purpose, but when the fuck are the Yankees going to start brushing back pitchers?


When the American League gets rid of the DH, and pitchers come to the plate. \:p

In their last five games the Yankees were leading in all games, but lost. When's the last time that happened?

I was also surprised that Rivera has no saves yet. He'll still get about 40.

I wouldn't worry about the bullpen yet. One of the effective bullpens I remember was the A's in 1980 because their starters, including Mike Norris, Matt Keough and Rick Langford, had 94 complete games among them. Brian Kingman went 8-20, but completed 10 games. Even Bob Lacey, who would have been deemed their closer (although that term wasn't tossed around so widely then), had a complete game shut out that year.

Of course, nobody's expecting 94 complete games, but the starters have to get you through the 6th or 7th innings consistently to keep your bullpens effective.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 01:59 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I hear Joe Girardi is available...and already under contract in New York.



Yep. He's already under contract in New York --- for the Buffalo Sabres job after they get knocked off by the New York Rangers. \:p


Actually, he's under contract with YES.

And besides, I hear he's already got an interview with the New York Rangers, who underestimated the Sabres and opened their mouths and forgot to play hockey, getting trounced in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. \:p



Let's take it over to the other topic. Oh, and bring your money there too! ;\)
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 03:28 PM

I saw a stat that NY is the 2nd longest streak of any team in recent MLB history that has gone without a save to open the season. As much as I love to hate the Yankees, they're only 4 games out and this is only April. I think they’ll be back in the thick of things once they get healthy. But they better get it in gear soon in case someone in their division gets hot. And they need to get the ball in Rivera’s hands; otherwise, they’re currently on pace for a 90 loss season.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 04:47 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
Let's take it over to the other topic. Oh, and bring your money there too! ;\)


Sorry, I'll feel awful bad robbing you. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 05:43 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Who else thinks Bobby Abreu...umm...sucks? He hasn't shown his "awesome plate discipline" (which Michael Kay feels the need to orgasm about every time he comes to the plate), he has been going after horrible pitches, and while his fielding has come around, at times he looks half-hearted out there in left field. I think this is Abreu's walk year (the club has a $16 million option for 2008).

Guess who else is an FA after this year?

Ichiro.

That would be awesome. He'd be a great leadoff hitter, insane fielding and arm. Whoo. Cashman, get on your horse.


As much as I'd love to see it, I don't see it happening. I think he'll either resign with Seattle or go to another team (you know boston needs a new leaderoff hitter and centerfield worse than we do). Coco who?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 05:45 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Irishman?


What did I say
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 08:49 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Who else thinks Bobby Abreu...umm...sucks? He hasn't shown his "awesome plate discipline" (which Michael Kay feels the need to orgasm about every time he comes to the plate), he has been going after horrible pitches, and while his fielding has come around, at times he looks half-hearted out there in left field. I think this is Abreu's walk year (the club has a $16 million option for 2008).

Guess who else is an FA after this year?

Ichiro.

That would be awesome. He'd be a great leadoff hitter, insane fielding and arm. Whoo. Cashman, get on your horse.


As much as I'd love to see it, I don't see it happening. I think he'll either resign with Seattle or go to another team (you know boston needs a new leaderoff hitter and centerfield worse than we do). Coco who?


The Yankees, after what has transpired with Matsuzaka, probably won't be outbid again. I have an inkling George is tired of it. Lowballing is not Yankee style. I'd be surprised if Ichiro didn't end up in pinstripes.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 08:53 PM

Who would you rather see between Ichiro and Santana though? Personally, I've love to see both between if I had to pick one, I'd say Johan.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 09:00 PM

Both. No reason why we can't have both. Trade for Santana. Ichiro doesn't want to go back to Seattle, he's refusing to negotiate. Get him as an FA.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 09:01 PM

http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/ivp/index?id=2847631

Giambi has been "texting" Roger Clemens "like crazy," according to this ESPN story.

Good.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 09:01 PM

Realistically, who do you think Minnesota will want for Johan though? Melky? Hughes?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 09:05 PM

Hughes is untouchable. Cashman will refuse to trade him. And since the Twins are dealing from a position of weakness (deal him or lose him as a free agent), they will have to take the best offer, which likely will be the Yanks.

It's going to probably take one or two of our premier prospects and possibly Melky.

At this point though, would you really miss Melky's bat...? Good fielding isn't hard to find.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/07 09:10 PM

No I wouldn't miss Melky that much but do you think it'll happen this season? I've been hearing rumors about Dontrelle. Between the 2 of them, I'd easily take Johan over the D-Train
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/07 02:21 AM

Anyone with half a brain would take the best pitcher in baseball over the D-Train. ;\)

No, the Santana trade probably won't happen this season, unless the Twins are out of contention for the playoffs sooner rather than later. I'd expect something to happen during the offseason.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/07 03:08 AM

Irish, as a Marlins fan.........asking if Johan or D-Train is a better choice is like asking if chicks dig gold or bronze more.

Come on!

Seriously, DJ is right. Johan in Pinstripes would be a coup de tat move.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/07 03:19 AM

Yeah, pretty much anybody, including myself would take Santana over D-Train.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/07 12:20 PM

Well, the good news about the rainout is that Pettitte is going to pitch against the Red Sox in the weekend series at Yankee Stadium on Friday (meaning Jeff Karstens doesn't get assassinated), and our bullpen finally gets a day off. Big sigh of relief there. Hopefully this means that if the PHuture should he get into trouble against a tough (but injured) Blue Jays lineup, he'll get some, you know, relief.

---

For those not familiar with Phil Hughes (The PHuture, as I call him), he has a nice variety of pitches, including 94-98 MPH 4-seam and 2-seam fastballs, a knee-buckling curve (which was improved even further this Spring when Mussina taught Hughes to adapt the knucklecurve grip into his repertoire) that varies from 12-6 or 1-7, and a decent slider. Apparently (from Wiki) he also throws a change, which is a good thing.

---

Despite what Torre is saying, there is plenty of reason why he isn't going to pitch Hughes against the Red Sox. He's already seen Chase Wright get shredded by their red-hot lineup (pun intended), and even though I blame much of that on Torre not taking the kid out of the game after the second home run or having the kid brush back the Boston hitters, it just makes more sense to match with the Jays. Their lineup is hurting (Glaus, Johnson, etc.), and their closer is on the 60-day DL. It helps our chances, at least, getting this kid something relatively close to a win.

No need to give the kid a baptism by fire if they don't have to. Plus, pitching Pettitte on Friday against the Sox gives him the chance to get revenge.

---

Incidentally, I read it was 84 degrees in Central Park the other day. Whoo. It makes me glad to jog down my street and still see ice on Lake Erie. \:p
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/07 12:53 PM

Mr. Babe had been invited to the game last night - and they had tickets behind the Yankee dugout. He was totally pissed that the game was canceled, but he believes that Torre did it on purpose to give the pitching staff a day of rest, and be able to mess with the rotation. I hope it works!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/07 01:42 PM

That's why I love my local Buffalo Bisons - if the game is rained out, or even if you can't make the game, you can use your old tickets as general admission and sit anywhere in the stadium (as long as the ticket holders for that day don't bump you out). ;\)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/07 06:07 PM



Sign "O" the times mess with your mind
Hurry before it's 2 late
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/26/07 09:19 PM

Let us know what you think of Hughes please DJ. Unfortunately I don't have YES and the game's not being aired on ESPN. I'll try to catch the highlights on ESPNEWS but that's all I'm probably gonna get \:\(
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 12:43 AM

Well, top of the 5th, and they're losing 3-0 with a man on first and one out. Hughes looks like he's getting tired.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 03:17 AM

Hughes got ruffed up in the beginning but seemed to settle down some in the 3rd & 4th

4 1/3 innings, 7 hits, 4 runs, 1 BB, 5 SO, 0-1 with a 8.31 ERA
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 03:34 AM

Jeter's doing the Top Ten List on Letterman if anyone's interested.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 03:37 AM

Did he play tonight or did he sit?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 03:41 AM

Sat.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 03:42 AM

Who took over at SS? A-Rod?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 03:53 AM

Well, Cairo was in last night. To tell you the truth, I forget who was in tonight. Cairo again??
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 03:58 AM

If I were watching the game, I think it would have been cool to move A-Rod to SS and have Cairo fill in at 3B
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 04:07 AM

Sorry, Jeter's the Yankee's SS. I don't want to see anyone else out there aside from him.

He was pretty funny on Letterman.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 04:25 AM

No I agree that Jeter's the SS but when he's MIA, I'd rather see A-Rod out there keeping his spot warm than Miguel Cairo
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 12:19 PM



---

Phil Hughes did well for his first start. His command wasn't quite there, so he left some pitches in spots where good hitters will get them, but the break on his pitches was good, and I was fairly impressed with him for his first major league outing. I still think they need to stick with Plan A, irregardless of how the Yankees fair in the standings, and keep him down in AAA to refine him and get him 100% ready to go when his time comes.

---

The Blue Jays shut out the Yankee lineup.

Granted, AJ Burnett pitched with some filthy stuff last night, the first time I've been *impressed* with a start of his lately, but they couldn't put a run on the board.

Where is the fire in our team? I realize Jeter was on the bench, but come on. This lineup is arguably the greatest Yankee lineup in years if the players play to their ability. We have 8 players in the lineup at any given point who can go yard. We have multiple batting title challengers. What the fuck.

Pitching wasn't the problem last night. The Yankees put no pressure on the Jays, who took liberties on offense as the Yankees cried no joy.

Oh, and by the way - you know your in trouble when Doug Mienkeiwicz is your #2 hitter in the lineup... \:\(

---

Just as a warning to those who weren't watching when the Yankees stunk in the early 90's...there is a distinct possibility that this weekend series with the Red Sox could be another sweep. \:\/

---

Is it too early to push the panic button? I don't think so. Perhaps if the Yankees had bounced back after the Red Sox series, there would be a bit of sunshine to go with all this rain. However, even with Wang, the Yankees offense now is the problem. They can't put runs on the board.

And I know George isn't as patient as I am...I'm sure he's about to rip off whatever hair he has left.

---

Is Joe Girardi the answer? I'd say yes. What our team is lacking is fire, is will (and of course, healthy starting pitching). Girardi brings the Torre patience and class but he also brings a bit of a temper too, which is exactly what we need. I don't know if Mattingly can do that, at this point.

As the days go by, and if the Yankees don't get out of last place by mid May, I would seriously expect heads to roll. Cashman saved Torre's job last year after the Detroit debacle. I don't think George is going to be patient again.

---

What does this say for Cashman, if something were to happen? On one hand, he has done a great job in bringing star players from other clubs, and also nurturing great talent from the farm system. The biggest problem is that Cashman took a gamble on our starting pitching this year. I'm grading the pitching to this point.

No one expected Wang to go down, so he gets a pass. Grade: N/A

But Mussina is an old 38, and hasn't impressed me much over the last two years. His crotchety old man "I can't pitch unless my schedule is just so" nitpicky attitude used to give him some personality, but now the Stanford economics graduate just pisses me off. Keeping Moose for another two years, when he already showed signs of decline over the past two, was tough. Cashman couldn't overpay for pitching (Gil Meche at $55 million) but he also should realize that Mussina is now a 4th or 5th starter at his age. Grade: C-

Pettitte has been a rock. He's done everything the Yankees have asked, he's transitioned well in his return to the American League. Hell, he's even come in for relief when the Yankees needed him. I'd take a whole rotation of Andy Pettitte's to war against the AL East if I could. Alas, God only made one Pettitte. Grade: A

Thinking Carl Pavano's injury "bug" (whether it really is twisted coincidence or Carl getting a hangnail and realizing he can just sit on his ass and collect millions of dollars) wouldn't rear its ugly head was stupid. Knowing guys like Jon Lieber were available, and that there were at least two teams (the Cardinals and the Mariners) in hot pursuit of Pavano during the offseason, Pavano should have been shuffled. At this point, I think they need to trade for Lieber, but he just won a game for the Phillies, so I doubt they'd be open to compromise. Grade: F

Kei Igawa was an unknown. He looked to be a pitcher with great control, and decent stuff. However, he has had serious trouble translating that to the American League. He desperately needs some time in the minor leagues, which the Yankees can't afford to do right now, so he is having his baptism by fire. Injuries had at one point relegated him to the Yankees #2 starter this season, but I suspect that by the end of the year, he will probably be in relief, unless he turns his control around. The most damning statistic? If you look at the value of his contract, with the bid to the Japanese league included, his contract is equal to that of Ted Lilly's. Who right now wouldn't rather have Ted Lilly (a known Red Sox killer) over Iggy? Grade: D

Jeff Karstens has been forced into importance by injuries the last two years in a row. We really don't know how he pitches in a "regular" scenario because he's always pulling emergency duty. If he could get some sort of normalcy as the 5th starter in this rotation, and a little more experience, I suspect that he would probably make a solid back-end of the rotation pitcher. Grade: C

Chase Wright was called up in desperation. He pitched well his first game, and he got bombed by the Sox (a decision I blame Torre for 100%...he let that kid get shell shocked and didn't do a damn thing to stop it). This is how you ruin prospects, folks. I realize the Yankees ran out of options, but in retrospect, how naive were we to really support a decision to bring up a AA pitcher when we have Hughes, Clippard, and Ohlendorf in AAA? Wouldn't it make more sense to bring up someone with experience? Grade: D+

Philip Hughes, for all the hype, proved that he can't walk on water. He also proved that saving this team at this moment is something even Roger Clemens probably couldn't have done if he started last night. Send him back to the minors, get him more experience, and by next year, he'll be the Yankees #2 starter. Grade: B+

Luis Vizcaino has looked great in some spots, poor in others. The innings eater is already on pace to throw a record number of innings. Ugh. Until he develops some consistency, and gets some rest, I suspect that his erratic exhibitions will continue. Grade: B-

Scott Proctor is well on his way to becoming the next Ron Villone or Paul Quantrill. Joe Torre ruined both those pitchers by riding them more than Seattle Slew. Well, Proctor was overused last year, and this year is no different. This kid may be shot by next year. Grade: C+

Sean Henn, for all the negativity he received as a prospect a couple of years ago as a crappy starter, has been erased by some stellar relief pitching. He could be a solid mid rotation or setup guy down the line. Grade: A-

Mike Myers is not a LOOGY. Period. The Red Sox dumped him for a reason two years ago, and its because he can't get out better-than-average lefties in clutch situations. Ortiz, Crawford, and the rest of the big lefties eat him up. He didn't pitch badly outside the box - that is, when he wasn't called in as a setup man and faced right handed pitching, he did fairly well. But Myers is not the answer. A LOOGY by definition is a club luxury, something a team has once they already have a secure bullpen. Right now, I'd rather have another solid reliever. Grade: D+

Brian Bruney? If he didn't have such crappy control, he could probably be a decent set-up man. Less gay iron cross/eagle tattoos, more fastball control, thanks. Grade: D+

Mariano Rivera. The eternal spring from which the Yankees draw every year. It's hard to grade Mo this year because he has had little playing time, and its wreaking havoc with his control. "Average" for Mo is like killer stuff for other players too, so his score may be skewed. Sure, perhaps Mo is showing age, but there is still no other pitcher in this Yankee lineup who I would depend upon more. Grade: C+

---

Jeff Karstens will throw the rock on Saturday against Boston. Probably a good decision, as I highlighted the control issues Igawa has. Let's hope the Yankees offense gets on the same bus.

---

Wang is back. Matsui is back. Now let's pray.

---

Here are some "positives" for the Red Sox series - we're facing the back end of their rotation. Matsuzaka was proven to be mortal by the Yankee lineup last week, Wakefield has (undeservedly) earned a reputation as a Yankee killer (it seems to me someone goes yard on him on a somewhat regular basis...), and Tavarez is a jobber.

Let's hope we can at least pull out a win or two from this series. But don't expect much - we're likely facing the hottest lineup with decent pitching in baseball right now.

And we really suck right now.


Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 01:54 PM

Far too early for any panic buttons. They have lost 6 straight and given up 6+ runs in each game. The last time they did that was 1950, but they won the Series that year.

Where they failed was not establishing any safety nets with respect to the pitching staff. Even with the relatively minor injuries to Mussina and Wang, with a $200+ million payroll you should have a better plan to address the pitching problem.

That said, I expect them to win two out of three this weekend at home.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 02:09 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Is Joe Girardi the answer? I'd say yes. What our team is lacking is fire, is will (and of course, healthy starting pitching). Girardi brings the Torre patience and class but he also brings a bit of a temper too, which is exactly what we need. I don't know if Mattingly can do that, at this point.

As the days go by, and if the Yankees don't get out of last place by mid May, I would seriously expect heads to roll. Cashman saved Torre's job last year after the Detroit debacle. I don't think George is going to be patient again.


I haven't been impressed at all with what I've seen with Mattingly as a coach. Now Giradi, he seems perfect as Torre's heir apparent (Plus, NL Manager of the Year trophy in his first year out *is* his resume) but can Papa George maturely deal with someone that unlike the internalizing Torre, is up for temper fights with management?(Then again, penny-pinching Marlins management would make anyone go fist flying)

You do forget that besides Cashman, Jeter went up to the plate for Torre. If what I remember is correct, Jeter pulled his "City's Sports Hero/Yankee Heroic Leader" trump card that Papa George helped groomed against him...and for a good cause.

I just don't know whats with Torre. Is it that the bullshit with George for the last 7 years(or 13 including the fruitful years) has burned the man out?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 06:08 PM

I, for one, think that they are going to give Torre a shot once all the starters are *hopefully* back. If he gets Wang, Moose, Pettitte, Igawa, and Karstens/Pavano/Hughes/Wright/etc. going on a full 5-day rotation, and the offense and pitching still is losing games, then I think we may see a coaching change by the end of May...and a fairly drastic trade or two as well.

Just a guess.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 08:17 PM

Pettitte vs. BOS:
 Code:
HITTER	        AB	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	BB	SO	BA	OBP	SLG	OPS
Manny Ramirez	62	25	7	0	3	18	5	5	.403	.449	.661	1.111
Jason Varitek	39	15	1	1	1	6	3	12	.385	.419	.538	.957
David Ortiz	25	9	3	0	1	3	3	6	.360	.429	.600	1.029
J.D. Drew	11	6	1	0	2	2	1	4	.545	.583	1.182	1.765
Julio Lugo	11	4	0	0	0	0	1	2	.364	.417	.364	.780
Wily Mo Pena	8	3	1	0	0	2	0	3	.375	.375	.500	.875
Eric Hinske	7	1	1	0	0	0	1	3	.143	.250	.286	.536
Coco Crisp	7	1	0	0	0	0	0	2	.143	.143	.143	.286
Mike Lowell	4	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.250	.250	.250	.500
Doug Mirabelli	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	.000	.000	.000	.000
Alex Cora	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000	.000	.000	.000
Kevin Youkilis	2	1	0	0	0	0	1	0	.500	.750	.500	1.250
Dustin Pedroia	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000	.000	.000	.000
Totals	        183	66	14	1	7	31	15	38	.361	.411	.563	.974


Mastuzaka vs. NYY:
 Code:
HITTER	        AB	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	BB	SO	BA	OBP	SLG	OPS
Johnny Damon	4	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	.250	.250	.250	.500
Alex Rodriguez	3	1	0	0	0	0	0	2	.333	.500	.333	.833
Jason Giambi	3	2	1	0	0	3	0	0	.667	.667	1.000	1.667
Derek Jeter	3	1	0	0	1	1	0	0	.333	.500	1.333	1.833
Bobby Abreu	3	0	0	0	0	0	1	3	.000	.250	.000	.250
Mientkiewicz	3	2	1	0	0	0	0	0	.667	.667	1.000	1.667
Wil Nieves	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000	.000	.000	.000
Robinson Cano	3	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	.333	.333	.333	.667
Melky Cabrera	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000	.000	.000	.000
Totals	        28	8	2	0	1	4	1	7	.286	.355	.464	.819


Go Doug Mientkeiwicz! Our best hitter against Matsuzaka!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 08:21 PM

Can you say, duh? George fucked up with this brilliant decision:

Yankee Train Wreck: New Hires Under Fire

 Quote:
Source: NY Daily News

BY MARK FEINSAND
DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER

Friday, April 13th 2007, 4:00 AM

OAKLAND - The Yankees instituted a new fitness program for their players this year, looking to enhance their performance on the field.

Instead, some wonder whether it has contributed to keeping several of the Bombers' biggest stars off the field, as a rash of injuries has hit the Yankees during the early weeks of the season.

Mike Mussina was the latest casualty, leaving Wednesday's game in Minneapolis with a strained left hamstring. He joined Bobby Abreu, Andy Pettitte, Chien-Ming Wang, Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui on the list of players who have suffered strains or pulls since spring training. That's 60% of the starting rotation plus the entire starting outfield.

"We have to deal with (the injuries), but I don't attribute it to our performance management team," GM Brian Cashman said. "Everything we've put in place has been to the benefit to our players."

Over the winter, Cashman got rid of Jeff Mangold, the Yanks' strength and conditioning coach for the previous nine seasons, and hired Marty Miller, who served as a minor league trainer for the Expos from 1995-97, to serve in the newly created position of director of performance enhancement.

Miller had not worked in baseball since leaving the Expos, spending the past nine years as the director of fitness at the Ballen Isles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. He has a master's degree from California University of Pennsylvania in performance enhancement and injury prevention.

"Marty isn't a baseball guy like Mangold was," said one player, speaking on the condition of anonymity. "Marty has been given a lot of pull, and I think he's a little too gung-ho right now."

Cashman also hired Dana Cavalea, 24, to be the new assistant director of performance enhancement. Cavalea had served as a strength and conditioning coach under Mangold during spring training since 2003, but is now a member of the full-time staff.

During the first day of workouts with pitchers and catchers, the pair's pre-workout stretching program did not include any stretching exercises for the players' arms.

"Right off the bat, (Miller has) got a bad rap," said the player, who also called the team's current pregame stretch routine inadequate. "Pitchers and catchers out there not stretching their arms? Their thing is that the active stretch gets everything stretched out, but that's garbage."

Neither Miller nor Cavalea is permitted to speak with reporters, though Miller did an interview last week with the Palm Beach Post, his hometown paper.

"I've been able to come in here and really kind of change this whole department around," Miller told the paper.

According to the player, Miller and Cavalea have tried to force some of their program on players, many of whom have had successful careers for more than a decade. The response has been a combination of resistance and indifference.

"I think as Marty and Dana get more knowledge of the game, it will get better," the player said. "It's like a rookie pitcher coming to the majors: You might know a lot about pitching, but you don't know what you have to do to be successful at that level.

"They know a ton about conditioning, but they have to figure out how their strengths work into this situation," the player continued. "Mangold didn't have the knowledge that these guys have, but he took the workout that players wanted to do and he'd add things and tweak it."

In addition to the hiring of Miller and Cavalea, the Yankees entered into a 10-year strategic partnership with 24 Hour Fitness, a California-based fitness center company. According to the press release, one of 24 Hour Fitness' duties was the installation of a "state of the art fitness facility" at Yankee Stadium, but players have been less than impressed with the initial results.

"They've done a phenomenal job making the weight room nice," the player said. "Aesthetically it looks great, but functionally, there's nothing in there. You walk in there and there's four of the same machine and a bunch of empty space. What do you expect us to do in there?"

According to a team source, Pettitte was encouraged by either Miller or Cavalea to ditch the weight belt he usually wears while doing his routine squats, saying it would help him strengthen his stomach during the exercises. Pettitte injured his back while doing the squats, costing him 10days in spring training.

"None of these injuries have anything to do with this new program," Cashman said. "It's not anything that's putting anybody in jeopardy."

Cashman also noted that both Matsui and Damon suffered their strains during games played in temperatures in the 30s. Damon, whose calf strain caused him to leave the Yanks' season opener early and then miss the next two games, said Miller and Cavalea have been working hard to keep the players in shape, though he admitted that the unusual number of injuries "raises some eyebrows" in regard to the new fitness program.

A source said that George Steinbrenner was very upset about the multitude of injuries that have hit the team, but his spokesman, Howard Rubenstein, said the owner had no critical comments to make about the new fitness program. "He's not upset about it," Rubenstein said. "He said, 'Injuries happen.'"

Cashman has received positive feedback from some players, including Scott Proctor, Mariano Rivera and Carl Pavano, but he knows it might take some time for other players to come around.

"Cash is always trying to better the team any way he can," Proctor said. "This is a good investment; it just needs some time to take. Guys need to learn to trust it, and then it will be good for us."

"You can't change Rome in a day," Cashman said. "Does that mean all the guys are going to gravitate to them? No. We're not going to force them to switch their stuff ... if it's worked for them over the years."


Bring in a non-baseball guy who works with geriatrics to run the strength and conditioning...err..."performance enhancement" (what the fuck, good terms to use in the steroid era, boys ) team. Ugh.

Did anyone else find a reason why Mangold should have been fired last year? The injuries to Matsui and Sheffield were outside of his control...
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/27/07 08:40 PM

Steinbrenner may have been better off having the team play lawn darts.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/07 05:31 AM

Dice-K was shaky again: 6 innings, 5 hits, 4 runs, 4 BB, 7 SO 3-2 with a 4.36 ERA
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/07 11:53 AM

Nothing good comes from this loss, other than once again, we've confirmed that if we actually had decent pitching, the Yankees could win over Dice-K.

These are the steps I think need to be taken to remedy this slide:

1.) Papa George comes down off the hill: It's like getting a bloody edict from the Pope nowadays, but George needs to light a fire under this team. I realize this isn't going to *fix* the actual fundamental issues with the Yankees, but they need to keep their emotions high and get a fire lit under this team. We're the New York Yankees, not the Kansas City Royals (umm...we may actually envy the Royal's record pretty soon...).

2.) Joe Torre needs to mix it up: Take whatever George does in step 1, and then bottle it, and have Torre drink it. This is the most quiescent team I've seen in my life; they accept defeat like its nothing. Well, I realize the old adage, "there is still plenty of time left," but the fact is that a loss in April still equals a loss in August in the win column. Change the batting order - and no, that doesn't mean batting the worst two hitters on the team, Melky and Eye-Chart, #1 and #2...what the fuck is that? - slide Abreu down until he learns how to walk, move A-Rod to #3, give Matsui or Posada the #4 slot, move Giambi down to #7, move Cano up to #5. I realize this is going to shatter some fragile ego's (it may result in Abreu playing in the #8 spot), but let's hope they can take it better than Sheffield. The pitching injuries can't be avoided right now (well, just fire that shithead Miller who doesn't even stretch his players, and bring back Jeff Mangold), but at least make sure the offense is giving its best night in and night out.

3.) Roger Clemens: Let's hope we sign the Rocket and get another good year out of him.

4.) Keep Hughes up: I know, this is dangerous, and I don't *like* it, but to be honest, he looked like one of the sharper pitchers we have had in the rotation. Mussina comes back next week Thursday, and they should give Hughes another shot. Maybe with Wang, Pettitte, Hughes, Mussina, and X (Karstens/Igawa), there could be some pseudo-stability in this rotation.

But Cashman definitely took a huge roll of the dice coming into the season with our rotation, and he lost, big time.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/07 11:56 AM

And after Mo gave up four runs last night?

It may be time to find his successor.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/07 12:43 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Nothing good comes from this loss, other than once again, we've confirmed that if we actually had decent pitching, the Yankees could win over Dice-K.

These are the steps I think need to be taken to remedy this slide:

1.) Papa George comes down off the hill: It's like getting a bloody edict from the Pope nowadays, but George needs to light a fire under this team. I realize this isn't going to *fix* the actual fundamental issues with the Yankees, but they need to keep their emotions high and get a fire lit under this team. We're the New York Yankees, not the Kansas City Royals (umm...we may actually envy the Royal's record pretty soon...).



If the largest payroll in the history of sports can't motivate them, I don't think a Steinbrenner fire will do it. It's just a matter of time before they get back on course.

By the way, I think we're beginning to see why the Phillies unloaded the Abreu contract. He's a guy with talent- even on pace to put up Hall of Fame numbers. But he always seemed content with finishing second or third. I never got the feeling that winning was a priority for him.

If the Yankees are interested in replacing him, the Phillies will be happy again to help out by unloading, er, I mean, trading Pat Burrell, Abreu's mental twin. ;\)
By the way, this is yet another loss when they surrendered 6+ runs and lost a lead.

While I'm not a Yankee fan, this period of losing will be short-lived. We're not even in May yet. They'll win.

By the way, I thought Matsuzaka pitched well, except for the walks in the one inning. Like many other pitchers, I suspect that he'll get better.

JJ, just watch the Sabres for a couple of weeks and when you return to baseball after the Stanley Cup, the Yankees will be tied for first. \:o
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/07 12:54 PM

The problem is that even with this payroll, they don't care (see: Pavano). An edict from George may be just the thing to light the fire of this team.

Actually, if he was going to cut anyone loose, I'd start with the "performance enhancement" director. \:p
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/07 12:59 PM

People worry about Dice-K and how he is not that great, but we still lost so he is getting the job done even if it isn't so pretty. Mo gave up four runs and HIS ERA Is 12.15 so I would be more worried about Mo then kicking dirt over Boston, who has beaten the crap out of us four straight.
They are now 61/2 games over us and while they sit atop the league, we are a 195 million dollar last place team.

Panic, maybe not because that is the word of the land, don't panic, BUT you would have to be a putz not be getting a bit worried after watching this crap being played out.

I'm starting to see less and less to cheer about. With two more with Boston , the only bright spot seems to be Texas coming our way. If they don't rebound there, then you may have to put a fork in us because we will be done.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/07 01:37 PM

Well, the only good thing about Texas is seeing Texiera, who should be our first baseman next year.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/07 03:46 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Dice-K was shaky again: 6 innings, 5 hits, 4 runs, 4 BB, 7 SO 3-2 with a 4.36 ERA


You forgot one "stat" (again)... the "W".
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/07 05:46 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Dice-K was shaky again: 6 innings, 5 hits, 4 runs, 4 BB, 7 SO 3-2 with a 4.36 ERA


You forgot one "stat" (again)... the "W".


True but it was because of boston's offense, not the "invincible" Dice-K. If the Yankees rotation ever gets in order this year, we'll kill Dice-K.

Also, did I not tell everyone Beckett would bounce back this year? I knew he was too good of a pitcher to be the Randy Johnson of the boston red sox
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/28/07 11:24 PM

Kei Igawa outduels Dice-K \:o

6 innings, 2 hits, 0 runs, 4 BB, 6 SO 2-1 with a 6.07 ERA

Good win for the team today and hopefully Wang can do his thing tomorrow to nab us the series
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/07 02:20 AM

Another one bits the dust

----------------------------------------------------------------
Karstens fractures right fibula

NEW YORK -- Yankees right-hander Jeff Karstens suffered a fractured right fibula on his first pitch Saturday, as he was struck by a line drive that forced him to exit the game.

Karstens, a 24-year-old rookie, was making his second start of the season for New York after missing the Opening Day roster due to right elbow tendinitis. His first pitch was a fastball to Red Sox leadoff hitter Julio Lugo, who ripped a line drive off the hurler's right leg, sending Karstens into a pained crumple on the mound.

"You start the season on the DL, and come back, they give you another shot to pitch, and the first pitch of the game the guy hits a line drive off my leg," Karstens said. "It's a long season though, so I've got to come back and come back strong."

New York's medical staff immediately attended to Karstens, who said that the injury hurt but insisted that he could remain in the game. Karstens threw several warmup pitches and faced one more batter, Kevin Youkilis, throwing five pitches before the Boston first baseman reached Karstens for a single to left field.

Citing concerns that Karstens would favor his right leg and alter his pitching motion, the Yankees removed him from the game in favor of left-hander Kei Igawa, who was made available for long relief efforts in this series after a poor outing on Monday against the Rays.

Karstens underwent X-rays at Yankee Stadium, which revealed the fracture, and was later taken for additional X-rays and a CT scan at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York before returning to Yankee stadium sporting a soft foam cast.

Team physician Dr. Stuart Hershon said that Karstens should expect to be capable of pitching again this season, though both Hershon and general manager Brian Cashman declined to give a timeframe.

The Yankees will place Karstens on the 15-day disabled list, but as of Saturday evening, Cashman said the organization was still discussing which Minor League pitcher would be promoted to New York.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/07 01:48 PM

I was so glad I tuned in yesterday...I had a feeling Kei was going to be needed. I don't understand why they are passing him over while their whole reason for using Pavano is because of his contract, yet Igawa is relegated to the minors (nearly) after two decent and two questionable starts.

He clearly had the best day of any Yankee pitcher yesterday, and hopefully this begins the turnaround. This is the pitcher we signed from the Japanese league...Kei is here to stay...remember, his statline from yesterday:

K-K-K-K-K-K-Kei!!!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/07 02:03 PM

No, what is really sad is when you look at the news or this mornings newspapers that make yesterdays win look like big news.

How sad it is when a lousy win is reported like we just got into the playoffs. I know we really needed a win, but please don't let it look like we are Kanasas City.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/07 08:27 PM

The Yankees are starting to stink up the jernt.

Go Sox!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/07 11:41 PM

Pavano throws bullpen session, says arm is better

NEW YORK -- Carl Pavano got back on a mound Sunday for the first time since April 9, throwing a bullpen session as New York Yankees manager Joe Torre looked on.

Pavano has been sidelined by forearm stiffness, and the Yankees have not set a timetable for his return. Torre said Pavano threw about 45 pitches, 20 from the top of a mound.

"Everything was positive," Torre said. "He was free and easy. He popped some balls, felt pretty good freedom and he said it's feeling better. For the first time being on the mound, I thought it was a good outing for him."

Pavano is 1-0 with a 4.76 ERA in two starts, his first appearances for the Yankees following 1 1/2 years of shoulder, back, buttocks, elbow and rib injuries that caused many to question his desire to pitch and some to ridicule him. He probably will have another bullpen session Tuesday or Wednesday.

Jeff Karstens was limping around the clubhouse, a day after his right leg was broken when Julio Lugo lined the first pitch of the game off the side of his knee. While he wasn't in a cast, the area below the knee was blue.

"It's just a little sore, not really pain," Karstens said.

New York estimated he will be sidelined for six to eight weeks. He watched a replay on Saturday night, and he said his first reaction was: "Ouch!"

"I was actually more thinking about all night how come I didn't try and go after the ball?" he said.

Karstens was placed on the 15-day disabled list, and right-hander Colter Bean was recalled from Triple-A Scranton. Bean was in Columbus, Ohio, half-asleep, when he received a call at 1 a.m. Sunday telling him to get to New York in time for Sunday's game against Boston.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/30/07 04:05 PM

Bobby Abreu cannot bat third, make 15 million a year and bunt. Not saturday, not yesterday, not ever. He looks scared. This is New York Bobby, get over it or get out of here.

The Yankees, as a whole- every one of them, are Big Papi's bitch.

Manny's lifetime home runs stats against the Yanks are mind boggling.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/30/07 05:17 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
Bobby Abreu cannot bat third, make 15 million a year and bunt. Not saturday, not yesterday, not ever. He looks scared. This is New York Bobby, get over it or get out of here.


What Bobby's doing this season is no different than what he had been doing in Philadelphia the last year and a half before they unloaded him.

His Topps baseball card may say he's 33, but the rumor from Venezuela is that he's really 36-37. ;\) He'll finish the year around .285 with close to 20 homers (with few of the homers in key spots).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/30/07 05:18 PM

Hughes: 'I need to prove myself'

NEW YORK -- He walks around the clubhouse in a quiet, if not serious manner. His presence permeates throughout the white-walled lockers. He answers questions with ease and little emotion. Meekness seems sunken into every bit of his demeanor.
Just look at his eyes. It lives in Phil Hughes.

"Humility, that low, sweet root," penned Irish poet Thomas Moore, "from which all heavenly virtues shoot."

Hughes, of course, is no transient miracle hiding in a 6-foot-5 frame. No, he's just a pitcher. A darned good one, too, judging from the Minor League numbers he coaxed last year with that mid-90s fastball and sharp-breaking curve. But beneath the top draft pick label, beneath the electric pitches, and beneath that pinstriped uniform is a humble 20-year-old kid.

Mark Newman, the Yankees' senior vice president of baseball operations, has said Hughes is probably the best young pitcher the team has had since 1989, Newman's first year with the club.

Hughes' accolades would unfurl like a scroll, but two of his statistics stand out like red ink among black ink: He never faced a batter with the bases loaded in 2006, and his Minor League numbers coming into this season -- 21-7 with a 2.12 ERA -- are comparable to last year's American League Cy Young Award winner Johan Santana (19-6 with a 2.77 ERA).

Jason Giambi gave Hughes another eye-widening honor this spring, dubbing him a young "Rocket" in reference to future Hall of Fame pitcher Roger Clemens. But instead of pumping up his chest and throwing around all 220 pounds of him like he's Terrell Owens with a nasty fastball, Hughes looks toward the ground after comments like these -- perhaps with a slight chuckle -- and prefers to examine himself.

"You kind of just have to take a step back and look yourself in the mirror and say, 'You know, I haven't done anything to deserve all this praise yet,'" Hughes said. "I'm at a point now where I need to prove myself."

All of this garnered him masses of attention. Sean Henn, whose locker sits next to Hughes', explained the one downer to having Baseball America's top Yankees prospect as his clubhouse neighbor: the media crowds his space.

Yes, Hughes' gaudy statistics are a marvel, but no one -- not even scouts whose job descriptions are to first note a player's physical ability -- could help but notice something more about him. It's the way he speaks in calm, few words. It's the way his face looks even after he gives up a homer.

And to those who see it, including his teammates, manager and parents, it's a glimpse that sees the soul. Maybe that's what Jorge Posada saw when he caught Hughes in Spring Training.

"The attitude, you see it," Posada said. "It's not about being cocky. It's just the way he walks around; he belongs."

What ever happened to the spiked hairdos and mohawks, the know-it-alls and balkers, the boasters and back-talkers? They're definitely not extinct in the Major Leagues. It's just that Hughes is a fading breed.

Humility seems to be engraved on his heart. It flows through everything he does and every word he speaks -- pretty impressive considering he can't legally drink until late June. Hughes comes across with the wisdom of a man approaching his golden years in life.

"He seems to be a little more mature for someone his age," Joe Torre said. "He's sure more mature than I was at his age, just [from] the way he carries himself."

Hughes' father, Philip, used to be in the Navy. The straight-shooting advice Hughes' dad gave him, though not what he would consider "strict," helped shape Hughes as a person and his mindset on the mound.

His dad taught him to get things done in a humble way, or, as a Nike commercial might reiterate -- "Just do it." Block out distractions. Get focused. Work hard. Get it done.

That's what Hughes did in his first start in the Major Leagues against the Blue Jays last Thursday, even though he didn't succeed as he hoped.

When he gave up a run-scoring hit to Vernon Wells in the first inning of a 6-0 loss, he kept his head straight. When he struck out two batters to start the second inning, his face looked identical. Sure, some parts of that game worked out better than others for him, but what exactly did Hughes' father teach him to get him through it?

"'Don't get too high, [or] too low.' -- that kind of thing," Hughes said. "That's probably where I got most of my personality."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/30/07 05:27 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

"'Don't get too high, [or] too low.' -- that kind of thing," Hughes said. "That's probably where I got most of my personality."



Following the course of Daedalus is always sage advice, particularly in baseball. Look what happened to Icarus.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/30/07 06:28 PM

Steinbrenner: Results 'not acceptable'

NEW YORK -- Yankees principal owner George Steinbrenner has not been pleased with the team's early start, but he does not appear inclined to order major personnel changes -- for now.

New York lost two of three games over the weekend to the Red Sox and completed April with a 9-14 record, suffering a 7-4 defeat on Sunday to place them 6 1/2 games behind first-place Boston.

Steinbrenner issued a statement through his spokesperson reacting to the Yankees' recent struggles on Monday.

"The season is still very young, but up to now the results are clearly not acceptable to me or to Yankee fans," Steinbrenner said. "However, Brian Cashman, our general manager, Joe Torre, our manager, and our players all believe that they will turn this around quickly. I believe in them."

The Yankees have lost eight of nine games dating back to their weekend series against the Red Sox, fueling speculation that Steinbrenner might consider replacing Torre from the managerial post he has held since 1996.

It is not the first time Torre's position has been challenged in media reports. The 66-year-old Torre spent a good portion of his postgame press conference on Sunday insisting that his only focus is on returning the Yankees to their winning ways.

"We're going to have to come out of it," Torre said. We're a much better club than our record indicates. You play this thing over 162 games."

The first month of the season was not kind to the Yankees, particularly in a medical sense.

Hideki Matsui, Mike Mussina, Carl Pavano and Chien-Ming Wang -- all envisioned to be contributors to the club's success -- were among a cast of players who spent time on the 15-day disabled list with an assortment of injuries.

Matsui and Wang eventually returned, as did injured pitcher Jeff Karstens, but Karstens was struck with a line drive on Saturday and suffered a broken right fibula, sending him back to the disabled list. Pavano and Mussina have yet to return, but Mussina is considered a possibility to pitch this week.

The collective voids left the Yankees' weaknesses exposed, and Torre has admitted he had to lean far harder on his bullpen -- which leads the Major Leagues with a combined 95 appearances -- than expected.

The Yankees used five relievers on Sunday, the 10th consecutive game that five or more hurlers were summoned in relief -- the first time in the last 50 years that has been done, according to research performed by the Elias Sports Bureau.

Several Yankees players jumped to Torre's defense on Sunday, with Derek Jeter saying that speculation is "unfair, and it should stop." Cashman also noted that he takes full responsibility for the Yankees' sluggish start, saying that "this is the team I put together."

Steinbrenner offered his hopes that the Yankees -- who open a three-game road series with the Rangers on Tuesday -- will be able to regain their footing in the American League East.

"I am here to support them in any way to help them accomplish this turnaround," Steinbrenner said. "It is time to put excuses and talk away. It is time to see if people are ready to step up and accept their responsibilities. It is time for all of them to show me and the fans what they are made of."

As always, he also left no question what the team's main objective is.

"Let's get going," Steinbrenner concluded. "Let's go out and win and bring a world championship back to New York. That's what I want."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/30/07 11:09 PM

First off, Klydon, our resident Phillies fan, is completely right about Abreu. Be glad that he is gone after this year.

---

George's statement today probably doesn't mean much. You can't blame Torre for the injuries (fire the fucking "performance enhancement director"), but I am tired of seeing Scott Proctor, who has a horrible record against Boston, pushed in again. Ugh.

Torre does not know how to manage a bullpen, and it is a bit telling when Buddy Groom said so after departing a couple of years ago. Torre rode Quantrill, Villone, and now Proctor, and may end his career too. Grr.

---

I don't want Don Mattingly as the coach.

Why?

Because he's from the Joe Torre school. We need a manager with fire, at least for the forseable future. One thing this team has lacked is passion over the past few years, and I think Girardi could light a fire under his guys better than Torre.

That's probably because he comes from the Don Zimmer school of thought, which may hurt his chances of becoming manager - Steinbrenner dislikes Zim, and by proxy, probably would favor Mattingly over Girardi for the nod.

---

Johnny Damon is seeing a chiropractor. Okay. Now, he has to fly down to Florida to see this guy. Now, to paraphrase Mike Francesca (profanity is mine)...This chiropractor isn't fucking Jonas Salk...bring this fucking asshole to the Four Seasons before the Red Sox series, have him fix Damon up, and give me a fucking break.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/07 01:09 AM

Yahoo: Matsuzaka Helps Igawa

 Quote:
Source: Yahoo (Japan)

先発が負傷、井川緊急登板でNY救った

4月30日10時12分配信 日刊スポーツ

先発が負傷、井川緊急登板でNY救った

ヤンキース対レッドソックス 7回表レッドソックス無死一、二塁、無失点のまま降板した井川にスタンドのファンはスタンディングオベーション(撮影・加藤仁)
<ヤンキース3-1レッドソックス>◇28日(日本時間29日)◇ヤンキースタジアム
 【ニューヨーク(米ニューヨーク州)28日(日本時間29日)】ヤンキース井川慶投手(27)がレッドソックス戦にスクランブル登板し、7連敗していたチームを救った。先発ジェフ・カーステンズ(24)の負傷で初回無死一、二塁から急きょマウンドに上がり、6回0/3を被安打2無失点の好投で、2勝目を挙げた。先発危機の立場から一気に救世主となり、次は5月4日からのマリナーズ戦(ニューヨーク)に先発する。
 ベンチに戻る井川をヤンキースタジアムの観客が総立ちで迎えた。「6回0/3で拍手をもらえたのは初めてです」と精いっぱいのジョークで、うれしさを表現した。
 中継ぎ陣が連投続き。試合前、「今日はブルペンを手伝ってくれ」と伝えられた。「つめでも研ごうかな」とのんびり構えていた試合開始直後、いきなり出番が来た。
 先発カーステンズが先頭打者ルーゴに初球を打たれ、打球を右ひざに受けた。何とか次のユーキリスに投げたものの、左前打されて降板した。「真っ先に井川の名前が頭に浮かんだ」とトーリ監督は言った。
 ブルペンではなくマウンドへ向かった井川は、背番号と同じ29球を投げて何とか肩をつくった。「たぶん長くは投げない。どんどん力強い球を投げて何とかしようと思っていた」。無死一、二塁の大ピンチにも、無心で3番オルティスに挑んだ。低めの変化球で二ゴロ併殺に打ち取り、四球の後、ドルーを空振りの三振に仕留めた。
 走者がいなくてもセットポジションで投げた。「打者のタイミングを外しづらいんですが、コントロールはあるんで」。捕手のポサダは「すべての球種でストライクを取れた」と目を丸くした。
 さらに、レ軍松坂との意見交換も好投を支えた。これまでは、右足を踏み出した後も打者側に滑らせて下半身の粘りをつくっていた。日本の軟らかいマウンドならではの投球術だった。だがメジャーの硬いマウンドでは滑らせることができない。対処法を聞くため、20日の遠征先のボストンで松坂をつかまえた。メジャーに対応するために2年前、踏み出した足を滑らせないフォームに修正したことを聞いた。頑張っているのは松坂も同じと知り、意識して練習していた。
 2番手以降で投げたのは、02年10月12日広島戦(広島)以来。試合前は「足を引っ張らなければいいんですけど」と漏らしていたが、堂々の2勝目を挙げ、チームの連敗も7で止めた。前回23日デビルレイズ戦(タンパ)では制球に苦しみ、5回途中7失点KO。この日の先発を飛ばされたが「この1勝は大きい。(井川を)ローテーションに戻す」とトーリ監督の信頼も取り戻した。マリナーズ4連戦で先発に復帰する。【堀まどか】


Not a joke. Roughly translated:

Why pitch from the stretch the entire game?
"Pitching from the stretch usually makes it tougher for me to offset batter's timing (with different pitches), but I had good control today, so...Up until now, Igawa would typically step forward with his right foot, and then slide it towards batter to get a firm hold on the ground. But this was a method suited only for the softer mound of Japan. He couldn't do that with harder mound of Major League. Still without a solution, Igawa went on the road for the first series in Boston. There he met up with his fellow countrymen Matsuzaka and learned that Dice-K had anticipated this and already changed his pitching form 2 years ago to adapt to the hard mound. When Igawa knew that Matsuzaka had worked hard overcoming the same problem, he began to practice on his own as well. However, when he came out to relieve Karstens, Igawa still wasn't sure if his new form would work -- as what went through his mind at the moment was, "I just hope I don't make it worse for the team."
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/07 02:40 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J

---

I don't want Don Mattingly as the coach.

Why?

Because he's from the Joe Torre school. We need a manager with fire, at least for the forseable future. One thing this team has lacked is passion over the past few years, and I think Girardi could light a fire under his guys better than Torre.

That's probably because he comes from the Don Zimmer school of thought, which may hurt his chances of becoming manager - Steinbrenner dislikes Zim, and by proxy, probably would favor Mattingly over Girardi for the nod.

---

Johnny Damon is seeing a chiropractor. Okay. Now, he has to fly down to Florida to see this guy. Now, to paraphrase Mike Francesca (profanity is mine)...This chiropractor isn't fucking Jonas Salk...bring this fucking asshole to the Four Seasons before the Red Sox series, have him fix Damon up, and give me a fucking break.



While I'm not necessarily in favor of canning Torre (if I were a Yankee fan), I remember when the Yankees hired him, my reaction was that they were getting a retread. I remember him managing in the NL with the Mets,Braves and Cardinals with very limited success. Although he managed for 12-15 years there I don't think he was ever regarded as a top manager even though he caught lightning in a bottle one year and won the NL West with Atlanta.

I thought part of the reason for his immediate success in 1996 was that he brought a National League style of baseball to the AL. Sure the Yankees made the play-offs with Showalter and had a young, strong nucleus of talent maturing, but I think more than his predecessors, he emphasized pitching and defense. I believe the team took more walks, stole more and basically forced the action. He is an extremely likeable guy, who was an all-star player, which made it easy for the young and upcoming Jeters, Posadas, Williamses, Pettites and Riveras to admire him, buy into his system and play hard for him. The hallmark of those Yankee teams was that there were no stars, just contributors.

At the zenith of their success around 2000, they cut loose Tino Martinez to sign Giambi and Mussina at a salary only the Yankees could afford. They had already reached out for Clemens. In following years they signed Randy Johnson and Gary Sheffield and Alex Rodriguez, all high priced, high maintenance athletes, who, given their super star status, were less impressionable and impressed by Torre.

Could it therefore be said that Torre's influence as a manager is more suited to a younger team and that his approach to the game is incompatible with the approach of a high priced all-star team? It is ironic that the Yankees have had more individual talent in recent years than they had in the late-90s, but haven't achieved at the same level. Anyway, that's just a thought.

I agree that Mattingly wouldn't be a good fit as manager just the way I feel Cal Ripken wouldn't make a good manager. While both guys gave everything on the field, they both struck me as more introspective than outgoing.

When the time comes to replace Torre, I also agree that a more emotional guy will be picked (although some might suggest there are corpses more emotional than Joe). I don't know if it's for the better.

I think Torre's greatest achievement in 12 seasons with the Yankees is his firm maintenance of his even , professional, calm demeanor in the face of dealing with Steinbrenner, the cavalcade of egos and the rabid press. He's the same guy he was in 1995. While Piniella and Girardi may be able to achieve some level of success there, I don't know that they can endure for long in the Bronx.

I'm also amused by Damon going to Florida to see a chiropractor. That's like driving 60 miles to go to a particular McDonald's. ;\)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/07 02:52 AM

I think that part of the problem is that Torre himself, since the Giambi/Mussina era began, has little influence in the front office over some of the players being acquired. The Tampa group held *retarded* control over decisions, finally turning them over to Cashman...
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/07 03:32 AM

Klydon and DJ are both right. Remember that silly trade for Jose Canseco that Papa George pulled that pissed Torre off?

But look and compare today with the dynasty of a decade ago. Surely A-Rod/Abreu/Giambi have better stats and star-names than say Broscious/Williams/Tito Martinez....and yet, who played better together?

I've said it before, but I think Torre also is just burned out. Burned out from having to deal with not only Papa George, but the crazy bullshit of Papa GEorge's boys in Tampa. He's burned from having to try to manage a bunch of prima donna superstars that can't(or won't) go to the 101% of their abilities.

If Torre gets canned DJ, Papa George would probably desire Don Mattingly, but if Torre gets fired in say May, New York media will eat it up and the only person that could replace Torre and pacify the baseball writers for the first few weeks would be....Joe Giradi. He's got a Manager of the Year award on his desk. He led a team expected to loss 100 games nearly into the playoffs.

Giradi gets the nod if Torre gets canned. Besides, has Mattingly even managed before?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/07 07:23 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Yahoo: Matsuzaka Helps Igawa

 Quote:
Source: Yahoo (Japan)

先発が負傷、井川緊急登板でNY救った

4月30日10時12分配信 日刊スポーツ

先発が負傷、井川緊急登板でNY救った

ヤンキース対レッドソックス 7回表レッドソックス無死一、二塁、無失点のまま降板した井川にスタンドのファンはスタンディングオベーション(撮影・加藤仁)
<ヤンキース3-1レッドソックス>◇28日(日本時間29日)◇ヤンキースタジアム
 【ニューヨーク(米ニューヨーク州)28日(日本時間29日)】ヤンキース井川慶投手(27)がレッドソックス戦にスクランブル登板し、7連敗していたチームを救った。先発ジェフ・カーステンズ(24)の負傷で初回無死一、二塁から急きょマウンドに上がり、6回0/3を被安打2無失点の好投で、2勝目を挙げた。先発危機の立場から一気に救世主となり、次は5月4日からのマリナーズ戦(ニューヨーク)に先発する。
 ベンチに戻る井川をヤンキースタジアムの観客が総立ちで迎えた。「6回0/3で拍手をもらえたのは初めてです」と精いっぱいのジョークで、うれしさを表現した。
 中継ぎ陣が連投続き。試合前、「今日はブルペンを手伝ってくれ」と伝えられた。「つめでも研ごうかな」とのんびり構えていた試合開始直後、いきなり出番が来た。
 先発カーステンズが先頭打者ルーゴに初球を打たれ、打球を右ひざに受けた。何とか次のユーキリスに投げたものの、左前打されて降板した。「真っ先に井川の名前が頭に浮かんだ」とトーリ監督は言った。
 ブルペンではなくマウンドへ向かった井川は、背番号と同じ29球を投げて何とか肩をつくった。「たぶん長くは投げない。どんどん力強い球を投げて何とかしようと思っていた」。無死一、二塁の大ピンチにも、無心で3番オルティスに挑んだ。低めの変化球で二ゴロ併殺に打ち取り、四球の後、ドルーを空振りの三振に仕留めた。
 走者がいなくてもセットポジションで投げた。「打者のタイミングを外しづらいんですが、コントロールはあるんで」。捕手のポサダは「すべての球種でストライクを取れた」と目を丸くした。
 さらに、レ軍松坂との意見交換も好投を支えた。これまでは、右足を踏み出した後も打者側に滑らせて下半身の粘りをつくっていた。日本の軟らかいマウンドならではの投球術だった。だがメジャーの硬いマウンドでは滑らせることができない。対処法を聞くため、20日の遠征先のボストンで松坂をつかまえた。メジャーに対応するために2年前、踏み出した足を滑らせないフォームに修正したことを聞いた。頑張っているのは松坂も同じと知り、意識して練習していた。
 2番手以降で投げたのは、02年10月12日広島戦(広島)以来。試合前は「足を引っ張らなければいいんですけど」と漏らしていたが、堂々の2勝目を挙げ、チームの連敗も7で止めた。前回23日デビルレイズ戦(タンパ)では制球に苦しみ、5回途中7失点KO。この日の先発を飛ばされたが「この1勝は大きい。(井川を)ローテーションに戻す」とトーリ監督の信頼も取り戻した。マリナーズ4連戦で先発に復帰する。【堀まどか】



I can read it without the translation, thank you very much! \:p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/07 12:14 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Besides, has Mattingly even managed before?


His experience comes as the understudy for Torre. Last year was his first as an official coach (I'm pretty sure he was like Reggie Jackson, a "special advisor" or something, where he was at Spring Training and helped out but didn't have an official capacity on the bench). In 2006, he was the batting coach (his 2007 replacement, Kevin Long seems to be doing much better with A-Rod, but not so much with the rest of the team \:p ), and this year, he is now the bench coach after Steinbrenner fired Lee Mazilli as the sacrificial lamb, punishment for falling to the Tigers in last years ALDS.

The other good options that still exist at Larry Bowa, the current third base coach, and Tony Pena, at first. I've heard other rumours floating about too though, as potential replacements: Jim Fregosi, the former Toronto manager (out of the league since 2000, no!), a rehash of Buck Showalter (no! please! no!), Bobby Valentine (Rangers and Mets, now in Japanese league, but this goes against my "we shouldn't hire coaches we've beaten in the playoffs" mantra, so no!), Dusty Baker (again, please no), and Ken Macha (former A's coach, again, no!).

Leaving Girardi and the current stable of assistant coaches as the wellspring to draw from. Even if Torre doesn't get fired this year, this is the last year of his contract, and I suspect Joe is getting old and tired of the New York scene, the Steinbrenner demands, and the general shit directed towards him as a major league manager. Turn the reigns over to a younger guy, like Girardi, who can fire these guys up.

With Girardi at the helm, the youth movement beginning in the pitching (Wang, Hughes, possibly Clippard/White/Sanchez), Mark Texiera at first, Ichiro in right field, hopefully a better bullpen (K-Rod I think is available after this season), and some fire brought back to the older players (will A-Rod stay or go?), I'm already looking ahead to 2008. Ugh. Grad school. Crap. Never mind. \:p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/07 12:22 PM

Also, the best news of all - Bobby Murcer returns tonight to his full-time duties on YES as the color man for the Yankees broadcast! God bless you Bobby! \:\)

---

Rumour has it that the Indians are interested in moving C.C. Sabathia if they are out of contention around the trade deadline. Could be a nice pickup, at least a rental.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 01:41 AM

Go Hughes! Go Hughes! Go Hughes!! He is pitching one BEE-YOO-TI-FUL game! 5 innings, he hasn't given up a hit, and I think he's kept his pitch count to about 60! Now THAT'S pitching! And Cano is 3 for 3 tonight, too! THIS is the team we know! 9 runs on 11 hits. Go Yankees! Go Yankees!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 01:57 AM

I'm following the box score and it looks like the kid's pitching a gem. Can't wait to see the highlights
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 02:21 AM

NFW!! Hughes just got hurt! Hamstring, apparently! NFW!!!
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 03:49 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
NFW!! Hughes just got hurt! Hamstring, apparently! NFW!!!


Out 4 to 6 weeks.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 05:40 AM

Still a great outing by Hughes:

6 1/3 innings, 0 hits, 0 runs, 3 BB, 6 SO, 83 pitches, 1-1 with a 3.38 ERA
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 10:43 AM

One Yankee goes down with a hammy injury. Happenstance. (Wang).

More Yankees goes down with a hammy injury. Concern. (Mussina, Matsui, Karstens)

The best prospect in the Yankees system goes down with a hammy injury during a no-hitter and under the 100 pitch max ceiling...it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, and sounds like a duck.

Fire the fucking "performance enhancement" (i.e. strength and conditioning) coach. Hughes has had virtually no injury problems in his minor league career until his regimen gets changed after coming up to NY. This asshole who has been working with geriatrics for the last decade shouldn't even be close to a baseball club, but George must've liked his soft hands or something.

Yankees players have (anonymously) expressed concern that his regimens don't include stretching or even light workouts of certain muscle groups.

Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 11:59 AM

Just when you think that we could relax a bit and not have to use everybody in the bullpen, you get another pitcher going down with a ham string.
He was having a good outing, but let's face it folks we weren't taking on a killer team. It was Texas!
At least Boston lost, so we pick up a game, but are still living down south.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 01:20 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Go Hughes! Go Hughes! Go Hughes!! He is pitching one BEE-YOO-TI-FUL game! 5 innings, he hasn't given up a hit, and I think he's kept his pitch count to about 60! Now THAT'S pitching! And Cano is 3 for 3 tonight, too! THIS is the team we know! 9 runs on 11 hits. Go Yankees! Go Yankees!


That's the ultimate jinx: mentioning a no-hitter before the sixth inning is complete. \:o

Usually, mentioning it results in a hit, but when you say, "BEE-YOO-TI-FUL", it usually results in a hamstring injury.

Sounds like he pitched a very good game. It must have been frustrating for him to be injured.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 04:56 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
He was having a good outing, but let's face it folks we weren't taking on a killer team. It was Texas!


So why when I point out that Dice-K wasn't the superman people tagged him to be against the Yankees, I get the "well he got the win" speech (which was due to Boston's offense more than it was to Dice-K's outstanding pitching performance). But here Philip Hughes pitches a gem and now it's the "well it was only against Texas" routine? A win's a win, is it not? Besides, this is only his 2nd major league start and he's only 20 years old! For him to pitch a no hitter like that is impressive, Texas team or not.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 05:15 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: fathersson
He was having a good outing, but let's face it folks we weren't taking on a killer team. It was Texas!


So why when I point out that Dice-K wasn't the superman people tagged him to be against the Yankees, I get the "well he got the win" speech (which was due to Boston's offense more than it was to Dice-K's outstanding pitching performance). But here Philip Hughes pitches a gem and now it's the "well it was only against Texas" routine? A win's a win, is it not? Besides, this is only his 2nd major league start and he's only 20 years old! For him to pitch a no hitter like that is impressive, Texas team or not.


People outside of BoSox fan nation tag Dice-K as superman?

His last few starts have cooled that nonsense down. Seriously, is this a legit debate, or fannation pissing contest?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 05:22 PM

A serious point. Why when Dice-K is subpar do we congratulate him with getting the win? But when Hughes pitches we have to validate the team he pitched against? You can't have it both ways.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 07:12 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
A serious point. Why when Dice-K is subpar do we congratulate him with getting the win? But when Hughes pitches we have to validate the team he pitched against? You can't have it both ways.


No matter what we say you will always find fault with it.

You listened to all that hipe about Dice-K and you made him an instant enemy. He pitches and you want to shoot holes and glout about what he has done. He pitches against one of the greatest batting orders in the country and you just wanted to take pot shots at him, face it your hate clouds your judgement. No one said he was the greatest pitcher of the year. He faced Yankees and came out with a win, live with it.

Now Hughes pitched a great game, true BUT look at the lineup he was faced with, come on you have to discount it a bit in my book. Hughes will not be the savor of the Yankees year. I have watch him pitch here in Syracuse with the Chiefs and if he faces a line up like the Yankees have, then he will be just another arm.

Any pitcher is only going to win if his team gets him some runs. And the Yankees have an easier time of that then most teams in the league. Which I am said to say we are in dire need of.

So yes you can have it both ways, if you keep it on a level playing field and are honest about it.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 08:24 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
You listened to all that hipe about Dice-K and you made him an instant enemy. He pitches and you want to shoot holes and glout about what he has done. He pitches against one of the greatest batting orders in the country and you just wanted to take pot shots at him, face it your hate clouds your judgement. No one said he was the greatest pitcher of the year. He faced Yankees and came out with a win, live with it.


True he's not the greatest pitcher of the year but he's not worth the $126 million boston paid him against the Yankees either. AGAIN, the Yanks would have won both games if they had pitching (Dice-K wasn't a factor, yet you still give him credit).

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Now Hughes pitched a great game, true BUT look at the lineup he was faced with, come on you have to discount it a bit in my book. Hughes will not be the savor of the Yankees year. I have watch him pitch here in Syracuse with the Chiefs and if he faces a line up like the Yankees have, then he will be just another arm.


Again, don't discount his performance because of Texas. Texas has some hitters and again, it was only his 2nd start of his major league career at the tender age of 20. Cut the kid some slack!


 Originally Posted By: fathersson
So yes you can have it both ways, if you keep it on a level playing field and are honest about it.


No you can have it both ways if you have double standards which is obviously the case. Whatever though, you can continue to discount Hughes and I'll continue to discount Dice-K.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 09:40 PM

Irishman, Irishman. Irishman...you do love being argumentative.

AGAIN, the Yanks would have won both games if they had pitching (Dice-K wasn't a factor, yet you still give him credit).


That's assuming that the Yankee pitching would be able to stop Boston's hitters. So your statement is meaningless. You assume something would oe wouldn't have happened. Yet Boston and Dice-K won the game so even though he doesn't get all the credit for the win, because as I said before, No pitchers wins without help from his own teams hitters.


I did cut Hughes some slack,I said he pitched a great game or don't youread my words as typed? but he still pitched against a team who are on the bottomm of the food chain. They aren't anywhere near the Yankee or the Boston lineups in strength. If you want to go GOO-GOO GA-GA over Hughes and see everything thru your rosecolor Yankee glasses go right ahead.
You are quick enough to run Dice- K thru the mud and refuse to say that he did well pitching with the short time he has in this league and like I said for the fourth time, against the best lineup in baseball. But since they are your beloved Yankees and he is a Boston player you just can't see it any other way can you?

Does it bother you that much, that he has a win against your beloved Yankee Team? True, the Yankees would have won ALL the games if the Yankee hitters ran up 15 runs each game too...But they didn't. It takes both sides to win a game, Pitching and hitting and that day, Dice-K and Boston where just a bit better compo then New York could produce...so Live with it.
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 09:45 PM

well you gotta face it, giving up 5 hits and getting the win against the Yankees is almost the same than throwing a no hitter against the Rangers
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/07 09:48 PM

actually, Dice K won TWO games against the Yankees.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/07 05:55 AM

Pavano feels discomfort in session

ARLINGTON -- Injured Yankees starter Carl Pavano (right forearm tightness) felt discomfort while pitching Wednesday afternoon and had to cut his bullpen session short after throwing for less than 10 minutes.

Pavano said he is going to consult noted orthopedist Dr. James Andrews as soon as possible because, "It's not where it needs to be."

"The setback was disappointing, but to me he was more disappointed than anybody because we don't count our chickens," Torre said. "The fact that he had to be shut down because of how he felt ... I know he is frustrated and he doesn't know what his next move is. Dr. Andrews may help him along those lines."

Torre said any appearance by Pavano, who has been injury-riddled since joining the Yankees in 2005, "is a bonus."

"We don't know when he is going to throw again," Torre said. "You certainly need to find out how to help him along in this area. I don't know what the answer is right now."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/07 05:56 AM

This should make you happy DJ \:D

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Notes: Yanks dismiss strength coach

ARLINGTON -- Marty Miller's tenure as the Yankees' director of performance enhancement is officially over.

He was relieved of his duties less than 24 hours after rookie pitcher Phil Hughes strained his hamstring, the latest in a series of injuries that has contributed to the Yankees slow start this season.

Pitchers Mike Mussina and Chien-Ming Wang, along with outfielder Hideki Matsui have also suffered hamstring injuries this season. The perception is the hamstring injuries were related to Miller's work with the club.

"At the end of the day we have had so many hamstring issues, and that's something you can't deny," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said. "[The] 'why' is something I will continue to try to figure through, but it got to the point where perception is a bit of the problem here. Real or not real, perception becomes reality."

Miller was hired by Cashman after spending the last three years as an education consultant with the National Academy of Sports Medicine. He spent nine years as the director of fitness at the Ballen Isles Country Club in Palm Beach, Fla., and worked in the Minor Leagues from 1995-1997. He has a master's degree in performance enhancement and injury prevention.

"Ultimately, I hired Marty, and now, I made the decision to make the change there," Cashman said. "Marty was here to help our players and he did everything he possibly could to do so. Things just haven't worked out, and that's unfortunate."

Cashman received full support from manager Joe Torre.

"I trust Brian Cashman and what he does," Torre said. "The knowledge Marty had certainly was impressive. Does that mean because you know a lot about the body as it relates to baseball? That's what we don't know."

Cashman acknowledged a possible "disconnect" between Miller and the players as part of the issue. He added that there were other factors that could lead to injuries on his team apart from his players' decisions to work or ignore Miller's program. Working with Miller's program was optional and not required.

"To be quite honest, this is where it gets complex," Cashman said. "There's a lot of guys not doing Marty's program. Truthfully, some of the guys who have gotten hurt were doing their own program. That's where it gets [to be] a grey area and complicated in our sport of baseball."

Miller's program included machines and other exercises some of the players were not familiar with. He did provide equipment when it was requested by the players, but there are reports that he was unpopular in the clubhouse.

"There are a number of factors that contribute to [injuries]. But when pitchers come up with hamstring problems? That normally does not happen," center fielder Johnny Damon said. "I think when you get a number of pitchers going down with the same problem, it opens up your eyes and makes you start thinking, 'There might need to be a change.' ... We never wanted to have injuries here. Unfortunately for the team and for Marty, it happened."

Dana Cavalea, Miller's assistant, will take over as the interim director.

"This is as much my failure as anything else," Cashman said. "I take full responsibility. I'm the one who hired Marty. ... There are a lot of variables in play in every aspect of this sport. At the end of the day, this is a result-driven sport and a result-driven industry. Based on the results this far, I felt I had to make a change."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/07 06:14 AM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
That's assuming that the Yankee pitching would be able to stop Boston's hitters.


The score of his first win was 7-6. So again, he wasn't THAT much of a factor. If Proctor wouldn't have blown the game, the Yanks would have won. So he gave up 6 runs in his first game against the Yankees and you pat him on the back saying he did a fine job. I'm sorry, in my book he didn't. Call it good ol' fashion Red Sox hating or what not but sqeaking out a 1-run win because of Scott Proctor doesn't equate a good performance. He got bailed out. Whereas Philip Hughes is on the verge of a no-hitter (it would have been the first for the Yankees since David Cone in 1999) and somehow you have to find fault with it. Sure the Rangers aren't the Red Sox but they do have some good hitters in Young, Texeria, and Blalock. And weren't you the first one to discredit me for saying Dice-K didn't pitch well in his first start of the season against the Royals? So how come Dice-K gets a pass in your book against the mighty Royals but Hughes can't against the Rangers? I think you're looking through you're "let's take the complete opposite stance of Irishman's" glasses

And in his 2nd game, he gave up 4 runs. Sure he won the game and was more convincing this time around but again, he's still not superman as ESPN and others love to basically dub him. Dice-K can do no wrong whereas Igawa can do no right. But whatever, I stand by my point and you seem to stand by yours.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/07 11:16 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Dana Cavalea, Miller's assistant, will take over as the interim director.


The good news is that Cavalea has been here before Miller, and was around with Jeff Mangold, so he should be able to pick up the slack and go back to a functional stretching and exercise regimen, instead of Miler's no-running, no-stretching "system."
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/07 12:46 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
The score of his first win was 7-6. So again, he wasn't THAT much of a factor. If Proctor wouldn't have blown the game, the Yanks would have won.


If If If..they lost live with it.

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

So he gave up 6 runs in his first game against the Yankees and you pat him on the back saying he did a fine job. I'm sorry, in my book he didn't..


Yes, what you can't seem to get thru your head that a young pitcher facing the YANKEE LINE UP wouldn't have even lasted that long. and I was more defending him because of how you once again was doing your Boston Bashing which once again you can't put a side when you talk baseball

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I think you're looking through you're "let's take the complete opposite stance of Irishman's" glasses..


This comeback statement is a grade school comeback and I will not turn this into a pissing match.

End of subject Irishman,


Let us bothy move on and forget it. I just don't have the time or the energy. And lets face it you would rather die then change your stance, or understand where others comments or stantements are coming from.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/07 06:04 PM

One last thing, why does Dice-K get a pass with his "dominating" win over the Royals whereas Hughes can't over the Rangers?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/07 06:19 PM

First game is on at 3:30...it's going to be a great afternoon and evening watching Yankee baseball. ;\)

Glad I'm done with my thesis.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/07 07:02 PM

By the way - it looks like Pavano may be done for the rest of this year...and most of the next one.

Source: Hartford Courant

 Quote:
Pavano's Injury Worsens

Carl Pavano tried to throw a bullpen session Wednesday but stopped after a few minutes because of his strained elbow.

"It's getting ridiculous," said Pavano, who missed nearly two years with other injuries before making two starts this season. "The team needs me, especially with other guys going down. Rest hasn't helped it. We came up with a plan we thought would work, but we've come up short."

Tommy John surgery is a strong possibility for Pavano, who plans to see Dr. James Andrews in Alabama.

"We're discouraged," Cashman said. "We hope [there's no surgery], but we can't rule it out."

If he has the ligament transplant, Pavano would be out through most of next season, the last year of his $39.95 million contract. Coming off nearly four years of not pitching, a 2009 comeback would be a long shot, so the righthander from Southington is considering the option of surgery carefully.

"It's a lot harder not to pitch than to pitch," Torre said. "I don't think he's enjoyed what's gone on the last two years."

Pavano, who made 17 starts in 2005, has had shoulder and back problems, bone chips removed from his elbow and broken ribs and a spleen injury sustained in an auto accident last August. He made it through spring training this year and started on Opening Day, getting no decision. He pitched seven innings and beat the Twins in Minnesota on April 9 but strained his elbow and has not pitched since.

"It's frustrating for everybody," he said. ... Wang threw his bullpen session and reported no ill effects from the cracked nail on the middle finger of his pitching hand. He is scheduled to start against Seattle Saturday at Yankee Stadium. ... The Yankees have to call up another pitcher to replace Hughes on Sunday and are leaning toward lefthander Matt DeSalvo from Triple A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, where he is 3-0 with a 1.05 ERA. They'll need a starter Monday, too, because of the rainout. Look for Darrell Rasner to return from Triple A. ... Alex Rodriguez was named AL player of the month for April.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/07 07:08 PM

And also, for those keeping an eye on the Roger Clemens sweepstakes - the next 10-15 games will be vital for the Yankees. Clemens wants another ring. I suspect that whatever team has the best May - be it the Red Sox, Yankees, or Astros, and looks the best in their division - will be the winners.

At this point, it would be the Red Sox. If the Yankees want Clemens, they need to make up some serious ground during the month of May. Mussina needs to come back strong, Pettitte needs to stay consistent, Igawa needs to keep it up, Abreu needs to find his swing (I think it is on a milk carton by now), and A-Rod has to continue to blast them out of the park.

If the Yankees can come within 3 games of the Red Sox and move into second place in the AL East, we would have a fighting chance. I suspect the Yankees would give more money to Clemens than the Sox (simply because the Sox already have four great starters who are doing well, and Jon Lester is waiting in the wings, so the need for Clemens isn't as great, and their payroll is already taxed with Matsuzaka), but it is really up the Yankees if they want to get Clemens.

It's simple. If you win it, he will come.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/07 07:41 AM

So does Dice-K get another pass with his performance against the mighty Mariners lineup?

5 innings, 5 hits, 7 runs, 5 BB, 1 SO, 5.45 ERA

-----------------------------------------------------------------

In other news, glad to see the Yanks sweep Texas and that Moose bounced back:

5 innings, 4 hits, 1 run, 0 BB, 3 SO, 1-1 with a 5.73 ERA
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/07 10:56 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
"To be quite honest, this is where it gets complex," Cashman said. "There's a lot of guys not doing Marty's program. Truthfully, some of the guys who have gotten hurt were doing their own program. That's where it gets [to be]


You can understand how this could happen.

" a grey area and complicated in our sport of baseball."
Yes can anybody say spoiled, know it all, sport stars. \:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/07 11:14 AM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
"To be quite honest, this is where it gets complex," Cashman said. "There's a lot of guys not doing Marty's program. Truthfully, some of the guys who have gotten hurt were doing their own program. That's where it gets [to be]


You can understand how this could happen.

" a grey area and complicated in our sport of baseball."
Yes can anybody say spoiled, know it all, sport stars. \:D


I don't think that's the case FS (and believe me, I know from the Bills there are plenty of pro athletes who don't train correctly). Jeff Mangold, the old trainer, had a program with running and stretching during his tenure. Marty Miller had neither. It was like, "okay, go out there with what you've got" come as you are type training, which is why Yankee players complained that he was a complete dope. And he was.

---

Yankees sweep the Texans! Woot! We've vaulted into a three-way tie for second place in the AL East, 5.5 games back. We've scored more runs than any other team in our division to date.

---

Pettitte came up big yesterday. He didn't overpower hitters, but he certainly battled well and was grinding out that win.

---

Matsui! Matsui! Matsui! Walking Giambi to get to Matsui, and Matsui coming up clutch is exactly the kind of danger this lineup is supposed to bring, at least on paper. This is one of the first times this year I've seen it executed. The big double gave the Yankees the go-ahead run, and it should help Matsui along his trek to improve his batting average before his injury came along.

---

The Moose was stomping last night. He looked great. His control was there, and his breaking pitches were solid. Really impressed with how he did. If he can stay healthy, that's another huge plus for our rotation.

---

Newsflash: Abreu is still dead weight.

Oh, sorry to post old news.

---

Darrell Rasner and Matt DeSalvo will be called up to replace Phil Hughes and Karstens in the rotation. Rasner has shown flashes of being a decent pitcher, but has proven to be nothing more than an insurance 5th starter. DeSalvo, according to Giambi, has "filthy stuff" and has been in the Yankees minor league system for awhile, but has suffered some setbacks and needed to go back and get his confidence up. This looks like the right time to bring him up, as he's been dominated AAA ball in Scranton-Wilkes Barre, going 3-0 with a 1.05 ERA in five starts, allowing 15 hits, walking 13 and striking out 23 in 25 2/3 innings (according to Yankees.com).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/07 07:21 PM

It looks like Abreu is going to get sat down tonight, and Damon should be in the lineup, along with Giambi, both of whom are feeling 100% despite recent injury issues.

Also, let's keep our fingers crossed Igawa keeps up with his new footwork and can be the strikeout pitcher he was in Japan, and repeat his great performance of last week. ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/07 07:44 PM

Fingers crossed!! I think he'll be fine, actually. Let's just hope the lineup is.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/07 08:12 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
It looks like Abreu is going to get sat down tonight,


This would not hurt my feelings at all.

Maybe we could unload him for a starting pitcher. \:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/07 12:49 AM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
It looks like Abreu is going to get sat down tonight,


This would not hurt my feelings at all.

Maybe we could unload him for a starting pitcher. \:D


Actually, the way Melky's hitting seems to be (marginally) improving, it may not be a bad idea. It would give him an everyday outfield spot. \:p

Then we could re-sign Bernie!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/07 01:09 AM

OMG!! What the hell was that?? This 5th inning is almost too painful to watch. Bean?? OMG!! What were they thinking? He just gave up four runs and there's NOBODY OUT!!! NOBODY!!! And now comes Vizcaino, who will look sterling in comparison, I'm sure. That was just a trainwreck! An absolute f-ing trainwreck!!!! OMG!!

Edit: More runs scored by Seattle! 6 runs scored in this inning so far and NOBODY is OUT YET!!! NOBODY!!
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/07 01:29 AM

calm down man! it wouldn't go on forever anyway!! but Vizcaino let two more in before finishing the inning. 5 IP 15 H, 14 ER...
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/07 01:47 AM

I started off listening to this game in the car. It was so nice. The Yankees were winning 5-1 after the 2nd inning. It was lovely. And then there was the 4th and then the 5th and the bleeding has yet to stop. It would be almost comical if it wasn't so damn painful.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/07 01:59 AM

Talk about a slugfest.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/07 02:03 AM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Talk about a slugfest.


More like a bloodletting.

Edited to Add: 3 run home run for Johnny Damon! Nice job! Brings the score to 15-11 in the bottom of the 7th.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/07 02:49 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Talk about a slugfest.


More like a bloodletting.


Certainly not a pitching duel.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/07 04:06 AM

The $39M bust

NEW YORK (AP) -- Yankees manager Joe Torre raised the possibility that Carl Pavano would need surgery, and general manager Brian Cashman admitted the oft-injured pitcher has been a bust with New York since signing a $39.95 million, four-year contract.

"It clearly hasn't worked out. There's no doubt about that," Cashman said Friday. "We signed a player that we expected to be a horse in our rotation and it hasn't worked out. He physically hasn't held up. Period."

Pavano hasn't pitched because of April 9 because of forearm soreness and was attempting to be examined Friday by Dr. James Andrews, Cashman said. Pavano was 1-0 with a 4.76 ERA in two starts before getting hurt, his first two appearances for the Yankees since June 27, 2005.

Before reporting to spring training healthy, Pavano missed 11/2 years because of shoulder, back, buttocks, elbow and rib injuries. He cut short a bullpen session Wednesday in Texas after about 14 pitches, according to Torre. Pitching coach Ron Guidry gave a report to Cashman.

"It just didn't feel right and it was bothering him. Gator confirmed that," Cashman said. "He said basically you could tell that it was not a comfortable situation. He couldn't allow the bullpen to continue as is, so the next step is, well, let's get another opinion."

Torre wasn't sure what would happen with Pavano, who is 5-6 in 19 starts with the Yankees.

"I think he's pretty much going to go along with whatever the doctor suggests," Torre said. "He certainly isn't having any fun doing what he's doing, and if surgery is the only answer to changing that, then I think he'll probably consider it."

Torre also suggested the injury might be more than forearm soreness.

"Obviously, it's elbow related," he said "so we'll see what the doctor says."

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/07 12:23 PM

I couldn't watch the game last night because I don't get My9 in my area (so I watched the Sabres \:\) ), but I'm really surprised Igawa pitched from the stretch ALL NIGHT LONG. C'mon, Guidry. He did great his last start - he blended his windup with his stretch, with his new foot placement, and he had all his control and break back with his pitches.

Any Little League coach, even an amateur fan, knows that while the stretch (or set) brings a quicker delivery to the plate (which is why it is used with men on base), it yields less control, less velocity, and oftentimes less break because the pitcher does have his usual arm tendencies from the windup.

I still am not willing to give up on Kei. Guidry needs to take this kid aside and figure out how to work his foot placement in with his windup. Putting him out there to pitch from the stretch an entire game (well, 5 innings worth at least) is clearly not the solution.

---

Bye-bye Colter! Yeah. What the fuck. I love the website "freecolterbean.com" because Colter has played so well in the minors, he deserves a shot at the major leagues. No. Yet again, when called up, he fails miserably. You're telling me Ron Villone is worse than this? Even with his used-up arm, he has to be an improvement. Vizcaino too, he's having a rough go at adapting to the AL, and the "innings eater" we were getting has turned into the "early exit" after giving up big hits, usually home runs.

---

Who better than...Mike Myers? Whoa. Seriously. It was the longest outing of this career with 4 consecutive innings of work, and he did a great job trying to make something out of nothing. Kudos to the former LOOGY turned long-man.

---

Is Bobby Abreu finally out of his funk? Three hits, two runs scored. Let's hope so. He DH'ed and was third in the lineup, but I still would move him down in the order. Give Giambi or Matsui the #3 spot in the order, keep A-Rod at 4th, either Giambi/Matsui at five, Posada at sixth, Cano at seventh, and Abreu at 8. He still has great hitters directly in front of him, so he should have some chances at RBI's. And the way he's playing and Mientkeiwicz is hitting homeruns, he may get some good pitches.

---

Let's hope the Yankees can capitalize on some old flavor today. Jeff Weaver returns to Yankee Stadium in Mariners teal (?) against Chien-Ming Wang. Wang has fixed his broken fingernail issue with some superglue and says he's 100% ready to go. If the Yankees offense can giddyup and get some runs going, and support Chien, hopefully he'll get his first win this season.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/07 07:05 PM

Did you ever notice that Giambi looks like a beefed up Aj from the Sopranos
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/07 07:07 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Did you ever notice that Giambi looks like a beefed up Aj from the Sopranos


You mean an AJ on steroids? \:\/
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 12:53 AM

A great win today for Wang to get the Yankees back on track and also to give the bullpen a breather:

8 innings, 2 hits, 1 run, 0 BB, 4 SO, 1-2 with a 3.98 ERA
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 01:42 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Did you ever notice that Giambi looks like a beefed up Aj from the Sopranos


You mean an AJ on steroids? \:\/


OMG!! SC used the "S" word!!! \:o
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 02:33 PM

Great win for Wang. With only three perfect games in Yankee Stadium history (Larsen, Wells, and Cone). Coincidentally, more perfect games have been thrown at Yankee Stadium than any other ballpark (the next closest is Dodgers Stadium in Chavez Ravine). I'm really glad to see Wang do so well. Despite his outstanding performance since entering the league a couple of years ago, the media and even fans don't seem to take him seriously, and the fact that he is the ace of the rotation is always put in "quotes." That's crap. There are few pitchers in the league better than Chien-Ming Wang in my opinion, and you probably could count them on one hand (and their names include Santana, Oswalt, and Clemens).

---

Darrell Rasner gets yet another chance to try and earn a spot with the Yankees rotation today. Let's just pray he doesn't get bombed.

---

Is Abreu finally back to form?

I don't know. He'll have to fill it out in triplicate.

---

Colter Bean was optioned down to AAA Scranton-Wilkes Barre today.

That's the best move the bullpen has made all season long.

---

Can I get a witness? The Yankees have been fervently talking with Cleveland about Paul Byrd, and supposedly had a deal going until Jake Westbrook got injured. Yikes. Now it sounds like the Dan Haren alert is up. Word. Well, Cashman is tight with Billy Beane. Maybe they can work out a deal.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 02:34 PM

Good thing the Yankees have at least One Wang on the team.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 02:39 PM

Now they just need two balls! \:p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 03:23 PM

Big Trade Rumour: The Giants will be having prospects Tim Lincecum and Jon Sanchez near major league ready very soon. There are supposedly talks that would send Noah Lowry to the Yankees for Melky Cabrera.

---

My take?

Fuck Lowry. His walks are too high. Package Melky and some other parts for Matt Cain. Now we're talking.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 07:13 PM



Just announced on YES during this afternoon's game...
CLEMENS IS BACK IN NEW YORK!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 07:30 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff


Just announced on YES during this afternoon's game...
CLEMENS IS BACK IN NEW YORK!


Good News! Now let's hope that he can get up to speed quickly.
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 07:32 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson

Now let's hope that he can get up to speed quickly.


Why? Doesn't he have until around October?

I think the Yanks could make the playoffs just fine without him. We'll see though, it'll be interesting to see how many regular season games he pitches.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 07:49 PM


He says he could be ready in about a month
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 07:52 PM

This will give them a solid starter. They should get a good 6 innings with each start

Rasner looked good today!

5-0 and only four hits allowed today.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 08:50 PM

Meh. I'm not so thrilled. Another aging, big name at the end of his career. Typical Yankees. I don't think he can regularly give them 6 or 7 innings, and that's what they need. And after screwing them when he left for Houston, I don't think he deserves to be back in pinstripes.

But that's just me. And it's personal.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 09:01 PM


I think he can help them more than hurt them - and that's all that's important right now... \:p ;\)
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 09:36 PM

I can't wait 'till the hypocrisy starts from some Yankee fans.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 09:47 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Meh. I'm not so thrilled. Another aging, big name at the end of his career. Typical Yankees. I don't think he can regularly give them 6 or 7 innings, and that's what they need. And after screwing them when he left for Houston, I don't think he deserves to be back in pinstripes.

But that's just me. And it's personal.


I hate Roger Clemens' guts as well for what happened after 2003, but SB, this can only help the Yankees. Clemens can go deep into games, and knows how to pitch (effectively) in the AL East. He was the best free agent pitcher available this year, far and away the only sure-fire guarantee in the bunch (the next best was Zito and then Schmidt, neither who look too hot right now).

Give me an aging Roger Clemens right now over any of the other guys signed as an FA. His contract is prorated - so he isn't getting a Randy Johnson style deal. It's for one year - he's a rental to get them through October with a championship.

Again, I think personal feelings need to be put aside. This isn't "typical Yankees" because this isn't a typical situation. We've had to start ten different players this year because of injuries. No starter has been injury free except Igawa (jinx...please no). Clemens brings stability and clubhouse chemistry, something we are in desperate need of.

Furthermore - now he can be a mentor to guys like Phil Hughes and Tyler Clippard, which is merely a bonus.

---

I was ecstatic when I heard the news today. I'm not expecting Clemens to be a savior - all I want is a starter who knows how to get guys out. Good lock Lodger Cremens!

---

Abreu looks to be back. Hooray. Let's keep it up.

---

Darrell Rasner did a great job today, let's hope he can stay healthy.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 11:16 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
and the fact that he is the ace of the rotation is always put in "quotes." That's crap. There are few pitchers in the league better than Chien-Ming Wang in my opinion, and you probably could count them on one hand (and their names include Santana, Oswalt, and Clemens).


I think it's because his stuff isn't dominating like a Clemens, Pedro back in their day. He gets a lot of groundball outs
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 11:24 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Meh. I'm not so thrilled. Another aging, big name at the end of his career. Typical Yankees. I don't think he can regularly give them 6 or 7 innings, and that's what they need. And after screwing them when he left for Houston, I don't think he deserves to be back in pinstripes.

But that's just me. And it's personal.


I agree but if he can help deliever them a championship this year, all's forgiven. But I won't lie, with the state the rotation is in, Clemens is a God send IF he too can stay healthy!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 11:27 PM

Clemens' return benefits both sides

Roger Clemens' decision to join the New York Yankees might seem, at first glance, to be at least a small surprise. But it is actually Clemens in classic form -- The Rocket to the rescue.

Of Clemens' three choices, the Yankees, on the surface, might seem to have the least obvious appeal. The Houston Astros had the comforts of home. The Boston Red Sox had far and away the best record of the three teams -- the best record in the American League, for that matter -- so the chances of Clemens finishing his career with another championship seemed to point to this option.

But if you're Roger Clemens and you've won 348 games and you're headed toward the Hall of Fame, you are not bound by the usual considerations. Your sense of yourself is largely heroic, and this is not all ego. You have the numbers to prove it.

So the question, in part, becomes: Where can you make the biggest difference? And the answer to that question comes back: with the New York Yankees.

Look at the Yanks. They have an everyday lineup as good, or better, than any in the game. But they are a sub-.500 operation as we speak, because their pitching has been beat up and/or ineffective. If one man could make a tremendous difference to their overall outlook, that one man would be Roger Clemens.

He may be 44 years old. But in his 19 starts with the Astros last season, he had a 2.30 ERA. The most recent evidence says that he is still The Rocket.

In these circumstances, with the Yankees in desperate need of pitching help, you could say that Clemens is the hero, riding in on a white horse to save the situation. In fact, Clemens might be the entire cavalry.

So these circumstances are perfect for Clemens' sense of himself. But there is another element that makes the Yankees the sensible choice for the ace of aces: It's not all a question of what he can do for them. It's also a question of what they can do for him. It isn't all the money. He could get that in the other two locales, too. The record says that the Yankees will score runs for Roger Clemens -- lots of runs.

This was the problem in Houston. In 2005, Clemens had an ERA of 1.87, but because the Astros, even though they became a World Series team, could not consistently score for him, that splendid ERA translated into only a 13-8 record.

If The Rocket pitches at anything like the level of the last two seasons, he won't have that non-support issue in the Bronx. The vast majority of the time, if he pitches well enough to win, the Yankees will score enough for him to win.

You take these two circumstances -- the opportunity to be seen as the lead character in a Yankees revival and the assurance of runs with which to work -- and you can see why Roger Clemens has ended his annual semi-retirement in favor of another stint with the Yankees. They could be the Yankees again, if they get better pitching. What could be more of an answered prayer than the addition of Roger Clemens?

The announcement of Clemens' return, made by The Rocket himself during the seventh-inning stretch on Sunday at Yankee Stadium, was in perfect keeping with the theme. The Rocket appears suddenly, magically, and within the blink of an eye, deep concern turns to genuine optimism.

There aren't many people who could make this happen. There are even fewer pitchers who could make this happen. But Roger Clemens can. That is why he is going to the Yankees.

He is the answer for what ails them. They will provide him with necessary the run support. There will be general disapproval of this choice deep in the heart of Texas and in New England. But The Rocket's return for a second hitch with the Yankees makes perfect sense, for both the club and the pitcher. Not only can Roger Clemens win with the Yankees, he can be a main reason that the Yankees can win.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/06/07 11:28 PM

Clemens announces return to Yanks

NEW YORK -- "Roger Clemens is a Yankee."
With those five words, displayed on Yankee Stadium's matrix screen in a surprise announcement during the seventh-inning stretch on Sunday, the 44-year-old right-hander ended all the speculation and confirmed his return to the Bronx.

The Yankees officially announced that they have signed Clemens, a seven-time Cy Young Award winner, to a Minor League contract. The deal is worth $28 million on a prorated basis from the day Clemens is added to the Yankees' 25-man roster.

Following the playing of "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," public-address announcer Bob Sheppard instructed the crowd to draw its attention to the owner's box and the video screen.

The image of Clemens, holding a microphone, drew a loud ovation from the crowd at the game between the Mariners and Yankees, but his comments would soon be drowned out by an even more raucous ovation from the paid attendance of 52,553.

"It's a privilege to be back," Clemens said. "I'll be talking to you all soon."

Clemens returns to the Yankees, where he pitched from 1999 through 2003, serving as a member of two World Series championship teams in 1999 and 2000.

"He's older than most guys," said Yankees manager Joe Torre, "but he still takes care of himself very, very much."

As a Yankee, Clemens -- who was originally acquired from the Blue Jays prior to the 1999 season in exchange for Homer Bush, Graeme Lloyd and David Wells -- compiled a record of 77-36 with a 3.99 ERA, striking out 946 batters in 157 starts.

On June 21, 2003, Clemens became the 21st pitcher in Major League history to reach the 300-win milestone, while also recording his 4,000th career strikeout in a 5-2 victory over the Cardinals.

Clemens made 19 starts for the Astros last season, posting a 7-6 record with a 2.30 ERA after signing a Minor League contract on May 31, reprising his role as the Astros' in-season acquisition after going 13-8 with a career-best 1.87 ERA in 32 starts for Houston in 2005.

"We just felt he was a great addition for more than one reason," Torre said. "Roger will certainly add a lot of stability to what we're doing."

Dating back to this past offseason, Clemens had declined to say if he expected to pitch at all in 2007, but he hedged his bets by saying through his representatives, Alan and Randy Hendricks, that he would consider playing for only the Yankees, Astros or Red Sox.

Clemens, who also said that he would pitch only for a team with hopes of playoff contention, will join a Yankees club that has seen its starting pitching suffer through an extended stretch of inconsistency and injuries.

Clemens' good friend, Andy Pettitte, has twice been pressed into relief action to help out a beleaguered bullpen, while Chien-Ming Wang, Mike Mussina, Jeff Karstens, Phil Hughes and Carl Pavano have all spent time on the disabled list.

Pavano, the Yankees' Opening Day starter on April 2, could miss the remainder of the season, which created an even more glaring void for The Rocket's liftoff to fill.

Clemens would likely need a series of Minor League appearances, likely beginning at Class A Tampa, in order to prepare for Major League action. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman did not rule out a return to the mound for Clemens on June 1 against the Red Sox at Fenway Park.

"Obviously, I'm not ready to step on the mound at Yankee Stadium yet," Clemens said, "but I'm going to do everything I can to get back here ASAP.

"Make no mistake about it: I've come back to do what they only know how to do with the Yankees, and that's win a championship."

Clemens ranks second all-time among Major League pitchers with 172 career strikeouts in the postseason, behind only Atlanta's John Smoltz (194). He leads all active Major League pitchers in wins (348), strikeouts (4,086), games started (690), innings pitched (4,817 2/3), complete games (118) and shutouts (46).

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 04:34 AM

Well, check the log book. I've been talking about this since this last yr. This is a HUGE story.

Clemens is one of THE best pitchers in baseball. Granted, he may only pitch a handful of meaningful games, but when you have to play a game 3 in Detroit he is nice to have for about 6 innings. Let the offense do the rest.

There's really only a handful(and by handful I mean a FEW) of "lock-down" pitchers in baseball. I.e Halladay, Oswalt, Beckett, Santana, Clemens, Schilling, Pedro(back in the day). Then there's guys like Jake Peavy, CC Sabathia and Carlos Zambrano who are potenially amazing but maybe not Pedro status. That's about it.

This is a huge story. Considering some of you spend most of your natural lives in this thread, I really can't believe that you're not more excited about this. Having a potential staff of Mussina, Clemens, and Petitte with guys like Hughes and Wang looks REAL good, especially when combined w/ that O.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 04:52 AM

 Originally Posted By: Ice
This is a huge story. Considering some of you spend most of your natural lives in this thread, I really can't believe that you're not more excited about this. Having a potential staff of Mussina, Clemens, and Petitte with guys like Hughes and Wang looks REAL good, especially when combined w/ that O.


True, but some of us are still feeling the burns of Clemens and most of the staff is injuried. Currently we have Wang, Moose and Pettitte ready to go. When we get Clemens, Hughes and the others back healthy, then it'll be a sight to see. Imagine a Yankees vs. Red Sox matchup with Schilling, Beckett and Dice-K against Wang, Clemens and Pettitte \:o
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 05:08 AM

How Clemens landed in the Bronx

The Yankees' charter touched down in Texas last Monday evening, and general manager Brian Cashman sent a text message to Randy Hendricks, the agent for Roger Clemens. "I just landed in your wonderful state."

Hendricks responded: "I'm out of town." And a couple of hours later, as Cashman dined with manager Joe Torre, he said, "I wonder if he's at Fenway Park."

This was just one more anxious moment, in the Yankees' months-long pursuit of Clemens. They had lost out on the bidding for the future Hall of Famer last year, but Clemens had remained close friends with a lot of the Yankees -- Derek Jeter, Torre and Cashman. And his very good friend Andy Pettitte re-signed with the team in January.


And when the Yankees traded Randy Johnson to the Diamondbacks, they felt as if they were setting themselves up in two ways to lure Clemens: First, by clearing Johnson's $16 million salary from their books, they would have the cash to bid aggressively on Clemens, and secondly, they would no longer have second thoughts about giving Clemens special treatment, like leaving the team on days between his starts. They would not have wanted to create that precedent if Johnson was still on the team.

But the Big Unit was now gone and from the beginning of spring training, the Yankees -- like the Astros and the Red Sox -- were in contact with Hendricks, monitoring Clemens' thinking, making it clear they were interested. The Yankees upped the ante quickly, though, in March, floating the notion that they were prepared to pay Clemens significantly beyond what his prorated salary was last season with Houston, about $3.6 million per month, a prorated $22 million salary.

The Yankees' first trial balloon in March: $25.5 million. Clemens also met with owner George Steinbrenner, who made a personal plea to the pitcher, reiterating how much he wanted Clemens to come back.

Clemens and Hendricks made it clear to everyone, even into late April, that he wouldn't make his decision until late May. But as Mike Mussina got hurt and then Carl Pavano, the Yankees felt they could and should become more aggressive. After landing in Texas, Cashman wanted to set up a meeting with Hendricks -- only to learn, to his horror, that the agent was meeting with the Red Sox, which the agent confirmed to Cashman with a text message on May 1. Hours later, Phil Hughes hurt his hamstring. The Yankees' need for pitching was acute.

Cashman and Hendricks e-mailed back and forth on Tuesday and Wednesday, kicking around the idea of meeting during the day Thursday in Houston, but there was a terrible storm in Arlington that forced the postponement of the game. The Yankees and Rangers were scheduled for a doubleheader Thursday, and Cashman felt that if he was away from the team during the game, then the media might get an inkling of how he was trying to make an aggressive move on Clemens. He had used the same approach in signing Johnny Damon: Make a very aggressive offer quickly and force a decision.

So Hendricks and Cashman spoke on Thursday night, and the financial parameters were laid out: Clemens would cost a prorated salary of $28 million. Hendricks got off the phone and called Clemens, and told him that the time was nearing for the pitcher to make a decision, and that if he was going to go to the Yankees, now was the time. "Let's do it," Clemens responded.

Cashman spoke with Steinbrenner and team president Randy Levine on Thursday night, laying out what the cost would be -- including salary and luxury tax, about $6.5 million per month to the Yankees. They agreed to talk the next day, and at 4 p.m., the Yankees' executives had another conference call.

Cashman hung up and phoned Hendricks immediately. "We'll do it," Cashman said, and the two men talked about how to break the news, agreeing that having Clemens speak to the crowd at Yankee Stadium on Sunday afternoon could make for a great moment.

Torre was in the loop all along, and about a half hour before Sunday's game, he met with the coaching staff to inform them of the news. Word drifted out to the players. Early Sunday afternoon, Hendricks phoned executives from both the Red Sox and Astros and told him that he had a deal with another team. "It was a bit of a surprise," Tim Purpura, Houston's GM, said on Sunday evening, from the Astros' team bus. "We hadn't had any dialogue since the end of spring training."

During the game, Astros manager Phil Garner turned to Brad Ausmus and told him the news about Clemens. "I'm not shocked," Ausmus said, by phone. "I feel exactly the way that I did when Pettitte signed. I'm not shocked, but I'm disappointed that I won't have the opportunity to work with him anymore."

Clemens' arrival at Yankee Stadium was timed carefully, in the midst of the Yankees' victory over Seattle on Sunday, and when he walked through the door, Cashman greeted him with a handshake. "Thanks for coming over," he said, "we really need your help."

Clemens spoke to Steinbrenner briefly, and then stepped out into the owner's private box and picked up a microphone to speak to the crowd at Yankee Stadium.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 05:11 AM

I just can't believe that both Pettitte and Clemens are back in NY.

Why the f*ck did they ever get rid of them to begin with? Whoever it was that made the decision to let them go(Steinbrenner,etc) looks like a complete moron now that they have brought them BOTH back.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 05:19 AM

Well Pettitte left because New York was more concerned about trading for A-Rod. At the time, I was upset to see Andy go but I knew he had elbow problems. His first year in Houston he sat much of it due to those problems and thought maybe the Yankees did the smart thing in letting him go. His second year he struggled but was making a comeback and last year he had his best year as an Astro. I was pessimistic about signing him this year but he's proving to be a reliable workhorse when his number is up (which is EXACTLY what the Yankees need right now).

Clemens pulled the "I'm retiring, now that I'm out of my Yankees contract I'm going to pitch closer to home" card. I felt it was very disrespect for him to betray New York like that after he won not one but TWO World Series there (something he never did in Boston, Toronto or Houston).
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 05:34 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Imagine a Yankees vs. Red Sox matchup with Schilling, Beckett and Dice-K against Wang, Clemens and Pettitte \:o


Well, I would definitely take Boston in that one, no doubt about it. Not to say that the Yanks couldn't win that series, but in order to do so I think their offense would have to be a few steps above the Sox's.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 05:36 AM

The Yankees have the best lineup in the country. With 3 reliable starters, they could take this year's Sox!
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 06:02 AM

Now that you mention those 3 reliable starters, it's makes me think. They actually have about 5 potential reliable starters. I wonder if Torre will get Dean Smith syndrome where you have SO much talent that you under utilize it b/c you bench the wrong guys while trying to utilize everyone on your roster.

Let's say Wang comes out and pitches game 1 and the Yanks lose a close one. Pettitte comes out and wins game 2 and Rocket wins game 3. So...your up 2-1 and you still have Hughes and Mussina who you want to throw, so you throw those guys for game 4 and 5. Let's say you split those games and it goes 7. So....who pitches games 6 and 7? Obviously Roger would pitch one of them, but who pitches the other? Wang or Pettitte? Better make the right choice. Or...Wang could start the game and Pettitte could pitch relief. I like him in that role. Or....maybe you throw Hughes in game 7. Lot's to think about.

Not to give you guys anything more to worry about but you see my point. Of course, I'm sure it's better to have those guys and not need them than to need them and not have them. ;\)
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 06:04 AM

I wish I was Clemens. It would be nice to come back from my entire week of vacation, and then tell my boss "I'm not coming back for the next few months." And then wait around for a bigger and better company to pay me millions at which point I waltz in on my own time and only work for part of the year. Then again I don't have a cool nickname like "The Rocket". Maybe that's the secret.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 06:24 AM

 Originally Posted By: Ice
I wonder if Torre will get Dean Smith syndrome where you have SO much talent that you under utilize it b/c you bench the wrong guys while trying to utilize everyone on your roster.


That's a problem I wouldn't mind having
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 12:32 PM

 Originally Posted By: Ice
I just can't believe that both Pettitte and Clemens are back in NY.

Why the f*ck did they ever get rid of them to begin with? Whoever it was that made the decision to let them go(Steinbrenner,etc) looks like a complete moron now that they have brought them BOTH back.


That was courtesy of the Tampa crew. Cashman was against the decision, from what I've read. They basically felt that Andy's elbow was tied together with string, and was about to snap. Instead, they went with the aging, injury-prone Kevin Brown, who was in much worse shape. \:p

But yeah, getting rid of Pettitte was retarded. Clemens was a different story. He said he was retired, ending his contract, and left the Yankees. Then, only after he saw Pettitte in Houston, he decided to come back. Most Yankee fans accepted this as a screwjob, not the fault of upper management like the Pettitte deal.

 Originally Posted By: Ice
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Imagine a Yankees vs. Red Sox matchup with Schilling, Beckett and Dice-K against Wang, Clemens and Pettitte \:o


Well, I would definitely take Boston in that one, no doubt about it. Not to say that the Yanks couldn't win that series, but in order to do so I think their offense would have to be a few steps above the Sox's.


I'd take the Yankees. The reason the Yankees lost the series(s) to Boston was because the pitching was dismal. The offense hit off their pitchers (as Irishman can attest with Dice-K's stats \:D ). Now that the Yankees are coming back from injury, and will actually have their four main starters lined up (Wang -> Pettitte -> Clemens -> Mussina) and then with Hughes returning (I still think they should send him back down to AAA to keep him on his old schedule), Igawa and Rasner can duke it out for the last spot in the rotation (and Karstens too when he returns).

The Yankee offense is better than the Red Sox offense, if all the cogs are there. But until now, the injuries rendered the Yankee team completely dysfunctional. Clemens, even if he can't return to Clemens-esque form, should bring back some stability and some quality starts (literally and stat-wise) that give our offense a chance to do its work.

And its going to be necessary, too. Beckett has finally learned how to pitch in the AL, Schilling looks good, and Dice-K, despite his stats to the contrary, is getting the run support he needs to pull out wins.

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
The Yankees have the best lineup in the country. With 3 reliable starters, they could take this year's Sox!


Don't be so sure. Damon is (as always) dealing with nagging injuries, A-Rod has cooled off, Giambi strikes out too much, Abreu has been horrid until the last two games, Matsui is still recovering from injury, Cano has lost his power stroke, Melky contributes some vanilla ice cream, and Mienkeiwicz is johnny-come-lately with one or two homeruns but an otherwise quiescent bat.

Like I said, all the cogs in the machine have to be working, and then, yes, the Yankees have the best lineup in baseball.

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
and the fact that he is the ace of the rotation is always put in "quotes." That's crap. There are few pitchers in the league better than Chien-Ming Wang in my opinion, and you probably could count them on one hand (and their names include Santana, Oswalt, and Clemens).


I think it's because his stuff isn't dominating like a Clemens, Pedro back in their day. He gets a lot of groundball outs


I watched Orel Hershiser on Baseball Tonight tell me how Chien-Ming Wang has to "step it up to become the ace of the Yankees rotation."

Are you a fucking idiot? I think we all know the answer to that question. Where have you been the last two years, Orel?


 Originally Posted By: Ice
Now that you mention those 3 reliable starters, it's makes me think. They actually have about 5 potential reliable starters. I wonder if Torre will get Dean Smith syndrome where you have SO much talent that you under utilize it b/c you bench the wrong guys while trying to utilize everyone on your roster.

Not to give you guys anything more to worry about but you see my point. Of course, I'm sure it's better to have those guys and not need them than to need them and not have them. ;\)


Torre had issues last year with guys like Sheffield and A-Rod because he had no place to put them. A-Rod sucked the mighty penis in the playoffs, and Sheffield returned from injury, stuck at first with the newly acquired Abreu at right field. It was hard not to hurt feelings with that much talent.

I don't however think Torre would have a Dean Smith issue with the rotation. Both Wang and Pettitte have zero ego. Mussina's a quirky little prick who HAS to pitch on his day in the rotation or he'll go cry like a schoolgirl in the corner, so that forces Torre to use him when his number is called. So they could pretty much keep that stable going in a consistent 1-2-3-4 order for as long as they wanted to, sprinkling Hughes (who should return to AAA), Rasner, Igawa, and Karstens in there in the fifth slot (I plead the fif!). All in all, I wouldn't mind pitching any of the front four against the Red Sox.

---

BTW - Want a good laugh? Go to ESPN.com/baseball and read all the comments from Red Sox fans about the Clemens deal. It's pretty hilarious.

---

 Originally Posted By: Blibbleblabble
I wish I was Clemens. It would be nice to come back from my entire week of vacation, and then tell my boss "I'm not coming back for the next few months." And then wait around for a bigger and better company to pay me millions at which point I waltz in on my own time and only work for part of the year. Then again I don't have a cool nickname like "The Rocket". Maybe that's the secret.


Would you settle for being Archie Bunker?
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 01:04 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J


But yeah, getting rid of Pettitte was retarded.


Right, b/c he's a huge left-hander who likes pitching in the cold.

BTW-Houston had the best staff in baseball before yesterday.

Now, it's all gone.

Pettitte is from Dear Park,Texas and of course Rocket is a graduate of a "little" baseball school in Austin.

Blue-blooded devils in stripes, all of you.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 01:10 PM

 Originally Posted By: Ice
 Originally Posted By: Double-J


But yeah, getting rid of Pettitte was retarded.


Right, b/c he's a huge left-hander who likes pitching in the cold.

BTW-Houston had the best staff in baseball before yesterday.

Now, it's all gone.

Pettitte is from Dear Park,Texas and of course Rocket is a graduate of a "little" baseball school in Austin.

Blue-blooded devils in stripes, all of you.


We'll trade you Andy for Roy Oswalt... \:p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/07 01:25 PM

 Code:
Baseball Prospectus Adjusted Standings

Last update: Mon May 7 05:46:00 2007 PT



Generated Mon May 7 07:43:07 EDT 2007

Teams are sorted by division and third-order wins and losses.

Team             W    L       RS   RA  W1   L1     EQR EQRA  W2   L2    AEQR AEQRA W3   L3      D1    D2    D3
Red_Sox          20.  10.    150  105 19.7 10.3    159  106 20.5  9.5    153  104 20.2  9.8     0.3  -0.5  -0.2
Yankees          14.  15.    174  147 16.9 12.1    160  146 15.9 13.1    158  141 16.2 12.8    -2.9  -1.9  -2.2
Blue_Jays        13.  18.    151  152 15.4 15.6    161  146 16.9 14.1    155  140 17.0 14.0    -2.4  -3.9  -4.0
Orioles          14.  17.    136  141 15.0 16.0    142  137 16.1 14.9    138  127 16.7 14.3    -1.0  -2.1  -2.7
Devil_Rays       14.  17.    145  190 11.5 19.5    145  178 12.5 18.5    143  171 12.9 18.1     2.5   1.5   1.1
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 06:15 AM

Igawa sent to Minors

NEW YORK -- Kei Igawa's big-league career is making a detour to the Minors.

Citing inconsistency and ineffectiveness over half of his first six Major League appearances, the Yankees optioned the 27-year-old left-hander to Class A Tampa on Monday.

"We just want to get him comfortable doing something different and that's not going to be easy," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "It's not going to come overnight. The most important thing is that he understands it and trusts the fact that this is going to be good for him."

The Yankees made a $46 million investment in Igawa, a three-time strikeout leader with the Hanshin Tigers in Japan's Central League, but the import has had issues maintaining his performance early in his Major League career.

"I had success here and also failure as well," Igawa said through an interpreter. "To be consistent at the Major League level, I can definitely go down to adjust in the Minors."

The Yankees had originally intended to send right-hander Darrell Rasner down to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in a move to create roster space for Monday's starter, rookie Matt DeSalvo, but Torre and general manager Brian Cashman met Monday and instead decided to ship out Igawa instead.

Torre said that Igawa handled the message -- which was delivered in a meeting before Monday's game against the Mariners -- rather well.

"We're just trying to get him comfortable with what we feel will help him be more consistent," Torre said. "He took the news fine. We took a lot of time obviously making sure that he understood that he's still very important to us and we're taking this step to get him better than he is."

"I think going down to the Minors is an opportunity to adjust and come back to the Majors [at] 100 percent," Igawa said.

Igawa has had bright spots in his brief big-league tenure, most recently a six-inning relief stint against the Red Sox on April 28, in which Igawa allowed no runs and two hits.

But Igawa -- who is 2-1 with a 7.63 ERA in six appearances (five starts) -- was in the bullpen that day because his previous start against the Devil Rays was unsuccessful. On April 23, Igawa allowed seven runs on eight hits in a loss at St. Petersburg, Fla., prompting the Yankees to remove him from the pitching rotation.

Igawa's last effort, a May 4 loss to the Mariners, was similarly frustrating for the Yankees. Igawa allowed eight runs on nine hits in four innings of work, surrendering three home runs, despite the fact he later told reporters his effort had been acceptable and he threw just one bad pitch.

In that most recent start, Igawa even abandoned his full windup, preferring to instead pitch from the stretch, where he feels he can find better control. That leads the Yankees to believe that Igawa must make adjustments related to his balance; Igawa has walked 13 and struck out 19 in 30 2/3 Major League innings.

"There are some things he's got to fix, mechanically, we believe," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said. "He's had six games here: three been very good and three have been not very good.

"He's got Major League ability, we have no doubt about that. We've seen it in three games, but unfortunately we're not seeing it consistently."

While with Tampa, Igawa will work with pitching coordinator Nardi Contreras and Minor League pitching coach Gil Patterson.

The process could be a relatively lengthy one -- Contreras said the early focus of his efforts with Igawa would concern deconstructing his pitching motion and performing a lot of work in the bullpen and in dry mound sessions, with game action a secondary concern at this time.

"I don't know how long it's going to take," Igawa said, "but I'm going to do my best to get back up."

Contreras -- who was at Yankee Stadium on Monday to watch his pupil, DeSalvo, make his Major League debut against the Seattle Mariners -- said that he has a plan to help bypass the language barrier inherent in dealing with Igawa, who speaks little English and relies on a full-time interpreter to translate into Japanese.

Contreras said has already ordered a montage of videotape depicting star left-handed pitchers like Chicago's Mark Buehrle and the Mets' Tom Glavine in the hopes of relaying messages to Igawa by image.

"He's got the stuff to pitch here in the big leagues, and it shows it when he's able to throw strikes," Contreras said. "It's just getting to a consistent basis. We have to give him a chance to repeat his delivery."

Igawa, who was touted as a long-term asset by Cashman on the day he was introduced to the New York media in January, said that he was aware a reassignment to the Minor Leagues could be a possibility when he signed his contract with the organization.

"If you don't show results here up in the Major Leagues, the Yankees demote to [the] Minors," Igawa said. "I knew that before I signed with the team."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 06:16 AM

A heartbreaking lose for the Yanks as Mo lost another one. I feel bad for DeSalvo who had an impressive debut:

7 innings, 3 hits, 1 run, 3 BB, 0 SO, 1.29 ERA
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 06:20 AM

Pavano will get fourth opinion on elbow

NEW YORK -- The fate of Carl Pavano's 2007 season appears to be hinging on a fourth medical diagnosis, as the Yankees will send the right-hander to the West Coast for more reviews on his ailing pitching elbow.

Pavano, 31, expressed confusion regarding his continuing travel plans following the Yankees' 3-2 loss to the Mariners on Monday.

Pavano said that he has been told by three doctors that his elbow has damage that could require Tommy John elbow reconstruction surgery. The Yankees have requested that Pavano fly to Los Angeles to meet with Dr. Lewis Yocum, the team physician for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, for yet another review of his situation.

"Lucky No. 4? I have no idea," Pavano said. "I want to do what's right, and I've got three professionals telling me what's right. I guess I'll see the best doctors in the business -- all of them."

Before the game, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman declined to state if Pavano was facing a surgical procedure, except to say that the team is pulling out every opportunity to garner as many various opinions as possible regarding Pavano's health.

"Clearly, I want to make sure that we have a really accurate reading on all this," Cashman said. "We've got all the best doctors we're trying to pull in."

Pavano has not pitched since April 9, when he turned in seven innings to defeat the Twins in Minnesota. After that start, Pavano complained of tightness in his right forearm, and a series of attempts to get the hurler back on the mound showed some promise before ultimately ending with recurring discomfort.

Pavano has been examined by Yankees team physician Dr. Stuart Hershon, and over the weekend, he saw renowned orthopedic specialist Dr. James Andrews in Pensacola, Fla.

According to Pavano, Andrews found damage to a ligament in the pitching elbow, while Pavano reported that another physician, Dr. David Altchek, found a tear in the elbow. The end result of the diagnoses, Pavano said, is that he may eventually need Tommy John surgery.

That procedure would likely remove Pavano from competition for 12 to 18 months. Pavano is in the third year of a four-year, $39.95 million contract with the Yankees, which means that Tommy John surgery could effectively end his chances of pitching for the Yankees again.

"That's the surgery they're talking about," Pavano said. "You think I'm fighting to have that done? One of them says there's a tear in there, and Andrews sees films. ... I don't know why I'm going to a fourth doctor. I don't understand it."

The Yankees have garnered little from their large investment in Pavano, yielding just 19 starts and a total of five victories. He said that he was not eager to have the procedure performed to put it behind him, but his options appear limited.

"I would not like to have the surgery," Pavano said. "But I have professionals and that's what they do -- they make these decisions. That's the decision that they think is going to make my elbow better, and that's what I think I need to do."

Source: Yankees

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Just buyout his contract or let him sit on the sidelines for the remainder of his contract. We should have traded him during Spring Training when the Cards and others were still interested in him
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 11:12 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
A heartbreaking lose for the Yanks as Mo lost another one. I feel bad for DeSalvo who had an impressive debut:

7 innings, 3 hits, 1 run, 3 BB, 0 SO, 1.29 ERA


Thank the mentally handicapped second base umpire who couldn't see Cano's tag even though the runner was out two feet before he touched the bag, allowing the Mariners to tie the game.

---

Matt DeSalvo did a great job. You can see he's almost there. Still some control issues, but man he's got some nice stuff, particularly his forkball/screwball/changeup/combo.

It's probably nastier than the "gyroball." \:p

---

Kei Igawa got sent to the minors. People are bitching about Roger Clemens contract when we just sent our $46 million dollar man down to Scranton-Wilkes Barre?

---

BTW - Kudos for Mike and the Mad Dog absolutely berating Brian Cashman and the Yankees for the Clemens deal yesterday, and making themselves look like complete retards. Of course this was a desperation deal - Cashman admits it - we need him badly. Of course we don't like the idea of him getting the family ties deal, but what can you do when you desperately need reliable pitching? And Clemens stats in the AL aren't that great? Holy fuck. He's going to be our 4th starter. Who else did you think was better to acquire to pitch in the AL East than this guy?

---

Here comes the anti-Yankee ESPN quip.

 Code:
Money Ball: The Rockets' $28M deal leaves a lot to the imagination. What would you do with that kind of cash? Well, Clemens could field an All-Star team all his own. New York's newest addition could afford the lineup below and still have change to spare.


Starting Lineup For Under $28M

Position 	Player 	Salary

P            Brandon Webb 	$4,500,000
C 	      Joe Mauer 	$3,750,000
1B 	     Ryan Howard 	$900,000
2B 	    Robinson Cano 	$490,800
3B 	    Miguel Cabrera 	$7,400,000
SS 	     J.J. Hardy 	$400,000
OF 	   Josh Hamilton 	$380,000
OF 	      Alex Rios 	$2,535,000
OF 	   Matt Holliday 	$4,400,000
DH 	     Sammy Sosa 	$500,000


Deception? You bet. You tell me how it wouldn't cost the Yankees a bundle (not just monetarily) to get guys like Brandon Webb and Ryan Howard...


Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 11:23 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Just buyout his contract or let him sit on the sidelines for the remainder of his contract. We should have traded him during Spring Training when the Cards and others were still interested in him


It's tough to blame Cashman though - again, yeah, he could have traded him away, but would he have gotten quality pitching in return? Trying to find decent pitching nowadays is like grasping for straws, so I doubt that a Pavano deal would've garnered much, AND the Yankees still would probably be paying the vast majority of his salary.

I agree though, buy him out, end his career. He's toast.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 06:48 PM

DJ, Agreed about that tag. He was out by a freaking mile.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 08:36 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Just buyout his contract or let him sit on the sidelines for the remainder of his contract. We should have traded him during Spring Training when the Cards and others were still interested in him


It's tough to blame Cashman though - again, yeah, he could have traded him away, but would he have gotten quality pitching in return? Trying to find decent pitching nowadays is like grasping for straws, so I doubt that a Pavano deal would've garnered much, AND the Yankees still would probably be paying the vast majority of his salary.

I agree though, buy him out, end his career. He's toast.


No I do agree with Cashman because I wanted to believe in Carl and give him another shot. Unfortunately, we were both wrong and the guys DONE.

In other news, it looks like Zito is settling down in the NL finally, 3-3 with a 3.65 ERA. He went 6 strong innings last night against the Mets, giving up 3 runs on 7 hits with 1 BB and 5 SO.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 08:37 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
DJ, Agreed about that tag. He was out by a freaking mile.


From what I've read the ump actually apologized about the call after the game...

A lot of good that did us. \:p

This does bring up an interesting point, something I've often wondered about - does instant replay belong in baseball's rulebook?
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 08:45 PM

I love instant replay in football but in baseball I just think it would be too hard to police. Can it be used to argue balls and strikes, etc... I just think it would slow an already sometimes boring game down to a crawl.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 08:55 PM

Did Red Sox drop ball on Rocket deal?

The Red Sox had their chance to preempt Roger Clemens's announcement that he had agreed to pitch for the Yankees again. Clemens's agent, Randy Hendricks, was in Boston last week for meetings with Sox brass and had dinner in John W. Henry's box Wednesday night when the Sox made their bid for the Rocket. It was for a prorated $18 million, more than $10 million less than the prorated $28 million Clemens agreed to take from the Yankees. Sox CEO Larry Lucchino, according to club sources, thought Clemens was still days from making a decision -- Lucchino believed this Thursday was the operative date -- leaving the Sox time to tweak their offer if they chose.

Source: SI

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Boston screws up signing a player? Nooooooooooooo. Say it ain't so.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 09:01 PM

I just made a thread/poll about it...check it out.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 09:04 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

Boston screws up signing a player? Nooooooooooooo. Say it ain't so.


They could afford to be less aggressive with Clemens though. #1, Roger probably didn't want to alienate Yankee fans any more, since he already did that after 2003, and has repeatedly said he wants to wear a Yankee cap when he goes into the Hall of Fame (confused? I am too), so the actuality of him signing with Boston was less likely anyways, but #2, Boston's rotation, with the exception of Julian Tavarez (who will probably be replaced soon by Jon Lester), is in much better shape than the Yankees is at this point in time.

Frankly, I'd still take Dice-K over Clemens long-term, but obviously, right now, give me Clemens.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/08/07 09:42 PM

who screwed up the width of this thread? What a pain it is to see it so wide.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/07 01:13 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
but #2, Boston's rotation, with the exception of Julian Tavarez (who will probably be replaced soon by Jon Lester), is in much better shape than the Yankees is at this point in time.


True, but at this point, I think Boston has the better chance to win the World Series than the Yankees and that's what he's really after. It is only May and the Yankees have had a grocery list of injuries. We'll see how they do when they get everyone back healthy, but the easier road would have been with Boston. Whereas with the Yankees, everyone is expecting him to be the savior on his white horse.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/07 01:38 AM

Here we go again

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Curt response

BOSTON (Ticker) -- Barry Bonds never has admitted to using steroids. Apparently, Curt Schilling believes he has.

The outspoken pitcher of the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday took some verbal shots at Bonds, who needs 12 homers to break Hank Aaron's all-time home run record.

Bonds has been at the center of baseball's ongoing steroids controversy, but never has admitted to knowingly taking steroids.

Schilling must have thought otherwise during an interview with WEEI on Tuesday.

"He [Bonds] admitted he used steroids. There's no gray area," Schilling said on WEEI. "He [Bonds] admitted cheating on his wife, cheating on taxes and cheating on the game."

On Dec. 4, 2003, Bonds was one of several athletes forced to testify as part of the BALCO case, which centered around the San Francisco-area lab, its founder Victor Conte, and Greg Anderson -- Bonds' personal trainer and longtime friend.

Anderson was indicted for illegal distribution of steroids. Bonds told the grand jury that he believed Anderson had given him flaxseed oil and arthritic balm, a substance that turned out to contain steroids.

A book released in 2006 by San Francisco Chronicle reporters Mark Fainaru-Wada and Lance Williams, Game of Shadows alleges Bonds engaged in persistent doping, taking four different kinds of steroids as well as insulin and human growth hormone during 2001 alone, when he hit 73 homers to break Mark McGwire's single-season record.

The accusations have clouded Bonds' pursuit of Aaron's record of 755 homers. Aaron has said he will not be in attendance when Bonds attempts to break the record.

"Hank Aaron not being there, the commissioner [Bud Selig] not knowing where he's going to be, it's sad," Schilling told WEEI. "I don't care if he's black, green, purple or yellow or whatever. It's just unfortunate there's good people and bad people."

A seven-time National League MVP, Bonds has 10 homers this season, raising his career total to 744.

Bonds, 43, reportedly failed an amphetamines test last season, and the New York Daily News reported that Bonds attributed the positive test results to a substance he took from the locker of teammate Mark Sweeney.

Bonds later absolved Sweeney of any involvement but never commented on whether or not he took amphetamines.

Source: SI
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/07 01:57 AM

Alright, you just hate Curt Schilling for anything. If he donated a million bucks to an African charity you would blast him. It's not like Schilling isn't echoing the thoughts of alot of baseball fans anyway.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/07 02:26 AM

But why do I care about what Curt Schilling has to say? Why not ask A-Rod? Why not ask Dontrelle? Why not ask Roy Oswalt? And yes, I do hate Curt for anything. He ALWAYS has to have an opinion on ANYTHING (hence the reason why I hate him for anything).
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/07 02:38 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
But why do I care about what Curt Schilling has to say? Why not ask A-Rod? Why not ask Dontrelle? Why not ask Roy Oswalt? And yes, I do hate Curt for anything. He ALWAYS has to have an opinion on ANYTHING (hence the reason why I hate him for anything).


The reason everyone throws a microphone in front of Curt's face is because he is bombastic, like Charles Barkley was in basketball. He's not afraid of controversy. Very few players have the gonads to speak so plainly, especially when it concerns a fellow ball player. Usually, you get the cautious meaningless responses from ball players. Then again, much of the silence about Bonds from his peers may have something to do with glass houses.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/07 03:01 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
But why do I care about what Curt Schilling has to say? Why not ask A-Rod? Why not ask Dontrelle? Why not ask Roy Oswalt? And yes, I do hate Curt for anything. He ALWAYS has to have an opinion on ANYTHING (hence the reason why I hate him for anything).


Well, doesn't everyone have an opinion on everything? Opinions are like a-holes, no? Don't blame Schilling for being asked, blame the people asking the questions.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/07 05:33 AM

Notes: Abreu pushed down to No. 7

NEW YORK -- The Yankees hope that a lineup relocation will serve as the tonic that cures Bobby Abreu, who has been slumping in his duties as the team's No. 3 batter.

Yankees manager Joe Torre pulled Abreu aside on Tuesday and told him that the lineup would be shuffled, moving Abreu down in the order to serve as the No. 7 hitter. Designated hitter Jason Giambi assumed the task of batting in front of Alex Rodriguez.

"His at-bats aren't as good as he's capable of," Torre said. "Not that he's not trying, but he just doesn't look very comfortable up there right now."

Abreu entered Tuesday's game against the Rangers batting .256 with one home run and 17 RBIs, but Abreu said that a primary concern has been his production with runners in scoring position.

In those situations, Abreu is batting .250 (10-for-40). He batted .327 (50-for-135) under the same circumstances in 2006.

"I haven't hit good right now with runners in scoring position," Abreu said, "and I think [Torre] is going to [go with] somebody right now who can do the job so far so we can win some games."

Torre said that the move is expected to be short-term, perhaps for one or two games.

"He's perfect at No. 3 in our lineup, but he's fighting himself right now," Torre said.

Abreu, who had 11 hits in his last 64 at-bats before Tuesday, said he was looking to hit the ball to the opposite field more to help regain his rhythm.

Twice in recent weeks, Abreu bunted on his own, which led Torre to speculate that Abreu might be looking to help the club despite a lack of confidence, but Abreu said there were no problems with his mental approach.

"Hitting third and seventh to me is pretty much the same," Abreu said, "because you don't know how the game is going to be, or how the situation of the game is going to be. I think my mind is fine."

Mo problems: Physically, Mariano Rivera claims he feels good -- better, in fact, than he would have admitted to just a few years ago.

Then how to explain his early struggles in 2007, which swelled his ERA to an unsightly 8.44 following Monday's loss to the Mariners?

Rivera said he is taking a philosophical route as he contemplates his early rough patch, which was accentuated most recently by Adrian Beltre's solo home run with two outs in the ninth inning on Monday.

"I take it the way it is," Rivera said. "I take the bumps with the victories. It tests my character, testing my faith. I don't know what it is, but it's a test. I'm up for it."

Rivera said that the Beltre home run was more a product of poor pitch location than an ineffective cutter, but he acknowledged that pitchers can usually point to a mistake or two that they can get away with.

Those have been few and far between for Rivera, who also surrendered a game-winning home run to Marco Scutaro in Oakland on April 15 and blew a save at Fenway Park on April 20.

"Sometimes, you make a mistake and they miss it," Rivera said. "These are not those times."

Yanks have liftoff: Roger Clemens completed his first official workout at the University of Kentucky campus on Tuesday, throwing for more than an hour at Cliff Hagen Stadium in Lexington, Ky.

"The arm feels good," Clemens told The Associated Press. "Right now, I've just got to get that soreness that every pitcher understands. I've got to get it in my legs and out as quick as possible so that I know I can handle the stress of a Major League game."

It has been speculated that Clemens, 44, will need somewhere between two and four Minor League appearances before he is capable of pitching in the Majors. He is expected to make an appearance with the Yankees next week in Chicago, according to ESPN.

"It's nice to know you have something coming," Torre said.

The Yankees' June 1-3 series at Boston would appear to be a realistic projection. Torre said that preparation would certainly not be an issue with Clemens, who completed his re-introductory press conference on Sunday and promptly went out to throw a bullpen session in an empty Yankee Stadium.

"He's so organized," Torre said. "He's champing at the bit, ready to go, but he knows what it's going to take."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/07 05:34 AM

Giambi hobbled by bone spur in foot

NEW YORK -- Yankees designated hitter Jason Giambi had X-rays on Tuesday that revealed a bone spur in his left foot, but the slugger believes that the injury will not keep him out of the lineup for an extended period.

Giambi, 36, was lifted for a pinch-hitter in the sixth inning of the Yankees' 8-2 victory over the Rangers on Tuesday at Yankee Stadium. Giambi said that the bone spur creates irritation, but he could be available to play on Wednesday.

"It's manageable," Giambi said. "It's not to the point where I can't stand on it."

Yankees manager Joe Torre said that the bone spur is not a situation that overly concerns him.

"It's something he's had, and will deal with," Torre said.

Giambi said that he first began feeling the irritation in his left foot during the club's series at Texas last week, and he attributed some of the problem to a dry field at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.

Giambi said that the spur is closer to the heel of his foot. He went 0-for-2 with a walk and a run scored on Tuesday, after going 0-for-4 in Monday's loss to the Mariners.

"The last couple of days, I haven't swung the bat very well," Giambi said. "With that being my back foot, it puts more pressure on it."

For the moment, Giambi believes that he can control the issue with a regimen of treatment and ice therapy.

He joked that his speed game -- which, of course, is nearly nonexistent; he had two stolen bases in 2006 and has none so far in 2007 -- may suffer.

"I'll have to try for 40 and two," Giambi said, referring to home runs and steals, respectively.

In 31 games for the Yankees this season, Giambi is batting .299 with five home runs and 18 RBIs.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/07 11:06 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
but #2, Boston's rotation, with the exception of Julian Tavarez (who will probably be replaced soon by Jon Lester), is in much better shape than the Yankees is at this point in time.


Whereas with the Yankees, everyone is expecting him to be the savior on his white horse.


Clemens ego couldn't stand competing with Curt Schilling on the same team. Now he can be his ultimate foil in the storied rivalry between the two teams.

You couldn't make this crap up. \:p
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/07 02:34 PM

I can't imagine that with Pettite on the Yankees, that Clemens would seriously have gone to Boston.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/09/07 06:17 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I can't imagine that with Pettite on the Yankees, that Clemens would seriously have gone to Boston.


Me too. And with Cano giving up his number for the season, I think that was just the icing on the cake
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 05:42 AM

I think this is a first

----------------------------------------------------------------

Schilling apologizes for Bonds comments

"Everyone has days and events in life they'd love to push the rewind button on, yesterday was one of those days," Schilling wrote on 38pitches.com. "Regardless of my opinions, thoughts and beliefs on anything Barry Bonds it was absolutely irresponsible and wrong to say what I did. I don't think it's within anyone's right to say the things I said yesterday and affect other peoples lives in that way."

The apology not only followed Schilling's appearance on WEEI-AM's "Dennis and Callahan" show, but came after a discussion between the pitcher and Red Sox manager Terry Francona.

"I mean, he admitted that he used steroids," Schilling said Tuesday. "I mean, there's no gray area. He admitted to cheating on his wife, cheating on his taxes and cheating on the game, so I think the reaction around the league, the game, being what it is, in the case of what people think. Hank Aaron not being there. The commissioner trying to figure out where to be. It's sad.

"And I don't care that he's black, or green, or purple, or yellow, or whatever. It's unfortunate … there's good people and bad people. It's unfortunate that it's happening the way it's happening."

Schilling largely took responsibility for his comments, but also suggested that the early time of the interview may have been partly to blame.

"I'd love to tell you I was ambushed, misquoted, misinterpreted, something other than what it was, but I wasn't," Schilling wrote. "I'm thinking that waking up at 8:30 am to do the weekly interview we do with WEEI is probably not the greatest format and if you heard the interview it's not hard to realize that I'm usually awake about 30-45 seconds before it begins.

"That's still no excuse or reason to say what I did, or even answer the question that was asked. The question I was asked and the answer I gave yesterday affected a lot more people than just he and I. His wife, his children, his friends and his family were all affected by that, as were mine and my teammates."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 05:49 AM

And some here thought I was picking on poor Dice-K. Prior to last night's victory (yes, he earned it), during his 3 previous starts, he allowed 18 hits, 17 earned runs and 10 walks in just 18 innings of work. The numbers don't lie my friends ;\)
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 12:16 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
The numbers don't lie my friends ;\)


Come on, you know that that is a lie,

You don't have any friends. \:x



Irish, I have a new name for you. You are now better known as:
THE BOSTON BULLY.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 01:10 PM

And come on, if Clemens puts up numbers like that, you'll be the first person to say how foolish they were to think that a 44-year-old star "on the backside of his career" could help them, etc.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 03:49 PM

Stop it, girls.

Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 05:24 PM

The Yankee did the only thing they could at the moment to fix their problem. So Clemens is old, so what if they can get only one good year out of him. Let's face it there isn't to much out there to buy right now, no matter how much you throw at the problem.
The way that they are thinking is that they should be able to get some innings from him, he is a veteran player so he knows some tricks and what he needs to do. It will give the young players some breathing room so they will not burn thru four or five young pitchers.

And If I am a Yankee fan I don't care what the numbers say as long as we get a win and don't slide behind. I'll tell you what I am sick of and that's excuses. Our bench is so deep we could build two teams from it. You can pick Boston apart all you want but we are still 6 games back and it is only May 10th.

I am sick to see that the papers are cheering because the Yankees quote "are returning to their winning ways" For crying out loud we are beating up on the friggin Texas team. We can start feeling better when we sweep Boston or Cleveland or at least Detroit. But let's see how we do against Seattle this week before we start cheering.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 06:49 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
We can start feeling better when we sweep Boston or Cleveland or at least Detroit.


We swept the Indians in mid-April...
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 06:50 PM

Well, right now they're losing 4-1 in the top of the 6th to that friggin Texas team. I guess we can't win them ALL. \:\/ Although with three Yankee innings left, I guess there's still hope. \:\)
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 08:15 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Well, right now they're losing 4-1 in the top of the 6th to that friggin Texas team. I guess we can't win them ALL. Although with three Yankee innings left, I guess there's still hope.


Yeah... hope that the 10 run Little League rule isn't called.

The Curse of the (Sicilian) Babe!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 08:26 PM

Spanked hard by Texas.

It is enough to make a grown man cry.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 08:31 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Spanked hard by Texas.


Its always hard to lose to one of the poorer teams, but this (score) has to make it feel like salt in the wound.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 08:37 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Spanked hard by Texas.


Its always hard to lose to one of the poorer teams, but this (score) has to make it feel like salt in the wound.



Hell, I can hear George all the way up here in Syracuse!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 08:39 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Well, right now they're losing 4-1 in the top of the 6th to that friggin Texas team. I guess we can't win them ALL. Although with three Yankee innings left, I guess there's still hope.


The Curse of the (Sicilian) Babe!


OUCH!! That was too cruel, even for a Bosox fan!! \:p
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 08:42 PM

Ahhh.... stop your moaning... you got the top of the page.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 08:52 PM

I LOVE being on top!!
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 08:58 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I LOVE being on top!!


And all the Sicilian girls I grew up with were such prudes!

Where's the luck ?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 09:00 PM

....of the page. \:p
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 09:06 PM

Oh sure, I'll bet you cleaned it up because Mister Babe came into the room.

I always thought it was Austrian girls who liked to be on top, anyway........of the page.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 09:10 PM

It's that St. Frances education, kiddo. I can only take it so far!
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 09:14 PM

Come out Virginia don't let me wait.....
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 09:24 PM

I was tortured with that song when I was 16!!

I have to take all this abuse AND the Yankees got their asses handed to them?!!
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 09:31 PM

How should I know ?

You think I didn't torture the girls at St. Barnabas with the cute little uniforms when I was 16 ? I went to Mount so that was my our "sister" school.

Bunch of teases.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/10/07 09:58 PM

My cousin was a cheerleader at St. Barnabas and ended up marrying a football player from Mount.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/07 01:48 AM

WHORE OFF!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/07 10:59 AM

Seriously, pubescent flirting and sophomoric non-humour --> out of this thread. \:p

---

Does anybody else wonder why we bothered picking up Luis Vizcaino in the RJ trade?

Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/07 01:16 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J

Does anybody else wonder why we bothered picking up Luis Vizcaino in the RJ trade?



For comic relief?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/07 02:18 PM

Vizcaino is an absolute nightmare that makes me long for the bullpen of 2006.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/07 03:28 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Vizcaino is an absolute nightmare that makes me long for the bullpen of 2006.


Isn't that a restaurant on Arthur Avenue? ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/07 06:44 PM

I will NOT be responsible for the hijacking of another thread!!!! Yankees Rule, Yankees Rule!! Except for their bullpen!! Which sucks!
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/07 07:51 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I will NOT be responsible for the hijacking of another thread!!!!


Afraid that you're going to get yelled at by someone?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/07 08:00 PM

DC, I am just trying to have good message board manners. You should know by now that I can go off on 15 different tangents in one conversation. My posting habits are no different.

That said, The Yankees game won't be broadcast here until 10:00 tonight because they're playing in Seattle. I will never make it past the 2nd inning!
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/07 08:14 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
DC, I am just trying to have good message board manners.


I guess that it's the Christian thing to do. \:p ;\)
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/07 08:19 PM

Who's yelling at Mrs. R

*shakes fist in anger*
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/07 08:33 PM

DJ and Ronnie had a point, although if I can put up with FS and Irish endlessly sniping at one another, they could've cut me a little slack. ;\)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/07 12:11 AM

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/07 12:28 AM

Signs point to Boston

NEW YORK (AP) -- Roger Clemens could make his season debut with the New York Yankees at Fenway Park, and that's fine with manager Joe Torre.

"It's going to be a circus anyway, It doesn't really matter," Torre said Thursday. "Wherever it falls, it's going to fall."

Clemens agreed Sunday to return to the Yankees and has been working out this week in Lexington, Ky., where his son, Koby, plays for a Houston Astros' farm team.

Roger Clemens is scheduled to arrive at the Yankees' minor league complex in Tampa, Fla., next Monday and to have a bullpen session the following day.

"We'll know more after he throws his bullpen," Torre said. "He's in good shape. The only thing he hasn't done is competed."

When he rejoined the Houston Astros last year, Clemens agreed to a contract on May 31, made three minor league starts and returned to the majors on June 22. The Yankees would like him to pitch in minor league home games, where they are in control of grooming the mounds.

Class A Tampa is home against Fort Myers from May 17-19, Double-A Trenton is home against Portland from May 21-24 and Triple-A Scranton is home against Indianapolis and Toledo from May 24-31.

New York, 1-5 against Boston this year, plays a three-game series at Fenway Park from June 1-3.

Torre wasn't bothered by those who criticized the Yankees and Clemens for a provision in the $28,000,022 contract that allows the seven-time Cy Young Award winner not to travel with the team at all times.

"I think it's just an example of how many people have opinions on things," Torre said. "I always find that opinions are dangerous when you do it from afar. We don't know what the situation is.

"Yes, it is in his contract. That's part of the deal but we don't know if it's going to be an issue. So until that time comes, I'm not even going to really concern myself with it," he said.

Source: SI

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Niiice [/Borat]
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/07 04:04 AM

3-0, Top of the 8th, and my boys are looooooosing!! Why, oh why are they not winning??
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/07 04:13 AM

Don't feel bad SB It's the top of the 8th and the Tribe is losing 2-6 against Oakland.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/12/07 02:34 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe

That said, The Yankees game won't be broadcast here until 10:00 tonight because they're playing in Seattle. I will never make it past the 2nd inning!


Don't feel bad because you can't make it past the second inning when the Yankees play on the West coast. Most of their starting pitchers don't make it past the second inning either. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/13/07 04:35 AM

Looks like DeSalvo may be the real deal with his 2nd straight great outing:

6 2/3 innings, 7 hits, 2 runs, 3 BB, 2 SO, 1-0 with a 1.98 ERA
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/13/07 12:23 PM

DeSalvo's a great talent, his problem has been mainly struggles at AAA which set him back significantly. But he did a great job last night.

Oh, and I watched it on YES HD for the first time last night. Holy fuck. It was the most amazing thing I've ever seen in my life.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/13/07 11:41 PM

Clemens to face Class A on Friday

SEATTLE -- The countdown for The Rocket's liftoff has begun.
Yankees manager Joe Torre said on Sunday that right-hander Roger Clemens is tentatively lined up to make his first Minor League appearance on Friday for the Class A Tampa Yankees, pitching against the Fort Myers Miracle in a Florida State League game.

Clemens, 44, spent most of last week working at the University of Kentucky complex following the announcement of a prorated one-year, $28 million contract.

Eventually, Clemens will be back into the pinstriped uniform of the Yankees, for whom he pitched from 1999-2003. Clemens is expected to report to the Yankees' Legends Field complex on Monday and has been scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Tuesday.

Torre said that the Yankees have not yet decided if Clemens will need two or three starts in the Minor Leagues before making his first big-league appearance.

"A lot of it will depend after the first start," Torre said. "We'll see what that is, and if everything goes according to the way we expect it to go, he'll graduate."

Torre indicated that Clemens is likely to pitch just once for Class A Tampa, with the Yankees mindful of their Minor League schedules so as to keep Clemens at home stadiums, where the organization can control all aspects of mound maintenance.

Assuming Clemens makes it through his first effort for Tampa, he could pitch on May 23 for the Double-A Trenton Thunder of the Eastern League, facing the Portland Sea Dogs at Waterfront Park in New Jersey.

From there, the Yankees would need to decide whether Clemens' next start would come at Triple-A -- he would line up to pitch for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees on May 28 against Toledo in an International League contest -- or in the big leagues.

The Yankees play at Toronto on May 28, but a third Minor League start would put Clemens in line to make his big-league return on June 2 at Boston's Fenway Park.

Torre said that he has not spoken recently with Clemens, but he has heard promising reports.

"He feels pretty good, from what I understand," Torre said. "But again, he needs to get his legs under him. The arm is one thing, but the legs are a big contributor to the way he pitches."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/13/07 11:42 PM

Absolutely pitiful! Pettitte goes 7 1/3 giving up 2 runs on 9 hits, his ERA is only 2.68 yet he loses the game and now has a record of 2-2.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 01:47 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Absolutely pitiful! Pettitte goes 7 1/3 giving up 2 runs on 9 hits, his ERA is only 2.68 yet he loses the game and now has a record of 2-2.


The baseball gods work in mysterious ways. His ERA won't stay under three all year, and when it's in the high threes, he'll win some 9-7 games.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 12:17 PM

Eight friggen games back.

and is anyone catching Sheff tearing the ball apart with HIS new team?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 12:40 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Eight friggen games back.

and is anyone catching Sheff tearing the ball apart with HIS new team?



I guess I'm not the only one who thought it was retarded to get rid of Gary Sheffield?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 12:53 PM

I swear New York teams all have that same problem.

It is a New York thing I guess.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 12:55 PM

And you know statistics mean crap,if you don't get the win.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 12:56 PM

Maybe it's in the water. Drinking from the Hudson River again, are you? \:p
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 03:07 PM

No look: Looks like DeSalvo may be the real deal with his 2nd straight great outing:

6 2/3 innings, 7 hits, 2 runs, 3 BB, 2 SO, 1-0 with a 1.98 ERA


6 2/3 innings= 20 batters,right

7 guys get hits, 3 guys take walks= 10 batters or 50% made it on base.
8 guys hit out with either a grounded ball, fly out which can be cause by the good pitching or be caused by poor hitting, you make the call. The right combo and ....

Two out of twenty get SO and we call that great pitching with a low 1.98 ERA.

They still lose which sucks.......BIG TIME


Now we go into Chicago and then the back to NY to face the Mets.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 03:09 PM

Statistically, he has given quality starts. but you can't tell me it was any worse than what Chase Wright dished up.

Pitching isn't the problem anymore (immediately, anyways). It's the quasi-silent bats.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 03:19 PM

and to add to it all, its the shit teams that are getting by us.
OUCH..it hurts.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 03:28 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
No look: Looks like DeSalvo may be the real deal with his 2nd straight great outing:

6 2/3 innings, 7 hits, 2 runs, 3 BB, 2 SO, 1-0 with a 1.98 ERA


6 2/3 innings= 20 batters,right

7 guys get hits, 3 guys take walks= 10 batters or 50% made it on base.
8 guys hit out with either a grounded ball, fly out which can be cause by the good pitching or be caused by poor hitting, you make the call. The right combo and ....

Two out of twenty get SO and we call that great pitching with a low 1.98 ERA.

They still lose which sucks.......BIG TIME


Now we go into Chicago and then the back to NY to face the Mets.



Actually, 6 2/3 innings = 20 outs, not batters. The 7 hits he surrendered would have presumably been against 27 official at bats, which would yield a batting average of .259, which is pretty average. However, if those hits don't include a homerun, it's a pretty good outing.

I'm certainly not ready to proclaim him anything, based on a successful outing. He may be a pretty good pitcher, but I'm sure he'll get roughed up a bit if he stays in the big leagues.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 03:46 PM

Yes, you are right.

My bad. 2 SO out of 27

Still NOT what I would call GREAT... are we getting that hard up
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 05:05 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Statistically, he has given quality starts. but you can't tell me it was any worse than what Chase Wright dished up.


I agree. Can any Yankee pitcher have a great start this year or is that forbidden? Dice-K has a better win-loss record because his batters (particurlarly Manny) continue to bail him out. Yet his ERA has ballooned to over 4. Too much emphasize on win-loss record.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 07:53 PM

If that great Yankee lineup of ours would have put up some runs when they are needed, then we wouldn't be 8 games back.

The greatest pitcher in the game would still lose if his team doesn't get him at least one run. And yes, an Avg. pitcher will have a great W-L record if his team stands by hi and he gets the win.
The Yankees would gladly take a couple of 20 games winners with ERAs of 4, 5 or even 6 if our lineup covered the runs.
Last time I looked it was the win-loss record that took you to the series.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 08:02 PM

I'm not talking about the win-loss record of the team. I'm talking about the win-loss record of pitchers
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/07 09:01 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
If that great Yankee lineup of ours would have put up some runs when they are needed, then we wouldn't be 8 games back.

The greatest pitcher in the game would still lose if his team doesn't get him at least one run. And yes, an Avg. pitcher will have a great W-L record if his team stands by hi and he gets the win.
The Yankees would gladly take a couple of 20 games winners with ERAs of 4, 5 or even 6 if our lineup covered the runs.
Last time I looked it was the win-loss record that took you to the series.


Andy Pettitte benefited from great run support in the past as he's had very good W/L records with mediocre ERAs.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/07 06:13 AM

Exactly klydon. I look at a pitchers stats such as ERA, etc and don't solely rely on win-loss records as they can be misleading.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/07 06:47 AM

Clemens to face Class A on Friday

SEATTLE -- The countdown for The Rocket's liftoff has begun.
Yankees manager Joe Torre said on Sunday that right-hander Roger Clemens is tentatively lined up to make his first Minor League appearance on Friday for the Class A Tampa Yankees, pitching against the Fort Myers Miracle in a Florida State League game.

Clemens, 44, spent most of last week working at the University of Kentucky complex following the announcement of a prorated one-year, $28 million contract.

Eventually, Clemens will be back into the pinstriped uniform of the Yankees, for whom he pitched from 1999-2003. Clemens is expected to report to the Yankees' Legends Field complex on Monday and has been scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Tuesday.

Torre said that the Yankees have not yet decided if Clemens will need two or three starts in the Minor Leagues before making his first big-league appearance.

"A lot of it will depend after the first start," Torre said. "We'll see what that is, and if everything goes according to the way we expect it to go, he'll graduate."

Torre indicated that Clemens is likely to pitch just once for Class A Tampa, with the Yankees mindful of their Minor League schedules so as to keep Clemens at home stadiums, where the organization can control all aspects of mound maintenance.

Assuming Clemens makes it through his first effort for Tampa, he could pitch on May 23 for the Double-A Trenton Thunder of the Eastern League, facing the Portland Sea Dogs at Waterfront Park in New Jersey.

From there, the Yankees would need to decide whether Clemens' next start would come at Triple-A -- he would line up to pitch for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees on May 28 against Toledo in an International League contest -- or in the big leagues.

The Yankees play at Toronto on May 28, but a third Minor League start would put Clemens in line to make his big-league return on June 2 at Boston's Fenway Park.

Torre said that he has not spoken recently with Clemens, but he has heard promising reports.

"He feels pretty good, from what I understand," Torre said. "But again, he needs to get his legs under him. The arm is one thing, but the legs are a big contributor to the way he pitches."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/07 10:35 AM

Looks like Dice-K pitched a hell of a game for Boston.
A complete game with no walks against Detroit I may add.
And, with us off, we fall back another 1/2 game. \:\(
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/07 11:00 AM

Like I said more than a few posts above, the Yankees problem right now is not pitching. It's that their left handed batters are virtually useless (excluding Matsui) and the rest of their order is relying on clutch hits from Doug Mienkeiwicz (say that three times fast), which is sad.

I agree with Mike Francesa. The next three weeks are going to be telling. If they are behind, in double-digits, by June 4th, then it is time to seriously consider panic. But right now, history has shown Abreu should come around. We need Damon not watching the scoreboard and playing like he did last year.

Actually, we need...Bernie Williams. Even at his stage in his career, you can't tell me that you wouldn't rather have Bernie hitting in that pinch spot instead of Eye-Chart.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/07 11:02 AM

Oh, and "big" news, we signed journeyman 38-year-old reliever Pete Walker to a minor-league deal...

http://www.theday.com/re.aspx?re=4f64c0e7-8d19-4542-a311-15a99f9eca3f
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/07 11:22 AM

Also, for those of us (I know I12 and myself) who wanted Ron Villone back, May 15th (today) is the deadline for the Yankees to call him up to the Major League club, or else he is released, according to his contract.

I say bring him up and give him a shot...he can't be any worse than Vizcaino at this point...or perhaps send Henn down to see if he can find the strike zone again.

For the record, here is what Villone is saying:

“If they don’t call me up, I’m going to go somewhere else, probably. I’m not going to say 100 percent because I’m not sure how the scenario plays out. You never know what people are going to say to you. My ears are open and I’m just going to weigh out my options and hopefully things work out.” - Ron Villone on the May 15th deadline
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/07 11:56 AM

You know how this will play out. They will let him walk and then he will play very well for another team. Its a New York Tradition! \:\(
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/07 06:11 PM

Well, I can't understand why they wouldn't at least give him a shot, especially since our bullpen is crap. I trust Villone, even with his wet noodle arm (courtesy of Papa Joe), more than I do Losscaino.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/07 01:31 AM

Yanks add veteran lefty Villone

CHICAGO (AP) -- Ron Villone will join the New York Yankees' overworked bullpen.

Villone will be added to the major league roster, general manager Brian Cashman said Tuesday. Cashman said a corresponding roster move would be made after manager Joe Torre spoke with the player involved.

Villone's minor league contract contained a Tuesday deadline to add him to the major league roster. If Villone wasn't brought up, he could have become a free agent.

The 37-year-old left-hander was 0-1 with a 1.90 ERA and one save in 17 appearances with Triple-A Scranton. He allowed 21 hits in 23 2-3 innings, striking out 27 and walking 10.

Villone failed to make the opening day roster after compiling a 14.40 ERA in spring training, allowing 10 runs -- eight earned -- and 13 hits in five innings over nine games. He was 3-3 with a 5.04 ERA in 70 appearances with the Yankees last year.

Source: SI

-----------------------------------------------------------------

WOO HOO A fresh arm!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/07 01:36 AM

Stupid Rain Delay.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/07 11:38 AM

The good news is that the Red Sox lost last night to Detroit (which is bad and good, since Detroit could also be one of our big competitors for the AL Wild Card if we can't catch the Sox), so we could make up some position today with the double-header.

---

Clemens had a great workout session yesterday at the Yankees minor league complex, but the biggest plus was that Phil Hughes, Jeff Karstens, and other minor leaguers were watching. I realize that Clemens is here for the money, but if he can get some of these guys started on the way to success, then I'm all for it.



---

Sean Henn was optioned down to the minors because he still has option years left on his contract, which means he can move freely between MLB and AAA without fear of waivers. This is why someone like Vizcaino hasn't been sent down - he'd have to clear waivers, and likely wouldn't. Henn has done a decent job, its a shame he got rocked the other day.

Yet, we're giving Losscaino infinite chances to blow it?

---

Guess who's tearing up AAA? Yeah. Andy Phillips. (sigh) I hate it when you have players too good for AAA, but not good enough for the MLB. It's tragic.

---

So Villone is back in town. Hooray. Any fresh arm is a plus at this point. I'm just glad to see they didn't simply release him.

---

Well, get ready for round 3 of AAA call-ups. With this double-header, its going to make moody Mike Mussina either pitch on short rest (which we know he'll throw a temper tantrum like a 8-year-old girl about) or, more likely, Tyler Clippard (Yes!), Steven Jackson (Woot!), or Chase Wright (Ugh!) will be called up to pitch against the Mets in the Subway Series.

---

From the LoHud Yankees Blog:

 Quote:
Meanwhile, the White Sox treat their fans incredibly poorly. The teams and media were told at 9:50 that the game was postponed. The announcement wasn’t made to the crowd for another 25 minutes.

They were showing the Bulls-Pistons game on the scoreboard, which the people were happily watching. When the announcement was made, they turned the scoreboard off and the crowd started booing.


Boy, that sucks. I'm more of a Cubs fan anyway (if I had to deviate from my pinstriped bloodline), but c'mon, that's shitty.

---

ESPN is going to have Clemens Single-A start for Tampa on-air. Great.

Now watch how much people bitch because of this. Nobody said boo when they did this for his last comeback, but now that he's a Yankee, we'll hear everyone on ESPN talk about why this guy shouldn't be a such a big deal...

Admittedly though, I could give two fucks about his minor league start. I might watch it on YouTube, but oh well. If it shuts up Tony Korheiser for a little bit, I'm all for it.

---

Papa Joe has redesigned the batting order to try and get some results. Setting the pace for the AL, Jeter is back at #2, while A-Rod's quiescent bat is at #3. Hot hot hot Jorge now cleans up, and Matsui should ride in right afterwards. Hoorah. Bobby Abreu hits 7th.

The back end of our order is now going to be devoid of any offensive ability - Abreu, Mientkeiwicz, and Melky. \:p

---

The Yankees have made some more "big" minor-league signings, hot on the Pete Walker coattails. Eric Junge, formerly of the Phillies affiliate Bridgeport Bluefish (this is where Klydon needs to tell us about this kid), has appeared in 2 games this season for Bridgeport will immediately report to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees, the AAA affiliate of the New York Yankees. While in Bridgeport, Junge posted a 1.29 ERA in 5.1 innings of work, striking out 5 while walking only 1. Junge has appeared in 10 games on the major league level posting a 2-0 record with a 2.21 ERA and 16 strikeouts in 20 1/3 IP for the Philadelphia Phillies in 2002-2003.

The problem? He's already a journeyman minor league, spending time with the Padres, Dodgers, Phillies, and the Mets. \:\/

Next comes the signing of Tim Lavigne (not Avril's brother! \:p ), who allegedly has "chaotic" stuff according to a Mets blog I'm reading. He's a bit old for a prospect (28), but has a nice splitter.

Any help is a plus though.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/16/07 02:16 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Eric Junge, formerly of the Phillies affiliate Bridgeport Bluefish (this is where Klydon needs to tell us about this kid), has appeared in 2 games this season for Bridgeport will immediately report to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees, the AAA affiliate of the New York Yankees. While in Bridgeport, Junge posted a 1.29 ERA in 5.1 innings of work, striking out 5 while walking only 1. Junge has appeared in 10 games on the major league level posting a 2-0 record with a 2.21 ERA and 16 strikeouts in 20 1/3 IP for the Philadelphia Phillies in 2002-2003.

The problem? He's already a journeyman minor league, spending time with the Padres, Dodgers, Phillies, and the Mets. \:\/



Can't tell you much other than I forgot about this guy. The Phillies traded Omar Daal years ago for him, plus another guy. I give him credit for hanging on in the Atlantic League at his age. These independent leagues tend to be graveyards for older guys still struggling to make it in the big leagues, or unable to leve the game. I wish him well in AAA. Plus, you never know...he might be able to put a couple of solid months together at the big league level.

Good luck.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/07 11:16 AM

Well, they split the series. Abreu hit a home run, which is a plus, but then looked lost in the second game.

---

My biggest problem? The Yankees have ZERO patience at the plate, something they seem to have begun only this year. They habitually swung on the first or second pitch against Contreras, even though we all know he has control issues. Is Kevin Long (or Papa Joe) actually watching these games? What the fuck?

---

Wang, as always, solid. A solid Wang. You can't ask for much more out of life.

---

Well, it's nearly over for Steve Swindal. The Yankees are doing what they should have done with Kevin Brown and Carl Pavano - they are buying out his contract.

He's out, Tom.

---

Minor league pitching master Nardi Contreras has apparently overhauled Kei Igawa's delivery into something more consistent and balanced. We'll have to see if he'll be able to return to Major League level, or be a $49 million bust.

---

Torre still favors Chase Wright, a AA pitcher, over Tyler Clippard, our AAA stud. Why, I have no idea.

---

It sounds like the Yankees will pitch Wang on Sunday against the Mets on three days rest, especially with hissy-fit Pussina and his moodiness.

I'd rather have Wang on three days rest than Pussina on full rest anytime.

---

Has Melky finally turned the corner? He had an amazing rob in Game Two, and looked better at the plate. Maybe he finally can pull himself out of the black hole that is the end of our batting order...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/07 05:26 PM

Breaking news: Yankees are calling up Tyler Clippard to pitch Sunday against the Mets.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/07 10:53 PM

Wow the battle of New York \:o
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 04:22 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
ESPN is going to have Clemens Single-A start for Tampa on-air. Great.

Now watch how much people bitch because of this. Nobody said boo when they did this for his last comeback, but now that he's a Yankee, we'll hear everyone on ESPN talk about why this guy shouldn't be a such a big deal...



Got a time and day for that brother?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 04:52 AM

Farnsworth criticizes Clemens clause

CHICAGO (AP) - New York reliever Kyle Farnsworth thinks no one on the Yankees, not even Roger Clemens, should be allowed to leave the team when they aren't pitching.

Farnsworth was on Chicago's 670 AM The Score on Thursday morning when he first criticized the so-called "family plan" clause in Clemens' one-year, $28 million contract that allows the right-hander to leave the team for personal matters when he's not pitching.

Farnsworth reiterated his beliefs in the clubhouse before the Yankees' 4-1 loss to the White Sox.

"As far as a teammate and a player, I think everybody should be here whether they're pitching or not," he said. "You don't see guys who are hurt not sit on the bench. They're always there."

Even so, Farnsworth doesn't think it's going to be a problem and didn't foresee any clubhouse tension over preferential treatment for one of the game's greatest pitchers.

"It's just an opinion of mine. I don't think it's a concern at all," he said. "You guys asked my opinion about it and I gave it."

The 44-year-old Clemens could join the Yankees rotation against the Blue Jays on May 28 or 29 or at Boston on June 2 or 3.

"Whether it's going to cause a problem, we'll see," Farnsworth said. "I don't think it will. We're all professionals here and we know how to go about our jobs. As far as friction, he's going to be here to help this team win. That's the only thing that everybody is worried about."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 10:45 AM

Farnsworth should worry about his mediocre pitching and terrible inconsistencies. This from the guy who can't pitch a back to back game of relief after one inning...

Giambi even said there aren't any problems with Roger, and that it isn't going to be a problem. Who gives a shit what Kyle Farnsworth says?

Maybe you all should be less focused on how Clemens will manage his time and more on HOW TO HIT THE FUCKING BALL AND WIN SOME GAMES...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 10:45 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
ESPN is going to have Clemens Single-A start for Tampa on-air. Great.

Now watch how much people bitch because of this. Nobody said boo when they did this for his last comeback, but now that he's a Yankee, we'll hear everyone on ESPN talk about why this guy shouldn't be a such a big deal...



Got a time and day for that brother?


Pretty sure that it's tomorrow @ 7 PM ET.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 12:57 PM

Nine and a half games out- \:\(

Now we are facing three with the Mets and then Boston.

It is time for someone to step on up and get things swinging in the right direction.

Boston playing 700 PCT ball after 40 games. I sure wish it was us.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 06:22 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
ESPN is going to have Clemens Single-A start for Tampa on-air. Great.

Now watch how much people bitch because of this. Nobody said boo when they did this for his last comeback, but now that he's a Yankee, we'll hear everyone on ESPN talk about why this guy shouldn't be a such a big deal...



Thanks man. I've gotta work tonight so I'll see if my TiVo has any plans ;\)

Got a time and day for that brother?


Pretty sure that it's tomorrow @ 7 PM ET.


Thanks man. I have to work tonight but I'll see if my TiVo has any plans ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 06:41 PM

Report: Giambi says baseball should apologize

CHICAGO (AP) - New York Yankees slugger Jason Giambi says Major League Baseball should apologize to the public for its widespread performance-enhancing drug problem.

Claiming he's likely been tested for performance-enhancing drugs more often than anyone, Giambi told USA Today in a story on its Web site Friday that the apology is long overdue.

"I was wrong for doing that stuff," Giambi told the newspaper Wednesday before the Yankees played the Chicago White Sox. "What we should have done a long time ago was stand up players, ownership, everybody and said: 'We made a mistake.'

"We should have apologized back then and made sure we had a rule in place and gone forward. Steroids and all of that was a part of history. But it was a topic that everybody wanted to avoid. Nobody wanted to talk about it."

Giambi reportedly told a grand jury during the BALCO investigation in December 2003 that he used steroids and human growth hormone. He told USA Today this week he's thankful for MLB's testing program for steroids and amphetamines that was revised before last season. MLB does not test for HGH, but Giambi said he does not use the drug.

"Unfortunately, (the rumors) are going to be a part of it. But that's OK. I'm probably tested more than anybody else. I'm not hiding anything," he said. "That stuff didn't help me hit home runs. I don't care what people say, nothing is going to give you that gift of hitting a baseball."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 07:13 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
"That stuff didn't help me hit home runs. I don't care what people say, nothing is going to give you that gift of hitting a baseball."

Source: FOX Sports


Then why take them in the first place? If you weren't getting results from the stuff, why subject yourself to the known dangers?

I think it had an effect although I don't know how to quantify the effect precisely. I know that one desired effect was to avoid or quickly heal from injury.

This is where those pitchers come in.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 08:47 PM

I was never one to subscribe to the theory that hitting steroids helps a player hit more homeruns. Sure they give the batter more confidence as I've heard Jose Canseco say and the added power. But when it boils down to it, it does NOT improve eye-hand corrdination and the hitter still has to put the bat on the ball.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 09:09 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I was never one to subscribe to the theory that hitting steroids helps a player hit more homeruns. Sure they give the batter more confidence as I've heard Jose Canseco say and the added power.


There you go.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 10:26 PM

Well that added power doesn't do you any good if you don't put the bat on the ball first
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/18/07 11:53 PM

But the added power can help you hit more home runs.

There's no doubt in my mind that without the Steroids Bonds would be three years out of the game and with a couple hundred less homers.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/07 05:26 AM

I agree with klydon, steroids avoid or quickly heal from injury. That's why Bonds has been able to still hit bombs at his age. Yes it also adds power that helps one hit more home runs, but again, Bonds still has to put the bat on the ball. It wouldn't do him any good if he continued to strike out. In that case, the steroids would just be helping him to avoid or quickly heal from injury.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/07 05:37 AM

Clemens impressive in first start

TAMPA, Fla. -- Throughout this past week, several Minor League players have referred to Roger Clemens as the best pitcher in baseball history. So it was appropriate that the Rocket began his second run with the Yankees in a stadium called Legends Field.

Clemens created a buzz for Friday night's game between the Tampa Yankees and Fort Myers Miracle, a night after the two teams drew 1,108 fans. Clemens' debut attracted the largest crowd in Florida State League history, a sum of 10,257 that included Yankees owner George Steinbrenner in his suite seats and a number that far surpassed the previous record of 9,421,set in 1996.

And Clemens gave them what they wanted.

The 44-year-old right-hander allowed one run on three hits, including a solo home run, over four innings. He did not allow a walk and struck out two. He reached a peak velocity of 91 mph while tossing 58 pitches, 42 strikes. And he looked sharp.

Following the game, though, Clemens was pleased about his control, but he was the most concerned about his leg strength.

"I feel fine, but it didn't seem effortless," said Clemens, who has spent the entire week working out in the 90-degree heat at the Yankees' player development complex just down the road from Legends Field. "I had my mouth open a few times there in the first inning. My control was better than expected, but my lower half is my biggest concern."

But while fans delighted in the spectacle of it all, including a video tribute that ran prior to the game of the Rocket's accomplishments in his 23-year career, Clemens, who shied away from commenting on Kyle Farnsworth's comments on Thursday about his contract, understood the sense of urgency in his first Minor League outing.

Earlier this week, during his preparation, Clemens worked intensely on his conditioning and his mechanics, and he discussed the importance of getting in game shape as quickly as possible.

"You understand the pace the Red Sox are setting, so they're in good shape and good pitching shape," said Clemens. "If they're rolling like that, we're gonna have to get things going as quickly as possible."

Thus, after he tossed a little over 40 pitches in his warmup session and after he escorted four-year-old Field of Dreams player Nicholas Ketterer to the pitching mound for a celebration of the youth group, Clemens began his outing by working all his pitches as much as he could.

"It's different than in Spring Training where you can work your breaking ball just twice in an inning," said Clemens, who threw for an additional 15 minutes following the game. "I was going to try and make myself tired. My pregame routine was altered a bit from what it would be in a Major League game. But I wanted to overextend myself to make sure I was warmed up and ready to go."

Thus, in New York fashion, with a capacity crowd in attendance, the stage was set for a Rocket showcase.

And Clemens, who has a flair for the dramatic, put on quite a show.

He retired the first two batters he faced on a flyout to left and a groundout to second.

Looking settled in, he worked a 2-2 count to the left-hand-hitting Erik Lis, a 2005 ninth-round pick of the Minnesota Twins, and almost struck him out with two high fastballs, which Lis fouled off.

But Clemens left a fastball up over the plate which the 23-year-old Lis deposited over the right-field wall.

"His fastball was flying up in the first inning," said Tampa Yankees catcher Francisco Cervelli. "But he fixed his mechanics and it was a lot better the rest of the game. His control was very good and he hit his spots."

Clemens induced the next batter following Lis into a groundout to end the inning and he allowed only two hits over the next three innings.

While he stated firmly earlier this week that his pitch count limit would hover around 45-50 pitches, the Rocket went to the mound one more time in the fourth after having already tossed 50 pitches in three innings.

"I'm trying to push myself and get ready as soon as possible," said Clemens. "But I'm trying to be smart about it as well."

Clemens finished strong, retiring the side with a groundout, flyout and groundout in eight pitches, seven of which were strikes.

Once the final out was recorded and Clemens sauntered off the field, he waved his hand to the adoring fans, who gave him a standing ovation, and tipped his cap in appreciation.

He tossed 19 pitches (11 for strikes) in the second, which included a deep flyout to center, a strikeout, a single and a groundout.

In the third inning, in which he tossed 18 pitches, he allowed a leadoff double before retiring the side with a groundout, a strikeout and a groundout to Lis to end the inning.

Clemens said he will pitch next Wednesday for Double-A Trenton and would make a determination following that start on whether an additional Minor League start is necessary.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/07 05:38 AM

So first our offense was on fire and the pitching was lousy. Now the pitching has been doing their part and the bats are silent. Can somebody PLEASE, knock some runners in when they're in scoring position
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/07 10:38 AM

Sure, steroids help you heal from injury faster. No question about that.

But I think its total crap - of course it can help you put the ball over the wall, or add another 5 mph to your pitches, or so many guys wouldn't be taking it.

---

As I said in the Mets thread, that umpire at home plate sucked last night, for both squads. Terrible strike zone.

---

Once again, Posada and Matsui provide the only meaningful offense for the Yankees. If it wasn't for those two and Jeter, we'd have no runs.

I haven't seen this lack of willpower in a team in quite some time. Its like they are coasting, and don't care.

When Pettitte was tweaking in the dugout after coming out of the game late despite pitching extraordinarily well and still not getting a win, I wish he would've started throwing shit at guys like Abreu and Cano. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/07 08:18 PM

Now Rasner goes down. Another f*cking pitcher!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/07 12:37 AM

Report: Yanks may void Giambi's contract

After Jason Giambi admitted he "was wrong for doing that stuff" in a recent newspaper report, his current employers may reconsider whether they were wrong to give the slugger a seven-year, $120 million contract in 2001.

According to a report in the New York Daily News, Giambi's admission in Friday's USA Today could lead to the Yankees trying again to void his contract if it is ultimately determined that he used illegal drugs after signing him to the deal.

The commissioner's office is investigating Giambi's comments and is expected to summon him to a meeting to discuss them. According to the Daily News, the outcome of that meeting will determine in part how the Yankees proceed.

Giambi told USA Today "what we should have done a long time ago was stand up — players, owners, everybody — and said: 'We made a mistake.' We should have apologized back then and made sure we had a rule in place and gone forward. ... Steroids and all of that was a part of history. But it was a topic that everybody wanted to avoid. Nobody wanted to talk about it."

Giambi had not previously admitted (at least publicly) using steroids. The closest he had come was an unspecific apology during a Yankee Stadium press conference after the San Francisco Chronicle reported that Giambi had told the grand jury investigating the BALCO case that he had used steroids and human growth hormone before signing with the Yankees and while playing for them in 2002 and 2003.

The Yankees had considered ending Giambi's deal after that report surfaced in late 2004.

The first baseman/DH's salary is $21 million for this season and 2008, and the Yanks hold an $22 million option for 2009 with a $5 million buyout clause.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/07 12:39 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Report: Yanks may void Giambi's contract

After Jason Giambi admitted he "was wrong for doing that stuff" in a recent newspaper report, his current employers may reconsider whether they were wrong to give the slugger a seven-year, $120 million contract in 2001.

According to a report in the New York Daily News, Giambi's admission in Friday's USA Today could lead to the Yankees trying again to void his contract if it is ultimately determined that he used illegal drugs after signing him to the deal.

The commissioner's office is investigating Giambi's comments and is expected to summon him to a meeting to discuss them. According to the Daily News, the outcome of that meeting will determine in part how the Yankees proceed.

Giambi told USA Today "what we should have done a long time ago was stand up — players, owners, everybody — and said: 'We made a mistake.' We should have apologized back then and made sure we had a rule in place and gone forward. ... Steroids and all of that was a part of history. But it was a topic that everybody wanted to avoid. Nobody wanted to talk about it."

Giambi had not previously admitted (at least publicly) using steroids. The closest he had come was an unspecific apology during a Yankee Stadium press conference after the San Francisco Chronicle reported that Giambi had told the grand jury investigating the BALCO case that he had used steroids and human growth hormone before signing with the Yankees and while playing for them in 2002 and 2003.

The Yankees had considered ending Giambi's deal after that report surfaced in late 2004.

The first baseman/DH's salary is $21 million for this season and 2008, and the Yanks hold an $22 million option for 2009 with a $5 million buyout clause.

Source: FOX Sports


Huh?

He MIGHT get voided because he admitted he fucked up after the rest of the country already knew that he juiced up? Bullshit.

I think the Yanks are pre-planning a future cost-cutting move. Thats all.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/07 12:46 AM

Shit, NOW David Wright decides to come out of his slump! What a shame about Rasner, but Clippard seems to be pitching well. Granted, it's only the second inning. But he looks about 12 years old!! I told Mr. Babe with the way things have been going, I expect the Goodyear Blimp to come crashing down onto the mound next!
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/07 12:58 AM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Huh?

He MIGHT get voided because he admitted he fucked up after the rest of the country already knew that he juiced up? Bullshit.

I think the Yanks are pre-planning a future cost-cutting move. Thats all.

No doubt. This isn't the first time the Yankees visited this issue. They grossly overpaid for Giambi, who is a liability in the field, and has been putting up offensive numbers that compare to players, who earn pennies on the Giambi dollar. I doubt the Yankees will try to revoke the contract because they know the cat fight they'd get from the Players" Association.

If I were arguing for Giambi, I would assert that the Yankees are estopped from revoking the contract on the grounds of Giambi's admissions regarding performance enhancing drugs because the contract originally tendered Giambi contained express language about terminating the contract for steroids, and Giambi's people had asked the Yankees to remove the language. Accordingly, this collateral evidence serves to show that the Yankees knew, or had reason to know, that Giambi was involved with performance enhancing drugs. This also should preclude them from relying on a general contractual term to take an action, which could have been addressed by a specific clause, but was deliberately omitted, in order to sign Giambi.

Yes, the Yankees knew Giambi was taking something, but they couldn't care less...as long as he put up numbers. Hell, the Yankees never batted an eye about the persistent drug use of Dwight Gooden, Steve Howe, and Darryl Strawberry, all of whom were known junkies before they ever put on pinstripes.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/07 04:33 AM

A great outing by rookie Tyler Clippard:

6 innings, 3 hits, 1 run, 3 BB, 6 SO, 1-0 with a 1.50 ERA. Now let's see how many starts we can get out of him \:\(

At least they got a win before facing Boston next
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/07 05:29 AM

Has anyone seen the Derek Jeter/Harvey Keitel Gatorade commercial?

YouTube
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/07 06:04 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Has anyone seen the Derek Jeter/Harvey Keitel Gatorade commercial?

YouTube


I saw it when you posted it over at the YouTube thread. \:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/07 11:11 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Report: Yanks may void Giambi's contract

After Jason Giambi admitted he "was wrong for doing that stuff" in a recent newspaper report, his current employers may reconsider whether they were wrong to give the slugger a seven-year, $120 million contract in 2001.

According to a report in the New York Daily News, Giambi's admission in Friday's USA Today could lead to the Yankees trying again to void his contract if it is ultimately determined that he used illegal drugs after signing him to the deal.

The commissioner's office is investigating Giambi's comments and is expected to summon him to a meeting to discuss them. According to the Daily News, the outcome of that meeting will determine in part how the Yankees proceed.

Giambi told USA Today "what we should have done a long time ago was stand up — players, owners, everybody — and said: 'We made a mistake.' We should have apologized back then and made sure we had a rule in place and gone forward. ... Steroids and all of that was a part of history. But it was a topic that everybody wanted to avoid. Nobody wanted to talk about it."

Giambi had not previously admitted (at least publicly) using steroids. The closest he had come was an unspecific apology during a Yankee Stadium press conference after the San Francisco Chronicle reported that Giambi had told the grand jury investigating the BALCO case that he had used steroids and human growth hormone before signing with the Yankees and while playing for them in 2002 and 2003.

The Yankees had considered ending Giambi's deal after that report surfaced in late 2004.

The first baseman/DH's salary is $21 million for this season and 2008, and the Yanks hold an $22 million option for 2009 with a $5 million buyout clause.

Source: FOX Sports


I highly doubt this move would happen at all, but if it does, it wouldn't happen this season. Everyone and their brother knows that the Yankees will be pushing insanely hard for Texas' Mark Texiera, who idolized former Yankee first baseman Don Mattingly (idolizing him wearing his #23), and who wants to play for the Yankees. He'll be an unrestricted free agent after this season. Not only can he hit for power, but he plays Gold Glove caliber defense as well, something we haven't had for quite some time. Anybody whose swing is compared to Gehrig's can't be that bad.

Like I said, the Yankees struggles are offensive - I don't see how voiding Giambi's contract at this juncture is going to help the team, unless they have a better player waiting in the wings via a trade, which I doubt will happen. The Yankees will not likely sacrifice the youth movement in the Scranton rotation for a player rental - the only ones I could see being shipped out would be DeSalvo or Wright.

Giambi is extremely well liked in the locker room, and close friends with Jeter (and Clemens). I highly doubt that they would want to get rid of a locker room leader to save money this year.

After this season ends, however, I wouldn't be surprised if he was dumped. He has a horrible contract, and he isn't consistent enough to warrant his DH role at this point (see David Ortiz) and can't pinch hit either. But, nonetheless, I'd rather have Texiera as the starting first baseman and then at worst see Giambi as the DH once again next year.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/21/07 11:26 AM

Kei Igawa got a loss after two unearned runs in his latest Tampa A start. Ugh. Lilly has a similar contract, and is tearing it up. Grr...

---

Abreu may be back...he had a nice hit last night, and two walks. Wow. If only, if only...

---

Speaking of being back, at least half of Cano's game has returned. He fielded plenty of balls last night without error, after his tumbleweed impersonation - pinball glorioski that resulted in three errors the previous game. Now if he could just hit the ball. He had a near home run to left at Shea that just went foul. Poo.

---

Clippard is part of the future of the Yankees, but hadn't been considered major league ready by the trainers, which is why he's been passed over earlier this year. He's also matured (if I'm not mistaken he got into DUI trouble early in his minor league career) and looked to be comfortable on the mound. After Hughes, he's one of the top 3 or so pitchers in the Yankee minor leagues. If he can keep some consistency at the Major League level, don't be surprised if he takes Mike Mussina's role as the middle of the rotation guy next year.

And what the fuck? He hit a double...wow. Total package.

---

Torre had a "positive" talk with Steinbrenner, according to Torre.

What did they talk about...green tea?

---

So the ESPN baseball crew again was on top of its game, keeping the Kyle Farnsworth thing going, despite its massive irrelevance. I did think it was interesting to see Proctor go for the 7th and 8th, though that may just be to keep the rest of the 'pen fresh (which now includes Matt DeSalvo and Ron Villone).
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/07 02:42 AM

The Yankees Win!! Btw, was that Jason Giambi in the game?? It's been so long that I wasn't sure it was him!!
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/07 03:04 AM

 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew


There's no doubt in my mind that without the Steroids Bonds would be three years out of the game and with a couple hundred less homers.


Yes, Bonds started getting into weight training, combined it with steroids, and then was able to GAIN about 75 pds of muscle. Now he hits more homers.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/07 06:24 AM

A good win tonight against the Sox and A-Rod homers again for his 3rd straight game. A great job by Wang going 6 1/3 giving up 2 runs on 7 hits, 3 BB, 5 SO, 3-3 with a 4.27 ERA (hopefully he can get that down some more)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/07 11:24 AM

Let's hope Cranky Moose can get out of his funk and win the matchup versus Tavarez...
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/07 12:37 PM

I'm finding it hard to get all worked up after one win. Normally this would be a great win. Maybe if we could sweep Boston or at least take two out of three then it may lift my mood. Then LA. comes along.
We have had a hard two weeks haven't we.

It was good to see the guys come thru for a change.

Pitching looked really good. Bats came thru and Wakefield couldn't get the job done again. 9 1/2 is a whole lot better the 11 1/2 games back.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/07 01:01 PM

I'll take a win against Boston any day of the week! Actually, at this point, I'll take a win against anybody!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/22/07 01:04 PM

I think the big thing to take from this win is that the offense fired on all cylinders. There wasn't a weak link anywhere in the chain. If this is the turnaround we've been looking for (and who better than against Boston with Wanger on the mound), it could signal the phoenix rising from the ashes for the Yankees this season. I haven't felt this good about a win this season and our overall team performance since A-Rod's first walkoff homer earlier against Baltimore.

Also - a strange thing to hear, but it sounds like Papa George may be in declining health. I've heard some whispers that he didn't even recognize Reggie Jackson the other day at the Tampa stadium when he was watching Clemens' start... \:\(
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 02:55 AM

I've heard those stories as well, DJ. And the rumor is that it's Alzheimer's. What a shame, if that's true.

Well, win one, lose one. Geez, Moose pitched poorly, and then Vizcaino came in and sucked even more.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 03:04 AM

Love him or hate him, the guy IS a great owner.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 04:08 AM

 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew
Love him or hate him, the guy IS a great owner.


Papa George is a great owner in willing to spend money, fuck the limit, for his team to win every year.

The problem with Papa George is when he does stupid shit that hurts the franchise. From hiring/firing managers on a whim for YEARS(including facing a revolt from Cashman and Jeter when George came THIS close to firing Torre in October) to distracting news of his franchise to himself and his numerous problems/scandals of the past(wire-tapping, prison, tax evading).

You know who is Papa George without the "stupid shit"? Mark Cuban. Sure he racks up almost a million bucks probably in fines for trashing refs and Stern, but hes out in the stands with the fans, very passionate for his team, and like Papa George, willing to spend cash(under the Salary Cap) and coddle his players up in luxury to WIN. Plus, he ate his words when he had to work at DAIRY QUEEN for a day.

Oh, and he funded GOOD NIGHT, & GOOD LUCK.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 06:06 AM

Elbow surgery could sideline Pavano until '09

NEW YORK -- All that remains between Carl Pavano and reconstructive elbow surgery is permission from the New York Yankees.

The pitcher is awaiting word from the team on whether he can go ahead with an operation that would sideline him for most if not all of what remains on his $39.95 million, four-year contract.

Pavano believes surgery is the only way to repair his elbow, and Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has been awaiting written diagnoses from the three specialists who looked at the 31-year-old right-hander's arm.

"We've received all the written reports from all the doctors that examined Carl over the several weeks," Pavano's agent, Gregg Clifton, said Tuesday. "I'll be reaching out to Brian tomorrow in an effort to get all of us moving in the same direction with regard to Carl and the proper steps for his recovery."

Pavano, who hasn't pitched since April 9, has seen Yankees physician Dr. Stuart Hershon, New York Mets medical director Dr. David Altchek, Dr. James Andrews and Los Angeles Angels medical director Dr. Lewis Yocum. Reconstructive surgery to replace his elbow ligament would sideline Pavano for at least a year and possibly until the 2009 season.

Since signing with the Yankees as a free agent before the 2005 season, Pavano is 5-7 in 19 starts, including 1-0 with a 4.76 ERA in two starts this year. He was sidelined from June 27, 2005, through the 2006 season by shoulder, back, buttocks, elbow and rib injuries and then returned this year. He felt forearm soreness during a win at Minnesota on April 9, an injury the Yankees didn't originally think was serious.

Pavano still has not held a formal meeting with the Yankees over his initial failure last year to tell the team about rib injuries sustained in an auto accident.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 11:42 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Elbow surgery could sideline Pavano until '09

NEW YORK -- All that remains between Carl Pavano and reconstructive elbow surgery is permission from the New York Yankees.

The pitcher is awaiting word from the team on whether he can go ahead with an operation that would sideline him for most if not all of what remains on his $39.95 million, four-year contract.

Pavano believes surgery is the only way to repair his elbow, and Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has been awaiting written diagnoses from the three specialists who looked at the 31-year-old right-hander's arm.

"We've received all the written reports from all the doctors that examined Carl over the several weeks," Pavano's agent, Gregg Clifton, said Tuesday. "I'll be reaching out to Brian tomorrow in an effort to get all of us moving in the same direction with regard to Carl and the proper steps for his recovery."

Pavano, who hasn't pitched since April 9, has seen Yankees physician Dr. Stuart Hershon, New York Mets medical director Dr. David Altchek, Dr. James Andrews and Los Angeles Angels medical director Dr. Lewis Yocum. Reconstructive surgery to replace his elbow ligament would sideline Pavano for at least a year and possibly until the 2009 season.

Since signing with the Yankees as a free agent before the 2005 season, Pavano is 5-7 in 19 starts, including 1-0 with a 4.76 ERA in two starts this year. He was sidelined from June 27, 2005, through the 2006 season by shoulder, back, buttocks, elbow and rib injuries and then returned this year. He felt forearm soreness during a win at Minnesota on April 9, an injury the Yankees didn't originally think was serious.

Pavano still has not held a formal meeting with the Yankees over his initial failure last year to tell the team about rib injuries sustained in an auto accident.

Source: ESPN


Wow. Pavano has done the impossible.

He's managed to figure out a way to collect money without working for the rest of '07, PLUS the entirety of '08.

If I were the Yankees, I'd try to void his contract based upon the non-disclosure of the auto accident last season. After all, they axed Aaron Boone for playing pickup basketball...
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 03:46 PM

I heard that there is a little bit of a controversy about A-Rod's slide into second base. Normally, everything surrounding a Yankees/Red Sox game gets blown out of proportion, but I didn't see the play although I watched some of the game. Was it anything that stood out from the ordinary?

He'll probably get plunked tonight and it'll be over.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 07:16 PM

Just what we don't need: off-field distractions!

----------------------------------------------------------------

Report: Giambi failed amphetamines test

NEW YORK (AP) - Jason Giambi failed an amphetamines test within the last year, the Daily News reported Wednesday.

The newspaper reported that after the failed amphetamines test, Giambi is subjected to six additional tests for one year. The newspaper did not cite any sources in its report.

Giambi declined comment to the newspaper before the New York Yankees' 7-3 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday night.

The Yankees slugger recently said in a USA Today interview that he was "probably tested more than anybody else."

On Tuesday, lawyers for the commissioner's office and the players' association held more conversations about a possible meeting with Giambi but it remained uncertain when or if such a gathering would take place.

Lawyers for Major League Baseball would like to talk to Giambi about comments in last Friday's editions of USA Today.

"I was wrong for doing that stuff," the New York Yankees designated hitter was quoted as saying, remarks some have interpreted as an admission of steroids use.

Management lawyers would like to hold the meeting as soon as is practicable. The failed amphetamines test most likely wouldn't be discussed at a meeting since MLB policy is to keep a first positive test secret.

Hall of Famer Frank Robinson took issue with one of Giambi's comments.

"What we should have done a long time ago was stand up — players, ownership, everybody — and said: 'We made a mistake,"' Giambi was quoted as saying. "We should have apologized back then and made sure we had a rule in place and gone forward. ... Steroids and all of that was a part of history. But it was a topic that everybody wanted to avoid. Nobody wanted to talk about it."

Robinson said Giambi should speak for himself.

"If Jason wants to confess, then he should come out and say: 'I'm guilty. I apologize. I apologize to baseball. I apologize to all the fans that have supported me and supported baseball over the years. And I will clean up my act and promise you I will not do anything like this again,"' Robinson said. "He should not drag others into (it), because when he says baseball, that includes everybody in baseball."

Before the Yankees played Boston on Tuesday night, Giambi was asked about a report in the New York Post that said the Los Angeles Angels had an interest in acquiring him. Giambi has a full no-trade clause.

"This is all news to me. I'm a Yankee," he said. "It's kind of fun to read. I never asked for it."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 07:40 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
I heard that there is a little bit of a controversy about A-Rod's slide into second base. Normally, everything surrounding a Yankees/Red Sox game gets blown out of proportion, but I didn't see the play although I watched some of the game. Was it anything that stood out from the ordinary?

He'll probably get plunked tonight and it'll be over.


It was a hard slide, nothing more.

And could the guy stay in the league longer than 2 weeks before he starts criticizing a first ballot Hall Of Famer?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 07:43 PM

Hughes throws off mound

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- New York Yankees rookie Phil Hughes threw 35 pitches off a mound Wednesday during his first bullpen session since straining his left hamstring earlier this month.

The 20-year-old, considered one of the top pitching prospects in baseball, is expected to have another mound session Friday or Saturday. Hughes was injured on May 1 in the midst of a no-hit bid against the Texas Rangers in his second major league start.

"The leg feels good," said Hughes, who also took part in fielding drills and his running program.

Left-hander Kei Igawa is scheduled to make his second minor league start Thursday for Class A Tampa at the Vero Beach Devil Rays. He allowed two unearned runs over four innings during his first start for Tampa last Saturday.

The former Japanese Central League star was sent to the minors on May 7 to work on pitching mechanics. Igawa, who signed a five-year, $20 million deal with New York in December, is 2-1 with a 7.63 ERA for the Yankees.

Source: SI
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 07:44 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
 Originally Posted By: klydon1
I heard that there is a little bit of a controversy about A-Rod's slide into second base. Normally, everything surrounding a Yankees/Red Sox game gets blown out of proportion, but I didn't see the play although I watched some of the game. Was it anything that stood out from the ordinary?

He'll probably get plunked tonight and it'll be over.


It was a hard slide, nothing more.

And could the guy stay in the league longer than 2 weeks before he starts criticizing a first ballot Hall Of Famer?


Hopefully this will put an end to those pesky "A-Rod's going to Boston" rumors
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 08:10 PM

See how I stuck up for the Yanks, Irish?

I'm just a kinder, gentler Met fan.

Can't we all just get along?

Loffles.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/23/07 08:34 PM

I have no problem with the Mets myself. I don't understand why so many New Yorkers have to be for one team and against the other. When the Yanks lose, I pull for the Mets. However, when they face each other, naturally, I root for the Yanks. But yeah, thanks for the stick up ;\)
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 02:34 AM

I caught a glimpse of A-Rod's slide. Not the worst thing in the world, but coming up with the forearm/elbow after the slide was a little bush league.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 06:05 AM

Notes: A-Rod defends the slide

NEW YORK -- Alex Rodriguez admitted that the slide he used to take out Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia on Tuesday was a "little awkward," but he offered no regrets on the play.
"I always play hard, and I'm never going to apologize for the way I play," Rodriguez said. "If I had the same play today, I'm going just as hard. That's it. You just try to keep it clean, that's all. It's part of the game."

In the eighth inning of Tuesday's game, Jorge Posada chopped a bases-loaded grounder that Red Sox third baseman Mike Lowell whipped to second base. Pedroia received it to force out Rodriguez, who slid in hard and then appeared to throw an elbow into the infielder.

After the game, Pedroia told reporters that he thought the play was "a little cheap." Rodriguez said that his intention was to go in "hard and clean" to break up the double play, which he succeeded in doing, as Posada was ruled safe on a run-scoring fielder's choice.

"I like Pedroia. I have a lot of respect for those guys over there," Rodriguez said. "Every run for us is huge, and I'm not just going to go in there like a little baby doll and try to hug him. I have a lot of respect for him, but I'm trying to play hard. By any means, it was not intentional."

Pedroia told reporters after Boston's 7-3 victory that he would remember the play the next time Rodriguez slid into second base, dropping his arm slot. Asked about Pedroia's comment, Rodriguez deflected.

"That's a good idea," Rodriguez said. "I played short for a long time. In the course of a long year, you're going to have plays where guys touch you, and some guys hit you really hard. I barely touched him."

Manager Joe Torre said that the aggressive slide was unremarkable, and opined that plays of that ilk have long been accepted in baseball.

"The only thing I saw is that he went in hard," Torre said. "I didn't notice anything unusual."

Rodriguez said that the play was indicative of the Yankees' current situation. Tuesday's loss dropped New York to four games under .500, at 20-24, and 10 1/2 games behind the American League East-leading Red Sox.

"We're playing for our lives right now, and trying to do the best we can, and taking every pitch and every inning as if it's the last thing," Rodriguez said.

Pedroia did not believe that the play would carry over into future games between the Yankees and Red Sox.

"We'll go out [on Wednesday] and play," he said. "That's the main thing. I don't think we're going out there thinking about the way he's sliding into second base. We're just going out there and playing, playing to win. That's about it. That's all we can do."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 06:07 AM

Clemens extends himself in Trenton

TRENTON, N.J. -- It wasn't pretty like his first start, but Roger Clemens stretched his arm out even further in his outing on Wednesday night, throwing 102 pitches -- with 64 strikes -- over 5 1/3 innings for the Double-A Trenton Thunder.
While the results may say otherwise, the length of the outing and Clemens feeling pretty good about himself indicate The Rocket could be ready to join the Yankees next week in Toronto -- and not just for a friendly visit.

"I think that will be something that the watchful eyes that were here -- and from what I understand, there was more than a handful of watchful eyes -- that will help decide that," said Clemens. "All I can do is tell them how I felt, tell them how I feel tomorrow and then throw a little more intense bullpen [session] than I normally throw on Friday, and then we'll go from there."

Clemens allowed three runs on six hits -- four for extra bases -- walked four and struck out five, leaving to a standing ovation at Waterfront Park with one out in the sixth and down, 3-2, to Portland.

Clemens threw more than usual in the bullpen before the game with the intention of, according to catcher P.J. Pilittere, "going four or five [innings] and making it feel like seven or eight."

It looked that way early, as The Rocket labored in the first inning, a 30-pitch frame in which Clemens got ahead of hitters only to walk three. Of the three free passes, two came after Clemens started the hitter with a 1-2 count.

But after Andrew Pinckney coaxed the third walk of the inning to load the bases, Clemens got Bryan Pritz to fly out to right field and keep Portland off the scoreboard.

Clemens settled down over the next two innings but allowed a run in the third. Portland's Jed Lowrie smacked Clemens' second offering of the frame into right for a double, advanced to third on Cory Keylor's grounder to first and scored on Jay Johnson's grounder to shortstop.

The fourth and fifth innings went easily for The Rocket, as he needed just 10 and 11 pitches, respectively, in those innings.

That had most of record Waterfront Park crowd of 9,134 -- including Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein -- figuring the fifth would be Clemens' final inning. It also hinted that Clemens could make his Yankees debut during the series in Toronto next week.

So should Clemens be looking for his passport?

"I'll keep that in-house," Clemens said of what he would tell the Yankees should they ask him if he could start for them in five days.

The Yankees seem as if they're ready for The Rocket.

"We never felt there was a question with his arm," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "Throwing 102 pitches, I guess his legs must be under him. That's really what he was waiting for. If he feels he's ready to come with us and start pitching for us, we're ready to have him."

The 44-year-old Clemens came out for the sixth and promptly gave up back-to-back singles to Pinckney and Pritz to open the inning. After Scott Youngbauer sacrificed both runners into scoring position, Clemens plunked John Otness on the shoulder to load the bases.

Clemens then walked Iggy Suarez on seven pitches -- despite getting ahead in the count 1-2 -- plating another run and allowing the Sea Dogs to tie the game at 2.

That pushed Clemens over the 100-pitch mark and resulted in his exiting the game -- to a second standing ovation in as many innings.

"They wanted to shut me down after five, but I felt fine -- I wanted to continue," Clemens said. "I need to get reps, a lot of them."

Clemens was charged with a third run when reliever Michael Gardner walked his first batter with the bases still loaded.

"I did everything I wanted to do with the baseball, pretty much," Clemens said, though he cited some problems with his splitter because of the difference in size between the Major and Minor League baseball. "I threw all my pitches. This was no different than my expectations of what I had going into this last year. I expected this."

In his first start for Class A Tampa on Friday, Clemens threw 58 pitches over four innings, allowing a run on three hits while striking out two.

And just like he did in Tampa, Clemens took time out to talk with the pitchers and catchers before the game, giving them an opportunity to pick the brain of a future Hall of Famer.

Clemens took extra fielding practice with the pitchers about two hours before batting practice and then spent roughly a half hour with them on the field -- just talking about baseball.

"They asked plenty of questions and it was a good day," said Clemens, who signed a prorated $28 million deal with the Yankees earlier this month in a move to bolster the rotation. "I enjoy [talking with younger players] far more than what I'm doing. I know the process and I know what comes with it. Most importantly, I need to go out there and pitch and be smart about it, get healthy, get ready. But for the last four or five years, my job is far greater than just pitching a baseball."

Trenton won the game, 4-3, in 10 innings.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 06:08 AM

You won't find this on a lot of websites

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Yanks donate $1 million to Virginia Tech

NEW YORK -- The Virginia Tech massacre affected families, friends, neighbors, acquaintances. Like a spider web, pain and sorrow spread up, down, sideways -- every string crossing paths and becoming entangled. On April 16, when 32 lives were taken at the hands of a gunman, the U.S. mourned from Maine to California, from Washington down to Florida, where Yankees principal owner George Steinbrenner watched the tragic events unfold in Blacksburg, Va.
Fast forward to Wednesday, when manager Joe Torre said that Steinbrenner has his finger on the pulse of society. Those horrifying images and dreadful sound bites snapping from Steinbrenner's television tugged at his heart. And now, a little more than a month after the shooting, the Yankees have made the largest donation to the Virginia Tech Hokie Spirit Memorial Fund, as the Boss wrote a check for $1 million.

"Whoa!" a fan shouted from behind the Yankees dugout as Bob Sheppard made the announcement over the loudspeakers.

The fund was established to help those touched by the tragedy, and the money will provide grief counseling, memorials and assistance to the victims and their families.

"The events that took place this spring in Virginia have deeply affected us all," Steinbrenner said in a statement. "But the Virginia Tech community has shown great spirit and resolve during this difficult time, and the New York Yankees are proud to join so many others in supporting the healing process."

Derek Jeter jogged onto the field to present the check just minutes before the Yankees took the field against the Red Sox in the final game of a three-game series. Standing at home plate were Virginia Tech president Dr. Charles Steger, Capt. Vince Houston of the Virginia Tech Police Department, Jason Dominczak and Matthew Johnson of the Virginia Tech Rescue Squad, and Director of Athletics Jim Weaver.

Also on the field were Yankees president Randy Levine, chief operating officer Lonn Trost and general manager Brian Cashman.

Wind snapped the tails of their jackets as the men watched a memorial video on the stadium's big screen. Steger talked with Steinbrenner just minutes before throwing out the game's ceremonial first pitch.

"I could also tell from the tone of his voice and what he said that he's sincere and committed, and really feels it's important to take this kind of step to help these young people regain their lives," Steger said.

Running out to their positions, the Yankees' starting lineup passed the Virginia Tech logos painted near the first- and third-base dugouts. Jorge Posada caught Steger's pitch in front of a nationally televised audience, a throw that came in low but reachable.

The catcher said that it's an honor for him to wear the Virginia Tech logo on his cap -- as the entire team did on Wednesday -- and that he's proud of the way the organization stands behind those at the school.

"The things that went on at Virginia Tech ... it just puts things in perspective," Posada said. "Baseball is not everything, and you [take] your life for granted. But this is an example of the great organization we are representing. I think the Yankees are doing the right thing."

According to Steger, the Yankees are the only sports team to contribute money to Virginia Tech. And Steinbrenner isn't finished supporting the school, either. The Yankees announced that the team will play an exhibition game against the Hokies baseball team sometime in 2008. All proceeds will be added to the memorial fund.

Others wishing to make a donation can call 800-533-1144.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 06:12 AM

Giambi meets with MLB over 'roids remarks

NEW YORK (AP) - On the same day a report alleged he failed an amphetamines test, Jason Giambi met with lawyers from the baseball commissioner's office Wednesday to discuss his recent comments on steroids.


"The commissioner requested that Jason come in in response to the USA Today piece. Jason was interviewed this morning," union general counsel Michael Weiner said.
He was not interviewed about the amphetamine report, which appeared in the Daily News. The paper said he flunked the test within the last year.

Asked about the report at Yankee Stadium, Giambi said: "I can't give you an accurate explanation."

Asked about the meeting, he said, "I hope it went smooth. It was definitely a willingness on both sides."

Giambi said no followup session has been scheduled. The meeting, at baseball's main office, lasted less than an hour.

"It's more or less now wait and see," he said.

Yankees manager Joe Torre said "we have no knowledge" of a positive test.

General manager Brian Cashman said he wasn't trying to trade Giambi, who has $21 million in salary due this year as well as next year, the final guaranteed season in his contract.

"That's not something that's currently on my plate," Cashman said.

The meeting included Rob Manfred, baseball's executive vice president for labor relations, senior vice president Frank Coonelly and Howard Ganz, an outside lawyer.

Giambi brought along agent Arn Tellem, lawyer Brian O'Neill and Weiner, who represented the players' association.

Tellem and Manfred declined to discuss the meeting.

Management and players did not agree to ban steroids until late 2002. Testing with penalties did not begin until 2004 and penalties for a first offense didn't start until 2005.

An agreement was reached before the 2006 season to also ban amphetamines. An initial positive test subjects a player to counseling and up to six additional tests over the next year, and a second positive test leads to a 25-game suspension.

Gene Orza, the union's chief operating officer, said baseball officials could not confirm or deny the News report because they don't want the absence of a denial in any drug-testing case to be interpreted as a confirmation.

Names of players who test positive for amphetamines for the first time are not made public. The only other player linked to a positive amphetamine test has been Barry Bonds. When the Daily News reported in January that Bonds had tested positive, Bonds issued a statement that neither confirmed nor denied he did.

"I'm upset at the fact how we found out about Barry Bonds' positive test and now Jason's," Yankees center fielder Johnny Damon said. "It doesn't seem like the guidelines of the drug testing (are) being done correctly when anybody can go around and leak something that we don't know if it's true or not and we're not supposed to know until they get in trouble for the second time."

Giambi has been a figure in baseball's drug controversy for several years. He told a federal grand jury in 2003 that he used steroids during the 2001-2003 seasons, the San Francisco Chronicle reported in 2004.

Giambi made a general apology before spring training in 2005 but didn't specify what he was apologizing for. The New York Yankees' designated hitter then was quoted in USA Today last Friday as saying:

"I was wrong for doing that stuff. What we should have done a long time ago was stand up - players, ownership, everybody - and said: 'We made a mistake.' We should have apologized back then and made sure we had a rule in place and gone forward. ... Steroids and all of that was a part of history. But it was a topic that everybody wanted to avoid. Nobody wanted to talk about it."

While it would be difficult for baseball to penalize Giambi for using steroids before the 2002 drug agreement, any admission of use in 2003 would be a gray area. Baseball had survey testing without penalties that year - the union is fighting government efforts to link tests with names - and any attempt to discipline players for that year likely would wind up before an arbitrator.

In his comments to USA Today, Giambi was quoted as saying: "I'm probably tested more than anybody else. I'm not hiding anything."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 06:16 AM

No surprises here

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Tommy John surgery expected soon for Yanks' Pavano

NEW YORK -- Carl Pavano is headed for reconstructive elbow surgery, probably ending his unproductive stint with the New York Yankees and making his contract a $40 million bust.


After being examined by four doctors over the past few weeks, Pavano met Wednesday with Yankees general manager Brian Cashman to go over all the medical documents. Pavano's agent, Gregg Clifton, said the pitcher will have the operation.

"All four doctors conclude that he has a damaged ligament and recommend Tommy John surgery," Cashman said.

The right-hander will be sidelined for most if not all of what remains on his $39.95 million, four-year deal, which runs through 2008.

"The time is not on our side, obviously, for him to get totally recovered," Cashman said. "Is it possible? Outside possibility the second half of next year, but everything would have to go right.

"It's unfortunate, it really is. When we signed him we had high expectations."

Cashman said Pavano has a tear in his elbow ligament.

"Some of the doctors say it's possible that, he's gone through rest and therapy and a throwing program, it's possible to try that again. But there's some risks that can go with that. You could do further damage to the elbow," Cashman said.

Clifton said Dr. James Andrews will operate soon.

"Now that the parties have had an opportunity to discuss this together, they've come to the conclusion surgery is Carl's only option," Clifton said. "We will attempt to schedule surgery as quickly as possible with Dr. Andrews. We hope to have a date for surgery by Thursday, once we have an opportunity to confer with Dr. Andrews and his scheduling team."

While two of the doctors said a conservative rehabilitation program could be tried, which could entail risk of additional damage, the Yankees left the decision up to Pavano, Yankees president Randy Levine said.


Pavano hasn't pitched since April 9. He saw Yankees physician Dr. Stuart Hershon, New York Mets medical director Dr. David Altchek, Los Angeles Angels medical director Dr. Lewis Yocum and Andrews.

It remained unclear whether the ligament was fully or partially torn.

"Tears don't heal on their own, but the good news is in this day and age, there is a way and an ability to correct the tear and give Carl the opportunity to resume his career," Clifton said.

A free-agent flop since signing with the Yankees before the 2005 season, Pavano is 5-7 in 19 starts, including 1-0 with a 4.76 ERA in two starts this year. He was sidelined from June 27, 2005, through the 2006 season by shoulder, back, elbow and rib injuries, then returned this year. He felt forearm soreness during a win at Minnesota on April 9, an injury the Yankees didn't originally think was serious.

Cashman said he's seen all the medical records on Pavano the past three years, and all his injuries have been legitimate.

"I never once thought that he laid down on this club," Cashman said.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 06:19 AM

Well you KNEW it was coming. Schilling gets his a$$ kicked tonight

6 innings, 12 hits, 6 runs, 0 BB, 3 SO, 4-2 with a 3.94 ERA.

Meanwhile the other ace, Andy Pettitte continues to impress me:

7 innings, 9 hits, 1 run, 1 BB, 2 SO, 3-3 with a 2.66 ERA

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 11:23 AM

You have to love ESPN. Gloom and doom all around after Clemens' second start. Pretty hilarious. He's washed up, he's toast, etc.

Gotta love Every Sox Player Nationwide...

---

Great game all around. The Yankees finally gave Pettitte some offensive support, and even the bullpen came around, despite the best efforts by Kyle Farnsworth to blow it. Mo looked electric. Matsui was on, baby. Even Eye-Chart popped a homer off his old teammate.

---

Giambi took amphetamines?

*shocked*

To paraphrase our dearly departed friend, Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bompensiero, "I was popping those little things like jujubees!"

Seriously, it's like having a tin of M&M's in MLB clubhouses. This shouldn't surprise anyone.

---

A-Rod's slide into Pedroia?

Pretty hilarious the reaction, considering our hitters get plunked on a regular basis without retaliation from our pitchers, who lack balls, as Tony Montana would say.

Frankly, Pedroia should be more worried about keeping his spot and not losing it to a "great" talent like Alex Cora.

---

T-Clip comes up big Friday? Maybe Mike Mussina gets demoted to the #4 starter. Finally.

---

All the "scouts" who were in attendance at Clemens last start and have leaked their "anonymous" thoughts to the press...guess who they were?

Theo Epstein and the Red Sox crew. They were there to see some Portland prospects (allegedly), so there is little doubt they're trying to play a bit of mind games.

Of course, ESPN laps it up...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 11:26 AM

And just for you, I12:



Posted By: ScarFather

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 11:53 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Sure, steroids help you heal from injury faster. No question about that.

But I think its total crap - of course it can help you put the ball over the wall, or add another 5 mph to your pitches, or so many guys wouldn't be taking it.



Just to elaborate... so many like to say that "it doesnt help you hit the ball.. it doesnt help your hand-eye coordination"

Steroids make you hit the ball farther... lets say you get an extra 10% on your distance. In a ballpark that has a fence of 300 ft... it adds 30 ft. So what would typically be a fly ball out is now a homerun.

Lets say it only gives you more power to hit the ball only 1% farther... 300ft wall... you now hit it 3% farther... could be difference in going over fence out of reach of fielder or not.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 11:56 AM

Of course. What Giambi said is kind of a cop-out, a bit of posturing to make it seem like it wasn't all that bad, even though he basically bitch slapped Major League baseball for turning a blind eye to it.

Barry Bonds would be retired by now without the steroids that have helped him recover and blast moon shots out into the Bay. No question.
Posted By: ScarFather

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 12:02 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Of course. What Giambi said is kind of a cop-out, a bit of posturing to make it seem like it wasn't all that bad, even though he basically bitch slapped Major League baseball for turning a blind eye to it.

Barry Bonds would be retired by now without the steroids that have helped him recover and blast moon shots out into the Bay. No question.


I actually think that Giambi should be given a little credit. He is the only one to come forward at all with this problem. He is right in blaming MLB and he is right for blaming himself.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 12:16 PM

True, but his little quip about how steroids don't help you hit home runs is a bit of mealy mouthing, no?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 06:03 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
And just for you, I12:





THANK YOU! I can't get enough of it \:D
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/24/07 07:21 PM

 Originally Posted By: ScarFather
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Of course. What Giambi said is kind of a cop-out, a bit of posturing to make it seem like it wasn't all that bad, even though he basically bitch slapped Major League baseball for turning a blind eye to it.

Barry Bonds would be retired by now without the steroids that have helped him recover and blast moon shots out into the Bay. No question.


I actually think that Giambi should be given a little credit. He is the only one to come forward at all with this problem. He is right in blaming MLB and he is right for blaming himself.


Yeah and Giambi will become the scapegoat of MLB, the Yankees, and Selig just because the guy did something that the rest of us had wanted from these alleged-roid-users: Fess up!

Seriously, why SHOULDN'T I punch Selig right now?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/25/07 12:19 PM

Well, we'll supposedly have a decision in 1-2 weeks. But I can't see them suspending him for shit he did before the steroid policy, or the MLBPA will go ape shit. And I doubt Giambi was stupid enough to go in there and tell them he's been using for the last few years.

If anything, they'll try to concoct some BS suspension for the amphetamines test and Selig will act like they've taken a major step in stopping drug use in baseball.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/25/07 02:48 PM

I don't see a basis for a suspension, especially for the amphetamines test, which was supposed to have remained confidential. That's twice now where information against Giambi, which was supposed to have remained sealed and confidential, was leaked and released to the public.

My guess is that the MLB lawyers merely advised Giambi not to discuss steroids or drug testing too much. I admire Giambi for being more candid and forthright about his involvement, and he's probably won him some fans.

I think we may be approaching the point where baseball fans are becoming as upset about the conspiracy of silence and cover up as they are about the steroid use in the first place.

Apparently, George Mitchell is eventually going to blow the lid off this whole thing. The former Mets' ball boy is the 21st century Deep Throat, and has seemingly pointed him to many avenues to explore.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/25/07 08:27 PM

Steinbrenner: Cashman on 'big hook'

BBA-Steinbrenner-Cashman - Despite constant speculation about manager Joe Torre's job, New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner says someone else also needs to deliver as the team looks to reverse its floundering start: general manager Brian Cashman.

"He's on a big hook," a spirited Steinbrenner told The Associated Press in a rare interview from his Tampa office. "He wanted sole authority. He got it. Now he's got to deliver."

Steinbrenner's comments came with the Yankees' record at 21-24, sitting 9 1/2 games behind the American League East-leading Boston Red Sox. The Boss said he was encouraged by the Yankees' performance this week in taking two out of three games from Boston — and he felt the return of Roger Clemens could provide another boost.

"We hope we have turned it around," Steinbrenner said emphatically. The 44-year-old Clemens brings "a winning attitude," he continued. "I think Roger is capable of sparking the team. He is a veteran and will bring stability. I am happy he is coming back. I love him."

Steinbrenner, 76, felt "The Rocket" needed at least one more minor-league start to sharpen his stuff, and Yankees officials said Thursday that the right-hander will likely pitch Monday in a Triple-A game.

That would put the seven-time Cy Young Award winner on track to return to the majors in Fenway Park next weekend against his old team.

As for Torre, the Yankees manager since 1996, Steinbrenner said "we are not considering a change." The owner did say he was impressed with Torre's bench coach, ex-Yankee great Don Mattingly, and that he "could possibly" become manager someday.

"Mattingly is a good one," Steinbrenner said. "He is very thorough guy. He understands what it is to be a Yankee."

Steinbrenner had praise for captain Derek Jeter, who passed Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio this week for fifth place on the franchise hits list, and pitcher Andy Pettitte.

"He's a real gutsy guy," Steinbrenner said of the left-hander, who resigned with the Yankees in the off-season. "We are happy he is back with us."

He was less generous toward Jason Giambi, whose recent comments to USA Today that was "wrong for doing that stuff" were interpeted by some as an admission of steroid use. Giambi reportedly admitted to a 2003 grand jury that he used steroids.

"He should have kept his mouth shut," Steinbrenner opined. "The matter is in the hands of the baseball commissioner."

Steinbrenner bought the team in 1973 and has presided over six world championships and 10 pennants while building the Yankees franchise into the most lucrative in sports.

The Yankees' owner is also known for his generosity to those in need off-the-field especially young people.

He said he was deeply moved by the April massacre at Virginia Tech. The Yankees made a $1 million contribution to the school's "Hokie Spirit Memorial Fund" to assist the victims' families, and honored the victims before playing the Boston Red Sox on Wednesday night. Virginia Tech's president threw out the first pitch and the Yankees wore VT logos on their caps.

"I feel very strongly about the young people," Steinbrenner said. "I feel so strongly about the teachers and the school, all the people affected by this. We wanted to help in the healing process."

As far as the Yankees' fate, the message of the legendary Boss was as strong and clear as ever:

"We just have to get out there and compete, compete hard, and win," he said.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/25/07 10:38 PM

Just when you think George is ready to pass on to the great Legends Field in the sky, he gives a rare and candid interview...
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/07 05:30 AM

My son is going to the Scranton game later today with my brother-in-law to see Clemens pitch. They have special VIP tickets that will allow them to meet Clemens after the game. I'm sure there will be no chance to meet and greet if Roger gets rocked. Therefore, I hope he does well.

By the way, the sweep this weekend really stung NY. Some advice from a Phillie fan, whose team has been in the thick of the wild card run the past several years:

Do not even look at the wild card standings now. The wild card race doesn't even start until August.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/07 05:42 AM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
Do not even look at the wild card standings now. The wild card race doesn't even start until August.


True. I know it's still early but it looks like the AL East is lost for them this year. But the wild card is going to be just as hard with the Indians, White Sox, Tigers, A's, etc all gunning for that spot. As of today, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Yankees miss the playoffs. Even when they get Clemens and IF they make a splash at the trade deadline, they have a lot of fixing to do. I don't even think they need to make a big trade this summer. They have the pieces, they just can't put them together. Plus it doesn't help when they have 11 or 12 different starting pitchers and we're not even in the month of June yet.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/07 12:18 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
My son is going to the Scranton game later today with my brother-in-law to see Clemens pitch. They have special VIP tickets that will allow them to meet Clemens after the game. I'm sure there will be no chance to meet and greet if Roger gets rocked. Therefore, I hope he does well.


Tell him to get some pics! \:\)
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/28/07 03:37 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: klydon1
Do not even look at the wild card standings now. The wild card race doesn't even start until August.


True. I know it's still early but it looks like the AL East is lost for them this year. But the wild card is going to be just as hard with the Indians, White Sox, Tigers, A's, etc all gunning for that spot. As of today, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Yankees miss the playoffs. Even when they get Clemens and IF they make a splash at the trade deadline, they have a lot of fixing to do. I don't even think they need to make a big trade this summer. They have the pieces, they just can't put them together. Plus it doesn't help when they have 11 or 12 different starting pitchers and we're not even in the month of June yet.


The division will be tough to win, and may require a collapse from the Red Sox. The season is still early, and while Torre's Yankees have never been in this position before, they can still trim the Sox lead with enough time to make a run for it.

The deceptive thing about the Wild Card is that while it sometimes look as though you're right there 5 or 6 games out, there are so many other teams with you that you can't seem to break free from the pack. It might be a little more pronounced in the NL with the 2 extra teams.

I caught the last couple of batters in the Yankee game yesterday, and had to stop what I was doing to watch the 2-out battle between Jeter and Francisco Rodriguez, which reminded me why I'm a baseball fan. With the winning run on third, it was quite a confrontation between two exceptional talents.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/07 01:45 AM

Unfortunately, the post-game meeting with Clemens was cancelled due to the pitcher's "illness." I can't fault the guy. I think some people promised more than they could deliver.

I think Clemens will win some games, but he won't be a savior for the team. His days of going deep into a game are pretty much over, and I think the toil of an every day rotation will take its toll on him.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/07 11:10 AM

After watching last nights postgame, I think it's time for Joe to go.

He basically said that he's "at a loss" as to how to fix the offense, and that we've been shut down this season by great pitching.

What the fuck? Seriously? Are you kidding me? I mean, we seem to be the most inept hitting team in the league, and you're telling me its because of quality starts...?

Please switch Joes. Girardi for Torre. Thank you.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/07 12:45 PM

is a dark, dark period for Yankee Fans.

The games are getting harder and harder to watch.

13 1/2 games back tied with Tampa. Wake me up, I must be dreaming.

I have this picture of Schilling standing over a large grill holding a Giant Barbecue Fork sticking Irishman in the ass yelling who's done now.

Where is the fire in t his team? We have to use 4-5 pitchers to get thru a game and still lose. And lets not start that crap that it is still early yet. This team doesn't just have a cold. it looks like it could be cancer, and if not treated could be fatal.


It least the METS have been holding their own.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/07 01:03 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
After watching last nights postgame, I think it's time for Joe to go.
Please switch Joes. Girardi for Torre. Thank you.


12 seasons as Yankee Manager :

97-65 record in 2006 ( best record in the American League).

NINE consecutive American League East division titles.

The first manager to guide the Yankees to 11-straight postseason appearances.

Won 4 WS championships in those 11 years.

Under Torre the Yankees won 90 or more games 10 out of 11-years!

1,079 Wins - 699 Losses as Yankee manager.


Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/07 01:20 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
After watching last nights postgame, I think it's time for Joe to go.
Please switch Joes. Girardi for Torre. Thank you.


12 seasons as Yankee Manager :

97-65 record in 2006 ( best record in the American League).

NINE consecutive American League East division titles.

The first manager to guide the Yankees to 11-straight postseason appearances.

Won 4 WS championships in those 11 years.

Under Torre the Yankees won 90 or more games 10 out of 11-years!

1,079 Wins - 699 Losses as Yankee manager.





What have you done for me lately, chief?

The sad fact is that this team plays with no emotions, and has looked awful since last year's ALDS. Now, pitching injuries earlier this year made things seem bad, but now its the nonexistent offense. The pitching is fine, especially after Clemens comes in.

I don't care how many World Series' rings Joe has. His team looks like shit this year, and it can't all be blamed on injury. Part of it is Cashman's fault - a horrible bench, and a bullpen full of underachievers. But this team needs one last Steinbrenner-ballistic-missile. Firings. Nuclear war.

Even if it doesn't get is into the playoffs, it gives whatever regime will be instituted a head start for next year (hopefully Girardi).
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/07 03:14 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J



The sad fact is that this team plays with no emotions,



They seemed to have lost that emotion when Zimmer left. Torre was NEVER a rah rah kind of guy, but having a guy like Zimmer on his bench brought that rah rah kind of attitude to the clubhouse. Someone on that team needs to step up and act like a leader. The Yankees are definitely talented enough to make a decent run before the AS break to put them back into some kind of a race. They need some solid pitching and a veteran player to step up as a team leader.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/07 03:48 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
They need some solid pitching and a veteran player players like Abreu, Cano, Damon and Giambi to step up as a team leader and play baseball.


They also need Bernie.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/07 04:46 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
They need some solid pitching and a veteran player players like Abreu, Cano, Damon and Giambi to step up as a team leader and play baseball.


They also need Bernie.


They probably regret not signing him now. I think the window of opportunity has closed on him.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/07 04:52 PM

Well, they did bring Clemens back...maybe if they get rid of Torre and/or Cashman, Bernie will be back?

My biggest problem with getting rid of Cashman is that I don't want the Tampa group to come back in power with an "I told you so" from George, and we end up signing the biggest priced vets we can find.

I can see it now...

Trade Phil Hughes for Ken Griffey... \:p
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/07 05:50 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Well, they did bring Clemens back...maybe if they get rid of Torre and/or Cashman, Bernie will be back?

My biggest problem with getting rid of Cashman is that I don't want the Tampa group to come back in power with an "I told you so" from George, and we end up signing the biggest priced vets we can find.

I can see it now...

Trade Phil Hughes for Ken Griffey... \:p


With Torre and Cashman, is it possible that Steinbrenner cans one or the other, but not both? I think if one goes, they both go.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/29/07 07:27 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Well, they did bring Clemens back...maybe if they get rid of Torre and/or Cashman, Bernie will be back?

My biggest problem with getting rid of Cashman is that I don't want the Tampa group to come back in power with an "I told you so" from George, and we end up signing the biggest priced vets we can find.

I can see it now...

Trade Phil Hughes for Ken Griffey... \:p


I've been hearing the Yanks are going to be first in line to trade for Mark Texiara around the All-Star break. Personally, the number one guy I want to see in pinstripes is Johan Santana
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 02:45 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Well, they did bring Clemens back...maybe if they get rid of Torre and/or Cashman, Bernie will be back?

My biggest problem with getting rid of Cashman is that I don't want the Tampa group to come back in power with an "I told you so" from George, and we end up signing the biggest priced vets we can find.

I can see it now...

Trade Phil Hughes for Ken Griffey... \:p


I've been hearing the Yanks are going to be first in line to trade for Mark Texiara around the All-Star break. Personally, the number one guy I want to see in pinstripes is Johan Santana


Those guys would probably prefer to play for a contender. ;\)

Actually, I think part of the Yankees' problem is chasing all-star names for exorbitant prices, and not getting value for them. Sure, there's a lot of initial excitement when you bring in names like Giambi, A-Rod, Sheffield, Abreu, Randy Johnson, but I think the Yankees overvalue these guys. They become albatrosses and set them back. Their focus should be on building from within.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 06:01 AM

It looks like you're correct in that point klydon. But some of these Triple-A guys are starting to get rocked (Clippard, De Salvo, etc.). Who knows. It just doesn't seem like the Yankees year this year.
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 06:34 AM

I think the Yankees should start making trade offers to the Giants for Barry Zito.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 06:43 AM

They need a dominant pitcher ;\) I still say Santana if they could ever pull it off
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 07:23 AM


They should get rid of pieces of shit like Abreu.. send him back to the Phillies... that'd be a good start.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 12:59 PM

BTW - Proctor pulled a Kevin Brown last night and decided to unload on the clubhouse wall. No word on the damage to his hand, but he may miss time.

Then again, that may not be a bad thing - maybe Bruney and Britton will finally get shots. Bruney has been without question our best reliever this year, and Britton is lighting up AAA. Why did we trade Wright for him if he's going to waste away in AAA?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 01:01 PM

Oh, and if we can't beat the Red Sox this weekend? It's over. Thanks.

No way we come back from being 16+ games back in June.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 02:26 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

They should get rid of pieces of shit like Abreu.. send him back to the Phillies... that'd be a good start.



We won't take him back. His contract was choking the team to death, and the Phillies were getting little production from him. Shane Victorino isn't going to any all-star games, but he's faster, a better defensive player, and hitting well.

Amazingly, in a few years Abreu has gone from one of the most underrated plsyers to the most overrated. After setting a record in the homerun derby in 2005, he hasn't even remotely hit for power. Some point to a classic moment 2 years ago as the start of his downfall. He was engaged to a beauty queen, and shortly before the wedding he discovered nude photos of her on a pornographic web site, which made him cancel the wedding. Maybe A-Rod can introduce him to some blondes, in order to get his mind off his troubles. \:p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 02:47 PM

Geoff, take heart (as I do) in knowing that Abreu's contract is up after this year (I doubt after his performance he'll be re-upped for '08) and that the Yankees will be going after Ichiro and Torii Hunter. \:\)

Much in the same way they will be going after Teixeira after '08, although given how poorly Giambi has played/injuries, it may be sooner rather than later, before he even hits the FA market.

The Yankees need to get younger, and less injury prone, in a hurry. Granted, Ichiro isn't a spring chicken, but he's a phenom. Teixeira would solidify the right side for the first time since Mattingly. If Cano can come around, and we keep A-Rod and Jeet, the team looks a lot better.

Also, maybe if they dump Giambi and move Damon or Matsui to the DH, they could pick up another above average outfielder. Hunter is too injury prone, methinks, but Andruw Jones will be an FA.

Maybe having George control means the free spending will be back...an outfield with Matsui, Jones, and Ichiro would be amazing!

Then again, that won't be a very young outfield, but still...
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 03:02 PM

I watched the bottom of the eighth inning last night. Did anyone else see it? There was some discussion about whether A-Rod should have let the sacrifice go foul, but it's a judgment play where you don't have a lot of time to decide, and the ball stayed fair for quite a while. Plus, it's up to the catcher to tell him to let it go because he has the best view. Posada did break from the plate and followed the ball. I assume he didn't yell "Let it go!" before A-Rod picked it up. After watching the replay, I think it would have rolled foul, but it was the right play at the time to pick it up because it was too hard to tell, and you can't risk a first and third with nobody out in a tie game in the eighth.

i think the big play was how Matsui misplayed the lead-off double. He judged the ball terribly.
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 03:10 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J


Maybe having George control means the free spending will be back...


"be back"??? When did it ever stop?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 03:13 PM

 Originally Posted By: Just Lou
 Originally Posted By: Double-J


Maybe having George control means the free spending will be back...


"be back"??? When did it ever stop.


Don't tell me that 2007 Steinbrenner is the same as, say, ten years ago even. Torre would have been gone the day after last years ALDS. Furthermore, the "free spending" had been quelled (relatively, until the Abreu acquisition), since last season. Though that's largely due to the fact that there were already so many bloated contracts, it was impossible to maneuver. This offseason, instead of going after someone like Lilly, they went the "cheaper" (i.e. worse) route and avoided the luxury tax by signing Igawa with the posting fees not counting towards the tax. They got Doug Mienkeiwicz instead of Richie Sexson.

I'm just hoping he's still competent enough to either a.) play an active and meaningful role, instead of just issuing statements or b.) if not, turn it over to Hank.

BTW - I was just checking - if Cashman goes...Gene Michael is still VP and Senior-Advisor of Scouting. Who wouldn't like to see "The Stick" back as GM? After all, he did bring Mo, Jeet, Posada, etc...
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 03:48 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: Just Lou
 Originally Posted By: Double-J


Maybe having George control means the free spending will be back...


"be back"??? When did it ever stop.


Don't tell me that 2007 Steinbrenner is the same as, say, ten years ago even. Torre would have been gone the day after last years ALDS. Furthermore, the "free spending" had been quelled (relatively, until the Abreu acquisition), since last season. Though that's largely due to the fact that there were already so many bloated contracts, it was impossible to maneuver. This offseason, instead of going after someone like Lilly, they went the "cheaper" (i.e. worse) route and avoided the luxury tax by signing Igawa with the posting fees not counting towards the tax. They got Doug Mienkeiwicz instead of Richie Sexson.



I think you're forgetting about the Roger Clemens contract. The only thing more laughable about the deal itself, is Roger stating he chose the Yankees because he wanted to win a championship. I wonder what he's thinking now, since the Yankees have fallen 9 more games out of first place since he signed.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 04:34 PM

Roger Clemens I think is the turnaround - I mean, they didn't go after Barry Zito's huge contract. Steinbrenner seems to have this thing for him, and yeah, it's $28 mil, which is egregious, but I think it shows the Boss still wants to win, and is willing to spend.

Too bad that it's virtually all for nothing at this point, and Clemens hasn't even started for the Yankees yet.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 05:17 PM

I just found out that the reporter, who asked Clemens the question that set him off, is related to an old friend of mine, and is working for a paper about 90 minutes west of Scranton.

The local paper printed both the question and the response. The question was kind of silly and basically was, With the negative reaction from some concerning your recent signing and the nature of your contract, how nice is it to receive the response you did from the crowd today?

The question was one of those self-serving attempts to get a big time star to say something complimentary about the local fans. Clemens' answer was really non-responsive to the question, which was by no means negative. No big deal though.

the reporter is quoted in today's paper as saying that he didn't ask a follow up question because he didn't further want to piss the guy off. He's certainly not part of the New York media.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/30/07 09:12 PM

If they didn't sign him to pitch agains the Red Sox, just what did they sign him for?

Don't give me "well, he won't be ready for the weekend"- he's Roger Clemens, for God's sake!

Yankee management has done nothing but protect him in the big spot, over the years.

As far as the situation at hand, this season, it's really getting thisclose to being lost.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 01:27 AM

Well, you have to admit - they don't know how he'll perform at the Major League level quite yet...he's still essentially in Spring Training right now. So to expect him to run the gauntlet against Boston in his first start may be a bit much.

That being said, fuck it. I think Clemens now gives you a better chance to win than Mussina.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 05:54 AM

Yankees' Hughes sprains ankle

TORONTO -- Phil Hughes, one of baseball's top pitching prospects, has a Grade 3 sprain of the left ankle that is expected to set the hurler back an additional four to six weeks in his efforts to rejoin the Yankees' Major League roster.

Hughes, a 20-year-old right-hander, rolled his ankle while performing conditioning exercises Friday at Legends Field in Tampa, Fla., where he was rehabilitating a strained left hamstring.

The Grade 3 diagnosis is considered the most severe possible strain, in which one or more ligaments are stretched and completely torn. The Yankees made Hughes' results public Wednesday, prior to the club's game against the Toronto Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre.

Yankees officials had hoped Hughes would return in mid-June. But now with the setback, the hurler won't even throw off a mound until somewhere from late June to early July.

The Yankees' first-round selection in the June 2004 First-Year Player Draft, Hughes made two starts for the Yankees this season, making his Major League debut on April 26 and suffering a loss against Toronto at Yankee Stadium.

Hughes' second start was far more impressive, as Hughes carried a no-hitter through 6 1/3 innings in a May 1 start against the Texas Rangers before feeling a grabbing sensation in the back of his left leg, which was later diagnosed as a Grade 1 strain of his left hamstring.

Hughes was 1-1 with a 3.38 ERA in two Major League starts this season, striking out 11 and walking four in 10 2/3 innings. He also made three starts at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, going 2-1 with a 3.94 ERA.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 12:28 PM

It's an omen.

They should have kept the plan and had him pitch full time in 2008. Quit while we're ahead - we know he's a phenom. Let him recover, and get ready for next season.

In the meantime, shop for a decent pitcher...unless of course you feel confident in DeSalvo and Clippard long-term... \:\/
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 01:58 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Yankees' Hughes sprains ankle

TORONTO -- Phil Hughes, one of baseball's top pitching prospects, has a Grade 3 sprain of the left ankle that is expected to set the hurler back an additional four to six weeks in his efforts to rejoin the Yankees' Major League roster.



His mom's maiden name is Pavano. \:\/
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 04:27 PM

Anyone see last night's game? And does anyone think that ARod actually called the ball as he was running to 3rd?? He did have just the teensiest smile on his face...

And it sure was nice to see Mo back to his old self. Perhaps he just remembered that his contract is up this year??
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 06:24 PM

Yeah, if that isn't enough, let's worry about Stray-Rod. If the Post story is true, he's really lost me as a fan (not that he cares, but...). He can hit the ball three miles, but anybody who betrays his wife and kids is a piece of trash.



...especially anyone who has as hot of a wife as he does. \:p

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18937267/
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 06:32 PM

.............and 2 year old daughter.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 06:35 PM

You'll be a fan again if he becomes WS (haha) MVP or something like that as a Yankee.

Not defending him, of course, because that was a very bush league act on his part.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 07:19 PM

His wife IS beautiful. However, does he really think that, as famous as he is, he could go out in public with another woman and someone WOULDN'T take their picture?? Little head talking....
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 08:10 PM

The elbow to Pedroia was bush league; Calling "mine" was bush league; and the karate chop to Bronson Arroyo in the AL Championship series was bush league (and hurt his team).

He's a world class talent with a fourth grade mindset. His cheap stunt last night may have gotten a run, but it bought him a fastball between the 1 and the 3. It also lost him some respect among his peers, and shows why he doesn't have many friends in the game. If you get a chance to see Bowa's reaction after the discussion between A-Rod and the infielders, you can see he was embarrassed.

In the post game interview A-Rod lied twice. First, he sheepishly denied yelling "Mine", and that was confirmed by several; then he said this happens to him 3-4 times per week. I'd like to see if Jeter confirms this because I would bet the third out of an inning on a fair pop up to third with a player rounding second doesn't even happen 4 times a week.

I don't think it is a major incident, but it is another incident that shows how bush league he is.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 09:15 PM

I guess that ARod has so many other gifts, he doesn't mind the fact that he was in the restroom when they passed out "class".

Jeter, on the other hand, now he's the whole package. ;\)
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 10:19 PM

I'm sure my perspective of the Yankees is clouded because I've always disliked them. But still, SB, Jeter is the whole package. He's a pro and all-star in every sense of the word. He knows how to conduct himself on and off the field, which isn't easy, given his stature in sports and his celebrity in New York.

I guess I shouldn't be hard on A-Rod by the way. there are worse things going on in the sport, and he's nowhere near as bad as AJ Pierzinsky.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/31/07 11:38 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
His wife IS beautiful. However, does he really think that, as famous as he is, he could go out in public with another woman and someone WOULDN'T take their picture?? Little head talking....


As Frankie 5 angels says "And everything with them is whores -- whores!"
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 12:21 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew
You'll be a fan again if he becomes WS (haha) MVP or something like that as a Yankee.


Or not.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 12:38 PM

With regards to the A-Rod plays being "bush league," give me a break. Ty Cobb is laughing at this kind of stuff. This is amateur hour compared to what has been done in the past. And other sports all have this sort of thing - football, for example, has hard counts and linemen try to throw each other off all the time - so frankly, this stuff may not happen as often as A-Rod says it does, but it does happen. So, I really don't see any issue with this, except ESPN constantly playing it over, and will probably bring in an audio expert on Baseball Tonight.

It's not how I played the game, or how I want my kids to play the game, or my Little League team, but again, I don't see anything fundamentally wrong with it, given the Yankees situation, the prevalence of such plays in Major League baseball, and the past history of baseball as a game of questionable plays.

Hell, its not like he sharpened his spikes and slid into second, right?
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 01:14 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
With regards to the A-Rod plays being "bush league," give me a break. Ty Cobb is laughing at this kind of stuff. This is amateur hour compared to what has been done in the past. And other sports all have this sort of thing - football, for example, has hard counts and linemen try to throw each other off all the time - so frankly, this stuff may not happen as often as A-Rod says it does, but it does happen. So, I really don't see any issue with this, except ESPN constantly playing it over, and will probably bring in an audio expert on Baseball Tonight.

It's not how I played the game, or how I want my kids to play the game, or my Little League team, but again, I don't see anything fundamentally wrong with it, given the Yankees situation, the prevalence of such plays in Major League baseball, and the past history of baseball as a game of questionable plays.

Hell, its not like he sharpened his spikes and slid into second, right?


I agree that there has been a history of bush league stunts in baseball, and cobb, while recognized as one of the greatest (if not THE greatest) ball players, is widely regarded as one of the dirtiest. That there is precedent of some cheap stunts, however, doesn't make A-Rod's stunt any less bush league. As I said earlier, it's not the worst thing that's happened in the game, but baseball has its own way of getting back at you. For better or worse, he'll probably take a fastball between the shoulder blades later in the season, and everyone moves on.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 01:28 PM

I would hate to see this type of crap become the norm.

I think the lie is what gets me,H eis so full of shit,

but then again I think his wife has hear enough of them (lies) from him also.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 01:30 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
For better or worse, he'll probably take a fastball between the shoulder blades later in the season, and everyone moves on.


Like this hasn't been going on all year. Watch the Yankees-Red Sox games this weekend. You're guaranteed to see 1-3 "name" Yankees (i.e. Jeter, A-Rod, Posada) get plunked every game without any retaliation (unless something has changed from the Torre era randomly).
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 01:45 PM

It's ridiculous how much shit he's catching for saying "ha!" Wow. It's exactly as DJ pointed out earlier, it's just like hard counts in football. This is not really bush league at all to me.

The fact that the third baseman was FAKED OUT by a simple "ha" is a bit more bush league than anything.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 03:12 PM

Don't know if it's true or not, but I heard on WCBS this morning that if you Google the words "bush league", you get ARod!

DJ, I, too, am sick of the Yankees getting hit when they're up at bat. It's gotten to the point that it's ridiculous. And if any other team had experienced the number of injuries that the Yankees have the past few seasons, everyone would be soooooo sympathetic (witness the Red Sox last year). Instead, it's demanded of the Yankees that they win DESPITE their injuries.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 03:13 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew
It's ridiculous how much shit he's catching for saying "ha!" Wow. It's exactly as DJ pointed out earlier, it's just like hard counts in football. This is not really bush league at all to me.

The fact that the third baseman was FAKED OUT by a simple "ha" is a bit more bush league than anything.


I agree that it is embarrassing for a big leaguer to get faked on that. But A-Rod didn't yell "Ha." He deliberately called for the ball. The reaction of the third baseman wasn't one of being startled; it was one of being called off.

In recent Little League games i've seen the bench of an opposing team scream, "Miss it!" just before an outfielder caught a fly ball; I saw a third baseman push a runner off base and tag him (and actually get the out call to the delight of the parents on his team; and last season I saw a catcher ejected and suspended an additional game for yelling "Swing!" when a pitch was thrown.

They're starting out young. ;\)
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 03:31 PM

I don't think it was that big a deal. Shame on the Toronto infield.

What IS a big deal is the fact that he just can't keep out of the newspapers. Whether it's his fault or not, the media is never going to be kind to him because of his enormous salary and the pea brained decisions he makes in his personal life (maybe the blonde stripper was helping him work on his next children's book?). The fans here, as a whole, don't seem to want him. My nephew is in grade school and the kids on his little league team don't want him. Now that's more of an indictment on their parents, but still, if an 8 year old NYC kid doesn't want to wear your jersey, you've got problems.

My point is that I really think the Yankees will be happier if he just opts out after the season. I'm reasonably sure that he'll be happier, too.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 05:00 PM

This was a cheap thing to do period. He is a well paid professional who should act accordingly. Let us hope that the Yankees are not that hard up to be doing this kind of bullshit.

Then try and lay the blame on the infielder is just wrong. I hope his old lady cuts off his pecker and takes him to the cleaners.

Wait till he hears other teams fans yelling at him. "I got it" when the ball is hit towards him.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 06:00 PM

Who cares. If you're the infielder you should know the difference and not be so damn gullible. Period.

The infidelity is definitley lower than bush league though, and really has nothing to do with this.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/01/07 06:24 PM

Yes it does, it shows what the guy he is really is.

If it looks like shit and smells like shit then it is shit. You don't have to taste it to know it for sure.

Don't worry, he will get his. You just wait.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/07 03:22 AM

Ok seriously, what's in the water in New York?

----------------------------------------------------------------

Giambi's return in question

NEW YORK -- Yankees slugger Jason Giambi will be shelved for at least three weeks and could miss the remainder of the season with torn tissue in the arch of his left foot.

Giambi, 36, was examined in New York on Thursday by Dr. William Hamilton, an orthopedic foot and ankle specialist. Giambi has been told he has plantar fasciitis and a partial tear of his plantar fascia, the band of tissue connecting his heel to his toes.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman characterized Giambi's injury as "severe" and said that he has been told Giambi could miss a span of at least three to six weeks. The Yankees plan to re-evaluate Giambi's condition after three weeks.

"Three to six weeks is just a guesstimate," Cashman said. "It could be longer. Nobody's told me about season-ending, but at the same time, he's going to be ready when he's ready."

The tear is not expected to require surgery and was believed to have been suffered on Tuesday at Rogers Centre in Toronto, as Giambi ran out a home run to left-center field off the Blue Jays' Scott Downs.

Giambi -- who stole a base earlier in the game and advanced to third on an error -- appeared to limp noticeably after rounding the second-base bag and gingerly completed his trip around the bases. He later admitted that he'd felt a "pop."

"When you heard that, you knew something wasn't right," Cashman said.

"I saw the Babe Ruth look there when he was running around the bases," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "He was in a great deal of pain."

Giambi has been placed in a walking boot, and the Yankees officially placed Giambi on the 15-day disabled list prior to Friday's game at Fenway Park in Boston, where the club opened a three-game series with the Red Sox.

Giambi had been noticeably hobbled by pain in his left foot for the better part of two weeks, which has limited his ability to push off while batting because the injury affects his back, or plant, foot.

"[Losing Giambi] hurts, but he's been playing with that bad foot for a period of time, and he hasn't been able to be the same hitter that we all know," Cashman said.

During the Yankees' three-game series in Toronto, Giambi successfully lobbied the training staff to allow him to return to New York in hopes of receiving a cortisone injection in the heel of his foot, which Giambi thought would permit him to quell the pain for the series against the Red Sox.

"I do fine for one day, and then I struggle for three," Giambi said on Tuesday. "We obviously need me to be that player that I am, where I can help carry the team. Singles aren't really going to get it done. I've got to be able to drive the ball."

Instead, a precautionary MRI revealed the injury to Giambi's plantar fascia, which Cashman said was not in the original examinations and did not show a complete tear.

Yankees outfielder Johnny Damon said he learned of Giambi's status while watching the news ticker crawl across a television channel.

"It wasn't what we were expecting," Damon said. "If we would have known, we would have just had him fly to Boston with us."

In 45 games for New York, Giambi is batting .262 with seven home runs and 23 RBIs. He batted just .172 (10-for-58) in his injury-marred May.

Cashman said that Giambi will not travel on the road with the club, as he has been instructed to remain in New York and begin the healing process.

"It doesn't make sense to have him on the road," Cashman said. "He'd want to be with the club to root them on and all that stuff, but there's no treatment. All he has to do is wait."

In Giambi's absence, the Yankees plan to use Melky Cabrera as a regular player in the outfield while allowing Damon to serve as a designated hitter for the majority of the time, so he can get more mileage from his aching body.

"You certainly don't want to deal without Jason, but he was in and out, and when he was in, he was hurting," Torre said. "This may be a blessing in disguise. We know who we have and we know what we're going to do."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/07 03:24 AM

No love from Joe

----------------------------------------------------------------

Torre: A-Rod's faux call was 'inappropriate'

BOSTON (AP) - Even Joe Torre says Alex Rodriguez was out of line.

The New York Yankees manager concluded A-Rod shouldn't have distracted a Toronto fielder this week during a popup, joining a chorus of baseball people who said the two-time AL MVP broke the sport's unwritten code.

"He may have been excited about the fact that we were leading the ballgame," Torre said Friday before his team's series opener at Boston. "It was probably inappropriate to do it at the time he did it, but you can't change it, unfortunately."

The play occurred in the ninth inning of New York's 10-5 win at Toronto on Wednesday night.

With the Yankees leading 7-5, Rodriguez was on first base and ran hard when Jorge Posada popped up. As he ran near third baseman Howie Clark, Rodriguez said something - 'Hah!' according to Rodriguez, 'Mine," according to Clark. The ball dropped for a run-scoring single.

When the game ended, many Toronto players stayed on the bench, staring at Rodriguez and New York players.

"They were angry," Torre said. "Oh, there's no question. I can't say I blame them, but what are you going to do about it? What's happened has happened."

Torre said he spoke with Rodriguez after the game.

"It's probably something he shouldn't have done," Torre said. "I don't sense he's going to do it again."

Torre didn't explicitly tell Rodriguez not to do it, and Rodriguez didn't say he wouldn't, according to the manager, but it was clear to Torre there will be no repeat. A-Rod wasn't available to reporters before the game.

"When you know somebody, you sort of have a conversation and it's what you get out of it," Torre said. "I think he was probably uncomfortable with" the reaction.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman wasn't convinced Rodriguez did anything wrong.

"I'm not sure what the difference between that and the hidden-ball trick is, or a catcher dekeing at home plate that a ball is not coming in and the last second he gets the ball and drops the tag down," Cashman said. "I'm kind of indifferent to it, because I was looking at it, trying to figure out, is this something that's not right?"

Cashman said he had heard reports that some players do the same thing and others that it doesn't happen.

It did happen in the bottom of the second inning Friday when the Red Sox had the bases loaded and two outs. J.D. Drew hit a popup short of third base. As Rodriguez camped under it, fans started screaming. He made the catch and threw the ball to a fan as he left the field. The fan threw it back onto the field.

Cashman said he wasn't sure the play in Toronto was "that big a deal, to be quite honest. But, obviously, other people had issues with it."

"Alex, New York, biggest contract, biggest team," Cashman said. "That's combustible right there. If this is in Kansas City, it probably would be a story that wouldn't have lasted two days. It's a longer story and a louder story because it's New York and it's Alex Rodriguez."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/07 03:29 AM

At least they got the W tonight against Boston. Hopefully Moose can keep it up tomorrow against Schilling but I doubt it
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/07 10:45 AM

It was wonderful to see them win last night, in spite of the bad call at third. Poor Abreu finally starts hitting the damn ball, and look what happens!! Nice to see Torre actually exhibit a little fire for once! I think we need to see more of that.

As for the call, ARod is ARod. Love him or hate him, he's still one of the best players in the history of the game.
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/02/07 10:28 PM

Saturday, June 2, 2007
Yanks' Clemens scratched for debut against White Sox
ESPN.com news services

BOSTON -- Roger Clemens was scratched from Monday's start against the Chicago White Sox because of a fatigued right groin.

Clemens first experienced the pain during his last minor league outing, for Triple-A Scranton on Monday. Rather than risk additional injury, he decided to be cautious, the Yankees confirmed during Saturday's game against the Boston Red Sox.

Clemens believes he needs an extra four to five days to recover, keeping him out of the four-game series at Chicago, and that this is not a major injury.

That timeframe would put him in line to face the Pirates in Yankee Stadium next weekend.

For now, the Yankees will send Clemens to Class-A Tampa for rehab and evaluate him day to day.

He informed the Yankees of the injury on Saturday. The decision was first reported by The New York Times on its Web site.

Manager Joe Torre, speaking before Saturday's game against the Boston Red Sox, said Clemens was still in Houston.

"As of right now, he's still scheduled," Torre said.

The 44-year-old, seven-time Cy Young winner came out of retirement to take a prorated share of a $28 million salary to help New York overcome a double-digit deficit in the AL East. The Yankees considered having Clemens pitch this weekend when they played the AL East-leading Red Sox, but decided to ease him in without the hubbub surrounding their biggest rivalry.

New York entered Saturday's game trailing Boston by 12½ games.

After one start at Class-A Tampa and one at Double-A Trenton, the Rocket made his final minor league start Monday for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He allowed two hits and struck out six over six scoreless innings.

"You have arguably the best pitcher of our generation coming in, a guy that won championships and a guy won all kinds of awards," center fielder Johnny Damon said. "He knows what it takes to win championships and be at that next level and be a better player. His personality will be very instrumental to us."
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/07 01:18 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Ok seriously, what's in the water in New York?

----------------------------------------------------------------

Giambi's return in question

NEW YORK -- Yankees slugger Jason Giambi will be shelved for at least three weeks and could miss the remainder of the season with torn tissue in the arch of his left foot.

Giambi, 36, was examined in New York on Thursday by Dr. William Hamilton, an orthopedic foot and ankle specialist. Giambi has been told he has plantar fasciitis and a partial tear of his plantar fascia, the band of tissue connecting his heel to his toes.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman characterized Giambi's injury as "severe" and said that he has been told Giambi could miss a span of at least three to six weeks. The Yankees plan to re-evaluate Giambi's condition after three weeks.

"Three to six weeks is just a guesstimate," Cashman said. "It could be longer. Nobody's told me about season-ending, but at the same time, he's going to be ready when he's ready."

The tear is not expected to require surgery and was believed to have been suffered on Tuesday at Rogers Centre in Toronto, as Giambi ran out a home run to left-center field off the Blue Jays' Scott Downs.

Giambi -- who stole a base earlier in the game and advanced to third on an error -- appeared to limp noticeably after rounding the second-base bag and gingerly completed his trip around the bases. He later admitted that he'd felt a "pop."

"When you heard that, you knew something wasn't right," Cashman said.

"I saw the Babe Ruth look there when he was running around the bases," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "He was in a great deal of pain."

Giambi has been placed in a walking boot, and the Yankees officially placed Giambi on the 15-day disabled list prior to Friday's game at Fenway Park in Boston, where the club opened a three-game series with the Red Sox.

Giambi had been noticeably hobbled by pain in his left foot for the better part of two weeks, which has limited his ability to push off while batting because the injury affects his back, or plant, foot.

"[Losing Giambi] hurts, but he's been playing with that bad foot for a period of time, and he hasn't been able to be the same hitter that we all know," Cashman said.

During the Yankees' three-game series in Toronto, Giambi successfully lobbied the training staff to allow him to return to New York in hopes of receiving a cortisone injection in the heel of his foot, which Giambi thought would permit him to quell the pain for the series against the Red Sox.

"I do fine for one day, and then I struggle for three," Giambi said on Tuesday. "We obviously need me to be that player that I am, where I can help carry the team. Singles aren't really going to get it done. I've got to be able to drive the ball."

Instead, a precautionary MRI revealed the injury to Giambi's plantar fascia, which Cashman said was not in the original examinations and did not show a complete tear.

Yankees outfielder Johnny Damon said he learned of Giambi's status while watching the news ticker crawl across a television channel.

"It wasn't what we were expecting," Damon said. "If we would have known, we would have just had him fly to Boston with us."

In 45 games for New York, Giambi is batting .262 with seven home runs and 23 RBIs. He batted just .172 (10-for-58) in his injury-marred May.

Cashman said that Giambi will not travel on the road with the club, as he has been instructed to remain in New York and begin the healing process.

"It doesn't make sense to have him on the road," Cashman said. "He'd want to be with the club to root them on and all that stuff, but there's no treatment. All he has to do is wait."

In Giambi's absence, the Yankees plan to use Melky Cabrera as a regular player in the outfield while allowing Damon to serve as a designated hitter for the majority of the time, so he can get more mileage from his aching body.

"You certainly don't want to deal without Jason, but he was in and out, and when he was in, he was hurting," Torre said. "This may be a blessing in disguise. We know who we have and we know what we're going to do."

Source: Yankees


This isn't a bad thing. It's a good thing. Melky has been improving at the plate, which means he can play center field full-time now, allowing Damon to DH. This is the best thing that could have happened - Giambi is sucking wind. Damon needs rest. It's a win-win.

BTW - Search "Fukudome." That's our right fielder next year. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/07 07:18 PM

Not that big of a loss but still, another guy's going down

----------------------------------------------------------------

Mientkiewicz suffers concussion

BOSTON -- Yankees first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz will be placed on the 15-day disabled list after being involved in a violent collision at Fenway Park on Saturday.

Mientkiewicz was struck in the head by the left knee of Boston's Mike Lowell in a collision at first base, which came as Lowell was beating out a potential double-play grounder against New York's Scott Proctor.

The baseball trickled away and two runs scored as Mientkiewicz lay motionless on the infield dirt, at which time play was halted. Tests at Massachusetts General Hospital revealed a mild concussion, cervical sprain and a fractured scaphoid bone in Mientkiewicz's right wrist.

The first baseman will be kept overnight for observation and will be replaced on the Yankees' roster before Sunday's game against the Red Sox.

"Right now, that's really all that's on my mind," said Proctor, who was the losing pitcher in New York's 11-6 defeat. "You get a guy, a teammate like that, who's going out there busting his [rear] every day, and lose him. To see him take such a hard hit, we're hoping and praying that he's going to come out OK. He's a gamer, he's a big part of this team, and we want him back."

Lowell hit a bases-loaded ground ball to second baseman Robinson Cano, who fed the play to shortstop Derek Jeter on an awkward throw, forcing out Kevin Youkilis at second base. Appearing to have issues gripping the ball, Jeter relayed a one-hop bouncer to Mientkiewicz.

Mientkiewicz, a former Gold Glover, went into a split in an attempt to corral the throw but was clipped by Lowell, who barreled down the line and went to second base on the throwing error charged to Jeter.

"It's frightening," Yankees manager Joe Torre said. "[Mientkiewicz was] trying to catch the ball, and it was an ugly play to start with. You could see Dougie sort of backing in to try and get a good hop to catch it, and Mike ran him over. I don't think [Lowell] did anything wrong, though."

"That was almost inevitable," Red Sox manager Terry Francona said. "It was just two bodies in the way of each other. That's tough. That makes you nervous, regardless of what team you're with."

Lowell expressed concern over Mientkiewicz's state.

"Doug's a guy I hang out with sometimes in the offseason," Lowell said. "I know him from growing up in Florida. I just hope he's OK."

Mientkiewicz lay motionless on the ground for several moments before being attended to by team trainer Gene Monahan, team physician Dr. Stuart Hershon and Torre, as Mientkiewicz sat on the infield with dirt caked in his hair and on his face.

Torre said Monahan checked Mientkiewicz's extremities and sensations of feeling, which the manager relayed all checked out. Torre said Mientkiewicz had a lump over his left eye.

"Geno was conversing with him," Torre said. "As time went by, he seemed to be a little more [aware]. He never lost consciousness."

Torre added that Mientkiewicz alertly overheard a conversation discussing a possible stretcher or medical cart, which Mientkiewicz interrupted and said he wouldn't need. Regardless, the Red Sox summoned the cart to escort Mientkiewicz, who won a World Series ring in 2004 with Boston, off the field.

As Josh Phelps took over at first base, the crowd of 36,924 gave Mientkiewicz an ovation as he was driven out the left-field gate.

In 50 games for New York this season, Mientkiewicz is batting .224 with four home runs and 16 RBIs.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/03/07 07:21 PM

More embracing than Sheffield?

----------------------------------------------------------------

Report: Damon might play some first base for Yankees


The New York Post reported Sunday that Johnny Damon was spotted working at first base on Saturday and the Yankees center fielder might eventually see some time at the position.

"[Joe Torre] told me to work there and in the [outfield] corners," Damon told the newspaper. "I am going to play [first] eventually. I am OK with it."

The Yankees are down a first baseman with Doug Mientkiewicz headed to the disabled list with a fractured bone in his right wrist.

Mientkiewicz collided with Boston's Mike Lowell on an errant throw by shortstop Derek Jeter in Saturday's game.

Mientkiewicz was taken from the field on a cart after banging his head on Lowell's hip while trying to one-hop Jeter's throw in the seventh inning.

Mientkiewicz was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital, where tests Saturday night revealed a mild concussion, cervical sprain and a fractured bone in his right wrist. He spent the night in the hospital for observation.

Mientkiewicz, a left-handed hitter, was platooning with right-handed hitting Josh Phelps at first base.

Damon will see most of his at-bats at designated hitter while Jason Giambi is on the disabled list. Damon played one game at first base last season and recorded three putouts in three chances.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/04/07 02:09 AM

Ortiz just got a game-tying RBI triple and Vizcaino just came in. Well, there goes that game. Two minutes ago, it was 4-0 Yankees, and now Vizcaino is facing Manny Ramirez and the game is 4-4. This sucks the big one.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/04/07 04:03 AM

A-Rod comes through again, now Mariano is up for the save...uh oh.

Well, Yanks needed that series desperately.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/04/07 04:48 AM

Yes, A-Rod homers in the 9th, Mo shuts down Ortiz/Manny/Lowell and the Yanks take 2-of-3 from Boston in Beantown!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/04/07 08:39 PM

Clemens' MRI shows scar tissue

CHICAGO (AP) -- Roger Clemens still hopes to make his 2007 Yankees debut against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday after an MRI exam showed he had a scar tissue injury in his right groin.

Clemens had originally planned to start Monday night at the Chicago White Sox. He scratched himself from the outing on Saturday because of what the Yankees said then was a fatigued groin, an injury that he first felt during a minor league outing May 28.

He had an MRI exam Monday in Tampa, Fla., and Yankees spokesman Jason Zillo and the scan showed Clemens had disrupted scar tissue.

Clemens played catch Monday in the outfield during a 2-hour, 50-minute workout at the Yankees minor league complex. Most of the workout and treatment took place indoors.

He didn't stop to talk with reporters when he departed.

The seven-time Cy Young Award winner plans to throw a bullpen session in Tampa on Wednesday, Zillo said.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/04/07 08:53 PM

It's nothing, considering all the strain on his groin is 45-years-old. He's going to pitch Saturday, he'll be fine. Nothing to worry about. ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/07 05:44 AM

Boyer dies at 70

Clete Boyer, a standout third baseman and key component of five New York Yankees World Series clubs, died Monday after suffering a massive stroke in Atlanta, Ga. He was 70.

Regarded as a stellar defensive third baseman, Boyer's 16-year Major League career perhaps received its greatest accolades from his outstanding play in the 1961 World Series against the Reds.

In the first game of the Fall Classic, Boyer contributed to the Yankees' efforts with two stunning plays, throwing out Gene Freese from his knees on a backhanded stop and diving to his left on a ball hit by Dick Gernert.

"I think to when we played Cincinnati, and he made those great plays at third base," former Yankees teammate Moose Skowron said. "He took a couple of balls from his knees, I remember that. He was a [heck] of a gloveman."

Boyer became the Yankees' starting third baseman in 1960 and held the job through the '66 season, when he was traded to the Atlanta Braves for prospect Bill Robinson.

While many regarded Boyer as one of the game's top defensive third basemen during his era, Boyer often did not receive the accolades offered to his contemporary, Hall of Famer Brooks Robinson.

Still, in years past, teammates and opponents have insisted that Boyer was every bit the defender Robinson was, helping save pitching staffs countless runs with his stellar play.

"He was a real good player," said Yankees manager Joe Torre, who was a teammate of Boyer's in 1970 and '71 with the Atlanta Braves. "He was up during the Brooksie era and didn't get as much attention because of Brooksie, but he could play third base -- great arm."

Boyer could also be a presence at the plate. In 1,725 Major League games with the Kansas City Athletics (1956-57), Yankees (1960-67) and Braves (1968-71), Boyer batted .242 and never hit higher than .272 in a single season, but he clubbed 162 career home runs, including a career high of 26 in 1967 for the Braves.

"He hit a lot of home runs in Atlanta when we were teammates," Torre said. "Plus, he was a little goofy. It certainly helps you play the game."

After his retirement, Boyer remained around the game. He was a frequent visitor to the annual Old Timers Days at Yankee Stadium and also attended the Yankees' Spring Training as a guest instructor -- a role that Skowron said Boyer was helping to fill even when he was still wearing a big-league uniform.

"He helped out a lot of third basemen who'd join the Yankees in Spring Training," Skowron said. "He'd work out with them. He gave 100 percent, and that's all you can ask."

Born in Cassville, Mo., two of Boyer's brothers -- Ken, a St. Louis Cardinals star, and Cloyd, a pitcher for St. Louis in the early 1950s -- reached the Major Leagues. Boyer, who was not married, is survived by six children.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/07 06:52 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Boyer dies at 70


Thats sad (that he died so young).

Clete Boyer was a helluva defensive player and along with Tony Kubek, Bobby Richardson and Bill Skowron, one of the best infields I've ever seen play.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/07 03:57 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Boyer dies at 70


Thats sad (that he died so young).

Clete Boyer was a helluva defensive player and along with Tony Kubek, Bobby Richardson and Bill Skowron, one of the best infields I've ever seen play.


RIP Clete. I've never seen Boyer play, but am aware of his great defensive skills. SC, you gave me an idea for a thread.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/07 04:04 PM

Fatigued groin?

Isn't a guy's groin expected to be a little fatigued at 45?
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/07 04:14 PM

I just read a funny article in a local paper from a Yankee fanatic who, I guess, hates Suzyn Waldman for some reason. Actually, she's really not too popular with Yankee fans.

He mentions that since her Roger Clemens rant, the Yanks are 9 and 16.

The curse of Suzyn Waldman?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/07 04:28 PM

I don't like Waldman because a.) she's horrid to look at, which is why they moved her to Yankees radio and b.) she goes ape shit when the Yankees do anything even remotely positive.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/07 04:29 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
I just read a funny article in a local paper from a Yankee fanatic who, I guess, hates Suzyn Waldman for some reason. Actually, she's really not too popular with Yankee fans.

He mentions that since her Roger Clemens rant, the Yanks are 9 and 16.

The curse of Suzyn Waldman?


That was a woman? \:o
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/07 04:35 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
I just read a funny article in a local paper from a Yankee fanatic who, I guess, hates Suzyn Waldman for some reason. Actually, she's really not too popular with Yankee fans.

He mentions that since her Roger Clemens rant, the Yanks are 9 and 16.

The curse of Suzyn Waldman?


That was a woman? \:o


I think you're being too kind, Klydon.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/05/07 04:36 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I don't like Waldman because a.) she's horrid to look at, which is why they moved her to Yankees radio and b.) she goes ape shit when the Yankees do anything even remotely positive.


If you think she's bad now, you should have heard her when she was still a Red Sox groupie, er, fan.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/07 06:39 AM

-Yanks win and Sox lose. 11 1/2 out!

-Good job by Clippard: 5 innings, 5 hits, 1 run, 3 BB, 4 SO, 3-1 with a 3.60 ERA

-A-Rod homers again for his league leading 21st of the season

-Cano looks like he's coming around hopefully (can Abreu follow suit?)

-Posada has the 2nd best batting average in the AL \:o HOLY SH*T!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/07 11:17 AM

Clippard's performance was great. It really shows you that some guys just "have" it at the MLB level, and others (DeSalvo) will always be AAAA players - too good for AAA, not good enough for MLB.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/07 11:20 AM

Just a note - I have tickets to the games w/ Scranton-Wilkes Barre vs. the Bisons here, so I'll try to at least make one of the games and give everyone a prospect report.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/07 01:22 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Just a note - I have tickets to the games w/ Scranton-Wilkes Barre vs. the Bisons here, so I'll try to at least make one of the games and give everyone a prospect report.


Enjoy the game JJ. Should be a pleasant night here in the Northeast. No better way to spend a June evening than to take in a ball game. I'll be watching a major league game tonight (my son's Little League game). They are 17-2, and playing another team with two losses for the #1 seed for the play-offs.

Don't give up on the Division. 3 losses by the Red Sox. They're cooling down perhaps.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/06/07 07:35 PM

Now that I'm in New York, I get to watch the Yankee games on YESHD. Oh man, is it ever sweet. I watched some of the game last night and that is the BEST picture I have ever seen. Have you been able to see YESHD Double-J, SB or other Yankee fans?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 02:57 AM

A great pitching performance from Wang:

9 innings, 5 hits, 1 run, 1 BB, 4 SO, on 104 pitches, 5-4 with a 3.73 ERA

-I watched most of the game and he looked really good. Through 5 innings, he only threw about 53 pitches \:o

-Damon had a good night going 2-5

-Abreu belted a homer, hopefully this is his turn around

-Cano went 0-4 \:\(
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 03:32 AM

*Blibbleblabble sloooowly sneaks into the thread, looks around casually while humming the Mission Impossible theme song.*

"YANKEES SUCK!!!!!"

*Blibble dashes for the exit laughing his head off. Hit-and-run success!*

"SUCKERS!"


No offense.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 03:35 AM

Only 10 1/2 out ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 10:29 AM

Irish, I do get YES in HD, and it is amazing. I'm supposed to see the Yankees/Pittsburgh game on Sunday. It's the first time I've been able to get tickets in two years.

DMC told me that if he sees a madwoman rush the field and attack the shortstop, he'll know it's me...

Blib, man, that was just COLD.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 12:24 PM

If I get the game here on tv SB, I'll look for ya. Is Mr. Babe going to?
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 04:12 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Blib, man, that was just COLD.


I'm sorry, it was all in good fun. If this were a Dodgers thread however I'd end up banned from the BB.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 05:23 PM

 Originally Posted By: Blibbleblabble
If this were a Dodgers thread however I'd end up banned from the BB.


Probably you and me both. I detest the Dodgers!
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 05:48 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Only 10 1/2 out ;\)


Easy pal. I'm pulling for them, too. If nothing else, for my boy Torre and Jetes. But let's get to .500 before we start using exclamation points.

!!!!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 09:37 PM

Schilling's three outs away from a no-no.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 09:38 PM

I hate him, but I love a no-hitter, so I'll root for him.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 09:47 PM

Wow. That sucks balls. Still, 8.2 innings is great stuff.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 09:49 PM

Way to go Chuckie!!! Close but no cigar.... still, a one-hitter is awesome!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 10:38 PM

I'm glad he didn't get it. Thank you Shannon Stewart!
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 10:46 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I'm glad he didn't get it. Thank you Shannon Stewart!


One of these days you're gonna surprise me and post something decent.

Ahhh, who the fuck am I kidding? That'll never happen.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 10:49 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I'm glad he didn't get it. Thank you Shannon Stewart!


One of these days you're gonna surprise me and post something decent.

Ahhh, who the fuck am I kidding? That'll never happen.


Don't worry, it's just another half-game the Yankees fall behind and won't make up in the standings.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 10:51 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I'm glad he didn't get it. Thank you Shannon Stewart!


One of these days you're gonna surprise me and post something decent.

Ahhh, who the fuck am I kidding? That'll never happen.


Not when it comes to Boston or Schilling. Just look at my custom title that fathersson so was generous in offering
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 10:52 PM

I was listening to WFAN Sports Radio this afternoon. I just cannot believe all the Yankee fans that called up who've already conceded this season!

It's the first week of June for God's sake. There's a lot of baseball to be played. Surely this team has the talent, the money, the resources and the guns to turn things around. At least for a run at a wildcard spot.

I cannot believe how much these Yankee fans are panicking.

"FIRE JOE! FIRE Cash! THE TEAM IS GOING NOWHERE THIS SEASON!"

Give me a break!
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 10:54 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew

Don't worry, it's just another half-game the Yankees fall behind and won't make up in the standings.


I'm not worried.... I've been cheering for the Sox way too long to think that even an 11 game lead is safe for them... thats not the point. Its about class.... its about being a baseball fan (not just a one team fan).... its about admitting a great performance by a player you may not necessarily like (but should have the decency to admit that it was a great performance).

Most "get it".... some don't. \:\(
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 11:33 PM

I don't know why you guys always act so shocked when you read my posts. We've been down this road before many times. I hate Boston and I hate Curt Schilling. Pretty much nothing they can do will make me cheer for them. I'm a diehard Yankee fan through and through. I hate Boston and everyone on the roster.

And don't worry, there's plenty of people on Boston's side who act the EXACT same way as I do when it comes to the Yankees so you're not alone. Just because they don't post on this board doesn't mean they're out there. You guys can take pleasure in knowing you're "true" fans of the game and I'll be the a$$hole Yankee fan, that's fine with me. But please, do we have to go through this every time?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/07/07 11:34 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
its about admitting a great performance by a player you may not necessarily like (but should have the decency to admit that it was a great performance).


Oh and by the way, I never said it wasn't a great performace. I can give credit where credit is due (some may find that hard to believe but I can and do). I'm just saying I'm glad he didn't get the no hitter. But anyone who pitches a 1 hit game put on a great performance that day.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/07 12:01 AM

DC, It's a joke. Those are not TRUE fans. If you remember, the Yankees were in last place in their division until the end of June (if I'm not mistaken) in 2005. And they managed to win the division with the likes of Al Leiter, Chacon and Aaron Small!! I agree that they have a shot if they can pull it together. As I've said before, the Yankees biggest advantage is that in the past, they've heated up in August and September, when other teams tend to fade. If they can do it again this year, more power to them.

And George can piss and moan all he likes that they haven't won the Series since 2000, but the main thing for these guys is $$, and you tell me if you can get tickets for a game at the stadium. Good luck, because I tried to get decent seats for Mr. Babe for his birthday the last two years, and it's almost impossible. Well, unless I would like to pay exorbitant prices from places like StubHub.com.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/07 12:48 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
its about admitting a great performance by a player you may not necessarily like (but should have the decency to admit that it was a great performance).


That's very true SC. As a big time New York Mets fan, I always hated the Cardinals. Especially back in the early eighties. However, as much as I hated the Cardinals, I always admired their first baseman at the time, Keith Hernandez. I used to purposely get tickets to the Mets games whenever that Cards came into town just to be able to see Hernandez play live.

You can imagine how estatic I was when the Mets aquired him from the Cardinals.

But I agree. You can really hate a team, but as a true baseball fan, you can admire the way a player plays the game even though he's playing for the team that you hate.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/07 02:35 AM

Abreu comes through in the top of the 8th to put the Yanks up 3-1 with a 2-run double
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/07 03:18 AM

A-Rod hits a grand slam! 8-3 Yanks, A-Rod's 22nd of the year
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/07 03:42 AM

Another win for the Yanks. They took 2 out of 3 from Boston and now take 3 out of 4 from Chicago Turning it around perhaps?

-Now they're 27-31, only 4 games below .500 and 10 1/2 out of first

-Moose had a good night, 6 innings, 4 hits, 1 run, 0 BB, 4 SO with a 5.63 ERA (he needs to get that down some)

-Abreu goes 2 for 4 including a huge 2-run double in the 8th

-A-Rod put them up for good with his 9th inning grand slam

-Farnsworth gives up 2 runs and his ERA continues to climb to 5.18. Anyone else missing Flash Gordon right about now? I sure am.
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/07 05:15 AM

I think it's funny how people panic this early thinking the Yankees are going to finish this bad. If they don't finish first in the division they'll at least make the wildcard spot. Has there ever been a Yankeeless playoff year? I know there has, I just don't remember it...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/07 05:39 AM

Anytime during the 1980s or early 1990s
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/08/07 02:27 PM

Congrats Joe!

----------------------------------------------------------------

Yankees pull out finale late

CHICAGO -- Derek Jeter gave Joe Torre a hug, creating an emotional symbol for Torre's 2,000th career win as a Major League Baseball manager.

"He deserves it," Jeter said. "To get that number of victories, it takes a long time. He's been pretty consistent -- especially since he's been in New York. All he's done is win. He deserves a lot of credit."

Torre passed around the credit on a blustery Thursday night at U.S. Cellular Field after the Yankees beat the White Sox, 10-3, to give their manager another milestone and end their road trip on a high note.

"I thought the game was very special," said Torre, who is 10th all-time, nine wins behind Leo Durocher. He's also the first to record 2,000 wins as a manager and 2,000 hits as a player.

"Two thousand. Without the opportunity here ... I wouldn't have been close. I thank the Steinbrenner family for allowing me to do this.

"The players have been the best part of it for me."

Jeter, despite starting the game on the bench so he could be rested, played a key role. With the scored tied at 1 in the eighth, Jeter's pinch-hit, working a leadoff walk preceded Bobby Abreu's two-run double.

Alex Rodriguez hit a ninth-inning grand slam, as the Yankees scored nine runs in the last two innings to pull away. Mariano Rivera pitched the final 1 2/3 innings for the save, as the Yankees have won six of eight after a five-game losing streak. They also won their third straight game for the third time this season.

"We've been playing well," Jeter said. "Even when we lost a couple games in Toronto [to start the road trip], I said our intensity level was good. People might get tired of hearing that, but sometimes you're going to lose."

Not very often if you are Torre or Jeter, who tied Joe DiMaggio for ninth place on the Yanks' all-time games played list. Jeter, who's last day off came in late April, scored two runs and almost had three plate appearances despite sitting for most of the game. He was happy to do whatever for Torre, who became Yankees manager in Jeter's first full season.

"He's a Hall of Fame manager, whenever he decides to call it quits," Jeter said. "He's the best."

Scott Proctor (1-3) picked up the win in relief of Mike Mussina, who might have had his best start of the season -- allowing a run on four hits with no walks over six-plus innings. Jeter might have hugged his manager, but Mussina seemed a bit irritated that he was removed after throwing 79 pitches. Mussina didn't even realize, he said, that the bullpen was warming up when Torre came for him with runners at the corners, no outs and the Yankees leading, 1-0.

"I thought it was [pitching coach Ron] Guidry coming out," Mussina said. "I could have thrown 110," Mussina said. "I thought I could have kept going. I understand his thinking, but 79? I guess I got to earn [his trust] back."
With a run in and two aboard, Chicago's Rob Mackowiak lined a pitch from Proctor deep to center, but the ball was knocked down by a strong wind, allowing Cabrera to catch the it in front of the fence. Winds gusted to at least 25 mph, probably more.

"That ball was crushed," Torre said. "We got lucky. And then, being able to put something together offensively ..."

That started with Jeter, who saw four balls against former Yankees right-hander Jose Contreras (4-6). Abreu, who seems to be coming out of a slump, came through by drilling a ball against lefty Matt Thornton into the gap.

"The guy threw hard," Abreu said. "A lot of sinkers inside. I was fighting for it."

Rodriguez's homer, his Major League-leading 22nd of the season, was his second grand slam of the season and 15th of his career.

"It's awesome for Joe," Rodriguez said. "It's pretty incredible, everything Joe's been able to do -- especially with the Yankees."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/07 01:21 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I'm glad he didn't get it. Thank you Shannon Stewart!


One of these days you're gonna surprise me and post something decent.

Ahhh, who the fuck am I kidding? That'll never happen.


Very nice.

I'd comment, but I'd probably get banned again for sticking up for someone, so I'll just keep my mouth shut like a good little soldier...

---

Anyways, good work for the Yankees to finally put a nice string together. I don't have My9 so I can't see tonights game, but it looks like the Bucs are giving Andy some trouble. The big bats need to step up.

And I'll be ready and waiting for the Rocket Re-Launch tomorrow...

Speaking of which, the Atlantis managed to liftoff despite weather concerns. Hooray! \:\)


Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/07 01:48 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I'm glad he didn't get it. Thank you Shannon Stewart!


One of these days you're gonna surprise me and post something decent.

Ahhh, who the fuck am I kidding? That'll never happen.


Very nice.

I'd comment, but I'd probably get banned again for sticking up for someone, so I'll just keep my mouth shut like a good little soldier...


Niiiiiiiice [/Borat]

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
[And I'll be ready and waiting for the Rocket Re-Launch tomorrow...


You and me both man. I've got my alarm set and everything ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/07 02:07 AM

4-4 bottom of the 9th. Mo shut down Pittsburgh, and now it's up to the Yankees to finish the game. Abreu's up, ao let's hope he continues his hitting streak!!

OK, he didn't. Now ARod's up.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/07 02:38 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

You and me both man. I've got my alarm set and everything ;\)


Just curioous. If you don't set your alarm, what time would you probably wake up?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/07 03:07 AM

Alright, the Yanks pull out another win. Their 4th in a row. Only 3 games below .500
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/07 03:08 AM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

You and me both man. I've got my alarm set and everything ;\)


Just curioous. If you don't set your alarm, what time would you probably wake up?


Usually not much before 1 or 2 but I have a couple of things planned for tomorrow so I'm waking up early to get them done with before the game so I'm not rushing to get it all done afterwards
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/07 12:22 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: klydon1
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

You and me both man. I've got my alarm set and everything ;\)


Just curioous. If you don't set your alarm, what time would you probably wake up?


Usually not much before 1 or 2 but I have a couple of things planned for tomorrow so I'm waking up early to get them done with before the game so I'm not rushing to get it all done afterwards


Thanks. You must be a night owl. Oh, to be young.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/07 12:30 PM

"Your Delta Tau Chi name is...Night Owl!"
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/07 03:10 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: klydon1
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

You and me both man. I've got my alarm set and everything ;\)


Just curioous. If you don't set your alarm, what time would you probably wake up?


Usually not much before 1 or 2 but I have a couple of things planned for tomorrow so I'm waking up early to get them done with before the game so I'm not rushing to get it all done afterwards


Thanks. You must be a night owl. Oh, to be young.


Oh I am, and I try to enjoy it as much as possible. When I graduate with my Master's and get a "real" 9-5 job, no more But I've always been a night person. I like staying up until 3 or 4 in the morning and sleeping in until 1 or 2 in the afternoon
Posted By: Tony Mosrite

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/07 07:20 PM

Clemens just struck out 3 in a row and the Yanks managed a double steal now! that's the first time I see they do something exciting in a while.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/09/07 09:45 PM

-Yanks win their 5th in a row!

-Now only 2 games below .500 at 29-31

-Clemens throws up some good numbers in his first start: 6 innings, 5 hits, 3 runs, 2 BB, 7 SO, 1-0 with a 4.50 ERA

-Wow, Farnsworth actually pitches an entire inning without giving up a run \:o

-Abreu goes 2-for-4 (with a RBI), raising his average to .260

-Cano goes 3-for-5 (with a RBI), raising his average to .275
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 02:07 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I'd comment, but I'd probably get banned again for sticking up for someone, so I'll just keep my mouth shut like a good little soldier...


Wow, this one is teeming with sarcasm. \:\/

Once again, I implore everyone to show a little class. Please respect your fellow posters. Keep sports clean.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 02:22 AM

To all the Boston fans out there, please don't be naive enough to think there weren't Red Sox fans praying Clemens would fall flat on his face today
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 07:53 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
To all the Boston fans out there, please don't be naive enough to think there weren't Red Sox fans praying Clemens would fall flat on his face today


A public service announcement??
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 08:05 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
To all the Boston fans out there, please don't be naive enough to think there weren't Red Sox fans praying Clemens would fall flat on his face today


A public service announcement??


and its naive enough for the rest of us to think that some Yank fans are outright annoying fanboys. I'm not saying who EXACTLY....but don't be naive!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 02:42 PM

Once again, I don't want this thread shut down. So we can all stop bickering.

---

Clemens did fine for his first start. He did have issues locating, but that will come with time, considering this is essentially the equivalent of a "regular" starter's third or fourth Spring Training start.

In retrospect, I am glad though that he started against the Bucs. I don't think some of the mistakes he laid would have been missed by the Red Sox, or even the White Sox. This game allowed him to feel his way through, and he delivered some nice strikeout pitches.

Let's hope they keep this going. Clippard reminds me of a younger Mike Mussina, and has a really nice curveball. He seems to be adjusting well to pitching on the major league level.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 04:35 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Once again, I don't want this thread shut down. So we can all stop bickering.

---

Clemens did fine for his first start. He did have issues locating, but that will come with time, considering this is essentially the equivalent of a "regular" starter's third or fourth Spring Training start.

In retrospect, I am glad though that he started against the Bucs. I don't think some of the mistakes he laid would have been missed by the Red Sox, or even the White Sox. This game allowed him to feel his way through, and he delivered some nice strikeout pitches.

Let's hope they keep this going. Clippard reminds me of a younger Mike Mussina, and has a really nice curveball. He seems to be adjusting well to pitching on the major league level.


I do agree with you on Clemens. Better to rough it out on the meaningless Bucs than the very pressured BoSox game.

As for the bickering, I must say alot of it recently happened without my participation. Just a note of fact!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 07:35 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
To all the Boston fans out there, please don't be naive enough to think there weren't Red Sox fans praying Clemens would fall flat on his face today


A public service announcement??


I'm only saying, they're out there too. So I'm not the only "horrible" fan out there who takes pleasure in seeing my arch nemesis fall flat on their face.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 07:37 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
To all the Boston fans out there, please don't be naive enough to think there weren't Red Sox fans praying Clemens would fall flat on his face today


A public service announcement??


and its naive enough for the rest of us to think that some Yank fans are outright annoying fanboys. I'm not saying who EXACTLY....but don't be naive!


Thanks for the compliment ronnie. Yes, I am a diehard fanboy!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 08:44 PM

-6th win in a row, 3rd straight series the Yankees have won

-Only 1 game below .500, 30-31

-A-Rod hits his 23rd and 24th home runs of the season

-Abreu goes 4-for-4 with 3 RBIs
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 09:41 PM

Arod will win yet another MVP this year!!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 09:59 PM

But of course...the guy was the anti-Christ a few months ago.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 11:03 PM

Hey, he's coming through now. THIS is the way A-Rod should have been playing while he was in New York. Unfortunately, it's taken him his 4th season in pinsripes to play this well but I'm happy for him. He deserves it.

And yes DS, he will win his 3rd MVP this year
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 11:08 PM

I'm sorry, you're going to have to speak up.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 11:21 PM

Man you and ronnie, a regular duo. Crack me up every time
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 11:22 PM

Went to the game today. What a great game!! We had terrific seats, and the Yankees really came through!! We took photos and I will post them when I get a chance.

Although it's a huge pain in the butt to drive there (mass transit is really the only way to go), nothing beats the experience of seeing the game at the stadium.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/10/07 11:26 PM

Wow SB, I'm so jealous. A pretty cool day too so you didn't sweat yourself to death. Whereabouts do you live that it take's so long to get there?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 12:09 AM

I12, it's not that I live that far, it's that the traffic is a bitch. It took us 20 minutes to get to the GWB, and then an hour and ten minutes to get into the stadium.

I tried to post some of the photos I took, but they're too large. If someone could tell me what to do, I will do it so that I can add them.

Edited to Add: Read in the paper this morning that Clippard was looking forward to learning from Clemens, and that he wants to listen and learn. The quote from Clippard was, "I'm going to be all ears." My husband now calls him "Clippard the Big-Eared Pitcher" ala "Clifford the Big Red Dog".
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 12:13 AM

Try this link SB, Image Shack , it'll let you format the size and such. Hope it helps
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 12:19 AM

Thanks, I12. Hope this worked OK.


[img][/img]

Here's ARod and Abreu returning to home plate after ARod's 2nd Home Run of the game!!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 12:25 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
To all the Boston fans out there, please don't be naive enough to think there weren't Red Sox fans praying Clemens would fall flat on his face today


A public service announcement??


and its naive enough for the rest of us to think that some Yank fans are outright annoying fanboys. I'm not saying who EXACTLY....but don't be naive!


Thanks for the compliment ronnie. Yes, I am a diehard fanboy!


I feel bad for the honestly decent diehard fanboys who want to stop any association with the rotten eggs.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 12:32 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Thanks, I12. Hope this worked OK.


[img][/img]

Here's ARod and Abreu returning to home plate after ARod's 2nd Home Run of the game!!


Niiiiiice SB [/Borat] How close were your seats?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 12:33 AM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
To all the Boston fans out there, please don't be naive enough to think there weren't Red Sox fans praying Clemens would fall flat on his face today


A public service announcement??


and its naive enough for the rest of us to think that some Yank fans are outright annoying fanboys. I'm not saying who EXACTLY....but don't be naive!


Thanks for the compliment ronnie. Yes, I am a diehard fanboy!


I feel bad for the honestly decent diehard fanboys who want to stop any association with the rotten eggs.


Me too, but I think the people around here know that SB, DJ and the other Yankee fans are the "right" Yankee fans. I'm the only "rotten egg"
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 12:44 AM

We were in the Loge box seats. Not too bad at all. \:D
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 12:57 AM

Here's another. Anyone wonder why this pic is one of my favorites?? [img][/img]
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 12:58 AM

Look at the ass on that umpire.....
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 01:00 AM

Sounds like it would be a good night for Mr. Babe to put on his Jeter mask and uniform and wait in the bedroom. \:D
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 01:06 AM

 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone
Look at the ass on that umpire.....


Well, since you seem impressed, here's another for you, DMC. \:p

[img][/img]
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 02:08 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
We were in the Loge box seats. Not too bad at all. \:D


How many rows up are they?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 02:12 AM

If you look at the map of Yankee Stadium, you'll see where the section is. It's on the Club Level.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 02:15 AM

Oh, those aren't too bad at all. Usually when I go I'm in the upperdeck. Although the last time I went, we were out behind the left field wall (behind Matsui)
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 10:45 PM

New question.

What is everyone's thoughts on the new Yankee STadium?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/11/07 11:30 PM

I'm sorry ronnie, you're gonna have to speak up
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/07 12:00 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
New question.

What is everyone's thoughts on the new Yankee STadium?


Sacrilege.

Frankly, I'd rather see them completely revamp the existing structure, from the bottom up, instead of tearing down the House That Ruth Built. It's completely asinine, in my opinion.

I know many of the players and coaches feel that it is no longer adequate and supposedly some portions of the stadium are in disrepair and falling apart, but if they can keep Fenway going with remodeling, I don't see why they can't do the same to Yankee Stadium.

That's just my personal feelings...
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/07 02:22 PM

I agree with JJ.

While I am not a Yankee fan, I've been to Yankee Stadium many times. Each time at some point in the game, I'll look to right field and think about Ruth standing there or hitting a blast into various spots. I'll consider the history that had taken place on the very ground. Those feelings (and I'm sure I'm not the only one) will be lost, or at least diluted, in another park, no matter how close they build it to the old place.

When Turner Field was built in Atlanta to replace Fulton County Stadium, which was torn down, a marker was laid in the spot where Aaron's record breaking homerun was caught by Tom House. It's in a sidewalk or parking lot, and you don't get a real sense of the history.

But Fulton County Stadium was in need of replacement and Yankee Stadium can not match the comfort and amenities of the newer parks across the League. It still seems like an incredible price to pay in the name of progress.

By the way, in the last year of Veterans' Stadium I went to a Phillies' game with my brother, father and brother-in-law where we had field level seats behind home plate. After the game as the stadium was nearly empty, the field security allowed my brother-in-law and me to reenact Tug McGraw's final pitch to end the 1980 World Series. It was a thrill for me to be on the mound reliving that moment. At their final game that season, many of the formal Phillies were reunited and lined the field, and Tug Mcgraw, dying of cancer, but looking happy and upbeat as always, took the mound and threw the final pitch to Bob Boone. Their reenactment was more dramatic than mine.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/07 02:38 PM

I feel the same way about the Miami Orange Bowl.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/07 05:01 PM

I know it's not Yankee news, but I just really respect Harold Reynolds

----------------------------------------------------------------

Reynolds hired by MLB.com

NEW YORK (AP) -- Fired by ESPN last year, former major leaguer Harold Reynolds was hired as a broadcaster by MLB.com.

Reynolds sued ESPN in October, contending he was wrongly fired from a $6 million, six-year contract after a female intern complained about what he called a "brief and innocuous" hug. He had been with the network since 1996.

Reynolds was to make his MLB.com debut Tuesday and will be on site following the All-Star break five times each week at 2 p.m. EDT. Other former players on MLB.com include Billy Sample, Jim Leyritz, Brian McRae and John Marzano.

Source: SI
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/07 08:14 PM


[ Suspended for 1 Day -- Cut the shit! --JG ]
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/12/07 09:07 PM

THANK YOU JG!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/07 12:45 AM

Abreu homers and the Yankees are quickly on the board, 3-0
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/07 01:26 AM

IM - My opinion only, but I don't think you're doing yourself any favors by taunting RRA through your signature.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/07 01:53 AM

Darn it, DS!! I got so excited when I saw that you posted here. I thought we were finally swaying you over to be a Yankees fan!!

Hope you'll drop by more often. Where else can you see those great pictures of Jeter taken by yours truly??

Btw, top of the 7th and they're winning 3-1, and Jeter just made the most amazing catch!!!
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/07 02:16 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Hope you'll drop by more often. Where else can you see those great pictures of Jeter taken by yours truly??


I saw the pics in the Ladies Thread. I can't believe you - objectifying men like that! \:p ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/07 02:25 AM

What can I say? It was his best side?? \:D
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/07 02:30 AM

Well Verlander got a no-hitter today. Glad to see someone close the deal. Congrats to him*

* = OMFG, is Irishman REALLY giving credit to a non-Yankee player \:o
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/07 03:48 AM

His slider was unbelievably nasty tonight.

Baseball Tonight reported that Verlander is the highest drafted player ever to throw a no-hitter. He was drafted second overall.

Why I found this fact to be interesting I don't know.
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/07 04:00 AM

Man, his curve was the best pitch he was throwing tonight. It was straight up nasty and no one was hitting him tonight. Figures the only home game I miss in years is one of the best. lol
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/13/07 04:20 AM

-Well the Yankees finally did it, they're at .500 now 31-31

-They also win their 7th straight

-Webb also pitched a good game for Arizona. The difference was Abreu's homer

-Wang pitched well: 7 innings, 6 hits, 1 run, 0 BB, 2 SO, 6-4 with a 3.49 ERA. Now THAT'S more Wang like ;\)

-Farnsworth actually pitched another scoreless inning, but how long can he keep that up for?

-Mo gets his 8th save of the year and his ERA lowers to 3.96
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/07 12:42 AM

Wow, Posada homers in the 2nd, A-Rod in the 3rd, and now Matsui in the 4th. 7-1 right now top of 5
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/07 02:33 AM

Another great night tonight:

-The Yanks are FINALLY over .500, 32-31, winning their 8th in a row

-Boston got spanked by the Rockies 12-2 , so now the Yanks are only 8 1/2 out

-Moose pitches well going 7 2/3 innings, 6 hits, 2 runs, 0 BB, 7 SO, 3-3 with a 5.17 ERA (he needs to get that down)

-Again, Posada, A-Rod, and Matsui all homer

-The Yanks win their 4th straight series (Red Sox, White Sox, Pirates, Diamondbacks)

-Cano goes 2-for-4 to raise his average to .274

-On the other side, Schilling goes 5 innings, 9 hits, 6 runs, 1 BB, 5 SO, 6-3 with a 3.80 ERA
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/07 11:37 AM

Glad to see Moose had his antlers up. The one good thing is that the Yankees dominate interleague play, so this could be a great momentum builder coming into the weekend series against the Mets, who are 2-10 in June.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/07 11:40 AM

In other news, Selig seems to be leaning towards suspending Giambi as early as next week, especially if he doesn't cooperate with the Mitchell investigations.

My question - I don't see any way this can be done. 1.) Giambi admitted to taking "stuff" in the article. 2.) Unless he is incredibly stupid, he probably didn't admit in his meetings with MLB to taking steroids after the rules went into effect for baseball 3.) The leaked grand jury testimony was about use before the rules went into effect.

Is there any real legal ground Selig even has here? I can't see the Players Union sitting by and taking this quietly...
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/07 01:46 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
In other news, Selig seems to be leaning towards suspending Giambi as early as next week, especially if he doesn't cooperate with the Mitchell investigations.

My question - I don't see any way this can be done. 1.) Giambi admitted to taking "stuff" in the article. 2.) Unless he is incredibly stupid, he probably didn't admit in his meetings with MLB to taking steroids after the rules went into effect for baseball 3.) The leaked grand jury testimony was about use before the rules went into effect.

Is there any real legal ground Selig even has here? I can't see the Players Union sitting by and taking this quietly...


I don't think a suspension can survive a challenge from the union. The actions, for which a player may be suspended, are enumerated in the CBA, and there is no specific provision dealing with not cooperating with a fact finding investigation.

Selig isn't interested in suspending Giambi for his past use of or discussions about steroids. His apparent threat to suspend is based on Giambi's expected failure to cooperate fully with the Mitchell investigation.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/07 08:27 PM

Selig is full of shit.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/07 08:33 PM

-The Yanks win their 9th straight

-They sweep the D-Backs after just sweeping the Pirates

-Pettitte pitched really well going 8 innings, 4 hits, 1 run, 1 BB, 4 SO, 4-4 with a 2.93 ERA (man it's great to have Andy back!)

-A-Rod went 3-for-4

-Matsui did likewise raising his average now to .300
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/07 08:36 PM

Speaking of copying and pasting, guess the person who wrote all this wonderful well-thought out opinions when talking to a decent person (not me) on these boards!

From May 14th 2005:

Quote:
"I agree with DJ, but as for me, if Clemens can bring us a title, I'm willing to forgive him for the moment. I hate him probably as much as any other Yankee fan (espeically during this year's postseason with everyone at my college being on the "Astros bandwagon.") But if he can win us a title and we can flant him in front of Boston, I'm all for it. I'd rather win than him rot in Houston (but my feelings are the same)"

From October 7th 2006:

Quote:
"Now now don't be so jealous that your boys weren't good enough to make it this year . Hopefully this will teach Clemens not to come back next year. Maybe if your fellow statesmen weren't such a$$holes about texas sports I wouldn't have so much animosity towards texas teams."
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/14/07 08:48 PM

Let it go, rrA.... its not worth it!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/07 02:43 AM

-Wow, Beckett losses his first game of the season to the Rockies going 5 innings, 10 hits, 6 runs, 1 BB and 1 SO. He's 9-1 with a 3.39 ERA (still impressive win-loss record and ERA)

-As a result, the Yanks are now only 7 1/2 out
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/07 12:40 PM

Subway Series!

BTW - I hate the My9 games, because DirecTV doesn't carry the local affiliate here anymore. Fuck.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/07 01:20 PM

DJ, I hate My9, too. I much prefer the Yankees on YES, but what can you do? I am going to a BBQ with a bunch of Mets fans tomorrow, so I hope that the Yankees do well!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/07 01:26 PM

I also am not a fan of My9. Why do they do that? I think it's EVERY Friday game during the year it's on My9 and sometimes weekend games
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/15/07 02:48 PM

I think its done as a cross promotion, since My9 is generally broadcast over the air (free) on local affiliates. It's done to keep people who don't have cable/satellite with YES interested.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 05:10 AM

Man, Clemens didn't pitch badly, the Yankees just couldn't score runs. Clemens numbers were 6 1/3 innings, 7 hits, 2 runs, 1 BB, 8 SO, 1-1 with a 3.65 ERA. For some reason, the Yanks only got 5 hits off of Perez and bailed him out a couple of times. He was starting to lose the strike zone and guys were swinging at pitchers that should have been balls and were making easy outs. Oh well, hopefully Clippard can get them back on track tomorrow.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 11:07 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
the Yanks only got 5 hits off of Perez and bailed him out a couple of times. He was starting to lose the strike zone and guys were swinging at pitchers that should have been balls and were making easy outs.


Right. It wasn't a matter of the Mets pitchers shutting down the Yankee bats. It was that the Yankee hitters let them off the hook.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 11:10 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I am going to a BBQ with a bunch of Mets fans tomorrow!



I've always said that you have class. ;\)
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 11:17 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I am going to a BBQ with a bunch of Mets fans tomorrow...


Be careful they don't BBQ YOU!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 04:02 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
the Yanks only got 5 hits off of Perez and bailed him out a couple of times. He was starting to lose the strike zone and guys were swinging at pitchers that should have been balls and were making easy outs.


Right. It wasn't a matter of the Mets pitchers shutting down the Yankee bats. It was that the Yankee hitters let them off the hook.


No, Perez shut them down some of the time. But that's why I said the Yankees bailed him out "a couple of times"
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 04:54 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I am going to a BBQ with a bunch of Mets fans tomorrow...


Be careful they don't BBQ YOU!!


With Irish as we know him...he's doomed to be covered in Worcestershire sauce.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 05:00 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I am going to a BBQ with a bunch of Mets fans tomorrow...


Be careful they don't BBQ YOU!!


I am so dreading this BBQ now. They will be gloating all day. These people are "those" kind of fans, and I am going to hear it all day long. Hopefully, the Yankees will win this afternoon and level the field, no pun intended.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 05:45 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I am going to a BBQ with a bunch of Mets fans tomorrow...


Be careful they don't BBQ YOU!!


I am so dreading this BBQ now. They will be gloating all day. These people are "those" kind of fans, and I am going to hear it all day long. Hopefully, the Yankees will win this afternoon and level the field, no pun intended.


and the Yanks fans there are not?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 06:44 PM

I'm sure there are plenty of Yankee fans that are. There are "those" kind for every team. I happen to think that it's poor sportsmanship, I don't care what team you root for.

And of course, Ronnie, I know with that post that you weren't insinuating that I was that kind of Yankee fan, although there are some people who could interpret it that way. But I know that you didn't mean that.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 06:46 PM

THOSE kind?

Racist!!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 07:46 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I'm sure there are plenty of Yankee fans that are. There are "those" kind for every team. I happen to think that it's poor sportsmanship, I don't care what team you root for.

And of course, Ronnie, I know with that post that you weren't insinuating that I was that kind of Yankee fan, although there are some people who could interpret it that way. But I know that you didn't mean that.


Who said you're a jackass Yankee fan? You're not.

Its just, as an outsider to that whole Mets/Yanks bitter inner-city rivalry, one side trashing the other side for doing the EXACT same thing they do as well...it all seems sorta silly.

All I know is, the Mets have done well this year, the Yanks are on a hot streak right now (still 9 games back, but hey its June) and it should be technically a good series, right?

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
THOSE kind?

Racist!!


Yeah, I'm the new Bull Connor!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 07:52 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I am going to a BBQ with a bunch of Mets fans tomorrow...


Be careful they don't BBQ YOU!!


I am so dreading this BBQ now. They will be gloating all day. These people are "those" kind of fans, and I am going to hear it all day long. Hopefully, the Yankees will win this afternoon and level the field, no pun intended.


Well, I hope you're enjoying the BBQ SB. It's 8-5 Yanks with rain holding it up
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/16/07 10:02 PM

So SB, did the food taste especially good after the Yankees 11-8 win? ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/17/07 04:01 PM

Ronnie, as a matter of fact, I said that I knew that you WEREN'T insinuating that!! \:p

It was a good day, and when my daughter started dancing around when the Yankees won, I told her that it was poor sportsmanship, and that a true baseball fan shouldn't do that. Actually, it's the a'hole son of these people who acts that way. He's so anti-Yankee that it's ridiculous. I think that the Mets are having their second great season in a row, and I wish them all the best. First and foremost, I am a NYer.

To give you an example of this kid's stupid arrogance, when Posada caught Beltran's foul for the final out of the game, I said, "Good job, Georgie!!" And he said, "It's pronounced Jor-ge!" and gave me an eye-roll. I said, "Duh, kid! His nick-name is Georgie!" Maybe it's not the Yankees. Maybe he's just an arrogant snot in general!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/18/07 03:30 AM

-Well the Yanks win their 5th straight series

-Are now 3 games above .500 at 35-32

-A-Rod hit another bomb, #27

-And Posada hit his 9th

-Wang had a great outing: 8 2/3 innings, 6 hits, 2 runs, 1 BB, 10 SO (a career high for him), 7-4 with a 3.33 ERA. I wish Joe would have left him in the game to finish off Delgado and get the complete game.

-The Yanks split the season series with the Mets

And I'm not sure if anyone else has heard of this, but apparently ESPN is going to run an 8-part miniseries about the 1977 New York Yankees season starting in July. The name of the show is entitled, The Bronx Is Burning
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/18/07 01:07 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

And I'm not sure if anyone else has heard of this, but apparently ESPN is going to run an 8-part miniseries about the 1977 New York Yankees season starting in July. The name of the show is entitled, The Bronx Is Burning


Can't be any worse than "Bonds on Bonds," no? \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/19/07 04:03 AM

DJ, what do you think about this?

----------------------------------------------------------------

Yankees sign two Chinese prospects

NEW YORK -- The Yankees' foray into the Far East has paid dividends, and it continued Monday.

The Yankees announced that they signed two players -- left-handed pitcher Kai Liu and catcher Zhenwang Zhang -- to Minor League contracts, with approval from the Chinese Baseball Association.

"This is an exciting opportunity for us to integrate Chinese players into the organization," said general manager Brian Cashman. "We believe that this is the start of something we can develop further as we work toward our commitment to help grow the game of baseball in China."

Along with team president Randy Levine and assistant general manager Jean Afterman, Cashman was part of a contingent that visited Beijing in January, announcing a working relationship with the Chinese Baseball Association that will attempt to grow the game overseas.

At the time, it was suggested that the effort might someday yield baseball's answer to basketball superstar Yao Ming. The Yankees agreed to allow Chinese teams and officials to use their training facilities in New York and at Legends Field in Tampa, Fla., while swapping coaches and trainers to help the CBA's burgeoning program.

Liu, 19, began playing baseball in 2000 for the Guangdong Province team. In addition to his playing career in the six-team Chinese Baseball League with the Guangdong Leopards, he was chosen to participate as a member of the People's Republic of China National Team.

Zhang, 19, began his playing career in 1998 in the Municipality of Tianjin. He helped lead his team, the Tianjin Lions, to the CBL championship series in three of the past five seasons (2002, 2005 and 2006) and was selected to represent his country as a member of the PRC National Team. Zhang also participated in the 2006 World Baseball Classic.

Both players will be introduced at a formal press conference at Yankee Stadium on July 6. Following their introduction, the players will report to the Yankees' player development complex in Tampa.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/19/07 12:13 PM

Strange. I thought the Dice-K signing meant that the Sawks already had control over the entire Asian continent. \:p

---

It can't hurt. Why not? It's a good move. They are nothing more than prospects, and at positions where its always good to be reinforced. The Yankees phenom catching prospect from Venezuela Jesus Montero is around the same age, if not younger (I think he may be 17...), so if Zhang can show some competency behind the dish, that works out great. Frankly, while it would cost more prospects - I'd love to see Jarrod Saltalamacchia in a Yankee uniform. The Braves have McCann (who, if you watched Monday Night Baseball last night, had a great game), so having Saltalamacchia is a luxury. I'd like to see if the Yankees could snag him.

And left handed pitching is always a commodity. Speaking of which - Tyler Clippard was sent down to AAA after bombing out against the Mets, and, yep, our Miracle Man Kei Igawa is back, with his reinvented delivery and three strong starts in AAA (including one against my Buffalo Bisons). He'll make his re-launch this Friday.

Clippard was a bit of a mystery to me, in a way. I do think that, like Hughes, he was rushed because of the injury and instability at this level, and with some refinement (now that he knows how difficult it is on the MLB level), hopefully the pitching coaches in AAA (especially Nardi Contreras) can get him to be a viable major league option. The funny thing is that Clippard broke his stride...in previous levels, he's struggled his first 1 or 2 outings, and then became dominant. Clippard did well his first couple of outings for the Yankees, and then lost it.

Hopefully, Igawa will be able to come back strong, and now show some of that "superior" control he was touted to have when he was in Japan.

---

BTW - Irish - I figured you'd be all over Schilling's loss last night, getting rocked by the Braves. He didn't throw a strikeout, which hasn't happened in forever.

 Code:
Pitcher	        IP	 H	 R	ER	BB	SO	HR	PC-ST	ERA
Schilling (L)  4.1	10	6	6	2	0	1	81-50	4.20


Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/19/07 01:01 PM

A feel good story about our favorite second baseman:

A Yankee Needs An Ambulance, To Help His Home Country
 Quote:
Source: NY Times

By DAVID GONZALEZ
Published: June 19, 2007

When Robinson Canó, second baseman for the New York Yankees, went comparison shopping for a new vehicle recently, he wound up at a Bronx hospital.

He wasn’t injured. He was sizing up ambulances so he could donate one to the hospital in his hometown in the Dominican Republic, San Pedro de Macoris. He is doing this not at the urging of a tax adviser or media consultant, but because of a nagging memory.

A friend who once played softball with him, Luis Romero, was thrown from a motorcycle last year when it bounced at the bottom of a hill.

“He hit his head,” Mr. Canó said softly. “The hospital had no ambulance, so they had to put him in a jeep and take him to Santo Domingo, an hour away. He died when he got there. Maybe if they had an ambulance with first aid he could have been saved.”

Mr. Canó, an unassuming 24-year-old in his third season, sought out Julio Pabon, who has done media training for the Yankees’ Spanish-speaking rookies.

“I thought he was going to ask me something personal like he wanted a girl’s number,” Mr. Pabon said. “But an ambulance?”

Mr. Pabon was surprised, since Mr. Canó hardly made major league money, just under $500,000. And San Pedro de Macoris — renowned for its shortstops — has no shortage of stars with salaries to match.



“What got me was Robinson gets a little more than minimum wage — for baseball, anyway,” Mr. Pabon said. “Guys in their first or second year playing are not thinking too much about their community, bro. They’re thinking about how to stay alive in the majors and get that big, multimillion contract.”

Mr. Pabon arranged for Mr. Canó to see different ambulance models at Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center, where representatives of TransCare, an ambulance company, waited to discuss how they could help.

Any thought of calmly inspecting the ambulances vanished once Mr. Canó arrived.

An overprotective bubble of hospital security people clung to him as he looked at the vehicles while passers-by held phones aloft to snap pictures.

One woman who tried to get an autograph argued with one security officer.

“Do not touch me!” she shouted.

When Mr. Canó went to look at a Fire Department ambulance, one security guard gruffly shouted, “No pictures! No pictures!” even though the vehicle was parked on a public street.

Mr. Canó soon left for a local restaurant to meet with the TransCare representatives, who wanted to learn more about conditions in his hometown.

He was impressed with the ambulances, but puzzled by the local reaction.

As they drove off, he mentioned to Mr. Pabon how the woman who had tried to get his autograph did get his attention.

“She said ‘Tell your bodyguard to treat women better!’ ” he recalled. “But I do not have a bodyguard.”

He does not make that kind of money — yet.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/19/07 03:39 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
And left handed pitching is always a commodity. Speaking of which - Tyler Clippard was sent down to AAA after bombing out against the Mets, and, yep, our Miracle Man Kei Igawa is back, with his reinvented delivery and three strong starts in AAA (including one against my Buffalo Bisons). He'll make his re-launch this Friday.


Thanks for the update, looks like I'll be watching Igawa to see how he pans out on his second MLB tour. Also, where do you get those photos again?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/19/07 05:09 PM

That last one is from Yahoo.com ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/19/07 06:35 PM

Ok, thanks
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/20/07 03:23 PM

Here's some info for all those fans out there that think the Yankees are so horribly bad for baseball:

-The Rockies average about 24,000 per game

-With the Yankees in town for the next 3 games, their attendence has doubled to 48,000+ and are sold out or almost sold out

-Still bad for baseball?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/20/07 04:07 PM

Watch out for the Yankees to make a deal with Texas very soon. Scouts were at recent Rangers games, and the names involved include Eric Gagne and Akinori Otsuka. Of course, Mark Teixiera's name also will probably come up. But the Yankees will probably look to shore up bullpen help in Gagne rather than trading away the farm for Teixiera when Giambi may play again this year. Minky will return as well.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/20/07 04:27 PM

Yeah, I've heard they might go after Helton as well. They need bullpen help over a first baseman. Speaking of which, Jorge played first last night.

I'd love to get Gagne as a setup guy and get rid of that Farnsworth fella. But how healthy will he be?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/20/07 05:19 PM

No chance a deal for Helton gets done. His contract is too huge, and too long for his age (until 2011), he has a full no-trade clause, no thank you.

Teixeira is younger and will be available sooner...possibly in a three way deal involving the Yankees (sending Giambi, prospects, possibly Melky, receiving Gagne/Otsuka and Teixeira), the Rangers (receiving prospects, cash, ?), and the Angels (receiving Giambi, ?).
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/20/07 05:46 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
No chance a deal for Helton gets done. His contract is too huge, and too long for his age (until 2011), he has a full no-trade clause, no thank you.

Teixeira is younger and will be available sooner...possibly in a three way deal involving the Yankees (sending Giambi, prospects, possibly Melky, receiving Gagne/Otsuka and Teixeira), the Rangers (receiving prospects, cash, ?), and the Angels (receiving Giambi, ?).


Who will pay giambi's contract? When he signed with the Yankees, it was understood that they were the only team that could afford his price tag. Now he is a fraction of the player he was supposed to be, and has quite a bit of baggage, and perhaps not in the best shape.

I would be a little surprised if the Teixiera deal gets done soon. Texas is in no hurry, and according to Ken Rosenthal, is asking for Phil Hughes to be included in the deal. They may wait it out, and see if the Yankees include him, or see if they can cut another deal elsewhere. If not, they may wait close to the deadline.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/20/07 05:49 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
No chance a deal for Helton gets done. His contract is too huge, and too long for his age (until 2011), he has a full no-trade clause, no thank you.

Teixeira is younger and will be available sooner...possibly in a three way deal involving the Yankees (sending Giambi, prospects, possibly Melky, receiving Gagne/Otsuka and Teixeira), the Rangers (receiving prospects, cash, ?), and the Angels (receiving Giambi, ?).


Giambi doesn't have a no-trade claus? I agree with Helton, it's just a rumor I had heard. I'd rather have Teixeira but I wouldn't give up Melky. I wasn't so high on him this year but the Yankees have really turned around their season when Giambi went down, Damon moved to DH and Melky's moved to center. He's the best center fielder we currently have, but I'd like to see his bat come around some. He's also young and has some great speed. I'd like to get Gagne but not at that price.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/20/07 05:51 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
I would be a little surprised if the Teixiera deal gets done soon. Texas is in no hurry, and according to Ken Rosenthal, is asking for Phil Hughes to be included in the deal. They may wait it out, and see if the Yankees include him, or see if they can cut another deal elsewhere. If not, they may wait close to the deadline.


There is NO WAY I'd give up Philip Hughes. I don't think Cashman is that stupid either. Mind you I didn't say it definitely, I hope Cashman isn't that stupid. Besides, I think the Yanks are in the drivers seat with Teixiera. He's gonna be a free agent soon. The Yanks could just wait until the end of the year and sign him as a free agent. At least this way Texas would get something for him, much like they did with Soriano who was fleeing Texas as soon as his contract expired, and traded him to Washington just to get something
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/20/07 06:25 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: klydon1
I would be a little surprised if the Teixiera deal gets done soon. Texas is in no hurry, and according to Ken Rosenthal, is asking for Phil Hughes to be included in the deal. They may wait it out, and see if the Yankees include him, or see if they can cut another deal elsewhere. If not, they may wait close to the deadline.


There is NO WAY I'd give up Philip Hughes. I don't think Cashman is that stupid either. Mind you I didn't say it definitely, I hope Cashman isn't that stupid. Besides, I think the Yanks are in the drivers seat with Teixiera. He's gonna be a free agent soon. The Yanks could just wait until the end of the year and sign him as a free agent. At least this way Texas would get something for him, much like they did with Soriano who was fleeing Texas as soon as his contract expired, and traded him to Washington just to get something


I wouldn't give up Hughes for Teixiera either. I don't think the yankees need him all that badly. Texas knows he's gone at the end of the season, so I think they'll wait and see what team offers the best package. There may be several teams in the mix.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/20/07 06:48 PM

I agree with what you said klydon but again, I don't think Texas is in the drivers seat. Remember, the other teams don't have to trade for Teixiera. They can simply wait for him to sign as a free agent. The pressure is really on Texas to get some kind of value back in return. I'm sure now they're sitting back and taking offers. But the closer we get to the trade deadline, the more and more they'll need to make a trade or they'll end up losing him with no compensation.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/20/07 09:26 PM

I know this isn't Yankee news but I thought it was a pretty heartless thing to do:

----------------------------------------------------------------

Hicks: Gonzalez's injuries and early retirement suspicious

ARLINGTON, Texas -- Texas Rangers owner Tom Hicks suspects that two-time AL MVP Juan Gonzalez may have used steroids.

"I have no knowledge that Juan used steroids. His number of injuries and early retirement just makes me suspicious," Hicks wrote in an e-mail to The Associated Press on Wednesday. "In any event, we paid him $24 million for very few games."

Hicks was responding to questions about a television interview in which he was asked about decisions he regretted since owning the team, then mentioned the oft-injured outfielder and steroids.

"Juan Gonzalez for $24 million after he came off steroids, probably, we just gave that money away," Hicks said in the interview, aired June 10 on KTVT-TV in Dallas-Fort Worth.

Gonzalez had three extended stays on the disabled list when he returned to the Rangers for the 2002 and 2003 seasons. Sidelined by a torn ligament in right thumb and a right calf injury, he played in only 152 of 324 games, hitting .288 with 32 homers and 105 RBIs.

"That kind of rhetoric does not deserve a response, because it's so irresponsible," said Gonzalez's agent, Al Nero.

Jose Canseco, who played with Gonzalez and the Rangers in 1992-94 before Hicks owned the team, has admitted using steroids. Canseco claimed in his 2005 book that he used steroids with Gonzalez, who was 35 when he played his last major league game and tore his hamstring in his only at-bat for Cleveland in 2005.

Gonzalez, who had 434 home runs, was the AL MVP in 1996 and 1998 for Texas. He was the centerpiece of a nine-player trade that sent him to Detroit after the 1999 season following the Rangers' third AL West title in four seasons.

After only one season with the Tigers and a year in Cleveland, Gonzalez signed a $24 million, two-year free-agent deal to return to Texas, the team that had originally signed him as a 16-year-old free agent out of Puerto Rico.

Back problems limited Gonzalez to 33 games in 2004 after a $4 million deal with Kansas City.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/07 11:41 AM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1

Who will pay giambi's contract? When he signed with the Yankees, it was understood that they were the only team that could afford his price tag. Now he is a fraction of the player he was supposed to be, and has quite a bit of baggage, and perhaps not in the best shape.


The Angels have expressed much interest in Giambi, as well as Bonds. They need a power hitting lefty in their lineup, who can play DH every day.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/07 11:45 AM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1

I would be a little surprised if the Teixiera deal gets done soon. Texas is in no hurry, and according to Ken Rosenthal, is asking for Phil Hughes to be included in the deal. They may wait it out, and see if the Yankees include him, or see if they can cut another deal elsewhere. If not, they may wait close to the deadline.


It has a better chance of happening than the Helton deal. Even still, the Yankees won't give up Hughes; there are plenty of good prospects in their system if they really want Teixiera. Texas can sweat out as many offers as they want. If we can't dump Giambi, its pretty meaningless anyways, because he's an albatross, but if Texas has such a ridiculous asking price, he'll be a free agent in 2008, and has expressed interest in playing for the Yankees/Mattingly.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/07 11:56 AM

Ergo,

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerp...e=213576&spln=1
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/07 12:31 PM

Update on Gagne: The Yankees are among 12 teams that Gagne indicated in his contract that would not require his consent for a trade (partial NTC), which means that a deal can be done without having to offer financial incentive for him to head to New York.

I'd love to see all three - Gagne, Otsuka, and Teixiera in New York, but I'd take the first two for now.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/07 01:02 PM

More good news:

-It seems like out of the 12 teams, the only teams with legit interest in taking on Gagne's contract and injury risk are the Yankees and the Mets, and rumour has it that Omar Minaya is more interested in Buerhle and other starting pitching than he is in Gagne. So for the Yankees, a plus.

- Twins are trying to shop Torii Hunter to the team with the best package, and rumour has it Melky Cabrera's name is being mentioned quite a bit. Given that Damon is looking more and more decrepit every second in the outfield, is it too far fetched to think Hunter could come in and take the job? I like Hunter myself, but personally, I'd rather have Ichiro as my over-30 center fielder. Still, Abreu will be gone after this year if they can land Ichiro, so I'd love to see the Yankee outfield feature Matsui, Hunter, and Ichiro. Whoo.

Problem is, of course, we're back in the old style of getting over-30 players with large contracts. Out of the names mentioned, I'd most like to have Ichiro though.

- Yankees are pursuing Tampa Bay first-baseman Carlos Pena (i.e. the player we just let go for nothing a bit ago), in a trade that would send Sean Henn to the D-Rays, in exchange for Pena and Ty Wigginton. My thoughts? I don't know. Henn could develop into a nice reliever, and we desperately need bullpen help. Miguel Cairo should have the first base job until he proves he can't handle it, or Mientkeiwicz comes back.

- Yankees are "very interested" in acquiring Reds' RHP Dave Weathers OR Orioles Chad Bradford.

Bad news:

- Looks like Damon will head to the DL for the first time in his career. He says his "rib is shot." Uh. Makes you think about how signing Beltran would have been a nice move, and ALSO makes you weary of going after outfielders over 30 years of age. I consider Ichiro the only exception because he seems to be a conditioning phenom.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/07 06:35 PM

Giradi is a smart individual and doesn't want any part of the mess in Baltimore. I'd rather have him as a successor to Joe

----------------------------------------------------------------

Girardi declines Orioles' offer to take over team

BALTIMORE -- Joe Girardi declined an offer Thursday to become the new manager of the Baltimore Orioles, saying the timing wasn't right "for the Girardi family."

"Baltimore is a fine organization, a fine team, and I'm flattered that they considered me to possibly be their manager," Girardi, interviewed in the afternoon on The Dan Patrick Show on ESPN Radio said. "But the timing is not right for my family and I. That's basically it."

The discussions with Girardi began quickly after Baltimore fired Sam Perlozzo early Monday after his two-plus seasons as manager, and there were indications over the last 48 hours that Girardi was poised to take the job. He interviewed with the Orioles on Tuesday and offered the job the same day, ESPN's Peter Gammons reported.

By Wednesday night, the Orioles and Girardi had agreed to work on an agreement, ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney reported. But by early Thursday, Girardi's agent, Steve Mandel, said a marriage wasn't going to happen.

Girardi reiterated Thursday that he intends to manage in the majors again.

"I've made my feelings pretty known that I want to manage again," he said. "I absolutely love what I did last year. I think I'll know when [the right opportunity] comes and I'll say, 'This is the right time for the Girardi family.' "

Girardi downplayed speculation that he would be a strong candidate to replace Yankees manager Joe Torre however Torre leaves the job, saying there are plenty of managing jobs that would be considered good jobs if they were to open. Torre is signed through this season.

"I don't think there is a perfect scenario, but there's a ton of jobs obviously that at some point in your career a manager would love to have," Girardi said. "I'm extremely excited the Baltimore Orioles called me. It's a great job, too, but not at this time."

Girardi was a first-time manager last season, leading the Florida Marlins to a 78-84 record and keeping his youthful team in contention for a wild-card berth until late September.

The former big league catcher was fired at the end of the season following a rift with owner Jeffrey Loria and then was voted NL Manager of the Year -- the first to win the award with a losing record.

A former coach for Torre, Girardi returned to New York this season as a broadcaster for the club's YES Network.

After firing Perlozzo, the Orioles named bullpen coach Dave Trembley their interim manager and hired Andy MacPhail as chief operating officer of the Orioles. MacPhail has run both the Cubs and the Twins.

MacPhail and Girardi overlapped in Chicago during MacPhail's tenure as Cubs president, which began in 1994 and ended in 2006. Girardi was with the Cubs for two stints totaling six seasons, the last from 2000-02.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/07 06:35 PM

An interesting article on Carl Pavano
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/07 10:01 PM

Did they ACTUALLY get Farnsworth a pair of glasses so he can see the strike zone?
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/07 10:13 PM

The way the tides have turned, wouldn't it be some shit if neither the Yanks OR the Mets made the playoffs?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/07 10:33 PM

Stranger things have happened
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/21/07 11:42 PM

I, for one, think Roger has been worth every penny.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/07 01:32 AM

I agree. He had a rough outing today but still managed to get 6 strike outs in 4 1/3 innings
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/07 02:03 AM

Too depressing to even LOOK at this thread. I really thought that Rocket had brought some new energy and optimism to the team. The problem lately (well, maybe with the exception of today) hasn't been the damn pitching - where are the bats?? They couldn't hit the damn ball in Colorado. Mr. Babe swears it was the altitude.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/07 02:32 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
They couldn't hit the damn ball in Colorado. Mr. Babe swears it was the altitude.


The Rockies seemed to hit it just fine but I was wondering the same thing myself. They should have been killing it out of the ballpark
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/22/07 10:59 AM

Just when we looked like we were startimg to put things together. We get the big broom.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/07 03:17 AM

Clemens in 2057

Posted By: BDuff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/07 03:22 AM

Ahhh the Yankees sucking...is there anything sweeter? How's Clemens working out? I thought that move was a sign of desperation, c'mon 28 million?

I'm glad you took Abreu off our hands, his salary was killing us!

Go Phils!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/07 03:41 AM

 Originally Posted By: BDuff
Ahhh the Yankees sucking...is there anything sweeter? How's Clemens working out? I thought that move was a sign of desperation, c'mon 28 million?

I'm glad you took Abreu off our hands, his salary was killing us!

Go Phils!


We'll talk after the season when the Yankees are in the playoffs and the Philies aren't ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/07 06:17 AM

You know for his first start since May 4th, Igawa didn't do too badly:

-4 2/3 innings, 5 hits, 2 runs, 3 BB, 5 SO, 7.13 ERA. He wasn't able to get the ball down in the 5th

-And A-Rod does 4-for-4 with 2 RBI's

-Jeter extends his hitting streak to 16 games (he's already had a 20-game and 19 game hitting streak this year)
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/07 06:41 AM

Igawa didn't do too badly because he was facing the limp offense known as the Giants. Congratulations to all Yankees fans because after this weekend the Yankees will be well on their way to a confident winning streak thanks to my team, the punchless San Francisco Giants.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/07 12:38 PM

Well, being back 10 1/2 games again doesn't have many people \:D
again. And yes, most of us understand that we are playing the big bad Gaints. and don't about taking the win off them
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/07 02:45 PM

 Originally Posted By: Blibbleblabble
Igawa didn't do too badly because he was facing the limp offense known as the Giants. Congratulations to all Yankees fans because after this weekend the Yankees will be well on their way to a confident winning streak thanks to my team, the punchless San Francisco Giants.


I'd rather him face a team like the Giants first to build his confidence. Same thing with Clemens, that's why I'm glad he didn't face Boston first but rather Pittsburgh.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/07 11:27 PM

5-5, bottom of the 10th. At least ARod tied it up earlier.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/23/07 11:39 PM

Btw, with all their freaking money, why does FOX screw up the transmission every single time. Their satellite feed is the worst, and it's always screwing up. As much as I hate My9, it's a pleasure compared to FOX and Joe Buck.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/24/07 09:22 PM

What bothers you more.....Yanks 10.5 games back, or now the BlueJays ahead in the standings?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/25/07 12:11 PM

WTF... \:\( losing two out of three to the Gaints, really Sucks
What next? geting beat up by Baltimore?
Back to 11 1/2 games back and once again we sit below .500
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/25/07 05:44 PM

They are very typical of a .500 club right now. .500 teams seem to win 6 or 7 in a row, then lose 5 out of 6, then win, then lose, and this goes on all year.

I just cant imagine them getting to the 95 or 96 wins it'll take them to sneak into the playoffs, even as a wildcard. I mean, we'll be in July in less than a week.

"There just wasn't enough time, Mr. Steinbrenner."
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/25/07 05:49 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
I just cant imagine them getting to the 95 or 96 wins it'll take them to sneak into the playoffs, even as a wildcard. I mean, we'll be in July in less than a week.


They'd have to play at a 59-30 clip (.663) to get to 95 wins. I don't think they have the pitching to do that.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 12:26 PM

In the interest of at least keeping the summer interesting, these are the moves the Yankees should make to remain...umm..."competitive."

1.) Acquire Milton Bradley. You could get him for a bag of potato chips (as the Royals did for all of five seconds before the injury wiped out the trade). Send the A's a briefcase with unmarked $1 bills.

Why this makes sense: The Yankees could use an offensive upgrade over Melky. Despite the problems associated with Bradley (still rather have him than Elijah Dukes, *shudder*), he has some nice stats and can get on the ball. Considering his price is ridiculously low, the Yankees can move Damon to the DL and have a competent hitter and fielder playing center.

2.) Send Damon to the DL. I realize he is proud of his record of never spending time on the DL, but all things must pass.

Why it makes sense: Damon contributes nothing right now. His legs are dragging, so he can't steal or make plays in the outfield. You could get a Little Leaguer out there with a better gun from center field. Send him to the DL. If he comes back still out of sorts, its time to consider shipping him. Damon is under contract until 2009. He'll need to be a full-time DH by then, and I don't think its worth it.

3.) Sign Sal Fasano AGAIN. They never should have let him go in the first place, but the 'stache had some panache that we lack this year.

Why it makes sense: Wil Nieves has spent 11+ years in the minors. He can't hit nor play defense (despite Mike Mussina's adopting him as his exclusive catcher). Fasano played the best defense behind the plate when the Yankees didn't have a guy named Posada there already. Toronto has cut him, so he should be an easy, cheap pickup.

4.) Revamp the bullpen. Some of us were optimistic about Brian Cashman's patchwork this offseason. We shouldn't have been. This bullpen is one of the worst in baseball, and there is no confidence in this team for holding a lead. Trade for Gagne and/or Otsuka as solid set-up men, who can anchor the back end for the first time since Tom "Flash" Gordon left. Cut Ron Villone. Trade Kyle Farnsworth for whatever you can. I'm not high on Vizcaino, but he seems to be improving a little. The Yankees have two relievers lighting up the minors - Chris Britton and Edwar Ramirez. Promote them. This offseason, deal Viz and cut Myers, and get some decent bullpen help.

Why it makes sense: When you have a team with aging starting pitching that can't make it past 5-6 innings, there is no way you can have a bullpen as shaky as this one. Yearning for the days of Rivera-Wetteland-Nelson? Yeah. So is everyone else. These kids cannot be any worse than our current bullpen.

5.) Make the deal for Mark Teixiera NOW. Yes, it will cost some serious prospects - including Ian Kennedy or Betances or Chamberlain or Joba. I doubt that the deal would get done with only Clippard/Wright/DeSalvo. Clippard would be the only viable prospect in that deal. But sooner, rather than later, would be appropriate. The Yankees have no first baseman with both hitting and defensive prowess.

Why it makes sense: The Yankees are in the Teixiera sweepstakes, but other teams will be pushing hard for his services. With a glut of prospects in our system, this is why you have trading chips. He's young, he's a Gold Glove defensive player, and he hammers the ball a ton. First time we've seen a player like that since Mattingly. It gets him acquainted with the rest of the infield throughout the end of 2007, ready to go full-time in 2008. Will it cost a lot? Yep. Will it be worth it? Yep. The last few seasons have shown that patchwork will not work with this aging team.

OTHER ALTERNATIVES: Devil Rays need to get rid of an outfielder. Go after Carl Crawford. He would be a huge addition. I'd also be satisfied with Rocco Baldelli, even though he has a bit of injury trouble. Jermaine Dye is out of the question, imho. He's too old, and he's in his walk year. I wouldn't go after Buerhle either, unless he comes cheap, which he won't. Mussina needs to go. Somehow. Somewhere. Giambi too. Both guys have albatross contracts in terms of liquidity, with full NTC's and are signed for awhile. The Angels want Giambi. Good. Make it worth it for him to be gone.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 01:17 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J

1.) Acquire Milton Bradley. You could get him for a bag of potato chips (as the Royals did for all of five seconds before the injury wiped out the trade). Send the A's a briefcase with unmarked $1 bills.

Why this makes sense: The Yankees could use an offensive upgrade over Melky. Despite the problems associated with Bradley (still rather have him than Elijah Dukes, *shudder*), he has some nice stats and can get on the ball.

3.) Sign Sal Fasano AGAIN. They never should have let him go in the first place, but the 'stache had some panache that we lack this year.





With Bradley, be careful what you wish for. Bradley has given me the greatest personal sports thrills, so I'll always have a soft spot for him. It was a AA championship deciding game in 1999. His Harrisburg Senators were trailing the Norwich (the then Yankee affiliate) by 3 in the bottom of the ninth with two outs. He drilled a 3-2 pitch over the right field fence to win the game after striking out 4 times earlier. I would have seen it live, but we left after the eighth - it was cold, misty, and the kids had school the next day (and I listened to my wife ). The next year, he signed a photo of the hit for me, which I have framed.

But, in truth, Bradley is more trouble than he's worth. there isn't a player currently in team sports who even closely approaches his level of disruptive behavior. This trend was evident when he was a minor league player as he was suspended for spitting and shoving an umpire, and engaging in altercations with teammates and coaches. He 's thrown a bottle at and atacked fans in LA. he is truly a sociopath, whose most egregious outburst is surely yet to come, given the opportunity. Torre, Jeter, Steinbrenner and the NYPD won't be able to turn him into a gentleman. Playing in the Steinbrenner pressure cooker certainly would be the perfect atmosphere for him to surpass the actions of Jimmy Piersall. Also, he is a career .270 hitter with average power for his position.

I've always liked Sal Fasano, who beat out a bunt for a hit this year. He brings a lot of spunk although he won't win many games for you with his bat.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 04:21 PM

Well, the Yankees need three starting pitchers, since they truly can only count on Pettite and Wang. They need an entire new bullpen, and must start grooming a new closer. Then, the outfield needs to be looked at. Abreu's gone after this year, Matsui never truly came back after last year's injury and Melky is good, but not great. Damon can't be counted on this season, that's for sure. Oh, and they definitely need a back-up catcher. OOPS!! And how could I forget their need for a first baseman???

That's only about 12 players. That shouldn't be a problem, should it?
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 04:35 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Well, the Yankees need three starting pitchers, since they truly can only count on Pettite and Wang. They need an entire new bullpen, and must start grooming a new closer. Then, the outfield needs to be looked at. Abreu's gone after this year, Matsui never truly came back after last year's injury and Melky is good, but not great. Damon can't be counted on this season, that's for sure. Oh, and they definitely need a back-up catcher. OOPS!! And how could I forget their need for a first baseman???

That's only about 12 players. That shouldn't be a problem, should it?


Don't forget a thirdbaseman for next season. A-Rod will probably opt out of his current contract and return to playing shortstop somewhwere in California.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 04:55 PM

Then you should also throw out Torre and Cashman and start clean.
You know Boston doesn't look so dumb. They let Pedro and Damon go before they got stuck with two broken down nags and a big payroll around their necks.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 05:00 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Then you should also throw out Torre and Cashman and start clean.
You know Boston doesn't look so dumb. They let Pedro and Damon go before they got stuck with two broken down nags and a big payroll around their necks.


Well, this being Joe's contract year, would he really want to be a part of rebuilding?

As far as Cashman, George sent him his missive two months ago.

I doubt anything will happen mid-season but I don't think he'll be back.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 06:51 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Then you should also throw out Torre and Cashman and start clean.
You know Boston doesn't look so dumb. They let Pedro and Damon go before they got stuck with two broken down nags and a big payroll around their necks.


They also wouldn't sign or offer a deal to Schilling for next season. but they almost got stuck with Clemens.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 08:07 PM

I don't understand why they didn't try to get Soriano back when they had the chance. No matter where they put him, I think that he would've been an addition to the team.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 09:06 PM

Yeah, Soriano would help. He was playing second when Bradley hit the homer I noted in my earlier post by the way. I was always surprised they didn't make a run for Vladimir Guerrerro instead of Sheffield a few years ago.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 09:07 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
I was always surprised they didn't make a run for Vladimir Guerrerro instead of Sheffield a few years ago.


They should have. At least we'd have a right fielder for next season
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 09:10 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

They should have. At least we'd have a right fielder for next season


And the next season...and the one after that...and the one after that...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 09:19 PM

True, the Yanks have just made some bad moves the past couple of seasons plus players that have been brought in haven't been performing. I hear both the Mets and Yanks are in the annual Dontrelle Willis sweepstakes.

I agree with you klydon and think A-Rod will fly away unfortunately. If he does, the Yankees should turn to the Marlins and see what it would take to pry Miguel Cabrera from them.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 11:22 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

They should have. At least we'd have a right fielder for next season


And the next season...and the one after that...and the one after that...


Oh, he was washed up 3 years ago, because of his bad back. Just ask the Mets front office. They'll explain it to you.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/26/07 11:57 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
True, the Yanks have just made some bad moves the past couple of seasons plus players that have been brought in haven't been performing. I hear both the Mets and Yanks are in the annual Dontrelle Willis sweepstakes.

I agree with you klydon and think A-Rod will fly away unfortunately. If he does, the Yankees should turn to the Marlins and see what it would take to pry Miguel Cabrera from them.


Cabrera would be a major coup for the Yankees, and I wouldn't mind seeing him leave the Phillies' division. He's going to be great for a long time. You might have to empty the farm system to get him. That would be the deal to part ways with Hughes.

It always seems that Willis is destined to be moved. Whoever gets him will likely overpay as I see it. I always thought that his reputation exceeded his talent. While he hasn't been as consistent as an Andy Pettite, he's capable of the occasional great game. He's an outstanding hitter too for a pitcher.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/07 12:15 AM

No offense, but if the Yanks spend big bucks on Willis, I can tell you that as a Fish fan....

Thats silly.

As good as he can be, hes incredibly inconsistent and I can hear Irish's own frail speech saying how the Yanks need to trade him, and DoubleJ giving a logical argument of HOW he could be.

But Cabrera....he's the way of the future.

God damn you, fucking cheap-ass Marlins ownership!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/07 12:17 AM

Why are they losing again? And to the Orioles no less? So freaking depressing.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/07 02:28 AM


THE PROCTOLOGIST CAN GO F HIMSELF!!!
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/07 02:36 AM

I take it the Yankees lost.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/07 03:10 AM


Yeah, on Jeter's 33rd birthday, too! Where's SB? Is she at his birthday party?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/07 10:48 AM

Another lost to a shit team. I've got to tell you that the Yankees aren't worth the money they are getting paid. You can almost put them in the same league as Mcmahon and his wrestlers.

The only good thing is that Boston also lost, or we would be another game down.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/07 11:12 AM

Time to be sellers at the trade deadline...anyone want a Damon? How about a nice Giambi? We'll give you the entire bullpen (except Mariano Rivera) for your batboy and the peanut vender in the upper tier 36.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/07 01:13 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Time to be sellers at the trade deadline...anyone want a Damon? How about a nice Giambi? We'll give you the entire bullpen (except Mariano Rivera) for your batboy and the peanut vender in the upper tier 36.


I think it's too early to throw in the towel. But I think the Yankees should be both buyers and sellers at the trade deadline. Unload some dead weight and payroll, but pick up an innings eater, a fresh bullpen arm, and a first baseman. It's a tough road.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/27/07 02:16 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

Yeah, on Jeter's 33rd birthday, too! Where's SB? Is she at his birthday party?


You didn't see the headline in todays NY Post about the strange woman who got thrown out...oh, never mind.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/07 11:23 AM

Well, another depressing night in Baltimore. I actually watched Mandy Patinkin save a Russian from some kidnappers rather than continue the painful experience of seeing Rocket allow a 3 run home run.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/07 11:31 AM

"Turn the lights out...the party's over..."

How about Abreu, the entire bullpen, and an autographed Miguel Cairo trading card for anyone under 30?
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/07 11:32 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Well, another depressing night in Baltimore.


I have a lot of those.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/07 11:52 AM

One of the things I have noticed is that there needs to be a change from management on the field level all the way up to the GM - because we have some talent that is rotting away in Scranton-Wilkes Barre. Ex:

Chris Britton
 Code:
W  L  ERA  G  GS  CG  SHO  SV  IP  H  R  ER  HR  HB  BB  SO  WHIP  HLD  GF  
2  0  2.25 21  0   0   0    7  36  33 12  9   2   0  11  42  1.22   5    9 


Edwar Ramirez
 Code:
W  L  ERA  G  GS  CG  SHO  SV   IP   H  R  ER  HR  HB  BB  SO  WHIP  HLD  GF
0  0  0.76 14  0   0   0    4  23.2  13 2   2   0   1   9  41  0.93   4   6


Jim Brower
 Code:
W  L  ERA  G  GS  CG  SHO  SV   IP   H  R  ER  HR  HB  BB  SO  WHIP  HLD  GF
3  0  2.08 22  0   0   0   13  26.0  19 6   6   0   2   5  28  0.92   0   20  


Versus...

Kyle Farnsworth, Vizcaino, and Villone...

Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/07 11:56 AM

Don't forget the Proctologist, DJ!! And what about Matsui dropping that ball last night, allowing a base hit?? Gina and I were talking about how bad it has gotten for both of our teams, and we've decided to call 2007 The Summer of Suck, or maybe it was The Summer They Sucked. Either way, they're playing like crap.

I told Mr. Babe last night that maybe the Yankees were just faking it, like when Rocky takes punches from his opponent and then comes out swinging. He just looked at me and said, I don't think losing games is a strategy.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/07 12:07 PM

How about Proctor for an colostomy bag? I bet throwing that at opposing batters would be more effective. \:p
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/07 02:58 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
How about Proctor for an colostomy bag? I bet throwing that at opposing batters would be more effective. \:p


He'd still end up walking them. Or maybe they'd be running!! \:o
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/07 07:35 PM

Okay, next option:

Deport Bobby Abreu and sign Jimmy Hoffa to play right field.

At least we know Jimmy can get a hit! \:p
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/07 07:43 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Okay, next option:

Deport Bobby Abreu and sign Jimmy Hoffa to play right field.

At least we know Jimmy can get a hit!


Jimmy got hit. He's playing for the Giants in the Meadowlands... literally IN the Meadowlands.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/07 08:24 PM

Didn't the Giants move out West? \:p
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/28/07 09:50 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Didn't the Giants move out West?




Yeah, I guess they forgot to tell Hoffa.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/07 01:57 AM

Oh, please oh please oh please let them win. At least they tied it up.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/07 02:06 AM

It's pouring in Baltimore, the Yankees have two men on, two outs, and Jeter's up. A two run single from Captain Clutch!!! The Yankees now lead by 2!! Go Jeter, Go Jeter, Go Jeter!!!!!!

And then they go and put out the tarp. Hee!
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/07 11:12 AM

It sure wasn't a pretty site in Baltimore last night. Each night the Yankees are looking more and more like a second rate team.
There is no way a team like the Giants and Baltimore should be giving a good Yankee team this much trouble. These are the teams that they should be beating up on. Instead they struggle.
If the bats didn't keep up with Baltimore, then we would once again be crying this morning.

I'm glad Boston hasn't been hot or we would be 15 games back.

Someone should check on Irishman, with the Yankees doing so bad and Benoit dying and all his little babes doing rehab he may be in need of a pick me up.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/07 02:47 PM

We need Fukudome!

I can't wait until this year is over so we can dump Abreu and get either Ichiro or Fukudome. Seriously. Someone who can hit the fucking ball.

Because Abreu is a headcase ala Armando Benitez.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/07 02:50 PM

I think that we have enough bats on the team that I don't think we need to get someone who can HIT the ball to replace Abreu. Someone who could CATCH the ball, however, would be a welcome change.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/07 02:52 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
It sure wasn't a pretty site in Baltimore last night. Each night the Yankees are looking more and more like a second rate team.
There is no way a team like the Giants and Baltimore should be giving a good Yankee team this much trouble. These are the teams that they should be beating up on. Instead they struggle.
If the bats didn't keep up with Baltimore, then we would once again be crying this morning.

I'm glad Boston hasn't been hot or we would be 15 games back.

Someone should check on Irishman, with the Yankees doing so bad and Benoit dying and all his little babes doing rehab he may be in need of a pick me up.


You know, animosity aside, I do actually worry about Irishman. The fact that he didn't reply to the Benoit story (which is weird since he apparently was as much of a Benoit Mark back in the day as I was) and with the Yanks spiraling further as time is running out (if not already)....yeah its bizarre.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/07 02:52 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I think that we have enough bats on the team that I don't think we need to get someone who can HIT the ball to replace Abreu. Someone who could CATCH the ball, however, would be a welcome change.


Ichiro would do it. He's won a few Gold Gloves.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/07 04:02 PM

Weird game. Even when they win they can't get the official W until next month.

Very tough homestand coming up. It's now or never.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/29/07 09:54 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I think that we have enough bats on the team that I don't think we need to get someone who can HIT the ball to replace Abreu. Someone who could CATCH the ball, however, would be a welcome change.


Ichiro would do it. He's won a few Gold Gloves.


Ichiro is my #1 choice for the Yankees to acquire in free agency this offseason, despite the ration of shit I catch every time I mention him to my fellow Yankee fans. I know it goes against a.) the Yankees getting younger and b.) the 30 and over rule of outfielders going downhill, but Ichiro is a phenom and in spectacular condition. I can't see his game dropping off that drastically when he is in such good shape.

And hell, I hear the Twins still want to do a Torii Hunter/Melky Cabrera trade straight up. I'd do it.

My biggest goals for this upcoming offseason? Dump Giambi and find a way to get rid of Damon. Preferably acquire some middle relief in these deals. And get a marquee first baseman.

That already addresses some huge issues. We're stuck with Mussina, because of a horrid two year deal we gave him, so our rotation will feature Wang, Pettitte, Hughes, Mussina, and another pitcher. Carlos Zambrano? I don't know. I do think he'd transition better than Willis to the AL, but I think there are cheaper (or better) options you can plug into the 4-5 spot that will be available, including John Smoltz (Braves have a club option though, so he'll probably be off the market), Jake Westbrook, Freddy Garcia, Jason Isringhausen (another '08 club option so probably no-go), Jason Jennings, and our favorite guy who we've given away in the last couple of years, Jon Lieber.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/07 06:02 AM

I'd love to see Ichiro in pinstripes DJ, so you're not alone
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/07 02:30 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I'd love to see Ichiro in pinstripes DJ, so you're not alone


Oh good, the suicide rate didn't go up the other day.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/07 02:55 PM

Jeter made one of the best plays I've seen this season yesterday when he went DEEP into the hole to field a ball, and then threw the hitter out at first.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/07 04:43 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
Jeter made one of the best plays I've seen this season yesterday when he went DEEP into the hole to field a ball, and then threw the hitter out at first.


Jeter has made some impressive plays over the years, and this definitely ranks way up there. It WAS amazing. But then, he's Jeter. \:D
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/07 08:03 PM

One hit?

Say it ain't so, Irish.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 06/30/07 08:04 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

Yeah, on Jeter's 33rd birthday, too! Where's SB? Is she at his birthday party?


"They didn't know it was Jeter's birthday."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/01/07 03:27 AM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
One hit?

Say it ain't so, Irish.


I'm telling you man, it's probably over for the year. I think the Yankees should be sellers at the trade deadline (Abreu, Giambi) and try to rebuild for next year.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/01/07 11:26 AM

Forget trading Abreu, except maybe as a rental, with the Yankees picking up nearly all of the salary. He's an FA after this year, so no team will want to pick him up unless they are desperate (DESPERATE) for a right fielder in the playoffs.

Giambi should be gone - the Angels need a power hitter, and have shown interest before the injury/Selig stuff - so I suspect # 2+5 = 7 will be gone.

They will try to move Damon too, if not by the deadline than before the start of next season.

Other movers? Expect Farnsworth to be gone within the next week or so. I don't think his hissy fit and cursing at Torre will go over well. Much of the bullpen will probably be scrapped. Bye bye Moose.

Hopefully, this is the good kind of rebuilding. I'd even be content to keep Cashman. Not sure about Torre (do we want a *true* fresh start) but I'd love to see Girardi at the help with a group of younger, hungry players.

The biggest issue will be getting players to waive their No-Trade-Clauses (full or partial/10+5), but hopefully the prospect of "rebuilding" will motivate someone like Giambi to go to a contender like Los Angeles.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/01/07 12:22 PM

That is OK Irish, there is a new Harry Potter film on its way.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/01/07 01:37 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Forget trading Abreu, except maybe as a rental, with the Yankees picking up nearly all of the salary. He's an FA after this year, so no team will want to pick him up unless they are desperate (DESPERATE) for a right fielder in the playoffs.

Giambi should be gone - the Angels need a power hitter, and have shown interest before the injury/Selig stuff - so I suspect # 2+5 = 7 will be gone.

They will try to move Damon too, if not by the deadline than before the start of next season.

Other movers? Expect Farnsworth to be gone within the next week or so. I don't think his hissy fit and cursing at Torre will go over well. Much of the bullpen will probably be scrapped. Bye bye Moose.

Hopefully, this is the good kind of rebuilding. I'd even be content to keep Cashman. Not sure about Torre (do we want a *true* fresh start) but I'd love to see Girardi at the help with a group of younger, hungry players.

The biggest issue will be getting players to waive their No-Trade-Clauses (full or partial/10+5), but hopefully the prospect of "rebuilding" will motivate someone like Giambi to go to a contender like Los Angeles.


Torre is out with the Yankees anyway by the end of the season, or whenever the Boss loses his patience.

The question is, will Papa George do the right thing and hire Giradi as his replacement, or Don I'M A LEGEND DAMMIT, THATS ENOUGH FOR ME! Mattingly?

I say Giradi. He turned down the Orioles job, and quite frankly, hes impressed me more than Donny Mac. Giradi has won the NL Manager of the Year hardware in his first full season, he's a Yankee, he's got fire in his belly, and you know what?

I actually could see him bitchsmacking A-Rod or Jeter or Damon or anyone that whines to him. Really, I picture him as the new Billy Martin.

Which means, Papa George will hire him three times over many years...
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/01/07 01:38 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
That is OK Irish, there is a new Harry Potter film on its way.


OK, thats funny. Fathersson, you the man.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/07 11:39 AM

Sorry, but I think it's been proven that Martin's way didn't work, except to create headlines. Torre's calm is the face of all the Yankee storm is what works, and has for how many years now??

We are spoiled rotten as Yankee fans. Who else can say that there team has won the division year after year after year. That's hard enough to do, much less get to the Series and then WIN the series. C'mon!!

If I had to choose between Torre and Cashman, then Cashman would be the one to go. Torre only plays with what he's given, and he's been winning in spite of poor pitching, excessive injuries, and so on for years now. Show me anyone else in baseball who could do that!!
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/07 01:26 PM

As poorly as the Yankees are playing, it seems Boston and Toronto can not broaden the gap between themselves and New York. The Red Sox could be up 15 games if they had been winning their past few series. It is not uncommon for a team to make up such ground with half a season to go.

The Yankees have an easy stretch (granted, nothing's been easy for them) coming up. They have to make hay while the sun's shining, and go 20-8 or 19-9 during the stretch.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/07 01:43 PM

I caught the tail-end of a news report this morning about a controversial shirt that A-Rod's wife wore to the game yesterday.

Does anyone know what it sad? Sounds like it didn't go over well with the organization.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/07 02:32 PM

I don't know anything about it, Klyd, and there was nothing in my local paper.
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/07 02:41 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I don't know anything about it, Klyd, and there was nothing in my local paper.


Here it is. People were upset because there were children sitting right behind her with the words "fuck you" clear to see.

Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/07 03:08 PM

Babe is right about Torre. Only Bobby Cox has been able to do what Torre's done (in modern times, anyway) and you never hear about Braves fans asking for his head. However, this being New York, I'm not 100% sure he'll be back. Cashman will be held repsonsible for this season for sure.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/07 03:49 PM

I'd like to see anyone else win their division with the likes of Al Leiter, Shawn Chacon and Aaron Small, plus key players like Sheffield, Mussina, Wang and Matsui out with injuries, and yet Torre did it. Everyone was crying for the Red Sox when they lost Varitek last year, saying that's why they lost the division, yet calling for Joe's head because he couldn't get the team to the Series. Ridiculous! The Yankees are a mess right now, and it shows. But to blame Torre is just absurd. He's done unimaginable things with this team over the years, but it looks like his bag of miracles is used up.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/02/07 04:10 PM

To be fair, I think Joe Torre is an amazing manager, and deserves the eventual hall of fame nod he'll receive once he has retired.

But there have been plenty of occasions where I've had to scratch my head - keeping Mariano Rivera on the bench in the 8th when he claimed he was worried he'd been overworked, yet Rivera hadn't pitched in nearly a week (and his overall amount of duty this year has been comparably small to his previous seasons). His batting order/benching/non-benching of players is pretty drab and non-effectual. He hasn't been able to work with and motivate some players (Abreu, Cano, etc.) and has been too fond of going with "favorites" over the past few years (see Sturtze/Quantrill, last year Villone/Proctor, now again) by refusing to bring up performing minor league talent for the bullpen and the batting order. They've had to give starters a try, because of injury. But as I've posted before, we have a handful of players who are excelling at Triple-A, and we keep guys like Abreu in the lineup rather than benching them until they wake the fuck up.

I like Torre a lot, but after this season, I would not be against a wholesale change if someone like Girardi (or gasp, Bobby Valentine?) would come into the managers role.

And again, to be fair, he is dealing with a situation that was created by both a lack of forethought on the part of the front office and bad luck (signing Sheffield over Guerrerro a few years ago, Damon over Beltran, in general not moving the team in a youthful direction). I love what Cashman has done with the minor leagues - building up a nice set of prospects - but at the same time, the team has finally jumped the shark.

Klydon is right - a lot of ground can be made up in half a season. A-Rod, Jeter, and Posada need to keep playing like the all-stars they are. Matsui needs to find his swing, which he's been looking for since his injury last year. Abreu needs to find himself, wherever he is. Last I heard he was lurking somewhere back in mid-May. Cano needs to have someone teach him plate discipline (where is Kevin Long?). Damon needs to go on the DL. Melky needs to step up. Mienkeiwicz needs to return. Trades need to be made.

It could be a long, depressing summer. Or one that makes for must-see TV. We'll see...
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 01:16 AM

Uh-Oh!! ARod's hurt??? Geez, just when they're actually winning a game???
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 06:55 AM

Wow, Clemens brought it last night. 2 hits, 1 run in 8 innings? That's why they're paying the man.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 07:29 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Uh-Oh!! ARod's hurt??? Geez, just when they're actually winning a game???

Bite your tongue -- he's on my team!! \:o
 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew
Wow, Clemens brought it last night. 2 hits, 1 run in 8 innings? That's why they're paying the man.

And how'd he do before tonite, for how much money again? \:\/
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 11:39 AM

Keep it going boys. You actually showed up last night. Kudos.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 02:23 PM

I'm late getting back to the threads. After seeing the message on A-Rod's wife's shirt, I knew why he cavorted with the bleach-blonde stripper/hooker. He wanted to spend time with a lady, who had a little bit of class. ;\)
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 02:26 PM

I am a bit surprised at her. I mean, she DID have her daughter with her and all.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 02:49 PM

Maybe it said "Fcuk You" ?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 07:39 PM

Does anyone know how ARod is? The 11:00 news said that he had a strained hamstring, but haven't heard anything since.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 07:40 PM

MRI today. But I haven't heard anything.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 07:44 PM

Thanks, PB. Well, that would be an interesting end to their season, would it not? Since, with the exception of Jeter and Posada, ARod seems to be one of the only players actually playing with some consistency!

I almost threw up when they were making Abreu the hero of the night last night. How about playing like that the majority of the time, Bobby boy???
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 07:47 PM

I think Abreu has mental problems. He reminds me of Armando Benitez, all the talent in the world EXCEPT he can't handle pressure. Small, minor detail, Bobby.

If it weren't for A-Rod the Yanks would be 20 games out right now instead of 11.

Not that it matters, this season is on the verge of being over.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 07:54 PM

C'mon, what's 11 games?? I still hold hope. Slight, but it's still hope.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 09:40 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
I think Abreu has mental problems. He reminds me of Armando Benitez, all the talent in the world EXCEPT he can't handle pressure. Small, minor detail, Bobby.


Yeah, I think I mentioned this earlier as well. Both guys have some great skills, but unfortunately, both have mental issues which manifest, conveniently enough, during their tenure(s) as Yankees.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 09:44 PM

BTW - A-Rod Update

According to Peter Abraham's LoHud Yankees blog, A-Rod is in the starting lineup for tonights game. He's taking batting practice as we speak.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 10:01 PM

Thanks, DJ. I watched the news tonight to see what they said about him, but I got a phone call and missed sports. Good news!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/03/07 10:16 PM

Yeah, really. If he is out for an extended period, it may be time to pack up our troubles in the old kit-bag and smile, smile, smile right into the basement. \:p
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/07 01:54 AM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
I think Abreu has mental problems. He reminds me of Armando Benitez, all the talent in the world EXCEPT he can't handle pressure. Small, minor detail, Bobby.

If it weren't for A-Rod the Yanks would be 20 games out right now instead of 11.

Not that it matters, this season is on the verge of being over.


Abreu has no problem at all with pressure. His career has been one of complacency. Winning was never paramount to him. Before you can feel pressure, you have to give a damn, and I never got the impression from his years in Philly that it mattered whether the team won or lost.

One thing about him that you may not know: In his second last season with the Phils, he was engaged to a gorgeous model. He was about 2 weeks from his wedding when he discovered that she was all over hard core internet porn sites.

The wedding was off and so was his swing.
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/07 01:59 AM

Alicia Machado or something close to that Klydon.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/07 02:05 AM

Hey Ramirez strikes out the side in the bottom of the 9th! Give him Farnsworth's job, PLEASE!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/07 04:08 AM

 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone
Alicia Machado or something close to that Klydon.


Interesting how that name just popped into your head.
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/07 04:28 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone
Alicia Machado or something close to that Klydon.


Interesting how that name just popped into your head.


I'm just very smart, some women would want that in a boytoy
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/07 03:49 PM

So who called K-Ram? Glad to be of service. Yeah. He must weigh what, 150 pounds soaking wet? Somebody get that man a steak. He earned it.

Nasty, nasty, nasty change. Probably the only guy in our 'pen who can use an offspeed pitch (and hit the strike zone no less).

If he can keep it up (and his 27 k/9 ratio), then I think they should move Farnsworth immediately.

BTW - coincidence? Both Mariano Rivera and Edwar Ramirez made their debuts on nearly the same day in history - July 3rd 1995, and July 4th, 2007.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/04/07 03:51 PM

Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/07 12:27 PM

Yankee fans must really be depressed. No posts for days and only one post by Irishman in some time.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/07 12:41 PM

Why should we be depressed? They won several games lately, and last night's win against the Angels was terrific, since we usually play abominably against them.

Maybe we're just too busy celebrating to post!
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/07 02:44 PM

Celebrating being a game under five hundred and 11 games back? Well...it's an improvement. \:p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/07 08:07 PM

 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Yankee fans must really be depressed. No posts for days and only one post by Irishman in some time.


I had shit to do, places to go, people to see.

Then again, according to Ronnie, I don't think much of the people here, so maybe that's why I don't visit. \:p
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/07/07 08:24 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Andrew
Celebrating being a game under five hundred and 11 games back? Well...it's an improvement. \:p


No matter what their record, I'd still rather watch the Yankees play than any other team. We'll just have to see how the season goes, and chat again in about 6 or 7 weeks.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/08/07 12:41 AM

Hadda be painful for any Yankee fan to watch today's game... Clemens pitched well enough for the "W" but he forgot to tell the Yankee offense that.

Made me feel old to see some of the "oldtimers" at their annual show today... I remember when some of them first started playing. \:\(
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/08/07 04:41 AM

It's amazing how little offensivesupport clemens has gotten in the past three seasons.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/08/07 04:06 PM

What, no one begging for Cano's head?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/08/07 04:07 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Yankee fans must really be depressed. No posts for days and only one post by Irishman in some time.


I had shit to do, places to go, people to see.

Then again, according to Ronnie, I don't think much of the people here, so maybe that's why I don't visit. \:p


You poor baby. I promise I won't hurt you so hard next time then.

\:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/08/07 05:15 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: fathersson
Yankee fans must really be depressed. No posts for days and only one post by Irishman in some time.


I had shit to do, places to go, people to see.

Then again, according to Ronnie, I don't think much of the people here, so maybe that's why I don't visit. \:p


You poor baby. I promise I won't hurt you so hard next time then.

\:D


Hurt? You can't be hurt if you don't care. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/08/07 05:26 PM

Wait, Melky Cabrera struck out 5 times yesterday? Donnie, how about a week in the batting cage for the kid
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/07 12:37 AM

Yes, SC, yesterday's loss was a tough one. However, today's win ALMOST made up for it. I would've liked to see those runs spread out over a few games.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/07 04:21 AM

Not the best first half of baseball in Yankees history, but they are only 10 games out. Wang had a good outing and A-Rod just continues to kill the ball
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/07 04:15 PM

Lay off Melky. He's what, 21, 22? Christ. Bernie Williams wasn't Bernie Williams overnight. He's shown some flashes of power and he's at worst a great utility outfielder. Leave the kid alone... \:\/
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/07 06:29 PM

I understand that. I just don't want another Doug M. up there who can't even hit his weight ;\)
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/07 07:32 PM

Yup, that was always the Yankees problem. By the time these guys get to be known as super stars and we just have to have them here in New York they are already half worn out if not half broken down. Then they trade all the young players away to get the worn out superstars with the big payroll and the worn out arms and legs.

Well, Boston has let some games get by them so we are still not six feet under. The Yankee bats have come back around, but for how long, Who knows?

I'm glad to see that Irishman has popped his head in. I was getting worried that something had happen to him. Rumor had it that he started watching golf with Tiger Woods. \:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/09/07 07:46 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I understand that. I just don't want another Doug M. up there who can't even hit his weight ;\)


Hey, Doug M. was doing quite good until he got injured...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/07 01:31 AM

BREAKING NEWS: A-ROD TO OPT OUT

 Quote:
Source: Buster Olney, ESPNRadio/MVN.com

http://mvn.com/newswire/2007/07/09/a-rod-plans-to-opt-out/

According to Buster Olney of ESPN Radio, Alex Rodriguez has announced that he will opt out of his contract at the end of the year. However, Olney also noted that A-Rod would remain with the Yankees if they signed him to a three-year, $81 million contract.


Fuckface.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/07 02:22 AM

What happened to how much he loves NY and is so happy to be there, and just be helping the team to win??
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/07 03:23 AM

That is what happens after New York Bashed his wife and her tee shirt.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/07 03:25 AM

Oh boy, here comes the hate for A-Rod.

Then again, maybe he'll resign. I mean, get out of that ridiculous contract and resign a new contract that might be more favorable to him....especially if he pulls off a 3rd AL MVP crown.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/07 10:59 AM

To be fair, this story is now being widely discredited, and it appears that Most Valuable Network (MVN.com) that linked to the story either did it as a hoax, or because they are fuckwits.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/07 03:19 PM

Hopefully coming back soon

----------------------------------------------------------------

'I didn't feel a thing out there'

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- New York Yankees rookie Phil Hughes pitched two innings Monday for Class A Tampa in his first minor league rehab start since being sidelined more than two months by ankle and hamstring injuries.

Hughes didn't allow a hit, gave up an unearned run and walked two. He struck out three against the Dunedin Blue Jays.

His next start is scheduled for Saturday with Double-A Trenton.

Hughes hurt his hamstring May 1 while he was working on a no-hit bid in the seventh inning against Texas in his second major league start. He hurt his left ankle May 25 while doing an agility drill during a rehab program for a strained left hamstring.

"I was a little tentative in the first inning, but that's to be expected," said Hughes, who threw 20 of 36 pitches for strikes and had his fastball reach 94 mph. "The second inning I felt a lot more comfortable. I was kind of letting it go and not really thinking about landing as much on my front foot or anything like that."

Hughes said he was encouraged that his ankle and hamstring held up well.

"I didn't feel a thing out there so it was good," Hughes said.

The Yankees are 42-43 at the All-Star break and their rotation has been hurt by injuries.

"It's been very tough," Hughes said. "Not just the fact that the team is struggling, but from a selfish point of view, you never want to be out, whether I was in Triple-A or the big leagues.

"It's frustrating, especially the amount of time. You know little injuries are going to happen, but twice in a row like it did, it's very frustrating. I try not to dwell on it too much."

Jeff Karstens, out since April 28 with a broken right leg, is scheduled to make his second rehab start Thursday at Class A Staten Island. He threw 3 1-3 scoreless innings last Saturday in a Gulf Coast League game.

Source: SI
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/10/07 03:21 PM

Maybe a little fresh meat will give them the push they need for the second half.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/11/07 08:53 PM

Change of heart?

SAN FRANCISCO -- George Steinbrenner and other top Yankee decision makers are in agreement: They like Alex Rodriguez very much and now plan to try to do what they can to keep him in pinstripes. And if that has to mean an extension for A-Rod, so be it.

It has been suggested in many circles that Rodriguez is very likely to opt out of the remaining three years and $81 million on his record $252-million contract, and he may still do so. However, the Yankees will still have first crack at keeping A-Rod, and despite a previously stated intention not to extend him, word now is that they will be willing to negotiate if that's what it takes to keep him -- which shouldn't be such a surprise, considering his monstrous first half.

If the Yankees dare try playing hardball now, they understand that A-Rod will turn his unusually beneficial opt-out clause into mega free-agent dollars elsewhere, which is the one thing the Yankees truly can't afford. It is expected that as a free agent A-Rod would have a chance to sign yet another deal for $200 million, or perhaps even more.

Taking a page out of the Yankees' spring strategy not to commit, A-Rod, himself an astute businessman, isn't about to give away his intentions. Upon hearing after Tuesday night's All-Star Game about the apparent shift in the Yankees' thinking, Rodriguez said, "Cool .... I love the Yankees,'' and he left it at that.

A-Rod has suffered through some bad publicity this year, thanks to the New York tabloids, but has seemed more comfortable than ever in the big city and has genuinely appeared to enjoy this season (except for the losing part); he has also thrived like never before, with a league-high 30 first-half home runs and 86 RBIs, plus a .317 batting average, all of which explains why the Yankees have decided they want him back so badly. They also need him: The Yankees will enter the second half with a surprisingly mediocre 42-43 record despite A-Rod's audacious first-half numbers.

Even beyond their tremendous revenue streams, the Yankees possess a slight financial edge in retaining A-Rod, in that Texas owner Tom Hicks has committed to pay $29 million of the $81 million remaining on the current contract, but only if he remains with the Yankees; if A-Rod opts out, Hicks will save the $29 million, giving him a strong rooting interest here. If A-Rod opts out, he is also almost surely gone from the Yankees, since they'd no longer have the benefit of the $29 million Hicks gift.

In assessing A-Rod's chances to stay, know that he generally enjoys the big stage and the benefits that come with an enhanced chance to win from New York's $200 million payroll. Rodriguez has surely thrived at Yankee Stadium, and he is believed to prefer to remain in the American League. There's an extra benefit to the Rodriguezes being on the East Coast, as they're not too far from their hometown of Miami. None of the other potential suitors can provide all those benefits, though perhaps the rival Red Sox come closest.

Of course, with almost countless riches available on the free-agent market, there can be no certainty that Rodriguez will stay in New York. While Rodriguez has spoken only positively about New York -- particularly here at the All-Star game -- when he signed with Texas he went for the best financial package, and he knows that if stays with the Yankees he'll never know whether another team would have bid more later.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman told SI.com on March 21 that the Yankees didn't intend to chase A-Rod or get into a bidding war, saying, "He has a significant contract as it is. So I don't anticipate any dialogue regarding an extension,'' then making similar statements in other new outlets the following day.

While Cashman's comments were interpreted to mean that the Yankees wouldn't be enhancing A-Rod's current deal, Cashman's words technically provided some leeway. Cashman declined to discuss A-Rod's situation when asked about it on Tuesday, mentioning his intention not to repeat the media firestorm that his quotes caused last time.

There's also the possibility that the Yankees' thinking simply has changed. And if it has, A-Rod's responsible for that. When Cashman spoke back in March, Rodriguez was coming off his worst season ever. But this week A-Rod came to San Francisco as the consensus best player in the game after a monster first half that has caught the attention of not only his bosses but all of baseball. Should A-Rod rebuff the Yankees' overtures, he'll have several suitors, including possibly the Angels, Dodgers, Giants, Cubs, White Sox and Red Sox. There's even speculation that Texas and Seattle may want him back.

Whether he stays or goes, the price will be high. It's hard to predict how high, but it's hard to imagine A-Rod taking a pay cut from his currently contracted $27 million 2008 salary. His existing contract calls for him to have the option to ask out after '08 and '09 if the Yankees don't raise his pay "by the greater of $5 million or $1 million above the largest salary of any position player,'' which could give him reason to set the asking price at $32 million.

In any case, the Yankees can't afford to let him leave now.

Source: SI
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/11/07 08:56 PM

We'll see. Some WFAN spies actually swore on their kids lives today that he's not coming back.

That kind of fanatacism gives me the creeps.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/12/07 11:46 AM

The same WFAN that has Mike Francesca and Chris Russo? \:p

Yeah. All well and good. Way to piss off Mariano Rivera and Jorge Posada, who apparently don't merit contract negotiations until after the season ends...fucking retarded business strategy we've had lately. \:\/
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/12/07 12:29 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
The same WFAN that has Mike Francesca and Chris Russo? \:p

Yeah. All well and good. Way to piss off Mariano Rivera and Jorge Posada, who apparently don't merit contract negotiations until after the season ends...fucking retarded business strategy we've had lately. \:\/



So what else is new? But just wait till Irishman gets a job there. He will strighten things up! \:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/12/07 12:32 PM

See, I'd start crazy rumours if I worked there..."Prospective trade sends A-Rod to the Devil Rays for future considerations," or "Posada and Jeter to Royals for Gil Meche."
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/13/07 04:39 AM

DJ, Geoff and any other Yankee fans wanting to attend, I contacted the Yankees ticket office yesterday and asked them when All-Star tickets for next year's festivities would be going on sale. The man wasn't 100% sure, but he said it wouldn't be until December or January. I'm marking it on my calendar as I'm dying to go!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/13/07 12:46 PM

You know what would be cool? If we could meet up and go to the game together! That would be sweet. Sort of a mini-BB fest. SB, FS, Geoff, Irishman, myself etc. ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/13/07 02:00 PM

I was thinking the same thing DJ, but getting tickets together would be difficult \:\/
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/13/07 03:37 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I was thinking the same thing DJ, but getting tickets together would be difficult \:\/



Bullshit, call the main office and get us George's Box.

Irishman, you said you were going to work there, Well get going!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/13/07 05:00 PM

I'm game!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/13/07 08:34 PM

BTW - I'm sure by now everyone heard A-Rod basically tell Brian Cashman to go fuck himself, right? He won't negotiate until after the season.

So now the Yankees look like double-douches - they betrayed their own integrity by breaking their rule of not negotiating with a player until after the season, and then they pissed off the rest of the crew like Mo and Jorge who wanted their negotiations to take place in Spring Training.

Maybe it really is time for some of the management to get the axe...
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/13/07 08:36 PM

Yeah, just when Yankee fans were ready to embrace him, too.

And now Cashman pisses off the veterans, to boot.

He's such a homely little man, that Cashman.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/13/07 08:38 PM

Yankees Quietly Reach Out to Posada & Mo

 Quote:
Source: NY Daily News

BY MARK FEINSAND
DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER

Friday, July 13th 2007, 4:00 AM

ST. PETERSBURG - Back in spring training, GM Brian Cashman made it clear that he planned to wait until the end of the season to discuss new contracts with Mariano Rivera and Jorge Posada, two of the Yankees' pending free agents.

So the news that the Yankees were hoping to discuss a contract extension with Alex Rodriguez before the end of the year raised some eyebrows, especially considering both Rivera's and Posada's place in team history.

Would the Yankees really make two players from their championship era sweat it out until the offseason while negotiating with Rodriguez now?

As it turns out, no.

According to a source, the Yankees are quietly reaching out to the agents for both players in an attempt to wrap up new contracts for the pair before the end of the season.

"I don't know anything about that," Rivera said after last night's game. "We'll see what happens."

Rivera seemed open to the idea of discussing a new deal during the season, though Posada was firm in saying he wanted to become a free agent for the first time in his career.

"There's nothing to talk about; I'm going to wait until the offseason, anyway," Posada said. "There's no sense for me to negotiate something now when I can wait and see what happens. I want to wait."

Like Posada, Rivera has never been on the free-agent market. Rivera said he had no problem with the Yankees trying to hammer out an extension with A-Rod, even if the team opted to wait until season's end to work out a new deal for the closer.

"Why should it bother me? It doesn't bother me at all," Rivera said. "They have to do what's best for the team. That's okay with me."

Both Rivera and Posada have expressed their desire to return to the only club for which they have ever played, but there are no guarantees.

"This is the only team I've ever known and the only team I'd like to play for," Posada said. "But if they don't want me here, I'm not going to come back here."

"I don't know what they're thinking, but that's not my business," Rivera said. "I have a job, and after the year, we'll see what happens. All they have to do is talk to me about my season. That's it."
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/13/07 08:39 PM

Wouldn't it be some shit if Posada and Mo BOTH told Cashman to fuck off.

AND no A-Rod.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/13/07 08:41 PM

Want to talk serious rebuilding? Imagine the Yankees without Rivera, Posada, and A-Rod next year. \:o
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/14/07 02:01 AM

Nice back-to-back home runs by Posada and Matsui!! Go, Go, Godzilla!!

Of course, they're still losing, but they're only losing by TWO runs now.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/14/07 03:41 PM

Listening to Suzyn Waldman say Roger cuts me right to the bone, Raaaw-geeeeer.

And could someone PLEASE go out to Detroit and tell Sheffield to shit the f*** up. Please.

I think it may actually be easier for the Yanks to catch the Sox than to win the wildcard. There are just too many teams to contend with. It seems whenever the Yanks lose a game they lose one in the standings to one of the wildcard teams. On the other hand, when they win it seems that Boston wins. It's gonna be tough.

And my Mets aren't doing any better. God, can you imagine if they BOTH miss the playoffs?

Chris "Mad Dog" Russo will climax in his pants (yuck).
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/07 08:14 PM

Sheff can't shut up, can he? I guess that nothing's changed. And if he was racially targeted by Joe Torre, why was he so pissed to be traded??
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/15/07 11:03 PM

It wasn't race motivated. Sheffield says himself, Tony Womack and Kenny Lofton were treated differently. I'm sure Womack and Lofton were treated differently. You know why? Because they both sucked in New York!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/16/07 02:34 PM

Half baked

Gary Sheffield was half-right, which is a lot different from Derek Jeter being "half-black.''

Sheffield was right that Joe Torre plays favorites. He favors the players who won him the four rings.

Torre loves Jeter best of all. He'd love him if he was half-green, half-awake or half-in-the-bag. Because Jeter and Mariano Rivera are the two players most responsible for Torre's four rings.

Torre loves Jorge Posada and Bernie Williams and Andy Pettitte, too, because they are the next three players most responsible for the four rings. Torre also loves those five players because they are quiet, professional gentlemen.

I suspect Torre didn't love Sheffield because he is neither quiet nor professional, and I suspect he likes him even less now because Sheffield won't shut up about how Torre mistreated him. And now it's about how Torre mistreated Sheffield because he's African-American and how he mistreats all African-American players.

Torre's favorite person on earth may be Bob Gibson, who is African-American. Torre talks about Gibson even more than Sheffield talks about Torre. Torre can't say enough good things about Gibson.

Torre loves Darryl Strawberry, who helped him win rings. Strawberry also played hard and didn't complain when he didn't always play. Like Jeter and the others who helped him win the rings, Strawberry is a gentleman. And Strawberry disagreed with Sheffield's assessment.

Now Sheffield says Kenny Lofton and Tony Womack feel the same way, and it turns out Sheffield isn't just blowing smoke about Lofton, as Lofton a day or two later agreed with Sheffield that Torre mistreats African-American players. But Lofton had two problems with the Yankees. One was that he didn't play up to his usual standards. The other is that he shared center field with Williams, who, as we know, was one of Torre's favorite players. Torre had a loyalty to Williams. If there was favoritism, he favored the four-time winner.

I am not anxiously waiting to see what Womack has to say, either. If anything, Torre gave Womack too many chances, too much rope. By the time Womack got to the Yankees, he just couldn't play, plain and simple. He was, in fact, one of the worst players in Major League Baseball.

Sheffield, on the other hand, was a star with the Yankees. And he still is. But that doesn't make him a keen sociologic observer, or even a gentleman. Because he is neither.

Sheffield's time with the Yankees was marked by four things:

1) The usual hard hitting and clutch base hits;

2) An embarrassing association with BALCO (don't forget, he's the guy who FedEx'd cash to BALCO -- is that because he thought he was getting Ben-Gay?);

3) A propensity to say dumb things (it's actually gotten worse since he left the Yankees, since, as a Yankee, he limited his dumb comments to the subject of how much more money he wanted); and,

4) A knack for loafing after balls hit to right field, which he did about as often as he hustled after them.

Torre consistently played Sheffield, and he consistently defended Sheffield (at least he did publicly). Torre had so much faith in Sheffield that he even played him at first base during the playoffs when Sheffield shouldn't have been playing first base for even a high school team.

Sheffield's litany of specific complaints about Torre appears to boil down to "a couple of meetings'' when Torre called out Sheffield. One time came after one especially egregious case of loafing, the other was either over more loafing or Sheffield failing to be on time. Rather than hail Torre for waiting to call him out until he had loafed for two straight years, Sheffield apparently decided this was an unforgivable act.

Sheffield's evidence is that Torre didn't call out the other stars, whom he treated "like men.'' Of course, the other stars are consistent hustlers like Jeter, Posada and Alex Rodriguez. When it came to loafing, Sheffield was in a class by himself.

But Sheffield thinks he does no wrong. In his mind, he is a great hustler. Maybe this stems from the fact that his previous managers -- and there have been many of them, since he's been traded more times than any Hall-of-Fame talent in history -- may never have said a thing. They just watched and delighted in Sheffield's hitting, and let the loafing go. Torre did, too, for two years.

But eventually, he had to bring it up. He had no choice. Sheffield's loafing had become embarrassing. So he made an example of Sheffield at a meeting or two. For that, apparently, he is a racist. (Although, in Sheffield's confused world, Sheffield said Torre is just a mistreater of blacks, not racist.)

Sheffield sees racism around every corner. He thinks MLB is racist for having more Latins and fewer blacks in the game than they used to. He thinks Torre is a racist for mentioning a mistake or two he made when he made about a hundred more. He sees racism everywhere, which is a shame because it diminishes real racism, which does occur in baseball.

Sheffield sees himself as a great player, a great leader and a great humanitarian, not to mention a hustler. And while he's moved from city to city, he's always resided in Fantasyland.

Source: SI
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/07 01:15 AM

Yes, the same Shef that Cashman overpayed over the AL MVP, Vladi!

Way to go.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/07 05:35 AM

Yankees uncertain of their future

NEW YORK -- With a nervous gaze toward the calendar and the standings, the Yankees' strategy at the trading deadline will depend on how they play in the next two weeks. Or, to put it more simply, the Bombers' decision-makers are on hold, waiting for one more (one last?) hot streak.

"If we're going to make a move, it has to happen now," is how one high-ranking official put it Thursday. That's hardly an overstatement, considering the Yankees are facing a double-digit deficit in the American League East, and are almost that far removed from the AL wild-card lead with no sign of a collapse by the teams in front of them. It looks and feels like a transition year in the Bronx; many baseball people say the Yankees are closer to the playoffs in 2008 than they are in 2007. But no one's giving up yet, primarily because of the Yankees' soft schedule in July.

Their first 29 games after the All-Star break are against sub-.500 teams, including eight of the first 12 against the already-dead Devil Rays.

The math alone says the Yankees would be wise to flip the calendar. Even if the Red Sox play .500 the rest of the way, they'd still finish with 91 wins. The Yankees would have to win 63 percent of their games to match that. They'd have to win 61 percent to beat the Indians for the wild card. None of this is impossible, of course, just improbable. Yet, GM Brian Cashman is holding off on any major trades -- either as a buyer or a seller -- until the Yankees take advantage of their schedule. Or not.

"Right now our focus is trying to get the roster to play up to its abilities," Cashman said. "We don't have any major needs. We might tweak here or there, but I don't see us as major players [at the July 31 deadline]."

Despite the Red Sox's surplus, the Yankees cling to the belief that they've underachieved for so long -- and have endured so many injuries and bad breaks -- that their luck has to change sooner or later. Plus, as Cashman says, noting the Twins' comeback in 2006, "this has been done before. People say we're done, but there's a precedent that says otherwise."

Still, the Yankees aren't oblivious to their underachievement. With a sub.-500 record at the break, they qualified as the worst team of the Joe Torre era. But admitting to 4 million paying fans that the season is over runs counter to the Yankees' philosophy; it's alien to the entire win-or-else culture that George Steinbrenner promotes. No wonder the Yankees are procrastinating on Plan B. They're not even sure whom to trade even if they decide to become sellers.

Kyle Farnsworth, who's in Torre's doghouse for throwing his glove against the dugout wall after being removed from a game on June 29, would be a likely candidate to go. Bobby Abreu has experienced enough of a resurgence to stir interest from at least one National League team, although an American League executive who's seen Abreu recently remains unimpressed. "He's an opposite-field singles hitter who's slowed down a lot in the last year."

Another possibility is acquiring Shea Hillenbrand, but that would happen only if the Yankees are ready to give him the everyday job at first base. That decision has not been made, team insiders say. The club is equally unclear about where Alex Rodriguez is headed or just how to negotiate with him without alienating Mariano Rivera and Jorge Posada, New York's other free-agents-to-be.

In the most likely scenario, the Yankees will indeed bend corporate policy and offer A-Rod a contract extension before season's end. One insider said, "he keeps saying he loves the Yankees, now he'll get a chance to show us he means it." But the Bombers also promise to vanish if A-Rod opts out of his contract in November. The same higher-up said, "if Alex opts out, it means he wants out, he doesn't want to play here. We won't let him use us."

It's hard to believe A-Rod will be pressured to drop his free agency rights. As agent Scott Boras told the New York Daily News, "Alex has always said he's comfortable in New York. It doesn't mean he's not comfortable somewhere else, either."

A-Rod's feelings about the Yankees are obviously linked to their check-writing ability -- when has he not been about the money? But if Rodriguez bolts, it may have to do with the end of the Bronx renaissance, which began in 1995. The team is well-stocked with pitching prospects at the Double-A level, but there aren't many saviors among the position players. This winter's free agent market will be similarly lean.

And there's the unresolved futures of both Cashman, whose contract expires after 2008, and Torre, who has no commitment from Steinbrenner after this season. If the Yankees' playoff-streak ends this year after 12 straight appearances, count on changes to occur at the top.

This is the decline-phase Yankee haters have prayed for since the mid-'90s. But not everyone is gloating.

"The Yankees are great for baseball, especially when they're good," said A's general manager Billy Beane. "Anyone who doesn't believe that is incredibly short-sighted. Me, personally, I never viewed the Yankees as some hated, evil rival, because I have so much respect for the way they play the game. If they're having a down period, it's only temporary, and their down period is going to be a lot shorter than most teams'."

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/07 12:27 PM

My thoughts? Move Farnsworth if possible, try to acquire either Otsuka or Gagne (preferably Otsuka, since he fares well in the set-up role, and will cost less, and have less injury risk than Gagne). This is not a long-term bullpen solution, but its okay - I could see resigning either of these guys for 2-3 year deals after the season, because both should still fire the rock, especially Gagne, who is only 31.

The biggest move to be made right now? Do the big deal for Texiera. It will a.) finally stabilize the first base position and b.) provide some relief if A-Rod opts out and signs with another team this offseason. This team will look a lot better in the infield both offensively and defensively with Texiera and without A-Rod than it would with Mientkeiwicz/Giambi/Phillips/platoon and without A-Rod.

That's all I can say. Yeah, it will cost some prospects - probably Ian Kennedy, and another one or two - but it will solve a glaring need we've had since it was evident Giambi was not a defensive first baseman (forever?).

Otherwise, the other move will have to stay for the offseason. I wouldn't move Melky. I'd try to unload Damon, but only for Major League talent in return. Otherwise, all that is left is for the offseason.

The primary goal should be shoring up the bullpen. Playing consistently, and having players play to their ability, is the only chance this team has of even being competitive for the Wild Card this year.

The real work begins as soon as the season ends. I'll save that diatribe for later...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/07 03:31 PM

Big Rumor of the Day: Not to get Klydon agitated, but rumors are flying around that the Phillies, desperate for bullpen help, are looking to acquire our favorite son, Kyle Farnsworth...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/07 03:40 PM

Trade him for Flash \:D
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/07 03:49 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Big Rumor of the Day: Not to get Klydon agitated, but rumors are flying around that the Phillies, desperate for bullpen help, are looking to acquire our favorite son, Kyle Farnsworth...


I'd give Pat Burrell and his big contract away for Farnsworth in a heart beat. \:D

Gordon and Meyers are supposedly coming back this month, but I guess Meyers would go back to the rotation since Leiber and Freddie Garcia will probably miss the season. Where's Rawly Eastwick when you need him.

I guess everybody can use some bullpen help
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/17/07 04:16 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
My thoughts? Move Farnsworth if possible, try to acquire either Otsuka or Gagne (preferably Otsuka, since he fares well in the set-up role, and will cost less, and have less injury risk than Gagne). This is not a long-term bullpen solution, but its okay - I could see resigning either of these guys for 2-3 year deals after the season, because both should still fire the rock, especially Gagne, who is only 31.

The biggest move to be made right now? Do the big deal for Texiera. It will a.) finally stabilize the first base position and b.) provide some relief if A-Rod opts out and signs with another team this offseason. This team will look a lot better in the infield both offensively and defensively with Texiera and without A-Rod than it would with Mientkeiwicz/Giambi/Phillips/platoon and without A-Rod.

That's all I can say. Yeah, it will cost some prospects - probably Ian Kennedy, and another one or two - but it will solve a glaring need we've had since it was evident Giambi was not a defensive first baseman (forever?).

Otherwise, the other move will have to stay for the offseason. I wouldn't move Melky. I'd try to unload Damon, but only for Major League talent in return. Otherwise, all that is left is for the offseason.

The primary goal should be shoring up the bullpen. Playing consistently, and having players play to their ability, is the only chance this team has of even being competitive for the Wild Card this year.

The real work begins as soon as the season ends. I'll save that diatribe for later...


Maybe the Yanks can go sign Suzuki....

Oh wait. Nevermind. \:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/07 10:50 AM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
My thoughts? Move Farnsworth if possible, try to acquire either Otsuka or Gagne (preferably Otsuka, since he fares well in the set-up role, and will cost less, and have less injury risk than Gagne). This is not a long-term bullpen solution, but its okay - I could see resigning either of these guys for 2-3 year deals after the season, because both should still fire the rock, especially Gagne, who is only 31.

The biggest move to be made right now? Do the big deal for Texiera. It will a.) finally stabilize the first base position and b.) provide some relief if A-Rod opts out and signs with another team this offseason. This team will look a lot better in the infield both offensively and defensively with Texiera and without A-Rod than it would with Mientkeiwicz/Giambi/Phillips/platoon and without A-Rod.

That's all I can say. Yeah, it will cost some prospects - probably Ian Kennedy, and another one or two - but it will solve a glaring need we've had since it was evident Giambi was not a defensive first baseman (forever?).

Otherwise, the other move will have to stay for the offseason. I wouldn't move Melky. I'd try to unload Damon, but only for Major League talent in return. Otherwise, all that is left is for the offseason.

The primary goal should be shoring up the bullpen. Playing consistently, and having players play to their ability, is the only chance this team has of even being competitive for the Wild Card this year.

The real work begins as soon as the season ends. I'll save that diatribe for later...


Maybe the Yanks can go sign Suzuki....

Oh wait. Nevermind. \:D


No. Kosuke Fukudome.



Don't be surprised if a deal gets done for Torii Hunter, OR...they sign Andruw Jones this offseason.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/07 11:06 AM

Oh, and another rumor (I don't think will happen any longer with Phillips crushing the ball and playing sparkling defense) is a straight-up trade for Dan Johnson. The A's want Scott Proctor in return.

Also, with regards to Teixiera, it sounds like this is how it will go down (don't quote me). The Dodgers will trade for Texiera to get them into the playoffs, play him until he becomes a free agent after 2008, and then the Yankees will sign him in the offseason. The Dodgers have a stellar first base prospect (James Loney), so they won't need to re-sign Teixiera.

Of course, there could also be some sort of trade of Loney becomes MLB ready sooner rather than later, but I suspect he'll be treated ala Phil Hughes and the Yankees organization.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/18/07 11:12 AM

And of course, the now-standard trade rumor for the past couple of years - the Yankees are looking to acquire Wilson Betemit...

Does this mean Miguel Cairo is on his way out?

And frankly, I'd rather move Bruney and/or Myers than Proctor. His little voodoo burning seems to have done wonders for his poise and performance, while those other two continue to bring new levels of suckitude.

Of course, there is always a trade to send Farnsworth back to the NL, and maybe the Dodgers want his worthless ass.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/19/07 02:11 PM

We have picked up two whole games in the last two days!
At least it s in the right direction.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 03:07 PM



Don't lose faith yet...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 03:28 PM

Yankees Trade Rumors

- Yankees are in talks with the KC Royals to acquire Octavio Dotel. (Duh, it makes no sense why we let him go after last year anyways...we rehabbed him, and he played in 10 games or so). Another name on the table is Zack Grienke.

- Also in talks with the Pirates regarding relievers Salomon Torres and Damaso Marte. Pirates want to ship out Shawn Chacon as well. Another blast from the past (maybe we can get Tom Gordon or Mike Stanton \:p ) In addition, the Yankees have asked about relief pitcher Roberto Hernandez, but nixed any deal when the Pirates refused to accept any deal unless Jeromy Burnitz was in the package.

- A pending trade on the table could send Scott Proctor to the Devil Rays for Ty Wigginton (I say no...we need all the 'pen help we can get at this point). The D-Rays are supposedly quoted as saying they will "listen to anything about anybody," so I would say what the hell...why not deal someone like Matt DeSalvo, Karstens, and maybe a vet for Carl Crawford? Talk about awesomeness in the outfield. He would be a great addition. I'd like to see Rocco Baldelli too, and can be had cheaper with his injury history.

- The Devil Rays are looking to deal Eric Byrnes, and the big names would be Bobby Abreu from the Yanks and Jermaine Dye from the White Sox. Supposedly, the teams are asking for Byrnes and star outfield prospect Carlos Gonzalez, which the D-Backs don't want to do.

- Yankees have asked the Astros for an offer for Mark Loretta (boo...but probably better than Cairo at this point).

- The Mariners supposedly inquired about acquiring Andy Pettitte (yikes!).

- Also on the Yankees radar are Kevin Mench and Reggie Sanders (no and maybe, Sanders could be a nice bench addition, but I think at his age he wants to play for a team that is almost a lock, maybe Boston or Detroit).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 07:31 PM

Damon to DL?

The Yankees added Scranton-Wilkes Barre record-setting homerun slugger Shelly Duncan (brother of the spectacularly mediocre Eric Duncan) to the Major League roster. Duncan plays first base, but is not good defensively. He can also play left field. He plays primarily DH in the minors.

This could signal Damon heading to the DL...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 07:34 PM

Also, Phil Hughes will replace Kei Igawa on the major league team.

In addition, some people are throwing around the rumor that the Yankees will be acquiring Mike Piazza, but I don't see it. Do you really think he and Clemens could co-exist after their famed bat tossing incident in the World Series (now more than) a few years ago?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 07:37 PM

And...apparently rumors flying that the Yankees have made a big push for Mark Teixiera and are currently in hot talks with the Texas GM...Ty Wigginton would be the next choice...and then Shea Hillenbrand.

Let's hope it's option #1...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 07:55 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
And...apparently rumors flying that the Yankees have made a big push for Mark Teixiera and are currently in hot talks with the Texas GM...Ty Wigginton would be the next choice...and then Shea Hillenbrand.

Let's hope it's option #1...


I've heard he may go to Atlanta and the Yankees will try to sign him after the 2008 season.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 07:56 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Also, Phil Hughes will replace Kei Igawa on the major league team.


Thank goodness. I was excited to see Igawa back when they said he was tearing up the minors but he's just not a major league pitcher. I've heard rumors he could be used in the bullpen and that may be the best thing for him. They need the help in the pen and this'll open up a hole in the rotation for Hughes (Wang, Moose, Pettitte and Clemens).
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 08:11 PM

DJ, even you must agree that Dotel is really not much of a trade value at all.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 08:23 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
DJ, even you must agree that Dotel is really not much of a trade value at all.


We'll give them Irish and a poster to be named later.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 08:33 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
DJ, even you must agree that Dotel is really not much of a trade value at all.


Yeah, but still, Dotel > Farnsworth.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 08:35 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
DJ, even you must agree that Dotel is really not much of a trade value at all.


Yeah, but still, Dotel > Farnsworth.


DJ, how nicer is a knife wound compared to a gunshot wound?

Seriosuly, this year's trade-market for pitchers is SHIT.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 09:01 PM

Yeah. But Dotel has looked decent as a closer, while Farnsworth looks like a steaming pile of crap.

Though give me Gagne and/or Otsuka over either Farnsy/Dotel any day.

At least we aren't going after Brad Lidge (shudder).
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/20/07 09:38 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
At least we aren't going after Brad Lidge (shudder).


A.K.A. Brad "Luck" Lidge.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/07 02:02 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Yeah. But Dotel has looked decent as a closer, while Farnsworth looks like a steaming pile of crap.

Though give me Gagne and/or Otsuka over either Farnsy/Dotel any day.

At least we aren't going after Brad Lidge (shudder).


Was Otsuka placed on the disabled list?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/07 05:43 AM

Steinbrenner OK with Platt's portrayal in miniseries

NEW YORK -- George Steinbrenner wants TV viewers to admire his cuddly side -- and his good hair days.

Asked whether he likes how he's depicted on ESPN's new miniseries "The Bronx Is Burning," the New York Yankees owner joked via his publicist: "They always show me angry; they never found a softer, kinder, gentler George."

Oliver Platt plays Steinbrenner in the eight-part series, adapted from Jonathan Mahler's "Ladies and Gentlemen, The Bronx Is Burning," about the summer of 1977 and the Yankees' quest to win the World Series.

"He doesn't want to knock the guy's acting; he wants to knock his clothing and hairdo," Steinbrenner spokesman Howard Rubenstein quipped in Friday editions of Newsday.

"George's hair is more neatly trimmed," added Rubenstein. "He doesn't wear a wig; people think that because he's perfectly barbered. He doesn't have a hair out of place."

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/07 05:13 PM

Terrible pitching last night. Moose needs to go, I can't see him being on this team next year. Give me Igawa (yikes) at this point. Bruney needs to go too, unless he learns control (which we've been waiting for most of the season). We have Britton tearing up the minors, I can't see giving these guys any more rope than they need to hang themselves.

I feel bad for K-Ram, because he is a kid, and its a shame he got his confidence shaken after two nice appearances, although its kind of hard to fault him considering he hasn't appeared in like forever and came into a horrible situation courtesy of Mussina.

Either way, this shows the Yankees still are desperately in need of some pitching help if they even hope to be competitive over this stretch run.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/07 06:22 PM

Sure, we lost to the shit teams again!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/21/07 08:23 PM

Well, at least K-Iggy did a nice job today...Yanks recover nicely. ;\)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/07 11:25 AM

The Yankees scored an amazing number of runs against the Devil Rays. The clubhouse looked alive, and really energetic. Who can we thank?

Shelley Duncan.

Seriously, this kid, who has been stuck in our farm system forever (and who I accidentally credited as Eric Duncan's brother...he's Chris Duncan's brother), who had too many strike outs, who couldn't hit for average, brings a little of that 1998 attitude that we so desperately need.

And even better?

We designated Wil Nieves for assignment and traded for Jose Molina! Wow! Finally, a competent backup catcher - probably the best we've had in years.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/07 02:12 PM

Yeah but let's see what they do tonight. They usually score a bunch of runs in 1 game and then go cold for another 3 or 4. Hopefully they didn't waste it all yesterday
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/07 07:12 PM

Even still, this is a huge push. The Indians and BoSox are facing each other for a series, so let's hope that one kills the other so we have a clear target to shoot for. We're 6.5 games out of the wild card (Indians) and 7.5 games out of the division, so hopefully the series is one-sided one way or the other, and the Yankees can keep rolling.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/07 07:40 PM

Congrats to Shelley Duncan for the last 2 games
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/23/07 09:54 PM

Yeah, the kid can hit.

The question is whether he can play competent defense. As it stands, he's barely a serviceable outfielder, and a mediocre-at-best first baseman.

Read: He really has no spot on this team once Giambi and Mienkeiwicz return, at least until September call-ups. Which is a shame...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/07 01:30 PM

Red Sox beat the Indians...I guess we can always hope for a sweep. Personally, I'd rather take on the Indians anyways for the long haul chase, but there is always the *possibility* of a Boston collapse.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/07 02:44 PM

ARod reached 100 ribbys already. The last Yankees to do that (in under 100 games) were Joe D and Lou Gehrig.... pretty good company!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/07 03:01 PM

He better win the MVP. I've been hearing Ordonez from a lot of people. Currently, here's how they match up:

A-Rod
.313 avg, 34 HR, 100 RBI

Magglio
.362 avg, 15 HR, 82 RBI

I'm really happy for A-Rod. He deserves this after his first 3 years in the Big Apple (especially after last year). THIS is the A-Rod we saw in Texas. Unfortunately, he could be gone after the year (I think he will be) \:\(
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/07 04:16 PM

No way Ordonez can win (with all respect to the beloved Magglio). Without A-Rod's tear earlier this year, the Yankees would be out already, no chance of making the playoffs. If they can get either the Wild Card or the Division, there can be no doubt he'll be the only clear choice for MVP.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/07 04:17 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Unfortunately, he could be gone after the year (I think he will be) \:\(


Don't be so sure. The Yankees have the deepest pockets, and Boras knows how to get money for his players. Steinbrenner can make things happen - I think this would be one case where the Boss would step in and open the pursestrings - even if it hasn't happened in awhile (at least since the Sheffield acquisition). Unless A-Rod completely bombs in the playoffs (if they make it), I don't think any other team (outside of Boston and Los Angeles) can afford A-Rod. And both of those teams will need to lose some salary off their current payload, hurting their chances. It's possible he'll leave, but I don't give it better than a 70/30 chance.

And, A-Rod just bought a new house in Connecticut...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/07 04:18 PM

I agree. Unfortunately, it may depend whether or not the Yankees make the playoffs that will determine if A-Rod walks away with the hardware. Sure Magglio has a better average but A-Rod has the power numbers
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/07 04:21 PM

Yeah, like I said, if he totally bombs, there is no way Yankee fandom (or George's ego) will allow him to stay after another fruitless playoff. But I think the ghosts are behind him.

Maybe he needs to fool around on his wife more often? \:p

I hear that it's all but certain he and Cynthia are getting divorced...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/07 04:23 PM

Oh, and the new trade rumor? Yanks are looking to acquire Jon Garland and Matt Thornton from the struggling ChiSox. I'd do that in a heartbeat. Thornton is a nice addition, and Garland would ultimately replace Clemens in 2008 (unless Roger comes back? \:o ).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/07 04:26 PM

...and the Teixiera deal? It's dead. At least with the Yankees. The Rangers want Joba Chamberlain or Phil Hughes, and aren't budging. So expect the Yankees to let this one pass, and try to acquire him after he's a free agent after '08. Look for the Dodgers or the Angels to give him a look.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/24/07 06:50 PM

I hear the Red Sox have a strong interest as well. I say let him go for now and sign him after 2008. There's no point in overpaying for him
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/25/07 01:09 AM

Is anyone watching the game right now?? How is it possible that it's only the 2nd inning??
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/25/07 11:15 AM

Because a.) the Yankees offense finally found its way out of a paper bag and b.) they have been playing some of the worst teams in the league.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/26/07 02:14 AM

He's not even pitching and he's in the news. There's a surprise
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 12:18 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Because a.) the Yankees offense finally found its way out of a paper bag and b.) they have been playing some of the worst teams in the league.


It helps when you wrestle Ham & Eggers, umm Bobby Heenan?
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 12:28 AM

Hello.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 11:07 AM

Yeah. So what I said about trusting Igawa over Mussina? Maybe notsomuch. I guess its a good thing that Hughes is *ready* to take over his spot in the rotation.

I haven't completely given up on K-Iggy, but yeah, the Yankees and Japanese pitchers? Kind of a crappy trend. Hitters, good, Pitchers, bad. Okay. Keep him in AAA for the rest of the year. Get him mentally right for the MLB level. Otherwise, kudos on a 40+ million dollar bust, to the Yankee management, in the panic of the Hype-K signing.

Oh, and since we've been rooting on the Red Sox to beat the Indians (puke), let's pray they decide to pick up Todd Helton (the rumors are back for the bajillionth time, almost as frequent as the "trade Manny" saga every year). Helton is a good talent, but has a horrible contract, and is on the decline at 33. Good luck Red Sox!

Of course, we know all about first base albatrosses as well. Giambi is coming back soon (puke part deux).

Still, we're 4.5 games out of the Wild Card, and Seattle is on a seven-game losing streak. If we can get back to good, we should be able to pick up those four games pretty quick.

And lastly? De La Rosa, the pitcher for the Royals last night, has now pitched 11 consecutive scoreless innings against the Yankees... \:\/
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 11:09 AM

Oh, and Jon Garland? Yeah. Here is why the Yankees should avoid him like the plague.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 11:11 AM

...and Akinori Otsuka is expected to need Tommy John surgery, so don't expect him in pinstripes like we all thought.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 12:12 PM

They've been so very hot that last night WAS a disappointment, but they can't win EVERY game. Just ALMOST every game would be fine with me.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 12:24 PM

It was disappointing, but the Yankees can't figure out some mediocre-to-bad pitchers, De La Rosa being one of them. It does help bring us back to the reality that this team still needs to work hard if it hopes to be competitive against Boston, Detroit, etc. in October.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 03:03 PM

Big Rumor: Expect a deal to be done with the Tigers, sending Kyle Farnsworth to Detroit. The Yankees have even reportedly offered to pay a large chunk of his salary to get the deal done.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 04:26 PM

Would we get anything in return, or just Detroit's own version of Kyle?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 05:21 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Would we get anything in return, or just Detroit's own version of Kyle?


I don't know. Maybe a utility player?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 05:33 PM

Actually, on second thought, forget it. I suspect we'd get some good-to-great prospects, depending on how much cash we throw in. Jair Jurrjens (AA), Dallas Trahern (AA), Eulogio De La Cruz (AA) Virgil Vasquez (AAA), Jordan Tata (AAA) are all nice prospects for the Yankees to acquire (I'm not familiar but those are the names I've heard).

Chris Britton has been lighting up AAA and deserves a chance at the set-up spot. Edwar Ramirez needs a spot too. So I wouldn't expect an MLB player back, except maybe Omar Infante (utility, .252, 2 HR) or Ryan Rayburn (3B/OF, .500, 10 RBI).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/27/07 11:54 PM

Yankees win the suspended game 8-7, and Igawa has been shipped back to Scranton.

That, of course, means the PHUTURE (or the PHranchise, pick your nick) will be back in pinstripes sooner rather than later...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/07 12:19 AM

...just in from ESPN (courtesy of Buster Olney) - Kei Igawa is officially on the trading block, and "more than a few teams" are purportedly interested in the Japanese right hander.

Can you say Jose Contreras? \:p
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/07 12:43 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
...just in from ESPN (courtesy of Buster Olney) - Kei Igawa is officially on the trading block, and "more than a few teams" are purportedly interested in the Japanese right hander.


Why would they want him? He's been a disaster.

Yes, they want to give Hughes another Scranton start on Sunday, and then bring him up. That way he wouldn't have to start until the first week of August.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/07 12:44 AM

Please dump Igawa-nowaya and Farnsworthless. I think A-Rod or Jeter could pitch better.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/07 12:50 AM

Farnsworthless?? That's great, MC!! My husband always refers to Scott as The Proctologist, because he says that the Yankees always get it up the butt when he's pitching.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/07 02:36 AM

 Originally Posted By: MaryCas
Please dump Igawa-nowaya and Farnsworthless. I think A-Rod or Jeter could pitch better.


I hear we're accepting offers for a pitching machine and a bag of doritos. \:p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/28/07 11:40 AM

Proctologist has looked terrible lately, so I really would be surprised if he remains in a Yankee uniform after the deadline. Ty Wigginton would make a nice utility player who can play anywhere, and allow us to dump Miggy Cairo (even though I like him).

And Farnsworth should go too, although in a playoff run I am leery of giving up MLB talent (if you can call Farnsworth that) in exchange for probably prospects.

Most of all, the Yankees need bullpen help, so it will be interesting to see how they can finaggle adding another solid reliever here at the deadline.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/07 11:32 AM

I really have to say that I'm disappointed the Yankees are going to get Chamberlain up as well. He is projected to have even better stuff than Hughes, and they are thinking that a promotion to the Big Club would be the same as acquiring another reliever anyways. I don't like it.

---

I can't believe this trade deadline could go by and Kyle Farnsworth is still in a Yankee uniform...and guess what? He's pissed that he isn't being utilized.

Oh, poor Kyle. You silly fuckup.

---

The only *real* trade I hear would be for Gagne. Apparently the Yankees want him bad. I just hope Melky is still a Yankee...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/07 05:23 PM

Bad! Bad! Bad!

Yankees trade Scott Proctor (RHP) to the LA Dodgers for switch hitting Betemit.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/07 09:27 PM

WHAT???? \:o The Yankees traded a relief pitcher for another bat??? I'm SHOCKED!!! It's SO unlike them!!!

Sorry, gotta go now and feed the pig that's flying past my window in this July snowstorm.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 07/31/07 10:10 PM

Pfft, bigger surprise?

Proctor is gone, and Farnsworthless still remains a Yankee, despite his hissy fit and schoolgirl antics with Posada this past weekend. I think that the entire locker room should have just beat the piss out of him.

The Red Sox sign Gagne...I guess this means we can forget the Wild Card. Although in retrospect (and listening to Sweeni Murty on WFAN), the Texans were totally unreasonable - they wanted Hughes, Chamberlain, or Tabata, and refused any offer that didn't include at least one of them. They basically tried to hold the Yankees hostage, and thankfully, Cashman didn't bite.

On the plus side, Betemit is a great pinch hitter, and should allow us to spell A-Rod and Jeter on defense, at least until Giambi returns full time.

Again, I think that one thing to remember is the Yankees are getting Hughes back, Giambi back, and likely Chamberlain will move up to assume the set-up role (or Mussina will be forced to the bullpen). So hopefully that cancels out the non-trades today.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/07 12:34 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
The Red Sox sign Gagne...I guess this means we can forget the Wild Card. Although in retrospect (and listening to Sweeni Murty on WFAN), the Texans were totally unreasonable - they wanted Hughes, Chamberlain, or Tabata, and refused any offer that didn't include at least one of them. They basically tried to hold the Yankees hostage, and thankfully, Cashman didn't bite.


I agree. As much as it hurts to see Gagne go to Boston, at least the Yankees didn't get carried away and felt like they had to make a trade. I wouldn't have traded any of those guys either. I believe Gagne is a free agent at the end of the year so hopefully they can scoop him up then. Here's hoping Boston doesn't win the World Series!
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/07 04:41 PM

Forget the wildcard? Are Yankee fans insane - you're three games out! Cleveland played very poorly in July and Seattle has been erratic - it's completely up for grabs. Plus NY & Cleveland have a series coming up in the next 2-3 weeks. Wedge can't manage in tight situations, the Indians offense has pulled a major disappearing act in the past month, and they only have two quality starters right now. And don't forget in 2005, Cleveland was in prime position to win the wild card and choked by losing 6 of their last 7.

The last thing I would call NY is out of the wild card race.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/07 04:47 PM

I agree. I don't think the Yankees are out of the wild card. The division? Maybe, but not the wild card. Seattle will fade away soon and Cleveland may do the same.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/07 04:54 PM

oops, my error. i meant the division.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/07 05:47 PM

You never know. Boston looked hot last year and ended up finishing third in the division.

As Yogi would say, It ain't over....
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/01/07 11:08 PM


I kept A-Rod out of my lineup today, so perhaps NOW he'll finally hit one out to get that #500 over with....... \:\/
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 01:10 AM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

I kept A-Rod out of my lineup today, so perhaps NOW he'll finally hit one out to get that #500 over with....... \:\/


About time! Thank you, Jinxy-boy! \:p
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 01:39 AM


So much for that strategy \:\/

Did I Anti-Jinx™ him??

Ties his 0-21 streak \:\(

--

I didn't jinx Jeter, tho! Nor Matsui yesterday... \:p ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 12:27 PM

Mr. Jinxy-Jinx, don't you know that your feeble powers are meaningless against Jeter???
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 12:27 PM

Whooah. Inching ever closer... ;\)

The big news of the day? YES is for sale... \:\/
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 12:54 PM

BTW - The Yankee fans need to look at this trade deadline and be glad we sat on our hands. The other GM's were looking to rape our team. For example, the "best" offer for Kyle Farnsworth? Atlanta. They would have sent us Bob Wickman (arguably worse than Farnsy), and we would have to pay ALL of Farnsworthless' salary. Yeah. Like that.

Similar with Gagne - the Rangers wanted Hughes OR Chamberlain AND Melky. No way. And they wouldn't budge. So it's not too hard to see why Cashman did not make a big deal.

Add in the fact that we already made one big signing (Clemens) and will have Giambi, Hughes, and possible Chamberlain heading to the Major League club within the next two weeks, I don't think that outside of a blockbuster trade (i.e. acquiring Johan Santana or Teixeira), Cashman could have done anything other than get us mediocre players while the Yankees foot the bill. No thanks.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 01:34 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
BTW - The Yankee fans need to look at this trade deadline and be glad we sat on our hands. The other GM's were looking to rape our team. For example, the "best" offer for Kyle Farnsworth? Atlanta. They would have sent us Bob Wickman (arguably worse than Farnsy), and we would have to pay ALL of Farnsworthless' salary. Yeah. Like that.

Similar with Gagne - the Rangers wanted Hughes OR Chamberlain AND Melky. No way. And they wouldn't budge. So it's not too hard to see why Cashman did not make a big deal.

Add in the fact that we already made one big signing (Clemens) and will have Giambi, Hughes, and possible Chamberlain heading to the Major League club within the next two weeks, I don't think that outside of a blockbuster trade (i.e. acquiring Johan Santana or Teixeira), Cashman could have done anything other than get us mediocre players while the Yankees foot the bill. No thanks.


I agree, I wouldn't want to overspend either on a rental player. Gagne's a free agent at the end of the season and the Yanks have the opportunity to sign him then. When does Farnsworth's contract end BTW?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 02:02 PM

Hopefully sooner rather than later...

He's a free agent after next year.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 03:54 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

So much for that strategy \:\/

Did I Anti-Jinx™ him??

Ties his 0-21 streak \:\(

--

I didn't jinx Jeter, tho! Nor Matsui yesterday... \:p ;\)


I'd like to see him go 0-50, and the Yanks win every game; move into the wild card AND then see A-Rod hit 20 Hrs in 20 games.
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 06:19 PM

That's a pretty wild 2nd inning going on in the Bronx.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 06:21 PM

 Originally Posted By: Just Lou
That's a pretty wild 2nd inning going on in the Bronx.


So far 16 runs in the inning... a real pitcher's duel!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 06:25 PM

Without the starting pitchers!!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 06:27 PM

Wow, first time in major league history that both teams scored 8 runs in the second inning. It's a wild one. I wonder how it'll play out...
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 09:13 PM

It sure looked like they'd pull the game out...
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 09:36 PM


Might as well save this for posterity... \:\/

Behind the 8-ball: Yankees, White Sox score 8 in 2nd
 Quote:


By RICK FREEMAN, AP Sports Writer
August 2, 2007

NEW YORK (AP) -- The Yankees and White Sox got into a new kind of pitcher's duel. Roger Clemens gave up eight runs and left in the second inning. Then Jon Garland did the same.

It took exactly 1 hour to play the second inning Thursday, as New York and Chicago each scored eight runs. It was only the second time in major league history both teams scored eight or more in an inning. The first was only a little more than three years ago, when visiting Detroit scored eight and Texas had 10 in the fifth inning of the Rangers' 16-15, 10-inning win.

Thursday's game marked the first time in big league history that two teams combined for 16 runs in a second inning. Several had tallied 14.

Clemens was booed off the mound after he allowed eight runs and nine hits in 1 2-3 innings. Garland followed him with eight runs and nine hits in 1 1-3 innings.

Only three of the runs off Clemens were earned. Second baseman Robinson Cano mishandled Jerry Owens' grounder near the bag with one out, and Clemens threw out Darin Erstad at the plate on Alex Cintron's dribbler, but the next four batters all got hits off Clemens before manager Joe Torre replaced him.

It was the shortest outing for Clemens since June 2000, when he lasted just one inning against Boston. He hadn't allowed this many runs since a game in August 2003, when all nine runs he gave up were earned.

Making his last start before turning 45, Clemens pitched a perfect first inning before the White Sox got to him with a series of singles and doubles that eluded Yankees fielders. When Torre replaced him with left-hander Mike Myers, the fans at Yankee Stadium booed loudly, but the boos faded to polite applause by the time the Rocket had trudged to the dugout.

The Yankees trailed 8-0 when Clemens left and he looked to be in line for his sixth loss in 11 starts, but his teammates answered immediately with five straight hits off Garland, including Wilson Betemit's three-run homer and Alex Rodriguez's RBI single, which snapped a streak of 22 hitless at-bats -- the longest of his major league career.

After that, Garland was removed for Boone Logan, who allowed a tying, two-run ground-rule double to Jorge Posada, but got a grounder from Robinson Cano that brought the inning to an end. Finally.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 09:44 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
I always confuse posterity and prosperity


May you have good fortune in both.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/02/07 11:37 PM

BTW - Anyone see Farnsworth's quotes after the game?

 Quote:
Source: LoHud Yankees Blog

Here’s how my postgame interview with Kyle Farnsworth went:

Peter Abraham: Kyle, got a minute to talk?

Kyle Farnsworth: About what?

PA: The game.

KF: We lost.

(Walks into bathroom)

PA: Um …

Thus ended one great moment in journalism.


Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/03/07 02:14 AM

That reminds me of a question that was asked to Jim Fregosi after a game when he was managing the Phillies.

Reporter: Why do you think you lost tonight.

Fregosi: The Braves scored four runs; we scored three. Anything else, Einstein?
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/03/07 02:48 AM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
That reminds me of a question that was asked to Jim Fregosi after a game when he was managing the Phillies.

Reporter: Why do you think you lost tonight.

Fregosi: The Braves scored four runs; we scored three. Anything else, Einstein?


Classic stuff!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/07 12:15 PM

Well, the PHranchise returns today. Let's hope he's back in form... ;\)
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/07 05:35 PM


500!!!!!

Finally.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/07 07:23 PM

Congrats to Mr. 500!

Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/07 07:27 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

500!!!!!

Finally.


I coulda told ya he'd hit it today... I watched "Mantle" on HBO earlier today and I remember when the Mick hit his 500th... I saved the newspaper headline of it...

The youngest man to do so, huh?? Oddly enough others have done it in less games (McGwire and Ruth included)...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/07 07:40 PM

I heard he's only the third Yankee player to hit his 500th as a Yankee and only the second Yankee to hit his in Yankee Stadium.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/07 07:44 PM

That'd be right.... Ruth and Mantle preceded him, and the Mick hit his 500th in the Stadium (I think it was 1967).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/04/07 08:16 PM

He's in pretty good company \:p I don't know why but for whatever reason, when I saw him on the bench after he hit it, I got this feeling that he'll be with them next year. Only time will tell but hopefully I'm right.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/07 10:20 AM

Yankees get another win, inch closer to the Wild Card, and...designate Mike Myers for assignment.

I know Myers wasn't a world beater...but you can't tell me you'd rather see Kyle Farnsworthless come in at this point than Myers.

And rumors are either Jim Brower, or move phenom Joba Chamberlain to the bullpen. Ugh.

What the hell does Chris Britton have to do to get on the team? He's been tearing up the minors all season. Poo.

Oh well. Let's look at Brower's minor league stats: 43.2 IP, 40 strikeouts, 1.65 ERA, with 20 saves for the Scranton-Wilkes Barre Yankees. I guess I can handle that.

And Joba? He's amazing. Over his four innings of bullpen work (since being converted from a starter for this call-up), he's thrown 4 innings, in which he's struck out 10 of the 12 batters. Yikes. I'm ready.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/07 03:00 PM

Wait, to make room they had to cut Myers!? WTF? Myers is reliable. That doesn't make any sense.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/07 03:13 PM

Rarin' to go

MOOSIC, Pa. (AP) -- Jason Giambi's rehab stint with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre ended with an 0-for-3 night Sunday.

After the game, Giambi said he will join his New York Yankees teammates Monday in Toronto, but that he wasn't sure when he would be activated.

"Its exciting for me to get the opportunity," Giambi said. "The injury healed a lot faster than we all thought. I'll just go up there, and the team's playing great, so the biggest thing is to just go up there and be a part of it."

Giambi tore tissue in his foot May 30 and started his rehab last weekend at Class-A Tampa, where he played four games. He played four more with the Red Barons, going hitless after a solo home run in his first at-bat.

On Sunday, Giambi started at first base, struck out once and walked once. He was also charged with an error when he misplayed a sacrifice bunt attempt.

Source: SI
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/07 05:40 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12

On Sunday, Giambi started at first base, struck out once and walked once. He was also charged with an error when he misplayed a sacrifice bunt attempt.


Oh, yeah. That's the kind of guy I want to bring up now... \:\/

Seriously, I'd leave Giambi in AAA until he gets back to some decent form, rather than lose Duncan or Andy at this point. Plus, when Giambi comes back, Melky will rot on the bench, most likely...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/06/07 07:12 PM

I agree DJ. The team is firing on all cylinders. Don't mess with a good thing
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/07/07 11:25 AM

The Yankees have officially brought Joba Chamberlain up from the minors today, and the plan is to use him as the 7th inning man in Clemens start against the Boo Jays today.

The future starts now!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/07/07 07:16 PM

Sweet. I gotta work tonight but I'll look forward to the highlights
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/08/07 05:26 AM

Only 5 games back
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/08/07 12:18 PM

Great game last night, the benches cleared twice, and Clemens retaliated (finally). Posada hit a backbreaking double right after the non-fight, and Chamberlain looked good. Man, it was weird to see a Yankee hit 99 on the gun. You can tell he's a starter though - he's more apt to try and bait guys around the zone than he is to go right after than like a bullpen guy would.

Anyways, Jays get what they deserve (after hitting A-Rod the day before AND last night, in the knee) and Shelley Duncan had a slide like a linebacker last night. If you can find it, it is great. \:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/08/07 05:33 PM

KYLE FARNSWORTH ON WAIVERS! YAY!



Hooray!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/08/07 06:27 PM

It's about time
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/07 03:13 AM

I just saw on the news that they suspended Clemens for 5 games, and Torre for one, and they were both fined. Three players on the Blue Jays were fined. This was all due to the ARod bench-clearing incident.

This really pisses me off. The Yankees have been hit by pitchers more than any other team, yet the one time that Clemens decides to hit back, the Yankees get the short end of the stick.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/07 12:46 PM

Clemens will appeal. If you noticed, he was quite thorough in his explanation to the umpire the night he was tossed, and I think he'll go into the meeting saying that, look, their team hit our star player not once, but twice over two nights, we had no choice but to retaliate. The umpires had no control over the game. He hit Rios in the back, which was not dangerous, compared to the Jays hitting A-Rod in the knee.

Etc., etc.

At worse, Clemens will miss one start, and the appeal could take it deep into September by that time. Torre serves his tonight. Donnie Baseball should get a chance to hone his managerial skills.

I agree that it sucks, SB, but I think that Clemens will be vindicated.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/07 12:56 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Clemens will appeal. ...I agree that it sucks, SB, but I think that Clemens will be vindicated.


Doubtful.

I give Clemens credit for doing what he was supposed to do ("protect" his teammates), but I would be very surprised if his ban was lifted.

Like you said, he'll miss one start (but that one hit-batter pitch can lift a team's spirit and be more beneficial to the Yanks than Roger pitching one game).
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/07 01:03 PM

Well, vindicated in the sense that he'll have his day and basically say his peace, as well as delaying his actual suspension for awhile.

I'd be surprised if the ban was lifted too, but given the Jays comments, I think Roger has plenty of ammo. Plus, he didn't tweak. \:D
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/07 02:06 PM

Does anyone know how many times the Yankees have been hit by pitchers?? I would love to know if there are actual statistics to show how many times Jeter or ARod have been hit, because it seems like an awful lot.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/07 03:54 PM

I'm pissed at the suspension because a friend and I were gonna go down to the game on Monday when Roger was suppose to pitch. It's a good thing I didn't buy the $175-$200 tickets we were looking at on stubhub.com
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/07 08:35 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Does anyone know how many times the Yankees have been hit by pitchers?? I would love to know if there are actual statistics to show how many times Jeter or ARod have been hit, because it seems like an awful lot.


It is insanely lopsided, especially when we play Boston.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/10/07 08:38 PM

Also a little note - according to Brian Cashman and Peter Abraham of the LoHud Yankees blog, should A-Rod opt out, there is a clause that will allow the Yankees to offer him arbitration. This means that should he go to another team, the Yankees would receive compensatory draft picks, including a 1st rounder at the least.

So even if A-Rod goes...we could still be looking at a nice pick-up as a consolation prize. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/07 12:08 AM

Source: Padres claim Igawa off waivers

If the Yankees want to get rid of Kei Igawa, they have their chance.

The Padres, continuing in their attempt to upgrade their starting rotation, have claimed Igawa off waivers, major league sources told FOXSports.com.

San Diego was awarded the claim on Friday, and the two teams have until the end of the weekend to work out a trade for the 28-year-old Japanese pitcher. If no deal can be worked out in that time frame, Igawa would remain in New York for at least the rest of the season.

No American League team put a claim on Igawa, nor did any National League with a worse record than San Diego.

The Padres had expressed interest in the left-handed Igawa before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline.

The Yankees, despite being unhappy with Igawa's performance this year, are unlikely to part ways with their first-year pitcher after having paid $26 million during the off-season merely to negotiate with Igawa's former Japanese club, the Hanshin Tigers. Igawa signed a five-year, $20 million deal with New York.

The Padres, meanwhile, cut ties with David Wells earlier this week, after the 44-year-old struggled mightily in his last few starts. Justin Germano and Wil Ledezma currently round out San Diego's rotation, and the Padres clearly feel that Igawa would be an upgrade.

Igawa, who has struggled through most of the season with control problems, has been optioned to the minor leagues twice already this year. In his time in the bigs, he is 2-3 with a 6.79 ERA, having walked 32 batters in just 62 1/3 innings.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/07 09:31 AM

Woohooooooooooooo! \:\)

---

Hey, awesome! The MLB disciplined the Jays as well!

Oh, wait. They only fined the pitcher, Matt Stairs (who tried to instigate the fight), and their third base coach. In addition, Tony Pena, A-Rod, and Larry Bowa received fines as well! Gee, I'm glad that's settled. So we lose one of our starting pitchers during a playoff push, our manager for a game, and fined...and the Blue Jays get some blow-off fines.

I'm glad to see Selig still has his head up his ass.

FWIW though, I guess it probably would be the best thing possible for the Yankees and for the rest of the league if they don't suspend Josh Towers (5-9, 5.36 ERA), who btw, called Tony Pena "a quitter" who "managed a team and quit
in the middle of the season because he couldn't hack it."

As always, the gracious response from Pena? "I have no comment. Let him talk."
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/07 06:40 PM

I actually have no problem with the Clemens suspension. Everyone had a feeling that A-Rod bought his HBP after the bush league yelling, "Mine" a few months ago.

When the benches emptied, nobody was really interested in fighting, except possibly those who got the fines. But this was an incident of baseball policing itself. Jeter was smiling on the field as were other Yankees and Blue Jays, who understood why this had to happen and that the matter was over.

I understood why Clemens did what he did, and don't necessarily fault him. But the matter had been settled and it happened after a warning, so the consequences are appropriate.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/07 06:50 PM

I just hope this doesn't happen everytime the Yankees and Blue Jays play each other. Get over it already!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/11/07 07:19 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
I actually have no problem with the Clemens suspension. Everyone had a feeling that A-Rod bought his HBP after the bush league yelling, "Mine" a few months ago.

When the benches emptied, nobody was really interested in fighting, except possibly those who got the fines. But this was an incident of baseball policing itself. Jeter was smiling on the field as were other Yankees and Blue Jays, who understood why this had to happen and that the matter was over.

I understood why Clemens did what he did, and don't necessarily fault him. But the matter had been settled and it happened after a warning, so the consequences are appropriate.


I have no problem with Clemens being suspended.

But baseball is fucked up when two games in a row, a player (of A-Rod's caliber no less) is thrown at in a dangerous location (not his back, say, but his knee) and the umpires are as inept (purposefully?) as ever. Why is only one side *truly* penalized, and the other side (who instigated) gets a slap on the wrist?

Then again, as I said before, maybe having to have Josh Towers in your rotation is punishment enough for the Blue Jays.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/07 02:01 PM

Yankees keep rolling, as Mussina adjusted and score a big win over the Indians.

Incidentally, Paul Byrd might be back in Buffalo soon if he keeps pitching he way he did last night. Anyone else glad we didn't try to acquire him way back in the Spring when all our starters went down?
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/07 04:22 PM

New topic, if the season ended now....who would be YOUR American League MVP?
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/07 05:51 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Yankees keep rolling, as Mussina adjusted and score a big win over the Indians.


I'm not a happy camper about it
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/07 10:45 PM

Down to 4 games Man Gagne is really getting roughed up in Boston. I really don't understand what his problem is. He was doing fine in Texas. But I guess his lousy performance is helping the Yankees stay close. Before long though, he'll break out of this slump, he's too good of a pitcher not to.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/12/07 11:12 PM

Who was the Yank that broke the bat today?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/13/07 11:14 AM

I didn't watch most of the game yesterday, Miggy. What did he look like/did you catch his number? ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/14/07 03:45 PM

'Scooter' Rizzuto dies at 89

Phil "Scooter" Rizzuto, who overcame his diminutive size to become a key contributor to numerous New York Yankees championships and followed his playing career with a lengthy and entertaining stint in the team's broadcast booth, died Tuesday. He was 89.

Rizzuto's playing and broadcasting careers were in contrast with each other. As a player, Rizzuto had the reputation for being an alert, heads-up competitor with keen baseball instincts that eventually earned him a place in the Hall of Fame. Behind the microphone, he was at times oblivious to the events on the field, nevertheless his lack of polish as an announcer was ignored by generations of Yankees fans who accepted his eccentricities the way family members do an amusing relative.

In many ways, the Yankees were Rizzuto's family. Excepting a three-year stretch in the United States Navy (1943-45) during World War II, Rizzuto was the Yankees' regular shortstop from 1941 into the 1956 season, when he retired under somewhat disagreeable circumstances. The next year, he began a broadcasting career that would run 40 seasons through 1996, the first year of the Yankees' most recent stretch of success under manager Joe Torre.

In retirement, Rizzuto frequently returned to Yankee Stadium to throw out ceremonial first pitches on special occasions. After Derek Jeter's famous shuttle toss home in the 2001 American League Championship Series, Rizzuto mimicked the play in tribute to the current Yankees shortstop rather than throwing from the mound, to the delight of the Stadium crowd.

Rizzuto was part of the Yankees' dynastic years of the 1940s and '50s that included a record five straight World Series championships from 1949 through 1953. It was during that period that Rizzuto was an American League Most Valuable Player, in 1950, a year after he finished second in the voting to Ted Williams. In his 13 seasons with the Yankees, Rizzuto played in nine World Series and was on the winning side seven times. He was a rookie on the Yankees' 1941 championship team that beat the Brooklyn Dodgers for the first of five times in the Series before losing to their Flatbush rivals in 1955, Rizzuto's last postseason appearance.

Among the highest compliments paid Rizzuto came from Williams, who frequently said the Boston Red Sox might have been in all those World Series had Rizzuto been on their side. As a member of the Hall's Veterans Committee, Williams lobbied hard for Rizzuto's enshrinement in Cooperstown, N.Y., which became reality in 1994. Rizzuto had been the oldest living Hall of Famer. That distinction now belongs to former American League president Lee MacPhail, with former second baseman Bobby Doerr the oldest living Hall of Fame player.

Friends said that Rizzuto felt a personal wound 10 years earlier when his Dodgers counterpart, Pee Wee Reese, who was also a good friend, was elected by the Veterans Committee to the Hall, believing that they should have gone in together. Rizzuto simply refused to talk about the Hall after than until the day of his induction, when no one could shut him up -- thankfully. Rizzuto's speech was a delightful ramble without a shred of pretense, filled with recollections of his well-known superstitions and phobias, all the while fanning the air with his hands to shoo away annoying flies.

Yankees fans over the years learned about Rizzuto's love of golf and Italian food, especially pastry, and his fear of snakes, rodents, insects and lightning. He also hated traffic and bolted to the press elevator as if running out a base hit to get to the parking lot for a hasty exit out of the Stadium lot and over the George Washington Bridge to his longtime home in Hillsdale, N.J.

Rizzuto broke away from his play-by-play or analysis to wish happy birthday to fans and friends, many of whom ran restaurants and bakeries and often sent him treats, notably boxes of canolis which he shared with writers and others in the press box. If he missed a play, he'd write in his scorecard "WW," for "wasn't watching." He spoke fondly of his devoted wife, Cora, perhaps the only person he never described as a "huckleberry."

Both as a player and broadcaster, Rizzuto seldom referred to teammates or colleagues by their first name, with the exceptions of Yogi Berra, Mickey Mantle and Whitey Ford. For them, Rizzuto used no last name. He once opened a Yankees telecast by announcing himself as Bill White, Rizzuto's partner at the time. White, who later was the president of the National League, said, "That was the only time in 18 years I heard him mention my first name."

Rizzuto received the nickname "Scooter" while in the minor leagues, from fellow infielder Billy Hitchcock, who later managed in the Majors. Hitchcock took note of Rizzuto's short legs and said, "You ain't runnin', you're scootin.'"

Another nickname Rizzuto had in the politically incorrect past was "Little Dago," a derogatory term for men of Italian descent, but in a way it, too, was a compliment, since it was a play on "Big Dago," which was what many opponents called Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio.

One of the more poignant stories about how much of a loner DiMaggio was came from Rizzuto. On the day Joe D.'s 56-game hitting streak ended in 1941, Rizzuto offered to take DiMaggio out because he knew his teammate was upset. DiMaggio asked Rizzuto to loan him $20 and then went into the night alone.

Being little was something Rizzuto could not deny. Even in an era when many players were not six feet tall, Rizzuto was spare of build at 5-foot-6 and less than 160 pounds. He was athletic, however, and carved out a career as one of baseball's best defensive shortstops and base runners and mastered the lost art of bunting. The five-time All-Star's .273 career batting average was well-earned.

Fiero Francis Rizzuto was born Sept. 25, 1916 in Brooklyn, N.Y., the son of a streetcar conductor. His birth year had been listed as 1917, but Rizzuto told New York Daily News baseball columnist Bill Madden that he had lied about his age after some players told him it would add a year to his career. Scooter played both baseball and football at Richmond Hill High School in Queens and had dreams of playing baseball for a living, which was nearly shattered when he failed to impress the Dodgers, his favorite team, in a 1937 tryout.

"I just got out of high school, and Casey Stengel was managing the Dodgers," Rizzuto recalled in 2000 for the Hall of Fame's Legend Series. "He took one look at me, and I will never forget this -- I would never let him forget this, either -- he said, 'Listen, kid, you better go and get yourself a shoeshine box. That is the only way you'll make a living.' I was going out to Ebbets Field to try to impress someone. I was crushed. And then the Yankees called me. They had a one-week tryout camp. It was a little bit of what they could see, what you could do. And you could play a game every day. It was a good thing I knew how to bunt and steal, although I did hit one in the seats. I hit a home run down the left field line, it hit the foul pole, and so the Yankees signed me to a contract."

Rizzuto would be reunited with Stengel when Casey became the Yankees' manager in 1949, by which time Scooter had established himself as one of the AL's most reliable players. Joe McCarthy was the manager when Rizzuto joined the team in 1941 and hit .307 in 133 games. The only other time Scooter batted over .300 was in his MVP season of 1950, when he hit .324 with 200 hits and 125 runs.

Stengel moved Rizzuto from the bottom of the lineup to the top, where he usually batted second and occasionally led off. Rizzuto's bunting ability helped him lead the AL in sacrifices for four consecutive seasons, He was among the top five basestealers seven times. Gold Gloves for fielding were not given out until 1957, ther year after Rizzuto retired as a player, but he likely would have won several. He led the AL in double plays and chances three times each, in fielding percentage and putout twice apiece and in assists once.

"My best pitch is anything the batter grounds, lines or pops in the direction of Rizzuto," teammate Vic Raschi once said.

Rizzuto lost his hold on the position in 1954 when he hit only .195 with 15 RBI in 307 at-bats, and Stengel used Willie Miranda and Jerry Coleman often at shortstop. Billy Hunter actually played more games at shortstop than Rizzuto in 1955, but Scooter started all seven games of that World Series, although he was removed for a pinch-hitter in three games.

The end of the line for Rizzuto as a player came on Old-Timers Day at the Stadium Aug. 25, 1956, the same day the Yankees claimed outfielder Enos Slaughter off waivers from the Kansas City Athletics. Rizzuto met with club officials, who were discussing ways to get Slaughter on the 25-man roster that had to be cemented within the week for his eligibility for a possible World Series.

Rizzuto realized that he was the player the Yankees intended to release, which they did. He maintained that Stengel and general manager George Weiss reneged on a promise that if the Yankees made the Series, Rizzuto would be put on the roster as the backup for Gil McDougald, the regular shortstop, but Hunter was kept instead.

Little did Rizzuto realize at the time that his years with the Yankees were not over. Rizzuto toyed with the idea of joining the Giants' broadcast team but decided against it when he heard the club intended to move from New York to San Francisco after the 1957 season. Instead, at the urging of the Ballantine Brewing Company, which sponsored the Yankees' games on radio and TV, Rizzuto was added to the booth with legendary announcers Mel Allen and Red Barber.

Although Rizzuto occasionally came into the booth when he was out of the lineup due to injury, he was not welcomed warmly as a colleague by the two veteran broadcasters -- even Allen, who had witnessed nearly every game of Scooter's career. Rizzuto believed Allen and Barber resented him because of his inexperience. Former players such as Harry Heilman and Dizzy Dean found success in the broadcast booth, but Rizzuto was a first in the media capital of New York.

Yet it was precisely his unsophisticated manner and nasally Brooklyn accent endeared him to Yankees fans over the years. He refused to give up his "Holy Cow!" call that had been used first by another broadcasting legend, Harry Caray, because it was a phrase Rizzuto had used since childhood to avoid swearing. Anthing that was part of Phil Rizzuto was part of his broadcast.

Rizzuto's first media appearance occurred on Feb. 2, 1950, when he was the initial mystery guest on "What's My Line?" Rizzuto appeared several more times as a panelist on the popular game show that ran on CBS every Sunday night for 17 years. He did commercials for various products, and for a number of years was spokesman for a loan company known as The Money Store.

Among Rizzuto's most famous calls were Roger Maris' 61st home run in 1961 and Chris Chambliss' pennant-clinching homer in the 1976 AL Championship Series. Scooter became so identified with the Yankees that the singer Meat Loaf used with permission his play-by-play of a game as background in the 1977 song, "Paradise by the Dashboard Light."

His uniform No. 10 was retired by the Yankees Aug. 4, 1985 on Phil Rizzuto Day, but he ended up being upstaged by Tom Seaver, who pitched his 300th career victory that afternoon for the Chicago White Sox. Rizzuto never failed to bring that up to Seaver during their eight years as partners on Yankees telecasts from 1989 to 1996.

In 1993, a book edited by Tom Peyer and Hart Seely, "Holy Cow!: The Selected Verse of Phil Rizzuto," featured portions of Scooter's stream of conscience broadcasts in the form of poetry.

Rizzuto once said on the air upon learning of the death of Pope Paul VI, "Well, that kind of puts a damper on even a Yankee win."

So does the passing of Phil Rizzuto.

Source: Yankees

----------------------------------------------------------------

Holy Cow! We'll miss you Phil

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/15/07 11:35 AM

Well, kudos to major league baseball for suspending Clemens and doing nothing to the Boo Jays. In place of Clemens, we started Karstens (who has pretty much sealed his fate, I doubt he'll ever be in pinstripes again except in mop-up duty) and he got rocked, then put in Brower (who got rocked some more).

All in all? Good example why we need Roger Clemens and Edwar Ramirez a lot more than we need Jeff Karstens and Jim Brower.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/15/07 04:05 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
All in all? Good example why we need Roger Clemens and Edwar Ramirez a lot more than we need Jeff Karstens and Jim Brower.


What happened to Edwar? Did they send him back down to Triple-A? He needs to develop another pitch. He has a good changeup, but once guys knew that was he strikeout pitch, they're just going to wait on it and crush it
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/16/07 11:40 AM

If I'm not mistaken, he throws a serviceable slider.

Yankees sign their top draft picks, including one of the highest touted prospects in the draft, Andrew Brackman, yesterday. ;\)
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/07 02:20 AM

heh, better luck tomorrow. \:p And this is crazy that we are playing 8 games against each other in two weeks.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/07 02:30 AM

Almost went to the game tonight. Glad that didn't happen. They gotta do something about Moose because he's been sucking most of this year. Not surprised to hear Sheff get the boos.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/07 12:23 PM

Yeah, I'm definitely glad that Chamberlain and Kennedy will most likely be in the starting rotation next year. They desperately need to move Moose to an NL team where he can retire in comfort, instead of sucking in NYC.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/07 04:36 PM

The suckage has returned. How depressing.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/07 06:39 PM

Moose could have some nice golden years if he played for, say, the Padres, or another NL team in a division without the stresses of AL quality hitting.

Poo poo. I understand Moose was a bargain this offseason, but damn, a two year contract is like an albatross the way he's been playing.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/07 07:34 PM

A-Rod receives key to New York City

NEW YORK (AP) -- New York Yankees slugger Alex Rodriguez was presented on Thursday with a key to the city in honor of his 500th home run.

A-Rod, who just turned 32, hit the milestone homer against the Kansas City Royals on Aug. 4, becoming the 22nd and youngest player to reach the mark.

He received a key to the city from Mayor Michael Bloomberg at Yankee Stadium before a game against the Detroit Tigers while teammates and manager Joe Torre looked on.

"It will be something I hold dear to me for the rest of my life," Rodriguez said.

The Yankees paid tribute to A-Rod on Monday before their game against the Baltimore Orioles, presenting him with home plate, a silver tray with an inscription from team owner George Steinbrenner, two portraits and a sculpture.

Keys to the city are presented to distinguished people for outstanding civic contributions. Last week, the mayor presented a key to New York Mets pitcher Tom Glavine in honor of his 300th career win.

A-Rod and Glavine are in lofty company. Past recipients of keys include the Dalai Lama, Nelson Mandela, Pope John Paul II and Mother Theresa.

Source: SI
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/17/07 11:10 PM

Who would've thought, after he had all that shit hurled at him last year that he would get the key to the city.
Posted By: ap_capone48101

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/18/07 09:23 PM

Maybin just took Roger deep. \:D And he's only 20. ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/07 03:32 AM

 Originally Posted By: ap_capone48101
Maybin just took Roger deep. \:D And he's only 20. ;\)


And the Yankees still win the game and worst case, split the series \:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/19/07 12:20 PM

 Originally Posted By: ap_capone48101
Maybin just took Roger deep. \:D And he's only 20. ;\)


Have you met Shelley Duncan? He's 26. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/20/07 02:10 AM

And the Yanks take 3-out-of-4 from the Tigers Let's hope they can also take the series from the Angels as they are always Yankee killers
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/20/07 12:04 PM

Doubtful. Unfortunately, the Angels always kick our asses. I hope we don't face them in the playoffs.

Still, the Angels beat up on the Red Sox for us a bit, so we're 4 games back, and 1/2 behind in the Wild Card.

BTW - Anyone hear Steve Phillips (aka the ex-Mets retarded GM) who said the Yankees should trade Melky, Chamberlain, and Hughes for Johan Santana right now?

I think it sheds some light on why he's no longer a GM in major league baseball and instead works for ESPN... \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/20/07 03:30 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
BTW - Anyone hear Steve Phillips (aka the ex-Mets retarded GM) who said the Yankees should trade Melky, Chamberlain, and Hughes for Johan Santana right now?


I'd rather wait until the end of next season and sign him as a free agent
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/07 03:31 PM

Man, they just couldn't win that game last night
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/07 05:15 PM

They tried, sort of. What a waste!! Back to 5 games out.

I sort of expected this, though. They have a terrible record against the Angels.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/07 05:26 PM

Me too. Everytime they got a lead, they lost it and everytime they tied, the Angels would score that same inning. Like I said, they just couldn't win that game last night no matter what. And what's with Cano's defense? I saw at least a play or 2 where it seemed like he should have come up with the ball and he didn't. Dive for crying out loud!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/21/07 05:50 PM

Cano definitely had an off night. Oh, well. He's been on a good streak lately, so I guess it was bound to happen.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/22/07 02:25 AM

He was out!!! OMG!! He was SO out!!! And what's Moose going to do?? Walk the entire freaking team??? And WTF was Abreu and Melky doing?? The two of them looked like they were going to wrestle one another for the ball! It's only the first inning, and this game has disaster written all over it already.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/22/07 03:06 AM

Moose is terrible. They lose tonight and they're 6 out from Boston. They might want to think about putting Moose at Triple-A and moving Kennedy up if they want to 1) get into the postseason and 2) be successful
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/22/07 12:09 PM

FYI, they'll never demote Moose for the same reasons they never dumped Giambi or Kevin Brown. There is too much money there, and the Yankees would have to have Moose a.) clear waivers and b.) accept the demotion. I doubt either would happen.

Now, that being said, Moose has been terrible all year. 85 MPH fastballs are not going to fool anyone at the Major League level. I suspect they're going to finish the year with Moose, and try to work around his NTC (I think he has the 5/10 rule, where he's been with a team for 5 years, so he has a limited NTC where he can pick 10 teams he'd accept a trade to) to send him to an NL team, like I've already said.

One more time - it is no surprise we lost. The Angels are Yankee-killers, and every time we play them, we look like Little Leaguers.

If we make the playoffs, pray we don't meet them there (even though we probably will). Give me the Red Sox any day of the week over the Angels.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/23/07 05:19 AM

A big win for the Yanks tonight. They couldn't leave Anaheim on a sweep. They also move closer to both Boston and Seattle. Finally, congrats to Joe on passing Casey Stengel for 2nd on the all-time wins list by a Yankee manager
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/23/07 05:40 AM


All I gotta say is..... Joba
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/23/07 04:23 PM

No better teacher

----------------------------------------------------------------

Clemens passing the torch to rookies

Most of the Yankees were filtering out of a visiting clubhouse in Anaheim this week, scattering to the streets. Only a partially cracked weight room door provided a glimpse to Roger Clemens' inner workings.

As Mike Mussina finished dissecting a troubled start, many exited, their night complete as the clock inched toward 3 a.m. on the East Coast. But duties weren't yet over for Clemens, who grunted dozens of biceps curls into a mirror before finally permitting himself to leave the premises.

Once again, the reminder was served: It is no accident that Clemens has pitched as well as he has, for as long as he has. For the youngest Yankees, Joba Chamberlain and Phil Hughes, Clemens is a constant inspiration through perspiration.

"It was great to know you've got somebody like that coming in, and somebody who's so willing to talk, willing to learn, willing to teach," Chamberlain said. "He's 45 years young and he still wants to teach. He had great teachers when he was growing up, and you can tell that he wants to continue the legacy that was brought upon him to the younger generation."

The Yankees' early season financial pitch for Clemens was based upon a need for a quality starting pitcher at the Major League level, a service that the future Hall of Famer has consistently provided.

But just as he did with the Houston Astros, where sweaty afternoons were spent in workouts with starry eyed Minor Leaguers, the seven-time Cy Young Award winner has offered instruction and advice to Yankees prospects whenever possible.

"Obviously, they're paying him money to go out and perform, but he feels like the other part of this job is to help us out and mentor," Hughes said. "There's only so much you can do in this game that he hasn't already done. I think he likes the fact that he's passing the torch, in a sense."

Chamberlain and Hughes both had the opportunity to borrow from the Rocket's wisdom when all three spent time at the Yankees' player development complex in Tampa, Fla., earlier this summer.

During one of Clemens' rehab sessions, firing tuneup offerings toward his eventual Yankee Stadium relaunch against the Pirates, the hurler invited a group of prospects to observe and ask questions -- partially to help inform and pass on knowledge gleaned from 24 seasons of big league service, and also because Clemens may have been curious as to the thought process of the younger generation.

"We had some good times in Tampa," Clemens said. "I think that was the most important thing, and they paid attention. Every step of the way that I was working on coming back -- which was real important to me -- they hung out a little bit longer and watched. Now that I get to see them actually learning on the go, it's kind of fun to watch."

Hughes' last start, a Monday effort at Angel Stadium -- the California native's nearest big league facility as a youngster --yielded the most promising results since he returned to the big league squad from injuries. Meanwhile, every Chamberlain appearance continues to be an event; wielding an electric fastball and a biting slider, Chamberlain struck out the side in an inning Wednesday against the Angels, including fanning Vladimir Guerrero for the final out.

"They're going to obviously play a big part in what's going to happen here," Clemens said. "The quicker they can understand to get a good workout routine and get a solid base that they can count on, the Yankees are planning on them being a big part of that new stadium across the way."

Projecting Chamberlain and Hughes as pillars of the Yankees' new facility rising between Jerome and River Avenues in the Bronx may be tricky business, but for manager Joe Torre, it's easy to look past age in favor of mature attitudes.

That, Torre said, is one of the most impressive aspects of sending a pair of 21-year-olds out on a regular basis: neither seems to be intimidated, only to belong.

"They're all going to be judged on how they handle the pot holes, and that's where pretty much the jury is still out, because we haven't seen that yet," Torre said. "But again, knowing their makeup, I think they've sort of been forewarned."

For Chamberlain, who completed a meteoric rise from Class A Tampa to the big leagues in his first full pro season, Clemens' most striking lesson has revolved around proper workout programs and conditioning.

"The biggest thing was to treat your body like a temple. What you put into it is what you're going to get out of it," Chamberlain said. "You can have your fun, but you also have to realize when it's time to flip the switch and time to get to work. You can do everything you set your mind to -- you just have to be patient and work hard."

For both Chamberlain and Hughes, early success has convincingly proven that they have been blessed with standout talent. But that is just the beginning of the lesson, for as Clemens warns, such gifts have an indefinite shelf life against similarly superb athletes.

"They wouldn't be here if they didn't have the makeup," Clemens said. "I've encouraged them to get something that they can believe in and count on, and take with them for a long time.

"They'll have to adjust, because people will adjust to them once they see them enough. That's all part of it. If you can survive on talent for four or five years, you're going to have to make adjustments from there on."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/24/07 11:37 AM

This just in: Brian Bruney back up with the big club, Villone or Henn down.

Why the fuck does Cashman hate Chris Britton so much?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/24/07 09:21 PM

Burning Hot Rumor: Joe Torre has spoken confidentially with Mike Mussina and Brian Cashman, letting Moose know that if he does not show some improvement in his next start, his job in the rotation could be in jeopardy.

Yay! \:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/27/07 07:27 PM

Mike Mussina fights for his spot in the rotation (career with the Yankees?) tonight as the Yankees close the series with the Tigers at 7:05 PM.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/07 02:35 AM

Well, if this was supposed to be Mussina's big "comeback", it didn't work. I turned off the game when the Yankees were down 16-0. TOO depressing. Any shot at the division is gone, and just when they looked like they could almost do it. There's faint hope for the Wild Card, but it grows fainter every day. It's like May all over again, and when they had such a fantastic run!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/07 04:01 AM

Don't give up just yet SB, there's still a month left. Sure it looks like the division is lost but they still have 2 more series against Boston which could turn things around for them. But again, even if they don't win the division, they can still creep in with the Wild Card. All's not lost yet but they need to replace Moose. Bring up Kennedy and see what the kid can do. A major league start would be good for experience, especially if he's going to come up either next year or the year after.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/07 11:06 AM

Moose is gone. Peter Abraham is reporting he's being moved to the bullpen, and will likely replace Sean Henn.

The likely call-ups to replace Moose will be Steven White (yes), Kei Igawa (no), Matt DeSalvo (no), and Ian Kennedy (yes).

The problem with Kennedy is that this will mean all 3 of their big name prospects will now be in the majors ahead of the timetable. I don't think they want to call him up unless it is vitally necessary - and as long as the Yankees other four starters are doing well (which they are), they can afford to tinker with a fifth man, so long as he can provide some decent pitching...which Moose wasn't doing.
Posted By: Yogi Barrabbas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/07 02:01 PM

Getting beat 16-0 is not very good is it? \:\/
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/28/07 08:26 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Moose is gone. Peter Abraham is reporting he's being moved to the bullpen, and will likely replace Sean Henn.

The likely call-ups to replace Moose will be Steven White (yes), Kei Igawa (no), Matt DeSalvo (no), and Ian Kennedy (yes).

The problem with Kennedy is that this will mean all 3 of their big name prospects will now be in the majors ahead of the timetable. I don't think they want to call him up unless it is vitally necessary - and as long as the Yankees other four starters are doing well (which they are), they can afford to tinker with a fifth man, so long as he can provide some decent pitching...which Moose wasn't doing.


i agree as much i want moose out after 3 horrendous starts, i like cashman dont want to flirt with the young future arms but if it propels us to the playoffs and then ws im all about. i do know igawa and desalvo would be a waste of valuable september time.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/07 12:02 AM

I haven't given up yet, I12. However, I do have to believe that the Wild Card is the only hope they have of making the playoffs.

So right now it's top of the 3rd, Boston's up, 2 men on, 1 out and Big Papi hits a sac fly to tie the game. DAMN! And here comes Manny!!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/07 02:17 AM

Jeter came through, Damon came through, Joba came through and now we need Mo. C'mon Sandman!!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/07 02:58 AM

They got the win and cut the lead to 7. Good job on a good win
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/07 03:22 AM

What an exciting game!! And did anyone see the squirrel on the foul pole?? They should trap that damn squirrel and make it their mascot.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/07 05:09 AM

Yeah I saw it. The poor thing started to come down but got scared and stayed up there the rest of the game
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/07 11:45 AM

1 game out of the Wild Card, which is most important at this point. The Yankees looked sharp, and having a solid, reliable starter (Pettitte) on the mound made a huge difference in the morale of this team.

It looks like Ian Kennedy is going to get his shot at the rotation beginning Saturday, taking Moose's spot against the D-Rays. Good news is that it is the D-Rays, and Kennedy has been lighting up the minor leagues ala Joba. So hopefully we have yet another solid addition to the rotation.

Also, Torre added last night that Moose will not work out of the bullpen, making him utterly useless, dead weight. Whose idea was that one?

Really though, keep your fingers crossed. I know the Yankees are going into territory where angels fear to tread, and only the Cubs do (ala Mark Prior and Kerry Wood), and we know how that can turn out...
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/07 11:50 AM

Oh, and btw:

THEY FINALLY CALLED UP CHRIS BRITTON.

I guess they wanted to see how many incapable clods they could try and shove down the other teams' throats before bringing up a competent reliever?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/29/07 05:42 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
It looks like Ian Kennedy is going to get his shot at the rotation beginning Saturday, taking Moose's spot against the D-Rays. Good news is that it is the D-Rays, and Kennedy has been lighting up the minor leagues ala Joba. So hopefully we have yet another solid addition to the rotation.


I'm glad it's Kennedy getting the nod. I'm anxious to see the kid and want to see what he can do on a MLB mound. The experience should do him good, especially since the Yankees are in a playoff hunt
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/07 01:04 AM

Man, Big Papi is unbelievable. That man can HIT. He's just awesome. Cano is on tonight, though, and it looks like Cabrera and Abreu finally have their act together. Clemens is pitching a beautiful game. The Yankees really are a pleasure to watch when they're playing well, aren't they??

DJ, I read your earlier post. Why would they not at least use Mussina in the bullpen?? I wonder if the injury rumors are true.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/07 05:50 AM

-A very good pitching performance, in a big game by Roger Clemens: 6 innings, 2 hits, 1 run, 5 BB, 2 SO, 6-5 with a 4.15 ERA (BTW, this is the reason they got Roger this year. To win these type of games when people like Moose have been sucking it up recently).

-Wow, Farnsworth gives up 2 runs and almost the game. Anyone else surprised? [/sarcasm]

-Even Sir Paul McCartney was in the house! You see, even he can't resist the greatest rivalry in all of sports

-Seattle loses so now the Yanks are tied for the Wild Card and only 6 back of Boston. It's not over yet, still more baseball to play
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/07 12:14 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe

DJ, I read your earlier post. Why would they not at least use Mussina in the bullpen?? I wonder if the injury rumors are true.


To be honest, it may be an injury, or it may be the fact that Joe doesn't want to risk adjusting Mussina to the bullpen at this point if they need him to start somewhere down the line here in this last month of the regular season.

Personally, I think he's shot altogether, and should never pitch in the AL again (unless of course Boston signs him \:p ). He has lost the mental edge, gets frustrated when he doesn't get calls his way, and lacks the consistent control to get those pitches where they need to be. Plus, his velocity is about that of a 15-year-old.

Even if they did bring him out of the bullpen, I don't think they'd want to risk using him except in blowout situations (which the Yankees can't afford anyways).

Then again...they did pitch Crazy Kyle last night, and again, he nearly blew the game. So I'm not sure how worried Joe actually is about putting bad pitchers in clutch situations...

I think this settles the fact that it is all mental for Farnsworth - he can mow them down no-problem when the team is getting either a.) blown out or b.) blowing out the other team, but he is abhorrent in any situation where he is required to keep the game close. \:\/
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/07 03:36 PM

I know that there are "Joba Rules" but I sure wish we could use him for more than one inning three times a week. It's rather frustrating. He would have been put to good use last night, that's for sure. Can't wait for today's game.

Btw, met someone last weekend who told me a funny story. He was at a Yankee game and Wang was pitching. Sitting right near him was Mrs. Wang. Knowing Wang's poor command of the English language, he said to her, using lots of motions and sign language, "Your husband is pitching very well tonight."

She gave him a rather deadpan look and replied, "Thank you," in perfect English.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/07 07:14 PM


"Mrs Wang" just sounds funny \:D

Mr Wang is doing great today (knock on wood)

As for Joba, tell me about it: he's on my team and only good every-other day? Who's to say that he'll even be needed on his "on" days anyway? I understand they don't wanna overwork him, but c'mon! Theoretically he could only be "needed" on every one of his "off" days!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/07 07:49 PM

Break out the brooms, they just scored off of Okajima
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/30/07 08:47 PM

yankees just won 5-0 to sweep the sox.

great win. great to see they scored 3 big ones in the bottom of the 8th and u kno #2 was the first of those 3. but y the hell did the ump throw joba out in the 9th for throwin 2 high ones to youkouliss, i hope that doesnt stop him from throwing inside. ne ways theee yankees win to sweep the sox, 1/2 game up in the wildcard.

great pitching the whole series andy, roger, chein-ming all go 6-7 innings and hold those bats down, and of course having manny who kills us everytime out helps, great win just gotta keep it goin
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/07 12:48 PM

Best thing of all - I have a Red Sox fan in my class, and he kept checking the score on his phone then entire time, and was bitching when the final came down. \:D
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/07 04:49 PM

Oh I miss those days DJ \:\(
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/07 07:11 PM

In other news, Moose is still a retard.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/07 07:15 PM

They should try to trade him and Igawa in the offseason to NL teams. The rotation can be: Hughes, Wang, Chamberlain, Kennedy and Pettitte.
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/07 09:50 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
They should try to trade him and Igawa in the offseason to NL teams. The rotation can be: Hughes, Wang, Chamberlain, Kennedy and Pettitte.


barring health issues that rotation would be sick. i think mariano has up to 2 more solid years left, i think edwar ramirez would be a decent set-up guy for mo until he starts to fade.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 08/31/07 10:39 PM


WTF???

The bottom line on YES said that Joba was suspended for two games!!!! You gotta be KIDDING ME!!!!!!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/01/07 01:03 AM


Apparently the Devil Rays are playing the Bad News Bears tonight.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/01/07 04:10 AM

Yeah, what is up with Hughes? I know he's young but he's giving up at least 3-5 runs per start. I guess he may need more work in Triple-A
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/01/07 06:19 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Yeah, what is up with Hughes? I know he's young but he's giving up at least 3-5 runs per start. I guess he may need more work in Triple-A


Factor in being the youngest pitcher in the major leagues, an injury when most young starters are building up their strength, and some slight changes in his motion compensating for his injury, and you have a recipe for a problem.

Hughes will be fine, but I still think the hamstring problems are lingering in his mind, because in the minors he could hit 97, and was in the mid-90's when he injured himself against the Blue Jays. I don't think he's quite "right" yet.

This should be remedied by next year. Until then, he's still a better option than anyone else we've got to use in his spot.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/01/07 06:30 PM


This bat-checking bullshit today...
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/01/07 07:06 PM

I can't believe they suspended Joba. It's absurd. How many freaking times have the Yankees been hit? I would bet that ARod and Jeter alone have been hit more than other entire teams! I don't remember any pitchers being suspended for that! And we've had both Clemens and Joba suspended. Ridiculous. And Joba wasn't even warned!

The good news is that they're currently winning 7-2 in the bottom of the 4th!

Edit: Speaking of which, they just hit Jeter and the announcer said that he's been hit 12 times this season.
Posted By: Partagas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/01/07 08:32 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I can't believe they suspended Joba. It's absurd. How many freaking times have the Yankees been hit? I would bet that ARod and Jeter alone have been hit more than other entire teams! I don't remember any pitchers being suspended for that! And we've had both Clemens and Joba suspended. Ridiculous. And Joba wasn't even warned!

The good news is that they're currently winning 7-2 in the bottom of the 4th!

Edit: Speaking of which, they just hit Jeter and the announcer said that he's been hit 12 times this season.


FYI As of Friday 8/31/07

Rank Player HBP
1 Aaron Rowand 18
Chase Utley 18
3 Alex Rodriguez 17
David DeJesus 17
Ryan Garko 17
6 Jose Guillen 15
Josh Willingham15
8 Grady Sizemore 14
9 Aaron Boone 13
Kevin Youkilis 13
Prince Fielder 13
12 Alex Gordon 12
Rickie Weeks 12
14 Derek Jeter 11
Brandon Phillips 11
Carlos Quentin 11
17 Casey Blake 10
Austin Kearns 10
Edwin Encarnacion 10
Corey Hart 10
Dan Uggla 10
22 Geoff Jenkins 9
Alex Cora 9
Xavier Nady 9
Brandon Inge 9
David Eckstein 9
Victor Martinez 9
Mark Ellis 9
John Buck 9
Luis Terrero 9
Kenji Johjima 9

Rank Team HBP
1 Kansas City 78
2 Philadelphia 74
3 Cleveland 71
4 Florida 68
5 Milwaukee 62
6 NY Yankees 60
7 Pittsburgh 58
8 Boston 55
9 Cincinnati 55
10 Seattle 52
11 Arizona 48
12 Chicago Sox 47
13 Houston 46
14 Washington 44
15 St. Louis 44
16 Oakland 43
17 Tampa Bay 43
18 Atlanta 42
19 Detroit 41
20 San Diego 41
21 Colorado 41
22 Minnesota 40
23 Texas 40
24 Baltimore 39
25 NY Mets 39
26 Toronto 36
27 LA Dodgers 36
28 San Francisco 34
29 LA Angels 29
30 Chicago Cubs 26
LEAGUE AVERAGES HBP
American League 48
National League 47
Major League Baseball 48


I don't have time but to get a true picture of whetehr or not a -team is geting beaned anymore than "normal", we need to compare the HBP by the total plate appearances
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/02/07 01:20 PM

I think a better comparison would be to look at the HBP numbers exclusively in a Red Sox-Yankee vacuum.

Because I can guarantee that 75% or more of Jeter's 12 HBP's have come against Boston this year.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/02/07 01:21 PM

BTW - I know Irish will love this - Mussina may take place if Rocket is a no-go
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/02/07 03:36 PM

Great, just what we need. Why don't we just throw Igawa in there. We're in a playoff race and we can't be throwing games away (especially to Seattle whome we only have a 2 game lead over in the Wild Card). Bring someone else up from Triple-A
Posted By: Partagas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/02/07 08:43 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I think a better comparison would be to look at the HBP numbers exclusively in a Red Sox-Yankee vacuum.

Because I can guarantee that 75% or more of Jeter's 12 HBP's have come against Boston this year.


Here is your vacuum!

Head to Head Pitching Comparisons (2007)
New York VS Boston

Games -- Yankees (14) Red Sox (14)
W -- Yankees (7) Red Sox (7)
L -- Yankees (7) Red Sox (7)
S -- Yankees (4) Red Sox (4)
IP -- Yankees (122) Red Sox (121)
ERA -- Yankees (5.61) Red Sox (5.43)
H -- Yankees (145) Red Sox (135)
R -- Yankees (79) Red Sox (75)
ER -- Yankees (76) Red Sox (75)
HR -- Yankees (21) Red Sox (18)
BB -- Yankees (68) Red Sox (59)
IBB -- Yankees (5) Red Sox (0)
SO -- Yankees (75) Red Sox (86)
HBP -- Yankees (7) Red Sox (7)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/04/07 12:15 PM

Where are you finding this? Elias?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/05/07 02:50 AM

I really think Wang is overlooked as a pitcher and it's a shame. Sure he's not a dominating pitcher like Santana but he gets the job done. Compare his numbers with Beckett who is the favorite at this point to win the Cy Young:

Beckett

26 games, 174 2/3 innings pitched, 165 hits, 67 runs, 64 ER, 12 home runs, 36 BB, 165 SO, 17-6 with a 3.30 ERA

Want

26 games, 173 2/3 innings pitched, 172 hits, 72 runs, 71 ER, 8 home runs, 48 BB, 87 SO, 17-6 with a 3.68 ERA
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/06/07 12:59 PM

They brought up Hughes' pitching coach from the minors. I guess it worked. \:D
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/09/07 12:17 PM

Looks like the Cap'n has patellar tendinitis, and will be sitting for a few games, or playing DH at best. Alberto Gonzalez should be a serviceable defensive substitution for the time being (the Yankee prospect, not the former Attorney General)...
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/09/07 04:44 PM

Well Seattle's pretty much out of it. Now we just gotta hold off the Tigers
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/09/07 07:38 PM

Also, correct me if I'm wrong DJ, but isn't A-Rod the only Yankee to have 50+ homeruns to hit soley from the right side?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/09/07 09:24 PM

Yankees Win!!!
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/07 02:57 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Yankees Win!!!


Oh great.... now we have a female Irishman.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/07 03:03 AM

And there's nothing wrong with that \:D ;\) Go get him SB
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/07 11:06 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Yankees Win!!!


Oh great.... now we have a female Irishman.


Wouldn't that be an Irishwoman? \:p
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/10/07 05:42 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Yankees Win!!!


Oh great.... now we have a female Irishman.


Not sure exactly what that means, but I'll give you an old roll of the eyes anyway. \:p

You should be pretty happy with the season that that BoSox are having. Although we look good for the Wild Card, they look unbeatable for the division.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:04 AM

Anybody keeping tabs on the foul pole squirrel at Yankee Stadium? Although the Yankees are in Toronto, YES just showed a live shot of the stadium, and he's still hanging out at the top of the pole. He actually looked sort of sad that nobody was around.

At first, I thought the squirrel was just cute. I thought he was a good luck mascot sort of thing for the Yankees. Now, I'm wondering if he EVER comes down from the pole. Is he starving? CAN he come down? Am I blowing this way out of proportion?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:07 AM

I can't believe Boston came all the way back and tied the score. Although, it IS the Devil Rays pitching we're talking about here
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:13 AM

Sorry to burst your bubble, but Boston is now winning 13-9.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:14 AM

14-9
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:15 AM

DAMN! That was fast!!! Well, if they get the win, they sure deserve it, coming back from 7 runs behind.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:16 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
DAMN! That was fast!!!


You sound like my first wife. \:\(
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:17 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
DAMN! That was fast!!!


You sound like my first wife. \:\(


Perhaps, but I could also call you Big Papi, if you like. ;\)
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:22 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
DAMN! That was fast!!!

You sound like my first wife.

Perhaps, but I could also call you Big Papi, if you like.


She did that too.... whenever I was ready to step up to the plate she gave me an intentional walk. \:\(
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:24 AM

I tell you, that Big Papi is some kind of ballplayer, isn't he? Geez, he can hit. Is Manny back??
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:29 AM

Ramirez didn't play tonight (again). Ortiz did.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:35 AM

He'll be back for the series against the Yankees this weekend I assume?
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:36 AM

He's been day-to-day lately... I expect he'll play vs. the Yankees.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:40 AM

We would be cheated of the full Yankees/Boston experience without Ramirez.

Well, the Yankees won. I see that Boston's 16-9 right now. Some comeback! Curses!!
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 02:50 AM

Big Papi homered in the game.

I still expect to see the Yanks and the Red Sox in the playoffs... only I expect to see the Sox get there by virtue of the wild card.

(Its mid September - the annual BoSox choke).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 05:13 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
I still expect to see the Yanks and the Red Sox in the playoffs... only I expect to see the Sox get there by virtue of the wild card.

(Its mid September - the annual BoSox choke).


Put yourself at ease because this is me talking. I expect both the Yankees and Red Sox in the postseason as well. And even though the Yankees are within striking distance of the Red Sox, I expect Boston to win the division with New York getting the Wild Card.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 12:44 PM

Hughes sharp last night, and Clemens is expected to start against Boston this weekend. I might not get any of my readings done. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/12/07 03:06 PM

Like you would anyway DJ \:p Seriously, this weekend should be another great matchup with these pitching duels: Friday - Pettitte/Dice-K, Saturday - Wang/Beckett, Sunday - Clemens/Schilling
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/13/07 03:56 AM


Sure hope SB wasn't watching YES' Ultimate Road Trip tonight cuz one of the guys has The BronxBombers Godfather logo shirt on....

I WANT THAT SHIRT, TOO!!!

Oh cool! I just found them (and other cool Yankees shirts) on this ebay store for $9.99

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/13/07 04:05 AM

Sweet, thanks for the link Geoff! I liked these 3 the best:

1

2

3
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/13/07 10:21 PM

That's my shirt!!! I want that damn shirt!! $10?? That's a great price! The guy outside Yankee Stadium wanted $18. We offered him $10 (because that was all we had left after the game) and he wouldn't take it. Mr. Babe even went down to Yankee Stadium afterwards to try and get it, but the Yankees were on a road trip and there were no street vendors to be found.

JG - you are the best!! Consider yourself kissed!

Btw, since I am so obsessed with the squirrel, I thought that it was funny that people are now calling him Scooter, because he appeared about the time that Phil Rizzuto passed away.

SC, the BoSox sure as hell aren't choking. They came back two nights in a row against Tampa Bay. Granted, it's Tampa Bay, but Tuesday night they came back from a 7 run deficit and won by 6 runs!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/14/07 03:44 AM

Even though they didn't win the game, Kennedy pitched very well against the Jays:

7 innings, 1 hit, 1 run, 4 BB, 7 SO, 1-0 with a 1.89 ERA
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 03:15 AM

HOLY CRAP, the Yanks score 6 in the 8th and lead the game now \:o
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 03:56 AM

I really cannot believe they won that game. Great game and a BIG win
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 04:01 AM

Nobody listens to me..... its mid-September... The Red Sox choke!
Posted By: DonVitoCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 04:09 AM

AGH!!!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 04:45 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
Nobody listens to me..... its mid-September... The Red Sox choke!



Eh, the ONLY reason why BOS lost was cuz I have Okajima on my team! We all know that.... \:\/
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 05:36 AM

What about the invincible Papelbon then Geoff ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 07:57 AM

SC, I've been saying all year, wait for the end of August/early September. Boston will choke. But they certainly have been hot, so I still have my doubts. I think that the Yankees gave up some early chances to score and were playing like crap. I think this game was luck, and I hope that they wake up and play better tomorrow.
Posted By: DonVitoCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 02:44 PM

I just looked at the rest of the Yankees' schedule after Boston. There is no way the Tigers are going to catch them in the Wildcard. \:\(
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 05:29 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I think that the Yankees gave up some early chances to score and were playing like crap.


I agree. Dice-K threw 27 pitches in the first and the bases were loaded. They gave him some trouble again in the second but after that, they bailed him out. Also, Pettitte wasn't his normal Boston killer self yesterday. Just glad they got the win.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 05:29 PM

 Originally Posted By: DonVitoCorleone
I just looked at the rest of the Yankees' schedule after Boston. There is no way the Tigers are going to catch them in the Wildcard. \:\(


I'm not celebrating just yet, there's too much baseball left but I hope you're right
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 10:28 PM

That play in the bottom of the 6th with Hinske charging home and knocking Posada over was one of the best I've seen this season. Thats the way baseball SHOULD BE played!!

Kudos to Posada for holding on to the ball (Hinske's a big guy and he really rapped Posada).
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 10:38 PM

 Originally Posted By: DonVitoCorleone
I just looked at the rest of the Yankees' schedule after Boston. There is no way the Tigers are going to catch them in the Wildcard. \:\(


But can they(DET) catch up to the Tribe?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 10:42 PM

 Originally Posted By: DonVitoCorleone
Go to hell.


Don't get so bent out of shape. There's still time left. And don't take it personally if I root against the Tigers
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 10:43 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
That play in the bottom of the 6th with Hinske charging home and knocking Posada over was one of the best I've seen this season. Thats the way baseball SHOULD BE played!!

Kudos to Posada for holding on to the ball (Hinske's a big guy and he really rapped Posada).


I forgot this game is on. Hopefully it is on here.

Yes it is bottom of the 7th.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/15/07 11:58 PM

Posada is one of the most unrecognized Yankees. He's having a great season, and I feel bad that it's being overshadowed by some of the other players on the team. Not that the other players don't deserve the recognition, but Georgie is really wonderful.

Congrats on the win, SC. It was well-deserved.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/07 12:52 AM

I agree SB, Jorge is overlooked. But when you have Jeter, A-Rod and Mo amongst others, you can kind of see how he gets overlooked. I am incrediblly happy for him though on this record season of his
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/07 04:26 PM

So, today I was at church serving breakfast after the 9:30 mass, when in should walk the former Yankees backup catcher John Flaherty. We commiserated on last night's loss and talked about what a great game they played on Friday night (when he was apparently announcing). I asked if he wouldn't mind signing an autograph for my daughter. He said that it was no problem. I grabbed a napkin off the table and whipped out a pen. He addressed it to her and wrote, Best wishes, Go Yankees! John Flaherty #17.

He then walked over to a little boy that goes to my daughter's school who was born with CP. This kid is a HUGE Yankees fan. I don't think I've ever seen him wearing anything except a Yankee jersey or T-Shirt. John Flaherty spent at least a half hour with this kid, analyzing both games. He was unbelievably sweet to him. What a nice guy!
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/07 04:32 PM

Its great to hear stories like that Mrs. R, all too often players and retired players are complete jackasses towards kids, unless of course theres a camera around.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/07 04:37 PM

I've seen him at church before, and he always takes time with this kid. He's just very unassuming. He's got some cute kids of his own, too. Surprisingly, his wife was not that hot, though!
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/07 04:48 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Surprisingly, his wife was not that hot, though!


If you stopped COMPARING her to you maybe she would be

I met Lawrence Taylor who was high as hell and was cursing at people.
I met Jerome Bettis who was really a class act, talking to everyone, even when Security said no. He basically told them I say who I talk to and you just get rid of the people I say to lol
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/07 05:09 PM

Now that's a great attitude!! OK, keep your fingers crossed for the Yankees tonight. Or not, if you're SC. \:p
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/07 05:36 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
OK, keep your fingers crossed for the Yankees tonight. Or not, if you're SC.


Why?? I have two fingers for the Yanks tonight.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/07 05:38 PM

Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/07 07:10 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: DonVitoCorleone
I just looked at the rest of the Yankees' schedule after Boston. There is no way the Tigers are going to catch them in the Wildcard. \:\(


I'm not celebrating just yet, there's too much baseball left but I hope you're right


yea im glad they got the wildcard lead and think theyll hold it, but since 2004 i dont celebrate till its really over or mathmatically impossible for the tigers to comeback.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/16/07 07:54 PM

I agree reynols. After last night, they only have a 2 1/2 game lead now
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:08 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I was at church serving breakfast after the 9:30 mass, when in should walk the former Yankees backup catcher John Flaherty.
That's great, SB! I assume he's a parishioner there? It's great to hear stories like that...!

 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone
.....I met Lawrence Taylor....I met Jerome Bettis...
You're still a towel boy for the NFL? lol
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:18 AM

LOL...No, I met Jerome Bettis a Professional Bowlers Tour stop and I met Lawrence Taylor at some fund raiser, there were no cameras around so he was a complete dick. He almost got into a fight with someone and was cursing at people and was obviously high.

I also met Marbury and Bobby Hurly and Jason Kidd, although I would have preferred his wife lol
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:34 AM

Yes, he lives in the town next to mine. He's very popular when his daughter's school has their faculty-parents softball game.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:37 AM

J-E-T-E-R Thank you Schilling, have a good night, get the f*ck outta the game
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:39 AM

...and the cockroach crawls out of the woodwork.
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:41 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
...and the cockroach crawls out of the woodwork.


I was wondering where he was for the first 7 innings...its people like him why I want Boston to come back in the 9th (Sorry Mrs. R)
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:46 AM

 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone
I want Boston to come back in the 9th

\:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o


No more rides for you!!!!! (and you can't get in my car, either! \:p )
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:47 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
...and the cockroach crawls out of the woodwork.


I'm stretching my wings out and marching across the carpet
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:48 AM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone
I want Boston to come back in the 9th

\:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o


No more rides for you!!!!! (and you can't get in my car, either! \:p )




I wish there was another team that pissed Irish off that way I could cheer for them
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:49 AM

Oh there's a few, but do you really think I'd tell ya ;\)
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:50 AM

Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:52 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Oh there's a few, but do you really think I'd tell ya ;\)


Well, you are so good at hiding your feelings, that I'd probably never find out
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 02:58 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC


Nice one SC. We don't need to rehash this, my strong hatred for Curt Schilling is well documented on this board. So again, why are you surprised?
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 03:02 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
We don't need to rehash this, my strong hatred for Curt Schilling is well documented on this board. So again, why are you surprised?


Because you seemed to have mellowed a bit this year and become a REAL baseball fan instead of a hater.

\:\/
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 03:04 AM

How so? I think fathersson will disagree with you since I gave Dice-K similar (not the same) but similar treatment. If honestly I made have raised a few bars in your book, and now have fallen even further, then I am sorry. I didn't realize you saw a change in me.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 03:09 AM

 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone
 Originally Posted By: SC
...and the cockroach crawls out of the woodwork.


I was wondering where he was for the first 7 innings...its people like him why I want Boston to come back in the 9th (Sorry Mrs. R)


Oh, you're SO out.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 03:23 AM

POP UP! GAME OVER!! Only 4 1/2 out from Boston and 2 1/2 ahead of Detroit BIG win
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 03:28 AM

It was a great game, and Boston really made us sweat there at the end. Great stuff!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 04:41 PM

Just for you DJ ;\)









Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 04:46 PM

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 04:48 PM

Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/17/07 09:05 PM

huge win. now they have to beat toronto and balti who has given the bombers trouble. it looks good right now, as long as the pitching is consistantly good down the stretch. oo and good to see an awesome start from roger.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/07 12:48 AM



Who are these two young men?? They look vaguely familiar.
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/07 03:14 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe


Who are these two young men?? They look vaguely familiar.


I'm taking a wild guess here, but I'd say they are members of the Orioles...er... no no! They are members of the RED SOX! AM I RIGHT!?!? DID I WIN?!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/07 03:37 AM

Another big win tonight for the Yankees with Boston and Detroit losing
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/07 04:09 AM

A lot of time and effort to recreate this
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/07 01:09 PM

BL, You were soooooo close!!

Glad that the Yankees were able to keep ahead of the Tigers. I really think that the Wildcared is the only way for them to make the postseason. In spite of SC's dire predictions, I have my doubts about them catching Boston for the division.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/07 01:25 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I really think that the Wildcared is the only way for them to make the postseason. In spite of SC's dire predictions, I have my doubts about them catching Boston for the division.


I thought that way too but looking at the standings, they're only 3 1/2 games out. They are well within striking range for a team that was at one point 14 1/2 back
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/07 01:28 PM

Nobody listens to me. \:\( \:\/
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/07 01:50 PM

But someone told me yesterday that the Yankees would need to win 10 out of 13 to take the division. That seems pretty darned impossible. I'll be happy with the Wildcard. The postseason is the postseason.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/07 03:02 PM

Irish - I know you'll appreciate this. Apparently, some kid at Fenway was hawking for autographs, and got one - poignantly - from Shelley Duncan.



Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/07 03:21 PM

Shelley strikes again! \:D
Posted By: reynols

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/18/07 09:50 PM

gotta love shelly duncan. i know sox fans cant find humor in that, thats just shelly being shelly.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/07 05:17 PM

What's going on with Moose? Getting hot at the right time! Look at last night's stats line:

7 innings, 3 hits, 0 runs, 1 BB, 6 SO, 10-10 with a 5.01 ERA.

I've heard Joe might finally have a 6-man rotation going into the postseason. I've told a friend of mine they should maybe take Hughes out of the rotation and put Moose in if he continues to pitch this well. As much as I like Hughes, he gives up too many runs. He's 4-3 with a 4.75 ERA. Again, I think in the future he'll be alright but if they want to win the World Series this season, they might have to entertain the idea. He hasn't been the same pitcher he was that night in Texas before he got hurt.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/07 06:06 PM

Hughes' problems come in the first inning, then he settles down... Maybe we need a reliever in there to start his games, and he comes in for the 2nd inning... lol


By Inning / Pitches AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB HBP SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG OPS
Pitches 1-1529810501341530.345.441.6211.062
Pitches 16-302685201880900.192.382.385.767
Pitches 31-4541553000401101.122.200.195.395
Pitches 46-603811101029201010.263.293.447.740
Pitches 61-753608200030701.222.282.278.560
Pitches 76-9040310003610430.250.268.475.743
Pitches 91-1051705200140410.294.409.412.821
Pitches 106-120100000000000.000.000.000.000
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/19/07 07:58 PM

Yeah I remember in his last start they gave his first inning ERA compared to the second inning and on. I don't remember the numbers but it does take him a little while to settle down.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/20/07 02:13 AM


Congrats to Andy Pettitte for winning his 200th! And......

2007 American League Standings
EASTWLPCTGBHOMEROADRSRASTRKL10
Boston9063.588-47-2843-35812622Lost 44-6
NY Yankees8864.5791.550-2738-37893716Won 48-2
Toronto7775.50712.547-3130-44689643Won 35-5
Baltimore6487.4242532-4232-45693794Lost 33-7
Tampa Bay6390.4122735-4028-50743888Lost 33-7
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/20/07 02:28 AM

The Yankees WON??? Wow!! I didn't even know!!

Of COURSE I knew. And I am one happy camper right now. Real nail-biter of a game. A win is a win.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/20/07 02:29 AM

1 1/2 games behind Boston, 5 1/2 over Detroit Let the good times roll. And yes, congrats to Andy on winning his 200th. Glad he got to do it in pinstripes
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/07 01:22 AM

I didn't realize Alyssa Milano was such a big Yankees fan \:p







Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/07 05:30 AM


Wrong thread.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/07 12:23 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I didn't realize Alyssa Milano was such a big Yankees fan \:p









That was back when she was banging Carl Pavano.

I assume their little fling has to be over by now, right? \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/07 03:59 PM

I was just surprised because I knew she dated Zito and is a California girl (I think anyways)
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/07 04:22 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I didn't realize Alyssa Milano was such a big Yankees fan \:p









Wow! This is the first and only time that I have not been repulsed by the sight of NY Yankees gear. Alyssa Milano is incredibly beautiful. I guess I'll have to check out this thread more often. ;\)
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/21/07 04:26 PM

She's apparently parlayed her career of dating baseball players into a career of designing MLB-related clothes for women. The pics above were from her new line.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/22/07 01:50 AM

Clever girl.

Goombah, come back soon, ya hear???

Meanwhile, the Yankees are LOSING and the Red Sox are WINNING right now!!!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/22/07 12:44 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Meanwhile, the Yankees are LOSING and the Red Sox are WINNING right now!!!


I really think we have to be realistic - the Red Sox should coast through these last few games, and are a great team. It's going to take some luck for us to take the division (i.e. Tampa Bay will have to not suck) as we're playing a pissed off Blue Jay team.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/26/07 03:22 AM


1) Why the FUCK did they take Igawa out after 5 innings when he was doing well for a change?

2) Why the FUCK was Bruney born?

3) Why the FUCK wasn't this game apparently important enough to bring Mo in rather than the pieces of shit pitching in relief??
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/26/07 03:51 AM



You're going to make the playoffs.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/26/07 03:54 AM

That SUCKED!! SUCKED, SUCKED, SUCKED!! I fell asleep during the 8th and just woke up as they lost. Karstens? I didn't realize he was still on the team!! What a waste of a beautiful grand slam by ARod.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/26/07 04:20 AM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

1) Why the FUCK did they take Igawa out after 5 innings when he was doing well for a change?

2) Why the FUCK was Bruney born?

3) Why the FUCK wasn't this game apparently important enough to bring Mo in rather than the pieces of shit pitching in relief??



Hey look.... Irishman got a new avatar --->
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/27/07 02:48 AM

Yankees are in the playoffs Tigers are out

Love them or hate them, you have to give New York props because many didn't think they'd make the playoffs this season after their horrid start. Congrats to them and let's bring #27 back home to the Bronx!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 02:46 AM


Freakin' Mo blows the save (3 runs in the 9th) ...tied 9-9 in the 10th now... and I cannot believe they intentionally walked A-Rod and Matsui back-to-back to load the bases w/ only 1 out! I've NEVER seen that before! Molina popped out. \:\/ Maybe their wussiness will pay off ...what will Giambi do with 2 outs....?

(Is it my imagination or am I hearing "Darryl" chants in the stadium?? lol)

Yanks lose, Boston clinches the East... if the zero-O's win, Boston's Magic Number is 1... if BOS/NYY tie, NYY wins the East...

What's the "Giambino" do? Flies out. \:\/
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 02:53 AM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
I cannot believe they intentionally walked A-Rod and Matsui back-to-back to load the bases w/ only 1 out! I've NEVER seen that before!


Obviously the strategy paid off. The Yanks couldn't afford to pinch hit for Molina (and that seemed like an automatic out) and then they just needed one more out.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 02:55 AM


...and now we're doing the same thing w/ 1 out!! \:o Edwar Ramirez... forget it, we're losing... \:\/
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 02:56 AM


It's great they're airing this at Fenway... so they can all cheer when -- WHEN -- the Wanks lose this one... \:\/
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 02:58 AM

YESSSSSSSSSSSS
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 03:00 AM


OMG! A BUNT (close to a [BadWord] lol) won the game! \:o \:o \:\/

Okay, fine... Congrats to the Sox... no problem... we'll have our day. ;\)
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 03:00 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
YESSSSSSSSSSSS


You forgot to curse off Rivera!
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 03:01 AM

I didn't think the Sox would clinch tonight, but I'm not mad. \:p
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 03:02 AM


Can't wait for Irish's classy congrats to the Sox \:D
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 03:03 AM


I like how YES's "Player of the Game" is always a Yankee, even when they lose... Congrats, anyway, A-Rod \:D
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 03:04 AM

I gotta tell ya... I really thought the Sox would blow the lead and end up 2nd. I was just happy they made the playoffs.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 03:06 AM


Second Friday in a row the NYY game went into extra innings -- a night I stay home now to relax with a DVD before getting up early the next day.... and now another groggy wedding! \:\/
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 03:08 AM

Speaking of.... lemme know when you need an assistant. I love wedding buffets.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 03:10 AM


I hear after a while you tend to HATE wedding food... but not yet! \:D
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 03:12 AM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

I hear after a while you tend to HATE wedding food... but not yet! \:D


Is it Open (wipes the drool off his mouth) Bar?
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 03:13 AM

 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone
Is it Open (wipes the drool off his mouth) Bar?


Stand on line, kid. I called "dibs" already. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 04:49 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
YESSSSSSSSSSSS


See SC, you gotta learn to listen to me more. Did I not say Boston would win the East? That's fine, congrats to them. I'd rather the Yankees face the Indians. Good luck with the Angels, you'll need it \:D
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 05:16 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Did I not say Boston would win the East? That's fine, congrats to them.
\:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o \:o
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 05:20 AM

 Originally Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone
Is it Open (wipes the drool off his mouth) Bar?
Alas, it's considered bad taste to partake -- as basically the hired help... \:\/ Besides, you don't wanna try to explain to the bride that you missed the cake cutting because you were refilling your cranberry martini \:p
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 10:29 AM

Who cares whatever Saux or Yanks win the Division? One is Division belt holder, the other is Wild Card.

Either way, what actually matters is getting INTO the playoffs....and thats the real issue.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/29/07 12:18 PM

Well, I think this is lining up to be an extremely exciting September. Who could imagine all of this going on - The Yankees pulling within a few games, the Mets being 2nd in the NL East, Colorado actually having a shot at the Wildcard, it's unbelievable.

SC - Congrats to your team. The BoSox played well all season long, and they deserved to win the division.

On to October!!!
Posted By: Caporegime

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/07 08:25 AM

Amazing the way this has all played out. I'm still waiting for my Padres to clinch the Wild Card spot in the NL, but the American League race has been fun to watch nonetheless. While the Yankees had a great comeback after the All-Star break, you got to hand it to Boston for not squandering the lead (especially when compared to the collapse of the Mets). I believe the Sox had the 2nd best record after the break, but I could be wrong.

Since the Indians are playing the Yankees in Cleveland for Game 1, I think it would be great if they wear the throwback uniforms and had Charlie Sheen (aka. Rick Vaughn from Major League) throw out the first pitch. It's the exact same matchup, and Sheen is on a hit TV series right now. Just a thought. As far as the actual series, it all depends on who's hotter at the moment. A new season starts next week.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/07 09:16 AM

Hey Capo!! Where you been???

Good to see you back!
Posted By: Caporegime

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 09/30/07 11:57 PM

Thanks, SC. I've been pretty busy lately, and thus had to leave the boards for a while. I was lurking periodically, but it feels really good to be back. There's no way I could stay away with the great races in baseball. Congrats to your AL East Champion Red Sox! I can't wait to see how it all plays out.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/01/07 03:10 AM

Crap, Games 1 & 2 are Thursday and Friday. I have to work both nights I'll be watching Game 3 (might even get tickets to go down to a game)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/02/07 11:23 PM

King of Gotham? - A-Rod article
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/07 04:00 AM

Cavs star says he's been a fan all his life

CLEVELAND (AP) - The most famous athlete in Cleveland is rooting for the New York Yankees. LeBron James always has.

Call him the LeBronx Bomber.

While in New York last week to host Saturday Night Live, the Cavaliers' star forward caused a stir back home when he said he would root for the Yankees in the AL playoffs against the Indians.

He showed up at Jacobs Field for Game 1 on Thursday night sporting a Yankees cap — and fans sitting near him chanted for him to take it off.

"I've always been a Yankee fan. I'm a big Derek Jeter fan," James said during an in-game TV interview after Cleveland took the lead. "I'm here to represent the Yankees, but right now it's not looking too good."

A TBS reporter then handed James a "crying" towel that he said Indians ace C.C. Sabathia wanted to pass along. James said the two are good friends.

"It's not like I said, 'OK, I'm picking the Yankees now that they're playing the Indians,"' James said earlier this week. "Everybody knows that I've been a Yankees fan my whole life. If the Indians were playing anybody else I would root for the Indians."

Sabathia said he didn't have a problem with James' allegiance.

"That's cool," the pitcher said. "He's sticking with his team. I'd do the same thing if the Raiders were playing the Browns."

Sabathia, who grew up in Vallejo, Calif., is a die-hard Oakland Raiders fan.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/07 04:14 AM

My mother-in-law was very upset that Lebron isn't a Tribe fan. No big deal to me. I'm a Browns fan but I root for the NY Giants also.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/07 06:50 AM


The worst of all is SC being a Boston fan... and he claims to be a "New Yorker"... \:\/
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/07 09:05 AM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
The worst of all is SC being a Boston fan... and he claims to be a "New Yorker"...


Only someone from Jersey wouldn't "get it"..... I'm a Brooklynite more than a New Yorker. I'm old enough to remember when the Dodgers were from Brooklyn. That meant that the Yankees were the enemy. But baseball is more than just geography (which, by the way, means you should be rooting for the Phillies). The Yankees were for WASP, white-collar Republicans; I and my family were not in any of those designations.

I "wear this" proudly (picture courtesy of ginaitaliangirl):

Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/07 11:14 AM

SC, I know exactly what you mean. My dad, although from the Bronx, used to spend his summers with his mom's family in Brooklyn. His uncles used to take him to Dodgers games all the time. He was an ardent Brooklyn fan. My brother tells me that I've disgraced our father's memory by becoming a Yankee fan.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/07 02:27 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
(which, by the way, means you should be rooting for the Phillies). The Yankees were for WASP, white-collar Republicans; I and my family were not in any of those designations.

At least a Mutts fan I could understand... and rooting against the Yankees I can understand... but Boston? Is that simply because you hate the Yanks SO much, or what??

As for the Phillies, I root for them. They were the first ballgame I ever went to, and, their Single-A team is near me and I root for them, too. But at the same time I like a few other National League teams as well. But there's only 1 AL team for me ;\)
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/07 04:57 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
At least a Mutts fan I could understand... and rooting against the Yankees I can understand... but Boston? Is that simply because you hate the Yanks SO much, or what??


I thought you knew the background there.... I was "teamless" since the Dodgers left Brooklyn and TRIED liking the Mets when they started in 1962. They were a comedy of errors (I think they lost something like 120 games that year) but I TRIED rooting for them. Then in 1963 the Red Sox brought up a rookie, Rico Petrocelli. Now, Rico was a close friend of my brother. I was 12 years old and all of a sudden I KNEW somebody who was in the Majors! How many people can really say that? Somebody who had slept over at your house and ate meals with you was playing in the major leagues!! That was enough to win me over to Boston. The fact that Petrocelli had a decent career (playing in a few World Series, including hitting two home runs in one Series game; playing in several All-Star games, hitting 40 homers in one year and knocking in over 100 in another; winning numerous Gold Glove awards, etc.) was enough to keep me as a fan. It became a habit and I loved the grittiness of their teams... I saw players like Yaz, Tony Conigliaro, Reggie Smith, Jim Rice, Fred Lynn, Carlton Fisk, Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, Pedro Martinez, Nomar Garciapparra, Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz come and go and they are simply an exciting team. Their losses and chokes became part of the love and seeing them win in 2004 was my biggest sports thrill.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/05/07 06:39 PM


Ahh, I forgot about Petrocelli... okay, makes sense now... ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/07/07 04:06 PM

Report: Boss says Torre's job on line

NEW YORK -- Joe Torre's Yankees must advance to the American League Championship Series for the longtime manager to keep his job, George Steinbrenner said on Saturday.

Speaking in a telephone interview with The Record of Hackensack, N.J., which published his remarks on Sunday, Steinbrenner said that Torre's 12-year run at the helm is at stake as the Yankees face an 0-2 deficit to the Indians in the American League Division Series.

"His job is on the line," Steinbrenner told the newspaper. "I think we're paying him a lot of money. He's the highest-paid manager in baseball, so I don't think we'd take him back if we don't win this series."

Torre, who has managed the Yankees since 1996, is baseball's highest-paid manager, earning $7 million this year. He is not under contract for the 2008 season, making him the most notable potential free agent in a Yankees group that includes Jorge Posada, Mariano Rivera and perhaps Alex Rodriguez.

Steinbrenner told The Record that Torre has "been good for us over the years," as the Yankees have made the playoffs in each of Torre's 12 seasons. But they are facing first-round elimination for the third consecutive season on Sunday.

New York is pinning its Game 3 hopes on 45-year-old Roger Clemens, pitching opposite Cleveland's Jake Westbrook as the Indians try for the series sweep at Yankee Stadium.

"We certainly need to find out what we're made of," Torre said earlier on Saturday. "We certainly can't take time to feel sorry for ourselves. We've worked too hard to get here and to be one of the select teams in the postseason. We have to make the most of it."

The 77-year-old Steinbrenner, who has reserved his words in recent years, instead opting to release most of his commentary through public relations man Howard Rubenstein, agreed with Torre's assessment.

"I think that's a good statement," he said. "They'd better show what they're made of."

In a wide-ranging interview with The Record, Steinbrenner had choice words for umpire Bruce Froemming, the crew chief who opted to continue play in Friday's Game 2 despite swarms of small winged bugs, called midges, that unnerved rookie closer Joba Chamberlain in the eighth inning as Cleveland tied the game, which eventually ended in 11 innings with the Indians winning, 2-1.

"He won't umpire our games anymore," Steinbrenner said of Froemming, who is retiring after this season.

Steinbrenner also acknowledged Alex Rodriguez's future, as the probable American League MVP remains hitless in this ALDS and in his last 19 postseason at-bats.

"I think we'll re-sign him," Steinbrenner said of A-Rod. "I think he's going to have a good run the rest of the [postseason]. I think he realizes New York is the place to be, the place to play. A lot of this [postseason] is laying on his shoulders, you know, but I think he's up to it."

Steinbrenner told the newspaper that he maintains full control over the Yankees, despite published reports of his failing health.

"I'm doing all right," Steinbrenner said. "I'm fine."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/07 03:46 AM

YO, TORRE!

Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/07 04:12 AM

Ha Blibble.

Poor Torre. I guess Papa George is gonna go Vince McMahon on him.

"Joe.....YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH FIRED!"
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/07 04:19 AM

Congratulations, goombah and Migs on the Indians' victory. They clearly were the better team and it will be quite a series with the Red Sox.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/07 04:29 AM

Bless your heart Klyd. Thank you ;\)
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/07 04:47 AM

A-Rod was just interviewed on YES.... there was no definite plan in his mind RIGHT NOW about his future with the Yanks.

Sure, he's emotionally down right now and its understandable that he doesn't wanna talk about his future with the Yanks right now, but something in my gut says he's made up his mind already.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/07 11:33 AM

On the FAN this morning, the report was that Joe wanted to go with Mussina. SOMEONE told him to pitch Wang.

There were two crappy calls last night. I don't remember if they resulted in runs, but one was the bunt attempt FOUL, that was called a hit batsman, NOT! and the other was a play at first, call SAFE, replay OUT. Both plays in Cleveland's favor.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/07 11:47 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
Then in 1963 the Red Sox brought up a rookie, Rico Petrocelli.


Who?

I heard of Jerry Stephenson, but not the other guy that you mentioned.

\:p


Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/07 12:40 PM

Its funny you posted a picture of that card. A good friend of mine bought that card and gave it to me as a gift.

Small world, huh?
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/09/07 01:23 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
Its funny you posted a picture of that card. A good friend of mine bought that card and gave it to me as a gift.

Small world, huh?


Yes, it really is.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/07 03:50 PM

Today is the one year anniversary of the death of Cory Lidle. Yesterday marked the third anniversary of Ken Caminiti's passing. Gone too soon.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/07 03:57 PM

I remember hearing the story about that crash, and thinking that terrorists had struck NYC again. Although relieved to hear that wasn't the case, I was saddened to hear about Lidle's death.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/07 04:16 PM

So will it be Joe next year or LaRusso, Mattingly or Girardi?

Is Stump Merrill still alive? What about Bucky Dent, you never here his name anymore.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/11/07 04:49 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I remember hearing the story about that crash, and thinking that terrorists had struck NYC again.


Me too, that was my first thought
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/07 06:06 PM

Looking ahead to 2008, what do you guys think the Yankees look like? I don't know who the big free agents are going to be yet other than Torii Hunter and Andruw Jones. I think this is how they'll look:

C - Posada
1B - Giambi/Phillips (I think Mientkiewicz only signed a one-year contract, didn't he?)
2B - Cano
SS - Jeter
3B - A-Rod (Even if he opts out I think he stays)
LF - Matsui
CF - Cabrera
RF - Abreu (I think they'll pick up his option for another year)
Bench: Giambi/Damon/Duncan

Starting Pitchers - Wang, Hughes, Chamberlain and hopefully Pettitte. Do they keep Kennedy or send him back to Triple-A and sign someone else?
Set up man - Is Farnsworth's contract up yet?
Closer - Riveria
Manager - ?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/07 06:41 PM

I'm not quite ready for my typical State of the Yankees style post with player grades and prospects, but I'll reply to yours with some of my hopes for the upcoming season...

C - Posada
1B - Mientkeiwicz OR Phillips
2B - Cano
SS - Jeter
3B - Betemit (I really don't think A-Rod returns)
LF - Melky Cabrera
CF - Torii Hunter/ Aaron Rowand
RF - Abreu
DH - Duncan, Matsui
Bench: Molina

Rotation:
Wang
Pettitte
Hughes
Chamberlain
Mussina/Kennedy

Bullpen:
Mussina/Kennedy
Vizcaino
Ramirez
Britton
Horne
Farnsworth
Rivera

There is too much age on this team. I would begin cutting ties with several players, including Damon and Giambi (especially those two), in favor of younger talent. I would certainly eat salary to move either one. Damon's durability and his bat is still enough to turn him to a team that needs leadoff talent. Aaron Rowand will likely be available, and would replace Damon's clubhouse spirit.

Giambi is an albatross with a Tampa-era contract. I'd give him away for just about anything. Preferably bullpen help.

Matsui has a full no-trade clause, and the revenue from Japan is too great for the Yankees to dump him. The problem is that he is either a.) still hurt or b.) aging incredibly fast, which is not a good sign for a team that already has too many DH's.

It is quite hard, because there are still no solid options to replace our aging players. Kudos to the Tampa group (hence why I would NOT get rid of Cashman). Torii Hunter, despite his injury history, is the best center fielder available. The question is whether you want Rowand or not for his intangibles. I don't know. I'd probably go with Hunter, but if we're trying to build a '96 team, I'd go with Rowand. Either way, Shelley Duncan can play a serviceable left field (no worse than Matsui...).

I'd pick up Abreu's option in a heartbeat, simply because of his turnaround, as well as his great performance in the playoffs (one of few Yankees).

Melky stays, and is an untouchable. He is the next Bernie Williams (better, I'd say, fielding, probably slightly less at the plate, though he does have potential, and showed poise at the playoffs).

As far as the infield, A-Rod is gone. Pure and simple. He wants the money, and while I would love to have him back (he didn't have a horrible postseason, and did better than other Yankees), paying him in the neighborhood of $40 million per year is just ridiculous. That being said, he does have incentive to accept the Yankees offer, since it comes with the Texas money. However, I doubt he'll be back, and I'd expect him in Chicago next year, with San Francisco being the dark horse.

That brings us to Wilson Betemit, who is still young enough to be thrown in with the prospects, surprisingly enough. He can hit for power, and has soft hands on defense. He could grow into an everyday player for this team, if needed. Betemit had been on the Yankee radar for ages, so they are high on him. Go forth and prosper, Wilson.

Jeter stays. But his clutch is missing. Someone should call the FBI, it's missing.

Cano is a phenom, and they need to get him locked up as soon as possible. He could legitimately win the batting title next year in the AL, as he continues to show his plate discipline, hit for more power, and improve his OBP. His defense is great.

Mientkeiwicz and Phillips both play a great first base, though Phillips had a much better bat this year before he got hurt. I give Mientkeiwicz the edge in defense, however. While their bats leave a bunch to be desired, neither was horrid at the #9 spot.

Posada is an enigma. His defense has arguably lost a step (should have stopped one of those Joba pitches in the Bug Game), though he still has a decent arm. His batting didn't come into question until the playoffs, when he resembled A-Rod at the plate, and looked totally lost. Let's pray Jesus Montero is developing quickly. Maybe we can falsify his birth certificate and say he's 18 or 19 (I believe he's 17 right now). Now you know why I pushed for us to acquire Jarrod Saltalamacchia earlier this year, even though it would have probably cost us Kennedy or Melky. Molina is serviceable, and probably could start for some teams in baseball, but will be a decent backup. There are virtually no free agent options out there at catcher.

For the rotation, Pettitte will probably come back. If not, it's a shame, but it will only further the youth movement (read: rebuilding, which I am in favor of). Hughes should be back to Toronto-game form, and develop into the ace of the rotation. Wang showed in the playoffs why he is probably suited to be the #2 pitcher. Joba will move to the rotation (unless Rivera doesn't resign, which I doubt), he is considerably more valuable there. Kennedy will join the rotation as well. Rounding it out will be Mussina, who really does not belong on this team. You have to wonder if they couldn't circumvent his 10+5 NTC and send him on his merry way, along with Kei Igawa, to the National League for some talent.

The bullpen needs Vizcaino to resign, and needs Ramirez and Britton to take (be given?) more prominent roles. Farnsworth has to get some even dorkier glasses, and pitching lessons from Charlie Sheen. Rivera needs to last another year. I wonder if they won't promote some more minor leaguers (Alan Horne?), and possibly develop Ohlendorf. He was supposed to start anyways, and was HORRIBLY misused by Torre against Cleveland in the playoffs. It could have ruined him for life.

The plus side is that we have some very nice position prospects coming down the line that I'll discuss in my long post sometime in the next week or so. I realize the cliche is that the Yankees don't rebuild, they reload, but I think that if we could nix Torre, get Girardi in here, with a small core of veterans mixed with the youth movement, we could have the makings of another '96 at the very least, certainly the basis for a dynasty.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/07 07:39 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Giambi is an albatross with a Tampa-era contract. I'd give him away for just about anything. Preferably bullpen help.


I won't argue with that but oddly enough, Giambi was the one guy (in the lineup other than Jeter) that I hated to see come up against Boston.

The Yanks definitely need to invest in some young players now.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/07 07:50 PM

When healthy, Giambi is a valuable power-hitter who can help take the pressure off of other hitters in the lineup, as well as cushion the middle of the lineup (walking A-Rod to get to Giambi, for example).

The problem is that he is a DH, a lefty DH no less, in a lineup that is obscenely lefty-heavy. If he could play even relatively competent defense, I'd consider him at first base, but he can barely run when he's healthy.

The Angels were, and likely should still be (if they don't acquire Bonds or A-Rod) interested in Giambi, and I suspect the Yankees could try and make a nice deal if they ate salary. I would, for instance, have a man crush on Brian Cashman if Chone Figgins came to New York. An instant utility player, lead-off man who would be a baserunning threat, something basically unheard of in New York.


Incidentally, I forgot that Bartolo Colon is going to be a free agent. Wonder if the Yankees would be interested...he's only three years removed from his Cy Young, and could be a nice bridge until the rest of the Yankees young pitchers move up?
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/07 08:17 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I would, for instance, have a man crush on Brian Cashman if Chone Figgins came to New York. An instant utility player, lead-off man who would be a baserunning threat, something basically unheard of in New York.


Figgins would be a big plus to ANY team but he must be 30 now. If the Yanks are gonna rebuild, they should start with some younger players.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/07 08:29 PM

I totally agree, but he would undeniably be the kind of utility/bench player the Yankees could use (rather than another power-hitting DH).

The good think is that the Yankees do have some very good prospects for position players, the problem is that they are too young to be promoted to the MLB level. Jose Tabata (outfield) is still probably another year away from full-time duty; projections give him Manny Ramirez power and great-but-not-elite defense. This will work well with Abreu's contract, because it will expire after 2008, allowing Tabata to slide into right field.

Similarly, there are a couple of other big names coming out of Trenton and Scranton-Wilkes Barre. Austin Jackson (SS) will probably eventually replace Jeter, Jesus Montero will replace Posada. But again, it takes time, and they guys are young (like I said, Montero is barely 18).

Besides, I highly doubt that the Angels would give up any decent prospects for Giambi. Figgins is expendable because he is a utility player without a position, and the Angels need power hitting. But again, this is all speculation. I'm sure the Angels will go after A-Rod hard, and Bonds even harder.

Still, I would love to send Giambi off to the West Coast.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/07 08:39 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
The good think is that the Yankees do have some very good prospects for position players, the problem is that they are too young to be promoted to the MLB level.


So you wait a year or two and rebuild from within. Thats how to build up the next dynasty. (I know, I know... its easy to say that and I honestly wouldn't want to see the Sox "waste" a year or two, but rebuilding takes some time).

BTW - You mentioned earlier about a leadoff base running threat being unheard of for the Yankees. Remember Rickey Henderson?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/07 08:50 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
The good think is that the Yankees do have some very good prospects for position players, the problem is that they are too young to be promoted to the MLB level.


So you wait a year or two and rebuild from within. Thats how to build up the next dynasty.


Isn't that what I've said? ;\)

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I realize the cliche is that the Yankees don't rebuild, they reload, but I think that if we could nix Torre, get Girardi in here, with a small core of veterans mixed with the youth movement, we could have the makings of another '96 at the very least, certainly the basis for a dynasty.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/07 08:51 PM

Oh, and besides, I'm a Buffalo Bills fan. I know about rebuilding. We've been doing it since 1996. \:p
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/07 09:04 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-
Isn't that what I've said?


Oh, errrr, yeah.

Eyewitness News just reported that Torre will likely be asked back next year.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/12/07 09:17 PM

Good for Joe. But I don't see this team improving much over next year if they continue to do the same things they did this year - never playing smallball, never adjusting the lineup, mismanaging the bullpen, playing favorites with the bullpen, and having a team that played like the took quaaludes before the game.

All of which I do find Torre guilty of over the past 3 years...regardless of how I feel about him as a person, or of his previous track record, or his place in Yankee lore, etc. etc. etc.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/13/07 01:28 AM

Could A-Rod be staying?

He is buying a $40 million dollar townhouse in Manhattan...
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/13/07 03:30 AM

I would think he'd stay. The Yankees can't afford to lose him or the money from Texas. Also, I don't think Betemit is anything more than a utility guy.

But maybe he wants to play for the Mets. That was his childhood favorite team, and reportedly that's where he wanted to play before Boras led him to Texas.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/13/07 03:53 AM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
I would think he'd stay. The Yankees can't afford to lose him or the money from Texas. Also, I don't think Betemit is anything more than a utility guy.


Betemit could probably play as an everyday player, but obviously there would be plenty of other people that would be available.

FTW, I have heard that the Orioles would like to keep Tejada, but have him move to third base. Does that make Melvin Mora available?
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/14/07 02:38 AM

Holy Piss!!!

Big rumor out of New York...the Yankees are in talks with the Twins to make a deal that would send a package of players, headlined by Chien-Ming Wang, to Minnesota, in exchange for Johan Santana.

\:o
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/14/07 04:49 AM

Where did you hear that DJ? Do you have a link?
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/14/07 06:16 AM

Are trade talks allowed before the end of the World Series?
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/15/07 01:31 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Holy Piss!!!

Big rumor out of New York...the Yankees are in talks with the Twins to make a deal that would send a package of players, headlined by Chien-Ming Wang, to Minnesota, in exchange for Johan Santana.

\:o


Holy Piss? Hmm? Is that a Buffalo expression?

One pitcher for another? Why, because CMW screwed up in the playoffs? There's got to more in that deal....like the other players. Who's on the Twins that the Yankees could benefit by? The catcher or the first baseman? or both?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/15/07 01:45 AM

It would be foolish. If they were trading star players based on their latest postseason performance, they'd be looking for a new shortstop. Actually, with the exception of the outfield, they'd be looking to trade the whole damn team.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/15/07 03:51 AM

I think it's a smart trade. Santana is a 2-time Cy Young winner with dominante stuff (plus he's a lefty can't hurt, can it?). Sure Wang is younger but only by 1 year. If we have the chance to get Johan, I say get him!
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/15/07 12:03 PM

 Originally Posted By: MaryCas


Holy Piss? Hmm? Is that a Buffalo expression?


Last time I checked, we humans piss out of a hole, right? \:p
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/15/07 12:14 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
It would be foolish. If they were trading star players based on their latest postseason performance, they'd be looking for a new shortstop. Actually, with the exception of the outfield, they'd be looking to trade the whole damn team.


There are two sides to this trade, should it go down.

On the plus side, you are getting the most dominant strikeout pitcher in the American League over the past few years, and a lefty at that, something we haven't seen in New York in...what, forever? \:p

Santana would certainly be the ace of the rotation, and any trade would come with a contract extension, likely making him a Yankee for a considerably long tenure.

On the down side, there is nothing inherently wrong with Wang, other than the fact that he had control issues in the first game, and then pitched on short rest in the second game, against a potent Cleveland offense. He is a great pitcher, but his game relies on a solid defense behind him.

Also, any deal would mean the Yankees would certainly send prospects, and I would suspect that it would most likely include Melky Cabrera and one of our higher-tier pitching prospects (Ian Kennedy?).

Is the trade worth it? If Cashman could get them to lay off of Melky, and still get it done, I would do it. Santana is young enough so that he'll remain a dominant AL pitcher for a considerably long time. We have a glut of prospects for this very reason. I like Ian Kennedy, but I'd rather have Johan Santana, simply because of the fact that one is a proven Major League pitcher while the other is not.

If Melky enters into the equation, it gets harder. Sure, you could trade Melky away, but he has the potential (in my opinion at least) to be the next Bernie Williams. If the Yankees wanted to do the Twins bad, they could simply go and sign Torii Hunter (who left, creating the void that Melky would fill in Minnesota). But this could really hinder the Yankee youth movement, as Hunter is a 30+ year old center fielder with an injury history, although he plays amazing defense and has a bat that Melky simply cannot compete with (yet).

The problem with this trade is that it doesn't see the Yankees getting younger, which I think is vital. If I were Cashman, I would try to get this done without Melky being involved, but with Torii Hunter on the horizon, and Jose Tabata lying in wait back at Scranton, I would have to seriously consider ANY trade that would bring Johan Santana into pinstripes, even if it costs us two of my favorite Yankees (Wang and Melky).
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/15/07 12:20 PM

Keep Wang, get Santana some other way. Pitching, pitching, pitching.

Yes we piss out of a hole, but I think that would be Holey Piss. Holy Piss is something else, kinda like Holy Shit or Holy Cow. Depends on your religion. \:p ;\)
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/15/07 12:42 PM

 Originally Posted By: MaryCas
Keep Wang, get Santana some other way. Pitching, pitching, pitching.

Yes we piss out of a hole, but I think that would be Holey Piss. Holy Piss is something else, kinda like Holy Shit or Holy Cow. Depends on your religion. \:p ;\)


All this talk about Wang, piss, etc. makes me yearn for the latrine. \:p

Santana would be a free agent after next year, which is why I would wait, on one hand.

On the other, you take the risk of another team getting Santana through trade, and any trade would involve a long-term contract. So it really is a game of rolling the dice - do you trade away great talent in Wang and Melky, two major parts of the youth movement, for one of (if not the) elite pitcher in the American League? Or do you wait until the end of '08, when he hits the free market, could command an insane contract, and may have already been snatched up by another team?

Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/15/07 10:31 PM

Since insane contracts have never frightened the Yankees, then why the rush to give away the youth and talent that they have? You've got some definite talent in the pitching staff with Hughes, Kennedy and Chamberlain. Nourish what you have, and pay Santana's price next year. While there may be some tough competition, if the Steinbrenners want him bad enough, they'll prevail.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/15/07 11:38 PM


Why did I have to see this hanging in Wal-Mart this afternoon? \:\/





It should've been Two-Thirds Off.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 12:34 AM

Did you ever get your Bronx Bombers/Godfather Logo shirt??
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 02:22 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Did you ever get your Bronx Bombers/Godfather Logo shirt??

Of course... you? \:D
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 10:35 AM

No, for some reason I blanked out on it and never ordered it. Is it nice? Worth ordering?
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 12:01 PM

What ever happened with Joe Torre?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 01:17 PM

 Originally Posted By: Mignon
What ever happened with Joe Torre?


The meetings in Tampa begin today to discuss this topic and others...
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 01:19 PM

The local news is hinting that Steinbrenner may be giving up the day-to-day operations of the team to his sons. Also, Don Mattingly supposedly told Steinbrenner that he wasn't ready to manage the Yanks.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 01:30 PM

The truth is, the sons don't know s*it about the team. They've been too busy playing with the horses and hotels that the family also owns (obvious members of the Lucky Sperm Club). With Swindal's firing, the boys are scrambling to play catch-up.

They have a lot of decisions to make aside from The Torre Decision. Namely: ARod, Posada, Rivera, Pettite, Doug M., Villone, Vizcaino, and Abreu. What to do? What to do??
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 01:33 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
The truth is, the sons don't know s*it about the team.


So, you're saying they take after their old man, huh?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 01:36 PM

Steinbrenner's greatest talent has been his willingness to open his checkbook. Unfortunately, there are times when it's also been his greatest downfall.

Whatever you want to say about him (and I could say plenty), it's a terrible shame to see such a once-powerful force reduced to playing with crayons in the corner.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 01:39 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Whatever you want to say about him (and I could say plenty), it's a terrible shame to see such a once-powerful force reduced to playing with crayons in the corner.


I'm not that forgiving of this schmuck. I only hope Billy Martin left some extra sharp crayons for him to play with.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 01:44 PM

I'm with SC. The guy fraternized with gamblers, which is breaking the GOLDEN rule in baseball. Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe will never see the Hall of Fame, yet George was allowed back into the game with open arms because they knew what kind of revenue his spending would create for the game. Please don't take this as anti-Yankee, because it's not, it's anti-hypocrisy. If the guy was a creep when he was young, I'm not going to feel bad for him when in drools on himself in his old age. Besides, the Yankees have bigger fish to fry than this every day soap opera that's been going on. Get it over with, one way or the other.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 02:16 PM

If I recall correctly, Baseball was never happy with the conviction of Steinbrenner for illegal campaign contributions to Nixon.

But the problem that led to his "lifetime ban" from baseball occurred when he was having his problems with Winfield, and hired someone to dig up dirt on the reight fielder to embarrass and discredit him. Maybe it was the tip of the iceberg. Someone with a better memory can maybe provide more details. Subsequently, Winfield entered the Hall of Fame as a Padre.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 02:25 PM

That's the "gambler" I was referring to Klydon--Howie Spira, a lifetime bum, gambler and lowlife. Steinbrenner paid him to get the dirt on Winfield.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 02:55 PM

Report: Mattingly tells Yankees he's not ready to manage

As Joe Torre's future as Yankees manager hangs in the balance, his bench coach reportedly has told the Bronx Bombers that he's not ready to replace Torre in the hot seat.

A friend of Don Mattingly told the Star-Ledger of Newark, N.J., that the Yankees bench coach has informed the Yankees that he's not ready to manage and is uncomfortable with replacing Torre as manager.

Torre's status for next season will be decided during discussions starting on Tuesday morning in Tampa, Fla. George Steinbrenner is expected to attend the meetings along with sons Hal and Hank; son-in-law Felix Lopez; team president Randy Levine; chief operating officer Lonn Trost; and general manager Brian Cashman.

George Steinbrenner said last weekend that he didn't think the Yankees would keep Torre if the team failed to advance from its first-round series with Cleveland. New York was later eliminated in four games by the Indians, the Yankees' third straight opening-round exit, but Steinbrenner has been silent on Torre's fate since. Torre has led New York to the playoffs in all 12 of his seasons and has won four World Series titles.

The New York Post first reported Sunday that Hank and Hal Steinbrenner have taken over the daily running of the team.

Hank Steinbrenner told the Post that he will share final say on team decisions with his brother Hal but Hank will apparently focus more on the baseball side of the business. Hal Steinbrenner will focus more on the construction of the new Yankee Stadium, which is scheduled to open in 2009.

"There's always been a succession -- and that's myself and my brother," Hank Steinbrenner told the paper.

Levine told The Associated Press on Sunday night, however, that George Steinbrenner, 77, will still have the final say on Torre.

"He's still the boss. He's acting like the chairman of a major company," he said. "As in many other instances in major league baseball, his kids have stepped up and are devoting a lot of time on the day-to-day running of the team."

If Torre isn't brought back, Mattingly has been considered the leading contender to take over. Yankees broadcaster Joe Girardi, who won NL Manager of the Year with the Florida Marlins in 2006, and Cardinals manager Tony La Russa, who hasn't decided if he will return to St. Louis, are other often-mentioned possibilities.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 04:26 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
They have a lot of decisions to make aside from The Torre Decision. Namely: ARod, Posada, Rivera, Pettite, Doug M., Villone, Vizcaino, and Abreu. What to do? What to do??


Why do they have to make decisions about these men?
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 04:29 PM

None of them are under contract for next year, Miggie.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 05:50 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
That's the "gambler" I was referring to Klydon--Howie Spira, a lifetime bum, gambler and lowlife. Steinbrenner paid him to get the dirt on Winfield.


You're right, PB. Spira...there's a name from the past I forgot.

Remember Billy Martin's line about Reggie and Steinbrenner? "One's a born liar; the other's a convicted one." That got him canned.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 05:55 PM

A baseball soap opera
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 09:13 PM

Channel 7 is now reporting that no decision was reached today regarding Torre's future. They're also saying that prior reports of Don Mattingly not being ready to take over (as manager) were false - Mattingly is eager to be manager.

The plot thickens.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 09:19 PM

I heard that on ESPN radio about Mattingly wanting the job after all. I don't believe anything anymore. When I see it, I'll believe it.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 09:25 PM

RUMOR ALERT!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

New Yankees pitching coach

Posted: Tuesday October 16, 2007 08:50AM ET

Should Joe Torre return, Don Mattingly would remain the bench coach, while Tony Pena and Larry Bowa likely would return as the first- and third-base coaches, respectively. Ron Guidry appears to be on the outs, with Dave Eiland - who worked with the team's young pitchers at Triple-A last year - the leading candidate to take over.

Source: Fan Nation
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/16/07 09:37 PM

Hmm, maybe it wasn't such a bad move that we didn't overspend on Dice-K, since "Superman" hasn't shined this October

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Dice-K fails to deliver again in October

CLEVELAND -- When the Boston Red Sox outbid the rest of baseball and paid $103 million for Daisuke Matsuzaka, it was with a night like Monday in mind, salivating over the prospect of having a third ace in addition to Josh Beckett and Curt Schilling in a playoff series that would shift the balance toward the Red Sox.

It was a formula with which the Red Sox were confidently familiar. In 2004, they won the World Series in large part because each night in October, Derek Lowe, Schilling or Pedro Martinez stood on the hill.

But the idea of Matsuzaka, who came to America as Japan's top pressure pitcher, as a big-time MLB playoff performer is still on hold. Instead of triumph, or even valor, Matsuzaka did not speak following Monday night's 4-2 loss to Cleveland in Game 3 of the American League Championship Series, preferring instead to stare hopelessly into his locker, even as the Red Sox clubhouse man hung clean jerseys for Game 4 in his teammates' lockers.

He gave a brief statement through a translator but sat beyond consolation. Thus, the Cleveland Indians are halfway to the World Series and the Red Sox are halfway to winter.

His inaugural October has not been memorable. Matsuzaka has pitched twice in the postseason and has not been able to escape the fifth inning in either start. But the difference between his first start -- in Game 2 of the division series against Los Angeles -- and Monday was that by the end of Boston's 6-3 win over the Angels, Matsuzaka was an afterthought in the wake of Manny Ramirez's walk-off, three-run home run off Francisco Rodriguez.

Here, with the ALCS tied at a game apiece with three games at Jacobs Field, the Red Sox needed him to be present, to give them a performance, to be special, and Matsuzaka did not deliver. He lasted just 4 2/3 innings, gave up six hits and left the game trailing 4-0. His postseason ERA is 7.71.

He did not pitch poorly and he did not melt down, like the Mets' Tom Glavine on the last day of the regular season or the Yankees' Chien-Ming Wang in Game 4 of the division series against Cleveland. He also didn't pitch with the kind of presence that gives a lineup pause. He exhausted himself and his manager's patience by throwing 101 pitches in less than five innings. The Indians were confident against Matsuzaka, and should these two teams be even after six games, Matsuzaka is scheduled to start Game 7 Sunday night at Fenway Park.

The issue with Matsuzaka, especially against teams with formidable lineups, is his inability to make things easy on himself. He struck out six on the night, and at times during the season has shown himself to be a strikeout pitcher, but he works too hard for his outs. Of the 22 batters he faced, Matsuzaka finished only four hitters on four or fewer pitches, and one -- Kenny Lofton -- hit a two-out, two-run homer in the second inning on the first pitch. Matsuzaka needed six or more pitches on 12 of 22 hitters, a sure way not to be around for long.

"It's a lot of pitches. It's a lot of deep counts. Saying that, he made one glaring mistake to Lofton for the two-run home run," Red Sox manager Terry Francona said. "The more pitches you throw, especially to dangerous hitters, the better chance you give them. I mean, that's the same concept that we talk about all the time, and they kind of reversed it on us."

Meanwhile, as Matsuzaka labored through the Indians' lineup, his counterpart, Jake Westbrook, alternately lived on the margin and in his lounge chair. When he faced trouble, the Indians shined. In the first, after a one-out walk to Kevin Youkilis, David Ortiz ripped a rocket to the right side. Asdrubal Cabrera snared the liner on one hop and flipped to third baseman Casey Blake -- covering second as Cleveland played an exaggerated shift -- who then fired a strike to first baseman Ryan Garko for an inning-ending double play.

In the second, the Red Sox loaded the bases with no outs but did not score, as Westbrook retired Jason Varitek on a fly ball and Coco Crisp hit into a 6-3 double play. Lofton increased the pressure with his homer in the bottom of the inning.

Westbrook then zipped through the third inning on just six pitches.

There were other reasons, naturally, for the Indians' 4-2 win, most notably Westbrook's ability to force the vaunted Red Sox offense into beating 14 ground-ball outs into the dirt, including three huge double plays. But the endgame is nevertheless the same: There was money on the table, a two-man fight for it on Monday night in Cleveland, and it was Westbrook and not Dice-K who reached out and corralled the pile.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/17/07 03:53 PM

The more I think about it, the more I believe Torre should just do an end run around the creepy Steinbrenner family. He doesn't deserve to twist in the wind like this. He should call a press conference and announce he's leaving the Yankees of his own free will, forever leaving Steinbrenner the bad guy in the memories of baseball fans, not just in New York, but everywhere. It would be a public relations coup.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 01:32 AM

Anyone attend the Save Joe Torre rally in Times Square today??
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 01:43 PM

Cashman and the Steinbrenners have publically stated that they will NOT chase after AROD if he pursues talks with other teams.

Rumor mill has Jorge Posada coming over to the Mets if Joe Torre is not brought back with the Yankees.

Hmmm.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 03:23 PM

My brother, who is a Mets fan, says that he would LOVE to see Posada on the Mets. I do know that he has close ties to Willie Randolph, so it wouldn't surprise me. Maybe they want Mo, too, since Wagner has not exactly lived up to his self-proclaimed "Sandman" status. ;\)
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 03:29 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Anyone attend the Save Joe Torre rally in Times Square today??


Wasn't exactly the championship parade they were hoping for, but it's nice to see Joe getting his respect.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 04:39 PM

Which he greatly deserves working for Steinbrenner.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 05:42 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
The more I think about it, the more I believe Torre should just do an end run around the creepy Steinbrenner family. He doesn't deserve to twist in the wind like this.


Steinbrenner is showing such disrespect to Torre with the overdramatization of this decision. Be a man and make a decision one way or the other.

I know it would never happen because Torre is such a classy individual, but I would love to see Torre to tell Steinbrenner to go f--k himself. There are two primary individuals to blame for the decline of the Yankee organization: Cashman for the poor talent evaluation and Steinbrenner for paying top dollar at nearly every opportunity. Torre can only manage the players brought in. Does Torre always make the right decisions? Hell no, but what manager does?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 07:35 PM

Some of it has been misfortune too. Carl Pavano anyone? Also, the talent has forgotten how to hit in the postseason the past two years
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 07:44 PM

Absolutely correct. But those are things beyond the manager's control and things that all teams go through. Injuries and slumps are part of the game.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:07 PM

NEWS FLASH: The Yanks offered Torre a one year contract and he turned it down!!! He's gone from the Yankees.


Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:08 PM

I just saw it on TV (are you watching Oprah??).
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:13 PM

He turned down a one year deal for 5 million + incentives, which would kick in with each round of the playoffs the Yanks make next year. Looks like he's gone.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:13 PM

I was flipping channels just as they interrupted Oprah.

Good for Joe! And as far as Georgie goes -
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:15 PM

He's gone, Cashman just made an announcement that it's time for the Yankees to "move on as quickly as possible."
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:15 PM

I will miss him terribly, as will millions of other fans, not to mention his players. Players like Jeter, who have never played for anyone else, are bound to be in for tough time dealing with the changes ahead.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:16 PM

I have big time respect for Joe. Good for him. F*** the Steinbrenners and their messenger boy Johnny Ola, er, Brian Cashman.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:19 PM

If you live in the NY Metro area, turn on WFAN, they're going into it in great detail.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:25 PM

Good for him. I don't blame him for wanting out. I wouldn't want to work for someone who kept telling me I was going to be fired. What are the chances he will go to another team?

Steinbrenner =
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:31 PM

Goodbye Joe, we will miss you terribly! Thanks for the great memories
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:35 PM

We should've seen it coming:



He may not win as Manager of the Year, but he just got my vote as Baseball's Man of the Year!
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 08:37 PM

It's a lousy way to let him go. I'd respect Yankee management more if they just fired him, rather than let him twist in the wind for 10 days. Then to make him be the one to turn down a pay cut was just wrong. I don't care how much you make, who wants to take a pay cut? I negotiated contracts for close to twenty years, first as a shop steward on a negotiation committee, then as a business agent, and I'll tell you this: Every single time management asks you to take a cut, they want you out. It was just a cheap way to let him go.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 09:08 PM

PROGRAM ALERT

According to WFAN: Joe to do Letterman tonight.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 10:01 PM


Holy crap, I didn't expect that!!! \:o \:o

Fuck Steinbrenner after all the money they're wasting on pieces of shit pitching!!

Good for you, Joe! You're gonna be TERRIBLY missed \:\(
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 10:37 PM

Good for Joe!

At the very least, The Yankees should have offered him the same money. A cut in pay is a slap in the face to Torre.

The Yankees played this one beautifully. "Let's put the ball in Torre's court, but deflate some of the air in that ball so that he looks like he cannot throw it." Manipulative pricks. They knew damn well that Torre could NOT accept a cut in pay. Not because of the monetary loss, but more of it being principle and a loss of pride. Had he accepted a cut in pay then it would be like admitting that he has not done a good job as a manager.

And the Yankees knew this.

For all the greatness this organization has achieved throughout their existence and for all the legendary players that have played with them throughout their existence, it all is meaningless at the moment because right now, the way that front office of this organization handled themselves from the start of the playoffs, threatening the future of their manager in public while the games were still going on, they just may have reached their lowest point in their history as far as showing any kind of class goes.

What a disgrace.


You Go Joe!
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 11:00 PM

Joe Torre's replacement is in a nearly impossible, no-win situation. If 12 straight playoff appearances, 4 WS wins and 6 WS appearances are not enough, then what is?
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 11:08 PM

 Originally Posted By: goombah
Joe Torre's replacement is in a nearly impossible, no-win situation. If 12 straight playoff appearances, 4 WS wins and 6 WS appearances are not enough, then what is?


Exactly!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/18/07 11:30 PM

 Originally Posted By: goombah
Joe Torre's replacement is in a nearly impossible, no-win situation. If 12 straight playoff appearances, 4 WS wins and 6 WS appearances are not enough, then what is?


I just pray Girardi gets the job and not Mattingly. I love Donnie as a player but not as a coach. I'd feel more comfortable with Girardi in command than I would with Donnie.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 12:06 AM

Seriously, I love people who are like, "Way to go Joe, good job!"

The Yankees offered him a 1-year deal, which he turned down. Huzzah.

This is the end of an era, a sad day, for I have really no conscious memory of anyone else as the Yankee manager besides Joe Torre.

That being said...it was time for Joey Four-Rings to go.

I support Steinbrenner 110% with this decision. I only wish it would have been done sooner (i.e. the night they were eliminated by Cleveland).
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 12:09 AM

Way to go, Joe! Good job!
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 12:09 AM

Priceless!

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 12:13 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
Way to go, Joe! Good job!


Way to go, George! Great job!
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 12:14 AM

Way to go Geoff, you drunk!

Oops.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 12:21 AM

Joe Torre brought an air of calm and class that will be missing from the team from now on.

DC, now I can definitely see Posada going over to the Mets next year!

The Steinbrenners showed themselves to be disrespectful, piggy little ingrates!

Joe Torre handled himself beautifully. He'll go out just as he reigned - with class.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 12:27 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Joe Torre brought an air of calm and class that will be missing from the team from now on.

DC, now I can definitely see Posada going over to the Mets next year!

The Steinbrenners showed themselves to be disrespectful, piggy little ingrates!


Christ, I'll never understand it. Yes, Torre is a Hall of Fame manager. Yes, he is now pseudo-fired...gee, I wish I had the chance to turn down a $5 million dollar 1-year deal with the Yankees...he'd be the highest paid manager in the game, by a considerable sum.

If Posada wants to go, he can take his whiffle bat with him and head right over to Queens. Same with Mariano Rivera.

Both of those guys have been made quite wealthy with their contracts with the Yankees, and to act like they've been "disrespected" is complete hogwash.

Keep posting Torre's (fabulous) record, but it doesn't change the fact that this team was DOA at the start of the season, and without A-Rod, would have been in the basement. For the third straight year in a row, our team has been embarrassed in the playoffs. An air of calm and class? This team needed a friggin' torch under their asses this postseason, not sleepy Joe and his Bigelow green tea©.

We all applaud Cashman and the youth movement on the field. I say we do the same when it comes to the bench.

Give my regards to Joe (Girardi).
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 12:37 AM

I completely disagree. If the team has been dead the past few years, you can thank some hires like Randy Johnson, Igawa and Kyle Farnsworth. The fact that they came as far as they did each season, you can thank Joe Torre for motivating his players and getting amazing performances from some of them.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 01:09 AM

WAY TO GO JOE!!!

GREAT RUN!!!


A Playoff Appearance every year as Yankee Manager!

Mission Accomplished!


And how did they show their appreciation? By threatening you while you're manging your team in a playoff and disguising their bullshit by making it sound as though that offered you a one year contract and that you turned them down. But what they failed to make clear to the public is that in actuality they offered you a take it or leave it cut in pay.

Classless organization.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 01:17 AM

Any chance that MGT will renegotiate with Torre?
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 03:41 AM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
 Originally Posted By: SC
Way to go, Joe! Good job!

Way to go, George! Great job!

\:\/
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
The Yankees offered him a 1-year deal, which he turned down. Huzzah.

...a pay cut. An insult. Yeah, "Way to go, George!" telling the manager who got you into the post season EVERY SINGLE YEAR but that's not good enough for you cuz you need to win it all! And that's TORRE'S FAULT!! Not the pitchers or batters' fault... it's TORRE'S FAULT!!

Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 03:43 AM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
PROGRAM ALERT

According to WFAN: Joe to do Letterman tonight.

There was no mention of Joe being on (despite being mentioned in the monologue), so after Mad Dog is off, I'm turning this shit off. I'd rather watch the end of the Rutgers game, but can't seem to find it. \:\/
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 11:44 AM

 Quote:
"Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah."


Should I quote that again?

 Quote:
"Blah blah, blah blah blah blah."


Torre is a HoF manager, who had an amazing tenure with the Yankees.

But great managers have come and go before, and on even less amiable circumstances.

But of course, wait, here we go:

 Quote:
"blah blah blah blah blah, because we made the playoffs and blah blah blah, and blah."


Enough is enough. It's time for a change.

 Quote:
"Well, blah blah blah, those Yankees are blah blah blah blah blah."


Well, I've already posted before several flaws which I feel have rendered Torre an ineffective coach, but no one seems to want to acknowledge that. It's more like rationalization about blah, blah, and blah...

And I understand Torre had blah while he was here. But our team hasn't even come close to blah for the past three years. And when I mean blah, I mean, seriously bro, blah.

 Quote:
But blah blah blah blah blah Posada, and blah blah blah!


Let's turn the clock back to '96.

 Quote:
But blah!


I know. Try to reconcile yourself to the fact that I'm right, and you're wrong.

Best,
Double-J
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 12:16 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I know. Try to reconcile yourself to the fact that I'm right, and you're wrong.

Best,
Double-J


Or NOT.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 12:57 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
I know. Try to reconcile yourself to the fact that I'm right, and you're wrong.

Best,
Double-J


Or NOT.


Blah blah?
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 01:14 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
"Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah."





"How George Steinbrenner answered Joe Torre's request for a fair contract."
Posted By: Don Marco

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 01:28 PM

I still say they should have fired Cashman. There is a long list of overpaid ex all stars on the downside of their careers. I love it when people give him the credit for the good crop of young players but say he wasn't really in charge of the Pavano decision, among others. I guess he only made the good choices, or spent years only responsible for deciding what the giveaways would be on the promo games.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 01:38 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Marco
I still say they should have fired Cashman. There is a long list of overpaid ex all stars on the downside of their careers. I love it when people give him the credit for the good crop of young players but say he wasn't really in charge of the Pavano decision, among others. I guess he only made the good choices, or spent years only responsible for deciding what the giveaways would be on the promo games.


Why the argument against Cashman fails:

1.) EVERY team wanted Pavano when he became a free agent. There were several teams that wanted him. No one could have predicted he'd turn to absolute garbage.

2.) Overpaid ex-all stars. Who? Damon? Yes, I blame Cashman. Sheffield? Wasn't his decision. Giambi? Wasn't his decision.

So who else are you talking about, exactly? Matsui has been fabulous until he was hurt last year, and (clearly) is still having problems adjusting.

Randy Johnson? In spite of what many Yankee fans think, Johnson still had solid years here in New York. Considering he needed back surgery and ended his year this season with the Diamondbacks on the shelf, Cashman looks smart for dealing him.

Mike Mussina on a two-year contract? Okay, I agree that I've never been that high on Moose. But look at the FA list for 2007, and tell me how Mussina's contract wasn't a certifiable deal.

You trying to tell me A-Rod - remember, the deal Cashman made with Texas - is an overpaid former all-star?

3.) You act like those young players are nothing, but the Yankees have several players who can be competent Major League everyday players; among them, many have an elite ceiling. Before Cashman took the reigns, the Yankee farm system was used for one thing: trade bait. Now, it actually is possibly generating another crew of '96ers.

So please, try, try again.

Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 01:40 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC

"How George Steinbrenner answered Joe Torre's request for a fair contract."


Explain to me what "fair" is, in this case.

I think $5 million - keeping him as the highest paid manager in the league - is certainly "fair," to say the least.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 01:44 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Explain to me what "fair" is, in this case.


Blah blah blah blah blah.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 01:48 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Double-J
Explain to me what "fair" is, in this case.


Blah blah blah blah blah.


About what I expected.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 03:22 PM

 Originally Posted By: Double-J

I have really no conscious memory of anyone else as the Yankee manager besides Joe Torre.



Really? That makes me feel old. You may not fully be able to appreciate what an anchor Torre has been for a volatile organization. Back in the 80s Billy Martin got his ass kicked in the clubhouse by Ed Whitson, and it was just another one of Billy's brawls. I think that said, Torre's greatest contribution was maintaining and sustaing a sense of professionalism and pride to a team that played hard every game.

While I felt Torre should have not been subjected to such persistent doubt within the organization, I will admit that he was very well compensated, yes overcompensated. I think he was a very good fit for the Yankees, who made the playoffs for the first time in 14 years a year before he arrived. But I don't think that he would be as successful with a young team as some other managers may be.

I agree with you, DJ, Torre's departure should have no bearing on the decisions of free agents Posada, Rivera and Pettite, who has an option, I believe. Sure, they may lament Torre's leaving, but that is part of the business of the game. If there are other reasons for them wanting to leave, that's fine too.

This afternoon, ESPN is apparently running a special two hour tribute to Torre, which probably embarrasses him. I think this is a little much. He's not dead, and he's going to manage someplace else again, maybe even in 2008. However, ESPN will capitalize on the attention this story is getting. It will all die as soon as NY names Don Mattingly manager.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 03:47 PM

His press conference is being carried on WFAN live at 2pm.

I agree with Klyd about the free agents. If the money's there they'll stay, and in fairness to Joe, that's what he'd want them to do; make the money while they can.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 03:56 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy

I agree with Klyd about the free agents. If the money's there they'll stay, and in fairness to Joe, that's what he'd want them to do; make the money while they can.


Not only that, but its kind of hilarious when you hear them talk about how these guys would be coming back to a "totally new organization in 2008" if they re-sign with the Yankees. Yet, several of the key players were there when Donnie Baseball or Joe Girardi were in pinstripes...
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 04:04 PM

I'll tell you; if the reasoning for this shakeup is Torre's quiet dignity, and they're looking for someone with a different personality, they're better off with Girardi than Mattingly. And don't laugh at this one, although I'd be shocked if it happened--Don't discount Bobby Valentine, he's the best manager not currently working in MLB.
Posted By: Double-J

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 04:13 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
I'll tell you; if the reasoning for this shakeup is Torre's quiet dignity, and they're looking for someone with a different personality, they're better off with Girardi than Mattingly. And don't laugh at this one, although I'd be shocked if it happened--Don't discount Bobby Valentine, he's the best manager not currently working in MLB.


Agreed 100%, although I'd rather have Girardi than Valentine. ;\)

As I've been saying throughout this thread, my problem with Torre of late had been complacency. I want a manager who is fired up, and fires his players up!
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 04:20 PM

Yeah, I'll buy that DJ, but Bobby V does have the best resume of the names that are floating around (LaRussa notwithstanding, but he's technically employed).Valentine took an absolutely awful 1996 Met team, a pig team, and along with the Piazza signing in 1998, he made them contenders in two years. Love him or hate him, he gets players fired up and gets the job done. If he had a legitimate outfield to work with, the Mets just may have won a World Series during the Bobby V era.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 04:25 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
I'll tell you; if the reasoning for this shakeup is Torre's quiet dignity, and they're looking for someone with a different personality, they're better off with Girardi than Mattingly. And don't laugh at this one, although I'd be shocked if it happened--Don't discount Bobby Valentine, he's the best manager not currently working in MLB.


I suggested earlier that Bowa may be the guy if they wanted the opposite of Torre. He screams and throws tantrums, but I see them looking at Girardi and Mattingly.

I think it will be Mattingly because the Yankees have implied that he will be manager some day, and he is older than Girardi. Why make Girardi manager now if the older Mattingly is the future. Mattingly was a quiet guy as a player, and always seemed to me to avoid the limelight.

I'd be shocked if the Yankees hired Bobby Valentine. Something tells me that #2 will have some input on the decision.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 04:28 PM

I'm not sure about that, Klyd. If Jeter had any input, Joe would have a three year deal right now, although I'm sure they'll float the candidates names out to the players.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 04:34 PM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
I'm not sure about that, Klyd. If Jeter had any input, Joe would have a three year deal right now, although I'm sure they'll float the candidates names out to the players.


He's undoubtedly torre's biggest fan, but as you suggested, I think they'll want to make sure that the next guy gets a thumbs up from Jeter, who is a professional, and will likely proceed as business as usual.

The Yankees have succeeded in taking some attention away from the Bos/Cle series.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 04:37 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
I'm not sure about that, Klyd. If Jeter had any input, Joe would have a three year deal right now, although I'm sure they'll float the candidates names out to the players.

The Yankees have succeeded in taking some attention away from the Bos/Cle series.


Not just that: as A Met fan, I'm very grateful to both the Yankee and Knick management for getting us off the back page!
Posted By: Don Marco

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 05:11 PM

I would list the "failures" (maybe failure is to strong a word - disappointments?) as these:

Kyle Farnsworth
Carl Pavano
Kevin Brown
Jeff Weaver
Denny Neagle
Mark Wohlers
Jay Witasick
Steve Karsay
Jose Contreras
Javier Vazquez
Esteban Loaiza
Jaret Wright
Octavio Dotel
Kei Igawa

I don't really dislike Cashman - I can't even imagine what it must be like to be a GM with that much owner involvememt. The recent Yankee teams were built to get to the playoffs - good offense that steamrolls through the diluted pitching in baseball. But good pitching beats good hitting, and the pitching in the post season is good. More than anything I am just sorry to see a class act like Torre go.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 06:36 PM

I don't think Cashman is a bad GM, and I have a little more respect for him than I used to. He gets second guessed from all directions within the organization. I don't know whether guys like Walt Jocketty, Dave Dombrowski or Billy Beane would have operated in such an organization.

Thing about the Yankees is that they can afford to make the mistakes, to which Don Marco alluded whereas signing Kei Igawa for millions gets some other GM fired. But that is the reality. If you have deeper pockets than anyone else in baseball, you don't get hurt when you overpay for talent.
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 08:35 PM

Oh screw all this back office political bullshit. I've had enough. The truth is that NONE of them could give two fucks about the fans! Players, owners, managers, etc. None of them.


The bottom line is how much money they can make. Period.

Let me know when game 1 of the WS starts and after it's over, let me know when there's 1 day till pitchers and catchers.


That's all I care about as a fan of this game.

---------------------------------
"I hate George Steinbrenner because he made Joe Torre cry."

"You think if your father couldn't pay his rent that Joe Torre would care? ... Joe Torre made $7,000,000 a year -- he don't care ..."


----------------------------------

;\)
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/19/07 11:27 PM

It looks like someone has been watching "A Bronx tale". \:\)

Not a bad idea though.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/21/07 03:35 PM

Torre turns down FOX Sports offer

NEW YORK -- Joe Torre's next job could have been World Series analyst.

Torre declined an offer from FOX Sports to call the World Series alongside lead announcer Joe Buck and analyst Tim McCarver, SI.com has learned. FOX Sports president Ed Goren called Torre's agent, Maury Gostfrand, on Friday night to inquire if his client was interested in joining the network for the World Series. Gostfrand called Goren on Saturday to decline the offer.

"His agent called us back today and let us know that Joe was flattered to be asked but respectfully declined because he has made some family commitments," said FOX Sports spokesman Dan Bell. "We completely understand and will go with Joe and Tim in the booth for the World Series."

If Torre does not manage in 2008, broadcasting is a strong possibility. He spent nearly six years as a well-regarded broadcaster for the California Angels from 1985 to 1990, and was an analyst with ESPN during the 1989 National League playoffs and World Series. He even served as the play-by-play voice for KTLA-TV for part of the 1990 season, working with analyst Reggie Jackson.

Torre is known to be close with both Buck and McCarver, who was Torre's Cardinals teammate and roommate in 1973 and 1974. Buck has known Torre since he was a tyke running around the Cardinals clubhouse. Buck's father, Jack, called Cardinals games during Torre's career in St. Louis.

TBS would also be a logical destination for Torre. In addition to its postseason schedule next year, TBS will carry a league-wide package of 26 Sunday afternoon games. Asked about the possibility of adding Torre to his roster, Turner Sports executive producer Jeff Behnke said in an email this week to SI.com: "As we do with all our sports, we will evaluate every component of our productions during the offseason to see how we can improve our on-air product."

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/21/07 11:00 PM

Hank Steinbrenner, George's son who is probably now running the day-to-day operations of the team, came out publically today taking a shot at Joe Torre. Hanky Panky essentially said Joe Torre was an ingrate because Daddy Steinhitler hired Torre back in '95 when Torre was a nobody, and that he (Torre) was "handed" a great team to manage. Now, as Hanky sees it, Joe is showing himself to be ungrateful to Daddy.

Hanky appears to be a poster boy of why parents should practice birth control.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/21/07 11:20 PM

Yeah I read that too
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/21/07 11:29 PM

Somebody PLEASE lock this topic until March. These Yankee fans just refuse to realize that they are no longer the center of attention in the baseball world.

They're dead! Morte! Finished! Get over yourselves!


;\) ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/21/07 11:35 PM

Hey now, you asked us to move it outta the playoff discussions thread which I have obliged. This is a Yankees thread for Yankee discussions, year round. We've talked for years post-October about the upcoming season, disappointments during the season and playoffs, etc. Add on the fact that Joe Torre, probably one of the three greatest Yankee managers ever just walked away and the end of an era has been born. Yeah, some discussion is going to be at hand.
Posted By: DonMichaelCorleone

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/22/07 12:00 AM

You have to give the Yankees credit from a marketing standpoint. Its Game 7 of the ALCS and just about to go into the World Series on Wednesday and coverage on the Tri-State area and ESPN is more about Joe Torre, A-Rod, Rivera and Posada than it is about Colorado, Boston or Cleveland, its sad.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/22/07 12:38 AM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
Somebody PLEASE lock this topic until March. These Yankee fans just refuse to realize that they are no longer the center of attention in the baseball world.

They're dead! Morte! Finished! Get over yourselves!


;\) ;\)


Ummmm - No. I completely appreciate that the Yankees need not be discussed in other threads, as was pointed out. However, we did just lose our manager of 12 years, we have several key players whose contracts are up, and we are now facing a significant transitional period. I'm sure that there will be plenty of posts here in the coming weeks. If you don't want to read about the Yankees, feel free to pass us by and read something else.

SC, how unusual that a spoiled brat like Hank would come out like that. Was he the one who was playing with the racehorses or the hotels before becoming Mr. Baseball???
Posted By: Don Cardi

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/22/07 01:00 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
Somebody PLEASE lock this topic until March. These Yankee fans just refuse to realize that they are no longer the center of attention in the baseball world.

They're dead! Morte! Finished! Get over yourselves!


;\) ;\)


Ummmm - No. we did just lose our manager of 12 years, we have several key players whose contracts are up, and we are now facing a significant transitional period.



As I said, you guys are done! \:p










;\)


I waz onlee kitting!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/22/07 02:01 AM

Tell me about it!

Freaking Steinbrenners and Cashman. God knows what the heck they're going to do next.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/22/07 04:22 AM

 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
Somebody PLEASE lock this topic until March. These Yankee fans just refuse to realize that they are no longer the center of attention in the baseball world.

They're dead! Morte! Finished! Get over yourselves!

Yeah, how 'bout dem Mets, huh? \:p ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/25/07 03:21 PM

A-Rod named baseball's most clutch

NEW YORK -- The Yankees' year might have been an early loss if not for Alex Rodriguez's heroics. Time and time again, he came through with success in tight situations, helping to lead the club into the postseason.
For his efforts in what will be remembered as a remarkable individual season worthy of praise, Rodriguez has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the 2007 Major League Baseball Clutch Performer of the Year, presented by Pepsi.

The officially sanctioned Major League Baseball award recognizes the player who performed his best when the game was on the line, and was revealed during a one-hour special, produced by Major League Baseball Productions, on ESPN on Wednesday.

Off to a disappointing 21-29 start despite Rodriguez's exceptional opening act, the Yankees had a large hole to dig out of if they wanted to keep their streak of 13 consecutive postseason appearances intact.

The 32-year-old Rodriguez had a major hand in helping them do so, leading all of baseball with 143 runs scored, 54 home runs, 156 RBIs, and a .645 slugging percentage.

"It's a year I'm proud of, just because the guys battled hard all year," Rodriguez said recently. "It's been the toughest year trying to get to the postseason, that's for sure. Many people kind of doubted us, and it's weird for us to be able to overcome such adversity. Personally, I feel good about the year."

No batter in the Major Leagues hit more home runs to tie the game or put his team ahead, situations in which Rodriguez went deep 22 times. Philadelphia's Ryan Howard and Houston's Lance Berkman tied Rodriguez in that category.

Rodriguez's success in the late innings certainly helped his case, showing a great improvement over his performances in 2006. Rodriguez batted .463 (19-for-41) with eight home runs and 21 RBIs in the ninth innings of games this year, compared with .143 (5-for-35) with three home runs and five RBIs last season.

"I realized that I'm going to let my baseball do the talking," Rodriguez said.

One of Rodriguez's most memorable moments -- and a tell-tale sign that this year had earmarks of being different for him -- came April 7, during the Yankees' first homestand, as A-Rod stepped in against Baltimore reliever Chris Ray.

Having already hit a two-run homer earlier in the game, Rodriguez belted an offering into the black beyond center field for a game-winning, walk-off grand slam, lifting the Yankees to a 10-7 victory and playing out a stretch in which he hit six home runs and collected 15 RBIs in the first seven games of the season.

"It felt awesome," Rodriguez said then. "I was so excited, I felt like a fool running around the bases, like it was Little League. I just remember I almost knocked [coach Larry] Bowa over at third. I saw the fans rocking behind him. That was kind of cool.

"You relish it. As an athlete, you always want to be in that opportunity."

One of Rodriguez's most dramatic moments also came in the game's most heated rivalry, where he has had trouble in recent years. With the Yankees down to their final strike of the ninth inning June 3 at Boston, Rodriguez turned on a 95 mph Jonathan Papelbon fastball and drilled it high through the raindrops into the Fenway Park night, helping the Yankees to a 6-5 victory over the Red Sox and two out of three games at Boston.

"I was just trying to not to do too much," Rodriguez said then. "With two strikes, that's the last thing you're trying to do, to hit a home run. It's always a tough at-bat [against Papelbon]. He has so many ways of getting you out. The guy's a great competitor. Just to be able to win that game and then have Mo [Mariano Rivera] close the door was great."

With the Yankees driving toward a Wild Card spot and an eventual Division Series matchup with the Cleveland Indians, Rodriguez found another gear. He drove in 111 runs in his final 105 games of the season, averaging one RBI every 3.7 at-bats over the course of the whole campaign -- leading the big leagues with that ratio.

"I think this whole year was just an amazing thing that he did," outfielder Johnny Damon said. "He came in and showed everyone why he is the best player in the game."

When the Yankees needed a boost at home during the regular season, too, Rodriguez was there often. With 26 home runs in the Bronx, Rodriguez equaled his own single-season record -- set during his 2005 AL MVP campaign -- for homers hit by a right-handed batter at Yankee Stadium.

"Definitely, he helped us a lot," second baseman Robinson Cano said. "He helped so much, I can't tell you about it, especially when we were struggling in the beginning. He got those walk-off home runs and those comeback games. That's something that you've got to appreciate looking at them now."

The 2007 MLB Clutch Performer of the Year Presented by Pepsi winner was selected by the fans from a list of six nominees chosen by a special editorial panel from MLB Advanced Media and Major League Baseball Productions. From Oct. 5 through Oct. 19, Major League Baseball fans voted for the award on pepsiclutch.mlb.com, a site powered by MLB.com, the official Web site of Major League Baseball, and created specifically for the MLB Clutch Performer Platform.

To further engage fans in the selection process, Pepsi introduced an online sweepstakes in conjunction with the award. As part of the program, Pepsi, the official soft drink of Major League Baseball, fans were entered to win a trip to the 2008 All-Star Game by voting for the 2007 MLB Clutch Performer of the Year.

Previous monthly winners of the MLB Pepsi Clutch Performer of the Month awards include: Rodriguez (April); Ken Griffey Jr. (May); Chone Figgins (June); Aramis Ramirez (July); Andy Pettitte (August); and Alfonso Soriano (September).

Source: Yankees
Posted By: KrautDude82

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/25/07 03:29 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
 Originally Posted By: Don Cardi
Somebody PLEASE lock this topic until March. These Yankee fans just refuse to realize that they are no longer the center of attention in the baseball world.

They're dead! Morte! Finished! Get over yourselves!

Yeah, how 'bout dem Mets, huh? \:p ;\)


The centre of the baseball world?

Its Bean Town.

Yes, the Yankee fan collective nightmare has come true.
Posted By: Don Marco

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/07 01:23 PM

 Originally Posted By: SC
Hank Steinbrenner, George's son who is probably now running the day-to-day operations of the team, came out publically today taking a shot at Joe Torre. Hanky Panky essentially said Joe Torre was an ingrate because Daddy Steinhitler hired Torre back in '95 when Torre was a nobody, and that he (Torre) was "handed" a great team to manage. Now, as Hanky sees it, Joe is showing himself to be ungrateful to Daddy.

Hanky appears to be a poster boy of why parents should practice birth control.



I like the article I read yesterday that said the new manager won't be held to the same standard that Torre was since he won't be "given the '96 Yankees". Wasn't Torre told to "win or else" with the same team? Someone should tell Hank Steinbrenner to shut his mouth. After all, what are his notable accomplishments? He was given the Yankees - what a great testament to the perils of nepotism.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/07 02:21 PM

The '96 Yankees were the first champions of a dynasty, but there were no stars when Torre arrived. Mattingly just retired. Charlie Hayes was the thirdbaseman. O'Neill was known as a pretty good player, who was known for his temper as well as his play, and Jeter, Pettitte, Bernie Williams and Rivera were rookies or youngsters still making their way through the league. Gerald Williams played left, and Girardi, an average journeyman was brought in from Colorado to catch. While NY managed to win the wild card in '95, most people were picking the loaded Orioles to win the East in '96.

Coming into '96, the Yankees' pitching was headed by David Cone, but it was unproven.

Certainly, these players developed and formed a championship team and a dynasty, but I would disagree that Torre was handed a championship team in '96.
Posted By: Don Marco

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/07 03:39 PM

I agree - non of the players were considered the "best" at their positions. Even Jeter was in competition from ARod and Garciaparra for top short stop. It is easy to look back now and say that was a great team, but when Torre took over they were still unproven.

It was Hank Steinbrenner that said Torre was handed the championship and that before he was with the Yankees his record was average at best (that may be true).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/07 05:35 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Marco
 Originally Posted By: SC
Hank Steinbrenner, George's son who is probably now running the day-to-day operations of the team, came out publically today taking a shot at Joe Torre. Hanky Panky essentially said Joe Torre was an ingrate because Daddy Steinhitler hired Torre back in '95 when Torre was a nobody, and that he (Torre) was "handed" a great team to manage. Now, as Hanky sees it, Joe is showing himself to be ungrateful to Daddy.

Hanky appears to be a poster boy of why parents should practice birth control.



I like the article I read yesterday that said the new manager won't be held to the same standard that Torre was since he won't be "given the '96 Yankees". Wasn't Torre told to "win or else" with the same team? Someone should tell Hank Steinbrenner to shut his mouth. After all, what are his notable accomplishments? He was given the Yankees - what a great testament to the perils of nepotism.


I agree. I think Hank, the Steinbrenners and the rest of the Yankee organization need to shut their mouths and move on. They should realize their the villain in this story while Torre's being hailed as the hero. They should cut their losses, focus on hiring a new manager and keeping guys such as A-Rod, Jorge and Mo and what they can do to win it all in 2008!
Posted By: Ice

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/07 06:35 PM

 Originally Posted By: KrautDude82


The centre of the baseball world?

Its Bean Town.

Yes, the Yankee fan collective nightmare has come true.


That's right, Dude. Hell, Bean Town is the centre of the entire sports world right now. Even Boston College is in the mix at #2 in the College Football polls. [/Walter from Big Lebowski voice]


BTW: Welcome to the boards! I especially enjoy reading your posts in the Movie Forum.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/26/07 10:38 PM

Talk about a nasty, nasty case of the "what have you done for me lately"'s!!! Geez, Louise!!! It's bad enough to have to have put up with their father, but the sons are just members of The Lucky Sperm Club. They should go back to their horses and hotels, and leave the Yankees alone. Or at least do whatever they're going to do quietly and with some sense of class.

Oh, wait, they're Steinbrenners!! What was I thinking??
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/27/07 03:28 AM

Didn't someone say Hal isn't even that family with the team? He just ran hotels and things of that nature? If that's true and this kid has little baseball knowledge, he's going to get eaten alive by the New York media
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 03:13 AM


FU A-ROD!!

\:\(

Opts out cuz he doesn't know what the '08 team will be... Great, sign with Boston you two-faced money-grubbing piece of shit! \:\/
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 03:15 AM

Boy, someone better catch Irishman. I think I just heard him hit the floor.
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 03:19 AM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

FU A-ROD!!

\:\(

Opts out cuz he doesn't know what the '08 team will be... Great, sign with Boston you two-faced money-grubbing piece of shit! \:\/



...But how do you really feel?
Posted By: Don Marco

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 12:59 PM

How long before we hear the "it's not about the money" line out of his camp?
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 01:53 PM

How attention-needy does A-Rod and Boras need to be to make this announcement in the middle of the friggin' World Series??

I heard a Peter Gammons interview on Mike-and-Mike this morning. Pissed him off something awful.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 02:13 PM

ARod showed his true colors - GREEN - as in money. What a pig. He must've been planning this the entire time. I'm with you 100%, Geoff. Isn't this the same man that, while celebrating with his team about getting the Wild Card, said that NY was the place for him and that the Yankees were his team?
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 02:20 PM

Maybe everyone should borrow ARod's wife's shirt that said, "F*ck you".
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 03:20 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Sicilia
How attention-needy does A-Rod and Boras need to be to make this announcement in the middle of the friggin' World Series??

I heard a Peter Gammons interview on Mike-and-Mike this morning. Pissed him off something awful.


MLB is pretty steamed about the timing of this announcement. Boras lacks class and respect for the game. It reflects selfishness.

I also mildly criticize the Yankees and Reds for conducting interviews while the World Series was taking place. Out of respect for the integrity of the institution of the World Series, teams do not and have not conducted such business, but at least the Yankees had the sense not to announce their managerial decision until after the series ended.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 03:50 PM

A total lack of class. I hope Cashman and the Yankees stick to their guns and tell this creep to take his wife and his mistress and move to Las Vegas. Oops, wrong thread, but that's what they should tell him.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 03:55 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
I also mildly criticize the Yankees and Reds for conducting interviews while the World Series was taking place. Out of respect for the integrity of the institution of the World Series, teams do not and have not conducted such business, but at least the Yankees had the sense not to announce their managerial decision until after the series ended.


If the Series had gone into this week, I assure you that they wouldn't have waited. \:\/ They have only one agenda in mind - their own.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 04:25 PM

Source: Girardi expected to accept Yankees' offer

The Yankees officially offered their managerial job to Joe Girardi on Monday morning and he is expected to accept it, a source has told 1050 ESPN New York's Andrew Marchand. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman told Don Mattingly and Tony Pena that they will not be getting the job.

Girardi was in Denver for the World Series. A source said he is expected to fly to New York for the announcement, which is likely to come Tuesday. Girardi's contract is expected to be in the three-year, $6 million range.

Mattingly will not accept a position on the Yankees coaching staff, Marchand and ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney are reporting.

Girardi, a former Yankees player and coach, was voted NL Manager of the Year in 2006 after keeping Florida in contention until late in the season.

Girardi, working as a broadcaster Sunday night for Fox Sports from the World Series in Denver, said he had nothing to announce regarding his status as a manager.

"Still former," Girardi said. "Nothing extra tonight."

Girardi was the first to interview Monday, followed by Mattingly on Tuesday and Pena on Wednesday. Pena won AL Manager of the Year in 2003 after the Kansas City Royals (83-79) posted their first winning season since 1994 -- Hank Steinbrenner told The Times that Pena was "definitely under consideration."

Mattingly has no managerial experience. He spent three seasons as New York's hitting coach before he became Joe Torre's bench coach last year. A six-time All-Star, Mattingly is among the most beloved players in Yankees history.

Torre declined a one-year offer to return at a reduced salary after leading the team to four World Series championships and 12 playoff appearances in as many seasons.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 05:28 PM

If Girardi gets the job, I wonder if Mattingly will hook on with another club. Certainly, he won't be able to stay with the Yankees.

Also, has A-Rod officially filed his letters today to opt out of his contract? I'm not convinced he's leaving. The announcement may have been designed to see how much cash the Yankees would throw at him.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 05:30 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
The announcement may have been designed to see how much cash the Yankees would throw at him.

They're not gonna throw a penny at him, and they've said as much, since if he leaves, the Yanks will lose $20-something million from Texas. Fuggedaboutit!

A-Rod, despite helping my fantasy team tremendously (yet still not helping it win a championship lol) is A BUM!

Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 05:39 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
They're not gonna throw a penny at him, and they've said as much, since if he leaves, the Yanks will lose $20-something million from Texas. Fuggedaboutit!


Why is the Rangers paying the Yanks? (Pardon my ignorance)
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 05:40 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
They're not gonna throw a penny at him,


I think they'd rather throw a brick at him.
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 05:41 PM

 Originally Posted By: Mignon
 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
They're not gonna throw a penny at him, and they've said as much, since if he leaves, the Yanks will lose $20-something million from Texas. Fuggedaboutit!


Why is the Rangers paying the Yanks? (Pardon my ignorance)


I think it was something like he still had $20 something million on his contract with Texas when he was traded to The Yankees. Part of the trade was The Yankees had to buy out the remainder of his contract with Texas.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 05:46 PM

So since he's opting out the Rangers don't have to pay that 20 something million? What will the Steinbrenner's do without that 20 something million?
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 05:46 PM

There is only one thing that A-rod wants and that is a ring.
He knows the Yankees will not get that for him, so....
He will stay in New York, but with the Mets!
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 05:51 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
They're not gonna throw a penny at him, and they've said as much, since if he leaves, the Yanks will lose $20-something million from Texas. Fuggedaboutit!




That's what is a bit puzzling. Nobody can match the dollars the Yankees have to play with since any extension to his contract would include about $21 million from Texas. So if money is the key, he would stay in NY, and work a deal within the next ten days. Until he formally files to opt out, the Yankees are in a position to offer the moon if they want him as much as Hank says they do.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 05:58 PM

I doubt that the Mets want him. They have Reyes and Wright, and I don't think that ARod is willing to learn another position. The Mets need pitching even more than the Yankees, so I doubt they'd be willing to shell out the $$$ for a bat.

I think it may be the West Coast that will be ringing ARod's bell. San Francisco needs someone to lure the crowd now that Bonds is gone.
Posted By: goombah

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 06:01 PM

The teams that can afford A Rod are limited to maybe 3 or 4, right? If the Yankees were having Texas pay for a portion of the contract, what teams are going to give this guy a huge increase to the $30 million per year range?

I think there is a possibility that A Rod will be offered less than his current deal. The MLB owners could to show that they had A Rod by the balls, so to speak, by joining forces and lowballing A Rod. Why give a guy who is an annual postseason flop more money? I would admire the hell out of a team like Anaheim or Chicago if they got A Rod at $16 mil p/yr because the market for him is so limited.
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 06:30 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I think it may be the West Coast that will be ringing ARod's bell. San Francisco needs someone to lure the crowd now that Bonds is gone.


I hope you're right SB! The Giants do have a lot of freed up money, and possibly more to come depending on what they do with several of their players. Plus that park is built for right handed hitters.

Yes, I am getting my hopes way up. My heart will be going out with the next garbage day when he signs with someone else.
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 06:31 PM

 Originally Posted By: Mignon
What will the Steinbrenner's do without that 20 something million?


I hear there are a couple of top notch bat boys in the free agency market this off season.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 06:44 PM

Fox Sports is reporting that the Yankees have offered the job to Girardi.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 08:56 PM

Well, if you think about it, what teams would really be ready and/or able to hand out the money for ARod, and are in markets he'd play in? He's not going back to Seattle or Texas. Baltimore isn't a big enough market for his enormous head. That leaves the Red Sox, Mets, Chicago and CA. As I said, I think that the Mets would prefer to put their money into pitching, and I don't think that Chicago would want to part with the money. Boston would get a better bargain keeping Lowell at 3rd. That leaves either the Angels or San Francisco.

But who knows? I originally thought he'd stay with the Yankees.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 09:01 PM

I think A-Rod knows exactly where he will be playing next year, and it's just a matter of cutting the best deal with the team while playing off the other suitors.

It strikes me odd that if he is first and foremost concerned about winning a championship, a $30 million+ contract per year isn't exactly helping his team.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 09:04 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
I think A-Rod knows exactly where he will be playing next year, and it's just a matter of cutting the best deal with the team while playing off the other suitors.


You're not implying that he's carrying on negotiations when he's not supposed to, are you? GASP! \:o I am shocked! Shocked, I tell you!!
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/29/07 09:11 PM

The Giants were gullible enough to believe Zito was worth $126, why couldn't Boras continue to take them for every penny they have? The Angels seem to have no problem paying out that kind of money though, so who knows.

Are the Yankees really that serious about not wanting him back if "he doesn't want to be a Yankee"? Or is this all just talk to control negotiations and to build up or knock down the money he will be paid? I can't imagine even the Yankees not wanting him back. He is the best player in baseball.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/30/07 12:07 AM

Blib,
I really think that they are not going to pursue him. You have to understand the Yankee mindset. They feel that they are the best ballclub and that naturally ARod should be panting to play there.
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/30/07 01:47 AM

For the sake of all other teams, I think that's great! From a business standpoint I don't get it, but I hope you're right.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/30/07 03:21 AM

I think that if A-Rod officially opts out of the contract, the Yankees have no choice but to opt out of the pursuit of him. The best deal they can offer him would involve Texas money, which is lost if he opts out.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/30/07 03:38 AM

It would serve him right if no team picks him up. That money grubbing adulterous bitch. I wonder how many players are in it for the love of the game?I know they have to make a living but still.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/30/07 05:30 AM


ESPN is reporting that Torre is apparently headed back to the NL: with the Dodgers. And Girardi was asked to take his place.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/30/07 06:06 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
You have to understand the Yankee mindset. They feel that they are the best ballclub and that naturally ARod should be panting to play there.


Thats the Steinbrenner mindset. Fuck 'em all.

It appears that Georgie Porgie is no longer calling the shots. Reportedly he wanted Torre back but Hanky Panky, the ungrateful son of a bitch (literally), overruled Daddy Steinhitler.

Hanky stated that they (the Yankees) were no longer interested in ARod. He's playing hardball. It remains to be seen if the team plays hardball next year.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/30/07 06:24 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
ARod showed his true colors - GREEN - as in money. What a pig.


They're all whores. But the owners are no better.

I've become very disgruntled with the "game" of baseball over the last 10-15 years. There's no such thing as loyalty to a team anymore. The almighty dollar has ruined the game and we, as fans, pay for it in more way than one.

I may be rooting for players in the coming years that I used to root against because they played for teams I didn't like and vice-a-versa .... players on the Sox may opt to go elsewhere and I'll be rooting against them.

I can understand that teams want the best players and some are willing and able to pay more but the Steinbrenners think that their money is the best and entitles them to act like asses.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/30/07 08:07 AM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
If Girardi gets the job, I wonder if Mattingly will hook on with another club. Certainly, he won't be able to stay with the Yankees.

Also, has A-Rod officially filed his letters today to opt out of his contract? I'm not convinced he's leaving. The announcement may have been designed to see how much cash the Yankees would throw at him.


I think Girardi is a better choice as manager instead of Mattingly, though I wonder if Girardi can last a year because got canned in his previous managerial job because he told the penny-pinching Marlins owner to go fuck himself and got fired...despite winning the NL Manager of the Year prize.

That said, I would have instead kept Torre but whatever. Right Hank?

I know the NYC media assumed it would be Mattingly, but consider this. Girardi has managerial experience, he made a winning Marlins club out of scrubs. He turned an expected 100-loss ballclub into would-be playoff contenders. Plus, Girardi was offered a very juicy Baltimore Orioles contract, and he turned it down flat.

The Yanks job was his, if Torre left/got canned.

But yeah, if the reports are true, I hope Joe Torre does well with the Dodgers. Be nice to see him validate his HOF credentials and make the Steinbrenner clan look like idiots*.

*=Not that they need help really!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/30/07 08:10 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
You have to understand the Yankee mindset. They feel that they are the best ballclub and that naturally ARod should be panting to play there.


Thats the Steinbrenner mindset. Fuck 'em all.

It appears that Georgie Porgie is no longer calling the shots. Reportedly he wanted Torre back but Hanky Panky, the ungrateful son of a bitch (literally), overruled Daddy Steinhitler.

Hanky stated that they (the Yankees) were no longer interested in ARod. He's playing hardball. It remains to be seen if the team plays hardball next year.


You know, its nuts when people are already yearning for George.

Anyway, I'm not shocked that A-Rod is out. Maybe he wants that ridiculous $30 million/season, or maybe he got tired of carrying a mediocre YAnkees club on his shoulders for the first few months, and still be hated by Yanks fans. Without A-Rod, the Yanks would have been eliminated back in June.

Or maybe he just wants the fucking money. *Rubs fingers* The world's smallest violin plays for him.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 10/30/07 04:51 PM

Dugout GM is reporting that the Yankees are planning to offer Mike Lowell a 3 year/$45 million contract, quite a boost from his $9 million deal this season.

Lowell started his career in NY and he played for Girardi, 2 factors of questionable impact.

If A-Rod leaves (and I'm still not convinced he will), the Yankees have a void at the hot corner. No prospects in sight and noone on the roster that has experience starting at third.

Winning the WS MVP and having an outstanding postseason will add millions for Lowell, just as it did for Jeff Suppan, who got overpaid.

Their guess is that the Red Sox will get a home team discount and keep Lowell.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/02/07 06:16 PM

Sources: Yankees more than $100M short of entertaining A-Rod

Before Alex Rodriguez opted out of his contract with the Yankees earlier this week, the team was told that it would not be able to meet with the third baseman unless it presented an offer of at least $350 million, sources say.

The Yankees had hoped to meet with Rodriguez this week, and would have presented him with an extension offer close to five years and $150 million, to begin at the conclusion of his 2008-2010 contract, through which he would have earned $81 million. Through the Yankees' proposal, then, Rodriguez would have made about $230 million over eight years, and during the last five years of the contract, sources say, he would have earned the highest annual salary in Major League Baseball history.

But team executives were told, sources say, that in order to arrange a meeting with Rodriguez, they would have to be prepared to make an extension offer that would take the third baseman's deal up to a total value of $350 million. That means that the offer the Yankees intended to propose would have been more than $100 million short.

Rodriguez's agent, Scott Boras, sent the documentation of Rodriguez's intention to opt out of the contract to Yankees general manager Brian Cashman during Game 4 of the World Series, Cashman has said, and the GM did not speak with Boras until after news of the decision was published on SI.com.

The timing of how this played out, and the fact that Rodriguez did not meet with the Yankees to hear their offer before making his decision, has led some baseball officials to surmise that a deal with another team may already be in the works. In an interview with ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick on Thursday, Boras said, "We have had no economic discussions regarding Alex Rodriguez with any major-league team."

The Mets, Dodgers, Angels, Giants and Marlins are among the teams which have not publicly ruled out pursuing Rodriguez. Sources say it is highly unlikely that the Dodgers will seriously entertain the possibility.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/02/07 06:22 PM

Yankees exercise Abreu's '08 option

NEW YORK (AP) -- Bobby Abreu's $16 million option for next season was exercised Friday by the New York Yankees.

The 33-year-old right fielder overcame a slow start to hit .283 with 16 homers and 101 RBIs this year, when he finished second in the AL with 123 runs. He has reached 100 RBIs in five consecutive seasons.

"Bobby Abreu possesses a unique skill set and has proven to be a durable and reliable asset to this club," general manager Brian Cashman said. "Consistency has been a hallmark throughout his career."

New York acquired Abreu from Philadelphia in July 2006.

Source: SI
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/02/07 07:47 PM

How wrong would it be....
to be thinking things like:
"I would love to see A-rod get hurt and not be able to play pro ball" Then he could stick his 350 million dollar deal up his ---.
"Or maybe: That his wife should leave him and take all HIS money with her."
I know:
That he should get some bitch ass disease so no women would go near him and he has to spend all his millions in treatment costs.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/03/07 04:31 AM


A-Rod is a [BadWording] BUM, and Scott Boras is a filthy [BadWording] [BadWord] who never thinks of anything but [BadWording] money. I hope A-Rod doesn't work again -- or ends up making less than what we would've offered him ...and for some shit Florida team! [BadWord] him, that "motherless fuck" (as Junior would say ;\) ) That scumbag doesn't have enough [BadWordin'] money already -- to play the GAME of baseball???? He can go F himself up the [BadWord].

Wait... would that be "wrong" to think? Fuck it.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/03/07 04:41 AM

Haha, go A-Rod.
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/03/07 08:05 AM

This thread is soon going to be renamed "The Yankees Support Group" thread.
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/04/07 02:18 AM

Looking back at the first post ever in this thread, it's got to be hilarious that the Red Sox just won another championship.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/04/07 11:01 PM

Why A-Rod refused Yankees meeting

Alex Rodriguez wants to stay a Yankee -- albeit after proving his open-market value -- and has gone out of his way to make it possible for the Yankees to climb down from their posturing and match any offer. If the Dodgers can afford to pay the $32 million a year, can the Yankees -- the richest franchise in sports -- plead poverty? Now we understand why Rodriguez did not meet with the Yankees or return their calls. He did not want to give the Yankees an opening to make him a good offer, leaking the details to the news media.

Source: Fan Nation
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/05/07 04:41 PM

JG, you really shouldn't hold back your feelings. Share your thoughts with us. It truly is healthy for you to vent now and then.

Please, what do you REALLY feel??
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/13/07 06:21 AM

Yanks, Posada agree to $52.4M deal; Rivera gets offer

NEW YORK -- The New York Yankees and Jorge Posada agreed Monday night to a $52.4 million, four-year contract that keeps the catcher off the free-agent market.

A five-time All-Star, Posada said Sunday he was "really close" to a deal with the Yankees and his preference was to remain with the only major league team he's played for.

A person familiar with the talks confirmed the deal, speaking on condition of anonymity because the team didn't announce it. The sides were working late Monday on wrapping up details of the agreement, which was first reported by the Daily News on its Web site. Posada must pass a physical before the contract is finalized.

Posada's $13.1 million average salary becomes the highest for a catcher, topping the $10 million Detroit's Ivan Rodriguez and Boston's Jason Varitek currently are guaranteed and the $13 million Mike Piazza averaged under his contract with the New York Mets from 1999-05. Rodriguez will earn $13 million next year, the option season of his contract with the Tigers.

New York also was trying to re-sign Mariano Rivera before Tuesday, when free agents could start talking money with all clubs, but those talks were taking longer to complete.

Posada and his agents, Sam and Seth Levinson, had lunch Monday with Mets general manager Omar Minaya and vice president Tony Bernazard. The Yankees initially offered the 36-year-old Posada a three-year contract but upped their proposal to four years on Monday evening.

Posada hit a team-high .338 this year with 20 homers and 90 RBIs. He set career highs for average, slugging percentage (.543) and on-base percentage (.426).

The Levinsons also represent Boston third baseman Mike Lowell, and the Yankees already have had dialogue with the pair about the World Series MVP, whose preference appears to be to stay with the Red Sox.

Rivera, an eight-time All-Star who turns 38 on Nov. 29, was in the Dominican Republic on Monday, and the closer said if he couldn't reach a deal with New York, he would consider following manager Joe Torre to the Los Angeles Dodgers. He is expected to receive a three-year contract and Yankees senior vice president Hank Steinbrenner said Rivera already had been given an improved offer.

"The Yankees are my first option," he said in Santo Domingo. "But if that is not possible, there is Joe with the Dodgers."

General manager Brian Cashman said re-signing the pair are his top priorities right now.

"The ball's pretty much in their court now. They've both been made very good offers now, and we'll see where they're at," Steinbrenner said Monday afternoon. "We'll see how committed they are."

Steinbrenner said the Yankees still were trying to gauge what the Florida Marlins might want in a trade for All-Star third baseman Miguel Cabrera, who is being made available.

"We got a couple ideas, what they might be asking for, and it's a lot," Steinbrenner said. "I don't know what's going to happen there, but there's still plenty of time on that."

It's also far too early to determine whether the Minnesota Twins will attempt to trade two-time Cy Young Award winner Johan Santana, who can become a free agent after next season. Steinbrenner said the Yankees certainly would speak with the Twins if he becomes available.

"I think somebody would be foolish to say they have no interest in Santana," he said, "but it depends. It depends on what they're looking for."

Source: ESPN
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/13/07 03:29 PM

That's good news for the Yankees. It's a ton of money.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/13/07 06:40 PM

For the Yankees it isn't a lot of money but it is somewhat of a long-term deal. Posada's 36 right now. Sure he came off the best season of his career but by the time this contract expires he'll be 40 and his skills will be deteriorated by then. Unfortunately for the Yankees, they had no other options. There aren't any other great catches on the market right now and the one in the minors isn't developed yet/too young. Regardless, I'm glad Jorge's staying and hopeful Mo does as well.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/13/07 06:59 PM

Well, I'm happy to see that Georgie will retire in pinstripes. Who knows? A couple of years from now, maybe they'll move him to 1st base.

Btw, I heard that Bernie Williams may be going to LA.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/13/07 07:00 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Btw, I heard that Bernie Williams may be going to LA.


WHAT!? \:o Where did you hear that?
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/13/07 07:01 PM

It was in an article I read. He was honored at Torre's fundraiser for the Safe at Home Foundation, and the article was about the dinner. It was in the article that Williams, who never officially retired, might be going out West to play for Torre.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/13/07 07:05 PM

On the one hand I could see it happening but on the other I can't. Sure he could be dying to play for Joe again but he should know he's not going to win a World Series out there. Heck, he probably won't even make the playoffs with the Dodgers.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/13/07 07:09 PM

I don't think he cares. I think perhaps Bernie just wants to play again.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 12:38 AM

A-Rod confirms interest in Yankees

NEW YORK -- Alex Rodriguez confirmed his initiation of direct contact with the Yankees on Wednesday afternoon, with the motive of keeping alive the possibility of his future in New York.
In a statement posted on AROD.com, Rodriguez's official Web site, the All-Star third baseman said that he has spoken directly with the Steinbrenner family and is taking part in continuing dialogue with the club.

"After spending time with Cynthia and my family over these last few weeks, it became clear to me that I needed to make an attempt to engage the Yankees regarding my future with the organization," Rodriguez said.

"Prior to entering into serious negotiations with other clubs, I wanted the opportunity to share my thoughts directly with Yankees' ownership. We know there are other opportunities for us, but Cynthia and I have a foundation with the club that has brought us comfort, stability and happiness."

A baseball source at the Owners Meetings in Naples, Fla., with knowledge of the negotiations told MLB.com that the Yankees are proceeding to open a dialogue with Rodriguez.

The Yankees publicly backed away from Rodriguez after Game 4 of the World Series, when Rodriguez's agent, Scott Boras, delivered word that Rodriguez had opted out of his contract and forfeited the remaining three years and $81 million on his deal.

At the time, Yankees senior vice president Hank Steinbrenner dismissed talk of pursuing A-Rod, saying, "It's good-bye." Yankees general manager Brian Cashman reiterated numerous times that the Yankees could not fiscally pursue Rodriguez if he opted out, citing the loss of a $21.3 million subsidy obtained when Rodriguez was acquired from the Texas Rangers.

So it was surprising when, citing a source with knowledge of the situation, the New York Daily News first reported on Wednesday that Rodriguez and the Yankees have opened a scenario that would keep the likely 2007 American League Most Valuable Player in pinstripes after all.

But the Yankees, who were rebuffed when they asked repeatedly to meet with Rodriguez after the season, have one request of their own. According to the report originally published on the newspaper's Web site, the Yankees have no plans to negotiate with Boras.

"We will not negotiate with Scott Boras," a club source told the Daily News. "He cannot be in the room."

Yet that insistence may place the Yankees in violation of baseball's Collective Bargaining Agreement, according to Michael Weiner, the general counsel of the Major League Baseball Players Association.

"That clearly is a violation of the Basic Agreement," Weiner told FOXSports.com on Wednesday. "Once a player designates an agent, a club cannot refuse to meet with that agent."

According to that Web site's report, the Yankees would be able to avoid Boras only if Rodriguez fires the agent and chooses either to represent himself or pick another representative. Rodriguez has made no such overtures toward Boras, who has represented the 11-time All-Star since he was 16.

Steinbrenner, Cashman and Boras did not immediately return telephone messages left by MLB.com.

Rodriguez, 32, is the clear-cut favorite to be named as the AL MVP when the award is announced on Monday. It would be Rodriguez's third time bringing home the honors in his career and the second in four seasons as a member of the Yankees.

Rodriguez led the Major Leagues in home runs (54), RBIs (156) and runs scored (143) in 2007, batting .314 with 24 stolen bases while helping the Yankees dig out of an early hole and attain the AL Wild Card before falling to the Cleveland Indians in the AL Division Series. He also clubbed his 500th home run on Aug. 4 against the Kansas City Royals, becoming the youngest player in history to reach that mark.

Citing his comfort in New York, Rodriguez confirmed that he approached the Yankees through a third-party intermediary.

"I reached out to the Yankees through mutual friends and conveyed that message," Rodriguez said. "I also understand that I had to respond to certain Yankees concerns, and I was receptive and understanding of that situation.

"Cynthia and I have since spoken directly with the Steinbrenner family. During these healthy discussions, both sides were able to share honest feelings and hopes with one another, and we expect to continue this dialogue with the Yankees over the next few days."

The Yankees, who had no official comment on the Rodriguez proceedings, are apparently unconcerned that Rodriguez's overture could be a ploy to generate interest in the All-Star. While most clubs would love to add a player of Rodriguez's magnitude, teams with the financial wherewithal to realistically do it this offseason could be scarce.

"We realize it could be a trap to get us back in the negotiations," one Yankees official told the Daily News, "but we don't think that's the case."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 12:46 AM

John Sterling said on the Mike and the Mad Dog Show this afternoon that it was a "101 percent done deal," according to his source. That Hank Steinbrenner finally agreed to meet with A-Rod on the condition that Boras not even be in the room and that Alex indicated he'd admit it was a mistake to be led by Boras in the first place. They're saying the deal is worth $275 million for ten years. I still don't like A-Rod, but if this is all true, it's nice to see Boras finally get his comeuppance.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 12:47 AM

Oh, another "source" claims Derek Jeter is NOT happy that A-Rod has apparently been let off the hook by Yankee management.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 01:05 AM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
John Sterling said on the Mike and the Mad Dog Show this afternoon that it was a "101 percent done deal," according to his source. That Hank Steinbrenner finally agreed to meet with A-Rod on the condition that Boras not even be in the room and that Alex indicated he'd admit it was a mistake to be led by Boras in the first place. They're saying the deal is worth $275 million for ten years. I still don't like A-Rod, but if this is all true, it's nice to see Boras finally get his comeuppance.


Yeah I heard the deal was for 10 years, $250. I'm happy that he had to take less money and hopefully will deflat his ego and bring him somewhat back to earth seeing as he now looks like a jackass for opting out of the contract, not even listening to the Yankees first offer, and now taking less money. Good for the Yankees, Hal Steinbrenner and Brian Cashman
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 01:05 AM

 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
Oh, another "source" claims Derek Jeter is NOT happy that A-Rod has apparently been let off the hook by Yankee management.


I didn't hear that. Where did you hear that from?
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 01:08 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: pizzaboy
Oh, another "source" claims Derek Jeter is NOT happy that A-Rod has apparently been let off the hook by Yankee management.


I didn't hear that. Where did you hear that from?


Mike Francesa's "source."
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 02:24 AM

ARod should go stuff it. I don't want him back. The Yankees held out a hand, and he spit it on it. Screw him.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 02:25 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
ARod should go stuff it. I don't want him back. The Yankees held out a hand, and he spit it on it. Screw him.


Now he finally realizes what an a$$ he was and no one was gonna pay him $350 million to choke in October ;\) Again, good for the Yankees for sticking to their guns
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 02:31 AM

Well, I can't wait to see how the fans will treat him after this.

Personally, I think 10 years is way too long. How strong is he going to be in his 40s?? How many injuries might he have between now and then? And they couldn't cough up a million or two for Bernie last season?? At least he usually came through in the clutch!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 04:14 AM

I understand where you're coming from SB. However, in all fairness to A-Rod, he's been healthy throughout his career. He's played a minimum of 129 games every year since 1996. He also has averaged 43 home runs over that period of time. Not many other players in MLB can say the same in terms of games played and home runs hit. The major advantage for A-Rod is he's still young (he's only 32), will be a major draw for the new Yankee Stadium in 2009, and he's currently the most likely candidate to break Barry Bonds home run record in a couple of years.

As for Bernie, as much as I love the guy, there wasn't anywhere for him to go. I don't remember if he would have come off the bench but his outfield skills were too far gone. He could have DHed with Giambi but in all honesty, there wasn't any room for him. I love Bernie and it's nothing personal but how much would he have helped the team really?
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 08:13 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
ARod should go stuff it. I don't want him back. The Yankees held out a hand, and he spit it on it. Screw him.


You're taking this awfully personal. This is business. You're taking it personal.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 01:56 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I love Bernie and it's nothing personal but how much would he have helped the team really?


Considering that most of the team didn't actually HIT the ball during the playoffs, perhaps he would have been a HUGE help!!

And, yes, SC, as a woman, I take everything personally!! \:p ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 02:51 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I love Bernie and it's nothing personal but how much would he have helped the team really?


Considering that most of the team didn't actually HIT the ball during the playoffs, perhaps he would have been a HUGE help!!


Even still, the pitching for the Yankees would have soured anything good Bernie could have sparked offensively
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 02:55 PM

Bernie may have gotten the hit they needed in the 8th or 9th in game 2 against the Indians.
Posted By: fathersson

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 03:44 PM

It should be interesting to hear what other teams were offering. If it comes out.
I bet A-Rod found out that he wasn't worth as much as Boras made Alex think he was.
There is also the point of going to a team that may get him a ring.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 08:11 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
ARod should go stuff it. I don't want him back. The Yankees held out a hand, and he spit it on it. Screw him.


Why did he opt out in the first place if he wants to play for the Yanks?

If he goes back to the Yanks, does Texas still have to pay the 12 mil or whatever the amount is?

Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 08:18 PM

 Originally Posted By: Mignon
Why did he opt out in the first place if he wants to play for the Yanks?


It remains to be seen whether A-Rod really wanted to play for the Yankees all along. Boras, his agent, made a calculated risk that other teams were going to throw more money at A-Rod than the Yankees were willing to give him. Apparently, Boras and A-Rod didn't find what they were looking for.

 Originally Posted By: Mignon
If he goes back to the Yanks, does Texas still have to pay the 12 mil or whatever the amount is?


Nope. By opting out of his contract, A-Rod effectively cancelled the Rangers' interest ($20+ million) in the remaining portion of the old contract. This effectively cost the Yankees $20+ million. From what I read, A-Rod will be eating this cost in negotiating the new contract.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 09:20 PM

Thanks DS. How's the Mrs?
Posted By: Don Sicilia

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/15/07 11:29 PM

She's doing well, Mig. Thanks for asking. \:\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/07 12:26 AM

 Originally Posted By: Don Sicilia
 Originally Posted By: Mignon
If he goes back to the Yanks, does Texas still have to pay the 12 mil or whatever the amount is?


Nope. By opting out of his contract, A-Rod effectively cancelled the Rangers' interest ($20+ million) in the remaining portion of the old contract. This effectively cost the Yankees $20+ million. From what I read, A-Rod will be eating this cost in negotiating the new contract.


Correct, that's why the rumored figures are 10 years for $270 and it's not closer to $300 million. Good for the Yankees essentially "getting their money back" from A-Rod for opting out
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/07 01:07 AM

Sources: Rivera wants 4th year in deal

There is a reason why Mariano Rivera has not accepted the Yankees' offer of a three-year, $45-million contract.

Rivera, according to major-league sources, wants a fourth guaranteed year.
The Yankees remain the overwhelming favorite to retain Rivera. No other club is expected to even approach their proposal, much less top it.

But Rivera, who turns 38 on Nov. 29, has instructed his agents to shop him, in part because he was angered by Hank Steinbrenner referring to his age in recent comments about the Yankees' offer, a source says.

Rivera has specifically mentioned following Joe Torre to the Dodgers, and his agents also are contacting other clubs about his availability.

Rivera, sources say, believes he deserves the same length of contract as Yankees catcher Jorge Posada, who is on the verge of re-signing for $52.4 million over four years, and Mets closer Billy Wagner, who received $43 million over four years after the 2005 season.

Posada and Wagner are both 36, nearly two years younger than Rivera — and Wagner was 34 when he signed with the Mets as a free agent.

Rivera also is certain to note that third baseman Alex Rodriguez would be 42 at the end of his proposed 10-year contract with the Yankees — the same age that Rivera would be at the conclusion of a four-year deal.

Rivera's ERA rose to 3.15 last season after four straight years below 2.00, but he went 30-for-34 in save opportunities, regained his dominance in September and worked 4 2/3 scoreless innings against the Indians in the postseason.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/07 01:17 AM

Reports: Yankees like Lowell for first base

Even as the Yankees press ahead in their talks to bring third baseman Alex Rodriguez back into the fold, free agent Mike Lowell remains a point of interest.

Mike Lowell was drafted by the Yankees and broke into the majors with New York. Now the club is interested in bringing him full-circle.

If anything, the Yankees are now coming at Lowell from another angle ... or corner.

According to reports in the New York Post and Star Ledger of Newark, the Yankees are talking with Lowell, Boston's third baseman the last two seasons, about moving from third to first.

"All I can say at this time is that the Yankees have engaged us," one of Lowell's agents, Seth Levinson, told the Post.

Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein put a new contract for the World Series MVP on the table last week, a three-year offer reportedly worth in the $35 million to $45 million range.

Where the Red Sox were the only team that could negotiate with Lowell through midnight on Monday, others now can make offers. It's not known if the Yankees and Lowell's agents have advanced beyond the discussion phase.

Lowell followed a superlative regular season -- career highs in batting average (.324) and RBIs (120) to go with 21 home runs in 154 games -- with an outstanding October. In Boston's four-game sweep of Colorado, Lowell hit .400 (6-for-15) with four RBIs, three walks and a team-high six runs in winning

He homered, doubled and scored twice in the Game 4 clincher at Denver's Coors Field.

Lowell, who made $9 million last year, was selected by the Yankees in the 20th round of the 1995 amateur draft. He played eight games for New York in the 1998 season before being dealt to the Florida Marlins in February 1999. He was acquired by Boston from Florida in November 2005 in the Josh Beckett trade.

It is likely that Jason Giambi will play out the final season of his Yankees contract as the team's designated hitter. First baseman Andy Phillips is returning in 2008, but Lowell, who turns 34 in February, is known for excellent defense.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/07 01:19 AM

Report: A-Rod, Yankees agree on outline of $275 million

NEW YORK -- Alex Rodriguez and the New York Yankees have agreed to the outline of a record $275 million, 10-year contract, a deal that potentially would allow him to earn millions more if he sets the career home run record.

The amount of the guaranteed money was revealed by a person familiar with the negotiations who spoke Thursday on condition of anonymity because the deal hasn't been finalized. A-Rod and his wife met Wednesday in Tampa, Fla., with brothers Hal and Hank Steinbrenner, but the parameters of the agreement were set in place last weekend.

"The meeting was a final get-together," Yankees senior vice president Hank Steinbrenner said. "He wanted to make sure myself and my brother knew that he was sincere and serious."

The Yankees still must draft the agreement with Rodriguez's agent, Scott Boras. Asked whether the only remaining details were putting the deal on paper, Steinbrenner responded: "pretty much so."

Boras wasn't a part of the negotiations, in which Goldman Sachs managing directors John Mallory and Gerald Cardinale conducted shuttle diplomacy.

"They were the go-betweens, initially," Steinbrenner said. "That's how he reached out to us."

The Yankees were notified by Boras on Oct. 28 that Rodriguez was opting out of the final three seasons of his $252 million, 10-year contract -- the previous record -- and becoming a free agent. New York maintained then that it no longer would negotiate with A-Rod because the decision eliminated a $21.3 million subsidy from Texas that was negotiated in the 2004 trade.

About a week later, A-Rod contacted Mallory, a friend who works in private wealth management in Goldman's Los Angeles office. Rodriguez knew the Yankees have a close relationship with the investment bank, which was instrumental in the launch of the team's YES Network.

Mallory called Cardinale, who works in the merchant banking section in New York and helped finance the network. Cardinale in turn got in touch with Yankees president Randy Levine.

A-Rod and the Yankees exchanged proposals via the bankers, and the deal gradually was framed in about a dozen telephone calls.

The sides still are working on putting together a provision that would allow Rodriguez to share revenue created by his pursuit of the career home record held by Barry Bonds, who was indicted Thursday on perjury and obstruction charges. A-Rod has 518 homers, 244 shy of the mark.

"The Yankees have never had a player since Babe Ruth that really had a 100 percent chance" of setting the record, Steinbrenner said. "[Mickey] Mantle should have, but he had too many injuries. It's a historical achievement bonus more than it is an incentive bonus. There is no yearly incentive bonus."

That provision must be drafted carefully because of Major League Rule 3 (b) (5), which states no contract shall be approved "if it contains a bonus for playing, pitching or batting skill or if it provides for the payment of a bonus contingent on the standing of the signing club at the end of the championship season."

Even with that, the commissioner's office allowed the Boston Red Sox in 2003 to give Curt Schilling a provision for a $2 million raise in a season following a World Series championship. Boston won the title the following year.

The Yankees already have been in touch with Major League Baseball, and A-Rod's side contacted the players' association.

"Because he's generating such enormous revenue potential, both to the player and the club, there should be some way for the player and the club to capitalize on that achievement in some fashion," said Gene Orza, the union's chief operating officer. "The devil will be in the details. The minds of men and women in the sport should be able to figure this out."

Steinbrenner said Rodriguez was given bad advice by Boras during the time before the decision to opt out.

"Boras did a lot of good things for Alex through the years, and Alex knows that. I mean, obviously, he's going to look to Scott's advice on everything," Steinbrenner said. "That's not unusual today. It's not like he's the only one. And if an agent gets out of line or makes bad decisions, then that's going to hurt the player. And obviously, that's one of the things that happened here."

Rodriguez still winds up with baseball's largest contract, a fact that got the attention of Schilling.

"None of us are worth that much relative to 'real world' salaries," the pitcher wrote on his Web site. "But if someone in the game was getting a contract that big, I am not sure you could argue it being Alex. On the field this guy is the MVP-in-waiting every year, it seems."

Steinbrenner said he thinks that had Rodriguez tested the free-agent market, he would have gotten a more lucrative contract and cited the interest of the Los Angeles Dodgers, led by new manager Joe Torre, and perhaps other teams.

"There are a few cynics who say, 'Well, he really couldn't get this there,' " Steinbrenner said. "Trust me, he would have gotten probably more. He is making a sacrifice to be a Yankee, there's no question. ... He showed what was really in his heart and what he really wanted."

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/07 01:55 AM

They would be crazy to give Mo a fourth year. They were crazy to even give him three. He is definitely in the twilight of his career. I thought anything more than one year was risky, but four?? That's ridiculous. And I doubt he'll find anyone else who will give it to him.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/07 04:05 AM

I agree SB. He wants what Posada got (4 years) but he's two years older. Jorge's 36 and Mo's 38. I think the Yankees should give him 3 but I think Mo knows they're in a tough position because if Mo walks, who's the closer? He's not the Mo of old but he's still one of the best closers in the game even at age 38
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/07 11:18 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
And I doubt he'll find anyone else who will give it to him.


You talking about someone giving Jeter the millions he owes NYC??
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/07 12:52 PM

Why does Jeter owe millions to NYC?
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/16/07 09:42 PM

 Originally Posted By: Mignon
Why does Jeter owe millions to NYC?


Jeter is a tax cheater. He resides apparently in NYC 8 months a year, and Florida the other four months. However, he listed his primary residence as Florida, so he could try to sneak out of his obligation to pay the more hefty NYC tax. It's funny that ticket prices are constantly raised to accommodate the overpaid players in the Bronx, but the player isn't as willing to pay their fair share to the city that supports him. \:\/

Imagine if A-Rod was involved with tax evasion.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/19/07 02:37 AM

Report: Rivera to re-sign with Yanks

NEW YORK -- Mariano Rivera's icy negotiations with the Yankees may be reaching a thaw, as the future Hall of Fame closer appears primed to remain with the club.

According to a report published Sunday in the New York Post, Rivera is expected to accept the Yankees' three-year, $45 million contract offer early this week. Rivera had spent last week in the Dominican Republic conducting baseball clinics.

The Post reported that Rivera will meet with his representatives on Sunday. According to multiple reports, Rivera may have had interest in a fourth year being added to his contract.

Yankees senior vice president Hank Steinbrenner has said the team would hold firm with its offer, which would make Rivera baseball's highest-paid closer, eclipsing Billy Wagner's deal across town with the Mets, where he earns $10.5 million annually.

Rivera, who turns 38 on Nov. 29, has pitched for the Yankees since 1995, compiling an American League-record 443 saves in the regular season. The most dominant postseason pitcher of his generation, Rivera owns a Major League-record 34 more saves in the playoffs, where he has a 0.77 career ERA.

Rivera made 67 relief appearances for the Yankees in 2007, finishing with 30 saves while going 3-4 with a 3.15 ERA. His signing has been earmarked by Yankees general manager Brian Cashman as one of the club's priorities leading into the early offseason months, along with re-signing catcher Jorge Posada.

Hours before he could have discussed financial terms with other clubs, Posada reportedly agreed to a four-year, $52.4 million deal. Posada had a physical last week and an official announcement is expected shortly.

The Yankees are also continuing to hammer out the details of Alex Rodriguez's landmark 10-year, $275 million contract, just weeks after the likely American League MVP delivered word that he had opted out of contract during Game 4 of the World Series.

"It feels great," Steinbrenner told the Post. "There was never any question we wanted to keep all of them. Obviously, they are being paid very well. Alex was the thing nobody expected, and he came through."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/20/07 02:39 AM

To probably his best season in pinstripes

No-brainer: A-Rod wins AL MVP Award

NEW YORK -- In an announcement that should have surprised absolutely no one, Alex Rodriguez claimed his third American League MVP Award on Monday, winning the coveted honor for the second time as a Yankee.

Putting it all together offensively as he reached new levels of comfort in New York, Rodriguez established career highs with 143 runs scored and 156 RBIs, leading the Major Leagues with 54 home runs while batting .314. His exploits led the Yankees to the playoffs for a 13th consecutive season.

"New York has been a place of growth to me," Rodriguez said on a conference call with reporters. "I really learned a lot as a player, and I've been able to become a better player in New York. To be able to win two MVPs in three years in that uniform -- I've said it all along, New York is a great place and it's been a privilege to wear that uniform.

"For me, it was a magical season, both on and off the field, coming together with my teammates in the clubhouse and in the community. To be able to put that type of year, it's certainly a year that I'll never forget."

A-Rod became the fifth AL player to win the award three times, but he did not win the honor unanimously. Rodriguez picked up 26 out of the 28 first-place votes, with Detroit's Magglio Ordonez, who came in second place, earning the other two votes.

The 32-year-old Rodriguez, who has agreed to the framework of a $275 million contract which would keep him in pinstripes through the 2018 season but declined to discuss the deal in specifics, also led the Major Leagues with a .645 slugging percentage and produced one RBI every 3.7 at-bats.

Without Rodriguez's hot start and continued contributions, the Yankees would likely have not been able to keep their string of 13 consecutive postseason appearances alive. That, he said, made this award more satisfying to him than either his 2003 AL MVP Award with the Rangers or his '05 award with the Yankees.

"It was such a tough year for us to get to the playoffs," Rodriguez said. "It seemed like we were in playoff mode after the All-Star Game, and this year, I was mentally exhausted after the season was over because it was such a tough fight."

While the Yankees floundered out of the gate, due in large part to injuries and underperformance, A-Rod kept the deficit from getting out of control. Rodriguez led the Major Leagues with 14 home runs in April and provided the club with a powerful point to rally around.

Consciously trying to keep as low a profile as possible while closing in on 500 home runs, Rodriguez helped the Yankees dig out from their season's low point, 14 1/2 games behind in the AL East and eight games under .500 on May 29.

By September, Rodriguez's efforts were recognized as a large reason why the Yankees were celebrating and claiming the AL Wild Card, before falling to the Indians in a four-game AL Division Series.

While Rodriguez said he was proud of his MVP Award, he made sure to state that there was "definitely a huge hole" in his resume -- namely, a World Series title. For all of his success and accolades, Rodriguez still has yet to log his first at-bat in the Fall Classic.

"It's my third MVP, and I'm here to say that I would trade all three for one world championship," Rodriguez said. "I wouldn't think twice about it. The only reason we play this game, the reason I came to New York and the reason I have unfinished business in New York is because we haven't won a world championship with me being there."

Rodriguez became the youngest member of the 500-home run club on Aug. 4, when he homered off Kansas City's Kyle Davies, one of numerous historical accomplishments by the 11-time All-Star. At year's end, A-Rod would be listed as the only player in Major League history to record at least 140 runs scored, 50 home runs, 150 RBIs and 20 stolen bases in a single season.

He said the fact that he'd done it as a Yankee made it even more "special" in his view.

"When I sat down with [reporters] after the 500th home run, I truly felt like I was in Little League with a hamburger in front of me, eating French fries. I was so happy," Rodriguez said. "You talk about the privilege of wearing the uniform, and I've said it from Day 1 of Spring Training, that I would love to stay a Yankee and love New York. There's something magical when you go on that field in front of 55,000 people."

Rodriguez's MVP is the 20th won by a Yankees player since the honor was created in 1931. Yogi Berra, Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle are the only players to win it more than twice in pinstripes, each having done so three times.

Rodriguez's previous MVP Awards came in 2003 with the Rangers and in '05 with the Yankees, his second season in New York. That season, Rodriguez batted .321 with a Major League-leading 48 home runs, 124 runs scored and .610 slugging percentage as the Yankees won the AL East before bowing out in the first round.

In four seasons with the Bronx Bombers, Rodriguez has hit 173 home runs. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the only player to hit more home runs for the Yankees over a four-year span was Babe Ruth, who hit 209 between 1927-30.

Rodriguez's new contract ensures that he will be present when the Yankees open their new ballpark across the street for the 2009 season, while also forecasting an era of baseball in New York that will be largely A-Rod dominated.

"I felt sometime in January I was committed to have a world championship-type season," Rodriguez said. "Although we came up short, I think this year was a year where it all came together for us. We've got some momentum going in for the future."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/20/07 11:17 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
In four seasons with the Bronx Bombers, Rodriguez has hit 173 home runs. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the only player to hit more home runs for the Yankees over a four-year span was Babe Ruth, who hit 209 between 1927-30.


Pretty good company. He beat the likes of Gehrig, DiMaggio and Mantle.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 11/27/07 01:46 AM

Yankees, Twins talking Santana trade

NEW YORK (AP) - The New York Yankees and Minnesota Twins have started trade talks involving Johan Santana.

Yankees senior vice president Hank Steinbrenner said Monday that discussions are ongoing but it was too early to tell whether they would lead to a deal. He did not detail how far talks had progressed.
"I don't want to get into that at this point, as far as what they want, what we're willing to give and all that," he said. "It's preliminary right now."

Santana is eligible for free agency after the 2008 season, and the Twins have been trying to sign the two-time AL Cy Young Award winner to an extension.

Asked whether the Twins had said they would consider a trade, Steinbrenner responded: "Oh, yeah."

The New York Mets, Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers also are thought to be interested in Santana, who is far better than any of the starting pitchers available on the free-agent market.

Santana's agent, Peter Greenberg, has not spoken publicly about his talks with the Twins, who last week lost free-agent center fielder Torii Hunter to the Los Angeles Angels.

Santana, a left-hander who turns 29 in March, has a 93-44 record with a 3.22 ERA in eight major league seasons and is owed $13.25 million next year. Minnesota would want top prospects in any deal and while Steinbrenner previously said he wouldn't trade some of the Yankees' top young pitchers for third baseman Miguel Cabrera, he didn't rule out a deal for a pitcher.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said he has received repeated inquiries from teams about Phil Hughes, Joba Chamberlain and Ian Kennedy.

Santana has a no-trade provision in his contract, and a team acquiring him likely would want to discuss an extension. That means if the teams agreed to a trade, there probably would be a 72-hour window to work out a new contract.

After reaching agreements to re-sign Alex Rodriguez, Mariano Rivera, Jorge Posada and Jose Molina - deals that are awaiting completion - Steinbrenner said the Yankees have turned their attention to relievers. Cashman has said the team hopes to keep Luis Vizcaino.

"Obviously, I think the big thing for us now is shoring up the bullpen all that we can," Steinbrenner said. "Brian is looking into several different things."

Steinbrenner said Rodriguez likely will take a physical this week.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/02/07 06:05 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Yankees, Twins talking Santana trade


Schilling called into Yahoo's Fantasy Football Live this morning to talk about football, but was asked about Santana - and he confirmed the BoSox were in the race (nooooooooo!), and he said NYY has dangled Hughes & Melky into their mix \:\/

...at least Joba so far is out of the question, thankfully...
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/02/07 08:03 PM

I read that they Twins want Melky, Hughes AND Kennedy in exchange for Santana. That would be insane. I would rather see Kennedy go, because I think that Hughes has a wonderful future.

There's no way that Joba would be in the mix. And I still think it's a mistake to make him a starter. I think he should be the Mo's setup man, eventually taking over as closer.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/03/07 12:20 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I read that they Twins want Melky, Hughes AND Kennedy in exchange for Santana. That would be insane. I would rather see Kennedy go, because I think that Hughes has a wonderful future.


I agree. I'd rather them trade Kennedy than Hughes (I think he has A LOT of potential). But Minnesota will only trade Santana if Hughes was included. I'm hearing it's going to be Hughes, Melky and a minor leaguer and New York and Minnesota are just fighting over who that third player will be. Boston is in it but if they don't include Clay Buchholz or Jacoby Ellsbury (neither of which they are willing to trade), Santana more than likely won't be going to Boston.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/03/07 12:43 AM

The Yankees need to get something done quickly

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Sources: Twins better act fast on Santana

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - It might be now or never for the Twins if they wish to trade left-hander Johan Santana.

According to major-league sources, Santana has informed the Twins that he would not waive his no-trade clause during the season, ending any chance that he could be moved before the July 31 non-waiver deadline.

Players with no-trade protection occasionally adopt such positions when they are in the free-agent years, fearing that their performance could suffer if they change teams and/or leagues just months before hitting the open market.

The Twins have said privately that they will be content to keep Santana if they do not receive the right offer this off-season, then entertain the possibility of trading him in July. But Santana's stance greatly increases the chances that the Twins will act quickly.

It is in Santana's interest to be traded now because he will require a monster contract to approve a deal. It is expected that the contract would be at least six years and $120 million, and rather than enter the season with the risk of injury, he would prefer the deal to be struck as soon as possible.

If Santana refused to waive his no-trade clause after Opening Day, it would force the Twins to carry him the entire season — and settle for two high draft picks if and when he departed as a free agent.

Meanwhile, the winter meetings begin Monday, and the Yankees are threatening to pull their offer of pitcher Phil Hughes, outfielder Melky Cabrera and a third player if the Twins do not reach a decision early in the week, sources say.

The Red Sox also remain in the mix for Santana, offering a four-player package that includes pitcher Jon Lester or center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury along with shortstop Jed Lowrie. The Sox would include center fielder Coco Crisp if the Twins chose Lester.

Ellsbury, sources say, has been available to the Twins from the start of their discussions with the Red Sox, but not in a deal with Lester. The Sox have told the Twins they are willing to be creative if the Twins are that adamant that Ellsbury is included in the deal.

The sticking point with the Yankees is the identity of the third player. The Yankees want it to be a mid-level prospect, but the Twins have asked for players such as Class AAA shortstop Alberto Gonzalez and Class AA right-hander Alan Horne.

Source: FOX Sports
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/03/07 08:15 PM

The Twins are considering tampering charges against the Yankees in light of Hank's Sunday comments that Santana will only waive his no trade clause to go to the Yankees or Red Sox. Santana and his agent have angrily denounced the comments as a lie. This is particularly upsetting to Santana as the comments were directly designed to limit the pitcher's marketability.

The Yankees may get their pitcher, but Hank lacks some skills.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/03/07 09:34 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
The Yankees may get their pitcher, but Hank lacks some skills.


No doubt a personality trait handed down from Daddy.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/04/07 01:41 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC
 Originally Posted By: klydon1
The Yankees may get their pitcher, but Hank lacks some skills.


No doubt a personality trait handed down from Daddy.


Gee, you THINK???
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/04/07 02:29 PM

It looks as though Boston is putting together a package that includes Ellsbury and Lester for Santana. This may get the Yankees to throw in Ian Kennedy with their package, if for no other reason than to keep Santana from the Red Sox.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/04/07 04:07 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
It looks as though Boston is putting together a package that includes Ellsbury and Lester for Santana.


I really REALLY hope the Sox don't give up Ellsbury. Of course I'd love them to get Santana (but not at the expense of Jacoby).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/04/07 04:30 PM

Nats acquire Yanks' Clippard

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The Nationals continued to stay busy at the Winter Meetings, acquiring right-hander Tyler Clippard from the Yankees for right-handed reliever Jonathan Albaladejo on Monday night, according to a baseball source. The news was first reported by The Washington Post.

Clippard, 22, made his Major League debut in 2007 and went 3-1 with a 6.33 ERA in six starts. Albaladejo also made his Major League debut this past season, giving up three runs in 14 1/3 innings out of the bullpen.

Nationals general manager Jim Bowden was not available for comment on the deal, which is pending physicals.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/04/07 05:51 PM

Clippard was my husband's favorite pitcher, if only for the fact that he liked to call him "Clippard the Big-Eared Pitcher" after "Clifford the Big Red Dog". We actually saw him pitch at a home game this summer. I don't believe he lasted very long.

And Pettite's back!! He's decided to pitch for one more year, which takes some of the pressure off.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/05/07 12:29 AM

From the MLB.com website:

*******************************************

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- With their self-imposed Monday night deadline having come and gone, the Yankees have reportedly ended their pursuit of Johan Santana.

Sources with knowledge of the situation indicated on Tuesday that the Yankees would not proceed further in attempting to deal for the two-time American League Cy Young Award winner, having been unable to reach an agreement after executives from both clubs met late Monday evening.

The Newark (N.J.) Star-Ledger reported that senior vice president Hank Steinbrenner, who had hoped to have resolution on the issue by Tuesday morning, ended the trade talks.

"[Hank Steinbrenner] closed the door on the Santana thing," a high-ranking Yankees official told the newspaper. "The Santana thing's over."

The Yankees had improved their offer to include both right-hander Phil Hughes and outfielder Melky Cabrera, and they were prepared to supplement that proposal with a mid-level prospect to acquire Santana, a left-hander who will be 29 by Opening Day and is seeking a sizable contract extension. But the Twins, who are engaged in discussions with the Red Sox and reportedly also the Angels, again requested that right-hander Ian Kennedy be included as well, a proposal the Yankees balked at.

With Santana apparently out of the picture, the Yankees' rotation projects to include Chien-Ming Wang, Andy Pettitte, Joba Chamberlain, Hughes and Mike Mussina. The Yankees have been reportedly linked to trade talks with the A's involving right-hander Dan Haren, but Oakland's price may prove to be just as high as Minnesota's.

*********************************************

And from the Hartford Courant:

*********************************************

Johan Santana moved closer to Boston early this morning.

After meeting well into the night at the winter meetings in Nashville, according to multiple reports, the Red Sox and Twins traded medical information on Santana and lefthander Jon Lester, signaling that a trade could be close.

The Red Sox would send Lester, center fielder Coco Crisp, minor league infielder Jed Lowrie and righthander Justin Masterson for Santana. The two sides were expected to resume talks this afternoon.

Once a deal is agreed upon, the Red Sox would have a 72-hour window to negotiate a new contract for Santana, who becomes a free agent after the 2008 season. Santana is reportedly seeking a six-year, $150 million contract.

The Yankees are believed to be walking away from the negotiations after the Twins demanded both pitchers Philip Hughes and Ian Kennedy. The Yankees had set a Monday deadline for a deal.

After the Yankees talks broke down Monday night, the Twins re-engaged the Red Sox, with the meeting lasting well past midnight.

The Twins had been seeking center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury, but the Red Sox apparently have prevailed in keeping Ellsbury out of the deal.

**********************************************

I hope it works out for the Sox!
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/05/07 02:17 AM

Stupid, stupid Hank!! In a way, I'm relieved to be holding onto Melky (LOVE the Melk-Man!), but we need starters. While Kennedy and Hughes definitely have potential, some experience would be nice.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/05/07 02:50 AM

 Originally Posted By: SC

The Twins had been seeking center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury, but the Red Sox apparently have prevailed in keeping Ellsbury out of the deal.

**********************************************

I hope it works out for the Sox!


This would be quite a coup for the Sox if they could land Santana without giving up Ellsbury.

By the way, the Tigers just acquired Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis from the Marlins. \:o
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/05/07 03:36 AM

Cabrera?!!??! God damn, that's a steal.

As for D-Train, he can be pretty good, but he's too inconsistent. I tried telling Irishboy that, a reason why I'm sure the Yankees never seriously pursued him.

But Cabrera is damn great, and a steroid boast to that Tigers lineup.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/05/07 04:29 AM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Cabrera?!!??! God damn, that's a steal.

As for D-Train, he can be pretty good, but he's too inconsistent. I tried telling Irishboy that, a reason why I'm sure the Yankees never seriously pursued him.

But Cabrera is damn great, and a steroid boast to that Tigers lineup.


I agree that Dontrellehasn't lived up to the hype.

I've always suspected Cabrera of steroids. Look at him now and look at pictures of him in 2003. Then again, it could be cheeseburgers. He's also known as a party boy, but he can hit the cover off the ball.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/05/07 06:45 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Stupid, stupid Hank!! In a way, I'm relieved to be holding onto Melky (LOVE the Melk-Man!), but we need starters. While Kennedy and Hughes definitely have potential, some experience would be nice.


Personally, I'm glad they kept Hughes. I just had this bad feeling about trading him. But why do the Yankees have to give up Hughes, Melky AND Kennedy or another high profile minor leaguer, while Boston only has to give up Lester, Crisp () and two minor leaguers?
Posted By: Don Andrew

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/05/07 09:04 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
Cabrera?!!??! God damn, that's a steal.

As for D-Train, he can be pretty good, but he's too inconsistent. I tried telling Irishboy that, a reason why I'm sure the Yankees never seriously pursued him.

But Cabrera is damn great, and a steroid boast to that Tigers lineup.


I agree that Dontrellehasn't lived up to the hype.

I've always suspected Cabrera of steroids. Look at him now and look at pictures of him in 2003. Then again, it could be cheeseburgers. He's also known as a party boy, but he can hit the cover off the ball.


Not steroids. That's Taco Bell fat through and through.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/06/07 09:44 PM

Giants interested in Yanks' Matsui

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The Giants, who are desperately seeking offense, have inquired about Yankees outfielder Hideki Matsui's availability. Matsui has a no-trade clause, so if there's a match there, the Yankees first would have to get his approval.

The Giants have a lot of good young pitchers whose names have come up in trades, with Matt Cain and Tim Lincecum at the top of the list, followed by Noah Lowry and Jonathan Sanchez. The Yankees, who have said they are out of the Johan Santana sweepstakes, would still like to upgrade their pitching staff.

The Giants had been talking to the Blue Jays about Alex Rios, but Toronto asked for either Cain or Lincecum, who have been called virtually untouchable by the Giants.

The Yankees are talking to other teams about pitching help and have had some talks with the Pirates about Damaso Marte and Josh Grabow. Marte was once a Yankee.

Source: SI
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/06/07 10:00 PM

Some people think Lincecum is the best young pitcher in baseball. I seriously doubt they'd entertain trading him for an 80 year old outfielder.
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/08/07 08:00 PM

If the Giants trade Lincecum or Cain for Matsui then I'm giving up on the Giants. Since I couldn't find the heart to root for anyone else I'd really be giving up on baseball.

All of these trade rumors are making me nervous. I don't want the Giants to do something stupid with their young pitching.

What do Yankees fans think about Matsui being traded?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/08/07 08:51 PM

I'm honestly surprised they'd consider trading him. I like Matsui and he had a subpar year for him but he still put together some good numbers. I would like to see him rebound in 2008 but the Yankees have enough power and if they can get some more great, young arms then I'm for it (especially if they can trade those guys for Johan while hanging onto Joba, Hughes, and Kennedy). However, Matsui has a full no-trade claus and I don't think he's going anywhere.
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/08/07 10:03 PM

From what I've heard he would be willing to waive his no-trade clause to go to the Giants because San Francisco has a huge Asian population and is a beautiful city, etc... plus he played for the Japanese version of the Giants before coming to the Yankees so it's a marketing thing for himself as well as the Giants.

Although I still wouldn't give up either of the top to young pitching prospects on the Giants for him. Possibly Lowry or Sanchez if Matsui were going to backing up another slugger.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/08/07 10:15 PM

Yes, I did take into account the Japanese population in San Francisco as well as the team name Giants. I think it might be the only other city he could or would play for.

If I were the Yankees, I wouldn't unload him just to unload him. If you're afraid to give up Lincecum or Cain, I'd go after them. Are they in the Giants farm system or did they play in the majors last season? I hope the Yankees don't feel as if they "have" to trade Hideki because they most certainly don't. Again, I'd love to see him bounce back in 2008 after a subpar 2007 and a short, injuried 2006 season (I think he was afradi of reinjuring it last year).
Posted By: Blibbleblabble

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/08/07 11:02 PM

Cain and Lincecum both played in the majors last year. For Cain it was his second full season. They are both very young potential Cy Young winners in the future, especially Lincecum.

As you quoted in one of your earlier posts, the Blue Jays are willing to trade Alex Rios for either of them. A five-tool, two time all-star just coming into his prime for one of these two young pitchers says a lot.

I don't think the Yankees would unload Matsui "just to unload him" as you said. They want to bolster their pitching staff and teams like the Giant's and A's are loaded with pitching deep into their farm system. So some sort of a trade including Matsui wouldn't surprise me.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/09/07 12:52 AM

If they're good as much as you say they are Blibble, now you've got me foaming at the mouth ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/11/07 04:11 PM

Yankees reach deal with Hawkins

NEW YORK -- The Yankees moved forward to bolster their bullpen on Sunday, reaching a preliminary agreement with reliever LaTroy Hawkins on a one-year, $3.75 million contract.

The deal was reported by the Associated Press and is subject to Hawkins passing a physical. A baseball official familiar with the negotiations, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed the transaction, which has not been officially announced.

The right-handed Hawkins, who turns 35 on Dec. 21, was 2-5 with a 3.42 ERA with the National League champion Colorado Rockies this past season. He is expected to fill the role of right-hander Luis Vizcaino, who declined the Yankees' offer of salary arbitration last week. Vizcaino, who is seeking a multiyear contract, is expected to sign elsewhere.

Hawkins will be joining his fifth Major League team, having spent nine seasons of his 13-year career with the Twins. The Twins and Rangers also had expressed interest.

A workhorse who has appeared in 60 games or more in eight straight seasons, Hawkins also has pitched for the Cubs, Giants and Orioles. During the 2007 season, Hawkins appeared in 62 games for the Rockies, allowing 52 hits in 55 1/3 innings. He walked 16 and struck out 29.

The Yankees have identified bolstering their bullpen as one of their main priorities in this period of the offseason, having already stepped up and stepped back in the hunt for Twins ace Johan Santana. New York soon will officially announce a three-year, $45 million agreement with closer Mariano Rivera, but much of the bridge leading up to the future Hall of Famer is unclear.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has said he is not intrigued by repeated offers from other clubs to obtain setup man Kyle Farnsworth, who could slot back into his eighth-inning role that was filled in the season's final two months by rookie Joba Chamberlain.

Along with Farnsworth, Hawkins also could help set up for Rivera, a task that was met with varied results by Vizcaino, who was a large help some months and ineffective in others. Aside from those two veterans, the Yankees may have open auditions for bullpen roles in Spring Training, a competition venue that new manager Joe Girardi said he will embrace.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 12/17/07 10:01 PM

Prior interests Yankees, Mets

The possibility of the Yankees and Mets competing for a big-name pitcher always puts sizzle into a free-agent chase, but it remains to be seen how deep the two teams get into discussions over rehabbing righty Mark Prior, the ex-Cub. Both have expressed "preliminary interest" in Prior, John Boggs, the pitcher's agent, said yesterday. "But it hasn't been anything more than that. Next week will probably be pretty busy." Boggs says 11 teams have expressed interest in his client, who likely will be ready to pitch in the majors by the end of May.

Source: Fan Nation
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/02/08 03:03 PM

The Yankees are going to be on YES today at 2:00 in an exhibition game against the Phillies!!! HOORAY!!! Baseball on my TV again!!!!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/02/08 05:21 PM


Sweet
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/02/08 07:11 PM

I guess the game started at 1:00 (my bad) because they're fairly well into it right now.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/02/08 10:55 PM


I totally forgot about it! But it's gonna reply at 9PM
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/03/08 12:12 AM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

I totally forgot about it! But it's gonna reply at 9PM


Tell me what it says when it replies. \:p
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/03/08 12:17 AM

I miss the YES Network. They won't play on ESPN until sometime mid-March and then their first game on the 31st \:\(
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/03/08 02:18 AM

It was great to see them again. The game went well, until they put in Henn and Farnsworthless.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/03/08 06:30 AM


I was watching FOX cartoons then Beowulf

Why do we still have Farnsworthless?????
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/03/08 12:22 PM

My husband liked Sean Henn last year, mostly because he could say things like, "Henn's in and he's pecking away at the competition."
However, he's so inconsistent. As for Farnsworthless, they seem to feel that they can turn him around. After he blew how many games??
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/03/08 04:02 PM

Don't worry, I believe this is Farnsworthless' last year. He won't be back next year
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/08 07:08 PM


Today's game vs TB is now playing on YES Mussina's pitching... (replay tonight at 11:30)

Blue Jays Tuesday 1pm (encore 7pm)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/08 07:48 PM

We're watching right now. It would be nice if the Yankees could actually SCORE or something.

OMG!! Farnsworth had a 1-2-3 inning!! How did that happen??
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/08/08 09:20 PM

I gotta "watch" them lose on my phone cuz I took my car in for a few little things and apparently it's gonna take a few hours \:\/ I walked over to Atlanta Bread Company for dinner and wi-fi and lo and behold my best friend just happens to be here working, so it could've been worse...
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/08 10:45 AM

Over the last few days, Joba, Hughes and Kennedy all had excellent outings. Isn't that nice for a change - positive reports on Yankee pitching!
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/08 01:18 PM

A bit of useless information...

Last season the Yankees became the first team in the modern era to win a three game series in which each winning pitcher recorded his first career win.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/08 01:52 PM

I love Klyd trivia!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/08 03:57 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Over the last few days, Joba, Hughes and Kennedy all had excellent outings. Isn't that nice for a change - positive reports on Yankee pitching!


And Beckett already has back problems. Not to mention Schilling. Will Boston's pitching staff get bit by the same injury bug as the Yankee pitchers last season?
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/08 03:57 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
A bit of useless information...

Last season the Yankees became the first team in the modern era to win a three game series in which each winning pitcher recorded his first career win.


Ah, but what team was it against? ;\)
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/08 07:48 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: klydon1
A bit of useless information...

Last season the Yankees became the first team in the modern era to win a three game series in which each winning pitcher recorded his first career win.


Ah, but what team was it against? ;\)


Devil Rays? Indians?
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/08 07:50 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12


And Beckett already has back problems. Not to mention Schilling. Will Boston's pitching staff get bit by the same injury bug as the Yankee pitchers last season?


They're reporting nothing is wrong with Beckett's back, and it's just an excuse for sending him with the team when they play their opener in Japan.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/08 08:06 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: klydon1
A bit of useless information...

Last season the Yankees became the first team in the modern era to win a three game series in which each winning pitcher recorded his first career win.


Ah, but what team was it against? ;\)


Devil Rays? Indians?


I'm not sure, that's why I was asking you \:p
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/08 08:21 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12


I'm not sure, that's why I was asking you \:p


It was the Indians. From April 17-19, 2007 Chase Wright, Kei Igawa and Sean Henn recorded their first career wins in that 3 game series.

I had to look it up.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/11/08 10:18 PM

Kei Igawa got a win?? Wow! That is amazing!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/08 06:57 PM


I missed this as I turned it on in the 7th inning, but...

Billy Crystal strikes out in new career—fans as Yankees leadoff man
 Quote:
By BEN WALKER, AP Baseball Writer 52 minutes ago
TAMPA, Fla. (AP)—Billy Crystal better stick to his night job.

The comedian, actor and Oscar presenter struck out in his new career as a baseball player Thursday—and promptly struck out as the New York Yankees’ new leadoff man.

Wearing No. 60 a day before his 60th birthday, and cheered on by fellow funnyman Robin Williams, Crystal gave himself a chance in the first inning in his only at-bat.

Swinging late against Pittsburgh’s Paul Maholm, Crystal bounced a chopper past first baseman Adam LaRoche that landed several feet foul. Crystal got ahead in the count 3-1, but then swung over a pair of 88 mph fastballs.

The crowd gave Crystal a standing ovation, and he raised his hand to salute the fans. Teammate-for-a-day Alex Rodriguez signaled Maholm, who tossed the ball toward the Yankees dugout for a souvenir.

Crystal’s debut—and finale—followed the likes of Garth Brooks and Tom Selleck, other celebrities who played in spring training games.

Johnny Damon took over the DH job from Crystal later in the game. Damon was in the spirit, saying it was fine that he sat at the start in place of Crystal.

“He’s been around longer,” Damon said. “He’s got credibility.”

Before the game, Crystal worked out on the main diamond at Legends Fields.

“I’m really relaxed, I really am,” Crystal said after taking pregame infield practice. “That’s until I see the 6-foot-2, 230-pound guy who’s going to throw who’s never been to a Seder.”

His only sign of nervousness: He chomped nonstop on bubblegum.

While fans rooted for a hit, Crystal’s actual goal was much more modest.

“I just want to touch it,” he said.

And that he did.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/08 07:48 PM

The funniest Yankees story I ever heard Billy Crystal tell was when Joe Torre allowed him to sit behind the dugout and hand out the sunflower seeds to the players. He did that for a few games. He then invited Robin Williams to sit with him at a game. Robin Williams promptly started fooling around with the sunflower seeds, throwing them, etc.

Billy Crystal promptly lost sunflower seed duty.
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/08 08:21 PM

Crystal, when asked what position he would playing, replied, "DH. Designated Hebrew."

Imagine if he got to play in the game with benches clearing brawl.
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/13/08 08:25 PM

 Originally Posted By: klydon1
Crystal, when asked what position he would playing, replied, "DH. Designated Hebrew."


He stole that line from Ron Blomberg, it was the name of his autobiography.

Copyright infringement, Counselor?

Sick 'em!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/08 10:43 AM

Well, Crystal's At-Bat was a feel-good story after that Yanks/Rays sillyness.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/08 06:29 PM


If anyone missed it, here's his at-bat:

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/14/08 06:45 PM

Sweet, thanks for the link Geoff
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/15/08 01:43 AM

Nice link. It failed to show, however, that while Billy Crystal was taking his fourteenth bow for striking out, Elliot Johnson came running from the thirdbase line and slammed head-on into Crystal, breaking the aging comedian's right wrist.

Crystal may have to hang on the roster to cover for Duncan.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/08 01:05 AM

The Billy Crystal thing shows how far baseball has come into the entertainment world. Being from NY and knowing Crystal's love of the Yankees, I think it was great publicity. Many baseball purists are upset about it, but they don't realize that pure baseball left when baseball on TV was introduced. The line between sport and entertainment has become very blurred. And in Billy's words, "it's better to look mahvelous, than to .... hit mahvelous."
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/18/08 12:19 PM

The Yankees are playing a game at Virginia Tech today. They donated $1 million to the Hokies last year after the shooting, and promised to play an exhibition game against the school's team. It will be on YES at 3:00 today.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/28/08 04:19 PM


Yankees’ Matsui gets married, pulls fast one on Jeter and Abreu at same time
 Quote:
Mar 27, 6:13 pm EDT

TAMPA, Fla. (AP)—Hideki Matsui chuckled Thursday while recounting his big week. Yes, the Yankees slugger really did get married and win a bet with teammates Derek Jeter and Bobby Abreu at the same time.

Matsui made the wager at the start of spring training about who would wed first, then flew to New York on his off day Wednesday to get married.

Matsui said Jeter, who claimed not to have a girlfriend, has one year to get married to win the bet. Yankees outfielder Bobby Abreu, who said he has a girlfriend, has six months to win the bet.

Since Matsui said he knew six months ago he was going to get married, he was able to pull a fast one on his teammates, who both said Thursday they would play off their losses immediately.

“He won,” Jeter said. “I’m going to give him the money today.”

The amount of wager was not disclosed.

“I’m happy for him,” Abreu said. “I’ll have to send him a check.”

Jeter didn’t believe reporters at first when told about the marriage. He went to Matsui’s locker to confirm it.

“Yeah, I’m surprised,” Jeter said. “Good for him.”

Even Yankees manager Joe Girardi, who was informed about Matsui’s wedding this week, got a good laugh out of it.

“Sometimes you should get all the information before you make a bet,” Girardi said.

When asked if he got married just to win the bet, Matsui laughed and said “Maybe.”
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/28/08 04:49 PM

One of the New York papers had a headline, "Bride of Godzilla".
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/29/08 05:43 AM


The News did, I saw it later after my post
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/08 05:33 PM


Freakin' rain delay on Opening Day \:\/
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/08 05:35 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
Freakin' rain delay on Opening Day \:\/


First official whine of a Yankee fan in '08.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/08 06:28 PM


Rescheduled for Tuesday, 7pm \:\/
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/08 08:37 PM

I feel bad for the people who took off work to go to this "historical" opening day. Actually, I'm pretty sick of hearing it referred to as "historical". From the way that the media is carrying on about it being "the last opening day for the original Yankee Stadium", you would have thought that Babe Ruth himself had come back from the great beyond to throw the first pitch.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/08 08:41 PM

Its the curse of the Babe... and not the SICILIAN Babe.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 03/31/08 11:21 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I feel bad for the people who took off work to go to this "historical" opening day. Actually, I'm pretty sick of hearing it referred to as "historical". From the way that the media is carrying on about it being "the last opening day for the original Yankee Stadium", you would have thought that Babe Ruth himself had come back from the great beyond to throw the first pitch.


I'm glad that they are making a big deal about it because to me it's very historic. The Yankees are IMO the best sports franchise in North American history and Yankee Stadium is one of sport's most hollowed grounds. It won't be the same next year in the "new Yankee Stadium" and some will be crying to go back to the old one.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/01/08 01:17 AM

I agree that a piece of NY history is being destroyed, but it really won't make that big of a difference to me. I haven't been able to afford to go to Yankee Stadium for a long time. I've found it's actually cheaper to go see them somewhere else and make a little vacation out of it.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/01/08 03:24 AM

I need to get my butt up there sometime this season. I'd love to score some tickets for the all-star game but only if I can afford them. If not I'll settle for the game on my birthday
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/01/08 10:35 AM

I tried to get tickets to the Red Sox game a few years ago because they were playing in the Bronx on Mr. Babe's birthday. The game was sold out, so I went to Stub Hub. The halfway decent seats were going for $750 each.
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/01/08 10:46 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I tried to get tickets to the Red Sox game a few years ago because they were playing in the Bronx on Mr. Babe's birthday. The game was sold out, so I went to Stub Hub. The halfway decent seats were going for $750 each.


Flashback to Opening Day, 1967. I cut school with some of my friends and went to the game (this was back when the Yanks really sucked and NOBODY went to their games). I think there may have only been about 20,000 people there to see the Sox vs. the Yankees. The Sox had a rookie pitcher, Bill Rohr, on the mound. He went on to pitch a no-hitter for 8 2/3 innings until Elston Howard blooped a single to break up the game. (What was odd was that Howard ended up on the Sox before the season was over).

For me, as a Sox fan, it was the best Opening Day I ever saw, and Boston went on to win the pennant (against all odds that year).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/01/08 01:05 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I tried to get tickets to the Red Sox game a few years ago because they were playing in the Bronx on Mr. Babe's birthday. The game was sold out, so I went to Stub Hub. The halfway decent seats were going for $750 each.


Yeah, Stub Hub was a rip off. I finally went to a Sox/Yanks game a couple of years ago on my birthday. The Yanks were down early but rallied to win the game
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/08 01:51 AM


Farnsworthless et al.

Let's go METS!!!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/08 01:52 AM

I saw Kennedy got rocked early. At least Hughes had a good outing yesterday
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/08 02:02 AM

I'm going to the game tomorrow. One of my coworkers was supposed to go with his wife, brother and brother's wife. His sister-in-law had a death in the family and has to fly down to Florida, so they've offered me the ticket. And since I live between my coworker and the Bronx, I even get picked up!

Pettite's pitching, so that's exciting!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/08 03:54 AM

Have fun SB! I definitely need to get my butt to the Stadium this year to see it one last time
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/05/08 10:19 PM

I know its early in the season but the yanks are starting to scare me a little.

ds
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/08 02:29 AM

Well, the game was not exactly a joy to watch. It was actually a mess, but it was still great to be in the stadium. It turned out to be a wonderful day, weatherwise, so that was a good thing. And then we went to eat in the Bronx, and that turned out to be the highlight of the day.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/08 05:20 AM

Did the Yanks win SB? I haven't kept up with the games yet.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/08 11:50 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
Well, the game was not exactly a joy to watch. It was actually a mess, but it was still great to be in the stadium. It turned out to be a wonderful day, weatherwise, so that was a good thing. And then we went to eat in the Bronx, and that turned out to be the highlight of the day.


....Louis? It's perfect for you. It's got one of those toilets with the chain....

Down here in Philly/Eagle country I don't get any good Yankee news; just those little boxscores with a paragraph. They didn't mention that Girardi missed a second game with an upper respiratory infection. What's with that? The Yankees better find their bats. Their pitching staff is not their strength.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/08 04:05 PM

 Originally Posted By: MaryCas
Down here in Philly/Eagle country I don't get any good Yankee news; just those little boxscores with a paragraph.

You still buy newspapers? There's plenty of news online. \:D ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/06/08 05:04 PM

Girardi had 103 fever Friday, and hasn't been able to leave his office for the last two days. He says that he'll be back today (which we'll find out in a few minutes).

The Yankee bats are VERY well camouflaged, Klyd. With the exception of ARod and Posada, there wasn't a heck of a lot of hitting going on. Giambi, Jeter, Damon, Cano - they all seem to be in the same slump.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/08 12:56 AM

Looks like Matsui's bat just came alive. Nice hit in the 6th!
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/08 02:51 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I feel bad for the people who took off work to go to this "historical" opening day. Actually, I'm pretty sick of hearing it referred to as "historical". From the way that the media is carrying on about it being "the last opening day for the original Yankee Stadium", you would have thought that Babe Ruth himself had come back from the great beyond to throw the first pitch.


I'm glad that they are making a big deal about it because to me it's very historic. The Yankees are IMO the best sports franchise in North American history and Yankee Stadium is one of sport's most hollowed grounds. It won't be the same next year in the "new Yankee Stadium" and some will be crying to go back to the old one.


will? They already are.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/08 05:56 PM


WTF is this shit???!!! \:o

Jeter’s injury acute pain for Yanks
 Quote:
By Jeff Passan, Yahoo! Sports 9 hours, 12 minutes ago

NEW YORK – Joe Girardi didn’t say no. Joe Torre would have.

Now, this is not to compare Girardi and Torre, not in a mano-a-mano fashion at least, but one that deals with today’s reality in the New York Yankees universe: Suggestions that Alex Rodriguez move to shortstop if the strained left quadriceps that forced Derek Jeter out of a game Monday lingers.

“There’s a lot of different scenarios we’ll talk about as a club and decide what we’re going to do,” Girardi said, and even though there was little substance to his words, it felt frighteningly candid – and, considering the other options, a rather sensible idea. Because under Torre’s watch, no matter how damaging to the Yankees in the short or long term, he wouldn’t dare place someone of consequence at Jeter’s position for fear of upsetting the captain’s chi.

Only if the injury doesn’t heal – Jeter thinks it’ll take a day or two, Girardi closer to a week and both hope he can avoid the disabled list – might the sentiment change, and even then it would be a hard sell. And that’s an important point to discuss, particularly months after a number of studies concluded that Jeter is among, if not the, worst-fielding shortstop in the major leagues.

One large study, conducted at the Wharton Business School, uses a metric – a statistic-based analysis – to show how Jeter was the pits from 2002-05 and Rodriguez was among the best shortstops. Its veracity is questionable, considering it named the positively slothful Ken Harvey as its first-base representative.

Not nearly as dubious is John Dewan’s book, “The Fielding Bible”, in which Dewan culls data from every play and rates players on a plus-minus scale – plus for making a play that at least one of his peers had missed, and minus for the opposite. It is the new standard for fielding statistics, and in the past three years, Jeter is minus-90, the second-worst number in all of baseball, better only than Manny Ramirez’s minus-109.


Is that damning enough to even entertain alternates at the position of the most beloved Yankee of the past two decades? Probably not, even though the Yankees sure have a built-in excuse if they want to see whether a bulkier, older A-Rod can cut it at shortstop.

It doesn’t help that Jeter’s legs, his springboards in the field, are causing him such trouble. In the bottom of the first inning Monday with a runner on first base against Tampa Bay, Jeter slapped a ground ball at the third baseman and lurched as much as ran down the line. He beat the double-play throw, spent another half-inning in the field and left before the third inning.

“He’s always been a tough kid, and he wants to be out there,” Girardi said. “No matter how his body feels, he wants to be out there. But you know, with these conditions, you jeopardize really hurting yourself badly, and we don’t want that, because we can’t afford to miss him for a long time.”

Jeter can still hit. He proves that every year, his inside-out stroke shooting balls to right field and reinforcing his opportunism. Jeter gets the loudest cheers at Yankee Stadium, and he didn’t earn them only by smiling into a camera.

Ultimately, such deification comes to roost, and to think the 33-year-old Jeter, with more than 12 seasons at the most demanding position, wants to continue playing shortstop deep into the decade is troublesome. Try center field. Settle at first base. Anything to keep him upright, which he has managed to stay with stunning regularity thus far.

Jeter first felt a twinge in his quad during the Yankees’ Sunday game and iced it before Monday’s game. That didn’t help, and Jeter ended up in an MRI tube to rule out extensive damage. Doctors found a low-level strain, nothing like in 2001, when Jeter missed Opening Day because of his right quad.

“That was worse,” Jeter said. “This is a mild strain, from what I was told. The other one was a lot worse than that. It was something you could feel moving your leg, period. This one is more when I put for a little effort. I really start running before I feel it.”

Soon after he felt it, Jeter excused himself. Wilson Betemit moved from first base to shortstop. Betemit, at 230 pounds, plays the position with all the agility of a cast-iron skillet. He’s not the answer.

Aside from Betemit and A-Rod, there’s not another person on the Yankees’ active roster who can play shortstop. They could call up rookie Alberto Gonzalez, who is on the team’s 40-man roster, or Cody Ransom, who would require a roster move but bring more experience. Or, of course, they could put A-Rod at short and use Morgan Ensberg, a natural third baseman, to fill in.

Like Girardi said, plenty of scenarios.

If Jeter heals slowly, it could get ugly, as quad strains tend to hang around like freeloaders. Mark Teixeira spent five weeks on the DL with one last season. Bengie Molina hobbled around most of spring. Victor Martinez missed a dozen games last year.

Jeter will sacrifice his first Tuesday afternoon. As much as he wants to play, Jeter recognizes Girardi runs a different ship than Torre did. When Girardi says no, he means it, and while he gladly massages egos, he also keeps them in check.

So for now it falls on Betemit, a natural shortstop who outgrew the position about 40 pounds ago. He’ll stand in the most trafficked position on the field, and he’ll replace a no-doubt Hall of Famer, and he’ll try to swim.

Rodriguez will stand next to him. He last played shortstop full time in 2003. Five years is a long time. And still, the idea just won’t die. It’s so crazy it just might work, and weird as it sounds, that’s the last thing the Yankees need.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/08/08 06:51 PM

That is absurd, and I think that if he did it, Girardi would put ARod in a spin. Just when the NY crowds have come to accept him, and when he finally seems comfortable playing in NY, it would be a disaster to put him in Jeter's position. I think the crowds would most definitely express their unhappiness. Geez, the article acts like Jeter's going to be out for the season, when it looks more like 3-5 days.

As for him being over-rated, take a look at any compilation of "Greatest Plays in Baseball" and I can guarantee that there will be, at minimum, three of Jeter's: The Dive, The Flip, and Mr. November.
Posted By: Don Smitty

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/08 08:10 PM

Jeter might be the greatest shortstop in leauge history. Not on a defensive side but hitting wise.

ds
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/08 08:34 PM

Don Smitty I think Honus Wagner would disagree with you.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/08 08:39 PM

JASANI! What is up man? Look time no see
Posted By: Don Jasani

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/08 08:47 PM

How you doin Irish? I've been back for a while and only now do you reach out?! What have I ever done to make you treat me with such disrespect? ;\)
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/11/08 09:02 PM

Na, I've seen you, but I haven't seen you in here recently
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/08 08:10 AM

A brilliant pitching performance tonight by Chien-Ming Wang to 2-hit the Red Sox over 9 innings
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/12/08 04:05 PM

What was really great news about Wang's performance is that he is usually not nearly as good on the road as he is at home.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/08 02:47 AM

So, the game was in a rain delay for quite some time. They finally started playing again, it was the top of the 9th, there were 2 outs, Cano was up, the count was full, AND FOX SWITCHED TO NASCAR AND GAVE INSTRUCTIONS TO SWITCH TO FX TO WATCH THE END OF THE GAME!!!!!!!!!!

It took us a few minutes to figure out which channel FX was, and by the time we found the game, it was over. That SUCKED. I hate when the games are on Fox!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/08 04:00 AM

That sucks SB. They lost anyway, oh well. Tomorrow's the rubber match
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/08 05:40 PM

What, no mention of "Jersey Gate"?

I mean, a Red Sox fan having the gall to bury a Sox jersey inside the new Yankee Stadium....its funny as hell, and awesome that he actually pulled it off.

Now when new Fenway Park is built inevitably, a Yanks fan better plant a Jeter uniform inside the new Green Monster...
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/08 05:42 PM

 Originally Posted By: Don Smitty
Jeter might be the greatest shortstop in leauge history. Not on a defensive side but hitting wise.

ds


And what of Cal Ripken Jr? Hell, unless I'm mistaken, he still owns the career Home Run mark for ShortStops.
Posted By: Just Lou

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/08 07:06 PM

 Originally Posted By: ronnierocketAGO
What, no mention of "Jersey Gate"?

I mean, a Red Sox fan having the gall to bury a Sox jersey inside the new Yankee Stadium....its funny as hell, and awesome that he actually pulled it off.

Now when new Fenway Park is built inevitably, a Yanks fan better plant a Jeter uniform inside the new Green Monster...


Sunday, April 13, 2008
Workers dig furiously to rid new Yanks stadium of Red Sox jersey
ESPN.com news services

Crisis, and curse, averted.

It took about five hours, but the Red Sox jersey that was embedded in the concrete of the Yankees' new stadium to place a curse on the New York franchise has been unearthed with jackhammers.

Earlier this week, a construction worker who is a Boston fan working on the concrete crew at the $1.3 billion new Yankee Stadium buried a Red Sox shirt in with the concrete foundation, in the hopes of jinxing the New York Yankees' new home, the New York Post reported.

The newspaper reported Sunday that two workers approached a construction manager with what they thought was the location of the jersey. After digging a two-foot by three-foot hole, the jersey was found.

"They absolutely pinpointed that if it was in the ground, that's where it was," Yankees spokeswoman Alice McGillion told the newspaper.

Initially the Yankees denied the jersey was ever buried in the footings of the new stadium. But clearly the Yankees brass is happier now with the possibility of a curse gone.

"I hope his co-workers kick the [expletive] out of him," Yankees co-chairperson Hal Steinbrenner said.

The newspaper said the jersey felt like a filthy rag, but the word "Red" was clearly visible.

The Yankees plan to donate the jersey to charity, and may pursue a lawsuit against the construction worker.

There are precedents for fans strategically burying trinkets for good luck. During the construction of the ice rink for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, a worker laid a Canadian one-dollar coin (known as a "loonie") at center ice. Canada went on to win its first gold medal in men's ice hockey since 1952.

And Mickey Bradley, a co-author of "Haunted Baseball," told the New York Post that a worker was said to have buried an unknown good-luck charm in a water main trench of the current Yankee Stadium back in 1920.

"Prior to that, they never won a World Series," he told the newspaper.

The Yankees went on to win 26 world championships since.
Posted By: ronnierocketAGO

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/08 08:21 PM

 Originally Posted By: Just Lou

The Yankees plan to donate the jersey to charity, and may pursue a lawsuit against the construction worker.


Oh Hank, you can't get a laugh out of this embarrassing stunt and leave it be?

Besides, if you do the lawsuit and win $500 and the shirt off his back, what then?

A David Ortiz Jersey for some sweaty guido's undershirt?

Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/13/08 11:49 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
So, the game was in a rain delay for quite some time. They finally started playing again, it was the top of the 9th, there were 2 outs, Cano was up, the count was full, AND FOX SWITCHED TO NASCAR AND GAVE INSTRUCTIONS TO SWITCH TO FX TO WATCH THE END OF THE GAME!!!!!!!!!!

It took us a few minutes to figure out which channel FX was, and by the time we found the game, it was over. That SUCKED. I hate when the games are on Fox!


I hope this makes you feel better SB

FOX apologizes for NASCAR switch
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/08 02:52 AM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I hope this makes you feel better SB

FOX apologizes for NASCAR switch


Nope, still hate Fox.

Btw, I can't believe that it's almost 11:00 and it's only the 6th inning!
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/08 04:02 AM

Yeah, the game's been going by slowly. It's painful to follow Hughes. I know he's only 21 and he is projected to be "a dominant and great pitcher" but at this stage in his career, he's not economical at all.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/08 04:03 AM




Nice "Yankees Suck!" chant here with 2 outs in the 9th... and right now, they do! \:\/
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/08 06:41 AM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff
Nice "Yankees Suck!" chant here with 2 outs in the 9th... and right now, they do!


Right now??? They've sucked since January 3, 1973 (when Steinbrenner bought them).
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/08 07:05 AM


Umm... 1977... 1978... 1996... 1998!... 1999... 2000... k, that's it. Since '73. \:p

Let's not forget, despite the Sux recent run... The Yankees have made it to 39 of the 103 Series (38%) through 2007 and have won 26 of them, which is far more than any other major franchise (in any sport). 30 AL Pennants. 15 Division titles since '76.

WTF you talking about? \:p

Sox? 7 Championships (just 2 since 1918). 12 pennants (2 since '86). 7 Division titles (1 since '95).

Pfft!
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/08 07:11 AM

Don't mistake winning flags as being a decent organization.

Now go home and get your short pants and shine box.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/08 07:12 AM


Don't mistake losing [was gonna make a rhyme here lol] as being a decent organization ;\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/08 02:35 PM

They've had some exceptional games, and they've had some horrible ones (see last two under horrible, see Friday's under exceptional). However, it's a looooooong season, and let's all talk again in September.
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/14/08 04:58 PM


Get better, Harlan! \:\(

Joba Chamberlain leaves Yankees to be with ailing father
 Quote:

NEW YORK (AP)—Yankees reliever Joba Chamberlain left the team after his father collapsed at his home in Lincoln, Neb., the Daily News reported Monday on its Web site.

Harlan Chamberlain was hospitalized Monday at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln. Hospital spokeswoman Jo Miller said the family requested that no further information be released. The Daily News said he was in critical condition, according to a nursing supervisor.

Joba Chamberlain’s sister called the Yankees during the eighth inning of New York’s 8-5 loss at Boston on Sunday night. The newspaper said the reliever spoke with his sister after the game and broke into tears, and manager Joe Girardi tried to console him.

Chamberlain, the Yankees’ primary setup man, planned to return to Nebraska rather than accompany the Yankees to St. Petersburg, Fla., for a series against Tampa Bay starting Monday night.

Harlan Chamberlain had polio when he was 9 months old, and uses a motorized scooter. He is deaf in one ear and without full use of his left arm.

Harlan Chamberlain raised Joba as a single dad. He attended New York’s season opener earlier this month, and was at last week’s series in Kansas City.
Posted By: MaryCas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/08 12:31 PM

Last night ESPN had a crawl announcing that Joba Chamberlain was on bereavement leave. I took that as meaning his father died, but I guess bereavement can refer to attending to a sick relative. On the Yankees website the current announcement (6:14 pm 4/14/08) says that "Yankees reliever Joba Chamberlain left the team after Sunday's game to tend to his ailing father and has been placed on the Major League bereavement list." He's in critical condition.

Tough going for the Chamberlain family. \:\(
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/08 02:44 PM

Yes, I'm a Yankee hater...but I feel very bad for Chamberlain. He is a genuinely likeable guy, and I remember his father making it to some games. I wish his father a full recovery, and hope Joba returns the team soon.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/15/08 03:03 PM

His dad must be a pretty amazing guy. He was stricken with polio as an infant (plus has other health issues from what I understand), yet he raised Joba all by himself, and seems to have done a pretty great job.

The win last night was fairly miraculous. The 7th inning was like the inning from hell that would never end. Thanks to Cano and Rivera, they pulled it off, but it was too close for comfort.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/08 03:28 PM

Astronaut makes first-pitch history

NEW YORK -- It was one short toss for mankind, and one giant leap for the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry.

NASA astronaut Dr. Garrett Reisman threw out a ceremonial first pitch from the International Space Station prior to the Yankees' game against the Red Sox on Wednesday, the first ceremonial first pitch thrown from space in Yankee Stadium's history.

It was, as you would only expect from a rivalry that once prominently featured Bill "Spaceman" Lee, out of this world. Reisman was displayed on the right-field video board, shown wearing a Yankees cap, a navy blue T-shirt bearing the "NY" insignia and jeans.

Floating in a walkway of the space station and introduced to cheers, Reisman said that he is enjoying his stay at the space station but looked forward to getting back with the Bleacher Creatures and cheering on his favorite Yankees like Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter and Robinson Cano.

"There are many nations and there is only one universe, and it's a Yankee universe," Reisman said, drawing more cheers before uncorking a pitch that floated past the camera.

Reisman, 40, docked at the International Space Station on March 12, carrying dirt from the Yankee Stadium pitcher's mound, a Yankees banner and a hat autographed by Yankees principal owner George M. Steinbrenner.

"Launching on the Space Shuttle and living aboard the International Space Station is a once-in-a-lifetime experience," Reisman said in a statement released through the club. "But as a lifelong Yankees fan, throwing out the first pitch at a Yankees-Red Sox game is also a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

"I am really honored to have this opportunity in such a historic season in the House that Ruth Built, and I would like to thank the Yankees for being so supportive of our mission up here in space. From earth's orbit, but still deep inside the Yankees universe, let me say, 'Go Yanks!'"

The first pitch from the International Space Station was actually not the first in Major League Baseball. The Red Sox set one up last year with NASA astronauts Michael Lopez-Alegria and Suni Williams live at Fenway Park for the Sept. 16 game against New York.

Lopez-Alegria was following Wednesday's event with interest, and he noted in an email to MLB.com that this actually was the third time a ceremonial first pitch in Major League Baseball has been thrown from space. The first one, he said, was in conjunction with Game 5 of the 1995 World Series between the Braves and Indians at Jacobs Field.

"I was one of a seven-person crew performing a microgravity research mission on Columbia," Lopez-Alegria recalled. "They showed video of the pitch coming at the camera that we had recorded on board on the big screen at the field, and then a ball landed in center field. We took hats from both the Indians and the Braves on that mission. I still have the Braves hat (gave the Indians hat to Mike Hargrove who was the manager at the time) when I got to throw out a real first pitch at Jacobs Field the following season."

This also was a continuation of MLB's cooperation with NASA to make baseball the interstellar pastime. Major League Baseball Advanced Media has worked with NASA to provide MLB.com Gameday Audio feeds that have been uplinked to the Space Station to keep astronauts such as Lopez-Alegria updated on their favorite teams whenever time is allowed amidst their experiments.

Yankees players reacted with amusement to the news that a Yankee Stadium ceremonial first pitch would actually be tossed from outer space.

"It'd have to be a pretty long throw, wouldn't it?" said infielder Morgan Ensberg, who attempted in vain to remember his physics schooling at the University of Southern California, trying to figure out how a baseball would react if tossed out of the space station itself.

Outfielder Johnny Damon grinned and said, "It would be cool if it ever happened," moments before he was informed that he would actually have the opportunity to watch one on the right-field video board Wednesday.

Damon makes his home in Orlando, Fla., and said that during night launches, he can see the Space Shuttle when it takes off from Cape Canaveral, leaving long fire streaks through the sky. Occasionally on re-entry, the Shuttle also creates a "sonic boom" heard miles away.

"I yelled at [my wife] Michelle the last time and said, 'Stop slamming the doors,'" Damon said.

A native of Parsippany, N.J., and a lifelong Yankees fan, Reisman is making his first trip into space as a member of the Expedition 16 and Expedition 17 crews. He is in the midst of a planned four-month stay aboard the International Space Station, which is located more than 200 miles away from the earth's surface.

Reisman conducted his first spacewalk on March 13 and is conducting numerous tasks with the International Space Station's robotic arm and robotic manipulator, Dextre. He was launched into space on March 11 aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour and is scheduled to return aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in June.

Reisman was originally selected by NASA as a mission specialist in 1998 when he began his astronaut training. In June 2003, Reisman was a crew member on NEEMO V, living on the bottom of the sea in the Aquarius habitat for two weeks.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/08 03:29 PM

Chamberlain's father improving

NEW YORK -- Joba Chamberlain's father's health had significantly improved by Wednesday afternoon, according to Yankees manager Joe Girardi, and Chamberlain could rejoin the Yankees' bullpen by the end of the week.

"There are still some more tests that have to be run, but, obviously, his father is doing much better than he was a couple of days ago," Girardi said.

Chamberlain, 22, left the team after Sunday's game vs. the Red Sox to return home, where his father, Harlan, was listed in critical but stable condition at Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln, Neb. The Yankees placed the right-hander on the Major League bereavement list the following day, making him ineligible to play for a minimum of three games.

The elder Chamberlain, 55, has had a history of medical ailments, including a case of polio that left him partially paralyzed and forced him to rely on a motorized scooter for transportation. After collapsing at his Lincoln home on Sunday, he was admitted to the hospital, where doctors placed him on a ventilator to help him breathe.

Chamberlain and his father are quite close, and speak daily during the season.

"His father is progressing," Girardi said. "He's about 40 to 50 percent on the ventilator. He sat up a couple of times [on Wednesday] for like a half an hour, and Joba said he's getting a little bit antsy, so that's a good sign. He's doing much better."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/17/08 03:30 PM

A-Rod makes home run history

NEW YORK -- Alex Rodriguez hit his 522nd home run Wednesday night, passing Ted Williams and Willie McCovey for 15th place on Major League Baseball's all-time list.

The Yankees' third baseman connected in the first inning off Red Sox right-hander Clay Buchholz, blasting a 1-1 offering into the visiting bullpen.

"It's pretty humbling," Rodriguez said. "I'm very excited."

The solo shot was A-Rod's fourth home run of the season. He tied Williams and McCovey on Monday at Tropicana Field with a first-inning home run off right-hander Andy Sonnanstine.

Rodriguez's drive put the Yankees ahead, 3-1, and came three pitches after Bobby Abreu's two-run homer, the second time this season that the Yankees have gone back-to-back. Rodriguez and Jorge Posada hit back-to-back home runs in Kansas City on Thursday.

"We're going to see this for a while now, him passing a lot of people," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. "He's an amazing hitter and it's really nice having him."

Next up for Rodriguez on the all-time home runs list is Jimmie Foxx, who has 534.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/19/08 01:30 AM

OMG! This is a horrible inning! 7 runs so far in this one inning! WTF????
Posted By: SC

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/21/08 10:37 PM

Gonna be a showdown in Yankeeville. Hanky Panky wants Joba in the starting rotation. Cashman wants to keep him in the bullpen.

Anyone wanna give odds on who'll win.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/08 05:42 AM

I think they should put him in the rotation too. So far Hughes and Kennedy are a combined 0-5 with a 18.46 ERA (Hughes is 0-3 with a 8.82 ERA while Kennedy is 0-2 with a 9.64 ERA). Granted these kids are young (Hughes is only 21 while Kennedy is 23) but the Yankees envision Joba as a starter in coming years anyway. They are saying he's going to be in the rotation by the end of the year. If they want to remain "somewhat" competitive, they have to have good starting pitching. Wang and Pettitte will hold their own, but they can't keep going 2 games with solid starters and 3 games with busts (Hughes, Kennedy and Mussina).
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/08 11:23 AM

This sounds familiar.

Wasn't it just last year when the Yankees were struggling (worse than they are now) and ownership flipped into panic mode while Torre and Cashman stuck to the planned course and erased a deficit and made it to the post season.

Chamberlain's time will come in due course. No need to alter it because some of the young starters have had a few rough starts to begin the season. It's still April.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/22/08 03:29 PM

And they're already 3 1/2 games behind Boston. Remember about last year too, they were too far behind to catch Boston and lost the division by only 2 games. With the competition this year from Cleveland, Detroit, and Seattle, it'll be harder this year to get in than in year's past.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/08 03:10 PM

I disagree completely. Mo is going to be retiring next year, and I firmly believe that Joba should be remain the setup man and take over as closer.

Last week without him in the bullpen shows you what it would be like without him.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/23/08 07:27 PM

I see what you're saying SB but Joba can't be too effective if the Yankees are already losing by 5 runs. I think they need help in the rotation more. They're going to lose Moose after this year (contract expires) and possibly Pettitte. That's 2 more holes to fill. Now if they transition Joba to start, they only need one more arm (C.C. from Cleveland perhaps to take over Andy as the left-hander?)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/24/08 04:53 PM

Yes, they need starters, but they also need a closer. And where are they going to get one? Mo has been on his way out for a couple of years. Why haven't they prepared? And how many times has the bullpen blown a lead???

Anyway, nice to see Moose do a good job last night.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/25/08 05:31 AM

I think they have some plan in action for post-Mo since they claim sooner or later Joba will be a started. I thought I heard a while ago that they had a closer in the minors who went to UT? I could be mistaken but this was before I ever heard of Joba Chamberlain
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/08 05:57 AM



Mo reaches 450, with no end in sight

CLEVELAND -- The remarkable aspect of watching Mariano Rivera, believes Yankees reliever Joba Chamberlain, is the consistency with which the future Hall of Fame closer plies his trade and goes about business.

Pitch after pitch, game after game, year after year, Rivera has exhibited the personal know-how and self-awareness to -- in Chamberlain's words -- "just be Mo."

"His delivery, he repeats it every time," Chamberlain said. "He knows when his arm gets out of slot. He knows what he has to do right there. That's the difference with the good ones -- he doesn't need anyone to come tell him."

Rivera recorded the 450th save of his illustrious career on Sunday at Progressive Field, hurling a perfect ninth inning with two strikeouts to preserve a 1-0 Yankees victory over the Indians. Entering Monday, Rivera had not allowed a run or a walk in nine appearances this season, recording seven saves and striking out 10 batters in 10 innings.

"It's a blessing to have the opportunities, and you have to be blessed to pitch that long to achieve [450 saves]," Rivera said. "It's not about numbers. It's about having the opportunity to help the team, because without having my teammates to give me the opportunities, I would never have that."

Rivera's 450 saves are the most in the history of the American League and third most on baseball's all-time list, trailing Trevor Hoffman (528) and Lee Smith (478).

Yankees manager Joe Girardi called the accomplishment "awfully big," considering that Rivera didn't even begin life as a closer -- he came up as a starting pitcher and then served as a setup man to John Wetteland on the Yankees' 1996 World Series-winning club, for which Girardi caught.

"He's just so consistent," Girardi said. "Mo is one of those guys that what he does doesn't really faze you. You see how good he's been and you're never really surprised by any accomplishment that he reaches."

Compared to last April, Rivera's dominance has made for an even more striking comparison. Rivera did not record his seventh save of 2007 until the Yankees' 58th game, on June 7 at Chicago.

He blew his first two save opportunities of that campaign, serving up a three-run homer to Oakland's Marco Scutaro last April 15 and allowing three runs to the Red Sox in two-thirds of an inning on April 20 at Fenway Park.

Rivera believes the key for him has been finding more regular work, allowing him to remain sharper.

"Last year, I didn't pitch at all almost in the first month," Rivera said. "Now, I have a little bit more opportunities. If you have them, you take advantage of them. I don't compare seasons to other seasons. Last year was last year. That's the way I go about business."

As his plaque in Cooperstown, N.Y., will almost surely attest one day, Rivera enjoyed his success primarily on the strength of one pitch, his cutter. Chamberlain called it "the best pitch in baseball," and having that weapon in the arsenal makes life on the job that much more enjoyable for the Yankees' catchers.

"You know the game is going to be over soon, because he's going to make it end," Jose Molina said. "You have to like that mentality. He's been around a long time, and he has that perfect movement and that perfect location."

Though everyone from the batter's box to the upper deck knows pretty much what Rivera is about to throw -- he has toyed with other pitches, but Molina said that he has called almost 100 percent cutters for Rivera since joining the team last July -- it still proves effective. Therein lies the magic of Mariano.

"You [reporters] may call it just one pitch, and the fans may think he has just one pitch," Molina said. "To me, he has seven pitches, something like that. I can call for it up, down, inside, outside, wherever we need it. We're on the same page."

"I don't care how good your curveball, changeup or slider are," Chamberlain said. "At 92, 95 and 96 [mph] sometimes, it's not going straight. That all comes down to his delivery."

Now 38 and in the first season of a three-year, $45 million contract, Rivera said that he has enjoyed the opportunity to help influence the minds of some of the Yankees' relievers.

Television cameras often catch Chamberlain and Rivera spitting sunflower seeds in the bullpen and shooting the breeze, and though Rivera doesn't pop the mid-90s nearly as often as Chamberlain does, he hopes to provide some even more valuable ammunition for the 22-year-old setup man than just plain octane.

"I want to be able to be there for them and make sure that I put something good in their minds," Rivera said. "I want them to be able to pull something out of their minds when they need it and put it to work. I like to help. I like to do good. I don't want to do something halfway. I want to do my best."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 04/29/08 06:19 AM


I can't read all that.. .all I know is, he was the best closer in the land. Until starting about 7 years ago when he'd blow ever single important game in the name of Yankees post season history!

Don't get too excited... of course he also HELPED a lot!

But year after year after year, I see him more like a nerve-wracking and sometimes heart attack-inducing Wetteland-type likely to make-it or break-it on any single pitch!

Definitely not the Ol' Mo. \:\/
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/01/08 11:19 PM

Stress fracture in Hughes' ribs will keep him out at least four weeks

NEW YORK -- Phil Hughes has a stress fracture in one of his ribs, and the New York Yankees' pitcher is expected to be sidelined until at least July.

Hughes, placed on the 15-day disabled list Thursday, had an MRI exam that revealed the stress fracture in the ninth rib on his right side. He will be shut down for four weeks and then re-evaluated. General manager Brian Cashman said the team probably can't expect the 21-year-old right-hander to return before July.

Hughes is 0-4 with a 9.00 ERA in six starts this year.

Source: ESPN
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/08 08:31 AM


We need pitching. BADLY!!

What's Kevin Brown up to? \:\/
Posted By: klydon1

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/02/08 02:09 PM

 Originally Posted By: J Geoff

We need pitching. BADLY!!

What's Kevin Brown up to? \:\/


He's hanging out with Eddie Lee Whitson, Jack McDowell and Jimmy Key. ;\)

I heard a report that Hughes' stress fracture may have resulted from a cough.

Abreu looked bad in the outfield last night. During his years in Philadelphia, he put up offensive numbers, and actually played well for a while defensively, but I got the distinct impression that winning was never important to him.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 06:27 AM

Hughes to wear glasses upon return

NEW YORK -- Phil Hughes was not even 3 years old when the movie "Major League" was released, but now the Yankees right-hander has something in common with Charlie Sheen's fictional Rick Vaughn character.

Hughes visited a Connecticut optometrist on Friday and was found to be "slightly nearsighted," he said, and was issued a prescription for glasses. Hughes could be sidelined until July with a stress fracture in his ninth rib, but when he eventually returns, he'll do so wearing a new pair of specs.

"I'll look like I went to college," Hughes said.

The 21-year-old Hughes was a first-round selection of the Yankees in the 2004 First-Year Player Draft out of Foothill High School in Santa Ana, Calif. The optometrist appointment was made after Hughes struggled to pick up signs from Chris Stewart in his most recent start, on Tuesday, before going on the disabled list, crossing up his catcher and throwing two wild pitches.

"We can't continue to go with what what we're doing, because that doesn't work," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. "Unless we get all day games."

Hughes said that he has always had some problems pitching in night games, with the Yankee Stadium lights particularly troublesome.

Hughes finds pitching with contact lenses annoying and believes that undergoing Lasik surgery would not help, so he said he will pick out a pair of sports glasses much like the ones the Tigers' Nate Robertson wore to the mound on Thursday at New York.

In the 1989 movie, Sheen's Vaughn is experiencing a streak of wildness and is about to be sent to the Minor Leagues when his manager realizes that his star rookie can't see the strike zone. A quick trip to the eye doctor fixes everything for the Tribe right-hander, and the parallel was not lost on Hughes.

"Wild Thing? With the big skull in the middle," he said, grinning.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 06:30 AM

Yankees reach 4 million tickets sold for fourth season in row, setting all-time Major League Baseball record

The Yankees announced today they have exceeded 4 million tickets sold for the 2008 season, becoming the first franchise in Major League Baseball history to reach the total in four consecutive years (2005-08).

"This achievement is a testament to our great fans," said Yankees Chief Operating Officer Lonn Trost. "In this final season of the current Yankee Stadium, we think of each remaining game as a celebration. We continue to invite our fans to the House that Ruth Built as we salute the most famous venue in sports."

Originally constructed prior to the 1923 season, Yankee Stadium was remodeled in 1974 and 1975. The club will move into a new state-of-the-art Yankee Stadium across the street from the current one in 2009.

The Yankees have surpassed the Toronto Blue Jays (1991-93) as the only other Major League team to accomplish the feat in as many as three consecutive years. The Yankees have also seen their home attendance increase in each of the last seven seasons (2001-07).

There are 68 regular season games remaining at the current Yankee Stadium.

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 06:32 AM

Yanks make Wang AL's first to six wins

NEW YORK -- Chien-Ming Wang gave the Yankees what they have so sorely needed in recent days -- a quality start from a quality pitcher.

Remaining undefeated this year, Wang became the American League's first six-game winner on Friday, scattering one run on three hits in six innings. Melky Cabrera drove in two runs as the Yankees posted a 5-1 victory over the Mariners at Yankee Stadium, snapping their three-game losing streak.

"I think you feel really good when he takes the mound," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. "He's won 38 games the last two years. Obviously, when Chien-Ming Wang takes the mound, you feel good about your chances."

The Major League leader in victories (44) since the beginning of the 2006 season, Wang washed away the bad vibes of a club handicapped by injuries and -- later Friday -- the criticism of co-chairman Hank Steinbrenner, who called the Yankees' performance through the first month-plus "disappointing."

With his club coming off a three-game sweep to the Tigers at Yankee Stadium, Wang was just the guy the home team wanted to see. New York has won the past 11 games Wang has started immediately following a Yankees loss, and he improved to 7-0 in his career against the Mariners, a team that originally courted him as a free agent.

"I just keep the game close and give my team a chance to win," Wang said.

In the midst of his best stretch as a big league pitcher, Wang tossed five scoreless innings before Ichiro Suzuki manufactured Seattle's lone run in the sixth. Suzuki singled and then stole a pair of bases before coming home on Raul Ibanez's infield groundout.

Walking two and striking out five, Wang again credited his developing slider for helping to get away from the sinker-only mode that spoiled the latter stages of his 2007 season, particularly his October. Just for comparison, Wang didn't win his sixth game last year until June 12 vs. the Diamondbacks.

"I didn't feel this good back in Spring Training," Wang said. "My control wasn't this good back in Spring Training. It just keeps getting better."

"The first few innings, his sinker wasn't that great, but his slider and changeup were really good today," catcher Jose Molina said. "From the second inning on, he picked up the sinker and had good ones going on. He got ground-ball double plays when we needed it."

Girardi said that Wang's slider, which the right-hander has worked on extensively with pitching coach Dave Eiland, is turning into a valuable weapon.

"It's been really good the last two starts," Girardi said. "What I like is the depth of it. When you get something going the other way, it just really keeps hitters off balance. He's able to throw it to left-handers as well. It's been a big pitch for him."

Since Wang made his last start, on Sunday at Cleveland, no Yankees pitcher had been able to go at least six innings while allowing three runs or fewer. But the game did not progress without a scare: Wang drew attention with one out in the fifth inning for a potential problem on his pitching hand, calling Molina out to the mound.

"I was able to grip the ball, but it wasn't that comfortable for me to release the ball," Wang said.

The Yankees determined that Wang had suffered a cramp in the meat of his pitching hand, which he eased by receiving some light hand treatment. He believed that it was due to the cold weather, and with New York leading, 3-1, Wang was lifted after completing the sixth inning at 90 pitches.

"Once he had that cramp in the hand, we just figured it's best to get him out," Girardi said. "It's a close ballgame, and if it cramps up and he makes a mistake with a pitch, it can cost you. He did his job, and we were allowed to use our bullpen."

Kyle Farnsworth, Joba Chamberlain and Mariano Rivera each threw one scoreless inning to close out the victory. Farnsworth in particular received a warm ovation as he walked off the field after a perfect seventh, striking out two.

"I love it," Rivera said. "I have no doubt that he can do that. He has the ability."

The Yankees took advantage of a sloppy Mariners defense, which committed four errors through the first three innings. Facing left-hander Erik Bedard, Derek Jeter reached on an error by shortstop Rafael Betancourt, moved up on a Bobby Abreu single and then scored on Hideki Matsui's RBI single to left.

New York tacked on two more in the second. Morgan Ensberg reached on an error by third baseman Adrian Beltre and moved to second when he was caught stealing but second baseman Jose Lopez dropped the ball. Cabrera brought Ensberg and Alberto Gonzalez home on a two-run double to left, staking the Yankees to a 3-0 lead.

"That's what you have to do, especially against a guy like Erik Bedard, who has been very tough," Girardi said. "You're not going to get a ton of opportunities against that guy when he's on his game. He's got really good stuff, and we took advantage."

The Yankees padded their lead in the eighth, when Ensberg touched Sean Green for an RBI single and Molina hit a sacrifice fly. Bedard took a tough-luck loss, allowing four hits and three runs (one earned) in seven innings, walking one and striking out six.

But the star of the evening was Wang, who continues to make Chamberlain -- for one -- look good after the boisterous 22-year-old threw out a few laudatory preseason predictions.

"I told everyone from the get-go, he's going to have a better year than he's had the previous two, just from the work he does," Chamberlain said. "As soon as we put some runs up, you know as a guy in the bullpen that you'd better be ready, because it's going to be a short night for those guys."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 04:34 PM

I'm going to the game on Tuesday against the Indians! Pettitte's pitching
Posted By: pizzaboy

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 04:36 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I'm going to the game on Tuesday against the Indians! Pettitte's pitching


My condolences. \:p

Take the Deegan south to the Bruckner, then head northeast, get off at Country Club Road and join me for dinner. No Irish food though.
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 04:48 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
I'm going to the game on Tuesday against the Indians! Pettitte's pitching


Cheer for the Tribe Irish. I know I will be.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 05:19 PM

I hope this isn't my last time in the House that Ruth Built. I'd love to go once more before the season ends but I don't know when I'll be in New York again.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 10:03 PM

I'm going to the game against Seattle on the 23rd.

Irish, don't you have a spare couple of grand to dole out for a ticket to the All Star game??
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 10:05 PM

How did you get lucky enough to get tickets SB? I hope you have an awesome time.

You still have the option of catching a game in Baltimore you know. \:\)
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 10:21 PM

My friend's brother has a friend who won the lottery and bought himself season tickets. He wasn't going to the game, so I was able to buy them. They're field level by the right field foul pole. It's my daughter's birthday, so I'm sending in the form to get a birthday message on the scoreboard. It's only $10, but they don't guarantee it.

I've always wanted to see a game at Camden Yards. But I hear there's some crazy local young woman who doesn't like other Jeter-lovers in the crowd. ;\)
Posted By: Beth E

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 10:25 PM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe

I've always wanted to see a game at Camden Yards. But I hear there's some crazy local young woman who doesn't like other Jeter-lovers in the crowd. ;\)
'

That crazy woman lives with a Jeter-lover everyday and she survives somehow.

I think as long as she's got a never ending supply of beer she'll behave herself.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/03/08 10:29 PM

Hmmmmm....beer...(in best Homer Simpson voice).
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/08 04:40 AM

 Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
I'm going to the game against Seattle on the 23rd.

Irish, don't you have a spare couple of grand to dole out for a ticket to the All Star game??


Yeah, let me just dip into my "funds" I can barely make my student loan payments. I'd love to go but I know it's not going to happen. Oh well, I just want to go to he Stadium at least twice this season
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/08 05:25 PM

Yanks send struggling Kennedy to minors, recall Rasner

NEW YORK -- Struggling pitcher Ian Kennedy was sent to the minor leagues Sunday by the New York Yankees, who purchased Darrell Rasner's contract from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

The Yankees promised patience with their young pitchers this season, but Kennedy was optioned to Triple-A after going 0-2 with an 8.37 ERA in six games, including five starts.

"I was kind of surprised," Kennedy said. "But it's bound to happen if you don't win, especially here."

The 23-year-old right-hander lasted 4 2/3 innings in his most recent outing Thursday night against Detroit and got little help from his defense while squandering a 3-0 lead. He was expected to fill a slot at the back of New York's rotation this year and acknowledged he was disappointed about being demoted.

"I just feel like I was making progress," said Kennedy, who went 1-0 with a 1.89 ERA in three starts for the Yankees late last season. "I know that I don't have as much confidence as I had last September."

The move opened a roster spot for Rasner, who was set to start Sunday's series finale against the Seattle Mariners in place of the injured Phil Hughes.

The Yankees plan to give Rasner, 4-0 with a 0.87 ERA in five outings at Triple-A, another start Friday or Saturday in Detroit. Kei Igawa could be called up from Triple-A to pitch in that series as well.

"That's the way we're leaning right now," general manager Brian Cashman said.

Igawa was 2-3 with a 3.58 ERA at Triple-A going into Sunday's scheduled start against Durham. The Yankees spent $46 million to bring him over from Japan before last season and the left-hander finished a disappointing 2-3 with a 6.25 ERA in 14 games, including 12 starts.

To make room for Rasner on the 40-man roster, the Yankees transferred reliever Brian Bruney (right foot) from the 15-day disabled list to the 60-day DL.

As for Kennedy, he hopes to be back in the big leagues soon. The Yankees said that simply depends on how well he pitches in the minors.

"To me, this is just a little detour in his career," manager Joe Girardi said. "He just needs to iron out some things."

Source: ESPN
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/04/08 05:30 PM

 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Yeah, let me just dip into my "funds" I can barely make my student loan payments. I'd love to go but I know it's not going to happen. Oh well, I just want to go to he Stadium at least twice this season


Have fun at the game on Tuesday Irish. Hopefully they will show the game on TV here.

Go Tribe
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/08 01:00 AM

Rasner pitched well today for a Seattle sweep. I hope they play that well against Seattle when I see them in a few weeks.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/05/08 04:31 AM

 Originally Posted By: Mignon
 Originally Posted By: Irishman12
Yeah, let me just dip into my "funds" I can barely make my student loan payments. I'd love to go but I know it's not going to happen. Oh well, I just want to go to he Stadium at least twice this season


Have fun at the game on Tuesday Irish. Hopefully they will show the game on TV here.

Go Tribe


Thanks Mig, I'm definitely looking forward to the game. At least Pettitte is pitching so they have a shot at winning
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/08 04:36 PM

Well the game was a lot of fun last night. They lost which MAJORLY sucks but we still had fun nonetheless. We had great seats (MVP main box 15) and I was extremely happy I finally got to see Joba pitch. I plan on going back again this year if I can. I took plenty of pictures and will post them when I get them developed (probably won't be for a while but I'll do it).
Posted By: Mignon

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/08 04:51 PM

Sorry 'bout the loss Irish. I'm glad that you had a good time. I watched some of it on tv.

Looking forward to seeing the pic's.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/08 04:53 PM

Funny thing is Mig, two Indians fans were sitting in our same section about 5 rows in front of us. Let's just say they weren't noisy for very long during the game.
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/08 05:29 PM

Pettite pitched a great game, too, so it was really a tough loss. Ah, well, maybe Joba won't be so anxious to shake off his catcher next time.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/07/08 05:38 PM

Joba just couldn't locate any of his pitches last night. He was bringing the heat but if it's out of the zone, it's not going to do him much good.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/11/08 02:41 AM

Another one bites the dust:

Betemit headed to 15-day DL

DETROIT -- Yankees infielder Wilson Betemit left Saturday's game at Comerica Park in the fourth inning with a strained right hamstring, and he will be placed on the 15-day disabled list.

Facing Tigers right-hander Jeremy Bonderman, Betemit doubled over the head of center fielder Curtis Granderson, scoring Robinson Cano. Betemit appeared to pull up after rounding the first-base bag, and he immediately called time once the play was complete.

"He changed gears before first and second when he saw Granderson fall down," manager Joe Girardi said after the Yankees beat the Tigers, 5-2. "That's when it grabbed."

The 25-year-old Betemit was 5-for-12 since being reinstated from the disabled list on Wednesday, missing 17 team games with corneal conjunctivitis. To replace Betemit on the 25-man roster, the Yankees plan to recall infielder Alberto Gonzalez from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre before Sunday's game.

Betemit was batting .270 with one home run and two RBIs in 10 games for New York this season. Girardi said that no MRI had been scheduled, and that Betemit would travel with the team to St. Petersburg after Sunday's game as it continues its seven-day road trip.

While the Yankees wait for Alex Rodriguez to return from a strained right quadriceps, Morgan Ensberg and Gonzalez will fill in at third base. Girardi said the Yankees would decide on a day-by-day basis which player would start.

The DL has proved to be an all-too-frequent destination for Yankees players as of late. An MRI taken on right-hander Jonathan Albaladejo revealed that he left Friday's game with a mild sprain of his right ulnar collateral ligament and a mild strain of his posterior capsule.

The injury for Albaladejo will not require surgery, but he will need more than two weeks of rehabilitation at the club's Spring Training facility in Tampa, Fla. He left the team after Friday's game to have the MRI taken in New York.

The Yankees are also operating with catcher Jorge Posada plus pitchers Brian Bruney, Phil Hughes and Jeff Karstens on the DL

"Obviously, you go through streaks that you don't enjoy going through," Girardi said. "It's opportunities for other people to shine."

Source: Yankees
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/08 01:56 AM

I KNEW Matusi would hit that homerun! Tied 1-1 in the top of the 9th
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/14/08 10:32 AM

Well, that was painful.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/15/08 03:03 AM

Well at least they broke the streak tonight. Moose pitched surprisingly well.
Posted By: Irishman12

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/08 12:50 AM

Crap, the game got rained out! mad
Posted By: Sicilian Babe

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/17/08 02:26 PM

My husband got a call last night from a friend who has an extra ticket to today's game. Lucky man. He's going to see the Yankees twice in one week!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/08 04:39 PM


Testing...

Yankees Suck!!!!
Posted By: Yogi Barrabbas

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/08 04:47 PM

Our live game in the UK last night was Yankees v Mets.

Yankees got spanked.

Even to my inexperienced baseball eye i would say they are on a bad run!
Posted By: J Geoff

Re: How bout them Yankees!? - 05/19/08 06:25 PM


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