[Disclaimer: I didn't watch this game so here goes a titillating review of the box score.]
The Good
The Yanks not only win a close game, they do so in extra innings. Jeter played the entire game which means everyone who watched the game was treated to 12 innings of unadulterated gangster. That's a lot of gangster, I'm sure they need a break. Also good, Farnsworth pitched a whole inning without giving up a run.
The Bad
Ramirez gave up his first run of the season, a solo home run to Cuddyer in the seventh which tied the game at six. He also allowed one of the runners he inherited from Wang to score. Wang's performance was less than stellar, but the offense bailed him out.
The Ugly
Let's face it, Edwar Ramirez is ugly. Also, that error by Minnesota, in whatever inning that was, was hands down the ugliest play I've ever read a sentence fragment about on MLB Gameday. I mean honestly, learn to field the position. If I want to watch little league I'll watch little league, I don't need to see the Minnesota Twins playing like that. I guess in the world of Twins, Minnesota is Devito, not Schwarznegger.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. The Yanks again failed to hit any homeruns. The Twins had one but we're not that charitable.
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 7hr = $7.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 11hr = $11.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $54.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Joba to Start on Tuesday
Joba will start on Tuesday for the first time in his major league career. Some people, who I assume have eaten a lot of paint chips in their day, believe Joba should remain in his eighth inning role for the rest of his life. The best argument I've heard is as follows:
In games where the Yanks score a lot of runs, say 6 or 7, it doesn't make a difference whether you have Joba giving up only two runs or a Mussina type giving up four. You'll still win those games. But it's the 1-2 or 2-3 games that you need to win to get to October and to another World Series and in those games you need to lock down the later innings.
This makes sense until you realize that you only have games that close if you have starters that will hold opposing teams to 1 or 2 runs. Joba, it is presumed, will do that more often than the Mussina types, so you don't get close games without strong starting pitching. You have to find out what Joba has as a starter. If he sucks you can easily put him back in the bullpen.
We certainly had some good relievers during our run of championships in the late 90s. Stanton, Nelson, Lloyd: all good relievers. None of them however struck fear in opposing teams. They were not 7th and 8th inning Mariano Riveras. You need strong starting pitching to win in October and a strong closer. The middle inning guys are important, but they have to be good not great. We have enough guys in the bullpen to put together an 8th inning. Joba is simply more valuable to the team as a starter.
What do you guys think? Keep in mind, that if you disagree with me, the presumption is that you eat paint chips.
In games where the Yanks score a lot of runs, say 6 or 7, it doesn't make a difference whether you have Joba giving up only two runs or a Mussina type giving up four. You'll still win those games. But it's the 1-2 or 2-3 games that you need to win to get to October and to another World Series and in those games you need to lock down the later innings.
This makes sense until you realize that you only have games that close if you have starters that will hold opposing teams to 1 or 2 runs. Joba, it is presumed, will do that more often than the Mussina types, so you don't get close games without strong starting pitching. You have to find out what Joba has as a starter. If he sucks you can easily put him back in the bullpen.
We certainly had some good relievers during our run of championships in the late 90s. Stanton, Nelson, Lloyd: all good relievers. None of them however struck fear in opposing teams. They were not 7th and 8th inning Mariano Riveras. You need strong starting pitching to win in October and a strong closer. The middle inning guys are important, but they have to be good not great. We have enough guys in the bullpen to put together an 8th inning. Joba is simply more valuable to the team as a starter.
What do you guys think? Keep in mind, that if you disagree with me, the presumption is that you eat paint chips.
Message From Marty Appel
We received the following message from Marty Appel and thought it a good idea to share with you, our readers. For any collectors out there, or any readers with kids, this will be of interest:
"As you probably know I was the Yankees publicist for many years and remain close to the team now…..and have also gotten "seasoned" enough to be considered a bit of a historian when it comes to the Yanks.
"So I wanted to make your readers aware of an Upper Deck card product called Yankee Stadium Legacy – a 6,661 card set, with one card representing every Yankee home game ever played in Yankee Stadium (plus a few extras for Papal visits, boxing, etc.).
"It is the largest card set ever produced (Guinness Book worthy), and an amazing research project.
"The cards are inserted into various Upper Deck baseball products, and will continue into next year so that the 2008 MLB season is included.
"More information is at www.OwnTheLegacy.com. Is it impossible to collect the full set? It's certainly a challenge. Also, fans can register the codes on the back of the cards at the website to be included in a Yankee Dream sweepstakes for a chance to win tickets to the All-Star Game, the last regular-season game and the first 2009 home game."
Here is an image of one of the cards from Marty:
"As you probably know I was the Yankees publicist for many years and remain close to the team now…..and have also gotten "seasoned" enough to be considered a bit of a historian when it comes to the Yanks.
"So I wanted to make your readers aware of an Upper Deck card product called Yankee Stadium Legacy – a 6,661 card set, with one card representing every Yankee home game ever played in Yankee Stadium (plus a few extras for Papal visits, boxing, etc.).
"It is the largest card set ever produced (Guinness Book worthy), and an amazing research project.
"The cards are inserted into various Upper Deck baseball products, and will continue into next year so that the 2008 MLB season is included.
"More information is at www.OwnTheLegacy.com. Is it impossible to collect the full set? It's certainly a challenge. Also, fans can register the codes on the back of the cards at the website to be included in a Yankee Dream sweepstakes for a chance to win tickets to the All-Star Game, the last regular-season game and the first 2009 home game."
Here is an image of one of the cards from Marty:
Friday, May 30, 2008
Mussina Bounces Back in Yankees Win
The Good
Mike Mussina recovered from a four run first inning which included an error by Shelley Duncan on a potential inning ending double play and a ball hit to A-Rod that probably should have been fielded for an out. Mussina pitched 5 scoreless innings after the first and got the win, his eighth. Abreu, A-Rod and Matsui combined for 9 of the Yankees' 16 hits. Melky, who has been slumping of late, also had 3 hits of his own.
The Bad
The error in the first was the seventh error behind Mussina this season, the most behind any Yankee pitcher. That has to stop. The offense made up for it as did Moose, but the defense needs to improve behind him.
The Ugly
Melky sliding into first in the eight to beat out a throw. That is simply unacceptable. We can't have our best fielding outfielder getting hurt on a play that doesn't even help him get to the base faster. You slide into other bases to avoid tags, that's not an issue at first. Also ugly was the pitch Farnsworth threw to Morneau in the eighth that ended up over the fence. It was way up and Morneau crushed it. Keep those pitches down Farnsy!
The Charity
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. The Yankees had 16 hits tonight and not one was a homerun. I blame Baseball's rampant random drug testing.
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 7hr = $7.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 11hr = $11.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $54.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Mike Mussina recovered from a four run first inning which included an error by Shelley Duncan on a potential inning ending double play and a ball hit to A-Rod that probably should have been fielded for an out. Mussina pitched 5 scoreless innings after the first and got the win, his eighth. Abreu, A-Rod and Matsui combined for 9 of the Yankees' 16 hits. Melky, who has been slumping of late, also had 3 hits of his own.
The Bad
The error in the first was the seventh error behind Mussina this season, the most behind any Yankee pitcher. That has to stop. The offense made up for it as did Moose, but the defense needs to improve behind him.
The Ugly
Melky sliding into first in the eight to beat out a throw. That is simply unacceptable. We can't have our best fielding outfielder getting hurt on a play that doesn't even help him get to the base faster. You slide into other bases to avoid tags, that's not an issue at first. Also ugly was the pitch Farnsworth threw to Morneau in the eighth that ended up over the fence. It was way up and Morneau crushed it. Keep those pitches down Farnsy!
The Charity
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. The Yankees had 16 hits tonight and not one was a homerun. I blame Baseball's rampant random drug testing.
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 7hr = $7.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 11hr = $11.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $54.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
The Roberto Alejandro Era Begins
Just as Fidel passed on the duties to governance to his brother Raul, my brother Fernando has passed on the administration of this blog to me, Roberto. (are the same first initials a coincidence? I think not!). There will be many reforms that will last for the next week. They are as follows:
Those who can afford them will now be allowed to purchase dvd players, computers, and other household electronics.
when posting links in the comments we use the following code:
< a href="">some word to click on< /a>
Note: there should be no space between the "<" and the first "a" or the "/". I had to do it that way or the text editor would automatically encode it when I posted. Between the quotation marks place the website address you are linking to, otherwise there's a good chance the web link will get cut off if you just past it directly into your comment as opposed to creating a link.
All comments must begin with a paragraph praising my glorious management of the blog. Okay, just kidding, but it should be an interesting week. My brother really is the heart and soul of this blog and you probably miss him already. I'll try my best to stick to baseball but I cannot promise a lack of digressions into politics and monkey armies that control robots with their minds.
Mussina's pitching today for the Yanks, hoping for 6 innings, no more than 3 runs allowed, and that the offense shows up.
Also, I wanted to point out that former major leaguer Doug Glanville writes a regular column for the New York Times sports section on baseball. They're pretty interesting and I'm sure if you go nytimes.com and do a search for Doug Glanville that his columns will come up. He's a good writer. Granted, he went to an ivy league university so he damn well better be a good writer. The latest one was an insider's take on baseball brawls. It was pretty interesting and I recommend it.
Those who can afford them will now be allowed to purchase dvd players, computers, and other household electronics.
when posting links in the comments we use the following code:
< a href="">some word to click on< /a>
Note: there should be no space between the "<" and the first "a" or the "/". I had to do it that way or the text editor would automatically encode it when I posted. Between the quotation marks place the website address you are linking to, otherwise there's a good chance the web link will get cut off if you just past it directly into your comment as opposed to creating a link.
All comments must begin with a paragraph praising my glorious management of the blog. Okay, just kidding, but it should be an interesting week. My brother really is the heart and soul of this blog and you probably miss him already. I'll try my best to stick to baseball but I cannot promise a lack of digressions into politics and monkey armies that control robots with their minds.
Mussina's pitching today for the Yanks, hoping for 6 innings, no more than 3 runs allowed, and that the offense shows up.
Also, I wanted to point out that former major leaguer Doug Glanville writes a regular column for the New York Times sports section on baseball. They're pretty interesting and I'm sure if you go nytimes.com and do a search for Doug Glanville that his columns will come up. He's a good writer. Granted, he went to an ivy league university so he damn well better be a good writer. The latest one was an insider's take on baseball brawls. It was pretty interesting and I recommend it.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Find Me in the Wind
Tomorrow I am traveling to Lagos, Nigeria where I plan to do some work with Hope Worldwide. For those who are unfamiliar with Hope worldwide, they provide a lot of volunteer opportunities both globally and locally. They provided me the opportunity to help in the rebuilding efforts in New Orleans, and those were some great experiences. I definetely recommend anyone interested in doing some volunteer work to get involved with HOPE. If you're interested in donating money, there are links on their page for that. 91.5% of donated money goes to program expenses and they've been awarded 4 stars by Charity Navigator for sound fiscal management. It's the 6 consecutive time they've received a 4 star rating.
So for the next two weeks, the blog will be in the very capable hands of my brother Roberto Alejandro, and the ever absent Deron Peter whose been keeping a low profile since the Mitchell Report. I will try to check in every now and again, but no promises. My brother will take on the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly segments after games, though the ugly is in reference to his FACE!!! OH snap!!! You just got faced on your own blog!! You walked right into that one. Man, get an ice pack, I know that one hurt.
Anyway, keep up the gangster in my absence.
So for the next two weeks, the blog will be in the very capable hands of my brother Roberto Alejandro, and the ever absent Deron Peter whose been keeping a low profile since the Mitchell Report. I will try to check in every now and again, but no promises. My brother will take on the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly segments after games, though the ugly is in reference to his FACE!!! OH snap!!! You just got faced on your own blog!! You walked right into that one. Man, get an ice pack, I know that one hurt.
Anyway, keep up the gangster in my absence.
Alarming News For All Humanity
I just saw a terrifying headline at NYTimes.com. Apparently, monkeys have learned to control robots with their thoughts. For millenia homo sapiens have been at the top of the food chain, using our advanced weapons technology to keep all up and comers at bay. But now, with this turn of events, I fear our time has ended. We can fight monkeys no problem, but monkeys controlling robots? That may be a threat we are unable to overcome. God help us all.
[sorry, it's an off day]
[sorry, it's an off day]
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Yankees Break Orioles' Brooms
The Good
Yankees broke up the sweep with a Jason Giambi homerun and a 3 hit night from Damon. Jeter hit a sac fly to bring in a run, and both Matsui and Cabrera had 2 hits a piece. Pettitte was amazing with 6.2 innings of 2 run ball, and Chamberlain continued his trip to the rotation with 1.1 innings that were followed by more pitches in the bullpen. Mariano threw another scoreless inning for his 13th save of the year.
The Bad
5 Yankees went hitless including the meatiest part of the lineup with Abreu and A-Rod combining to go 0-8. Cano also had an 0-4 night.
The Ugly
The question was asked of Pettitte about what he thought if they would need to bring him out after 5 or 6 innings to let Chamberlain get his innings up. Pettitte said something to the effect of "Tell Chamberlain to try and take this ball from me and see what happens. I'll pancake a youngen." I thought it was an odd thing for him to say, but it was kind of gangster.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Giambi has been showing his great concern for Children's Health by hitting his 2nd homerun in as many days. Thank you Giambi:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 7hr = $7.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 11hr = $11.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $54.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Yankees broke up the sweep with a Jason Giambi homerun and a 3 hit night from Damon. Jeter hit a sac fly to bring in a run, and both Matsui and Cabrera had 2 hits a piece. Pettitte was amazing with 6.2 innings of 2 run ball, and Chamberlain continued his trip to the rotation with 1.1 innings that were followed by more pitches in the bullpen. Mariano threw another scoreless inning for his 13th save of the year.
The Bad
5 Yankees went hitless including the meatiest part of the lineup with Abreu and A-Rod combining to go 0-8. Cano also had an 0-4 night.
The Ugly
The question was asked of Pettitte about what he thought if they would need to bring him out after 5 or 6 innings to let Chamberlain get his innings up. Pettitte said something to the effect of "Tell Chamberlain to try and take this ball from me and see what happens. I'll pancake a youngen." I thought it was an odd thing for him to say, but it was kind of gangster.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Giambi has been showing his great concern for Children's Health by hitting his 2nd homerun in as many days. Thank you Giambi:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 7hr = $7.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 11hr = $11.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $54.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
No One Informs Pitchers That Batting Practice Ended
The Good
The offense was as good as we've seen. 4 different players hitting homeruns, 5 Yankees having multiple hits, offense scoring 9 runs. Abreu had a great throw 'em out play at home that got the Yankees out of the 8th inning unscathed. Ramirez-Farnsworth-Rivera combined to pitch 4.2 innings of scoreless relief. The running game made somewhat of a comeback with Jeter, A-Rod, and Damon all swiping a base.
The Bad
Ian Kennedy gave up 4 runs in 3 innings. The Yankees ran into some bad luck with hard hit balls getting lined to players for outs. Matsui's hit in the 8th was like that. Ohlendorf was way off with his 2.1 innings of 4 run ball, and Hawkins lost the game by serving up a 2 run hit to Cintron.
The Ugly
I agree with Girardi that the game should have been stopped before Matsui's at bat. Matsui did manage to pound that ball, but right at Millar. I usually don't feel this way about a game, but it just didn't seem winnable. Every time we got ahead they would come right back. We had some good plays to limit them, but any opportunity we had (Jeter standing on second, or A-Rod's hard hit groundout) didn't bear any results. After some consecutive good outings, Hawkins has been plain awful of late.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Good night for Children's Health but not for the Yankees. A-Rod, Damon, Abreu, and Giambi all hit homeruns for the cause:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 7hr = $7.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 10hr = $10.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $53.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
The offense was as good as we've seen. 4 different players hitting homeruns, 5 Yankees having multiple hits, offense scoring 9 runs. Abreu had a great throw 'em out play at home that got the Yankees out of the 8th inning unscathed. Ramirez-Farnsworth-Rivera combined to pitch 4.2 innings of scoreless relief. The running game made somewhat of a comeback with Jeter, A-Rod, and Damon all swiping a base.
The Bad
Ian Kennedy gave up 4 runs in 3 innings. The Yankees ran into some bad luck with hard hit balls getting lined to players for outs. Matsui's hit in the 8th was like that. Ohlendorf was way off with his 2.1 innings of 4 run ball, and Hawkins lost the game by serving up a 2 run hit to Cintron.
The Ugly
I agree with Girardi that the game should have been stopped before Matsui's at bat. Matsui did manage to pound that ball, but right at Millar. I usually don't feel this way about a game, but it just didn't seem winnable. Every time we got ahead they would come right back. We had some good plays to limit them, but any opportunity we had (Jeter standing on second, or A-Rod's hard hit groundout) didn't bear any results. After some consecutive good outings, Hawkins has been plain awful of late.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Good night for Children's Health but not for the Yankees. A-Rod, Damon, Abreu, and Giambi all hit homeruns for the cause:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 7hr = $7.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 10hr = $10.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $53.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Yankee Offense Tired From Busy Weekend, Takes Memorial Day Off
The Good
Rasner dealt to the tune of 6 innings of 1 run ball. He was a little shaky early on getting his pitch count up, but he managed to escape the big innings. Matsui was still hot going 3-4, but perhaps the greatest piece of offense came from Chad Moeller who knocked in a run in the 9th. It was some clutch hitting though unfortunately the Yankees still found themselves down 5 runs. I've been saying since 2005 that the Yankees are one Chad Moeller away from winning a world championship. Now that we have Moeller, there's nothing more to do but win that world championship.
The Bad
Unfortunately, Hawkins and Veras gave up 5 runs in relief. That may have been okay if the Yankee offense had decided to show up. But if we get a day off, why shouldn't they? Memorial day isn't celebrated in Japan, thus Matsui's performance, but every other player didn't miss the holiday.
The Ugly
How do you lose a 6 inning 1 run performance by your starter? How do you blow that opportunity? And against Olson?
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns today as I had hoped for. They just better be saving them for the win streak they're going to begin tomorrow:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 6hr = $6.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 9hr = $9.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $49.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Rasner dealt to the tune of 6 innings of 1 run ball. He was a little shaky early on getting his pitch count up, but he managed to escape the big innings. Matsui was still hot going 3-4, but perhaps the greatest piece of offense came from Chad Moeller who knocked in a run in the 9th. It was some clutch hitting though unfortunately the Yankees still found themselves down 5 runs. I've been saying since 2005 that the Yankees are one Chad Moeller away from winning a world championship. Now that we have Moeller, there's nothing more to do but win that world championship.
The Bad
Unfortunately, Hawkins and Veras gave up 5 runs in relief. That may have been okay if the Yankee offense had decided to show up. But if we get a day off, why shouldn't they? Memorial day isn't celebrated in Japan, thus Matsui's performance, but every other player didn't miss the holiday.
The Ugly
How do you lose a 6 inning 1 run performance by your starter? How do you blow that opportunity? And against Olson?
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns today as I had hoped for. They just better be saving them for the win streak they're going to begin tomorrow:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 6hr = $6.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 9hr = $9.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $49.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Yankees Make Mariners Cry in Completing Sweep
The egos of the Mariners were already bruised after a four run eighth inning in which their closer gave up the lead to a now dominating Yankees offense. But it was the Yankees words after the game that really got to them. "Giambi called me a circus freak as he walked off the field," said Richie Sexson, tears forming in his eyes, voice quivering. "It's not my fault I'm this tall," he continued. Ichiro sat at his locker looking quite distraught. "Matsui yelled that my English sucks. It really hurt. Matsui doesn't even speak English, how could he know that?." The most hurtful words, however, were reserved for J.J. Putz, the Mariners closer who lost them the game. "Mariano came up to me after the game and told me that I was a great pitcher and to keep working on it. That would be fine, but he said it so sarcastically. Jeter wouldn't stop laughing. It was so humiliating. Then Melky told me my English sucks, he doesn't even speak English, how could he know that?" It seems that after a slow start the Yankees are out for blood. They're not just going after wins, they want your self esteem. Baltimore beware!
Yankees Complete Sweep
The Good
Jeter got his first hit since getting hit on the hand. It was an RBI double. Molina had a pair of hits. Edwar Ramirez pitched 1.2 innings of scoreless relief, and Mariano closed the game with a 2 strikeout save. Further more, this is the first Yankee late inning comeback of this proportion this season. I know the Mariners aren't the strongest team, but we did it against J.J. Putz whose a good closer. This was the best game of the weekend.
The Bad
Chien Ming Wang pitched 6.1 innings where he gave up 5 runs. He threw a lot of pitches and he just struggled to be effective. Either way, it set up our comeback.
The Ugly
Matsui came in the 8th to pinch hit for Duncan and he hit a grounder back towards Putz who made a pretty good diving play to grab the ball. Matsui hustled down the line and Putz, in a rush to get rid of the ball, threw it away. It was an ugly throw, where he double clutched from his knees as he was falling off balance to get the throw off. Oh well, ugly for the Mariners means runs for us.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns yesterday. I think Melky's due though:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 6hr = $6.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 9hr = $9.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $49.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Jeter got his first hit since getting hit on the hand. It was an RBI double. Molina had a pair of hits. Edwar Ramirez pitched 1.2 innings of scoreless relief, and Mariano closed the game with a 2 strikeout save. Further more, this is the first Yankee late inning comeback of this proportion this season. I know the Mariners aren't the strongest team, but we did it against J.J. Putz whose a good closer. This was the best game of the weekend.
The Bad
Chien Ming Wang pitched 6.1 innings where he gave up 5 runs. He threw a lot of pitches and he just struggled to be effective. Either way, it set up our comeback.
The Ugly
Matsui came in the 8th to pinch hit for Duncan and he hit a grounder back towards Putz who made a pretty good diving play to grab the ball. Matsui hustled down the line and Putz, in a rush to get rid of the ball, threw it away. It was an ugly throw, where he double clutched from his knees as he was falling off balance to get the throw off. Oh well, ugly for the Mariners means runs for us.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns yesterday. I think Melky's due though:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 6hr = $6.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 9hr = $9.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $49.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Mariners Drowned By Sea of Runs Part Two
The Good
Monster games by Abreu, Giambi, Matsui, Cabrera and Cano. Giambi and Abreu both hit homeruns, and Cano hit 3 doubles. Giambi's taking it the other way with ease, and that has to be a good sign for him. If there was doubt before, I think it is now clear that Cano has smashed his slump. That was a 4-4 game for him. Veras pitched a perfect ninth, and Chamberlain began his stretching out process by throwing 2 innings of scoreless relief. I'm sure the Yankees wanted at least 3 innings out of him, but he wasn't as efficient as you'd like. I guess that's what happens when your dusting off your other pitches.
The Bad
Since getting hit on the hand Jeter is 0 for his last 13 including his 0-5 tonight. Mussina wasn't sharp in his 5 inning 4 run outing though he did seem to settle down after he got rocked in the 3rd. Farnsworth gave up a two-run shot further complicating his candidacy for the 8th inning.
The Ugly
9th inning, 2 outs, and Beltre batting, Veras throws a nasty pitch that the umpire hesitated on before calling the strikeout. All us fans cheered as the Yankee players started gathering in the infield, "New York, New York" started playing and then all of a sudden, all the players ran back to their positions and they started playing some more. It took a few more pitches before Beltre grounded out to really end the inning. All of us in the stands had no idea what occurred, but when we got home we read that it was only strike two. It didn't help that the Yankee scoreboard had Beltre at 2 strikes before Veras' nasty pitch, which I think confused everyone from the players, to the stadium workers, to the umpires, to the fans.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Giambi and Abreu hit homeruns tonight to help Children' health:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 6hr = $6.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 9hr = $9.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $49.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Monster games by Abreu, Giambi, Matsui, Cabrera and Cano. Giambi and Abreu both hit homeruns, and Cano hit 3 doubles. Giambi's taking it the other way with ease, and that has to be a good sign for him. If there was doubt before, I think it is now clear that Cano has smashed his slump. That was a 4-4 game for him. Veras pitched a perfect ninth, and Chamberlain began his stretching out process by throwing 2 innings of scoreless relief. I'm sure the Yankees wanted at least 3 innings out of him, but he wasn't as efficient as you'd like. I guess that's what happens when your dusting off your other pitches.
The Bad
Since getting hit on the hand Jeter is 0 for his last 13 including his 0-5 tonight. Mussina wasn't sharp in his 5 inning 4 run outing though he did seem to settle down after he got rocked in the 3rd. Farnsworth gave up a two-run shot further complicating his candidacy for the 8th inning.
The Ugly
9th inning, 2 outs, and Beltre batting, Veras throws a nasty pitch that the umpire hesitated on before calling the strikeout. All us fans cheered as the Yankee players started gathering in the infield, "New York, New York" started playing and then all of a sudden, all the players ran back to their positions and they started playing some more. It took a few more pitches before Beltre grounded out to really end the inning. All of us in the stands had no idea what occurred, but when we got home we read that it was only strike two. It didn't help that the Yankee scoreboard had Beltre at 2 strikes before Veras' nasty pitch, which I think confused everyone from the players, to the stadium workers, to the umpires, to the fans.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Giambi and Abreu hit homeruns tonight to help Children' health:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 6hr = $6.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 9hr = $9.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $49.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Sorry For The Lack of Updates
My brother is visiting me here in NYC and we went to today's game and yesterday's. As a result, there hasn't been much time for blogging. Joe Girardi didn't manage the first game we were at, a fact we learned later. He was suspended for arguing balls and strikes in the game before. Apparently, managers aren't allowed to do that anymore. The Mariners have pretty much slept walk through the last couple games. I'd say they suck but it just seems unnecessary at this point. Cruel even. Just thought I'd explain where we've been the last few days. Rumors were starting to circulate about our demise at the hands of beloved children's books characters. Those rumors are not true.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Mariners Drowned By Sea of Runs
The Good
The offense really came alive tonight. 13 runs, and every Yankee contributed somehow. Shelley Duncan got it started with a 3-run homerun, but Giambi was equally impressive stroking an opposite field double and going 2-3 with 2 walks. Matsui, Abreu and Cano all had multiple hits as well, and the hard hitting Chad Moeller knocked in a pair of runs. Pettitte wasn't the sharpest we've seen, but good enough for 6 innings of 2 run ball with a whopping 9 strikeouts. Hawkins pitched 2 innings of scoreless relief and Ramirez closed out the game with a shaky inning where he nonetheless got the job done.
Jeter had one really good base running play between third and home which allowed Arod and Abreu to move up to second and third. Heads up base running.
Further more, after misplaying two balls hit his way, Matsui bounced back by making a catch in left and throwing out the runner at home for a double play. Moeller showed his irreplaceable talent by putting the tag down.
It was free hat day at the stadium....I got a free hat. It was awesome.
The Bad
Ensberg has some incredible warning track power. I'd love to see him push some the extra 9 feet necessary for a homerun.
The Ugly
13-2 was ugly for the Mariners. The game got pretty boring after 5th, but we tried to stick it out. We ended up leaving the game in the bottom of the 8th while Arthur Rhodes was warming up. I walked by and shouted "Maybe tomorrow Rhodes!" to which he slammed down his hat and kicked his glove at his catcher. It was odd to see a professional ball player act like that. Okay that might not have happened, but you get my point.
It was also cool to see the physical anomaly that is R.A. Dickey pitch. You just don't see knuckleballers come out of the pen any more.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Shelley Duncan hit his first homer of the season to put the Yankees up early on. I hope to see many more from him:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $47.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
The offense really came alive tonight. 13 runs, and every Yankee contributed somehow. Shelley Duncan got it started with a 3-run homerun, but Giambi was equally impressive stroking an opposite field double and going 2-3 with 2 walks. Matsui, Abreu and Cano all had multiple hits as well, and the hard hitting Chad Moeller knocked in a pair of runs. Pettitte wasn't the sharpest we've seen, but good enough for 6 innings of 2 run ball with a whopping 9 strikeouts. Hawkins pitched 2 innings of scoreless relief and Ramirez closed out the game with a shaky inning where he nonetheless got the job done.
Jeter had one really good base running play between third and home which allowed Arod and Abreu to move up to second and third. Heads up base running.
Further more, after misplaying two balls hit his way, Matsui bounced back by making a catch in left and throwing out the runner at home for a double play. Moeller showed his irreplaceable talent by putting the tag down.
It was free hat day at the stadium....I got a free hat. It was awesome.
The Bad
Ensberg has some incredible warning track power. I'd love to see him push some the extra 9 feet necessary for a homerun.
The Ugly
13-2 was ugly for the Mariners. The game got pretty boring after 5th, but we tried to stick it out. We ended up leaving the game in the bottom of the 8th while Arthur Rhodes was warming up. I walked by and shouted "Maybe tomorrow Rhodes!" to which he slammed down his hat and kicked his glove at his catcher. It was odd to see a professional ball player act like that. Okay that might not have happened, but you get my point.
It was also cool to see the physical anomaly that is R.A. Dickey pitch. You just don't see knuckleballers come out of the pen any more.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Shelley Duncan hit his first homer of the season to put the Yankees up early on. I hope to see many more from him:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $47.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Yankees Revert to Two Run Offense and Win!
The Good
How's 3 hits for Damon and 2 hits for Matsui for starters? Easily the best part of this game was Cano's walk off single with Matsui on second and Abreu on first. Kennedy has to be given a lot of credit for his 6 inning 1 run start, though sadly he did not get a win. He was shaky in the 3rd but worked out of trouble. Veras-Farnsworth-Rivera pitched 3 scoreless innings.
The Bad
Jeter, A-Rod and Cabrera went hitless today. I was really hoping for another jack from A-Rod.
The Ugly
Girardi was heated! He was ejected from the game for arguing a strikeout by Giambi. I suspect he was still upset that they robbed A-Rod's homerun from yesterday.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns, but a solid walkoff single by Cano. Maybe they're saving their jacks for when I'm at the game tomorrow:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Total = $46.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
How's 3 hits for Damon and 2 hits for Matsui for starters? Easily the best part of this game was Cano's walk off single with Matsui on second and Abreu on first. Kennedy has to be given a lot of credit for his 6 inning 1 run start, though sadly he did not get a win. He was shaky in the 3rd but worked out of trouble. Veras-Farnsworth-Rivera pitched 3 scoreless innings.
The Bad
Jeter, A-Rod and Cabrera went hitless today. I was really hoping for another jack from A-Rod.
The Ugly
Girardi was heated! He was ejected from the game for arguing a strikeout by Giambi. I suspect he was still upset that they robbed A-Rod's homerun from yesterday.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns, but a solid walkoff single by Cano. Maybe they're saving their jacks for when I'm at the game tomorrow:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Total = $46.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Despite Slow Start Yankees Lead in One Offensive Category
It was beat writer Peter Abraham who made the observation that the Yankees lead the league in one offensive category, only by offensive I don't mean hits and runs. The Yankees appear to hold the league lead in suspensions. I guess you're off to a bad start when you have two players suspended before opening day. Latroy and Kyle are rough suspensions. I know they threw at their heads, which I'm against, but they didn't hit them, which I'm for. The safe pitch, as was discussed in a previous posts comments section, is one that pegs a player in the leg or the butt. I think the basic standard is anywhere below the shoulders and closer to the plate than Kyle's throw was. That's how they catch you. If your pitch goes behind a player there's obvious intent. But anyway, that isn't the point. The point is the Yankees are leading the league in something, and that should count for something.
Yankee Prospects
Many of our readers have been interested in the current state of the Yankee farm system. They want to know who we have coming up, who can replace Joba, who will be the next Cano and Melky. All are valuable questions that deserve full attention. Unfortunately, the Respect Jeter's Gangster blog doesn't keep up with such matters. So instead of giving you facts, and in depth scouting reports about the players in our farm system, which you can get anywhere, we're going to give you hearsay and perception based guesses. Where else besides ESPN can you get that? Here is the Respect Jeter's Gangster blog Yankee Prospect ratings:
Key:
Bubba Crosby/Kei Igawa: A player whose too good for tripple A, but not good enough for the majors.
Carl Pavano Factor: Injury risk.
Derek Jeter Factor: Gangsterdom.
All factors are rated on a scale of 1 - 10 with 1 being the lowest.
Position Players
Carmen Angelini - In his quest to become the next Derek Jeter, Angelini has been snagged by what appears to be a lack of Jeterdom. He's yet to date any famous actresses, yet to get hit on the hand by a mid 90's fastball and play the next day, and he's yet to have a strained relationship with a 3 time MVP winner. Despite his lack of Jeterdom, and despite the fact that he has the same first name as my mother, Angelini looks promising. He started off slow but has gone on a 7 game hit streak in which time he has batted .390.
Bubba Crosby Factor: Too early to say. He's very talented, but he's still at Charleston, so we need to give him more time.
Carl Pavano Factor: 2. He seems pretty sturdy for a straight from High School player.
Derek Jeter Factor: 4. Its difficult to have the same profound impact on baseball and the global community that Derek Jeter has had, but this kid is pretty good. We'll have to give him more time to develop.
Jesus Montero - Everyone knows him as the teenaged catching prospect the Yankees signed a few years back, but the kid has grown and he's developing into the potential power threat he's been touted as. Think Mike Piazza only 40 years younger. Although he's just old enough to buy those rap cd's with the parental advisory stickers on them, he's built like a tank. A Sherman if you're wondering. He's batting .308 with 5 homeruns and 34 RBI's, which is a higher RBI total than all the current Yankees combined minus Jeter, Abreu, A-Rod, Matsui, and Giambi.
Bubba Crosby Factor: 2. This kid looks like he can mash, and the fact that he's young and was not overwhelmed by being in big league camp tells me that he can handle New York.
Carl Pavano Factor: 5. He's a big guy, and catching is a difficult position. I think the younger version will be healthy, but those knees are sure to take a beating in his later years. A switch to first base would help this out a lot.
Derek Jeter Factor: 3. If this kid meets his potential he'll definetely have the better power numbers, but as we all know, Jeter doesn't rely on power. He relies on gangster. Montero, so heavily reliant on power may be anemic in his gangster. Thus the low Derek Jeter Factor.
Jose Tabata - After trying to flee from the Yankees not too long ago, Tabata has returned and has started to turn things around. On the 21st he hit his first homerun of the season going 3-6 and knocking in 4 runs. It may have been a grandslam, but I have no way of verifying outside of checking on Mike Ashmore's site, and unfortunately, that's one click too many for me right now.
Bubba Crosby Factor: 6. He has enough talent and still has some growth potential, but if he let's himself get overwhelmed, he may become a Bubba Crosby. Hopefully the coaches are staying in there with him.
Carl Pavano Factor: 6. If he gets too big, his legs will take a beating in the outfield, and he could see more quad, hamstring, calf, and groin pulls than Marty Miller.
Derek Jeter Factor: 2. He tried to run away, and gangster's never run. Even in the midst of personal melt downs. I don't count it against the kid, since he's young, and was frustrated, but I do count it against his Derek Jeter factor.
Austin Jackson - Austin Jackson also had a big game on the 21st where he had 2 hits, a homerun and a triple, and 7 RBI's. It was his third multi hit game in the last 4 that he's played. It seems like both outfield Double A prospects are heating up. I'm very curious to see who makes it up first, but the smart money says Jackson will be with the Yankees before Tabata.
Bubba Crosby Factor: 6. If his power numbers or batting average don't improve he may find himself as a 4th outfielder. Many credit his speed and defense, but we have that in Brett Gardner too. You have to hit to stay in the bigs.
Carl Pavano Factor: 7. Only because he strikes me as a Aaron Rowand/Ken Griffey type of outfielder who will not hesitate to run into walls to make plays, thus increasing his likelihood for injuries. Conversely, his Bobby Abreu Factor is very low.
Derek Jeter Factor: 7. I think his speed and lack of power will quickly give him a Derek Jeter like approach and gangster swagger. That is if he can hit for a higher average.
Pitching Prospects
Zach Kroenke - I've never seen him pitch, or heard anything about him, but his numbers look pretty good. Kroenke (which I hope is pronounced Crunk) has pitched 16.1 innings of relief this season and has a 2.76 ERA and 18 strikeouts to show for it. He's also a lefty, which the Yankees will love.
Kei Igawa Factor: 5. I'd have to see his tripple A numbers to make a fair assesment, and that's not likely to happen since I don't really follow tripple A.
Carl Pavano Factor: 3. He seems like a sturdy individual, and relief will not put as much wear on his arm as the rotation will.
Derek Jeter Factor: 5. Only because his last name can be pronounced crunk.
Scott Patterson - After the Yankees screwed Patterson out of his rightfully earned spot in the bullpen, Patterson struggled to show the magic that made him so effective in spring training. Well, that magic is back, as he hasn't allowed a run in his last 9.1 innings, bringing his ERA down to 2.70, and even recorded a save in that time. He's struck out 19 hitters in 20 innings of relief this season. He should be called up, but the Yankees seem committed to their current strategy of calling for and then denying Chris Britton a chance to pitch.
Kei Igawa Factor: 4. His velocity certainly tells me that big league hitters should be able to hit him, but his numbers in spring training suggest otherwise.
Carl Pavano Factor: 4. His funky delivery tells me that he could injure something, but he's been healthy since coming to the Yankees and he doesn't throw with the high velocity that can danger his arm.
Derek Jeter Factor: 2. If he had more gangster, he would have been on the roster out of spring training. I still hope to see him, but they've skipped him every chance they've had. I suspect there's a conspiracy involved, but that's another post for another day.
Daniel McCutchen - Recently promoted to Scranton after making double A look easy, McCutchen is being considered for the bullpen once Joba goes to being a starter. In double A McCutchen recorded a 2.52 ERA with 46 strikeouts in 50 innings. His 46 to 15 strikeouts to walks ratio paints the picture of a man who throws strikes except for the cases that those 15 batters got walked. Seems obvious right? Wrong. He threw strikes in those cases too, but it didn't work out. Actually, I can't back that up. I should also state that he walked 5 batters in his last outing where he lasted only 4 innings. His worst of the season. Despite that bad outing his numbers still look good, so that should tell you something.
Kei Igawa Factor: 1. This guy looks like he can pitch.
Carl Pavano Factor: 4. As a starter he may need to be careful, but all in all I think he'll be alright.
Derek Jeter Factor: 5. If he dominates out of the bullpen, then we will credit his gangster, if not than there's not much we can do.
Kei Igawa - His 3.76 ERA would be decent if it weren't for the $46 million the Yankees invested in him to preferably have him pitch in the majors. His Kei Igawa factor is fairly high, due in part to him being Kei Igawa. He's left handed, which makes him a precious commodity, just not in the United States. I don't get the whole left handed thing personally. I know lefties are highly regarded, but its not as if you're going to throw a lefty out there, and have big league players not know what to do. What do they expect? Is an MLB player going to step into the batters box and be like "Oh, no, I've never seen a ball released from that side of the plate before. I'm baffled at the angle at which this ball is approaching me. I want to swing, but simply can't pull the trigger I'm so confused. I have no choice but to take strike 3, and sit this ball game out. C'mon guys, let's forfeit. This guys pitching from the wrong side of the plate. There's no way we can win."
Kei Igawa Factor: 10.
Carl Pavano Factor: 1. Its hard to get injured when you only last 4 innings per start.
Derek Jeter Factor: 8. Surprised? Despite how awful he's been he's still the highest paid Scranton player, and managed to get $26 million dollars for his bosses back in Japan. Sounds pretty gangster to me.
Key:
Bubba Crosby/Kei Igawa: A player whose too good for tripple A, but not good enough for the majors.
Carl Pavano Factor: Injury risk.
Derek Jeter Factor: Gangsterdom.
All factors are rated on a scale of 1 - 10 with 1 being the lowest.
Position Players
Carmen Angelini - In his quest to become the next Derek Jeter, Angelini has been snagged by what appears to be a lack of Jeterdom. He's yet to date any famous actresses, yet to get hit on the hand by a mid 90's fastball and play the next day, and he's yet to have a strained relationship with a 3 time MVP winner. Despite his lack of Jeterdom, and despite the fact that he has the same first name as my mother, Angelini looks promising. He started off slow but has gone on a 7 game hit streak in which time he has batted .390.
Bubba Crosby Factor: Too early to say. He's very talented, but he's still at Charleston, so we need to give him more time.
Carl Pavano Factor: 2. He seems pretty sturdy for a straight from High School player.
Derek Jeter Factor: 4. Its difficult to have the same profound impact on baseball and the global community that Derek Jeter has had, but this kid is pretty good. We'll have to give him more time to develop.
Jesus Montero - Everyone knows him as the teenaged catching prospect the Yankees signed a few years back, but the kid has grown and he's developing into the potential power threat he's been touted as. Think Mike Piazza only 40 years younger. Although he's just old enough to buy those rap cd's with the parental advisory stickers on them, he's built like a tank. A Sherman if you're wondering. He's batting .308 with 5 homeruns and 34 RBI's, which is a higher RBI total than all the current Yankees combined minus Jeter, Abreu, A-Rod, Matsui, and Giambi.
Bubba Crosby Factor: 2. This kid looks like he can mash, and the fact that he's young and was not overwhelmed by being in big league camp tells me that he can handle New York.
Carl Pavano Factor: 5. He's a big guy, and catching is a difficult position. I think the younger version will be healthy, but those knees are sure to take a beating in his later years. A switch to first base would help this out a lot.
Derek Jeter Factor: 3. If this kid meets his potential he'll definetely have the better power numbers, but as we all know, Jeter doesn't rely on power. He relies on gangster. Montero, so heavily reliant on power may be anemic in his gangster. Thus the low Derek Jeter Factor.
Jose Tabata - After trying to flee from the Yankees not too long ago, Tabata has returned and has started to turn things around. On the 21st he hit his first homerun of the season going 3-6 and knocking in 4 runs. It may have been a grandslam, but I have no way of verifying outside of checking on Mike Ashmore's site, and unfortunately, that's one click too many for me right now.
Bubba Crosby Factor: 6. He has enough talent and still has some growth potential, but if he let's himself get overwhelmed, he may become a Bubba Crosby. Hopefully the coaches are staying in there with him.
Carl Pavano Factor: 6. If he gets too big, his legs will take a beating in the outfield, and he could see more quad, hamstring, calf, and groin pulls than Marty Miller.
Derek Jeter Factor: 2. He tried to run away, and gangster's never run. Even in the midst of personal melt downs. I don't count it against the kid, since he's young, and was frustrated, but I do count it against his Derek Jeter factor.
Austin Jackson - Austin Jackson also had a big game on the 21st where he had 2 hits, a homerun and a triple, and 7 RBI's. It was his third multi hit game in the last 4 that he's played. It seems like both outfield Double A prospects are heating up. I'm very curious to see who makes it up first, but the smart money says Jackson will be with the Yankees before Tabata.
Bubba Crosby Factor: 6. If his power numbers or batting average don't improve he may find himself as a 4th outfielder. Many credit his speed and defense, but we have that in Brett Gardner too. You have to hit to stay in the bigs.
Carl Pavano Factor: 7. Only because he strikes me as a Aaron Rowand/Ken Griffey type of outfielder who will not hesitate to run into walls to make plays, thus increasing his likelihood for injuries. Conversely, his Bobby Abreu Factor is very low.
Derek Jeter Factor: 7. I think his speed and lack of power will quickly give him a Derek Jeter like approach and gangster swagger. That is if he can hit for a higher average.
Pitching Prospects
Zach Kroenke - I've never seen him pitch, or heard anything about him, but his numbers look pretty good. Kroenke (which I hope is pronounced Crunk) has pitched 16.1 innings of relief this season and has a 2.76 ERA and 18 strikeouts to show for it. He's also a lefty, which the Yankees will love.
Kei Igawa Factor: 5. I'd have to see his tripple A numbers to make a fair assesment, and that's not likely to happen since I don't really follow tripple A.
Carl Pavano Factor: 3. He seems like a sturdy individual, and relief will not put as much wear on his arm as the rotation will.
Derek Jeter Factor: 5. Only because his last name can be pronounced crunk.
Scott Patterson - After the Yankees screwed Patterson out of his rightfully earned spot in the bullpen, Patterson struggled to show the magic that made him so effective in spring training. Well, that magic is back, as he hasn't allowed a run in his last 9.1 innings, bringing his ERA down to 2.70, and even recorded a save in that time. He's struck out 19 hitters in 20 innings of relief this season. He should be called up, but the Yankees seem committed to their current strategy of calling for and then denying Chris Britton a chance to pitch.
Kei Igawa Factor: 4. His velocity certainly tells me that big league hitters should be able to hit him, but his numbers in spring training suggest otherwise.
Carl Pavano Factor: 4. His funky delivery tells me that he could injure something, but he's been healthy since coming to the Yankees and he doesn't throw with the high velocity that can danger his arm.
Derek Jeter Factor: 2. If he had more gangster, he would have been on the roster out of spring training. I still hope to see him, but they've skipped him every chance they've had. I suspect there's a conspiracy involved, but that's another post for another day.
Daniel McCutchen - Recently promoted to Scranton after making double A look easy, McCutchen is being considered for the bullpen once Joba goes to being a starter. In double A McCutchen recorded a 2.52 ERA with 46 strikeouts in 50 innings. His 46 to 15 strikeouts to walks ratio paints the picture of a man who throws strikes except for the cases that those 15 batters got walked. Seems obvious right? Wrong. He threw strikes in those cases too, but it didn't work out. Actually, I can't back that up. I should also state that he walked 5 batters in his last outing where he lasted only 4 innings. His worst of the season. Despite that bad outing his numbers still look good, so that should tell you something.
Kei Igawa Factor: 1. This guy looks like he can pitch.
Carl Pavano Factor: 4. As a starter he may need to be careful, but all in all I think he'll be alright.
Derek Jeter Factor: 5. If he dominates out of the bullpen, then we will credit his gangster, if not than there's not much we can do.
Kei Igawa - His 3.76 ERA would be decent if it weren't for the $46 million the Yankees invested in him to preferably have him pitch in the majors. His Kei Igawa factor is fairly high, due in part to him being Kei Igawa. He's left handed, which makes him a precious commodity, just not in the United States. I don't get the whole left handed thing personally. I know lefties are highly regarded, but its not as if you're going to throw a lefty out there, and have big league players not know what to do. What do they expect? Is an MLB player going to step into the batters box and be like "Oh, no, I've never seen a ball released from that side of the plate before. I'm baffled at the angle at which this ball is approaching me. I want to swing, but simply can't pull the trigger I'm so confused. I have no choice but to take strike 3, and sit this ball game out. C'mon guys, let's forfeit. This guys pitching from the wrong side of the plate. There's no way we can win."
Kei Igawa Factor: 10.
Carl Pavano Factor: 1. Its hard to get injured when you only last 4 innings per start.
Derek Jeter Factor: 8. Surprised? Despite how awful he's been he's still the highest paid Scranton player, and managed to get $26 million dollars for his bosses back in Japan. Sounds pretty gangster to me.
ARod Flexes in Yankee Win
The Good
Nothing like getting the crap kicked out of you to get your fighting spirit back up. One day after their humiliating 12-2 loss, the Yankee offense came for blood. 5 Yankees had multiple hits, Cano, Moeller, and Damon. A-Rod looks like he hasn't missed a step. He hit another homerun and two doubles, though one of those doubles was misjudged...more on that in the ugly section. Rasner pitched 7 shutout innings with 6 strikeouts, and Joba began his stretching out process by finishing the shutout with 2 innings and 3 strikeouts.
The Bad
Whenever there's a blow out like this, there's always at least one player who doesn't get invited to the hits party. Yesterday, the Yankee captain Derek Jeter and Hideki Matsui did not get their invitations. Still, one day removed from getting pegged in the hand, Jeter was able to record an RBI, score a run, and work a walk. Matsui recorded 2 walks and a run scored. Not too bad.
The Ugly
Alex Rodriguez hit his second homerun of the game, but it was close and it bounced back into the stadium so the umpires called it a double. That's the second blown homerun call at Yankee stadium in the last week. I can't prove it yet, but I suspect the umpires are not for the children.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. A-Rod hit a homerun making that 2 in the last 2 games. It really should have been 3 but the umpires, who selfishly oppose children's health, stole one away from him. He'll just have to hit them further next time:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Total = $46.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Nothing like getting the crap kicked out of you to get your fighting spirit back up. One day after their humiliating 12-2 loss, the Yankee offense came for blood. 5 Yankees had multiple hits, Cano, Moeller, and Damon. A-Rod looks like he hasn't missed a step. He hit another homerun and two doubles, though one of those doubles was misjudged...more on that in the ugly section. Rasner pitched 7 shutout innings with 6 strikeouts, and Joba began his stretching out process by finishing the shutout with 2 innings and 3 strikeouts.
The Bad
Whenever there's a blow out like this, there's always at least one player who doesn't get invited to the hits party. Yesterday, the Yankee captain Derek Jeter and Hideki Matsui did not get their invitations. Still, one day removed from getting pegged in the hand, Jeter was able to record an RBI, score a run, and work a walk. Matsui recorded 2 walks and a run scored. Not too bad.
The Ugly
Alex Rodriguez hit his second homerun of the game, but it was close and it bounced back into the stadium so the umpires called it a double. That's the second blown homerun call at Yankee stadium in the last week. I can't prove it yet, but I suspect the umpires are not for the children.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. A-Rod hit a homerun making that 2 in the last 2 games. It really should have been 3 but the umpires, who selfishly oppose children's health, stole one away from him. He'll just have to hit them further next time:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Total = $46.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Gangsta Gangsta
We here at Respect Jeter's Gangster respect Jeter's gangster. So it's important to note that a day after leaving the game after being hit on the hand by a pitch, Jeter is in the starting line up.
Also of gangster note, Chien-Ming Wang has said he will not miss a start despite a mild calf strain and A-Rod has two home-runs in two games since coming off the DL.
Cano is also 2 for 3 so far, a good sign. I was worried he was starting to slip back into his slump.
Update:
Mora left the game with a wrist injury after attempting a Joba fist pump and finding out the hard way that it isn't as easy as it looked.
Also of gangster note, Chien-Ming Wang has said he will not miss a start despite a mild calf strain and A-Rod has two home-runs in two games since coming off the DL.
Cano is also 2 for 3 so far, a good sign. I was worried he was starting to slip back into his slump.
Update:
Mora left the game with a wrist injury after attempting a Joba fist pump and finding out the hard way that it isn't as easy as it looked.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Yankees Suck
The Good
There is absolutely nothing in this life like getting your rear end handed to you by the Miguel Tejada-less Baltimore Orioles. A-Rod hit a homerun his first game back to account for the only offense the Yankees had tonight. I guess that's alright. The only good, and this is just sheer speculation, is that the Yankees can call this rock bottom and turn it around from here. I would have called the two game sweep by the Mets against our two best pitchers the rock bottom, but that's just me. Who knows, maybe tomorrow they lose 20 - 2 and tonights game will look like they really hustled.
The Bad
Pick any category and I can tell you the bad. Offense? How's 2 RBI's in 5 of our last 6 games. Cano still can't hit, and Cabrera is still slumping. Damon is extremely lackluster at the top of that lineup. Jeter's doubleplay ball in the first took out any chance of us scoring after a horrible first. 7 hits and only 1 for extra bases. Pitching? How's 2/3 of an inning from our starter Mike Mussina. Or the 12 runs given up by the parade of pitchers tonight. Defense? Well, that goes into the ugly.
The Ugly
Derek Jeter's awful throw in the first cost the Yankees 6 unearned run. He seemed upset that Cano wasn't covering the bag at second, which he should have been, but that's a routine throw to first. Make that extremely routine play, and you're out of the inning with 1 run. If Damon remembers how to field a routine fly ball, that's another 2 unearned runs that don't score. Mariano having to pitch the last inning of this game was a disgrace.
Jeter got hit by a pitch and is day to day...at least Hawkins backed him up. I'm done with these brush back pitches though. Someone just needs to get pegged.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. The only good thing about tonight is that A-Rod hasn't lost his swing. That's one more for the cause:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Total = $45.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
There is absolutely nothing in this life like getting your rear end handed to you by the Miguel Tejada-less Baltimore Orioles. A-Rod hit a homerun his first game back to account for the only offense the Yankees had tonight. I guess that's alright. The only good, and this is just sheer speculation, is that the Yankees can call this rock bottom and turn it around from here. I would have called the two game sweep by the Mets against our two best pitchers the rock bottom, but that's just me. Who knows, maybe tomorrow they lose 20 - 2 and tonights game will look like they really hustled.
The Bad
Pick any category and I can tell you the bad. Offense? How's 2 RBI's in 5 of our last 6 games. Cano still can't hit, and Cabrera is still slumping. Damon is extremely lackluster at the top of that lineup. Jeter's doubleplay ball in the first took out any chance of us scoring after a horrible first. 7 hits and only 1 for extra bases. Pitching? How's 2/3 of an inning from our starter Mike Mussina. Or the 12 runs given up by the parade of pitchers tonight. Defense? Well, that goes into the ugly.
The Ugly
Derek Jeter's awful throw in the first cost the Yankees 6 unearned run. He seemed upset that Cano wasn't covering the bag at second, which he should have been, but that's a routine throw to first. Make that extremely routine play, and you're out of the inning with 1 run. If Damon remembers how to field a routine fly ball, that's another 2 unearned runs that don't score. Mariano having to pitch the last inning of this game was a disgrace.
Jeter got hit by a pitch and is day to day...at least Hawkins backed him up. I'm done with these brush back pitches though. Someone just needs to get pegged.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. The only good thing about tonight is that A-Rod hasn't lost his swing. That's one more for the cause:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Total = $45.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Notes From Yankee Stadium
I was at the game tonight. And since it was pretty much over in the first inning (honestly Jeter, make that throw to first!) here are a few worthwhile notes from the stadium:
After the first inning (though it may have been the second) they play this cartoon theme song game where they give three choices and then ask various Yankees which they'd like to hear, and they play the song that gets the most requests from those Yankees. The options tonight were The Flintstones, The Jetsons, and Peanuts. Robbie Cano was the last person asked. His response? A most gangster, The Simpsons. Cano makes his own options. That's why he got a multi-year deal this off-season.
During the middle of the fifth the Yankees announcer (I believe its Bob Shepherd Jr. right now) draws your attention to the center field jumbo screen so you can read happy birthdays. Today is Elliot Hyman's birthday. Happy Birthday Elliot, don't ever go to junior high.
I asked the Beck's beer guy if they sell more beer when the Yanks are losing. "No," he said as he shook his head. Then he went on to tell us that when the Yanks are losing everyone complains about the prices ($9.50 for a Becks), but when they're winning no one says a word.
Its interesting sitting in the tier seats as opposed to the bleachers. A guy walked by with a Red Sox cap and no one said anything. Strange.
It was nice to see A-Rod hit a homerun in his first game back. Now if the Yankees can only figure out a way to have him hit nine times in a row, they'll be golden.
Last thing, the bench clearing incident, after Latroy Hawkins tried to murder Luke Scott was definitely the highlight of the game. The best part was the bullpen guys running across left center to get down to the goings on. My first thought was, man, it sucks to have to run that far when there isn't even a fight. My second thought was, man, the Yanks have some big guys in their bullpen. Joba, Farnsworth, Veras, Hawkins, I'd rather not be fighting when they get to the field, because then it's definitely going down.
After the first inning (though it may have been the second) they play this cartoon theme song game where they give three choices and then ask various Yankees which they'd like to hear, and they play the song that gets the most requests from those Yankees. The options tonight were The Flintstones, The Jetsons, and Peanuts. Robbie Cano was the last person asked. His response? A most gangster, The Simpsons. Cano makes his own options. That's why he got a multi-year deal this off-season.
During the middle of the fifth the Yankees announcer (I believe its Bob Shepherd Jr. right now) draws your attention to the center field jumbo screen so you can read happy birthdays. Today is Elliot Hyman's birthday. Happy Birthday Elliot, don't ever go to junior high.
I asked the Beck's beer guy if they sell more beer when the Yanks are losing. "No," he said as he shook his head. Then he went on to tell us that when the Yanks are losing everyone complains about the prices ($9.50 for a Becks), but when they're winning no one says a word.
Its interesting sitting in the tier seats as opposed to the bleachers. A guy walked by with a Red Sox cap and no one said anything. Strange.
It was nice to see A-Rod hit a homerun in his first game back. Now if the Yankees can only figure out a way to have him hit nine times in a row, they'll be golden.
Last thing, the bench clearing incident, after Latroy Hawkins tried to murder Luke Scott was definitely the highlight of the game. The best part was the bullpen guys running across left center to get down to the goings on. My first thought was, man, it sucks to have to run that far when there isn't even a fight. My second thought was, man, the Yanks have some big guys in their bullpen. Joba, Farnsworth, Veras, Hawkins, I'd rather not be fighting when they get to the field, because then it's definitely going down.
What do the Yankees Need?
We've been watching this team stumble something awful lately, and though I do believe they'll turn it around, I'm wondering what people think the solution is. What do the Yankees need? If you were Brian Cashman what move would you make? What players would you trade for? Who would you call up? Or would you leave things the way they are? Sound off in the comments section.
Update: Wanted to add some stats to paint a better picture.
Hitting
-Melky Cabrera is 4 for his last 22. Good for a .180 average.
-Ensberg has 1 homerun in 70 at bats.
-Derek Jeter has 21 RBI's and is batting .314 on the season.
-Cano is 2 for his last 11 after his 4 hit game.
-Damon is batting .250.
-Matsui is over .300 with 20 RBI's and 6 homeruns.
-Abreu leads the team with 25 RBI's, but is 3 for his last 24, good for a .130 average.
-Shelley Duncan has hit no homeruns and has 1 RBI.
-Giambi leads the team with 8 homeruns, but his average is below .200.
Pitching
-Hawkins has pitched 7.2 consecutive scoreless innings in relief.
-Ohlendorf has a 6.00 ERA.
-Ramirez has thrown 8.2 scoreless innings with 10 strikeouts thus far this season.
-Mariano has a 0.53 ERA this season.
-Pettitte has lost 4 of his last 5 games and has a 6.26 ERA in that time.
-Wang has given the Yankees 8 quality starts this season.
-Mussina has won his last 5 games.
-Ian Kennedy and Phil Hughes have given the Yankees 1 quality start a piece this season.
Update: Wanted to add some stats to paint a better picture.
Hitting
-Melky Cabrera is 4 for his last 22. Good for a .180 average.
-Ensberg has 1 homerun in 70 at bats.
-Derek Jeter has 21 RBI's and is batting .314 on the season.
-Cano is 2 for his last 11 after his 4 hit game.
-Damon is batting .250.
-Matsui is over .300 with 20 RBI's and 6 homeruns.
-Abreu leads the team with 25 RBI's, but is 3 for his last 24, good for a .130 average.
-Shelley Duncan has hit no homeruns and has 1 RBI.
-Giambi leads the team with 8 homeruns, but his average is below .200.
Pitching
-Hawkins has pitched 7.2 consecutive scoreless innings in relief.
-Ohlendorf has a 6.00 ERA.
-Ramirez has thrown 8.2 scoreless innings with 10 strikeouts thus far this season.
-Mariano has a 0.53 ERA this season.
-Pettitte has lost 4 of his last 5 games and has a 6.26 ERA in that time.
-Wang has given the Yankees 8 quality starts this season.
-Mussina has won his last 5 games.
-Ian Kennedy and Phil Hughes have given the Yankees 1 quality start a piece this season.
Lester's No-No
I have two observations to make about Lester's no-hitter. First, I have to wonder why it seems that, lately, only rookies throw no hitters. I am in no way a stat head and so I don't know if this is normal or a historical anomaly, but in the last three seasons we've seen three no hitters by rookies (Buchholz and Sanchez being the other two). Prior to tearing his Hamstring, Hughes had one going last year against the Rangers. I'm starting to wonder if the approach of the modern hitter has changed in some way so as to make unfamiliar pitching that much more difficult. We've seen it with the Yankees the last few years. Throw a AA pitcher at them who is mediocre at best and they can't muster a hit for the simple reason that they've never seen him pitch. In the 90s we saw two perfect games by veterans, now we're seeing no-hitters exclusively by rookies. Is there too much reliance on scouting? Too much reliance on video? What is it that seems to make unfamiliar hitting so much more difficult now-a-days, even for great offensive teams like recent years' Yankees?
Second, that is three no-hitters in three years by rookie pitchers developed by the Red Sox. Sanchez threw his for Florida but he came out of the Red Sox' farm system. I don't know if it's their scouting, or one of their minor league pitching coaches, but we need to poach whoever is responsible for developing these pitchers. As much as I love watching Kennedy miss the corners I'd rather see some no-hitters.
Second, that is three no-hitters in three years by rookie pitchers developed by the Red Sox. Sanchez threw his for Florida but he came out of the Red Sox' farm system. I don't know if it's their scouting, or one of their minor league pitching coaches, but we need to poach whoever is responsible for developing these pitchers. As much as I love watching Kennedy miss the corners I'd rather see some no-hitters.
Lester Throws No-No
I know, he's a Red Sox player, but its relevant. Jonathan Lester pitched a no hitter last night against the Royals. That's the second in two years for the Red Sox as Bucholz threw one last season.
At some point you have to concede that the Red Sox own this decade. The 90's were the Yankees. 4 championships, 2 perfect games, a 114 win season, we definetely dominated. I still say screw the Red Sox's decade and lets win one now. Maybe the Yankees will agree, but they're playing like they have no hope. Tonight they need to turn that around.
At some point you have to concede that the Red Sox own this decade. The 90's were the Yankees. 4 championships, 2 perfect games, a 114 win season, we definetely dominated. I still say screw the Red Sox's decade and lets win one now. Maybe the Yankees will agree, but they're playing like they have no hope. Tonight they need to turn that around.
Monday, May 19, 2008
WFAN
I don't mean to steal the thunder of the prior post, which is pretty funny so read it. But I've been meaning to mention this for a while and I don't want to forget again. If you are not from the New York area but enjoy following New York sports, I strongly suggest you go to www.wfan.com. WFAN is the local New York sports radio station and its got a lot of quality programming. Best of all, you can stream it for free from the website. I especially recommend you listen to Mike and the Mad Dog from 1 to 6:30 on weekdays.
One observation before I go: Last year, around September, October, when the Giants weren't doing so good, a lot of Giants fans would call up WFAN and whine about how Eli Manning had no fire, how he wasn't a leader, how he could never lead the team to a Super Bowl and how the Giants needed to get a new quarterback. Eli won the Super Bowl. Now everyone is calling to whine about how Willie Randolph has no fire and how he has to be fired so the Mets can finally start playing well. It just seems like a replay of the Giants drama. Mets fans, please shut up. It's May, we're not even at the all star break and you act like this team can't go on with Willie at the helm. Willie, except for last September, has been successful as the Mets manager. The worst is if the Mets turn it around, as the Giants did, I'll have to listen to the same jackasses call up and praise Randolph like they eventually did Manning. New York fans are smart, they know their teams, but my God are they emotional. They need to chill out and let the season be a little further under way before they start talking managerial changes. Just look at this last weekend. The Mets win two games and it goes from Willie won't last the weekend to his job is safe. It's a long season Mets fans, shut up for now.
One observation before I go: Last year, around September, October, when the Giants weren't doing so good, a lot of Giants fans would call up WFAN and whine about how Eli Manning had no fire, how he wasn't a leader, how he could never lead the team to a Super Bowl and how the Giants needed to get a new quarterback. Eli won the Super Bowl. Now everyone is calling to whine about how Willie Randolph has no fire and how he has to be fired so the Mets can finally start playing well. It just seems like a replay of the Giants drama. Mets fans, please shut up. It's May, we're not even at the all star break and you act like this team can't go on with Willie at the helm. Willie, except for last September, has been successful as the Mets manager. The worst is if the Mets turn it around, as the Giants did, I'll have to listen to the same jackasses call up and praise Randolph like they eventually did Manning. New York fans are smart, they know their teams, but my God are they emotional. They need to chill out and let the season be a little further under way before they start talking managerial changes. Just look at this last weekend. The Mets win two games and it goes from Willie won't last the weekend to his job is safe. It's a long season Mets fans, shut up for now.
Yankee Quad Strain Epidemic Spreads to Blog Writers
So I was playing in a friendly church frisbee tournament this weekend, and you wouldn't believe what happened. I strained my left quad. I hurt it somewhat during our warm up when someone threw a frisbee too far out of reach, and I sprinted at top speed. I felt it right away and started stretching it just like A-Rod and Jeter did. At first it felt like it needed to just be stretched to stay good. After that I could still run, just not at top speed. But then a play came in the end zone in the Final Game of the tournament where I had to change directions, stiff arm an opponent, spin move around a group of defenders, and make a quick sprint past a diving blocker, and after a tremendous catch that made men cheer and ladies swoon, my quad was officially torn. I tried to do a fist pump but couldn't muster the proper leg propulsion necessary to get my fist high into the air. I got sent out for a sub, and I kept trying to jog on the sideline in hopes to get back into the game, but the damage was done. I could only limp along and watch the rest of the game.
So let this be a warning to all of you blog writers. The spirit of Marty Miller is after your quads, and the Great Yankee Quad Epidemic could reach you soon. If it happened to Jeter, it can happen to you.
So let this be a warning to all of you blog writers. The spirit of Marty Miller is after your quads, and the Great Yankee Quad Epidemic could reach you soon. If it happened to Jeter, it can happen to you.
Yankees Awful As They Lose to Mets
The Good
The Bad
Wang went deep into the game with 7.2 innings, but he gave up 7 runs in the process. Ohlendorf got the last out of the 8th but not before giving up another 4 runs. The Yankees lost by 9 runs.
The Ugly
Delgado had a 3-run homerun taken away from him by the umpires, but the Yankees still managed to waste the opportunity and lose by a blowout. With 6 out of 9 Yankees going hitless its hard to get any momentum going. Its as we said last week after Mussina's win over the Rays, you'll lose more 2-run games than you'll win.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Hideki Matsui hit one last night for the cause:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Total = $44.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
The Bad
Wang went deep into the game with 7.2 innings, but he gave up 7 runs in the process. Ohlendorf got the last out of the 8th but not before giving up another 4 runs. The Yankees lost by 9 runs.
The Ugly
Delgado had a 3-run homerun taken away from him by the umpires, but the Yankees still managed to waste the opportunity and lose by a blowout. With 6 out of 9 Yankees going hitless its hard to get any momentum going. Its as we said last week after Mussina's win over the Rays, you'll lose more 2-run games than you'll win.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Hideki Matsui hit one last night for the cause:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Total = $44.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Yankees Stick Together
I see that the Yankees have banded together to save Willie Randolph's job. Willie may be spared after two big wins against the Yankees (I realize the game isn't over yet, but two runs is about our average offensive output at this point). There's no way the Yankees were going to let one of their own get canned like that. It's the only explanation for the Yankees' performance this weekend. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Jeter Gangster in Yankees Loss
The Good
Derek Jeter had 3 hits and 2 RBI's batting in the 3 spot. Giambi and Abreu also hit homeruns. Pettitte didn't avoid the big inning, but 3 runs over 6 innings should be good enough to win you a game. Ramirez pitched a scoreless inning. The only Yankee reliever to do so.
The Bad
The 3 runs from Farnsworth and the extra one by Chamberlain put this game out of reach for the Yankees. They don't come back to win any games, and they certainly can't score 7 runs. It would be easier for Carl Pavano to stay healthy than for this team to score 7 runs.
The Ugly
Tonights game puts the Yankees 5 games out of first. I typically don't care what the standings are at this stage in the season, but the Yankees are showing little life right now. We've lost 7 of our last 10 games. Its a miracle we're only 5 games out at this point.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. 3 Yankees hit homeruns today, but still couldn't win a game. When they hit they don't pitch, and when they pitch they don't hit:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 5 hr = $5.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Total = $43.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Derek Jeter had 3 hits and 2 RBI's batting in the 3 spot. Giambi and Abreu also hit homeruns. Pettitte didn't avoid the big inning, but 3 runs over 6 innings should be good enough to win you a game. Ramirez pitched a scoreless inning. The only Yankee reliever to do so.
The Bad
The 3 runs from Farnsworth and the extra one by Chamberlain put this game out of reach for the Yankees. They don't come back to win any games, and they certainly can't score 7 runs. It would be easier for Carl Pavano to stay healthy than for this team to score 7 runs.
The Ugly
Tonights game puts the Yankees 5 games out of first. I typically don't care what the standings are at this stage in the season, but the Yankees are showing little life right now. We've lost 7 of our last 10 games. Its a miracle we're only 5 games out at this point.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. 3 Yankees hit homeruns today, but still couldn't win a game. When they hit they don't pitch, and when they pitch they don't hit:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 5 hr = $5.00
Bobby Abreu 5hr = $5.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 2hr = $2.00
Total = $43.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Friday, May 16, 2008
We Can't Go All Day Without Posting
But we technically did since it is now 12:39am here in NYC, but perhaps for our readers in California they can get their gangster fix. Of course today's opener against the Mets was rained out. A lot of drama surrounding this series. Randolph may be the manager during the first game and not the second. Both teams suck right now so watching them should be like watching little league baseball. Jeter, is still quite gangster however. Today, he did something so gangster I can't even tell you about it. Let's just say it involved death defiance, a cliff, a damsel in distress, a can opener, and a game of jacks. Oh, and a muppet disguised as Darth Vader. It was something to behold.
Rays Better Than Yankees
The Good
Hawkins-Veras-Ramirez pitched 3 scoreless innings with Hawkins recording 3 strikeouts. Maybe he should have started the game. Melky and Jeter had 2 hit games with an RBI a piece.
The Bad
Damon's 0-5 and Giambi's 0-4 certainly didn't help. Kennedy returned with more swagger after aceing triple A hitters, but it didn't help as he went 5 innings and gave up 5 runs.
The Ugly
How about this entire series. What game are the Yankees playing? The Yankee offense has been shut down for three consecutive days by three different Rays pitchers. Kazmir is easily the Rays best pitcher, but with this Yankee team you don't need much to hold them down. We don't score runs. We don't hit with runners on base. We're barely getting on base. We have Giambi, Matsui, and Abreu and have no extra base hits to show for it. NO EXTRA BASE HITS! This isn't the National League, we're not gonna win many games this way.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns for a second consecutive day:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 5 hr = $5.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 1hr = $1.00
Total = $40.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Hawkins-Veras-Ramirez pitched 3 scoreless innings with Hawkins recording 3 strikeouts. Maybe he should have started the game. Melky and Jeter had 2 hit games with an RBI a piece.
The Bad
Damon's 0-5 and Giambi's 0-4 certainly didn't help. Kennedy returned with more swagger after aceing triple A hitters, but it didn't help as he went 5 innings and gave up 5 runs.
The Ugly
How about this entire series. What game are the Yankees playing? The Yankee offense has been shut down for three consecutive days by three different Rays pitchers. Kazmir is easily the Rays best pitcher, but with this Yankee team you don't need much to hold them down. We don't score runs. We don't hit with runners on base. We're barely getting on base. We have Giambi, Matsui, and Abreu and have no extra base hits to show for it. NO EXTRA BASE HITS! This isn't the National League, we're not gonna win many games this way.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns for a second consecutive day:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 5 hr = $5.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 1hr = $1.00
Total = $40.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
I May Eat These Words But . . .
. . . I don't think we're winning this game. Kennedy is throwing strikes, but they're ending up on the other side of the outfield fence. Meanwhile Kazmir, apparently the third cy young candidate on the team, is shutting us down completely. He's thrown a lot of pitches for a guy who's given up one run, so I don't expect him to go really far into the game, but we haven't gotten anything done against the Rays pen in the last two games, and I don't think we will now.
Minor Mechanical Flaw the Root to Cano's Batting Woe's
Robinson Cano's batting average broke .200 for the first time since the season opener in dramatic fashion going 4-4 in yesterday's game. In general Cano's average has been improving since the beginning of May. He has batted .350 since the start of May after closing April with a .151 average. What has changed? Apparently a minor mechanical flaw was found that has solved the problem. Kevin Long, the batting coach explains the issue:
"I was sitting there watching hours of video, trying to dissect his swing." Explained Long, the Yankees batting coach. "Everything seemed in place. I mean he was having great at bats, but had nothing to show for it. Then one evening I'm watching his swing and bam! The problem was so obvious."
"I was holding the bat upside down." Said Cano with an embarrased smile on his face. "I was swinging with the barrel and making contact with the handle. I'd hit it pretty hard, but its like a fungo bat. Its either a ground ball, or a pop fly."
After Kevin Long made the suggestion to hold the bat upright earlier in the month, Cano's batting average has vastly improved.
"Look, I have big hands. The barrel of the bat feels just like a handle to me. I couldn't tell the difference. I'm really glad Long made this suggestion. There's no telling how long I would have been swinging like that before I figured it out." Explained Cano.
"When your player is slumping at the plate, you look for obvious mechanical flaws. Maybe they're not turning their hips enough, or swinging with their arms too much. Sometimes you have to preach patience because they start chasing balls out of the strike zone. This one was so obvious, it took us a month to figure it out." Said Long.
"Its a shame it took us so long to figure it out, but it does make his pinch-hit homerun that much more impressive." Said Yankee skipper Joe Girardi.
To assure that this does not happen again, Long has suggested that Cano write a "This Side Up" note on the barrel of the bat, but Cano feels he's past the issue. Video footage of last season shows he started the season with the same problem, only last season Cano corrected it himself.
"I think I got." Said Cano.
"I was sitting there watching hours of video, trying to dissect his swing." Explained Long, the Yankees batting coach. "Everything seemed in place. I mean he was having great at bats, but had nothing to show for it. Then one evening I'm watching his swing and bam! The problem was so obvious."
"I was holding the bat upside down." Said Cano with an embarrased smile on his face. "I was swinging with the barrel and making contact with the handle. I'd hit it pretty hard, but its like a fungo bat. Its either a ground ball, or a pop fly."
After Kevin Long made the suggestion to hold the bat upright earlier in the month, Cano's batting average has vastly improved.
"Look, I have big hands. The barrel of the bat feels just like a handle to me. I couldn't tell the difference. I'm really glad Long made this suggestion. There's no telling how long I would have been swinging like that before I figured it out." Explained Cano.
"When your player is slumping at the plate, you look for obvious mechanical flaws. Maybe they're not turning their hips enough, or swinging with their arms too much. Sometimes you have to preach patience because they start chasing balls out of the strike zone. This one was so obvious, it took us a month to figure it out." Said Long.
"Its a shame it took us so long to figure it out, but it does make his pinch-hit homerun that much more impressive." Said Yankee skipper Joe Girardi.
To assure that this does not happen again, Long has suggested that Cano write a "This Side Up" note on the barrel of the bat, but Cano feels he's past the issue. Video footage of last season shows he started the season with the same problem, only last season Cano corrected it himself.
"I think I got." Said Cano.
Yankees Manage to Win Despite Their Best Efforts
The Good
Is anyone not surprised by Mussina? Just a couple weeks ago, everyone wanted him out of the rotation. Last night he threw 6.1 innings with 4 strikeouts and 1 run. He only threw 87 pitches which tells me he could have finished his inning, but with such a close game it was probably better to pull him out in position to win. Ohelndorf wasn't sharp, but got the double play he needed with a gangster play by Jeter. Chamberlain recorded 3 strikeouts and a walk in his inning of work, and Rivera closed the game recording his 11th save of the season. The offense wasn't particularly good, but Cano did have a 4 hit game.
The Bad
The Yankee offense has not broken out of its malaise. We won but we will lose more games with 2 runs than we'll win. This offense needs a shot in the arm, and I don't mean steroids...that goes somewhere else.
The Ugly
How about the offense? I know I mentioned them in the bad, but that's how horrible this offense has been. I know the Rays have improved, but Shields and Garza aren't Cy Young contenders. Today we face the ace of their staff, and this offense needs to show up.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns last night. A shame really:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 5 hr = $5.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 1hr = $1.00
Total = $40.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Is anyone not surprised by Mussina? Just a couple weeks ago, everyone wanted him out of the rotation. Last night he threw 6.1 innings with 4 strikeouts and 1 run. He only threw 87 pitches which tells me he could have finished his inning, but with such a close game it was probably better to pull him out in position to win. Ohelndorf wasn't sharp, but got the double play he needed with a gangster play by Jeter. Chamberlain recorded 3 strikeouts and a walk in his inning of work, and Rivera closed the game recording his 11th save of the season. The offense wasn't particularly good, but Cano did have a 4 hit game.
The Bad
The Yankee offense has not broken out of its malaise. We won but we will lose more games with 2 runs than we'll win. This offense needs a shot in the arm, and I don't mean steroids...that goes somewhere else.
The Ugly
How about the offense? I know I mentioned them in the bad, but that's how horrible this offense has been. I know the Rays have improved, but Shields and Garza aren't Cy Young contenders. Today we face the ace of their staff, and this offense needs to show up.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns last night. A shame really:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 5 hr = $5.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 1hr = $1.00
Total = $40.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Increase of Unassisted Triple Plays Attributed to Rampant Fist Pumping
I read this article on Umpbump.com where the author addresses the dramatic increase of unassisted triple plays in major league baseball. The author questions why we have had so many, relatively speaking, when whole generations of baseball fans have lived without seeing one. The only way to fully understand this phenomenon is to look at environmental causes. In other words, what in the evironment of baseball is different now, than it was in the past? The only viable answer is the fist pump.
"Look there is nothing more thrilling than the unassisted triple play fist pump." Said Asdrubal Cabrera, the latest player to turn an unassisted triple play. "I ran back into the dugout, I could barely contain myself. I was about to do it, but Dellucci stared me down. I ran into the clubhouse hallway to be out of site, and I fist pumped like never before. It was such a violent fist pump, I uppercutted the ceiling light. Sparks and chards of light bulb were falling around me, as I kept thrusting my fist and screaming 'YEAH!' in one continuous long glorious yell."
"I can remember my unassisted triple play fist pump like it was yesterday." Said long time Red Sox player and retired veteran John Valentin. "It was back in 1994. I woke up that morning and my fist was glowing. I could feel the energy, and I knew something amazing was going to happen. When I turned that triple play, I started my fist pump from the ground. I just ran my knuckles across the ground and came up big with it, thrusting it way up into the air. The feeling, man, I just can't explain it. Some go an entire career without feeling it, some claim to feel it when they haven't, but for me, I felt it, there's no fairy tale to this story. The unassisted triple play fist pump is real."
"I live for an unassisted triple play fist pump." Said White Sox shortstop Orlando Cabrera. "I can only dream it will happen."
So there you have it. Joba Chamberlain and his rampant fist pumping is to be blamed for the increase in unassisted triple plays.
"Look there is nothing more thrilling than the unassisted triple play fist pump." Said Asdrubal Cabrera, the latest player to turn an unassisted triple play. "I ran back into the dugout, I could barely contain myself. I was about to do it, but Dellucci stared me down. I ran into the clubhouse hallway to be out of site, and I fist pumped like never before. It was such a violent fist pump, I uppercutted the ceiling light. Sparks and chards of light bulb were falling around me, as I kept thrusting my fist and screaming 'YEAH!' in one continuous long glorious yell."
"I can remember my unassisted triple play fist pump like it was yesterday." Said long time Red Sox player and retired veteran John Valentin. "It was back in 1994. I woke up that morning and my fist was glowing. I could feel the energy, and I knew something amazing was going to happen. When I turned that triple play, I started my fist pump from the ground. I just ran my knuckles across the ground and came up big with it, thrusting it way up into the air. The feeling, man, I just can't explain it. Some go an entire career without feeling it, some claim to feel it when they haven't, but for me, I felt it, there's no fairy tale to this story. The unassisted triple play fist pump is real."
"I live for an unassisted triple play fist pump." Said White Sox shortstop Orlando Cabrera. "I can only dream it will happen."
So there you have it. Joba Chamberlain and his rampant fist pumping is to be blamed for the increase in unassisted triple plays.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Yankees Realize Its a Live Game in 9th Inning
The Good
Giambi had a good evening with a pair of hits and 2 walks. Matsui hit a homerun to tie the game in the 9th, and Wang pitched a stellar 7 innings of 1 run ball. They got a good number of hits off him, but couldn't quite come around to score. Chamberlain-Farnsworth-Rivera pitched 3 innings of scoreless relief.
The Bad
Where's the offense? Its ridiculous that we've been asking this question since April. We're all waiting for this 1000 run offense to suddenly emerge, and it refuses to. I'm not convinced that the Yankees can't score more than 1 run in a game without A-Rod and Posada.
The Ugly
Ladies and gentleman. Boys and girls. It is with great regret that I must inform you that the Great Earned Run Race is over. Mariano gave up his first run of the season after posting one scoreless inning in the 10th, his 16th overall. He had yet to record an out when he gave up his first run in the 11th. To make matters worse, Soria closed tonight's game for the Royals recording his 9th save of the season. The race is over, and Soria has won. Give it to both of them. 15 scoreless innings is not easy.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Matsui hit his 5th jack of the season to tie the game in the 9th. Although they went on to lose the game, it was still clutch. Some extra good news is that I noticed we had Matsui at 3 homeruns going into tonights game when he really had 4. That means that 2 homeruns are added to Matsui's total. 2 Homeruns for Matsui and the rest of the Yankee offense can't do anything:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 5 hr = $5.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 1hr = $1.00
Total = $40.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Giambi had a good evening with a pair of hits and 2 walks. Matsui hit a homerun to tie the game in the 9th, and Wang pitched a stellar 7 innings of 1 run ball. They got a good number of hits off him, but couldn't quite come around to score. Chamberlain-Farnsworth-Rivera pitched 3 innings of scoreless relief.
The Bad
Where's the offense? Its ridiculous that we've been asking this question since April. We're all waiting for this 1000 run offense to suddenly emerge, and it refuses to. I'm not convinced that the Yankees can't score more than 1 run in a game without A-Rod and Posada.
The Ugly
Ladies and gentleman. Boys and girls. It is with great regret that I must inform you that the Great Earned Run Race is over. Mariano gave up his first run of the season after posting one scoreless inning in the 10th, his 16th overall. He had yet to record an out when he gave up his first run in the 11th. To make matters worse, Soria closed tonight's game for the Royals recording his 9th save of the season. The race is over, and Soria has won. Give it to both of them. 15 scoreless innings is not easy.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Matsui hit his 5th jack of the season to tie the game in the 9th. Although they went on to lose the game, it was still clutch. Some extra good news is that I noticed we had Matsui at 3 homeruns going into tonights game when he really had 4. That means that 2 homeruns are added to Matsui's total. 2 Homeruns for Matsui and the rest of the Yankee offense can't do anything:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 5 hr = $5.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 1hr = $1.00
Total = $40.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Mighty Mets Toppled By Softball Girls
Its difficult for a professional baseball player to call another teams players "softball girls" when said softball girls just scored 6 runs off of you. But that did not stop the ever classy Nelson Figueroa after yesterday's game with the Nationals. Figueroa was upset that they were cheering and celebrating in the dugout as they went on to beat the Mets yesterday. I guess cheering from the dugout can be added to fist pumps as things baseball players shouldn't do. Here are some quotes from the article:
"They were cheerleading in the dugout like a bunch of softball girls,"
"If that's what a last-place team needs to do to fire themselves up, so be it. They need to show a little more class and professionalism."
"They won tonight, but in the long run they are still who they are,"
"Even for the manager and the coaching staff to let that stuff carry on, it's truly unprofessional."
They are who they are...a last place team, that much is true. And I suppose you could say that the Mets are who they are...a 3rd place team with a huge chip placed on their collective shoulders by Philadelphia last season. Let the kids have their fun. If they're truely not a threat to you then why take issue with it?
"They were cheerleading in the dugout like a bunch of softball girls,"
"If that's what a last-place team needs to do to fire themselves up, so be it. They need to show a little more class and professionalism."
"They won tonight, but in the long run they are still who they are,"
"Even for the manager and the coaching staff to let that stuff carry on, it's truly unprofessional."
They are who they are...a last place team, that much is true. And I suppose you could say that the Mets are who they are...a 3rd place team with a huge chip placed on their collective shoulders by Philadelphia last season. Let the kids have their fun. If they're truely not a threat to you then why take issue with it?
Not Worth It
Yesterday's game doesn't deserve a Good, Bad, and Ugly review, but I'll try my best:
The Good
Two of the Yankees who showed up for optional batting practice earlier in the day had good games. Molina went 1-3, and Gonzalez went 2-3. Cano and Jeter also went 1-3, but they didn't come for the practice. Cano's batting average is slowly rising. He's at .188 now.
The Bad
The offense. 4 Yankees had 0 hits in that lineup including the 3 & 4 hitters, Abreu and Matsui. Molina had the only extra base hit of the game with a double.
The Ugly
Pettitte's start. Don't get me wrong, I love Andy Pettitte, but he just didn't allow the Yankees a chance to win. He gave up 5 runs in 4 innings of work. Britton followed him with 2 innings of 1 run ball, which is okay I guess. Veras and Ramirez pitched the remaining 2 innings giving up another run. I think its time to bring up Patterson.
This team is extremely inconsistant. I would have thought Rasner's latest start would be a huge boost for the team, but this is how they follow it up. They have yet to piece together a 4 game winning streak this season.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No bombs for the bombers yesterday:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 1hr = $1.00
Total = $38.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
The Good
Two of the Yankees who showed up for optional batting practice earlier in the day had good games. Molina went 1-3, and Gonzalez went 2-3. Cano and Jeter also went 1-3, but they didn't come for the practice. Cano's batting average is slowly rising. He's at .188 now.
The Bad
The offense. 4 Yankees had 0 hits in that lineup including the 3 & 4 hitters, Abreu and Matsui. Molina had the only extra base hit of the game with a double.
The Ugly
Pettitte's start. Don't get me wrong, I love Andy Pettitte, but he just didn't allow the Yankees a chance to win. He gave up 5 runs in 4 innings of work. Britton followed him with 2 innings of 1 run ball, which is okay I guess. Veras and Ramirez pitched the remaining 2 innings giving up another run. I think its time to bring up Patterson.
This team is extremely inconsistant. I would have thought Rasner's latest start would be a huge boost for the team, but this is how they follow it up. They have yet to piece together a 4 game winning streak this season.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No bombs for the bombers yesterday:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 1hr = $1.00
Total = $38.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Fun With Ellipses
Check out the following quotes from Pete Abe:
"The Yankees are engaged in optional batting practice at the moment at Tropicana Field. Here’s how you can tell it’s optional. Alberto Gonzalez, Jose Molina, Chad Moeller and Shelley Duncan are the only players here . . . the other guys are lazy dogs."
Take that Yankees!
Check out the following from The New York Times The New York Times:
"When asked what he would do differently at the plate as a cleanup hitter, Jeter said, 'I’m not going to try . . .'"
There you have it folks, the media is in universal agreement, the Yanks are lazy and don't try. I for one consider this treatment of our venerated team shameful and uncalled for.
"The Yankees are engaged in optional batting practice at the moment at Tropicana Field. Here’s how you can tell it’s optional. Alberto Gonzalez, Jose Molina, Chad Moeller and Shelley Duncan are the only players here . . . the other guys are lazy dogs."
Take that Yankees!
Check out the following from The New York Times The New York Times:
"When asked what he would do differently at the plate as a cleanup hitter, Jeter said, 'I’m not going to try . . .'"
There you have it folks, the media is in universal agreement, the Yanks are lazy and don't try. I for one consider this treatment of our venerated team shameful and uncalled for.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Today's Game a Doozie
The TBS broadcast of today's game was blacked out here in NYC. Presumably it's because we have the YES Network, but if you're like me and don't get the YES Network the blackout is a bit of a pain in the arse. Granted, the game was rained out which I attribute to divine punishment for the blackout. I'm sure they were forced to broadcast some lame game nobody cares about. Then again, I wouldn't know on account of the blackout. The worst part was that when they black out the channel they broadcast CNN Headline news instead. As much as I would like to watch the same pointless headlines every half hour I'd much rather they give me something worth watching when they black out the local team. How about HBO? Or more realistically, the Discovery Channel or something like that. Hell, I'd take WE over Headline news. At least WE doesn't feign relevance. So that's today's game's recap (three apostrophe Ss in a row!).
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Rasner Sharp Against Detroit
The Good
As the title indicates, Rasner was sharp against Detroit allowing 2 runs over 6 innings for a win. It was good for him to pitch those 6 innings since Igawa only lasted 3 yesterday, and the bullpen would have struggled to do it again. Jeter hit his first homerun of the season. Giambi and Cano both went 1-3 with a walk, with Giambi also knocking in a run. Farnsworth-Chamberlain-Rivera pitched 3 innings of scoreless relief though Farnsworth was somewhat shaky. Rivera recorded his 10th save of the season, and has yet to allow an earned run. For those interested in the Great Earned Run Race, that makes 15 scoreless innings for Mo. If the Royals first inning is any indication of how that game will go, Soria will probably not have a chance to match.
The Bad
Cano had the opportunity to do some damage in the first inning with the bases loaded and Bonderman being as shaky as he was. He had already walked two guys to bring in a run. Instead of sitting on a few pitches and making him throw strikes, he instead swings at the first pitch he deemed hittable, and grounded into a double play. If the Yankees hadn't gone on to score more runs, that at bat may have come under more scrutiny.
The Ugly
As was mentioned previously, Betemit blew a hammy legging out a double. The hit scored a run, but Betemit looks to be out for some time. I preferred the attorney general any way.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Today, the Captain, Derek Jeter, hit his first homerun of the season to help the cause:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 1hr = $1.00
Total = $38.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
As the title indicates, Rasner was sharp against Detroit allowing 2 runs over 6 innings for a win. It was good for him to pitch those 6 innings since Igawa only lasted 3 yesterday, and the bullpen would have struggled to do it again. Jeter hit his first homerun of the season. Giambi and Cano both went 1-3 with a walk, with Giambi also knocking in a run. Farnsworth-Chamberlain-Rivera pitched 3 innings of scoreless relief though Farnsworth was somewhat shaky. Rivera recorded his 10th save of the season, and has yet to allow an earned run. For those interested in the Great Earned Run Race, that makes 15 scoreless innings for Mo. If the Royals first inning is any indication of how that game will go, Soria will probably not have a chance to match.
The Bad
Cano had the opportunity to do some damage in the first inning with the bases loaded and Bonderman being as shaky as he was. He had already walked two guys to bring in a run. Instead of sitting on a few pitches and making him throw strikes, he instead swings at the first pitch he deemed hittable, and grounded into a double play. If the Yankees hadn't gone on to score more runs, that at bat may have come under more scrutiny.
The Ugly
As was mentioned previously, Betemit blew a hammy legging out a double. The hit scored a run, but Betemit looks to be out for some time. I preferred the attorney general any way.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Today, the Captain, Derek Jeter, hit his first homerun of the season to help the cause:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Derek Jeter 1hr = $1.00
Total = $38.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Betemit Pulls Hammy
After hitting a double in the third inning of today's game Betemit pulled a hammy on his way from first to second. I didn't want to see the guy get hurt, but when I turned the game on in the bottom of the third and saw him come up to bat I also didn't want him to be playing third. He scored Robinson Cano with that double and I'm happy for that, but his play at third yesterday was enough to make me not want to see him out there. As terrible as it sounds, I can't help but think the injury is a bit of a blessing in disguise.
Friday, May 9, 2008
What Just Occured?
The Good
5 Yankees had two hit games, including Cano, who hit a double and a single and knocked in a run. Giambi hit his 7th homerun of the season. The Yankees did come back from a 6-1 deficit to lose 6-5, which I suppose counts for something......or nothing, I don't know. Albaladejo-Hawkins-Ramirez combined for 6 innings of scoreless relief with 4 strikeouts.
The Bad
3 errors in a game we lost by one run is not good. Not to mention that Albaladejo came out injured after pitching a pretty good 2.1 innings of relief. Chris Britton will be called back up. This is just a thought here, but perhaps the Yankees should use him? No?
The Ugly
Eventually you need to concede that you threw away $46 million. Its not anything new really. Remember Carl Pavano? I'm just saying that Igawa doesn't have it. Trade him to the National League where he might have a chance to succeed. Send him to the Nationals, they seem to find a way to get good results from these kind of players. All I'm saying is I don't ever want to see Igawa pitch for the Yankees again. If all of a sudden he picks up a 95 mph fastball, then I might be interested, but until then Scranton seems to be a good home for him.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Giambi hit his 7th jack of the season to pass Cabrera for the team lead. Good for him:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Total = $37.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
5 Yankees had two hit games, including Cano, who hit a double and a single and knocked in a run. Giambi hit his 7th homerun of the season. The Yankees did come back from a 6-1 deficit to lose 6-5, which I suppose counts for something......or nothing, I don't know. Albaladejo-Hawkins-Ramirez combined for 6 innings of scoreless relief with 4 strikeouts.
The Bad
3 errors in a game we lost by one run is not good. Not to mention that Albaladejo came out injured after pitching a pretty good 2.1 innings of relief. Chris Britton will be called back up. This is just a thought here, but perhaps the Yankees should use him? No?
The Ugly
Eventually you need to concede that you threw away $46 million. Its not anything new really. Remember Carl Pavano? I'm just saying that Igawa doesn't have it. Trade him to the National League where he might have a chance to succeed. Send him to the Nationals, they seem to find a way to get good results from these kind of players. All I'm saying is I don't ever want to see Igawa pitch for the Yankees again. If all of a sudden he picks up a 95 mph fastball, then I might be interested, but until then Scranton seems to be a good home for him.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Giambi hit his 7th jack of the season to pass Cabrera for the team lead. Good for him:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Total = $37.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
When Fist Pumping is Inappropriate
With all the controversy surrounding Joba Chamberlain's fist pumps, much of the sports viewing world has become unsure of when fist pumping is appropriate. As always, the Respect Jeter's Gangster blog has your back. Here are some situations you don't want to pump your fist in:
1) When a girl says she'll go on a date with you.
2) When your wife says dinner with the in laws is canceled.
3) When you finish a six pack by yourself.
4) When you finish your fourth plate at a chinese buffet.
5) When your kids game is rained out, and you can now watch the Yankee game you really wanted to see.
6) When you hear of Pavano's next injury.
7) When your boss calls out sick.
8) When you're a shortstop not named Derek Jeter.
9) When your wifes annoying pet gets hit by a truck.
10) When you switch your car insurance to Geico.
Here are some situations you are allowed to pump your fist in:
1) When the Yankees win.
2) When you finish a final exam.
3) When the cruiser pulls the guy behind you over, even though you were going faster.
4) When you meet Derek Jeter in person.
5) When they pull Igawa out of tonights game.
6) When your rent check doesn't bounce.
7) When you purchase a Respect Jeter's Gangster t-shirt.
8) When your wife says the theater performance you were going to was canceled.
9) When Mariano beats Soria in the Great Earned Run Race.
10) When you finish reading this post.
1) When a girl says she'll go on a date with you.
2) When your wife says dinner with the in laws is canceled.
3) When you finish a six pack by yourself.
4) When you finish your fourth plate at a chinese buffet.
5) When your kids game is rained out, and you can now watch the Yankee game you really wanted to see.
6) When you hear of Pavano's next injury.
7) When your boss calls out sick.
8) When you're a shortstop not named Derek Jeter.
9) When your wifes annoying pet gets hit by a truck.
10) When you switch your car insurance to Geico.
Here are some situations you are allowed to pump your fist in:
1) When the Yankees win.
2) When you finish a final exam.
3) When the cruiser pulls the guy behind you over, even though you were going faster.
4) When you meet Derek Jeter in person.
5) When they pull Igawa out of tonights game.
6) When your rent check doesn't bounce.
7) When you purchase a Respect Jeter's Gangster t-shirt.
8) When your wife says the theater performance you were going to was canceled.
9) When Mariano beats Soria in the Great Earned Run Race.
10) When you finish reading this post.
Washington: Where Fringe Players Go to Thrive
I was looking at the Nationals depth chart, and I saw two things that amazed me. First, former Yankee one game starter, Tim Redding was holding a 3.20 ERA with a 4-2 record and 27 strikeouts for the Nationals. In his one start with the Yankees back in 2005, he lasted 1 inning, and gave up 6 earned runs. Further more, I came across former Yankee catcher Wil Nieves who was batting .353 with a homerun and 8 rbi's. This is the same Wil Nieves who batted .164 for us last season. It was just last year that Dmitri Young bounced back from a rocky time with Detroit and won the NL Comeback Player of the Year, batting .320. Remember Alfonso Soriano? He hit .268 with 36 homeruns, and 30 stolen bases for the Rangers in 2005, who play in a hitter friendly ball park. The next season, in pitcher friendly Nationals park, he hit .277 with 41 homers, and 41 stolen bases on his way to his first 40-40 season. I don't know what it is about the Nationals, but they really get the most out of their players.
In a completely unrelated note, Kansas City's closer Joakim Soria is surprisingly matching Mariano Rivera in numbers this year. Mariano has thrown 14 innings, and has recorded 9 saves with 12 strikeouts and has yet to allow an earned run. Soria has thrown 13.1 innings with 8 saves, 15 strikeouts, and has also yet to allow an earned run. So now its on. The Respect Jeter's Gangster blog has initiated the Great Earned Run Race. Its much like a foot race only the first to cross the finish line loses. Who will give up the first earned run of 2008? Only time will tell.
In a completely unrelated note, Kansas City's closer Joakim Soria is surprisingly matching Mariano Rivera in numbers this year. Mariano has thrown 14 innings, and has recorded 9 saves with 12 strikeouts and has yet to allow an earned run. Soria has thrown 13.1 innings with 8 saves, 15 strikeouts, and has also yet to allow an earned run. So now its on. The Respect Jeter's Gangster blog has initiated the Great Earned Run Race. Its much like a foot race only the first to cross the finish line loses. Who will give up the first earned run of 2008? Only time will tell.
Has Joba Gone Too Far?
I think it's time for the RJG community to address the Joba fist pump situation. I have decided that, on principle, I must be against the fist pump. Honestly, I don't care when Joba fist pumps. But I also know that the main reason I'd like to see Papelbon hit by a bus that I'm driving (and I used to drive a bus) is because of that obnoxious fist pumping celebrating he does every time he gets an out. The mature thing to do would be to just accept that they are kids having fun and letting the game be fun (hell, when I play sports I fist pump all over the place. Make a basket, fist pump. Miss a basket, fist pump. Get a hit, fist pump. Commit flagrant foul or other rule violation, ball spike and fist pump). However, I prefer to keep hating Papelbon and for that reason will take the position that Joba should not fist pump. No matter how you see it when you're own guy does it, the other side hates it. By other side of course, I mean the fans. The opposing players don't seem to care.
There are many perspectives that can be taken on this issue, so let's have them.
There are many perspectives that can be taken on this issue, so let's have them.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Is Abreu a Deficient Outfielder?
The short answer is yes, but luckily, our "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog team had compiled a list of possible reasons Abreu doesn't dive for balls or run into walls in the outfield back in January. Hopefully this list helps you understand his deficiency better.
10 Possible Reasons for why Bobby Abreu Won't Dive for a Ball, or Run into a padded fence to get an Out:
1. He used to get spanked for getting grass stains on his shirt.
2. His childhood baseball field was lined with an electric fence.
3. His childhood field had no fence, and is now intimidated by their presence.
4. There were snakes on the field he played in.
5. There were rocks and rock scorpions on the field he played in.
6. One time he ran right through a fence while following a fly ball not realizing it was the fence to the local prison. He inadvertently sprung 200 convicts into his community.
7. He's been taking advice from Carl Pavano.
8. Bobby once made a beautiful diving catch but didn't see that his puppy had wandered onto the field to play with him. The catch was beautiful, but the puppy never saw him coming. He vouched to never dive again.
9. Bobby once hopped a fence only to see his neighbor sun bathing in the nude. He was so traumatized he never went near a fence again.
10. He dives when he wants to. Respect his gangster.
10 Possible Reasons for why Bobby Abreu Won't Dive for a Ball, or Run into a padded fence to get an Out:
1. He used to get spanked for getting grass stains on his shirt.
2. His childhood baseball field was lined with an electric fence.
3. His childhood field had no fence, and is now intimidated by their presence.
4. There were snakes on the field he played in.
5. There were rocks and rock scorpions on the field he played in.
6. One time he ran right through a fence while following a fly ball not realizing it was the fence to the local prison. He inadvertently sprung 200 convicts into his community.
7. He's been taking advice from Carl Pavano.
8. Bobby once made a beautiful diving catch but didn't see that his puppy had wandered onto the field to play with him. The catch was beautiful, but the puppy never saw him coming. He vouched to never dive again.
9. Bobby once hopped a fence only to see his neighbor sun bathing in the nude. He was so traumatized he never went near a fence again.
10. He dives when he wants to. Respect his gangster.
Is Cano's Bat Waking Up?
Today was Cano's first multi-hit game since April 12. Cano has a 4 game hitting streak which includes 2 homeruns and 3 RBI's. I know its a small sample size but he could be starting to wake up. Not to be too critical, but its fricking May Cano!
Yankees Offense Reappears If Only to Avoid a Sweep
The Good
4 homeruns! That's right. The Yankees hit 4 homeruns today making up for the lack of all offensive output in the previous two games. It helped that they were up against a soft tosser. Mussina gave up 3 runs in 5 innings to get the win. Ohlendorf pitched a good 2 innings of relief, giving up 1 hit and no runs. The Chamberlain-Rivera Express delivered two days after faulting. Rivera has yet to give up an earned run this season. He will eventually but this is pretty amazing. Cano's bat woke up a little being one of the Yankees to hit a homerun and also hit a double. Even Betemit hit a homerun, his first of the season.
The Bad
Abreu, Cabrera, and Molina weren't invited to the hits party. Maybe next time guys.
The Ugly
Mussina's fastball. The hits that scored runs off Mussina were all on fastballs. According to gameday, all three hits in the 5th were off fastballs. The 3 outs were on a curveball, changeup, and splitter. At least that's what gameday is saying. I know the disparity between his fastball and breaking pitches is supposed to make it look faster, but eventually you gotta concede that you have a fastball that is thrown at the speed of breaking pitches, and breaking pitches thrown at the speed of knuckleballs.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. 4 homeruns means a good day for the Children's Health Fund. Damon, Giambi, Cano, and Betemit all cracked one out for the cause. Don't look now, but Cano is gaining in the C&C homerun chase:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Total = $36.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
4 homeruns! That's right. The Yankees hit 4 homeruns today making up for the lack of all offensive output in the previous two games. It helped that they were up against a soft tosser. Mussina gave up 3 runs in 5 innings to get the win. Ohlendorf pitched a good 2 innings of relief, giving up 1 hit and no runs. The Chamberlain-Rivera Express delivered two days after faulting. Rivera has yet to give up an earned run this season. He will eventually but this is pretty amazing. Cano's bat woke up a little being one of the Yankees to hit a homerun and also hit a double. Even Betemit hit a homerun, his first of the season.
The Bad
Abreu, Cabrera, and Molina weren't invited to the hits party. Maybe next time guys.
The Ugly
Mussina's fastball. The hits that scored runs off Mussina were all on fastballs. According to gameday, all three hits in the 5th were off fastballs. The 3 outs were on a curveball, changeup, and splitter. At least that's what gameday is saying. I know the disparity between his fastball and breaking pitches is supposed to make it look faster, but eventually you gotta concede that you have a fastball that is thrown at the speed of breaking pitches, and breaking pitches thrown at the speed of knuckleballs.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. 4 homeruns means a good day for the Children's Health Fund. Damon, Giambi, Cano, and Betemit all cracked one out for the cause. Don't look now, but Cano is gaining in the C&C homerun chase:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 5hr = $5.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 1hr = $1.00
Total = $36.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Yanks Offense Phones It In
The Good
Chien-Ming Wang goes seven innings and gives up three hits. He did exactly what we needed him to do, eat innings and give us a chance to win. There are a lot of guys who owe Wang a drink tonight. Cliff Lee also pitched a heluva game. I know TribeGirl will be pleased with that. Of course, as our own Fred Trigger has pointed out, the Indians cloned Gregg Maddux. Human cloning is illegal in America so the loss doesn't count against the Yanks tonight. Also, none of the Yankees were late for their dinner reservations since they were able to get out early.
The Bad
This game was broadcast so a large number of people had this beamed into their home! Into their bedrooms! Where their wives sleep! And their children come and play with their toys!.
The Ugly
[censored] [censored] the [censored] [censored] [censored] stupid [censored] [censored] Wang pitches [censored] [censored] and [censored] [censored] [censored] a [censored] [censored] [censored] Why don't the Yankees go [censored] [censored] [censored] [censored] [censored] [censored]
I think that more or less sums up my feelings about tonight's game.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
(hence the self censorship)
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. As is evident from tonight's score there were no homeruns. Clearly, unlike this blog, the Yanks offense tonight was not for the children:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 4hr = $4.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 3hr = $3.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Total = $32.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Chien-Ming Wang goes seven innings and gives up three hits. He did exactly what we needed him to do, eat innings and give us a chance to win. There are a lot of guys who owe Wang a drink tonight. Cliff Lee also pitched a heluva game. I know TribeGirl will be pleased with that. Of course, as our own Fred Trigger has pointed out, the Indians cloned Gregg Maddux. Human cloning is illegal in America so the loss doesn't count against the Yanks tonight. Also, none of the Yankees were late for their dinner reservations since they were able to get out early.
The Bad
This game was broadcast so a large number of people had this beamed into their home! Into their bedrooms! Where their wives sleep! And their children come and play with their toys!.
The Ugly
[censored] [censored] the [censored] [censored] [censored] stupid [censored] [censored] Wang pitches [censored] [censored] and [censored] [censored] [censored] a [censored] [censored] [censored] Why don't the Yankees go [censored] [censored] [censored] [censored] [censored] [censored]
I think that more or less sums up my feelings about tonight's game.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
(hence the self censorship)
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. As is evident from tonight's score there were no homeruns. Clearly, unlike this blog, the Yanks offense tonight was not for the children:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 4hr = $4.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 3hr = $3.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Total = $32.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Victory Snatched in Late Innings
The Good
Pettitte threw 6.1 innings and gave up 2 runs off a homerun by Peralta. He struck out 6 and walked 1 in what was a good rebound from his previous two starts. Farnsworth got the last two outs in the 7th striking out one, and popping up the other. He's looked good of late. Matsui had three hits, and Giambi hit an opposite field double to knock in a run. He also knocked in a run when he beat the double play ball by hustling to first. Good effort by the Big G.
The Bad
Rough day for Damon who went 0-5 and Cabrera who went 0-4. Abreu went 0-3 but drew 3 walks. Jeter had a throwing error, but Pettitte picked him up by getting out of the inning unscathed.
The Ugly
The last thing you want to do with a one run lead in the 8th, is walk the lead off batter. Chamberlain's outing was rocky as he walked the first two batters before giving up a pinch hit 3-run homer to David Dellucci. The pitch was pretty good, but you have to credit Dellucci.
It was a rough outing for Chamberlain, but its a part of the growth process. It sucks that it happened in such a close game, but he'll learn from this, and it will only make him a better pitcher.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns from the Bombers last night. They were probably saving them for today:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 4hr = $4.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 3hr = $3.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Total = $32.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Pettitte threw 6.1 innings and gave up 2 runs off a homerun by Peralta. He struck out 6 and walked 1 in what was a good rebound from his previous two starts. Farnsworth got the last two outs in the 7th striking out one, and popping up the other. He's looked good of late. Matsui had three hits, and Giambi hit an opposite field double to knock in a run. He also knocked in a run when he beat the double play ball by hustling to first. Good effort by the Big G.
The Bad
Rough day for Damon who went 0-5 and Cabrera who went 0-4. Abreu went 0-3 but drew 3 walks. Jeter had a throwing error, but Pettitte picked him up by getting out of the inning unscathed.
The Ugly
The last thing you want to do with a one run lead in the 8th, is walk the lead off batter. Chamberlain's outing was rocky as he walked the first two batters before giving up a pinch hit 3-run homer to David Dellucci. The pitch was pretty good, but you have to credit Dellucci.
It was a rough outing for Chamberlain, but its a part of the growth process. It sucks that it happened in such a close game, but he'll learn from this, and it will only make him a better pitcher.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns from the Bombers last night. They were probably saving them for today:
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3 hr = $3.00
Bobby Abreu 4hr = $4.00
Jorge Posada 1hr = $1.00
Jason Giambi 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 4hr = $4.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 3hr = $3.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Total = $32.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Pavano Tough All Day
I just read this article about what Carl Pavano was up to. Apparently, he's injured. These were his inspiring words about returning from his injury:
"This is not something that I plan on rushing just to get back and prove that I can get back and be healthy. I want to feel good about myself when I get back, not just get back."
Translation: Don't expect him back.
Pavano's agent has some pretty big expectations about the kind of contract he's going to make in 2009:
"Carl's a 1-2 starter," O'Connell said. "Those guys don't grow on trees. Those guys are very rare, 200-inning guys are very rare in this game, and they're the ones that make the money."
200-innings? Seriously? He hasn't thrown 200 innings in the last 3 years combined. No one's going to sign him long term, and no one's going to give him 1-2 starter money.
"This is not something that I plan on rushing just to get back and prove that I can get back and be healthy. I want to feel good about myself when I get back, not just get back."
Translation: Don't expect him back.
Pavano's agent has some pretty big expectations about the kind of contract he's going to make in 2009:
"Carl's a 1-2 starter," O'Connell said. "Those guys don't grow on trees. Those guys are very rare, 200-inning guys are very rare in this game, and they're the ones that make the money."
200-innings? Seriously? He hasn't thrown 200 innings in the last 3 years combined. No one's going to sign him long term, and no one's going to give him 1-2 starter money.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Tragic Situation
Some of you may have seen this already, but a man was killed and another person injured when a Yankee fan ran her car into a group of Red Sox fans. You can find a link to the article here. It started when a group of Red Sox fans were heckling this woman outside of a bar in Nashua, New Hampshire. This is very tragic because when it comes down to it this is just a game, and this rivalry isn't that serious. I know we like to pretend that its epic, but were not talking about the Spartans and the Persians. We're talking about two teams that play a game. Its not worth a life.
I've read comments on different websites that range from optimistic and edifying to inappropriate and heartless, and with these kind of things, the anonymity of the internet breeds that kind of behavior. I have lived in Massachusetts for a good portion of my life, and I know how the rivalry can be. It ranges from getting heckled if you're wearing a Yankee shirt, to being threatened, or getting into altercations because of it. For a while at the University of Massachusetts there were riots every time a New England team played in a big game, be it the Red Sox or Patriots or whatever. Over a thousand people would gather, light things on fire, topple cars that had New York plates on them, and then complain about police brutality and harassment when the riot squads would come in. That is the ugly side of fanhood.
On the other end, I've had some great conversations with Red Sox fans. I've had interactions where we're able to mutually take shots at one another, and not have it turn to anger or violence. Some people understand that its a game, and its to be enjoyed. I want the Yankees to beat the Red Sox at every level they can, but it stays on the field. That's it.
So next time you see a Red Sox fan in a bar in New York. Talk to them. Talk baseball. Talk trades, strategy, farm systems. I guarantee it'll change your perspective. And for Red Sox fans, if you see a New York hat in Boston, instead of yelling "Yankees Suck" as your natural inclination will be, strike up a conversation. You can really learn a lot by talking to someone from the other side of the rivalry.
I've read comments on different websites that range from optimistic and edifying to inappropriate and heartless, and with these kind of things, the anonymity of the internet breeds that kind of behavior. I have lived in Massachusetts for a good portion of my life, and I know how the rivalry can be. It ranges from getting heckled if you're wearing a Yankee shirt, to being threatened, or getting into altercations because of it. For a while at the University of Massachusetts there were riots every time a New England team played in a big game, be it the Red Sox or Patriots or whatever. Over a thousand people would gather, light things on fire, topple cars that had New York plates on them, and then complain about police brutality and harassment when the riot squads would come in. That is the ugly side of fanhood.
On the other end, I've had some great conversations with Red Sox fans. I've had interactions where we're able to mutually take shots at one another, and not have it turn to anger or violence. Some people understand that its a game, and its to be enjoyed. I want the Yankees to beat the Red Sox at every level they can, but it stays on the field. That's it.
So next time you see a Red Sox fan in a bar in New York. Talk to them. Talk baseball. Talk trades, strategy, farm systems. I guarantee it'll change your perspective. And for Red Sox fans, if you see a New York hat in Boston, instead of yelling "Yankees Suck" as your natural inclination will be, strike up a conversation. You can really learn a lot by talking to someone from the other side of the rivalry.
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