The Good
We won the game on Saturday largely because of an amazing offense that included homeruns from Posada and Swisher. Sabathia put in 7 innings of work and allowed 3 runs. Robertson pitched well in relief.
In Sunday's game, Teixeira continued his hot streak with a homerun and a double and driving in all the Yankee runs. Wang put in 3 innings of scoreless baseball out of the bullpen.
The Bad
The Saturday game didn't feature too much bad, but Sunday's game did. Not the least of which was Hughes 5 innings of 4 run ball, which puts him right back where he was before his amazing Texas start. Perhaps a good thing to take from this is that Wang can have his spot back.
The Ugly
Jose Veras is awful and on Sunday, Robertson and Coke were equally terrible. Robertson lost the Sunday game for the Yankees, but Coke didn't help by walking the first batter he faced. Perhaps the ugliest part of this weekend was getting crushed by Carl Pavano for 7.1 innings. At least he didn't get the win.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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. The Yankees hit 3 homeruns over the last two games with Teixeira, Swisher and Posada helping the cause.
Jorge Posada 6hr = $6.00
Hideki Matsui 7hr = $7.00
Derek Jeter 7hr = $7.00
Mark Teixeira 16hr = $16.00
Nick Swisher 10hr = $10.00
Robinson Cano 9hr = $9.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $80.00
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 31, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
Yankees Take the Top Spot
Because I am moving from New York City tomorrow, and my brother will be here helping me, this post is being filed at 2:30am. It is accurate, I think.
The Good
Pettitte won his fifth game, and Mariano saved it, the 58th time that has happened, a new record. After today's game, the Yanks are alone atop the AL East standings. Posada, who just came off the DL, went 2-3 with a double.
The Bad
We didn't hit particularly well with men in scoring position, but we won, so who cares?
The Ugly
Pettitte left the game in the sixth inning due to injury. After a pitch that was far outside and out of the reach of his swinging bat, a frustrated Victor Martinez charged the mound. Pettitte unleashed the most vicious punch the Jake has ever seen, knocking Martinez out cold. The Cleveland players, who had spilled out of their dugout, stopped cold in their tracks and backtracked. Pettitte yelled, "are you not entertained?" at the stunned Cleveland crowd. He then went to step back on the mound, but hurt his back when he tripped over Victor Martinez, who was still laying there. He should make his next start.
Keeping it Simple because It Is Late
No home runs today.
The Good
Pettitte won his fifth game, and Mariano saved it, the 58th time that has happened, a new record. After today's game, the Yanks are alone atop the AL East standings. Posada, who just came off the DL, went 2-3 with a double.
The Bad
We didn't hit particularly well with men in scoring position, but we won, so who cares?
The Ugly
Pettitte left the game in the sixth inning due to injury. After a pitch that was far outside and out of the reach of his swinging bat, a frustrated Victor Martinez charged the mound. Pettitte unleashed the most vicious punch the Jake has ever seen, knocking Martinez out cold. The Cleveland players, who had spilled out of their dugout, stopped cold in their tracks and backtracked. Pettitte yelled, "are you not entertained?" at the stunned Cleveland crowd. He then went to step back on the mound, but hurt his back when he tripped over Victor Martinez, who was still laying there. He should make his next start.
Keeping it Simple because It Is Late
No home runs today.
Where Are They Now?
Have you ever sat and wondered what ever happened to those former Yankee players? We at the RJG do. So periodically we check up on our former Yankees just to see how they're doing. Here you have it:
Sean Henn - Minnesota Twins: 4.15 ERA, 1 Strikeout, 4.1 Innings.
You may remember Sean Henn as the blue chip prospect who could throw in the triple digits and was left handed. Well, he never really panned out, and after he faltered out of the bullpen the Yankees let him go. But no need to worry, Henn ended up just fine having been called up to work out of the bullpen for Minnesota. Most recently, he pitched 1.1 scoreless innings against Boston. I'm almost positive he never did that for us.
Carlos Pena - Tampa Bay Rays: .239 BA, 16 HR, 40 RBI, .374 OBP.
What? You say. Yes, Carlos Pena was signed to a minor league deal with the Yankees in 2006. He had an out in his contract that if he wasn't called up by a certain date he could leave the team, which he did, and joined the Red Sox for the last couple months of the season. The Red Sox didn't see much value in him after the season, and he signed a minor league deal with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2007. He opened the season in the minors, but after some injuries forced a callup, he went on to hit 46 homeruns that year, and win a gold glove the next. Oh, and here's the kicker, he credits Yankee hitting coach Kevin Long for fixing his swing.
Dioner Navarro - Tampa Bay Rays: .215 BA, 2 HR, 11 RBI, .245 OBP.
Navarro was our top catching prospect before we traded him for Randy Johnson. Johnson was a mistake. But Navarro hasn't exactly made us regret it. He's a decent defensive player, and can call a game, but he's below average offensively. Since leaving the Yankees he's been a career .258 hitter.
Jeff Karstens - Pittsburgh Pirates: 5.19 ERA, 18 Strikeouts, 43.1 Innings, 8 GS.
He was a gritty player. Remember when he broke his leg, and he continued to try and pitch? Well, he's now with the Pirates, and gives them basically what he gave us. A few quality starts, a few horrible starts, and last year, a near no-hitter. I don't think he ever gave us a near no-hitter.
Ross Ohlendorf - Pittsburgh Pirates: 4.20 ERA, 27 SO's, 55.2 IP, 9 GS.
The Princeton sinkerballer, who could touch triple digits out of the bullpen got traded to the Pirates along with Jeff Karsten's, Jose Tabata, and Dan McCutchen. He's proved to be a decent starter for them going 7.2 innings and allowing 3 runs in his last start against the White Sox. Why did we trade him? Well we needed a reliable reliever and a sturdy outfielder to get us to the post season last year. How has that worked out?
Tyler Clippard - Washington Nationals: 5.79 ERA, 26 SO's, 37.1 IP, 8 GS.
You may remember Clippard for his funky delivery that included more arms and legs than a Hindu diety. He wears glasses now, but he's still struggling in the bigs with a 5.79 ERA in 8 game starts. He's still young however, and could figure it out.
Ron Villone - Washington Nationals: 0.00 ERA, 3 SO's, 11.2 IP.
I always liked Villone, and that didn't change when he showed up in the Mitchell Report. I was happy to find him pitching for the Nationals this year, and not just pitching, but pitching well. So far, he has yet to allow a run in 11.2 innings of relief. If only we had a reliever like that.
Wil Nieves - Washington Nationals: .283 BA, 0 HR, 6 RBI, .328 OBP.
You may remember Nieves, but I wouldn't be surprised if you didn't. He was our backup catcher in 2007 and took forever to get his first hit. He was let go because he couldn't hit, but ironically had the biggest offensive game of the season the day he was let go. Of course, he was being replaced by Jose Molina so there's no shame in that. Since leaving the Yankees he signed on with the Nationals and has been seeing regular big league duty ever since. Not only that, but he's been hitting for a decent average this season. He was a nice guy, and well liked in the club house, so we wish him the best in Washington.
Latroy Hawkins - Houston Astro's: 2.75 ERA, 18 SO's, 19.2 IP, 5 Saves.
Ah, Hawkins. He had the audacity to wear a number that wasn't retired by the Yankees to honor his hero Roberto Clemente. The number also belonged to Paul O'Neil 7 years earlier. The fans let him have it, and even O'Neil seemed slighted by it. He eventually gave it up, and took another number. He never really pitched well, and never really had a chance. He was traded to the Astro's where he went on to have a 0.43 ERA in 21 innings. This year, he's been closing games for them. So the moral of the story? Paul O'Neil is petty, the fans are douches, and now our bullpen sucks.
Ivan Rodriguez - Houston Astro's: .259 BA, 5 HR, 21 RBI, .303 OBP.
Pudge was only a Yankee for part of last season, and never really did well. Right now, he's catching for the Astro's and putting up average offensive numbers. With our recent catching injuries, it may have seemed like a good idea to keep him, but then we never would have discovered the magic that is Francisco Cervelli. Also, we never would have seen Kevin Cash's hilarious mound appearance with AJ Burnett.
Aaron Boone - Houston Astro's: Heart Surgery.
Boone isn't playing right now because he had heart surgery early in the spring. Boone was always a fringe player with the Yankees, and always considered expendable, but he gave us one of the greatest Yankee moments of this decade. We at the RJG wish him well in his recovery.
Bobby Abreu - Anaheim Angels: .309 BA, 1 HR, 19 RBI, .414 OBP.
People thought Cashman was crazy when he didn't offer arbitration to Abreu, but when he signed with the Angels for $5 million, we all saw the wisdom in his ways. He's doing what you would expect him to do. High average, good on base percentage, horrible defense etc. I liked Abreu when he was with the Yankees, but was glad to not see him in right field this year.
Juan Rivera - Anaheim Angels: .293 BA, 4 HR, 17 RBI, .335 OBP.
When he was with the Yankees, his most memorable moment was getting picked off at first as a pinch runner in the 9th to end a game. He's had some injury problems, and had trouble finding playing time in a loaded Angels outfield. Right now, he's getting regular playing time and is off to a decent start.
Alfonso Soriano - Chicago Cubs: .253 BA, 12 HR, 25 RBI, .314 OBP.
This one always hurt me. We traded him for A-Rod who has been quite an adventure for us, and not in a good way. He went to Texas, then Washington, becoming a left fielder along the way, and then as a free agent signed on with the Cubs. He still strikes out too much to be a legitimate leadoff guy, but his homeruns were always nice, and his speed legendary.
Ted Lilly - Chicago Cubs: 3.77 ERA, 47 SO's, 57.1 IP, 9 GS.
Lilly pitched for the Yankees in the early 2000's, but never well enough for the Yankees of that age to keep him. He was sent to Toronto and after becoming a free agent, looked like he wanted to come to New York. Instead, the Yankees signed Kei Igawa, and Lilly went to Chicago. I mean, why would the Yankees want a young left handed pitcher whose pitched in the AL East all his career?
Jason Giambi - Oakland Athletics: .212 BA, 5 HR, 22 RBI, .346 OBP.
His time with the Yankees was quite memorable. There was the steroid apology, the tumor, the comeback, the foot injury, then another steroid admission, and finally the mustache. Giambi was a good guy by all accounts, and he put some life into this team. Unfortunately, he couldn't play defense, and Mark Teixeira was a much needed upgrade. He's now with the Athletics, and having a bit of a slow start. I suspect he'll be fine.
Joe Torre - Los Angeles Dodgers: Current NL West Leaders.
Joe Torre ruined too many bullpen arms, and many fans were happy to see him go. Since then, Torre's Dodgers have played their way into the NLCS and are currently leading the NL West by 9 games. Yes its a weaker division, and blah blah blah, but the fact of the matter is, Torre did it with the Yankees and he's doing it with the Dodgers. Haters will always hate, but it was a mistake letting him go.
Sean Henn - Minnesota Twins: 4.15 ERA, 1 Strikeout, 4.1 Innings.
You may remember Sean Henn as the blue chip prospect who could throw in the triple digits and was left handed. Well, he never really panned out, and after he faltered out of the bullpen the Yankees let him go. But no need to worry, Henn ended up just fine having been called up to work out of the bullpen for Minnesota. Most recently, he pitched 1.1 scoreless innings against Boston. I'm almost positive he never did that for us.
Carlos Pena - Tampa Bay Rays: .239 BA, 16 HR, 40 RBI, .374 OBP.
What? You say. Yes, Carlos Pena was signed to a minor league deal with the Yankees in 2006. He had an out in his contract that if he wasn't called up by a certain date he could leave the team, which he did, and joined the Red Sox for the last couple months of the season. The Red Sox didn't see much value in him after the season, and he signed a minor league deal with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2007. He opened the season in the minors, but after some injuries forced a callup, he went on to hit 46 homeruns that year, and win a gold glove the next. Oh, and here's the kicker, he credits Yankee hitting coach Kevin Long for fixing his swing.
Dioner Navarro - Tampa Bay Rays: .215 BA, 2 HR, 11 RBI, .245 OBP.
Navarro was our top catching prospect before we traded him for Randy Johnson. Johnson was a mistake. But Navarro hasn't exactly made us regret it. He's a decent defensive player, and can call a game, but he's below average offensively. Since leaving the Yankees he's been a career .258 hitter.
Jeff Karstens - Pittsburgh Pirates: 5.19 ERA, 18 Strikeouts, 43.1 Innings, 8 GS.
He was a gritty player. Remember when he broke his leg, and he continued to try and pitch? Well, he's now with the Pirates, and gives them basically what he gave us. A few quality starts, a few horrible starts, and last year, a near no-hitter. I don't think he ever gave us a near no-hitter.
Ross Ohlendorf - Pittsburgh Pirates: 4.20 ERA, 27 SO's, 55.2 IP, 9 GS.
The Princeton sinkerballer, who could touch triple digits out of the bullpen got traded to the Pirates along with Jeff Karsten's, Jose Tabata, and Dan McCutchen. He's proved to be a decent starter for them going 7.2 innings and allowing 3 runs in his last start against the White Sox. Why did we trade him? Well we needed a reliable reliever and a sturdy outfielder to get us to the post season last year. How has that worked out?
Tyler Clippard - Washington Nationals: 5.79 ERA, 26 SO's, 37.1 IP, 8 GS.
You may remember Clippard for his funky delivery that included more arms and legs than a Hindu diety. He wears glasses now, but he's still struggling in the bigs with a 5.79 ERA in 8 game starts. He's still young however, and could figure it out.
Ron Villone - Washington Nationals: 0.00 ERA, 3 SO's, 11.2 IP.
I always liked Villone, and that didn't change when he showed up in the Mitchell Report. I was happy to find him pitching for the Nationals this year, and not just pitching, but pitching well. So far, he has yet to allow a run in 11.2 innings of relief. If only we had a reliever like that.
Wil Nieves - Washington Nationals: .283 BA, 0 HR, 6 RBI, .328 OBP.
You may remember Nieves, but I wouldn't be surprised if you didn't. He was our backup catcher in 2007 and took forever to get his first hit. He was let go because he couldn't hit, but ironically had the biggest offensive game of the season the day he was let go. Of course, he was being replaced by Jose Molina so there's no shame in that. Since leaving the Yankees he signed on with the Nationals and has been seeing regular big league duty ever since. Not only that, but he's been hitting for a decent average this season. He was a nice guy, and well liked in the club house, so we wish him the best in Washington.
Latroy Hawkins - Houston Astro's: 2.75 ERA, 18 SO's, 19.2 IP, 5 Saves.
Ah, Hawkins. He had the audacity to wear a number that wasn't retired by the Yankees to honor his hero Roberto Clemente. The number also belonged to Paul O'Neil 7 years earlier. The fans let him have it, and even O'Neil seemed slighted by it. He eventually gave it up, and took another number. He never really pitched well, and never really had a chance. He was traded to the Astro's where he went on to have a 0.43 ERA in 21 innings. This year, he's been closing games for them. So the moral of the story? Paul O'Neil is petty, the fans are douches, and now our bullpen sucks.
Ivan Rodriguez - Houston Astro's: .259 BA, 5 HR, 21 RBI, .303 OBP.
Pudge was only a Yankee for part of last season, and never really did well. Right now, he's catching for the Astro's and putting up average offensive numbers. With our recent catching injuries, it may have seemed like a good idea to keep him, but then we never would have discovered the magic that is Francisco Cervelli. Also, we never would have seen Kevin Cash's hilarious mound appearance with AJ Burnett.
Aaron Boone - Houston Astro's: Heart Surgery.
Boone isn't playing right now because he had heart surgery early in the spring. Boone was always a fringe player with the Yankees, and always considered expendable, but he gave us one of the greatest Yankee moments of this decade. We at the RJG wish him well in his recovery.
Bobby Abreu - Anaheim Angels: .309 BA, 1 HR, 19 RBI, .414 OBP.
People thought Cashman was crazy when he didn't offer arbitration to Abreu, but when he signed with the Angels for $5 million, we all saw the wisdom in his ways. He's doing what you would expect him to do. High average, good on base percentage, horrible defense etc. I liked Abreu when he was with the Yankees, but was glad to not see him in right field this year.
Juan Rivera - Anaheim Angels: .293 BA, 4 HR, 17 RBI, .335 OBP.
When he was with the Yankees, his most memorable moment was getting picked off at first as a pinch runner in the 9th to end a game. He's had some injury problems, and had trouble finding playing time in a loaded Angels outfield. Right now, he's getting regular playing time and is off to a decent start.
Alfonso Soriano - Chicago Cubs: .253 BA, 12 HR, 25 RBI, .314 OBP.
This one always hurt me. We traded him for A-Rod who has been quite an adventure for us, and not in a good way. He went to Texas, then Washington, becoming a left fielder along the way, and then as a free agent signed on with the Cubs. He still strikes out too much to be a legitimate leadoff guy, but his homeruns were always nice, and his speed legendary.
Ted Lilly - Chicago Cubs: 3.77 ERA, 47 SO's, 57.1 IP, 9 GS.
Lilly pitched for the Yankees in the early 2000's, but never well enough for the Yankees of that age to keep him. He was sent to Toronto and after becoming a free agent, looked like he wanted to come to New York. Instead, the Yankees signed Kei Igawa, and Lilly went to Chicago. I mean, why would the Yankees want a young left handed pitcher whose pitched in the AL East all his career?
Jason Giambi - Oakland Athletics: .212 BA, 5 HR, 22 RBI, .346 OBP.
His time with the Yankees was quite memorable. There was the steroid apology, the tumor, the comeback, the foot injury, then another steroid admission, and finally the mustache. Giambi was a good guy by all accounts, and he put some life into this team. Unfortunately, he couldn't play defense, and Mark Teixeira was a much needed upgrade. He's now with the Athletics, and having a bit of a slow start. I suspect he'll be fine.
Joe Torre - Los Angeles Dodgers: Current NL West Leaders.
Joe Torre ruined too many bullpen arms, and many fans were happy to see him go. Since then, Torre's Dodgers have played their way into the NLCS and are currently leading the NL West by 9 games. Yes its a weaker division, and blah blah blah, but the fact of the matter is, Torre did it with the Yankees and he's doing it with the Dodgers. Haters will always hate, but it was a mistake letting him go.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Spare Me Rosenthal
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports recently wrote an article defending David Ortiz of any accusations out there that suggest he may have used a performance enhancing drug. Rosenthal, in a thinly veiled attack against the RJG, said: "Now, in blogs and chat rooms and other Internet vehicles, people blithely suggest that players such as the Red Sox's David Ortiz are in decline because they no longer take PEDs." Then later says "It's irresponsible. It's unfair. It needs to stop." Of course, Rosenthal, who reads the RJG religiously (meaning twice on Sunday), is referring to this post we had about Big Papi.
Rosenthal basically says that bloggers go too far since they don't have to hold to the standards of journalistic integrity. He says that its because of this journalistic integrity that the main stream media lagged behind the steroid story throughout the 90's and never brought it to the forefront when it was most prominent. As Rosenthal puts it:
"It's not an excuse, but the adherence to journalistic standards is one reason the reporting lagged behind the story. Many of us erred on the side of caution — not a bad thing when you're talking about people's reputations. Better to be accurate than wrong."
He goes on to say that the only way they could have broken the story would be by player admission, and that would be hard to get. However, that's a load of crap. I agree that journalists need to be absolutely certain of their sources before putting anything into print, but that process begins when you start asking questions. Maybe questions like, "Why have 3 different players broken Maris' homerun record 6 times in a 3 year period, when no ones even come close for nearly 40 years?" Must be the size of the ballparks, right Rosenthal? Or maybe you were buying into McGwire's creatine argument.
Sure, fans don't need to hold to the standards of journalism, but even as high school students, we knew that it wasn't natural, and we talked openly that they had to be on steroids. If high school students were talking about it, I'm sure those in the media, who saw it up close had to at least suspect it. What a journalist should have done is look into the story. No player is willing to talk Rosenthal? Yes, because Canseco has been so quiet about the subject.
Rosenthal, spare me the indignity. You and your colleagues sat idly by as steroids swept over baseball, and did nothing. Then when it became a story (which happened much later than it should have), you all vultured your way in to get a piece. So don't talk to us about integrity, and I don't want to hear your excuses either. Ironically, we agree that it isn't fair to suspect players of PED use, and we said that in our post. But we're not in the age of accusations as you suggest, we're in the era of suspicion. An era that you and your colleagues helped create.
So not only will we continue to write about our suspicions, we hope you'll follow your own standards of integrity and start investigating the questions that you have, in other words, doing your job. We were right about our suspicions back in the 90's and if we the fans don't ask the questions now, history suggests, that no one will. But we know, we know "the adherence to journalistic standards is one reason the reporting lagged behind the story." Yeah, okay.
But of course, you did do some investigating, as you point out in the article:
"Here's one thing I do know: Before steroids, players actually declined as they got older. Ortiz is 33. Maybe he is losing his skills. Maybe he just stinks."
Or maybe he was on 'roids. I don't know why Ortiz is declining, but in this era, you have to ask, and as uncomfortable as it may be, its a legitimate suspicion. Of course, you can't raise the suspicion, but we can. Blogs are the voice of fans, we don't need to follow your standards, and that's what make us a powerful tool. Trying to get us to stop would be asking the fans to sit idly by as those in your profession did throughout the 90's. No thank you.
Lastly, though I know I make sweeping generalizations, I also know that not all journalists are to blame. There are some excellent journalists out there who did look into the story, and the story was finally broken. You're a good writer too, Rosenthal. If your point is to say that its not fair that people suspect Ortiz, then I agree. But you and your field is partly to blame for this era, and arguing that the fans need to stop the finger pointing is complete nonsense. As I said before, if we don't ask the question, history suggests no one will.
Rosenthal basically says that bloggers go too far since they don't have to hold to the standards of journalistic integrity. He says that its because of this journalistic integrity that the main stream media lagged behind the steroid story throughout the 90's and never brought it to the forefront when it was most prominent. As Rosenthal puts it:
"It's not an excuse, but the adherence to journalistic standards is one reason the reporting lagged behind the story. Many of us erred on the side of caution — not a bad thing when you're talking about people's reputations. Better to be accurate than wrong."
He goes on to say that the only way they could have broken the story would be by player admission, and that would be hard to get. However, that's a load of crap. I agree that journalists need to be absolutely certain of their sources before putting anything into print, but that process begins when you start asking questions. Maybe questions like, "Why have 3 different players broken Maris' homerun record 6 times in a 3 year period, when no ones even come close for nearly 40 years?" Must be the size of the ballparks, right Rosenthal? Or maybe you were buying into McGwire's creatine argument.
Sure, fans don't need to hold to the standards of journalism, but even as high school students, we knew that it wasn't natural, and we talked openly that they had to be on steroids. If high school students were talking about it, I'm sure those in the media, who saw it up close had to at least suspect it. What a journalist should have done is look into the story. No player is willing to talk Rosenthal? Yes, because Canseco has been so quiet about the subject.
Rosenthal, spare me the indignity. You and your colleagues sat idly by as steroids swept over baseball, and did nothing. Then when it became a story (which happened much later than it should have), you all vultured your way in to get a piece. So don't talk to us about integrity, and I don't want to hear your excuses either. Ironically, we agree that it isn't fair to suspect players of PED use, and we said that in our post. But we're not in the age of accusations as you suggest, we're in the era of suspicion. An era that you and your colleagues helped create.
So not only will we continue to write about our suspicions, we hope you'll follow your own standards of integrity and start investigating the questions that you have, in other words, doing your job. We were right about our suspicions back in the 90's and if we the fans don't ask the questions now, history suggests, that no one will. But we know, we know "the adherence to journalistic standards is one reason the reporting lagged behind the story." Yeah, okay.
But of course, you did do some investigating, as you point out in the article:
"Here's one thing I do know: Before steroids, players actually declined as they got older. Ortiz is 33. Maybe he is losing his skills. Maybe he just stinks."
Or maybe he was on 'roids. I don't know why Ortiz is declining, but in this era, you have to ask, and as uncomfortable as it may be, its a legitimate suspicion. Of course, you can't raise the suspicion, but we can. Blogs are the voice of fans, we don't need to follow your standards, and that's what make us a powerful tool. Trying to get us to stop would be asking the fans to sit idly by as those in your profession did throughout the 90's. No thank you.
Lastly, though I know I make sweeping generalizations, I also know that not all journalists are to blame. There are some excellent journalists out there who did look into the story, and the story was finally broken. You're a good writer too, Rosenthal. If your point is to say that its not fair that people suspect Ortiz, then I agree. But you and your field is partly to blame for this era, and arguing that the fans need to stop the finger pointing is complete nonsense. As I said before, if we don't ask the question, history suggests no one will.
Burnett Puts Us in First Place Tie
The Good
Burnett threw a lot of pitches, but it amounted to 6 shutout innings with 7 strikeouts. Jeter went 3-4 with a double and 2 walks, and Matsui hit a line drive homerun later in the game, and then came back and hit another for good measure. Teixeira added another jack to his amazing May, and Kevin Cash of all people had a great night driving in a pair of runs with a single, and then scoring a run after hitting a double.
Also good was Chien Ming Wang's relief appearance. He pitched 2 perfect innings and struck out two batters. Hitters were not missing his sinker, and those that made contact achieved the intended result. Perhaps a game start is in order?
The Bad
Jose Veras has pretty much sucked all year. He recorded one out last night while giving up 2 runs on a homer. It wasn't the homerun that annoyed me, but the walk he gave up right after it. With a 6 run lead, start throwing strikes!
The Ugly
Johnny Damon made a really nice catch in the 6th, but scared every Yankee fan in the place when he ran into a wall. Luckily, the wall was a net, and he appeared to be fine. With Melky out, we can't afford to lose Damon too.
In the 6th inning, Burnett was struggling to throw strikes. After walking a batter and throwing a ball to the next batter, Kevin Cash ran over to the mound to try and calm his pitcher down. However, Cash didn't say a word. He literally walked to the mound, walked around Burnett, picked up the rosen bag, threw it back on the ground and ran back. Burnett looked so confused, but it worked. He struck out the next batter.
In the 9th, while Kevin Cash was batting, a Derek Jeter chant broke out in the stands. Even in Texas they respect the gangster.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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. The Yankees used last night to pad their stats for children's health as they combined for 3 homeruns. Marky T continued his crusade for children's health with yet another homerun, and Matsui rededicated himself with two of his own. Cano also added 1 to the cause, and now the Yankees are tied with Texas for most homeruns hit in the majors. The amazing thing is that we've done this without a month of A-Rod, a month of Swisher (lets be honest, he hasn't been here in May), and a few weeks of Posada.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 7hr = $7.00
Derek Jeter 7hr = $7.00
Mark Teixeira 15hr = $15.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 9hr = $9.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $77.00
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.
Burnett threw a lot of pitches, but it amounted to 6 shutout innings with 7 strikeouts. Jeter went 3-4 with a double and 2 walks, and Matsui hit a line drive homerun later in the game, and then came back and hit another for good measure. Teixeira added another jack to his amazing May, and Kevin Cash of all people had a great night driving in a pair of runs with a single, and then scoring a run after hitting a double.
Also good was Chien Ming Wang's relief appearance. He pitched 2 perfect innings and struck out two batters. Hitters were not missing his sinker, and those that made contact achieved the intended result. Perhaps a game start is in order?
The Bad
Jose Veras has pretty much sucked all year. He recorded one out last night while giving up 2 runs on a homer. It wasn't the homerun that annoyed me, but the walk he gave up right after it. With a 6 run lead, start throwing strikes!
The Ugly
Johnny Damon made a really nice catch in the 6th, but scared every Yankee fan in the place when he ran into a wall. Luckily, the wall was a net, and he appeared to be fine. With Melky out, we can't afford to lose Damon too.
In the 6th inning, Burnett was struggling to throw strikes. After walking a batter and throwing a ball to the next batter, Kevin Cash ran over to the mound to try and calm his pitcher down. However, Cash didn't say a word. He literally walked to the mound, walked around Burnett, picked up the rosen bag, threw it back on the ground and ran back. Burnett looked so confused, but it worked. He struck out the next batter.
In the 9th, while Kevin Cash was batting, a Derek Jeter chant broke out in the stands. Even in Texas they respect the gangster.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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. The Yankees used last night to pad their stats for children's health as they combined for 3 homeruns. Marky T continued his crusade for children's health with yet another homerun, and Matsui rededicated himself with two of his own. Cano also added 1 to the cause, and now the Yankees are tied with Texas for most homeruns hit in the majors. The amazing thing is that we've done this without a month of A-Rod, a month of Swisher (lets be honest, he hasn't been here in May), and a few weeks of Posada.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 7hr = $7.00
Derek Jeter 7hr = $7.00
Mark Teixeira 15hr = $15.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 9hr = $9.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $77.00
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 27, 2009
The Chien-Ming Wang Dilemma
There are many who think the Yankees are doing wrong by Chien-Ming Wang by calling him up and making him sit in the bullpen with no clearly defined role, like 19 game winner. But these individuals have it all wrong. While sitting in the bullpen Wang gets to do his taxes, work on his English, think of baby names, catch up on all the classics, practice his magic tricks, and contemplate the deeper questions facing the human condition. So sure, point out the obvious. Wang is a pitcher, a good one at that, and his talent is being wasted. But he's growing as a human being. Isn't that what this is all about. If it's between pitching every five days and reading Immanuel Kant, I'm sticking with Kant, and I think Wang would agree. So please, don't make him the victim. We should count ourselves so fortunate.
Yankees Miss Opportunity to Move Up in the Standings
The Good
Gardner had 3 hits and 3 steals, while Jeter and Damon also swiped a bag of their own. Robertson pitched a perfect inning.
The Bad
The offensive malaise of April returned last night as the Yankees could hit, but not while anyone was standing on base. Don't believe me? The Yankees had 13 hits and only drove in 3 runs. Also bad was Joba's start. 4 innings and 3 runs is not what you would have hoped for. He threw way too many first pitch balls, and couldn't seem to put anyone away easily. Aceves gave up 3 runs in 2 innings, and Coke gave up a run in one inning of work. Apparently Coke didn't want to follow our advice about not giving up homeruns. That's now 5 in 20.1 innings for him. Not good for a reliever. Aceves may not be well suited for the long relief role. Maybe no one is. Its a tough role to fill. Aceves has either been lights out, or plain awful. His last two appearances have been the latter.
The Ugly
Though much of what was mentioned above could be categorized as ugly, the main ugliness came early in the game when Melky crashed into a wall and hurt his shoulder. We need to pray that he's okay, because he's been our fire starter. In the meantime, what's the plan for Wang? If there's any chance he can be the 19-game winner he was, shouldn't they be looking to get him there? Having him sit in the bullpen as a spare long reliever is an awful idea. Give him another couple starts in the minors to build up arm strength. Isn't that what this is all about?
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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. Marky T won't let a team cold spell effect his commitment to children's health as he hit another homerun last night. That's 14 on the season for him.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 7hr = $7.00
Mark Teixeira 14hr = $14.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $73.00
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.
Gardner had 3 hits and 3 steals, while Jeter and Damon also swiped a bag of their own. Robertson pitched a perfect inning.
The Bad
The offensive malaise of April returned last night as the Yankees could hit, but not while anyone was standing on base. Don't believe me? The Yankees had 13 hits and only drove in 3 runs. Also bad was Joba's start. 4 innings and 3 runs is not what you would have hoped for. He threw way too many first pitch balls, and couldn't seem to put anyone away easily. Aceves gave up 3 runs in 2 innings, and Coke gave up a run in one inning of work. Apparently Coke didn't want to follow our advice about not giving up homeruns. That's now 5 in 20.1 innings for him. Not good for a reliever. Aceves may not be well suited for the long relief role. Maybe no one is. Its a tough role to fill. Aceves has either been lights out, or plain awful. His last two appearances have been the latter.
The Ugly
Though much of what was mentioned above could be categorized as ugly, the main ugliness came early in the game when Melky crashed into a wall and hurt his shoulder. We need to pray that he's okay, because he's been our fire starter. In the meantime, what's the plan for Wang? If there's any chance he can be the 19-game winner he was, shouldn't they be looking to get him there? Having him sit in the bullpen as a spare long reliever is an awful idea. Give him another couple starts in the minors to build up arm strength. Isn't that what this is all about?
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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. Marky T won't let a team cold spell effect his commitment to children's health as he hit another homerun last night. That's 14 on the season for him.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 7hr = $7.00
Mark Teixeira 14hr = $14.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $73.00
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 26, 2009
Yankees Youth Movement Extends Beyond the Field
For a few years now, the Yankees have struggled to get younger. This youth movement, however, has not been limited to the baseball diamond. First, old man Steinbrenner was unceremoniously rolled away in favor of his younger, more handsome, son Hal. Even Hank was thought too old to be the new boss. Now, it is being reported that the Yankees failed to retain a long time bartender at the stadium because he was too old.
When asked, Lonn Trost gave the following statement, "The guy was old. If you pay $50 for a drink, do you want it served by your grandfather? Would you want your grandfather in your home?"
Told that his statement didn't make any sense, Trost responded by saying, "I'm sorry, did you say something? I couldn't hear you over my money."
We asked Brian Cashman about the Yankees youth movement. "There's no question that our commitment to youth is organization-wide," explained Cashman. "It is no coincidence that Girardi is younger, and more jacked than Joe Torre. I have botox treatments twice monthly just to ensure that Hal doesn't fire me for a younger, more attractive, candidate."
While senescent barkeeps everywhere are less than pleased with the Yankees, some individuals don't see what the big deal is. "Look, sometimes a change is needed," explained seven year old Timmy Johnson, Yankees VP of Operations. "I have to get back to work, guys. We only get a half hour for nap time."
When asked, Lonn Trost gave the following statement, "The guy was old. If you pay $50 for a drink, do you want it served by your grandfather? Would you want your grandfather in your home?"
Told that his statement didn't make any sense, Trost responded by saying, "I'm sorry, did you say something? I couldn't hear you over my money."
We asked Brian Cashman about the Yankees youth movement. "There's no question that our commitment to youth is organization-wide," explained Cashman. "It is no coincidence that Girardi is younger, and more jacked than Joe Torre. I have botox treatments twice monthly just to ensure that Hal doesn't fire me for a younger, more attractive, candidate."
While senescent barkeeps everywhere are less than pleased with the Yankees, some individuals don't see what the big deal is. "Look, sometimes a change is needed," explained seven year old Timmy Johnson, Yankees VP of Operations. "I have to get back to work, guys. We only get a half hour for nap time."
Pitching Notes from RJG
This last off season was quite eventful with the Yankees landing Sabathia, Burnett, and Teixeira, but the one blunder committed over the off season seems to be the multiyear contract of Damaso Marte. Signed before he reached free agency, the Yankees beleived that the market for left-handed relievers would be intense and therefore commited 3 years and $12 million to him. So far, he's been awful. But here's the thing, he wasn't even that good last year either. The Yankees were paying him for what he had done with the Pirates, and who really cares what he did with the Pirates? He's not getting it done with the Yankees and now he's injured. He's had his moments, but the contract he was given was far too large. The Yankees overpaid, and now our bullpen sucks.
Former Tampa Bay lefty, Casey Fossum is now pitching for Scranton and has a 2.05 ERA in 7 starts. I know we probably have him there in case we need a starter later in the season, but maybe we should give him a shot in the bullpen. Or maybe not, who knows.
Kei Igawa may be the best career minor leaguer we've ever signed.
David Robertson was recently called up to replace Brian Bruney. He throws heat, but often fails to get outs. It kind of reminds me of Ross Ohlendorf whose been having a relatively succesful season with the Pirates. Perhaps we shouldn't give up on Robertson just yet.
We should give up on Edwar Ramirez.
Even though he gave up the only run last night, Aceves is probably our best reliever now that Bruney's gone.
Coke could be really good if he could become more consistant. 4 homeruns in 19.1 innings doesn't help either.
Mariano Rivera's velocity is still down, but he's getting outs. Instead of relying on velocity, he's been relying on swagger, and its working.
The Yankees should make a trade for an established reliever like Huston Street. The bridge to Mariano Rivera is much like the Tacoma Narrows bridge only with less support now that Bruney's gone.
Former Tampa Bay lefty, Casey Fossum is now pitching for Scranton and has a 2.05 ERA in 7 starts. I know we probably have him there in case we need a starter later in the season, but maybe we should give him a shot in the bullpen. Or maybe not, who knows.
Kei Igawa may be the best career minor leaguer we've ever signed.
David Robertson was recently called up to replace Brian Bruney. He throws heat, but often fails to get outs. It kind of reminds me of Ross Ohlendorf whose been having a relatively succesful season with the Pirates. Perhaps we shouldn't give up on Robertson just yet.
We should give up on Edwar Ramirez.
Even though he gave up the only run last night, Aceves is probably our best reliever now that Bruney's gone.
Coke could be really good if he could become more consistant. 4 homeruns in 19.1 innings doesn't help either.
Mariano Rivera's velocity is still down, but he's getting outs. Instead of relying on velocity, he's been relying on swagger, and its working.
The Yankees should make a trade for an established reliever like Huston Street. The bridge to Mariano Rivera is much like the Tacoma Narrows bridge only with less support now that Bruney's gone.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Yankees Continue Winning Ways
The Good
The Yankees scored eleven runs and gave Phil Hughes, who wore a red hat that didn't even come close to going with his uniform, plenty of early run support. Hughes responded by throwing eight scoreless innings. A-Rod went 5-5 with 0 home runs. One day he'll figure out this hitting thing.
The Bad
An overly cautious Joe Girardi prematurely pulled Phil Hughes after he only threw 105 pitches over eight innings. The twenty-two year old should have thrown the ninth, and a bullpen immediately after the game in order to build arm strength.
The Ugly
With every scoreless inning that Phil Hughes pitched, Chien-Ming Wang punched a water cooler. By the seventh inning, the team had nothing to drink, and considering the hot Texas weather, they were pretty parched. As a result Alfredo Aceves gave up a solo shot in the ninth, almost costing Hughes the game.
The Yankees Spare Respect Jeter's Gangster
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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. Lucky for us, no home runs were hit today by the Yankees.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 7hr = $7.00
Mark Teixeira 13hr = $13.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $72.00
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 Yankees scored eleven runs and gave Phil Hughes, who wore a red hat that didn't even come close to going with his uniform, plenty of early run support. Hughes responded by throwing eight scoreless innings. A-Rod went 5-5 with 0 home runs. One day he'll figure out this hitting thing.
The Bad
An overly cautious Joe Girardi prematurely pulled Phil Hughes after he only threw 105 pitches over eight innings. The twenty-two year old should have thrown the ninth, and a bullpen immediately after the game in order to build arm strength.
The Ugly
With every scoreless inning that Phil Hughes pitched, Chien-Ming Wang punched a water cooler. By the seventh inning, the team had nothing to drink, and considering the hot Texas weather, they were pretty parched. As a result Alfredo Aceves gave up a solo shot in the ninth, almost costing Hughes the game.
The Yankees Spare Respect Jeter's Gangster
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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. Lucky for us, no home runs were hit today by the Yankees.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 7hr = $7.00
Mark Teixeira 13hr = $13.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $72.00
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.
Melky's Magic Not Enough
The Good
Sabathia pitched a stellar game, going 8 innings and allowing 3 runs. Veras and Rivera releived with 2 innings of scoreless ball. Jeter went 3-5 out of the leadoff spot, and Melky also went 3-5 including a game tieing single in the 9th to put the game into extra innings. Marky T hit another homerun.
The Bad
In the 10th, the Yankees put two men on base with no outs, and failed to score. Its a wasted opportunity like that that loses the game for you.
The Ugly
Brett Tomko was not good as he pitched the 11th inning of a tied game. He walked two and gave up a hit as well as the go ahead run. Further more, Matsui went 0-5 and has his average at .241 on the season.
Respect Jeter's Gangster Is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Marky T, whose been making up for lost time, hit a broken bat homerun yesterday.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 7hr = $7.00
Mark Teixeira 13hr = $13.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $72.00
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.
Sabathia pitched a stellar game, going 8 innings and allowing 3 runs. Veras and Rivera releived with 2 innings of scoreless ball. Jeter went 3-5 out of the leadoff spot, and Melky also went 3-5 including a game tieing single in the 9th to put the game into extra innings. Marky T hit another homerun.
The Bad
In the 10th, the Yankees put two men on base with no outs, and failed to score. Its a wasted opportunity like that that loses the game for you.
The Ugly
Brett Tomko was not good as he pitched the 11th inning of a tied game. He walked two and gave up a hit as well as the go ahead run. Further more, Matsui went 0-5 and has his average at .241 on the season.
Respect Jeter's Gangster Is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Marky T, whose been making up for lost time, hit a broken bat homerun yesterday.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 7hr = $7.00
Mark Teixeira 13hr = $13.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $72.00
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 23, 2009
Another Walk-Off for the Yanks
The Good
Another walk-off for the Yankees as A-Rod hit a two-run home run in the ninth to tie the game, followed by consecutive hits by Cano and Melky to send everyone home happy. Pettitte went seven innings, giving up four runs. Phil Coke pitched a scoreless 1.2 innings and even Veras managed to get an out without putting men on base or giving up more runs. Also, after hitting seven home runs over the last three years, Jeter has now hit seven in the first two months of the season. Bravo.
The Bad
Two runs versus Happ? Really? The Yankees look like a single A ball club whenever they face unfamiliar pitching or Roy Halladay. It's really weird, and very annoying. It has to stop.
The Ugly
When Cano got on base in the ninth, Burnett knew it was again time to prepare the whipped cream pies. Normally Burnett uses non fat, but today he only had regular. Cano, who worked hard to get in excellent shape over the summer, does not eat carbs after 3pm. When Burnett pied him and Melky as they were interviewed by Susan Waldman, Cano accidentally swallowed some of the regular whipped cream. Feeling his diet ruined, and hard work thrown out the window, Cano began binge eating ice cream and candy, once again allowed in the clubhouse, when he got back to his locker. He refused to face the media as he whimpered while stuffing his face with ice cream.
Respect Jeter's Gangster Is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Both Jeter and A-Rod home run race continued today as they each had one. They are now tied at seven. I suspect we have another Mantle-Maris style race on our hands.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 7hr = $7.00
Mark Teixeira 12hr = $12.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $71.00
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.
Another walk-off for the Yankees as A-Rod hit a two-run home run in the ninth to tie the game, followed by consecutive hits by Cano and Melky to send everyone home happy. Pettitte went seven innings, giving up four runs. Phil Coke pitched a scoreless 1.2 innings and even Veras managed to get an out without putting men on base or giving up more runs. Also, after hitting seven home runs over the last three years, Jeter has now hit seven in the first two months of the season. Bravo.
The Bad
Two runs versus Happ? Really? The Yankees look like a single A ball club whenever they face unfamiliar pitching or Roy Halladay. It's really weird, and very annoying. It has to stop.
The Ugly
When Cano got on base in the ninth, Burnett knew it was again time to prepare the whipped cream pies. Normally Burnett uses non fat, but today he only had regular. Cano, who worked hard to get in excellent shape over the summer, does not eat carbs after 3pm. When Burnett pied him and Melky as they were interviewed by Susan Waldman, Cano accidentally swallowed some of the regular whipped cream. Feeling his diet ruined, and hard work thrown out the window, Cano began binge eating ice cream and candy, once again allowed in the clubhouse, when he got back to his locker. He refused to face the media as he whimpered while stuffing his face with ice cream.
Respect Jeter's Gangster Is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Both Jeter and A-Rod home run race continued today as they each had one. They are now tied at seven. I suspect we have another Mantle-Maris style race on our hands.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 7hr = $7.00
Mark Teixeira 12hr = $12.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 7hr = $7.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $71.00
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 Lose Winning Streak
The Good
Excellent defensive plays were made throughout the game to "limit" the damage. The Yankees had three homeruns hit by A-Rod, Teixeira, and Jeter.
The Bad
All three of those homeruns were solo shots and fell well short of the Phillies 7 runs. Wang relieved and pitched 3 innings with 2 runs allowing 6 hits in that time including a homerun. I don't think thats what the Yankees were hoping for from him.
The Ugly
AJ Burnett had an awful game. He allowed 3 of the Phillies homeruns, and allowed 5 runs in 6 innings. Dave Eiland believes he's just getting lazy on a few pitches a game, and that those pitches are being clobbered. Whatever the case may be, he needs to pull it together. He was probably our best pitcher at the beginning of the season, but now boasts a 2-2 record with a 5.28 ERA. Ugly.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. The Yankees hit three homeruns to try and keep their streak alive, but the Phillies hit 4 homeruns to try and kill our streak. Either way, Jeter, A-Rod, and Teixeira have once again stepped up to help the cause.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 6hr = $6.00
Mark Teixeira 12hr = $12.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $69.00
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.
Excellent defensive plays were made throughout the game to "limit" the damage. The Yankees had three homeruns hit by A-Rod, Teixeira, and Jeter.
The Bad
All three of those homeruns were solo shots and fell well short of the Phillies 7 runs. Wang relieved and pitched 3 innings with 2 runs allowing 6 hits in that time including a homerun. I don't think thats what the Yankees were hoping for from him.
The Ugly
AJ Burnett had an awful game. He allowed 3 of the Phillies homeruns, and allowed 5 runs in 6 innings. Dave Eiland believes he's just getting lazy on a few pitches a game, and that those pitches are being clobbered. Whatever the case may be, he needs to pull it together. He was probably our best pitcher at the beginning of the season, but now boasts a 2-2 record with a 5.28 ERA. Ugly.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. The Yankees hit three homeruns to try and keep their streak alive, but the Phillies hit 4 homeruns to try and kill our streak. Either way, Jeter, A-Rod, and Teixeira have once again stepped up to help the cause.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 6hr = $6.00
Mark Teixeira 12hr = $12.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 6hr = $6.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $69.00
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 22, 2009
Yankees Look Like They're Having Fun
It is no secret that the Yankees look like a funner bunch this year. With whipped cream pies being shoved in players faces, wrestling belts being hung from lockers, and kangaroo courts being held, the Yankees are appearing to have fun.
"This is definitely a funner group than we've had in recent years." Said Yankee captain Derek Jeter. "Things had really turned sour for a little while."
Robinson Cano remembers how things were just a few years ago.
"We used to have fun every now and again. Like I remember this one time in 2005, during a game, I smiled. It was the most fun I had had since joining the Yankees that year. I got yelled at by Randy Johnson for doing it, but still, it was fun."
"When I came in here in 2006, I had thought the reports about the business like atmosphere with the Yankees were overblown." Said Yankee left fielder Johnny Damon. "That was until I showed up for opening day and everyone was wearing suits in the clubhouse. Torre then sat us down for a 2 hour meeting led my Lonn Trost. He was telling us about using cover sheets on faxes, strategies for proof reading memo's, and that breaks by the water cooler could last a max of 5 minutes. He also said there was no talking in the dugout unless it was about company memo's, since we were on company time. It really sucked."
"I remember the last time I had fun like this." Said Yankees outfielder Melky Cabrera through his translator Robinson Cano. "I had made this really nice catch, robbing Manny Ramirez of a homerun. Johnny Damon was happy too. It was a great feeling. But then the next day we got sat down by corporate and reminded that we're a business and our unprofessional behavior would not be tolerated."
Many agree that the corporate atmosphere lasted through the 2008 season when Buzzcut Joe and the no candy policy both came into play.
"It sucked." Said Hideki Matsui, through his translator Robinson Cano. "Girardi had us eating prunes and crap like that. I took up drinking herbal tea that year, only by herbal tea I mean sake, and by drinking I mean binging. Made the season go by much quicker. Soon, half the team was joining me for pregame "herbal tea". This year, Girardi's loosened up a bit."
But corporate is not very happy with the diminishing business-like atmosphere.
"I had been advocating that the players wear suits and ties on the field, to really make it look professional. Just imagine, batting helmet fedora's, and Kenneth Cole cleats. We could do a casual Friday, where the players could lose the tie. Let me tell you, there's nothing like a fresh pair of slacks in the morning. Maybe on a holiday we could go really crazy and wear a Hawaiian t-shirt, but not at the game, just in the clubhouse where no one can see us." Explained Yankee finance guru Lonn Trost.
"How are we going to attract bankers and businessmen to the games if the players are smiling and enjoying themselves? There's a saying on Wall Street that goes 'Every time a person smiles, we get one step closer to regulating banks.' Do you know how horrifying that is for these people? And its true. Since I started seeing smiles in the clubhouse they've started saying that credit cards can't double interest rates on customers without 60 days prior notice. They used to be able to do that without any notice at all! Stop smiling Fernando! Stop (expletive deleted) smiling! I'm the Osiris of this (expletive deleted)!!"
But the Yankees continue to win, and with that the fun and smiles continue.
"I hope this never ends." Said outfielder Nick Swisher with a smile on his face. "We'll be smiling our way to a world series championship."
"This is definitely a funner group than we've had in recent years." Said Yankee captain Derek Jeter. "Things had really turned sour for a little while."
Robinson Cano remembers how things were just a few years ago.
"We used to have fun every now and again. Like I remember this one time in 2005, during a game, I smiled. It was the most fun I had had since joining the Yankees that year. I got yelled at by Randy Johnson for doing it, but still, it was fun."
"When I came in here in 2006, I had thought the reports about the business like atmosphere with the Yankees were overblown." Said Yankee left fielder Johnny Damon. "That was until I showed up for opening day and everyone was wearing suits in the clubhouse. Torre then sat us down for a 2 hour meeting led my Lonn Trost. He was telling us about using cover sheets on faxes, strategies for proof reading memo's, and that breaks by the water cooler could last a max of 5 minutes. He also said there was no talking in the dugout unless it was about company memo's, since we were on company time. It really sucked."
"I remember the last time I had fun like this." Said Yankees outfielder Melky Cabrera through his translator Robinson Cano. "I had made this really nice catch, robbing Manny Ramirez of a homerun. Johnny Damon was happy too. It was a great feeling. But then the next day we got sat down by corporate and reminded that we're a business and our unprofessional behavior would not be tolerated."
Many agree that the corporate atmosphere lasted through the 2008 season when Buzzcut Joe and the no candy policy both came into play.
"It sucked." Said Hideki Matsui, through his translator Robinson Cano. "Girardi had us eating prunes and crap like that. I took up drinking herbal tea that year, only by herbal tea I mean sake, and by drinking I mean binging. Made the season go by much quicker. Soon, half the team was joining me for pregame "herbal tea". This year, Girardi's loosened up a bit."
But corporate is not very happy with the diminishing business-like atmosphere.
"I had been advocating that the players wear suits and ties on the field, to really make it look professional. Just imagine, batting helmet fedora's, and Kenneth Cole cleats. We could do a casual Friday, where the players could lose the tie. Let me tell you, there's nothing like a fresh pair of slacks in the morning. Maybe on a holiday we could go really crazy and wear a Hawaiian t-shirt, but not at the game, just in the clubhouse where no one can see us." Explained Yankee finance guru Lonn Trost.
"How are we going to attract bankers and businessmen to the games if the players are smiling and enjoying themselves? There's a saying on Wall Street that goes 'Every time a person smiles, we get one step closer to regulating banks.' Do you know how horrifying that is for these people? And its true. Since I started seeing smiles in the clubhouse they've started saying that credit cards can't double interest rates on customers without 60 days prior notice. They used to be able to do that without any notice at all! Stop smiling Fernando! Stop (expletive deleted) smiling! I'm the Osiris of this (expletive deleted)!!"
But the Yankees continue to win, and with that the fun and smiles continue.
"I hope this never ends." Said outfielder Nick Swisher with a smile on his face. "We'll be smiling our way to a world series championship."
9 Straight for Yanks
The Good
Alfredo Aceves, who is right now the greatest reliever not named Mariano, pitched 3.1 scoreless innings. He had also pitched two scoreless innings the night before. Cano went 3-4 with a homerun and 3 RBI's. Veras and Mo combined for 2.2 scoreless innings of relief.
The Bad
Jonathan Albaladejo pitched 2.1 innings and gave up 4 runs. Our bullpen is much better with Bruney there, but Veras and Albaladejo remain inconsistant. Coke had been good, but he's given up 4 runs in his last 4 innings of relief. Hopefully the bullpen holds up against the Phillies.
The Ugly
Joba took a comebacker off his knee, which pulled him out of the game in the first inning. Luckily, the x-rays were negative, and he believes he should be able to make his next start.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Two homeruns last night from Cano and Matsui. That's two homeruns in two days for Cano.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 11hr = $11.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 5hr = $5.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $66.00
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.
Alfredo Aceves, who is right now the greatest reliever not named Mariano, pitched 3.1 scoreless innings. He had also pitched two scoreless innings the night before. Cano went 3-4 with a homerun and 3 RBI's. Veras and Mo combined for 2.2 scoreless innings of relief.
The Bad
Jonathan Albaladejo pitched 2.1 innings and gave up 4 runs. Our bullpen is much better with Bruney there, but Veras and Albaladejo remain inconsistant. Coke had been good, but he's given up 4 runs in his last 4 innings of relief. Hopefully the bullpen holds up against the Phillies.
The Ugly
Joba took a comebacker off his knee, which pulled him out of the game in the first inning. Luckily, the x-rays were negative, and he believes he should be able to make his next start.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Two homeruns last night from Cano and Matsui. That's two homeruns in two days for Cano.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 5hr = $5.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 11hr = $11.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 8hr = $8.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 5hr = $5.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $66.00
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 21, 2009
Will Huff Get Plunked?
A lot of discussion over whether Joba will try to end Aubrey Huff's career tonight for his fist pumping antics. Personally, if Huff had hit a home run off me and then fist pumped, I would want to strike him out and then fist pump. Joba likes to throw inside, however, and he may go after Huff. But here's why I disagree with that: The guy's name is Aubrey. He's suffered enough. Aubrey? Seriously? WTF?
8th Inning Surge Helps Mariano Get 7-Run Save
The Good
The Yankees continue their winning streak as they downed the Orioles 11-4. The offensive explosion included back-to-back-to-back homeruns by Swisher-Cano-Melky. Alfredo Aceves pitched two scoreless innings of relief, and Mariano got the 7 run save after closing out the 8th when it was just a 2-run lead. The Yankees scored 6 in the 8th.
The Bad
Hughes had a much better game then he's been having, but his final line was still unimpressive. While everyone is talking about how well he pitched, 5 innings and 3 runs is just not that impressive. In fact, that was the exact line from his last game when everyone felt he pitched poorly. The difference here is that Hughes struck out 9 batters, which was sick. It also makes me wonder if Hughes could be the missing bullpen piece. I'm not saying that we permanently move him to the bullpen, but for this season, it would be nice to see what he could do pitching one or two innings at a time, as he continues to learn how to pitch in the major leagues.
The Ugly
Phil Coke took a ball off of his shoulder that made men gasp and ladies swoon. Luckily, he deflected it partially with his glove, and said he felt alright.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Swisher, Cano, and Melky all helped further the cause with back-to-back-to-back homeruns in the second inning.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 11hr = $11.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 5hr = $5.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $64.00
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 Yankees continue their winning streak as they downed the Orioles 11-4. The offensive explosion included back-to-back-to-back homeruns by Swisher-Cano-Melky. Alfredo Aceves pitched two scoreless innings of relief, and Mariano got the 7 run save after closing out the 8th when it was just a 2-run lead. The Yankees scored 6 in the 8th.
The Bad
Hughes had a much better game then he's been having, but his final line was still unimpressive. While everyone is talking about how well he pitched, 5 innings and 3 runs is just not that impressive. In fact, that was the exact line from his last game when everyone felt he pitched poorly. The difference here is that Hughes struck out 9 batters, which was sick. It also makes me wonder if Hughes could be the missing bullpen piece. I'm not saying that we permanently move him to the bullpen, but for this season, it would be nice to see what he could do pitching one or two innings at a time, as he continues to learn how to pitch in the major leagues.
The Ugly
Phil Coke took a ball off of his shoulder that made men gasp and ladies swoon. Luckily, he deflected it partially with his glove, and said he felt alright.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Swisher, Cano, and Melky all helped further the cause with back-to-back-to-back homeruns in the second inning.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 11hr = $11.00
Nick Swisher 9hr = $9.00
Robinson Cano 7hr = $7.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 5hr = $5.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 5hr = $5.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $64.00
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 20, 2009
WTF?
So, I'm not a baseball expert, but when you come into a game to pitch the ninth, and your team is up by 8 runs, I don't think that is a save situation. But the box score on Yankees.com is telling me that Mo got his 8th save of the year. Was the official scorer bored? High on coke? Or is this just a mistake? Somebody please explain this to me.
Some House Keeping
We recently went through all the blogs we link to, and deleted all the ones that haven't been updated in a while or have been deleted by the creators. If you are the owner of one of these blogs and you plan to reinstate it, or start it up again, let us know, and we'll happily put the link back up. We wanted to clean up some of them since the link list was starting to get long.
Outfield 2010
The year is 2010, the New York Yankees take the field on opening day in Yankee stadium, with the excitement of their World Series championship still fresh in their minds. CC Sabathia takes a few warm up pitches from the mound and then takes a look around the field to see the team backing him up. At first, Mark Teixeira, who has won another gold glove, is stretching in preperation for the first inning. Robinson Cano, who had won a silver slugger for his offensive prowess at second stands next to Jeter who used the short porch in right to break his single season homerun record the year before. A-Rod, fresh from his second hip surgery moves quickly around third base as he catches a wayward throw from Teixeira as they continue their warmup, and Posada stretches behind homeplate getting ready for the game action. Then, Sabathia looks to the outfield to see Nick Swisher playing catch with Melky Cabrera as they warm up their arms. Melky had a great season at the plate to win the centerfield job, and Swisher broke out of his May slump with a monster June to help get the Yankees in first place. Sabathia then turns to left, and squints trying to make out the figure playing catch with the ball boy. Who is that? He wonders. Is Damon back there after an incredible walk year which saw career highs in homeruns and RBI's? Is it Gardner or AJax, who battled it out during spring training to see who would start? Or perhaps, Cashman dipped into those deep New York pockets and signed a fresh face. Matt Holliday? Jason Bay?
The question of who will play left field in 2010 is an interesting one. Holliday looked like the best free agent option, but has gotten off to a rough start. Jason Bay of the Boston Red Sox, has been quite the bat and has essentially propped up the Boston offense in Ortiz's absence. Damon and Nady are both in walk years, but Damon's age becomes a question and Nady's elbow is a huge concern. If Damon continues producing at this stage, the Yankees could hope to sign him for a couple years as they groom the next big outfield prospect. Both Damon's $13 million contract and Matsui's $13 million will be off the books, and Nady's $6 million will also be dropped. If Swisher's a lock in right, and Gardner, Melky and perhaps AJax hold down centerfield, it leaves a decent amount of money to play with for a left fielder. If current contract trends continue, then someone like Damon could probably be had at a discount. On the other hand, the big free agents will still demand big money. If the Yankees go for Bay, who turns 31 in September, you can expect Boston to fight us tooth and nail. Holliday, who turned 29 in January would expect to get several years on this contract and he will not be cheap. With so many players on the Yankees signed to long term deals, you have to wonder if signing another big ticket free agent for 6 - 8 years is the way to go. It probably isn't. You could put left field in the hands of Gardner or AJax, but there's no guarantee that AJax will perform, and Gardner is more of a 4th outfielder type than a regular player. Perhaps Damon for a couple years would be a good call, but he'll likely want more years since he wants to play until he's 39 (he turns 36 in October), and signing Damon would certainly not be in line with the whole "lets get younger" philosophy. However, if you use Damon as a leftfielder/DH with AJax spelling him, you could see if AJax is big league material while having Damon's bat as insurance. There's several options, and I'm not sure what the right answer is.
So what do you think the Yankees should do?
The question of who will play left field in 2010 is an interesting one. Holliday looked like the best free agent option, but has gotten off to a rough start. Jason Bay of the Boston Red Sox, has been quite the bat and has essentially propped up the Boston offense in Ortiz's absence. Damon and Nady are both in walk years, but Damon's age becomes a question and Nady's elbow is a huge concern. If Damon continues producing at this stage, the Yankees could hope to sign him for a couple years as they groom the next big outfield prospect. Both Damon's $13 million contract and Matsui's $13 million will be off the books, and Nady's $6 million will also be dropped. If Swisher's a lock in right, and Gardner, Melky and perhaps AJax hold down centerfield, it leaves a decent amount of money to play with for a left fielder. If current contract trends continue, then someone like Damon could probably be had at a discount. On the other hand, the big free agents will still demand big money. If the Yankees go for Bay, who turns 31 in September, you can expect Boston to fight us tooth and nail. Holliday, who turned 29 in January would expect to get several years on this contract and he will not be cheap. With so many players on the Yankees signed to long term deals, you have to wonder if signing another big ticket free agent for 6 - 8 years is the way to go. It probably isn't. You could put left field in the hands of Gardner or AJax, but there's no guarantee that AJax will perform, and Gardner is more of a 4th outfielder type than a regular player. Perhaps Damon for a couple years would be a good call, but he'll likely want more years since he wants to play until he's 39 (he turns 36 in October), and signing Damon would certainly not be in line with the whole "lets get younger" philosophy. However, if you use Damon as a leftfielder/DH with AJax spelling him, you could see if AJax is big league material while having Damon's bat as insurance. There's several options, and I'm not sure what the right answer is.
So what do you think the Yankees should do?
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Sabathia Dominates While Teixeira and A-Rod Go Deep
The Good
A lot of good today. Sabathia went seven, giving up only one run. He threw 105 pitches. Girardi didn't make him thrown an additional 20, but that's because Bruney was available, another good thing. A-Rod gave the Yanks the lead back in the first inning with a two-run shot to left. Teixeira hit another majestic blast to the second deck in right in the seventh. I was at yesterday's game, where Teixeira hit an identical shot, and I saw today's game on TV. Those balls were absolutely crushed. Crushed balls I say, crushed. The Yankees supported CC's gem with nine runs rather than two, as has been their custom.
The Bad
Honestly, if I have to pick a bad, it was the Orioles defense. Two errors in this game, but their play in the field cost them quite a few runs. Not that I care, since we won and all, but still, seriously. They could stand to suck a little less.
The Ugly
In the fourth inning, one of the Orioles hit a foul ball into the seats along the left field line. Both Jeter and Damon converged but the ball was in the seats. A small child who was sitting in the front row was facing the other way and Jeter hit the brim of his cap and Damon tapped him on the back with his glove as both players walked back to their respective positions. Glenn "Big Baby" Davis immediately issued an apology to the boy's father.
RJG Should Rethink Their Business Model
When the Yankees signed Teixeira, we probably should've ended our relationship with Johnny Damon's Home Run Club. These two just hit too many home runs. When Posada gets back, we're absolutely screwed. Both A-Rod and Teixeira went yard today, and are on pace to hit like a million home runs or something.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 11hr = $11.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 5hr = $5.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $61.00
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.
A lot of good today. Sabathia went seven, giving up only one run. He threw 105 pitches. Girardi didn't make him thrown an additional 20, but that's because Bruney was available, another good thing. A-Rod gave the Yanks the lead back in the first inning with a two-run shot to left. Teixeira hit another majestic blast to the second deck in right in the seventh. I was at yesterday's game, where Teixeira hit an identical shot, and I saw today's game on TV. Those balls were absolutely crushed. Crushed balls I say, crushed. The Yankees supported CC's gem with nine runs rather than two, as has been their custom.
The Bad
Honestly, if I have to pick a bad, it was the Orioles defense. Two errors in this game, but their play in the field cost them quite a few runs. Not that I care, since we won and all, but still, seriously. They could stand to suck a little less.
The Ugly
In the fourth inning, one of the Orioles hit a foul ball into the seats along the left field line. Both Jeter and Damon converged but the ball was in the seats. A small child who was sitting in the front row was facing the other way and Jeter hit the brim of his cap and Damon tapped him on the back with his glove as both players walked back to their respective positions. Glenn "Big Baby" Davis immediately issued an apology to the boy's father.
RJG Should Rethink Their Business Model
When the Yankees signed Teixeira, we probably should've ended our relationship with Johnny Damon's Home Run Club. These two just hit too many home runs. When Posada gets back, we're absolutely screwed. Both A-Rod and Teixeira went yard today, and are on pace to hit like a million home runs or something.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 11hr = $11.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 5hr = $5.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $61.00
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 18, 2009
Yanks Sweep the Twins
The Good
The first inning. Well, the bottom of the first inning anyway. The Yankees not only batted around, but Marky T and A-Rod hit back to back home runs. Teixeira would later hit another home run in the seventh, which would prove to be the winning run, making him the most clutch player in Yankee history in games decided by seventh inning home runs, played in May, that begin after 7pm, and where Kate Smith's version of "God Bless America" is played during the seventh inning stretch.
The Bad
The Yankee bullpen came pretty close to blowing this one. Veras, Ramirez, and Coke all struggled to throw strikes. Are these guys all converted outfielders or something? It's as though none of them understands exactly how pitching works.
The Ugly
While speaking to reporters in the locker room after the game, Marky T inexplicably started crying. And not like a little crying, a lot of crying. Like a toddler. It turns out that he was hurt that Burnett didn't pie him despite his two home runs. Burnett did walk by, but only told him to, "grow a pair," which made the crying worse. Awkward all around.
Saving Children, One Home Run at a Time
As you know, RJG is all about philanthropy. That's why we do this blog, because we love people. We also love children, as do A-Rod and Marky T, who hit one and two home runs respectively today.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 10hr = $10.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $59.00
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 first inning. Well, the bottom of the first inning anyway. The Yankees not only batted around, but Marky T and A-Rod hit back to back home runs. Teixeira would later hit another home run in the seventh, which would prove to be the winning run, making him the most clutch player in Yankee history in games decided by seventh inning home runs, played in May, that begin after 7pm, and where Kate Smith's version of "God Bless America" is played during the seventh inning stretch.
The Bad
The Yankee bullpen came pretty close to blowing this one. Veras, Ramirez, and Coke all struggled to throw strikes. Are these guys all converted outfielders or something? It's as though none of them understands exactly how pitching works.
The Ugly
While speaking to reporters in the locker room after the game, Marky T inexplicably started crying. And not like a little crying, a lot of crying. Like a toddler. It turns out that he was hurt that Burnett didn't pie him despite his two home runs. Burnett did walk by, but only told him to, "grow a pair," which made the crying worse. Awkward all around.
Saving Children, One Home Run at a Time
As you know, RJG is all about philanthropy. That's why we do this blog, because we love people. We also love children, as do A-Rod and Marky T, who hit one and two home runs respectively today.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 10hr = $10.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 4hr = $4.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $59.00
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.
I Wonder About That
Much attention has been given to David Ortiz's batting woes, and as the slugger was benched through the Mariners series as he attempts to regain his swing everyone wonders when his homerless streak will end. With the recent revelation of Manny Ramirez's steroid use some are starting to wonder if perhaps Manny and his good buddy Big Papi were juicing together. This question is a biproduct of what is now called the steroid era, but Ortiz has never been suspected of PED use. In Boston, the question has been asked, but its also been dismissed. In this article about Ortiz's batting problems it uses the example of Jim Rice and Morgan Ensberg as players who hit for power and then lost it. As the article states:
"But players can lose it all of a sudden. It happens to the best of them. Jim Rice's production dropped precipitously at age 34, though he was able to hang on until 36. You also have players like Morgan Ensberg, who hit 36 homers and knocked in 101 runs for Houston in 2005, dropped to 23 homers and 58 RBIs the following year, then fell off the face of the Earth.
'Ensberg is a great example of a player who had it going and then lost it without explanation,' said a former member of the Astros' front office. 'Usually there's a reason. I've got to believe with Ortiz it's a combination of the injuries, some mechanical thing in his swing. Sometimes you're off by a tick and you're messed up for a long time.'"
The only problem is that these are not equal comparisons. Ensberg's really had one good season, and then began to decline. He did not have a sudden drop off after many good seasons. Though Rice did fall off, it was not as sudden as the article would lead you to believe. From 1980 - 1988, he hit 24, 17, 24, 39, 28, 27, 20, 13, and 15 homeruns. He actually hit more doubles than usual in 1986 when his homers dropped from 27 to 20, and between 1987 - 1988 he averaged about 445 at bats. This is more of a steady decline with the exception of the sudden spike of 39 homeruns in 1983.
Now moving to the case of Ortiz. Ortiz was always a curious player because he was such a non-threat in the 6 seasons he played with the Twins. His last season in Minnesota was his best, hitting a career high 20 homeruns, and driving in 75 RBI's. Then he came to Boston, and his production increased even more. He batted career highs in average, homeruns, doubles, and RBI's with a .288 average, 31 homeruns, 39 doubles and 101 RBI's. This would not be out of the norm for a player that is finally breaking out, but one thing bothers me. He did this while playing half his games at Fenway, which is notoriously tough on left handed hitters. For comparison, the Metrodome had rightfield dimensions of 327 feet at its closest and 367 as it nears centerfield. Ortiz hit 5 homeruns in the Metrodome in 2002, 2 of which were over 380 feet. When he moved to Boston in 2003, 17 of his 31 homeruns were hit in Fenway park, 13 of which were over 380 feet. From there on out, he only got better. Manny was already on the team when he joined, so the pieces are certainly there, but its unfair to speculate like this. Players have had breakout seasons before, and some players have been late bloomers. What makes Ortiz stand out is that his power came when he showed up at Fenway, and seemingly left when Manny did. In this era that's enough to raise suspicion, but its still not fair. Without a positive drug test, there's no way to know, and you could probably look at the numbers of power hitters from the past and find someone whose numbers compare to Ortiz's. The thing that sucks about this era is that all you can do is wonder, and never know for sure. But that is the product of the steroid era, the "loosey-goosey" era, the Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, Jose Canseco, Alex Rodriguez, and now Manny Ramirez era. Now, we're left in the suspicious era, which will probably last until the last of this eras sluggers retire.
"But players can lose it all of a sudden. It happens to the best of them. Jim Rice's production dropped precipitously at age 34, though he was able to hang on until 36. You also have players like Morgan Ensberg, who hit 36 homers and knocked in 101 runs for Houston in 2005, dropped to 23 homers and 58 RBIs the following year, then fell off the face of the Earth.
'Ensberg is a great example of a player who had it going and then lost it without explanation,' said a former member of the Astros' front office. 'Usually there's a reason. I've got to believe with Ortiz it's a combination of the injuries, some mechanical thing in his swing. Sometimes you're off by a tick and you're messed up for a long time.'"
The only problem is that these are not equal comparisons. Ensberg's really had one good season, and then began to decline. He did not have a sudden drop off after many good seasons. Though Rice did fall off, it was not as sudden as the article would lead you to believe. From 1980 - 1988, he hit 24, 17, 24, 39, 28, 27, 20, 13, and 15 homeruns. He actually hit more doubles than usual in 1986 when his homers dropped from 27 to 20, and between 1987 - 1988 he averaged about 445 at bats. This is more of a steady decline with the exception of the sudden spike of 39 homeruns in 1983.
Now moving to the case of Ortiz. Ortiz was always a curious player because he was such a non-threat in the 6 seasons he played with the Twins. His last season in Minnesota was his best, hitting a career high 20 homeruns, and driving in 75 RBI's. Then he came to Boston, and his production increased even more. He batted career highs in average, homeruns, doubles, and RBI's with a .288 average, 31 homeruns, 39 doubles and 101 RBI's. This would not be out of the norm for a player that is finally breaking out, but one thing bothers me. He did this while playing half his games at Fenway, which is notoriously tough on left handed hitters. For comparison, the Metrodome had rightfield dimensions of 327 feet at its closest and 367 as it nears centerfield. Ortiz hit 5 homeruns in the Metrodome in 2002, 2 of which were over 380 feet. When he moved to Boston in 2003, 17 of his 31 homeruns were hit in Fenway park, 13 of which were over 380 feet. From there on out, he only got better. Manny was already on the team when he joined, so the pieces are certainly there, but its unfair to speculate like this. Players have had breakout seasons before, and some players have been late bloomers. What makes Ortiz stand out is that his power came when he showed up at Fenway, and seemingly left when Manny did. In this era that's enough to raise suspicion, but its still not fair. Without a positive drug test, there's no way to know, and you could probably look at the numbers of power hitters from the past and find someone whose numbers compare to Ortiz's. The thing that sucks about this era is that all you can do is wonder, and never know for sure. But that is the product of the steroid era, the "loosey-goosey" era, the Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, Jose Canseco, Alex Rodriguez, and now Manny Ramirez era. Now, we're left in the suspicious era, which will probably last until the last of this eras sluggers retire.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Damon Is Magic
The Good
Another walk-off victory for the Yankees, this time courtesy of Johnny Damon. Damon hit a walk-off home run in the bottom of the tenth to clinch a series victory over the Twins. Burnett threw seven innings, giving up only two runs. A-Rod hit a solo shot in the seventh to bring the Yanks within one. Mariano, a day after pitching two scoreless innings for the Yankees, shut down the ninth inning with a fifteen pitch performance. AJ Burnett shaving cream pied his third player in a row as Damon tried to give an interview after the game.
The Bad
Girardi let Burnett throw 123 pitches, which seems like an awful lot this time of year for a guy with Burnett's injury history. Perhaps the unreliable bullpen has forced Girardi's hand, but some of our starters seem to be throwing an excessive amount of pitches. This is the second start in a row in which Burnett has been asked to throw way too many pitches. At the same time, Girardi does seem to have his team playing a full nine, ten, and even eleven innings of baseball. WTF?
The Ugly
Burnett should have gotten a win today, but didn't, because the Yankees hate scoring runs in the early innings. Burnett has pitched well for us, his record should be better than 2-1. Our starters, particularly the young guys, need to start receiving earlier run support.
Respect Jeter's Gangster Is for the Children
RJG is donating $1 for every home run hit by a Yankee to Johnny Damon's Home Run Club, benefiting the Children's Health Fund. A-Rod and Damon both went yard today, helping the Yankees defeat the Minnesota Twins, who are in the running for the Yankees' greatest rival.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 8hr = $8.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 3hr = $3.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $55.00
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.
Another walk-off victory for the Yankees, this time courtesy of Johnny Damon. Damon hit a walk-off home run in the bottom of the tenth to clinch a series victory over the Twins. Burnett threw seven innings, giving up only two runs. A-Rod hit a solo shot in the seventh to bring the Yanks within one. Mariano, a day after pitching two scoreless innings for the Yankees, shut down the ninth inning with a fifteen pitch performance. AJ Burnett shaving cream pied his third player in a row as Damon tried to give an interview after the game.
The Bad
Girardi let Burnett throw 123 pitches, which seems like an awful lot this time of year for a guy with Burnett's injury history. Perhaps the unreliable bullpen has forced Girardi's hand, but some of our starters seem to be throwing an excessive amount of pitches. This is the second start in a row in which Burnett has been asked to throw way too many pitches. At the same time, Girardi does seem to have his team playing a full nine, ten, and even eleven innings of baseball. WTF?
The Ugly
Burnett should have gotten a win today, but didn't, because the Yankees hate scoring runs in the early innings. Burnett has pitched well for us, his record should be better than 2-1. Our starters, particularly the young guys, need to start receiving earlier run support.
Respect Jeter's Gangster Is for the Children
RJG is donating $1 for every home run hit by a Yankee to Johnny Damon's Home Run Club, benefiting the Children's Health Fund. A-Rod and Damon both went yard today, helping the Yankees defeat the Minnesota Twins, who are in the running for the Yankees' greatest rival.
Jorge Posada 5hr = $5.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 8hr = $8.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 10hr = $10.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 3hr = $3.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $55.00
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.
123 Pitches? Really?
Why did AJ Burnett throw 123 pitches today? I know the bullpen has been shaky at best, but 123 pitches? Remember when people would wonder aloud whether Girardi overused/damaged his young pitchers in Florida? The answer is a resounding 'yes.' There is no reason Burnett needed to throw that many pitches. Girardi's plan to address the weak bullpen seems to be to burn out our stronger starting rotation. The Yankees invested a lot of money in CC Sabathia and AJ Burnett. Girardi seems intent on making that a very short term investment. If I'm Bronny Cash, I institute a 110 pitch count immediately. I'm sure the pitchers will say they want the ball, but I want them to pitch well for the life of their very expensive contracts. Does anyone else remember that Burnett has an injury riddled past? Girardi either doesn't, doesn't care, or is not that good at his job. I'm increasingly leaning towards the latter.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
A-Rod Is Magic
The Good
My brother and I attended that game, which is always good. Joba managed to not give up any runs in the first. Teixeira went four for four, with a three run home run, and a walk. And, of course, A-Rod hit a walk-off, two run, blast to left field in the eleventh. The crowd gave A-Rod a very long ovation. He definitely felt appreciated and I suspect he cried a little afterwards.
The Bad
The Yankees have a fan poll at the beginning of every game where you can text your response and then they announce the winner later. Today's question was, what is your favorite Yankees rivalry? The choices: A. Red Sox; B. Mets; C. Minnesota. We don't have a rivalry with Minnesota. Does any Yankee fan honestly care about the Mets? I know Mets fans are obsessed with us, but we don't care about them. Stupid question all around.
The Ugly
After last night's game, Melky Cabrera got a towel full of shaving cream in the face. Today, after the crowd showered A-Rod with love, and as A-Rod began his interview with YES's Kim Jones, AJ Burnett creamed Alex with a shaving cream towel of his own. Unbeknownst to AJ, A-Rod is deathly allergic to shaving cream. His face immediately swelled up, and team trainer Gene Moynahan immediately injected him with an EpiPen. A-Rod had to be rushed to the hospital, where a team of doctors played his ovation over and over again in a loop until he felt better.
Respect Jeter's Gangster Is for the Children
RJG joined Johnny Damon's Home Run Club for Children Who Like Home Runs and Need Money for Stuff. We will donate $1 for every home run hit. Today, Marky T and A-Rod both hit home runs.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 8hr = $8.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 2hr = $2.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $52.00
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.
My brother and I attended that game, which is always good. Joba managed to not give up any runs in the first. Teixeira went four for four, with a three run home run, and a walk. And, of course, A-Rod hit a walk-off, two run, blast to left field in the eleventh. The crowd gave A-Rod a very long ovation. He definitely felt appreciated and I suspect he cried a little afterwards.
The Bad
The Yankees have a fan poll at the beginning of every game where you can text your response and then they announce the winner later. Today's question was, what is your favorite Yankees rivalry? The choices: A. Red Sox; B. Mets; C. Minnesota. We don't have a rivalry with Minnesota. Does any Yankee fan honestly care about the Mets? I know Mets fans are obsessed with us, but we don't care about them. Stupid question all around.
The Ugly
After last night's game, Melky Cabrera got a towel full of shaving cream in the face. Today, after the crowd showered A-Rod with love, and as A-Rod began his interview with YES's Kim Jones, AJ Burnett creamed Alex with a shaving cream towel of his own. Unbeknownst to AJ, A-Rod is deathly allergic to shaving cream. His face immediately swelled up, and team trainer Gene Moynahan immediately injected him with an EpiPen. A-Rod had to be rushed to the hospital, where a team of doctors played his ovation over and over again in a loop until he felt better.
Respect Jeter's Gangster Is for the Children
RJG joined Johnny Damon's Home Run Club for Children Who Like Home Runs and Need Money for Stuff. We will donate $1 for every home run hit. Today, Marky T and A-Rod both hit home runs.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 8hr = $8.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 2hr = $2.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $52.00
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 15, 2009
Melky is Magic
The Good
Brett Gardner went 3-3 with a triple and an inside-the-park homerun, but Melky came up big with a walk-off single in his 2-5 night. Teixeira was good, going 2-4, and he also got into it with Carlos Gomez, because the Twins are cowards.
The relievers were great, combining for 4 innings of 1 run ball.
The Bad
Philip Hughes seems to need some more seasoning in the minors. He went 5 innings allowing 3 runs, while putting 10 people on base. I wonder how he would do in the bullpen.
The Ugly
The Twins didn't lose the game when Melky got the hit, the Twins lost the game when they decided to intentionally walk Cano to load the bases and pitch to Melky. Melky is magic, and Cano has been awful in these situations. So thank goodness for that lapse.
Further more, Damon got thrown out for arguing balls and strikes, which ended his extra base hit streak, but luckily, Gardner was quite a serviceable replacement.
Seeing Marky T get into it with the Twins was nice. I was at the game so I couldn't really tell what he was upset about, but it appears he thought Gomez was running too close to the line, which could have caused a collision.
After the game, as we were leaving, a guy who was either incredibly drunk or incredibly high was stumbling around. It looked like he was about to hit the ground so my brother grabbed him to stabalize him. He kind of just waved my brother off then kept stumbling around. Hopefully he made it home alright.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Two homeruns from the Yankees including one from team captain Derek Jeter, and an inside-the-parker by Brett Gardner.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 7hr = $7.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 1hr = $1.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $50.00
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 "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Two homeruns from the Yankees including one from team captain Derek Jeter, and an inside-the-parker by Brett Gardner.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 5hr = $5.00
Mark Teixeira 7hr = $7.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 1hr = $1.00
Brett Gardner 2hr = $2.00
Total = $50.00
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 Daily News Wants War
The Daily News is claiming that the Yankees about face with regard to allowing fans near the field during batting practice was a result of Bill Madden's open letter to George Steinbrenner. But everyone knows, that the only reason the Yankees changed their policy is because we threatened a boycott. Not to mention, the only reason anyone even read Madden's letter was because we linked to it. So if the Daily News wants war, then war it is, but they're not stealing this accomplishment from us.
Time to Check-In with Brian Cashman
With the Yankees about to begin a 10 game home stand, we thought it a good time to get on the old satellite video phone and call up Yankees GM, Brian Cashman. Below is a transcript of the conversation:
BC: Hello?
RJG: Well if it isn't Bronny Cash bothering us at home. What do you want?!
BC: You called me.
RJG: You think you're so smart, don't you Bronny? Well, why can't you put a decent team together? Why don't you put down your copy of Moneyball, and just build us a winner already?
BC: It's not that simple. I think we have a good team, we just haven't played to our ability yet. We've had a lot of injuries and there's little you can do about that.
RJG: You could try to get younger.
BC: Look, what am I supposed to do? Replace Jeter? Posada? If I did that I'd get crushed for insulting the greatest Yankees who ever lived according to fans who've probably been drinking since they woke up. We are trying to develop players but it's not as easy as calling up a bunch of 22 year olds. There are the realities of the differences between AAA and major league ball as well as politics.
RJG: Well, your bullpen sucks, and that's on you.
BC: Well, actually, I think it's on you.
RJG I never though about it that way.
BC: You're welcome.
[Click]
There you have it folks. Cashman can't make the team younger because of politics, and the bullpen failure is apparently our fault. Interesting.
BC: Hello?
RJG: Well if it isn't Bronny Cash bothering us at home. What do you want?!
BC: You called me.
RJG: You think you're so smart, don't you Bronny? Well, why can't you put a decent team together? Why don't you put down your copy of Moneyball, and just build us a winner already?
BC: It's not that simple. I think we have a good team, we just haven't played to our ability yet. We've had a lot of injuries and there's little you can do about that.
RJG: You could try to get younger.
BC: Look, what am I supposed to do? Replace Jeter? Posada? If I did that I'd get crushed for insulting the greatest Yankees who ever lived according to fans who've probably been drinking since they woke up. We are trying to develop players but it's not as easy as calling up a bunch of 22 year olds. There are the realities of the differences between AAA and major league ball as well as politics.
RJG: Well, your bullpen sucks, and that's on you.
BC: Well, actually, I think it's on you.
RJG I never though about it that way.
BC: You're welcome.
[Click]
There you have it folks. Cashman can't make the team younger because of politics, and the bullpen failure is apparently our fault. Interesting.
Honestly, This Is Sad
David 'Big Papi' Ortiz went 0-7 yesterday and stranded 12 runners. According to CNNSI, Ortiz "dressed slowly while facing his corner locker, then turned around and saw a swarm of reporters surrounding him before saying: ''Sorry, guys. I don't feel like talking today. Just put down, 'Papi stinks.'''"
I've never liked Ortiz, but that's because he always killed us. He was a great player, and a genuine person, but he was a Red Sock so he sucked. But watching this, and hearing a quote like that, is just sad. I honestly feel bad for the guy. I can't say I hope he turns it around, but, as much as it pains me to say it, I do hope he starts doing better, against the Devil Rays and Blue Jays anyway. After all, he taught Manny how to use steroids.
I've never liked Ortiz, but that's because he always killed us. He was a great player, and a genuine person, but he was a Red Sock so he sucked. But watching this, and hearing a quote like that, is just sad. I honestly feel bad for the guy. I can't say I hope he turns it around, but, as much as it pains me to say it, I do hope he starts doing better, against the Devil Rays and Blue Jays anyway. After all, he taught Manny how to use steroids.
Don't Look Now, but We're Winning Games
The Good
Sabathia went 8 innings allowing 2 runs for the win. Rivera closed it out. Jeter and Matsui did their fair share with Jeter tieing the game at 2, and Matsui hitting the go ahead homerun. Gardner made an amazing throw to home to catch Barajas trying to score.
The Bad
Against a guy like Tallet, we weren't able to do much.
The Ugly
A-Rod's 0-5 night has him at a .143 average. He needs to step his game up!
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Matsui hit the go ahead home run last night, and added one more to the cause.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 7hr = $7.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 1hr = $1.00
Brett Gardner 1hr = $1.00
Total = $48.00
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.
Sabathia went 8 innings allowing 2 runs for the win. Rivera closed it out. Jeter and Matsui did their fair share with Jeter tieing the game at 2, and Matsui hitting the go ahead homerun. Gardner made an amazing throw to home to catch Barajas trying to score.
The Bad
Against a guy like Tallet, we weren't able to do much.
The Ugly
A-Rod's 0-5 night has him at a .143 average. He needs to step his game up!
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Matsui hit the go ahead home run last night, and added one more to the cause.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 4hr = $4.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 7hr = $7.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 1hr = $1.00
Brett Gardner 1hr = $1.00
Total = $48.00
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 14, 2009
Hank Steinbrenner Breaks Silence
Its been a long time since we've heard from co-chairperson Hank Steinbrenner, and with the season already over 30 games in, we thought we would take this opportunity to get Hank's opinion on how the season is going. We met with Hank at the NY Steaks restaurant, which is located inside of the new Yankee stadium. Here is a transcript of the interview:
RJG: Thanks for meeting with us here, and taking time out of your busy day to answer some of our questions.
HS: Of course.
RJG: So for starters, what is your take on the season and how its gone?
HS: Well, clearly, we're not doing very well. I'm extremely dissapointed in how this season has begun, and with how we're playing. Its an embarrasment to the Yankee tradition.
RJG: We couldn't agree more. One of the biggest issues this season has been injuries, and with so many players in their 30's getting injured, what plans do you have to get younger?
HS: Look, I thought we were in the business of baseball not ballet. These grown "men" need to start acting like it.
RJG: Okay. So how would you go about fixing this team?
HS: For starters, we hire certain people to make certain people dissapear.
RJG: I'm not sure where you're going with this.
HS: Just imagine the headlines: "A-Rod Dissapears". If someone dissapears, well, we don't have to keep sending them a paycheck, catch my drift? So you look in the paper and its, "A-Rod and Kei Igawa go Missing, Carl Pavano Too". Then maybe a week later its "Damaso Marte joins the Missing Crowd", and slowly but surely this team starts changing.
RJG: Okay, so thats where you were going with that. Just out of curiosity, who will replace A-Rod and Marte? We haven't been able to find a suitable replacement as it is.
HS: That's where we start to get younger. We bring up the kids from our farm system like Evan Longoria and Joakim Soria. We'll probably bring up Zach Grienke while we're at it, he's been good.
RJG: Yeah, but none of those players are in our farm system.
HS: They are when you bring kidnapping to the table. A simple brain washing, and a fake mustache, and no one will tell the difference. We'll just have them waiting in Triple A for their call up.
RJG: Unfortunately, this isn't even the craziest thing you've said to us in an interview before.
HS: We're playing high stakes poker here my friend! And the minimum bid is life! Whose life is it going to be, yours or theirs!?
RJG: What?
HS: This isn't a movie!
RJG: Okay.
HS: "Horton Hears a Who" mother(Expletive Deleted)!
RJG: Um, alright I think this would be a good place to end the interview. Thank you for your time Hank.
HS: Always a pleasure.
So there you have it. Expect Evan Longoria, Zach Grienke and Joakim Soria on the team before the trade deadline.
RJG: Thanks for meeting with us here, and taking time out of your busy day to answer some of our questions.
HS: Of course.
RJG: So for starters, what is your take on the season and how its gone?
HS: Well, clearly, we're not doing very well. I'm extremely dissapointed in how this season has begun, and with how we're playing. Its an embarrasment to the Yankee tradition.
RJG: We couldn't agree more. One of the biggest issues this season has been injuries, and with so many players in their 30's getting injured, what plans do you have to get younger?
HS: Look, I thought we were in the business of baseball not ballet. These grown "men" need to start acting like it.
RJG: Okay. So how would you go about fixing this team?
HS: For starters, we hire certain people to make certain people dissapear.
RJG: I'm not sure where you're going with this.
HS: Just imagine the headlines: "A-Rod Dissapears". If someone dissapears, well, we don't have to keep sending them a paycheck, catch my drift? So you look in the paper and its, "A-Rod and Kei Igawa go Missing, Carl Pavano Too". Then maybe a week later its "Damaso Marte joins the Missing Crowd", and slowly but surely this team starts changing.
RJG: Okay, so thats where you were going with that. Just out of curiosity, who will replace A-Rod and Marte? We haven't been able to find a suitable replacement as it is.
HS: That's where we start to get younger. We bring up the kids from our farm system like Evan Longoria and Joakim Soria. We'll probably bring up Zach Grienke while we're at it, he's been good.
RJG: Yeah, but none of those players are in our farm system.
HS: They are when you bring kidnapping to the table. A simple brain washing, and a fake mustache, and no one will tell the difference. We'll just have them waiting in Triple A for their call up.
RJG: Unfortunately, this isn't even the craziest thing you've said to us in an interview before.
HS: We're playing high stakes poker here my friend! And the minimum bid is life! Whose life is it going to be, yours or theirs!?
RJG: What?
HS: This isn't a movie!
RJG: Okay.
HS: "Horton Hears a Who" mother(Expletive Deleted)!
RJG: Um, alright I think this would be a good place to end the interview. Thank you for your time Hank.
HS: Always a pleasure.
So there you have it. Expect Evan Longoria, Zach Grienke and Joakim Soria on the team before the trade deadline.
CHF's Johnny Damon Endorsed Home Run Club
I wanted to post this release from the Children' Health Fund about the Johnny Damon Home Run Club. As some of you may know, we at the RJG support this club with our pledge to donate $1.00 for every homerun hit this season. Its a great cause and the money raised is put to good use. If you can make a donation or pledge along with us it will go a long way.
Calling all Yankee Fans - Help Children in Need
The Children's Health Fund's (CHF) Johnny Damon Yankees Home Run Club is a fun way you can root for the Yankees and help bring quality health care to poor and homeless children. Together with Johnny Damon, you can help thousands of children in New York City and across the country get the health care they need and deserve. By making a pledge for each home run hit by the Yankees or a one-time donation for the entire season, you could be eligible to win tickets to a Yankees Game during the 2009 season! Please visit the Children's Health Fund for details. Feel free to contact Patty Abrams at (212) 452-3340 or by email at pabrams@chfund.org if you have any questions or need additional information.
Calling all Yankee Fans - Help Children in Need
The Children's Health Fund's (CHF) Johnny Damon Yankees Home Run Club is a fun way you can root for the Yankees and help bring quality health care to poor and homeless children. Together with Johnny Damon, you can help thousands of children in New York City and across the country get the health care they need and deserve. By making a pledge for each home run hit by the Yankees or a one-time donation for the entire season, you could be eligible to win tickets to a Yankees Game during the 2009 season! Please visit the Children's Health Fund for details. Feel free to contact Patty Abrams at (212) 452-3340 or by email at pabrams@chfund.org if you have any questions or need additional information.
So The Yankees Do Know How To Play Baseball
The Good
An offensive explosion led to an 8-2 win over the invincable Toronto Blue Jays. Gardner led the charge with the first homerun of his career and Teixeira went 2-3 with a double and 2 RBI's. Pettitte pitched 6 innings of 2 run ball (1 earned) and Aceves put up 2 scoreless frames of his own.
The Bad
Although he escaped with a scoreless inning of relief, Albaladejo walked the first two batters and gave up a hit in an 8-2 games. You need to throw strikes.
The Ugly
Nick the Swish was the only Yankee not invited to the hits party yesterday as he went 0-5. He has been absolutely abysmal of late, and has batted .100 in the month of May. You read that right, .100.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. The one and only Brett Gardner hit the first homerun of his career to help the cause.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 7hr = $7.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 1hr = $1.00
Brett Gardner 1hr = $1.00
Total = $48.00
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.
An offensive explosion led to an 8-2 win over the invincable Toronto Blue Jays. Gardner led the charge with the first homerun of his career and Teixeira went 2-3 with a double and 2 RBI's. Pettitte pitched 6 innings of 2 run ball (1 earned) and Aceves put up 2 scoreless frames of his own.
The Bad
Although he escaped with a scoreless inning of relief, Albaladejo walked the first two batters and gave up a hit in an 8-2 games. You need to throw strikes.
The Ugly
Nick the Swish was the only Yankee not invited to the hits party yesterday as he went 0-5. He has been absolutely abysmal of late, and has batted .100 in the month of May. You read that right, .100.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. The one and only Brett Gardner hit the first homerun of his career to help the cause.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 7hr = $7.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 1hr = $1.00
Brett Gardner 1hr = $1.00
Total = $48.00
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 13, 2009
Respect Jeter's Gangster Reaches 100,000 Views
Well it took more than a year, and hundreds of refreshes during the day, but we've finally reached 100,000 page views. This is a testament to the RJG staff's dedication to award winning journalism, ground breaking stories, breath taking revelations, and a tireless investigative team.
What this also confirms is that the respect of Jeter's gangster is a worldwide phenomenon. We thank all our viewers for taking the time to read and post on our blog. Without the back and forth, this wouldn't be nearly as fun.
What this also confirms is that the respect of Jeter's gangster is a worldwide phenomenon. We thank all our viewers for taking the time to read and post on our blog. Without the back and forth, this wouldn't be nearly as fun.
We Didn't Really Stand a Chance
The Good
Burnett's final line of 7.2 innings and 5 runs doesn't really tell you how good he pitched. Going into the 8th inning he had allowed just 3 runs, but fatigue seemingly got the better of him in that inning as Toronto scored two more. Damon remains the best hitter on the team.
The Bad
We just could not hit against Halladay. I mean, its not like that's a surprise or anything. Halladay was stellar. He kept his pitch count low all game, and finished the Yankees off with 9 innings of 1 run ball. The Yankees would have realistically needed to shut down the Blue Jays to win this game, and that wasn't going to happen the way they've been hitting.
The Ugly
Derek Jeter has an oblique strain that put him out of action in yesterdays game. A lineup with Pena, Cash, and Gardner just isn't going to perform well against a guy like Roy Halladay. Oh how we need Posada and Jeter back.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
No homeruns last night as we were facing Roy Halladay. That will hopefully change tonight against the tough righty, Scott Richmond. If it doesn't, then the Yankees will get ugly stares from me all weekend long, and they can't handle it. Especially A-Rod, he averts his gaze each time I ice grill him.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 7hr = $7.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 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.
Burnett's final line of 7.2 innings and 5 runs doesn't really tell you how good he pitched. Going into the 8th inning he had allowed just 3 runs, but fatigue seemingly got the better of him in that inning as Toronto scored two more. Damon remains the best hitter on the team.
The Bad
We just could not hit against Halladay. I mean, its not like that's a surprise or anything. Halladay was stellar. He kept his pitch count low all game, and finished the Yankees off with 9 innings of 1 run ball. The Yankees would have realistically needed to shut down the Blue Jays to win this game, and that wasn't going to happen the way they've been hitting.
The Ugly
Derek Jeter has an oblique strain that put him out of action in yesterdays game. A lineup with Pena, Cash, and Gardner just isn't going to perform well against a guy like Roy Halladay. Oh how we need Posada and Jeter back.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
No homeruns last night as we were facing Roy Halladay. That will hopefully change tonight against the tough righty, Scott Richmond. If it doesn't, then the Yankees will get ugly stares from me all weekend long, and they can't handle it. Especially A-Rod, he averts his gaze each time I ice grill him.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 7hr = $7.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 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.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Girardi's Job Description
I've never read the terms of Joe Girardi's contract with the Yankees, but based on his management of today's game, I suspect it reads something like this:
I, Joe Girardi, agree to watch all games from the dugout, easily the best seat in the house. I recognize that as a spectator, I am not to interfere with what happens on the field.
I, Joe Girardi, agree to watch all games from the dugout, easily the best seat in the house. I recognize that as a spectator, I am not to interfere with what happens on the field.
Lonn Trost, Screw You And Your Stadium
After some lengthy deliberation, reviews of meeting notes, going over photographs, and considering all points and perspectives, I've come to my ultimate conclusion: the new stadium sucks. I was largely willing to overlook the homerun porch, the fan interference in right field, the giant restaurant that restricts the view of bleacher fans, the hidding of monument park, and the overpricing of game tickets, but the one thing I cannot overlook is the Yankees keeping fans away from the field during batting practice. The Yankees feel that if you did not pay for those expensive seats, you should not be able to get a players autograph. In the old stadium, you could, I believe up until an hour before the game started. Not only is this a slap in the face to everyone who can't afford multi-thousand dollar seats, it also shows what the Yankees organization values, and its not the fans. And I could really care less about this for myself. I'm past autograph getting age. But for all these kids who look up to these players, and would consider it the greatest joy in their life to get an autograph from one of them, that's who really gets affected. Think about the kids growing up in the South Bronx. You're telling me that if one of them can't afford thousand dollar seats they can't get an autograph?
Lonn Trost had this to say about fan access to the players: “If you purchased a suite, do you want people in your suite? If you purchased a house, do you want people in your house?” We get the point. You don't want anyone in your house Lonn, so allow me to oblige. This new stadium is an abomination. Your ticket pricing, your restaurants, your new food menu's, all of it is an insult to baseball. You ruined a good thing. I have tickets to this weekends game, and I plan to attend. Unless something changes my mind, I hope to never return. That's right, I said it, I'm pulling a Yogi Berra, and boycotting the stadium. Lonn Trost and the Yankees have made it clear to us real fans that we're not welcome in their house. I hope this embarrasment you call a park remains empty all season as you keep waiting for your banking buddies, and stock brokers to show up. I'll be watching from home, where unfortunately, many real fans will be too. So in conclusion, screw you and your new stadium Lonn. I make better hotdogs anyway.
Lonn Trost had this to say about fan access to the players: “If you purchased a suite, do you want people in your suite? If you purchased a house, do you want people in your house?” We get the point. You don't want anyone in your house Lonn, so allow me to oblige. This new stadium is an abomination. Your ticket pricing, your restaurants, your new food menu's, all of it is an insult to baseball. You ruined a good thing. I have tickets to this weekends game, and I plan to attend. Unless something changes my mind, I hope to never return. That's right, I said it, I'm pulling a Yogi Berra, and boycotting the stadium. Lonn Trost and the Yankees have made it clear to us real fans that we're not welcome in their house. I hope this embarrasment you call a park remains empty all season as you keep waiting for your banking buddies, and stock brokers to show up. I'll be watching from home, where unfortunately, many real fans will be too. So in conclusion, screw you and your new stadium Lonn. I make better hotdogs anyway.
This Is Interesting
One of the blogs over at the post is reporting on former Red Sock Lou Merloni's statement that the Red Sox had someone come in and explain how to use steroids properly. That would certainly explain Gabe Kapler's physique. It would also explain the Red Sox finally winning a World Series, and then winning another a couple years later. It also explains why Boston is a port city, since this makes it easier to get the drugs into the country that their players consume illegally. It also explains why reporters are not allowed in the Boston clubhouse. Interesting indeed.
Monday, May 11, 2009
A Couple Things Worth Noting
Two interesting articles in the Daily News I thought worth mentioning. The first points out that Johnny Damon is still playing with an injured left shoulder. I had completely forgotten about that and it certainly makes the way Damon has been playing that much more impressive.
The second is an open letter to George Steinbrenner by columnist Bill Maddon detailing everything wrong with the New Yankee Stadium. In a nut shell: COO Lonn Trost, who knows nothing about baseball or stadium designs, basically built a place for his rich friends to come and hang out while actual fans (you and me) get priced out. It's pretty scathing, but it's true. This stadium was definitely not designed for people who have to wait a paycheck or two before paying the next round of bills. Don't get me wrong, it's a beautiful stadium. I just wish I could afford to enjoy it a little more.
The second is an open letter to George Steinbrenner by columnist Bill Maddon detailing everything wrong with the New Yankee Stadium. In a nut shell: COO Lonn Trost, who knows nothing about baseball or stadium designs, basically built a place for his rich friends to come and hang out while actual fans (you and me) get priced out. It's pretty scathing, but it's true. This stadium was definitely not designed for people who have to wait a paycheck or two before paying the next round of bills. Don't get me wrong, it's a beautiful stadium. I just wish I could afford to enjoy it a little more.
Johnny Damon is on Fire
The Good
Johnny Damon spent the last week giving it his all only to see his Yankee teammates give it all back. Yesterday, Damon launched a 3-run homerun to permanently give the Yankees the lead. What's even more impressive is that the homerun came after 2 outs in the 6th, and back-to-back infield singles. Yes, you read that right, the Yankees strung together three hits in a row.
The Bad
If I see Marky T misplay another ground ball to first I will personally slap him with one of his gold gloves.
The Ugly
All game long I expected Joba to peg Aubrey Huff for pumping his fist twice after he hit his homerun in the first. It never happened.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The Yankees have been hitting homeruns this season in an attempt to avoid having to actually hit with RISP. Johnny Damon broke that trend when he hit a homerun with a runner standing on second, but Cano and Teixeira stuck to the script with solo homeruns of their own. The Children's Health Fund must be delighted.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 7hr = $7.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 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.
Johnny Damon spent the last week giving it his all only to see his Yankee teammates give it all back. Yesterday, Damon launched a 3-run homerun to permanently give the Yankees the lead. What's even more impressive is that the homerun came after 2 outs in the 6th, and back-to-back infield singles. Yes, you read that right, the Yankees strung together three hits in a row.
The Bad
If I see Marky T misplay another ground ball to first I will personally slap him with one of his gold gloves.
The Ugly
All game long I expected Joba to peg Aubrey Huff for pumping his fist twice after he hit his homerun in the first. It never happened.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The Yankees have been hitting homeruns this season in an attempt to avoid having to actually hit with RISP. Johnny Damon broke that trend when he hit a homerun with a runner standing on second, but Cano and Teixeira stuck to the script with solo homeruns of their own. The Children's Health Fund must be delighted.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 7hr = $7.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 6hr = $6.00
Johnny Damon 9hr = $9.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 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.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
The Yankees Are Better At Charity Than Baseball
The Good
Nobody died.
The Bad
The Yanks loaded the bases in the fourth with no outs and only managed one run on a Nick Swisher sac fly. Why only one run? Because Robbie Cano promptly grounded into his second double play of the game. I'm ashamed to share the first three letters of my name with this guy. He's been awful with runners in scoring position lately, or just lately, and I hope Selena Roberts writes a book about him.
The Ugly
Phil-Ming Wang gave up 8 runs in two innings. It looks like his hip is still bothering him. Edwar Ramirez also gave up an additional 3 runs. Brett Tomko gave up a home run to the first hitter he hit, providing further evidence that success at AAA means nothing. Success in Spring Training either for that matter. I wonder if Hughes has any other skills besides blowing starts for the Yankees, he might need them in a few years.
The Yanks Help Support a Good Cause
While winning is not currently part of the game plan for the Yankees, supporting the Johnny Damon Home Run Club is. Damon, Teixeira, and Swisher each hit one home run today. A-Rod, mired in a season long slump, hit no home runs and is hitting a paltry .143. Teixeira gave him a pep talk after the game.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 6hr = $6.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 8hr = $8.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 1hr = $1.00
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.
Nobody died.
The Bad
The Yanks loaded the bases in the fourth with no outs and only managed one run on a Nick Swisher sac fly. Why only one run? Because Robbie Cano promptly grounded into his second double play of the game. I'm ashamed to share the first three letters of my name with this guy. He's been awful with runners in scoring position lately, or just lately, and I hope Selena Roberts writes a book about him.
The Ugly
Phil-Ming Wang gave up 8 runs in two innings. It looks like his hip is still bothering him. Edwar Ramirez also gave up an additional 3 runs. Brett Tomko gave up a home run to the first hitter he hit, providing further evidence that success at AAA means nothing. Success in Spring Training either for that matter. I wonder if Hughes has any other skills besides blowing starts for the Yankees, he might need them in a few years.
The Yanks Help Support a Good Cause
While winning is not currently part of the game plan for the Yankees, supporting the Johnny Damon Home Run Club is. Damon, Teixeira, and Swisher each hit one home run today. A-Rod, mired in a season long slump, hit no home runs and is hitting a paltry .143. Teixeira gave him a pep talk after the game.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 6hr = $6.00
Nick Swisher 8hr = $8.00
Robinson Cano 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 8hr = $8.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 1hr = $1.00
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.
Friday, May 8, 2009
A-Rod Under-performs Amidst Controversy
The Good
Sabathia and his new personal catcher, Francisco Cervelli, worked the Os for a complete game shut out. A-Rod put the first pitch he saw in the seats, a 3 run home run.
The Bad
A-Rod's .250 batting average is the worst on the team. Even worse than Teixeira's .192, since he's A-Rod. He failed to put the ball in play in three of his at-bats. He is clearly the worst third baseman in the league. Throughout the game, A-Rod thought about his glory days spent taking steroids in high school.
This edition of 'The Bad' has been brought to you by "A-Rod: The Many Lives of Alex Rodriguez," by Selena Roberts.
The Ugly
At a press conference before the game, A-Rod refused to answer questions about the most recent controversy surrounding him. When A-Rod hurt his hip, RJG sent our top reporter to the Dominican Republic to find out what was up. Selena unearthed Alex's birth certificate, showing he was born in 1935. A 74 year old A-Rod certainly explains the broken hip. When Alex was asked about his age, he was promptly whisked away for a nap by Yankees Director of Media Relations, Jason Zillo.
Home Runs = $$$
A-Rod had only one home run today because he is apparently not interested in aiding our charitable efforts. Johnny Damon's Home Run Club saves babies and then gives them puppies to play with, but A-Rod only pretends to care about babies when Madonna is explaining her adoption attempts to him.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 5hr = $5.00
Nick Swisher 7hr = $7.00
Robinson Cano 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 7hr = $7.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 1hr = $1.00
Total = $41.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Sabathia and his new personal catcher, Francisco Cervelli, worked the Os for a complete game shut out. A-Rod put the first pitch he saw in the seats, a 3 run home run.
The Bad
A-Rod's .250 batting average is the worst on the team. Even worse than Teixeira's .192, since he's A-Rod. He failed to put the ball in play in three of his at-bats. He is clearly the worst third baseman in the league. Throughout the game, A-Rod thought about his glory days spent taking steroids in high school.
This edition of 'The Bad' has been brought to you by "A-Rod: The Many Lives of Alex Rodriguez," by Selena Roberts.
The Ugly
At a press conference before the game, A-Rod refused to answer questions about the most recent controversy surrounding him. When A-Rod hurt his hip, RJG sent our top reporter to the Dominican Republic to find out what was up. Selena unearthed Alex's birth certificate, showing he was born in 1935. A 74 year old A-Rod certainly explains the broken hip. When Alex was asked about his age, he was promptly whisked away for a nap by Yankees Director of Media Relations, Jason Zillo.
Home Runs = $$$
A-Rod had only one home run today because he is apparently not interested in aiding our charitable efforts. Johnny Damon's Home Run Club saves babies and then gives them puppies to play with, but A-Rod only pretends to care about babies when Madonna is explaining her adoption attempts to him.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 5hr = $5.00
Nick Swisher 7hr = $7.00
Robinson Cano 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 7hr = $7.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 1hr = $1.00
Total = $41.00
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.
Damon the Only Yankee Still Playing
The Good
Johnny Damon and Derek Jeter had multi-hit games with Damon going 4-5 with a game tieing homerun in the 8th. Clearly he never received the memo that the Yankees were phoning in the season.
The Bad
Pettitte went 6 innings and allowed 5 runs including 4 homeruns. This stadium has already become a punchline, but now this punchline is getting old.
The Ugly
Plenty to go in the ugly section. Jose Molina injured his quad, which put Francisco Cervelli into the game. It seems like he'll be out for the short term. Mariano Rivera gave up back-to-back homeruns, but before we blame it on the new stadium's wind tunnel to right field, one of them was hit deep to left field. Something is wrong with Mo.
Mark Teixeira is costing us games. He went 0-5 leaving 5 runners on base. I've never been more frustrated with him than in the first inning with a runner on third and one out. Maddon used one of his patented shifts placing 3 infielders on the firstbase side of the diamond, with Evan Longoria holding Jeter at third there was a giant hole in the infield between 2nd and 3rd base. GIANT. All Teixeira needed to do was go the other way. Pulling it was not an option with that many infielders on that side of the diamond. Mark didn't even really need to swing. If he could just make contact and push the ball that way, a soft dribbler would have found its way through that gigantic hole and scored Jeter. Instead, Mark pulls it to the right side, doesn't get it past the pitcher, doesn't bring Jeter home, and starts the first round of boo's he would receive at the stadium.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Two homeruns last night, one from Johnny Damon, and another from Hideki Matsui.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 5hr = $5.00
Nick Swisher 7hr = $7.00
Robinson Cano 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 7hr = $7.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 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.
Johnny Damon and Derek Jeter had multi-hit games with Damon going 4-5 with a game tieing homerun in the 8th. Clearly he never received the memo that the Yankees were phoning in the season.
The Bad
Pettitte went 6 innings and allowed 5 runs including 4 homeruns. This stadium has already become a punchline, but now this punchline is getting old.
The Ugly
Plenty to go in the ugly section. Jose Molina injured his quad, which put Francisco Cervelli into the game. It seems like he'll be out for the short term. Mariano Rivera gave up back-to-back homeruns, but before we blame it on the new stadium's wind tunnel to right field, one of them was hit deep to left field. Something is wrong with Mo.
Mark Teixeira is costing us games. He went 0-5 leaving 5 runners on base. I've never been more frustrated with him than in the first inning with a runner on third and one out. Maddon used one of his patented shifts placing 3 infielders on the firstbase side of the diamond, with Evan Longoria holding Jeter at third there was a giant hole in the infield between 2nd and 3rd base. GIANT. All Teixeira needed to do was go the other way. Pulling it was not an option with that many infielders on that side of the diamond. Mark didn't even really need to swing. If he could just make contact and push the ball that way, a soft dribbler would have found its way through that gigantic hole and scored Jeter. Instead, Mark pulls it to the right side, doesn't get it past the pitcher, doesn't bring Jeter home, and starts the first round of boo's he would receive at the stadium.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Two homeruns last night, one from Johnny Damon, and another from Hideki Matsui.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 5hr = $5.00
Nick Swisher 7hr = $7.00
Robinson Cano 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 7hr = $7.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 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 7, 2009
Manny Tests Positive for Infertility Drug
As has been widely reported, Manny Rodriguez has tested positive for a performance enhancing drug and will be suspended for 50 games. The drug, known as HCG, is a female fertility drug used to help women get pregnant. Manny released a statement in which he indicated that a prescribed medication for a personal medical issue had caused him to fail the test. Indeed, infertility is a highly personal issue and this must be devastating to Mr. Ramirez, who has been trying to get pregnant for some time. Having an issue like this dragged before the public is devastating, especially since infertility is so often a very private shame for those who suffer from it, blaming themselves for their inability to get pregnant. Hopefully, Manny's struggles will put a human face on the struggles faced by infertile women and create a space for meaningful public dialogue. Manny is scheduled to appear on Oprah tomorrow to discuss his infertility, and baseball's anachronistic response to discovering his condition.
Open Letter to the Yankees
Dear Yankees,
I feel the need to write this, because I know how often you frequent this blog, and how important our opinions and insights are to you. In case you haven't picked it up from our game reviews, you haven't been playing well. Perhaps you've lost some confidence after going 0-5 against Boston, perhaps losing Bruney and Posada has effected all your spirits. Whatever the cause, I feel I need to remind you of certain things. You are the New York Yankees. You need to stop playing like the New York Mets. Let me tip you off to some realities about the AL East. The Toronto Blue Jays do not have the pitching behind Roy Halladay to continue winning the way they are. The Boston Red Sox, who look like a way better team than you, are actually not as good as they've been playing. Nick Green is not a .300 hitter, Beckett's 6+ ERA is indicative of a league that has caught on to him, Nancy Drew is not now, has never been, and never will be a threat in this league, David Ortiz is not in a slump he's in a decline, Tim Wakefield will not end the season with an ERA under 4, Brad Penny sucks, John Smoltz will suck, and Jason Varitek's .231 average is probably about what he'll finish with this season. I mention this to point out that the Sox's recent hot streak, is just that, a streak. They can be beaten, as was shown with thier series against the Rays, because unlike you, the Rays are a confident bunch who exploited the aforementioned weaknesses. Don't get me wrong, the Red Sox are a good team, great even. Jason Bay is proving that his performance last season was not a fluke. Kevin Youkilis has always been a good hitter, and Dustin Pedroia was not voted MVP without reason. Mike Lowell is a presence in that lineup, and Ellsbury is one of the fastest base stealers they've had in recent history. Their bullpen is easily better than yours, and Papelbon is a reliable and talented closer. Still, they are not a better team, they are a more confident team. At the end of the season I'm willing to bet that Jason Bay, and Nick Swisher will have comparable numbers, Kevin Youkilis and Marky T will have comparable numbers, same with Pedroia and Cano, or even Lowell and Damon. The difference is that the Red Sox win because they believe they can. You Yankees lose, because you step up to the plate with doubt in your minds. End this now. You're the New York Yankees. You drive in runs. Right now you look beaten before you even step up to the plate, and yet, everyone in that lineup is capable of getting a hit. Even Ramiro Pena. You're all big league players. Start acting like you've been there before.
Now for the fans freaking out, I have this to say. Its still just May 7. We have a team full of slow starters including our biggest additions, Mark Teixeira and CC Sabathia. Even though we've been out played, the Boston Red Sox rotation is not better than ours. Do you really think at the end of the season a rotation of Beckett, Matsuzaka, Lester, Wakefield, and Penny/Smoltz is going to do better than Sabathia, Beckett, Pettitte, Chamberlain, and Wang? And about Wang, he will be back. He has not forgotten how to pitch. His sinker will return.
Of course I could be wrong about all of this, but I'm not. Come July, you will all see this coming to fruition. For now, you New York Yankees need to start winning games, starting tonight, and keep things close in the standings, because when you start playing for real, you're going to own the AL East.
Remember: You're the New York Yankees. Start acting like it.
I feel the need to write this, because I know how often you frequent this blog, and how important our opinions and insights are to you. In case you haven't picked it up from our game reviews, you haven't been playing well. Perhaps you've lost some confidence after going 0-5 against Boston, perhaps losing Bruney and Posada has effected all your spirits. Whatever the cause, I feel I need to remind you of certain things. You are the New York Yankees. You need to stop playing like the New York Mets. Let me tip you off to some realities about the AL East. The Toronto Blue Jays do not have the pitching behind Roy Halladay to continue winning the way they are. The Boston Red Sox, who look like a way better team than you, are actually not as good as they've been playing. Nick Green is not a .300 hitter, Beckett's 6+ ERA is indicative of a league that has caught on to him, Nancy Drew is not now, has never been, and never will be a threat in this league, David Ortiz is not in a slump he's in a decline, Tim Wakefield will not end the season with an ERA under 4, Brad Penny sucks, John Smoltz will suck, and Jason Varitek's .231 average is probably about what he'll finish with this season. I mention this to point out that the Sox's recent hot streak, is just that, a streak. They can be beaten, as was shown with thier series against the Rays, because unlike you, the Rays are a confident bunch who exploited the aforementioned weaknesses. Don't get me wrong, the Red Sox are a good team, great even. Jason Bay is proving that his performance last season was not a fluke. Kevin Youkilis has always been a good hitter, and Dustin Pedroia was not voted MVP without reason. Mike Lowell is a presence in that lineup, and Ellsbury is one of the fastest base stealers they've had in recent history. Their bullpen is easily better than yours, and Papelbon is a reliable and talented closer. Still, they are not a better team, they are a more confident team. At the end of the season I'm willing to bet that Jason Bay, and Nick Swisher will have comparable numbers, Kevin Youkilis and Marky T will have comparable numbers, same with Pedroia and Cano, or even Lowell and Damon. The difference is that the Red Sox win because they believe they can. You Yankees lose, because you step up to the plate with doubt in your minds. End this now. You're the New York Yankees. You drive in runs. Right now you look beaten before you even step up to the plate, and yet, everyone in that lineup is capable of getting a hit. Even Ramiro Pena. You're all big league players. Start acting like you've been there before.
Now for the fans freaking out, I have this to say. Its still just May 7. We have a team full of slow starters including our biggest additions, Mark Teixeira and CC Sabathia. Even though we've been out played, the Boston Red Sox rotation is not better than ours. Do you really think at the end of the season a rotation of Beckett, Matsuzaka, Lester, Wakefield, and Penny/Smoltz is going to do better than Sabathia, Beckett, Pettitte, Chamberlain, and Wang? And about Wang, he will be back. He has not forgotten how to pitch. His sinker will return.
Of course I could be wrong about all of this, but I'm not. Come July, you will all see this coming to fruition. For now, you New York Yankees need to start winning games, starting tonight, and keep things close in the standings, because when you start playing for real, you're going to own the AL East.
Remember: You're the New York Yankees. Start acting like it.
Yankees Suck Streak Extends to 4 Games
The Good
Burnett gave a quality 6 inning 3 run start with 8 strikeouts, and a string of Ramirez-Albaladejo-Rivera did not allow a run for 3 innings. Teixeira hit a bases loaded double to drive in 3 runs.
The Bad
No one seems to be able to hit when there's runners in scoring position.
The Ugly
This team is lifeless. In the 9th inning with runners on 2nd and 3rd and one out, Mark Teixeira popped up to short right field, which was not enough to bring in the run, and then Molina flew out to right. This teams extended problems with hitting with RISP becomes a real issue. There's no one in the lineup that seems capable of driving in runs when it matter. The only notable exceptions are Swisher and oddly enough, Melky. But last night, the losing streak extended to 4, and all 4 have been during this current home stand. Is it really any surprise that that stadium is empty?
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns last night. Not even the wind tunnel could save the Yankees.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 2hr = $2.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 5hr = $5.00
Nick Swisher 7hr = $7.00
Robinson Cano 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 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.
Burnett gave a quality 6 inning 3 run start with 8 strikeouts, and a string of Ramirez-Albaladejo-Rivera did not allow a run for 3 innings. Teixeira hit a bases loaded double to drive in 3 runs.
The Bad
No one seems to be able to hit when there's runners in scoring position.
The Ugly
This team is lifeless. In the 9th inning with runners on 2nd and 3rd and one out, Mark Teixeira popped up to short right field, which was not enough to bring in the run, and then Molina flew out to right. This teams extended problems with hitting with RISP becomes a real issue. There's no one in the lineup that seems capable of driving in runs when it matter. The only notable exceptions are Swisher and oddly enough, Melky. But last night, the losing streak extended to 4, and all 4 have been during this current home stand. Is it really any surprise that that stadium is empty?
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run 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 home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns last night. Not even the wind tunnel could save the Yankees.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 2hr = $2.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 5hr = $5.00
Nick Swisher 7hr = $7.00
Robinson Cano 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 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.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Opportune Time
With the rain delay, I thought it an opportune time to address the fiasco over fans who left the stadium Monday after being told the game was postponed. I was at that game, and my wife and I sat in our seat for the two hours that the game was delayed. From about 7:20pm-8:50pm, all the information we had was that the giant "Rain Delay" displayed on the center field screen. No other information was given. In a situation like that, for the sake of the fans, the Yanks should make regular announcements as to what they are thinking. If they believe the system will move out within some specified period of time, give fans a heads up so they know you're still waiting out the rain. Just displaying the words "Rain Delay" isn't very helpful, and after a while, you start to wonder what's going on.
Yankees Embarrass Themselves and Their Families
The Good
The strike zone. After the previous game's fiasco, the home plate ump more than made up for it with his ample strike zone. Joba struck out 12, nine looking, as a result. Granted, the strike zone extended about two feet on either side, but still, he worked with what he had and he was nasty. Beckett didn't look nearly as good (first inning aside).
The Bad
Joba's first inning comes to mind, but this offense is in the crapper. These guys are not hitting with guys on base. Part of the problem is that the middle of the order gets on, and then the bottom of the order tries to hit without a tee. A-Rod better come back on Friday or I'll break his right hip.
The Ugly
The Yanks played so poorly that they embarrassed themselves and their families. Elliot Spitzer walked out of the park in disgust in the seventh. Even he wouldn't stoop as low as the Yankees have. Bernie Madoff shut the tv off in prison, disgusted with what he was seeing. Five straight to Boston? The crowd even chanted, "we want Torre." This team needs to find a way to score. Beckett was not nearly as sharp as his final line suggests.
The Money
Johnny Damon hit another home run, as he is the only person on this team apparently committed to winning. At this point, we might as well take the money we've promised to charity and donate it to the "Teixeira, stop sucking!" fund. Maybe these guys feel underpaid and under appreciated. Or maybe, just maybe, under punched in the face.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 2hr = $2.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 5hr = $5.00
Nick Swisher 7hr = $7.00
Robinson Cano 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 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 strike zone. After the previous game's fiasco, the home plate ump more than made up for it with his ample strike zone. Joba struck out 12, nine looking, as a result. Granted, the strike zone extended about two feet on either side, but still, he worked with what he had and he was nasty. Beckett didn't look nearly as good (first inning aside).
The Bad
Joba's first inning comes to mind, but this offense is in the crapper. These guys are not hitting with guys on base. Part of the problem is that the middle of the order gets on, and then the bottom of the order tries to hit without a tee. A-Rod better come back on Friday or I'll break his right hip.
The Ugly
The Yanks played so poorly that they embarrassed themselves and their families. Elliot Spitzer walked out of the park in disgust in the seventh. Even he wouldn't stoop as low as the Yankees have. Bernie Madoff shut the tv off in prison, disgusted with what he was seeing. Five straight to Boston? The crowd even chanted, "we want Torre." This team needs to find a way to score. Beckett was not nearly as sharp as his final line suggests.
The Money
Johnny Damon hit another home run, as he is the only person on this team apparently committed to winning. At this point, we might as well take the money we've promised to charity and donate it to the "Teixeira, stop sucking!" fund. Maybe these guys feel underpaid and under appreciated. Or maybe, just maybe, under punched in the face.
Jorge Posada 4hr = $4.00
Hideki Matsui 2hr = $2.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Mark Teixeira 5hr = $5.00
Nick Swisher 7hr = $7.00
Robinson Cano 5hr = $5.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Melky Cabrera 4hr = $4.00
Jose Molina 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.
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