Friday, July 31, 2009
Yankees Acquire Jerry Hairston Jr.
Since the greatest Yankee need was to figure out who should replace Angel Berroa the Yankees have traded for Reds Utility guy, Jerry Hairston Jr. Jerry has played several positions this season including second, short, third and the outfield. Jerry Hairston Jr. will likely slot in behind Cody Ransom and Ramiro Pena on the utility infielder depth chart, and behind Eric Hinske for the bench. Its not like we've lost a pitcher for the season or anything.
I Actually Feel Bad For This Guy
After reading this column by Dan Shaughnessy in the Boston Globe, I actually feel bad for this guy. It's a bit of an overreaction, but I can see why Shaughnessy is so crushed by the Ortiz revelation. He goes as far as to say that the 2004 and 2007 Boston championships are tainted, and that the Sox's cheaters were just better than the Yankees' cheaters.
I don't know if that is fair, but there is no question two "cheats" were on their championship teams and that they were the reason they did as well as they did. I will, however, hold off on fully judging Ortiz until I know what he took.
The funny thing is, I'm not sure Yankee fans feel the same way about their championships, where tainting is concerned. I mean, Pettitte used while in Houston (pronounced House-ton if you're from New York), Clemens never pitched particularly well in the post-season, and A-Rod never won one, so it's a moot point.
As Shaughnessy pointed out, Ortiz was nothing before he came to Boston, exploded, then started to suck again when testing was implemented. That's part of the problem for Sox fans right now. No way to get around the fact that their most dominant offensive player was almost certainly dominant because he cheated. Ouch.
I don't know if that is fair, but there is no question two "cheats" were on their championship teams and that they were the reason they did as well as they did. I will, however, hold off on fully judging Ortiz until I know what he took.
The funny thing is, I'm not sure Yankee fans feel the same way about their championships, where tainting is concerned. I mean, Pettitte used while in Houston (pronounced House-ton if you're from New York), Clemens never pitched particularly well in the post-season, and A-Rod never won one, so it's a moot point.
As Shaughnessy pointed out, Ortiz was nothing before he came to Boston, exploded, then started to suck again when testing was implemented. That's part of the problem for Sox fans right now. No way to get around the fact that their most dominant offensive player was almost certainly dominant because he cheated. Ouch.
Pettitte Sharp, but White Sox Sharper
The Good
Pettitte had a strong performance, and the honest truth is he should have been left in the game. His final line was 6.1 innings with 2 runs, 1 earned. He struck out 8 with no walks. The problem came in the 7th when he got a weak ground ball from Thome, but he slipped while trying to grab it and Thome reached first on the error. Then after striking out Konerko, Pierzynski got a single, and Pettitte was then pulled from the game. He was throwing fine. He had just gotten a groundball that he misplayed and struck out a batter. With the bottom third of the lineup up to bat, was it really necessary to yank him from the game? But alas, I'm not the manager for the New York Yankees.
The Bad
Coke looked a bit rusty after his recent inactivity, allowing the winning run to score.
The Ugly
Any time you tie a game in the 9th, its a basic rule that you should win the game. If you're not going to win the game, then why bother tieing it? So shame on the Yankees for keeping their fans up for the bottom of the 9th for no good reason.
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. Nick Swisher hit a homerun in the 9th to tie the game. Though we may not have won the game, his 17th homerun of the season has given the Children's Health Fund an extra dollar. Thank you Nickity Swish.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 11hr = $11.00
Mark Teixeira 26hr = $26.00
Nick Swisher 17hr = $17.00
Robinson Cano 16hr = $16.00
Johnny Damon 17hr = $17.00
Melky Cabrera 9hr = $9.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $152.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Pettitte had a strong performance, and the honest truth is he should have been left in the game. His final line was 6.1 innings with 2 runs, 1 earned. He struck out 8 with no walks. The problem came in the 7th when he got a weak ground ball from Thome, but he slipped while trying to grab it and Thome reached first on the error. Then after striking out Konerko, Pierzynski got a single, and Pettitte was then pulled from the game. He was throwing fine. He had just gotten a groundball that he misplayed and struck out a batter. With the bottom third of the lineup up to bat, was it really necessary to yank him from the game? But alas, I'm not the manager for the New York Yankees.
The Bad
Coke looked a bit rusty after his recent inactivity, allowing the winning run to score.
The Ugly
Any time you tie a game in the 9th, its a basic rule that you should win the game. If you're not going to win the game, then why bother tieing it? So shame on the Yankees for keeping their fans up for the bottom of the 9th for no good reason.
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. Nick Swisher hit a homerun in the 9th to tie the game. Though we may not have won the game, his 17th homerun of the season has given the Children's Health Fund an extra dollar. Thank you Nickity Swish.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 11hr = $11.00
Mark Teixeira 26hr = $26.00
Nick Swisher 17hr = $17.00
Robinson Cano 16hr = $16.00
Johnny Damon 17hr = $17.00
Melky Cabrera 9hr = $9.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $152.00
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, July 30, 2009
Time to Release the List
Another two names from the infamous list of 103 players have been released, once again dredging up the past and leading everyone to wonder who else is on that list. It's time for MLBPA to get it's head out of its arse and let MLB release the list. That being said, it is not enough to release the names. What the players tested positive for must also be disclosed.
Here's why. There are many non-steroid substances that are banned by MLB's drug policy. When A-Rod admitted to his steroid use, he mentioned an over the counter energy drink that he used to take while in Seattle that was now banned. To my knowledge this drink does not contain steroids but some other banned substance. This is why the drug for which players tested positive must be released, since a positive test does not inherently mean a player took steroids, which is what everyone assumes. That is unfair to the players, minus those who took steroids and ruined the game by making it popular again.
Baseball and the MLBPA have to do the right thing here. Get the names and substances out there and let's move beyond this.
Here's why. There are many non-steroid substances that are banned by MLB's drug policy. When A-Rod admitted to his steroid use, he mentioned an over the counter energy drink that he used to take while in Seattle that was now banned. To my knowledge this drink does not contain steroids but some other banned substance. This is why the drug for which players tested positive must be released, since a positive test does not inherently mean a player took steroids, which is what everyone assumes. That is unfair to the players, minus those who took steroids and ruined the game by making it popular again.
Baseball and the MLBPA have to do the right thing here. Get the names and substances out there and let's move beyond this.
George Mitchell Floored By New Report
The New York Times today broke the story that in 2003 both Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz had tested positive for performance enhancing drugs. This story has completely shaken the world off its axis. Though by world we refer only to people who refer to themselves as "members of Red Sox Nation. Yeah, I'm sooooooo cool."
Among those whose world has been shaken: George Mitchell. The former U.S. Senator and PED investigator could not believe that Ortiz had taken performance enhancers.
"Wow," said Mitchell. "I mean, when I did my report, I talked to a couple guys who'd spent time in New York because I just knew that there was no way New York could've been so good in the late 90s. Think about it, we had Nomar, but they always won. They always won. I just knew that all of the performance enhanced players were on that team."
News of Ortiz's PED use raises questions about how fair and balanced Mitchell's report was, considering his strong ties to the Red Sox. Mitchell denied any bias on his part.
"I was in no way biased in my report on PED use in New York . . . I mean baseball. That report was fair. I even had my good friend Bill O'Reilly take a look and he assured me that it was the best piece of unbiased investigatory writing he'd ever read."
Nonetheless, there are still skeptics. "How come youse guys nehva looked at tha 2003 list?" complained Brooklyn resident and loyal WFAN listener Tony. Mitchell's response? "Ortiz was on it, I wasn't going to cite that."
Indeed.
Among those whose world has been shaken: George Mitchell. The former U.S. Senator and PED investigator could not believe that Ortiz had taken performance enhancers.
"Wow," said Mitchell. "I mean, when I did my report, I talked to a couple guys who'd spent time in New York because I just knew that there was no way New York could've been so good in the late 90s. Think about it, we had Nomar, but they always won. They always won. I just knew that all of the performance enhanced players were on that team."
News of Ortiz's PED use raises questions about how fair and balanced Mitchell's report was, considering his strong ties to the Red Sox. Mitchell denied any bias on his part.
"I was in no way biased in my report on PED use in New York . . . I mean baseball. That report was fair. I even had my good friend Bill O'Reilly take a look and he assured me that it was the best piece of unbiased investigatory writing he'd ever read."
Nonetheless, there are still skeptics. "How come youse guys nehva looked at tha 2003 list?" complained Brooklyn resident and loyal WFAN listener Tony. Mitchell's response? "Ortiz was on it, I wasn't going to cite that."
Indeed.
Can't Say I Didn't See This Coming
Apparently, David Ortiz was on the 2003 steroid list. At least that's what the New York Times is reporting citing lawyers who have knowledge of the test results. Is it really a surprise?
RJG Catches Up With Hank Steinbrenner
Every so often we like to check in with everyone's favorite baseball team owner's brother, Hank Steinbrenner. Hank has been awfully quiet this year as his brother Hal has been running things, but his silence never means that he has nothing on his mind. We sat down with Hank, to get his thoughts on the 2009 season, and the direction of the Yankees.
RJG: Thank you very much for taking time out of your busy day to come meet with us.
HS: Always a pleasure.
RJG: Its been a while since you've been in the spotlight, what have you been up to this year?
HS: Basically, I've taken to the shadows. Hal's running things, but someone needs to pull the strings. All puppets need a puppet master, otherwise they remain lifeless.
RJG: So, you're saying that Hal is just the front person, and you are pulling the strings from behind the scenes?
HS: No, I'm saying that Hal is an actual puppet. My father always felt I needed a brother so he had Hal made out of a tree that had fallen in our backyard. Then we thought it would be funny if we said he was running things. People didn't notice. He's at press conferences with a ventriloquist answering all the questions. Its hilarious.
RJG: Okay, so what are your thoughts on this season?
HS: Things are going well. We're finally seeing returns on all that money we've been pumping into the team. Over the last 5 years, we've spent over a billion dollars on payroll. A billion dollars! And what do we have to show for it? No championships, a couple division titles, a wild card, we never even made it out of the first round of the playoffs.
RJG: If you could go back in time, what decisions would you want to change?
HS: A billion dollars could have been used more wisely in that time.
RJG: Right, what would you do if you could go back and respend the billion dollars?
HS: First, I would find a country to buy. Then I'd find a country to invade.
RJG: No, I mean, how would you have spent that money on the Yankees.
HS: I wouldn't. Are you kidding me? A billion dollars is a (Expletive) ridiculous amount of money to spend on a baseball team. Do you know what you could do with a billion dollars? You could heal the world. Make it a better place. For you and for me and the entire human race.
RJG: Is that Michael Jackson?
HS: No, Madonna.
RJG: I'm pretty sure its Michael Ja...
HS: (Expletive)!
(awkward silence)
RJG: Okay, why don't we move on to...
HS: You!
RJG: Okay...
HS: (Expletive) You!
RJG: I got it.
HS: Alright.
RJG: So moving on, do you feel Girardi's doing a good job?
HS: Who?
RJG: The manager?
HS: (Blank Stare)
RJG: Okay never mind. Thank you for answering our questions Mr. Steinbrenner.
HS: Any time.
So there you have it. Hank Steinbrenner feels the Yankees have over spent over the last 5 years.
RJG: Thank you very much for taking time out of your busy day to come meet with us.
HS: Always a pleasure.
RJG: Its been a while since you've been in the spotlight, what have you been up to this year?
HS: Basically, I've taken to the shadows. Hal's running things, but someone needs to pull the strings. All puppets need a puppet master, otherwise they remain lifeless.
RJG: So, you're saying that Hal is just the front person, and you are pulling the strings from behind the scenes?
HS: No, I'm saying that Hal is an actual puppet. My father always felt I needed a brother so he had Hal made out of a tree that had fallen in our backyard. Then we thought it would be funny if we said he was running things. People didn't notice. He's at press conferences with a ventriloquist answering all the questions. Its hilarious.
RJG: Okay, so what are your thoughts on this season?
HS: Things are going well. We're finally seeing returns on all that money we've been pumping into the team. Over the last 5 years, we've spent over a billion dollars on payroll. A billion dollars! And what do we have to show for it? No championships, a couple division titles, a wild card, we never even made it out of the first round of the playoffs.
RJG: If you could go back in time, what decisions would you want to change?
HS: A billion dollars could have been used more wisely in that time.
RJG: Right, what would you do if you could go back and respend the billion dollars?
HS: First, I would find a country to buy. Then I'd find a country to invade.
RJG: No, I mean, how would you have spent that money on the Yankees.
HS: I wouldn't. Are you kidding me? A billion dollars is a (Expletive) ridiculous amount of money to spend on a baseball team. Do you know what you could do with a billion dollars? You could heal the world. Make it a better place. For you and for me and the entire human race.
RJG: Is that Michael Jackson?
HS: No, Madonna.
RJG: I'm pretty sure its Michael Ja...
HS: (Expletive)!
(awkward silence)
RJG: Okay, why don't we move on to...
HS: You!
RJG: Okay...
HS: (Expletive) You!
RJG: I got it.
HS: Alright.
RJG: So moving on, do you feel Girardi's doing a good job?
HS: Who?
RJG: The manager?
HS: (Blank Stare)
RJG: Okay never mind. Thank you for answering our questions Mr. Steinbrenner.
HS: Any time.
So there you have it. Hank Steinbrenner feels the Yankees have over spent over the last 5 years.
Who Needs Halladay? Well, I'd Still Take Him
The Good
Looks like Joba is a starter. Three consecutive starts where he has pitched well and has improved in each one. He went 8 innings last night allowing no runs. The offense had some punch to it last night, but the story is Joba.
The Bad
With Joba Chamberlain's pitching performance last night, it certainly makes it harder to want to trade him for Halladay. When he was giving us 5 innings and 3 runs, I was all for it. I'd still take Halladay, but maybe we can convince Ricciardi of a competitive package of Xavier Nady, Kei Igawa, and an autographed copy of Marty Appel's biography of Thurmon Munson.
The Ugly
What happened to Bruney? He was our 8th inning guy at the beginning of the season. Actually, come to think of it, where's our supposed 8th inning guy Damaso Marte? That was a botched contract. I'm adding him to our competitive package for Halladay which now boasts Xavier Nady, Kei Igawa, and Damaso Marte, but no Marty Appel book.
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. Last night Robinson Cano, Melky Cabrera and Mark Teixeira hit homeruns. It was Melky's 9th homerun of the season, which is a career high. Another good night for children's health.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 11hr = $11.00
Mark Teixeira 26hr = $26.00
Nick Swisher 16hr = $16.00
Robinson Cano 16hr = $16.00
Johnny Damon 17hr = $17.00
Melky Cabrera 9hr = $9.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $151.00
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.
Looks like Joba is a starter. Three consecutive starts where he has pitched well and has improved in each one. He went 8 innings last night allowing no runs. The offense had some punch to it last night, but the story is Joba.
The Bad
With Joba Chamberlain's pitching performance last night, it certainly makes it harder to want to trade him for Halladay. When he was giving us 5 innings and 3 runs, I was all for it. I'd still take Halladay, but maybe we can convince Ricciardi of a competitive package of Xavier Nady, Kei Igawa, and an autographed copy of Marty Appel's biography of Thurmon Munson.
The Ugly
What happened to Bruney? He was our 8th inning guy at the beginning of the season. Actually, come to think of it, where's our supposed 8th inning guy Damaso Marte? That was a botched contract. I'm adding him to our competitive package for Halladay which now boasts Xavier Nady, Kei Igawa, and Damaso Marte, but no Marty Appel book.
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. Last night Robinson Cano, Melky Cabrera and Mark Teixeira hit homeruns. It was Melky's 9th homerun of the season, which is a career high. Another good night for children's health.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 11hr = $11.00
Mark Teixeira 26hr = $26.00
Nick Swisher 16hr = $16.00
Robinson Cano 16hr = $16.00
Johnny Damon 17hr = $17.00
Melky Cabrera 9hr = $9.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $151.00
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, July 29, 2009
Yanks Lose to Rays
The Good
Kazmir was really good. The Yankees? Not so much.
The Bad
Sabathia was bad. No way around it. He just didn't have his best stuff. Also bad: the Yankees' defense. The two errors was the most by any team in the free agent era.
The Ugly
After the game the Rays were real hopeful that they might turn their season around and climb out of third. Unfortunately for them, they're the Rays and are not going anywhere above third place.
Home Runs Anyone?
There were no home runs in Yesterday's game. None. Zero. Well, zero by Yankees anyway, Longoria hit one.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 11hr = $11.00
Mark Teixeira 25hr = $25.00
Nick Swisher 16hr = $16.00
Robinson Cano 15hr = $15.00
Johnny Damon 17hr = $17.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $148.00
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.
Kazmir was really good. The Yankees? Not so much.
The Bad
Sabathia was bad. No way around it. He just didn't have his best stuff. Also bad: the Yankees' defense. The two errors was the most by any team in the free agent era.
The Ugly
After the game the Rays were real hopeful that they might turn their season around and climb out of third. Unfortunately for them, they're the Rays and are not going anywhere above third place.
Home Runs Anyone?
There were no home runs in Yesterday's game. None. Zero. Well, zero by Yankees anyway, Longoria hit one.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 11hr = $11.00
Mark Teixeira 25hr = $25.00
Nick Swisher 16hr = $16.00
Robinson Cano 15hr = $15.00
Johnny Damon 17hr = $17.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $148.00
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.
Prediction: Ricciardi Will Be Fired
Okay, so the Phils decided that Toronto was being unreasonable and traded for Cliff Lee instead (sorry TribeGirl). Here's the thing, Toronto was being unreasonable. I know Halladay is the best pitcher in baseball (shut up Met's fans, Halladay does it in the AL East), but for some reason every time a GM has a guy like Halladay he completely burns himself by pretending he holds all the cards. Consider Bill Smith of Minnesota. He could've had a much better package of prospects from any number of teams for Santana, but he was greedy. He called Cash and was like, "We want Joba, Hughes, Kennedy, plus Melky, plus Jeter, plus Cano." Everyone told to Smith to stuff it. Then he got a bunch of B level prospects from the Mets and pretended it was a good deal. (Okay, Carlos Gomez half worked out, he's good defensively).
Ricciardi could've had a deal with the Phillies, but decided he was in control. The Phillies didn't agree. He lost out on his best trading partner. The conventional wisdom this morning is that the Phillies would make this happen; that no longer holds. Now Ricciardi, who has completely misplayed his hand is left with few viable options. At this point the Yanks may be his best bet. The Red Sox have offered Buckholz, but Buckholz is not (yet) a major league pitcher (no hitter notwithstanding, he didn't even stay on the major league roster that year, and is only there now because of injuries). The Yanks can offer a major league ready pitcher (Joba) and a good prospect, but nothing more at this point. Washburn, it is being reported, is no longer on the table. It may be an interesting few days in Yankee land.
Ricciardi could've had a deal with the Phillies, but decided he was in control. The Phillies didn't agree. He lost out on his best trading partner. The conventional wisdom this morning is that the Phillies would make this happen; that no longer holds. Now Ricciardi, who has completely misplayed his hand is left with few viable options. At this point the Yanks may be his best bet. The Red Sox have offered Buckholz, but Buckholz is not (yet) a major league pitcher (no hitter notwithstanding, he didn't even stay on the major league roster that year, and is only there now because of injuries). The Yanks can offer a major league ready pitcher (Joba) and a good prospect, but nothing more at this point. Washburn, it is being reported, is no longer on the table. It may be an interesting few days in Yankee land.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Now Jeter's a Great Defensive Shortstop: A Trip Around the Majors
According to this article at Yankees.com, Derek Jeter is the greatest defensive shortstop to play the game, further proving what we at the RJG already knew. The article sites a new workout plan that focuses on lateral movement and explosive strength. Of course, Jeter's old workout plan focused more on swagger and gangster leans.
Last night, the Washington Nationals had a historic night as they beat the Brewers 14-6 lead by two grandslams by Josh Willingham. You read that right, the Nationals won a game.
Speaking of winning games, the Cubs beat the Astro's in the 13th inning with a grand slam from former Yankee Alfonso Soriano. The win puts the Cubs in first by half a game over St. Louis. But now that St. Louis has Julio Lugo as their shortstop you can expect that lead to grow.
This article by Tyler Kepner at the New York Times says that the Yankees are in need of a pitcher and an outfielder. The Blue Jays are looking to move a pitcher and an outfielder. A potential fit? Probably not, since the Blue Jays want too much, but the smart money says that Cashman will make a deal before the trade deadline. I'll be curious to see who it is.
The Mets have fired their vice president for player development, Tony Bernazard, for his recent outbursts which include arguing with Mets closer K-Rod, and challenging the entire Double-A team to fist fight. I suspect he would have lost. My prediction is that he's with the Cubs before the seasons out.
Last night, the Washington Nationals had a historic night as they beat the Brewers 14-6 lead by two grandslams by Josh Willingham. You read that right, the Nationals won a game.
Speaking of winning games, the Cubs beat the Astro's in the 13th inning with a grand slam from former Yankee Alfonso Soriano. The win puts the Cubs in first by half a game over St. Louis. But now that St. Louis has Julio Lugo as their shortstop you can expect that lead to grow.
This article by Tyler Kepner at the New York Times says that the Yankees are in need of a pitcher and an outfielder. The Blue Jays are looking to move a pitcher and an outfielder. A potential fit? Probably not, since the Blue Jays want too much, but the smart money says that Cashman will make a deal before the trade deadline. I'll be curious to see who it is.
The Mets have fired their vice president for player development, Tony Bernazard, for his recent outbursts which include arguing with Mets closer K-Rod, and challenging the entire Double-A team to fist fight. I suspect he would have lost. My prediction is that he's with the Cubs before the seasons out.
Burnett Throws Gem, Albaladejo Doesn't
The Good
Burnett pitched 7 innings of 1 run ball with the one run being unearned, and got his 10th win of the season. He allowed just 2 hits and 2 walks during his start. The offense came alive with 4 homeruns last night, and Nick Swisher led the way by hitting homeruns from both sides of the plate. Damon hit the 200th homerun of his career, and even Cano got in on the action with a jack and a triple. The captain got three hits and a walk showing that he is the best lead off hitter in the history of the lead off.
The Bad
In the 8th inning, Albaladejo showed us all why he was down in Scranton to begin with. Pull it together!
The Ugly
Carl Crawford stole a base last night, which happened to be his 48th steal of the season. 48? That's just not fair.
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. Four homeruns last night, 2 from Swisher, 1 from Cano and 1 from Damon. A good night for children's health.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 11hr = $11.00
Mark Teixeira 25hr = $25.00
Nick Swisher 16hr = $16.00
Robinson Cano 15hr = $15.00
Johnny Damon 17hr = $17.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $148.00
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 pitched 7 innings of 1 run ball with the one run being unearned, and got his 10th win of the season. He allowed just 2 hits and 2 walks during his start. The offense came alive with 4 homeruns last night, and Nick Swisher led the way by hitting homeruns from both sides of the plate. Damon hit the 200th homerun of his career, and even Cano got in on the action with a jack and a triple. The captain got three hits and a walk showing that he is the best lead off hitter in the history of the lead off.
The Bad
In the 8th inning, Albaladejo showed us all why he was down in Scranton to begin with. Pull it together!
The Ugly
Carl Crawford stole a base last night, which happened to be his 48th steal of the season. 48? That's just not fair.
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. Four homeruns last night, 2 from Swisher, 1 from Cano and 1 from Damon. A good night for children's health.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 11hr = $11.00
Mark Teixeira 25hr = $25.00
Nick Swisher 16hr = $16.00
Robinson Cano 15hr = $15.00
Johnny Damon 17hr = $17.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $148.00
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, July 27, 2009
Weekend Split Leads to 9-1 Homestand
The Good
Sunday's game saw the Yankees hit 6 doubles plus amazing relief appearances from Bruney, Hughes, and Mariano. Cano actually hit with the bases loaded, clearing the bases before getting thrown out over sliding third base. Jeter and Teixeira hit homeruns in Saturday's game but the Yankees fell short.
The Bad
Sergio Mitre threw 5 innings of 4 run ball, which really isn't good. In the meantime however, he should work just fine.
The Ugly
Brett Gardner broke his thumb breaking up a double play on Saturday, and is now on the DL. Tears I say. Tears.
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. Two homeruns were hit this weekend, one by Jeter and one by Teixeira.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 11hr = $11.00
Mark Teixeira 25hr = $25.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $144.00
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's game saw the Yankees hit 6 doubles plus amazing relief appearances from Bruney, Hughes, and Mariano. Cano actually hit with the bases loaded, clearing the bases before getting thrown out over sliding third base. Jeter and Teixeira hit homeruns in Saturday's game but the Yankees fell short.
The Bad
Sergio Mitre threw 5 innings of 4 run ball, which really isn't good. In the meantime however, he should work just fine.
The Ugly
Brett Gardner broke his thumb breaking up a double play on Saturday, and is now on the DL. Tears I say. Tears.
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. Two homeruns were hit this weekend, one by Jeter and one by Teixeira.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 11hr = $11.00
Mark Teixeira 25hr = $25.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $144.00
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, July 25, 2009
Trip to NYC Ends with a Cone
While I should probably post today's game review, there is no time. I have much bigger news to report. Today my brother and I went down to New York to show some of our cousins from Puerto Rico the big city. We parked in a parking garage on 60th street next to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, situated next to the Time Warner Center in Columbus Circle.
At the end of our trip we stopped by the Time Warner Center for a quick trip to the bathroom and then we headed out down 60th street to the parking garage. As the fearless leader of our group, I was walking ahead, my wife was behind me and my brother had barely made it out the door of the Time Warner Center. Some guy tried to stop me and ask me a question, but I was busy leading a pack, so I was all like, "Out of my way commoner. And don't forget to respect Jeter's gangster." Suddenly I hear my wife saying, "honey, come here."
I turned around and walked to her as she pointed at a man standing near the curb. I assumed she wanted me to apologize to the man I had just politely brushed off. "Isn't that David Cone?" she asked excitedly.
Indeed it was. David Cone was standing right there, in the flesh. But I've been fooled by David Cone impersonators before, so I asked him a question only David Cone would know. "Who caught your perfect game, Mr. Cone?" "Joe Girardi," came the response. I immediately wet myself, which Mr. Cone assured me happens all the time.
I called my brother over and said, "Look, it's my old buddy David Cone. We went to UMass together."
Mr. Cone then proceeded to take pictures with my brother and I, with my brother and I and a number of combinations of different cousins and my cousins children. Then he chatted with the kids and gave them high fives. Mr. Cone was incredibly friendly, talkative and we really appreciated his willingness to literally sit through a photo shoot for us as we took a bunch of pictures with different cameras and combinations of people.
Mr. Cone was at the hotel for a benefit for Johnny Damon's Wounded Warrior Project. That just goes to show, when you give to charity you get to meet some pretty cool bloggers.
My brother and I are now accepting interviews from any and all media outlets interested in learning more about David Cone. What kind of guy is he? Where does he like to hang out? What's his favorite color? Fernando and I will also be featured in the upcoming revised version of David Cone's Yankeeography, discussing all the highs and lows of our well documented friendship. Here's a picture of the three of us in NYC:
At the end of our trip we stopped by the Time Warner Center for a quick trip to the bathroom and then we headed out down 60th street to the parking garage. As the fearless leader of our group, I was walking ahead, my wife was behind me and my brother had barely made it out the door of the Time Warner Center. Some guy tried to stop me and ask me a question, but I was busy leading a pack, so I was all like, "Out of my way commoner. And don't forget to respect Jeter's gangster." Suddenly I hear my wife saying, "honey, come here."
I turned around and walked to her as she pointed at a man standing near the curb. I assumed she wanted me to apologize to the man I had just politely brushed off. "Isn't that David Cone?" she asked excitedly.
Indeed it was. David Cone was standing right there, in the flesh. But I've been fooled by David Cone impersonators before, so I asked him a question only David Cone would know. "Who caught your perfect game, Mr. Cone?" "Joe Girardi," came the response. I immediately wet myself, which Mr. Cone assured me happens all the time.
I called my brother over and said, "Look, it's my old buddy David Cone. We went to UMass together."
Mr. Cone then proceeded to take pictures with my brother and I, with my brother and I and a number of combinations of different cousins and my cousins children. Then he chatted with the kids and gave them high fives. Mr. Cone was incredibly friendly, talkative and we really appreciated his willingness to literally sit through a photo shoot for us as we took a bunch of pictures with different cameras and combinations of people.
Mr. Cone was at the hotel for a benefit for Johnny Damon's Wounded Warrior Project. That just goes to show, when you give to charity you get to meet some pretty cool bloggers.
My brother and I are now accepting interviews from any and all media outlets interested in learning more about David Cone. What kind of guy is he? Where does he like to hang out? What's his favorite color? Fernando and I will also be featured in the upcoming revised version of David Cone's Yankeeography, discussing all the highs and lows of our well documented friendship. Here's a picture of the three of us in NYC:
Friday, July 24, 2009
Away Game Tomorrow
My brother and I will be in the city tomorrow, trying to avoid the paparazzi. That means we may not update the blog til the day after, so try not to get too bored on a Saturday. Among the alternative activities we recommend are drinking, dancing, a combination of the two, and visiting other blogs to leave comments about how inferior they are to RJG. They don't even have to be sports or Yankees blogs. They should know they suck.
My Eight Wins
The Good
Remember when Nick-at-Nite used to do shows like My Three Sons, and Mr. Ed, and Green Acres, and that show with the Duke sisters? That was a long time ago. You know what else was a long time ago? The last time we lost. Joba pitched another great game, going seven plus, one run, and twenty-nine strike outs.
The Bad
Dave Robertson pitched the ninth, got three outs, and gave up two runs. There were some errors due to the fact that nobody wanted to be there by the ninth, so only one was earned. But still.
The Ugly
When you're up 1-8, it is clear that the players get tired of playing. They come up to bat, pop up on the first pitch, and walk away satisfied that they're one out closer to getting home. Guys get on base and they're like, "$#!%. I've just extended the inning. My bad first base coach whose name no one knows." And the first base coach is like, "No problem, sir. Can I get you a soda?" And the base runner is like, "Who the #@$&! are you!"
The Love of Your Fellow Man
Posada belted one out for the kids today, continuing the Yankees giving ways during hope week.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 24hr = $24.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $142.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Remember when Nick-at-Nite used to do shows like My Three Sons, and Mr. Ed, and Green Acres, and that show with the Duke sisters? That was a long time ago. You know what else was a long time ago? The last time we lost. Joba pitched another great game, going seven plus, one run, and twenty-nine strike outs.
The Bad
Dave Robertson pitched the ninth, got three outs, and gave up two runs. There were some errors due to the fact that nobody wanted to be there by the ninth, so only one was earned. But still.
The Ugly
When you're up 1-8, it is clear that the players get tired of playing. They come up to bat, pop up on the first pitch, and walk away satisfied that they're one out closer to getting home. Guys get on base and they're like, "$#!%. I've just extended the inning. My bad first base coach whose name no one knows." And the first base coach is like, "No problem, sir. Can I get you a soda?" And the base runner is like, "Who the #@$&! are you!"
The Love of Your Fellow Man
Posada belted one out for the kids today, continuing the Yankees giving ways during hope week.
Jorge Posada 13hr = $13.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 24hr = $24.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $142.00
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 Win Seventh Straight
The Good
The Yankees continued their second hand dominance with a 3-6 win over the Athletics. Hughes had his first career save, meaning we can look forward to arguing over whether he should be a reliever or starter next spring training.
The Bad
I turned to my brother during last night's broadcast and posed this question: "Who is the Yankees first base coach?" He just stared blankly into his seventh beer. Bucky was all like, "The Yankees have a first base coach?" Exactly. Nobody knows that guy's name. Nobody. I'm not even sure he knows it. We all knew who it was when Tony Pena was the first base coach, now nobody knows.
The Ugly
Selena has pitched a book about RJG to her publisher. They're considering it. For obvious reasons, we're less than pleased.
RJG Makes Peace With Its Bad Deeds
As part of our spiritual recovery, RJG donates money to Johnny Damon's second favorite charity, Homers for Babies. We can not, however, bring ourselves to give to his favorite charity, the Republican Party. Marky T hit another one out last night, earning another dollar for babies.
Jorge Posada 12hr = $12.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 24hr = $24.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $141.00
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 continued their second hand dominance with a 3-6 win over the Athletics. Hughes had his first career save, meaning we can look forward to arguing over whether he should be a reliever or starter next spring training.
The Bad
I turned to my brother during last night's broadcast and posed this question: "Who is the Yankees first base coach?" He just stared blankly into his seventh beer. Bucky was all like, "The Yankees have a first base coach?" Exactly. Nobody knows that guy's name. Nobody. I'm not even sure he knows it. We all knew who it was when Tony Pena was the first base coach, now nobody knows.
The Ugly
Selena has pitched a book about RJG to her publisher. They're considering it. For obvious reasons, we're less than pleased.
RJG Makes Peace With Its Bad Deeds
As part of our spiritual recovery, RJG donates money to Johnny Damon's second favorite charity, Homers for Babies. We can not, however, bring ourselves to give to his favorite charity, the Republican Party. Marky T hit another one out last night, earning another dollar for babies.
Jorge Posada 12hr = $12.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 24hr = $24.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $141.00
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, July 23, 2009
Fanning the Flames of the Halladay Trade Talks
Here is how the Yankees land Roy Halladay: they take Vernon Wells with him. This is the only way the Yankees land Halladay without such a huge cost in prospects. Don't get me wrong, we'll still have to give up some guys, but Wells' contract is quite the monstrosity, and the Blue Jays would be willing to forego some top guys to get rid of it. The issue is that the Blue Jays problem then becomes our problem. Wells' contract is majorly backloaded, and he's signed through 2014. Next season he makes $12.5 million, which isn't so bad, but in 2011 he makes $23 million, and then $21 million each season thereafter. Further more, Wells hasn't exactly been tearing it up. If the Yankees go this route, they'll have to ask for cash to be sent with Wells to pay for part of this salary, and then I think the Yankees could package Wells and the cash to some team in need of an outfielder with some power and deep enough pockets i.e. the Mets. I don't really care who we get for him, just so long as we get rid of the contract, and end up with Halladay. The only Mets player I would be semi-interested in would be Pedro Feliciano who would be a decent lefty to have in our bullpen, but again, the deal is more about getting rid of Wells' contract. So, there you have it, a simple yet risky way to land Roy Halladay.
Yankees Sweep Baltimore, Rangers Sweep Red Sox
The Good
AJ Burnett pitched a solid 7 inning 2 run performance while the Yankee offense went on to score 5 runs in that time. Posada had a mighty homerun, as well as a double. Phil Hughes is still the man in the bullpen, while Bruney is decidedly not. Mariano recorded the 28th save of the season.
The Bad
Bruney came in the game in the 9th and fanned the first two batters he faced. "The old Bruney is back" we thought, until he gave up homeruns to the next two batters he faced. Mo had to come in to record the last out of the ninth, a strikeout of Aubrey Huff, but he really shouldn't have been pitching yesterday.
The Ugly
Panic in the streets of Boston as the Yankees pull two games ahead with their 6th straight win since the all star game, and Boston's 5th straight loss in that time. But its no time to get too confident. I suspect the division will come down to the last games in September.
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. Jorge Posada hit his 12th homerun of the season, which means we'll be donating our $12th dollar on his account. Good work.
Jorge Posada 12hr = $12.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 23hr = $23.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $140.00
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.
AJ Burnett pitched a solid 7 inning 2 run performance while the Yankee offense went on to score 5 runs in that time. Posada had a mighty homerun, as well as a double. Phil Hughes is still the man in the bullpen, while Bruney is decidedly not. Mariano recorded the 28th save of the season.
The Bad
Bruney came in the game in the 9th and fanned the first two batters he faced. "The old Bruney is back" we thought, until he gave up homeruns to the next two batters he faced. Mo had to come in to record the last out of the ninth, a strikeout of Aubrey Huff, but he really shouldn't have been pitching yesterday.
The Ugly
Panic in the streets of Boston as the Yankees pull two games ahead with their 6th straight win since the all star game, and Boston's 5th straight loss in that time. But its no time to get too confident. I suspect the division will come down to the last games in September.
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. Jorge Posada hit his 12th homerun of the season, which means we'll be donating our $12th dollar on his account. Good work.
Jorge Posada 12hr = $12.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 23hr = $23.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $140.00
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, July 22, 2009
Mitre Gets First Win, Bucky Gets Paid
The Good
The Yankees won their fifth game in a row, handing replacement part Sergio Mitre his first win as a Yankee. They have now taken the series from Baltimore and are in position to sweep them. Also, Mitre woke up with a hangover this morning.
The Bad
With the win, Mitre has proven he belongs, it's only a matter of time before he is the centerpiece of a Roy Halladay deal.
The Ugly
Bucky received his first paycheck from RJG yesterday. We all thought it would be a joyous occasion, but Bucky flipped when he opened the envelope. "A check?" he screamed. "I'm a bear, what the #*&% am I supposed to do with this?! I don't have a bank account! You think I can just walk into a bank and ask for a deposit?! The teller just screams! They scream at me, like I'm some freak! Pay me in salmon you dumb son of a #%&*@!" Bucky later apologized for his outburst. We're just glad Selena wasn't around. She doesn't tolerate that sort of behavior; it would've been ugly.
People Who Appreciate a Check
Cano decided to contribute to Johnny Damon's heralded charity yesterday, belting a 6 run homer for all the Yankee runs. It was quite a feat.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 23hr = $23.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $139.00
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 won their fifth game in a row, handing replacement part Sergio Mitre his first win as a Yankee. They have now taken the series from Baltimore and are in position to sweep them. Also, Mitre woke up with a hangover this morning.
The Bad
With the win, Mitre has proven he belongs, it's only a matter of time before he is the centerpiece of a Roy Halladay deal.
The Ugly
Bucky received his first paycheck from RJG yesterday. We all thought it would be a joyous occasion, but Bucky flipped when he opened the envelope. "A check?" he screamed. "I'm a bear, what the #*&% am I supposed to do with this?! I don't have a bank account! You think I can just walk into a bank and ask for a deposit?! The teller just screams! They scream at me, like I'm some freak! Pay me in salmon you dumb son of a #%&*@!" Bucky later apologized for his outburst. We're just glad Selena wasn't around. She doesn't tolerate that sort of behavior; it would've been ugly.
People Who Appreciate a Check
Cano decided to contribute to Johnny Damon's heralded charity yesterday, belting a 6 run homer for all the Yankee runs. It was quite a feat.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 23hr = $23.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $139.00
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, July 21, 2009
Yankees Master 2-1 Wins
The Good
Andy Pettitte showed that his trend of a strong 2nd half may continue with a 7.1 inning 1 run performance, which unfortunately did not amount to a win for him. Aceves would get that honor. Matsui got pied for the first time this season with a 9th inning walk off jack, and Hinske had a homerun of his own.
The Bad
The Yankees were pretty much dominated by Orioles pitcher David "Nolan Ryan" Hernandez. The Yankees amounted 4 hits all game, but luckily 2 of them were homeruns.
The Ugly
With an 0-3 night yesterday, Derek Jeter's average dropped to a paltry and unacceptable .318 on the season. Is it injury? Fatigue? He needs to figure it out soon.
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. Hinske, who only hits homeruns, and Matsui who hit a walk off both helped the cause last night.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 23hr = $23.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $138.00
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.
Andy Pettitte showed that his trend of a strong 2nd half may continue with a 7.1 inning 1 run performance, which unfortunately did not amount to a win for him. Aceves would get that honor. Matsui got pied for the first time this season with a 9th inning walk off jack, and Hinske had a homerun of his own.
The Bad
The Yankees were pretty much dominated by Orioles pitcher David "Nolan Ryan" Hernandez. The Yankees amounted 4 hits all game, but luckily 2 of them were homeruns.
The Ugly
With an 0-3 night yesterday, Derek Jeter's average dropped to a paltry and unacceptable .318 on the season. Is it injury? Fatigue? He needs to figure it out soon.
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. Hinske, who only hits homeruns, and Matsui who hit a walk off both helped the cause last night.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 15hr = $15.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 23hr = $23.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 4hr = $4.00
Total = $138.00
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, July 19, 2009
Yankees Sweep Tigers
The Good
Joba, in an attempt to stifle all talk of him going back into the bullpen, pitched an incredible 6.2 innings of 1 run ball. Not only was his performance solid, he kept his velocity late into the game and was touching high nineties throughout his start. Its a far cry from his 90-92 he was putting up in his previous starts. Of course, the radar gun could have been off, but then again, he struck out 8 so I don't think so.
The Yankees won 2-1 with two solo homeruns from A-Rod and Teixeira. Isn't A-Rod such a different player when he's focusing on baseball?
Coke-Hughes-Rivera closed the game out with 2.1 innings of scoreless relief with Mariano getting his 25th save. Hughes continued his bullpen dominance with two strikeouts in his inning of work.
The Bad
With an 0-4 night, Derek Jeter is hitting .321, only 3 points behind David Wright who's at .324. The significance? Whoever has the better batting average at the end of the season will get a $100,000 donation to their charity from Delta Airlines. The loser gets a paltry $50,000 donation. Step it up Jeter.
The Ugly
Swisher let a single from Granderson turn into a triple. Its the kind of mistake in a close game that could cost you. Luckily it didn't. Even still, at .235 on the season, you gotta play the field a little better than that if you don't want to swap with Hinske for the bench.
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 and A-Rod hit solo shots today to help win the game for the Yanks, and to help win the fight for children's health.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 14hr = $14.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 23hr = $23.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 3hr = $3.00
Total = $136.00
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.
Joba, in an attempt to stifle all talk of him going back into the bullpen, pitched an incredible 6.2 innings of 1 run ball. Not only was his performance solid, he kept his velocity late into the game and was touching high nineties throughout his start. Its a far cry from his 90-92 he was putting up in his previous starts. Of course, the radar gun could have been off, but then again, he struck out 8 so I don't think so.
The Yankees won 2-1 with two solo homeruns from A-Rod and Teixeira. Isn't A-Rod such a different player when he's focusing on baseball?
Coke-Hughes-Rivera closed the game out with 2.1 innings of scoreless relief with Mariano getting his 25th save. Hughes continued his bullpen dominance with two strikeouts in his inning of work.
The Bad
With an 0-4 night, Derek Jeter is hitting .321, only 3 points behind David Wright who's at .324. The significance? Whoever has the better batting average at the end of the season will get a $100,000 donation to their charity from Delta Airlines. The loser gets a paltry $50,000 donation. Step it up Jeter.
The Ugly
Swisher let a single from Granderson turn into a triple. Its the kind of mistake in a close game that could cost you. Luckily it didn't. Even still, at .235 on the season, you gotta play the field a little better than that if you don't want to swap with Hinske for the bench.
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 and A-Rod hit solo shots today to help win the game for the Yanks, and to help win the fight for children's health.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 14hr = $14.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 23hr = $23.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 19hr = $19.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 3hr = $3.00
Total = $136.00
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 Take Series from Tigers
The Good
Lots to go around this time. Sabathia, while not quite himself, managed 7 scoreless innings against the central division leading Tigers. A-Rod hit a solo home run in the seventh against Detroit ace Justin Verlander, while Melky had what was ultimately the winning run in the same inning on a two-out infield single. We also picked up a game on Boston, we are now only two back.
The Bad
I suppose I would've liked to see more runs, but can't really complain.
The Ugly
The Yankees have yet to trade and sign to a multi-year extension Toronto ace Roy Halladay. WTF?! I guess the Steinbrenner sons have nowheres near the commitment to winning their father had. I hate you Hal Steinbrenner! I hate you!
Dollah, Dollah Bills Ya'll
The Yankees continued their tradition of charitable giving when de facto team leader Alex "Does this haircut make me look like Jeter" Rodriguez hit a long bomb that convincingly cleared the right field fence.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 14hr = $14.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 22hr = $22.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 18hr = $18.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 3hr = $3.00
Total = $134.00
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.
Lots to go around this time. Sabathia, while not quite himself, managed 7 scoreless innings against the central division leading Tigers. A-Rod hit a solo home run in the seventh against Detroit ace Justin Verlander, while Melky had what was ultimately the winning run in the same inning on a two-out infield single. We also picked up a game on Boston, we are now only two back.
The Bad
I suppose I would've liked to see more runs, but can't really complain.
The Ugly
The Yankees have yet to trade and sign to a multi-year extension Toronto ace Roy Halladay. WTF?! I guess the Steinbrenner sons have nowheres near the commitment to winning their father had. I hate you Hal Steinbrenner! I hate you!
Dollah, Dollah Bills Ya'll
The Yankees continued their tradition of charitable giving when de facto team leader Alex "Does this haircut make me look like Jeter" Rodriguez hit a long bomb that convincingly cleared the right field fence.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 14hr = $14.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 22hr = $22.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 18hr = $18.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 3hr = $3.00
Total = $134.00
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, July 18, 2009
Detroit Downed by Marky T
The Good
Burnett wasn't his sharpest but ended with a final line of 6 innings and 3 runs. Hughes threw 2 innings in relief striking out 6 in the process. Rivera closed it for the save. Offensively, Marky T hit a mamoth 3-run shot that put the Yankees up 5-3. It was beautiful.
Melky Cabrera had an incredible throw to second base that got Laird who was trying to leg out a double. It was a perfect strike, and a throw Gardner never has a chance of making.
The Bad
At one point Burnett tried to pick off a runner at 2nd and threw the ball into the outfield. It was the kind of night he was having, though he finished with a quality start. He walked 5 batters and struck out one. Hopefully, his next outing won't be so rocky.
The Ugly
With an 0-3 night yesterday, Nick Swisher is now batting .235. He needs to turn that around.
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 hit a monster shot for the cause last night.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 14hr = $14.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 22hr = $22.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 17hr = $17.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 3hr = $3.00
Total = $133.00
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 wasn't his sharpest but ended with a final line of 6 innings and 3 runs. Hughes threw 2 innings in relief striking out 6 in the process. Rivera closed it for the save. Offensively, Marky T hit a mamoth 3-run shot that put the Yankees up 5-3. It was beautiful.
Melky Cabrera had an incredible throw to second base that got Laird who was trying to leg out a double. It was a perfect strike, and a throw Gardner never has a chance of making.
The Bad
At one point Burnett tried to pick off a runner at 2nd and threw the ball into the outfield. It was the kind of night he was having, though he finished with a quality start. He walked 5 batters and struck out one. Hopefully, his next outing won't be so rocky.
The Ugly
With an 0-3 night yesterday, Nick Swisher is now batting .235. He needs to turn that around.
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 hit a monster shot for the cause last night.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 14hr = $14.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 22hr = $22.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 17hr = $17.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 3hr = $3.00
Total = $133.00
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, July 17, 2009
Bottom of the Barrel
Recently we were interviewed by the guys over at the Bottom of the Barrel blog. For some of you regulars you may recognize Mr. Fred Trigger as one of the writers for that blog. Its a fun interview, and we hope you'll check it out.
Right now, I'm so tired I feel like I'm in a dream. However, I'm at work in this dream, which kind of defeats the purpose of dreaming. As soon as this third cup of coffee kicks in, I'll be back with more. One thing I will say: the Yankees get back to playing baseball tonight, and it couldn't come a moment too soon.
Right now, I'm so tired I feel like I'm in a dream. However, I'm at work in this dream, which kind of defeats the purpose of dreaming. As soon as this third cup of coffee kicks in, I'll be back with more. One thing I will say: the Yankees get back to playing baseball tonight, and it couldn't come a moment too soon.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Bronny Answers Your Halladay Questions
Before we got back to baseball tomorrow, we thought it was appropriate to check in with everyone's favorite GM, the man in black (ninja costume that is), Mr. Bronny Cash. The following is a transcript of our conversation:
BC: Hello?
RJG: Watchamadoin Bronny?!
BC: Oh great, my caller I.D. isn't working again.
RJG: Good to hear your voice too, Bronny. So, how quickly will you be packing up Joba and shipping him off to Toronto for Roy Halladay?
BC: Well I can't really comment on any other team's players but we always keep an eye out for anything that will make our team better, though I am absolutely happy with how our team the way it is constituted right now.
RJG: Yeah, and Bubba Crosby will be your starting center fielder. Come on Bronny, give us the dirt, are you trying to make a move for Halladay or what?
BC: You know I can't tell you that, it's illegal.
RJG: Selling drugs is illegal, Bronny. Talking about another team's players is against baseball rules. What are they going to do, keep you out of the hall?
BC: I can't discuss any trades.
RJG: Alright, alright. Can you at least tell me whether or not you've been wearing your ninja costume more frequently as of late?
BC: I can confirm that, yes, though that always happens this time of year.
RJG: Interesting.
BC: So I hear you have a bear working security now. How's that working out for you?
RJG: Oh, Bucky? He's cool. He kind of eats a lot though. Luckily RJG qualifies for a government farm subsidy, which helps defray the costs.
BC: How'd you qualify for that?
RJG: Honestly, the way our government is obsessed with farmers, you pretty much qualify if you have a potted plant you're willing to eat. But back to business, Bronn Bronn. This team, which you put together, has struggled against contending teams. What are your plans to turn that around?
BC: You know I can't discuss trades.
RJG: MadlyinlovewithMadonnasayswhat.
BC: What did you say?!
RJG: It's not all about you, Bronny.
[click]
There you have it folks, the deeply private Brian Cashman will consider anything that makes his team better. Oh the insights!
BC: Hello?
RJG: Watchamadoin Bronny?!
BC: Oh great, my caller I.D. isn't working again.
RJG: Good to hear your voice too, Bronny. So, how quickly will you be packing up Joba and shipping him off to Toronto for Roy Halladay?
BC: Well I can't really comment on any other team's players but we always keep an eye out for anything that will make our team better, though I am absolutely happy with how our team the way it is constituted right now.
RJG: Yeah, and Bubba Crosby will be your starting center fielder. Come on Bronny, give us the dirt, are you trying to make a move for Halladay or what?
BC: You know I can't tell you that, it's illegal.
RJG: Selling drugs is illegal, Bronny. Talking about another team's players is against baseball rules. What are they going to do, keep you out of the hall?
BC: I can't discuss any trades.
RJG: Alright, alright. Can you at least tell me whether or not you've been wearing your ninja costume more frequently as of late?
BC: I can confirm that, yes, though that always happens this time of year.
RJG: Interesting.
BC: So I hear you have a bear working security now. How's that working out for you?
RJG: Oh, Bucky? He's cool. He kind of eats a lot though. Luckily RJG qualifies for a government farm subsidy, which helps defray the costs.
BC: How'd you qualify for that?
RJG: Honestly, the way our government is obsessed with farmers, you pretty much qualify if you have a potted plant you're willing to eat. But back to business, Bronn Bronn. This team, which you put together, has struggled against contending teams. What are your plans to turn that around?
BC: You know I can't discuss trades.
RJG: MadlyinlovewithMadonnasayswhat.
BC: What did you say?!
RJG: It's not all about you, Bronny.
[click]
There you have it folks, the deeply private Brian Cashman will consider anything that makes his team better. Oh the insights!
New Joba Commercial
Looks like Joba's in a new commercial for Powerade, which is pretty cool, but perhaps powerade should wait until he gets his ERA under 4, or can pitch more than 5 innings at a time before they air it. The sad thing is that he had a stretch of about 5 games where he pitched well. 4 quality starts where he pitched at least 6 innings, and one outing where he went 8 innings and allowing just 2 runs. Will he be able to get back to that? I don't know. You have to wonder with his velocity is as a starter, if he'll ever be able to be a front line starter. He certainly won't be able to if he can't pitch past the 4th, and the only way he can do that is if he can avoid getting lit up in the first couple innings. I say we give him a year before we judge whether he needs to be out of the rotation or not. Maybe he can right the ship and show that he's a front line starter, or maybe he'll reveal that he's been injured his last few starts, or maybe, just maybe we'll find out he wasn't cut out to be a starter after all. Either way, a year is more than enough time to judge his work.
Signs That Steroids Were in Use
Often times you see the comissioner and other baseball officials claiming ignorance when it comes to the issue of steroids in the sport. In reality, its something they have to do to save face. Even though most fans suspected it and many officials had to know it was going on, it went largely unchecked until failed drug tests began to emerge. But one member of the baseball family knew what was going on all along. He saw the signs.
"I work for MLB, but I don't have the same prejudices as most people who get their check from baseball would. I saw the signs coming from a mile away." Said Al Jenkins, Director of Purchase and Orders for MLB.
"In my line of work, you see what all the teams are buying and you'll pick up on certain trends. You notice that teams are suddenly handling heavier bats, or ordering bigger jerseys. Things like that."
Through watching the purchases and orders throughout baseball Al was able to spot a startling trend throughout the sport. This, Al says, is what really tipped him off to the culture of performance enhancers in baseball.
"I was looking over the orders and noticed that within a 6 month period in the late-nineties, cup sizes shrunk dramatically. Teams were ordering extra smalls in bulk. I was shocked, but in the mean time, homeruns were getting mashed like crazy. It took a little bit of time, but I finally put two and two together."
"I started researching and I found this letter from one team asking if we could order anything smaller than the extra small. The company that supplied us didn't want to make an extra small so they adjusted all the other sizes, making large into medium and medium into small. I thought this was another sign of steroid use, until I saw the letter was from the 80's and was written by the Red Sox. It all made sense then."
Is it enough circumstantial evidence to condemn the era? Perhaps not, but the trend remains as another piece of the larger picture of the steroid era, a picture that when viewed through 3D glasses shows Barry Bonds.... with a small cup.
"I work for MLB, but I don't have the same prejudices as most people who get their check from baseball would. I saw the signs coming from a mile away." Said Al Jenkins, Director of Purchase and Orders for MLB.
"In my line of work, you see what all the teams are buying and you'll pick up on certain trends. You notice that teams are suddenly handling heavier bats, or ordering bigger jerseys. Things like that."
Through watching the purchases and orders throughout baseball Al was able to spot a startling trend throughout the sport. This, Al says, is what really tipped him off to the culture of performance enhancers in baseball.
"I was looking over the orders and noticed that within a 6 month period in the late-nineties, cup sizes shrunk dramatically. Teams were ordering extra smalls in bulk. I was shocked, but in the mean time, homeruns were getting mashed like crazy. It took a little bit of time, but I finally put two and two together."
"I started researching and I found this letter from one team asking if we could order anything smaller than the extra small. The company that supplied us didn't want to make an extra small so they adjusted all the other sizes, making large into medium and medium into small. I thought this was another sign of steroid use, until I saw the letter was from the 80's and was written by the Red Sox. It all made sense then."
Is it enough circumstantial evidence to condemn the era? Perhaps not, but the trend remains as another piece of the larger picture of the steroid era, a picture that when viewed through 3D glasses shows Barry Bonds.... with a small cup.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Is It So Crazy?
I know that the conventional wisdom is that there is no way that Halladay ends up with the Yanks, but I'm not so sure. If they're interested, they will not make that knowledge public, and I have to think they're interested. Remember when Teixeira was going to go to either Boston or Anaheim? Yeah, exactly.
The reason I think it's possible is because the Yankees are almost certainly willing to part with Joba. If the rest of the bill is a couple of minor league prospect (granted, they will be blue chips), the Yankees pull the trigger on it no question. Why wouldn't you make that trade?
This all may be a pipe dream, but I'm just not convinced that it is so crazy.
The reason I think it's possible is because the Yankees are almost certainly willing to part with Joba. If the rest of the bill is a couple of minor league prospect (granted, they will be blue chips), the Yankees pull the trigger on it no question. Why wouldn't you make that trade?
This all may be a pipe dream, but I'm just not convinced that it is so crazy.
Now Back To Your Regularly Scheduled Program
The Roy Halladay trade talk isn't going to die down, and though I don't think the Yankees have a chance its fun to consider. Without a doubt, our rotation could use help. Burnett and Sabathia have been good, but Pettitte has been awful, and Joba can't throw a quality start to save his life. Wang did not show much progress in his starts and now he's on the DL. Aceves or the Triple A pitcher of your choosing won't be a long term solution. A guy like Roy Halladay would be a ticket to the post season. But what do you give for him? Pete Abe was speculating that a package of Joba, Montero and another prospect could get the job done. Joba has pitched himself out of the good graces of many fans, even getting booed for some of his recent performances. He may have also pitched himself back into the Joba as a starter vs. Joba as a reliever argument. You would expect to see him improve with each start, but he just doesn't. That's also why I don't think Toronto would bite. Whatever package they get, they'll need one major league ready starter in return, and don't think they'll be cheated like the Twins were for Santana. So if you were Brian Cashman, who would you offer for Halladay? Would you stay away from this deal altogether? If you were Ricciardi, who would you want to get for Halladay?
The AL Wins Again!
But that's not what I'm going to write about. Instead here are some updates about the blog:
1. We will soon be getting an RJG greatest hits section for the blog, which will have a list of some of our more memorable posts. I suspect this post won't be on there.
2. Baseball for the Yankees resumes on Friday, which gives us two days to fill with something, anything really. We will be sending our RJG investigative team out into the world to turn up something. Its yet to be determined what that would be.
3. We're on vacation next week, but we'll be posting daily.
That's about all I got for now. Holler!
1. We will soon be getting an RJG greatest hits section for the blog, which will have a list of some of our more memorable posts. I suspect this post won't be on there.
2. Baseball for the Yankees resumes on Friday, which gives us two days to fill with something, anything really. We will be sending our RJG investigative team out into the world to turn up something. Its yet to be determined what that would be.
3. We're on vacation next week, but we'll be posting daily.
That's about all I got for now. Holler!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
All Star Game
The All-Star game is an interesting event since it basically puts together the kind of teams that you dream of when playing fantasy baseball, but its also interesting in that it fails to truly engage all baseball fans. Most people don't care about the All-Star game, and even making it about home field advantage really fails to build the kind of hype this kind of game should have. So here are some ways they could make the All-Star game more interesting:
1. Instead of home field advantage, the teams play for the Yankeeography mega-set DVD collection.
2. If the National League wins, Pete Rose gets into the Hall of Fame.
3. One member of the winning team will be selected to serve as commisioner for the rest of the season.
4. The losing league has to choose Barry Bonds as their official spokesman.
5. The winning team gets to throw a pizza party after the All-Star game paid for by the losing team.
6. The losing team has to issue a public apology for their inferiority.
7. The losing pitcher gets Tommy John, whether he needs it or not.
8. The losing league has to pick up the tab on the worse contract in the opposing league (ie. Barry Zito).
9. The winning team gets street cred.
10. The winning league ensures a year off from drug testing.
1. Instead of home field advantage, the teams play for the Yankeeography mega-set DVD collection.
2. If the National League wins, Pete Rose gets into the Hall of Fame.
3. One member of the winning team will be selected to serve as commisioner for the rest of the season.
4. The losing league has to choose Barry Bonds as their official spokesman.
5. The winning team gets to throw a pizza party after the All-Star game paid for by the losing team.
6. The losing team has to issue a public apology for their inferiority.
7. The losing pitcher gets Tommy John, whether he needs it or not.
8. The losing league has to pick up the tab on the worse contract in the opposing league (ie. Barry Zito).
9. The winning team gets street cred.
10. The winning league ensures a year off from drug testing.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Meet Marty Appel
Meet Legendary Yankee P.R. Man Marty Appel at Foley’s on Weds, July 22
Meet legendary Yankee P.R. man and baseball historian Marty Appel, author of the acclaimed new biography MUNSON: The Life and Death of a Yankee Captain, at Foley’s New York Pub & Restaurant on Wednesday, July 22nd from 6 - 8 p.m.
Appel, who knew Thurman Munson during the team’s glorious “Bronx Zoo” years and co-wrote the catcher’s own autobiography, will talk about Munson’s great career, tragic death and enduring Yankee legacy.
Marty Appel will sign copies of his book and host a Q&A about his time with the Yankees and his friendships with greats, such as Munson, Murcer, and “The Mick.”
Foley’s is located across from the empire state building at 18 West 33rd St. and features thousands of autographed baseballs, hundreds of bobbleheads and game-used jerseys. It is also the home of the Irish American Baseball Hall of Fame, including 2009 honorees Paul O’Neill and Ed Lucas, a blind journalist who has covered the Bronx Bombers for 40 years.
With its great “pub grub,” large selection of beers, and friendly service, Foley’s is a favorite among baseball players, media and fans. You never know who you might meet at Foley’s!
Foley’s New York Pub & Restaurant
18 W. 33rd St.
New York, NY 10001
(212) 290-0080
www.foleysny.comYankees Enter All-Star Break Sucking
The Good
Phil Hughes is really good in relief.
The Bad
We lost by one run , but with so many opportunities to score including multiple loaded bases, we should have won by 20 runs.
The Ugly
Nothing is uglier than being swept, especially by the Vlad Guerrero and Torii Hunter-less Angels. So far this season, we've learned that we can pound on teams like the Twins, but wimper before teams like the Angels and Red Sox. Now we're three games back entering the All-star break after being tied with Boston heading into this series. Time to step it 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. No homeruns yesterday as the Yankees thought it would cheapen the Home Run Derby taking place today. So thoughtful.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 14hr = $14.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 21hr = $21.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 17hr = $17.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 3hr = $3.00
Total = $132.00
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.
Phil Hughes is really good in relief.
The Bad
We lost by one run , but with so many opportunities to score including multiple loaded bases, we should have won by 20 runs.
The Ugly
Nothing is uglier than being swept, especially by the Vlad Guerrero and Torii Hunter-less Angels. So far this season, we've learned that we can pound on teams like the Twins, but wimper before teams like the Angels and Red Sox. Now we're three games back entering the All-star break after being tied with Boston heading into this series. Time to step it 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. No homeruns yesterday as the Yankees thought it would cheapen the Home Run Derby taking place today. So thoughtful.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 14hr = $14.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 21hr = $21.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 17hr = $17.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 3hr = $3.00
Total = $132.00
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, July 12, 2009
RJG Update
From time to time, we would like to inform our readers as to what is going on in the office. Well, as I mentioned two posts ago, yesterday was a busy day. Why, you ask? Well, our office was attacked by a bear. Not so much attacked, but there was definitely a bear in the office.
Me and my brother were sitting around, engaged in our usual witty banter, when suddenly Deron stopped spewing hate about his favorite shortstop. We both thought it was weird so we looked up, and there, in the middle of our office, was a majestic brown bear.
Now, most people, about 99%, when face to face with a majestic brown bear, immediately $#!% themselves. Not me, I'm too much of a man, I just pissed myself. I played it off though, like, "Dude, I spilt my lemonade." "Lemonade doesn't smell like that," replied my brother, the lemonade expert.
Then the bear let off a majestic growl and I thought to myself, "I'm too pretty to die, I hope he eats Deron first." Then, out of nowhere, Selena Roberts rushes into the office and cold cocks the bear right in the face. I'm all like, "Oh $#!%, she's definitely gonna get eaten." Then the bear started crying, and I'm like, "Seriously bear? WTF?" Then the bear threatened to call the police and report our assault, but we talked him down, agreeing to let him post occasionally and to work as our security guard. The RJG staff continues to grow. It now includes my brother and I, Deron, Selena, and Bucky the Bear, which is what I named him. He prefers Carl but I'm not calling him that for obvious reasons.
Me and my brother were sitting around, engaged in our usual witty banter, when suddenly Deron stopped spewing hate about his favorite shortstop. We both thought it was weird so we looked up, and there, in the middle of our office, was a majestic brown bear.
Now, most people, about 99%, when face to face with a majestic brown bear, immediately $#!% themselves. Not me, I'm too much of a man, I just pissed myself. I played it off though, like, "Dude, I spilt my lemonade." "Lemonade doesn't smell like that," replied my brother, the lemonade expert.
Then the bear let off a majestic growl and I thought to myself, "I'm too pretty to die, I hope he eats Deron first." Then, out of nowhere, Selena Roberts rushes into the office and cold cocks the bear right in the face. I'm all like, "Oh $#!%, she's definitely gonna get eaten." Then the bear started crying, and I'm like, "Seriously bear? WTF?" Then the bear threatened to call the police and report our assault, but we talked him down, agreeing to let him post occasionally and to work as our security guard. The RJG staff continues to grow. It now includes my brother and I, Deron, Selena, and Bucky the Bear, which is what I named him. He prefers Carl but I'm not calling him that for obvious reasons.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Superbad
The Good
Yesterday, Posada made a bare handed catch on a pop-up off the bat of Chone Figgins. Figgins popped it up and then walked backwards into Posada who was tracking the ball. Posada pushed him out of the way and in doing so his glove came off and he had to catch the ball bare handed. He then ice grilled Figgins as if to say "I'm going to beat the $#!% out of you little man." Then the umpire tried to give him $#!%, and Jorge told him to shut the %*$#$% up. At least I assume he did.
The Bad
Unfortunately for WFAN callers everywhere, Joba has ended the great debate. He should be a reliever. Joba is simply too inefficient to be a starter. He throws too many pitches, doesn't throw strikes, doesn't challenge hitters, shakes off a veteran catcher who really knows the hitters and then throws a pitch three feet off the plate so that he can run up another 3-2 count before he lets the hitter foul four pitches off and then walks him anyway. Joba was never efficient as a reliever, but throwing 30 pitches per inning doesn't matter when you only pitch the eighth.
The Ugly
The Yankees' pitching staff takes this one. 26 runs in 18 innings? Yeah guys, you suck. And when I say you suck, I mean it with every inappropriate sexual connotation that the word invokes if you actually think about it. Don't get punched in the face on your way out, you bastards.
At Least There's Money In It
Rodriguez has three homers in the last two games. Hinske had two and Matsui had one in today's game. Rodriguez really loves kids man. Wait a minute. Matsui has 14 home runs? WTF?
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 14hr = $14.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 21hr = $21.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 17hr = $17.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 3hr = $3.00
Total = $132.00
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.
Yesterday, Posada made a bare handed catch on a pop-up off the bat of Chone Figgins. Figgins popped it up and then walked backwards into Posada who was tracking the ball. Posada pushed him out of the way and in doing so his glove came off and he had to catch the ball bare handed. He then ice grilled Figgins as if to say "I'm going to beat the $#!% out of you little man." Then the umpire tried to give him $#!%, and Jorge told him to shut the %*$#$% up. At least I assume he did.
The Bad
Unfortunately for WFAN callers everywhere, Joba has ended the great debate. He should be a reliever. Joba is simply too inefficient to be a starter. He throws too many pitches, doesn't throw strikes, doesn't challenge hitters, shakes off a veteran catcher who really knows the hitters and then throws a pitch three feet off the plate so that he can run up another 3-2 count before he lets the hitter foul four pitches off and then walks him anyway. Joba was never efficient as a reliever, but throwing 30 pitches per inning doesn't matter when you only pitch the eighth.
The Ugly
The Yankees' pitching staff takes this one. 26 runs in 18 innings? Yeah guys, you suck. And when I say you suck, I mean it with every inappropriate sexual connotation that the word invokes if you actually think about it. Don't get punched in the face on your way out, you bastards.
At Least There's Money In It
Rodriguez has three homers in the last two games. Hinske had two and Matsui had one in today's game. Rodriguez really loves kids man. Wait a minute. Matsui has 14 home runs? WTF?
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 14hr = $14.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 21hr = $21.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 17hr = $17.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 3hr = $3.00
Total = $132.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Sorry Folks
It's been a busy day, we'll get you a twofer in a few hours. Short version: Yankees blow.
Friday, July 10, 2009
The War With PNC Is Over
Though some guerilla action and spurts of violence may still occur, the greater war with the Scranton Yankees has concluded. It mainly concluded when I woke up on Tuesday and realized that I really didn't care that much. It was further concluded when I found Mike Tyson's Punch Out online and have been playing non-stop. The outcome of the war is this: I would return to the Scranton area to have Yuengling with the locals, but never to visit PNC Park. PNC Park has been added to my ban list, which already boasts US Airways. I've also taken on rain dancing to ensure that PNC park is never used again, but I don't think my two-step is working. So, in conclusion, never visit PNC Park, but get some beer in Scranton. Also, if you're going to fly, don't use US Airways. It may cost you your life.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Yankees Sweep Twins, Tie for First
The Good
At least the Yankees can dominate one rival. The Yankees completed a season sweep of the Minnesota Twins, and with Boston's loss to KC, the Yankees are once again in first place, tied with the Red Sox.
The Bad
The Twins are building a new open air grass stadium. I hope you like playing in the snow, you bastards.
The Ugly
After the Twins were swept, the Yankees sent them a gift basket and a note that read: Sorry for your loss, all seven of them. Your friends, The New York Yankees (aka Your Daddy). It was quite unnecessary.
The Inaccurate Home Run Count
Mark Teixeira knocked one out of the park in support of the Yanks' winning effort and Johnny Damon's vaunted charity. No one else chipped in, cheap bastards that they are.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 13hr = $13.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 21hr = $21.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 14hr = $14.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 1hr = $1.00
Total = $126.00
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.
At least the Yankees can dominate one rival. The Yankees completed a season sweep of the Minnesota Twins, and with Boston's loss to KC, the Yankees are once again in first place, tied with the Red Sox.
The Bad
The Twins are building a new open air grass stadium. I hope you like playing in the snow, you bastards.
The Ugly
After the Twins were swept, the Yankees sent them a gift basket and a note that read: Sorry for your loss, all seven of them. Your friends, The New York Yankees (aka Your Daddy). It was quite unnecessary.
The Inaccurate Home Run Count
Mark Teixeira knocked one out of the park in support of the Yanks' winning effort and Johnny Damon's vaunted charity. No one else chipped in, cheap bastards that they are.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 13hr = $13.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 21hr = $21.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 14hr = $14.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 1hr = $1.00
Total = $126.00
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, July 7, 2009
New Munson Biography by Marty Appel
Today sees the release of Munson: The Life and Death of a Yankee Captain, by Marty Appel. Munson is an in-depth biography of the former captain by the man who helped him write his autobiography. As Appel reports, Munson was reluctant to include much about his personal life when he and Marty undertook the original project. This biography was Appel's chance to delve a little deeper into aspects of Munson's life he was not comfortable sharing himself.
That is not to say, however, that the book focuses solely on his personal life. Munson's life is narrated in the context of his athletic career (including his exploits from childhood on). By the end of the book, you will know Munson very intimately.
In many ways this book is not just about Munson's life and time in New York, it is also about the Yankees during the Munson era. If you're interested in what the transition was like from corporate control (CBS still owned the Yankees in the early years of Munson's tenure) to that of The Boss, you should definitely read the book.
The only thing I would caution is that the book is very detailed when it comes to Munson's career. So if all you care about is what the '78 Yankees were like, or Appel's account of the plane crash, you may find it slow going when reading about Munson's college baseball career at Kent State or the April slumps of his first couple years with the Yanks. But if you're interested in Munson's life, and in getting a sense of the Yankees as an organization in the early Steinbrenner days, this is a worthwhile read.
What I found most interesting is that Munson, a man who didn't talk to the press much and wasn't really one for autographs, was such a beloved figure in New York. It tells you a lot about the way he played the game. You'll get a great sense of what kind of player and person Munson was from Appel's new biography.
That is not to say, however, that the book focuses solely on his personal life. Munson's life is narrated in the context of his athletic career (including his exploits from childhood on). By the end of the book, you will know Munson very intimately.
In many ways this book is not just about Munson's life and time in New York, it is also about the Yankees during the Munson era. If you're interested in what the transition was like from corporate control (CBS still owned the Yankees in the early years of Munson's tenure) to that of The Boss, you should definitely read the book.
The only thing I would caution is that the book is very detailed when it comes to Munson's career. So if all you care about is what the '78 Yankees were like, or Appel's account of the plane crash, you may find it slow going when reading about Munson's college baseball career at Kent State or the April slumps of his first couple years with the Yanks. But if you're interested in Munson's life, and in getting a sense of the Yankees as an organization in the early Steinbrenner days, this is a worthwhile read.
What I found most interesting is that Munson, a man who didn't talk to the press much and wasn't really one for autographs, was such a beloved figure in New York. It tells you a lot about the way he played the game. You'll get a great sense of what kind of player and person Munson was from Appel's new biography.
Yanks Continue To Dominate Minnesota, Their Greatest Rival
The Good
Another huge win over Minnesota. Huge. Huge I say. That makes six in a row against our most feared rival.
The Bad
AJ Burnett threw a lot of wild pitches, like 10 or something. I wasn't really counting since we were winning, but it was too many. AJ knew it and cried in the dugout when he came out in the seventh.
The Ugly
Phil Coke gave up a home run to the first batter he faced when he came in to relieve Burnett in the seventh. Only thing is, he meant to do it, because the Yankees were getting bored and decided to toy with Minnesota and make them think they could get back in it. But they couldn't because they suck.
Charity Endangered by Drought
The Yankees have hit far more home runs than you have this season, but they've hit none in the last two games. It would seem the Metrodome is where home runs go to die. That, and Minnesota's championship hopes. Zing!
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 13hr = $13.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 14hr = $14.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 1hr = $1.00
Total = $125.00
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 huge win over Minnesota. Huge. Huge I say. That makes six in a row against our most feared rival.
The Bad
AJ Burnett threw a lot of wild pitches, like 10 or something. I wasn't really counting since we were winning, but it was too many. AJ knew it and cried in the dugout when he came out in the seventh.
The Ugly
Phil Coke gave up a home run to the first batter he faced when he came in to relieve Burnett in the seventh. Only thing is, he meant to do it, because the Yankees were getting bored and decided to toy with Minnesota and make them think they could get back in it. But they couldn't because they suck.
Charity Endangered by Drought
The Yankees have hit far more home runs than you have this season, but they've hit none in the last two games. It would seem the Metrodome is where home runs go to die. That, and Minnesota's championship hopes. Zing!
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 13hr = $13.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 14hr = $14.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 1hr = $1.00
Total = $125.00
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 Deliver 10 Runs the Old Fashion Way
The Good
A strong pitching performance by Sabathia who went 7 innings allowing just 1 run. Also, every Yankee in the starting lineup was invited to the hits party. Every one of them! Even Cano got a hit with runners in scoring position breaking a 0-22 stretch of futility.
The Bad
Everything was pretty good last night. I take nothing back.
The Ugly
The Yankees scored 10 runs but did not hit a single homerun. This effects the Children's Health Fund's Homerun Club as it means no donations will be made. 10 runs with no homeruns has to be some kind of post-steroid era anomaly.
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. No homeruns last night as explained in the ugly section of our game review, however, we never updated Jeter and Matsui's homeruns from this weekend so that adds two to the total. Way to look out for the children you two.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 13hr = $13.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 14hr = $14.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 1hr = $1.00
Total = $125.00
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 strong pitching performance by Sabathia who went 7 innings allowing just 1 run. Also, every Yankee in the starting lineup was invited to the hits party. Every one of them! Even Cano got a hit with runners in scoring position breaking a 0-22 stretch of futility.
The Bad
Everything was pretty good last night. I take nothing back.
The Ugly
The Yankees scored 10 runs but did not hit a single homerun. This effects the Children's Health Fund's Homerun Club as it means no donations will be made. 10 runs with no homeruns has to be some kind of post-steroid era anomaly.
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. No homeruns last night as explained in the ugly section of our game review, however, we never updated Jeter and Matsui's homeruns from this weekend so that adds two to the total. Way to look out for the children you two.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 13hr = $13.00
Derek Jeter 10hr = $10.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 14hr = $14.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 1hr = $1.00
Total = $125.00
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, July 6, 2009
Stupid Ump Ruins It For Everybody
The Good
The offense is still getting it done. The Yanks continue to demonstrate an uncanny ability to hit late and score runs. Something missing from last year's model.
The Bad
Third base umpire Marty Foster called Jeter out at third in the first inning on an attempted steal. Thing was, Jeter was safe according to every type of replay ever invented. Foster then apparently told Jeter that he didn't have to be tagged to be out, which is an obscure rule in some sport other than baseball (source). In baseball you have to be tagged when it's not a force play.
The Ugly
After having their games postponed for the last two days, there was finally baseball in Scranton. Unfortunately, in the second inning, a fan in the bleacher spilled their water onto the field. Unable to get the 12 oz. of water off the playing surface, Scranton had to once again cancel the game.
New Beginnings
Newest Yankee Eric Hinske, in his debut, hit a home run in the fifth inning, finally contributing to Johnny Damon's charity. It shouldn't have taken him until July, but we'll let it pass for now.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 12hr = $12.00
Derek Jeter 9hr = $9.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 14hr = $14.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 1hr = $1.00
Total = $123.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
The offense is still getting it done. The Yanks continue to demonstrate an uncanny ability to hit late and score runs. Something missing from last year's model.
The Bad
Third base umpire Marty Foster called Jeter out at third in the first inning on an attempted steal. Thing was, Jeter was safe according to every type of replay ever invented. Foster then apparently told Jeter that he didn't have to be tagged to be out, which is an obscure rule in some sport other than baseball (source). In baseball you have to be tagged when it's not a force play.
The Ugly
After having their games postponed for the last two days, there was finally baseball in Scranton. Unfortunately, in the second inning, a fan in the bleacher spilled their water onto the field. Unable to get the 12 oz. of water off the playing surface, Scranton had to once again cancel the game.
New Beginnings
Newest Yankee Eric Hinske, in his debut, hit a home run in the fifth inning, finally contributing to Johnny Damon's charity. It shouldn't have taken him until July, but we'll let it pass for now.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 12hr = $12.00
Derek Jeter 9hr = $9.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 14hr = $14.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Eric Hinske 1hr = $1.00
Total = $123.00
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.
Scranton Wilkes-Nightmare: Don't Ever Go There
So we just got back from our Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees trip, and have quite a few updates. Namely, don't ever go there. As some may know, the outing was planned as part of a larger group outing by fans over at Pete Abraham's blog. First and foremost, I have to give a lot of credit to Ron, who was the person who organized the whole outing, and who has had to deal with the logistical nightmare of the Scranton Yankees incompetence.
Allow me to elaborate. We traveled down to Scranton on a beautiful bright sunny day as we had on Sunday, and got there around 2pm for a 5pm game. When we checked into our hotel, I checked my email and saw that the game had been postponed due to unplayable field conditions. Yes, unplayable field conditions on a bright beautiful sunny day. Unsure of what was going to happen to the larger group outing, we basically killed time, which in Scranton is very hard to do. Ron sent several emails updating everyone, and it was decided that a new date would be set for the group outing. It was a good idea since a lot of people were just coming up for the day, and not everyone with tickets would be able to stay until Monday. However, we already had a hotel room that we had checked into and we already had Monday taken off of work so we were committed to staying there. We decided at the time that we would stay until Monday and exchange our tickets for that game. As we're killing time in Scranton we ran into another Yankee fan who had come up for the weekend to watch some games. He told us that it was bright beautiful and sunny on Saturday as well, but that the field has a terrible drainage problem and that's why both Saturday and Sunday's games were postponed. Apparently when they converted the field from turf to natural grass they never changed the drainage system. It also apparently alluded them for an entire year as they used the same park all last season.
So we go to PNC Park around 11am this morning, and they have one guy working the ticket office, who has no idea what's going on and basically tells us to come back at 4pm. We hung around a little while discussing options, and finally went back to the guy and told him to get us his manager. The manager came, and we had it out with him. Basically we were arguing that we came for a larger group outing and paid $32 per ticket to be apart of that, so we needed something of equal value for that nights game. The manager of ticket operations, Jeff, basically said that we could exchange the tickets, but that the food was organized through a different entity and therefore we needed to get the group coordinator to speak with them directly. We asked to speak to someone higher up, and Jeff says they're all in a meeting discussing how to drain the field. It was a fantastic lie. And of course, they won't refund our tickets. Nevermind that we drove 4 hours to see a game and that it was cancelled due to the idiotic drainage system used in the field. If it had been cancelled due to rain it would have been one thing, but it was a bright beautiful sunny day. At that point we left. So basically, we're out for the tickets though Ron said he could get us a refund for the food, and suggested we could sell the tickets. We're not going to bother reselling since instead we're suggesting to everyone not to visit Scranton. Ever. When you can have your game cancelled because it rained two days before, its really not worth the risk, and Scranton is really not a top tourist attraction. You will get bored there. The best thing we experienced was the Marvelous Muggs restaurant. We drove a total of 8 hours to basically pay for a hotel room, visit a strip mall, eat out and play cards until 2 am, all things I could have done at home. So if you're considering a trip to Scranton, don't bother. If something goes wrong you won't find any help at the stadium, and they will pocket your ticket money. Worst part of it all, this trip was a birthday gift.
So between poor customer service, no customer recovery, and being located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, that's three strikes the Scranton Yankees can never come back from. Rebecca over at the Purist Bleeds Pinstripes blog mentioned that the team is looking for other fields to play these games at. I'm hoping this leads to a permanent relocation. All they would have needed to do in our case was refund our tickets, and apologize, and we would have been happy. At this point, I will never visit this team as long as it plays games in Scranton. The Trenton Thunder would probably have been a better idea.
What are we at the RJG going to do about it? Well, we have thousands of people who visit our blog every week, and we're going to make sure each of them hear about our adventure. For this week, and this week alone, we are going to give full coverage to the Scranton Wilkes-Nightmare sponsored by PNC Financial Services. When you lend a stadium your name, you should make sure they don't piss off the people that visit. Further more, you can expect some finely written RJG style letters to show up within the week, and probably a phone call to our favorite GM, Bronny Cash. Lets get it on Scranton.
Allow me to elaborate. We traveled down to Scranton on a beautiful bright sunny day as we had on Sunday, and got there around 2pm for a 5pm game. When we checked into our hotel, I checked my email and saw that the game had been postponed due to unplayable field conditions. Yes, unplayable field conditions on a bright beautiful sunny day. Unsure of what was going to happen to the larger group outing, we basically killed time, which in Scranton is very hard to do. Ron sent several emails updating everyone, and it was decided that a new date would be set for the group outing. It was a good idea since a lot of people were just coming up for the day, and not everyone with tickets would be able to stay until Monday. However, we already had a hotel room that we had checked into and we already had Monday taken off of work so we were committed to staying there. We decided at the time that we would stay until Monday and exchange our tickets for that game. As we're killing time in Scranton we ran into another Yankee fan who had come up for the weekend to watch some games. He told us that it was bright beautiful and sunny on Saturday as well, but that the field has a terrible drainage problem and that's why both Saturday and Sunday's games were postponed. Apparently when they converted the field from turf to natural grass they never changed the drainage system. It also apparently alluded them for an entire year as they used the same park all last season.
So we go to PNC Park around 11am this morning, and they have one guy working the ticket office, who has no idea what's going on and basically tells us to come back at 4pm. We hung around a little while discussing options, and finally went back to the guy and told him to get us his manager. The manager came, and we had it out with him. Basically we were arguing that we came for a larger group outing and paid $32 per ticket to be apart of that, so we needed something of equal value for that nights game. The manager of ticket operations, Jeff, basically said that we could exchange the tickets, but that the food was organized through a different entity and therefore we needed to get the group coordinator to speak with them directly. We asked to speak to someone higher up, and Jeff says they're all in a meeting discussing how to drain the field. It was a fantastic lie. And of course, they won't refund our tickets. Nevermind that we drove 4 hours to see a game and that it was cancelled due to the idiotic drainage system used in the field. If it had been cancelled due to rain it would have been one thing, but it was a bright beautiful sunny day. At that point we left. So basically, we're out for the tickets though Ron said he could get us a refund for the food, and suggested we could sell the tickets. We're not going to bother reselling since instead we're suggesting to everyone not to visit Scranton. Ever. When you can have your game cancelled because it rained two days before, its really not worth the risk, and Scranton is really not a top tourist attraction. You will get bored there. The best thing we experienced was the Marvelous Muggs restaurant. We drove a total of 8 hours to basically pay for a hotel room, visit a strip mall, eat out and play cards until 2 am, all things I could have done at home. So if you're considering a trip to Scranton, don't bother. If something goes wrong you won't find any help at the stadium, and they will pocket your ticket money. Worst part of it all, this trip was a birthday gift.
So between poor customer service, no customer recovery, and being located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, that's three strikes the Scranton Yankees can never come back from. Rebecca over at the Purist Bleeds Pinstripes blog mentioned that the team is looking for other fields to play these games at. I'm hoping this leads to a permanent relocation. All they would have needed to do in our case was refund our tickets, and apologize, and we would have been happy. At this point, I will never visit this team as long as it plays games in Scranton. The Trenton Thunder would probably have been a better idea.
What are we at the RJG going to do about it? Well, we have thousands of people who visit our blog every week, and we're going to make sure each of them hear about our adventure. For this week, and this week alone, we are going to give full coverage to the Scranton Wilkes-Nightmare sponsored by PNC Financial Services. When you lend a stadium your name, you should make sure they don't piss off the people that visit. Further more, you can expect some finely written RJG style letters to show up within the week, and probably a phone call to our favorite GM, Bronny Cash. Lets get it on Scranton.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Wang Out, Cano Still Sucks
The Good
The Yanks had another come from behind win, winning the game off of Jorge Posada's walk off single in the bottom of the twelfth. We would have won earlier but our second baseman is Robinson Cano. Also, and perhaps most importantly, we scored five runs on Roy Halladay.
The Bad
Cano with runners in scoring position is bad, but Wang out with a right shoulder strain is worse. Just kidding. Nothing is worse than Cano with runners in scoring position. Preliminary reports are that Wang should only miss a few weeks. In Yankees language that means he's probably out for most of the rest of the season.
The Ugly
Tomorrow, the RJG boys will be headed to Scranton to join the Lohud Yanks Blog festivities. This means we will not be able to post until we return to RJG headquarters (I can't tell you where that is, but I can say it is in a crystal fortress of solitude) on Monday evening. The primary implication of this is that there will be no more funny posts from us for almost 48 hours. Without RJG there will be no joy in the Yankee blogosphere, no laughter. Your children will sob uncontrollably and there will be nothing you can do. It will be dark, as though the sun herself could not bear our absence. Prepare for cold. Deep cold.
Charity Loves Us
Posada and Damon both hit home runs in today's winning effort. Even Matsui hit one, though that was probably unintentional since it would mean that he had to run around all the bases, not a strength for him right now.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 12hr = $12.00
Derek Jeter 9hr = $9.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 14hr = $14.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Total = $122.00
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 Yanks had another come from behind win, winning the game off of Jorge Posada's walk off single in the bottom of the twelfth. We would have won earlier but our second baseman is Robinson Cano. Also, and perhaps most importantly, we scored five runs on Roy Halladay.
The Bad
Cano with runners in scoring position is bad, but Wang out with a right shoulder strain is worse. Just kidding. Nothing is worse than Cano with runners in scoring position. Preliminary reports are that Wang should only miss a few weeks. In Yankees language that means he's probably out for most of the rest of the season.
The Ugly
Tomorrow, the RJG boys will be headed to Scranton to join the Lohud Yanks Blog festivities. This means we will not be able to post until we return to RJG headquarters (I can't tell you where that is, but I can say it is in a crystal fortress of solitude) on Monday evening. The primary implication of this is that there will be no more funny posts from us for almost 48 hours. Without RJG there will be no joy in the Yankee blogosphere, no laughter. Your children will sob uncontrollably and there will be nothing you can do. It will be dark, as though the sun herself could not bear our absence. Prepare for cold. Deep cold.
Charity Loves Us
Posada and Damon both hit home runs in today's winning effort. Even Matsui hit one, though that was probably unintentional since it would mean that he had to run around all the bases, not a strength for him right now.
Jorge Posada 11hr = $11.00
Hideki Matsui 12hr = $12.00
Derek Jeter 9hr = $9.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 16hr = $16.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 14hr = $14.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Total = $122.00
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 Pitches Yankees to a Win
The Good
7 innings and 2 runs out of AJ Burnett was quite a good appearance. Coke-Hughes-Rivera closed the game out with 2 innings of scoreless baseball. A-Rod and Cano both hit homeruns.
The Bad
Nick Swisher went 0-4, and is now down to a .236 batting average.
The Ugly
Posada had to sit for a second consecutive game after taking a pitch of his thumb. He is back in the lineup today.
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. A-Rod and Cano both hit homerun. A-Rod has been excellent after getting some days off. Lets hope it continues.
Jorge Posada 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 11hr = $11.00
Derek Jeter 9hr = $9.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 15hr = $15.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 13hr = $13.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Total = $119.00
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.
7 innings and 2 runs out of AJ Burnett was quite a good appearance. Coke-Hughes-Rivera closed the game out with 2 innings of scoreless baseball. A-Rod and Cano both hit homeruns.
The Bad
Nick Swisher went 0-4, and is now down to a .236 batting average.
The Ugly
Posada had to sit for a second consecutive game after taking a pitch of his thumb. He is back in the lineup today.
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. A-Rod and Cano both hit homerun. A-Rod has been excellent after getting some days off. Lets hope it continues.
Jorge Posada 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 11hr = $11.00
Derek Jeter 9hr = $9.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 15hr = $15.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 13hr = $13.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Total = $119.00
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, July 3, 2009
Scranton Outing This Sunday
The good fans over on Pete Abe's blog have organized an outing to the Scranton Wilkes Barre Yankees game this Sunday. The RJG will be in attendance. If you're interested there may still be tickets available as Pete Abe pointed out. If you're planning to attend stop by and say hello. One or both of us will be wearing a Respect Jeter's Gangster t-shirt. Its looking to be a fun outing, and it should be good to see the minor league players. We hope some of you can make it.
Sabathia Can't Get it Done
The Good
Cano went 3-3 and Mastui went 2-3 hitting a homerun and driving in 3 runs.
The Bad
Jeter got thrown out trying to steal second, but the throw was beautiful, perfect even. It would have gotten any base stealer.
The Ugly
Sabathia went 5.2 innings and allowed 6 runs. Hardly a good effort. He was due for a melt down though, so I guess today was as good as any. That being said, the Yankees are still chasing the Sox and are 3 games back. A win yesterday would have put us 2 games back. Hopefully Burnett gets us back on track today.
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. Last night, Matsui showed what he could do for children's health even with two bad knees, with his 11th homerun of the season.
Jorge Posada 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 11hr = $11.00
Derek Jeter 9hr = $9.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 12hr = $12.00
Johnny Damon 15hr = $15.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 12hr = $12.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Total = $117.00
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.
Cano went 3-3 and Mastui went 2-3 hitting a homerun and driving in 3 runs.
The Bad
Jeter got thrown out trying to steal second, but the throw was beautiful, perfect even. It would have gotten any base stealer.
The Ugly
Sabathia went 5.2 innings and allowed 6 runs. Hardly a good effort. He was due for a melt down though, so I guess today was as good as any. That being said, the Yankees are still chasing the Sox and are 3 games back. A win yesterday would have put us 2 games back. Hopefully Burnett gets us back on track today.
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. Last night, Matsui showed what he could do for children's health even with two bad knees, with his 11th homerun of the season.
Jorge Posada 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 11hr = $11.00
Derek Jeter 9hr = $9.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 12hr = $12.00
Johnny Damon 15hr = $15.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 12hr = $12.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Total = $117.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Cashman to Release Sequel to MoneyBall, Motion Picture In the Works
Many know about Michael Lewis' book "Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game", which centers around Oakland GM Billy Beane's philosophy about putting a team together. But what you may not know is that Yankee GM Brian Cashman is poised to release his own book titled "Moneyball: #&^% Billy Beane" (Censored by RJG). Where Beane's philosophy focuses heavily on sabermetrics and claims that statistics such as batting average, homeruns, stolen bases, and RBI's are flawed and antiquated, Cashman's philosophy says "#&^% Billy Beane" (Direct quote from book, censored by RJG). Here are some excerpts from the book:
"Billy Beane says that statistics such as homeruns, batting average, and RBI's are flawed. He prefers on base percentage, slugging percentage, VORP, PEDP+, and others like them. The sad thing is that many intelligent baseball fans have beleived this crap. Here's a stat for you Billy: 11 games under .500. &^%$ you Billy! (Censored by RJG)."
"I remember this one time, we reached the post season for the 13th year straight, and somebody asked me about OPS+. I hadn't even heard of it. I thought the guy was talking about the Transformers movie. Then later, I hear Billy Beane talking about OPS+ and how he builds great teams with it. I told Billy that I appreciated him doing all this statistical analysis to find great players since it made my job easier when I signed them away from him. He looked all mad, so I said 'Relax Billy, you can keep Bobby Crosby. We have a real shortstop.'"
"My Moneyball philosophy is quite simple. You mix expensive free agents with expensive international signings, sprinkle some money on top, and just like that you have a competing team. Admittedly, we didn't reach the post season in 2008, but neither did Billy Beane's Athletics so bleep him, and bleep you! [sic]."
"I hear a lot of people talking about sabermetrics, moneyball, and Billy Beane. They say that if the Yankees would just use sabermetrics to guage players, we would be signing much more valuable players. I say 'Yeah, like Nomar right?' and these critics can do nothing but shut up. The best player on the Athletics is Matt Holliday, and shockingly, I figured that out without sabermetrics. All I had to do was watch a couple games."
"Its kind of like all those stats that say Derek Jeter is the worse shortstop in the game. Those same stats say that Clint Barmes from Colorado is the best shortstop in the game. Barmes isn't even the best shortstop on his team. That's why he's playing second."
"Some teams don't have money, and there's a way they can build a winning team too. Its called getting new ownership."
There it is, excerpts from Brian Cashman's forthcoming sequel to Moneyball. Its a fun read, and very insightful. The RJG gives it 5 Tommyguns, our highest rating.
"Billy Beane says that statistics such as homeruns, batting average, and RBI's are flawed. He prefers on base percentage, slugging percentage, VORP, PEDP+, and others like them. The sad thing is that many intelligent baseball fans have beleived this crap. Here's a stat for you Billy: 11 games under .500. &^%$ you Billy! (Censored by RJG)."
"I remember this one time, we reached the post season for the 13th year straight, and somebody asked me about OPS+. I hadn't even heard of it. I thought the guy was talking about the Transformers movie. Then later, I hear Billy Beane talking about OPS+ and how he builds great teams with it. I told Billy that I appreciated him doing all this statistical analysis to find great players since it made my job easier when I signed them away from him. He looked all mad, so I said 'Relax Billy, you can keep Bobby Crosby. We have a real shortstop.'"
"My Moneyball philosophy is quite simple. You mix expensive free agents with expensive international signings, sprinkle some money on top, and just like that you have a competing team. Admittedly, we didn't reach the post season in 2008, but neither did Billy Beane's Athletics so bleep him, and bleep you! [sic]."
"I hear a lot of people talking about sabermetrics, moneyball, and Billy Beane. They say that if the Yankees would just use sabermetrics to guage players, we would be signing much more valuable players. I say 'Yeah, like Nomar right?' and these critics can do nothing but shut up. The best player on the Athletics is Matt Holliday, and shockingly, I figured that out without sabermetrics. All I had to do was watch a couple games."
"Its kind of like all those stats that say Derek Jeter is the worse shortstop in the game. Those same stats say that Clint Barmes from Colorado is the best shortstop in the game. Barmes isn't even the best shortstop on his team. That's why he's playing second."
"Some teams don't have money, and there's a way they can build a winning team too. Its called getting new ownership."
There it is, excerpts from Brian Cashman's forthcoming sequel to Moneyball. Its a fun read, and very insightful. The RJG gives it 5 Tommyguns, our highest rating.
Pettitte Reaches July, Pitches Well
The Good
Pettitte pitched a strong game going 7 innings and allowing 2 runs. I'm hoping it continues because he was quite awful in June. A-Rod had a mamoth 2-run shot to put the Yanks ahead. Mariano pitched a scoreless inning for the 20th save of the season.
The Bad
The Baltimore Orioles couldn't hold onto a 4-run lead going into the 9th. Since the Yankees can't beat the Red Sox, we really need our AL East compatriots to beat them for us. Step your game up Baltimore.
The Ugly
There's no way that Michael Jackson is the biological father of those kids.
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. Three mighty homeruns yesterday from A-Rod, Melky and Damon. I'm pulling for Damon's first 30 homerun season. Melky hit his 8th of the season, which matches his career high. A-Rod's batting average is at .239 but has a .401 OBP. Perhaps the result of having Robinson "GIDP" Cano batting behind him.
Jorge Posada 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 10hr = $10.00
Derek Jeter 9hr = $9.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 12hr = $12.00
Johnny Damon 15hr = $15.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 12hr = $12.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Total = $116.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Pettitte pitched a strong game going 7 innings and allowing 2 runs. I'm hoping it continues because he was quite awful in June. A-Rod had a mamoth 2-run shot to put the Yanks ahead. Mariano pitched a scoreless inning for the 20th save of the season.
The Bad
The Baltimore Orioles couldn't hold onto a 4-run lead going into the 9th. Since the Yankees can't beat the Red Sox, we really need our AL East compatriots to beat them for us. Step your game up Baltimore.
The Ugly
There's no way that Michael Jackson is the biological father of those kids.
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. Three mighty homeruns yesterday from A-Rod, Melky and Damon. I'm pulling for Damon's first 30 homerun season. Melky hit his 8th of the season, which matches his career high. A-Rod's batting average is at .239 but has a .401 OBP. Perhaps the result of having Robinson "GIDP" Cano batting behind him.
Jorge Posada 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 10hr = $10.00
Derek Jeter 9hr = $9.00
Mark Teixeira 20hr = $20.00
Nick Swisher 14hr = $14.00
Robinson Cano 12hr = $12.00
Johnny Damon 15hr = $15.00
Melky Cabrera 8hr = $8.00
Jose Molina 1hr = $1.00
Alex Rodriguez 12hr = $12.00
Brett Gardner 3hr = $3.00
Francisco Cervelli 1hr = $1.00
Total = $116.00
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, July 1, 2009
RJG Discusses Hinske Deal With Brian Cashman
As the Yankees have picked up their play as of our last conversation, we thought it time to give best friend of the blog Brian Cashman another call via satellite video phone. Below is a transcript of our conversation:
BC: Hello?
RJG: Hey there Bron-Bron, how are you?
BC: Bron-Bron. Great. I didn't think you guys could be more annoying. What do you want, I'm busy?
RJG: Whoa there, Bronny. Don't big time me just because your team has won 6 in a row. I was calling you back when nobody even knew who you were.
BC: You started calling me within the last two years.
RJG: Check mate.
BC: What?
RJG: Let's not fight Bronny. It seems your boys really picked you up since we last spoke. Remember? I told you you suck at your job.
BC: Yeah, it was pleasant.
RJG: Always. The offense has really come to life, and even Joe Girardi hasn't been able to foil his team with his inexplicable pitching changes. Wtf?
BC: There's no question we're playing well right now. But the season is like this, there are up times and down times, you just hope that at the end of the day the up times outnumber the down.
RJG: Are you watching Oprah right now? That sounds like something Oprah would say? What is wrong with you Bronny?
BC: I don't watch Oprah.
RJG: Whatever you say Dr. Phil. So Bronny, you just made a trade for Hinske, what kind of difference do you think this move will make?
BC: It gives us a little more depth in the outfield, and a little more pop off the bench offensively speaking.
RJG: Yeah, I was starting to worry about what we would do with only four outfielders. It just seems to me that guys like Pena and Cervelli have been hitting well enough that we didn't need to go find some .250 hitting utility outfielder.
BC: Pena and Cervelli have done a good job but . . .
RJG: So you get rid of them? Is that their "reward?"
BC: We feel Pena is better served playing every day, not riding the pine on the major league team. He's played great for us, and next year, who knows? He may be here every day.
RJG: It's not all about you, Bronny.
[Click]
There you have it folks, Hinske adds depth and allows for Pena's continued development in Scranton.
BC: Hello?
RJG: Hey there Bron-Bron, how are you?
BC: Bron-Bron. Great. I didn't think you guys could be more annoying. What do you want, I'm busy?
RJG: Whoa there, Bronny. Don't big time me just because your team has won 6 in a row. I was calling you back when nobody even knew who you were.
BC: You started calling me within the last two years.
RJG: Check mate.
BC: What?
RJG: Let's not fight Bronny. It seems your boys really picked you up since we last spoke. Remember? I told you you suck at your job.
BC: Yeah, it was pleasant.
RJG: Always. The offense has really come to life, and even Joe Girardi hasn't been able to foil his team with his inexplicable pitching changes. Wtf?
BC: There's no question we're playing well right now. But the season is like this, there are up times and down times, you just hope that at the end of the day the up times outnumber the down.
RJG: Are you watching Oprah right now? That sounds like something Oprah would say? What is wrong with you Bronny?
BC: I don't watch Oprah.
RJG: Whatever you say Dr. Phil. So Bronny, you just made a trade for Hinske, what kind of difference do you think this move will make?
BC: It gives us a little more depth in the outfield, and a little more pop off the bench offensively speaking.
RJG: Yeah, I was starting to worry about what we would do with only four outfielders. It just seems to me that guys like Pena and Cervelli have been hitting well enough that we didn't need to go find some .250 hitting utility outfielder.
BC: Pena and Cervelli have done a good job but . . .
RJG: So you get rid of them? Is that their "reward?"
BC: We feel Pena is better served playing every day, not riding the pine on the major league team. He's played great for us, and next year, who knows? He may be here every day.
RJG: It's not all about you, Bronny.
[Click]
There you have it folks, Hinske adds depth and allows for Pena's continued development in Scranton.
The Supposed Leak
Rotoinfo, a fantasy website, recently posted a list of baseball players, which they claim is the infamous 2003 steroid list. Deadspin already poked holes in the authenticity of the list (Jason Grimsley's not on it), and Peter Abraham has largely discredited the report since even the main stream media has stayed away from it. The people at Rotoinfo claim it came from a reliable source, but who cares. Red Sox fans will probably be most angered by this list seeing as the first 8 players were with the Red Sox and 7 of them were on that 2004 championship team.
The thing is, stuff like this is going to happen until they actually release those names. I for one am all for the release of the list. In the meantime, we at the RJG have decided to release our own version of the leaked 2003 list. This, as always, comes from a reliable source:
1. Jason Grimsley (won't make that mistake twice)
2. Alex Rodriguez
3. The 2004 Red Sox
4. Roger Clemens
5. Sammy Sosa
6. Angel Presinal
7. Senator George Mitchell
8. Jose Canseco
9. Ted Williams
10. Carl Yastrzemsky
11. Bud Selig
12 - 104. The NFL
So there you have it. The real 2004 leaked steroid list found exclusively on RJG.
The thing is, stuff like this is going to happen until they actually release those names. I for one am all for the release of the list. In the meantime, we at the RJG have decided to release our own version of the leaked 2003 list. This, as always, comes from a reliable source:
1. Jason Grimsley (won't make that mistake twice)
2. Alex Rodriguez
3. The 2004 Red Sox
4. Roger Clemens
5. Sammy Sosa
6. Angel Presinal
7. Senator George Mitchell
8. Jose Canseco
9. Ted Williams
10. Carl Yastrzemsky
11. Bud Selig
12 - 104. The NFL
So there you have it. The real 2004 leaked steroid list found exclusively on RJG.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
