The Good
Certainly an 11-4 victory is good on many levels, but the main focus of this good section will be Dustin Moseley. Moseley pitched 6 innings of 1 run ball, following up a 4.2 inning 0 run effort he pitched against Kansas City. Now neither of these teams are teams to brag about, but Moseley was sharp. If he can keep this up he should be a perfect place holder for the injured Pettitte.
Also good, the Yankees scored 11 runs.
The Bad
Why is Chan Ho Park still on the team?
The Ugly
I came to an ugly realization: I don't really care about A-Rod's 600th homerun. At this point I'm more annoyed at its coverage than anything else. Now that much I don't think is ugly, I think some of you may even agree with that, the ugly part is that I realized that I would be a lot more interested in A-Rod's 600th homerun if we hadn't found out last year that he used steroids. People may disagree, but I honestly feel like it cheapens it. If he breaks Bonds' record, I'll be happy for him without a doubt, but in the end you're just trading one PED user for the other. This isn't meant to be anti-A-Rod or anything. I think he's a phenomenal player, and over the past couple seasons it seems like he's really grown as a teammate. I love watching him play, and like him as an individual. I just think this milestone is way overhyped with what we know. Sorry, but that's the ugly.
RJG for the Babies
In the year of the pitcher, Robinson Cano is king. Cano hit his 20th homerun of the season, allowing an extra $2 donation to the Children's Health Fund by us the RJG.
Posada 12hr = $24
Granderson 10hr = $20
Cano 20hr = $40
Swisher 18hr = $36
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 20hr = $40
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $240
Friday, July 30, 2010
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Yankees Strike Back
The Good
8 and 0. Those are the two numbers that stand out in yesterdays. 8 runs from the Yankees, and 0 runs allowed by AJ Burnett. Further more, only one of those runs was by a homerun. That means that yes, the Yankees can in fact score runs without the ball leaving the park.
Also good, Chamberlain and Mitre pitched 2.2 innings allowing 0 runs. Who knew that was possible?
The Bad
Jeter's 0-5 night stands out. Jeter's been having a sub-par year at the plate which is a bit odd considering that this is a walk year. My guess is that Jeter ends up batting over .300 for the season.
The Ugly
We will all be subject to another day of anticipating A-Rod's 600th homerun.
The Yankees Do Love The Children
Robinson Cano hit a solo homerun yesterday, granting a $2 donation from the RJG to the Children's Health Fund, and giving hope to the children. Thank you Cano.
Posada 12hr = $24
Granderson 10hr = $20
Cano 19hr = $38
Swisher 18hr = $36
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 20hr = $40
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $236
8 and 0. Those are the two numbers that stand out in yesterdays. 8 runs from the Yankees, and 0 runs allowed by AJ Burnett. Further more, only one of those runs was by a homerun. That means that yes, the Yankees can in fact score runs without the ball leaving the park.
Also good, Chamberlain and Mitre pitched 2.2 innings allowing 0 runs. Who knew that was possible?
The Bad
Jeter's 0-5 night stands out. Jeter's been having a sub-par year at the plate which is a bit odd considering that this is a walk year. My guess is that Jeter ends up batting over .300 for the season.
The Ugly
We will all be subject to another day of anticipating A-Rod's 600th homerun.
The Yankees Do Love The Children
Robinson Cano hit a solo homerun yesterday, granting a $2 donation from the RJG to the Children's Health Fund, and giving hope to the children. Thank you Cano.
Posada 12hr = $24
Granderson 10hr = $20
Cano 19hr = $38
Swisher 18hr = $36
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 20hr = $40
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $236
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Cleveland Calls Up Cy Young
The Good
Nothing.
The Bad
Another day of, "will A-Rod hit number 600?" I don't care anymore about that. Call me when he's on the verge of 764.
The Ugly
We got shut down by some kid who looks like he just got his license. We mustered 1 run. The most powerful offense in major league baseball. One run. Why were the Yankees even born?!
The Caritas
No home runs were hit in last night's game due to acute onset of cowardice. The totals remain the same. Only the Children will suffer.
Posada 12hr = $24
Granderson 10hr = $20
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 18hr = $36
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 20hr = $40
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $234
Nothing.
The Bad
Another day of, "will A-Rod hit number 600?" I don't care anymore about that. Call me when he's on the verge of 764.
The Ugly
We got shut down by some kid who looks like he just got his license. We mustered 1 run. The most powerful offense in major league baseball. One run. Why were the Yankees even born?!
The Caritas
No home runs were hit in last night's game due to acute onset of cowardice. The totals remain the same. Only the Children will suffer.
Posada 12hr = $24
Granderson 10hr = $20
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 18hr = $36
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 20hr = $40
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $234
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Apparently Cleveland Doesn't Rock
The Good
Vazquez threw 7 innings of 2 run ball, proving that he can beat most any team that's in a rebuilding mode. Granderson hit another homerun to give the Yankees the lead, while Swisher hit a homerun to put us on the board. Granderson appears primed to make up for lost time.
Even the bullpen fulfilled its duty of not blowing a one run lead with Dave Robertson and Boone Logan combining to pitch a perfect 8th while getting the ball to Mariano Rivera.
The Bad
Poor A-Rod went 0-4, not hitting his 600th homerun and getting the homerun milestone monkey off his back.
The Ugly
When Granderson hit the homerun to put the Yankees ahead, one of the fans in the stands stood up and yelled "(Bleep) you Cleveland!" When that individual was spotted on the camera's it was one Lebron James. James then proceeded to give dual middle fingers to the fans in the crowd as he trampled on their dreams and hopes on his way out of the stadium. It all seemed unnecessary.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The RJG is donating $2 for every homerun hit this season to the Children's Health Fund.
In the land of singles, the homerun hitter is king. Last night, Nick Swisher and Curtis Granderson hit homeruns to help the Yankees pass the Indians. When asked if this was confirmation that he was starting to break out Granderson responded with the famous words of the Neville brothers "I don't know much. But I know that I love you."
We didn't know what to do with that.
Posada 12hr = $24
Granderson 10hr = $20
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 18hr = $36
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 20hr = $40
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $234
Vazquez threw 7 innings of 2 run ball, proving that he can beat most any team that's in a rebuilding mode. Granderson hit another homerun to give the Yankees the lead, while Swisher hit a homerun to put us on the board. Granderson appears primed to make up for lost time.
Even the bullpen fulfilled its duty of not blowing a one run lead with Dave Robertson and Boone Logan combining to pitch a perfect 8th while getting the ball to Mariano Rivera.
The Bad
Poor A-Rod went 0-4, not hitting his 600th homerun and getting the homerun milestone monkey off his back.
The Ugly
When Granderson hit the homerun to put the Yankees ahead, one of the fans in the stands stood up and yelled "(Bleep) you Cleveland!" When that individual was spotted on the camera's it was one Lebron James. James then proceeded to give dual middle fingers to the fans in the crowd as he trampled on their dreams and hopes on his way out of the stadium. It all seemed unnecessary.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
The RJG is donating $2 for every homerun hit this season to the Children's Health Fund.
In the land of singles, the homerun hitter is king. Last night, Nick Swisher and Curtis Granderson hit homeruns to help the Yankees pass the Indians. When asked if this was confirmation that he was starting to break out Granderson responded with the famous words of the Neville brothers "I don't know much. But I know that I love you."
We didn't know what to do with that.
Posada 12hr = $24
Granderson 10hr = $20
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 18hr = $36
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 20hr = $40
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $234
Monday, July 26, 2010
Yanks Win, Dodge Bullet
The Good
The Yankees beat the bejeezus out of poor old Kansas City. Mad With Power Cano got his 1000th hit, promptly demanding that the official scorer write it in the books as his 2000th hit since Cano is twice as awesome as everybody else. The scorer obliged and Cano now has 2000 hits.
The Bad
Phil Hughes continues to struggle at home. Maybe Joe Torre can start a foundation for him. Oh snap! Domestic violence jokes are the best.
The Ugly
I should write about A-Rod getting plunked but I want to rant more about Dan Haren. The Angels acquired him for Joe Saunders and a bunch of players I never heard of. So apparently the way you respond to a division rival acquiring one of the best pitchers in the game is to trade for a guy struggling in the NL West. Good strategy, Anaheim. And by good I mean ugly. The Ugly. Seems the Yankees dodged two bullets yesterday. A-Rod's okay after being hit on the hand and the Yankees are in no danger whatsoever of landing Dan Haren.
A Grand Ol' Time
Granderson had two home runs last night. Kim Jones asked him after the game whether he felt this was a sign of things to come, to which Granderson responded, "No, I still suck."
Posada 12hr = $24
Granderson 9hr = $18
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 17hr = $34
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 20hr = $40
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $230
The Yankees beat the bejeezus out of poor old Kansas City. Mad With Power Cano got his 1000th hit, promptly demanding that the official scorer write it in the books as his 2000th hit since Cano is twice as awesome as everybody else. The scorer obliged and Cano now has 2000 hits.
The Bad
Phil Hughes continues to struggle at home. Maybe Joe Torre can start a foundation for him. Oh snap! Domestic violence jokes are the best.
The Ugly
I should write about A-Rod getting plunked but I want to rant more about Dan Haren. The Angels acquired him for Joe Saunders and a bunch of players I never heard of. So apparently the way you respond to a division rival acquiring one of the best pitchers in the game is to trade for a guy struggling in the NL West. Good strategy, Anaheim. And by good I mean ugly. The Ugly. Seems the Yankees dodged two bullets yesterday. A-Rod's okay after being hit on the hand and the Yankees are in no danger whatsoever of landing Dan Haren.
A Grand Ol' Time
Granderson had two home runs last night. Kim Jones asked him after the game whether he felt this was a sign of things to come, to which Granderson responded, "No, I still suck."
Posada 12hr = $24
Granderson 9hr = $18
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 17hr = $34
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 20hr = $40
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $230
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Mitre Wants Haren
The Good
The offense wasn't totally dead yesterday, and even staged a bit of a ninth inning rally until an umpire killed it since he had better things to do. Moseley pitched well, which was also good.
The Bad
The day that I ranted about how I don't think the Yankees should trade for Haren, Mitre countered my argument by pitching so poorly the Yankees may rethink their need for an extra starter. His argument may prove to be more effective than mine.
The Ugly
I called Mitre yesterday and asked him what his problem was. He said I was his problem. I told him to go copulate with himself, to which he responded that I, not him, should go copulate with myself. Then I was all, "Do you even know what copulate means?!" And he's all, "I do. Do you?!" And I'm like, "Um, yeah." And he's like, "You're my problem." Then I told him that he was better last week, and he's like, "I was on the DL last week, jackass! Shows what you know!" And then, relishing the brilliant trap I had set, I was all, "I know. It's better when you DON'T pitch!" Booooooom. I think I heard crying on the other line. I then proceeded to inform Mitre that that was indeed how I rolled.
Raw Power
Teixeira had two home runs, and Posada had one. Good for an additional $6 for the children.
Posada 12hr = $24
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 17hr = $34
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 20hr = $40
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $226
The offense wasn't totally dead yesterday, and even staged a bit of a ninth inning rally until an umpire killed it since he had better things to do. Moseley pitched well, which was also good.
The Bad
The day that I ranted about how I don't think the Yankees should trade for Haren, Mitre countered my argument by pitching so poorly the Yankees may rethink their need for an extra starter. His argument may prove to be more effective than mine.
The Ugly
I called Mitre yesterday and asked him what his problem was. He said I was his problem. I told him to go copulate with himself, to which he responded that I, not him, should go copulate with myself. Then I was all, "Do you even know what copulate means?!" And he's all, "I do. Do you?!" And I'm like, "Um, yeah." And he's like, "You're my problem." Then I told him that he was better last week, and he's like, "I was on the DL last week, jackass! Shows what you know!" And then, relishing the brilliant trap I had set, I was all, "I know. It's better when you DON'T pitch!" Booooooom. I think I heard crying on the other line. I then proceeded to inform Mitre that that was indeed how I rolled.
Raw Power
Teixeira had two home runs, and Posada had one. Good for an additional $6 for the children.
Posada 12hr = $24
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 17hr = $34
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 20hr = $40
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $226
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Yankees in the Dan Haren Business?
There's a lot of reporting regarding the Yankees' involvement in the Dan Haren market. Supposedly they are interested if the price is right, which is probably true about any player on the planet who might fill a hole. And much of the coverage is probably due to the need to have something to write about, and the Yankees are always a story. My concern, however, is that if the price does fall to "right" territory, we might end up with Dan Haren.
Nothing against the guy, but I don't trust him on the Yankees. Haren does two things, strike guys out and give up hits. Lots of hits. Enough hits to merit a 4+ ERA in the NL West. Strike outs are nice, but strike out pitchers tend to have high pitch counts, meaning Haren is a guy who will give us neither length nor quality. I'm also worried that the reason he's getting hit so much is that his arm is starting to go (again, strike out pitchers throw a lot of pitches).
I could be totally wrong. Haren could be just the thing we need to help us, particularly in Pettitte's absence. That said, I suspect that if we ever do trade for Haren (and that's a big 'if'), we'll just be acquiring a very expensive (in money and prospects) bullpen piece.
Nothing against the guy, but I don't trust him on the Yankees. Haren does two things, strike guys out and give up hits. Lots of hits. Enough hits to merit a 4+ ERA in the NL West. Strike outs are nice, but strike out pitchers tend to have high pitch counts, meaning Haren is a guy who will give us neither length nor quality. I'm also worried that the reason he's getting hit so much is that his arm is starting to go (again, strike out pitchers throw a lot of pitches).
I could be totally wrong. Haren could be just the thing we need to help us, particularly in Pettitte's absence. That said, I suspect that if we ever do trade for Haren (and that's a big 'if'), we'll just be acquiring a very expensive (in money and prospects) bullpen piece.
Posada Upstages Rodriguez
The Good
The Yanks won 1-7. Burnett pitched well (though his outing was shortened by rain). Also, it rained. Probably for the first time all summer in New York. I'm sure it felt nice.
The Bad
On a night that was supposed to be all about A-Rod's pursuit of 600, Jorge Posada selfishly hit his 1,000th RBI; stealing A-Rod's thunder. It was uncalled for. With his moment gone, A-Rod had no choice but to hit singles, and walk.
The Ugly
With the recent passing of Ralph Houk, to add to the recent passings of Bob Sheppard and George Steinbrenner, the Yankees recently released this informative press release to the public:
If you are currently old and were ever in some way associated with the Yankees organization, you're probably about to die. Just so you know.
A Night for the RBI
RBIs were not upstaged by homers last night, as no home runs were hit in last night's game.
Posada 11hr = $22
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 17hr = $34
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 18hr = $36
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $220
The Yanks won 1-7. Burnett pitched well (though his outing was shortened by rain). Also, it rained. Probably for the first time all summer in New York. I'm sure it felt nice.
The Bad
On a night that was supposed to be all about A-Rod's pursuit of 600, Jorge Posada selfishly hit his 1,000th RBI; stealing A-Rod's thunder. It was uncalled for. With his moment gone, A-Rod had no choice but to hit singles, and walk.
The Ugly
With the recent passing of Ralph Houk, to add to the recent passings of Bob Sheppard and George Steinbrenner, the Yankees recently released this informative press release to the public:
If you are currently old and were ever in some way associated with the Yankees organization, you're probably about to die. Just so you know.
A Night for the RBI
RBIs were not upstaged by homers last night, as no home runs were hit in last night's game.
Posada 11hr = $22
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 17hr = $34
Jeter 9hr = $18
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 18hr = $36
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $220
Friday, July 23, 2010
Jeter Joins List of Yankees Breaking Out of Slumps
The Good
There's nothing like bringing Kansas City to your ball park to break a major league player out of a hitting slump. A-Rod, Jeter and Teixeira, all of whom have been plagued by underperformance (by their standards) had big games, with Jeter hitting an inside the park homerun, A-Rod going 3 for 5 with 4 RBI's and Teixeira going 3 for 5 with a double.
Sabathia gave up 11 hits in 6.1 innings, allowing 3 runs, but got the win anyways. Also good, Chamberlain did not implode. Nor did Park or Robertson.
On the really good side of things, this was the first of a 4 game series where we will not be facing Zack Grienke. I like our chances.
The Bad
Eventually, the Royals will leave, and we'll have play against Major League teams.
The Ugly
Apparently M. Night Shyamalan can no longer make good movies. People suspected this a while ago, but airbender has confirmed it. I wouldn't know because it looked like crap to begin with, so I didn't bother to watch it. A-Team was great though, and I'm hearing a lot of good things about Inception.
RJG is the Place to Be
LAST DAY TO GET IN ON RAFFLE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Donate to the Children's Health Fund and let them know you were referred by RJG. You'll be entered into a raffle for tickets to the August 7 game between the Yankees and Red Sox!!! This is the last day!
Thanks to all that have donated already!
There's nothing like bringing Kansas City to your ball park to break a major league player out of a hitting slump. A-Rod, Jeter and Teixeira, all of whom have been plagued by underperformance (by their standards) had big games, with Jeter hitting an inside the park homerun, A-Rod going 3 for 5 with 4 RBI's and Teixeira going 3 for 5 with a double.
Sabathia gave up 11 hits in 6.1 innings, allowing 3 runs, but got the win anyways. Also good, Chamberlain did not implode. Nor did Park or Robertson.
On the really good side of things, this was the first of a 4 game series where we will not be facing Zack Grienke. I like our chances.
The Bad
Eventually, the Royals will leave, and we'll have play against Major League teams.
The Ugly
Apparently M. Night Shyamalan can no longer make good movies. People suspected this a while ago, but airbender has confirmed it. I wouldn't know because it looked like crap to begin with, so I didn't bother to watch it. A-Team was great though, and I'm hearing a lot of good things about Inception.
RJG is the Place to Be
LAST DAY TO GET IN ON RAFFLE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Donate to the Children's Health Fund and let them know you were referred by RJG. You'll be entered into a raffle for tickets to the August 7 game between the Yankees and Red Sox!!! This is the last day!
Thanks to all that have donated already!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Yanks Split Series
The Good
Curtis's first career home run is the feel good story of the summer, staring Channing Tatum and a bunch of other young actor's you've never heard of.
The Bad
Vazquez imploded in the fifth. Coincidentally that is why he's the fifth starter. When that concurrence was pointed out to him, he was none too pleased.
The Ugly
Now this is ugly. Real ugly. You may not want to read what I'm about to say. Joel Sherman wrote a blog post recently comparing Joba Chamberlain to [gulp] Kyle Farnsworth. Ouch. In fairness, he makes a good point. But if Joba ever sees that, oh man, he'll be so hopeful he gets traded and gets another opportunity to start like Farnsworth did. If he keeps pitching the way he has for much of this season, the first part will probably come true.
Cuadrangulares Para Ninos
Cano, Miranda and Curtis all hit home runs last night. Curtis received the championship belt, but as he went to pick it up, Mad with Power Cano hit him over the head with a metal folding chair. It was pretty awesome.
Posada 11hr = $22
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 17hr = $34
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 18hr = $36
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $218
Curtis's first career home run is the feel good story of the summer, staring Channing Tatum and a bunch of other young actor's you've never heard of.
The Bad
Vazquez imploded in the fifth. Coincidentally that is why he's the fifth starter. When that concurrence was pointed out to him, he was none too pleased.
The Ugly
Now this is ugly. Real ugly. You may not want to read what I'm about to say. Joel Sherman wrote a blog post recently comparing Joba Chamberlain to [gulp] Kyle Farnsworth. Ouch. In fairness, he makes a good point. But if Joba ever sees that, oh man, he'll be so hopeful he gets traded and gets another opportunity to start like Farnsworth did. If he keeps pitching the way he has for much of this season, the first part will probably come true.
Cuadrangulares Para Ninos
Cano, Miranda and Curtis all hit home runs last night. Curtis received the championship belt, but as he went to pick it up, Mad with Power Cano hit him over the head with a metal folding chair. It was pretty awesome.
Posada 11hr = $22
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 18hr = $36
Swisher 17hr = $34
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 18hr = $36
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 3hr = $6
Curtis 1hr = $1
Total = $218
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Hughes Intimidated by Celestial Beings
The Good
I think someone hit a homerun in there. Swisher I beleive.
The Bad
Not that we had a chance at this point, but the bullpen was plain awful. Albaladejo-Park-Gaudin allowed a combined 4 runs in as many innings. I was reminded why we let Gaudin go in the first place, though I've yet to be reminded of why we took him back. Park should be pitching in the NL somewhere, and Albaladejo should probably join him. But then we'd have no middle releif outside of the Joba "I Can't Get Outs" Chamberlain, Damaso "I Can't Stay Healthy" Marte, Boone "I Wish They Would Use Me" Logan, and Dustin "Who?" Moseley.
The Ugly
Hughes couldn't do much with an early lead. The Angels seemed to be sitting on his pitches and punched base hits with ease. 9 hits and 3 walks in 5 innings is usually a mathematical calculation that equals disaster, and last night was no different. Here's hoping Hughes picks it back up. His last 4 starts have resulted in a 6.84 ERA.
Last Chance to Get Into Raffle is Friday!!
For those who may not have seen it, the deadline for the raffle has been extended to this Friday. You give money to charity and get entered into a raffle for tickets to the August 7 game against the Red Sox. It gets no better than that! See details here.
We are pledged to donate $2 for every homerun hit this season, and last night Nick Swisher added a couple bucks to the cause. Thanks Nick.
Posada 11hr = $22
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 17hr = $34
Swisher 17hr = $34
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 18hr = $36
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $212
I think someone hit a homerun in there. Swisher I beleive.
The Bad
Not that we had a chance at this point, but the bullpen was plain awful. Albaladejo-Park-Gaudin allowed a combined 4 runs in as many innings. I was reminded why we let Gaudin go in the first place, though I've yet to be reminded of why we took him back. Park should be pitching in the NL somewhere, and Albaladejo should probably join him. But then we'd have no middle releif outside of the Joba "I Can't Get Outs" Chamberlain, Damaso "I Can't Stay Healthy" Marte, Boone "I Wish They Would Use Me" Logan, and Dustin "Who?" Moseley.
The Ugly
Hughes couldn't do much with an early lead. The Angels seemed to be sitting on his pitches and punched base hits with ease. 9 hits and 3 walks in 5 innings is usually a mathematical calculation that equals disaster, and last night was no different. Here's hoping Hughes picks it back up. His last 4 starts have resulted in a 6.84 ERA.
Last Chance to Get Into Raffle is Friday!!
For those who may not have seen it, the deadline for the raffle has been extended to this Friday. You give money to charity and get entered into a raffle for tickets to the August 7 game against the Red Sox. It gets no better than that! See details here.
We are pledged to donate $2 for every homerun hit this season, and last night Nick Swisher added a couple bucks to the cause. Thanks Nick.
Posada 11hr = $22
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 17hr = $34
Swisher 17hr = $34
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 18hr = $36
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $212
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Last Note on Sheppardgate
Point of comparison and a good example of why at least one player should have been at that funeral. It matters.
McCarvergate
Not much going on in Yankeeland, as the team had the night off for revelry. Tim McCarver, however, has found himself in hot water over suggestions that the Yankees front office had airbrushed Joe Torre out of their history like Nazi and Communist party leaders purging generals. Many have found this tasteless, considering the comparison of the Yankees front office to two murderous regimes insensitive; especially on the day the Yankees were honoring the Boss and Bob Sheppard, but mostly the Boss.
But it's not particularly insensitive really. If McCarver had said he was glad to see the Boss go, that would be insensitive. But when you've essentially airbrushed a former manager out of your history, it's okay to be compared to regimes who airbrushed generals out of theirs. Now sure, the Yankees haven't murdered anyone, that we know of, but McCarver wasn't comparing the relative murderousness of the Yankees, but their revision of history. I'm pretty sure the latest Yankees Media Guide lists Casey Stengel as the Manager of the bombers from '96-'07. And if you go to the Yankees Museum, the old guy wearing a navy Yankees jacket in the picture of the Yankees celebrating on the field after winning the '96 World Series looks suspiciously like Obi-Wan Kanobi. He's holding a light-saber.
Sure, Torre wrote a tell all book in which he claimed Brian Cashman betrayed him (probably true), A-Rod was a fraud (which, considering the PED revelations, turned out to be true), and that Jeter was more gangster than most people can even conceive of (also true), so maybe he started it. But that doesn't change what the Yankees have done.
As much as I hate to do it, I'm sticking up for McCarver on this one. This is, after all, America. And if I've learned one thing from the example of our elected officials is that it is always appropriate to compare your opponents to Nazi Germany. Republicans want tax cuts? They're f-----g Nazis. Democrats want to ensure health care? Those f-----g Nazis! The first non-white leader of a first world nation? You know he's a Nazi. That's just how it goes. McCarver's only sin is that he made his comments during an MLB broadcast rather than a tea party rally or session of Congress. You know what that makes his critiques? That's right. Nazis.
But it's not particularly insensitive really. If McCarver had said he was glad to see the Boss go, that would be insensitive. But when you've essentially airbrushed a former manager out of your history, it's okay to be compared to regimes who airbrushed generals out of theirs. Now sure, the Yankees haven't murdered anyone, that we know of, but McCarver wasn't comparing the relative murderousness of the Yankees, but their revision of history. I'm pretty sure the latest Yankees Media Guide lists Casey Stengel as the Manager of the bombers from '96-'07. And if you go to the Yankees Museum, the old guy wearing a navy Yankees jacket in the picture of the Yankees celebrating on the field after winning the '96 World Series looks suspiciously like Obi-Wan Kanobi. He's holding a light-saber.
Sure, Torre wrote a tell all book in which he claimed Brian Cashman betrayed him (probably true), A-Rod was a fraud (which, considering the PED revelations, turned out to be true), and that Jeter was more gangster than most people can even conceive of (also true), so maybe he started it. But that doesn't change what the Yankees have done.
As much as I hate to do it, I'm sticking up for McCarver on this one. This is, after all, America. And if I've learned one thing from the example of our elected officials is that it is always appropriate to compare your opponents to Nazi Germany. Republicans want tax cuts? They're f-----g Nazis. Democrats want to ensure health care? Those f-----g Nazis! The first non-white leader of a first world nation? You know he's a Nazi. That's just how it goes. McCarver's only sin is that he made his comments during an MLB broadcast rather than a tea party rally or session of Congress. You know what that makes his critiques? That's right. Nazis.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Yanks Take Series, Lose Pettitte
The Good
The Yanks beat the Rays to take the series by hitting up David Price for seven earned runs. A-Rod hit a home run, something we should celebrate because he has done so infrequently in his career. The bullpen didn't pitch like crap. Also a plus.
The Bad
Pettitte hurt his groin and may be out 4-5 weeks. Can anybody say "Roy Oswalt"?
The Ugly
In the past couple of years, Ken Singleton has had more and more opportunities to do the play by play in Yankees broadcasts. When Michael Kay doesn't make a road trip, Singleton does the play calling. This has led to tension, however, when Kay and Singleton work games together. Consider the following exchange from last night's broadcast:
Michael Kay: And here's the pitch. Swing and a . . .
Ken Singleton: Miss by Jorge Posada, the count now 1-2.
MK: What are you doing, Kenny?
KS: Whadaya mean 'what am I doing'? I'm calling the game.
MK: I call the game, you're the color guy.
KS: Excuse me sir, but the correct term is African American!
MK: No, I mean you're the color commentator.
KS: I'm sure were all commentators to you, Michael.
MK: What?
KS: Maybe I should just do a little jig for you while I call the game. Is that what you want? A little tap dance. Huh? You know what your problem is, Michael? You're a bigot.
MK: Kenny, that's not at all what I meant. I . . .
KS: A bigot. A fu...oul ball and the count remains 1-2 on Posada. I'll tell you Michael, these hitters really know how to wear down a pitching staff.
[Stunned silence].
The Road to 600
A-Rod hit his 598th home run today. An impressive feat tarnished only by the fact that he probably would have more by now if so many pitchers hadn't been roiding during so much of his career.
Posada 11hr = $22
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 17hr = $34
Swisher 16hr = $32
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 18hr = $36
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $210
The Yanks beat the Rays to take the series by hitting up David Price for seven earned runs. A-Rod hit a home run, something we should celebrate because he has done so infrequently in his career. The bullpen didn't pitch like crap. Also a plus.
The Bad
Pettitte hurt his groin and may be out 4-5 weeks. Can anybody say "Roy Oswalt"?
The Ugly
In the past couple of years, Ken Singleton has had more and more opportunities to do the play by play in Yankees broadcasts. When Michael Kay doesn't make a road trip, Singleton does the play calling. This has led to tension, however, when Kay and Singleton work games together. Consider the following exchange from last night's broadcast:
Michael Kay: And here's the pitch. Swing and a . . .
Ken Singleton: Miss by Jorge Posada, the count now 1-2.
MK: What are you doing, Kenny?
KS: Whadaya mean 'what am I doing'? I'm calling the game.
MK: I call the game, you're the color guy.
KS: Excuse me sir, but the correct term is African American!
MK: No, I mean you're the color commentator.
KS: I'm sure were all commentators to you, Michael.
MK: What?
KS: Maybe I should just do a little jig for you while I call the game. Is that what you want? A little tap dance. Huh? You know what your problem is, Michael? You're a bigot.
MK: Kenny, that's not at all what I meant. I . . .
KS: A bigot. A fu...oul ball and the count remains 1-2 on Posada. I'll tell you Michael, these hitters really know how to wear down a pitching staff.
[Stunned silence].
The Road to 600
A-Rod hit his 598th home run today. An impressive feat tarnished only by the fact that he probably would have more by now if so many pitchers hadn't been roiding during so much of his career.
Posada 11hr = $22
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 17hr = $34
Swisher 16hr = $32
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 15hr = $30
Teixeira 18hr = $36
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $210
AJ's Kevin Brown Impression Fails to Yield Results
The Good
On the day it was revealed that not a single player, past or current, attended Bob Sheppard's funeral, the Yankees tried to make up for it with a series of pre- and in-game tributes to the late, great announcer. Wait, is that good? I'm not sure that's good . . .
The Bad
. . . No, that's definitely bad. Kind of like a 10-5 pummeling is bad, especially to your principal division rival. Now we face David Price in the rubber match, also bad, as Price has been pretty dominant against us.
The Ugly
Sheppard-gate is ugly. The Yankees need to do some soul searching on this one as an organization. No matter what you say about different ways of honoring people, there should have been players at that funeral. The Core Four plus A-Rod come to mind, as these are the guys who most represent the franchise. I know the funeral took place during travel dates after the All-Star game, but the situation called for a little more attention and effort than it was given.
Still Winners, Even When They Lose
Teixeira and Posada each hit home runs last night. Both balls have been donated to the Hall.
Posada 11hr = $22
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 17hr = $34
Swisher 16hr = $32
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 14hr = $28
Teixeira 18hr = $36
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $208
On the day it was revealed that not a single player, past or current, attended Bob Sheppard's funeral, the Yankees tried to make up for it with a series of pre- and in-game tributes to the late, great announcer. Wait, is that good? I'm not sure that's good . . .
The Bad
. . . No, that's definitely bad. Kind of like a 10-5 pummeling is bad, especially to your principal division rival. Now we face David Price in the rubber match, also bad, as Price has been pretty dominant against us.
The Ugly
Sheppard-gate is ugly. The Yankees need to do some soul searching on this one as an organization. No matter what you say about different ways of honoring people, there should have been players at that funeral. The Core Four plus A-Rod come to mind, as these are the guys who most represent the franchise. I know the funeral took place during travel dates after the All-Star game, but the situation called for a little more attention and effort than it was given.
Still Winners, Even When They Lose
Teixeira and Posada each hit home runs last night. Both balls have been donated to the Hall.
Posada 11hr = $22
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 17hr = $34
Swisher 16hr = $32
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 14hr = $28
Teixeira 18hr = $36
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $208
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Yankees Honor Boss's Love for Pies
The Good
In their first game back since the passing of Bob Sheppard and George Steinbrenner, the Yankees defeated the Tampa Bay Rays with a walk-off win. A tribute to their fallen Boss they considered fitting.
The Bad
The Boss loved wins, but not more than he loved managerial changes. If you really wanted to honor him, you would've fired and rehired Girardi in a span of five hours. That would have been a real tribute.
The Ugly
AJ Burnett hit Nick Swisher with the whipped cream pie so hard that Swisher's face was horribly disfigured. What's that you say? Swisher always looked like that? Zing!
Bomber Tribute
Cano, Posada, and Swisher all hit home runs in last night's game. Coincidence? Yes, largely.
Posada 10hr = $20
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 17hr = $34
Swisher 16hr = $32
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 14hr = $28
Teixeira 16hr = $32
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $204
In their first game back since the passing of Bob Sheppard and George Steinbrenner, the Yankees defeated the Tampa Bay Rays with a walk-off win. A tribute to their fallen Boss they considered fitting.
The Bad
The Boss loved wins, but not more than he loved managerial changes. If you really wanted to honor him, you would've fired and rehired Girardi in a span of five hours. That would have been a real tribute.
The Ugly
AJ Burnett hit Nick Swisher with the whipped cream pie so hard that Swisher's face was horribly disfigured. What's that you say? Swisher always looked like that? Zing!
Bomber Tribute
Cano, Posada, and Swisher all hit home runs in last night's game. Coincidence? Yes, largely.
Posada 10hr = $20
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 17hr = $34
Swisher 16hr = $32
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 14hr = $28
Teixeira 16hr = $32
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $204
Friday, July 16, 2010
The Boss Through Story
I read an interesting post by Joel Sherman on his blog speaking of his experiences with the Boss I thought would be good to share. The more you read about George, the more you realize just how unique of an owner he was. Its easy to be put off by someone with such a rough demeanor, and who seemed so irrational at times, but George was more than that. He had a huge ego, but could make fun of himself. He had high expectations, but was just as hard working. Spent millions on his team, and spent millions on charity. I've heard people say that George's contributions to charity were merely a tax write off for his business, and maybe that was so, but typically these are the same people who can't spare the $20 they blew on beer that night when tragedies like Katrina, the tsunami, or the earthquake in Haiti hit. The Yankees, under Steinbrenner, gave $2.5 million to those releif efforts. Many organizations with the kind of money the Yankees had could not be bothered to donate. It all says something about the nature of the Boss.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
All Star Game
I'd like to be able to say that I watched it, but the truth is I didn't. I didn't bother. I wasn't even home. I wasn't even at a sports bar with a television. But when I found out the outcome of the game, I felt pretty good about my decision to skip it. So instead of doing a good, bad and ugly of this game, I think I will just do a good, bad, and ugly of the All Star Games in general.
The Good
Since homefield advantage was added to the all star game, its actually given meaning to this game. Its certainly fun to see all these amazing players on a team together, but giving them a reason to play makes it more interesting.
The Bad
Fan voting. I don't mind that fans get to vote, I just mind the whole 20+ votes each fan can get.
The Ugly
Every team has to be represented in the all star game, which means you get situations like Mark Redman being selected as an all star pitcher in 2006, because he was the best pitcher on the Royals. But the best pitcher on the Royals went 11-10 with a 5.71 ERA that year. So you get the idea.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is Still for the Children
Yesterday was the closing for the Children's Health Fund raffle. However, it had been expressed from different individuals that they would like to donate but have not been able to do so yet. In light of this, we are going to extend the raffle date to Friday, July 23, with the results being made known on the following Monday. So get your donations in, and get in on the raffle! Get the details to participate here!
The Good
Since homefield advantage was added to the all star game, its actually given meaning to this game. Its certainly fun to see all these amazing players on a team together, but giving them a reason to play makes it more interesting.
The Bad
Fan voting. I don't mind that fans get to vote, I just mind the whole 20+ votes each fan can get.
The Ugly
Every team has to be represented in the all star game, which means you get situations like Mark Redman being selected as an all star pitcher in 2006, because he was the best pitcher on the Royals. But the best pitcher on the Royals went 11-10 with a 5.71 ERA that year. So you get the idea.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is Still for the Children
Yesterday was the closing for the Children's Health Fund raffle. However, it had been expressed from different individuals that they would like to donate but have not been able to do so yet. In light of this, we are going to extend the raffle date to Friday, July 23, with the results being made known on the following Monday. So get your donations in, and get in on the raffle! Get the details to participate here!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
George Steinbrenner Passes Away
It has been recently reported that Yankees owner George Steinbrenner has passed away of a heart attack. This is very sad news considering what George Steinbrenner has meant to the Yankees, and his dedication to us fans. I know he will be missed.
Last Day to Get In On Raffle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The exclamation points may have been excessive, but I needed to get your attention. Today is the last day to get in on the Children's Health Fund raffle for two tickets to the August 7 game between the Yankees and Red Sox at Yankee stadium. These aren't cheap tickets either, you'll be sitting within booing distance of the field. You can yell that Kevin Youkillis is a jerk, and he'll probably hear you! You can make Kevin Youkillis cry, and forever hold that as your fondest memory of visiting Yankee stadium. However, you will not be able to do any of that unless you enter into the raffle.
Here's how it works: Donate now to the Children's Health Fund in any amount or sign up for the Yankees Homerun Club (where you make a per homerun pledge for the season) AND tell them that you were referred by the RJG blog (Important Step! Don't Skip It!). The Children's Health Fund will automatically enter you into the raffle. The drawing will be done, and if you win, you'll be yelling obscenities at Big Papi within a few weeks. And more importantly, you would have donated to an important cause to help bring health care to underprivileged children in our community.
Now some of you out there want to donate but do not feel like you have enough to give. Remember that any amount you give will get you entered into the raffle. If you can give a lot then give a lot, if you can give a little, then give a little. Every dollar helps so please consider freeing up some money for this cause.
Here's how it works: Donate now to the Children's Health Fund in any amount or sign up for the Yankees Homerun Club (where you make a per homerun pledge for the season) AND tell them that you were referred by the RJG blog (Important Step! Don't Skip It!). The Children's Health Fund will automatically enter you into the raffle. The drawing will be done, and if you win, you'll be yelling obscenities at Big Papi within a few weeks. And more importantly, you would have donated to an important cause to help bring health care to underprivileged children in our community.
Now some of you out there want to donate but do not feel like you have enough to give. Remember that any amount you give will get you entered into the raffle. If you can give a lot then give a lot, if you can give a little, then give a little. Every dollar helps so please consider freeing up some money for this cause.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Bob Sheppard Passes Away
It was announced this weekend that legendary Yankees announcer Bob Sheppard passed away. His voice graced Yankee stadium for decades, calling names from Mickey Mantle all the way to Derek Jeter. Sheppard worked well into his 90's at the stadium, and passed at the age of 99. Hearing his voice calling the names of baseball's greatest players over the years has been a real treat. He will be missed.
One Weekend of Baseball Wrapped Up In One Convenient Post
The Good
We took the series 3 games to 1, and throughout that time the Yankees hit 4 homeruns, and both Sabathia and Hughes got wins. The Yankees combined for 28 hits against the Mariners this weekend, and with the exception of the game we lost our bullpen got outs and limited runs.
The Bad
Its really difficult to see a starter pitch a shutout for 7 innings, and not get the win. Vazquez has had a rough season, and he's been turning it around, but hasn't had much to show for it of late. The Yankee offense couldn't stand up to King Felix, and his shutout game in which he struck out 7 went to waste.
The Ugly
Remember when Joba Chamberlain was amazing in relief? A real assett to have in late games to get the ball to Mo. This season a 5.79 ERA pitching out of the bullpen would seem to suggest that we may need to reconsider our setup approach. Its very hard to find consistant relievers, and when you do, you typically turn them into closers. I'm not saying that Chamberlain is a lost cause or anything, but while he figures out how to get hitters out again, maybe we shouldn't lean on him so much in the later innings of close games.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
As mentioned in the good section, the Yankees hit 4 homeruns this weekend, 2 by Teixeira, one by Swisher, and one by Thames. A good weekend for the children.
On another note, the Children's Health Fund raffle closes on Tuesday! Make a donation to the Children's Health Fund and let them know you were referred by the RJG blog, and you will be entered into the raffle for 2 tickets to the August 7 game between the Yankees and Red Sox.
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 15hr = $30
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 14hr = $28
Teixeira 16hr = $32
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $192
We took the series 3 games to 1, and throughout that time the Yankees hit 4 homeruns, and both Sabathia and Hughes got wins. The Yankees combined for 28 hits against the Mariners this weekend, and with the exception of the game we lost our bullpen got outs and limited runs.
The Bad
Its really difficult to see a starter pitch a shutout for 7 innings, and not get the win. Vazquez has had a rough season, and he's been turning it around, but hasn't had much to show for it of late. The Yankee offense couldn't stand up to King Felix, and his shutout game in which he struck out 7 went to waste.
The Ugly
Remember when Joba Chamberlain was amazing in relief? A real assett to have in late games to get the ball to Mo. This season a 5.79 ERA pitching out of the bullpen would seem to suggest that we may need to reconsider our setup approach. Its very hard to find consistant relievers, and when you do, you typically turn them into closers. I'm not saying that Chamberlain is a lost cause or anything, but while he figures out how to get hitters out again, maybe we shouldn't lean on him so much in the later innings of close games.
Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children
As mentioned in the good section, the Yankees hit 4 homeruns this weekend, 2 by Teixeira, one by Swisher, and one by Thames. A good weekend for the children.
On another note, the Children's Health Fund raffle closes on Tuesday! Make a donation to the Children's Health Fund and let them know you were referred by the RJG blog, and you will be entered into the raffle for 2 tickets to the August 7 game between the Yankees and Red Sox.
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 15hr = $30
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 14hr = $28
Teixeira 16hr = $32
Thames 3hr = $6
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $192
Friday, July 9, 2010
Nick Swisher Wants That All-Star Spot
The Good
A big night from Nick Swisher who went 4-4 with 2 doubles, but the even better performance came from Sir Andrew Pettitte, who went 8 innings, striking out 9 in the process and allowing one run. What's even more impressive is that he did it right handed. No one cared to notice.
The Bad
Since when can Jason Vargas pitch? The last memory I have of him was when he got sent to the minors pitching for Florida a few years back. Apparently this season he sold his soul to Cy Young.
The Ugly
Andy Pettitte had one goal in mind last night: to strike out Ichiro Suzuki. Some claim that it can't be done, others claim that Ichiro is a mythological creature straight from the pages of Japanese lore, some even say that he's the one who killed Achilles in Troy, and then turned and killed Paris for no apparent reason. All of these rumors were heavy on Andy's mind as he stared in for the sign. His eyes creeping between his tightly lowered hat and raised glove, glancing quickly over at Ichiro, their eyes locked, tension raised, and mortal enemies were created. Andy was not able to strike out Ichiro last night, and Ichiro in fact had two hits. Andy started working out a deal with Cy Young for his soul, but negotiations fell apart. I don't think its the last we've heard of the Andy/Ichiro saga. Remember, you heard it here first at the RJG.
Have You Given to the Children?
There were no homeruns last night, but it doesn't mean that the children have to suffer. Please consider donating some money to the Children's Health Fund, and get entered into the raffle for tickets to the August 7 game between the Red Sox and Yankees. Click here for details on the raffle and for where to donate!
A big night from Nick Swisher who went 4-4 with 2 doubles, but the even better performance came from Sir Andrew Pettitte, who went 8 innings, striking out 9 in the process and allowing one run. What's even more impressive is that he did it right handed. No one cared to notice.
The Bad
Since when can Jason Vargas pitch? The last memory I have of him was when he got sent to the minors pitching for Florida a few years back. Apparently this season he sold his soul to Cy Young.
The Ugly
Andy Pettitte had one goal in mind last night: to strike out Ichiro Suzuki. Some claim that it can't be done, others claim that Ichiro is a mythological creature straight from the pages of Japanese lore, some even say that he's the one who killed Achilles in Troy, and then turned and killed Paris for no apparent reason. All of these rumors were heavy on Andy's mind as he stared in for the sign. His eyes creeping between his tightly lowered hat and raised glove, glancing quickly over at Ichiro, their eyes locked, tension raised, and mortal enemies were created. Andy was not able to strike out Ichiro last night, and Ichiro in fact had two hits. Andy started working out a deal with Cy Young for his soul, but negotiations fell apart. I don't think its the last we've heard of the Andy/Ichiro saga. Remember, you heard it here first at the RJG.
Have You Given to the Children?
There were no homeruns last night, but it doesn't mean that the children have to suffer. Please consider donating some money to the Children's Health Fund, and get entered into the raffle for tickets to the August 7 game between the Red Sox and Yankees. Click here for details on the raffle and for where to donate!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
A Very Good Series
The Good
The Yankees swept in Oakland, and its really what you would hope for. Not that its that important right now, but the Yankees hold just a slim lead in the standings, and we need win these kinds of series. AJ Burnett continued on his road to consistancy with a 7 inning 2 run effort, while Swisher furthered his case for all-star appearance by going 3-4 with a homerun.
The Bad
For us? Nothing. For Oakland....
The Ugly
The Yankees now head to Seattle to take on King Felix, Cliff Lee, and some other pitchers of little consequence. The Yankees lost the previous series against them in humiliating fashion, so this is the Yankees opportunity to make them pay....in blood.
Give...For the Babies
Yesterday both Mark Teixeira and Nick Swisher showed how much they care for the babies by hitting homeruns. Today, you can show how much you care by donating to the Children's Health Fund, and getting yourself entered into a raffle for tickets to the August 7th game against the Red Sox. See details here!
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 14hr = $28
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 14hr = $28
Teixeira 14hr = $28
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $184
The Yankees swept in Oakland, and its really what you would hope for. Not that its that important right now, but the Yankees hold just a slim lead in the standings, and we need win these kinds of series. AJ Burnett continued on his road to consistancy with a 7 inning 2 run effort, while Swisher furthered his case for all-star appearance by going 3-4 with a homerun.
The Bad
For us? Nothing. For Oakland....
The Ugly
The Yankees now head to Seattle to take on King Felix, Cliff Lee, and some other pitchers of little consequence. The Yankees lost the previous series against them in humiliating fashion, so this is the Yankees opportunity to make them pay....in blood.
Give...For the Babies
Yesterday both Mark Teixeira and Nick Swisher showed how much they care for the babies by hitting homeruns. Today, you can show how much you care by donating to the Children's Health Fund, and getting yourself entered into a raffle for tickets to the August 7th game against the Red Sox. See details here!
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 14hr = $28
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 14hr = $28
Teixeira 14hr = $28
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $184
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Late Post, Late Game
The Good
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 14hr = $28
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $180
Sabathia beasted past the Athletics with 7.2 of one run ball with 10 strikeouts. A-Rod hit 2 homeruns as he plays catch up, and Robertson got his ERA down to a fighting 5.65 after 1.1 scoreless innings.
The Bad
It was so hot in the northeast, no one could enjoy the game.
The Ugly
After an 0-4 night, Jack Cust's batting average dropped below .300 leaving the Athletics with no players batting .300. Robinson Cano also had an 0-4 night, dropping his average to a pedestrian .337. Cano didn't mind, but his ego was shattered.
Heal the Children
A-Rod hit two homeruns, which gives 4 RJG dollars to the Children's Health Fund. Please consider donating to the Children's Health Fund and get entered into the RJG raffle for tickets to the August 7 game against the Red Sox at Yankee Stadium.
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 14hr = $28
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $180
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Yankees Prove More Athletic
The Good
Javier Vazquez pitched 7 innings of 1 run ball making it two quality starts in a row. Marky T continued his ever slow awakening with a homerun. Contrary to popular belief, the bullpen did not implode after the quality start, and Chamberlain held his own...albeit against the Athletics.
The Bad
After realizing that only one hitter on the Athletics lineup was batting .300, the Yankees felt bad. Like really bad. Like you ate the last piece of cake and realized the birthday boy never got one bad. Then you also realize that you never bought a gift for that birthday boy bad. And then you realized that that birthday boy was your son. That's how bad the Yankees felt.
The Ugly
After getting three hits all day yesterday the Athletics called a team meeting to celebrate their run at success. Derek Jeter walked by the clubhouse and when the Athletics caught a glimpse of him, they quickly grew quiet. After a few moments of awkward silence, they put away their sparkling cider and went home. They were simply too ashamed to celebrate in the midst of a true winner.
Homeruns For the Kids
Mark Teixeira hit another homerun for the cause. If you have not done so, please take a look at our raffle hosted in conjunction with the Children's Health Fund. The money goes to a great cause, and you get a chance to win Red Sox vs. Yankees tickets. Go get benevolent!
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 12hr = $24
Teixeira 14hr = $28
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $182
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 12hr = $24
Teixeira 14hr = $28
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $182
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Oh Man, That's Ugly
The Good
We won the series, even though Hughes did not pitch well and Mo blew a save. Thames had the walk-off hit, and the walk-off pie.
The Bad
Thames is still deathly allergic to dairy. AJ is still unable to appreciate that fact, even though Eiland and a team of team doctors sat him down to explain it to him.
The Ugly
So I've been in the States for the last couple weeks and was at my brother's house in Massachusetts today for an independence day barbecue. NESN was on as my cousin was watching the Red Sox game in the living room. I was in another room when I suddenly heard a very familiar voice. Is that who I think it is? It couldn't be. It is! It's Ronan Tynan! You know, the guy who used to sing 'God Bless America' at Yankee Stadium until he started making anti-Semitic jokes to a potential tenant. That Ronan Tynan! Singing 'God Bless America' at Fenway. Apparently the last team in the majors to have a black player on their roster also welcomes anti-Semites to take part in all of their major festivities! I mean, nothing says 'happy birthday America' like reminding your Jewish fans that they'll never truly belong. And you thought Gary Matthews, Jr. was being sensitive when he said Fenway was the only place he heard racial comments from the fans. Oh Boston, you are too classy.
Getting Pull Happy
Gardner hit a home run for the second day in a row. Let's just say that Mad With Power Cano is pissed. Raffle!
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 12hr = $24
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $180
We won the series, even though Hughes did not pitch well and Mo blew a save. Thames had the walk-off hit, and the walk-off pie.
The Bad
Thames is still deathly allergic to dairy. AJ is still unable to appreciate that fact, even though Eiland and a team of team doctors sat him down to explain it to him.
The Ugly
So I've been in the States for the last couple weeks and was at my brother's house in Massachusetts today for an independence day barbecue. NESN was on as my cousin was watching the Red Sox game in the living room. I was in another room when I suddenly heard a very familiar voice. Is that who I think it is? It couldn't be. It is! It's Ronan Tynan! You know, the guy who used to sing 'God Bless America' at Yankee Stadium until he started making anti-Semitic jokes to a potential tenant. That Ronan Tynan! Singing 'God Bless America' at Fenway. Apparently the last team in the majors to have a black player on their roster also welcomes anti-Semites to take part in all of their major festivities! I mean, nothing says 'happy birthday America' like reminding your Jewish fans that they'll never truly belong. And you thought Gary Matthews, Jr. was being sensitive when he said Fenway was the only place he heard racial comments from the fans. Oh Boston, you are too classy.
Getting Pull Happy
Gardner hit a home run for the second day in a row. Let's just say that Mad With Power Cano is pissed. Raffle!
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 12hr = $24
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 5hr = $10
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $180
Yanks Beat Jays
The Good
Pettitte turned in a quality start, laboring a bit, but getting the job done. The Yanks now have three starters with 10 wins, the first team to do that since 1933. Dustin Moseley came in like a young Mo Rivera; breaking bats, inducing weak ground balls, and striking batters out with a devastating cutter. Okay, I don't know what pitches he throws, but he was impressive. Even Park managed a scoreless inning.
The Bad
That play in the third by the Toronto left fielder, the one where he had an acute onset of pop-flyaphobia, and then let the ball drop was bad. Then the official scorer ruled it a double, presumably because he hates the Jays' pitching staff so much he just couldn't wait to artificially inflate their ERAs.
The Ugly
As we mentioned in the title, the Yanks beat the Jays. But I wasn't referring to the nine innings of baseball played at Yankee Stadium. No. I was referring to what happened in the Yankees clubhouse after the game, when legendary R&B group the O'Jays stopped by to visit with the team.
"I'm so sick of celebrities visiting us in the clubhouse after games!" screamed Mark Teixeira.
"Bronny's gonna yell at us again because of you! For the love of money, get the hell out of here!" raged Andy Pettitte.
"There's no love train here, O'Jays, just Pain!" screached Yankees first base coach, Mick Kelleher.
The Yankees then went on to beat the bejeebus out of the O'Jays. It was pretty ugly.
Soak It In Peoples, This May Never Happen Again
With the game on the line, Gardner crushed a 1-1 hanging knuckle slider spit-curve out of the park for his first career grand slam. Everyone was elated at the rarity, except Mad With Power Cano. Gardner may be playing in Seattle and the Yankees stuck trying to figure out what to do with six serviceable starting pitchers before long.
And remember, if you like children, or perhaps were one yourself once, and if you prefer that they stay healthy, then consider making a donation to the CHF (either a pledge or a single amount) and signing up for our raffle. We don't want to say it will make you more attractive to potential partners, but it will. Much more attractive. Prepare to upgrade to significant others that aren't inflatable, loyal readers. It's that good!
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 12hr = $24
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 4hr = $8
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $178
Pettitte turned in a quality start, laboring a bit, but getting the job done. The Yanks now have three starters with 10 wins, the first team to do that since 1933. Dustin Moseley came in like a young Mo Rivera; breaking bats, inducing weak ground balls, and striking batters out with a devastating cutter. Okay, I don't know what pitches he throws, but he was impressive. Even Park managed a scoreless inning.
The Bad
That play in the third by the Toronto left fielder, the one where he had an acute onset of pop-flyaphobia, and then let the ball drop was bad. Then the official scorer ruled it a double, presumably because he hates the Jays' pitching staff so much he just couldn't wait to artificially inflate their ERAs.
The Ugly
As we mentioned in the title, the Yanks beat the Jays. But I wasn't referring to the nine innings of baseball played at Yankee Stadium. No. I was referring to what happened in the Yankees clubhouse after the game, when legendary R&B group the O'Jays stopped by to visit with the team.
"I'm so sick of celebrities visiting us in the clubhouse after games!" screamed Mark Teixeira.
"Bronny's gonna yell at us again because of you! For the love of money, get the hell out of here!" raged Andy Pettitte.
"There's no love train here, O'Jays, just Pain!" screached Yankees first base coach, Mick Kelleher.
The Yankees then went on to beat the bejeebus out of the O'Jays. It was pretty ugly.
Soak It In Peoples, This May Never Happen Again
With the game on the line, Gardner crushed a 1-1 hanging knuckle slider spit-curve out of the park for his first career grand slam. Everyone was elated at the rarity, except Mad With Power Cano. Gardner may be playing in Seattle and the Yankees stuck trying to figure out what to do with six serviceable starting pitchers before long.
And remember, if you like children, or perhaps were one yourself once, and if you prefer that they stay healthy, then consider making a donation to the CHF (either a pledge or a single amount) and signing up for our raffle. We don't want to say it will make you more attractive to potential partners, but it will. Much more attractive. Prepare to upgrade to significant others that aren't inflatable, loyal readers. It's that good!
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 12hr = $24
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 4hr = $8
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $178
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Pensive 'Pen Destroys AJ's Outing
The Good
AJ went 6.2 shut out innings.
The Bad
Prior to anyone warming up, Joba had posed the following question to his fellow relief pitchers in the bullpen: If Jeter is gangster in the woods, and there is no one around to respect it, is he still gangster?
The Ugly
Joba and his fellow relievers were so troubled by the question, by the very thought of Jeter's gangster existing in a wooded vacuum where it could be respected by nobody, that they completely imploded. That, kids, is why philosophy is so dangerous.
Not Today
No home runs were hit in this game, as our only run came on a sac-fly by A-Rod. Raffle.
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 12hr = $24
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 3hr = $6
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $176
AJ went 6.2 shut out innings.
The Bad
Prior to anyone warming up, Joba had posed the following question to his fellow relief pitchers in the bullpen: If Jeter is gangster in the woods, and there is no one around to respect it, is he still gangster?
The Ugly
Joba and his fellow relievers were so troubled by the question, by the very thought of Jeter's gangster existing in a wooded vacuum where it could be respected by nobody, that they completely imploded. That, kids, is why philosophy is so dangerous.
Not Today
No home runs were hit in this game, as our only run came on a sac-fly by A-Rod. Raffle.
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 12hr = $24
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 3hr = $6
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $176
Friday, July 2, 2010
Yanks Win Consolation Prize, Barely
The Good
A-Rod continued his quest for another 30 home run season, crushing the game winner off of some pitcher on the Mariners. CC went 8 strong, allowing only 2 runs. Mo closed the game with three pitches.
The Bad
The Yanks now turn their fragile one game winning streak over to AJ Burnett. We're screwed.
The Ugly
After the game, CC was really upset about giving up those two runs in the bottom of the eighth.
"I really wanted to get the game over with," explained CC. "I had tickets to Twilight: Eclipse, but I wasn't able to get out of here in time. Are Bella and Edward going to get married? Is Jacob going to mess it all up for them? He's so ripped. No way Edward can compete with that! It's not fair! True love never wins! Now I have to wait until tomorrow to find out. Stupid two runs!"
Hearing the 6'7" Sabathia say that was the creepiest experience of our intrepid reporter's life. He is now on indefinite medical leave.
The Bombers Explode Like a BP Oil Rig
Mad With Power Cano hit a home run in the 4th, and only then did he give A-Rod permission to hit a home run at some point in the game. He did not, however, give A-Rod permission to hit a two-run home run. Tensions are pretty high in that clubhouse right now. Oh, and don't forget to make a donation to the CHF for our raffle, or I'll spoil the ending to Twilight: Eclipse in my next post.
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 12hr = $24
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 3hr = $6
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $176
A-Rod continued his quest for another 30 home run season, crushing the game winner off of some pitcher on the Mariners. CC went 8 strong, allowing only 2 runs. Mo closed the game with three pitches.
The Bad
The Yanks now turn their fragile one game winning streak over to AJ Burnett. We're screwed.
The Ugly
After the game, CC was really upset about giving up those two runs in the bottom of the eighth.
"I really wanted to get the game over with," explained CC. "I had tickets to Twilight: Eclipse, but I wasn't able to get out of here in time. Are Bella and Edward going to get married? Is Jacob going to mess it all up for them? He's so ripped. No way Edward can compete with that! It's not fair! True love never wins! Now I have to wait until tomorrow to find out. Stupid two runs!"
Hearing the 6'7" Sabathia say that was the creepiest experience of our intrepid reporter's life. He is now on indefinite medical leave.
The Bombers Explode Like a BP Oil Rig
Mad With Power Cano hit a home run in the 4th, and only then did he give A-Rod permission to hit a home run at some point in the game. He did not, however, give A-Rod permission to hit a two-run home run. Tensions are pretty high in that clubhouse right now. Oh, and don't forget to make a donation to the CHF for our raffle, or I'll spoil the ending to Twilight: Eclipse in my next post.
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 16hr = $32
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 12hr = $24
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 3hr = $6
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $176
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Yanks Drop Series to Mariners
The Good
Those cheasesteaks they sell at Yankee Stadium are still delicious. Or at least they better be when I'm there on Saturday, or they will receive a scathing review from which they will never recover. Oh, and Javy had a bounce back quality wasted effort.
The Bad
Not even Nick Swisher felt like padding his stats last night, as nobody did anything in a losing effort against King Felix. What is he king of? Safeco? That's so lame. Also, the Yanks gave up 7 runs, all on bunts, by which they continue to be utterly confounded.
The Ugly
The Yankees haven't lost a series to the Mariners since 1934, when their depression era players were forced to forfeit due to malnutrition. The Yankees, in two days, have destroyed, no, obliterated, a 76 year legacy. Oh, and the players got together in the clubhouse after the game to burn the flag. Just sayin'.
Homer, Homer the Bee
Does anyone else remember the old Maya the Bee cartoon on Nickelodeon? You do, don't you? And it was your favorite! Just like hitting no home runs was the Yankees' favorite last night. If entering raffles is your favorite, then enter ours, or mad with power Robinson Cano will have the YES Network removed from your cable line-up and replaced with Braves games on TBS.
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 15hr = $30
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 11hr = $22
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 3hr = $6
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $172
Those cheasesteaks they sell at Yankee Stadium are still delicious. Or at least they better be when I'm there on Saturday, or they will receive a scathing review from which they will never recover. Oh, and Javy had a bounce back quality wasted effort.
The Bad
Not even Nick Swisher felt like padding his stats last night, as nobody did anything in a losing effort against King Felix. What is he king of? Safeco? That's so lame. Also, the Yanks gave up 7 runs, all on bunts, by which they continue to be utterly confounded.
The Ugly
The Yankees haven't lost a series to the Mariners since 1934, when their depression era players were forced to forfeit due to malnutrition. The Yankees, in two days, have destroyed, no, obliterated, a 76 year legacy. Oh, and the players got together in the clubhouse after the game to burn the flag. Just sayin'.
Homer, Homer the Bee
Does anyone else remember the old Maya the Bee cartoon on Nickelodeon? You do, don't you? And it was your favorite! Just like hitting no home runs was the Yankees' favorite last night. If entering raffles is your favorite, then enter ours, or mad with power Robinson Cano will have the YES Network removed from your cable line-up and replaced with Braves games on TBS.
Posada 9hr = $18
Granderson 7hr = $14
Cano 15hr = $30
Swisher 13hr = $26
Jeter 8hr = $16
Johnson 2hr = $4
Rodriguez 11hr = $22
Teixeira 13hr = $26
Thames 2hr = $4
Gardner 3hr = $6
Winn 1hr = $2
Miranda 2hr = $4
Total = $172
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