The Good
Gardner, Cano, and Wells continue to hit well of late with Gardner's average slowly climbing, and Cano and Wells maintaining themselves above .300. Austin Romine and Vidal Nuno got to make their season debuts, which is good for them I suppose.
The Bad
It was a rough debut for Austin Romine. With Pettitte forgetting how the cutter grip works, Romine could not steer the big league veteran correctly. "It was new ground for me." Explained Romine. "I mean, as a minor league catcher I'm used to pitchers not having all their pitches, but minor league pitchers only have one pitch to begin with, a fastball. When they throw it in the dirt they call it a sinker, and when they ask the umpire for a new baseball, they call it a changeup. One guy used to punch the baseball to me, and called it a knuckleball. That's what I typically deal with in the minors."
The Ugly
Pettitte just didn't have it against his former team. 4.1 innings, 7 runs off 10 hits just isn't pretty. "You have to hand it to them." Said Pettitte after the game. "That lineup has guys like Greg, and Mike, and Jim. How can you compete with that?" When told there wasn't a single player in the Astro's lineup with any of those names Pettitte responded. "What are you talking about? Greg, Mike and Jim, their scouting report says they can only hit cutters so I shouldn't throw any...Oh wait a second, I've been tricked! Clemens reveal yourself!!"
Oh Well
10 runs were scored yesterday, but only 1 by the Yankees, and not by way of the long ball. 0 homeruns = $0 for the Children's Health Fund.
Travis Hafner 6hr = $12
Vernon Wells 6hr = $12
Brett Gardner 3hr = $6
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 7hr = $14
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 3hr = $6
Brennan Boesch 2hr = $4
Francisco Cervelli 3hr = $6
Chris Stewart 1hr = $2
Total 35 hrs = $70
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Blue Jay Hunting Goes Well, But Ends Costly
The Good
The Yankees completed a sweep of the Blue Jays sparked by offensive explosions from Travis Hafner, and Lyle Overbay, while combining with gritty pitching efforts of Sabathia, Phelps and Hughes. Sabathia pitched 8 innings allowing 4 runs (3 earned), but Phelps came in long relief to strike out 9 Blue Jays in just 4 innings allowing 1 run. Hughes attempted to replicate in his start, but had to settle with striking out 9 across 6 innings with 2 runs, like a coward.
The Bad
A lot is being made of Sabathia's velocity, and seeming un-ace like performances, but the truth is Sabathia is solar powered. He starts to pitch best in the warmth of summer suns.
The Ugly
With a foul tip off the hand, Cervelli is out for a few weeks, and with discomfort in his elbow, Nova is out too. Cervelli was becoming one of our better clutch hitters, and Nova was doing stuff too. Add to that the losses of Jeter, Teixeira, Granderson, A-Rod, and Youkilis and all of a sudden we look like a depleted team with a lineup that couldn't out hit the Houston Astros (more to come on that later).
Can't Go Wrong With the Long Ball
Not only do they win games, they also net the Children's Health Fund $2 from the Respect Jeter's Gangster blog. And how did the Yankees do over the weekend? Well Gardner, Overbay, Boesch and Hafner all hit homeruns to help drive the Yankees past the Blue Jays. Good thing none of them are injured.
Travis Hafner 6hr = $12
Vernon Wells 6hr = $12
Brett Gardner 3hr = $6
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 7hr = $14
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 3hr = $6
Brennan Boesch 2hr = $4
Francisco Cervelli 3hr = $6
Chris Stewart 1hr = $2
Total 35 hrs = $70
The Yankees completed a sweep of the Blue Jays sparked by offensive explosions from Travis Hafner, and Lyle Overbay, while combining with gritty pitching efforts of Sabathia, Phelps and Hughes. Sabathia pitched 8 innings allowing 4 runs (3 earned), but Phelps came in long relief to strike out 9 Blue Jays in just 4 innings allowing 1 run. Hughes attempted to replicate in his start, but had to settle with striking out 9 across 6 innings with 2 runs, like a coward.
The Bad
A lot is being made of Sabathia's velocity, and seeming un-ace like performances, but the truth is Sabathia is solar powered. He starts to pitch best in the warmth of summer suns.
The Ugly
With a foul tip off the hand, Cervelli is out for a few weeks, and with discomfort in his elbow, Nova is out too. Cervelli was becoming one of our better clutch hitters, and Nova was doing stuff too. Add to that the losses of Jeter, Teixeira, Granderson, A-Rod, and Youkilis and all of a sudden we look like a depleted team with a lineup that couldn't out hit the Houston Astros (more to come on that later).
Can't Go Wrong With the Long Ball
Not only do they win games, they also net the Children's Health Fund $2 from the Respect Jeter's Gangster blog. And how did the Yankees do over the weekend? Well Gardner, Overbay, Boesch and Hafner all hit homeruns to help drive the Yankees past the Blue Jays. Good thing none of them are injured.
Travis Hafner 6hr = $12
Vernon Wells 6hr = $12
Brett Gardner 3hr = $6
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 7hr = $14
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 3hr = $6
Brennan Boesch 2hr = $4
Francisco Cervelli 3hr = $6
Chris Stewart 1hr = $2
Total 35 hrs = $70
Friday, April 26, 2013
It's Blue Jay Hunting Season
The Good
A big round of applause to Hiroki Kuroda, who looked like he was in for a rough night. He had given up 3 runs through the first two innings, including 2 homeruns, and he was laboring to get outs. His pitch count was climbing, and he looked particularly hittable. Then he came in for the third and pulled it together. He finished the game with 6 innings of 3 run ball, and recorded the win. He just kept his head in the game and kept the Yankees lead once they took it.
The offense came alive with Vernon Wells, Cano and Cervelli all hitting homeruns to help put the Yankees ahead, but the best performance of the night went to Jayson Nix who was like a circus acrobat ninja. Like the kind of circuses that ninja's visit and are impressed. He turned in some great plays at third, and hit a couple singles as well. Nix is making the most of this opportunity with Youkilis down. Ichiro also had a pair of hits, bringing his average up, and stole a base. I think he's starting to warm up.
The bullpen was also good. Chamberlain, Robertson and Rivera came in to pitch 3 scoreless innings, giving up just 1 hit in the process. Rivera was lights out. He recorded his 7th save of the season with 2 strikeouts in the process.
The Bad
Ben Francisco finally got his average above .100 but it took some work. He was running out an infield hit, and got to first base but was called out. It was a very close play, and he looked like he beat out the throw. The umpires met and ended up reversing the call for the first time that I've ever seen. Apparently, Encarnacion bobbled the ball, and never had full control of it, and that was what they were overturning. Francisco was called safe at first, Blue Jays manager John Gibbons was ejected, and it left the rest of the baseball world wondering why they would reverse this low stakes call, and so adamantly oppose reversing the botched call that cost Armando Galarraga a perfect game in the 9th inning with 2 outs.
The Ugly
Francisco Cervelli hit his 3rd homerun of the season, which is great, but you know what I don't like? After his name came up in that clinic that A-Rod was involved with, it casts doubt on his performance. We're talking about a guy who hit 4 homeruns as a career high in the big leagues. Last year he struggled to hit .246 with 2 homeruns in triple A. I'm not saying that he used anything, because I could never know that, but I hate the fact that we live in an era where we have to be suspicious of any sudden increase in performance. It makes me skeptical of guys like Jose Bautista, who has never been linked with PED's but went from hitting 13-16 homeruns a season to 54. Maybe he put it all together himself, but I hate that we have to ask these questions.
The Money
3 homeruns from 3 different Yankees, including one from the Homerun Club captain, Robinson Cano. That's $6 for the kids over at the Children's Health Fund.
Travis Hafner 5hr = $10
Vernon Wells 6hr = $12
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 7hr = $14
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 2hr = $4
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Francisco Cervelli 3hr = $6
Chris Stewart 1hr = $2
Total 31 hrs = $62
A big round of applause to Hiroki Kuroda, who looked like he was in for a rough night. He had given up 3 runs through the first two innings, including 2 homeruns, and he was laboring to get outs. His pitch count was climbing, and he looked particularly hittable. Then he came in for the third and pulled it together. He finished the game with 6 innings of 3 run ball, and recorded the win. He just kept his head in the game and kept the Yankees lead once they took it.
The offense came alive with Vernon Wells, Cano and Cervelli all hitting homeruns to help put the Yankees ahead, but the best performance of the night went to Jayson Nix who was like a circus acrobat ninja. Like the kind of circuses that ninja's visit and are impressed. He turned in some great plays at third, and hit a couple singles as well. Nix is making the most of this opportunity with Youkilis down. Ichiro also had a pair of hits, bringing his average up, and stole a base. I think he's starting to warm up.
The bullpen was also good. Chamberlain, Robertson and Rivera came in to pitch 3 scoreless innings, giving up just 1 hit in the process. Rivera was lights out. He recorded his 7th save of the season with 2 strikeouts in the process.
The Bad
Ben Francisco finally got his average above .100 but it took some work. He was running out an infield hit, and got to first base but was called out. It was a very close play, and he looked like he beat out the throw. The umpires met and ended up reversing the call for the first time that I've ever seen. Apparently, Encarnacion bobbled the ball, and never had full control of it, and that was what they were overturning. Francisco was called safe at first, Blue Jays manager John Gibbons was ejected, and it left the rest of the baseball world wondering why they would reverse this low stakes call, and so adamantly oppose reversing the botched call that cost Armando Galarraga a perfect game in the 9th inning with 2 outs.
The Ugly
Francisco Cervelli hit his 3rd homerun of the season, which is great, but you know what I don't like? After his name came up in that clinic that A-Rod was involved with, it casts doubt on his performance. We're talking about a guy who hit 4 homeruns as a career high in the big leagues. Last year he struggled to hit .246 with 2 homeruns in triple A. I'm not saying that he used anything, because I could never know that, but I hate the fact that we live in an era where we have to be suspicious of any sudden increase in performance. It makes me skeptical of guys like Jose Bautista, who has never been linked with PED's but went from hitting 13-16 homeruns a season to 54. Maybe he put it all together himself, but I hate that we have to ask these questions.
The Money
3 homeruns from 3 different Yankees, including one from the Homerun Club captain, Robinson Cano. That's $6 for the kids over at the Children's Health Fund.
Travis Hafner 5hr = $10
Vernon Wells 6hr = $12
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 7hr = $14
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 2hr = $4
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Francisco Cervelli 3hr = $6
Chris Stewart 1hr = $2
Total 31 hrs = $62
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Yanks Drop Series to Rays
The Good
How about that Andy Pettitte? Every time he's pitched this season he's given us a chance to win. His 6 innings of 3 run ball (2 earned) and 10 strikeouts would keep most teams with an offense in a game, but last night the Rays would have none of it. Shawn Kelley also looked good with his 2 inning, 3 strikeout effort.
The Bad
The Yankee offense was not great. 4 hits, all of them singles, and only 1 walk. That's all the Yankees did yesterday. If they had done that all in one inning, we might have been able to win the game, but spread out over 9 innings, the chances are slim.
The Ugly
Rays pitcher Alex Cobb was dominating. 8.1 innings, 7 strikeouts, 0 runs. He was the pitching version of Ty Cobb, minus the racism. It almost makes you want Granderson and Teixeira back, but not the current versions of these players. I'd take the 2011 version of Granderson and the 2009 version of Teixeira. We'd be awesome with them.
Some Day We Will Respect the Earning Power of Singles
But for now we don't. No homeruns means no money for the children. Really it makes you wonder if Alex Cobb is anti-children. Why would you hate children Alex? Who does that?
Travis Hafner 5hr = $10
Vernon Wells 5hr = $10
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 6hr = $12
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 2hr = $4
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Francisco Cervelli 2hr = $4
Chris Stewart 1hr = $2
Total 28 hrs = $56
How about that Andy Pettitte? Every time he's pitched this season he's given us a chance to win. His 6 innings of 3 run ball (2 earned) and 10 strikeouts would keep most teams with an offense in a game, but last night the Rays would have none of it. Shawn Kelley also looked good with his 2 inning, 3 strikeout effort.
The Bad
The Yankee offense was not great. 4 hits, all of them singles, and only 1 walk. That's all the Yankees did yesterday. If they had done that all in one inning, we might have been able to win the game, but spread out over 9 innings, the chances are slim.
The Ugly
Rays pitcher Alex Cobb was dominating. 8.1 innings, 7 strikeouts, 0 runs. He was the pitching version of Ty Cobb, minus the racism. It almost makes you want Granderson and Teixeira back, but not the current versions of these players. I'd take the 2011 version of Granderson and the 2009 version of Teixeira. We'd be awesome with them.
Some Day We Will Respect the Earning Power of Singles
But for now we don't. No homeruns means no money for the children. Really it makes you wonder if Alex Cobb is anti-children. Why would you hate children Alex? Who does that?
Travis Hafner 5hr = $10
Vernon Wells 5hr = $10
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 6hr = $12
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 2hr = $4
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Francisco Cervelli 2hr = $4
Chris Stewart 1hr = $2
Total 28 hrs = $56
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
One for the Ages
The Good
It was David Price against Phil Hughes and defying all odds, this ended up being a close game. After a tiring 1st inning, Hughes settled down to give 7 innings of 2 run ball, with 6 strikeouts. But the most exciting feature of the game was a clutch bases loaded single by Ichiro Suzuki in the 9th to put the Yankees ahead.
Another positive was Dave Robertson's 2 strikeout perfect inning of relief. I had forgotten he was in our bullpen after recurring outings by the David Phelps and Adam Warrens of the world.
The Bad
Mariano decided to make the game closer in the 9th, just so he could show off his patented calm under fire look. Not cool Mo.
The Ugly
Ben Francisco has been off to a rough start. His 0-3 night had him down to a .080 average for the season. I know he hasn't played regularly, but .080? Usually you tolerate an .080 average out of a star veteran player who takes time to warm up, or a backup player who has the good fortune of being left handed, of which Francisco is neither. I have to think the Yankees may be looking for roster spots soon, and he will be the first to be cut.
I Get The Money So I Don't Care
But the children don't so they do care. No homeruns, just clutch singles, which is not enough to save the babies.
Travis Hafner 5hr = $10
Vernon Wells 5hr = $10
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 6hr = $12
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 2hr = $4
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Francisco Cervelli 2hr = $4
Chris Stewart 1hr = $2
Total 28 hrs = $56
It was David Price against Phil Hughes and defying all odds, this ended up being a close game. After a tiring 1st inning, Hughes settled down to give 7 innings of 2 run ball, with 6 strikeouts. But the most exciting feature of the game was a clutch bases loaded single by Ichiro Suzuki in the 9th to put the Yankees ahead.
Another positive was Dave Robertson's 2 strikeout perfect inning of relief. I had forgotten he was in our bullpen after recurring outings by the David Phelps and Adam Warrens of the world.
The Bad
Mariano decided to make the game closer in the 9th, just so he could show off his patented calm under fire look. Not cool Mo.
The Ugly
Ben Francisco has been off to a rough start. His 0-3 night had him down to a .080 average for the season. I know he hasn't played regularly, but .080? Usually you tolerate an .080 average out of a star veteran player who takes time to warm up, or a backup player who has the good fortune of being left handed, of which Francisco is neither. I have to think the Yankees may be looking for roster spots soon, and he will be the first to be cut.
I Get The Money So I Don't Care
But the children don't so they do care. No homeruns, just clutch singles, which is not enough to save the babies.
Travis Hafner 5hr = $10
Vernon Wells 5hr = $10
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 6hr = $12
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 2hr = $4
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Francisco Cervelli 2hr = $4
Chris Stewart 1hr = $2
Total 28 hrs = $56
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Lots of Positives After Yankee Loss
The Good
Cano hit his 6th homerun of the season! It was like BOOM! DRIVE! OUTFIELD! OVER THE WALL! HOMERUN! It was so exciting! Best hit of the game. So cool. Also good, Adam Warren pitched a scoreless inning giving him a 1.08 ERA this season. He was all like: THROW! SPIN! STRIKE! OUT! INNING OVER! Yankees lose.
The Bad
Sabathia's start wasn't great. He was sitting around 93 mph, but got knocked around for 7 hits, 3 of them homeruns. He still struck out 8 hitters, but Ray's pitcher Matthew Moore would not be outdone. He struck out 9 and held the Yankees to 1 run. A run that he has vowed to get back. So now we have Matthew Moore out for blood his next start against us. Great.
The Ugly
Cano had 2 hits, which was really inspiring. But the rest of the Yankees team combined for 0 hits, which was really disheartening. Without a captain, the Yankee hitters no longer know how to swing a bat. Kevin Long showed them video's of how to swing a bat, but they just couldn't get the form down. It was really sad to see. Jeter....we need you.
Dare I Say We Need to Play Catch Up?
Let's see here, Cano hit a homerun yesterday, Cervelli hit 1 over the weekend, Overbay hit 1, Wells hit 2, Hafner hit 1, and backup catcher Chris Stewart had 1. In other words, there were enough homeruns to heal childhood dysentery forever!
Travis Hafner 5hr = $10
Vernon Wells 5hr = $10
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 6hr = $12
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 2hr = $4
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Francisco Cervelli 2hr = $4
Chris Stewart 1hr = $2
Total 28 hrs = $56
Cano hit his 6th homerun of the season! It was like BOOM! DRIVE! OUTFIELD! OVER THE WALL! HOMERUN! It was so exciting! Best hit of the game. So cool. Also good, Adam Warren pitched a scoreless inning giving him a 1.08 ERA this season. He was all like: THROW! SPIN! STRIKE! OUT! INNING OVER! Yankees lose.
The Bad
Sabathia's start wasn't great. He was sitting around 93 mph, but got knocked around for 7 hits, 3 of them homeruns. He still struck out 8 hitters, but Ray's pitcher Matthew Moore would not be outdone. He struck out 9 and held the Yankees to 1 run. A run that he has vowed to get back. So now we have Matthew Moore out for blood his next start against us. Great.
The Ugly
Cano had 2 hits, which was really inspiring. But the rest of the Yankees team combined for 0 hits, which was really disheartening. Without a captain, the Yankee hitters no longer know how to swing a bat. Kevin Long showed them video's of how to swing a bat, but they just couldn't get the form down. It was really sad to see. Jeter....we need you.
Dare I Say We Need to Play Catch Up?
Let's see here, Cano hit a homerun yesterday, Cervelli hit 1 over the weekend, Overbay hit 1, Wells hit 2, Hafner hit 1, and backup catcher Chris Stewart had 1. In other words, there were enough homeruns to heal childhood dysentery forever!
Travis Hafner 5hr = $10
Vernon Wells 5hr = $10
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 6hr = $12
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 2hr = $4
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Francisco Cervelli 2hr = $4
Chris Stewart 1hr = $2
Total 28 hrs = $56
Friday, April 19, 2013
Jeter Breaks Ankle Again, Probably In Some Sort of Lead by Example Exercise
By now you've probably heard that Derek Jeter has once again broken his ankle. The new injury was detected by an MRI, ordered by team doctors who noticed Jeter was hopping around the bases rather than using both legs to run.
Jeter won't be back until after the all-star break, when he plans to go 5 for 5 and hit his 3,000th hit by going yard. Only one other player has returned from a leg injury after the all-star break to accomplish such a feat, Jeter himself, so there is precedent.
This setback has been difficult on the Yankees, who have become so accustomed to the good health and longevity of their players that few even knew what the team meant when it was announced Jeter's ankle had broken. 'Broken what?' was the most common inquiry upon hearing the news.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
New Look Yankees: New Faces, Same Age
The Good
Watching the Yankees is so strange these days. I'm having a hard time looking at a lineup of Travis Hafner, Vernon Wells, and Kevin Youkilis, and feeling like I'm still watching the Yankees. But those three guys have been clutch, and have helped keep the Yankees offensive reputation alive while waiting for our injured players to return. This was certainly the case yesterday when Travis Hafner hit the go ahead pinch hit homerun in the 8th. Sabathia muscled out an 8 inning 3 run effort while Mariano clocked his 4th save of the season.
Also good, Brett Gardner hit a bases loaded single to drive in 2 runs. Situational hitting, hitting with RISP, hitting in the clutch, this doesn't look like the Yankees at all!
The Bad
Sabathia turned in a great performance, but his velocity has been down. When asked about his velocity, Sabathia explained why he believed it was low:
"You see I was driving down the highway, and I'm clocking like 94-95 miles per hour. Then this cop pulls me over, and says 'Do you know how fast you were going?' And I was like 'Yeah! I was clocking like 94-95, sometimes even as high as 96 and 97! And all of that with movement! Zipping between cars, using my e-brake to change speeds, I'd say I'm getting ahead early, and then giving it some gas to put the other drivers away.' Then the officer gave me a $400 ticket and told me that the next time I got caught going 95 miles per hour, he'd have my license. So since then I'm making sure I don't go over 90. It might be detrimental to my pitching career, but not having my license would be detrimental to my highway driving career, and we all know which one is more important."
The Ugly
What's up with Ichiro? After playing like 2010 Ichiro after being traded to the Yankees, he's back to playing like 2012 Pre-trade Ichiro this season. Pull it together man!
The Party Never Stops
At least not for the children, who have clocked an extra $2 off of Hafner's homerun last night. More power to the children.
Travis Hafner 4hr = $8
Vernon Wells 3hr = $6
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 4hr = $8
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 1hr = $2
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Total 19 hrs = $38
Watching the Yankees is so strange these days. I'm having a hard time looking at a lineup of Travis Hafner, Vernon Wells, and Kevin Youkilis, and feeling like I'm still watching the Yankees. But those three guys have been clutch, and have helped keep the Yankees offensive reputation alive while waiting for our injured players to return. This was certainly the case yesterday when Travis Hafner hit the go ahead pinch hit homerun in the 8th. Sabathia muscled out an 8 inning 3 run effort while Mariano clocked his 4th save of the season.
Also good, Brett Gardner hit a bases loaded single to drive in 2 runs. Situational hitting, hitting with RISP, hitting in the clutch, this doesn't look like the Yankees at all!
The Bad
Sabathia turned in a great performance, but his velocity has been down. When asked about his velocity, Sabathia explained why he believed it was low:
"You see I was driving down the highway, and I'm clocking like 94-95 miles per hour. Then this cop pulls me over, and says 'Do you know how fast you were going?' And I was like 'Yeah! I was clocking like 94-95, sometimes even as high as 96 and 97! And all of that with movement! Zipping between cars, using my e-brake to change speeds, I'd say I'm getting ahead early, and then giving it some gas to put the other drivers away.' Then the officer gave me a $400 ticket and told me that the next time I got caught going 95 miles per hour, he'd have my license. So since then I'm making sure I don't go over 90. It might be detrimental to my pitching career, but not having my license would be detrimental to my highway driving career, and we all know which one is more important."
The Ugly
What's up with Ichiro? After playing like 2010 Ichiro after being traded to the Yankees, he's back to playing like 2012 Pre-trade Ichiro this season. Pull it together man!
The Party Never Stops
At least not for the children, who have clocked an extra $2 off of Hafner's homerun last night. More power to the children.
Travis Hafner 4hr = $8
Vernon Wells 3hr = $6
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 4hr = $8
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 1hr = $2
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Total 19 hrs = $38
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Recapping the Weekend...We Haven't Forgotten
The Good
RJG is back! We apologize for our absence. It's just that sometimes we need extra time to contemplate before we come up with our award winning materials. Check out these Nobel worthy observations:
-Gardner crushed another homerun. PED's? One can only hope so.
-Sabathia pitched 8 innings with 1 earned run, striking out 9. Kuroda pitched 9 shutout innings. Could it be our pitching is stepping up? (See the Ugly)
-We beat the Diamondbacks, and Mariano got the save with Nova getting the win. This could be evidence that Nova really is a big league pitcher, assuming of course he pitches in the National League.
The Bad
Ben Francisco's .000 batting average stands out.
The Ugly
Phil Hughes' walk year continues on its poor start with a 3 inning 5 run effort. David Phelps stepped in with 4 scoreless innings, but it makes you wonder just how much more of Phil Hughes the Yankees can take.
Homeruns Give Meaning To Our Existence
And we thank the Yankees for them. Hafner, Wells, Cano and Gardner have all hit homeruns in the last 4 games that we are now recapping. Don't you feel like you just relived them?
Travis Hafner 3hr = $6
Vernon Wells 3hr = $6
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 4hr = $8
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 1hr = $2
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Total 18 hrs = $36
RJG is back! We apologize for our absence. It's just that sometimes we need extra time to contemplate before we come up with our award winning materials. Check out these Nobel worthy observations:
-Gardner crushed another homerun. PED's? One can only hope so.
-Sabathia pitched 8 innings with 1 earned run, striking out 9. Kuroda pitched 9 shutout innings. Could it be our pitching is stepping up? (See the Ugly)
-We beat the Diamondbacks, and Mariano got the save with Nova getting the win. This could be evidence that Nova really is a big league pitcher, assuming of course he pitches in the National League.
The Bad
Ben Francisco's .000 batting average stands out.
The Ugly
Phil Hughes' walk year continues on its poor start with a 3 inning 5 run effort. David Phelps stepped in with 4 scoreless innings, but it makes you wonder just how much more of Phil Hughes the Yankees can take.
Homeruns Give Meaning To Our Existence
And we thank the Yankees for them. Hafner, Wells, Cano and Gardner have all hit homeruns in the last 4 games that we are now recapping. Don't you feel like you just relived them?
Travis Hafner 3hr = $6
Vernon Wells 3hr = $6
Brett Gardner 2hr = $4
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 4hr = $8
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 1hr = $2
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Total 18 hrs = $36
Friday, April 12, 2013
Rain Saves Us All
The Yanks have had two consecutive games washed away by rain, and we're all the better for it. How many of us were really looking forward to watching either Nova or Hughes attempt to reinvent the strike zone only to find out that they don't have the authority to do that? So let's all be grateful for these April showers that bring our rotation back to its veteran anchors.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Is This What Hitting Looks Like?
The Good
The Yankees can hit. Who knew? 18 hits, and 14 runs were enough for the Yankees to grab a win yesterday. 5 different Yankees hit homeruns, and after a slow start this season, Gardner broke out of his shell a little, emerging as a glorious butterfly that could make solid contact and score some runs.
Pettitte picked up 7 innings and 1 run, in what can only be seen as a blatant attempt to pad his stats. Adam Warren picked up 2 scoreless innings of his own allowing a glimmer of hope for what has been an unproductive bullpen this season.
The Bad
Lost in all the big hits and homeruns yesterday was Francisco Cervelli's 2-4 night, and the fact that Cervelli has been one of our most solid hitters in this short season. Why is this bad? It's bad for the rest of the league! Cervelli's on a tear that will devastate pitchers ERA's everywhere! Bwhahahahahahahaha!!!!
The Ugly
Hafner went 0-4 yesterday. This may not sound so bad, but if we take that 0-4 night and project it out for the rest of the year, he would end the year with a .014 average, and that's just not good enough from our designated hitter.
And We Thought the Yankees Had Forgotten About the Children
But they haven't. Ichiro, Cano, Youkilis, Overbay and Boesch all hit homeruns to show just how much they care.
Travis Hafner 2hr = $4
Vernon Wells 2hr = $4
Brett Gardner 1hr = $2
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 3hr = $6
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 1hr = $2
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Total 14 hrs = $28
The Yankees can hit. Who knew? 18 hits, and 14 runs were enough for the Yankees to grab a win yesterday. 5 different Yankees hit homeruns, and after a slow start this season, Gardner broke out of his shell a little, emerging as a glorious butterfly that could make solid contact and score some runs.
Pettitte picked up 7 innings and 1 run, in what can only be seen as a blatant attempt to pad his stats. Adam Warren picked up 2 scoreless innings of his own allowing a glimmer of hope for what has been an unproductive bullpen this season.
The Bad
Lost in all the big hits and homeruns yesterday was Francisco Cervelli's 2-4 night, and the fact that Cervelli has been one of our most solid hitters in this short season. Why is this bad? It's bad for the rest of the league! Cervelli's on a tear that will devastate pitchers ERA's everywhere! Bwhahahahahahahaha!!!!
The Ugly
Hafner went 0-4 yesterday. This may not sound so bad, but if we take that 0-4 night and project it out for the rest of the year, he would end the year with a .014 average, and that's just not good enough from our designated hitter.
And We Thought the Yankees Had Forgotten About the Children
But they haven't. Ichiro, Cano, Youkilis, Overbay and Boesch all hit homeruns to show just how much they care.
Travis Hafner 2hr = $4
Vernon Wells 2hr = $4
Brett Gardner 1hr = $2
Kevin Youkilis 2hr = $4
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 3hr = $6
Ichiro Suzuki 1hr = $2
Lyle Overbay 1hr = $2
Brennan Boesch 1hr = $2
Total 14 hrs = $28
Monday, April 8, 2013
Yanks Take Opener in Cleveland
The Good
The Yankees offense has really come alive. Cano had two home runs. Hafner had one. Other players did stuff too. Kuroda, who lost his pitching hand in his first start a la Luke Skywalker, threw 5.1 scoreless frames except for the three runs the Indians scored. The Yankees are now largely favored to win the AL East.
The Bad
Eduardo Nunez, who lost his arm recently a la Anakin Skywalker, had no hits in this game. Why is he even on the roster?
The Ugly
Before the game, Nick Swisher walked over to Brett Gardner and asked him if he remembered a time last season when he brought a cupcake from home and it went missing. When Gardner informed Swisher that he did indeed remember, that he thought about it often, and that he's not known peace since it went missing, Swisher informed him that it was he, Nick Swisher, who took the cupcake. He hadn't even eaten it. He just threw it out. Gardner, completely psyched out, went on to go 1-5 in the lead-off spot.
Cash for Ads
The Yankees had three home runs in this game. I already explained who and how many in 'The Good' section, so don't expect me to repeat myself here.
Travis Hafner 2hr = $4
Vernon Wells 2hr = $4
Brett Gardner 1hr = $2
Kevin Youkilis 1hr = $2
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Robinson Cano 2hr = $4
Total 9 hrs = $18
A Weekend with the Tigers
The Good
Let's be honest. There is plenty we could complain about with the 2013 Yankees. They're old, they're aging, and they continue to sign the grandfathers of the players we would actually like to have on our team. But despite the slow start, and the various injuries there actually are some good signs.
The Yankee offense came alive on Sunday to top the Tigers 7-0 and avoid the sweep in Comerica. The offense over the weekend came mostly from our new players. Youkilis, Wells, Hafner, and Overbay have been our run producers, and are getting the hits we need. Add to that the contributions of Francisco Cervelli, who has been clutch thus far, and the efforts of country singer Jayson Nix, and we have some things to look forward to.
Also on the positive, Sabathia shut out the Tigers on Sunday.
The Bad
For every Sabathia, we have a Hughes. For every Pettitte we have a Nova. And for every Kuroda, we have a finger injury. Therein lies a large problem with this team.
The Ugly
Is it me, or is our bullpen really struggling this year? David Robertson hasn't given up a run, and Adam Warren threw an amazing game against the Red Sox as a long man, but beyond them, Yankee releivers have given up 16 runs in only 14.2 innings. This may have contributed to our 2-4 start.
What About the Children on the DL?
We care about them too. Which is why we are contributing $2 each for homeruns this weekend by Vernon Wells, and Jayson Nix. That's $4 for those counting at home.
Travis Hafner 1hr = $2
Vernon Wells 2hr = $4
Brett Gardner 1hr = $2
Kevin Youkilis 1hr = $2
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Total 6 hrs = $12
Let's be honest. There is plenty we could complain about with the 2013 Yankees. They're old, they're aging, and they continue to sign the grandfathers of the players we would actually like to have on our team. But despite the slow start, and the various injuries there actually are some good signs.
The Yankee offense came alive on Sunday to top the Tigers 7-0 and avoid the sweep in Comerica. The offense over the weekend came mostly from our new players. Youkilis, Wells, Hafner, and Overbay have been our run producers, and are getting the hits we need. Add to that the contributions of Francisco Cervelli, who has been clutch thus far, and the efforts of country singer Jayson Nix, and we have some things to look forward to.
Also on the positive, Sabathia shut out the Tigers on Sunday.
The Bad
For every Sabathia, we have a Hughes. For every Pettitte we have a Nova. And for every Kuroda, we have a finger injury. Therein lies a large problem with this team.
The Ugly
Is it me, or is our bullpen really struggling this year? David Robertson hasn't given up a run, and Adam Warren threw an amazing game against the Red Sox as a long man, but beyond them, Yankee releivers have given up 16 runs in only 14.2 innings. This may have contributed to our 2-4 start.
What About the Children on the DL?
We care about them too. Which is why we are contributing $2 each for homeruns this weekend by Vernon Wells, and Jayson Nix. That's $4 for those counting at home.
Travis Hafner 1hr = $2
Vernon Wells 2hr = $4
Brett Gardner 1hr = $2
Kevin Youkilis 1hr = $2
Jayson Nix 1hr = $2
Total 6 hrs = $12
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Yanks Drop Opener Against Detroit
The Good
Ivan Nova got his work in, throwing 96 pitches in this outing. He should be fully stretched out now, ready for the opener next week. It's next week right? This isn't how we're going to play regular season baseball, is it?
The Bad
There seems to be an error on the Yankees.com schedule page. It indicates that the regular season started April 1st, which can't possibly be the case. Can it?
The Ugly
Kevin Youkilis hit a home run. Kevin Youkilis?! I can't even hate Kevin Youkilis during this stretch?! #$&@ you New York Yankees!
A Glimpse of the Past
Remember when we used to win games and hit home runs and be the Bronx Bombers? That was nice. Every now and again we're reminded of those days, like when Kevin Youkilis hit a home run and gave us a lead for about 30 seconds.
Travis Hafner 1hr = $2
Vernon Wells 1hr = $2
Brett Gardner 1hr = $2
Kevin Youkilis 1hr = $2
Total 4 hrs = $8
Friday, April 5, 2013
The Stopper
The Good
Andy Pettitte once again played his role as the stopper, ending what can only be described as school yard bullying by the Red Sox in this series.
"Pettitte finds ways of motivating us." Explained Brett Gardner. "Yesterday, before my at bat, he pulled me aside, and said 'Hit a homerun'. I said, 'I don't hit homeruns, I'm fast!' But Andy in his calm, unassuming way, told me that if I don't hit a homerun, I wouldn't have legs to run on anymore. I listened."
Eduardo Nunez shared a similar experience.
"There was a ball hit at me, but it was high. I jumped, but I knew it was over my head. But in midjump, I saw Andy glaring at me. That glare extended my jump an extra 10 inches, which allowed me to make the catch. It was scary, but we won."
The Bad
Guys like Suzuki and Cano have experienced cold bat syndrome all series, while guys like Overbay and Cervelli have been driving in runs?
The Ugly
Gardner was thrown out at second twice in yesterdays game, the first time while trying to steal, and the second time while trying to extend a single into a double. I appreciate him being aggressive, but eventually that speed needs to produce results.
Failed on Speed, Succeeded on Power
Gardner's baserunning blunders aside, he did hit the Yankees only homerun of the game, providing $2 for the Children's Health Fund.
Travis Hafner 1hr = $2
Vernon Wells 1hr = $2
Brett Gardner 1hr = $2
Total 3 hrs = $6
Andy Pettitte once again played his role as the stopper, ending what can only be described as school yard bullying by the Red Sox in this series.
"Pettitte finds ways of motivating us." Explained Brett Gardner. "Yesterday, before my at bat, he pulled me aside, and said 'Hit a homerun'. I said, 'I don't hit homeruns, I'm fast!' But Andy in his calm, unassuming way, told me that if I don't hit a homerun, I wouldn't have legs to run on anymore. I listened."
Eduardo Nunez shared a similar experience.
"There was a ball hit at me, but it was high. I jumped, but I knew it was over my head. But in midjump, I saw Andy glaring at me. That glare extended my jump an extra 10 inches, which allowed me to make the catch. It was scary, but we won."
The Bad
Guys like Suzuki and Cano have experienced cold bat syndrome all series, while guys like Overbay and Cervelli have been driving in runs?
The Ugly
Gardner was thrown out at second twice in yesterdays game, the first time while trying to steal, and the second time while trying to extend a single into a double. I appreciate him being aggressive, but eventually that speed needs to produce results.
Failed on Speed, Succeeded on Power
Gardner's baserunning blunders aside, he did hit the Yankees only homerun of the game, providing $2 for the Children's Health Fund.
Travis Hafner 1hr = $2
Vernon Wells 1hr = $2
Brett Gardner 1hr = $2
Total 3 hrs = $6
Thursday, April 4, 2013
It's Not As Bad As It Looks
The Good
The one big good is that Adam Warren stepped up in relief and gave the Yankees 5.1 innings while allowing 1 run. Also, Hafner and Wells hit some homeruns, so at least the children won't have to suffer! That Shawn Kelley guy pitched another scoreless inning. That's 2 scoreless innings this year for him! Totally awesome!
The Bad
We're not hitting so great. Gardner, Ichiro and Cano, who are at the top of the lineup combined for 0 hits yesterday. The rest of the team did okay, but it's hard to get things going when your lead off guy goes 0-5, and your 3-guy goes 0-4.
The Ugly
Kuroda came out of the game in the 2nd inning after Shane Victorino hit a ball that struck him in his hand. Yankee pitching gave up 7 runs, and worse of all, did not provide an opportunity for Mariano Rivera to pitch in his final year before retiring. Should we panic? No, the truth is, we're going to win some games, we may even be competitive, but at the end of the day, the season is long, and so much can happen between now and the end. So let's just sit back, and wait for some of our injured players to come back, and remember that it is April baseball, and it's too cold for the AARP demographic of players that compose the Yankee lineup.
The Children Do Not Go Away Empty Handed
A 3-4 night from Wells resulted in a homerun, and Travis Hafner also contributed a homerun of his own. These 2 homeruns mean that $4 will go to the Children's Health Fund, and a child can now afford a travel size bottle of children's dymetapp.
Hafner 1hr = $2
Wells 1hr = $2
Total 2 hrs = $4
The one big good is that Adam Warren stepped up in relief and gave the Yankees 5.1 innings while allowing 1 run. Also, Hafner and Wells hit some homeruns, so at least the children won't have to suffer! That Shawn Kelley guy pitched another scoreless inning. That's 2 scoreless innings this year for him! Totally awesome!
The Bad
We're not hitting so great. Gardner, Ichiro and Cano, who are at the top of the lineup combined for 0 hits yesterday. The rest of the team did okay, but it's hard to get things going when your lead off guy goes 0-5, and your 3-guy goes 0-4.
The Ugly
Kuroda came out of the game in the 2nd inning after Shane Victorino hit a ball that struck him in his hand. Yankee pitching gave up 7 runs, and worse of all, did not provide an opportunity for Mariano Rivera to pitch in his final year before retiring. Should we panic? No, the truth is, we're going to win some games, we may even be competitive, but at the end of the day, the season is long, and so much can happen between now and the end. So let's just sit back, and wait for some of our injured players to come back, and remember that it is April baseball, and it's too cold for the AARP demographic of players that compose the Yankee lineup.
The Children Do Not Go Away Empty Handed
A 3-4 night from Wells resulted in a homerun, and Travis Hafner also contributed a homerun of his own. These 2 homeruns mean that $4 will go to the Children's Health Fund, and a child can now afford a travel size bottle of children's dymetapp.
Hafner 1hr = $2
Wells 1hr = $2
Total 2 hrs = $4
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Cano Fires Boras, Signs to the Roc
Looks like it's time to throw your diamonds up. No, Mr. Cano. Not your actual diamonds.
Robinson Cano has fired his not-so-long-time agent, Scott Boras, in order to sign with Jay-Z's new sports management company. I don't really know what to make of this, though some seem to think this means Cano will sign an extension with the Yanks rather than become a free agent and extort the Yanks only to sign with the Dodgers. Draft Dodgers the way they're going after free agents rather than player development if you ask me.
How can a Yankee's fan criticize the Dodgers for lavish spending? Start a blog, that's how. It's called the marketplace of shudupyafacewhydon'ya!
Back to Cano. I don't see how Jay-Z's first move in sports management would be to convince a high profile client to give a second discount to his current team. I'm no business genius, but would you sign to that sports management company? Exactly. Besides, Cano issued the following statement after signing to his new agency:
"You should know I bleed blue, but I ain't a Crip though."
Everyone knows how loyal to their home turf Crips are, so there's no guarantee Cano will re-sign with the Yanks just because Jay-Z slapped his Roc label on some already existing sports management company. In fact, it kind of just sounds like something some White guy came up with because he thought he could more easily sign young Black athletes if they thought they're going to work with Jay-Z. Ask Beanie Siegel and Memphis Bleek how that worked out for them. Oh that's right, Beanie's in Jail and no one's heard from Bleek in ages.
But maybe I shouldn't be so cynical. Maybe. But I'm going to go ahead and be cynical instead.
Monday, April 1, 2013
Portents of a Long Season?
The Good
There were some good signs in today's game. For example, that Shawn Kelley guy pitched a perfect inning, and Francisco Cervelli drove in the only 2 Yankee runs of the game. Beyond that, I heard rumors that spring is around the corner.
The Bad
I'm not saying that 8 hits, 4 walks, and 4 runs over 5 innings is something to be worried about out of Sabathia, but it certainly isn't a great way to start the inning. It was a positive sign that he struck out 5 guys.
The Ugly
Was it me or did this offense look an awful lot like last years offense? The only thing missing was the key ingredient to our success last year: homeruns. We got a lot of runners on today, but only got 2 home. Once again, our hitters looked helpless with runners in scoring position, resulting in 10 baserunners struggling to get around the bases. 3 strikeouts out of our number 2 spot in Nunez didn't help this equation. Neither did the fact that we had one extra base hit all day (a double from Youkilis).
It's just one game, so the good thing is, this could just be a localized event. Or it could be the portents of a long season.
RJG Is Always for the Children
Per usual the RJG blog has committed to providing $2 for every homerun hit to the Children's Health Fund as part of their Homerun Club. We would have loved to give some money to the children today, but the Yankees would have no part of it. 0 homeruns = $0.
There were some good signs in today's game. For example, that Shawn Kelley guy pitched a perfect inning, and Francisco Cervelli drove in the only 2 Yankee runs of the game. Beyond that, I heard rumors that spring is around the corner.
The Bad
I'm not saying that 8 hits, 4 walks, and 4 runs over 5 innings is something to be worried about out of Sabathia, but it certainly isn't a great way to start the inning. It was a positive sign that he struck out 5 guys.
The Ugly
Was it me or did this offense look an awful lot like last years offense? The only thing missing was the key ingredient to our success last year: homeruns. We got a lot of runners on today, but only got 2 home. Once again, our hitters looked helpless with runners in scoring position, resulting in 10 baserunners struggling to get around the bases. 3 strikeouts out of our number 2 spot in Nunez didn't help this equation. Neither did the fact that we had one extra base hit all day (a double from Youkilis).
It's just one game, so the good thing is, this could just be a localized event. Or it could be the portents of a long season.
RJG Is Always for the Children
Per usual the RJG blog has committed to providing $2 for every homerun hit to the Children's Health Fund as part of their Homerun Club. We would have loved to give some money to the children today, but the Yankees would have no part of it. 0 homeruns = $0.
Opening Day
Today is opening day at Yankee stadium against the Boston Red Sox. It's exciting to finally have the season underway, and even though the Yankees have a lot of question marks right now, I'm just glad that baseball is here. This is the lineup the Yankees will be running out today:
Brett Gardner CF
Eduardo Nunez SS
Robinson Cano 2B
Kevin Youkilis 1B
Vernon Wells LF
Ben Francisco DH
Ichiro Suzuki RF
Jayson Nix 3B
Francisco Cervelli C
The lineup doesn't inspire much confidence, but it really should. Like did you know that Ben Francisco is an anagram for Mickey Mantle? Or that Eduardo Nunez is Spanish for Lou Gehrig? You see at first glance, this team may not look so good, but if you look a little deeper, you'll see that this team is ready to explode offensively.
Brett Gardner CF
Eduardo Nunez SS
Robinson Cano 2B
Kevin Youkilis 1B
Vernon Wells LF
Ben Francisco DH
Ichiro Suzuki RF
Jayson Nix 3B
Francisco Cervelli C
The lineup doesn't inspire much confidence, but it really should. Like did you know that Ben Francisco is an anagram for Mickey Mantle? Or that Eduardo Nunez is Spanish for Lou Gehrig? You see at first glance, this team may not look so good, but if you look a little deeper, you'll see that this team is ready to explode offensively.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
