This feature interview will remain at the top of the page for the remainder of the week. Scroll down below to read our new posts, and fill up on all that gangster goodness!
A few weeks back I received an email from someone purported to be Marty Appel, famed author, and former Yankees PR man. Needless to say, I wasn't convinced. However, after a few email exchanges not only did it become clear that it was Marty Appel, but he also agreed to do an interview with our blog. Marty Appel is well known for his baseball related books which include the critically acclaimed "Slide, Kelly, Slide" and "Now Pitching for the Yankees". He is now working on promoting a Yankee Stadium card set from Upper Deck and is working on a new book about Thurmon Munson.
1. You have a website, appelpr.com. Tell us a little about your public relations company and what kind of work you're doing for your clients.
While we mostly deal with sports related clients, and most of them come from knowing of my years with the Yankees or knowing me personally, we also handle health and medicine, consumer, education and literary PR. We do a lot of work with sports books and have come to hold a good reputation in that field.
2. You were with the Yankees for a long time. What was the most difficult situation you ever had to deal with while working in their PR Department?
Most difficult situation was back in 1973 when two of our players, Fritz Peterson and Mike Kekich "swapped wives" - in fact, children, pets, cars, homes - everything. I was in my mid-20s, it wasn't something I was well prepared to handle. But the media was far less intense [back] then than it would be today. We got through it.
3. How would you have spun the Mitchell Report and the numerous Yankee players implicated in that report?
I had issues with the Mitchell Report. I think it showed a lack of investigation on the part of his own team. The only players identified were those handed to him from other investigations. I believe there is a strong Latin American connection escaped detection. And we all know of likely players who went unnamed. My real problem was that I don't feel the 90 or so players named were made to fully understand that there names WOULD be in the report - for sure - and that they should have an opportunity to respond. None did because it wasn't clear.
4. What was the worst part of being a PR guy for a professional baseball team? The best part?
Worst part is the grueling schedule - basically, you are working with no days off from mid-February to the end of the season, all those night games, all that travel. It beats you down. But the best thing is the friendships, the feeling of being part of the team, and of course, being around the game we love.
5. Are there any players or members of the organization who made your job as a PR man more difficult and why? Much easier?
My pal Thurman Munson could make the job tough, but you had to laugh about it. He was a grump. If you asked him to pose for pictures with some kids, or sponsors, he'd tell you to take a hike, he didn't do things like that. After he became captain, he took on greater responsibility. He'd say, 'what time do you need me?' But then he'd never show up. I liked him more the first way.
6. If you were, hypothetically speaking, hired as a consultant by a Yankees themed blog that wanted to get its name out there, by which I mean make its proprietors filthy rich, what advice would you give?
I think BLOGs are approaching greater acceptance and legitimacy and will one day - selectively - be credentialed by teams and by MLB. Of course, that may compromise their independence in reader's eyes. A balance will emerge. A publicist can help one emerge from the pack as the place to go for inside team news and opinion. It's not far away.
7. You were with the Yankees during George Steinbrenner's more active years, can you tell us a little bit about how that affected your job? Are there any particular stories or instances you would like to share?
The most asked question I used to get was "what is it like working for George Steinbrenner?" Then the Seinfeld show came along and made the answer easier. That was pretty close. I can tell you this - it was always exciting. You'd arrive in the morning not knowing what the day would bring.....but you knew you'd be on the back page of the Post and the Daily News the next morning. How many publicists have that luxury on behalf of their employers?
8. Say you were still working in the Yankees PR Department, and you were given the task to make Yankee fans love and adore Carl Pavano. How would you go about making that happen?
I'd tell Carl to go out and win six straight. The fans fall in love with success. Quickly. Remember, poor Carl IS injured. It's not like he's voluntarily taking a year or three off!
9. Another hypothetical situation: Imagine George Steinbrenner called you into his office and told you that he wanted to run a smear campaign against the Red Sox, and he wants it to be personal. He even gives you an unlimited budget. Where would you take it from there?
Hard to imagine taking a smear campaign against the Red Sox to another level. The natural way it has rolled out since the mid '70s without PR assistance has been a thing of beauty. When it's forced - like Yankees Universe vs. Red Sox Nation - it's not as effective. I actually admire the way the Red Sox have marketed themselves to all of New England, used "evil Empire" and stayed underdogs even while winning twice since '04. Love this rivalry.
10. When you started with the Yankees you were answering Mickey Mantle's fan mail. What was it like working with the Mick? Were there any interactions you had with him that you'd like to share?
Mick was terrific, whether you were Roger Maris or the fan mail kid. He used to give me his gift certificates from pre-game radio interviews; he'd even bring them home from road trips for me. You know how he wanted to be a "great teammate?" he was also a great friend. I can't believe he's not here anymore.
11. You've written several books now, and have a new one on the way about Thurmon Munson. What made you want to write about Munson?
Munson didn't talk to the media, so I was sort of the only one in the 'communications world,' apart from our announcers, that he'd talk to. He was a really interesting guy, but he held so much back when we did his autobiography in the '70s. The new biography, which will be published next spring, has it all. And I think fans will fall in love with him all over again, flaws and all.
12. Tell us a little about these cards you're promoting. How did you get involved in this promotion?
Upper Deck asked me to help with PR on this product because of my strong Yankee connections. So many people have been asking for interviews about the final year of Yankee Stadium, and this has become something else to talk about. An amazing research project, with information not available anywhere else. Of course, it's quite a challenge to collect.
13. According to your email there are 6661 cards in the set. Why such an unholy number?
6,661 represents a card for every home game played by the Yankees since 1923 (except for the years at Shea), plus some extra for boxing, football and Papal visits.
14. When you were looking to promote the card set, I'm sure you came across many Yankee fan sites. How many times a day do you frequent the Respect Jeter's Gangster website and why is it your favorite blog?
I dont' really have a favorite BLOG yet but in researching the ones I wanted to learn more about, I found them fun and informative and filled with good fan feedback. Once a year when I was PR director I would spend a game in the stands, walk around, overhear fan conversations, get a better feel of what was being said. Those were early "verbal" BLOGs I guess. this is another step, and it's good use of the Internet.
15. And lastly, what do you respect most about Jeter's gangster?
Anything Jeter gets my attention. He's an immortal Yankee, a great role model, and a future Hall of Famer. The team is blessed that someone like him seems to come along each generation, as Mick was there for mine; Mattingly for my son's.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Chamberlain Pitches Six Strong
The Good
Chamberlain pitched 6 innings giving up only 1 run. That makes for the first quality start of his career. As someone who has been for the plan to stretch out Joba in the majors all along, it's rewarding to see the plan pay off. Also good news, my brother is back from his trip to Nigeria where he was investigating possible trade pacts between the Nigerian government and RJG. He'll be doing most of the writing from now on, and I can get back to my life of sitting around annoyed at the Yankees because they didn't score enough runs.
The Bad
We scored a total of two runs, with 17 men left on base. Against the Astros. Who suck something tremendous. We won the game on a Derek Jeter home run. Let me repeat that, a Derek Jeter home run. We all love the cap here, and we respect his gangster of course, but the Yanks can't sit around waiting for Derek Jeter to blast home runs in order to take leads. Unacceptable. That brochure is in the mail.
The Ugly
I suppose that attempt at a pitch out where Joba threw wide and the ball rolled to the back stop was kind of ugly, though Posada addressed the issue by throwing the runner out at third as he tried to steal that base as well. Also ugly, the fact that we're playing Houston at all. I'm not wholly against inter-league play, but Houston? Really? Are people sitting around bars going, "if only the Yankees would play the Stros, that would mean something!" Come on now, this is so stupid.
The Karma
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. DJ (as we who know him personally call him) hit one out to send the Yankees ahead, a lead they would not relinquish. That's gangster!
Melky Cabrera 7hr = $7.00
Alex Rodriguez 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 7 hr = $7.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 15hr = $15.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $69.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Chamberlain pitched 6 innings giving up only 1 run. That makes for the first quality start of his career. As someone who has been for the plan to stretch out Joba in the majors all along, it's rewarding to see the plan pay off. Also good news, my brother is back from his trip to Nigeria where he was investigating possible trade pacts between the Nigerian government and RJG. He'll be doing most of the writing from now on, and I can get back to my life of sitting around annoyed at the Yankees because they didn't score enough runs.
The Bad
We scored a total of two runs, with 17 men left on base. Against the Astros. Who suck something tremendous. We won the game on a Derek Jeter home run. Let me repeat that, a Derek Jeter home run. We all love the cap here, and we respect his gangster of course, but the Yanks can't sit around waiting for Derek Jeter to blast home runs in order to take leads. Unacceptable. That brochure is in the mail.
The Ugly
I suppose that attempt at a pitch out where Joba threw wide and the ball rolled to the back stop was kind of ugly, though Posada addressed the issue by throwing the runner out at third as he tried to steal that base as well. Also ugly, the fact that we're playing Houston at all. I'm not wholly against inter-league play, but Houston? Really? Are people sitting around bars going, "if only the Yankees would play the Stros, that would mean something!" Come on now, this is so stupid.
The Karma
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. DJ (as we who know him personally call him) hit one out to send the Yankees ahead, a lead they would not relinquish. That's gangster!
Melky Cabrera 7hr = $7.00
Alex Rodriguez 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 7 hr = $7.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 15hr = $15.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 4hr = $4.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $69.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Pettitte Back to Normal
The Good
Pettitte pitched 8 innings and gave up only one run. A strategy almost as effective as giving up ten. At least he got the victory this time. Matsui also hit a grand slam, finally showing some of that power we've been expecting since he came over from Japan where he used to hit a million home runs a year or something.
The Bad
We left 10 runners on base, so really the score should've been 14-1 Yanks. The RBI drought is unacceptable, and if the Yankees don't start playing better I'm going to return my season ticket brochure, which isn't quite as much of a statement as returning actual season tickets, but I don't have any of those.
The Ugly
A clearly over the hill Mariano Rivera gave up a walk today. With a bloated ERA of 0.87, all those years of 0.00 ERAs are behind him. Mariano routinely requires more than three pitches to close out the ninth inning, a bad portent for this Yankee hero. It's strange when our heroes become human. I don't know about you, but I can't stop crying.
The Reason Everyone Loves Our Blog the Most
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Matsui hit a grand slam in the sixth today, accounting for all the Yankee runs. If you ask me, that's selfish.
Melky Cabrera 7hr = $7.00
Alex Rodriguez 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 7 hr = $7.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 15hr = $15.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $68.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Pettitte pitched 8 innings and gave up only one run. A strategy almost as effective as giving up ten. At least he got the victory this time. Matsui also hit a grand slam, finally showing some of that power we've been expecting since he came over from Japan where he used to hit a million home runs a year or something.
The Bad
We left 10 runners on base, so really the score should've been 14-1 Yanks. The RBI drought is unacceptable, and if the Yankees don't start playing better I'm going to return my season ticket brochure, which isn't quite as much of a statement as returning actual season tickets, but I don't have any of those.
The Ugly
A clearly over the hill Mariano Rivera gave up a walk today. With a bloated ERA of 0.87, all those years of 0.00 ERAs are behind him. Mariano routinely requires more than three pitches to close out the ninth inning, a bad portent for this Yankee hero. It's strange when our heroes become human. I don't know about you, but I can't stop crying.
The Reason Everyone Loves Our Blog the Most
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Matsui hit a grand slam in the sixth today, accounting for all the Yankee runs. If you ask me, that's selfish.
Melky Cabrera 7hr = $7.00
Alex Rodriguez 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 7 hr = $7.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 15hr = $15.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $68.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Darrell Rasner Is Keen Observer
The Good
Last time out Rasner pitched 8 innings, giving up 2 runs, and the Yankees lost. The next day Andy Pettitte pitched 7.2 innings, gave up 10 runs and the Yankees won. Rasner, being a keen observer and a true student of the game, noticed the pattern and decided to give up a lot of runs this time out in order to secure the win. We can at least say that Rasner is learning from the veteran pitchers.
The Bad
What Rasner didn't pick up on is that if you're going to give up 10 runs and win you have to pace yourself. Andy gave up 5 of his 10 in the eighth, Rasner gave up 7 in 3.2 innings. That's too hasty young man, you must pace yourself.
The Ugly
Your whole face is ugly. Oooooooooooooh SNAP! Take that loyal readers! All three of you.
The Reason We Can Sleep at Night
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. You're probably too hurt to read this but Giambi hit another home run.
Melky Cabrera 7hr = $7.00
Alex Rodriguez 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 15hr = $15.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $67.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Last time out Rasner pitched 8 innings, giving up 2 runs, and the Yankees lost. The next day Andy Pettitte pitched 7.2 innings, gave up 10 runs and the Yankees won. Rasner, being a keen observer and a true student of the game, noticed the pattern and decided to give up a lot of runs this time out in order to secure the win. We can at least say that Rasner is learning from the veteran pitchers.
The Bad
What Rasner didn't pick up on is that if you're going to give up 10 runs and win you have to pace yourself. Andy gave up 5 of his 10 in the eighth, Rasner gave up 7 in 3.2 innings. That's too hasty young man, you must pace yourself.
The Ugly
Your whole face is ugly. Oooooooooooooh SNAP! Take that loyal readers! All three of you.
The Reason We Can Sleep at Night
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. You're probably too hurt to read this but Giambi hit another home run.
Melky Cabrera 7hr = $7.00
Alex Rodriguez 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 15hr = $15.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $67.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Wang Gets Back To Old Form
The Good
Wang went 7.1 innings, only giving up one run. After four rough outings in a row Wang got back to his winning ways. If Wang starts pitching well consistently again it will play a big role in whether the Yanks get above .500. Hard to do when you only have two out of five pitchers going well (Moose and Rasner). Also good, during the sixth inning Edwar Ramirez asked Jose Veras for a piece of his chewing gum, which Veras quickly gave to him because the Yankees all understand that sharing means caring.
The Bad
Even after his sixth inning act of philanthropy, Veras walked two batters in the eighth. Knowing that his pitcher didn't have his best stuff, Posada used distractionary tactics to get the two out the team needed. He asked one hitter why there was so much evil in the world if God is truly loving. Obviously distracted by the implications of this theodical inquiry the hitter popped up.
The Ugly
Back in Florida Yankees pitcher (at least according to his contract) Carl Pava"No I won't pitch" received a mailing indicating he may have already won $100 Million. That would bring the money I earned sitting on my arse total to $142 Million.
Respect Jeter's Gangster Is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Melky took another step on the path to breaking the Derek Jeter single season home run record, the only home run record in baseball without any asterisks. He now has 7 and leads all Dominicans under 25 playing for the NY Yankees in that category.
Melky Cabrera 7hr = $7.00
Alex Rodriguez 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $66.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Wang went 7.1 innings, only giving up one run. After four rough outings in a row Wang got back to his winning ways. If Wang starts pitching well consistently again it will play a big role in whether the Yanks get above .500. Hard to do when you only have two out of five pitchers going well (Moose and Rasner). Also good, during the sixth inning Edwar Ramirez asked Jose Veras for a piece of his chewing gum, which Veras quickly gave to him because the Yankees all understand that sharing means caring.
The Bad
Even after his sixth inning act of philanthropy, Veras walked two batters in the eighth. Knowing that his pitcher didn't have his best stuff, Posada used distractionary tactics to get the two out the team needed. He asked one hitter why there was so much evil in the world if God is truly loving. Obviously distracted by the implications of this theodical inquiry the hitter popped up.
The Ugly
Back in Florida Yankees pitcher (at least according to his contract) Carl Pava"No I won't pitch" received a mailing indicating he may have already won $100 Million. That would bring the money I earned sitting on my arse total to $142 Million.
Respect Jeter's Gangster Is for the Children
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Melky took another step on the path to breaking the Derek Jeter single season home run record, the only home run record in baseball without any asterisks. He now has 7 and leads all Dominicans under 25 playing for the NY Yankees in that category.
Melky Cabrera 7hr = $7.00
Alex Rodriguez 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $66.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Griffey Hits Number 600
Ken Griffey Jr. hit his 600th home run yesterday. You can't help but think that if Griffey hadn't lost so many seasons to injuries that we'd be celebrating his 700th around now and Bonds' pursuit of the all-time record would've been blase since we'd all be going, so what Griffey's going to smash that record. A-Rod still has a great chance to take the all-time record, assuming he stays healthy and that he doesn't succumb to all the pressure around him to become a singles hitter. But congrats to Ken Griffey Jr., an incredibly classy guy and perhaps one of the sweetest swings we will ever see.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Joe Girardi Is on Crack
The Good
Mussina pitched 8 innings of 2 run ball and A-Rod hit a homerun. Moose should be the first pitcher to 10 wins in the AL, instead The Bad and The Ugly.
The Bad
Mariano gave up another solo homerun. If he keeps this up his new nickname is going to be Kyle Farnsworth.
The Ugly
First off, let's keep in mind that we're playing Kansas City here. This is the second time in four games that the Royals have held us to two runs or less. We hit one day, not the next. That's why we're no better than .500 right now. Moose threw 89 pitches through 8 innings. Why not let him pitch the ninth? It was his game to lose and instead we use Mo in a non-save situation for no reason and he ends up blowing the game for Mussina. I love Mo, but Moose could've at least gone out there on a short leash and see if he could finish nine, throw about 105, and then maybe we score a run. That's on Girardi if you ask me. People used to complain that Torre put too much faith in the veterans and didn't manage the bullpen well. From what we've seen this season it doesn't look like Girardi is much different, despite having read all the scouting reports and working out everyday.
The Philanthropy
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. A-Rod went yard today, hooray.
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $65.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Mussina pitched 8 innings of 2 run ball and A-Rod hit a homerun. Moose should be the first pitcher to 10 wins in the AL, instead The Bad and The Ugly.
The Bad
Mariano gave up another solo homerun. If he keeps this up his new nickname is going to be Kyle Farnsworth.
The Ugly
First off, let's keep in mind that we're playing Kansas City here. This is the second time in four games that the Royals have held us to two runs or less. We hit one day, not the next. That's why we're no better than .500 right now. Moose threw 89 pitches through 8 innings. Why not let him pitch the ninth? It was his game to lose and instead we use Mo in a non-save situation for no reason and he ends up blowing the game for Mussina. I love Mo, but Moose could've at least gone out there on a short leash and see if he could finish nine, throw about 105, and then maybe we score a run. That's on Girardi if you ask me. People used to complain that Torre put too much faith in the veterans and didn't manage the bullpen well. From what we've seen this season it doesn't look like Girardi is much different, despite having read all the scouting reports and working out everyday.
The Philanthropy
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. A-Rod went yard today, hooray.
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 10hr = $10.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $65.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
The Yanks Are Mediocre, Get Used To It
Deron was a shortstop in the Yankees minor league system back in 1995 when a PED scandal ended his career. He brings an insider’s perspective to our blog.
So I haven't posted in a while, mainly because this blog is so stupid. But now that Fernando's been deposed and exiled to Nigeria, I thought I'd chime in and get a few things off my chest.
First of all, Kennedy and Hughes have been great AAAA pitchers, which is to say, they suck. Here were the two kids who were going to make the yanks a powerhouse for years to come and they're both "injured." Isn't it interesting how they both got "injured" once it became clear they were at best mediocre 5 inning pitchers. That's right, your two young studs and Jaret Wright A and B. Don't worry, they'll join Jaret in Pittsburgh sooner or later.
Based on his sleepy performance as manager thus far, I'd have to say that when he's not working out, Joe Girardi is drinking his favorite sports drink: beer. Take it from someone who drinks guinness as a meal replacement supplement three times a day, your manager is drinking, a lot. "Sure Andy, you've given up 6 runs, but by all means pitch to the Royals clean up hitter with the bases loaded." Good call Joe, good call. Maybe for an encore you can have Mussina pitch to Manny Ramirez with the bases loaded.
Meanwhile professional man-whore, I mean captain of the Yankees, Derek Jeter continues to be a subpar shortstop. The Yanks could have had me, and they would've won every year from 96 onwards, but they went with sir-sucks-a-lot and they only got 4 rings in five years. Considering most of the player development people get their baseball knowledge from old 16 bit nintendo games, it's not a surprise. Do you really think Kei Igawa was an irregularity. Just look at how their future aces (see second paragraph above) have pitched thus far. Monkeys, even cognitively slow ones, could pick talent better than these guys.
That's it for now. I'll see you guys when I come out of my black out.
So I haven't posted in a while, mainly because this blog is so stupid. But now that Fernando's been deposed and exiled to Nigeria, I thought I'd chime in and get a few things off my chest.
First of all, Kennedy and Hughes have been great AAAA pitchers, which is to say, they suck. Here were the two kids who were going to make the yanks a powerhouse for years to come and they're both "injured." Isn't it interesting how they both got "injured" once it became clear they were at best mediocre 5 inning pitchers. That's right, your two young studs and Jaret Wright A and B. Don't worry, they'll join Jaret in Pittsburgh sooner or later.
Based on his sleepy performance as manager thus far, I'd have to say that when he's not working out, Joe Girardi is drinking his favorite sports drink: beer. Take it from someone who drinks guinness as a meal replacement supplement three times a day, your manager is drinking, a lot. "Sure Andy, you've given up 6 runs, but by all means pitch to the Royals clean up hitter with the bases loaded." Good call Joe, good call. Maybe for an encore you can have Mussina pitch to Manny Ramirez with the bases loaded.
Meanwhile professional man-whore, I mean captain of the Yankees, Derek Jeter continues to be a subpar shortstop. The Yanks could have had me, and they would've won every year from 96 onwards, but they went with sir-sucks-a-lot and they only got 4 rings in five years. Considering most of the player development people get their baseball knowledge from old 16 bit nintendo games, it's not a surprise. Do you really think Kei Igawa was an irregularity. Just look at how their future aces (see second paragraph above) have pitched thus far. Monkeys, even cognitively slow ones, could pick talent better than these guys.
That's it for now. I'll see you guys when I come out of my black out.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Round 2 much better for Joba
The Good
With a cap of 75-80 pitches Joba managed to go 4.1 innings, giving up 3 runs. Not a dominant start but it was definitely an improvement and shows his potential. Giese, Veras and Mariano combined for 4.2 innings of scoreless relief and the Yanks tacked 6 runs on the board. Rivera only needed 7 pitches to get through the ninth, 6 of which were thrown for strikes.
The Bad
Johnny Damon was a measly 2 for 5 today. What the hell?
The Ugly
The Kansas City pitching staff walked Matsui, A-Rod, and Posada twice each on account of their cowardice. For shame!
The Warm Fuzzy Feeling
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Two more homeruns today from Abreu and Giambi.
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 9hr = $9.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $64.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
With a cap of 75-80 pitches Joba managed to go 4.1 innings, giving up 3 runs. Not a dominant start but it was definitely an improvement and shows his potential. Giese, Veras and Mariano combined for 4.2 innings of scoreless relief and the Yanks tacked 6 runs on the board. Rivera only needed 7 pitches to get through the ninth, 6 of which were thrown for strikes.
The Bad
Johnny Damon was a measly 2 for 5 today. What the hell?
The Ugly
The Kansas City pitching staff walked Matsui, A-Rod, and Posada twice each on account of their cowardice. For shame!
The Warm Fuzzy Feeling
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. Two more homeruns today from Abreu and Giambi.
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 9hr = $9.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 8hr = $8.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 14hr = $14.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $64.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Yanks Prove They Hate Rasner
The Good
The Yankees' offense came alive today and bailed Andy Pettitte out of his horrible performance. Damon was 6 for 6 with 4 RBI and the Yanks had 19 hits and scored 12 runs. Posada, in his second game back had 2 RBI including a game tying homerun in the ninth. Quite an impressive offensive performance on an oppressively hot day here in New York City.
The Bad
6.2 innings, 8 ER. Enough Said.
The Ugly
So let me get this straight, Rasner goes 8 innings 2 runs and we lose, Pettitte goes 6.2 innings and 10 runs and we win? That is absolutely insane. Considering the pitching performance nobody would've been surprised if we lost this game, sometimes a pitcher just doesn't get the job done. But if you get 8 innings and 2 runs out of your starter you should win and the contrast between these last two games is pretty ugly. Also ugly was the decision to leave Pettitte in during the seventh after he gave up the tying run. That's on Girardi.
The Court Imposed Community Service
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. A number of big homeruns today. Giambi hit one out in the fifth to put the team ahead by one. A-Rod had a 2 run shot in the 7th to put us within 2 after Pettitte had allowed 5 runs in the top of the inning. Posada then made up for Mariano's homerun by tying the game in the ninth with a homerun.
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 9hr = $9.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 7hr = $7.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $62.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
The Yankees' offense came alive today and bailed Andy Pettitte out of his horrible performance. Damon was 6 for 6 with 4 RBI and the Yanks had 19 hits and scored 12 runs. Posada, in his second game back had 2 RBI including a game tying homerun in the ninth. Quite an impressive offensive performance on an oppressively hot day here in New York City.
The Bad
6.2 innings, 8 ER. Enough Said.
The Ugly
So let me get this straight, Rasner goes 8 innings 2 runs and we lose, Pettitte goes 6.2 innings and 10 runs and we win? That is absolutely insane. Considering the pitching performance nobody would've been surprised if we lost this game, sometimes a pitcher just doesn't get the job done. But if you get 8 innings and 2 runs out of your starter you should win and the contrast between these last two games is pretty ugly. Also ugly was the decision to leave Pettitte in during the seventh after he gave up the tying run. That's on Girardi.
The Court Imposed Community Service
The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's homerun club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the homeruns hit and the money donated throughout the season. A number of big homeruns today. Giambi hit one out in the fifth to put the team ahead by one. A-Rod had a 2 run shot in the 7th to put us within 2 after Pettitte had allowed 5 runs in the top of the inning. Posada then made up for Mariano's homerun by tying the game in the ninth with a homerun.
Melky Cabrera 6hr = $6.00
Alex Rodriguez 9hr = $9.00
Hideki Matsui 6 hr = $6.00
Bobby Abreu 7hr = $7.00
Jorge Posada 2hr = $2.00
Jason Giambi 13hr = $13.00
Johnny Damon 6hr = $6.00
Morgan Ensberg 1hr = $1.00
Robinson Cano 4hr = $4.00
Chad Moeller 1hr = $1.00
Wilson Betemit 3hr = $3.00
Derek Jeter 3hr = $3.00
Shelley Duncan 1hr = $1.00
Total = $62.00
If you are interested in Johnny Damon's Homerun Club or the Children's Health Fund you can find links to both at the top right hand corner of our page.
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