Soooooo ...
The Yankees acquired Javier Vasquez.
Shall we walk again the long and winding road that lead, at one point, to Vasquez coming to the Yankees from the Expos for a pile of players — including Nick Johnson — and then being sent to Arizona for a pile of players and cash for Big Headache Randy Johnson?
Let's not.
Acquiring Vasquez is a good thing. He's seasoned enough now to withstand the rigors of a season in New York. He'll be effective lower in the rotation and benefit from the Yankees powerful offense.
But sending Cabrera away presents several problems:
If creates a hole that wasn't there. The Yankees have sent away their best arm and most versatile outfielder, a switch-hitter to boot. Now they need a leftfielder, who may or may not be Mark DeRosa, a veteran who's a fine, but more expensive option. Not that THAT matters.
More importantly, the Yankees traded Robinson Cano's best friend on the team. Cano is immensely talented, but emotional and sometimes absent-minded. He got himself straight this year after a down season in 2008. One hopes Cabrera's absence doesn't affect Cano's attitude, and thus, his play.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
Hey Curtis, nice suit
Nothing is more awkward and uninspiring than the press conference welcoming a new player, no matter who the player is.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
KAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATE!!!!!!
COOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMME BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACK!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Hot stove
Happily, Yankee-killer Roy Halladay appears on his way to the National League. Good, the Yankees won't have to worry about facing him until the World Series, and with Cliff Lee's exodus from Philly, advantage still Yankees — in my totally non-biased opinion.
Closer to home, John Lackey looks set to join the Red Sox, at a slightly higher salary than AJ Burnett.
Here's a quick breakdown of Lackey's seven-year career versus Burnett's 10-year career. Although Burnett made only 20 starts in 1999 and 2000 and 2003 was lost almost completely to injury, so each has pretty much pitched seven full seasons in the majors.
Lackey
233 starts
Record: 102-71
ERA 3.81
Innings: 1,501+
Ks: 1,201
Burnett
244 starts (24 starts in 1999 as a rookie, 2000, 2003)
Record: 100-85
ERA: 3.84
Ks: 1,473
Lackey somehow has the reputation of a consistent mound presence, while Burnett has the reputation of being unhittable one day and unimaginably bad the next. But the stats show they're almost the same guy.
The Yanks also let Chien-Ming Wang go. I would be shocked if the Sox didn't take a chance on him.
Closer to home, John Lackey looks set to join the Red Sox, at a slightly higher salary than AJ Burnett.
Here's a quick breakdown of Lackey's seven-year career versus Burnett's 10-year career. Although Burnett made only 20 starts in 1999 and 2000 and 2003 was lost almost completely to injury, so each has pretty much pitched seven full seasons in the majors.
Lackey
233 starts
Record: 102-71
ERA 3.81
Innings: 1,501+
Ks: 1,201
Burnett
244 starts (24 starts in 1999 as a rookie, 2000, 2003)
Record: 100-85
ERA: 3.84
Ks: 1,473
Lackey somehow has the reputation of a consistent mound presence, while Burnett has the reputation of being unhittable one day and unimaginably bad the next. But the stats show they're almost the same guy.
The Yanks also let Chien-Ming Wang go. I would be shocked if the Sox didn't take a chance on him.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Welcome Curtis
The rich get richier.
So, with Granderson coming, what does this mean for the Yankees? Well, we can speculate:
Assuming they bring Pettite back, and Wanger figures out how to pitch again, that's CC, AJ, Pettite and Wanger, with a fifth spot hole. It shouldn't be Chamberlain with the exodus of Phil Coke, who was brilliant and awful in equal measures. Chamberlain should be in the bully with Hughes and Marte, but the World Series Marte, not the crappy regular season Marte.
I'd assume Granderson would play center, which shifts Cabrera somewhere, with Nick Swisher and Brett Gardner. Cabrera has the best arm of the group, but Gardner covers more ground. Still, it should be Swisher in left and Cabrera in right with Gardner coming in for pinch running and defense for Swisher.
Which means so long to Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui. Granderson, it's been written, answers all the questions asked about either of those two, who may still have years left, but costly years, and how many?
Both were great as Yankees, and it's sad to see some players go, but I think I'll miss Matsui more. I hope he goes back to Japan. It would be weird to see him play for some other - ahem, lesser team. He is - or was - the biggest star in Japan. Can you see him on the A's? Sure. You could see just about any player - 'cept The Captain - on any other team. But it wouldn't feel right. It would just feel like hanging on to hang on.
The Yankees look as if they should be planning another parade dow the Canyon of Heroes, but, you know, stranger things, such as 162 game seasons, have happened.
So, with Granderson coming, what does this mean for the Yankees? Well, we can speculate:
Assuming they bring Pettite back, and Wanger figures out how to pitch again, that's CC, AJ, Pettite and Wanger, with a fifth spot hole. It shouldn't be Chamberlain with the exodus of Phil Coke, who was brilliant and awful in equal measures. Chamberlain should be in the bully with Hughes and Marte, but the World Series Marte, not the crappy regular season Marte.
I'd assume Granderson would play center, which shifts Cabrera somewhere, with Nick Swisher and Brett Gardner. Cabrera has the best arm of the group, but Gardner covers more ground. Still, it should be Swisher in left and Cabrera in right with Gardner coming in for pinch running and defense for Swisher.
Which means so long to Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui. Granderson, it's been written, answers all the questions asked about either of those two, who may still have years left, but costly years, and how many?
Both were great as Yankees, and it's sad to see some players go, but I think I'll miss Matsui more. I hope he goes back to Japan. It would be weird to see him play for some other - ahem, lesser team. He is - or was - the biggest star in Japan. Can you see him on the A's? Sure. You could see just about any player - 'cept The Captain - on any other team. But it wouldn't feel right. It would just feel like hanging on to hang on.
The Yankees look as if they should be planning another parade dow the Canyon of Heroes, but, you know, stranger things, such as 162 game seasons, have happened.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Signings of the times
So, the Yankees have, or are very much on the verge of bringing back Andy Pettitte — a legitimate big game pitcher, even if he's a bit long in the tooth. Pettitte wins games, no matter the stuff he has and this is a good move for the Yanks.
This on the heels of the Red Sox signing — pardon me while I simultaneously laugh hysterically and puke up all the scorn and bile in my being — Marco Scutaro.
I really didn't feel like writing about any of this, but my one memory of Scutaro is the walk-off three-run jack he hit of Mariano Rivera in 2007. It still gives me heartburn.
I can't wait for this guy to hit .223 for the Sawx. I'm giddy already.
This on the heels of the Red Sox signing — pardon me while I simultaneously laugh hysterically and puke up all the scorn and bile in my being — Marco Scutaro.
I really didn't feel like writing about any of this, but my one memory of Scutaro is the walk-off three-run jack he hit of Mariano Rivera in 2007. It still gives me heartburn.
I can't wait for this guy to hit .223 for the Sawx. I'm giddy already.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
The Phil-Lees ...
There's only two things (one in two parts) to talk about from Game 1.
The Cliff Lee-induced coma the Yankees fell into. That guy doesn't look like he's doing much, but good crikey, he looks unhittable.
And CC Sabathia throwing not one, put to fastballs to lightning hands Utley. You'd think he learned his lesson from the first one Utley launched. But no, let's put our hand back into the fire to make sure it still burns.
That was a great game for 7 innings.
And that thing I said about Brian Bruney. Well, you could argue the guy hasn't pitched in three weeks, but wow, was he awful.
And Damaso Marte faces two and gets two. Yeeeaaaahh.
In 1996, the Yankees went down fast and hard to the Braves and Wade Boggs still ended up on that horse. So, this is far from over.
The Cliff Lee-induced coma the Yankees fell into. That guy doesn't look like he's doing much, but good crikey, he looks unhittable.
And CC Sabathia throwing not one, put to fastballs to lightning hands Utley. You'd think he learned his lesson from the first one Utley launched. But no, let's put our hand back into the fire to make sure it still burns.
That was a great game for 7 innings.
And that thing I said about Brian Bruney. Well, you could argue the guy hasn't pitched in three weeks, but wow, was he awful.
And Damaso Marte faces two and gets two. Yeeeaaaahh.
In 1996, the Yankees went down fast and hard to the Braves and Wade Boggs still ended up on that horse. So, this is far from over.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Do you know what's awesome about being right?
Everything.
Two days removed from the Yankees' inevitable triumph in Game 6 over the Angels, I still feel a sense of relief. 40 AL pennants. 40!
I stayed up until the last pitch was thrown and took a moment to enjoy the Yankees hugging and happiness. People assume Yankees fans are arrogant and presumptuous, we are, but not about winning the World Series. We're arrogant and presumptuous about WINNING BASEBALL. Yes, championships are great, but knowing your team plays smart and gutsty ... well, that's what we deserve. I felt the same way I imagine any baseball fan feels about his team going to the Series. Excited, happy, anxious. October 2003 was pretty miserable as my wife and I spent most of WS week in Florida, sick, with bandwagon-hopping fans lording it over us while the Marlins ... no, while Josh Beckett ... buzz-sawed a lethargic Yankees team that frankly was in the Series thanks only to inertia. Oh, and Aaron Boone.
It's no secret the Yankees are winning in spite of their manager. Great pitching makes anyone look smart, so when Joe Girardi says, "Get Mo," in the 9th after Sabathia has given him eight, or Burnett or Pettitte have gone six or seven and Phils Hughes and Coke and/or Joba have bridged that gap ... well, Girardi's a genius. When he starts playing the mix/match game he fails, he fails consistently and brutally. Name one switch, pitching or defensively, that have worked in the playoffs. Hairston's a mess in the outfield. Marte and Aceves look lost ... What's-his-name Guzman has gone missing.
By the way, Marte still has no business being on the WS roster. It should be Bruney. I said that a week ago, I still believe it. Brett Gardner needs to do more than pinch run, although there are signs Nick Swisher is coming out of his coma. Hideki Matsui's been deadwood too, so maybe there's a chance Damon DHs, while Gardner, Cabrera and Swisher man the outfield.
Jorge has been a mess as well, but the threat of his bat is probably greater than the reality of Molina's But who knows. If Molina gets hot in his start with Burnett, does he play the next night? Eh, probably not.
My prediction is Yankees is 5, which means a road celebration. Kinda lame, but whatever. I don't see the Phillies winning in New York, and their pitching just isn't that great beyond Cliff Lee and Brad Lidge, who could implode at any moment. I just get the feeling the Yankees are very much looking forward to facing Pete Martin on the biggest stage, and pounding him mercilessly. And the Dodgers just rolled over died. So, while the Phils may have an American League-type lineup, they haven't faced these Yankees, on this stage.
Cole Hamels could go nuts, or he could continue his slide into mediocrity ... I very much hope he does. And Joe Blanton is Joe Blanton.
While Ronan Tynan (and his debatable anti-Semiticism) is out for good, Jay-Z and Alicia Keyes are in for Game 1, which shoudld put everyone in an Empire State of Mind.
Images I can't shake from Game 6: Robbie Cano fielding Torri Hunter's surefire RBI single on the SS side of second base. Scott Kazmir's hand grenade up the rightfield line, followed by the pellet he unloaded later in the inning. Kate Hudson. So cute. So A-Rod inspiring.
Two days removed from the Yankees' inevitable triumph in Game 6 over the Angels, I still feel a sense of relief. 40 AL pennants. 40!
I stayed up until the last pitch was thrown and took a moment to enjoy the Yankees hugging and happiness. People assume Yankees fans are arrogant and presumptuous, we are, but not about winning the World Series. We're arrogant and presumptuous about WINNING BASEBALL. Yes, championships are great, but knowing your team plays smart and gutsty ... well, that's what we deserve. I felt the same way I imagine any baseball fan feels about his team going to the Series. Excited, happy, anxious. October 2003 was pretty miserable as my wife and I spent most of WS week in Florida, sick, with bandwagon-hopping fans lording it over us while the Marlins ... no, while Josh Beckett ... buzz-sawed a lethargic Yankees team that frankly was in the Series thanks only to inertia. Oh, and Aaron Boone.
It's no secret the Yankees are winning in spite of their manager. Great pitching makes anyone look smart, so when Joe Girardi says, "Get Mo," in the 9th after Sabathia has given him eight, or Burnett or Pettitte have gone six or seven and Phils Hughes and Coke and/or Joba have bridged that gap ... well, Girardi's a genius. When he starts playing the mix/match game he fails, he fails consistently and brutally. Name one switch, pitching or defensively, that have worked in the playoffs. Hairston's a mess in the outfield. Marte and Aceves look lost ... What's-his-name Guzman has gone missing.
By the way, Marte still has no business being on the WS roster. It should be Bruney. I said that a week ago, I still believe it. Brett Gardner needs to do more than pinch run, although there are signs Nick Swisher is coming out of his coma. Hideki Matsui's been deadwood too, so maybe there's a chance Damon DHs, while Gardner, Cabrera and Swisher man the outfield.
Jorge has been a mess as well, but the threat of his bat is probably greater than the reality of Molina's But who knows. If Molina gets hot in his start with Burnett, does he play the next night? Eh, probably not.
My prediction is Yankees is 5, which means a road celebration. Kinda lame, but whatever. I don't see the Phillies winning in New York, and their pitching just isn't that great beyond Cliff Lee and Brad Lidge, who could implode at any moment. I just get the feeling the Yankees are very much looking forward to facing Pete Martin on the biggest stage, and pounding him mercilessly. And the Dodgers just rolled over died. So, while the Phils may have an American League-type lineup, they haven't faced these Yankees, on this stage.
Cole Hamels could go nuts, or he could continue his slide into mediocrity ... I very much hope he does. And Joe Blanton is Joe Blanton.
While Ronan Tynan (and his debatable anti-Semiticism) is out for good, Jay-Z and Alicia Keyes are in for Game 1, which shoudld put everyone in an Empire State of Mind.
Images I can't shake from Game 6: Robbie Cano fielding Torri Hunter's surefire RBI single on the SS side of second base. Scott Kazmir's hand grenade up the rightfield line, followed by the pellet he unloaded later in the inning. Kate Hudson. So cute. So A-Rod inspiring.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Coming home, and that's just fine
Because I'm old, I went to bed after the Yankees "batted" in the 3rd. They went quickly and quietly in that frame, then went nuts in the 7th.
I thought the Yankees would finish the Angels in Anaheim, but taking one game out of three is fine. Coming back to NY, the Yankees are in the driver's seat still. Their pitching is fine, they're hitting, they haven't lost their resilience.
That said, Damaso Marte CANNOT be put on the mound again this season. He's a mess and he's untrustworthy.
Nick Swisher needs to sit, although he won't, because the Angels are likely sending Joe Saunders to the mound, and Brett Gardner won't get a start against a lefty, because, God forbid we travel down that statistical path. How Swisher popped that pussball up in the 9th off Brian Fuentes is beyond comprehension. How is this guy a closer? An IBB, a BB, an HBP in the same inning while throwing 76 mph? And he escapes. Really, Nick? Really?
I'll take Andy Pettitte in any big game situation, especially at home. This series end Saturday (yeah yeah, I said this yesterday), but give the Angels credit for getting this far.
Why haven't those Thunder Stix been banned yet? Is there a more obnoxious prop in all of baseball? Answer: No.
Winning Saturday still gives the Yanks time to rest and get set for the Series.
I thought the Yankees would finish the Angels in Anaheim, but taking one game out of three is fine. Coming back to NY, the Yankees are in the driver's seat still. Their pitching is fine, they're hitting, they haven't lost their resilience.
That said, Damaso Marte CANNOT be put on the mound again this season. He's a mess and he's untrustworthy.
Nick Swisher needs to sit, although he won't, because the Angels are likely sending Joe Saunders to the mound, and Brett Gardner won't get a start against a lefty, because, God forbid we travel down that statistical path. How Swisher popped that pussball up in the 9th off Brian Fuentes is beyond comprehension. How is this guy a closer? An IBB, a BB, an HBP in the same inning while throwing 76 mph? And he escapes. Really, Nick? Really?
I'll take Andy Pettitte in any big game situation, especially at home. This series end Saturday (yeah yeah, I said this yesterday), but give the Angels credit for getting this far.
Why haven't those Thunder Stix been banned yet? Is there a more obnoxious prop in all of baseball? Answer: No.
Winning Saturday still gives the Yanks time to rest and get set for the Series.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Girardi as genius?
CC Sabathia torching the Angels for eight innings is the best thing for my blood pressure.
I can't handle Joe Girardi running back and forth between the dugout and the mound, issuing instructions. I blame him for the Vlad touching up Pettitte. Whatever he said to Pettitte and Posada was the reason Vlad hit the home run. It had nothing to do with Vlad's preternatural ability to hit impossible pitches a long, long way. I wish Girardi would just park his butt and let his players play. Just try it, Joe. If your pitcher is getting guys out, let him get guys out.
With Sabathia, you can just sit back and enjoy the ride.
I'd love to know what's in that giant book Girardi keeps on the bench, and, as one friend of mine pointed out, how does he find anything in it? Is it indexed? Bookmarked. He probably memorized. This would not surprise me at all.
There's a circle of Hell reserved for bad umpires, ruled by Doug Harvey, who goes home to his cushy pad in Umpire Heaven at the end of the day. Tim McClelland punched his ticket last night. Dale Scott, too. Jerry Lane didn't do himself any favors either. Oddly, Laz Diaz is the worst of that bunch and he's looked great by comparison.
Happily, I pronounce the Angels finished. Bring on the Phillies.
I can't handle Joe Girardi running back and forth between the dugout and the mound, issuing instructions. I blame him for the Vlad touching up Pettitte. Whatever he said to Pettitte and Posada was the reason Vlad hit the home run. It had nothing to do with Vlad's preternatural ability to hit impossible pitches a long, long way. I wish Girardi would just park his butt and let his players play. Just try it, Joe. If your pitcher is getting guys out, let him get guys out.
With Sabathia, you can just sit back and enjoy the ride.
I'd love to know what's in that giant book Girardi keeps on the bench, and, as one friend of mine pointed out, how does he find anything in it? Is it indexed? Bookmarked. He probably memorized. This would not surprise me at all.
There's a circle of Hell reserved for bad umpires, ruled by Doug Harvey, who goes home to his cushy pad in Umpire Heaven at the end of the day. Tim McClelland punched his ticket last night. Dale Scott, too. Jerry Lane didn't do himself any favors either. Oddly, Laz Diaz is the worst of that bunch and he's looked great by comparison.
Happily, I pronounce the Angels finished. Bring on the Phillies.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Waiting for Friday
Why am I waiting for Friday?
Because MLB is making its best effort to stretch the playoffs into December. Seriously Bud, it's embarrassing enough to have a game postponed by snow, but to have teams wait an entire week to begin the League Championship Series(es?) is inexcusable.
CC Sabathia and John Lackey will have to wait nine days
I, like every Yankees fan, feel a bizarre sense of relief with the broadcast switching to FOX. Chip Caray and Ron Darling were brutal. If you watched the game and have functional ears, you know. It may have been worse for the hearing impaired trying to decipher Caray's thoughts via the written word.
TBS closed-captioner should get hazard pay.
I'm calling for a Yankees sweep.
Because MLB is making its best effort to stretch the playoffs into December. Seriously Bud, it's embarrassing enough to have a game postponed by snow, but to have teams wait an entire week to begin the League Championship Series(es?) is inexcusable.
CC Sabathia and John Lackey will have to wait nine days
I, like every Yankees fan, feel a bizarre sense of relief with the broadcast switching to FOX. Chip Caray and Ron Darling were brutal. If you watched the game and have functional ears, you know. It may have been worse for the hearing impaired trying to decipher Caray's thoughts via the written word.
TBS closed-captioner should get hazard pay.
I'm calling for a Yankees sweep.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Friday, October 9, 2009
Game 2 thoughts
If Burnett pitches well tonight, MLB can start polishing the trophy and package it for for shipment to the Big Apple, I'm that confident.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
That's one
Joe Girardi really wanted Game 1, I guess. Sabathia,, Hughes, Chamberlain and Rivera. I'm splitting hairs here, but didn't Hughes earn the right to be the bridge to Rivera? How does Chamberlain immediately slot into the eighth? Whatever.
The two runs the Twins pushed across show exactly why they are a pesky team. Get em on, get em over, get em in. Any way you can. Bloopers, passed balls, whatever.
I thought if the Yankees scored one against Duensing, they'd score 10. I was close. By the way, Brian Duensing looks like Johan Santana, just as Francisco Liriano did. Weird.
Great pitching and timely hitting for the Yanks, even from A-Rod. Ha!
What an odd pairing in what I can only assume are A-Rod's seats. Kate Hudson and Jay-Z? Who on Earth could wear those glasses and not look retarded? Harry Carey? Maybe? Mos Def probably.
If A-Rod's gonna hit, we need more starlets and rappers. More I say!
The two runs the Twins pushed across show exactly why they are a pesky team. Get em on, get em over, get em in. Any way you can. Bloopers, passed balls, whatever.
I thought if the Yankees scored one against Duensing, they'd score 10. I was close. By the way, Brian Duensing looks like Johan Santana, just as Francisco Liriano did. Weird.
Great pitching and timely hitting for the Yanks, even from A-Rod. Ha!
What an odd pairing in what I can only assume are A-Rod's seats. Kate Hudson and Jay-Z? Who on Earth could wear those glasses and not look retarded? Harry Carey? Maybe? Mos Def probably.
If A-Rod's gonna hit, we need more starlets and rappers. More I say!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
TBS is still weird
The logo for the American League Division series looks, at a glance, like this:
AIDS
when in fact it says:
ALDS
just wondering if there's a better way.
Even on EPSN Gamecast that was great game last night, made better by the victor depleting itself to win a chance to get spanked.
The Twins will start ... Brian Duensing in Game 1 against CC Sabathia.
Duensing stats aren't horrible, in 20-plus games and 9 starts. Sabathia stats are pretty good in 9 seasons.
Duensing is 5-1 in his last 10 starts, with a loss to Detroit and a 2.54 ERA.
I'm not saying this is going to be a massacre, you never know with baseball, and the Yanks traditionally have trouble against guys they've never seen. but given the stage, given with the Twins had to do just get into the post-season, the Yankees couldn't be in better shape.
AIDS
when in fact it says:
ALDS
just wondering if there's a better way.
Even on EPSN Gamecast that was great game last night, made better by the victor depleting itself to win a chance to get spanked.
The Twins will start ... Brian Duensing in Game 1 against CC Sabathia.
Duensing stats aren't horrible, in 20-plus games and 9 starts. Sabathia stats are pretty good in 9 seasons.
Duensing is 5-1 in his last 10 starts, with a loss to Detroit and a 2.54 ERA.
I'm not saying this is going to be a massacre, you never know with baseball, and the Yanks traditionally have trouble against guys they've never seen. but given the stage, given with the Twins had to do just get into the post-season, the Yankees couldn't be in better shape.
Monday, October 5, 2009
And it's over
The end of a baseball season is always very weird. It's around for so long, you never expect 162 to roll around.
Considering how awful the Yankees were to start this season, the injuries they sustained, I didn't think they'd be anywhere near the top of the American. But, then again, I did vastly over-estimate the talent and depth of the Red Sox.
The Rays were a flash in the pan. I said that at the start of the season. Last season, everyone on that team had a career years, the Yankees were terrible, frankly, the American League was pretty bad, so ... we got what we got.
But this year ... oh, this year. I still hate Joe Girardi, but despite him, the Yankees are going to plow through the playoffs. They have depth and speed and pitching. The offense is clicking. And the bullpen, with Joba finally slotting back to where he belong, will be lights out.
I'm pulling for Minnesota tomorrow night, because their pitching is a mess. When Carl Pavano is your go-to guy in a must-win game, you're not in a good place. The AL Central is much like the NFC West. Someone has to win, but whoever does probably is a step or 10 behind everyone else.
Justin Verlander in a short series is bad news. And you never know with Detroit's offense.
I'd rather see the Yanks take their chances against Joe Mauer and his merry backups. With no Justin Morneau, that team is a shell.
Lost, at least to me, in all this was Chien-Ming Wang. He was mentioned yesterday in the post game and my first thought was "Who?" He went from ace to trainwreck with startling speed.
Michael Kay keep saying Freddy Guzman will make the postseason roster. Why? His speed. Aaaaannnnddd?
I've seen Guzman play rightfield once. Every time he's gotten into a game, his run for Matsui or whoever, stolen second and that was that. What other value does he bring to a limited roster? What justifies his legs taking the spot of a complete player? Nothing in my estimation. Brett Gardner will be on the bench: he can run, hit, play center.
So, you have the regular nine, which includes Matsui at DH, Sabathia, Burnett, Pettitte, Chamberlain, Hughes, Coke, Aceves, Rivera, Chad Gaudin, Dave Roberston, then Gardner, Molina, Hairston, Hinske ... and, um ... damn, maybe Kay is right. There's no one else? Hairston and Hinske cover whatever positions you'd need ... so, yeah, maybe Guzman is an option.
But barely. This isn't over Michael Kay, not by a long shot!
Considering how awful the Yankees were to start this season, the injuries they sustained, I didn't think they'd be anywhere near the top of the American. But, then again, I did vastly over-estimate the talent and depth of the Red Sox.
The Rays were a flash in the pan. I said that at the start of the season. Last season, everyone on that team had a career years, the Yankees were terrible, frankly, the American League was pretty bad, so ... we got what we got.
But this year ... oh, this year. I still hate Joe Girardi, but despite him, the Yankees are going to plow through the playoffs. They have depth and speed and pitching. The offense is clicking. And the bullpen, with Joba finally slotting back to where he belong, will be lights out.
I'm pulling for Minnesota tomorrow night, because their pitching is a mess. When Carl Pavano is your go-to guy in a must-win game, you're not in a good place. The AL Central is much like the NFC West. Someone has to win, but whoever does probably is a step or 10 behind everyone else.
Justin Verlander in a short series is bad news. And you never know with Detroit's offense.
I'd rather see the Yanks take their chances against Joe Mauer and his merry backups. With no Justin Morneau, that team is a shell.
Lost, at least to me, in all this was Chien-Ming Wang. He was mentioned yesterday in the post game and my first thought was "Who?" He went from ace to trainwreck with startling speed.
Michael Kay keep saying Freddy Guzman will make the postseason roster. Why? His speed. Aaaaannnnddd?
I've seen Guzman play rightfield once. Every time he's gotten into a game, his run for Matsui or whoever, stolen second and that was that. What other value does he bring to a limited roster? What justifies his legs taking the spot of a complete player? Nothing in my estimation. Brett Gardner will be on the bench: he can run, hit, play center.
So, you have the regular nine, which includes Matsui at DH, Sabathia, Burnett, Pettitte, Chamberlain, Hughes, Coke, Aceves, Rivera, Chad Gaudin, Dave Roberston, then Gardner, Molina, Hairston, Hinske ... and, um ... damn, maybe Kay is right. There's no one else? Hairston and Hinske cover whatever positions you'd need ... so, yeah, maybe Guzman is an option.
But barely. This isn't over Michael Kay, not by a long shot!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Yanks lose BUT ...
This season has been so great for the Yankees that even former utility infielder Mike Blowers is in on the action.
Blowers predicted Matt Tuiasosopo's first home run ... the inning, the pitch, the spot. Now that's big time.
I'd give you the link, but I'm not allowed, apparently. Grumble.
But then there's the Yankee Bowl. The Yankee Bowl? The Yanks are that hard up for cash? This is awful, insulting, pathetic. Gotta pay for the billion dollar catastrophe though.
Blowers predicted Matt Tuiasosopo's first home run ... the inning, the pitch, the spot. Now that's big time.
I'd give you the link, but I'm not allowed, apparently. Grumble.
But then there's the Yankee Bowl. The Yankee Bowl? The Yanks are that hard up for cash? This is awful, insulting, pathetic. Gotta pay for the billion dollar catastrophe though.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Dear Kyle Farnsworth
I see you got some more tats, That's cool.
I see, also, that you still have that crazy fastball, hitting 96, 99, on the gun, but it looks like 120. And that nasty curve. You added, what, a change? A splitter? Something. Offspeed. Good for you. A pitcher should grow as he ages. Keep hitters off balance and guessing.
Truth be told, I was worried, a little, when you came in last night. I figured you'd be hopped up, wanting to jam the Yankees for the perceived slights you endured during your time under Joe Torre, despite your inability to inspire confidence. Or hold a lead. Or keep the ball in any park not on a national registry.
You came in throwing fire, and for a second, I thought the game was over. But you're still you, and I came to my senses, knowing, assuming you'd find a way to blow up. And you did. Against a bunch of backups and Robbie Cano.
50 come-from-behind wins. 50. And another cream pie. And another mad dash to the outfield to catch the guy who drove in the winning run thanks to your shin and lack of agility.
Kyle, physically, you're probably the most intimidating guy in baseball. Seriously. You're a monster and you should dominate. Sometimes, you do. Most times, you don't. You, sir, are a mystery as huge as your biceps.
So Kyle, thanks for being you last night, and helping the Yankees continue this fantastic season. It's washed away the ick from last year and ook of the new stadium ... which is still an affront to nature, but could use a championship to welcome the ghosts back ... or at least prove they never left.
I see, also, that you still have that crazy fastball, hitting 96, 99, on the gun, but it looks like 120. And that nasty curve. You added, what, a change? A splitter? Something. Offspeed. Good for you. A pitcher should grow as he ages. Keep hitters off balance and guessing.
Truth be told, I was worried, a little, when you came in last night. I figured you'd be hopped up, wanting to jam the Yankees for the perceived slights you endured during your time under Joe Torre, despite your inability to inspire confidence. Or hold a lead. Or keep the ball in any park not on a national registry.
You came in throwing fire, and for a second, I thought the game was over. But you're still you, and I came to my senses, knowing, assuming you'd find a way to blow up. And you did. Against a bunch of backups and Robbie Cano.
50 come-from-behind wins. 50. And another cream pie. And another mad dash to the outfield to catch the guy who drove in the winning run thanks to your shin and lack of agility.
Kyle, physically, you're probably the most intimidating guy in baseball. Seriously. You're a monster and you should dominate. Sometimes, you do. Most times, you don't. You, sir, are a mystery as huge as your biceps.
So Kyle, thanks for being you last night, and helping the Yankees continue this fantastic season. It's washed away the ick from last year and ook of the new stadium ... which is still an affront to nature, but could use a championship to welcome the ghosts back ... or at least prove they never left.
Monday, September 28, 2009
So now what?
I'm pretty sure the Yanks will go .500 in their last 6 games.
They'll care enough to stay sharp, but not enough to get someone hurt.
Chad Gaudin starts tonight, but the way the Yanks rotation is, I'm not sure this is scheduled or an effort to give someone a rest.
The celebration yesterday was nice, and fitting, but I think no one in that clubhouse believes winning the East is anything but a stepping stone. A loss in the ALDS, or even ALCS ... let's face it, any loss will make the season pointless.
Unfortunately, the Yanks have not sone so well in the post-season after winning 100 games or more, and that lone WS win came in 1998, when MLB had a better chance of preventing the sun from rising than from the Yanks taking the title.
Six games and then the real test begins.
They'll care enough to stay sharp, but not enough to get someone hurt.
Chad Gaudin starts tonight, but the way the Yanks rotation is, I'm not sure this is scheduled or an effort to give someone a rest.
The celebration yesterday was nice, and fitting, but I think no one in that clubhouse believes winning the East is anything but a stepping stone. A loss in the ALDS, or even ALCS ... let's face it, any loss will make the season pointless.
Unfortunately, the Yanks have not sone so well in the post-season after winning 100 games or more, and that lone WS win came in 1998, when MLB had a better chance of preventing the sun from rising than from the Yanks taking the title.
Six games and then the real test begins.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Dear Phil Hughes,
You are awesome, but 7th-grade me wants his mustache back. Please.
Red Sox melting ... melting ... melting ...
Magic Number is 1. Clincher tomorrow, I think.
Red Sox melting ... melting ... melting ...
Magic Number is 1. Clincher tomorrow, I think.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Stupid West Coast
I have no idea what's happening in Yankees land short of them clinching a playoff spot.
I know the Cowboys yacked on themselves Monday night, Halo 3: ODST is being unfairly criticized and the seem ... SEEM .. to have figured out how to beat the Angels, if not lose to them every time.
And apparently the Sox can't handle the Royals, the streaking, we-love-September Royals. Weird.
I know the Cowboys yacked on themselves Monday night, Halo 3: ODST is being unfairly criticized and the seem ... SEEM .. to have figured out how to beat the Angels, if not lose to them every time.
And apparently the Sox can't handle the Royals, the streaking, we-love-September Royals. Weird.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Run off win
Two observations about last night's win:
I love the walk-off-win pie tradition. It's fun, but it speaks to the chemistry this team has. This team doesn't accept defeat, but goes still bonkers when it wins.
The celebration in rightfield looked exactly like the fight at home plate last night, complete with A-Rod awkwardly dancing around the fringes. Nice job Alex.
I love the walk-off-win pie tradition. It's fun, but it speaks to the chemistry this team has. This team doesn't accept defeat, but goes still bonkers when it wins.
The celebration in rightfield looked exactly like the fight at home plate last night, complete with A-Rod awkwardly dancing around the fringes. Nice job Alex.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Upon further review
The Associated Press story made the incident sound like a fight out of "Rocky."
It was, of course, a baseball slap/hug fest with lots of movement and little else.
Also, Posada barely, if at all, touched Carlson on the way by.
While DJ may be an MVP candidate, he's not the best guy to have around in a fight. Standing on deck, he starting yelling and easing his way toward the action, then slowed, but kept yelling. Waiting until more bodies closed in, then sort of entered the fray. Of course, A-Rod did much the same thing.
Oddly, if you just saw a quick shot of the scrum, you probably couldn't tell if it was a rumble or a celebration.
High marks for Shelley Duncan and Eric Hinske plowing into the middle and extracting key Yankees.
It was, of course, a baseball slap/hug fest with lots of movement and little else.
Also, Posada barely, if at all, touched Carlson on the way by.
While DJ may be an MVP candidate, he's not the best guy to have around in a fight. Standing on deck, he starting yelling and easing his way toward the action, then slowed, but kept yelling. Waiting until more bodies closed in, then sort of entered the fray. Of course, A-Rod did much the same thing.
Oddly, if you just saw a quick shot of the scrum, you probably couldn't tell if it was a rumble or a celebration.
High marks for Shelley Duncan and Eric Hinske plowing into the middle and extracting key Yankees.
'I don't want my kids to see that'
Really Jorge? Really? You pretty much provoke a potentially costly brawl in September with the Blue Jays, a team that's 235 games out, and that's what you? Maybe a few days off is what you need now, but that's not the way to get 'em.
It's bad enough Roy Halladay made you all look like Little Leaguers, but then you embarrass your team like that?
It's a good thing no one got hurt.
It's bad enough Roy Halladay made you all look like Little Leaguers, but then you embarrass your team like that?
It's a good thing no one got hurt.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Weird weekend
Not sure I've ever seen Alex Rodriguez get get ejected.
Also not sure I've seen the Orioles score that many runs.
At least they righted the ship Sunday with some crazy late thunder. Gotta get some momentum back heading toward the playoffs.
I'm beginning to wonder what will become of Hideki Matsui. He's quietly having a productive year, and her certainly fits well with the Yankees, but there's a lot less tread on his tires and Johnny Damon is looking more and more like the DH of the future. The Yankees can't keep two lefty hitters with mediocre to poor fielding skills and bad legs/knees.
Also not sure I've seen the Orioles score that many runs.
At least they righted the ship Sunday with some crazy late thunder. Gotta get some momentum back heading toward the playoffs.
I'm beginning to wonder what will become of Hideki Matsui. He's quietly having a productive year, and her certainly fits well with the Yankees, but there's a lot less tread on his tires and Johnny Damon is looking more and more like the DH of the future. The Yankees can't keep two lefty hitters with mediocre to poor fielding skills and bad legs/knees.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Tied? Just tied? Pishaw
Someone wake me when Derek Jeter BREAKS the Yankees' hits record. I mean, really, tying Lou Gehrig? Who doesn't do that every day? I probably tied two of Lou's records just waking up this morning.
Seriously, I'm more interested in Jeter breaking the record tomorrow against the O's. And Jeter is probably more interested in winning the World Series. Probably. No doubt he is.
Jeter 2009: .330, 186 H, 97 R, 62 RBI, 25 SB - MVP?
Rough projections: .310 BA, 3,500 hits, 270 HRs, 1,300 RBIs, 400 SBs - Hall of Fame, of course. Unanimous?
__
Of course, it didn't take Joba long to fall behind, again, but the Yanks are the Yanks and being down a few runs doesn't seem to be that big a deal.
More frustrating was the ninth. No Mo. No Phil Hughes, so we go to Brian Bruney, who started shakey, but got Longoria and the enormously over-rated Pat Burrell on fly outs ... then got yanked?
WTF?
WTF in 1,000-point type. So frustrating to watch. Quickly rising up my list of "Most Infuriating Things" is Joe Girardi's very bustly walk to the mound when he's making a pitching change, as if he's trying to project confidence in his bizarre decisions. The more confusing the decision, the more bustly the walk.
I'm saying it right now: Yankees win the WS in 5 games against the Cardinals. Take that Bob Gibson.
Seriously, I'm more interested in Jeter breaking the record tomorrow against the O's. And Jeter is probably more interested in winning the World Series. Probably. No doubt he is.
Jeter 2009: .330, 186 H, 97 R, 62 RBI, 25 SB - MVP?
Rough projections: .310 BA, 3,500 hits, 270 HRs, 1,300 RBIs, 400 SBs - Hall of Fame, of course. Unanimous?
__
Of course, it didn't take Joba long to fall behind, again, but the Yanks are the Yanks and being down a few runs doesn't seem to be that big a deal.
More frustrating was the ninth. No Mo. No Phil Hughes, so we go to Brian Bruney, who started shakey, but got Longoria and the enormously over-rated Pat Burrell on fly outs ... then got yanked?
WTF?
WTF in 1,000-point type. So frustrating to watch. Quickly rising up my list of "Most Infuriating Things" is Joe Girardi's very bustly walk to the mound when he's making a pitching change, as if he's trying to project confidence in his bizarre decisions. The more confusing the decision, the more bustly the walk.
I'm saying it right now: Yankees win the WS in 5 games against the Cardinals. Take that Bob Gibson.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Where have I been?
Watching the Yankees from Aweville, where there apparently is no Internet or cell service.
40 games above .500.
13 walkoff wins.
Another sweep (Wednesday).
Nick Swisher adding 33 percent to his season home run total at Yankee Stadium.
This is a thing to watch.
Tell you what though, David Price is nasty. It looks like he isn't even trying and 95, 96 keeps popping up. Crazy.
40 games above .500.
13 walkoff wins.
Another sweep (Wednesday).
Nick Swisher adding 33 percent to his season home run total at Yankee Stadium.
This is a thing to watch.
Tell you what though, David Price is nasty. It looks like he isn't even trying and 95, 96 keeps popping up. Crazy.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Why am I worried?
Something about the Yankees bludgeoning opponents into submission isn't sitting well, and I know it makes no sense.
The pitching hasn't been great at times, but it's been overshadowed by lots and lots of runs.
I'm not complaining, I'm just very concerned the offense is going to sputter at the worst time.
Still, the Yanks will be in the Series, of that I have no doubt. They're just better than the rest of the league, and better than what the National League has to offer.
The pitching hasn't been great at times, but it's been overshadowed by lots and lots of runs.
I'm not complaining, I'm just very concerned the offense is going to sputter at the worst time.
Still, the Yanks will be in the Series, of that I have no doubt. They're just better than the rest of the league, and better than what the National League has to offer.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Looking at the past through Kennedy-colored glasses
I went to sleep content the Yanks would secure another victory. Apparently that wasn't enough. A seven-run ninth? Hope no one had dinner reservations.
Sabathia was marvelous again. Bruney was garbage. My guess is his elbow still isn't right. He lied about being healthy once, there's no reason to think he wouldn't do it again to get on the mound.
Brett Gardner is set to start his rehab, although rehab is something of a stretch. He broke his thumb, not his leg.
I skipped the Steinbrenner Yankeeography ... obviously. It was advertised as the authorized biography of the architect of the Yankees' dynasty. Huh. I didn't hear the names Bob Watson, Gene Michael or Brian Cashman mentioned. I think "financial backer" is the more appropriate description. Let's face it, the Yankees built their strength while Steinbrenner was suspended and banished from baseball ... for trying to frame Dave Winfield of all people. Well, apparently revisionist history is the new thing, so it makes sense the Yanks would buy in as well.
It's nice the team is giving George a sendoff before he passes, it's probably not far off. I may have to catch it to see just how rosey they made his story. Sure, he was entertaining, and possibly calculating, but he also orchestrated some of the worst debacles in Yankees' history ... Ken Phelps, Steve Balboni, Danny Tartabul, Ed Whitson, Kenny Rogers, Andy Hawkins ... hiring and firing Billy Martin, alienating Yogi, Joe Torre and Andy Pettitte ... the second signing of Roger Clemens, Kevin Brown, Randy Johnson, Hideki Irabu ... and the list goes on.
I've already opined that Hal and Hank have nothing on George in terms of ego and splash factor. I just hope they somehow, accidentally or otherwise, learn from his mistakes and the things he didn't do.
Sabathia was marvelous again. Bruney was garbage. My guess is his elbow still isn't right. He lied about being healthy once, there's no reason to think he wouldn't do it again to get on the mound.
Brett Gardner is set to start his rehab, although rehab is something of a stretch. He broke his thumb, not his leg.
I skipped the Steinbrenner Yankeeography ... obviously. It was advertised as the authorized biography of the architect of the Yankees' dynasty. Huh. I didn't hear the names Bob Watson, Gene Michael or Brian Cashman mentioned. I think "financial backer" is the more appropriate description. Let's face it, the Yankees built their strength while Steinbrenner was suspended and banished from baseball ... for trying to frame Dave Winfield of all people. Well, apparently revisionist history is the new thing, so it makes sense the Yanks would buy in as well.
It's nice the team is giving George a sendoff before he passes, it's probably not far off. I may have to catch it to see just how rosey they made his story. Sure, he was entertaining, and possibly calculating, but he also orchestrated some of the worst debacles in Yankees' history ... Ken Phelps, Steve Balboni, Danny Tartabul, Ed Whitson, Kenny Rogers, Andy Hawkins ... hiring and firing Billy Martin, alienating Yogi, Joe Torre and Andy Pettitte ... the second signing of Roger Clemens, Kevin Brown, Randy Johnson, Hideki Irabu ... and the list goes on.
I've already opined that Hal and Hank have nothing on George in terms of ego and splash factor. I just hope they somehow, accidentally or otherwise, learn from his mistakes and the things he didn't do.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
He's mavericky
While I'm pretty sure CB Buckner has the most erratic strike zone in MLB, Angel Hernandez, at least last night, had the biggest.
Jorge Posada was punched out on a riding fastball that started middle-out, about mid-shin and ended low and away. Mark Teixeira was punched out on a middle-in fastball that crossed about letter high. It was bizarre to watch and probably baffling to hitters accustomed to taking book strikes for balls.
Questec has infiltrated all MLB parks. I'm all for a standard strike zone, I just haven't seen one, and I don't think a group of humans can provide the sort of consistency league brass wants. You either computerize the zone, which I think no one wants, or you simply accept umpires have their interpretations of the zone and you live with them and adjust from game to game. The fact is umpires are right most of the time, it's just that with replays and slo-mo, the times they aren't become magnified and repeated and discussed and analyzed. The thing that seems to be overlooked is the strike is called where the ball crosses, not where it lands in the catcher's glove.
You know that scene at the end of "Raiders of the Lost Ark," when the spirits are flying around, melting Nazi faces? And Indy and Marion are safe because they keep their eyes closed? No, I know it didn't make sense ... anyway, I made the mistake of reading a handful of comments posted to the gamer story on mlb.com. My face didn't melt, but I'm pretty sure my soul withered a little. Wow. Just. Wow.
Jorge Posada was punched out on a riding fastball that started middle-out, about mid-shin and ended low and away. Mark Teixeira was punched out on a middle-in fastball that crossed about letter high. It was bizarre to watch and probably baffling to hitters accustomed to taking book strikes for balls.
Questec has infiltrated all MLB parks. I'm all for a standard strike zone, I just haven't seen one, and I don't think a group of humans can provide the sort of consistency league brass wants. You either computerize the zone, which I think no one wants, or you simply accept umpires have their interpretations of the zone and you live with them and adjust from game to game. The fact is umpires are right most of the time, it's just that with replays and slo-mo, the times they aren't become magnified and repeated and discussed and analyzed. The thing that seems to be overlooked is the strike is called where the ball crosses, not where it lands in the catcher's glove.
You know that scene at the end of "Raiders of the Lost Ark," when the spirits are flying around, melting Nazi faces? And Indy and Marion are safe because they keep their eyes closed? No, I know it didn't make sense ... anyway, I made the mistake of reading a handful of comments posted to the gamer story on mlb.com. My face didn't melt, but I'm pretty sure my soul withered a little. Wow. Just. Wow.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Love, but mostly hate
Sure, Nick Markaikis could have come up in the 8th and singled. Or Melvin Mora could have hit a lazy flyball homerun, but that doesn't excuse Jerry Hairston choking on that grounder in the 7th. Hard hit, yes, but an easy play for any major leaguer not wearing the word "Mets" across his chest, although "major leaguer" may not be an appropriate description either way.
A-Rod fields that ball in his sleep, reclining on a deck chair dreaming of "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days 2."
Andy Pettitte was brilliant. Bruney was god-awful, although I think the hook came a little too quick. Up four, maybe you give him a chance to work out of it. Rivera is ready, and would face the bottom of the order anyway.
I wonder how long Pettitte goes if he's getting shelled, considering Joba's short outing and the use of so many others to get through the previous game.
A-Rod fields that ball in his sleep, reclining on a deck chair dreaming of "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days 2."
Andy Pettitte was brilliant. Bruney was god-awful, although I think the hook came a little too quick. Up four, maybe you give him a chance to work out of it. Rivera is ready, and would face the bottom of the order anyway.
I wonder how long Pettitte goes if he's getting shelled, considering Joba's short outing and the use of so many others to get through the previous game.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
The Joba Rules
Three innings. Three. That's Joba's new limit? Despite him mowing down lifeless White Sox batters one after the other, Chamberlain was fored to depart after three frames. Al Aceves, Damaso Marte, Dave Robertson, Phil Hughes and Phil Coke pitched the final six.
I'm sure Joe Girardi et al were just tickled with having to deal with this scenario. Under any circumstances, your starter going three innings is a liability, and using five more pitchers to cobble together a win would cause problems for a week or more.
But not, apparently, when it's planned. I don't get it, but at least this stupidity is over after this season and Joba will be treated like any other pitcher.
Winning, of course, overshadows this idiocy, so let's be happy the Yanks are racking up wins, playing good defense and getting great pitching, whatever the circumstances.
I'm sure Joe Girardi et al were just tickled with having to deal with this scenario. Under any circumstances, your starter going three innings is a liability, and using five more pitchers to cobble together a win would cause problems for a week or more.
But not, apparently, when it's planned. I don't get it, but at least this stupidity is over after this season and Joba will be treated like any other pitcher.
Winning, of course, overshadows this idiocy, so let's be happy the Yanks are racking up wins, playing good defense and getting great pitching, whatever the circumstances.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Celebrity spotting
Well, now we know who can afford the seats right behind home plate at Yankee Stadium: Jack Nicholson, Lorne Michaels and Paul McCartney - and the 20-something-year-old candy on his arm, who, by the way, dances like me.
That's an odd trio, discounting the female, and I wonder if it just so happened they all showed up, unaware of the others' plan, or, you know, Lorne called Jack, or Paul called Lorne ... It's highly unlikely Jack calls anyone. When you're that call, people call you and you decide who you'll grace with the presence.
I've seen Tracy Morgan - and some people I assume were with him - in those seats, which makes me wonder, additionally, how exactly you get them.
Anyway, we see the difference, again, between a pitcher and Joba Chamberlain. Andy Pettitte isn't exactly gassing batters, but he gets outs when and how he needs them, ahead in the count or behind. Two on, no out, here's a roller to third for a DP and he'll finish the inning with a strikeout.
Unfortunately, Pettitte picked up win No. 189 last night, putting him in third place in Yankees history. He should be No. 1, by far. Nothing against Whitey Ford, but Pettitte wasted a chance to solidify his place in Yankees lore. Still I expect he'll be around at least another season, which should see him eclipse 200 wins in pinstripes. I hope he gets there.
That's an odd trio, discounting the female, and I wonder if it just so happened they all showed up, unaware of the others' plan, or, you know, Lorne called Jack, or Paul called Lorne ... It's highly unlikely Jack calls anyone. When you're that call, people call you and you decide who you'll grace with the presence.
I've seen Tracy Morgan - and some people I assume were with him - in those seats, which makes me wonder, additionally, how exactly you get them.
Anyway, we see the difference, again, between a pitcher and Joba Chamberlain. Andy Pettitte isn't exactly gassing batters, but he gets outs when and how he needs them, ahead in the count or behind. Two on, no out, here's a roller to third for a DP and he'll finish the inning with a strikeout.
Unfortunately, Pettitte picked up win No. 189 last night, putting him in third place in Yankees history. He should be No. 1, by far. Nothing against Whitey Ford, but Pettitte wasted a chance to solidify his place in Yankees lore. Still I expect he'll be around at least another season, which should see him eclipse 200 wins in pinstripes. I hope he gets there.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Dear Joba
You frustrate me so. I can't even watch the games you pitch any more. You're handed a four-run lead and you immediately and foolishly squander it, indiscriminately surrendering two-out runs ... to the Rangers, at team that is, at best, mediocre.
You should be a setup guy, but I realize, in some ways, you have no control over this. I blame your failures, mostly on the Steinbrenner children, who seem to think they can somehow, by handing down stupid, counter-intuitive directives.
You can't finish batters, you can't finish innings. You cost your team wins, despite their best efforts.
You should be a setup guy, but I realize, in some ways, you have no control over this. I blame your failures, mostly on the Steinbrenner children, who seem to think they can somehow, by handing down stupid, counter-intuitive directives.
You can't finish batters, you can't finish innings. You cost your team wins, despite their best efforts.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Long and annoying and probably redundant
Jim Rice is really picking at the low-hanging fruit, isn't he. Much like this humble blogger piling on him for idiotic statements made to a captive audience of children, who, I'm sure, when told Jim Rice would speak to them, said, as one, "Who?"
Yes, childrens, Jim Rice. Hall of Famer, kinda. Generally pleasant guy, not really, and certainly a role model for how to conduct one's self in the public spotlight. Yes, Jim Rice, slugger-ish, although remove one giant green wall from his statistics and you get, who? Steve Balboni? Rob Deer? 208 of his 382 home runs were hit at Fenway. Think of that what you will.
C'mon, Jim. You're not better than that. We all know it. You're grumpy and jealous and that's cool.
You're wondering why a selfish, brain-dead putz such as Manny Ramirez and be embraced by fans, despite the absurdity of his antics. Just last night he played a single into a triple ... just Manny being Manny. Oh, and Manny acted like a child, held out, has Satan's dad for an agent AND still got paid what he wanted to play where he wanted. THEN got suspended for PEDs. And no one but reporters, your favorite people, seemed to care. OK, he does look like a homeless guy in his uniform, which is approximately eight sizes too big. AND he violates Joe Torre's short-hair team policy every day, but that's more a knock and a slight against Torre than anyone else. But this is a different era.
You're wondering why Alex Rodriguez, also linked to steroids, linked to Madonna and Kate Hudson and apparently universally reviled by MLB players, who also happens to have Satan's dad for an agent, got not one, but two atrociously over-reached contracts for a guy whose baseball skills are measured only in now questionable home runs and little else. Oh, and his hair is bleach-tipped. I bet that just burns you up. But this is a different era.
But you're wondering mostly why everyone, even people who hate Derek Jeter, love Derek Jeter. Derek Jeter, the crowned-prince of New York. Derek Jeter, first-ballot Hall of Famer. Derek Jeter, who'll have significantly better statistics than you and at least four World Series, plus a pretty bitchin' nickname, when it's all over. Jeter will undoubtedly take his place among the legends of the game, for his play, for his character, for what he did and when and where and how.
So, Jim, what exactly was the point you were trying to make to children who barely knew you or your resume? Were you trying to teach children the right way to play - the right attitude and techniques? Or were you trying to prop your own ego by picking easily recognizable targets and wagging your crusty old finger at them, hoping one or two young brains would catch your vibe ... and do what, exactly? Ask for your autograph? Say you were wronged by baseball for having to wait so long for entrance into the Hall of Fame?
What's funny is the guy you went in with truly deserved to be there, but was a more likely target of your criticism. Was there a bigger showboat in MLB than Rickey Henderson, a guy who wore chains and neon-colored batting gloves and flashy sunglasses and literally walked to first 100 times each season? No, but Henderson was the best of his kind, a revolutionary player that combined speed and power, who single-handedly changed games. But Rick mercifully and conveniently escaped your outburst.
Hopefully Jimmy will spare our children and stand down from his misguided soapbox and do what most guys of his generation do, sign a limited number of autographs on specific memorabilia at the grand openings and reopening of Home Depots and local grocery stores. And hopefully, hopefully, those sponsors will take a zero off his paycheck each and every time he utters an opinion, even if it's "My, those are nice tiles," or, "Hey, I like Doritos, too."
Not surprisingly, Jeter and Rodriguez handled the incident with class. Manny probably has no idea what's going on, and probably doesn't care.
Yes, childrens, Jim Rice. Hall of Famer, kinda. Generally pleasant guy, not really, and certainly a role model for how to conduct one's self in the public spotlight. Yes, Jim Rice, slugger-ish, although remove one giant green wall from his statistics and you get, who? Steve Balboni? Rob Deer? 208 of his 382 home runs were hit at Fenway. Think of that what you will.
C'mon, Jim. You're not better than that. We all know it. You're grumpy and jealous and that's cool.
You're wondering why a selfish, brain-dead putz such as Manny Ramirez and be embraced by fans, despite the absurdity of his antics. Just last night he played a single into a triple ... just Manny being Manny. Oh, and Manny acted like a child, held out, has Satan's dad for an agent AND still got paid what he wanted to play where he wanted. THEN got suspended for PEDs. And no one but reporters, your favorite people, seemed to care. OK, he does look like a homeless guy in his uniform, which is approximately eight sizes too big. AND he violates Joe Torre's short-hair team policy every day, but that's more a knock and a slight against Torre than anyone else. But this is a different era.
You're wondering why Alex Rodriguez, also linked to steroids, linked to Madonna and Kate Hudson and apparently universally reviled by MLB players, who also happens to have Satan's dad for an agent, got not one, but two atrociously over-reached contracts for a guy whose baseball skills are measured only in now questionable home runs and little else. Oh, and his hair is bleach-tipped. I bet that just burns you up. But this is a different era.
But you're wondering mostly why everyone, even people who hate Derek Jeter, love Derek Jeter. Derek Jeter, the crowned-prince of New York. Derek Jeter, first-ballot Hall of Famer. Derek Jeter, who'll have significantly better statistics than you and at least four World Series, plus a pretty bitchin' nickname, when it's all over. Jeter will undoubtedly take his place among the legends of the game, for his play, for his character, for what he did and when and where and how.
So, Jim, what exactly was the point you were trying to make to children who barely knew you or your resume? Were you trying to teach children the right way to play - the right attitude and techniques? Or were you trying to prop your own ego by picking easily recognizable targets and wagging your crusty old finger at them, hoping one or two young brains would catch your vibe ... and do what, exactly? Ask for your autograph? Say you were wronged by baseball for having to wait so long for entrance into the Hall of Fame?
What's funny is the guy you went in with truly deserved to be there, but was a more likely target of your criticism. Was there a bigger showboat in MLB than Rickey Henderson, a guy who wore chains and neon-colored batting gloves and flashy sunglasses and literally walked to first 100 times each season? No, but Henderson was the best of his kind, a revolutionary player that combined speed and power, who single-handedly changed games. But Rick mercifully and conveniently escaped your outburst.
Hopefully Jimmy will spare our children and stand down from his misguided soapbox and do what most guys of his generation do, sign a limited number of autographs on specific memorabilia at the grand openings and reopening of Home Depots and local grocery stores. And hopefully, hopefully, those sponsors will take a zero off his paycheck each and every time he utters an opinion, even if it's "My, those are nice tiles," or, "Hey, I like Doritos, too."
Not surprisingly, Jeter and Rodriguez handled the incident with class. Manny probably has no idea what's going on, and probably doesn't care.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Long live the bean ball
This West Coast stuff is awful.
Waking up the next morning, assuming the Yanks won is a far cry from recent seasons, but still garbage. I usually manage to watch a few innings of every game, but with my schedule, I just can't stay up that late.
So, instead of some pithy game chat, I thought I'd write a little about in-game justice. Recently, The Bulletin ran a column decrying the art of the bean ball. It was written by a neurologist who worked with the Yankees in some capacity or other. But I wonder if he ever actually played sports.
See, what's lost in the chatter about drilling a batter, is there actually is a very real need to pitch inside, to pitch effectively inside and yes, to occasionally doink the guy in the batter's box. I'm not advocating targeting a guy's head, but I am saying hitting someone is a necessary part of baseball.
If you consider the ball is a weapon in the pitcher's hand, what exactly is the bat? Or the line drive back up the middle? Pitcher's are taught to land square, be ready to field their position. Some simply don't, and they pay for it. Sometimes a ball is traveling too fast to be fielded cleanly or even blocked.
Does MLB put padding on the pitcher? A screen? Move the mound back? No. It's an assumed risk by every player that's just part of the game. Sometimes you catch the ball, sometimes to ball concusses you.
I'm fully in favor of teams policing themselves, of pitchers retaliating on behalf of a teammate who may have been hit for one reason or another.
Sometimes a guy just needs to be hit to send a message. Consider how close to the plate and how far out over the plate Barry Bonds stood. And he wore a plastic sleeve on his lead arm more appropriate for the gladiatorial pits of Rome. You pitch inside, he leans in takes his base. You pitch away, he launches a steroid fueled bomb in McCovey Cove.
David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez victimized Yankees' pitchers for years because no one EVER pushed them off the plate. And this after years of Pedro Martinez head-hunting anyone in pinstripes. Roger Clemens threw one pitch shoulder high and on the inner half and Ramirez acted as if a grenade had been tossed his way. You crack Ramirez on the back, on the knee, and suddenly he's not hitting flaming line drives up the rightfield gap. But, now, I suppose, that's water under the bridge.
Two things need to happen: Pitchers must be taught the need and the art of throwing inside, and batters must be forbidden from wearing any protective gear larger then an index card. I'm all for a modest elbow guard or hand pad, but the armor some of these guys are wearing changes the game. You don't see a hockey goalie toting a tower shield and butterfly net. There has to limits and the have to be enforced.
Too few pitchers intimidate batters anymore. And those guys were the ones to watch. The term "effectively wild" applies to, say Nolan Ryan, who could paint the outside corner at 97 mph, but also scorch your pants, just because you got a little too close. And then, for good measure, if you came at him, he'd turn your face into a speed bag.
How about everyone take some responsibility and understand how the game is played. Pitchers, establish that inside corner. Batters, you get brushed back, stay in there and get a hit. If you get on, go wipe out a middle infielder. I guarantee the second basemen would have a thing or two to say to his pitcher.
And so, I repeat, long live the bean ball. It's always been a part of baseball, I hope it remains a part of baseball.
Now, let's talk about the facemask on the batting helmet ...
Waking up the next morning, assuming the Yanks won is a far cry from recent seasons, but still garbage. I usually manage to watch a few innings of every game, but with my schedule, I just can't stay up that late.
So, instead of some pithy game chat, I thought I'd write a little about in-game justice. Recently, The Bulletin ran a column decrying the art of the bean ball. It was written by a neurologist who worked with the Yankees in some capacity or other. But I wonder if he ever actually played sports.
See, what's lost in the chatter about drilling a batter, is there actually is a very real need to pitch inside, to pitch effectively inside and yes, to occasionally doink the guy in the batter's box. I'm not advocating targeting a guy's head, but I am saying hitting someone is a necessary part of baseball.
If you consider the ball is a weapon in the pitcher's hand, what exactly is the bat? Or the line drive back up the middle? Pitcher's are taught to land square, be ready to field their position. Some simply don't, and they pay for it. Sometimes a ball is traveling too fast to be fielded cleanly or even blocked.
Does MLB put padding on the pitcher? A screen? Move the mound back? No. It's an assumed risk by every player that's just part of the game. Sometimes you catch the ball, sometimes to ball concusses you.
I'm fully in favor of teams policing themselves, of pitchers retaliating on behalf of a teammate who may have been hit for one reason or another.
Sometimes a guy just needs to be hit to send a message. Consider how close to the plate and how far out over the plate Barry Bonds stood. And he wore a plastic sleeve on his lead arm more appropriate for the gladiatorial pits of Rome. You pitch inside, he leans in takes his base. You pitch away, he launches a steroid fueled bomb in McCovey Cove.
David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez victimized Yankees' pitchers for years because no one EVER pushed them off the plate. And this after years of Pedro Martinez head-hunting anyone in pinstripes. Roger Clemens threw one pitch shoulder high and on the inner half and Ramirez acted as if a grenade had been tossed his way. You crack Ramirez on the back, on the knee, and suddenly he's not hitting flaming line drives up the rightfield gap. But, now, I suppose, that's water under the bridge.
Two things need to happen: Pitchers must be taught the need and the art of throwing inside, and batters must be forbidden from wearing any protective gear larger then an index card. I'm all for a modest elbow guard or hand pad, but the armor some of these guys are wearing changes the game. You don't see a hockey goalie toting a tower shield and butterfly net. There has to limits and the have to be enforced.
Too few pitchers intimidate batters anymore. And those guys were the ones to watch. The term "effectively wild" applies to, say Nolan Ryan, who could paint the outside corner at 97 mph, but also scorch your pants, just because you got a little too close. And then, for good measure, if you came at him, he'd turn your face into a speed bag.
How about everyone take some responsibility and understand how the game is played. Pitchers, establish that inside corner. Batters, you get brushed back, stay in there and get a hit. If you get on, go wipe out a middle infielder. I guarantee the second basemen would have a thing or two to say to his pitcher.
And so, I repeat, long live the bean ball. It's always been a part of baseball, I hope it remains a part of baseball.
Now, let's talk about the facemask on the batting helmet ...
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Did he twirl his mustache?
Brett Tomko has his revenge!
Really? In five innings? After spending less than half a season in pinstripes? C'mon.
Sure, he pitched well, but this whole "scorned lover" deal is so over-rated. He pitched well, Burnett hurt himself in one inning, and the Yanks spent their other four frames flailing away at relievers.
Of course, I'd rather see the Yanks go 0-fer against the Red Sox than lose two in a row to the Mariners and A's.
Oh well, still seven games up with the season's end coming fast.
Really? In five innings? After spending less than half a season in pinstripes? C'mon.
Sure, he pitched well, but this whole "scorned lover" deal is so over-rated. He pitched well, Burnett hurt himself in one inning, and the Yanks spent their other four frames flailing away at relievers.
Of course, I'd rather see the Yanks go 0-fer against the Red Sox than lose two in a row to the Mariners and A's.
Oh well, still seven games up with the season's end coming fast.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Derek, would you say you have a plethora of hits?
Derek Jeter took the lead as the all-time hits leader for shortstops this weekend.
Can you quietly collect 2,674 hits as the Yankees captain? Jeter seems to have done just that, en route to the Hall of Fame.
He's been heralded as a clutch player, and derided for his alleged limitations on defense. But he plays almost everyday, makes nearly every play, and piles up big hit after big hit. Are they all screaming line drivers into the gaps? Nope, some, such as the early hump-back double he dropped down the rightfield line in yesterday's loss, are just great hand-eye coordination and a little luck.
Pete Rose amassed 4256 hits, about a quarter of which were for extra bases. The vast majority of those were doubles. Jeter has an outside shot of catching Rose. Jeter's average 179 hits in his 15 seasons, including 1995, when he played only 15 games and collected 12 hits. He has 153 this season. He won't sustain that pace, which suggests he'd need about another decade. Possible, but unlikely, as he'd almost certainly have to be either an outfielder or DH for some of that time.
Can you quietly collect 2,674 hits as the Yankees captain? Jeter seems to have done just that, en route to the Hall of Fame.
He's been heralded as a clutch player, and derided for his alleged limitations on defense. But he plays almost everyday, makes nearly every play, and piles up big hit after big hit. Are they all screaming line drivers into the gaps? Nope, some, such as the early hump-back double he dropped down the rightfield line in yesterday's loss, are just great hand-eye coordination and a little luck.
Pete Rose amassed 4256 hits, about a quarter of which were for extra bases. The vast majority of those were doubles. Jeter has an outside shot of catching Rose. Jeter's average 179 hits in his 15 seasons, including 1995, when he played only 15 games and collected 12 hits. He has 153 this season. He won't sustain that pace, which suggests he'd need about another decade. Possible, but unlikely, as he'd almost certainly have to be either an outfielder or DH for some of that time.
A little disappointing
Yanks win another series and it feels like a three-game slide.
Joba continues to underachieve. Another 5-inning performance, marred by hanging sliders, and then an inexplicably awful outing by Alfredo Aceves. Oh well, 74 wins and heading to Oakland.
And now two old timers have come out against the Joba rules. First, Tim McCarver in a Fox broadcast called them arbitrary and questioned what doctor decided 140 to 170 innings was all a 23-year-old's arm could handle. Now, Tom Seaver, who knows a little about pitching, says the limits will stunt Joba's growth.
I hate pitch counts and inning limits, but at the rate Joba's going, he'll reach his pitch limit before the innings limit. He threw 90 in his five innings Sunday.
Seaver said this in an mlb.com interview: "These people today don't understand what it means to walk off the mound after holding the other team down for nine innings, the feeling of triumph for your own team -- and the effect it has on the players in the other dugout."
I don't see Ichiro play often, but the more I see him, the more thankful I am to have Hideki Matsui, who can't run, is questionable at best in the outfield and who boasts an arm only slightly better than Johnny Damon's.
Ichiro seems to be fully aware of how good he is, playing flyballs like a combination of Willie Mays Hays, Rickey Henderson and Tony Manero. And it's one thing to think no one can catch you, but fully another to run your team out of an inning trying to steal third with two outs and two on. Does he always play like that? I wonder. Or was he trying to impress his countryman? Who knows.
Joba continues to underachieve. Another 5-inning performance, marred by hanging sliders, and then an inexplicably awful outing by Alfredo Aceves. Oh well, 74 wins and heading to Oakland.
And now two old timers have come out against the Joba rules. First, Tim McCarver in a Fox broadcast called them arbitrary and questioned what doctor decided 140 to 170 innings was all a 23-year-old's arm could handle. Now, Tom Seaver, who knows a little about pitching, says the limits will stunt Joba's growth.
I hate pitch counts and inning limits, but at the rate Joba's going, he'll reach his pitch limit before the innings limit. He threw 90 in his five innings Sunday.
Seaver said this in an mlb.com interview: "These people today don't understand what it means to walk off the mound after holding the other team down for nine innings, the feeling of triumph for your own team -- and the effect it has on the players in the other dugout."
I don't see Ichiro play often, but the more I see him, the more thankful I am to have Hideki Matsui, who can't run, is questionable at best in the outfield and who boasts an arm only slightly better than Johnny Damon's.
Ichiro seems to be fully aware of how good he is, playing flyballs like a combination of Willie Mays Hays, Rickey Henderson and Tony Manero. And it's one thing to think no one can catch you, but fully another to run your team out of an inning trying to steal third with two outs and two on. Does he always play like that? I wonder. Or was he trying to impress his countryman? Who knows.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Late late show
Not sure what I'm more excited about about: CC Sabathia going eight, not the requisite seven to which Yankees starters seem relegated or Hideki Matsui going bonkers. The old guy can swing it. Can't run, can't throw, but boy can he swing it.
Is it just me, or do Sabathia's pants look like riding breeches?
Is it just me, or do Sabathia's pants look like riding breeches?
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Keep on brawlin' in the free world
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovWE2X93pt4
There are far too few fights in MLB, so kudos to Youk for charging ...
Failing grades, however, for tossing his helmet and following the projectile into battle. That's low, using a distraction against a guy that clearly wants no part of you. And, for getting flipped. Rick Porcello had a better chance of uprooting a fire hydrant, and yet up and over goes Boston's angriest resident.
Seriously Youk, get some counseling. And a ShamWow! for that enormous, perpetually greased dome of yours. It's gross. Porcello wasn't scared of your helmet or your fists, he didn't want to drown in your goatee you meatbag.
Oh, and Yanks win again!
There are far too few fights in MLB, so kudos to Youk for charging ...
Failing grades, however, for tossing his helmet and following the projectile into battle. That's low, using a distraction against a guy that clearly wants no part of you. And, for getting flipped. Rick Porcello had a better chance of uprooting a fire hydrant, and yet up and over goes Boston's angriest resident.
Seriously Youk, get some counseling. And a ShamWow! for that enormous, perpetually greased dome of yours. It's gross. Porcello wasn't scared of your helmet or your fists, he didn't want to drown in your goatee you meatbag.
Oh, and Yanks win again!
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Friday, August 7, 2009
We're 1-8, we're 1-8!
I remember being told in Little League, you always slide. Umpires would tell us, slide or you're out.
So, I wonder if Jorge Posada ever got that message. Jorge clearly had no idea what Melky, properly positioned and doing his job as the on-deck hitter, was telling him to do.
Furiously waving and pointing at the ground? While I'm running toward the plate and the crowd is going bonkers? What could you possibly mean?
That's an inexcusably lazy mental lapse on Posada's part.
Still rolling up 13 runs against the hated Red Sox is a good thing. The Red Sox are a shadow of the team they were at the beginning of the season, and I think it's a foregone conclusion the Yanks should and would win this opener against Smoltz.
It's a shame, really. The guy still looks like he knows what he's doing, but that nasty stuff he used to have is just a fraction off, and it's obvious.
Tonight, I expect A-Rod to get beaned. Maybe twice, after the Pedroia incident. Up 13-4, I doubt it was on purpose. With Josh Beckett and AJ Burnett, things could get interesting real quick.
So, I wonder if Jorge Posada ever got that message. Jorge clearly had no idea what Melky, properly positioned and doing his job as the on-deck hitter, was telling him to do.
Furiously waving and pointing at the ground? While I'm running toward the plate and the crowd is going bonkers? What could you possibly mean?
That's an inexcusably lazy mental lapse on Posada's part.
Still rolling up 13 runs against the hated Red Sox is a good thing. The Red Sox are a shadow of the team they were at the beginning of the season, and I think it's a foregone conclusion the Yanks should and would win this opener against Smoltz.
It's a shame, really. The guy still looks like he knows what he's doing, but that nasty stuff he used to have is just a fraction off, and it's obvious.
Tonight, I expect A-Rod to get beaned. Maybe twice, after the Pedroia incident. Up 13-4, I doubt it was on purpose. With Josh Beckett and AJ Burnett, things could get interesting real quick.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
My competition
Last night was a happy time for my wife.
While Nick Swisher was helping the Yanks win, her new favorite man, Christian Kane (really, that's his name?) was doing his thing on our new favorite show, "Leverage."
Notice any similarities?
Sure, Swisher has since cut his hair, but ... anyway, tough to compete with country singing action star and Yankees rightfielder. Sigh ...
Bring on the Sox.
While Nick Swisher was helping the Yanks win, her new favorite man, Christian Kane (really, that's his name?) was doing his thing on our new favorite show, "Leverage."
Notice any similarities?
Sure, Swisher has since cut his hair, but ... anyway, tough to compete with country singing action star and Yankees rightfielder. Sigh ...
Bring on the Sox.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
It wasn't a dream
Fell asleep last night with the Yanks leading. Woke up for Matsui's late homer. It's a blur after that.
I remember the disgust on Halladay's face the last time he pitched against the Yanks, as they hit homer after homer. Didn't notice it this time. Can't blame the new Stadium, joke that it is.
And how about A-Rod? First inning two-out RBI double and then scores on the double error by Halladay and Barajas. Of course, he nearly ran himself into an out on his hit, then he inexplicably stopped, started, stopped, started coming around third while Halladay fumbled Millar's throw. Luck trumps skill every time.
From mlb.com: "I just got very lucky," Rodriguez said. "It was actually a very soft slide. I think the ball was so exposed that I nipped it a little bit, and it just popped out." Indeed.
With a little late help from the Rays, the Yanks extended their slim lead to 1.5 games.
Happily, the Yanks that were 0-8 against the Sox this season are a distant memory. I'm predicting 3 of 4 this weekend.
I remember the disgust on Halladay's face the last time he pitched against the Yanks, as they hit homer after homer. Didn't notice it this time. Can't blame the new Stadium, joke that it is.
And how about A-Rod? First inning two-out RBI double and then scores on the double error by Halladay and Barajas. Of course, he nearly ran himself into an out on his hit, then he inexplicably stopped, started, stopped, started coming around third while Halladay fumbled Millar's throw. Luck trumps skill every time.
From mlb.com: "I just got very lucky," Rodriguez said. "It was actually a very soft slide. I think the ball was so exposed that I nipped it a little bit, and it just popped out." Indeed.
With a little late help from the Rays, the Yanks extended their slim lead to 1.5 games.
Happily, the Yanks that were 0-8 against the Sox this season are a distant memory. I'm predicting 3 of 4 this weekend.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Windy City beat down
This weekend did not happen, like "The Next Karate Kid," "Rocky V," and the time I crashed into a diner.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Rain rain go away
Well, what can you say? At least the winning run didn't reach base via the walk.
Extra inning road games are always dicey, but you'd expect the Yanks could score more than two runs against the White Sox, who look staggeringly old. What happened to those guys?
They won, sure, but what a wretched lineup.
Carlos Quentin is a former MVP candidate, he's hitting .213. Jim Thome's hitting .250. The 2B, SS combination is hitting and .263 and .228. And Mark Kotsay, when did he get there? is hitting .232. But in the AL Central, that's good enough for a winning record, apparently.
Speaking of awful, A-Rod wowed the crowd last night with the following: 1st inning fielder's choice, 4th inning looking strikeout, 6th swinging strikeout, 9th inning swinging strikeout. Can't suck any more than that.
Extra inning road games are always dicey, but you'd expect the Yanks could score more than two runs against the White Sox, who look staggeringly old. What happened to those guys?
They won, sure, but what a wretched lineup.
Carlos Quentin is a former MVP candidate, he's hitting .213. Jim Thome's hitting .250. The 2B, SS combination is hitting and .263 and .228. And Mark Kotsay, when did he get there? is hitting .232. But in the AL Central, that's good enough for a winning record, apparently.
Speaking of awful, A-Rod wowed the crowd last night with the following: 1st inning fielder's choice, 4th inning looking strikeout, 6th swinging strikeout, 9th inning swinging strikeout. Can't suck any more than that.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
I was positive ...
And so too was David Ortiz. Bam!
Called it.
Called it.
Called it.
Shouldn't we now just assume everyone except DereK Jeter was doing it and move on?
Called it.
Called it.
Called it.
Shouldn't we now just assume everyone except DereK Jeter was doing it and move on?
Empathizing with Wang
Joba Chamberlain threw eight innings ... in one game! Woo hoo!
To be fair, Chamberlain was about as nasty as I've seen him. Eight innings, three hits. Didn't count the obnoxious fist pumps. Can't ask for more.
Stellar pitching aside, the highlight of the game was the first-inning single by Mark Teixeira. I've never seen three infielders, in, on the same side. What's the point? For a game that relies so heavily on statistics and probabilities, the odds overwhelmingly show bringing the infield in improves a hitter's chances. So, instead of crippling two infielder's, you've crippled three.
Headline of the day: "Posada empathizes with Wang's pain." Don't we all? Am I right guys? Guys ...?
And from mlb.com, the Yankes acquired this guy from the Rockies: Jason Hirsh, 27. He has not pitched in the Major Leagues this season. He was 6-7 with a 6.66 ERA in 20 games (16 starts) for Triple-A Colorado Springs of the Pacific Coast League. In 101 1/3 innings, Hirsh allowed 130 hits and 78 runs (75 earned) while walking 35 and striking out 59.
He's sure to help.
Brian Bruney's 1/3 of an inning last night was less-than inspiring. You have to wonder if his arm is still hurting. He's lied once before to get back, it's likely he's trying to play through lingering pain, or, he caused a different problem trying to compensate for the elbow trouble he's been suffering. Either way, this isn't the guy we've seen.
Can't believe George resurfaced. I honestly thought he was dead, and the Yanks were just keeping quiet. It's so strange to have him gone, and want him back. In hindsight, it was nice to have an owner who was out there, who had personality/ Hank and Hal can try, but they won't be their dad, they'll always just be acting like him.
A-Rod watch: 1 for 5, two groundball double plays, swing strike out, pop out, bloop single.
To be fair, Chamberlain was about as nasty as I've seen him. Eight innings, three hits. Didn't count the obnoxious fist pumps. Can't ask for more.
Stellar pitching aside, the highlight of the game was the first-inning single by Mark Teixeira. I've never seen three infielders, in, on the same side. What's the point? For a game that relies so heavily on statistics and probabilities, the odds overwhelmingly show bringing the infield in improves a hitter's chances. So, instead of crippling two infielder's, you've crippled three.
Headline of the day: "Posada empathizes with Wang's pain." Don't we all? Am I right guys? Guys ...?
And from mlb.com, the Yankes acquired this guy from the Rockies: Jason Hirsh, 27. He has not pitched in the Major Leagues this season. He was 6-7 with a 6.66 ERA in 20 games (16 starts) for Triple-A Colorado Springs of the Pacific Coast League. In 101 1/3 innings, Hirsh allowed 130 hits and 78 runs (75 earned) while walking 35 and striking out 59.
He's sure to help.
Brian Bruney's 1/3 of an inning last night was less-than inspiring. You have to wonder if his arm is still hurting. He's lied once before to get back, it's likely he's trying to play through lingering pain, or, he caused a different problem trying to compensate for the elbow trouble he's been suffering. Either way, this isn't the guy we've seen.
Can't believe George resurfaced. I honestly thought he was dead, and the Yanks were just keeping quiet. It's so strange to have him gone, and want him back. In hindsight, it was nice to have an owner who was out there, who had personality/ Hank and Hal can try, but they won't be their dad, they'll always just be acting like him.
A-Rod watch: 1 for 5, two groundball double plays, swing strike out, pop out, bloop single.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
A-Rod: the greatest of his generation
They say baseball is a game of failure, which explains why Alex Rodriguez is the highest-paid player in the game.
For the remainder of the season, I will do my best to chronicle the failures of A-Rod. As the Yankees win, it will undoubtedly be in spite of his efforts.
Last night, riding a wave of stellar starting pitching, the Yankees were cruising yet again, up 5-1 on the strength of another solid, seven-inning start from AJ Burnett.
In his first first four at-bats, A-Rod grounded into a force play to end an inning; walked; went down looking with two on and one out (he argued the call but it's where to ball crosses, not where it's caught, jerk) and flew out to right with two on and two out, ending another inning.
When Rodriguez took his fifth at-bat (fourth official) the Yanks were in cruise control and any more scoring was insurance. And so, A-Rod doubles in two runs. Which were immediately answered in the bottom of the inning.
Of course, the Yanks tacked on four more in their ninth, making the game a rout, but it was over in the sixth.
Once again, A-Rod's failures were overshadowed by brilliant pitching, and frankly, a Tampa team playing to its potential.
Last year was a fluke. James Shields, "Big Game James" indeed, pitched the way he should. Nine hits and five runs in 5 1/3 innings.
Final thought about the Rays: Check out the S.I. article about Carl Crawford and his "phonebook" thighs. Really? Went with "phonebook" as the adjective ... I would have gone in a different direction.
For the remainder of the season, I will do my best to chronicle the failures of A-Rod. As the Yankees win, it will undoubtedly be in spite of his efforts.
Last night, riding a wave of stellar starting pitching, the Yankees were cruising yet again, up 5-1 on the strength of another solid, seven-inning start from AJ Burnett.
In his first first four at-bats, A-Rod grounded into a force play to end an inning; walked; went down looking with two on and one out (he argued the call but it's where to ball crosses, not where it's caught, jerk) and flew out to right with two on and two out, ending another inning.
When Rodriguez took his fifth at-bat (fourth official) the Yanks were in cruise control and any more scoring was insurance. And so, A-Rod doubles in two runs. Which were immediately answered in the bottom of the inning.
Of course, the Yanks tacked on four more in their ninth, making the game a rout, but it was over in the sixth.
Once again, A-Rod's failures were overshadowed by brilliant pitching, and frankly, a Tampa team playing to its potential.
Last year was a fluke. James Shields, "Big Game James" indeed, pitched the way he should. Nine hits and five runs in 5 1/3 innings.
Final thought about the Rays: Check out the S.I. article about Carl Crawford and his "phonebook" thighs. Really? Went with "phonebook" as the adjective ... I would have gone in a different direction.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
It's the pitching, stupid
Pitch well, win games.
Pretty simple, but the Yankees lost their way for a long time.
Despite the team's success, there are a few things I'd like to see change:
Jose Molina is great, but he isn't going to be around long. Francisco Cervelli may have been playing above his ability, but he deserved a a chance to stay with the big club. Trading Molina isn't likely, and Cervelli will be back, but I wonder what being demoted, through no fault of his own, will do to him when he gets back.
More Brett Gardner. But who sits? JD is the weak link defensively, but he's productive at the plate. Swisher is the weakest link across the board, but has the intangibles the Yankees need. He takes walks, play OK defense, can hit from both sides. Melky is streaky at the plate, but has proven to be the best of the three starters. Gardner, one way or another, should be in every game, and that doesn't happen. Fortunately, speed doesn't slump, but again, what good is he on the bench for nine innings?
Seven innings seems to be the cut-off for Yankees starters. Why? CC and AJ are more than capable of finishing what they start, while Pettitte, because of his age and Joba, because of his inability to consistently finish hitters, aren't. And the fifth spot in the rotation is always a question. Those two to four innings CC and AJ surrender to the bullpen will add up in the long run, and probably won't affect them. And at this point, I'm sure Mo wouldn't complain about a giving up some saves in exchange for more rest. Plus, complete games are fun and nostalgic.
Not complaining of course. Whatever the Yankees are doing is working well, but if you can't bitch about something - which you can't change and have absolutely zero effect on anyway - why exactly was the Internet invented?
Pretty simple, but the Yankees lost their way for a long time.
Despite the team's success, there are a few things I'd like to see change:
Jose Molina is great, but he isn't going to be around long. Francisco Cervelli may have been playing above his ability, but he deserved a a chance to stay with the big club. Trading Molina isn't likely, and Cervelli will be back, but I wonder what being demoted, through no fault of his own, will do to him when he gets back.
More Brett Gardner. But who sits? JD is the weak link defensively, but he's productive at the plate. Swisher is the weakest link across the board, but has the intangibles the Yankees need. He takes walks, play OK defense, can hit from both sides. Melky is streaky at the plate, but has proven to be the best of the three starters. Gardner, one way or another, should be in every game, and that doesn't happen. Fortunately, speed doesn't slump, but again, what good is he on the bench for nine innings?
Seven innings seems to be the cut-off for Yankees starters. Why? CC and AJ are more than capable of finishing what they start, while Pettitte, because of his age and Joba, because of his inability to consistently finish hitters, aren't. And the fifth spot in the rotation is always a question. Those two to four innings CC and AJ surrender to the bullpen will add up in the long run, and probably won't affect them. And at this point, I'm sure Mo wouldn't complain about a giving up some saves in exchange for more rest. Plus, complete games are fun and nostalgic.
Not complaining of course. Whatever the Yankees are doing is working well, but if you can't bitch about something - which you can't change and have absolutely zero effect on anyway - why exactly was the Internet invented?
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
That's better
Sergio Mitre, huh?
All right, why not? The Yankees were facing Rich Hill, who was tossing 89 mph fastballs and 71 mph curves and lasted three innings.
Actually, Mitre didn't look horrible. He hung a curve to Melvin Mora and paid for it, but otherwise, he threw strikes and didn't hurt himself.
If only the Yanks weren't 0-8 against the Sox this season.
How about A-Rod, though? Helping the Yanks build a run without the benefit of a hit. Boy, makes up for the dozens of times he's failed to hit a sac fly, or a groundball to the right side to move a runner.
I have two new peeves:
First, the word "piece" when referring to a player. It's up there with "stud" and saying "position" after you say the position. We're talking about chess, we're talking about people ... mostly.
Second, the new-age, agent-created "hold," which is relevant only to said agents to toss out when negotiating contacts. A team could have a 10-run lead, and a reliever could give up nine runs and still be credited with a hold.
All right, why not? The Yankees were facing Rich Hill, who was tossing 89 mph fastballs and 71 mph curves and lasted three innings.
Actually, Mitre didn't look horrible. He hung a curve to Melvin Mora and paid for it, but otherwise, he threw strikes and didn't hurt himself.
If only the Yanks weren't 0-8 against the Sox this season.
How about A-Rod, though? Helping the Yanks build a run without the benefit of a hit. Boy, makes up for the dozens of times he's failed to hit a sac fly, or a groundball to the right side to move a runner.
I have two new peeves:
First, the word "piece" when referring to a player. It's up there with "stud" and saying "position" after you say the position. We're talking about chess, we're talking about people ... mostly.
Second, the new-age, agent-created "hold," which is relevant only to said agents to toss out when negotiating contacts. A team could have a 10-run lead, and a reliever could give up nine runs and still be credited with a hold.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Skip Bayless hates fun ... and A-Rod
Despite Skip Bayless' funny line on ESPN First Take about Hideki Matsui being encouraged to toss his helmet so Yankees players could catch it like a bridal bouquet, how can he complain about the Yankees' enthusiasm?
He complains the Yankees (Berra's and Mantle's and Williams' and O'Neil's) would never celebrate in such a manner. Really? Winnign is fun. It's about time the Yankees starting acting like they enjoy it, because that sort of thing is contagious ... despite naysayers. Need I point out the Red Sox of 2004 and 2007 actually enjoying/celebrating winning and *GASP* winning?
Oddly, Jorge Posada, who didn't appreciate the pie to the face he took, was in the middle of this homeplate party, encouraging Matsui to toss his helmet.
Then Bayless, who actually knew Mickey Mantle, goes and agrees with me (I'm assuming inadvertently ... you reading this blog Skip?) about how unpleasant it is for Man-Ram to pass Mickey Mantle on the HR list.
Oddly, Mick and Manny represent wasted talent ... just in vastly different ways. Still, Mantle's dedication to his team was never questioned ... I'm not entirely sure what Manny is dedicated to ... except himself. And probably his hair.
And yes, I've flipped on Ramirez.
He complains the Yankees (Berra's and Mantle's and Williams' and O'Neil's) would never celebrate in such a manner. Really? Winnign is fun. It's about time the Yankees starting acting like they enjoy it, because that sort of thing is contagious ... despite naysayers. Need I point out the Red Sox of 2004 and 2007 actually enjoying/celebrating winning and *GASP* winning?
Oddly, Jorge Posada, who didn't appreciate the pie to the face he took, was in the middle of this homeplate party, encouraging Matsui to toss his helmet.
Then Bayless, who actually knew Mickey Mantle, goes and agrees with me (I'm assuming inadvertently ... you reading this blog Skip?) about how unpleasant it is for Man-Ram to pass Mickey Mantle on the HR list.
Oddly, Mick and Manny represent wasted talent ... just in vastly different ways. Still, Mantle's dedication to his team was never questioned ... I'm not entirely sure what Manny is dedicated to ... except himself. And probably his hair.
And yes, I've flipped on Ramirez.
Manny being an idiot
Manny Ramirez hit home run No. 537, putting him ahead of Mickey Mantle.
I'm always bothered when a modern player passes Mantle on the home run list, not because most of them are likely PED users, but because Mantle's career was played mostly on one leg, thanks Joe D (you self-righteous sack of garbage), and mostly while Mantle was drinking himself in a stupor. Thanks Mick.
Th lasting image I have of Mantle is a photo from the Yankeeography (yes, it's self-important Yankee propaganda) of Mantle on a training room table with almost his entire leg bandaged - ankle to mid-thigh it seemed, although maybe memory colors it a bit. He played like that, was was still better than 98 percent of the guys on the field.
I'm always bothered when a modern player passes Mantle on the home run list, not because most of them are likely PED users, but because Mantle's career was played mostly on one leg, thanks Joe D (you self-righteous sack of garbage), and mostly while Mantle was drinking himself in a stupor. Thanks Mick.
Th lasting image I have of Mantle is a photo from the Yankeeography (yes, it's self-important Yankee propaganda) of Mantle on a training room table with almost his entire leg bandaged - ankle to mid-thigh it seemed, although maybe memory colors it a bit. He played like that, was was still better than 98 percent of the guys on the field.
Erin Andrews' privacy violated
Some perv apparently filmed the ESPN reporter undressing in her hotel room.
I hope she sues. I hope she takes this ... person ... for everything he owns or ever will own. And buries him. Whoever it is, and if he can be found.
Not surprisingly, a Google search of Andrews returns mostly photos ... but the top hit is a story from the LA Times titled "Is it possible to let Erin Andrews just do her job?" Good question. Hopefully the answer is yes.
Check it out:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/07/is-it-possible-to-let-erin-andrews-just-do-her-espn-job.html
It's one thing to agree to do a photo shoot for Maxim or Blender or whatever. But Andrews, to my knowledge, has never put herself out there as a sex symbol (like others have), just a reporter, a sports reporter, who happens to be attractive.
And "The Early Show" keeps playing blurred version of the video. Unbelievable.
I hope she sues. I hope she takes this ... person ... for everything he owns or ever will own. And buries him. Whoever it is, and if he can be found.
Not surprisingly, a Google search of Andrews returns mostly photos ... but the top hit is a story from the LA Times titled "Is it possible to let Erin Andrews just do her job?" Good question. Hopefully the answer is yes.
Check it out:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/07/is-it-possible-to-let-erin-andrews-just-do-her-espn-job.html
It's one thing to agree to do a photo shoot for Maxim or Blender or whatever. But Andrews, to my knowledge, has never put herself out there as a sex symbol (like others have), just a reporter, a sports reporter, who happens to be attractive.
And "The Early Show" keeps playing blurred version of the video. Unbelievable.
Jamming on the 2-1s
Didn't think the Yanks could win this way, but boy is it enjoyable, despite my inability to watch every inning.
Woke up this morning, checked my phone and, yes, Yankees win again. Thanks Hideki Matsui. Thanks for your cooperation with team tradition, tossing your helmet and "forgetting" about the cream pie inbound for your strange, angular grill.
Of course, the MLB.com writer goes to great pain to describe Melky catching Hideki's lid, then A-Rod snatches it from him and parades it around the infield. Nice.
I expect nothing from Joba, (except high-quality meth) but I've always been a fan of Andy Pettitte. The guy knows how to pitch, if he sometimes battles himself. Seven-plus of one-run ball is more than you could reasonably expect from him.
If there's any doubt about what a great guy Derek Jeter is ...
Here he is receiving his MetLife Player of the Month award and shaking Snoopy's hand. He did this twice, despite the fact Snoopy is in fact some jerk making $7.50 per, and a fixture in the local theater community, probably high, too.
So good for you Derek ... even if you did stand several feet away from, I assume, everyone's favorite comic canine, while the he and MetLife rep got very, very close for the picture ... ick.
Also, Charles Schultz sucks. Sorry, it's true. Classic Peanuts is a sham and I won't stand for it.
A-Rod is crap report: Reason No. 3,446,784,234,564,456,198 why A-Rod sucks. First and third, one out, goes down looking, again. This stuff is forgotten when he's running around with the hero's helmet.
Woke up this morning, checked my phone and, yes, Yankees win again. Thanks Hideki Matsui. Thanks for your cooperation with team tradition, tossing your helmet and "forgetting" about the cream pie inbound for your strange, angular grill.
Of course, the MLB.com writer goes to great pain to describe Melky catching Hideki's lid, then A-Rod snatches it from him and parades it around the infield. Nice.
I expect nothing from Joba, (except high-quality meth) but I've always been a fan of Andy Pettitte. The guy knows how to pitch, if he sometimes battles himself. Seven-plus of one-run ball is more than you could reasonably expect from him.
If there's any doubt about what a great guy Derek Jeter is ...
Here he is receiving his MetLife Player of the Month award and shaking Snoopy's hand. He did this twice, despite the fact Snoopy is in fact some jerk making $7.50 per, and a fixture in the local theater community, probably high, too.
So good for you Derek ... even if you did stand several feet away from, I assume, everyone's favorite comic canine, while the he and MetLife rep got very, very close for the picture ... ick.
Also, Charles Schultz sucks. Sorry, it's true. Classic Peanuts is a sham and I won't stand for it.
A-Rod is crap report: Reason No. 3,446,784,234,564,456,198 why A-Rod sucks. First and third, one out, goes down looking, again. This stuff is forgotten when he's running around with the hero's helmet.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Maybe I'm wrong
I read an interesting article in SI this week, about Earl Weaver and how he set the ground work for "Moneyball" and sabremetrics, the brainchild of Dr. Evil, I mean Bill James. James, for those who don't know, is the modern pioneer of stat-sdriven baseball, the philosophy of no bunting, no steal attempts, matchups, OBP/OPS, etc etc.
I hate this sort of baseball. Specifically because I witnessed a less-talented 2003 Marlins team beat the Yankees in the World Series with speed and sacrifices ... oh, and Josh Beckett, who pitched, it seemed, every excruciating inning of every excruciating game.
But after last night, maybe I need to change my thinking. I prefer smart, hustle baseball, but maybe the Yanks just can't play that way. I'm beginnning to question whether they ever did.
I witnessed a one-out, first and second situation get erased by baseball's most over-rated player because he thought a line drive HIT RIGHT AT THE SECOND BASEMAN was going through. He was almost standing on second when the fourth tenor caught it. And Ass-Rod just hung his head and touched second. Ooops. A Little Leaguer knows to freeze on a line drive. Coaches screamed at my teams for years "make sure the ball goes through."
I watched the Yankees turn a lead-off double into Jorge Posada getting thrown at at home on a two-out single to left, because at that point, you have to send the tying run home and make the other team get the out. Posada was out by 20 feet.
Then Mark Teixeira hits a three-run home run in the seventh and everyone forgets the Yankees should have lost ... because the Yankees are dumb, but boy, can they hit homeruns.
So, from now on, forget first to third on a single to right, I'm cheering for three-run homeruns.
And I'm cheering for Phil Hughes ... who's doing what Joba should be doing. Feels pretty good, right Phil? Keep up the good work.
I hate this sort of baseball. Specifically because I witnessed a less-talented 2003 Marlins team beat the Yankees in the World Series with speed and sacrifices ... oh, and Josh Beckett, who pitched, it seemed, every excruciating inning of every excruciating game.
But after last night, maybe I need to change my thinking. I prefer smart, hustle baseball, but maybe the Yanks just can't play that way. I'm beginnning to question whether they ever did.
I witnessed a one-out, first and second situation get erased by baseball's most over-rated player because he thought a line drive HIT RIGHT AT THE SECOND BASEMAN was going through. He was almost standing on second when the fourth tenor caught it. And Ass-Rod just hung his head and touched second. Ooops. A Little Leaguer knows to freeze on a line drive. Coaches screamed at my teams for years "make sure the ball goes through."
I watched the Yankees turn a lead-off double into Jorge Posada getting thrown at at home on a two-out single to left, because at that point, you have to send the tying run home and make the other team get the out. Posada was out by 20 feet.
Then Mark Teixeira hits a three-run home run in the seventh and everyone forgets the Yankees should have lost ... because the Yankees are dumb, but boy, can they hit homeruns.
So, from now on, forget first to third on a single to right, I'm cheering for three-run homeruns.
And I'm cheering for Phil Hughes ... who's doing what Joba should be doing. Feels pretty good, right Phil? Keep up the good work.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Commander-in-weak
The Associated PressSo, Obama can't throw a baseball, but when he's wearing a bulletproof vest, it's probably not as easy as it should be.
C'mon ... a full jacket zipped to the neck? Really?
This is the first year I didn't watch the All-Star Game, and I don't feel at all bad about it.
Fans shouldn't vote, every team should not be represented and it should be after the World Series, not mid-season ... yeah, I know. You can shut up, too.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Chicks dig the longball ... and conclusions
I, on the other hand, do not.
I told myself I wouldn't watch the home run derby last night, for a variety of reasons. Here are a few:
Chris Berman
State Farm
The children in the outfield
The children along the baselines
The children on the other side of the outfield wall
"Ball tracker"
Chris Berman
Joe Morgan
Chris Berman
St. Louis "the baseball capital of the world" indeed
Josh "Converting the Masses" Hamilton
Brandon Inge
At least world's cutest sideline reporter Erin Andrews was on hand to ask the hard-hitting questions. She's turned marginal reporting skills and hot-girl-next-door looks into a cottage industry, Way to go Erin.
Mark Weinberger of Pennsylvania was the State Farm Call Your Shot home run contestant, with Albert Pujols trying, I assume, to hit a home run where our buddy Mark told predicted. I was a little unclear, but needless to say, Big Al didn't come through. I don't know Mark Weinberger, but jeepers, if he isn't whitest man in America ... I actually thought he was the "Jump to Conclusions" guy from "Office Space." I'm still not convinced he wasn't.
I told myself I wouldn't watch the home run derby last night, for a variety of reasons. Here are a few:
Chris Berman
State Farm
The children in the outfield
The children along the baselines
The children on the other side of the outfield wall
"Ball tracker"
Chris Berman
Joe Morgan
Chris Berman
St. Louis "the baseball capital of the world" indeed
Josh "Converting the Masses" Hamilton
Brandon Inge
At least world's cutest sideline reporter Erin Andrews was on hand to ask the hard-hitting questions. She's turned marginal reporting skills and hot-girl-next-door looks into a cottage industry, Way to go Erin.
Mark Weinberger of Pennsylvania was the State Farm Call Your Shot home run contestant, with Albert Pujols trying, I assume, to hit a home run where our buddy Mark told predicted. I was a little unclear, but needless to say, Big Al didn't come through. I don't know Mark Weinberger, but jeepers, if he isn't whitest man in America ... I actually thought he was the "Jump to Conclusions" guy from "Office Space." I'm still not convinced he wasn't.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Doing my best to pretend the Yankees didn't play the Angels
A haiku: part 1
Joba in bullpen
Makes sense to everyone but
clueless Steinbrenners
A haiku: part 2
Does Joe notice it?
How could he not, when Joba
can't make it through five
A haiku: part 3
Can't even take one
From that left coast heaven nine
Loaded, no outs, zilch
A haiku: part 4
I hate you A-Rod
If it's clutch, you'll choke on it
I hate you A-Rod
Joba in bullpen
Makes sense to everyone but
clueless Steinbrenners
A haiku: part 2
Does Joe notice it?
How could he not, when Joba
can't make it through five
A haiku: part 3
Can't even take one
From that left coast heaven nine
Loaded, no outs, zilch
A haiku: part 4
I hate you A-Rod
If it's clutch, you'll choke on it
I hate you A-Rod
Thursday, July 9, 2009
I like Terry Francona
There, I said it.
I'm doomed to listen to EEI every morning, unless I want to hear the same six songs - really, there's a song called "Birthday Sex"? I guess it was only a matter of time. But, whenever Francona is on, he has something insightful or interesting to say, even when you don't believe him.
You know he heard Beckett mouthing off. But he would never admit it.
Of course, when we first came on the radar as a managerial candidate, I thought, Who's next, Rance Mulinicks? Camaro Barbee? Joel Skinner? ... oh, right ... Why do these mediocre players make such good managers and front office guys ...
Probably the same reason star players don't.
I'm doomed to listen to EEI every morning, unless I want to hear the same six songs - really, there's a song called "Birthday Sex"? I guess it was only a matter of time. But, whenever Francona is on, he has something insightful or interesting to say, even when you don't believe him.
You know he heard Beckett mouthing off. But he would never admit it.
Of course, when we first came on the radar as a managerial candidate, I thought, Who's next, Rance Mulinicks? Camaro Barbee? Joel Skinner? ... oh, right ... Why do these mediocre players make such good managers and front office guys ...
Probably the same reason star players don't.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Is there a doctor in the house?
Should the Yankees try to get Roy Halladay? Yes.
Could they realistically get Roy Halladay? Yes-ish. While it's unlikely Toronto would trade inside the AL East, there is precedent. Toronto did trade Roger Clemens to the Yankees for David Wells and Homer Bush (and Graeme Lloyd) in 1999.
But the bigger question is who would the Yankees trade to get the best pitcher in baseball?
In terms of Major League-ready talent, Phil Hughes is the most-likely candidate, again, considering how dominant he's been coming out the bullpen. Maybe Joba Chamberlain. Ian Kennedy? But it take much more than that, obviously. But how much? Five players, six? And at various positions. Probably three pitchers, at least two starters ... and so on.
Admittedly, I have no idea who's in the Yankees' system, so the likelihood of Halladay in pinstripes is as remote it gets. But, the Yankees can pay him, and he does want to go to a winner.
Stranger things have happened.
Could they realistically get Roy Halladay? Yes-ish. While it's unlikely Toronto would trade inside the AL East, there is precedent. Toronto did trade Roger Clemens to the Yankees for David Wells and Homer Bush (and Graeme Lloyd) in 1999.
But the bigger question is who would the Yankees trade to get the best pitcher in baseball?
In terms of Major League-ready talent, Phil Hughes is the most-likely candidate, again, considering how dominant he's been coming out the bullpen. Maybe Joba Chamberlain. Ian Kennedy? But it take much more than that, obviously. But how much? Five players, six? And at various positions. Probably three pitchers, at least two starters ... and so on.
Admittedly, I have no idea who's in the Yankees' system, so the likelihood of Halladay in pinstripes is as remote it gets. But, the Yankees can pay him, and he does want to go to a winner.
Stranger things have happened.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
The best defense is a good defense
So close ... thanks Eric Hinske. Not sure Who looked worse in that inning. You waving half-heartedly at a 3-1 dirtball, or Jason Frasor, who was clearly caving.
Or, we could point to Nick Swisher swinging at the first pitch he saw after DJ worked a walk to force across the 4th Yanks run. Swisher just missed ...
At least the Yanks are consistent in their inability to hit a guy they've never seen. Apparently Hinske didn't get that memo. One run in six innings, ouch.
Or, we could point to Nick Swisher swinging at the first pitch he saw after DJ worked a walk to force across the 4th Yanks run. Swisher just missed ...
At least the Yanks are consistent in their inability to hit a guy they've never seen. Apparently Hinske didn't get that memo. One run in six innings, ouch.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Jerky Joba
Been awhile. No good reason ...
But the Yanks have been hot, and that's a good thing. Just one game back, leading the Wild Card, which, let's face it, no Yankees fan is interested in.
The wife likes to watch the post-game show, which I find excruciating. What I found shocking after yesterday's game, however, was the holier-than-thou attitude Joba Chamberlain copped with the media.
I'm the first person to hate on reporters, especially beat writers who, under penalty of death, must ask the most mind-numbingly stupid and obvious questions, but Chamberlain acted as if he pitched a great game. He got two outs in the fourth and got yanked. Granted, five of the eight runs he gave up were unearned, but when you surrender five hits after an error is made, that's your fault, not the guy who committed the error.
Joba's 4-2, and he stinks at home. He's a reliever, nothing more. He should be pitching the 7th and/or 8th innings, and gassing batters. Instead, he's pitching maybe 4 innings and looking like any other middling starter. And with Wang out, Joba's return to the bullpen becomes less likely. Bleh.
Dumbest question of the post-game goes to Kim Jones. To Derek Jeter, All-Star starter, she asked, and I paraphrase: You're down by 4 and Hideki Matsui hits a three-run home run. How big was that? Really? That's the question you ask. If DJ had beaten her with her own microphone, it would have been fully justified. And hilarious.
Most heinous moment was some dope asking Mo Rivera if he thought DJ deserved to be the AL's leading vote getter. That's not a completely loaded question. Rivera's response? DJ deserved whatever votes he received. Translation: You're an ass and that's a stupid question deserving a non-answer.
Best moment of the post-game (if there was one): Unknown reporter during same Rivera interview asks if Rivera's 10th selection to the All-Star team is more special, to which Rivera responds, "ask the rest of the question: Because I'm old, right?" Everyone laughs awkwardly, Rivera gives some barely decipherable non-answers yet again.
Maybe there's a bin outside the locker-room marked "Reporters leave brains/commonsense here."
But the Yanks have been hot, and that's a good thing. Just one game back, leading the Wild Card, which, let's face it, no Yankees fan is interested in.
The wife likes to watch the post-game show, which I find excruciating. What I found shocking after yesterday's game, however, was the holier-than-thou attitude Joba Chamberlain copped with the media.
I'm the first person to hate on reporters, especially beat writers who, under penalty of death, must ask the most mind-numbingly stupid and obvious questions, but Chamberlain acted as if he pitched a great game. He got two outs in the fourth and got yanked. Granted, five of the eight runs he gave up were unearned, but when you surrender five hits after an error is made, that's your fault, not the guy who committed the error.
Joba's 4-2, and he stinks at home. He's a reliever, nothing more. He should be pitching the 7th and/or 8th innings, and gassing batters. Instead, he's pitching maybe 4 innings and looking like any other middling starter. And with Wang out, Joba's return to the bullpen becomes less likely. Bleh.
Dumbest question of the post-game goes to Kim Jones. To Derek Jeter, All-Star starter, she asked, and I paraphrase: You're down by 4 and Hideki Matsui hits a three-run home run. How big was that? Really? That's the question you ask. If DJ had beaten her with her own microphone, it would have been fully justified. And hilarious.
Most heinous moment was some dope asking Mo Rivera if he thought DJ deserved to be the AL's leading vote getter. That's not a completely loaded question. Rivera's response? DJ deserved whatever votes he received. Translation: You're an ass and that's a stupid question deserving a non-answer.
Best moment of the post-game (if there was one): Unknown reporter during same Rivera interview asks if Rivera's 10th selection to the All-Star team is more special, to which Rivera responds, "ask the rest of the question: Because I'm old, right?" Everyone laughs awkwardly, Rivera gives some barely decipherable non-answers yet again.
Maybe there's a bin outside the locker-room marked "Reporters leave brains/commonsense here."
Monday, June 29, 2009
Winning with Wanger
OK, the Mets are garbage, but he has to beat somebody.
But the big deal, again, was Mo Rivera batting. And you know what, Mangler Joe Girardi really thought Rivera had a shot. He did. He really thought Rivera had a shot. A good shot. If it was a strike. (Reason No. 2,386,732,896,496 post-game news conferences are garbage).
Still and all, a sweep is a sweep, and a little history is nice, too.
Yanks/Mets was the Sunday game, and we once again got to enjoy the work of Jon Miller, Joe Morgan and Steve Phillips. Miller was probably drunk, but mostly he worked on the pronunciation of the Latin players' names. Morgan was more concerned with team spirit, than the game, and Phillips was speculating where Derek Jeter might finish his career. As if there's any chance he'll be anywhere but shortstop for the Yankees until he decideds he doesn't want to play shortstop for the Yankees.
You morons.
I'd love sports so much more if the games were broadcast in silence. Just the roar of the crowd, the crack of the bat, the pop of the glove ... beautiful.
Or, if Michael Bay directed. That would be pretty sweet, too. Everytime anyone made contact with the ball, it would explode. Twice. Awesome.
But the big deal, again, was Mo Rivera batting. And you know what, Mangler Joe Girardi really thought Rivera had a shot. He did. He really thought Rivera had a shot. A good shot. If it was a strike. (Reason No. 2,386,732,896,496 post-game news conferences are garbage).
Still and all, a sweep is a sweep, and a little history is nice, too.
Yanks/Mets was the Sunday game, and we once again got to enjoy the work of Jon Miller, Joe Morgan and Steve Phillips. Miller was probably drunk, but mostly he worked on the pronunciation of the Latin players' names. Morgan was more concerned with team spirit, than the game, and Phillips was speculating where Derek Jeter might finish his career. As if there's any chance he'll be anywhere but shortstop for the Yankees until he decideds he doesn't want to play shortstop for the Yankees.
You morons.
I'd love sports so much more if the games were broadcast in silence. Just the roar of the crowd, the crack of the bat, the pop of the glove ... beautiful.
Or, if Michael Bay directed. That would be pretty sweet, too. Everytime anyone made contact with the ball, it would explode. Twice. Awesome.
Friday, June 26, 2009
The white Wanger
Even up 7, with everyone hitting, it still didn't feel good.
Four-plus shakey innings from Pettitte? Ugh.
And Aceves goes 2, again. Why! What is the compulsion to use every guy every night? It makes no sense. But Phil Coke got two innings in, so all is right.
Still, 11 runs, 16 hits ... and no of them came from Tex. 0-5 and 7 left on. Ouch.
Now on to Citifield and Mets.
Is 499 saves impressive? I'm torn. I love Mo, but the closer is probably the most over-rated position with the most over-rated stat. Whatever. 500 anything is pretty good I guess.
Four-plus shakey innings from Pettitte? Ugh.
And Aceves goes 2, again. Why! What is the compulsion to use every guy every night? It makes no sense. But Phil Coke got two innings in, so all is right.
Still, 11 runs, 16 hits ... and no of them came from Tex. 0-5 and 7 left on. Ouch.
Now on to Citifield and Mets.
Is 499 saves impressive? I'm torn. I love Mo, but the closer is probably the most over-rated position with the most over-rated stat. Whatever. 500 anything is pretty good I guess.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
And another thing(s)
Is Jose Veras in witness protection? No, he's in Cleveland, which I guess the same thing. He was traded ... for no one. Ouch.
And that whole Mariano Rivera is going to hit! sequence last night was a little, overdone. Until he ripped a line drive into center. Sure, it was caught, but at 56, or however old he is ... you know, it just occurred to me no one has ever questioned how old Rivera is. To finish the thought, Rivera look comfortable out of the box, easily loping to first base. At least he wouldn't end his season, gasp, running.
Which ALSO reminds me. Andy Pettitte doubled against the Marlins and said, if he had to run again, it would cost him innings. Really? Running does that? I hope he was joking, but I didn't hear otherwise. A guy on the verge of making the Hall of Fame should be able to run the bases without fear of halving his start. Come on Andy, you're better than that.
And that whole Mariano Rivera is going to hit! sequence last night was a little, overdone. Until he ripped a line drive into center. Sure, it was caught, but at 56, or however old he is ... you know, it just occurred to me no one has ever questioned how old Rivera is. To finish the thought, Rivera look comfortable out of the box, easily loping to first base. At least he wouldn't end his season, gasp, running.
Which ALSO reminds me. Andy Pettitte doubled against the Marlins and said, if he had to run again, it would cost him innings. Really? Running does that? I hope he was joking, but I didn't hear otherwise. A guy on the verge of making the Hall of Fame should be able to run the bases without fear of halving his start. Come on Andy, you're better than that.
We won?
We won!
And Mariano got into a game! And got people out!!
Still, Bruney looked awfully shaky, but he may have been squeezed here and there. Fact is, he's gotta be the bridge. There's no one else.
Joe Girardi needs to get ejected more. He sucks.
The Yankees rolled out some online service yesterday for cable customers and Optimum online users ... blah blah blah. Oh, and you have to have YES. So, if you have those things, and pay a fee, you can watch Yankees games online.
Apparently they aren't aware of MLB.com, MLB.TV, ESPN Gamecast, Fox, CBSsportsline or any one of a billion other places you can follow the Yankees online ... for free. None of it is perfect, but it's functional, and free.
Nice job Yankees marketing team. Way to do your research.
And Mariano got into a game! And got people out!!
Still, Bruney looked awfully shaky, but he may have been squeezed here and there. Fact is, he's gotta be the bridge. There's no one else.
Joe Girardi needs to get ejected more. He sucks.
The Yankees rolled out some online service yesterday for cable customers and Optimum online users ... blah blah blah. Oh, and you have to have YES. So, if you have those things, and pay a fee, you can watch Yankees games online.
Apparently they aren't aware of MLB.com, MLB.TV, ESPN Gamecast, Fox, CBSsportsline or any one of a billion other places you can follow the Yankees online ... for free. None of it is perfect, but it's functional, and free.
Nice job Yankees marketing team. Way to do your research.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
It's blurry, but I like to think that's from the rage
"You rotten bums! You overpaid weenies! ... you make my butt sting! I *detest* you! You're all garbage! All of ya! Back up the truck! Back it up!"
Monday, June 22, 2009
Protest this
What Girardi should be protesting is losing his ace after an inning. He should be protesting A-Rod's lack of everything, his spotty bullpen, Derek Jeter's preternatural ability to smash ground balls at infielders, c'mon Capt. Clutch! Johnny Damon going Benny Hill in left.. And Joe's concerning about bookkeeping. Figures.
Fish and bugs
And now the Yanks are four back.
Again, the Red Sox find a way to win, the Yankees find new and inventive ways to lose. But they also have the tried and true methods they've relied on: Rookie? Loss. First time facing him?: loss. Fly ball hit to Johnny Damon? Loss.
And now the Yanks get an angry Braves team.
Is there anything better than a manager/player/player freakout/ejection? No. Bobby Cox never fails to entertain.
Again, the Red Sox find a way to win, the Yankees find new and inventive ways to lose. But they also have the tried and true methods they've relied on: Rookie? Loss. First time facing him?: loss. Fly ball hit to Johnny Damon? Loss.
And now the Yanks get an angry Braves team.
Is there anything better than a manager/player/player freakout/ejection? No. Bobby Cox never fails to entertain.
The Associated Press
Cox was disputing a non-call. Chipper Jones hates mustaches.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Better, but still garbage
Wanger lasted five innings last night, and was outdueled by John Lannan, the guy better known for serving up Barry Bonds' *** home run, and being rather pleased about it.
The Yankees had two solo home runs and the 'Nats did little better, cashing in on a horrendous call at first that likely changed the game.
Meanwhile, the Red Sox bludgeoned the Marlins, again, and the Yanks slipped three games off the pace. A win tonight, even they even play is critical, but ultimately, the Yanks need to sweep these series. The Red Sox rarely fail to collect wins (in bunches) against inferior teams, which is just about every team in baseball, if not every team.
Still, I'm absolutely impressed with Phil Hughes. There's no good reason for the treatment he's receiving and the inexplicable favoritism being shown to Joba Chamberlain, who has done nothing to prove he deserves to be in the rotation any more than Hughes. Certainly, either could do exactly what Wang is doing.
The Yankees had two solo home runs and the 'Nats did little better, cashing in on a horrendous call at first that likely changed the game.
Meanwhile, the Red Sox bludgeoned the Marlins, again, and the Yanks slipped three games off the pace. A win tonight, even they even play is critical, but ultimately, the Yanks need to sweep these series. The Red Sox rarely fail to collect wins (in bunches) against inferior teams, which is just about every team in baseball, if not every team.
Still, I'm absolutely impressed with Phil Hughes. There's no good reason for the treatment he's receiving and the inexplicable favoritism being shown to Joba Chamberlain, who has done nothing to prove he deserves to be in the rotation any more than Hughes. Certainly, either could do exactly what Wang is doing.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
On cue
The Yankees win. Hooray.
There's been lots of talk about how the Yankees pitchers are better with anyone but Jorge Posada behind the plate. Some stats suggest this is the case, although Michael Kay pointed out Posada has caught Chien-Ming Wang four times this season, so, you know, lies, damn lies and statistics.
Posada puts a sign down and expects that pitch. He's gotten into little finger-flashing battles with Joba Chamberlain and AJ Burnett, who want to throw what they want to throw. For Joba, that lasts about four-plus innings per start. So, you see how well that's working for him.
Last night, CC Sabathia shook a sign with two on and threw a slider that Anderson Hernandez, a light-hitting second baseman dropped into the left field seats. My feeling is Posada wanted to go low and away again with a changeup, the pitch Hernandez swung at and missed immediately before the home run. The hit turned Sabathia's otherwise dominant performance upside down, although briefly, and gave me flashbacks to Randy Johnson, who seemed to hate pitching with leads. Or winning, or even looking as if he knew what he was doing.
There's no denying Fransisco Cervelli has given the Yankees a boost, and probably is outplaying his skill, at least at the plate, if not behind it, but Posada has four World Series rings and has caught Hall of Famers, would-be Hall of Famers and should-be Hall of Famers. He's obviously doing something right. And he's been doing it for a long time.
I understand pitchers are the guys who get the win or the loss, but, let's face it, sometimes pitchers are stupid, prideful and shortsighted. Throwing the wrong pitch in the wrong place to the wrong batter nearly cost the Yankees last night. It's cost them too often during the last near-decade.
There's been lots of talk about how the Yankees pitchers are better with anyone but Jorge Posada behind the plate. Some stats suggest this is the case, although Michael Kay pointed out Posada has caught Chien-Ming Wang four times this season, so, you know, lies, damn lies and statistics.
Posada puts a sign down and expects that pitch. He's gotten into little finger-flashing battles with Joba Chamberlain and AJ Burnett, who want to throw what they want to throw. For Joba, that lasts about four-plus innings per start. So, you see how well that's working for him.
Last night, CC Sabathia shook a sign with two on and threw a slider that Anderson Hernandez, a light-hitting second baseman dropped into the left field seats. My feeling is Posada wanted to go low and away again with a changeup, the pitch Hernandez swung at and missed immediately before the home run. The hit turned Sabathia's otherwise dominant performance upside down, although briefly, and gave me flashbacks to Randy Johnson, who seemed to hate pitching with leads. Or winning, or even looking as if he knew what he was doing.
There's no denying Fransisco Cervelli has given the Yankees a boost, and probably is outplaying his skill, at least at the plate, if not behind it, but Posada has four World Series rings and has caught Hall of Famers, would-be Hall of Famers and should-be Hall of Famers. He's obviously doing something right. And he's been doing it for a long time.
I understand pitchers are the guys who get the win or the loss, but, let's face it, sometimes pitchers are stupid, prideful and shortsighted. Throwing the wrong pitch in the wrong place to the wrong batter nearly cost the Yankees last night. It's cost them too often during the last near-decade.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Bottom feeding
The Nats worry me. They stink, but they'll have guys no one has ever seen, not even the California Penal League, and those are the guys that make the Yanks look clueless.
5-4 CC Sabathia goes against 5-1 Shairon Martis. The guy's got 5 wins and Nats have 16. I feel an embolism coming on. And two hits for the Yankees.
5-4 CC Sabathia goes against 5-1 Shairon Martis. The guy's got 5 wins and Nats have 16. I feel an embolism coming on. And two hits for the Yankees.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Lemme git dis strate
That was one of the more unlikely series I've seen in a long, long time.
Winning on a two-run error in the bottom of the ninth.
Losing to a guy who hasn't won a big league start since 2006.
Beating the best pitcher in the National League like a drum.
Oddly, I fell asleep right after Jeter singled in the ninth of the first game, and woke up at 3:30 a.m., groggy, on the couch, in time to see Rodriguez pop up the 3-1 offering. I was conscience enough to hurl an insult and then completely confused by the events that unfolded right after. I wonder how John Sterling's head didn't explode.
I had the pleasure of listening to radio broadcast of What's-His-Name Nivea (or whatever) mowing down Yankees batter after Yankees batter. It's sickening, but not a surprise, not at all. Of course, that didn't stop Suzyn Waldman from saying, repeatedly, "He's not doing anything special ..." Really Suzyn? Is that why $200 million worth of talent looks like a collection of child? Apparently, nothing special, is all it takes to beat the Yankees.
Which means what for Johan Santana?
There's a trend now that when a player doesn't perform as expected, he must be injured, something must be wrong. Andy Pettitte stunk, so his back must be bothering him. Santana lost, his volacity has slightly down, so his arm must be hurting.
Maybe they just had shitty outtings. How about that?
For the record, I totally called the Iran elections.
Winning on a two-run error in the bottom of the ninth.
Losing to a guy who hasn't won a big league start since 2006.
Beating the best pitcher in the National League like a drum.
Oddly, I fell asleep right after Jeter singled in the ninth of the first game, and woke up at 3:30 a.m., groggy, on the couch, in time to see Rodriguez pop up the 3-1 offering. I was conscience enough to hurl an insult and then completely confused by the events that unfolded right after. I wonder how John Sterling's head didn't explode.
I had the pleasure of listening to radio broadcast of What's-His-Name Nivea (or whatever) mowing down Yankees batter after Yankees batter. It's sickening, but not a surprise, not at all. Of course, that didn't stop Suzyn Waldman from saying, repeatedly, "He's not doing anything special ..." Really Suzyn? Is that why $200 million worth of talent looks like a collection of child? Apparently, nothing special, is all it takes to beat the Yankees.
Which means what for Johan Santana?
There's a trend now that when a player doesn't perform as expected, he must be injured, something must be wrong. Andy Pettitte stunk, so his back must be bothering him. Santana lost, his volacity has slightly down, so his arm must be hurting.
Maybe they just had shitty outtings. How about that?
For the record, I totally called the Iran elections.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Eight is the loneliest number
Well, what can I say?
Another rainy day, another horrible loss.
Some random thoughts about the game:
How do you drop a fly ball that hit your palm? Then look at the sky as if the offending air molecules were there, taunting you?
How can the same guy get doubled off on fly ball/line drives two days in a row? He does understand the rules, right? Bad base running killed two rallies.
Is it just me, or are the umpires this year especially bad? Not biased, just awful. Strike zones seem to change from pitch to pitch.
How can you give a warning after the first guy is hit? In the third game of a series already overhyped and a little chippy?
Another rainy day, another horrible loss.
Some random thoughts about the game:
How do you drop a fly ball that hit your palm? Then look at the sky as if the offending air molecules were there, taunting you?
How can the same guy get doubled off on fly ball/line drives two days in a row? He does understand the rules, right? Bad base running killed two rallies.
Is it just me, or are the umpires this year especially bad? Not biased, just awful. Strike zones seem to change from pitch to pitch.
How can you give a warning after the first guy is hit? In the third game of a series already overhyped and a little chippy?
Thursday, June 11, 2009
That sinking feeling
Oh Wanger, what's become of you?
Are you going all Chuck Knoblauch before our eyes? You're still throwing 95. You're ball still sinks, but you just don't know where it's going, do you?
Last night's loss was a little easier to swallow. The Yanks didn't quit, they just got beat by better pitching. Credit the Sox bullpen, which I still don't think is that great beyond Okerjimer and Sphincterface [seriously, Pappelbon's face looks like a butt], which shows how much I know) and Phil Hughes, for pretty much putting the breaks on both offenses.
Are you going all Chuck Knoblauch before our eyes? You're still throwing 95. You're ball still sinks, but you just don't know where it's going, do you?
Last night's loss was a little easier to swallow. The Yanks didn't quit, they just got beat by better pitching. Credit the Sox bullpen, which I still don't think is that great beyond Okerjimer and Sphincterface [seriously, Pappelbon's face looks like a butt], which shows how much I know) and Phil Hughes, for pretty much putting the breaks on both offenses.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Rolling over
The Red Sox have less talent but more confidence, which isn't new or original, just true.
David Ortix couldn't hit water if he fell out of a boat, but put one on a tee for him, and even his 75 year old body can turn around a straight fastball.
It was pretty obvious from the start the Yanks had no interest in playing last night. Some of that may be Josh Beckett ... a lot of it may be Josh Beckett ... but going 0-fer the season so far isn't painting an encouraging picture.
Also, MY9 is trash. I pay for HD service, and yet once every few days I'm forced to watch squished, grainy baseball. Add rain or mist, and the game looks like its being transmitted through a Resident Evil noise filter. In short, it sucks.
Oh, that reminds me. Michael Kay, as disgusting as dip is, baseball players are adults and this is America. So keep your opinions about how unhealthy the habit is to yourself, OK? You don't chew, I don't chew. That's fine. If, in 30 years, BJ Upton or Melky Cabrera are fine with their jaws hanging off their faces, then I'm fine with it.
You self-righteous jerk.
David Ortix couldn't hit water if he fell out of a boat, but put one on a tee for him, and even his 75 year old body can turn around a straight fastball.
It was pretty obvious from the start the Yanks had no interest in playing last night. Some of that may be Josh Beckett ... a lot of it may be Josh Beckett ... but going 0-fer the season so far isn't painting an encouraging picture.
Also, MY9 is trash. I pay for HD service, and yet once every few days I'm forced to watch squished, grainy baseball. Add rain or mist, and the game looks like its being transmitted through a Resident Evil noise filter. In short, it sucks.
Oh, that reminds me. Michael Kay, as disgusting as dip is, baseball players are adults and this is America. So keep your opinions about how unhealthy the habit is to yourself, OK? You don't chew, I don't chew. That's fine. If, in 30 years, BJ Upton or Melky Cabrera are fine with their jaws hanging off their faces, then I'm fine with it.
You self-righteous jerk.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Stadium on 'roids?
The Star Ledger has a small story about Mark Teixeira getting defensive when asked about the home runs at the new stadium. Yes there's been a bunch, probably too many, but, the balls Teixeira hits would be out of most parks, including Yellowstone. I'm pretty sure he hasn't hit one cheapy all year, as opposed to many others, including several by Johnny Damon, A-Rod, DJ and Nick Swisher.
I'm not complaining, and I doubt they will, but Teixeira is the last guy that should be questioned about the prolific home run barrage.
An odd moment from last night was Damon's late solo shot that gave the Yanks a 4-3 lead. It was a hanging curveball, and garbage pile Michael Kay started his call slightly before Damon made contact. When he did connect, Damon reacted as if he didn't get it all. The ball landed about five rows deep in rightfield. Not exactly a moon shot.
Teixeira, on the other hand, hit his first inning home run halfway up the second deck.
I'm not complaining, and I doubt they will, but Teixeira is the last guy that should be questioned about the prolific home run barrage.
An odd moment from last night was Damon's late solo shot that gave the Yanks a 4-3 lead. It was a hanging curveball, and garbage pile Michael Kay started his call slightly before Damon made contact. When he did connect, Damon reacted as if he didn't get it all. The ball landed about five rows deep in rightfield. Not exactly a moon shot.
Teixeira, on the other hand, hit his first inning home run halfway up the second deck.
Monday, June 8, 2009
A-Rod on the Hudson
How do these celebrities pairings happen?
Does one group of people call the other's group of people and the people set up a meeting?
Or did A-Rod finally get his NetFlix copy of "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days" and think, that Kate Hudson, she's a cutie. I wonder if she'll get a malt with me? Or take a quick pop over to Paris for a late dinner?
Is Kate Hudson a Yankees fan? Doesn't she have to be?
Did she introduce A-Rod to Goldie and Kurt?
"Alex this is my mom, Goldie, and Snake Pliskin. I mean Jack Burton. I mean Tango, or was it Cash ...?"
"It's Kurt."
"Right, this is Kurt."
"This is Ale ..."
"We know honey, They guy with the steroids and the hooker, and the divorce ... Derek Jeter wasn't available? Or even that Milky guy? First it was the stoner, now this ..."
Awkward.
Does one group of people call the other's group of people and the people set up a meeting?
Or did A-Rod finally get his NetFlix copy of "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days" and think, that Kate Hudson, she's a cutie. I wonder if she'll get a malt with me? Or take a quick pop over to Paris for a late dinner?
Is Kate Hudson a Yankees fan? Doesn't she have to be?
Did she introduce A-Rod to Goldie and Kurt?
"Alex this is my mom, Goldie, and Snake Pliskin. I mean Jack Burton. I mean Tango, or was it Cash ...?"
"It's Kurt."
"Right, this is Kurt."
"This is Ale ..."
"We know honey, They guy with the steroids and the hooker, and the divorce ... Derek Jeter wasn't available? Or even that Milky guy? First it was the stoner, now this ..."
Awkward.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Wang, Wang, Wang, Wang
Deficit erasure ... it's a wonderful thing.
I'm confused though. Chien-Ming Wang was awful, but John Sterling and Michael Kay made it sound as if his 4-plus innings and 5 runs were what the Yankees expected, even wanted. Huh ... that's odd. You'd think what they expected and wanted was 7 innings, and maybe 2 runs. No?
If Wang is healthy enough to start, to bump Phil Hughes from the rotation (Hughes should stay, Chamberlain should be in the bully), Wang should be the Wang Yankees fans have come to expect, not the Wang that throws 88 mph belt-high sinkers. I just set a Wang record. Not the first time ... thank you, I'll be here all day.
Even with Derek Jeter and Jorge Posada on the bench, the Yankees found a way, beginning with Francisco Cervelli and Ramiro Pena, both of whom should keep their spots as back-ups, even when, in Cervelli's case, Jose Molina returns. I wonder if the Yankees are shopping Jose.
I wonder, also, where former Pirate Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte have been shipped.
And then there's this headline from NBC:
Gonna go wash my hands.
I'm confused though. Chien-Ming Wang was awful, but John Sterling and Michael Kay made it sound as if his 4-plus innings and 5 runs were what the Yankees expected, even wanted. Huh ... that's odd. You'd think what they expected and wanted was 7 innings, and maybe 2 runs. No?
If Wang is healthy enough to start, to bump Phil Hughes from the rotation (Hughes should stay, Chamberlain should be in the bully), Wang should be the Wang Yankees fans have come to expect, not the Wang that throws 88 mph belt-high sinkers. I just set a Wang record. Not the first time ... thank you, I'll be here all day.
Even with Derek Jeter and Jorge Posada on the bench, the Yankees found a way, beginning with Francisco Cervelli and Ramiro Pena, both of whom should keep their spots as back-ups, even when, in Cervelli's case, Jose Molina returns. I wonder if the Yankees are shopping Jose.
I wonder, also, where former Pirate Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte have been shipped.
And then there's this headline from NBC:
Melk Man Delivers to Porn Star's Hotel Room
There's a video with the story. I'm assuming it's NSFW.Gonna go wash my hands.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Burnett suspended?! For missing?!?!?
So, let me get this straight:
Vicente Padilla hits three batters, and has a history of doing so, and gets fined.
AJ Burnett misses and gets suspended for SIX GAMES?!
Did Bob Watson go to Burnett's house and punch his kids for good measure? Maybe kick Burnett's dog? Insult his mother?
By any standard, this is insane, but not surprising.
Ah, breath in that Yankee hatred.
Vicente Padilla hits three batters, and has a history of doing so, and gets fined.
AJ Burnett misses and gets suspended for SIX GAMES?!
Did Bob Watson go to Burnett's house and punch his kids for good measure? Maybe kick Burnett's dog? Insult his mother?
By any standard, this is insane, but not surprising.
Ah, breath in that Yankee hatred.
Choking on the Big Apple
Alex Rodriguez makes $27 million per year (give or take).
Alex Rodriguez allegedly, reportedly, is dating Kate Hudson.
Alex Rodriguez cannot hit a flyball with one out and a man on third.
Alex Rodriguez can ground into a double play with one out and the bases loaded.
The Yankees were never out of last night's game, yet, they looked and felt like the Yankees I've grown accustomed to seeing: listless, hopeless, disinterested.
Alex Rodriguez is the reason.
His return to the lineup coincided with the Yankees' resurgence, but it's in spite of his return, incidental, coincidental, rather than cause and effect. Sure, it's possible, even likely, Mark Teixeira is seeing better pitches because of Rodriguez, and Teixeira is taking full advantage of it.
But Rodriguez, the elite of the elite, is doing nothing. He's hitting .258, and looks clueless at the plate. He's the guy that should make his own breaks, not rely on others to thrive.
With Damon standing on third and one, Rodriguez swings at strike one, takes strike two and swings at strike three, a fastball tailing up and in he no chance to hit, let alone get in the air or to the right side to get Damon home. Four runners left on with less than two outs in two at bats. And he blows a bubble and struts back to the dugout each time.
For all his talent, Rodriguez is amazingly stupid ... that is cause and effect.
Alex Rodriguez allegedly, reportedly, is dating Kate Hudson.
Alex Rodriguez cannot hit a flyball with one out and a man on third.
Alex Rodriguez can ground into a double play with one out and the bases loaded.
The Yankees were never out of last night's game, yet, they looked and felt like the Yankees I've grown accustomed to seeing: listless, hopeless, disinterested.
Alex Rodriguez is the reason.
His return to the lineup coincided with the Yankees' resurgence, but it's in spite of his return, incidental, coincidental, rather than cause and effect. Sure, it's possible, even likely, Mark Teixeira is seeing better pitches because of Rodriguez, and Teixeira is taking full advantage of it.
But Rodriguez, the elite of the elite, is doing nothing. He's hitting .258, and looks clueless at the plate. He's the guy that should make his own breaks, not rely on others to thrive.
With Damon standing on third and one, Rodriguez swings at strike one, takes strike two and swings at strike three, a fastball tailing up and in he no chance to hit, let alone get in the air or to the right side to get Damon home. Four runners left on with less than two outs in two at bats. And he blows a bubble and struts back to the dugout each time.
For all his talent, Rodriguez is amazingly stupid ... that is cause and effect.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Mount Teixiera goes boom
They say revenge is a dish best served cold.
It's also pretty nice in the form of a takeout slide at second that sustains an inning and turns into seven runs.
Mark Teixiera's slide is a great example of the new attitude the Yankees have. For too long, they appeared disinterested, as if playing baseball were a chore. They'd get down, and fast, and they'd fold up.
This team doesn't fold. It gets pissed and scores runs, even when A-Rod is trying to end a rally. Last year, that dribbler he hits to Kinsler in the fourth is a surefire double play, which would have ended to game. Sure, Tex's speed was born mostly of anger, he was hit twice, but whatever. Blowing up a rookie SS at second got his pound of flesh and was a great baseball play. He could have charged the mound, gotten ejected and hurt the team. He didn't. He kept his cool and did the smart thing. Vincente Padilla didn't last much longer. And the lefty brought in to face Hideki Matsui paid the price.
Then, of course, AJ Burnett went out buzzed Nelson Cruz, who had taken him deep in the second inning. Cruz didn't appear to appreciate it, at least judging by the weak hack that ended his at-bat and wet stain on his pants.
USA Today ran a story about the jet streams at "Homer's odyssey," the nickname the new Yankee Stadium was given. It was on display last night, from the fly balls for outs, that should have been routine, to the moon shots Matsui and Jorge Posada (and Cruz) hit. Neither Matsui's nor Posada's shots traveled as far as I thought they would, but you knew immediately they were long and gone.
It's also pretty nice in the form of a takeout slide at second that sustains an inning and turns into seven runs.
Mark Teixiera's slide is a great example of the new attitude the Yankees have. For too long, they appeared disinterested, as if playing baseball were a chore. They'd get down, and fast, and they'd fold up.
This team doesn't fold. It gets pissed and scores runs, even when A-Rod is trying to end a rally. Last year, that dribbler he hits to Kinsler in the fourth is a surefire double play, which would have ended to game. Sure, Tex's speed was born mostly of anger, he was hit twice, but whatever. Blowing up a rookie SS at second got his pound of flesh and was a great baseball play. He could have charged the mound, gotten ejected and hurt the team. He didn't. He kept his cool and did the smart thing. Vincente Padilla didn't last much longer. And the lefty brought in to face Hideki Matsui paid the price.
Then, of course, AJ Burnett went out buzzed Nelson Cruz, who had taken him deep in the second inning. Cruz didn't appear to appreciate it, at least judging by the weak hack that ended his at-bat and wet stain on his pants.
USA Today ran a story about the jet streams at "Homer's odyssey," the nickname the new Yankee Stadium was given. It was on display last night, from the fly balls for outs, that should have been routine, to the moon shots Matsui and Jorge Posada (and Cruz) hit. Neither Matsui's nor Posada's shots traveled as far as I thought they would, but you knew immediately they were long and gone.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Joe Biden is an idiot
It is for to laugh. Mr. VP made light of the Yankees' start during a Park Avenue fundraiser, I assume for Fred Armisen, who's better imitating David Paterson as NY's governor than Paterson is as NY's governor. And breathe.
Biden said the Obama administration got off to a fast start, unlike the Yankees. Fine. The Yanks were mediocre for about 30 games ... but how far in advance are these speeches written? Does veeper open a newspaper? Look at the Internet? Listen to the radio?
News flash: We're fighting two wars Joe. Yeah. The auto industry tanked. The housing market flushed itself months ago (guess how much my house dropped ... go ahead, guess!) And the Yankees are the hottest team in baseball (arguably).
Biden said the Obama administration got off to a fast start, unlike the Yankees. Fine. The Yanks were mediocre for about 30 games ... but how far in advance are these speeches written? Does veeper open a newspaper? Look at the Internet? Listen to the radio?
News flash: We're fighting two wars Joe. Yeah. The auto industry tanked. The housing market flushed itself months ago (guess how much my house dropped ... go ahead, guess!) And the Yankees are the hottest team in baseball (arguably).
Monday, June 1, 2009
Can't win e'm all
Although it seems they should.
The Yankees should be enjoying a sweep of the Indians, but Brett Gardner was too scared to steal second in the ninth. Too scared.
He apparently has never seen himself run. Or Kerry Wood pitch. Or Kelly Shoppach throw.
What's interesting is I completely thought it was idiot Joe Girardi's fault. He, apparently, was as mad as I was that Gardner's fear turned into a rally killing double-play off the bat of Jorge Posada, who would lose to a glacier in a foot race.
Either way, I'm happy the Yanks took a win away from check-cashing dog Carl Pavano. What's the matter Carl, run out of injuries to invent/milk to the point of embarassment? No dangerous sneezing or stair-climbing recently?
Someone should do something about the mound at "Progressive" Field. When, by the way, did that name change happen, and have I been living in a cave? Andy Pettitte tweaked his back and then a Rafael, Bettancourt I think, hurt himself yesterday, doing little more than throwing a pitch.
Grounds crew need to check itself.
Half-game. Need to build.
The Yankees should be enjoying a sweep of the Indians, but Brett Gardner was too scared to steal second in the ninth. Too scared.
He apparently has never seen himself run. Or Kerry Wood pitch. Or Kelly Shoppach throw.
What's interesting is I completely thought it was idiot Joe Girardi's fault. He, apparently, was as mad as I was that Gardner's fear turned into a rally killing double-play off the bat of Jorge Posada, who would lose to a glacier in a foot race.
Either way, I'm happy the Yanks took a win away from check-cashing dog Carl Pavano. What's the matter Carl, run out of injuries to invent/milk to the point of embarassment? No dangerous sneezing or stair-climbing recently?
Someone should do something about the mound at "Progressive" Field. When, by the way, did that name change happen, and have I been living in a cave? Andy Pettitte tweaked his back and then a Rafael, Bettancourt I think, hurt himself yesterday, doing little more than throwing a pitch.
Grounds crew need to check itself.
Half-game. Need to build.
Friday, May 29, 2009
The Tao of Suck
It was naive, I know, but I thought only Red Sox people produced, bought or wore "Yankees suck" T-shirts. I think Patrick O'Patrick of Revere actually copyrighted the "Yankees suck" chant.
While I've always been impressed by how witty, how poignant that phrase was, I never found it offensive. What's offensive is someone wearing the shirt, and being told they couldn't. Apparently this happened to a woman attending a Rangers/Yankees game this week in Arlington.
Texas is part of America, right? Still? I know, you don't mess with Texas, or at least Texas security guards. The Rangers said it was a policy created by their fans. Which ones? Do they wear jackboots and gray stormcoats?
I remember having, and wearing, a handful of those Big Johnson T-shirts during my high school years. They were just as stupid. But according to at least one guy in a pizzeria, "they were the reason it was so hard to raise daughters." You see the connection. Incidentally, my mom shredded his face.
Look people, it's just a shirt. Your right to dictate what I, or anyone else wants to wear, ends at the edge of you skull. Or at least it should. So, shut up, calm down, and remove the self-righteous stick from thine rear.
There's even YankeesSuck.com . Go figure. Or was. It hasb't been updated in two years.
It's tough to combat such airtight logic. And stunning presentation.
While I've always been impressed by how witty, how poignant that phrase was, I never found it offensive. What's offensive is someone wearing the shirt, and being told they couldn't. Apparently this happened to a woman attending a Rangers/Yankees game this week in Arlington.
Texas is part of America, right? Still? I know, you don't mess with Texas, or at least Texas security guards. The Rangers said it was a policy created by their fans. Which ones? Do they wear jackboots and gray stormcoats?
I remember having, and wearing, a handful of those Big Johnson T-shirts during my high school years. They were just as stupid. But according to at least one guy in a pizzeria, "they were the reason it was so hard to raise daughters." You see the connection. Incidentally, my mom shredded his face.
Look people, it's just a shirt. Your right to dictate what I, or anyone else wants to wear, ends at the edge of you skull. Or at least it should. So, shut up, calm down, and remove the self-righteous stick from thine rear.
There's even YankeesSuck.com . Go figure. Or was. It hasb't been updated in two years.
It's tough to combat such airtight logic. And stunning presentation.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Dead man swinging
Hideki Matsui looks old and tired.
And he hit two home runs last night. How does this stuff happen? And more importantly, does Nolan Ryan have Robin Ventura flashbacks with his pitchers?
Watching the Yankees win, or even reading about it the next day is so much better for my health.
And he hit two home runs last night. How does this stuff happen? And more importantly, does Nolan Ryan have Robin Ventura flashbacks with his pitchers?
Watching the Yankees win, or even reading about it the next day is so much better for my health.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Joba the Juggs gun
“Plain and simple, I was terrible. I’ve got to do a better job of keeping the team in the game.” (AP)
Thanks for the update Joba. After sitting for two and half hours, there was baseball of a sort yesterday.
The Yanks are creeping closer to the Sox, who look as vulnerable and flawed as any team in baseball ... which may mean the AL East is weak, or parity has finally sunk its ugly, wretched claws into my favorite sport.
Two days later, the Mrs. reminded me why I hate Joe Girardi.
"You're going to have plenty of time to get complete games in your career."
Girardi said this to Phil Hughes, who was pulled after eight gorgeous innings in the Yanks' series opening drubbing of the Rangers.
Hey Joe, it starts with the first one, idiot.
Hughes was poised to earn his first career shutout and complete game (duh), until Unkie Joe pissed on his parade and showed why he's a complete toolbag when it comes to handling a pitching staff.
On the other side of the diamond, Nolan Ryan is fighting a near uphill battle to get his pitchers to accept responsibility for their outtings, to finish what they start, that 5 innings and a cold shower isn't good enough.
And here we have Unkie Joe ripping away that very mindset in a guy more than capable of finishing an outting, especially leading by 10 and barely scrapping a 100 pitches. Argh pitch counts.
I just wish that "forgotten handshake" was delivered in the form of a fist to Girardi's rat face. Imagine Girardi trying to take the ball from any of the other starters, veterans all, hardcases all ... it really would come to blows.
Respecting the manager is fine, but the manager must respect his players as well. The Yanks' bullpen has been exploited for most of this decade, and the team finally builds a staff to stop that from happening ... and the manager undermines that staff.
Thanks for the update Joba. After sitting for two and half hours, there was baseball of a sort yesterday.
The Yanks are creeping closer to the Sox, who look as vulnerable and flawed as any team in baseball ... which may mean the AL East is weak, or parity has finally sunk its ugly, wretched claws into my favorite sport.
Two days later, the Mrs. reminded me why I hate Joe Girardi.
"You're going to have plenty of time to get complete games in your career."
Girardi said this to Phil Hughes, who was pulled after eight gorgeous innings in the Yanks' series opening drubbing of the Rangers.
Hey Joe, it starts with the first one, idiot.
Hughes was poised to earn his first career shutout and complete game (duh), until Unkie Joe pissed on his parade and showed why he's a complete toolbag when it comes to handling a pitching staff.
On the other side of the diamond, Nolan Ryan is fighting a near uphill battle to get his pitchers to accept responsibility for their outtings, to finish what they start, that 5 innings and a cold shower isn't good enough.
And here we have Unkie Joe ripping away that very mindset in a guy more than capable of finishing an outting, especially leading by 10 and barely scrapping a 100 pitches. Argh pitch counts.
I just wish that "forgotten handshake" was delivered in the form of a fist to Girardi's rat face. Imagine Girardi trying to take the ball from any of the other starters, veterans all, hardcases all ... it really would come to blows.
Respecting the manager is fine, but the manager must respect his players as well. The Yanks' bullpen has been exploited for most of this decade, and the team finally builds a staff to stop that from happening ... and the manager undermines that staff.
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