07/31: Wade Boggs enters Hall
Posted by: Michael
Wade Boggs entered the Hall of Fame today. Although he entered the hall wearing a Red Sox cap, he will still be a beloved Yankee in helping them claim their title in '96.
My favorite Wade Boggs moment was when he pitched against the then Anaheim Angels.
What's your favorite Boggs moment?
My favorite Wade Boggs moment was when he pitched against the then Anaheim Angels.
Wade Boggs pitches one scoreless inning of relief for the Yankees in a blowout loss to the Anaheim Angels. Boggs threw 16 knuckleballs and one fastball that clocked 74 mph. "I was Phil Niekro and Charlie Hough all rolled into one," said a beaming Boggs.
What's your favorite Boggs moment?
Last year, the big three (Mo, Gordon, Quantrill) got a lot of action - some would say they were overused. Plenty of people were saying that Flash's problems in the postseason were due to him being tired. So, I thought that I'd take a look and see how this year's big three (Mo, Gordon, Sturtze) are doing as compared to them through 104 team games.
Last year:
Mo: 52 Games
Gordon: 52 Games
Quantrill: 58 Games
This year:
Mo: 42 Games
Gordon: 52 Games
Sturtze: 40 Games
So, as you can see... Mariano has pitched in 10 less games, while Gordon is on the same pace as last year. This years number 3 man, Sturtze, has pitched in 18 less games than last year's number 3 man, Quantrill had through the same period of him.
Hopefully this will help us down the stretch as they are (hopefully) less likely to have issues.
Last year:
Mo: 52 Games
Gordon: 52 Games
Quantrill: 58 Games
This year:
Mo: 42 Games
Gordon: 52 Games
Sturtze: 40 Games
So, as you can see... Mariano has pitched in 10 less games, while Gordon is on the same pace as last year. This years number 3 man, Sturtze, has pitched in 18 less games than last year's number 3 man, Quantrill had through the same period of him.
Hopefully this will help us down the stretch as they are (hopefully) less likely to have issues.
Posted by: Michael
With the Unit on the mound and a called-up replacement for the Angels, one would figure it would be a good day for Yankees baseball. The excitement was there as the Yanks had to rally with four runs in the eighth to tie the game 6-6.
The game was almost won in the 9th when Andy Philips hit a smoker down the third base line. Maicer Izturis was there to make the diving grab, and threw out Philips at first. The game then went into extra innings with the Angels going ahead in the 10th off of Vlad's soft single into center.
Bernie William's stretched out a double to lead off the bottom of the 10th with Womack replacing him obviously for speed. Interesting to say that its one of the few times I was glad Torre replaced Bernie with Womack. After Posada struck out, Jeter was walked after a wild pitch by the Angels Kevin Gregg. Womack advanced to third. Cano struck out, then Gary Sheffield hit a hard drive to Angels' shortstop Orlando Cabrera. In Michael Kay's words, it was a "tough hop" and he could not make the out at first. Womack scored to tie the game at 7-7.
The play of the game happened in the 9th when Hideki Matsui, yesterday's hero, hit a long fly ball over the head of center fielder Chone Figgin's head. The ball bounced off the wall, which allowed Matsui to round the bases for an easy triple. I was out of my seat!
The Angels then made an interesting move. They pulled Figgin's into the infield for a five man infield. They intentionally walked Jason Giambi, struck out Phillips, then Womack came to the plate. Womack was able to ground the ball between the heavy defensive infield for the game winning single to bring in Matsui for the win!
Jason Giami hit his 13th and 14th homers for the month of July. The first hit that many in one month since Mickey Mantle did so back in '61. Giambi also hit his 300th HR in his career. Congratulations Jason!
These last two days of Yankee baseball have been very thrilling. It feels like the postseason, and we're not playing the Red Sox. If you feel that way too, pinch yourself. It's only July with two more months of regular season ball to play and the Yanks are 2.5 games out of first.
The Yanks go back on the road this Tuesday night facing the Cleveland Indians at the Jake. For the Yankees Al Leiter (4-9, 6.20 ERA) takes on Scott Elarton (6-5, 4.54 ERA). Game time: 7:05pm et.
The game was almost won in the 9th when Andy Philips hit a smoker down the third base line. Maicer Izturis was there to make the diving grab, and threw out Philips at first. The game then went into extra innings with the Angels going ahead in the 10th off of Vlad's soft single into center.
Bernie William's stretched out a double to lead off the bottom of the 10th with Womack replacing him obviously for speed. Interesting to say that its one of the few times I was glad Torre replaced Bernie with Womack. After Posada struck out, Jeter was walked after a wild pitch by the Angels Kevin Gregg. Womack advanced to third. Cano struck out, then Gary Sheffield hit a hard drive to Angels' shortstop Orlando Cabrera. In Michael Kay's words, it was a "tough hop" and he could not make the out at first. Womack scored to tie the game at 7-7.
The play of the game happened in the 9th when Hideki Matsui, yesterday's hero, hit a long fly ball over the head of center fielder Chone Figgin's head. The ball bounced off the wall, which allowed Matsui to round the bases for an easy triple. I was out of my seat!
The Angels then made an interesting move. They pulled Figgin's into the infield for a five man infield. They intentionally walked Jason Giambi, struck out Phillips, then Womack came to the plate. Womack was able to ground the ball between the heavy defensive infield for the game winning single to bring in Matsui for the win!
Jason Giami hit his 13th and 14th homers for the month of July. The first hit that many in one month since Mickey Mantle did so back in '61. Giambi also hit his 300th HR in his career. Congratulations Jason!
These last two days of Yankee baseball have been very thrilling. It feels like the postseason, and we're not playing the Red Sox. If you feel that way too, pinch yourself. It's only July with two more months of regular season ball to play and the Yanks are 2.5 games out of first.
The Yanks go back on the road this Tuesday night facing the Cleveland Indians at the Jake. For the Yankees Al Leiter (4-9, 6.20 ERA) takes on Scott Elarton (6-5, 4.54 ERA). Game time: 7:05pm et.
07/31: Silence
Posted by: Patrick
We are now an hour past the deadline. With the exception of the Groom trade, not a thing. Oh well, can't say it wasn't somewhat expected. Maybe August will bring some deals.
Sheff is up with men on 1st and 3rd in the bottom of the 10th with 2 outs, down by 1...
Sheff is up with men on 1st and 3rd in the bottom of the 10th with 2 outs, down by 1...
07/31: Groom "Blasts" Torre
Posted by: Patrick
Not Groom's man: Pitcher blasts Yanks' Torre:
I'm going to call this sour grapes because it is nonsense.
Now, some people feel Joe doesn't use the pitching staff correctly. Some people feel that Groom may not have been used as he was and that he should have faced lefties only (despite the fact that Mo, Flash, Sturtze and Rodriguez have all been more effective against them this season and every one of those 4 but Sturtze has been better against lefties in their career). That's beside the point and not really related to what Groom said, in my book.
First of all, Joe is loyal... there is no doubt about it. It's a good trait to have. And if you produce for him or you show him something, he'll be comfortable with you and he'll continue to call your number. That's called trust. Trust is something you build and not something you get right away. In this regard, every manager has their "boys" a.k.a their go to relievers. But, that's not what Groom is implying. Not to me, anyway. He's more saying that Joe is the little league coach who starts his completely less capable son at short stop. Mariano Rivera, Tom Gordon and Tanyon Sturtze are the proverbial coaches sons. It's quite an insult to Mo, but it's also an insult to Flash and Tanyon. Was Mo one of "Joe's boys" when Joe was hired? No. He became Joe's boy because of his performance. Was Gordon Joe's boy when he signed here? No. He's been our 2nd best RP since opening day 2004. And that's why his number is called. Sturtze isn't as clear, but he has been semi reliable and once you look at the numbers, you will see that they show someone who has simply and clearly outperformed Groom. Last year, for instance. Lefties hit .333 off Groom. They hit .261 off Strutze. Righties hit .290 off Groom and they hit .246 off Strutze. This year, Strutze has again put himself far ahead of Groom in these categories. And that is why he is one of "Joe's boys" a.k.a. someone who pitches a lot - because he deserves to because of his performance!
When you've pitched 739 games and have an ERA of 4.63 as Groom had coming into this season, everyone knows what you're about. If he wasn't a lefty, would he be pitching in the majors? Perhaps, but not nearly as much. You've had a million opportunities. In 2003, batters hit .309 off Groom. In 2004, batters hit .309 off Groom. This season, where he has been allowed to pitch 24 games, batters have hit .305 off him. I mean... newsflash: the probable reason you went 15 days without pitching in Baltimore is because you're supposed to get lefties out and they were crushing you! He hadn't earned anyones trust and it was unrealistic of him to expect more opportunities than that when he is on a bullpen that features relievers clearly more capable than him at getting both righties and lefties out and on a team that is trying to get to the playoffs where every loss counts. That's what happens when your on a staff with your betters - you don't get a lot of chances and when you get those chances, you have to take advantage or you won't get more. There is nothing strange or wrong about that.
I hope he never pitches for the Yankees again. He shouldn't - unless he apologizes for what he said. These comments lead me to believe there might be something else going on here that the Yankees are not going to tell us. Perhaps an attitude issue? Again, all speculative on my part, but it seems strange that we'd go with Embree and Franklin over Groom, when he has performed better than both of them.
Edit: He's been dealt to Arizona for a PTBNL or cash. Works for me.
"I wouldn't encourage anybody else to come here thinking you are going to get an opportunity because unless you are one of Joe's boys you are not going to get much of a shot; unless you are one of his three guys," Groom told the Post. "The same thing happened to me in Baltimore [last year]. I went 15 days [without pitching] and [Torre] is where [Oriole manager Lee] Mazzilli learned it."
Continued Groom; "I didn't get a fair shake here. Every time I pitched in key situations here I did the job," Groom told the Post. "Then I became a mop-up guy and didn't get into any games. Guys come here and they don't get a chance unless they are one of the boys."
Continued Groom; "I didn't get a fair shake here. Every time I pitched in key situations here I did the job," Groom told the Post. "Then I became a mop-up guy and didn't get into any games. Guys come here and they don't get a chance unless they are one of the boys."
I'm going to call this sour grapes because it is nonsense.
Now, some people feel Joe doesn't use the pitching staff correctly. Some people feel that Groom may not have been used as he was and that he should have faced lefties only (despite the fact that Mo, Flash, Sturtze and Rodriguez have all been more effective against them this season and every one of those 4 but Sturtze has been better against lefties in their career). That's beside the point and not really related to what Groom said, in my book.
First of all, Joe is loyal... there is no doubt about it. It's a good trait to have. And if you produce for him or you show him something, he'll be comfortable with you and he'll continue to call your number. That's called trust. Trust is something you build and not something you get right away. In this regard, every manager has their "boys" a.k.a their go to relievers. But, that's not what Groom is implying. Not to me, anyway. He's more saying that Joe is the little league coach who starts his completely less capable son at short stop. Mariano Rivera, Tom Gordon and Tanyon Sturtze are the proverbial coaches sons. It's quite an insult to Mo, but it's also an insult to Flash and Tanyon. Was Mo one of "Joe's boys" when Joe was hired? No. He became Joe's boy because of his performance. Was Gordon Joe's boy when he signed here? No. He's been our 2nd best RP since opening day 2004. And that's why his number is called. Sturtze isn't as clear, but he has been semi reliable and once you look at the numbers, you will see that they show someone who has simply and clearly outperformed Groom. Last year, for instance. Lefties hit .333 off Groom. They hit .261 off Strutze. Righties hit .290 off Groom and they hit .246 off Strutze. This year, Strutze has again put himself far ahead of Groom in these categories. And that is why he is one of "Joe's boys" a.k.a. someone who pitches a lot - because he deserves to because of his performance!
When you've pitched 739 games and have an ERA of 4.63 as Groom had coming into this season, everyone knows what you're about. If he wasn't a lefty, would he be pitching in the majors? Perhaps, but not nearly as much. You've had a million opportunities. In 2003, batters hit .309 off Groom. In 2004, batters hit .309 off Groom. This season, where he has been allowed to pitch 24 games, batters have hit .305 off him. I mean... newsflash: the probable reason you went 15 days without pitching in Baltimore is because you're supposed to get lefties out and they were crushing you! He hadn't earned anyones trust and it was unrealistic of him to expect more opportunities than that when he is on a bullpen that features relievers clearly more capable than him at getting both righties and lefties out and on a team that is trying to get to the playoffs where every loss counts. That's what happens when your on a staff with your betters - you don't get a lot of chances and when you get those chances, you have to take advantage or you won't get more. There is nothing strange or wrong about that.
I hope he never pitches for the Yankees again. He shouldn't - unless he apologizes for what he said. These comments lead me to believe there might be something else going on here that the Yankees are not going to tell us. Perhaps an attitude issue? Again, all speculative on my part, but it seems strange that we'd go with Embree and Franklin over Groom, when he has performed better than both of them.
Edit: He's been dealt to Arizona for a PTBNL or cash. Works for me.
07/31: 5 Hours, 14 Minutes...
Posted by: Patrick
Various rumblings...
Pitchers being discussed include Ron Villone, Jamie Moyer, Kevin Millwood (supposedly Cash is trying to find a third team to get them what they want), Jason Johnson, Eddie Guardado, Bob Howry, Scott Sauerbeck, Scott Eyre, Bob Wickman and Gil Meche. We are said to have lost interest in Mark Redman.
On Juan Pierre:
:(
Bigbie is interesting. I was looking through some clips at MLB.com and it looks like Bigbie can play some defense. He has played 58 games in center, including 6 this year. From the few clips on MLB.com, I think he's probably a decent (at least) defensive solution for the rest of the year. He's 27 and has a career batting average of .271. He would become a free agent at the end of the season.
I'm thinking it would be nice if we could pull of deals for Millwood and Bigbie. With both being FAs at the end of the year, it'll be tough for us to deal good prospects which will make it tougher for us to get them.
Via the New York Daily News, the New York Post, The New York Times, The Star-Ledger, Newsday.com and the Beaver County Times via Pro Sports Daily.
Pitchers being discussed include Ron Villone, Jamie Moyer, Kevin Millwood (supposedly Cash is trying to find a third team to get them what they want), Jason Johnson, Eddie Guardado, Bob Howry, Scott Sauerbeck, Scott Eyre, Bob Wickman and Gil Meche. We are said to have lost interest in Mark Redman.
The Yankees talked to Texas last week about Gary Matthews, but unless the Rangers can get Mike Cameron from the Mets, they can't move Matthews, who is known for his defensive prowess.
Rangers manager Buck Showalter had Womack in Arizona and likes him. Nationals GM Jim Bowden has long been a Womack admirer. Talks between the Nationals and Yankees have been ongoing, but Washington is leery of the $2 million owed on Womack's contract for next year. They could send the Yankees Marlon Byrd.
Rangers manager Buck Showalter had Womack in Arizona and likes him. Nationals GM Jim Bowden has long been a Womack admirer. Talks between the Nationals and Yankees have been ongoing, but Washington is leery of the $2 million owed on Womack's contract for next year. They could send the Yankees Marlon Byrd.
On Juan Pierre:
The Marlins' Juan Pierre? Forget him.
"He is our owner's favorite player," a Marlins official said. "If we traded him, we would all be looking for jobs."
"He is our owner's favorite player," a Marlins official said. "If we traded him, we would all be looking for jobs."
:(
With Seattle having dealt Randy Winn to the Giants last night, the Yankees were focusing their attention on other outfielders, including Larry Bigbie of Colorado.
The Rockies got Bigbie from Baltimore on Friday night so they could flip him to Boston for catching prospect Kelly Shoppach. But because Shoppach was involved in the three-way Ramirez talks, the Red Sox backed out, angering Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd.
The Rockies got Bigbie from Baltimore on Friday night so they could flip him to Boston for catching prospect Kelly Shoppach. But because Shoppach was involved in the three-way Ramirez talks, the Red Sox backed out, angering Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd.
Bigbie is interesting. I was looking through some clips at MLB.com and it looks like Bigbie can play some defense. He has played 58 games in center, including 6 this year. From the few clips on MLB.com, I think he's probably a decent (at least) defensive solution for the rest of the year. He's 27 and has a career batting average of .271. He would become a free agent at the end of the season.
I'm thinking it would be nice if we could pull of deals for Millwood and Bigbie. With both being FAs at the end of the year, it'll be tough for us to deal good prospects which will make it tougher for us to get them.
Via the New York Daily News, the New York Post, The New York Times, The Star-Ledger, Newsday.com and the Beaver County Times via Pro Sports Daily.
Posted by: Patrick
Shawn Chacon's first start went well as he allowed just 1 unearned run on 4 hits and 3 walks over 6 innings. He left the game with a 3-1 lead on a 2 RBI double by Jeter in the 2nd and a Bernie Williams solo shot in 6th. It was after that that we got into trouble.
Felix Rodriguez (1 batter, didn't record an out), Alan Embree (2 batters, didn't record an out) and Tom Gordon combined to allow 7 runs (5 of them earned) in just an inning of work. Wayne Franklin came in with a man on 2nd and proceeded to retire three consecutive batters to prevent the runner from scoring.
Entering the bottom of the 8th, the Yankees are down 4. A-Rod made an out, followed by a Matsui single. Giambi hit a shot to deep right to put the Yankees down by 2 runs. K-Rod came in and retired Posada and Bernie.
Mo pitched a 1-2-3 ninth as he struck out Erstad and Vladdy (Seamus tells me he made Vladdy look bad) and got Garret Anderson to ground out to first. He now finds his ERA at 0.81. ... He is amazing.
Now, we head to the 9th. The Angels are going to ask K-Rod to give them 1 and 2/3 innings. He'll face 9, 1, 2 (Womack, Jeter, Cano).
Womack walks. He proceeds to steal second. Then Jeter walks. Cano strikes out. Womack and Jeter advance on a wild pitch. Then... Gary walks. Then... A-Rod walks and scores Womack. Yes... that's right - 4 walks. And now we're only down 1 with Matsui up. Matsui doubles to deep left center and Jeter and Sheffield score - Yankees win 8-7. Sweetness.
Giambi was 3 for 3 on the day with 1 HR, 2 RBI and a walk. Matsui was 2 for 5 with 2 RBI and 1 run. Bernie was 2 for 4 with 1 HR and 2 runs. Womack was 2 for 3 with 2 runs a walk and 3 stolen bases (bringing his total up to 23). Jeter (1 R, 2 RBI, 1 walk), A-Rod (1 RBI, 1 walk) and Sheffield (1 run) also added hits of their own. Cano and Posada were the only Yankees without a hit.
Randy Johnson goes against Chris Bootcheck (second start of his career, first since 2003) tomorrow at 1:05 PM eastern time.
Felix Rodriguez (1 batter, didn't record an out), Alan Embree (2 batters, didn't record an out) and Tom Gordon combined to allow 7 runs (5 of them earned) in just an inning of work. Wayne Franklin came in with a man on 2nd and proceeded to retire three consecutive batters to prevent the runner from scoring.
Entering the bottom of the 8th, the Yankees are down 4. A-Rod made an out, followed by a Matsui single. Giambi hit a shot to deep right to put the Yankees down by 2 runs. K-Rod came in and retired Posada and Bernie.
Mo pitched a 1-2-3 ninth as he struck out Erstad and Vladdy (Seamus tells me he made Vladdy look bad) and got Garret Anderson to ground out to first. He now finds his ERA at 0.81. ... He is amazing.
Now, we head to the 9th. The Angels are going to ask K-Rod to give them 1 and 2/3 innings. He'll face 9, 1, 2 (Womack, Jeter, Cano).
Womack walks. He proceeds to steal second. Then Jeter walks. Cano strikes out. Womack and Jeter advance on a wild pitch. Then... Gary walks. Then... A-Rod walks and scores Womack. Yes... that's right - 4 walks. And now we're only down 1 with Matsui up. Matsui doubles to deep left center and Jeter and Sheffield score - Yankees win 8-7. Sweetness.
Giambi was 3 for 3 on the day with 1 HR, 2 RBI and a walk. Matsui was 2 for 5 with 2 RBI and 1 run. Bernie was 2 for 4 with 1 HR and 2 runs. Womack was 2 for 3 with 2 runs a walk and 3 stolen bases (bringing his total up to 23). Jeter (1 R, 2 RBI, 1 walk), A-Rod (1 RBI, 1 walk) and Sheffield (1 run) also added hits of their own. Cano and Posada were the only Yankees without a hit.
Randy Johnson goes against Chris Bootcheck (second start of his career, first since 2003) tomorrow at 1:05 PM eastern time.
07/30: Yanks Sign Embree
Posted by: Patrick
Minor signing: Yanks get former Red Sox reliever Alan Embree.
Looking at his numbers, I'm not terribly impressed... for his career, he's held lefties to a .234 batting average while holding righties to a .261. I honestly thought he was better than this, for some reason... his career numbers are 29-32 with a 4.62 ERA in 611 games.
On the upside, he has pitched in 30 postseason games, compiling a solid 1.69 ERA (1-0in 21 and 1/3).
Looking at his numbers, I'm not terribly impressed... for his career, he's held lefties to a .234 batting average while holding righties to a .261. I honestly thought he was better than this, for some reason... his career numbers are 29-32 with a 4.62 ERA in 611 games.
On the upside, he has pitched in 30 postseason games, compiling a solid 1.69 ERA (1-0in 21 and 1/3).
Posted by: Patrick
"I feel like the Statue of Liberty. 'Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses.'"
- Brian Cashman
- Brian Cashman
lol. So, what will Cash pull off? I'm impressed, so far, with him holding out on dealing any of the top prospects that we have. As can be expected, lots of names are being floated around.
Kevin Millwood is interesting. He's 5-9 this year with a (most importantly) 3.18 ERA. Better yet, he's been a good postseason pitcher. In 9 games (7 of them started and all of them with the Braves), he is 3-3 with a 3.92 ERA. He's 30 years old and is set to be a free agent after the season.
07/30: Yanks Lose to Angels 4-1
Posted by: Patrick
The Yankees wasted a good outing from Moose, losing 4-1 to the Angels. Mike went 8 full innings, allowing just 3 runs (all in the second inning) on 8 hits. Sturtze pitched the 9th, allowing an ER of his own.
The Angels staff, meanwhile, was able to hold the Yankees to 1 run on 7 hits. The lone run, a Tino Martinez homer off of starter Ervin Santana (who went 6 and 1/3), came in the 7th. Tino has 35 hits on the year. 16 (or approximately 43%) of them are home runs. Jeter was the only Yankee with 2 hits, pulling his average up to .300. We've now fallen to 2.5 games back in the division and 2.0 games back in the wild card.
Shawn Chacon (1-4, 4.09 - probably 10-7 or 9-6 if he had that with the Yankees all year!) makes his Yankee debut today against Paul Byrd (9-7, 4.10).
Good luck, Shawn. Welcome to New York.
The Angels staff, meanwhile, was able to hold the Yankees to 1 run on 7 hits. The lone run, a Tino Martinez homer off of starter Ervin Santana (who went 6 and 1/3), came in the 7th. Tino has 35 hits on the year. 16 (or approximately 43%) of them are home runs. Jeter was the only Yankee with 2 hits, pulling his average up to .300. We've now fallen to 2.5 games back in the division and 2.0 games back in the wild card.
Shawn Chacon (1-4, 4.09 - probably 10-7 or 9-6 if he had that with the Yankees all year!) makes his Yankee debut today against Paul Byrd (9-7, 4.10).
"Not many pitchers leave Coors Field and get worse. I'm getting a good opportunity here."
- Shawn Chacon
- Shawn Chacon
Good luck, Shawn. Welcome to New York.
With Brown headed to the DL yet again, the Yankees have acquired Shawn Chacon from the Rockies for Ramon Ramirez and Eduardo Sierra.
It's an interesting deal because we don't give up any of our main bargaining chips (I don't think) and we get a 27 year old starter who has a 3.12 ERA away from Coors this year. Ignore the 1-7 record and focus on the 4.09 ERA (including 4.97 in Coors). He is a free agent after this season. He's been a Rockie for his entire career and has overall numbers of 24-45 with a 5.20 ERA. Not pretty. But, the numbers this year away from Coors are encouraging.
One other thought that comes to mind is that Chacon does have some value in that he is young and has pitched reasonably well this year. We could package him to another team for a better SP or something of that nature, as well. Just a thought.
It's an interesting deal because we don't give up any of our main bargaining chips (I don't think) and we get a 27 year old starter who has a 3.12 ERA away from Coors this year. Ignore the 1-7 record and focus on the 4.09 ERA (including 4.97 in Coors). He is a free agent after this season. He's been a Rockie for his entire career and has overall numbers of 24-45 with a 5.20 ERA. Not pretty. But, the numbers this year away from Coors are encouraging.
"Saturday we have a starter now. It's as simple as that," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said. "Our team is working hard on the field. We're working hard in the front office to be in a position to improve the club. It seems like we've been plugging holes on the run the last few weeks at an unusual pace."
One other thought that comes to mind is that Chacon does have some value in that he is young and has pitched reasonably well this year. We could package him to another team for a better SP or something of that nature, as well. Just a thought.
Posted by: Michael
Small? Who is he? I'm sure there are a few band-wagon Yankee fans out there who only keep up with the Yanks in the postseason. I'm sure if someone like that asked you who pitched for the Yankees today, and you replied, "Small pitched," they would sure do a double take, or ask you, "Who??"
Aaron Small.
Remember the name. I'm loving the way he pitches. He works cleanly through his count. And when I hear that he is pitching in place of Kevin Brown I feel good about our chances.
That being said Aaron Small pitched seven superb innings today in the Yankees win. He gave up three runs and six hits. He gave up NO walks and struck out one. Remember, he is pitching in Yankee Stadium, and I'm sure his nerves were jumping. But it didn't show. He smoothly retired his last 12 batters in order.
Flash Gordon pitched the eighth and Mo Rivera pitched the ninth for his 28th save of the season. His 28th straight save, after blowing the first two chances of the season verses the Red Sox.
Without Johan Santana on the mound, the Yanks bats were alive. Gary Sheffield was 2-4 and drove in four of the six Yankee runs. He planted a three run homer in the first against Minnesota's Joe Mays.
The Yanks face another Santana with the Angels tomorrow night. Ervin Santana (5-4, 5.64 ERA) takes on Mike "Moose" Mussina (10-5 3.83 ERA) at the Stadium. Game time 7:05pm et.
Aaron Small.
Remember the name. I'm loving the way he pitches. He works cleanly through his count. And when I hear that he is pitching in place of Kevin Brown I feel good about our chances.
That being said Aaron Small pitched seven superb innings today in the Yankees win. He gave up three runs and six hits. He gave up NO walks and struck out one. Remember, he is pitching in Yankee Stadium, and I'm sure his nerves were jumping. But it didn't show. He smoothly retired his last 12 batters in order.
Flash Gordon pitched the eighth and Mo Rivera pitched the ninth for his 28th save of the season. His 28th straight save, after blowing the first two chances of the season verses the Red Sox.
Without Johan Santana on the mound, the Yanks bats were alive. Gary Sheffield was 2-4 and drove in four of the six Yankee runs. He planted a three run homer in the first against Minnesota's Joe Mays.
The Yanks face another Santana with the Angels tomorrow night. Ervin Santana (5-4, 5.64 ERA) takes on Mike "Moose" Mussina (10-5 3.83 ERA) at the Stadium. Game time 7:05pm et.
07/28: A-Rod at 30
Posted by: Patrick
Like Pride of the Yankees, we're taking these from ESPN (and adding a bit), but incase you didn't see...
All time HR leader Hank Aaron had 342 career HRs at age 30. A-Rod has 409. Through 30, more than anyone ever.
All time RBI leader Hank Aaron had 1,121 career RBIs at age 30. A-Rod has 1,176. Through 30, third behind Jimmie Foxx and Mel Ott.
All time run scoring leader Rickey Henderson had 1,058 career runs at age 30. A-Rod has 1,197. Through 30, fourth behind Mel Ott, Mickey Mantle and Jimmie Foxx.
All time hit leader Pete Rose had 1,540 career hits at age 30. A-Rod has 1,824. Through 30, tenth behind Ty Cobb, Mel Ott, Rogers Hornsby, Hank Aaron, Vada Pinson, Robin Yount, Jimmie Foxx, Joe Medwick and Al Kaline.
All time total bases leader Hank Aaron had 3,399 career total bases at age 30. A-Rod has 3,425. Through 30, second behind Jimmie Foxx.
All time extra base hits leader Hank Aaron had 740 career extra base hits at age 30. A-Rod has 760. Through 30, second behind Jimmie Foxx (jeez, that guy's everywhere).
Incredible.
All time HR leader Hank Aaron had 342 career HRs at age 30. A-Rod has 409. Through 30, more than anyone ever.
All time RBI leader Hank Aaron had 1,121 career RBIs at age 30. A-Rod has 1,176. Through 30, third behind Jimmie Foxx and Mel Ott.
All time run scoring leader Rickey Henderson had 1,058 career runs at age 30. A-Rod has 1,197. Through 30, fourth behind Mel Ott, Mickey Mantle and Jimmie Foxx.
All time hit leader Pete Rose had 1,540 career hits at age 30. A-Rod has 1,824. Through 30, tenth behind Ty Cobb, Mel Ott, Rogers Hornsby, Hank Aaron, Vada Pinson, Robin Yount, Jimmie Foxx, Joe Medwick and Al Kaline.
All time total bases leader Hank Aaron had 3,399 career total bases at age 30. A-Rod has 3,425. Through 30, second behind Jimmie Foxx.
All time extra base hits leader Hank Aaron had 740 career extra base hits at age 30. A-Rod has 760. Through 30, second behind Jimmie Foxx (jeez, that guy's everywhere).
Incredible.
Posted by: Seamus
The Yankees looked a bit outmatched last night against Johan Santana as the Twins' ace pitched seven shutout innings en route to a 7-3 loss for the Yankees against Minnesota. The Yankees made a bit of a run once Ron Gardenhire went to his bullpen. Tino Martinez reached on an error in the 8th with the bases loaded which scored two runs and cut the Twins' lead to 6-3, but it was too little too late. Justin Morneau capped it off in the top of the 9th with a solo shot to make it 7-3 and that's how it ended.
Al Leiter struggled on the mound as he threw 115 pitches in only 5 innings, but he kept the Yankees in the ballgame as he only gave up one run. Tanyon Sturtze had a rough outing as he gave up three runs in the 7th and Scott Proctor gave up two in the 8th.
A notable moment from last night's game was Seamus Molloy making a complete idiot out of himself as he jumped up and screamed when Bernie Williams launched a potential game-tying home run off Juan Rincon only to watch it land foul. Williams then struck out on the next pitch.
Also, is it me, or is it that this great bullpen the Twins have just can't pitch against the Yankees? The Twins have probably the best bullpen in the American League with the likes of Juan Rincon, Joe Nathan, and J.C. Romero and they all put up great numbers but the Yankees continuously have destroyed them since last year. I distinctly remember Joe Nathan blowing a two or three-run save opportunity against the Yankees last July or August when he hadn't blown one all season before that. He also blew that extra inning game in the playoffs last year. Earlier this season, the Twins blew a late 3-0 lead as the Yankees came back for an extra-inning victory.
The Yankees will send Aaron Small to the mound this afternoon to face the Twins' Joe Mays. Hopefully Small can give us a start like he gave us last week in Texas. The Twins don't have the lineup that the Rangers have, but on the other hand they just lit us up for 7 last night.
Al Leiter struggled on the mound as he threw 115 pitches in only 5 innings, but he kept the Yankees in the ballgame as he only gave up one run. Tanyon Sturtze had a rough outing as he gave up three runs in the 7th and Scott Proctor gave up two in the 8th.
A notable moment from last night's game was Seamus Molloy making a complete idiot out of himself as he jumped up and screamed when Bernie Williams launched a potential game-tying home run off Juan Rincon only to watch it land foul. Williams then struck out on the next pitch.
Also, is it me, or is it that this great bullpen the Twins have just can't pitch against the Yankees? The Twins have probably the best bullpen in the American League with the likes of Juan Rincon, Joe Nathan, and J.C. Romero and they all put up great numbers but the Yankees continuously have destroyed them since last year. I distinctly remember Joe Nathan blowing a two or three-run save opportunity against the Yankees last July or August when he hadn't blown one all season before that. He also blew that extra inning game in the playoffs last year. Earlier this season, the Twins blew a late 3-0 lead as the Yankees came back for an extra-inning victory.
The Yankees will send Aaron Small to the mound this afternoon to face the Twins' Joe Mays. Hopefully Small can give us a start like he gave us last week in Texas. The Twins don't have the lineup that the Rangers have, but on the other hand they just lit us up for 7 last night.
Posted by: Seamus
The Yankees, who are still desperate for starting pitching help with Kevin Brown out of the rotation and Carl Pavano's next start pushed back another week, claimed Hideo Nomo off waivers from the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. The Yankees do not have a starter scheduled for Saturday, so in all likelihood Nomo will get the nod against the Angels.
Nomo was once a young phenom when he came up with the Los Angeles Dodgers and won the 1995 Rookie of the Year award. He has since been rather nomadic, pitching for six teams including another stint with the Dodgers after being traded to the Mets in 1998. He has never been as good as in his rookie season, and this year has probably been his worst on the mound as he went 5-8 with a 7.24 E.R.A. for the Devil Rays this year before being designated for assignment.
I don't see how I can really disagree with this move. I mean he's better than what they have right now for Saturday, which is nobody. At least I think that's better. We all know how he's struggled, but it's not like we're looking for him to be our ace. Just another emergency starter.
Nomo was once a young phenom when he came up with the Los Angeles Dodgers and won the 1995 Rookie of the Year award. He has since been rather nomadic, pitching for six teams including another stint with the Dodgers after being traded to the Mets in 1998. He has never been as good as in his rookie season, and this year has probably been his worst on the mound as he went 5-8 with a 7.24 E.R.A. for the Devil Rays this year before being designated for assignment.
I don't see how I can really disagree with this move. I mean he's better than what they have right now for Saturday, which is nobody. At least I think that's better. We all know how he's struggled, but it's not like we're looking for him to be our ace. Just another emergency starter.
Posted by: Seamus
Admit it. You're the one who said something about a no-hitter in your living room before Juan Castro singled to center to end Randy Johnson's run at a third career no-no. Johnson turned in his best performance as a Yankee last night as he struck out 11 and gave up only two hits in 8 innings. The Yankees' victory over the Twins moved them past Minnesota in the wild card standings and into a virtual tie with Oakland for the wild card lead (the Yankees lead by a percentage point).
A-Rod went 2-3 last night with a home run and Giambi was 0-1 but reached base three times (2 BB's and 1 HBP). The Yankees now have the American League's top two leaders in on base percentage in Giambi and Rodriguez. In fact, they also have 3 of the top 6 (Sheffield) as well as 5 out of the top 14 (Jeter and Matsui), and people wonder why the Yankees are still winning games despite so many injuries to their starting rotation.
Of course it wouldn't take that kind of production from the Yankees' offense if we keep seeing performances like the one Randy Johson gave us last night. He seems to be heating up as the weather heats up. Hopefully it's not the weather though because we don't get 95 degree days in New York in October.
The Yankees' bats will get a good test today as Johan Santana will face them for the Twins against Al Leiter. It's going to be a tough one, but it's kind of big because Kevin Brown will not be making his scheduled start on Thursday so we're going to be capping off this series with another emergency starter.
A-Rod went 2-3 last night with a home run and Giambi was 0-1 but reached base three times (2 BB's and 1 HBP). The Yankees now have the American League's top two leaders in on base percentage in Giambi and Rodriguez. In fact, they also have 3 of the top 6 (Sheffield) as well as 5 out of the top 14 (Jeter and Matsui), and people wonder why the Yankees are still winning games despite so many injuries to their starting rotation.
Of course it wouldn't take that kind of production from the Yankees' offense if we keep seeing performances like the one Randy Johson gave us last night. He seems to be heating up as the weather heats up. Hopefully it's not the weather though because we don't get 95 degree days in New York in October.
The Yankees' bats will get a good test today as Johan Santana will face them for the Twins against Al Leiter. It's going to be a tough one, but it's kind of big because Kevin Brown will not be making his scheduled start on Thursday so we're going to be capping off this series with another emergency starter.
07/25: So, who do we want?
Posted by: Patrick
The trade deadline is a week away. Who is on your wish list?
Hideki Matsui's 2-run homer in the seventh inning helped the Yankees to avoid a sweep by the Angels. Matsui's homer was his 17th of the year and came at a crucial time. The Yanks were trailing 1-0 in a pitching duel between Mike Mussina and Jarrod Washburn for the Angels. The Moose only gave up that one run in the 1st inning, and it was a manufactured one at that.
The Angels threatened in the bottom of the seventh with two men on and one out, Erstad hit the ball directly to A-Rod who was covering the base. A-Rod stepped on the bag and threw the first for the inning-ending double play. They also threatened in the eighth against Tom Gordon, who was relieved by Mariano Rivera. Rivera was able to make short work of Maicer Izturis by making him hit into another inning-ending double-play. Mo pitched a scoreless ninth, and obtained his 25th save of the season.
By winning todays game, the Yankees pulled to within 1.5 games behind Boston. The Yanks were 6-5 on this road trip, and by the high caliber teams played with most of their starting pitching hurt, the Yankees should clearly see this as a positive.
Next game is Tuesday night back home at the Stadium. The Yankees Randy Johnson (10-6, 4.18 ERA) takes on the Twins Brad Radke (6-9, 3.92 ERA).
The Angels threatened in the bottom of the seventh with two men on and one out, Erstad hit the ball directly to A-Rod who was covering the base. A-Rod stepped on the bag and threw the first for the inning-ending double play. They also threatened in the eighth against Tom Gordon, who was relieved by Mariano Rivera. Rivera was able to make short work of Maicer Izturis by making him hit into another inning-ending double-play. Mo pitched a scoreless ninth, and obtained his 25th save of the season.
By winning todays game, the Yankees pulled to within 1.5 games behind Boston. The Yanks were 6-5 on this road trip, and by the high caliber teams played with most of their starting pitching hurt, the Yankees should clearly see this as a positive.
Next game is Tuesday night back home at the Stadium. The Yankees Randy Johnson (10-6, 4.18 ERA) takes on the Twins Brad Radke (6-9, 3.92 ERA).
Posted by: Patrick
We score 6 runs, the bullpen allows just 1 ER over 4 and 2/3 innings and we lose. Kevin Brown allowed 7 ER in just 3 and 1/3 innings. Ouch. He walked 4 guys and allowed 6 hits.
The Yankees offense put together 12 hits and 3 walks, led by Derek Jeter who went 4 for 4 with 1 HR, 1 RBI and 2 R. Sheffield and Tino had 2 hit days with the 7th (Posada, who walked once) and 9th (Crosby and Bernie) being the only lineup slots to go hitless. Giambi homered again (and led the team with 2 RBI), so he's got 5 HRs in his last 4 games and 11 in July. Cano added his 8th home run (Jeter and him had back to back solo shots) and an RBI of his own.
The Yankees had the lead at two seperate points early (1st and 3rd innings), but Brown's performance was just too much for them to overcome. But, as I said, the pen allowed just 1 ER over 4 and 2/3, which is encouraging. Felix Rodriguez had another solid performance, going 1 and 1/3, allowing 0 ER. Groom, Small and Gordon each pitched 1 inning, none of them surrendering a run. The lone run came off of Alex Graman in the 1/3 of an inning that he pitched. He came in in the 4th with runners on 2nd and 3rd and 1 out. Unfortunately, 3 runs were scored (2 charged to Brown) before he was pulled for F-Rod, who got them out of the inning.
I'm against trading Felix Rodriguez (well, unless its for someone really good, of course). I think we should keep him and pitch him as the 4th option, for better or for worse and see how it works.
We'll try to avoid the 4 game sweep today. Moose (9-5, 3.95) goes against Washburn (6-5, 3.27).
The Yankees offense put together 12 hits and 3 walks, led by Derek Jeter who went 4 for 4 with 1 HR, 1 RBI and 2 R. Sheffield and Tino had 2 hit days with the 7th (Posada, who walked once) and 9th (Crosby and Bernie) being the only lineup slots to go hitless. Giambi homered again (and led the team with 2 RBI), so he's got 5 HRs in his last 4 games and 11 in July. Cano added his 8th home run (Jeter and him had back to back solo shots) and an RBI of his own.
The Yankees had the lead at two seperate points early (1st and 3rd innings), but Brown's performance was just too much for them to overcome. But, as I said, the pen allowed just 1 ER over 4 and 2/3, which is encouraging. Felix Rodriguez had another solid performance, going 1 and 1/3, allowing 0 ER. Groom, Small and Gordon each pitched 1 inning, none of them surrendering a run. The lone run came off of Alex Graman in the 1/3 of an inning that he pitched. He came in in the 4th with runners on 2nd and 3rd and 1 out. Unfortunately, 3 runs were scored (2 charged to Brown) before he was pulled for F-Rod, who got them out of the inning.
I'm against trading Felix Rodriguez (well, unless its for someone really good, of course). I think we should keep him and pitch him as the 4th option, for better or for worse and see how it works.
We'll try to avoid the 4 game sweep today. Moose (9-5, 3.95) goes against Washburn (6-5, 3.27).
07/23: Angels Top Yankees 6-3
Posted by: Patrick
Al Leiter went 6 innings allowing 6 ER off 10 hits in his second start as a Yankee. That was all the Angels would get as Scott Proctor provided 2 innings of scoreless relief to close the ballgame.
Unfortunately, the Angels held the Yankees to 3 runs on 7 hits with A-Rod and Cano each collecting 2 hits. Cano, Matsui and Giambi each had 1 RBI while Jeter, Cano and A-Rod each scored 1 run. Jeter, Sheffield, Posada and Crosby/Martinez (the 9th spot) went hitless. Cano is now hitting .309 and is on an 11 game hit streak.
We find ourselves 1.5 games back of the Red Sox in the division and 1 game back of the Twins (who we'll open a 3 game set with in a couple days) in the wild card. Kevin Brown (4-6, 5.91) faces Ervin Santana tonight (4-4, 5.66). The Yankees pen is rested.
Unfortunately, the Angels held the Yankees to 3 runs on 7 hits with A-Rod and Cano each collecting 2 hits. Cano, Matsui and Giambi each had 1 RBI while Jeter, Cano and A-Rod each scored 1 run. Jeter, Sheffield, Posada and Crosby/Martinez (the 9th spot) went hitless. Cano is now hitting .309 and is on an 11 game hit streak.
We find ourselves 1.5 games back of the Red Sox in the division and 1 game back of the Twins (who we'll open a 3 game set with in a couple days) in the wild card. Kevin Brown (4-6, 5.91) faces Ervin Santana tonight (4-4, 5.66). The Yankees pen is rested.
07/22: Don Mattingly - Hit Man
Posted by: Patrick
I've never seen that before (that I can recall) up until a few minutes ago. I imagine some of you have, though. I was browsing around MLB.com and saw one on auction autographed and I thought... how freaking cool is that? Pretty neat blast from the past. So, a little searching turned up this image, care of DonMattingly.com.
When I strike it rich, I'll be sure to buy one.
Posted by: Michael
The Yanks started the game very solid. Jeter, who at the time of his first plate apperance was in a 3-32 hitting slump, lofted the ball over Vladimir Guerrero's outstretched glove for a triple. Robinson Cano then promptly brought him in on a soft line drive to center. After Sheffield hit into a double-play, A-Rod smacked his 27th homer of the season and the Yankees took a 2-0 lead.
After A-Rod's homer, Giambi had another two home run game to bring his total for the year up to 15. Matsui added another homer, his 16th of the year, in the seventh inning.
Randy Johnson pitched 6 innings. He started sharp, but started to lose control in the sixth. Bengie Molina hit a ground-rule double in the sixth after a fan touched the ball. Garret Anderson would have scored from third to tie the game. The fan was escorted out of the stadium giving high-fives to fellow Yankee fans. Apparently he was pulling for the Bombers too. Randy Johnson continued to pitch after this, and slipped on the mound. He was checked out, confirmed to be ok, and was left out there to get Steve Finley to ground out to Giambi to end the inning.
That was all for Randy Johnson, as Scott Proctor came into the game to start the seventh. He just couldn't throw strikes and was quickly pulled in favor of Buddy Groom. The Angels got two more on base and Groom struck out Erstad. With the bases loaded, Torre pulled Groom with one out for Tom Gordon. Tom Gordon promptly gave up a grand slam to Vladimir Guerrero. It was Vlad's second career grand slam. Gordon was furious at himself. Michael Kay brought up the fact that Gordon might not have had sufficient time to warm up. Regardless, the Angels took at 6-5 lead and never looked back.
The Yanks threatened in the 9th with A-Rod hitting a double against K-Rod. Matsui moved A-Rod to third on a sac fly to center. Giambi struck out. Williams walked to have men at the corners. Then pinch-hitter Posada grounded out to second to end the game.
An exciting game to say the least. Even though the Yankees lost, Giambi had a great day at the plate hitting those two home runs. The bullpen has continued to struggle. Let's hope they find just one more middle-relief guy to get them to Tanyon, Tom and Mo.
Tomorrow the Yanks take on the Angels again at 10:05 et. Al Leiter (4-7, 1-0 as a Yankee) 6.25 ERA against John Lackey (7-4) 3.97 ERA. Should be an impressive matchup.
After A-Rod's homer, Giambi had another two home run game to bring his total for the year up to 15. Matsui added another homer, his 16th of the year, in the seventh inning.
Randy Johnson pitched 6 innings. He started sharp, but started to lose control in the sixth. Bengie Molina hit a ground-rule double in the sixth after a fan touched the ball. Garret Anderson would have scored from third to tie the game. The fan was escorted out of the stadium giving high-fives to fellow Yankee fans. Apparently he was pulling for the Bombers too. Randy Johnson continued to pitch after this, and slipped on the mound. He was checked out, confirmed to be ok, and was left out there to get Steve Finley to ground out to Giambi to end the inning.
That was all for Randy Johnson, as Scott Proctor came into the game to start the seventh. He just couldn't throw strikes and was quickly pulled in favor of Buddy Groom. The Angels got two more on base and Groom struck out Erstad. With the bases loaded, Torre pulled Groom with one out for Tom Gordon. Tom Gordon promptly gave up a grand slam to Vladimir Guerrero. It was Vlad's second career grand slam. Gordon was furious at himself. Michael Kay brought up the fact that Gordon might not have had sufficient time to warm up. Regardless, the Angels took at 6-5 lead and never looked back.
The Yanks threatened in the 9th with A-Rod hitting a double against K-Rod. Matsui moved A-Rod to third on a sac fly to center. Giambi struck out. Williams walked to have men at the corners. Then pinch-hitter Posada grounded out to second to end the game.
An exciting game to say the least. Even though the Yankees lost, Giambi had a great day at the plate hitting those two home runs. The bullpen has continued to struggle. Let's hope they find just one more middle-relief guy to get them to Tanyon, Tom and Mo.
Tomorrow the Yanks take on the Angels again at 10:05 et. Al Leiter (4-7, 1-0 as a Yankee) 6.25 ERA against John Lackey (7-4) 3.97 ERA. Should be an impressive matchup.
07/21: Latest Trade Rumblings
Posted by: Patrick