Sunday, September 30, 2007
Boston College
Sorry abou the lack of p[osts here. We went to Boston to see a Boston College football game and to see some friends. They won by 2 touchdowns, it was fun. I`m not going to do a recap for today's game but if Ducky wants to do it he can
Friday, September 28, 2007
Prince Hal
http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20070928&content_id=2236647&vkey=pr_nyy&fext=.jsp&c_id=nyy
What this basically means is that Hal is the heir to the Yankees. Shoot, I wanted them....
What this basically means is that Hal is the heir to the Yankees. Shoot, I wanted them....
Joba Overworked?
Today Torre tried using Joba on back to back days in a meaningless game. He`s overworking Joba. Even with the rules he was pitching every other day. He`s not used to this type of workload.
Hughes was fantastic. I still think he`d be perfect for 1 or 2 innings out of the bullpen in the playoffs. Congrats to Bronson Sardinha and ALberto Gonzalez who got their first ML hits.
By the way, where are all those Mets fans saying it was a Mets town, the Yankees were old and done, and that the Mets would win the World Series? If the season ended today the Mets wouldn't be in the playoffs (they're tied with the Phillies who have the head to head advantage). I don't mind the Mets and sometimes even root for them to do will since I have some close relatives who are Mets fans but some of the Mets fans are really annoying.
Hughes was fantastic. I still think he`d be perfect for 1 or 2 innings out of the bullpen in the playoffs. Congrats to Bronson Sardinha and ALberto Gonzalez who got their first ML hits.
By the way, where are all those Mets fans saying it was a Mets town, the Yankees were old and done, and that the Mets would win the World Series? If the season ended today the Mets wouldn't be in the playoffs (they're tied with the Phillies who have the head to head advantage). I don't mind the Mets and sometimes even root for them to do will since I have some close relatives who are Mets fans but some of the Mets fans are really annoying.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
13 Straight
For the 13th straight year the Yankees will be going to the playoffs. Its been a great season and they were counted out by a lot of people early on but they still did it. Now they need to set their rotation so they can beat the Indians (probably) and make it to the World Series.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Yankees Clinch!!!
With tonight's win over the Tampa Bay Devil Rays the Yankees have clinched a spot in the playoffs!!!! This just goes to show you that baseball season is long and they play all 162 games for a reason!! There were a lot of people who counted this team out in May and guess what, the YANKEES ARE IN THE PLAYOFFS...AGAIN!!!! GOOOOOOO YANKEES!!!!!! More on tonight's game to come later...
Go Yankees!
Go Yankees!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Minor League Wrap-Up: Tampa Yankees
This season, the Tampa Yankees saw more than 60 different players take the field for them at different times throughout the year. The Yankees managed to pull together and play well enough to place 2nd in the FSL West Division. Over the course of the season, the Yankees had players such as Ian Kennedy and Joba Chamberlain start the year really well in
This season, the Yankees were led by Austin Jackson and future star Jose Tabata at the plate. Austin Jackson played in 67 games for the Yankees and in those games he hit .345 and hit 10 homers.
On the mound this season, the Yankees were led by Daniel McCutchen who went 11-2 with a 2.50 ERA. McCutchen was a starter in 16 of his 17 appearances for the Yankees.
Overall, the Yankees had a good season with many players who have a future with the big club in the
Go Yankees!
Magic Number: 1 (Still)
Former Yankee prospect Dioneer Navarro (traded as part of the Randy Johnson deal) just hit a walk-off homer off of Jeff Karstens in the bottom of the 10th inning to beat the Yankees 7-6. Combined with a Red Sox win, this loss pushes the Yankees another game out from the Boston Red Sox in the AL East.
I am extremely disappointed in the loss tonight. Igawa didn't give up any runs and only two hits; A-Rod gave him some support with a grand slam and the bullpen can't hold it. This is not the way the Yankees need to play in the last week of the season.
Some good in tonights loss: Damon was 5-5; this is good because the Yankees have to have him hot during this last week and in the playoffs. Cano remains on fire with a 3-5 performance tonight.
I am extremely disappointed in the loss tonight. Igawa didn't give up any runs and only two hits; A-Rod gave him some support with a grand slam and the bullpen can't hold it. This is not the way the Yankees need to play in the last week of the season.
Some good in tonights loss: Damon was 5-5; this is good because the Yankees have to have him hot during this last week and in the playoffs. Cano remains on fire with a 3-5 performance tonight.
Scratched...
Roger Clemens has been scratched from his start tonight at Tampa Bay. He has been battling hamstring problems and will not pitch for the remainder of the regular season but will be available for the playoffs. Filling in for the Rocket will be rookie Kei Igawa who will be making his first start since July 26 at Kansas City. Igawa and the Yankees can clinch a playoff spot with a win or a Detroit loss tonight.
Coming later tonight: Minor League Report: Tampa Yankees
Go Yankees!
Coming later tonight: Minor League Report: Tampa Yankees
Go Yankees!
New High in Visitors
You probably don't care but yesterday we reached a new high in people to visit this site. We had 38 unique visitors yesterday.
Magic Number One
The Yankees Magic number is now one. Its been a crazy season with injuries early in the year, Clemen's return, all the rookies, A-Rod's amazing season, and a lot more but here they are one win or Tigers loss from clinching a spot in the playoffs. Few teams have had to overcome as much as the Yankees this year.
BTW Rookie Hazing day was yesterday. River Avenue Blues has some great pictures.
BTW Rookie Hazing day was yesterday. River Avenue Blues has some great pictures.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Minor League Wrap-Up: Charleston RiverDogs
Well, I couldn't wait to get started, so here we go!
The Yankees Single-A affiliate Charleston RiverDogs finish up the 2007 season in second place behind the Columbus Catfish by 2.5 games in the South Atlantic League Southern Division. The RiverDogs finished in 2nd place behind the Columbus Catfish (Tampa Bay) who went on to win the SAL Championship.
This season the RiverDogs were led by third baseman Mitch Hilligross who led the team with a .310 batting average and 35 stolen bases. On his way to his .310 batting average and a SAL All-Star selection, Hilligross hit safely in 38 straight games during the first half of the season.
On the mound, the RiverDogs were led by Michael Dunn and Grant Duff. Dunn was 12-5 in 27 starts with a 3.42 ERA and Duff went 14-8 in 27 starts with a 3.82 ERA. Unlike many of the pitchers in the Yankees organization, these guys were with Charleston for the long haul and provided a great anchor in the rotation. The bullpen was led by closer Jonathan Hovis who compiled 30 saves and a 1.69 ERA and that shortened the Dogs’ games just like Mariano does for the big team.
In my opinion, I feel like the RiverDogs had a strong year, showing improvement as the season went along, falling just short of first place in the Southern division. It was an unusual season for the Dogs with everything from Brady Martinez proposing to his girlfriend after she threw out the first pitch to the overall bad season of umpiring all over the South Atlantic League.
I would also like to note that the RiverDogs honored the 9 Charleston firefighters who lost their lives in a tragedy on June 18. The RiverDogs and many businesses in the Charleston area helped raise money to give to the families of the fallen firefighters.
Go Yankees!
The Yankees Single-A affiliate Charleston RiverDogs finish up the 2007 season in second place behind the Columbus Catfish by 2.5 games in the South Atlantic League Southern Division. The RiverDogs finished in 2nd place behind the Columbus Catfish (Tampa Bay) who went on to win the SAL Championship.
This season the RiverDogs were led by third baseman Mitch Hilligross who led the team with a .310 batting average and 35 stolen bases. On his way to his .310 batting average and a SAL All-Star selection, Hilligross hit safely in 38 straight games during the first half of the season.
On the mound, the RiverDogs were led by Michael Dunn and Grant Duff. Dunn was 12-5 in 27 starts with a 3.42 ERA and Duff went 14-8 in 27 starts with a 3.82 ERA. Unlike many of the pitchers in the Yankees organization, these guys were with Charleston for the long haul and provided a great anchor in the rotation. The bullpen was led by closer Jonathan Hovis who compiled 30 saves and a 1.69 ERA and that shortened the Dogs’ games just like Mariano does for the big team.
In my opinion, I feel like the RiverDogs had a strong year, showing improvement as the season went along, falling just short of first place in the Southern division. It was an unusual season for the Dogs with everything from Brady Martinez proposing to his girlfriend after she threw out the first pitch to the overall bad season of umpiring all over the South Atlantic League.
I would also like to note that the RiverDogs honored the 9 Charleston firefighters who lost their lives in a tragedy on June 18. The RiverDogs and many businesses in the Charleston area helped raise money to give to the families of the fallen firefighters.
Go Yankees!
Hi!
I would like to thank Mike ('Mariano_Rivera' on Baseball-fever) for allowing me to write on this blog. I look forward to giving updates on the Yankees minor league system. I plan on writing a wrap up for each team and in the offseason I hope to write about some things people may not know about the Yankees minor league system. I plan on starting out writing about the Charleston RiverDogs and then working my way up to the AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Thanks for visiting and I hope you guys enjoy my writing! Go Yankees!
-Paul
-Paul
New Writer
On a baseball forum I visit, Baseball-fever.com, I asked Duckydps to help write with me here. He lives near to Charleston and will write a lot about the Yankees minor league system in general and especially the Charleston Riverdogs. He`ll also be writing about the big club.
Irony
I was at school for most fo this game and I come home to read a few blogs and learn a rookie is starting instead of Burnett. Off course the Yankees offense has been completely shut down. They can still win but isn't that weird?
Sunday, September 23, 2007
#250
The Yanks beat Toronto again today. I went to my cousin's house for her birthday today. They have a lot of Mets fans in the family and they brought up a second TV to watch both the Mets and Yankees. It was fun. I got into the usual light argument with my uncle over Jeter-A-Rod. Moose did really well today and I`d be surprised to see anyone else as the 4th starter. This bullpen is really scary though. YES flashed a stat that said that Mariano and Joba have a combined ERA under 1.00 while the rest of the bullpen has an ERA of about 9.00. Some other players have to pull it together if they want to go far in the playoffs. The magic number is now down to three. By the way, Jose Molina has been a great pickup. Posada is having one of the best seasons in baseball and we can have a backup come in and barely suffer a big drop-off. I think that Posada should sit out a few games to prepare for the playoffs. Same with Joba. He`s been used a lot.
A-Rod to the Cubs?
http://www.nypost.com/seven/09232007/news/nationalnews/a_rod_agent__a_cub_cout.htm
September 23, 2007 -- A new report says Alex Rodriguez's agent has spoken to a potential new owner of the Chicago Cubs about a bank-breaking deal that could give A-Rod a cut of the team.
The powerful Yankee third baseman is eligible to opt for free agency 10 days after the World Series ends this fall. And, New York magazine reports, super-agent Scott Boras is already talking to who he thinks is the favorite group vying to purchase Chicago's first-place team.
A-Rod has three seasons left on a 10-year, $252 million deal with the Yanks but has the right to become a free agent after this season ends.
According to the magazine, Boras is peddling a Second City deal that could go for an average of $30 million a year over 10 seasons, with much of that cash backloaded for the 32-year-old Rodriguez - who would then be given the right to buy a chunk of the Cubs at the contract's conclusion. The report does not indicate who would pay for this proposed, precedent-setting deal.
The Tribune Company, owner of The Chicago Tribune, The Los Angeles Times and Newsday, announced in April it was seeking to break off the Cubs from its media empire and sell the team after this season.
New York magazine writes that Boras is in talks with the ownership group that insiders believe will win the Cub-purchase derby.
That, however, may violate Major League Baseball rules.
"It is tampering for an agent to talk to anybody about a player who is under contract with another team," a sports-business expert told The Post.
Boras did not return calls for comment.
Asked about the potential deal after the Yankees' win yesterday over the Blue Jays, A-Rod said only, "I don't know what that's about."
New York magazine doesn't name the front-running owner wannabe but reports that it is not Dallas Maverick owner Mark Cuban of the NBA, who's expressed interest in grabbing the Cubs.
It has been reported that a group led by private-equity mogul John Canning, chief executive of Chicago's Madison Dearborn Partners, has the best shot.
Other bidders include a group led by local lawyer Thomas Mandler and businessman Jim Anixter, and another spearheaded by former state Sen. Bill Marovitz.
The prospect would put A-Rod in a small class of athletes-turned-owners:
* Michael Jordan owns a stake of the NBA's Charlotte Bobcats and had a piece of the Washington Wizards while playing there during a brief comeback.
* The legendary Connie Mack served as longtime manager of baseball's Philadelphia Athletics, a job from which he couldn't be fired since he also owned the team.
* Mario Lemieux is principal owner and chairman of the team for which he once starred, the NHL's Pittsburgh Penguins.
* And NHL legend Wayne Gretzky is managing partner of hockey's Phoenix Coyotes.
Even though the Cubs haven't won a World Series since 1908 - a span that has seen the Yanks bring 26 titles to The Bronx - they're expected to sell for a record price between $600 million and $1 billion.
If Boras does cut a deal with the Cubs, A-Rod would be joining a stable of all-stars led by his former Seattle Mariner skipper, Lou Piniella.
Call me crazy but I don't think anyone will pay that much for A-Rod. He`s a great player and will be chasing the all-time HR record but 10 years 30 million/year is not worth it. Since it would be backloaded They be paying probably close to 40 million dollars for 40 year old A-Rod. If it is true and he`ll go to the Cubs then good for him. The Yankees won't and shouldn't match that kind of offer.
September 23, 2007 -- A new report says Alex Rodriguez's agent has spoken to a potential new owner of the Chicago Cubs about a bank-breaking deal that could give A-Rod a cut of the team.
The powerful Yankee third baseman is eligible to opt for free agency 10 days after the World Series ends this fall. And, New York magazine reports, super-agent Scott Boras is already talking to who he thinks is the favorite group vying to purchase Chicago's first-place team.
A-Rod has three seasons left on a 10-year, $252 million deal with the Yanks but has the right to become a free agent after this season ends.
According to the magazine, Boras is peddling a Second City deal that could go for an average of $30 million a year over 10 seasons, with much of that cash backloaded for the 32-year-old Rodriguez - who would then be given the right to buy a chunk of the Cubs at the contract's conclusion. The report does not indicate who would pay for this proposed, precedent-setting deal.
The Tribune Company, owner of The Chicago Tribune, The Los Angeles Times and Newsday, announced in April it was seeking to break off the Cubs from its media empire and sell the team after this season.
New York magazine writes that Boras is in talks with the ownership group that insiders believe will win the Cub-purchase derby.
That, however, may violate Major League Baseball rules.
"It is tampering for an agent to talk to anybody about a player who is under contract with another team," a sports-business expert told The Post.
Boras did not return calls for comment.
Asked about the potential deal after the Yankees' win yesterday over the Blue Jays, A-Rod said only, "I don't know what that's about."
New York magazine doesn't name the front-running owner wannabe but reports that it is not Dallas Maverick owner Mark Cuban of the NBA, who's expressed interest in grabbing the Cubs.
It has been reported that a group led by private-equity mogul John Canning, chief executive of Chicago's Madison Dearborn Partners, has the best shot.
Other bidders include a group led by local lawyer Thomas Mandler and businessman Jim Anixter, and another spearheaded by former state Sen. Bill Marovitz.
The prospect would put A-Rod in a small class of athletes-turned-owners:
* Michael Jordan owns a stake of the NBA's Charlotte Bobcats and had a piece of the Washington Wizards while playing there during a brief comeback.
* The legendary Connie Mack served as longtime manager of baseball's Philadelphia Athletics, a job from which he couldn't be fired since he also owned the team.
* Mario Lemieux is principal owner and chairman of the team for which he once starred, the NHL's Pittsburgh Penguins.
* And NHL legend Wayne Gretzky is managing partner of hockey's Phoenix Coyotes.
Even though the Cubs haven't won a World Series since 1908 - a span that has seen the Yanks bring 26 titles to The Bronx - they're expected to sell for a record price between $600 million and $1 billion.
If Boras does cut a deal with the Cubs, A-Rod would be joining a stable of all-stars led by his former Seattle Mariner skipper, Lou Piniella.
Call me crazy but I don't think anyone will pay that much for A-Rod. He`s a great player and will be chasing the all-time HR record but 10 years 30 million/year is not worth it. Since it would be backloaded They be paying probably close to 40 million dollars for 40 year old A-Rod. If it is true and he`ll go to the Cubs then good for him. The Yankees won't and shouldn't match that kind of offer.
I hate Al Reyes
Thank a lot Devil Rays. Yesterday Al Reyes blew his 3rd save against the Red Sox this year. His ERA against them is now over 10.00. Seriously, even Farnsworth is better than this pathetic excuse for a closer.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Wow
I missed most of this game but it really looks like this offense is coming together. The bullpen, not so much. It looks like they only actually have 3 guys they can rely on. On the other hand Hughes wasn't terrible and the offense had a great day. I just hope they get some innings from Mussina tomorrow. I heard part of the game on the radio and I have to say I actually like the guy that was filling in for Suzyn.
Decide the fate of #756
Yes, I know I`m a little late on this but I thought I`d comment on it anyway
The guy who bought #756 is now letting the fans vote on what should happen to the ball. I personally believe they should throw an asterik on it then send it to the Hall..
http://www.vote756.com/marcecko/
The guy who bought #756 is now letting the fans vote on what should happen to the ball. I personally believe they should throw an asterik on it then send it to the Hall..
http://www.vote756.com/marcecko/
Brian Bruney
Well this game started off pretty well and for 6 innings Wang and Halladay matched each other by putting up zeroes and pitching beautifully. Then in the 7th the Blue Jays finally broke through for two runs. The game appeared to still be in reach but then in the 8th Edwar came in and gave up a 2 run HR to make it 4-0. Halladay had looked invincible but then they rallied in the 9th and with the help of a big error they came back and tied it in the 9th. The bullpen was fantastic and held the Blue Jays until the 14th. Brian Bruney came in and gave up a homer to Gregg Zaun which lost the game. Why not bring in Farnsworth instead? Bruney has no place on the playoff roster. He`s got great stuff but no control. The offense also fell asleep after the 9th. They had something like 3 hits before the 9th and 3 hits after the 9th. By the time this game ended I was to tired to be annoyed but was is a tough loss.
Friday, September 21, 2007
A-Rod to the Giants?
The Giants have said they won't bring back Barry Bonds. That opens a huge hole in their lineup and I could definitely see them going hard after A-Rod if he opts outs. I still think he`ll sign an extension but.....
Kennedy Out
I just heard on the Michael Kay show that Kennedy has been scratched due to a sore neck. I`m going to be optimistic and say that this might mean that he won't be pitching in the playoffs.
Yankees 9th best Prospect
Ross Ohlendorf won this round with 3 votes. Edwar Ramirez came in second. The interest for this is starting to do down so I will make this next poll the last one if we don't get more votes
I agree with this vote. A 97 mph sinker coming out of the bullpen is pretty scary.
1) Phil Hughes
2) Joba Chamberlain
3) Ian Kennedy
4) Jose Tabata
5) Dellin Bettances
6) Carmen Angelini
7) Alan Horne
8) Austin Jackson
9) Ross Ohlendorf
10) ?
I agree with this vote. A 97 mph sinker coming out of the bullpen is pretty scary.
1) Phil Hughes
2) Joba Chamberlain
3) Ian Kennedy
4) Jose Tabata
5) Dellin Bettances
6) Carmen Angelini
7) Alan Horne
8) Austin Jackson
9) Ross Ohlendorf
10) ?
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Resting Your Starters
With another Tigers loss today it looks like the Yankees are starting to pull away for the Wild Card and are making the division a race. I don't think the Yankees can rest their starters and take the Wild Card. Pride aside this year their are 2 playoff formats for the ALDS. In one teams get off days to travel after games 2 and 4. In the other teams get off days after games 1, 2, and 4. The team with the best record in baseball gets to pick which format they want. The team with the better record of the matchup would also get an extra home game.
The extra off days format two gives would allow the Yankees to give their starters 4 days rest without changing their rotation. I don't know if Clemens can pitch hurt on 3 days rest at 46 years old. The extra off day also can only help Pettitte. The extra off days help the bullpen as well. Rivera is getting older and Vizcaino has been hurt. The Joba rules will also probably be relaxed for the playoffs but you never know. Posada in particular should be helped by the extra off days. And of course their is the fact that the Yankees probably don't want to have to face the Angels. Being able to pick what playoff format you want is to valuable to just give up on.
The extra off days format two gives would allow the Yankees to give their starters 4 days rest without changing their rotation. I don't know if Clemens can pitch hurt on 3 days rest at 46 years old. The extra off day also can only help Pettitte. The extra off days help the bullpen as well. Rivera is getting older and Vizcaino has been hurt. The Joba rules will also probably be relaxed for the playoffs but you never know. Posada in particular should be helped by the extra off days. And of course their is the fact that the Yankees probably don't want to have to face the Angels. Being able to pick what playoff format you want is to valuable to just give up on.
A Dream Come True
http://yankees.lohudblogs.com/2007/09/19/wang-makes-a-dream-come-true-for-sick-fan/
Check out this post by Pete Abraham. Its a nice story.
Check out this post by Pete Abraham. Its a nice story.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Hughes, Mussina, and Kennedy
With the Yankees looking to be well on their way to a win largely due to the performance of Mike Mussina I thought it would be a good idea to look at the Yankees potential playoff rotation.
Right now the Yanks have basically a 6 man rotation of Wang-Pettitte-Clemens-Hughes-Mussina-Kennedy. Clemens, Wang, and Pettitte all probably have spots but Kennedy, Hughes, and Mussina are all vying for a potential spot on the playoff roster and possibly a spot in the playoff rotation (I don't think they need a 4th starter until the ALCS). Keep in mind the following stats don't include Mussina's last start.
(FIP, GB%, K/BB, K/9, IP, HR/FB%, BABIP)
Hughes- 4.39, 37.1%, 1.92, 7.42, 60.2, 8.9%, .275
Mussina-4.21, 41.9%, 2.44, 5.28, 133, 8.4%, .340
Kennedy-3.73, 26.4%, 1.67, 7.11, 19, 3.7%, .237
If you don't really understand what any of this means please read my post on how I evaluate players
http://riveravenuewatch.blogspot.com/2007/07/statistics-i-use.html
What you can see here is that Kennedy has been really really lucky. I think it comes down to Hughes and Mussina. Moose has the better K/BB and GB% but the worse K/9. You have to factor in experience as well and since Hughes has primarily been a 2 pitch pitcher since the injury I think he could be a good reliever. I`d put Mussina in the rotation and Hughes in the bullpen. Kennedy doesn't make the cut for me. You could go with any one of them really though
EDIT- Wow, that chart came out pretty ugly. I`ll try and fix it
EDIT- Well, that`s the best I can do
Right now the Yanks have basically a 6 man rotation of Wang-Pettitte-Clemens-Hughes-Mussina-Kennedy. Clemens, Wang, and Pettitte all probably have spots but Kennedy, Hughes, and Mussina are all vying for a potential spot on the playoff roster and possibly a spot in the playoff rotation (I don't think they need a 4th starter until the ALCS). Keep in mind the following stats don't include Mussina's last start.
(FIP, GB%, K/BB, K/9, IP, HR/FB%, BABIP)
Hughes- 4.39, 37.1%, 1.92, 7.42, 60.2, 8.9%, .275
Mussina-4.21, 41.9%, 2.44, 5.28, 133, 8.4%, .340
Kennedy-3.73, 26.4%, 1.67, 7.11, 19, 3.7%, .237
If you don't really understand what any of this means please read my post on how I evaluate players
http://riveravenuewatch.blogspot.com/2007/07/statistics-i-use.html
What you can see here is that Kennedy has been really really lucky. I think it comes down to Hughes and Mussina. Moose has the better K/BB and GB% but the worse K/9. You have to factor in experience as well and since Hughes has primarily been a 2 pitch pitcher since the injury I think he could be a good reliever. I`d put Mussina in the rotation and Hughes in the bullpen. Kennedy doesn't make the cut for me. You could go with any one of them really though
EDIT- Wow, that chart came out pretty ugly. I`ll try and fix it
EDIT- Well, that`s the best I can do
It Ain't Over 'till its Over
Earlier in the season many of my fellow bloggers declared the Yankees dead. Other said they had no chance at the division but could win the Wild Card. Even after the Red Sox loss people declared the Yankees as having no chance at the division. They're now only 3 and half games out. Are the odds against it? Yes, but its possible. If nothing else the Yankees have proven that Yogi Berra was right.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
8th Best Yankees Prospect Poll
Austin Jackson won this poll in a landside. He got 7 votes while Kevin Whelan, Ross Ohlendorf, and Juan Miranda all got one vote. Austin Jackson made a huge jump this season. Everybody knew he had the tools to succeed but nobody knew if he could it all together or not. He fell off a little at the end of the season but it would have been almost impossible not to after his crazy first half. He even played in Scranton's playoffs for a game. Next year will be an important one for him to tell us whether this year was just a fluke or not.
In a related note Trenton won the Eastern League Championship yesterday. We all are always rooting for the big league team to win above all else but its nice to see the minor leaguers get a taste of it while in the minors. Next year I plan on trying to follow the minor leagues a little more diligently and try to include them in my daily recaps.
I`ll be voting for Ross Ohlendorf in the next poll.
1) Phillip Hughes
2) Joba Chamberlain
3) Ian Kennedy
4) Jose Tabata
5) Dellin Bettances
6) Carmen Angelini
7) Alan Horne
8) Austin Jackson
9) ?
In a related note Trenton won the Eastern League Championship yesterday. We all are always rooting for the big league team to win above all else but its nice to see the minor leaguers get a taste of it while in the minors. Next year I plan on trying to follow the minor leagues a little more diligently and try to include them in my daily recaps.
I`ll be voting for Ross Ohlendorf in the next poll.
1) Phillip Hughes
2) Joba Chamberlain
3) Ian Kennedy
4) Jose Tabata
5) Dellin Bettances
6) Carmen Angelini
7) Alan Horne
8) Austin Jackson
9) ?
Saturday, September 15, 2007
I`m Back
I didn't get to watch much of the games while I was gone. Great win last night but Giambi really can't start at 1B in a playoff game. Rough day for Wang though today. Detroit is creeping up closer and closer and if the Yankees can't pull it together than Seattle might also get into the race.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Finally....
Well, I was finally able to find some time to watch a game. Mussina did very well. He`s going to be important as we get closer to October. If he can pitch as well as Kennedy or Hughes than I think I`d rather have a veteran like him in the rotation then two rookies if given the choice. I also think Hughes could be very good coming out of the bullpen with a similar role to Joba. Matsui had a good day, shutting up pretty much every commenter over at RLYW and Pete Abraham's blog. Joba's scoreless inning streak is over but it was unearned at least. A-Rod had actually made some pretty decent plays before that inning.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Lack of Posts
Sorry I haven't posted lately. I haven't watched the past few games. My teachers have been giving a ton of homework and I haven't been on the computer much.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
A-Rod
The season A-Rod's having is crazy. He has 51 HR's and its still early September. He`s doing this from 3B and also probably still has the ability to play SS. Imagine this team without him. His EQA adjusted for all time is .360. He is completely worth 30 million/year. I didn't watch the post-game but Rebecca picked up on an interesting quote by A-Rod.
Pettitte pitched solidly again pitching into the 7th inning and giving up only 2 runs. Edwar and Britton both pitched well. I didn't see the 9th inning but apparently Bruney pitched pretty terribly.
Jeter apparently has Patellar Tendinitis and one day off probably isn't going to do much for it. That would explain his complete loss of any range at all this season. I mean he was mediocore at best before but this is just terrible. Alberto Gonzalez will temporarily take his place.
Pettitte pitched solidly again pitching into the 7th inning and giving up only 2 runs. Edwar and Britton both pitched well. I didn't see the 9th inning but apparently Bruney pitched pretty terribly.
Jeter apparently has Patellar Tendinitis and one day off probably isn't going to do much for it. That would explain his complete loss of any range at all this season. I mean he was mediocore at best before but this is just terrible. Alberto Gonzalez will temporarily take his place.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
This Purist Bleeds Pinstripes
Their's a fairly new yankees blog called This Purist Bleeds Pinstripes. Its definitely worth visiting.
Yankees 6th/7th best prospect poll
Carmen Angelini won this one and I think he deserved it. Alan Horne gets the 7th spot on the list. I`ll put the original options I had for this poll back up without Horne or Angelini.
1) Phillip Hughes
2) Joba Chamberlain
3) Ian Kennedy
4) Jose Tabata
5) Dellin Bettances
6) Carmen Angelini
7) Alan Horne
8) ?
1) Phillip Hughes
2) Joba Chamberlain
3) Ian Kennedy
4) Jose Tabata
5) Dellin Bettances
6) Carmen Angelini
7) Alan Horne
8) ?
Ian Kennedy
The Yankees picked up a game on Seattle with yesterday's win and Seattle's loss. Kennedy started and pitched in and out of trouble a lot. He definitely didn't look great but he kept them in the game. An idea I`ve been kicking around is using Hughes as a reliever for the playoffs (If they make it). This is no knock on Hughes and I still think he`s a future ace but he`s been mostly a 2 pitch pitcher. His changeup still isn't that good and he`s not throwing his slider. I think that just for the playoffs he would thrive in a similar role to the one Joba has. This is only possible though if Mussina or Kennedy can step up and claim that 4th spot in the rotation. Just a random idea I had, don't know if it makes much sense.
A-Rod had another HR to break his own record for HR's by a right-handed Yankee. If he gets really hot this month he could break Maris' single season HR record. Posada also had a homer. These two both are getting big deals at the end of the season.
I don't really know what to post on the Harlan Chamberlain thing that hasn't already been said but its great.
A-Rod had another HR to break his own record for HR's by a right-handed Yankee. If he gets really hot this month he could break Maris' single season HR record. Posada also had a homer. These two both are getting big deals at the end of the season.
I don't really know what to post on the Harlan Chamberlain thing that hasn't already been said but its great.
Parking Prices Going Up
Check out this post at RAB
We drive to the stadium and go to the same lot every time actually so this is going to be really annoying.
We drive to the stadium and go to the same lot every time actually so this is going to be really annoying.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Phil Franchise
The stroy for this game to me is Phillip Hughes. He matched Washburn with zeroes for the first two innings but gave up a 2 run homer in the 3rd. He came back though and pitched the 4th, 5th and 6th. His final line was 6 innings, 2 runs, and a handful of strikeouts and walks. He threw more pitches then you would have liked but if he can go out there and throw 6 solid innings then the Yankees are going to make playoffs. Joba also finally pitched. He got the win for throwing a shutout 7th inning.
Jose Molina played and got one of those runs back on a homer. He also hit a double but was stranded at third by Jeter to end the inning. The Mariners had the lead until the 7th. A-Rod led off with a solo HR to tie the game. At that point the offense exploded. A-Rod actually had another HR that same inning. He has tied his own record for HR's by a right-handed Yankees batter with 48. Apparently I`m not the only one who was annoyed by the Mariner's manager's use of his pitchers. Just add it to the long list of rule changes that need to be made
Jose Molina played and got one of those runs back on a homer. He also hit a double but was stranded at third by Jeter to end the inning. The Mariners had the lead until the 7th. A-Rod led off with a solo HR to tie the game. At that point the offense exploded. A-Rod actually had another HR that same inning. He has tied his own record for HR's by a right-handed Yankees batter with 48. Apparently I`m not the only one who was annoyed by the Mariner's manager's use of his pitchers. Just add it to the long list of rule changes that need to be made
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Top Prospect Poll Tie
Since the poll ended in a tie I`m going to make a vote off between Carmen Angelini and Alan Horne. I`ll make it a two day poll
Wang the Ace?
He really came through today. For most of the game the Yankees only had one run but Wang held it. They got some insurance runs later and ended it scoring 7 in one inning later. Joba hasn't pitched in a long time so especially with Hughes starting today you can bet on seeing him. A-Rod's HR was a monster shot. If he can get hot this month then the Yankees will be in good shape. Joe Torre says that Hughes had a good bullpen session and worked on slowing down his delivery. Clemens says he`ll pitch again this season. Another big game today for the Yankees. it would be great to take 2 out of three from the Mariner especially after the first game.
Monday, September 3, 2007
Stop the Bridge Jumping!
At every blog or forum I read fans are giving up on the season already. Clemens can't pitch, Mussina can't pitch, Hughes isn't ready, nobody can hit, season's over. The Yankees are still in first in the Wild Card. The season is not over. Yes, this team is inconsistent but that can be a good thing. It may be in a slump now but it`ll soon come out of it. Wang goes tomorrow in a huge game. Here's an opportunity for him to prove all of the doubters wrong. Pettitte had a very good start last time and I think he`s the ace of this staff but with a good start tomorrow Wang takes that title I think.
Speaking of Pettitte's last game that was a game they could and should have won. I was at that game and everybody in the stadium knew he was done after six. He was struggling in the 6th inning and had almost 120 pitches. He`s 36 not 26. He has had arm troubles and almost retired last year. Joba should have pitched the 7th and 8th. This offense seems to play better in close games and I`d bet they`d have scored again. Mariano then in 9th looks pretty good to me. Their's a lot of variables in this so I don't think you can pin this completely on Joe Torre but he has to bear some of the blame for that one. I can't wait for Girardi next year.
Speaking of Pettitte's last game that was a game they could and should have won. I was at that game and everybody in the stadium knew he was done after six. He was struggling in the 6th inning and had almost 120 pitches. He`s 36 not 26. He has had arm troubles and almost retired last year. Joba should have pitched the 7th and 8th. This offense seems to play better in close games and I`d bet they`d have scored again. Mariano then in 9th looks pretty good to me. Their's a lot of variables in this so I don't think you can pin this completely on Joe Torre but he has to bear some of the blame for that one. I can't wait for Girardi next year.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Ian Kennedy's Debut
0.Great win today. Seattle lost again so now the Yankees are 2 games up and its starting to look like its going to be the Yankees or Detroit for the Wild Card. That bat thing with Torre was actually a smart move. I bet he was just trying to give Kennedy a breather. Maddon just did it to A-Rod to get back at him according to pete Abraham. I love the irony in that he immediately got a hit and later on a double with the new bat. Throw in that HR and I think we can forgive him for that error.
Kennedy had a great debut. Seven innings of one run ball. He pretty much followed the scouting report on him. He`s not afraid to throw strikes and doesn't nibble like Mussina. If he can pitch well down the stretch he`s just another weapon. A-Rod's error actually cost him about 15 pitches. If it wasn't for that he might have gone 8 innings or maybe even pitched a complete game. Still, remember he`s not Hughes or Chamberlain. I think he has a future as a solidly above average pitcher (low 4's ERA) who can eat up innings and their's nothing wrong with that and he might prove me and everyone else wrong and be the next Mike Mussina but he`s probably not a future ace like Chamberlain or Hughes. Anyway, players like that are still very valuable but he`s not in the same category as Chamberlain or Hughes.
Joe Torre's bullpen mismanagement continued today. He used Luis Vizcaino with a 6 run lead. He`s been insanely overworked and is probably the Yankees 3rd best reliever. He should only be used in close games. Also, when it was clear Vizcaino did not have it today what happened? Instead of bringing in Edwar or someone else and at least trying to end the inning he just let Vizcaino keep giving up hits. Finally after Vizcaino had given up 3 runs and gotten only 2 outs he brought in Rivera. With a runner on second Rivera ended the inning and K'ed the side in the 9th for the save. Torre can't manage. The Yankees have gotten rid of his crutches like Proctor and Cairo but it still continued. Only Joba Chamberlain has earned a real chance to prove himself of the guys they called up to help out the bullpen. Torre is hurting this team.
Kennedy had a great debut. Seven innings of one run ball. He pretty much followed the scouting report on him. He`s not afraid to throw strikes and doesn't nibble like Mussina. If he can pitch well down the stretch he`s just another weapon. A-Rod's error actually cost him about 15 pitches. If it wasn't for that he might have gone 8 innings or maybe even pitched a complete game. Still, remember he`s not Hughes or Chamberlain. I think he has a future as a solidly above average pitcher (low 4's ERA) who can eat up innings and their's nothing wrong with that and he might prove me and everyone else wrong and be the next Mike Mussina but he`s probably not a future ace like Chamberlain or Hughes. Anyway, players like that are still very valuable but he`s not in the same category as Chamberlain or Hughes.
Joe Torre's bullpen mismanagement continued today. He used Luis Vizcaino with a 6 run lead. He`s been insanely overworked and is probably the Yankees 3rd best reliever. He should only be used in close games. Also, when it was clear Vizcaino did not have it today what happened? Instead of bringing in Edwar or someone else and at least trying to end the inning he just let Vizcaino keep giving up hits. Finally after Vizcaino had given up 3 runs and gotten only 2 outs he brought in Rivera. With a runner on second Rivera ended the inning and K'ed the side in the 9th for the save. Torre can't manage. The Yankees have gotten rid of his crutches like Proctor and Cairo but it still continued. Only Joba Chamberlain has earned a real chance to prove himself of the guys they called up to help out the bullpen. Torre is hurting this team.
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