Guest Blogger DG
We raise a very interesting question in gametalk about Torre's BP management : why wasn't anyone burned out from 1996-2003? I won't claim that Torre is flawless at BP management, but I have few cmplaints this season. Vizcaino was pushed too far a couple times, IMO, but not to the breaking point. Anyone think such accusations this season will hold up under scrutiny of game logs?
Others--Proctor: Can't say he's on his way out of the majors. There were certainly times I wouldn't have used him last season, no argument there.
Villone: Pushed to the breaking point last season, but bounced back this season. Also broke down in the 2nd half of 2005 with the Marlins.
Sturtze: How good was he to begin with? Had his moments, but tough to say Torre ruined him.
Quantrill: Have we forgotten how much he was used prior to his stint with the Yankees? He was no stranger to pitching a ton of games. Is it shocking that a pitcher or 2 per season will be pushed extremely hard.... especially when we're primarily discussing middle relievers?
Big question: I'm not saying Torre is flawless.... and not saying he excels at BP management, but....Am I seriously supposed to believe that our Pitching and BP coaches are figureheads? Sure, Torre makes the final call, but why is it never, ever mentioned that 3 people are involved in relief appearances? None of us know what goes on in the dugout, but can anyone seriously picture Torre saying "Screw you, Guidry!! I said use ___________.
Who the hell cares what you think? " ? What coaches would want to work for him if they weren't allowed input into game decisions? Doesn't make sense. Maybe looking at the big picture would paint a clearer picture. Torre isn't flawless and he isn't an idiot. Going back to the "I never want to see ______ pitch for the Yankees again" stuff..... I find it odd Torre is constantly accused of over-using relievers, yet many of us want to limit his options by saying we'd only use a few selected relievers. Pot, meet kettle.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Sunday, August 26, 2007
What A Difference A Day Makes
By Guest Bloggers Yankefan Bill and Knuckles
If you saw Friday night's game you know that Polanco made an error when Damon flustered him in the first inning. It ended his record-setting errorless game streak.Lo and behold we find out on Saturday that the official scoring has been changed and the streak is still intact.
Something should be done about "homefield" official scoring. If the Tigers were on the road, I'm sure the original call would have stood.
Major League Baseball with all the millions of dollars it pays in salaries should hire an impartial official scorer as the 5th man of an umpiring crew.
Failing this, the home plate umpire should make the official call (with the option of a conference or even a replay to get it right).I realize this might slow a game down but baseball being a 'numbers' game should make sure those numbers are accurate.
There are still rules that can force a pitcher to speed his delivery to compensate for these delays.
I remember a game in 1993 with the Yanks playing the Blue Jays and batting champion (to-be at year's end) John Olerud hit a routine bouncer to second, and the Yankee fielder (Pat Kelly maybe?) butchered the play. Olerud was flirting with .400, and the scorer gave him a hit.
And then of course in '98 there was the game in Texas when Juan-Gone glared at the official scorer in disdain until he switched a Knoblauch error to a hit so he could have 7 or 8 rbi's.
OTOH, Michael Kay wears me out (as he did Leiter last night) when he goes on and on about this stuff. Bottom like, it's a ballgame, and hit or error, the guy on base could score. I don't think during the game is the time to start a campaign for a neutral scorer.
As an interesting sidelight, Leiter said that retired ump Ken Kaiser called him and suggested a retired ump should get the scorer job. Kay has been talking about balk potential the whole series with Bob Davidson being a member of the officiating crew. I was surprised he was unable to combine his two rants. I'm sure Kaiser called more balks than Davidson ever will.
In 1996 he called a balk on David Cone for faking a throw to second against Baltimore. This remains the only time I ever saw a balk called involving a move to second. I suspect I'll never see it again. Bottom line they should not have reversed the Polanco call, and it's one more record for which I now have lost respect.
If you saw Friday night's game you know that Polanco made an error when Damon flustered him in the first inning. It ended his record-setting errorless game streak.Lo and behold we find out on Saturday that the official scoring has been changed and the streak is still intact.
Something should be done about "homefield" official scoring. If the Tigers were on the road, I'm sure the original call would have stood.
Major League Baseball with all the millions of dollars it pays in salaries should hire an impartial official scorer as the 5th man of an umpiring crew.
Failing this, the home plate umpire should make the official call (with the option of a conference or even a replay to get it right).I realize this might slow a game down but baseball being a 'numbers' game should make sure those numbers are accurate.
There are still rules that can force a pitcher to speed his delivery to compensate for these delays.
I remember a game in 1993 with the Yanks playing the Blue Jays and batting champion (to-be at year's end) John Olerud hit a routine bouncer to second, and the Yankee fielder (Pat Kelly maybe?) butchered the play. Olerud was flirting with .400, and the scorer gave him a hit.
And then of course in '98 there was the game in Texas when Juan-Gone glared at the official scorer in disdain until he switched a Knoblauch error to a hit so he could have 7 or 8 rbi's.
OTOH, Michael Kay wears me out (as he did Leiter last night) when he goes on and on about this stuff. Bottom like, it's a ballgame, and hit or error, the guy on base could score. I don't think during the game is the time to start a campaign for a neutral scorer.
As an interesting sidelight, Leiter said that retired ump Ken Kaiser called him and suggested a retired ump should get the scorer job. Kay has been talking about balk potential the whole series with Bob Davidson being a member of the officiating crew. I was surprised he was unable to combine his two rants. I'm sure Kaiser called more balks than Davidson ever will.
In 1996 he called a balk on David Cone for faking a throw to second against Baltimore. This remains the only time I ever saw a balk called involving a move to second. I suspect I'll never see it again. Bottom line they should not have reversed the Polanco call, and it's one more record for which I now have lost respect.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Now He Is A Real Holy Cow
Today we lost a Yankee, today we lost a friend. More than just a superstar Phil Rizzuto was everyone’s uncle. A voice well known to all, a voice that made you smile and feel warm all over.
As a youngster the Scooter as he was known to all taught me the game, as well as what a canoli is. Holy Cow, an expression he shares with the late Harry Carrey, but Phil always said it better. If it was the 7th inning you know he was halfway across the George Washington Bridge, and you know it there was thunder he was nowhere to be found.
Scooter was a friend to BTB as far back as when we were on paper. On occasion he read articles on the air during the lean years. He often donated signed photos to us to give away. He mentioned BTB on the air from time to time. He was always very good to us.
Back in the early 80s we often made trips to Fenway Park for the weekend. We often stayed at the Sheraton where the Yankees stayed at the time. Well one day we met him walking back to the hotel and we joined him and he treated us like old friends.
Scooter we miss you. You will always be the best. God Bless you and your family. More to come, including an interview with the Scooter.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
REMEMBERING THURMAN
Could it really be 28 years since we lost our last great Captain? We have had a lot of great player who had been captain since then but Thurman Munson was our last great Captain. He was a Captain that led by pushing, by yelling, and by staying on top of a player. A player who played hurt, a Captain that hardly missed a game.
A lot of the captains after him led by example, but Thurman made you want to give more and more. He was a player’s player. A leader, both on and off the field. When he played hurt nobody could complain about their own injuries. Thurman Munson always a fan favorite was brought back to life in “The Bronx is Burning”, but if he saw it he would think it made him look to placid.
He was George Steinbrenner’s original Warrior, a title which was also given to Paul O’Neil, and deserving so, but only Thurman can spell in capitols. Rarely can you go to Yankee Stadium and not see his familiar #15 on someone’s back. And his locker still stands vacant in the lockers room. We miss you Thurman.
A lot of the captains after him led by example, but Thurman made you want to give more and more. He was a player’s player. A leader, both on and off the field. When he played hurt nobody could complain about their own injuries. Thurman Munson always a fan favorite was brought back to life in “The Bronx is Burning”, but if he saw it he would think it made him look to placid.
He was George Steinbrenner’s original Warrior, a title which was also given to Paul O’Neil, and deserving so, but only Thurman can spell in capitols. Rarely can you go to Yankee Stadium and not see his familiar #15 on someone’s back. And his locker still stands vacant in the lockers room. We miss you Thurman.
THURMAN LEE MUNSON 1947-1979
"OUR CAPATIN AND LEADER HAS NOT LEFT US TODAY, TOMORROW, THIS YEAR, NEXT... OUR ENDEAVORS WILL RELECT OUR LOVE AND ADMIRATION FOR HIM."
Sunday, July 29, 2007
WHAT DIFFERENCE A WEEK MAKES!
Last week at this time it looked like the Yankees had straighten out their problems and were well on their way to the post season.
Now it seem like the Yankees were just toying with us once again. With a team like this it seems impossible that everyone can slump at onnce but it seems they did once again. Gone is the hunger and gone is any trace of chemistry that the Bombers had shown us last weekend.
Alex Rodriguez is one home run shy of #500. You know he'll get it and when he does that will mark the return of the Yankee offense, let's hope the pitching hangs out long enough to get us back in htis thing.
NO KEI TO THIS CITY
Kei Igawa was sent down to Scranton Wilkes Barre to help straighten himself out. With the off days the Yanks won't need the 5th starter until the following week. By that time Yankee fenom prodigy Phil Hughes should be ready.
Our best outfield seems to be Johnny Damon, Melky Cabrera and Bobby Abreu left to right. Abreu seems to be the streakiest player we have had in years. The worse thing is he allows it to affect his defense.
Now it seem like the Yankees were just toying with us once again. With a team like this it seems impossible that everyone can slump at onnce but it seems they did once again. Gone is the hunger and gone is any trace of chemistry that the Bombers had shown us last weekend.
Alex Rodriguez is one home run shy of #500. You know he'll get it and when he does that will mark the return of the Yankee offense, let's hope the pitching hangs out long enough to get us back in htis thing.
NO KEI TO THIS CITY
Kei Igawa was sent down to Scranton Wilkes Barre to help straighten himself out. With the off days the Yanks won't need the 5th starter until the following week. By that time Yankee fenom prodigy Phil Hughes should be ready.
Our best outfield seems to be Johnny Damon, Melky Cabrera and Bobby Abreu left to right. Abreu seems to be the streakiest player we have had in years. The worse thing is he allows it to affect his defense.
Sunday, July 08, 2007
YANKEES OLD TIMERS DAY
The Yankees had a first class Old Timers Day on Saturday at the cathedral in the Bronx. You saw the best of the old with the best of the new. On Sunday the Yankees staged an Old Timers Day for the ticket holders of the Staten Island Yankees at the Richmond County Savings Bank Ballpark. Evey ticket was given out in the minor league park, although several fans opted to stay home in the sweltering heat. The big problem quite a few players from the previous day were not on hand as well.
To be fair there were only some 20 players confirmed for the historic event which showcase a Yankee Old Timers Day away from Yankee Stadium for the first time in 61 years. The real problem was that the teams did not have enough pitchers or any catchers that could still squat. Half the players couldn't play and the other half were pushing 60.
They did put on a great exhibition despite the sweltering heat. Poor Al Downing (almost 70 years old), who played for the Yankees for 9 years and will be remembered in history for giving up Hank Aaron's 715th record breaking home run while a member of the Dodgers, pitched all 3 plus innings in the 90° heat despite having Ken Clay on the bench, who is at least 15 years his younger.
It was great to see the likes of Tommy Tresh and Doctor Bobby Brown. It was fantastic to see Don Larsen who threw the only perfect game in a World Series throw out the first pitch.
So due to the lack of capable bodies it was the Yankees Old Timers against the Yankee First Timers. The First Timers consisted of half the cast of ESPN's Mini Series The Bronx is Burning filled out by what I believe was SI Yankee employees. Erik Jensen, who played Thurman Munson in the mini series better be able to act. He sure as hell can't catch or hit. He was soon fired from his catching position by SI Yank mascot Red. They used an impersonator of Bob Sheppard, Yankee Stadium's pa announcer to to add flavor to the afternoon.
Hitting heroes were Darryl Strawberry, Gene Michael and Jesse Barfield but none of them were too a-fleet on the bases or in the field. Former Yankee captain Graig Nettles was on hand to coach first base but he did look like he could do better at 3rd than Jesse Barfield did. Overall it was an enjoyable afternoon but next time around they need to bring in some youth. The final score? Does it matter?
To be fair there were only some 20 players confirmed for the historic event which showcase a Yankee Old Timers Day away from Yankee Stadium for the first time in 61 years. The real problem was that the teams did not have enough pitchers or any catchers that could still squat. Half the players couldn't play and the other half were pushing 60.
They did put on a great exhibition despite the sweltering heat. Poor Al Downing (almost 70 years old), who played for the Yankees for 9 years and will be remembered in history for giving up Hank Aaron's 715th record breaking home run while a member of the Dodgers, pitched all 3 plus innings in the 90° heat despite having Ken Clay on the bench, who is at least 15 years his younger.
It was great to see the likes of Tommy Tresh and Doctor Bobby Brown. It was fantastic to see Don Larsen who threw the only perfect game in a World Series throw out the first pitch.
So due to the lack of capable bodies it was the Yankees Old Timers against the Yankee First Timers. The First Timers consisted of half the cast of ESPN's Mini Series The Bronx is Burning filled out by what I believe was SI Yankee employees. Erik Jensen, who played Thurman Munson in the mini series better be able to act. He sure as hell can't catch or hit. He was soon fired from his catching position by SI Yank mascot Red. They used an impersonator of Bob Sheppard, Yankee Stadium's pa announcer to to add flavor to the afternoon.
Hitting heroes were Darryl Strawberry, Gene Michael and Jesse Barfield but none of them were too a-fleet on the bases or in the field. Former Yankee captain Graig Nettles was on hand to coach first base but he did look like he could do better at 3rd than Jesse Barfield did. Overall it was an enjoyable afternoon but next time around they need to bring in some youth. The final score? Does it matter?
Sunday, July 01, 2007
WHAT'S NEXT?
Taking a lesson from Pedro Cerrano of the Major League movies Scott Proctor burned his equipment in sacrifice after Saturday's embarassing loss to the A's. About 45 minutes after yesterday's loss to Oakland - in which Proctor was charged with three runs on three hits in one-third of a inning - the pitcher started the 4th of July celebration early by setting fire to his glove, uniform, spikes and other items, outside the Yankee dugout. There was no word about an icon or insence in his locker. Maybe next time they can burn Dougy or Eddie from the Roadtrippers?
When will Kyle Farnsworth learn to clam up? less than a month after blowing off his big mouth about Roger Clemens on a Chicago radio station, Farnsy had a tantrum Friday night when Joe Torre pulled him in the eight inning after allowing two base runners. Kyle if you have anyone to be pissed at it's yourself. Look at how you have been pitching, Joe Torre should be the one with a tantrum. Either way Joe is not making a big deal out of it.
Jorge Posada ripped his teammates after their last performance. "I'm not talking about unlucky; luck comes when you go after it," the Yankee catcher said. "And it seems like at times we just go through the motions and today was one of those cases. "That's the way it is, I think everybody knows what I'm talking about." Guess the tension is getting thick down there.
Can we get any worse? It seems we can't buy a win these days. We have the talent we need to get the desire and go out and put some wins together.
When will Kyle Farnsworth learn to clam up? less than a month after blowing off his big mouth about Roger Clemens on a Chicago radio station, Farnsy had a tantrum Friday night when Joe Torre pulled him in the eight inning after allowing two base runners. Kyle if you have anyone to be pissed at it's yourself. Look at how you have been pitching, Joe Torre should be the one with a tantrum. Either way Joe is not making a big deal out of it.
Jorge Posada ripped his teammates after their last performance. "I'm not talking about unlucky; luck comes when you go after it," the Yankee catcher said. "And it seems like at times we just go through the motions and today was one of those cases. "That's the way it is, I think everybody knows what I'm talking about." Guess the tension is getting thick down there.
Can we get any worse? It seems we can't buy a win these days. We have the talent we need to get the desire and go out and put some wins together.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
ALL STAR GAME 2007
With the voting deadline coming up quickly, the question comes to mind just who on the Yankees deserves an ALl Star election?
Alex A-Rod Rodriguez deserviongly leads all vote getters in the fan vote. He is having a super year which may just land him in Anaheim in 2008. Robbie Cano was elected last year but couldn't play due to injury but this year he had a hard time getting out of the box, maybe from taking too many lessons from Bobby Abreu.
The perinial Yankee All Star, Mariano Rivera is having a mediocre year at best. There are several stoppers that deserve it more than he does. The only starter that derserves the nod is Chien Ming Wang, depite not having his best stuff he has done his best to keep us alive this season. This kid really can win with his brains when the talent isn't working.
So get out there and vote, good or bad or indifferent it would be nice to see those road grays in San Francisco this July.
Alex A-Rod Rodriguez deserviongly leads all vote getters in the fan vote. He is having a super year which may just land him in Anaheim in 2008. Robbie Cano was elected last year but couldn't play due to injury but this year he had a hard time getting out of the box, maybe from taking too many lessons from Bobby Abreu.
The perinial Yankee All Star, Mariano Rivera is having a mediocre year at best. There are several stoppers that deserve it more than he does. The only starter that derserves the nod is Chien Ming Wang, depite not having his best stuff he has done his best to keep us alive this season. This kid really can win with his brains when the talent isn't working.
So get out there and vote, good or bad or indifferent it would be nice to see those road grays in San Francisco this July.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Clippard Clipped
Tyler Clippard was returned to Scranton today to make room for Kevin Thompson. With the Yankees traveling to the NL parks they needed to ad a position player. When the fifth man's rotation spot comes up again, it may be Kei Igawa.
Last night showed you just how Oliver Perez works. You either torch him for seven runs in five innings, or he shuts you down. We got the latter last night. He sure made our bats look lothargic. Roger Clemens pitched OK himself.
Rubber game is Sunday Night on ESPN. Happy Fathers Day to all you dads out there. A special Happy Father's Day goes out to my own Dad. Miss You!!
Last night showed you just how Oliver Perez works. You either torch him for seven runs in five innings, or he shuts you down. We got the latter last night. He sure made our bats look lothargic. Roger Clemens pitched OK himself.
Rubber game is Sunday Night on ESPN. Happy Fathers Day to all you dads out there. A special Happy Father's Day goes out to my own Dad. Miss You!!
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
CLETE BOYER RIP
Special guest Blogger Johnny Yankee
Probably my favorite Yankee ever has passed away. I say this because when Mantle and Maris were going at it, it was always Clete Boyer that I watched most. Never have I seen anyone fielding thirdbase as elegant as Clete, even if Brooks may have gone down as the greatest fielding thirdsacker in history. Clete was just awsome, throwing from his knees, sometimes almost from his belly, accurately, to get his man. I saw Clete make plays that I swear I don't think Brooks would have made. No, he didn't have the "hitting" his brother Ken had but still, enough to be the yankees regular thirdbaseman during those magical years of the 60's. I never liked it when he was traded to the Braves, and until Nettles came along, never did we once again have anyone as great a fielder as Clete Boyer. So sorry to hear this news and my condolences to the Boyer family and a prayer that he is in a better place with the Mick and Roger, Elston and Billy, and all those great Yankees that made the 1961 Yankees my all-time favorites. Rest in peace Clete!
Probably my favorite Yankee ever has passed away. I say this because when Mantle and Maris were going at it, it was always Clete Boyer that I watched most. Never have I seen anyone fielding thirdbase as elegant as Clete, even if Brooks may have gone down as the greatest fielding thirdsacker in history. Clete was just awsome, throwing from his knees, sometimes almost from his belly, accurately, to get his man. I saw Clete make plays that I swear I don't think Brooks would have made. No, he didn't have the "hitting" his brother Ken had but still, enough to be the yankees regular thirdbaseman during those magical years of the 60's. I never liked it when he was traded to the Braves, and until Nettles came along, never did we once again have anyone as great a fielder as Clete Boyer. So sorry to hear this news and my condolences to the Boyer family and a prayer that he is in a better place with the Mick and Roger, Elston and Billy, and all those great Yankees that made the 1961 Yankees my all-time favorites. Rest in peace Clete!
Saturday, June 02, 2007
And The Winner of the Ugliest Inning of 2007 Is . . .
The bottom of the 7th inning on June 2nd. Misplays by Bobby Areau and an error by the captain Derek Jeter led the Red Sox to score five runs and retake the lead on Saturday.
Roger Clemens will not pitch in Chicago on Monday as advertised as he is suffering from a fatigued groin he experienced in Scranton last week. What the heck is a fatigued groin? After the setback to Phil Hughes you would have to believe this team in suffering from Pavanoitis! This is the same groin (you can't grow a new one) that has been troubling Roger for the last five years or so. The good news is Rocket doesn't get paid unil he pitches for the Yankees. The bad news is that the scuttlebutt is that Kei Igawa will be taking Rogers turn in the rotation. I might have recall Matt Desalvo being you can bring him back up without penalty due to the Rocket malfunction.
Don Mattingly on Alex Rodriguez distracting the infielders in Toronto: " I mean it's no big deal, we tried it dozens of times when I played, that was the first time I saw it work." Check what the Yankee Chick says about This Week in A-Rod.
Roger Clemens will not pitch in Chicago on Monday as advertised as he is suffering from a fatigued groin he experienced in Scranton last week. What the heck is a fatigued groin? After the setback to Phil Hughes you would have to believe this team in suffering from Pavanoitis! This is the same groin (you can't grow a new one) that has been troubling Roger for the last five years or so. The good news is Rocket doesn't get paid unil he pitches for the Yankees. The bad news is that the scuttlebutt is that Kei Igawa will be taking Rogers turn in the rotation. I might have recall Matt Desalvo being you can bring him back up without penalty due to the Rocket malfunction.
Don Mattingly on Alex Rodriguez distracting the infielders in Toronto: " I mean it's no big deal, we tried it dozens of times when I played, that was the first time I saw it work." Check what the Yankee Chick says about This Week in A-Rod.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
IT'S YOUR MOVE BOSS
OK, enough is enough. Time to make a move Boss. You have a bunch of high priced athletes who are acting like they are untouchable. We resemble a team that doesn't look like it wants to win, or worse yet, believe that it can win.
It is time to take the first shot and ship some of the high price blabber mouths to Kansas City or the like of. Then let the kids get their lumps at the major league level. You can't start a kid while he is thinking it is do or die. We have to make this team younger. We have already proven an All Star at every position just doesn't work. The hockey Rangers did that and missed the playoffs for seven straight seasons. Get a couple hungry kids out there ASAP!
Hello NY Post!!!! There is a baseball season going on. Why are you putting Alex Rodriguez on the front page with a strange but gorgeous woman? If A-Rod saved a child from a burning building you would get on him for breaking the window to get in. Give the guy a break and let him produce. Then if he opts out of his contract after this season, let him have it.
Here's the plan Sam. Gator, Donnie and Kevin Long have to get tough with the team. If they aren't the right men for the job shake em up. The best players don't always make the best coaches. Team , you have to show these guys respect and break your butt for them. There is only one topic you can speak to the press about, and that is baseball. Forget the Rocket, anything he gives us is gravy. He won't put up better numbers than the Clippards and Desalvos but his presence will make all the Baby Bombers better.
Next you got to eat, sleep and think Baseball. You have to get hungry to win or you can all be shipped to KC for a bag of balls. Let's get back to Yankee Baseball, the game that lasts over 3 hours. Stop going after the first pitch, make ever at bat count. NOW PLAY BALL!!!!
It is time to take the first shot and ship some of the high price blabber mouths to Kansas City or the like of. Then let the kids get their lumps at the major league level. You can't start a kid while he is thinking it is do or die. We have to make this team younger. We have already proven an All Star at every position just doesn't work. The hockey Rangers did that and missed the playoffs for seven straight seasons. Get a couple hungry kids out there ASAP!
Hello NY Post!!!! There is a baseball season going on. Why are you putting Alex Rodriguez on the front page with a strange but gorgeous woman? If A-Rod saved a child from a burning building you would get on him for breaking the window to get in. Give the guy a break and let him produce. Then if he opts out of his contract after this season, let him have it.
Here's the plan Sam. Gator, Donnie and Kevin Long have to get tough with the team. If they aren't the right men for the job shake em up. The best players don't always make the best coaches. Team , you have to show these guys respect and break your butt for them. There is only one topic you can speak to the press about, and that is baseball. Forget the Rocket, anything he gives us is gravy. He won't put up better numbers than the Clippards and Desalvos but his presence will make all the Baby Bombers better.
Next you got to eat, sleep and think Baseball. You have to get hungry to win or you can all be shipped to KC for a bag of balls. Let's get back to Yankee Baseball, the game that lasts over 3 hours. Stop going after the first pitch, make ever at bat count. NOW PLAY BALL!!!!
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
WHERE HAVE YOU GONE JOE DIMAGGIO?
Or for that matter, any resemblance of offense. In all my years following the Yankees I have never seen such a lethargic team. It seems everyday we just find another way to lose and it looks like the players are believing that as well. Just when it looks as if we are coming out of it, it is bing, bang, boom, back to the loss column.
When the hitting hits the pitchers don't pitch and visa-versa. That is not a sign of a winning ballclub. If there is someone out there that could take over and lead us to the division lead then by all means fire Joe Torre. If not then let Mr Torre finish out the season and make him host of Yankees On Deck in 2008. His replacement should be Joe Girardi.
Hey maybe they should declare the "roadtripper" that attends the least amount of games the season winner?!?!?!?!?!
But we are all Yankee fans, the fans that were here in 1982, right up to 1994. We can name the entire roster without a scorecard. Our first games aren't in the post season. We don't even own a wagon or play in a band. We will be holding on till the bitter end. Hey, let's do it fast, it gets late early out here. LET'S GO YANKEES!!!!!
When the hitting hits the pitchers don't pitch and visa-versa. That is not a sign of a winning ballclub. If there is someone out there that could take over and lead us to the division lead then by all means fire Joe Torre. If not then let Mr Torre finish out the season and make him host of Yankees On Deck in 2008. His replacement should be Joe Girardi.
Hey maybe they should declare the "roadtripper" that attends the least amount of games the season winner?!?!?!?!?!
But we are all Yankee fans, the fans that were here in 1982, right up to 1994. We can name the entire roster without a scorecard. Our first games aren't in the post season. We don't even own a wagon or play in a band. We will be holding on till the bitter end. Hey, let's do it fast, it gets late early out here. LET'S GO YANKEES!!!!!
Friday, May 25, 2007
BOMBERS BROADSIDE ... A BOOK REVIEW
Bombers Broadside 2007: An Annual Guide to New York Yankees Baseball
Edited by Cecilia Tan
PRICE: $14.95
ISBN: 978-1-934186-05-3
TRIM SIZE: 8.5 x 11
PUB DATE: February 2007
PAGES: 112
Maple Street Press, distributed by Potomac Books, Inc. brings a book which brings out the best of all Yankee Worlds. The best thing about it is that it is written by the fans themselves as well as many well known writers. It draws on the same scouting reports that the scouts themselves use to help evaluate talent. It it edited and written in part by Cecilia Tan, a writer and a fan in her own right. She penned The 50 Greatest Yankees Games and has written features for Yankees Magazine, Mudville, Baseball Ink, Baseball Today, and Picto. She produces her own online baseball magazine, Why I Like Baseball, and is a member of the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR). She is often found posting at BehindtheBombers.com as well.
It brings a multitude of Yankee history, including a thirtieth-anniversary remembrance of Reggie Jackson's arrival in the Bronx and the 1977 World Series championship. The book also evaluates the dynasties of 1947-64 as well as whether the 1955-64 Yankees were really in the same class as the dominating teams of 1947-53.
This fine book, released in the early pre-season Spring, projected what we 'should' be doing in 2007. From the Gulf Coast Yankees to the Bronx Bombers it cover every aspect of the entire organization. It brings to light the prospects of the Yankees throughout the farm system and when and if you may be seeing these future stars. If Brian Cashman had this book he would know exactly what's going wrong.
After reading this book you may find out if there are any more prospects like Robinson Cano and Melky Cabrera waiting in the wings. From Reggie Jackson to Phil Hughes, they are all in this compact volume.
It's all packed into more than a hundred pages of full-color, Yankees information that is unlike anything else available. Dan McCort of Take Him Downtown and Behind the Bombers is featured in the book as well. After reading this book I only wished I found it sooner. I can't wait until the 2008 version is released in February.
Edited by Cecilia Tan
PRICE: $14.95
ISBN: 978-1-934186-05-3
TRIM SIZE: 8.5 x 11
PUB DATE: February 2007
PAGES: 112
Maple Street Press, distributed by Potomac Books, Inc. brings a book which brings out the best of all Yankee Worlds. The best thing about it is that it is written by the fans themselves as well as many well known writers. It draws on the same scouting reports that the scouts themselves use to help evaluate talent. It it edited and written in part by Cecilia Tan, a writer and a fan in her own right. She penned The 50 Greatest Yankees Games and has written features for Yankees Magazine, Mudville, Baseball Ink, Baseball Today, and Picto. She produces her own online baseball magazine, Why I Like Baseball, and is a member of the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR). She is often found posting at BehindtheBombers.com as well.
It brings a multitude of Yankee history, including a thirtieth-anniversary remembrance of Reggie Jackson's arrival in the Bronx and the 1977 World Series championship. The book also evaluates the dynasties of 1947-64 as well as whether the 1955-64 Yankees were really in the same class as the dominating teams of 1947-53.
This fine book, released in the early pre-season Spring, projected what we 'should' be doing in 2007. From the Gulf Coast Yankees to the Bronx Bombers it cover every aspect of the entire organization. It brings to light the prospects of the Yankees throughout the farm system and when and if you may be seeing these future stars. If Brian Cashman had this book he would know exactly what's going wrong.
After reading this book you may find out if there are any more prospects like Robinson Cano and Melky Cabrera waiting in the wings. From Reggie Jackson to Phil Hughes, they are all in this compact volume.
It's all packed into more than a hundred pages of full-color, Yankees information that is unlike anything else available. Dan McCort of Take Him Downtown and Behind the Bombers is featured in the book as well. After reading this book I only wished I found it sooner. I can't wait until the 2008 version is released in February.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Where Are All The Hits?
Maybe we need to track down Bruce (Cousin Brucie) Morrow and Dan Ingram of Music Radio WABC Fame, at least they know where to find all the hits. Hits are what the Yanks have been lacking since the calendar turned into May. The Yankees lost a big one today 3-2 in Flushing behind another great start, this time by Andy Pettitte.
In April the bats were alive and the starters weren't getting into the 5th inning. We have to meet somewhere half way. Alex Rodriguez who was named April Player of the Month has all of a sudden began to slump while his bat snoozes away. His bat isn't alone however as the only ones hitting are Derek Jeter and Jorge Posada.
Can a eruption of Mount Steinbrenner be far behind? In the past Joe Torre may not have made it through the weekend with the Mets, especially if we loose 2 of 3 ... or worse. To top off the interleague weekend we come home Monday to play the division leading Bosox. So the next week can have a very big impact on this yet young season. It doesn't take a brain surgeon to tell us that we have to start hitting and keep pitching and please get Mo some work.
In April the bats were alive and the starters weren't getting into the 5th inning. We have to meet somewhere half way. Alex Rodriguez who was named April Player of the Month has all of a sudden began to slump while his bat snoozes away. His bat isn't alone however as the only ones hitting are Derek Jeter and Jorge Posada.
Can a eruption of Mount Steinbrenner be far behind? In the past Joe Torre may not have made it through the weekend with the Mets, especially if we loose 2 of 3 ... or worse. To top off the interleague weekend we come home Monday to play the division leading Bosox. So the next week can have a very big impact on this yet young season. It doesn't take a brain surgeon to tell us that we have to start hitting and keep pitching and please get Mo some work.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Villone Is Back
Ron Villone was recalled and Sean Henn was sent down in a move that wa smade to keep Villone was becoming a free agent.
Henn has not pitched bad and if Villone was signed by the Red Sox that would surely help us. So it is just one of those numbers moves.
Henn has not pitched bad and if Villone was signed by the Red Sox that would surely help us. So it is just one of those numbers moves.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
ROCKET BACK IN PINSTRIPES
Roger Clemens is back in the Yankee Family. Will I root for him? Sure he is on my team, I would root for Charles Manson if he could pitch. Will I forgive him for unretiring? Not that easy.
After letting the Yankees pass up on his option, and giving up any compensation, only then does he announce his unretirement and signing with Houston. I can't prove he wanted to screw the Yankees for letting Andy Pettitte go but if it smells like a skunk it usually is a skunk.
Anyway Roger is back and if he never wins a game again for us it could benefit Phil Hughes immensely. Any pointers he could give this kid could give us an ace on our staff barring injury for the next ten years or more.
He had three choices, the Yankees, The Houston Astros (which had the comforts of home), The Boston Red Sox had far and away the best record of the three teams but who would they remove from the rotation to pitch the potential Hall of Famer? In the end Roger chose to be with his old buddy Andy Pettitte.
But if you're Roger Clemens and you've won 348 games and you're headed toward the Hall of Fame, you are not bound by the usual considerations. You can even set it up so you only pitch on even number days. Roger is looking forward to joining the Yanks and helping the kids on the farm. All we have to do now is hope he does better than the Big Unit did.
After letting the Yankees pass up on his option, and giving up any compensation, only then does he announce his unretirement and signing with Houston. I can't prove he wanted to screw the Yankees for letting Andy Pettitte go but if it smells like a skunk it usually is a skunk.
Anyway Roger is back and if he never wins a game again for us it could benefit Phil Hughes immensely. Any pointers he could give this kid could give us an ace on our staff barring injury for the next ten years or more.
He had three choices, the Yankees, The Houston Astros (which had the comforts of home), The Boston Red Sox had far and away the best record of the three teams but who would they remove from the rotation to pitch the potential Hall of Famer? In the end Roger chose to be with his old buddy Andy Pettitte.
But if you're Roger Clemens and you've won 348 games and you're headed toward the Hall of Fame, you are not bound by the usual considerations. You can even set it up so you only pitch on even number days. Roger is looking forward to joining the Yanks and helping the kids on the farm. All we have to do now is hope he does better than the Big Unit did.
Friday, May 04, 2007
TORRE LOSES JOB
Sister Marguerite Torre that is, the Yankee manager's sister that is actually a sister will soon be out of work after 26 years as the beloved principal of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary School in Ozone Park, Queens. The Yankees-friendly principal earned notoriety by giving her students the day off so they could watch the Bombers' ticker-tape parades down the Canyon of Heroes on more than on occasion.
BYE BYE PAVANO
ESPN is reporting that Yankees RHP Carl Pavano will undergo Tommy John surgery disabling him for the remainder of his contract.
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