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Andy's Turn
2008-07-26 10:47
by Cliff Corcoran

While we all work to process the Xavier Nady trade (my analysis of the deal as initially reported here, my thoughts on the reconfigured deal in several comments starting here), the Yankees have a game to win. Joba did his part last night, time for Andy and the offense to step up this afternoon.

As for the reinforcements from Pittsburgh, I expect they won't arrive until tomorrow at the earliest as everyone needs to take physicals to make the trade official, but with the bullpen largely rested, the Yankees won't miss Marte (not that they really need him in the first place), and it's probably best to let Nady take his first Yankee at-bats against the lefty Lester tomorrow rather than against Tim Wakefield's knuckleball this afternoon.

Comments (454)
Show/Hide Comments 1-50
2008-07-26 11:36:02
1.   Just fair
The Fan just said Nady is going to bat 7th this afternoon. Welcome to the fire, Xavier. Would someone look at this link and identify the lefty Yankee in the picture. The Daily News seems to think Ohlendorf does not throw with his right hand.
http://tinyurl.com/6ldohp
2008-07-26 11:43:08
2.   monkeypants
1 Is that Billy Traber? It sort of looks like him, and he's LHP. On the other hand, that photo is clearly of someone throwing for the Yankees at Yankee Stadium. I don't ever recall Traber pitching this season.
2008-07-26 12:07:35
3.   monkeypants
Wow, has anyone see Pete Abe's most recent updates?

1. Gardner optioned (not Christian)

2. Hawkins DFA'd

3. Kei Igawa had been waived, and just cleared waivers (did I miss this? Did anyone else know about this?)

4. That means, there are only 39 men on the 40-man roster. As I posted on the last thread, I smell another deal in the works.

2008-07-26 12:08:45
4.   williamnyy23
3 It sounds like Washburn in a salary dump is likely. If things work out as the Yankees hope, Washburn would be a decent stop gap until the return of either Wang, Hughes or IPK.
2008-07-26 12:09:55
5.   williamnyy23
2 Yep...that is definitely Billy Traber.
2008-07-26 12:13:45
6.   JL25and3
3 Sending Gardner down was the right move.
2008-07-26 12:16:33
7.   monkeypants
6 I agree entirely.

Whatever one thinks about his upside (or lack thereof), at 23 y.o. he should be playing everyday. If all they need is a PR/5th OF, Christian is more than enough.

2008-07-26 12:19:39
8.   monkeypants
4 I wonder if it might be Burnett in a salary dump? There is no evidence for this--I'm just speculating wildly. Isn't Burnett owed even more money from an organization that dumped Frank Thomas earlier this year to save a few million dollars?

Of course, Burnett's "upside" (such as it is) is much higher, and he's in the same divisions.

Nah...you're right. The M's are tanking and the Yankees are picking up the used parts.

2008-07-26 12:20:26
9.   Just fair
2 5 Thanks. : ) Gardner got his taste. Now he's got to focus on hitting groundballs and line drives back in Scranton. Anything short of that equals 50 push-ups.
2008-07-26 12:22:45
10.   JL25and3
7 For this year, Christian might contribute more than Gardner, but it's pretty certain that he won't contribute less.

On the other hand, Gardner could possibly develop a little bit; Christian won't.

2008-07-26 12:24:16
11.   monkeypants
10 Agreed again.
2008-07-26 12:35:49
12.   OldYanksFan
The Yankees need to hire a Maury Wills/Rickey Henderson guy and make a master bunter (no jokes now) out of Brett. Lets face it, he attraction is speed. Without it, he might not even be in AAA. And having the infield in 5 steps for every one of his ABs ain't gonna hurt his getting grounders through the infield.

This guy is a runner. I'm not saying ignor other facets of the game, but take advantage of his greatest skill/value and get the most out of it. With his speed, if he takes good routes and gets a good read on the ball off the bat, he could be an above average defender.

This kid almost beat out routine ground balls. If he made a great bunter out of himself, while he will never be a power threat, he certainly could be a high OBP guy who always ends up on 2nd or 3rd base.

2008-07-26 12:38:28
13.   monkeypants
So, is this the game thread? Even though it's the FOX idiots, I'm feeling unusually excited about today's game.
2008-07-26 12:41:09
14.   JL25and3
12 That might help, but only if he also learns to hit a whole lot better. Ichiro! he ain't.
2008-07-26 12:46:48
15.   cult of basebaal
14 did anyone else catch the stats about carlos gomez when we played the twins ... the announcers said he had bunted something like 80+ times this year, beating out something like 25 of them ... that's like 20% of his at bats! now that's dedication to the art of bunting!
2008-07-26 12:48:58
16.   monkeypants
15 Heck, that's over a .300 BA on bunting. He should just bunt every time, huh?!
2008-07-26 12:49:35
17.   Dimelo
13 Me too. I was wishing this game would have started at 10 this morning.
2008-07-26 12:49:52
18.   OldYanksFan
In April, if I told you guys we had a really good BP with Edwar, Veras and Farns, you guys would have laughed me off the Banter. We were hoping we MIGHT have a DECENT BP. Now, all of a sudden, after 2 good months, we have a dominating BP and don't 'need' a good, proven Lefty?

Are you guys are willing to bet the PS that 'these 3 amigos' are the real deal, and will continue to pitch well above average?

Didn't Bruney pitch like an absolute stud (0.87 ERA in 19 games) when we first got him? And then, 4.68 ERA in 2007 and walking 5 per 9.

Yes, Edwar 'Little Pedro' Ramirez has made real growth since last year. Veras has actually learned to throw strike 1. Farnsworth has always had talent. But are we just seeing a somewhat random 'good spell' from these guys?

I don't know a lot about Marte other then he is a lefty and has had decent, consistant stats. But are yuz guys ready for Farnsworth in the 8th, in the PS, against MLB's best teams?

I HOPE it's for real and sustainable, but if the wheels come off, will I be surprised?

2008-07-26 12:49:54
19.   Just fair
15 I recall hearing that as well. But to be honest, I kind of dismissed it b/c it sounded too ridiculous to be true. Dedication to bunting. Yes. Confidence to swing the bat in the Bigs. Not so much.
2008-07-26 12:53:01
20.   cult of basebaal
oh and if anyone hasn't done so already, they should check out this analysis over at RAB concerning X's ability to hit RHP:

http://riveraveblues.com/2008/07/26/nadys-improving-numbers-against-righties-3392/#comments

2008-07-26 12:53:51
21.   cult of basebaal
18 the only thing i would have laughed at was the farnsworth part ... veras and edwar clearly had talent.
2008-07-26 12:54:01
22.   Dimelo
Cool shirt and tie on McCarver, probably the nicest thing I've said about the man.
2008-07-26 12:55:19
23.   Dimelo
Bobby Meachum just got a runner thrown out at home.
2008-07-26 12:55:26
24.   ms october
uh oh - let's hope this is the last time bobby meacham plays a prominent role in today's affair
2008-07-26 12:56:15
25.   monkeypants
Why embarrass poor Bobby Meacham like that?
2008-07-26 12:56:23
26.   Just fair
Meacham should have read the line-up waving his arm. : )
This from the SWB Yankees Blog.

Dan McCutchen is driving to Indianapoilis this afternoon -- roughly 10 hours -- so that he can start for Indy tomorrow at 2 p.m. Quite a way to welcome him to the organization. Ross Ohlendorf is also moving into the Indianapolis rotation. Jeff Karstens, it appears, is going straight to Pittsburgh.

2008-07-26 12:57:54
27.   Dimelo
I don't think I've said a negative thing about Wakefield. He's one of my favorite and nicest guys on the Sawx.
2008-07-26 12:58:46
28.   cult of basebaal
18 christ, relax already, cashman's built a very, very good bullpen and we just dumped the only non-performing part.

if farnswacker goes tits-up, we'll move marte or veras to the 8th ...

if edwar struggles, robertson gets moved up

if veras struggles, we move another piece around

bruney's close to being back, scott strickland has been great at AAA, jb cox could be in the mix as could scott patterson ... in a situation of great need melancon could come up from AA.

if it springs a leak, we've got plenty of parts to patch it.

grab a beer or a bong hit, but don't sweat the bully, brah.

2008-07-26 12:58:48
29.   OldYanksFan
14 No, but he could be 'Little Ichiro'. I don't know how fast Ichiro is, but Brett is FAST. FAST! And a lefty also. And has better plate discipline then Ichiro. And is more then happy to walk. He will never have Ichiro's BA, but his OBP is not out of the question.

15 It was something like 23 for 86. Anyway, I did the math at the time, and his bunting average was .262. And again, always having the infield in will result in more grounders getting through. However, Gomez has more hitting ability the Brett, so the announcers thought he could do better then .262. Can Brett?

But a .262 BA for Brett could be a .350+ OBP. With his speed on the basepaths, that gives him real value off the bench.

2008-07-26 12:58:56
30.   Dimelo
27 Sorry, I meant that to read I don't think I've ever ...
2008-07-26 13:00:23
31.   Dimelo
Joba should throw rocks at Youk when he's on the Sux bench.
2008-07-26 13:02:36
32.   monkeypants
Hmmm, Wakefield (looking quite sporting in the softball uni with his pot belly...made my wife giggle) threw about 6 pitches that inning. Not good, boys.
2008-07-26 13:03:11
33.   monkeypants
This is not a happy start.
2008-07-26 13:03:17
34.   ms october
30 yeah wakefield seems like a human - but i still don't like watching the yanks face him
2008-07-26 13:04:01
35.   Yankee Fan In Boston
33 it is still early.
2008-07-26 13:05:25
36.   OldYanksFan
Well.... this could spoil my weekend.
2008-07-26 13:05:40
37.   Yankee Fan In Boston
33 35 okay. i don't like this either.
2008-07-26 13:07:17
38.   monkeypants
Excitement wearing off...
2008-07-26 13:07:35
39.   Just fair
If it's not 4-0 after this inning. I'll be happy.
2008-07-26 13:07:55
40.   OldYanksFan
A good throw to home, and he would have been safe anyway, but isn't Molina too far in front of the plate to put on a fast tag?
2008-07-26 13:08:48
41.   OldYanksFan
Great pickup by Giambi. Wow... tough bounce.
2008-07-26 13:10:18
42.   Dimelo
Come on Andy!!!!
2008-07-26 13:10:59
43.   monkeypants
Manny running hard to second base on that play.
2008-07-26 13:11:20
44.   OldYanksFan
Did they MRI Manny's head? I bet they would find nothing is there either.
2008-07-26 13:11:33
45.   Just fair
Andy's getting squeezed. Bleh.
2008-07-26 13:11:49
46.   Zack
well this sure is a crummy start...

And now the two idiots behind the mic are trying to argue why it would be a good thing to not have Manny...

2008-07-26 13:11:52
47.   monkeypants
One consolation--at least the FOX idiots are ragging on Manny instead of saying stupid shit about the Yankees.
2008-07-26 13:14:32
48.   OldYanksFan
I'll bet after Nady first donned his Pinstrips, he stood in front of a mirror for about 5 minutes.
2008-07-26 13:15:33
49.   ms october
45 definitely not the same strike zone as last night

is there any way to extort fox?

2008-07-26 13:15:35
50.   Just fair
Nady's gotta be standing in front of the monster thinking, "Holy Shit. It was nice looking at the bridges and all at PNC, but this playoff atmosphere is a tad better."
Show/Hide Comments 51-100
2008-07-26 13:16:45
51.   JL25and3
Does anyone have a theory as to why Manny would be faking an injury?
2008-07-26 13:17:40
52.   Dimelo
C-A-N-O
2008-07-26 13:18:35
53.   Yankee Fan In Boston
51 he has stated that he was angry with the front office about his contract situation. saying he wanted to know what their plan for him was, implying that they've been jerking him around.

the guy who regularly demands to be traded.

2008-07-26 13:19:15
54.   Dimelo
Return to sender!!!
2008-07-26 13:19:18
55.   monkeypants
51 The dude's insane...therefore ascribing rational motives behind any action is a questionable enterprise.

That said, I wonder how much of this recent pseudo-controversy has been exaggerated by the Sox' FO. Of course, why would they want to do that?
.
.
.
Hey look...Nady is picking up right where Gardner left off!

2008-07-26 13:19:57
56.   Yankee Fan In Boston
51 53 http://tinyurl.com/58rgh9
2008-07-26 13:20:26
57.   Just fair
Youkilis' at bat lasted longer than the Yanks' 2 half innings. Cripes.
2008-07-26 13:21:18
58.   Zack
51 et al...

I still don't buy that Manny was "faking" anything. Could he play? Obviously, he is. Does his knee really hurt? Probably.

As I have said before, if the Sox really dislike him an he is such a distraction, they can certainly DFA him and I'd be glad for the Yanks to claim him...

2008-07-26 13:24:17
59.   Just fair
Andy not inspiring much confidence thus far. : (
2008-07-26 13:25:41
60.   Dimelo
59 Andy, did you have your H-G-H this morning?
2008-07-26 13:29:35
61.   Zack
Wow, Andy is not sharp and not getting any calls. I hope Wake is getting the same small zone
2008-07-26 13:30:46
62.   Just fair
60 If he charges the home plate ump and takes a swing, I'll vote yes.
2008-07-26 13:30:48
63.   Dimelo
Andy has thrown 432 pitches and only has 4 outs so far.
2008-07-26 13:31:34
64.   Max
51 I'm guessing he's not completely faking -- that there is some discomfort or physical pain. However, his acrimonious relationship with the front office (along with his generally unbalanced mental state) is leading him to baby his "injury" and stick it to the front office at the same time.

He's done this before -- quit on the team, or take mental vacations for stretches. I tend to view him benignly (and so do many of the local fans in Boston) because he really doesn't seem like a malicious guy...just very peculiar and not always in tune with meeting the expectations bestowed upon high profile professional athletes.

But it's pretty clear that fans and the front office alike are pretty done with his act, and many teammates have been pushing for some discipline for a long time. Manny's age and the decline of his bat (along with the expiration of his contract) make it convenient to finally treat him like a child that needs to be disciplined and put in his place.

Great hitter, though, which has obviously excused many sins over the years. I'm sure Jason and Barry Bonds can relate.

2008-07-26 13:34:12
65.   RIYank
Nice, Andy!

He really isn't pitching badly at all. Only one hit, and even that one was just a hard grounder.

2008-07-26 13:34:50
66.   Just fair
A trip down memory lane.
The 1988 Topps Yankees.
http://88topps.blogspot.com/search/label/yankees
2008-07-26 13:35:04
67.   RIYank
63 Whoa. He's a stud. Very few pitchers can throw more than 400 pitches in a game.
2008-07-26 13:36:28
68.   Max
65 Too many pitches, though. At this rate, he'll be cooked by the 4th inning. The bullpen is going to be worked over between today and Sir Sidney's start tomorrow.
2008-07-26 13:37:29
69.   Travis08
This ump's strike zone is microscopic.
2008-07-26 13:38:04
70.   monkeypants
68 Mo got a bit of work last night also. It would really help if Andy could get a little more efficient and squeeze 7 innings out of his start.
2008-07-26 13:40:21
71.   Zack
70 They do have a pretty well rested BP other than Mo however...
2008-07-26 13:41:09
72.   Zack
Wow, Crisp has an awful awful arm
2008-07-26 13:41:40
73.   monkeypants
I thought Jeter hit that harder. I actually don't mind Molina risking going to third on that play, because I'm not convinced he scores from 2B on a single.
2008-07-26 13:42:30
74.   RIYank
73 He hit it really hard, but got under it. A very hard hit pop-up.
2008-07-26 13:43:37
75.   monkeypants
2-2 to Abreu looked like a strike.
2008-07-26 13:43:58
76.   RIYank
Bobby with RISP: money.
2008-07-26 13:44:00
77.   Yankee Fan In Boston
bobby bag o'donuts
2008-07-26 13:44:04
78.   Zack
Crisp's bad arm helps the Yanks get a run!
2008-07-26 13:44:05
79.   3rd gen yankee fan
Woo hoo!
2008-07-26 13:44:28
80.   Just fair
Hey, Bobbby. Big time.
2008-07-26 13:45:06
81.   RIYank
BOB-by MEACH-am.
2008-07-26 13:45:12
82.   Zack
Blah, bad luck there A-Rod...That pitch was absolutely tattooed...
2008-07-26 13:45:40
83.   tommyl
Was there a sonic boom associated with that ball? yowza
2008-07-26 13:45:51
84.   Zack
I have little faith in Giambi's ability to hit a knuckleball
2008-07-26 13:46:35
85.   RIYank
84 He caught one in his first at-bat, just foul.
And another one there.
2008-07-26 13:47:21
86.   Zack
85 When he does make contact, they always seem to be foul. Followed by really bad looking swings
2008-07-26 13:47:51
87.   Zack
Well, he did hit that one hard. Just not hard enough. Sigh
2008-07-26 13:48:07
88.   RIYank
Damn.
We have come so close to scoring a pile of runs.
2008-07-26 13:48:19
89.   monkeypants
Three drives, a walk, a single, a double, and a wild pitch...and one run.
2008-07-26 13:49:03
90.   Yankee Fan In Boston
my neighbors hate me right now. profanities, various guttural yelps and howls...
2008-07-26 13:49:06
91.   3rd gen yankee fan
We'll get there. We'll win this game. Woo hoo!
2008-07-26 13:49:42
92.   RIYank
89 Compare that with the Sox' first inning: single, walk, error, two runs.
2008-07-26 13:50:12
93.   Yankee Fan In Boston
91 i am getting the same feeling, but jeepers, let's bring in these runners.
2008-07-26 13:50:48
94.   Max
89 At least Wake threw a bunch of pitches in that inning (though the thimble sized strike zone helped somewhat)...if Andy can right himself the next few innings, we have a good chance of getting to the underbelly of their bullpen.
2008-07-26 13:52:35
95.   RIYank
Hm, I think we're hitting Wakefield as well as we're going to hit the bullpen. Gotta make it count next inning.

Sit down, Papi.

2008-07-26 13:53:01
96.   Just fair
It's not easy to piss off both the pitchers and batters.
2008-07-26 13:53:39
97.   Yankee Fan In Boston
NADY!
2008-07-26 13:54:09
98.   RIYank
Oh man, he's gonna get absolutely killed for that. Good call, Tim McC.
2008-07-26 13:54:30
99.   Yankee Fan In Boston
96 i ump games in my league. pissing everybody off is the easiest thing in the world.
2008-07-26 13:55:02
100.   RIYank
Are McCarver and Buck less offensively stupid today?
Show/Hide Comments 101-150
2008-07-26 13:55:15
101.   Just fair
99 Ha. You're right. Very funny. : )
2008-07-26 13:55:19
102.   Yankee Fan In Boston
100 no.
2008-07-26 13:56:20
103.   OldYanksFan
Andy at 62 pitches after that BB.
2008-07-26 13:56:30
104.   monkeypants
Nice clip of the '92 NLCS...Wakefield looked almost as thin as Bonds...
2008-07-26 13:56:59
105.   Yankee Fan In Boston
Nady for MVP.
2008-07-26 13:57:30
106.   RIYank
102 I figured. So why am I much less nauseated by them than usual? Maybe I'm learning to tune them out.
2008-07-26 13:58:51
107.   monkeypants
100 Well, they have mostly focused on Manny being Manny, and they haven't mention Joba being taken out of the bullpen. They have not offended me yet...but they are still pretty stupid.
2008-07-26 13:59:06
108.   OldYanksFan
Andy at 62 pitches, 3 BBs, after 3. Wake at 49. This is on of those famous Andy games where he is off, and will have to gut his way through.
2008-07-26 13:59:46
109.   RIYank
Rbi Cano!!!
2008-07-26 13:59:47
110.   Just fair
106 Maybe b/c they've spent so much time picking on Manny. That's music to my ears.
I love me some Cano.
2008-07-26 13:59:51
111.   OldYanksFan
Can-o Can-do!
2008-07-26 13:59:55
112.   Yankee Fan In Boston
106 i just know that it is coming. it always does. even their sudden jumping aboard the anti-manny bandwagon is annoying me. how many times has mccarver giggled while saying "manny being manny" in the past? ridiculous.

meanwhile, i love robbie cano.

2008-07-26 13:59:56
113.   monkeypants
Wow, that was man-sized HR!!!
2008-07-26 13:59:59
114.   Zack
Cano is beyond en fuego, whatever that is
2008-07-26 14:00:09
115.   tommyl
Can we just tell Robbie its after the all star break at the beginning of the year?
2008-07-26 14:00:14
116.   Shaun P
Robbie loves July!
2008-07-26 14:00:27
117.   Yankee Fan In Boston
110 i think i owe you a (phil) coke.
2008-07-26 14:00:31
118.   3rd gen yankee fan
Yeehaw!
2008-07-26 14:00:32
119.   ms october
106 please share your strategy.

104 damn was that a flashback - everyone looked so small and thin.

my god that cano fella is something when on.
i was mistakenly worried that the knuckleball would thro him off - but he could hit a beach ball right now.

2008-07-26 14:01:18
120.   tommyl
Either that or maybe we can get Jose Cano as a BP pitcher
2008-07-26 14:01:18
121.   cult of basebaal
ROBBIE the RIPPER! man, he's unconscious right now.
2008-07-26 14:01:20
122.   Yankee Fan In Boston
no slide by melky!
2008-07-26 14:01:22
123.   RIYank
Wow, Cash has a rifle.
2008-07-26 14:01:27
124.   monkeypants
MELKY DIDN'T SLIDE!!!
2008-07-26 14:01:38
125.   Zack
This Nady guy stinks, awful trade!!!!1!!1!!!
2008-07-26 14:01:43
126.   Max
108 He's just got to be more efficient with the bottom of their order, which is every bit as stinky as ours.
2008-07-26 14:01:44
127.   Just fair
Holy Shit. Melky did not go headfirst. Nice one.
2008-07-26 14:01:47
128.   OldYanksFan
That was a good bunt. Brett would have had a double on that.
2008-07-26 14:01:50
129.   tommyl
Melky! Doing what Brett should have been doing all along.
2008-07-26 14:02:03
130.   cult of basebaal
119 hell, i could hit a beach ball, robbie could hit aspirins

=)

2008-07-26 14:02:13
131.   3rd gen yankee fan
Cmon, MOlina!
2008-07-26 14:02:32
132.   monkeypants
I would hit-and-run here.
2008-07-26 14:03:36
133.   monkeypants
And I would send Malky again with Johnny up.
2008-07-26 14:03:37
134.   RIYank
130 I think she meant, he could hit it a long way ;-)
2008-07-26 14:04:08
135.   Just fair
Melky's needs to try and steal again.
2008-07-26 14:04:12
136.   cult of basebaal
true, melky didn't slide ... but he did look back at the ball twice, which is just about as bad fundamentally speaking
2008-07-26 14:04:13
137.   OldYanksFan
Robbie Post ASB: .484 .484 .742 1.226. No walks. Gotta love it.
2008-07-26 14:04:39
138.   RIYank
Why are is everyone pretending that those throws actually hold Melky closer to the bag??
2008-07-26 14:04:53
139.   monkeypants
135 Yep.
2008-07-26 14:05:20
140.   Just fair
135 I don't profess to know what Melky's needs are, but you all know what I meant.
2008-07-26 14:05:21
141.   RIYank
Wow, that was very, very close.
Cash can really throw.
2008-07-26 14:05:39
142.   JL25and3
Wow...is Melky actually playing baseball out there?
2008-07-26 14:05:56
143.   Just fair
That's some good baseball.
2008-07-26 14:06:02
144.   RIYank
I love Coco! (But Melky was looking the wrong way again.)
2008-07-26 14:06:12
145.   Yankee Fan In Boston
hell yes.
2008-07-26 14:06:31
146.   3rd gen yankee fan
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, BABY!
2008-07-26 14:06:33
147.   monkeypants
137 In my fantasy world, that is the most exciting kind of player. Walks are a bore to watch. However, in the real world...
2008-07-26 14:06:43
148.   Zack
Wow, Cash has just as much a DB goatee as Beckett does. Must be a Sox thing :) Of course, baseball players in general aren't known for their taste in facial hair...
2008-07-26 14:06:55
149.   OldYanksFan
but he did look back at the ball twice
+
Waving to the bleecher creatures during a hit
/
headfirst slides into 1st
=?
Dopiest player in MLB....
Ms. October?
2008-07-26 14:07:21
150.   monkeypants
142 If calling up Gardner and Christian has had one good effect...
Show/Hide Comments 151-200
2008-07-26 14:07:23
151.   Zack
Wow, Wake is producing some very hard hit balls. Even the outs are hammered...
2008-07-26 14:08:25
152.   RIYank
149 Dude, explain the punctuation or arithmetic or whatever that all means.
2008-07-26 14:09:11
153.   OldYanksFan
Jeb Lowrie Pipps the $9m Boston SS?
2008-07-26 14:09:39
154.   RIYank
151 I know, we're actually very unlucky to have a mere three runs, I'd say. Also the order of our hits, walks, outs, extra-base-hits has been about the worst possible, I think. (Lead off homer, for example.)
2008-07-26 14:10:57
155.   monkeypants
It would be very, very nice to take this game...then Chuck Wagon's start tomorrow would just be, umm, gravy.
2008-07-26 14:11:52
156.   Jeb
153 Dammit OYF, don't take the name "Jeb" in vein. That piece of garbage for the Sux is "Jed"

I assume if he Pipps Lugo, Lugo will respond by viciously beating his wife up again.

2008-07-26 14:12:14
157.   Zack
155 I am sure Ponson is thinking "mmmmmm, gravy...Aggghhhh"
2008-07-26 14:12:37
158.   RIYank
Andy's certainly improved his control. Too bad it took so many pitches to do it. I wonder if we'll get to see Marte?
2008-07-26 14:12:50
159.   OldYanksFan
152 I copied a post from another blog where a commenter stated that Melky had talent but had to be 'the dopiest player in MLB'. Ms. October objected. But he seems to do SOMETHING dopey on almost every play, even his good ones.

He scored easily on that play, but looked twice into the outfield. Is there a reason for that?

2008-07-26 14:13:16
160.   monkeypants
Andy's settling down here. Let's tak on a couple more runs and then get six innings out of Andy.

Crap, I have an early dinner party and have to turn the game off at 6:00 pm.

2008-07-26 14:13:34
161.   OldYanksFan
Sorry Jed.
2008-07-26 14:14:11
162.   monkeypants
159 "He scored easily on that play, but looked twice into the outfield. Is there a reason for that? "

Two words answer your question: Bobby. Meacham.

2008-07-26 14:14:11
163.   Yankee Fan In Boston
if they just jinxed pedroia's hit streak, i will temporarily call off my mccarver/buck deathwish.
2008-07-26 14:14:50
164.   Just fair
No courtesy, Molina. Get the hell back behind the dish.
2008-07-26 14:15:47
165.   RIYank
159 Jeez, I didn't think of that. Okay, so Melk gets a pass for that one.
2008-07-26 14:16:15
166.   Travis08
163 It's Boston. If Pedroia doesn't get a hit for the rest of the game, they'll change A-Rod's error in the first to a hit.
2008-07-26 14:16:15
167.   RIYank
163 And Tim and Joe will live to see another day!
2008-07-26 14:17:29
168.   Jeb
Thanks, OYF, haha.

Meanwhile Lugo has just taken off his belt.

2008-07-26 14:18:35
169.   RIYank
I'm really worried that Wakefield is going to bean someone in retaliation...
2008-07-26 14:18:45
170.   Max
I'm off to dinner with the family, but unless we get a bunch of runs in the next few innings, I wouldn't be surprised if this one is still going when I get back. Andy's got one or two more innings left at this rate, even though he seems to be settling down.

But I would love to see our bullpen nail it down.

2008-07-26 14:20:13
171.   ms october
alright i'm back - had to get some dinner going.

130 134 yes, i meant robbie could hit a beach ball out of the park - and he could probably hit an aspirin now too.

149 i don't like that equation oyf. he certainly has a lot to work on and defintely needs more solid baseball fundamentals and smarts - but i still don't think the dopiest characterization is fair.

andy definitely settling down.

2008-07-26 14:21:20
172.   Just fair
Run, A-Rod, Run.
2008-07-26 14:21:22
173.   cult of basebaal
if anyone needs something to listen to during the commercial breaks, here's kevin goldstein from BP breaking down the initial trade (coke + kontos). his take is that the pirates didn't get enough and much less than supposedly they had been offered by other teams ...

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/radio/audio/bpr_080725_1.mp3

2008-07-26 14:21:38
174.   monkeypants
Now we get to watch A-Rod run.
2008-07-26 14:22:55
175.   RIYank
With the rbi machine on deck, maybe they told A-Rod to stay put?
2008-07-26 14:23:05
176.   cult of basebaal
171 hell, we're playing the red sox right? melky's not even the dopiest guy play in the outfield today and it's not even close.
2008-07-26 14:23:12
177.   monkeypants
It's kinda irritation, but really, if they keep pounding on Manny for the rest of the game, this may be one of the most tolerable FOX broadcasts in some time.
2008-07-26 14:24:03
178.   Zack
There's that bad Giambi swing I was expecting last time
2008-07-26 14:24:28
179.   RIYank
How cool would it be if JD Drew got dreadlocks?
2008-07-26 14:24:33
180.   monkeypants
Well, I would definitely call for a steal here with 2 outs.
2008-07-26 14:24:51
181.   RIYank
They could call it the Dreadful Outfield.
2008-07-26 14:25:46
182.   Yankee Fan In Boston
177 true, but mark grace saying that tommy john belongs in the hall of fame based solely on the fact that they named a surgery after him in the preganes was hilarious. i expect FJM to mention that.
2008-07-26 14:25:52
183.   ms october
178 my fear was wakefield would throw somebody off today to where they were lost at the plate - unfortunatley it seems to be jason who needs to recapture the stache magic
2008-07-26 14:26:00
184.   OldYanksFan
173 I don't know if Cashman is too attached to all our kids, but I sure think we are.
2008-07-26 14:26:12
185.   Yankee Fan In Boston
182 *pregaMe
2008-07-26 14:27:00
186.   monkeypants
182 Oh, I missed that one. I make it a point never to watch any pre-game bullshit on FOX or ESPN.
2008-07-26 14:27:07
187.   OldYanksFan
176 I said dopiest, not most dysfunctional.
2008-07-26 14:27:40
188.   Just fair
Robbie "The enigma wrapped in a puzzle wrapped in riddle" Cano. I am at the point where he the guy I cannot wait to see get up there to hit.
Hey, Xavier. Become a tru Yankee, already! : )
2008-07-26 14:28:22
189.   Yankee Fan In Boston
lookout, X!
2008-07-26 14:28:30
190.   RIYank
See! I knew they were going to retaliate! Only they also have a score to settle with the Pirates.
2008-07-26 14:29:09
191.   Yankee Fan In Boston
poor call.
2008-07-26 14:29:11
192.   RIYank
WHAT???
2008-07-26 14:29:30
193.   monkeypants
Now, sending the runners there was a bit odd. That said, was Cano actually out?
2008-07-26 14:29:32
194.   Just fair
Not good.
2008-07-26 14:29:38
195.   OldYanksFan
Wow. Robbie needs to work on getting a good jump.
2008-07-26 14:29:50
196.   RIYank
Terrible call.
Is it really that hard to make a tag call on a SB? They miss so many of them.
2008-07-26 14:30:13
197.   Yankee Fan In Boston
meh. brush your shoulders off, fellas. hold 'em.
2008-07-26 14:30:21
198.   RIYank
193 No, he wasn't. I bet they'll show it again after commercial.
2008-07-26 14:30:57
199.   ms october
when we hire this coach to work with gardner's bunting then we can get one for melky's "dopiness" and i inist we get a track coach for cano - he could be so much faster if he knew how to drive with his legs
2008-07-26 14:31:38
200.   OldYanksFan
A knuckleball pitched and Cash's throw made Pedroia do a tiny jump, and Cano is not in easily? That should not have been a hard bag to steal.
Show/Hide Comments 201-250
2008-07-26 14:31:52
201.   RIYank
199 My driving teach told me that was very dangerous. Of course, things have changed in thirty years, maybe I'm just being old fashioned.
2008-07-26 14:32:34
202.   monkeypants
198 OK.

But why steal at that point? A-Rod on 2B with two outs will score. Now 7-8-9 leads off next inning.

2008-07-26 14:32:39
203.   cult of basebaal
oops ... i think robothal just got about everything possible wrong in that trade piece, the pronunciation of tabata's last name, the fact that he's not the #1 OF prospect for the yankees and the fact that the trade expanded to include Nady because the pirates really wanted tabata, not be the yankees said, what do you want for both.

otherwise, spot on kenny, spot on.

2008-07-26 14:33:02
204.   ms october
201 hahahaha

what's with fox not showing the replay again?

2008-07-26 14:33:41
205.   RIYank
202 Uh, to get two runs instead of one on a single? What am I missing, that seems obvious.
2008-07-26 14:33:55
206.   doslobo38
Man I can't believe I am missing this game. I am in Delaware and FOX is showing the Braves-Phillies game (where the Phillies are getting pounded). If FOX wants to buy and show a Yankees-Red Sox game great...but than show the damn thing and don't pre-empt it. If they left it alone I could be watching it on Direct-TV.
2008-07-26 14:35:14
207.   monkeypants
204 But McCarver did take the time to tell us about how much advanced planning when went into Cash's decision to throw to second.
2008-07-26 14:35:19
208.   RIYank
203 Whenever they show Rosenthal I feel slightly embarrassed. It's like, "This guy really needed a job, but of course we couldn't give him anything important to do."

Hey, why wasn't the shift on? That ball would have been right to Jeter!

2008-07-26 14:35:23
209.   Just fair
Last night beating the shift was funny. That was not funny.
2008-07-26 14:35:27
210.   Yankee Fan In Boston
i predict a double play.
2008-07-26 14:35:36
211.   Travis08
The Yankees still haven't learned how to shift for Ortiz.
2008-07-26 14:36:27
212.   Yankee Fan In Boston
208 he a great writer. gets a lot of scoops... but awkward on camera.
2008-07-26 14:36:46
213.   RIYank
206 So what's wrong with Cole Hamels? Has he ever had an inning like that 9-run job?

Also, welcome to Bronx Banter.

2008-07-26 14:37:20
214.   Gagne55
210 Any more prophesies?
2008-07-26 14:37:21
215.   Yankee Fan In Boston
woo hoo! i called it!
2008-07-26 14:37:35
216.   RIYank
Uh.
If Manny had run hard, he would have been safe at first.
I think.
2008-07-26 14:37:44
217.   3rd gen yankee fan
I love Manny today!!!
2008-07-26 14:37:51
218.   Max
205 202 How often does Cano steal? I didn't think it was a bad move given how poor the team of Wakefield-Cash is at keeping runners on, but Cano got to second waaay too slowly, which is probably why the call went against him.

A bit high risk, given an anxious hitter and a tiring pitcher. We bailed them out.

2008-07-26 14:38:02
219.   Zack
That was probably the easiest DP I've seen in awhile
2008-07-26 14:38:16
220.   monkeypants
205 I look at the SB the same as a bunt (in a way). Since you have to be successful at such a high rate for the SB to pay off, it's strategic use should be limited.

Getting a player from first to second with two outs is a good time to steal, because it means you can score with only one hit. But trying a double steal with two outs is not worth the risk, especially when the trail runner is not a gifted base stealer. A-Rod was already in scoring position and would easily score on a hit. Yes, you could get two runners in scoring position, but in that circumstance I would not risk the CS for the chance of a second run on one hit.

2008-07-26 14:38:19
221.   RIYank
214 And what are you doing here? I thought you DT people found BB too scary.

;-)

2008-07-26 14:38:42
222.   Jeb
Why doesn't Gameday have video of Cano's homerun? Oh that's right, he doesn't play for the SUX.
2008-07-26 14:39:28
223.   cult of basebaal
208 i don't think i'd call him a "great writer", but he does have a lot of connections and does get a lot of breaking news from teams. his nickname comes from the fact he's like the terminator of baseball writers it seems like he never stops coming with more articles and rumors ...
2008-07-26 14:40:02
224.   Gagne55
216 Hard grounder to thirdbase. A-Rod didn't even have to move to field it. That's a DP for anyone (except maybe Ichiro).
2008-07-26 14:40:04
225.   monkeypants
[21[ Can't shift fielders into the bullpens...
2008-07-26 14:40:23
226.   Travis08
Any updates on the supposed Washburn-to-the-Yankees trade? U.S.S. Mariner is under the impression that it's a done deal and that Melky's involved.
2008-07-26 14:40:56
227.   monkeypants
225 That should be 211 . But my joke is not that funny anyway.
2008-07-26 14:41:07
228.   OldYanksFan
Ya know, I really don't hate many players.
I don't hate Youk. Hell, he reminds me of Paulie.
I don't hate Pedroia. He's got little man complex, but he plays hard and plays well.
I don't hate Tek. I wisk Po and Molina covered the plate like he does.
I didn't even hate JD after he hit 'that' grand slam.

But I hate Manny. He disgraces baseball. It was funny for me up until a few years ago. Now he makes me sick.

2008-07-26 14:41:58
229.   Gagne55
221 I don't think there's anything scary about the Banter. You just don't have the 12 commandments.
2008-07-26 14:42:03
230.   monkeypants
226 If Melky's involved, then why demote GArdner instead of Christian?

Damn, who's that guy playing CF for the Yankees today??

2008-07-26 14:42:10
231.   3rd gen yankee fan
Pile on time!
2008-07-26 14:42:10
232.   OldYanksFan
Washburn for Melky? God, I hope not.
2008-07-26 14:42:13
233.   RIYank
220 I have to think about that. It seems wrong. To me it seems like it should be just about the same as a regular steal of second. Since A-Rod scores on any hit (pretty much, let's just assume that), he can be ignored. So in either case (regular steal or double steal), you're adding the chance to score one (more) run on a single in exchange for the chance of getting thrown out.

Meanwhile, this is the correct order! Walk, double, then I'll permit a couple of long fly outs...

2008-07-26 14:42:35
234.   Travis08
Charge the mound!
2008-07-26 14:42:37
235.   RIYank
Boooo! Warn both benches! Boooo!
2008-07-26 14:42:42
236.   monkeypants
Molina's favorite offensive play!
2008-07-26 14:43:27
237.   RIYank
Well, HBP between the walk and the double would have been better. But I'm not complaining.

Yet.

2008-07-26 14:44:03
238.   3rd gen yankee fan
236 LOL, he's getting good at that eh?
2008-07-26 14:44:11
239.   RIYank
Good hustle, JD.
2008-07-26 14:44:29
240.   Jeb
woo hoo bases juiced! Let's score 3 and go for the sweep with our boy Snacks tomorrow!
2008-07-26 14:46:00
241.   Jeb
232 Washburn for Melky you say? Link?
2008-07-26 14:46:50
242.   Travis08
241 http://ussmariner.com/2008/07/26/washburn-to-yanks/
2008-07-26 14:47:07
243.   ms october
203 it's not the dopiest player in the league.
226 most of the national writers (olney, heyman etc) are saying it is just a salary dump
2008-07-26 14:47:11
244.   Zack
I don't really see how trading Melky helps the yanks right now as they have no replacement...
2008-07-26 14:47:17
245.   RIYank
Who was it who wanted the soft bullpen underbelly?

This kid's good. Better than Wakefield.

2008-07-26 14:47:34
246.   OldYanksFan
Aren't the odds of successfully stealing off Wake pretty high?
2008-07-26 14:49:08
247.   Jeb
242 that doesn't say Melky's been traded. It says, "No official word on who is coming to Seattle in exchange for Washburn, but it sounds like it's an outfielder. If the M's got either Melky Cabrera or Brett Gardner, do back flips"

Big difference between IF and Melky is the guy.

They can want who they want all they want. To me as long as it's Igawa + A bunch of cash then that's PLENTY.

2008-07-26 14:49:34
248.   Travis08
246 Extremely high, especially when the runner isn't being held at 1st base.
2008-07-26 14:49:49
249.   ms october
here's what petey posted about 10 minutes ago:
TRADE UPDATE, 5:41 p.m.: Jarrod Washburn might not be a Yankee today, but it could happen as early as tomorrow. The Yankees appear willing to absorb the $14 million he has left on his deal in return for not sending Seattle any player of significance. No, not Kei Igawa

Washburn will either waive his no-trade right or get compensated by Seattle in some way.

It's a lot of money, but Washburn would be an upgrade on Ponson or Rasner. Having him around also would cushion the blow if Andy Pettitte and/or Mike Mussina retires after this season or go elsewhere.

2008-07-26 14:50:13
250.   RIYank
229 Someone from DT last year, playoff time, said it was too scary. You came over about that time, I thought you might remember.
Show/Hide Comments 251-300
2008-07-26 14:51:06
251.   Gagne55
245 Don't tell Jeter that.
2008-07-26 14:51:16
252.   Just fair
Now we're cookin'. Atta boy, Jeter.
2008-07-26 14:51:39
253.   cult of basebaal
yeah, i think it's more likely to be gardner than melky ... i'm not particularily happy with the deal, but if it's gardner + iggy for washburn + vidro AND we DFA vidro before he puts pinstripes on ... i can live with it i suppose ... wasting at bats on the decomposing corpse of vidro, on the other hand, would really piss me off.
2008-07-26 14:52:05
254.   Travis08
247 The second comment claims that FSN reported the trade was Washburn/Vidro (why?) for Melky/Cabrera, and the following comments seem to agree. Example:

"EDIT - Apparently even though the deal was finalized this morning, the players involved were still allowed by their receiving teams to play today as both teams had day games and the deal won't be formally announced until this evening. Or so I'm told anyhow."

2008-07-26 14:52:33
255.   Travis08
254 That should be Melky/Igawa.
2008-07-26 14:52:38
256.   Jeb
249 I'm not saying that Melky is any great shakes, but I'd rather have him for the defense than a guy with an ERA+ of 84 this season.

Besides, I agree with Monkeypants, why send Gardner down if you know you're trading Melky?

2008-07-26 14:52:52
257.   monkeypants
Yay, two hits for Jeter...Yanks laying it on...time for me to catch the bus.
2008-07-26 14:52:57
258.   OldYanksFan
Yahoo!!!!!!!!!!!
Andy at 94 pitches. I think a good 6th is about all we can hope for.
Do we see Marte today?
Yahoo!!!!!!!!!!! (again)
2008-07-26 14:53:20
259.   RIYank
I swear, Masterson is a very good pitcher. Somehow our guys are making him look bad.
2008-07-26 14:53:29
260.   cult of basebaal
253 of course if it's just a big pile of cash 249 that's actually good.
2008-07-26 14:53:33
261.   Zack
I'm liking this inning!
2008-07-26 14:53:39
262.   Gagne55
250 I don't know who that would be.
2008-07-26 14:53:47
263.   Just fair
Is everyone here convinced Abreu will be gone next year?
2008-07-26 14:53:53
264.   3rd gen yankee fan
Pile on, pile on!
2008-07-26 14:54:15
265.   Jeb
254 stranger things have happened, but I just don't see Melky going in this deal.
2008-07-26 14:55:17
266.   Jeb
Incidentally, as sucky as Melky has been, I'd hate to see how it might effect Robbie Cano.
2008-07-26 14:55:27
267.   Zack
263 He should be, but I suppose a lot of it depends on how Nady performs as a Yank...
2008-07-26 14:55:49
268.   Travis08
265 Yeah, it makes no sense to trade Melky for an overpaid 4th/5th starter who has no real future with the team.
2008-07-26 14:56:05
269.   Gagne55
259 If you say so...
2008-07-26 14:56:17
270.   RIYank
Hm.
I must have been thinking of a different Justin Masterson.
2008-07-26 14:56:20
271.   Just fair
Fenway's getting mighty quiet. That's a shame.
2008-07-26 14:56:44
272.   doslobo38
263 I am one of the resident Abreu defenders and I think getting rid of Bobby would be a huge mistake. I love the guy and the way he plays ball...but I seem to be in the minority
2008-07-26 14:56:57
273.   tommyl
Wheeeee! This is much more like it. Its like they remembered you were allowed to hit with RISP
2008-07-26 14:57:03
274.   cult of basebaal
263 well, he's a free agent ... even if he doesn't get hot and ends the year about where he is now, he's likely to get a multi-year offer from someone ... i don't think he's worth a multi-year deal to retain him; i'd much rather let him walk and get the (likely) two draft picks
2008-07-26 14:57:09
275.   RIYank
262 Bluebleeder, maybe?
Then underdog vouched for us, and the party began.
2008-07-26 14:57:15
276.   OldYanksFan
Washburn = Rasner + cup of coffee.
Why would we give away ANYONE with any value at all? This is a salary dump for an 'average at best' pitcher. We NEED Dopey... err... Melky, and I like him. This makes ZERO sense.
2008-07-26 14:57:56
277.   Just fair
272 I'm as sour on his defense as anybody, but I agree with you.
2008-07-26 14:58:02
278.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
great way to wake up on a Sunday, 7-2 lead! can't wait to see Cano's tater on replay later
2008-07-26 14:58:36
279.   Zack
270 Masterson really isn't as good as he has looked in his brief ML career. Or at least his MiL #s have never shown anything close to better than league average. Of course, he is definitely more suited to come out of the BP with that sidearm delivery, but we shall see
2008-07-26 14:59:31
280.   doslobo38
I can't believe I am missing this game
2008-07-26 15:00:32
281.   Just fair
Horseshit.
2008-07-26 15:01:02
282.   Zack
Is it just me or was that completely unnecessary to throw to 3rd there? Couldn't Youk have just thrown to 2nd?
2008-07-26 15:01:18
283.   cult of basebaal
272 you want to offer him a multi-year deal? i don't think i'd mind him as a 1 year sign under certain circumstances, but anything more than that is a bad idea, IMO. his last 4 years of OPS+ are 118,138,114,111 and by most advanced defensive metrics (AND the naked eye) he's the worst defensive RF in the AL by a wide margin.

so, he's likely to get a better offer than the yankees should make AND he's very likely a type A free agent ... i think i'd rather have the draft picks.

2008-07-26 15:01:29
284.   3rd gen yankee fan
Cano's tater later :-)
2008-07-26 15:01:37
285.   pistolpete
Did he ever touch him with the ball in the glove? Looked like he just kicked Abreu...
2008-07-26 15:02:31
286.   Just fair
282 That risks a run down where Abreu could have scored. He was so far off 3rd it really wasn't that close.
2008-07-26 15:02:46
287.   ms october
282 well mccarver said it was a brilliant play
2008-07-26 15:03:55
288.   cult of basebaal
276 why don't wait and see what the trade actually is, if there actually is a trade, before we start hyperventilating ... especially since petey is reporting that the yankees are taking almost all the salary on in a dump and aren't giving up anything of significant value.
2008-07-26 15:03:57
289.   OldYanksFan
It happened fast, but I thought Youk caught that grounder in foul territory. Anyone see it batter?
2008-07-26 15:04:48
290.   horace-clarke-era
The Offense Ignites ...
Isn't it obvious: it is the X Factor.
He's arrived.

OYF, for the longest time I just found Manny funny, too, and judged him harmless, goofy, even fresh air in some ways. But lately I'm with you: there's a line between idiosyncratic and disrespect for the game and teammates and he's crossing it all the time these days.

I hope to god it ain't Melky for Washburn. I would go off Cashman big time if so. There's been a LOT of dump Leche on the Banter, but I have argued, and still do, that seriously good CF play can carry a mediocre bat, and the man is 23. Say it ain't so, Cash.

2008-07-26 15:04:52
291.   Just fair
I think Yes shows the replay of any given play more than Fox shows combined. Don't they know we like the instant replay?
2008-07-26 15:05:44
292.   OldYanksFan
Wow. Braves blow a 9-3 lead.
Oopsies.
2008-07-26 15:05:49
293.   Jeb
271 yeah, Justfair, I'm glad that Fenway's quiet right now. My guess is that the people up in the monster seats are having a little buyer's remorse after spending $1,000 (or more) for a pair of seats.

Ponson + Snacks = Broom?

2008-07-26 15:06:11
294.   Travis08
282 If Youkilis threw to 2nd and Abreu crosses home plate before A-Rod is tagged out, the run counts. It was a smart play.
2008-07-26 15:06:40
295.   horace-clarke-era
update:

Buster Olney is reporting that the oft-talked about deal in which the Mariners would send Jarrod Washburn to the Yankees, will likely be completed in the next 48 hours. Olney suggests that the move is a salary dump with $13-14MM still owed to Washburn ($3-4MM in '08, $10.35MM in '09). If the Yankees take on most or all of the remaining contract, do not look for any big names to be going back in the other direction.

Peter Abraham of the Journal-News reiterated that Brian Cashman is saying that the deal is not done yet.

2008-07-26 15:06:47
296.   Zack
It is not a pleasant sight to see Steve Donahue running in a tight white shirt
2008-07-26 15:07:35
297.   Jeb
288 I agree with you, cult. If it's not melky I am going to so some serious trolling on the USS Mariner sinking ship board.
2008-07-26 15:07:58
298.   ms october
nice play by giambi - damn the stach almost got trashed
2008-07-26 15:08:04
299.   Just fair
Yikes. Doug-out flashbacks.
2008-07-26 15:08:04
300.   Zack
That's one slick 'stache
Show/Hide Comments 301-350
2008-07-26 15:08:55
301.   OldYanksFan
I wish ARod and Jeter could make more consistant throws on plays where they have plenty of time.
2008-07-26 15:09:25
302.   3rd gen yankee fan
Thank YOU, Golden God.
2008-07-26 15:09:55
303.   Just fair
Pettitte deserves some damn high praise for his performance today. You might even describe it as "gutsy." : )
2008-07-26 15:09:56
304.   Zack
Nice effort by Andy. Edwar, Robertson/Veras, and Marte to close it out?
2008-07-26 15:10:05
305.   ms october
291 don't you know it is far more important to find and show fugly sox fans in green red sox shirts in the stands waving at people instead of wasting valuable airtime on replays :}
2008-07-26 15:11:55
306.   OldYanksFan
303 'Gritty' even.
2008-07-26 15:12:30
307.   ms october
303 yes - quite "gutsy" - he really settled down and looked good - especially being so frustrated with the strike zone early on
2008-07-26 15:14:39
308.   Jeb
305 it's also more important for MLB.COM to post video of Nancy Drew's homer when the Sux trail 7-3 than to show Cano's homer that really got the Yanks going.

BTW, I like the fact that in the Yanks 4 run inning, Nady got it started with a walk.

2008-07-26 15:14:46
309.   OldYanksFan
OUCH! Baptism by fire!
2008-07-26 15:15:16
310.   3rd gen yankee fan
That's it, hit the new guy.
2008-07-26 15:16:24
311.   OldYanksFan
Pettitte did pitch well considering he wasn't really on, but the Sox look like they are dragging today.
2008-07-26 15:16:33
312.   Jeb
Craig Hansen's warming...Get out your tape measures.
2008-07-26 15:16:37
313.   Travis08
Nady's wearing uniform #29 and a helmet with #39 (Sexson).
2008-07-26 15:17:06
314.   OldYanksFan
Well... now we know Nady is not particularly fast.
2008-07-26 15:17:13
315.   Just fair
One too many outs on the basepaths today. Ah, well.
2008-07-26 15:19:13
316.   Jeb
313 How DARE they Give Nady the cherished number of Kei Igawa!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2008-07-26 15:23:13
317.   Travis08
Marte's wearing #34, Philip Hughes's number this year (he wore #65 last year).
2008-07-26 15:23:28
318.   OldYanksFan
Wow... the Fox boys are really loving on Veras.
If we win today, that will be 8 wins against our most immediate competition. It is almost like a brand new season. Remember talk in the last game before the break about being sellers? It's been an amazing Beatles week!
2008-07-26 15:24:51
319.   RIYank
I miss Pettitte.
2008-07-26 15:25:14
320.   cult of basebaal
welcome to the rivalry, marty boy.
2008-07-26 15:26:30
321.   RIYank
It just seems inevitable that Mo will get a save tonight. Andy pitching, seemingly safe lead, it all adds up.
2008-07-26 15:26:54
322.   tommyl
314 That seemed more like a botched hit and run than a straight steal.

Whoo boy, Ortiz up with two on, 1 out. Not liking this, not at all.

2008-07-26 15:26:59
323.   seattleyank
Anyone else feeling rather uncomfortable?
2008-07-26 15:28:08
324.   RIYank
Hm, who is this guy, he seems quite popular with the locals.
2008-07-26 15:28:27
325.   OldYanksFan
Mo threw 26 pitches yesterday. Is he available? I guess so if Marte is in now (as opposed to closing).
2008-07-26 15:29:08
326.   OldYanksFan
323 (raises hand)
2008-07-26 15:29:18
327.   RIYank
McCarver is just positive that Marte will not face Manny. Definitely not.

Tim, make sure you don't actually look at Marte's splits!

2008-07-26 15:29:34
328.   RIYank
Like this new guy!!!
2008-07-26 15:29:41
329.   tommyl
Hey, that was kinda awesome.
2008-07-26 15:30:08
330.   RIYank
Uh.
Also, Joe, check those splits.
Fug.
2008-07-26 15:30:09
331.   Zack
Wow, nasty set by Marte :) Me likey...

Though I am not a fan of Girardi taking him out. He is NOT a LOOGY! If Girardi is going to treat him as such its a waste of a BP spot

2008-07-26 15:30:43
332.   Zack
I think I would rather have Marte face Manny than Edwar. I just feel like Manny might enjoy that changeup a bit too much
2008-07-26 15:31:07
333.   tommyl
Yeah, I'd leave him in too. Just because he's lefty doesn't mean he can't pitch to righties.
2008-07-26 15:31:27
334.   seattleyank
Really? C'mon, Joe, do your homework.
2008-07-26 15:31:51
335.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
332 yeah, agreed. why the obsession with lefty/righty matchups? let Marte close out the inning and show what he's got
2008-07-26 15:32:04
336.   Jeb
327 Tim was right, but don't feel bad about it. He made the obvious guess without looking up any statistics. That's because he doesn't have a fucking clue who Marte is in the first place.
2008-07-26 15:32:04
337.   OldYanksFan
I don't like a Manny-Edwar matchup. The number 450' keeps flashing in front of my eyes.
2008-07-26 15:32:11
338.   RIYank
So, we are all agreed on this, anyway.
2008-07-26 15:32:23
339.   cult of basebaal
331 well, not quite. he's obviously very good at getting LHB out, so it's not a wasted spot like it was with mike myers and ron villone. what it is, is a spot that isn't being leveraged as much as it could ...

332 i kinda had the same gut feeling ... we'll see.

2008-07-26 15:33:01
340.   RIYank
Wait, I get it. Just like you try to have righty-to-righty, lefty-to-lefty, you also love the Ramirez-to-Ramirez match-up. Brilliant!
2008-07-26 15:33:19
341.   Zack
I gladly eat crow, but that doesn't change the fact that Marte should not be used as a LOOGY
2008-07-26 15:33:21
342.   tommyl
Would Joe Torre ever let Edwar face Manny Ramirez?
2008-07-26 15:33:31
343.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
there is some bad "ki" around this Edvar v Manny at bat...that change-up could be hit 500 feet...
2008-07-26 15:34:37
344.   Jeb
340 great result too! So, Edwar pitches the 8th and Giese for the 9th?
2008-07-26 15:34:38
345.   OldYanksFan
Wow... we are just on a roll. Manny trying to prove his knee still hurts?
2008-07-26 15:35:10
346.   seattleyank
Let's tack on a few more against Hansen.
2008-07-26 15:35:32
347.   OldYanksFan
340 I feel so stupid.
2008-07-26 15:36:00
348.   tommyl
So can PeteAbe admit Edwar is kinda sorta an ok relief pitcher yet? I mean bitters are 0 for their last 30 against him!
2008-07-26 15:36:45
349.   Zack
That Craig Hansen, he sure was an "immediate impact amazing draft player" right Mr. Gammons?
2008-07-26 15:37:27
350.   Zack
348 PeteAbe ever admit he was wrong or overly blusterous? Never...
Show/Hide Comments 351-400
2008-07-26 15:37:54
351.   Travis08
Remember when Craig Hansen was going to be the difference in the 2005 playoff race?
2008-07-26 15:38:43
352.   RIYank
We obviously have to secure Ramon Ortiz, or at least Russ, for the future.
2008-07-26 15:39:03
353.   OldYanksFan
Blusterous? Is that similar to pontiferous?
2008-07-26 15:39:55
354.   Jeb
348 I wonder how many "no hitter" have been thrown this way by relief pitchers (as opposed to natural no-hitters by starters). IIRC, Farnsworth had one too right along with Edwar.
2008-07-26 15:39:58
355.   OldYanksFan
Oh CRAP!!!!!!!
2008-07-26 15:39:58
356.   OldYanksFan
Oh CRAP!!!!!!!
2008-07-26 15:40:00
357.   RIYank
Crud. Goddam it.
2008-07-26 15:40:08
358.   tommyl
350 Sigh, you're right. Its too bad because Edwar is quietly having one of the best seasons for a setup man. He's got an .96 WHIP and is striking out more than a batter an inning.

Damon, no, no no no no no no. We just replaced Matsui!

2008-07-26 15:40:10
359.   Zack
Hmm, if Scrappy McBaldy's arms weren't so short perhaps he would have gotten Molina out.

Oh crap, now Damon's down again?

2008-07-26 15:40:23
360.   cult of basebaal
oh, FUCK.
2008-07-26 15:40:34
361.   Jeb
Gritty effort there by McGritty Gritdroia.
2008-07-26 15:40:34
362.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
349 I have an irrational "distaste" for Senor Gammons, his Sox-homerism and his awful pub-rock....
late today, has there been any retaliation for Joba-Youk yesterday?
2008-07-26 15:41:11
363.   Travis08
It's OK. Barry Bonds is still available.
2008-07-26 15:42:01
364.   OldYanksFan
361 Not his fault! McSpeedy Molina just beat him.
2008-07-26 15:42:30
365.   RIYank
Hats off for McCarver giving M. Miller his props.
2008-07-26 15:42:32
366.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
349 I have an irrational "distaste" for Senor Gammons, his Sox-homerism and his awful pub-rock....
late today, has there been any retaliation for Joba-Youk yesterday?
2008-07-26 15:42:58
367.   tommyl
Damon was laughing, maybe just a pebble in the shoe? Yeah, that's what I'm going with...
2008-07-26 15:44:04
368.   OldYanksFan
366 The speed it took Gammo to go from respected sports journalist to Boston butt-kissing might be a modern day record.
2008-07-26 15:44:34
369.   RIYank
367 Not to be a gloomy gus, but Damon would smile if you were shoving an ice pick through his eye.
Although, not in the trainers' room, good point Joe Buck.
2008-07-26 15:44:57
370.   cult of basebaal
367 or cramp ... fingers crossed, fingers crossed!
2008-07-26 15:44:58
371.   OldYanksFan
Well... that looks better. Maybe JD just poo-ed his pants a little?
2008-07-26 15:45:43
372.   tommyl
Yeah, if it was a real injury you'd think he'd be surrounded by trainers, or at least have ice or something somewhere. No one seems concerned.
2008-07-26 15:46:02
373.   Zack
Buck, why would any team be interested in Hansen, he of the 5.6 ERA, over 6BB/9, and expiring ML deal?
2008-07-26 15:46:18
374.   RIYank
368 Hear hear. Well said. I feel exactly the same way.
2008-07-26 15:46:24
375.   Travis08
Why would the price for Craig Hansen be high?
2008-07-26 15:47:07
376.   RIYank
Of course, no warning. That wasn't intentional.
2008-07-26 15:47:27
377.   Zack
Well, considering that Joba got 5 games for not hitting Youk, Hansen should get at least 10, right? bullshit
2008-07-26 15:47:29
378.   tommyl
OH SHIT
2008-07-26 15:47:54
379.   Jeb
376 No? I'm following on radio.
2008-07-26 15:48:09
380.   tommyl
Please, please, please, please be ok
2008-07-26 15:48:21
381.   Simone
I want freaking retaliation BIG TIME.
2008-07-26 15:48:32
382.   Zack
How is he not thrown out?? Its amazing how ridiculous the whole process is...

Guaranteed if a Yankee hits another Sox today or tomorrow they are tossed and suspended

2008-07-26 15:48:33
383.   Travis08
That looked intentional.
2008-07-26 15:48:33
384.   RIYank
Oh, good. We don't need the announcers at a baseball game to pay attention to whether the umpire is issuing a warning. They have more important things to do.
2008-07-26 15:48:36
385.   tommyl
You know, its always the Yankees that get suspended, and the Yankees that get hit.
2008-07-26 15:48:40
386.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
oh FUCK...hit his hand?????? is he ok???????
2008-07-26 15:48:54
387.   OldYanksFan
Jason.... MAKE THEM PAY!
2008-07-26 15:49:00
388.   RIYank
Thank god for instant replay.
2008-07-26 15:49:08
389.   tommyl
I hope Giambi hits a grandslam off this bum.
2008-07-26 15:49:53
390.   RIYank
379 Sarcasm. I don't know whether it was intentional -- I'm guessing it was.
2008-07-26 15:50:34
391.   Zack
I swear to God what McCarver just said makes no sense at all...
2008-07-26 15:50:52
392.   tommyl
390 It was intentional. It was a straight fastball right at his back.

Did McCarver just say Giambi was glad he didn't walk on 3-0 and score a run???

2008-07-26 15:51:00
393.   RIYank
I don't know why I thought McCarver was less stupid than usual. That was one of the dumbest comments I've ever heard.

(He just said that Giambi was glad that the 3-0 pitch was called a strike.)

2008-07-26 15:51:04
394.   OldYanksFan
386 No, hit his upper arm, below his shoulder. Looked like it hit flesh. I hope.
2008-07-26 15:52:07
395.   Zack
391 [392393 Glad I wasn't the only one to find that statement mind blowingly dumb
2008-07-26 15:52:26
396.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
394 thanks..got a weird delay going here between the internet radio-cast and Gameday..
2008-07-26 15:53:12
397.   OldYanksFan
Ahhhhhhhhhh. Farnsproof.
2008-07-26 15:53:22
398.   Travis08
Craig Hansen rules.
2008-07-26 15:53:22
399.   Zack
Cano is the man. Simply on fire
2008-07-26 15:53:25
400.   RIYank
RBI CANO!!!!
Show/Hide Comments 401-450
2008-07-26 15:53:27
401.   Jeb
Well to hear the racist sux fans cheer someone on the Yankees get beaned, it just makes me want Joba to give Pukilis the Tony Conigliaro/Dickie Thon treatment.
2008-07-26 15:53:35
402.   tommyl
Hey Craig Hansen, glad that batter you hit came around to score? How's that ERA looking now?
2008-07-26 15:54:11
403.   Jeb
screw pitching Farns, we need Giese to pitch the last 2 innings. The guy needs some work.
2008-07-26 15:54:34
404.   3rd gen yankee fan
346 mmmmm... Ok!!!
2008-07-26 15:54:37
405.   cult of basebaal
i'm running out of superlatives to describe how hot robbie is right now ...

ugh, arod still in pain.

2008-07-26 15:55:01
406.   Zack
402 Defintely the best retaliation. Of course, if A-Rod is really hurt, then actions must be taken...Considering Youk has yet to actually get hit, its ridiculous...
2008-07-26 15:55:05
407.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
Cano 18 for his last 35 ABs...amazing...
2008-07-26 15:55:09
408.   doslobo38
Wow Cano is a post all star break werewolf!
2008-07-26 15:55:20
409.   Jeb
Later guys, I'm going to watch the Birmingham Barons play.
2008-07-26 15:55:35
410.   RIYank
Yep, Hansen's selling price must be sky high.
2008-07-26 15:55:51
411.   OldYanksFan
I remember watching a game (on TV) at Fenway where Mattingly went 3-4, with a single and a double off the monster. It almost seems like Donnie could pop them off the monster at will. Watching that shot by Cano gives me the same feeling about Robbie.
2008-07-26 15:56:01
412.   Travis08
Craig Hansen, career vs. Yankees: 6 games, 4.2 IP, 10+ ER, 0-1, 1 blown save, 1 hold (in which he loaded the bases with one out and left the game).
2008-07-26 15:56:25
413.   ms october
403 he may get 5 innings of work tomorrow - unless you have a good prediction on snack's preparation for his start tomorrow

joba either needs to hit youk in the bat and get that out of his system or stop throwing near him - because the sox pitchers have no fraking trouble throwing at and hitting arod and jeter.

2008-07-26 15:56:40
414.   3rd gen yankee fan
Yaaaaaaaaaaaay our buddy Timlin!!!
2008-07-26 15:56:51
415.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
406 with the 10-3 lead I wonder if Girardi gives a wink to whoever pitches the next inning and we see some pitched that "get away"...
2008-07-26 15:57:19
416.   RIYank
Hey 408 that game you were watching had some wild scoring!
2008-07-26 15:57:38
417.   3rd gen yankee fan
Damn, Nady needs to make friends with Timlin.
2008-07-26 15:57:40
418.   cult of basebaal
401 so, if red sox fans are scumbags for being happy that arod got drilled? what does it say about you that you want one of our pitchers to hit a red sox player in the head with the hope of seriously injuring him?
2008-07-26 15:57:49
419.   Travis08
It's too bad Hawkins isn't still on the team. He could throw at Youkilis, get suspended, then DFA'd.
2008-07-26 15:58:21
420.   RIYank
415 If it's Farns... could be.
2008-07-26 15:58:36
421.   ms october
413 i meant back not bat - seeing arod in pain and johnny pull up lame has thrown me off
2008-07-26 15:59:31
422.   RIYank
419 Of course! An opportunity wasted. Curses.
2008-07-26 16:00:23
423.   tommyl
So Damon and A-Rod both ok. Good news!
2008-07-26 16:00:55
424.   tommyl
419 I'd still rather see Marte K Papi though.
2008-07-26 16:00:57
425.   RIYank
421 I dunno, I was once hit in the not bat, it's pretty awful.
2008-07-26 16:01:18
426.   ms october
at least rosenthal has some good news with damon catching a cramp and arod apparently not being seriously hurt - but that is going to be a nasty bruise
2008-07-26 16:02:21
427.   tommyl
Its too bad Major League hitters will figure out 1-pitch Edwar. Guess he'll just have to keep getting outs until then, eh, Pete?
2008-07-26 16:04:11
428.   RIYank
I have to admit, our guys are getting good love from McC and Buck. They've just discovered Edwar, apparently.
2008-07-26 16:05:38
429.   RIYank
Ugh. Can't walk Jed Lourie with a 7 run lead, dude.
Ohhh, his hitless inning streak is on the line so he won't throw a fat one! Okay, I'm cool with that.
2008-07-26 16:06:16
430.   OldYanksFan
I like Edwar. But like, couldn't we inflate his uniform with air or something? He looks like a kid wearing his Daddy's clothing.
2008-07-26 16:07:01
431.   RIYank
Ahhhhh.

Boy. It's fun to have one of these!

2008-07-26 16:07:51
432.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
430 that's his charm..the stick-figure and glasses look is the new closer chic..
2008-07-26 16:08:15
433.   cult of basebaal
430 i agree, if he looked more imposing, batters would be even more confounded by his changeup!
2008-07-26 16:09:10
434.   RIYank
Having a fierce 1-0 game followed by a blow-out is just perfect. You get wound up, you do the big Exhale, and then the next day you really get to enjoy the romp. And conversely, RSN gets all worked up and tense over the 0-1 loss, and then it's just agony watching your team get mauled.
2008-07-26 16:09:12
435.   Zack
I'd say go to Robertson for the 9th? Have Giese be ready to pitch a ton tomorrow
2008-07-26 16:11:14
436.   Eirias
I love when announcers praise Cashman.
2008-07-26 16:12:28
437.   RIYank
435 I'd be fine with that. Although I like saving Robertson for a higher leverage situation against the Sox (they haven't seen him yet, have they?), our bullpen is so loaded it hardly matters.
I'd love to see Farnsworth come in and buzz someone, actually. He could get suspended, that would be fine, as long as it's just a few games.
2008-07-26 16:12:57
438.   OldYanksFan
I'm a little surprised that people aren't gassing on what an amazing 8 game run this has been. Oakland, Minn and Boston are/were all ahead of us. We were ready to sell. Dump Giambi. Sell JD. Trade IPK. Retire Jeter. Let Brett keep LF. I mean...

THIS WAS A .500 BASEBALL TEAM!!

Now, we are TIED with Boston in the loss column!

2008-07-26 16:13:34
439.   RIYank
Does Joe Buck ever think to himself, "Hm, I'm not actually saying anything, and yet the sound of my voice just goes on and on..."
2008-07-26 16:14:53
440.   RIYank
Hey! (Hey!)
You! (You!)
I don't like your bullpen!

(No way! No way!)

I think you need a new one...

We can crush your bullpen!

2008-07-26 16:19:59
441.   nemecizer
I am really liking the way this team is playing these days.
2008-07-26 16:20:56
442.   ms october
438 that is the best/craziest thing about baseball how qucikly your fortunes can change.
have to give it to the yanks - they are playing great and dealing with all the injuries and what not.

was on the phone and missed what rosenthal said about the washburn deal - can someone fill me in please - thanks.

2008-07-26 16:23:24
443.   RIYank
442 He intimated that the Mariners were asking for a good prospect and the Yankees to pick up the full salary, and that that didn't seem like it was going to happen. The M's would have to settle for less.
2008-07-26 16:23:40
444.   Eirias
440 I had that exact same song in my head when the Fox announcers described the changing states of the RS and Yankee bullpens.
2008-07-26 16:23:54
445.   Travis08
2 outs in the 9th, Youkilis at bat, up by 7. Do you dare?
2008-07-26 16:24:54
446.   cult of basebaal
sweet! tomorrow's a house money game, which is a good thing with snacks pontoon on the mound.
2008-07-26 16:25:03
447.   3rd gen yankee fan
445 I would. And I'd happily serve my suspension.
2008-07-26 16:25:45
448.   OldYanksFan
It is interesting that as important as our youth movement is, Moose, Andy, Mo and Jason (our 4 oldest guys?) have really been the reason we are where we are. Our 'younger old guys', ARod and JD, haven't been too bad either.
2008-07-26 16:25:53
449.   ms october
443 thanks riyank

very nice win after getting off to a blah start.
is it being too greedy to want a sweep at the hands of snacks?

2008-07-26 16:26:27
450.   RIYank
You know what, if Girardi said to the team, "Okay, that's it, the 'feud' is over now, they can have the last bean..."
I'd be cool with that.
Show/Hide Comments 451-500
2008-07-26 16:27:26
451.   Travis08
A win tomorrow would put the Yankees in the wild card lead. It's anything other than a house money game, though the odds of winning aren't great.
2008-07-26 16:32:49
452.   RIYank
I just noticed this on LoHud's game thread:

UPDATE, 6:36 p.m.: It would not stun me
if Hansen drills somebody in this inning.

Not bad, Pete.

2008-07-26 16:46:57
453.   cult of basebaal
450 i would like that too; i really don't want to see anyone on either team get hurt by an intentional HBP.
2008-07-26 20:23:39
454.   weeping for brunnhilde
Hey, Team! I was at a wedding in Providence today and last I heard, we were trailing 2-0.

What a pleasant surprise to come home to this!

How 'bout that Andy Pettitte, huh?

And would it be too risky to start batting Robby third? When he's on, there's no one better.

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