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2008-07-06 15:06
by Alex Belth

The image “http://pubpages.unh.edu/~nry7/project/project_images/knuckleball.gif” cannot be displayed, because it contains errors.

We've got a nice pitching match-up for the Sunday Night finale of this four-game series, as Joba Chamberlain goes against the old knuckler, Tim Wakefield. Never know what you are going to get from Wake, but we've seen him hand it to the Yanks on more than one occasion. Chamberlain is coming off a poor start against the Rangers where he was wild and threw a ton of pitches and was gone after four innings. Tonight is his biggest start yet. A huge game for the Yankees to keep pace--yes, the Rays won again this afternoon.

The All Star rosters were announced this afternoon and neither Mike Mussina and Jason Giambi made the team. I'm sure that'll give Joe Morgan something to talk about tonight.

Oy.

Let's hope the bats are boomin' so it ain't too painful and

Let's Go Yan-Kees!

Comments (648)
Show/Hide Comments 1-50
2008-07-06 16:00:12
1.   Yanks Fan in Chicago
Let's go, Joba! Shut those punks down. Pedroia an All Star? I don't think so.
2008-07-06 16:30:41
2.   rbj
CC to the Brewers is the rumor. No word on a long term deal, so hopefully CC is counting on a big contract from the Yankees.
2008-07-06 16:37:20
3.   Travis08
The lineups:

Ellsbury, LF
Pedroia, 2B
Drew, RF
Lowell, 3B
Youkilis, 1B
Casey, DH
Crisp, CF
Lugo, SS
Cash, C

Gardner, LF
Jeter, SS
Abreu, RF
Rodriguez, 3B
Giambi, 1B
Posada, DH
Cano, 2B
Cabrera, CF
Molina, C

No Manny, for some reason.

2008-07-06 16:41:16
4.   monkeypants
1 You're probably joking, but check out RLYW--they have a nice analysis of AL 2B, and unfortunately Pedroia is near the top of the list.

Let them have their ASG, it's a farce anyway.

2008-07-06 16:47:27
5.   RIYank
3 Manny has been nursing a sore hamstring. He's been DHing in lieu of Papi, but Francona wants Casey to get some ABs.

Some of what Francona said could be interpreted as "I asked Manny to play but he said he didn't want to." Just sayin'.

2008-07-06 16:52:04
6.   Jeb
If we can pull out a win tonight we're back to 4 games behind Boston for the wild card, which keeps us in the conversation and probably a buyer at the trade deadline, even for a spare part or two.

The key after this will be to dust the Rays in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday and head into the break with 2 of 3 in Toronto. BUT I'm obviously getting ahead of myself.

Tonight -- We just need to hope that Wake's super knuckler is off, that the players grind out every at-bat (no excuses Cano!), that Brett creates havoc on the paths, and Joba keeps his pitch count down. We need Melky to continue his current 5 for 10 streak too.

Let's Go Yan-Keees, indeed!

2008-07-06 16:53:03
7.   monkeypants
5 He also got hit by three pitches yesterday, though I don't recall any looking that painful (to the hand or the like).
2008-07-06 16:57:29
8.   rbj
Longoria deserves to be in the ASG, but I'm voting for Giambi. Welcome to the bigs, Evan.
2008-07-06 16:57:29
9.   JohnBlacksox
Are we deliberately not laughing about ARod and Madonna?

Or are we pretending to be above it all?

2008-07-06 16:58:28
10.   rbj
9 La la la la. I can't hear you.

Is a shame about the marriage, and with two young kids too.

2008-07-06 17:00:22
11.   Jeb
holy cow. Baseball Tonight is reporting that CC Sabathia has been traded to the Brewers....

Question -- will the Brewers resign him? Will they try to resign him? They stand to lose Sabathia AND Sheets at the end of this season. Wouldn't it be great if the Yankees got one of them?

2008-07-06 17:01:40
12.   Simone
9 We are definitely laughing, but with our hands covering our mouths. After all, Alex is a Yankee.
2008-07-06 17:03:30
13.   monkeypants
Sweet...I couldn't even survive the intro montage to the game before hitting the mute button. This could be a long one tonight.

I have only one question: who is going to be the Yankees' EIGHTH INNING GUY!!!!??!?!??!?

2008-07-06 17:03:40
14.   Simone
Good news that C.C. hasn't agreed to anything long term with the Brewers so far.
2008-07-06 17:03:54
15.   Eirias
How is Wakefield to run on? I'd assume that, as a knuckle-baller, he'd be easy prey. I could be wrong, though.
2008-07-06 17:04:35
16.   Eirias
11 They won't resign him. Losing Sheets and Sabathia in FA will pile up the draft picks like woah.
2008-07-06 17:05:19
17.   Jeb
9 10 11 I said this yesterday in the game thread. If we have to hear about Arod and his wife splitting up, then I DEMAND to hear about Julio Lugo splitting his wife's head open against the hood of a car.

I realize that Arod's a much bigger player, but dammit, which is worse? A divorce? Or beating your wife? It's just unfair.

2008-07-06 17:05:57
18.   monkeypants
11 The talking heads on FOX suggested that the Brewers were trying to wing this season, and would not try to resign anyone, including Prince Fielder (perhaps trying to move him). Whatever that is worth.
2008-07-06 17:06:09
19.   Eirias
And one question: if a team signs two Type A free agents and they only have one 1st rounder to give up, what happens?
2008-07-06 17:06:29
20.   Travis08
15 No pitcher in the majors this year has given up more steals than Wakefield.

He was 2nd in 2007 and 7th in 2006.

2008-07-06 17:07:03
21.   monkeypants
15 More importantly, will any Yankees' runners get on base to run on him. I'm pessimistic.
2008-07-06 17:07:03
22.   Jeb
20 so Brett has the green light?
2008-07-06 17:07:53
23.   Jeb
19 good question; I think that's where sandwich picks come into play. OR maybe the signing team gives up the next's year's pick.
2008-07-06 17:08:18
24.   Travis08
22 If he ever gets on.
2008-07-06 17:09:32
25.   Jeb
21 It really depends on what Wakefield shows up. If his knuckler is flat, we'll kill him. If not, we're looking at another game where we score 1-2 runs. I realize that's pretty much true of every pitcher, but it's sort of exaggerated for knuckleballers. They're more feast and famine whereas other pitchers, with more pitchers, can survive without their A stuff because they mix pitches.
2008-07-06 17:09:42
26.   rbj
Go Joba Go!
2008-07-06 17:10:09
27.   Eirias
Joba is going to get squeezed.
2008-07-06 17:10:18
28.   Jeb
("with more pitches") that is.
2008-07-06 17:11:02
29.   dianagramr
Hou and Atl now in the 15th.
Det and Sea now in the 14th.
Mets and Phils now in the 10th.
2008-07-06 17:11:28
30.   monkeypants
Job. As. Starter. More. Innings. Lower. ERA. Than. As. A. Reliever. There is no controversy here.
2008-07-06 17:11:34
31.   Jeb
I'm not saying that Joba should hit Pedroia in the head with 98 MPH heat but....actually, I am saying that.
2008-07-06 17:12:13
32.   Eirias
31 That would be... unfortunate...
2008-07-06 17:12:15
33.   Jeb
30 that time of the month?
2008-07-06 17:12:32
34.   dianagramr
My $$$ roto team name for this season is Pedroia Own Conclusions.
2008-07-06 17:14:04
35.   rbj
Jeebus but that's a tight strike zone tonight.
2008-07-06 17:14:08
36.   monkeypants
33 Sorry, I'm just reacting to the fabricated controversy that ESPN is peddling, and grimacing knowing that we will hear about it all night.
2008-07-06 17:15:23
37.   monkeypants
One pitch AB by Lowell helped.
2008-07-06 17:16:30
38.   weeping for brunnhilde
I think I might be sick if I have to listen to these two for 8 more innings.

"*AND HE WALKS HIM!!!!"

"JOBA HAS TO LEARN...

Blegh.

2008-07-06 17:17:16
39.   Jeb
36 we could start our own controversies about wife beating (Lugo), felony theft (Buccholz), assault (Manny), over-eating (Papi), and foot-in-mouth disease (Schilling).
2008-07-06 17:17:55
40.   Jeb
c'mon Tim, nice and FLAT tonight...nice and FLAT....and FAT
2008-07-06 17:18:14
41.   RIYank
Wakefield's knuckler doesn't have to be flat, by the way, for it to be a good night for us. It can also be wild. That's fun too.
2008-07-06 17:19:36
42.   Jeb
39 oh, and greed (JD Drew). Hell, the Sox are the damn 7 deadly sins.
2008-07-06 17:19:49
43.   RIYank
Brett swung at a high pitch. But the knuckler doesn't look wild, that's for sure. Still, you never know, he can just break down any time.
2008-07-06 17:20:42
44.   monkeypants
39 Yeah sure, but those are all off-field issues. The Joba thing irritates me more in a way because it's an on-field topic for which we have actual evidence, and yet all of the assembled baseball minds--announcers and former players and writers and analysts--saying stupid shit.
2008-07-06 17:21:24
45.   RIYank
Wow, they're really helping Wakefield out. Jeter swings at an out-of-zone pitch, too.
2008-07-06 17:21:40
46.   Jeb
44 I agree, but just wait until Arod steps to the plate. I give them under 1 minute to mention his marriage or Madonna.
2008-07-06 17:22:28
47.   weeping for brunnhilde
It's going to be one of those nights.

Hold serve, Joba!

2008-07-06 17:22:28
48.   monkeypants
Hmmm...the Yankees drowsy offense slumbers along.
2008-07-06 17:22:28
49.   randym77
Nothing like watching a game on ESPN or Fox to make you appreciate Michael Kay.
2008-07-06 17:23:13
50.   weeping for brunnhilde
41 Just as Morgan says some nonsense about how he's never seen Wakefield bounce one.

Give me a break.

Show/Hide Comments 51-100
2008-07-06 17:23:44
51.   RIYank
I'm not too worried yet. I expect Giambi to eat up the knuckler. The other guys might take until the second time through, though.
2008-07-06 17:24:01
52.   weeping for brunnhilde
48 It's Wakefield.

It's going to be a long night.

Grab a beverage.

2008-07-06 17:24:32
53.   weeping for brunnhilde
49 I know! I was thinking the same thing.

Ha ha hah ah aha !

Poor Michael, the old lug.

2008-07-06 17:24:33
54.   RIYank
50 No, it's true, he never has. It's a well known fact: he doesn't watch baseball.
2008-07-06 17:25:44
55.   RIYank
Yook hit a good pitch. Low and fast.
2008-07-06 17:26:12
56.   rbj
OK, they don't want Joba to not throw strikes when the count is 0-2, but they also don't want him to throw strikes on 0-2.

My brain hurts.

2008-07-06 17:27:51
57.   Jeb
I oould listen to Joe Morgan talk about pitching all night....no...wait....I couldn't...help me.
2008-07-06 17:28:44
58.   Jeb
that was fucking beautiful...strike 'em out throw 'em out.
2008-07-06 17:28:45
59.   RIYank
Joba's taking a little off the fastball.
2008-07-06 17:28:55
60.   weeping for brunnhilde
Oh, Yes!!

That's what I'm talking about!

2008-07-06 17:29:05
61.   dianagramr
I could watch Molina throw out baserunners all night,
2008-07-06 17:29:23
62.   tommyl
That was a thing of beauty. As much as I love Jorge's bat, man Molina is great behind the plate.
2008-07-06 17:29:50
63.   RIYank
57 I'm sure you could, but we'd have to carry you out of Bronx Banter in a wheelbarrow. Gurgling.
2008-07-06 17:29:57
64.   Jeb
oh captain my captain.
2008-07-06 17:30:17
65.   Eirias
56 It is something you can only understand if you've played professional baseball. You learn it quicker if you play for the Reds.
2008-07-06 17:30:18
66.   monkeypants
Morgan is really interesting. He was one of the greatest players at his position ever, and approached the game in a very sabr-friendly way. Yet he resists the tendency of many former great players who become announcers: to belittle current players and question why they couldn't be as great as him or do the things that came to him so naturally. No, instead he seems to have completely blanked out his playing career and now simply spews gibberish about the game.

Hell, Scooter used to provide more insight into the game.

2008-07-06 17:30:28
67.   Jeb
63 HA!
2008-07-06 17:30:31
68.   weeping for brunnhilde
"What a play there by Jeter!"

I mean, it was a nice play, sure, but any shortstop makes that play, or should.

2008-07-06 17:30:59
69.   rbj
Isn't that now 11 for 11 for Molina vs. would be thieves?
2008-07-06 17:31:23
70.   tommyl
Anyone catch Joe Morgan talking about Johnny Damon in the 1st? He basically said something like, "Damon might have to go on the DL, he hasn't been put there yet. He hurt himself yesterday and just went on the DL today."

Oh man, there is so much wrong with that I don't even know where to begin.

2008-07-06 17:32:10
71.   RIYank
Should we call Molina "LoJack"?
2008-07-06 17:32:50
72.   tommyl
Oh man, Alex is sooooooooo fucking good.
2008-07-06 17:32:51
73.   RIYank
70 Dude, can't you dig the historical present futurate counterfactual subjunctive?
2008-07-06 17:33:06
74.   rbj
Madonna who?
What divorce?
2008-07-06 17:33:10
75.   weeping for brunnhilde
Oh, hell yes!

You da man, Alex!

2008-07-06 17:33:40
76.   monkeypants
68 It was a pretty nice play given Crisp's speed.

Ah A-Rod does seem to thrive when he's in the tabloids.

2008-07-06 17:33:46
77.   RIYank
Hm, was that the slowest pitch that A-Rod has ever hit out of a stadium?
2008-07-06 17:33:47
78.   Jeb
That one was for you, Mickey. We still love you.
2008-07-06 17:34:16
79.   nick
my take is that the marriage has been a farce for a while now, and Alex has been relieved lately--be nice to see him go on a tear, huh?
2008-07-06 17:34:19
80.   Jeb
74 Nice shot by Arod. That one didn't knuckle. It's the only thing that prevented Miller from going to the "You know Joe, Arod's been the subject of controversy lately...."
2008-07-06 17:34:48
81.   dianagramr
I wanna hear Sterling say "A Rod justifies our love!"
2008-07-06 17:35:30
82.   monkeypants
So pardon my pessimism, but I assume this is the early inning where they score only to be shutout for the rest of the game. Hopefully they push another one across this inning before going to sleep for next seven innings.
2008-07-06 17:36:28
83.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
just in! tater for A-Rod? am I ill for loading up the Banter before Gameday??
2008-07-06 17:36:31
84.   RIYank
Why is Jorge batting lefty?
2008-07-06 17:36:49
85.   RIYank
Er, was, not is.
2008-07-06 17:37:23
86.   rbj
83 Banter always comes first. Line drive laser for Alex, tying the Mick.
2008-07-06 17:37:29
87.   monkeypants
84 Because Wakefield is a RHP?
2008-07-06 17:38:36
88.   RIYank
87 Well, yeah, but why would it matter with a knuckleball pitcher? Because of the release point?
2008-07-06 17:39:33
89.   Jeb
79 I agree. According to the Daily News, "Cynthia is telling friends" that Arod's late night meetings with Madonna have "left her husband brainwashed by kabbala".

So, more Kabbala then, right?

2008-07-06 17:39:41
90.   tommyl
88 Probably just comfort. Posada hasn't batted righty against a righty since, well, possibly, never.
2008-07-06 17:40:27
91.   tommyl
79 Does this mean Alex and Jeter can have sleepovers again? I mean, they're both bachelors now, right?
2008-07-06 17:40:42
92.   tommyl
In other news: But who will pitch the 8th inning?!!!!!
2008-07-06 17:40:45
93.   Jeb
Down goes Lugo just like his wife.
2008-07-06 17:40:55
94.   nick
89 well, Kabbala might be a performance enhancer--what's the union's position?
2008-07-06 17:41:13
95.   RIYank
So, Julio, did you like what you saw?
2008-07-06 17:41:24
96.   Jeb
If Kabbala means playing great, can we get the whole fucking team over to her apartment?
2008-07-06 17:42:22
97.   monkeypants
88 If it doesn't matter, then why change your normal pattern of batting opposite the pitcher's handedness. I guess you could argue that Posada as a natural righy might be more comfortable against Wakefield as a righty. On the other hand, doesn't Posada generally have better numbers as LH batter?

Remember, he bats 70% as a LH batter, so at this point that may be his more "natural" side to hit from.

2008-07-06 17:42:50
98.   tommyl
Hey, the Brewer's have a shaky pen. I've got this Farnsworth I'd like to talk to them about...
2008-07-06 17:43:49
99.   Jeb
Joe Morgan, "Trading for CC is a pretty big risk if you can't resign him."

Yeah, Joe, and when was the last time the Brewers were relevant?

2008-07-06 17:44:10
100.   monkeypants
Joba is dealin' now. Keep that pitch count down, young man!
Show/Hide Comments 101-150
2008-07-06 17:44:11
101.   Travis08
77 In 2002, A-Rod hit an El Duque eephus for a HR at the stadium. It was estimated at 48 mph.

http://tinyurl.com/2coh4f

2008-07-06 17:44:13
102.   RIYank
Nice inning.
2008-07-06 17:44:33
103.   nick
Robbie's play, tougher than Jeter's, ignored...
2008-07-06 17:45:53
104.   rbj
98 Doesn't the Geneva Convention prevent such things?
2008-07-06 17:46:00
105.   RIYank
101 Awesome, Travis.
2008-07-06 17:46:47
106.   tommyl
Hey ESPN, we know you like the Rays and cheesy special effects but the Sox and Yankees are sort of in the middle of a game. It'd be cool to show some of it.
2008-07-06 17:47:14
107.   RIYank
97 Jorge is somewhat better from the right side. But not much, so sure, if he's more comfortable, I certainly have no objection.
2008-07-06 17:47:58
108.   dianagramr
Houston and Atlanta tied at 6 top of 17th.
2008-07-06 17:48:12
109.   monkeypants
97 90 88

OK, Posada has

4163 PA LH batter v. RHP, OPS .849.
1673 PA RH batter v. LHP, OPS .881
1 PA RH batter v. RHP, (0-0 BB)

So, he's a better hitter for his career as a RH batter, but he has only batted once in his entire career RH v. RH (zero times LH v. LH). Comfort is probably the reason.

2008-07-06 17:49:33
110.   Jeb
Joe might want to mention that Santana costs more (just in terms of salary and years) than he is worth.
2008-07-06 17:49:41
111.   dianagramr
109

I thought comfort was achieved through the use of Michael Jordan's Hanes briefs.

2008-07-06 17:50:45
112.   ChrisS
103

kinda similar thing on Baseball Tonight last night: they were gushing about Aaron Rowand being a gamer because his uniform was dirty ... two seconds later there's a highlight of Fred Lewis, I think, crossing the plate with a filthy uniform and no comment. Just more for FJM, I guess.

I hate to make accusations of racism, but it's pretty obvious that despite little evidence(?) some players, mainly all white, are gritty gamers that bring something that can't be quantified to their teams, while other players are just there.

2008-07-06 17:51:00
113.   monkeypants
111 Why would Posada be comfortable wearing Michael Jordan's underwear? Too much information...
2008-07-06 17:52:44
114.   Chyll Will
108 Six of zero, half-dozen of nothing...
2008-07-06 17:52:55
115.   Jeb
Quick question, who's dumber - Joe Morgan or Tim McCarver?

I'd vote for Morgan because McCarver got his uniform dirty (just kidding, it's a tie, they're both stupid).

2008-07-06 17:53:20
116.   monkeypants
112 But the racism cuts both ays. the reason why white players are gritty is because they assumes not to be "athletic." I remember an ESPN piece on Jason Sehorn when he was still good, interviewing players who admitted that when they lined up across from a white DB they assumed that were simply faster.
2008-07-06 17:53:22
117.   Travis08
109 The RH Posada at-bat against a RH came against Wakefield in the 9th inning on June 19, 2000. The Yankees were up 17-1 at the time.

http://www.retrosheet.org/boxesetc/2000/B06190BOS2000.htm

2008-07-06 17:53:30
118.   dianagramr
113

It worked for Cuba Gooding, Jr.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZY152lZHA0c

2008-07-06 17:54:01
119.   monkeypants
115 McCarver is more obnoxious, IMO, but who's dumber--that's a tough one.
2008-07-06 17:54:05
120.   Jeb
oh my God, Joe Morgan just nailed why Joba should be in the starting rotation....unreal.

Okay, Morgan is smarter than McCarver.

2008-07-06 17:54:26
121.   monkeypants
117 Travis, you are a beast tonight!
2008-07-06 17:55:24
122.   RIYank
I'd say McCarver is a little dumber. But it's a tough question.
2008-07-06 17:55:34
123.   monkeypants
Hey, nice play by Jeter up the middle! No pasta on that play!
2008-07-06 17:57:00
124.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
hate to say it, but Dusty McScrapovich really does grind out his at-bats..we`d love him if he was earing pinstripes..
2008-07-06 17:57:21
125.   RIYank
120 Yes, that's a good example. Morgan is more likely to stumble into something correct and borderline insightful. McCarver is more likely to stumble into something so far off base it just makes your jaw drop. Like when he was shocked to discover that teams score more runs on average when they homer lead-off than when they walk lead-off.
2008-07-06 17:57:23
126.   Jeb
123 Imagine if we had both of them on the same broadcast.
2008-07-06 17:57:30
127.   dianagramr
122

The difference is that McCarver was once respected for his color analysis. Then he started reading his clippings, and also realized he realllllly like the sound of his voice.

2008-07-06 17:57:42
128.   monkeypants
That swing by Drew fooled me...I though he got all of it, but it was just a little bloop off the end of the bat.
2008-07-06 17:58:47
129.   Chyll Will
115 (cycling pinwheel appears on screen while CPU tries to translate question to screen...)
2008-07-06 17:59:16
130.   RIYank
I hate to say this, but Joba is on pace for 8 innings or so tonight.
2008-07-06 18:00:04
131.   Jeb
[ESPN truck to Joe Morgan]

"Joe be sure to mention how Arod is a 'lightening rod' of criticism because of Madonna. See Lightening Rod rhymes with Arod and all baseball fans love rhymes."

2008-07-06 18:00:48
132.   monkeypants
I really, really hate these "talk to the managers during the break between innings but play it during the inning" bits.
2008-07-06 18:01:41
133.   RIYank
132 But, they do prevent Joe Morgan from talking.
2008-07-06 18:02:20
134.   OldYanksFan
I think it was the last straw when ARod causually told Cyn "bubbalah, I think Madonna has a nice tushy".
2008-07-06 18:02:27
135.   monkeypants
133 Very true. I hadn't thought of that.
2008-07-06 18:02:37
136.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
131 Boo-Yah! nice one.
132 agreed..excruciating..in Japan they also follow the Crash Davis cliche-handbook, but in local "humble" speaking style...snooze-inducing
2008-07-06 18:02:41
137.   RIYank
Braves win!
2008-07-06 18:03:06
138.   tommyl
Do we have a hit besides A-Rod?
2008-07-06 18:03:16
139.   Travis08
Varitek isn't having a good year defensively either, unless you assign him ridiculous credit for "handling the pitching staff."
2008-07-06 18:03:46
140.   RIYank
Yeesh. Six pitches. Come on, boys, make a showing here.
2008-07-06 18:04:09
141.   Chyll Will
127 Did reading his clippings make him color blind? >;)
2008-07-06 18:04:31
142.   OldYanksFan
I'll guess Molina's testicle is feeling better?
2008-07-06 18:04:38
143.   RIYank
138 No.
139 That's intangible, not defense.
2008-07-06 18:05:02
144.   monkeypants
That the players themselves voted Varitek on the As roster makes me care even less about the result of poll of players that Jeter is the most overrated.

Maybe players should be seen and not heard.

2008-07-06 18:05:23
145.   tommyl
140 Actually Wake is the one pitcher where working the count isn't that important. He can basically throw 200 pitches if he needs to.
2008-07-06 18:05:39
146.   Jeb
125 I loved it when McCarver did that. The Fire Joe Morgan guys roasted him.

131 Arod needs to grind out at bats so Morgan and Miller can talk about lightening rod.

2008-07-06 18:06:33
147.   monkeypants
142 I have no idea what Molina's testicle feels like. Yuk-yuk-yuk.
2008-07-06 18:06:54
148.   RIYank
Unbelievable!
If Joba didn't have to throw 0-2 pitches to Youk, he'd have a no-hitter.
2008-07-06 18:07:02
149.   Chyll Will
143 No, I agree. "Fondling" would be intangible...
2008-07-06 18:08:11
150.   RIYank
145 No, you'd think that would be true, but it isn't. He has a pretty normal pitch count average.
Show/Hide Comments 151-200
2008-07-06 18:08:13
151.   monkeypants
Why did the ESPN camera just zoom in on Youkilis' crotch?
2008-07-06 18:09:10
152.   Chyll Will
151 To highlight his intangibles?
2008-07-06 18:09:12
153.   RIYank
Oh, man.
Okay, Joba, here's your test. Fortunately we're up to the soft part of the order.
2008-07-06 18:09:32
154.   nick
damnit. now we need some Ks...
2008-07-06 18:12:44
155.   monkeypants
142 OYF, I have been thinking about our discussion on Molina and Posada (appropriate tonight as Molina threw out another base runner).

It occurs to me that if each SB is worth .16 R for the offense, and each CS is worth -.49, if opposing teams simply stopped running against Molina it would eliminate entirely his biggest advantage over Posada, the CS. So if Molina continues to throw guys out then ironically it is likely to lower his relative value (v. Posada) because teams will simply stop challenging him.

2008-07-06 18:12:53
156.   dianagramr
C-Rod to file for divorce tomorrow ...

http://tinyurl.com/6pnfhc

2008-07-06 18:13:03
157.   RIYank
Argh, DAMMMIT. Joba, not good.
2008-07-06 18:13:10
158.   nick
fuck, Joba rattled now...
2008-07-06 18:13:17
159.   monkeypants
Fire Meacham!
2008-07-06 18:13:27
160.   rbj
I hate seeing our pitchers covering home.
2008-07-06 18:13:54
161.   Eirias
Wow, that was a takeout slide there.
2008-07-06 18:14:33
162.   Alex Belth
That's a whole lot of beef there between Joba and Youk.
2008-07-06 18:14:43
163.   monkeypants
161 Huh? Joba blocked the plate--without the ball--and it was a clean, normal slide.
2008-07-06 18:15:16
164.   rbj
What's Lugo's batting average vs. his wife?
2008-07-06 18:15:35
165.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
161 162 what happened??? they get into it?
2008-07-06 18:15:47
166.   nick
I'd like to see the curve more often from Joba--is he afraid to hang one?
2008-07-06 18:16:09
167.   Alex Belth
Got to put Lugo away here...
2008-07-06 18:16:11
168.   RIYank
Thank god for Lugo.
2008-07-06 18:16:15
169.   nick
162 beef, as in, on the hoof?
2008-07-06 18:16:16
170.   monkeypants
165 Nothing happened. Nothing to see here.
2008-07-06 18:16:30
171.   Alex Belth
Nice. Now, double play ball.
2008-07-06 18:16:44
172.   RIYank
166 He's thrown a couple, I'm pretty sure.
2008-07-06 18:17:22
173.   Alex Belth
Nothing happened. Joba got his beefy ass in the way of the plate. Youk made a big slide. Hardball. Fine.

Laz Diaz's strike zone is brutal.

2008-07-06 18:17:36
174.   monkeypants
Rough inning so far for Joba, but nice to see that GB/FB ratio.

Where the f#ck was that pitch?

2008-07-06 18:17:50
175.   RIYank
In fact, that strikeout pitch looked like a curve. Gameday calls it a slider. (The Lugo pitch.)
2008-07-06 18:18:31
176.   RIYank
Now that looked like a slider.
2008-07-06 18:18:40
177.   Alex Belth
Okay, now one more...
2008-07-06 18:18:47
178.   OldYanksFan
156 That's gonna cost ARod some green. Think the Yankees will front him some money?
2008-07-06 18:19:06
179.   nick
Morgan calling that K a slider--could almost have been a hard curve....
2008-07-06 18:19:54
180.   nick
178 you know the Captain will help out...
2008-07-06 18:20:09
181.   monkeypants
179 Tough to say because it was so far outside, but it sure looked like a slider to me (for what's that worth).
2008-07-06 18:21:01
182.   monkeypants
That 2-1 pitch to Ellsbury might have been a curve at 82 mph.
2008-07-06 18:21:02
183.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
173 that's too bad..Youkilis, why do we hate him so??
2008-07-06 18:21:52
184.   rbj
Joba, you are a rookie. If the catcher tells you to bean the mascot, bean him.
2008-07-06 18:21:52
185.   RIYank
Oh, man, I thought he went.
2008-07-06 18:22:21
186.   monkeypants
183 I actually don't hate him at all. Then again, Schilling doesn't bother me either.

Sooooo...that was not a swing?

2008-07-06 18:22:29
187.   Jeb
164 Lugo's batting 1.000 against her.
2008-07-06 18:22:48
188.   nick
a bases loaded smash from lil Dusty off Joba would, I fear, be an all too fitting effective end to the Yankee season...
2008-07-06 18:22:51
189.   tommyl
Oh, don't let Dusty McSlappy come through here.
2008-07-06 18:23:39
190.   RIYank
Oh, crud. Well, that was flirting with trouble, and trouble arrived.
2008-07-06 18:24:01
191.   nick
oh, god, AND the little punk has to dink one in? un-fucking-bearable...
2008-07-06 18:24:20
192.   rbj
Crap.
2008-07-06 18:24:35
193.   monkeypants
Well, this will happen when you put everybody on base. Sigh. Will the Yankees ever score again?
2008-07-06 18:24:44
194.   RIYank
Jeez, I have to hand it to Pedroia, that was really good, just getting that pitch in play.
2008-07-06 18:25:24
195.   randym77
Whoa. Someone up in the pen already?
2008-07-06 18:25:38
196.   monkeypants
Wow, Gammons just informed us that Pedroia has great hand-eye coordination. That explains it. And such a rare quality in a sport like baseball.
2008-07-06 18:25:50
197.   ChrisS
and that'll do it for me, I've got better things to do than watch these guys get one-hit by the 73-year old TIm Wakefield while the rest of the Sox grind out out a gritty win against Joba the 8th inning guy.
2008-07-06 18:25:57
198.   Alex Belth
yeah, the question is: can they score anything off Wakefield?
2008-07-06 18:25:58
199.   OldYanksFan
Joba has tremendous confidence, but he needs to defer to his catcher.
2008-07-06 18:26:37
200.   rbj
Time to break out the scotch.

Memo to Yankee hitters -- Joba could use a breather here.

Show/Hide Comments 201-250
2008-07-06 18:26:48
201.   JeremyM
I'm sorry but Ellsbury swung and it wasn't even close.
2008-07-06 18:26:58
202.   RIYank
195 Yeah, because of the pitch count, not effectiveness.

Damn. He wasn't pitching badly, but those walks turned a dangerous inning into a very bad inning.

2008-07-06 18:27:19
203.   nick
184 199 affirmative. Ellsbury has no power, why walk him when worst case is he singles?
2008-07-06 18:27:45
204.   Jeb
198 he looks like he has the super-knuckler going tonight. We really need this win.
2008-07-06 18:27:49
205.   monkeypants
[199 Why? Ellsbury was fooled on the pitch and most time he's called out on the check swing.
2008-07-06 18:28:11
206.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
196 have really grown to dislike Gammons...
2008-07-06 18:28:12
207.   OldYanksFan
Wake has good control today. Not a good sign. It is often walks that lead to his downfall.
2008-07-06 18:28:19
208.   Max
Tough inning for Joba, but this game shouldn't feel over this early. But with our offense, that's the way it feels.
2008-07-06 18:28:33
209.   51cq24
i think ellsbury swung there, but there's just no way you can throw a slider every single time you have a hitter 3-2. does he ever just throw a fastball? someone should force him to, not just let him do what he wants every time.
2008-07-06 18:29:12
210.   JeremyM
206 I'm with you, it's ridiculous how biased he is.
2008-07-06 18:30:10
211.   RIYank
Maybe Wake is losing that control.
We need base runners for the next homer, that's for sure.
2008-07-06 18:30:14
212.   monkeypants
209 OK, but why do I have a feeling if he threw a fastball and Ellsbury tattooed it, people would post "HOW can throw that pitch to Ellsbury there????"
2008-07-06 18:31:54
213.   51cq24
212 the point isn't that you have to throw a fastball every time, but joba seems to throw a slider there always, and that's just stupid when you throw 97.
2008-07-06 18:32:02
214.   Jeb
Joba hasn't pitched too bad and has gotten squeezed like hell. Ellsbury was out in my opinion.
2008-07-06 18:32:04
215.   rbj
Neither Wakefield nor Mussina throw fastballs.
2008-07-06 18:32:46
216.   RIYank
Ooooh.
That 3-1 "fastball" was the pitch to hit, damn.
2008-07-06 18:33:02
217.   claybeez
212 Well, what stands out to me is that we are not mentioning the change or curve. He's mixing them in, but the batters know that neither will be an out pitch in a tough situation.
2008-07-06 18:34:23
218.   monkeypants
213 It's only stupid if it doesn't work. That time it worked, in my opinion. We'd have to look back at gamelogs to see if opposing players are hitting better on 0-2/1-2/2-2/3-2 sliders because they have clued in.
2008-07-06 18:34:32
219.   rbj
What reason is there to go out and have a conference when Wakefield is on the mound? It's not a strategy situation.
2008-07-06 18:34:58
220.   Jeb
finally, here's the Arod Madonna talk. kabbala...that's why we're not hitting.
2008-07-06 18:35:15
221.   monkeypants
Ding-ding-ding!!! A-Rod/Madonna discussion.
2008-07-06 18:35:54
222.   51cq24
218 it's not even just that it's a slider, it's that it's an intentional ball to try to get him to swing at. if you have the stuff to throw strikes and get guys out, you should use it more often when you need a strike.
2008-07-06 18:36:00
223.   tommyl
The Yankees offense is starting to remind me of Green Eggs and Ham. They refuse to hit every single type of pitcher in every single type of situation. I will not, can not take a walk. Sam I am.
2008-07-06 18:36:20
224.   RIYank
Robbie came within a millimeter or two of tying it up. Just under that fly ball to Drew. Damn. Now we'll need more walks.
2008-07-06 18:36:29
225.   monkeypants
Yep, the Yanks won't score again. Oh well, maybe Gardner will get a hit or some other little victory will give me something to pay attention to.
2008-07-06 18:36:38
226.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
218 all that irrelevant without the "O" coming through...
2008-07-06 18:36:42
227.   Alex Belth
Tought to get overly furious at the offense because Wakefield is just tough so far, but C'MMMON! They need to do something already!
2008-07-06 18:37:21
228.   nick
217 I'd say it's 90% fastball/slider; and I'll say that % is gonna have to go down signficantly if Joba wants to stop having trouble with guys the second time through the order....
2008-07-06 18:38:13
229.   tommyl
219 Especially because their pitching coach probably knows about as much about knuckleballs as I do.
2008-07-06 18:38:40
230.   Jeb
223 I will not hit on a train; I will not hit in the rain

I will not hit with a goat; I will not hit in a boat

I will not do it Sam I am; I will not get a hit or slam.

2008-07-06 18:38:47
231.   tommyl
227 It would be less tough if they were hitting before this game. Aside from that 18 run game against Texas they are back to hitting like the WOE
2008-07-06 18:39:22
232.   RIYank
Yeah, the problem isn't that our hitters "won't take a walk." Wakefield has been in the strike zone all night. Just 19 balls! (of course there were other out of the zone, obviously).
2008-07-06 18:39:23
233.   tommyl
230 Niceeeeeee
2008-07-06 18:39:29
234.   monkeypants
222 Maybe you're right. The griping (not you specifically) just sounds a bit reactionary to me. If he got the call everyone would be cheering the wicked slider that got him out of the inning. No one but no one would have said "the K is nice, but he's got to listen to Molina and throw a fast ball there."
2008-07-06 18:39:41
235.   Jeb
Ok, I will feel better if he drills cry-baby here.
2008-07-06 18:40:02
236.   randym77
The Sabathia trade includes the Brewers' top prospect, Matt LaPorta.
2008-07-06 18:40:36
237.   RIYank
Was that intentional??
2008-07-06 18:40:43
238.   Jeb
235 thank you Joba! Now I feel better.
2008-07-06 18:40:49
239.   tommyl
Hahahaha, STFU Youk. Crybaby.
2008-07-06 18:41:29
240.   monkeypants
Miller called that a slider, but that looked like a straight change on 2-1.
2008-07-06 18:41:35
241.   Chyll Will
230 Would you, could you, in the clutch?

Would you hit them in a bunch??

2008-07-06 18:42:00
242.   RIYank
Oh, jeez. Why not the high heat to finish him?? Oh well.
2008-07-06 18:42:20
243.   monkeypants
Well, there was the fastball on 3-2 to Youkilis for ball 4.
2008-07-06 18:42:44
244.   nick
oh, fuck, could we win ONE of these little battles?? it's getting to where I'm dodging all the Sox fans I know...
2008-07-06 18:42:47
245.   monkeypants
242 Funny.

I mean, you are being funny, right?

2008-07-06 18:43:17
246.   Jeb
241 I would not could not in the cluth; I will not hit them in a bunch.

I will not hit them, don't you see, especially with R.I.S.P.

2008-07-06 18:43:18
247.   tommyl
Ok, we have to win this game. Giambi just turned a DP.
2008-07-06 18:43:19
248.   RIYank
Giambino rifles it to Jeter, and back to Giambi for the DP!
2008-07-06 18:43:24
249.   nick
the Throwing Giambino!
2008-07-06 18:43:44
250.   monkeypants
That might have been the ugliest 3-6-3 DP ever. Somewhere Don Mattingly is crying.
.
.
.
But it worked.
Show/Hide Comments 251-300
2008-07-06 18:43:50
251.   tommyl
246 Excellent! I'm proud to have started this trend. If we can't win or hit, at least we can rhyme.
2008-07-06 18:44:59
252.   Alex Belth
Between Giambi and Jeter how improbable was that dp? LOL
2008-07-06 18:45:08
253.   RIYank
245 You have to throw it high there! I mean, if you want to win. If a team is rolling over, or self-absorbed, or whatever, then yes, throw a fastball in the dirt.
2008-07-06 18:45:09
254.   randym77
Joba's wearing actual stirrups. Not too many players wear those any more.
2008-07-06 18:45:40
255.   claybeez
Seems like since last inning Joba's fastball kinda flies out of the zone up and away to lefties and in to righties. Wasn't that part of the issue last game? Opening up too soon?
2008-07-06 18:45:54
256.   Max
Damn, that's what should have happened last inning. At least the kid made it through six (and could have done better if not for the damn umpire).
2008-07-06 18:46:17
257.   OldYanksFan
212 If you are going to get beat, you get beat with your best stuff. I admire Joba for the mentality of trying to fool them, rather then just throw heat. But for Joba, his heat is usually good enough. This is not the first time Joba shook off the FB and walked someone with his slider.
2008-07-06 18:47:00
258.   RIYank
It's kind of cool that Joba threw literally 50% faster than Wakefield.
2008-07-06 18:47:21
259.   rbj
We will not work the count
We will not grind out every AB

A rally we will not mount
The Banter we want to make sleepy.

2008-07-06 18:47:24
260.   tommyl
Hey, Lance, we'd like that strike call next time around. Geez.
2008-07-06 18:47:50
261.   monkeypants
Offense....making...me...sleepy...again. Must...stay...awake...find...help...
2008-07-06 18:48:37
262.   tommyl
Oh man, that knuckleball is dancing all around.

Woah! Girardi, get your money's worth.

2008-07-06 18:48:55
263.   monkeypants
Girardi thown out. At first I thought Molina was thrown out from the dugout, which would have meant a rare Moeller sighting.
2008-07-06 18:49:19
264.   randym77
Holy crap. Girardi's pissed. He looks like he's going to pop a vein.
2008-07-06 18:49:52
265.   RIYank
Yay Brett!

I dunno, the Molina pitch was borderline.

2008-07-06 18:50:01
266.   tommyl
Steal, steal, steal, steal.
2008-07-06 18:50:05
267.   nick
and Joe gets the Kid fired up!
2008-07-06 18:50:12
268.   rbj
Give 'em hell, Joe!
2008-07-06 18:50:17
269.   Jeb
ok, I called Joba throwing at Pukulis...Gardener needs to steal first AND third here.
2008-07-06 18:50:18
270.   randym77
Nice hit, kid.
2008-07-06 18:50:24
271.   monkeypants
OK, I'm awake now. I want to see Gardner run. This is all I have to look forward to, I think.
2008-07-06 18:50:34
272.   RIYank
263 Nope, it was our fourth catcher who got booted.
2008-07-06 18:50:38
273.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
264 why? plate calling finnaly get to him?
2008-07-06 18:50:41
274.   Chyll Will
264 Hop on pop?
2008-07-06 18:50:44
275.   nick
We will not hit it where they ain't,
We will not hit--we're feeling faint!
2008-07-06 18:51:19
276.   RIYank
269 Now that I'd like to see. They always told me you couldn't do that.
2008-07-06 18:51:43
277.   tommyl
Now take third Brett. You can do it.
2008-07-06 18:51:52
278.   RIYank
273 Yep.
2008-07-06 18:52:03
279.   monkeypants
Crap--the ball hit Gardner or he might be running to third.
2008-07-06 18:52:05
280.   OldYanksFan
I say go for 3rd. Jeter can still somehow hit into a DP here.
2008-07-06 18:52:58
281.   RIYank
Captain! Nice job.
Okay, here we go, boys.
2008-07-06 18:53:10
282.   Jeb
steal Derek steal!!!!
2008-07-06 18:53:11
283.   rbj
Sweet!
2008-07-06 18:53:11
284.   tommyl
Niceeeeeeeeee. Brett Gardner, we love you. DJ, welcome back.
2008-07-06 18:53:45
285.   monkeypants
280 Shame on you!
2008-07-06 18:53:46
286.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
Oh My Captain (Bring out the Grand Funk Railroad!)
2008-07-06 18:53:52
287.   tommyl
Steal steal steal steal
2008-07-06 18:54:18
288.   Jeb
275 but we might hit for Joe;
Even a man named Robby Cano.
2008-07-06 18:54:19
289.   rbj
Yup, everyone this side of Giambi should run on Wakefield.
2008-07-06 18:54:37
290.   RIYank
Oh, excellent, just excellent.
Here we go!
2008-07-06 18:54:47
291.   Chyll Will
Going in the other room to actually watch the game now, bye!
2008-07-06 18:54:53
292.   monkeypants
He looks a bit slower this year, but you have to send Jeter, no?

Or, wait until the Sox throw the ball away.

2008-07-06 18:55:09
293.   tommyl
Yes, c;mon Bobby, tie this thing up.
2008-07-06 18:55:22
294.   OldYanksFan
Joba at 101 pitches. I'll bet he's done.
2008-07-06 18:55:47
295.   51cq24
i guess girardi got his point across. he stopped calling strikes.
2008-07-06 18:56:09
296.   Alex Belth
C'mon Bobby!
2008-07-06 18:56:09
297.   tommyl
So far the Yankees are 2-2 in the coveted AMGE stat.
2008-07-06 18:56:19
298.   monkeypants
294 Probably. Robertson was already warming last inning. Still, it's nice that Robertson is getting some high-leverage appearances.
2008-07-06 18:56:35
299.   tommyl
Drat! Can we please get a break?
2008-07-06 18:56:35
300.   RIYank
Oh. My. God.

Bobby killed that one, too.

Show/Hide Comments 301-350
2008-07-06 18:56:40
301.   nick
all right! another break for us!
2008-07-06 18:56:45
302.   rbj
Shite! Nice grab.
2008-07-06 18:56:47
303.   monkeypants
285 280 Then again...
2008-07-06 18:56:56
304.   Alex Belth
Ah, is that horsesh**
2008-07-06 18:57:15
305.   OldYanksFan
Was that play in front of Jeter? Good thing William isn't here.
2008-07-06 18:57:20
306.   tommyl
300 Can't blame either Bobby or Derek there. Bobby did the right thing, worked the count full and then went with the pitch, that was a tremendous play by Lugo.
2008-07-06 18:57:51
307.   weeping for brunnhilde
FUCK.
2008-07-06 18:58:48
308.   RIYank
Oh, that was obviously not Jeter's fault.
2008-07-06 18:58:56
309.   rbj
BTW, SWB-Toledo are tied up 4-4 in the 11th. Looks like it's Free Baseball Sunday
2008-07-06 18:59:06
310.   monkeypants
305 Fire Meacham! Jeter is declining before our eyes!
2008-07-06 18:59:16
311.   RIYank
I mean, he's the tying run, he has to go on that line drive, obviously.
2008-07-06 18:59:21
312.   tommyl
Wow, Robertson has rocketed up the depth chart hasn't he?
2008-07-06 19:00:28
313.   tommyl
Gotta say, there's a lot of life on Robertson's fastball.

WTF, how was that not a strike?

2008-07-06 19:00:33
314.   randym77
Ah, well. Nice running by Gardner anyway.
2008-07-06 19:01:14
315.   RIYank
All of a sudden we have a better-than-average bullpen.
2008-07-06 19:01:52
316.   tommyl
315 It helps when LaTroy Hawkins isn't your 7th inning guy.
2008-07-06 19:01:57
317.   monkeypants
311 I don't know. It looked a selfish play by Jeter. Very bad approach to base running. Also, doesn't Abreu have to pull the ball in that circumstance. Frankly, I'm still pissed off about Joba's goddamn pitch selection.
2008-07-06 19:02:21
318.   tommyl
Lance Diaz is calling a truly awful game.
2008-07-06 19:03:21
319.   tommyl
317 That ball is 1 inch higher, Jeter holds up and we complain about how he should have been running on the ball. I give credit to Lugo for making a great play.
2008-07-06 19:03:45
320.   RIYank
Argh!
2008-07-06 19:04:15
321.   rbj
Derek, Derek, Derek.
2008-07-06 19:04:15
322.   monkeypants
Good range, bad decision to throw.
2008-07-06 19:04:27
323.   RIYank
317 Ah, I see. Yes.
'approach' : Banter :: 'consistant' : Morgan chat.
2008-07-06 19:04:28
324.   nick
yeah, Jeter has no business throwing that...
2008-07-06 19:04:51
325.   monkeypants
319 I was being sarcastic.
2008-07-06 19:05:25
326.   RIYank
Hey, no passed balls tonight -- is Cash that good?
2008-07-06 19:05:36
327.   OldYanksFan
Well, at least we don't have to discuss CC in pinstripes anymore.
2008-07-06 19:06:01
328.   RIYank
Dang it. Well, I don't think the Jeter error mattered, actually.
2008-07-06 19:06:27
329.   rbj
Well, Lugo would've scored even if he was only on first.
2008-07-06 19:06:30
330.   OldYanksFan
And that could be the ballgame.
Joba NEEDS to use his FB more.
2008-07-06 19:06:55
331.   monkeypants
Christ this team is somnambulant.
2008-07-06 19:07:37
332.   Max
Looks like Robertson's going to move back down the depth chart...hits to Lugo and Cash, yuk. Bad, bad, bad.
2008-07-06 19:08:12
333.   rbj
ISTM that Joba will pitch well, but if he gets into trouble he doesn't yet know how to deal with it. Once he gets that figured out he'll be great.
2008-07-06 19:08:58
334.   nick
man for man the damn Sox just seem to have better ABs then we do--they seem to foul off way more two-strike pitches, for example...
2008-07-06 19:09:14
335.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
I forget who wrote this the other day but..time to enjoy the positives in a non-playoff year methinks. Joba as a starter, A-Rod's continued brilliance, Mussina back in form...and...and.....
2008-07-06 19:09:15
336.   joejoejoe
What does Peter Gammons mean when he says Barry Bonds isn't a good fit for Boston because of "the nature of the city"? I don't understand.
2008-07-06 19:09:30
337.   RIYank
Yeah, the Cash hit was not a good sign. The Lugo hit was garbage, so I don't think it counts against Robertson.

But Cash is not good at hitting.

2008-07-06 19:10:16
338.   51cq24
is diaz the worst umpire ever?
2008-07-06 19:10:23
339.   RIYank
336 Oh, Boston has a whole lot of white racists. Gammons is just being coy.
2008-07-06 19:10:34
340.   nick
in spite of that run I still think I like Robertson more than anybody in the pen except Mo...
2008-07-06 19:10:47
341.   Travis08
326 The Yankees haven't had that many baserunners (just 4, one of which was A-Rod's HR), so there haven't been many situations where there could have been passed balls.
2008-07-06 19:10:55
342.   RIYank
338 Sadly, no, he's about average.
2008-07-06 19:11:14
343.   monkeypants
Despite the complaining about Joba's pitch selection and not handling trouble 333 330 [et al], he still gave 6 innings and 3 runs. And I don't think they hit a single ball hard off of him.

Yet, the offense has disappeared again. Really, do the starters have to pitch shutouts every night?

2008-07-06 19:11:15
344.   nick
339 exactly, and Gammons is heavily invested in kissing the asses of said individuals...
2008-07-06 19:11:30
345.   tommyl
332 Well that Lugo hit was a slow grounder just hit up the middle. The hit to Cash I'll give you, but the kid isn't going to be perfect. I'm sure PeteAbe is bashing him right now, something like "see that curveball can't fool major league hitters."
2008-07-06 19:12:12
346.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
336 media?
still so down on Gammons, remember last year his diatribe about A-Rod's opt-out annoucement, taking away from the WS and young players who respect the game like Dusty McGrit, etc...why does that irritate me so much?? am i just venting over another rough game..
2008-07-06 19:13:10
347.   rbj
343 Exactly. A quality start with just the one frustrating inning. And the game would still be within reach if the Yankee offense wasn't on the side of a milk carton.

I've got no problems with Joba.

2008-07-06 19:13:57
348.   monkeypants
344 You think that was kissing ass? I don't like Gammons, but cut him slack there..he basically just accused the city of racism on national TV. How much more overt could he, or ANY announcer, be without getting fired and earning the network a lawsuit?
2008-07-06 19:14:48
349.   tommyl
How the hell did A-Rod hit that pitch?!
2008-07-06 19:14:54
350.   RIYank
There's the base runner.
Now Giambi or Jorgie can tie it up for us.
Show/Hide Comments 351-400
2008-07-06 19:14:59
351.   Jeb
kabbala!

Arod HAS to steal here.

2008-07-06 19:16:51
352.   Max
345 I actually like Robertson and see more promise in him than say, Edwar, whose following among certain fans baffles me. I haven't been a fan of the Girardi regime so far, but giving Robertson a chance has been one of the better things he's done.

But that was a Farnsworth level pitch he hung to Cash. Hope he learns fast.

2008-07-06 19:17:25
353.   RIYank
Strike two may have been a strike. Strike one, no way in hell.
2008-07-06 19:18:10
354.   Jeb
348 what would be the grounds of such a lawsuit? You can't just sue someone from having an opinion.
2008-07-06 19:18:49
355.   Alex Belth
does anyone think the Yanks will come back and win this?
2008-07-06 19:19:18
356.   Jeb
ok Wakefield has punched out Jorge twice and they're pulling him? fine with me.
2008-07-06 19:19:23
357.   RIYank
Smart move, I think, yanking Wakefield.
2008-07-06 19:20:11
358.   tommyl
352 I like them both. Besides the fact that I just love watching hitters flail at Edwar's change, PECOTA tabbed him as the player with the highest breakout rate in the entire major leagues this year. That means his minor and major league numbers pointed to the chance that he could become a truly elite reliever soon. I'm all for that.
2008-07-06 19:20:30
359.   Alex Belth
I'd like to. But I can't say I'm brimming over with confidence here.
2008-07-06 19:20:41
360.   RIYank
355 Yeah, I give them a decent chance, actually. Maybe one in three that we come back and win?

356 He's tiring, and he's becoming less effective. I think it's a smart move.

2008-07-06 19:21:02
361.   Jeb
355 I do, but then again I'm an optimist.

I think pulling Wakefield with Jorge coming up is a mistake.

2008-07-06 19:21:07
362.   tommyl
355 No
2008-07-06 19:21:24
363.   weeping for brunnhilde
355 I'd like to...
2008-07-06 19:22:33
364.   RIYank
My man, Jorge!
2008-07-06 19:22:46
365.   Jeb
360 I'm just saying...
2008-07-06 19:22:50
366.   tommyl
Ok, Robbie, pleeeeeaaaassseeee smack a basehit here.
2008-07-06 19:23:04
367.   weeping for brunnhilde
Oh, how gorgeous.

And the ESPN camera was from the right angle to see the beauty of the hit and run.

Nice.

2008-07-06 19:23:14
368.   monkeypants
354 Come on, if an announcer called an entire city racist ("Bonds would never come to Boston because they are a bunch of white supremicists, crackers, and bigots"), there could be grounds for a lawsuit if the city contended that such an accusation was unfounded and had potential financial implications. You can have an opinion...that does not protect you from the repercussions of the things that you say.

In any case, lawsuit or not, that Gammons did not come out and call Boston racist overtly has little to do with him "kissing the asses" of the city or its denizens. He tactfully said as much on TV. That was pretty critical.

2008-07-06 19:23:16
369.   nick
their middle relief has been shaky of late; and yet even after that single, when I look inside me for the feelings of optimism, I'm coming up empty...
2008-07-06 19:23:16
370.   RIYank
361 Well, you were correct!
(Maybe he would have homered off Wake?)
2008-07-06 19:24:13
371.   monkeypants
I'm simply stunned that this team has scored in three separate innings.
2008-07-06 19:24:14
372.   RIYank
Robinson!!!!
2008-07-06 19:24:15
373.   rbj
355 The trend this season is not looking promising.
2008-07-06 19:24:24
374.   tommyl
YES YES YES YES YES YES
2008-07-06 19:24:34
375.   nick
stand up TRIPLE baby!
2008-07-06 19:24:37
376.   Travis08
What the hell was that throw?
2008-07-06 19:24:53
377.   weeping for brunnhilde
Oh my God, I'm in ecstasy!

Robby Cano!

Fucking beautiful.

It doesn't get any better than that, ladies and germs.

2008-07-06 19:24:54
378.   Jeb
368 Sorry I disagree. Claiming that a city has a reputation for racism isn't grounds for a suit. He's also going to hide behind the first amendment.
2008-07-06 19:24:56
379.   monkeypants
Shit, a no doubt triple for Robbie...and YS is not exactly a triple park. Sweet!!
2008-07-06 19:25:03
380.   Mattpat11
woohoo
2008-07-06 19:25:17
381.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
YAYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!
2008-07-06 19:25:18
382.   joejoejoe
I like triples!
2008-07-06 19:26:24
383.   Alex Belth
Your Turn Melky! ONly one out!

Get your boy HOME!

2008-07-06 19:26:29
384.   rbj
BTW all, the attorney general hit a 12th inning homerun to lead SWB over Toledo tonight, 5-4. Maybe he should get sometime as catcher so he'd be more versatile to NY.
2008-07-06 19:26:35
385.   Alex Belth
THAT IS AN ORDER!
2008-07-06 19:27:10
386.   monkeypants
378 I'm not going to argue constitutional law with you, because I am admittedly not equipped to do so. the main point I was making is that Gammons was not at all "kissing ass" with his comments. And I am no Gammons supporter.
2008-07-06 19:27:25
387.   weeping for brunnhilde
You know what?

I love Melky, but I just can't take it anymore.

2008-07-06 19:27:49
388.   rbj
Robbie, go in with spikes high.
2008-07-06 19:27:57
389.   Alex Belth
Melky, that was awful
2008-07-06 19:28:06
390.   RIYank
Jesus. Not a good throw but they still got him.
2008-07-06 19:28:19
391.   monkeypants
Out. Oh well.
2008-07-06 19:28:37
392.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
WTF happened there??? Cano got thrown out by Gritty McFishMac????? ARGGGHHHH!! Following this on GameDay makes it even more nerve-wrakcing...
2008-07-06 19:28:54
393.   Jeb
386 no problem monkeyman, I wasn't really addressing your other points though.
2008-07-06 19:29:35
394.   Alex Belth
dudes, you really should NOT lose this freakin' game.
2008-07-06 19:29:39
395.   weeping for brunnhilde
393 All my friends are junkies.
2008-07-06 19:30:40
396.   OldYanksFan
387 I'm with you. When I watch Ellsbury and Brett take smart ABs, it occurs to me that this is Mely's third year, and being young is no longer a valid excuse.
2008-07-06 19:30:52
397.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
395 I'm a toast Italian pizza...
2008-07-06 19:30:54
398.   weeping for brunnhilde
Remember when Nick Johnson got picked off?
2008-07-06 19:31:13
399.   monkeypants
Melky should steal. Also, this might be a spot for Betemit v. the RHP.
2008-07-06 19:31:59
400.   RIYank
399 Ooooooh.
Show/Hide Comments 401-450
2008-07-06 19:32:35
401.   rbj
Nice theft Melky
2008-07-06 19:33:07
402.   weeping for brunnhilde
Melky and Molina are killing us.
2008-07-06 19:33:14
403.   Jeb
Monkey, I will say that the Yanks sure as hell "Look" like they're trying tonight.
2008-07-06 19:33:16
404.   Alex Belth
We should see Manny soon enough...
2008-07-06 19:33:17
405.   monkeypants
Close, close play. Doesn't matter. Molina struck out. Again. Somewhere, Chad Moeller is reading War and Peace.
2008-07-06 19:33:32
406.   nick
so, maybe we carry three catchers in order to fool the other team into THINKING we might pinch-hit for one in the later innings? kind of a mindfuck thing?
2008-07-06 19:33:39
407.   OldYanksFan
386 I guess Gammo can't simply say "Da folk in Boston don't like dem darkies", but everybody knows it.
2008-07-06 19:34:31
408.   nick
You know, it's almost as if Molina knows he doesn't need to hit, he's gonna play a lot anyway. His approach up there is just such utter, unadulterated horseshit....
2008-07-06 19:34:38
409.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
Molina & Tek are in competition, who can make their fan base go Spinal Tap drummer first...
2008-07-06 19:36:00
410.   monkeypants
409 Do you 2008 ALL STAR CATCHER Jason Varitek?
2008-07-06 19:36:10
411.   Alex Belth
Farnsworth giving up a bomb here...
2008-07-06 19:36:26
412.   weeping for brunnhilde
Ok, listen up everyone: we need to win this baseball game.

Really.

Some way, some how.

I'm starting to feel like we don't have a very serious baseball club here anymore and frankly, I don't much care for it.

It's great we rallied to come back, but let's finish the fucking job.

2008-07-06 19:36:28
413.   Jeb
407 yeah, they fackin' hate dahrkies in Bawston. Kissing Suzy Kolber has a continual column on racism in beantown.
2008-07-06 19:36:28
414.   Jeb
407 yeah, they fackin' hate dahrkies in Bawston. Kissing Suzy Kolber has a continual column on racism in beantown.
2008-07-06 19:37:01
415.   monkeypants
406 They have Moeller so they can PH for Molina in the 9th down by three v. Papelbon, you know, in case the game goes into extra innings.
2008-07-06 19:37:11
416.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
410 What??
411 god..how do you bring him in a tied game like this??? why can't Mo go two????
2008-07-06 19:37:41
417.   RIYank
Oh, nice reverse curse, Alex.
2008-07-06 19:37:54
418.   Alex Belth
sure hope I'm wrong...
2008-07-06 19:38:05
419.   monkeypants
Roberston has moved up the chart, but he still can't displace Sir Whacker.
2008-07-06 19:38:54
420.   rbj
Hasn't Boston embraced David Ortiz? Or is he one of the "good ones?

And why am I getting the feeling we're going to have Every Day Kyle Farnsworth.

2008-07-06 19:39:26
421.   Jeb
damn....why am I hyperventilating....Oh right, Kyle's pitching 2 days in a row.
2008-07-06 19:39:42
422.   OldYanksFan
Farnsie throwing a lot of sliders...
2008-07-06 19:40:27
423.   OldYanksFan
Melky doesn't want to let Brett catch anything...
2008-07-06 19:40:55
424.   RIYank
420 Well, the racism thing is exaggerated. It's still there and arguably worse than any other MLB city. But it's not so bad that they can't embrace Ortiz. (Used to be that bad, in Rice's day.)
2008-07-06 19:40:56
425.   monkeypants
Did you see Melky try to call off Gardner on that ball well into LF? Maybe he is feeling the heat...
2008-07-06 19:42:01
426.   Max
407 368 I was out of the room when Gammons made his comments, but Gammons is very pro-Boston, so I really doubt he even tried to imply racism as a reason Bonds wouldn't be accepted, because the city (and the sports press especially) is very sensitive about such implications.

If I just take the quotes in this thread at face value, I actually took his wording as an attempt to flatter fans in the New England area...implying that Boston fans have less tolerance for moody, self-absorbed superstars than other major markets (the implication being that NY, SF, Philly, etc would be more accepting if the guy performed, whereas there's more of a moral dimension to Boston fandom).

Hey, I know I'm reaching, but I wouldn't be surprised if that's what Gammons meant. The "Boston is racist" meme is just too loaded to put out on national TV, and Gammons knows it.

2008-07-06 19:42:13
427.   RIYank
Whew. Good Farns.
Okay, now we have to score so Mo can do the Save thing.
2008-07-06 19:42:27
428.   Alex Belth
blow me, Youk!
2008-07-06 19:42:47
429.   weeping for brunnhilde
Wow.

Nice job, Kyle Farnsworth.

2008-07-06 19:44:23
430.   OldYanksFan
Wow... that was actually a nicely pitched inning.
2008-07-06 19:44:36
431.   weeping for brunnhilde
428 Ha h aa ha ha aah a !

Someone's enjoying some tasty beverages.

2008-07-06 19:44:49
432.   monkeypants
424 Plus, more specific to Bonds' case--he has said in interviews how much he likes the "open" atmosphere in San Francisco, and there seems little doubt that he is particularly sensitive to racial issues real or perceived. So, whatever the reality of Boston, Gammons may be correct to say that he does not see Bonds wanting to play there.
2008-07-06 19:45:11
433.   Jeb
413 424 426 Just so there's no misunderstanding, I am mocking Boston in my comments. And they're meant to be tongue in cheek.

I guess it's hard to measure whether Boston is a racist town or not. Reputations are a hard thing to live down, like it or not. Hell, the city I live in was absolutely notorious in the 1960's. I've met a number of New Englanders who were racist, and others who weren't.

2008-07-06 19:45:16
434.   RIYank
431 No, Alex doesn't drink, remember?
2008-07-06 19:45:46
435.   Jeb
428 Wow Alex...that was INSPIRED!
2008-07-06 19:46:34
436.   rbj
424 Maybe, but I've encountered blatant racism here in Toledo and in northern NJ and upstate NY (various comments, though there was KKK recruiting one time in a bar in Rhinebeck NY, I nearly got into a fight with them). As a country we are getting better, but there's still a way to go. Having spent a few years in South Carolina I think the South is unfairly caricatured on this point.

Two good nights in a row for EDKF?

2008-07-06 19:47:19
437.   Jeb
By the way, has anyone read the last couple of posts over at Cardboard Gods? Josh Wilker is fantastic, even if he does like the Red Sawx.
2008-07-06 19:47:45
438.   RIYank
Ohhhhhhh. Close, Brett, very close.
2008-07-06 19:48:05
439.   weeping for brunnhilde
Nice slapping there, Gardner!
2008-07-06 19:48:47
440.   RIYank
Dang, that figures. The change.
Man, that was so close to heroic...
2008-07-06 19:49:00
441.   Mattpat11
Did that hit chalk?
2008-07-06 19:49:24
442.   weeping for brunnhilde
431 No, I didn't realize that!

The bowl, then.

:)

2008-07-06 19:49:49
443.   Jeb
436 KKK in the north? Wow. Morris Dees pretty much shut the Klan down in Alabama. He sued one of their chapters after a young black man was killed in Mobile and his mother ended up owning their meeting hall. How's that for irony?
2008-07-06 19:50:24
444.   RIYank
436 Sorry, I'm not getting your point. I'm saying things have gotten a lot better in Boston in, say, the last thirty years, but that there's still racism. You doubt that?
2008-07-06 19:52:10
445.   RIYank
Two decent At-Bats, nothing to show.
But if Bobby gets on...
2008-07-06 19:52:26
446.   Jeb
Okay, who do we use in the 9th? Veras? Edwar? Mo?
2008-07-06 19:52:58
447.   nick
Bobby so due for a bomb...
2008-07-06 19:53:29
448.   Jeb
444 there's racism everywhere though. Boston gets the reputation because of the busing issues.
2008-07-06 19:53:56
449.   randym77
426 I agree. I think he meant Boston isn't likely to put up with Bonds' crap.

For awhile one of the SF beat writers was pushing for the Giants to trade for A-Rod. One the grounds that A-Rod would never be accepted in NY, because New Yorkers hate phonies. San Franciscans don't mind, though, and he pointed to Bonds as an example.

2008-07-06 19:54:19
450.   monkeypants
445 I almost hope Abreu doesn't get on with two outs...that way the big boys come up to start the 9th.
Show/Hide Comments 451-500
2008-07-06 19:54:20
451.   Jeb
447 Or he could work a walk and then..... KABBALA!!!
2008-07-06 19:54:48
452.   RIYank
Grrrrrr.
Great catch, damn you.
2008-07-06 19:54:58
453.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
436 443 so depressing to find racism everywhere..real estate agent down the street offering apartments but "no pets, no foreigners"...

Mo in the 9th please!!!!!!!

2008-07-06 19:54:58
454.   Jeb
KABBALA in the 9th then?
2008-07-06 19:55:03
455.   Eirias
446 Mo? Do you want to lose the game?
2008-07-06 19:55:06
456.   weeping for brunnhilde
Bobby's been robbed twice now.
2008-07-06 19:55:34
457.   Jeb
453 now that's likely a lawsuit.
2008-07-06 19:55:40
458.   Alex Belth
Do they bring in Mo?
2008-07-06 19:55:52
459.   OldYanksFan
So who's in? Mo threw a lot of pitches yesterday. He certainly can't throw 2. Edwar? Do or die with Mo?
2008-07-06 19:56:45
460.   RIYank
It's Mo in a tie game!
2008-07-06 19:56:50
461.   monkeypants
449 et al. Maybe that's what Gammons meant. Or maybe he was referring to this:

'In an interview with the Boston Globe, Bonds was asked a cream puff question about whether he would consider finishing his career in Beantown. Bonds shook his head and said, "Boston is too racist for me. I couldn't play there. That's been going on ever since my dad (Bobby) was playing baseball. I can't play like that. That's not for me, brother." When the reporter countered that the racial climate has changed in Boston, Bonds responded, "It ain't changing. It ain't changing nowhere."'

http://www.counterpunch.org/zirin06232004.html

(I'm sure I could find the original Boston Globe article if I tried...)

2008-07-06 19:57:32
462.   rbj
444 I'm just saying that there's still racism all over, not as bad as it used to be (I remember reading about the anti-busing stuff in Boston in the 70s).

I'm sure there's still some racism in Boston. Not as overt as it used to be, just like everywhere else, but it still is around. Which is frustrating.

443 A-yup. Don't know where they were from, but the girl I was chasing was arguing with them and as I was into Tae Kwon Do at the time, I was eager to show off. Fortunately things settled down.

2008-07-06 19:58:00
463.   nick
ok, so we're due for good Mo, right?
2008-07-06 19:58:13
464.   monkeypants
Oh my God...he's allowed 4 (four, IV) runs in non-save games!!!!!
2008-07-06 19:58:27
465.   williamnyy23
I've been following this one on the radio until now. Does anyone know if Jeter getting doubled off was a bad play on his part. In two halves of an inning Jeter got doubled off and then made an error that led to a run. It seems like another bad night for the captain.

Also, I was pleading for a squeeze with Melky up in the 8th. Why don't the Yankees realize that Melky can't hit right handed?

2008-07-06 19:58:44
466.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
453 much worse to be found here. the governor of Tokyo said there were "too many black bbouncers in the night club district. but not the good American blacks, African blacks who speak funny and commit crimes"...yeah, can be tough not losing it here at times!

460 HAS to be Mo here! you don't lose with your best on the pine

2008-07-06 19:58:44
467.   RIYank
Goddam it! Isn't that typical.
2008-07-06 19:59:40
468.   RIYank
Ooooh, this is bringing back bad memories.
2008-07-06 19:59:46
469.   monkeypants
OK Mo, settle down after that flare. Two more outs...
2008-07-06 20:00:09
470.   RIYank
Uh.
Varitek to pinch hit.
Okay...
2008-07-06 20:00:30
471.   Alex Belth
Tek will get the big hit today. Bloop to right...calling it.
2008-07-06 20:00:39
472.   randym77
It wasn't Jeter's fault. It was an amazing play by Lugo.
2008-07-06 20:00:41
473.   rbj
Gotta log off.
Good night all.
2008-07-06 20:00:41
474.   Mattpat11
465 Not a bad play on him. And when they gave up a double to Johnny Cash after the error, the error was kind of meaningless.
2008-07-06 20:00:42
475.   monkeypants
465 See 305 and forward.
2008-07-06 20:00:42
476.   nick
I fear the old flare-bunt-flare strategy here...
2008-07-06 20:01:05
477.   Alex Belth
465, that wasn't a bad play by Jeter, just bad luck. Abreu hit the ball hard.
2008-07-06 20:01:31
478.   nick
wow, Mo is so graceful in the field....
2008-07-06 20:01:33
479.   RIYank
That's more like it.
Tek has good numbers against Mo, but...
Oh, here's Manny. Now I get it.
2008-07-06 20:01:35
480.   joejoejoe
The players voted for Varitek? Which players? The NL players?
2008-07-06 20:01:50
481.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
wait.. they actually brought VARITEK in to pinch-hit???
2008-07-06 20:01:53
482.   monkeypants
Sure he's out, but do you see how 'Tek played the right way, advanced the runner, gave himself up? No selfish approach there.
2008-07-06 20:01:55
483.   weeping for brunnhilde
There's nothing to be gained by pitching to Manny.

Nothing.

2008-07-06 20:02:27
484.   Jeb
so we have to walk Manny, right? His run doesn't matter much [fn1] AND he creates a force at second.

[fn1] no I don't want to be down 6-4, but if we're down 5-4 to the Sox isn't the game already over?

2008-07-06 20:02:34
486.   RIYank
471 Belth is 2-for-2 woith the reverse jinxes tonight...
2008-07-06 20:02:34
487.   nick
so this is Mo's decision, right? I call the unintentional/intentional...
2008-07-06 20:02:39
488.   monkeypants
481 You mean 2008 ALL STAR CATCHER Jason Varitek?
2008-07-06 20:02:59
489.   Eirias
And it begins.
2008-07-06 20:03:40
490.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
Mo vs. Manny..as good as it gets...
2008-07-06 20:04:23
491.   RIYank
HA!

The Banter managers are made to look foolish by His Moliness!

2008-07-06 20:04:35
492.   Jeb
484 I still say that was a mistake...but WOWWOWOWOW!

Time for some KABBALA!

2008-07-06 20:04:37
493.   Eirias
That was rewarding.
2008-07-06 20:04:39
494.   tommyl
Oh man, that was a thing of pure beauty. Thank you Mo.
2008-07-06 20:04:40
495.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
Holy Shit!! 3 called strkes!!!! YAHOOOOO!!!!
2008-07-06 20:04:45
496.   monkeypants
Wow. I am dumbstruck. I don't know if those were off the plate, but I have never seen Manny so meek.
2008-07-06 20:05:00
497.   weeping for brunnhilde
Oh my God!

Oh my God!

Oh my God!

Carved. Up. Manny.

Carved his ass up.

Mariano Rivera, ladies and gentlemen.

Someday we'll be telling our grandkids...

2008-07-06 20:05:11
498.   nick
wow--I'm calling the end of the Manny era. book it.
2008-07-06 20:05:20
499.   Travis08
That looked like an at-bat by an AL pitcher.
2008-07-06 20:05:22
500.   OldYanksFan
Power AB by Manny there. So much for his contract year.

Did Mo only throw 6 pitches there?

Show/Hide Comments 501-550
2008-07-06 20:05:45
501.   randym77
Wow. Manny not being Manny. Were they just hoping we'd walk him? It looked like he had no intention of swinging at anything.
2008-07-06 20:05:45
502.   Alex Belth
Wow.
2008-07-06 20:05:57
503.   RIYank
Seriously, I can see the decision to pitch to him. A two run deficit would, in fact, be a lot worse than a one run deficit.
I think that could have gone either way, close call.
2008-07-06 20:06:00
504.   williamnyy23
Thanks for the info...of course, Sterling wasn't very forthcoming with the details.

In a weird way, I am glad they pitched to Manny because I was convinced that Ellsbury would try a drag bunt.

2008-07-06 20:06:38
505.   Alex Belth
Just get a base hit, a walk, just GET ON, A Rod!
2008-07-06 20:06:42
506.   weeping for brunnhilde
That was sublime, needless to say, but still, I'm not sure what was to be gained by pitching to him, other than inspiring awe in all of us in the baseball world.
2008-07-06 20:06:50
507.   OldYanksFan
THE TIME IS NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2008-07-06 20:07:01
508.   monkeypants
No Papelbon?
2008-07-06 20:07:14
509.   nick
all right, we win it right here boys; this cat is past his expiration date!
2008-07-06 20:07:38
510.   OldYanksFan
I smell A-Bomb......
2008-07-06 20:07:47
511.   Eirias
Jokajima. Wow. That is a bad joke.
2008-07-06 20:07:56
512.   Matt B
is it too much to ask to expect A-Rod to pass the Mick right now?
2008-07-06 20:07:59
513.   RIYank
508 Francona will surely be scolded by the front office...
2008-07-06 20:08:01
514.   dianagramr
OK A-Rod ..... justify our love!
2008-07-06 20:08:06
515.   weeping for brunnhilde
503 Sure, but Manny puts the fear of God into me the way Edgar Martinez used to.

Though perhaps, if he's really been struggling that badly...

2008-07-06 20:08:29
516.   randym77
That was just bizarre. Something's wrong with Manny. Er, something physical, I mean.
2008-07-06 20:08:44
517.   Matt B
512 Guess so.
2008-07-06 20:08:45
518.   RIYank
Argh.
He nailed it, but right to Lowell.
2008-07-06 20:09:50
519.   joejoejoe
I'm not going to bury Manny for one AB. I remember Mo getting torched a few years back by the Red Sox to open the season and everybody said he was done. I'd say this round to Rivera and not much more.
2008-07-06 20:10:39
520.   RIYank
515 Their chances of getting some kind of base hit (Manny, Jacoby) were probably pretty close. Don't you think? I mean, the most likely hits there are flairs, broken bat garbage, slow grounder or seeing-eye grounder... Yes, Manny can bang the wall, but Jacoby can beat out an infield hit.
2008-07-06 20:11:14
521.   tommyl
Jorge Porgie pudding and pie. Please jack one here.
2008-07-06 20:11:22
522.   williamnyy23
Giambi missed an absolute cookie. That was an awful pitch.
2008-07-06 20:11:24
523.   nick
6 pitches for Mo, so he could go 2...
2008-07-06 20:12:05
524.   RIYank
519 But Manny does appear to be in decline. Not based on that one AB. He's not bad, but he no longer looks like a Hall of Famer.
2008-07-06 20:12:22
525.   monkeypants
The question now, Mo for two if they don't score?
2008-07-06 20:12:39
526.   RIYank
523 Hey, that's right, good point.
2008-07-06 20:12:53
527.   tommyl
WHAT?!!! that was at his feet.
2008-07-06 20:13:00
528.   monkeypants
Come on Posada, don't argue here.
2008-07-06 20:14:43
529.   monkeypants
527 It was a good pitch, but he called the previous better pitch a ball.
2008-07-06 20:15:23
530.   williamnyy23
Crap...Boston has the top of the lineup with Papelbon in reserved and the Yankees have the scrubs coming up next inning.
2008-07-06 20:16:12
531.   monkeypants
524 Manny:

2007 126 OPS+
2008 128 OPS+

He may be in decline given that his previous few seasons were 160, 152, 153, 165. But he's still pretty good.

2008-07-06 20:16:23
532.   RIYank
530 Cano is no longer a scrub.
2008-07-06 20:16:55
533.   OldYanksFan
That was our inning. The tide may have turned.
2008-07-06 20:17:02
534.   monkeypants
530 Ahhh, but the Yanks have cleverly saved Betemit/Moeller for extra innings!
2008-07-06 20:17:13
535.   pistolpete
530 What's the difference? Yanks didn't do squat with 4,5 and 6...
2008-07-06 20:17:32
536.   tommyl
530 Don't worry we can always PH with Justin Christian and Chad Moeller.
2008-07-06 20:18:07
537.   RIYank
531 That's kind of what I said, no?
I admit I may have been influenced by his weak-ass June.
2008-07-06 20:18:14
538.   OldYanksFan
Obviously, our manager thinks this is an important game.
2008-07-06 20:18:16
539.   pistolpete
Brainwash makes the catch.
2008-07-06 20:18:58
540.   Jeb
Man, if only Cano had scored in the 8th. I assume Papelbon will pitch 2 innings if needed. I hope we run his pitch count up.
2008-07-06 20:19:28
541.   monkeypants
537 I'm not arguing with you. Just making conversation.

538 Who is the manager right now?

2008-07-06 20:19:32
542.   Jeb
539 kabbala!!
2008-07-06 20:19:37
543.   RIYank
Good-bye, Dusty.
2008-07-06 20:19:39
544.   pistolpete
Uh oh, I just remembered — this is a non-save situation for Mo.
2008-07-06 20:19:49
545.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
at this pace Mo can go 3?
2008-07-06 20:20:05
546.   pistolpete
542 Oh I'm sorry, did I miss the new nickname? :)
2008-07-06 20:20:34
547.   Jeb
544 Shhhhhhh he'll hear you.
2008-07-06 20:20:48
548.   RIYank
Gulp. Thanks, Jason.
2008-07-06 20:21:07
549.   randym77
Wasn't Justin Christian sent down? I thought I read he was playing in the AAA All-Star game.
2008-07-06 20:21:08
550.   Jeb
546 well, Mo just got Nancy Drew out.
Show/Hide Comments 551-600
2008-07-06 20:21:10
551.   nick
oh man, cherrypicking Ortiz clutchiness stats...must---destroy--espn stats department...
2008-07-06 20:21:10
552.   OldYanksFan
16 pitches. Can Mo go 3?
2008-07-06 20:21:13
553.   monkeypants
Is it me, or has Morgan been relatively lucid tonight?

Nice stretch by Giambi on that high throw by Jeter.

2008-07-06 20:21:21
554.   weeping for brunnhilde
Derek's arm worries me.

How 'bout that Mariano Rivera, ladies and gentlemen?

He's pretty good, eh?

2008-07-06 20:21:44
555.   Alex Belth
This could last a while...
2008-07-06 20:21:54
556.   Jeb
549 called up because of Damon.

So it's Edwar and then Veras? Or vice versa?

2008-07-06 20:22:08
557.   nick
when Mo is sharp it almost doesn't matter who's up there; just another guy with some wood in his hands...
2008-07-06 20:22:18
558.   monkeypants
552 I would start him next inning (if it goes that far) because he is gonna have to sit tomorrow night anyway after three innings in two games. I doubt they will push him, though.
2008-07-06 20:22:47
559.   Jeb
553 yes, I am controlling his words from afar....kabbala to you, sir.
2008-07-06 20:23:11
560.   RIYank
556 Not gonna need 'em, Jeb.
2008-07-06 20:24:11
561.   Eirias
I don't know how, but I have somehow convinced myself that Papelbon must be a bad human being. I genuinely dislike him, and the fact that I do so only because he pitches for the Sox troubles.
2008-07-06 20:24:45
562.   nick
c'mon Robbie!
2008-07-06 20:24:50
563.   Jeb
560 I really hope you're right.
2008-07-06 20:24:54
564.   pistolpete
Uh oh, the 4 year old on the mound is making his naughty face...
2008-07-06 20:25:35
565.   nick
561 he's pure evil, I couldn't agree more ;^)
2008-07-06 20:25:43
566.   RIYank
And here we go...
2008-07-06 20:26:13
567.   pistolpete
Thaaaaaaaat's it, Miller. Talk some more about how few baserunners Papelbon's allowed.
2008-07-06 20:26:14
568.   RIYank
What would be cool would be a steal and then a sac. Not gonna happen.
2008-07-06 20:26:33
569.   nick
Melky bunting and Melky not bunting both horrify me here...
2008-07-06 20:26:38
570.   monkeypants
OK, so this is finally the bunt-then-PH time, right?
2008-07-06 20:26:52
571.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE win this one against Lord O' The River Dance...
2008-07-06 20:27:06
572.   pistolpete
Whew. Of course Melky bunted it the wrong way.
2008-07-06 20:27:22
573.   RIYank
Hey! A that's why no Betemit earlier. Saving him.
2008-07-06 20:27:39
574.   Jeb
So Betemit for Molina?

By the way, wouldn't it be cool if Brett hit a walk-off flair to center?

2008-07-06 20:27:43
575.   nick
Paps lost his nerve there; had the play...
2008-07-06 20:27:49
576.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
I like Wilson but...i feel a K coming here...
2008-07-06 20:27:56
577.   monkeypants
Do you have Cano steal third here? Do you PR for Cano (Betemit can go into 2B)?

I'm just musing here.

2008-07-06 20:28:01
578.   pistolpete
I was pretty much busy all day with yardwork, so I missed the Sabathia stuff. Anyone else have the same reaction as me?

"The BREWERS ?!!"

2008-07-06 20:28:19
579.   Alex Belth
let's go Wilson!
2008-07-06 20:28:34
580.   Eirias
WE'RE USING ANOTHER CATCHER! Not that it will get that far.
2008-07-06 20:28:59
581.   monkeypants
573 See 534

: )

2008-07-06 20:29:00
582.   dianagramr
578

Flags fly forever ...

2008-07-06 20:29:40
583.   dianagramr
Betemit Betamax ...
2008-07-06 20:29:49
584.   joejoejoe
Red Sox pinch hit with a catcher who isn't hitting his weight. Yankees pinch hit with a career utility infielder. It's like watching normal teams play ball. It's refreshing!
2008-07-06 20:30:12
585.   Alex Belth
piteful
2008-07-06 20:30:19
586.   Jeb
578 that had been the rumor for awhile. I am so glad the Brewers got him because they probably won't resign him and that keeps him from a team like the Sawx, Angels, Rays, etc., who might extend him. Now he and Sheets will be available to us next year.
2008-07-06 20:30:23
587.   Alex Belth
Here's the slap hit, game winner...
2008-07-06 20:30:40
588.   monkeypants
Right move to PH for Molina, but that's a tough match-up all the way around. Not much to do when you have to face Papelbon with Molina or Betemit or Moeller or Christian.
2008-07-06 20:31:04
589.   Jeb
574 c'mon Brett....walk off.
2008-07-06 20:31:24
590.   pistolpete
"Cold blooded" look. ROFL.
2008-07-06 20:31:27
591.   RIYank
581 ;-)
2008-07-06 20:32:35
592.   Jeb
just a flair....just a flair...
2008-07-06 20:32:55
593.   monkeypants
Gonna be the big splitter here...
2008-07-06 20:32:55
594.   randym77
584 The Nats ended up sending our pal Wil Nieves up to pinch hit today in the 9th, with the game on the line. (He struck out, and they lost.)
2008-07-06 20:33:00
595.   Matt B
c'mon, the legend of brett gardner starts here!
2008-07-06 20:33:46
596.   RIYank
Seriously setting up Gardner for a breaking ball...
2008-07-06 20:33:52
597.   dianagramr
Gardner at Night

(bad paraphrasing of an REM reference)

2008-07-06 20:34:03
598.   pistolpete
Papelbon has the "redneck confused by a bugzapper" look.
2008-07-06 20:34:34
599.   monkeypants
Gardner seems to get really good ABs...now, can he just get enough hits to stick?
2008-07-06 20:34:48
600.   Eirias
Isn't Lugo out of the game?
Show/Hide Comments 601-650
2008-07-06 20:34:55
601.   joejoejoe
Scranton-Wilkes Barre in the hizzouse!
2008-07-06 20:35:01
602.   RIYank
The Constant Gardner!!!!
2008-07-06 20:35:13
603.   dianagramr
598

:-)

I liken it to more of "sucking on a lemon"

2008-07-06 20:35:15
604.   pistolpete
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2008-07-06 20:35:15
605.   Alex Belth
YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH
2008-07-06 20:35:18
606.   nick
the KID!!!
2008-07-06 20:35:26
607.   williamnyy23
The ghost of Luis Sojo lives!!!
2008-07-06 20:35:28
608.   Matt B
597 I prefer to go LeCarre: The Constant Gardner.
2008-07-06 20:35:32
609.   Jeb
oh Brett We love you here at the Banter!!!!!!! Even if the wife-beater had gotten to that one he had NO CHANCE to throw you out.
2008-07-06 20:35:45
610.   tommyl
BRETT GARDNER!!!!!
2008-07-06 20:35:50
611.   pistolpete
Johnny? Johnny who?!!!!!
2008-07-06 20:35:50
612.   weeping for brunnhilde
YAAAYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!

HA AH AH AA AHA H AHA !!!1

YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-07-06 20:35:52
613.   williamnyy23
Joe and John sound a little down.
2008-07-06 20:35:57
614.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
YAHHHH!!!
2008-07-06 20:36:10
615.   monkeypants
599 Hmmmm...could be...
2008-07-06 20:36:21
616.   randym77
Yeah, Gardner!
2008-07-06 20:36:22
617.   Matt B
Man that was a big win.
2008-07-06 20:36:44
618.   williamnyy23
And there is bedlum in the streets of Tampa!
2008-07-06 20:36:58
619.   weeping for brunnhilde
Oh, man, I'm spent. That was a taxing baseball game.

Wow, we won, we won!

Right back up the gut, nice and easy!

Brett Gardner!

What a great, great AB.

2008-07-06 20:37:46
620.   Jeb
kabbala everyone! That's our new motto (at least it's mine).
2008-07-06 20:37:55
621.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
Someone describe the scene for us GameDayers please! and tell us that Paps is sulking in the dugout!
2008-07-06 20:38:06
622.   monkeypants
607 : )
2008-07-06 20:38:32
623.   dianagramr
Who is Karim Garcia?

Who cares ... we have Brett Gardner.

2008-07-06 20:38:41
624.   Alex Belth
Winning feels good. You know, it's Better N Losing!
2008-07-06 20:38:46
625.   RIYank
608 Oh, not even close, my friend 602 .
2008-07-06 20:38:58
626.   Mattpat11
Gardner was unfazed by the kissy face.
2008-07-06 20:39:01
627.   monkeypants
620 Be careful...just like the 'stache, you must not invoke the power of kabbala irresponsibly.
2008-07-06 20:39:14
628.   pistolpete
620 How about "El Kabbala"...?

BTW, just tuned in for the 8th. How did Joba look?? K/BB rate pretty close as usual, I see.

2008-07-06 20:39:41
629.   Jeb
Thank you Terry Francona for pulling Wakefield against Jorge. Thank you Madonna for the fine vibe of "kabbala". Thank you Robby for a triple and the big hit in the 10th. Thank you Brett for being our hero.

Did I mention that I LOVE this team?

2008-07-06 20:39:48
630.   joejoejoe
Scranton-Wilkes Barre in the rear view mirror! Welcome to the Bronx Mr. Gardner!
2008-07-06 20:40:24
631.   tommyl
Gotta hand it to the kid tonight. Steal sets up one run, and he knocks the other one in in the 10th against Papelbon after coming back from an 0-2 count. Melky, watch out for that Wally Pip.
2008-07-06 20:40:37
632.   dianagramr
g'night all
2008-07-06 20:41:13
633.   RIYank
Well, just as ESPN expected, the young, home-grown second baseman and the speedy new outfielder combine in a plucky, gritty combination to win it!

Only not exactly the way they expected.

2008-07-06 20:41:48
634.   RIYank
631 And how about a little love for Robinson, please?
2008-07-06 20:44:02
635.   weeping for brunnhilde
634 He's my main man.

He was beautiful tonight.

2008-07-06 20:45:48
636.   weeping for brunnhilde
634 He's my main man.

He was beautiful tonight.

2008-07-06 20:45:54
637.   Jeb
634 Robby was BIG.

I just hope we can take our newfound MO-mentum and whip the Rays cocky asses in the Bronx on Tuesday and Wednesday (Snacks Ponson notwithstanding) and go pound some budweisers in Toronto.

LET'S GO YAN-KEES!

629 thank you Joba, thank you pen, thank you Kyle, thank you Mo.

2008-07-06 20:46:30
638.   weeping for brunnhilde
637 Yeah, totally; how 'bout that Kyle Farnsworth!
2008-07-06 20:47:27
639.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
637 638 amazing! going to be a happy lunch here today. have a good night all youse guys!
2008-07-06 20:47:28
640.   Jeb
BTW we're only 4 behind Bawston (only 3 in the loss column) and they look like they've got some problems with Manny.
2008-07-06 20:47:28
641.   Jeb
BTW we're only 4 behind Bawston (only 3 in the loss column) and they look like they've got some problems with Manny.
2008-07-06 20:47:36
642.   RIYank
Speaking of Mo-Mentum, was that Mariano Rivera jumping up and down in excitement???
2008-07-06 20:48:09
643.   weeping for brunnhilde
642 He was jazzed!
2008-07-06 20:48:11
644.   Jeb
639 have a good lunch man. It's 10:47 pm Birmingham time. Night all.
2008-07-06 20:48:11
645.   tommyl
Yankees are 2-0 in games Girardi has been thrown out of. If we can just get him to get tossed or Hank to make a proclamation everyday we'd be unstoppable.
2008-07-06 20:48:35
646.   pistolpete
642 Happy he didn't have to pitch again.

I honestly thought CC would go to Philly myself.

2008-07-06 20:49:55
647.   RIYank
The Sox are and will be good. But we have a real shot, I think.

Man, two against TB coming up, that will be something.

Night, folks.

2008-07-06 20:52:47
648.   joejoejoe
645 Yeah! Kudos to Girardi for a timely rant. I couldn't believe Molina was questioning Laz Diaz so much on the strike calls. Catchers rarely bitch when at bat, they have to see the guy behind the plate and get calls the next half inning. Then BOOM! Girardi comes out of the dugout and backs up his catcher with a rant. It was good timing for Girardi and I think it removed any excuses for the team's performance.
2008-07-06 20:56:07
649.   weeping for brunnhilde
If Robby can be Robby we'll be in decent stead.

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