Baseball Toaster Bronx Banter
Help
Game Three
2005-10-07 13:00
by Cliff Corcoran

There's a 90 percent chance of heavy rain starting tonight around the scheduled first pitch of Game Three and continuing through Sunday. In downtown Manhattan it's been overcast and unseasonably humid all day and as I look out the window now at 4:00, there are darker clouds rolling in and the wind has picked up considerably. The odds of the Yankees getting rained out to night seem very high. Still, on the off chance that the game is played tonight, here are my thoughts entering Game Three:

This is the eleventh time in eleven years that the Yankees have participated in a best-of-five ALDS, so we all know the deal by now. The road team is pleased to come home with a split, but Game Three is crucial. Much like on a 1-1 count to a batter, the difference between being up 2-1 or down 1-2 is tremendous. Thus, outside of the actual clincher itself, Game Three is easily the most important game in the series.

Good thing then that the Yankees have their ace ready to take the hill. Randy Johnson has faced the Angels twice this year. The first time he pitched six strong innings, but caught his spikes on the Angel Stadium mound, tweaking his back and forcing Joe Torre to turn to his bullpen early. After a classic case of Torre's bullpen mismanagement, Vlad Guerrero hit a grand slam off of Tom Gordon to hand the Yankees a 6-5 loss. In Johnson's next outing against the Angels, this time in New York, he had less success, allowing a pair of homers to the Molina brothers which drove in four runs. That time it was the Angel bullpen that blew the game, leading to an 8-7 Yankee win in eleven innings. Take away those two mistakes, however, and Johnson's line in that game improves to 7 1/3 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 2 BB, 7 K.

As Johnson has allowed just three home runs in his last eight starts of the season (two legitimate shots to Vernon Wells and Manny Ramirez and Tony Graffanino's fly ball to the red line atop the Green Monster) one hopes he'll be able to keep the Angels in the park tonight. Over those eight starts, Johnson has gone 6-0 with a 1.93 ERA and a 0.82 WHIP, proving to be the ace the Yankees traded, ultimately, Dioner Navarro, Brad Halsey, Randy Choate, Nick Johnson and the Angels' Juan Rivera for. Take out his ejection-shortened start in Toronto and his line improves to 49 2/3 IP, 27 H, 8 R, 2 HR, 11 BB, 42 K, 1.45 ERA, 0.77 WHIP in seven starts.

Paul Byrd, meanwhile, faced the Yankees just once this year, allowing three runs on nine hits and a walk over seven innings. Byrd is essentially Jon Leiber. Not only is he a righthanded sinkerballer who pitches to contact, owns righties (.211 GPA this year), struggles with lefties (.271 GPA), and absolutely refuses to walk anyone (just 28 walks on the season, 1.23 per 9IP), but since 2003 his career has followed the exact same path as Leiber's. Both pitchers signed a free-agent deal with a perennial playoff team before the 2003 season, then missed that season due to Tommy John surgery, finally joining their new club with the 2004 season underway. Both then became a crucial part of that team's rotation, pitching them into the playoffs where they made their postseason debuts, only to sign with a different club for 2005. What's more, the two pitchers were born just six months and one day apart in 1970 and were later drafted out of college. Of course, Byrd is smaller than the 6'3" 220-pound Leiber, and Leiber in no way resembles Kelsey Grammer.

After Bengie Molina went 2 for 4 with the game-tying hit and his second homer of the series in Game Two, Mike Scioscia said he would stick with Molina in the five hole behind Vladimir Guerrero, which is what he should have been doing all year (my comment, not his). Also, look for Scioscia to break out his right-handed line-up against Johnson, which would put Figgins in center, Robb Quinlan at third, and Steve Finley on the bench. I just hope he hasn't gotten a hold of my ALDS preview in which I point out that his line-up against lefties should really look something like this (listed by position, stats vs. lefties only):

1B: Kotchman (L) .344 OBP
2B: Kennedy (L) .348 OBP
SS: Cabrera (R)
3B: Quinlan (R) .542 SLG
C: B. Molina (R) .356 GPA
RF: Guerrero (R) .315 GPA
CF: DaVanon (S) .365 GPA
LF: Anderson (L)
DH: J. Molina (R) .303 GPA

Instead we'll probably get something like this (listed by batting order, stats vs. lefties only):

S - Chone Figgins (CF) .228 GPA
R - Orlando Cabrera (SS)
L - Garret Anderson (LF)
R - Vlad Guerrero (RF)
R - Bengie Molina (C)
R - Robb Quinlan (3B)
L - Darin Erstad (1B) .213 GPA
R - Juan Rivera (DH) .232 GPA
L - Adam Kennedy (2B)

Of course, Randy Johnson isn't your run-of-the-mill lefty. We're talking about a pitcher who has held Vlad Guerrero to a .200 OBP in 30 confrontations. That said, Orlando Cabrera has had great success against Johnson (8 for 22 with five walks and no Ks!), Erstad has handled the big Unit better than the typical lefty (5 for 20 with two walks and a homer), and we've already discussed what the Molina's did to him in his last start against the Angels at Yankee Stadium.

Meanwhile, the only thing we know about the last four spots in the Yankee order is that two of them will be taken up by Robinson Cano and Johnson's personal catcher John Flaherty. I for one would like to see Bubba Crosby back in center, even if having both Flaherty and Crosby in the line-up is less than ideal. If Torre decides to do that, his choice of DH becomes crucial. My initial choice would be Jorge Posada, who went 2 for 3 with a homer and a walk in Game Two. Joe is leaning in another direction:

"I'm not discounting [Posada as a DH]," Torre said on a conference call Thursday. "But we'll look and decide what our options are against Byrd and go from there. Right now, the first five guys will stay the same and then we'll arrange it from there on out. I'm not saying [Posada] won't be the DH, but I think it's doubtful."

Sierra is likely, Torre said, "because he's probably the most adept at it. He's had the most experience. You know, he loves the pressure and all that. He certainly would be a consideration. I think he would be the first consideration, and then you work out and match them up from there.

"But again, we want to get [Sierra] involved because we know what he can bring to the table, especially being a switch-hitter, and they don't have a left-hander coming out of the bullpen. The fact that Ruben has been down this road before, he would probably be the No. 1 guy we would look at." (MLB.com)

That sounds like a lot of veteranitis double-talk (and frankly, it is), but that doesn't mean Torre isn't on to something. In 78 at-bats as a DH from 1996-2004, Jorge posted a pathetic .179/.293/.282 line (this year he went 3 for 10 with a walk). What's more, Jorge is a dreadful 1 for 13 against Byrd in his career. Sierra, meanwhile, is 3 for 6 with a pair of homers against Byrd.

Still, Sierra hasn't hit under any circumstances this year and that sample size against Byrd is ridiculously small. Thanks to reader Shaun P, we also know how and when it was assembled:

In 2001 with Texas, Sierra walked, struck out, and hit a grand slam in 3 PAs against Byrd (Byrd was a Royal at the time). Note this game was at Kauffman Stadium, which was a severe hitters' park at the time. [the grand slam would also indicated that Byrd was strugging in that game as he'd loaded the bases in front of Sierra -CJC] In 2002 with Seattle, Sierra hit a single and a solo homer in 4 PAs aginst Byrd (still a Royal), this time at Safeco, of course not a hitters' park.

So what about Bernabe Figueroa Williams? Bernie hit .294/.362/.459 from the DH spot this year and .261/.330/.416 from the left side of the plate, both improvements on his overall numbers. What's more, Bernie is 5 for 15 off Byrd in his career with a pair of homers of his own, his best numbers against any of the Angels' pitchers.

DHing Bernie allows Torre to use Posada to replace Flaherty as soon as Johnson comes out of the game (which is exactly what he should do), and keeps Sierra, who frankly should have been left off the roster in favor of Matt Lawton, out of the game.

That would result in this line-up:

R - Derek Jeter (SS)
R - Alex Rodriguez (3B)
L - Jason Giambi (1B)
R - Gary Sheffield (RF)
L - Hideki Matsui (LF)
L - Robinson Cano (2B)
S - Bernie Williams (DH)
R - John Flaherty (C)
L - Bubba Crosby (CF)

Though what I expect to see is:

R - Derek Jeter (SS)
R - Alex Rodriguez (3B)
L - Jason Giambi (1B)
R - Gary Sheffield (RF)
L - Hideki Matsui (LF)
S - Ruben Sierra (DH)
S - Bernie Williams (CF)
R - John Flaherty (C)
L - Robinson Cano (2B)

Say it ain't so, Joe. Say it ain't so.

Comments (510)
Show/Hide Comments 1-50
2005-10-07 13:14:00
1.   Schteeve
Starting Sierra over either Bernie or Posada is quite possible the most stupefyingly stupid thing I can conceive of. I mean, for cryin' out loud, Joe.
2005-10-07 13:24:06
2.   nick
Imagine in if, oh, 2001 or so, somebody had told Joe that he'd one day be contemplating starting Ruben Sierra over Bernie Williams......Bernie dosen't "have the experience"? Can't handle pressure? WTF!?
2005-10-07 13:29:00
3.   Cliff Corcoran
1) He ain't done it yet.

2) I expect he'd be starting Sierra over Bubba, putting Bernie in CF. Not that that's a good idea either.

2005-10-07 13:31:57
4.   Dimelo
What happens if Sierra hits the game winning homerun today?
2005-10-07 13:36:23
5.   Paul in Boston
They should call this game as soon as it starts raining. Having Johnson warm up and not pitch would be bad, almost as bad as if he goes 4 innings then the game is called.
2005-10-07 13:37:08
6.   Cliff Corcoran
I'll be as happy to be wrong as I was on Tuesday when Mussina came up big in Game One.

Sierra will then start throughout the ALCS and hit .087.

2005-10-07 13:50:26
7.   Cliff Corcoran
Boston's getting their game in. Wakefield's knuckler must be moving like crazy. Through two he's hit two men and struck out three, the HBPs being the only baserunners and he's needed just 23 pitches.
2005-10-07 13:54:54
8.   pistolpete
Uribe just doubled - hopefully it only takes once through the lineup before the Pale Hose figure Wakefield out...
2005-10-07 13:56:43
9.   pistolpete
And now Posednik doubles HIM home

C'mon ChiSox- put Boston away TODAY. Don't give them any false hopes of some magical 2004-esque comeback.

2005-10-07 14:03:15
10.   Cliff Corcoran
Palehose up 2-0. Boston has 21 outs to salvage their season. Graffanino singles to lead off the bottom of the third.
2005-10-07 14:07:16
11.   nick
2-0 through three--if Garcia can hold em through six, I like that pen to put it away, Papi or no Papi...
2005-10-07 14:10:23
12.   Shaun P
Cliff, thanks for the mention - and good point about Byrd loading the bases in front of Sierra.

ChiSox now up 2-0. Dark clouds over Boston (literally) and no rain yet, but its certainly coming.

For either game - if the weather is bad enough to call the game, even if 5 full innings are played and someone is ahead, no way they make it official, right? (How would Boston - or any team in their position - act if they lost a rain-shortened game and were out of the playoffs as a result?) They've got to finish the game tomorrow, right?

Does anyone know what, if anything, the rule book says here?

2005-10-07 14:10:35
13.   randym77
Wakefield is looking pretty hittable to the White Sox.

Man, this weather sucks. It could rain for four or five days. Then what?

2005-10-07 14:12:06
14.   nick
Tino wd be better, 3 for 9 with BB and HR vs Byrd, 250/323/477 vs righties--but he never DHs, does he?.........& I'd love to see Sierra hit a game winning homer, coming off the bench with men on base, the way he should be used....
2005-10-07 14:23:04
15.   Cliff Corcoran
I really don't think Sierra should be used at all at this point, he hasn't hit righties this year and hasn't hit in his PH chances either (4 for 23 with two doubles and a walk, no homers).
2005-10-07 14:26:27
16.   Paul in Boston
Raining in NYC yet?
2005-10-07 14:29:36
17.   Shaun P
And in Boston, the only two offensive threats (according to debris) for the Saux tie the game. Gonna be a nail-biter, I think.

I'm in full agreement about never seeing Sierra play again. He was almost useless last year and he's been worse this year. I still don't understand why he was resigned - there have got to be 25 guys who played in AAA last year who could've filled his role, and performed far better.

2005-10-07 14:35:29
18.   Dan M
I see how this ends: 2-2 in the ninth (or 10th or 11th), when Papi or Varitek (PH-ing) hits a walk-off. Sox then have their swagger back and roll into the ALCS.
2005-10-07 14:48:38
19.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
Paulie K -- 2-run jack. 4-2 Good Sox
2005-10-07 14:49:11
20.   randym77
Whoa. Wakefield got the hook.
2005-10-07 14:49:49
21.   Paul in Boston
If I'm the White Sox, I'm thrilled Francona makes this move.
2005-10-07 14:49:55
22.   Marcus
Konerko with the jack, 4-2 South-siders.
2005-10-07 14:55:11
23.   zakysdad1
The playoffs won't be the same without the Saux
2005-10-07 14:56:50
24.   rbj
Man, this is what we're reduced to blog-commenting on the Sox-Sox game.

It's times like this that makes me rethink a retractable dome in the Bronx.

2005-10-07 14:57:52
25.   zakysdad1
I heard from a person inside Yankee Stadium that they're going to try and get the game in tonight at "all costs". I don't see how they could with the weather we're having (it's pouring torentially right now) and they're going to piss off a lot of people if they get everyone to drive in pay parking pay for beers and food and tell them to come back on Sunday......
2005-10-07 14:58:04
26.   nick
97 pitches through 5 for Garcia--think Ozzie goes straight to the pen and tries to end it right here?
2005-10-07 15:08:19
27.   randym77
Will the new Yankee Stadium have a retractable roof?

I hope so. It may not be tradition, but it sure is an advantage to the team, not to mention the fans, to be able to play the game as scheduled, regardless of the weather.

2005-10-07 15:17:22
28.   tocho
The line-ups announced in GameDay have Bernie in CF, Giambi DH and Tino as the 1B. So the bottom of the order is (and it is the BOTTOM literally) Williams, Flaherty and Tino.

On the Angels side Vlad has moved up to the 3rd. spot followed by fatty Molina and Anderson. Quinlan is in 3B and Chone is in CF

2005-10-07 15:19:27
29.   tocho
I wouldn't dare counting the BlowSux out until the last out of the game. They are very resilient and will put up a fight 'till the last out, especially at Fenway. 4-3
2005-10-07 15:20:49
30.   randym77
YES has the lineup:

Jeter SS
A. Rodriguez
Giambi DH
Sheffield RF
Matsui LF
Cano 2B
Williams CF
T. Martinez 1B
Flaherty C

No word on whether the game will actually be played.

2005-10-07 15:29:04
31.   randym77
Bases loaded for Varitek. El Duque is coming in. The Red Sox could pull this out yet.
2005-10-07 15:29:54
32.   tocho
The white sox in quite a pickle. Bases loaded no outs. Orlando "EL DUQUE" Hernandez to the rescue.
2005-10-07 15:33:28
33.   rbj
I miss El Duque.
2005-10-07 15:34:27
34.   tocho
I like him very much but I miss the '99 version of el Duque. Not this one
2005-10-07 15:34:46
35.   randym77
El Duque got Varitek out. Now it's Graffinino, with a chance for redemption.
2005-10-07 15:36:44
36.   atc
Why am I nervous watching the Red Sox game?
2005-10-07 15:44:18
37.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
Duque!!!!
2005-10-07 15:44:19
38.   rbj
El Houdini!
2005-10-07 15:44:55
39.   randym77
This version of El Duque doesn't suck. He got out of it!
2005-10-07 15:46:29
40.   tocho
I am a stupid idiot. Of course we miss El Duque. This inning was a classic!!!

Man, that dude has balls! and tons of pitches. AMAZING!

atc, I was also nervous because I was rooting hard for El Duque.

2005-10-07 15:48:32
41.   tocho
What's the weather update up in NY guys?
2005-10-07 15:51:09
42.   nick
Wow....wish I could have seen that--last truly great moment of El Duque's postseason career? I love it!
2005-10-07 15:59:02
43.   atc
Why do we not have El Duque again?
2005-10-07 16:00:06
44.   BxSparksNYC
What version of El Duque were you looking for again? As long as he's healthy, I'll take him any day of the week...
2005-10-07 16:00:20
45.   randym77
El Duque made short work of Big Poopy. Manny up now.
2005-10-07 16:01:11
46.   atc
This version looks pretty good
2005-10-07 16:02:29
47.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
6 outs.
2005-10-07 16:02:51
48.   randym77
Damn. Six up, six down.

I wish we had him in our bullpen. I sure don't want to face him.

2005-10-07 16:03:52
49.   BxSparksNYC
Duke's got weubos (balls) the size of an baby elephant....
2005-10-07 16:03:55
50.   tocho
nick, I think if the White Sox prevail in this series, we are going to see a lot of El Duque in the postseason, given this performance tonight.

Bases loaded no outs, two weak pop-ups by Varitek and Graffanino and a K to Damon, after 250 pitches. He just retired the side with Renteria K, Ortiz K and Manny ground out.

Show/Hide Comments 51-100
2005-10-07 16:12:24
51.   atc
Do the same official game rules apply as in the regular season? If it starts pouring after 5 innings and one team is winning, is that it, or will they pick up from where they left off at a later date?
2005-10-07 16:14:38
52.   tocho
What the hell is Ozzie doing? He has his full rested bullpen ready to go and he's stiking with Duque. He's been great and all but I think he's pushing his luck.
2005-10-07 16:17:04
53.   atc
I thought Rowand was going to catch that
2005-10-07 16:17:08
54.   BxSparksNYC
That should be it for Duke. I'm surprise Ozzie's not going for the kill here.
2005-10-07 16:18:03
55.   LeeDawg n VA
He's trying to win the game...
2005-10-07 16:19:59
56.   BxSparksNYC
Even though as soon as the tying run got on, I would have went to the pen, give Duke credit - when healthy he's a beast and leaves everything between the lines. Love watching him, Yankee or not...
2005-10-07 16:20:11
57.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
3 outs.
2005-10-07 16:20:37
58.   LeeDawg n VA
If El Duque doesn't 'du' it then he'll get yanked - no sooner...
2005-10-07 16:21:25
59.   weeping for brunnhilde
52, 54, yeah, I'm a little surprised too. I think Joe left him in too long in 02 against California. He'd pitched so valiantly for like four or five and then allowed those those two (back to back?)homeruns. Duque does give up homeruns, is the thing.

Anyway, let's hope he does it here.

2005-10-07 16:22:16
60.   LeeDawg n VA
See.

Amazing how soon we forget. This guy never had great stuff. He just pitches his ass off. And when he's on - he's money.

Now you'll see the closer...

2005-10-07 16:23:54
61.   atc
Weeping, that's exactly what I was thinking of. It was back-to-back jacks to lead off the 8th inning of game 2. I don't remember who hit them, but I think Garret Anderson hit one of them.
2005-10-07 16:24:40
62.   LeeDawg n VA
Timlin's usually lights out when he plays the Yanks in the post season. I'm curious to see how he does here.
2005-10-07 16:25:08
63.   Cliff Corcoran
An insurance run here for Chitown would be 'uge. Esp. with Ortiz due up fourth in the bottom of the ninth. Exciting stuff in Beantown.
2005-10-07 16:25:57
64.   LeeDawg n VA
Pierzynski is a beast in this series. Another extra base hit...
2005-10-07 16:26:06
65.   BxSparksNYC
Definitely need an insurance run to give the rookie closer jaaaaast a little breathing room to close this series out. wow...
2005-10-07 16:26:19
66.   atc
Cliff, do you know the answer to my question - #51
2005-10-07 16:26:19
67.   randym77
Timlin is not lights out so far.
2005-10-07 16:27:51
68.   LeeDawg n VA
Jason Luft criticized Ozzie for his managing of game 1, inning one for what reason I don't know. Guillen's doing the same thing here. you get what you can, when you can against the Sox.
2005-10-07 16:28:05
69.   BxSparksNYC
Did everyone know that was coming? WOW....
2005-10-07 16:28:24
70.   rbj
Insurance
2005-10-07 16:28:51
71.   randym77
What a game!
2005-10-07 16:29:00
72.   rbj
Who's up in the bottom half?
2005-10-07 16:29:33
73.   BxSparksNYC
Funny, Millar in for defense? I know that wasn't the case but Tito is going to get beat up for that...
2005-10-07 16:29:43
74.   LeeDawg n VA
Ah ha - that's against the Yankees. This is the other, earthly Timlin that the Red Sox nation knows so well...
2005-10-07 16:30:27
75.   atc
BX, they pinch ran for Olerud when he singled in the 8th
2005-10-07 16:30:54
76.   BxSparksNYC
Gaff and then the top of the order. Papi due up 4th...
2005-10-07 16:31:30
77.   LeeDawg n VA
This boy's swinging for the fences...
2005-10-07 16:31:35
78.   BxSparksNYC
atc - I know but you know they're going to second guess that one...
2005-10-07 16:32:01
79.   randym77
Varitek struck out last, so it's going to be Graffanino, Damon, and Renteria. Get them out, and they don't have to worry about Ortiz and Manny.
2005-10-07 16:32:46
80.   billm
#79: on the other hand, it would be pretty nice if Ortiz made the final out of the Red Sox season.
2005-10-07 16:33:28
81.   randym77
They're pulling the tarp off at Yankee Stadium.
2005-10-07 16:33:56
82.   BxSparksNYC
They just showed the tarp coming off in the Bx, any word when the rain will be coming?
2005-10-07 16:34:26
83.   LeeDawg n VA
Strength against strength. It's up to the vaunted Big Papi and co. or the White Sox eat up the big green monster (and a not as valuable Cookie Monster).

The Sox are going down. Big Papi used all of their magic just to get them to this point.

2005-10-07 16:35:36
84.   atc
1
2005-10-07 16:35:52
85.   BxSparksNYC
Billm - truthfully I dont' want to see Papi or Manny AT ALL...
2005-10-07 16:37:12
86.   rbj
One to go!
2005-10-07 16:37:31
87.   LeeDawg n VA
There's somrthing about baseball that makes it magic. I bet no way the Red Sox go down without Ortiz coming to the plate. It's like poetry. He will be given a chance to win it.... And then lose...
2005-10-07 16:37:54
88.   Marcus
I love how this is ending... Edgar with a chopper to the mound perhaps???
2005-10-07 16:38:10
89.   atc
YEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!
2005-10-07 16:38:31
90.   rbj
Bye bye Boston, thanks for playing.

Now, Lets go Yankees!

2005-10-07 16:38:37
91.   randym77
Red Sox are eliminated.

Dang. I wanted them to at least put up a fight. They made it way too easy for Chicago.

2005-10-07 16:38:58
92.   LeeDawg n VA
oh my - I was wrong. LOL!!! Red Sox LOSE!!!
2005-10-07 16:39:27
93.   Cliff Corcoran
That's the second team celebrating in Feway in the past week. Great to see Duque so happy.
2005-10-07 16:39:28
94.   BxSparksNYC
Swept. Wow. 25% of my postseason wishes is complete. Now for the Yanks to complete the other 75% and do their thing....
2005-10-07 16:39:48
95.   Marcus
BYE BYE!
2005-10-07 16:43:54
96.   rbj
They just showed a kid with a Yankees Hater cap on crying. That's what you get for being a hater.
2005-10-07 16:44:06
97.   randym77
Seeing the Red Sox lose is always fun, but I'm not sure this is good news for the Yankees. I liked our chances against the Red Sox. I'm a lot more nervous about the White Sox. Plus, now they get to rest up while we're playing.
2005-10-07 16:45:46
98.   domvjr
What are the odds, that the what have you done for me lately ownership, fan base and media,dump all over Francona. It will be fun to lurk on the red sox blogs for the next few days.
Now its up to the Yanks to hold up their end!
2005-10-07 16:47:19
99.   Paul in Boston
Well, folks -- a year of endless reprises up here of the 2004 season has just come to an end. What a relief.

Go Yanks!

2005-10-07 16:47:24
100.   LeeDawg n VA
You have a point Randym77. Don't look now sports fans, but the Real sox have won 8 in a row going back to the regular season and 11 out of 13. They're for real.
Show/Hide Comments 101-150
2005-10-07 16:47:53
101.   BxSparksNYC
randym77 - I don't know, if er, when we get to the second round, facing the Chisox over 7 games is alot least daunting than the RedSox. I alway get the feeling the RedSox get up for us EVERY time and we'd be more focused against the Palehose instead. But we have business to tend to tonight. Lets go Unit!!!
2005-10-07 16:49:02
102.   LeeDawg n VA
Yeah I bet Francona becomes the sacrificial lamb.
2005-10-07 16:49:31
103.   domvjr
Berman,makes me throw up!! What a suck up, you are not on NESN Chris, your supposed to be somewhat impartial.
2005-10-07 16:51:49
104.   billm
How can they possibly think they will get this game in? From the radar, it looks like it is not too bad now and there is a little window, but there is no way there are three hours worth of clear weather:

http://tinyurl.com/629u5

2005-10-07 16:53:46
105.   LeeDawg n VA
You know now that 2004 is official over with the death of the Red Sox, the truth needs to be told. The Sox didn't win the ALCS - we lost! We gave it to them last year. Our pitching wasn't great but it wasn't that bad. We just slam-basted them in their own back yard for crying out loud. Our boys just went south and forgot how to hit - except for Jetes. We got big eyed and kept waiting for the other shoe to fall. They were so relieved that we choked that they could be themselves when they played that hapless Cards - yes they were hapless. It's not about what they did, it's about what we didn't do.
2005-10-07 17:01:22
106.   LeeDawg n VA
And if Torre (as much as I love Joe) doesn't change something in the way he's thinking, we're going to lose to the Angels. We should beat them, but 1) the Angels aren't afraid to see us this time of year - the Red Sox are and 2) the big difference between us being up 2-0 in this series is that Joe did not compensate for our mistakes in game 2. It was very win-able still. Joe's got to hit a home run every once in a while as a manager too. Not excusing A-Rod, but Joe still could have pulled that one out.
2005-10-07 17:02:06
107.   randym77
Here's the Doppler radar for the northeastern U.S. Doesn't look good. Unless that front moves through really fast, and they get the game in afterwards.

http://image.weather.com/web/radar/us_ne_9regradar_large_usen.jpg

But it looks like they are going to start playing.

2005-10-07 17:03:29
108.   JeremyM
Are they really going to play this thing tonight? I can only assume it's because the weather will be worse the rest of the weekend.

So if this thing does get rain delayed and postponed half way through, the game will continue at it's ending point at a later time, correct? There are different rain rules for playoffs I think.

2005-10-07 17:05:20
109.   debris
er: 97. You got that right. The best team doesn't always win. (see 1960, 1985.) But in this case, the best team did. Those of you who are happy about this clearly hate the Red Sox more than you like the Yankees.

You would much rather face the Red Sox than the White Sox. The starting pitching is stronger and healthier. The relief is deep. And the offense, top to bottom, is deeper. They have more speed and better defense.

One key difference between Red Sox fans and Yankee fans is that we don't feel entitled to win every year. There's work for Theo (in whom we trust) to do over the winter, but he'll get it done. Tons of help en route from the only farm system in baseball to move from the bottom third at the beginning of the year to the top third by the end of the year (Baseball America.) I'm quite happy for the White Sox and will be quite happy to see them send the Angels packing next week.

2005-10-07 17:10:49
110.   JeremyM
Going in, I'd rather have played the White Sox. Now, I'd rather play the Red Sox. But I'm more worried about the Angels right now...they scare me enough.

And how sick was El Duque tonight? I hope he emptied his tank if we play them.

2005-10-07 17:11:02
111.   BxSparksNYC
And why does this guy (debris) come to a Yankee blog again.....
2005-10-07 17:11:05
112.   atc
debris, why do you feel the need to come here and take 2 shots (at least that I counted) at the Yanks and their fans? Does that make you feel better in these trying times? One of your schills, Bill Simmons, has wrote on many occassions that you learn about the heart of a champion by the way they eventually relinquish their title. Well, what does that say about the Red Sox. Nice fight you guys put up.
2005-10-07 17:12:28
113.   JeremyM
Hey Angels, stop swinging, we're entitled to this win, God dammit.
2005-10-07 17:13:57
114.   atc
I'm already not liking Bernie in CF
2005-10-07 17:14:07
115.   BxSparksNYC
1st to 3rd already...Didn't Cliff mention Bubba as the appropriate option for tonight...
2005-10-07 17:14:10
116.   tocho
Debris, from my standpoint you've got it all wrong. I do not hate the BlowSux more than other teams, I'm just sick of the Yanks facing them over and over again. The two teams are so evenly matched that the outcome of the games is like a coin-flip. I do not feel that the Yanks are entitled to win every year, I feel that the Yanks put out teams that are ABLE to win every year and root for them to do so.

Maybe you should go out and get a few drinks because we all know this stings.

2005-10-07 17:15:15
117.   BxSparksNYC
Damnit is right Unit. (Q*&#$(*#Q&!!!!!!
2005-10-07 17:15:23
118.   atc
Start raining
2005-10-07 17:15:29
119.   JeremyM
Shit shit shit shit shit. I guess the crowd is just too quiet for the Unit. Is it too late to postpone this sucker?
2005-10-07 17:15:46
120.   randym77
Not a good start. :-P

And it looks like it's raining harder.

2005-10-07 17:16:29
121.   BxSparksNYC
Not sharp at all...
2005-10-07 17:17:14
122.   BxSparksNYC
He said he wanted to get booed tonight, well BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
2005-10-07 17:18:12
123.   JeremyM
Guess there is something to him not being able to pitch in the DS.

This is the 3rd straight year that rain has killed us. Now I see why the Boss wanted that dome.

2005-10-07 17:18:20
124.   LeeDawg n VA
lol, 113! Boy no champagne for the Sux, but plenty of whine!

Go home Debris and tend to your on demise...

2005-10-07 17:21:00
125.   JeremyM
How did that get blown by Jeter? He looks like crap right now.
2005-10-07 17:21:26
126.   Zack
Debris has been a good and intelligent poster, so no need to go after him, although I am a bit dissapointed in that post Debris, I expect better. I'll chalk it up to anger of the Sox...

Maybe this game will get rained out and the fact that we are already losing badly will be erased...

2005-10-07 17:21:57
127.   rbj
Jeez, I leave to go get my laundry and the Yanks are down 3.
Good shot A-Rod!
2005-10-07 17:22:52
128.   JeremyM
That's one of the few times that I thought A-Rod hit a ball further than it ended up going. Come on Yanks, get in this thing. Terrible at-bat by Giambi.
2005-10-07 17:24:19
129.   rbj
And it's Joe Cap'n Morgan. Quick, pass me the rum.
2005-10-07 17:24:47
130.   BxSparksNYC
Did anyone catch the reasoning in having Giambi DH tonight? Obviously there a mental block there..
2005-10-07 17:26:17
131.   atc
I thought we scored that run twice
2005-10-07 17:26:27
132.   JeremyM
We're done guys. I can just feel it.
2005-10-07 17:27:05
133.   randym77
Man, it's really raining there.

3-0 in the first is far from insurmountable...as long as Randy settles down.

2005-10-07 17:27:07
134.   tocho
I'm hating this game already. Its going to be a long night of yelling and bitching and throwing objects all over the house.

DAMN!

2005-10-07 17:28:34
135.   JVarghese81
JeremyM,
Dude...relaxxxxx...we'll be all right - 3 runs ain't Mt. Everest - lots of time left.
2005-10-07 17:34:16
136.   JeremyM
Man, I'm stressing. But Johnson looks like crap too me.
2005-10-07 17:37:50
137.   randym77
Nice throw by Flaherty, and nice catch by Robby.

Looks like it's pouring.

2005-10-07 17:38:00
138.   tocho
JeremyM, you're right he does look like crap, and I hope I'm wrong but the Yankee batters will try to swing for the fences each time up with Byrd on the mound. They should know better though, they are all veterans and should stick to their game plan regardless of the score.

Let's go Yankees!!!!!!!!!!!

2005-10-07 17:38:27
139.   LeeDawg n VA
Yeah, chill out dude. Bottom of the 2nd. This is only the greatest team in the history of all sport. I think we can score 4 runs...
2005-10-07 17:39:04
140.   claybeez
Yeah, he doesn't look good, but it's early. If he settles in he could be lights out the next 5 or 6.

We just need this offense to be Dr. Jekyl tonite. Go away Hyde, go away....!

2005-10-07 17:40:48
141.   JeremyM
Come on Bernie. Ignite this team. I feel we need to get something going soon because their bullpen is nails.
2005-10-07 17:41:57
142.   LeeDawg n VA
Yeah once we start hitting, things will be hunky dorry (sp?)
2005-10-07 17:42:06
143.   randym77
Nice hit, Bernie!

Come on, time for the traditional Yankee 2-out rally...

2005-10-07 17:43:29
144.   BxSparksNYC
(Sigh)
2005-10-07 17:43:40
145.   atc
From Sterling: "You know, when you see Paul Byrd pitch, you're looking at a pitcher."
2005-10-07 17:43:58
146.   Popcult
Where did our offense go?!
2005-10-07 17:45:22
147.   LeeDawg n VA
Dude, JeremyM stop buggin' already! The closest thing to nails in history is No. 42 on our side. And even he has an off night. Don't give up the ship so soon. Enjoy the game. We don't want to win 6-0 every night. This is where all of that talk about Ghosts in October comes from. Have faith... i know it can be hard.
2005-10-07 17:48:29
148.   JVarghese81
Hmm...maybe they're waiting to heighten the suspense.

Jeremy, with each passing inning, I grow more nervous - I'll be on the ledge soon enough...

Well, I don't have cable so I;m just listening to the game BUT since the Yanks have won all the playoff games this year that I have actually watched, I'm gonna head out to the bars to catch the game. When the Yanks start scoring soon, I'll look forward to getting a thank you letter from Cashman, Torre & Big Stein.

2005-10-07 17:51:17
149.   claybeez
OK. Pray for rain!
2005-10-07 17:51:47
150.   tocho
OK, NOW, we are done. Thank you all good night!
Show/Hide Comments 151-200
2005-10-07 17:52:27
151.   LeeDawg n VA
Yeah, I need to go watch the game too. I'm 3 hours past quittin' time but can't let go of this thing. I just don't want to miss our big inning.
2005-10-07 17:52:45
152.   JVarghese81
M&^%Fu*&&*^ - you have got to be frickin kidding me - way to spit the bit Randy!
2005-10-07 17:52:59
153.   LeeDawg n VA
Oh boy...
2005-10-07 17:53:27
154.   JeremyM
Now do you see why I'm bugging? Not that I'm happy about being right about it. This sucks.
2005-10-07 17:53:32
155.   BxSparksNYC
I don't think I can take it. The Unit and the gophers are like punches to the gut. We can only pray for rain. That said, I believe this team can come back but at the same time they're equally capable of squeezing the sawdust out of the bat. I need to take a walk....
2005-10-07 17:53:44
156.   nick
Bengie Molina is not Reggie Jackson.....Bengie Molina is not Reggie Jackson......unbelievable
2005-10-07 17:53:45
157.   atc
Get Small in there. Maybe if we can get it to game 5, he can come back out of the pen
2005-10-07 17:53:59
158.   Marcus
Wowee, this isn't much fun at all. Don't do it to us, Juan! Don't do it!
2005-10-07 17:54:08
159.   unpopster
Randy Johnson is a sham and a fraud. I can't tell you how absolutely livid I am at him.
2005-10-07 17:54:12
160.   randym77
Now I am officially worried. RJ does not look good tonight.

And it's getting awfully slippery out there. The last thing we need is Sheff getting injured again.

Small is warming. Oy.

2005-10-07 17:54:14
161.   LeeDawg n VA
What is it with the Unit already? He is single handedly giving them the game!
2005-10-07 17:54:24
162.   tocho
This is horseshit, why are they even out there.
2005-10-07 17:54:34
163.   Marcus
Are the Angels stealing signs or something? This just doesn't seem right.
2005-10-07 17:55:07
164.   atc
Here comes a nice 6 pitch inning
2005-10-07 17:56:12
165.   tocho
Don't let this thing get to the 5th. inning, please.
2005-10-07 17:56:34
166.   LeeDawg n VA
Great. Playing in the playoffs is not pressure enough, now we have to come back from 5 in the hole.

Let's just hope the boys don't mail it in (like Randy).

2005-10-07 17:56:49
167.   atc
Get Posada in there as well
2005-10-07 17:56:53
168.   BxSparksNYC
No stealing of the signs just the same unit we've had all year. The one with plus 30 hr this year and very capable of what we're seeing tonight. Someone in the dugout needs to start cursing and getting this team heart going in the right direction....
2005-10-07 17:56:54
169.   unpopster
Johnson is what, 0-7 in the Division Series? Is that a big game pitcher? He owes this city an apology!!!
2005-10-07 17:57:38
170.   Marcus
Did anyone answer the question about whether a game that gets to the 5th inning in the playoffs is "official"?
2005-10-07 17:58:18
171.   LeeDawg n VA
Everytime I see Flaherty at the plate I get doubly mad at Johnson...
2005-10-07 17:58:35
172.   BklynBomber
This moment seems a long way from the 2-0 lead we had in Game 2, with thoughts of Randy going for the sweep tonight...

The Halos have had a nice little stretch of mo right now, but the beauty of this game is how fortunes can, and usually do, turn in a hurry.

Our turn is coming... hang in there!

2005-10-07 17:59:27
173.   atc
Marcus, no one has answered it yet and I'm anxiously awaiting
2005-10-07 17:59:28
174.   Marcus
Flaherty walk! Take advantage!!!
2005-10-07 18:00:13
175.   LeeDawg n VA
Yeah come on cap!
2005-10-07 18:00:35
176.   atc
When did Jeter stop being able to catch up to 84mph fastballs?
2005-10-07 18:01:41
177.   LeeDawg n VA
We can do this just like the time when we had to come back from 8 down against Tampa. boy, I wonder who was pitching that night...
2005-10-07 18:02:50
178.   LeeDawg n VA
Come on now... single A-Rod, single...
2005-10-07 18:03:23
179.   randym77
Come on, A-Rod! Just a little longer than last time, please!
2005-10-07 18:03:38
180.   BxSparksNYC
As far as the question about whether its offical or not but until someone gets the actual answer, I'm pretty sure dude that the game is offical after 5 full. But MLB and the Ump will do whatever it takes to get this game in before they actually will call it. I don't think there's any "new" rules created for the playoffs....
2005-10-07 18:03:44
181.   LeeDawg n VA
Come Alex that was your shot!
2005-10-07 18:05:04
182.   atc
Fuck you arod
2005-10-07 18:05:30
183.   BxSparksNYC
(SIGH)
2005-10-07 18:05:31
184.   LeeDawg n VA
Uhhhgh!
2005-10-07 18:06:14
185.   atc
Nice Jason, let's go Sheff!!
2005-10-07 18:06:21
186.   vockins
What? Come ON, ARod.
2005-10-07 18:06:36
187.   unpopster
Arod is an even bigger joke!
2005-10-07 18:06:37
188.   randym77
Nice hit, Jason!

C'mon, Sheff. Be clutch!

2005-10-07 18:07:02
189.   Marcus
It's only the 3rd inning. Giambi tells everyone to remain calm. Sheffield will light the fire.
2005-10-07 18:07:04
190.   tocho
I have no confidence in Sheff.

Prove me wrong Gary!

2005-10-07 18:07:20
191.   LeeDawg n VA
Wow. Good job Jason! Let's go Magic Shef!
2005-10-07 18:08:52
192.   LeeDawg n VA
Darn - just missed it...
2005-10-07 18:09:40
193.   atc
This sucks...where are the Twins when you need them?
2005-10-07 18:10:31
194.   LeeDawg n VA
The good news? still only the 4th. We have time. It's possible...
2005-10-07 18:11:01
195.   JeremyM
A-Rod missed two down the pipe on that at bat, from what I could see. Can't blame Sheff, he gave it a ride.

Get the FUCKING UNIT OUT OF THERE TORRE! HE HAS NOTHING!

2005-10-07 18:11:05
196.   randym77
Put Small in.
2005-10-07 18:11:15
197.   BxSparksNYC
Cliff if your reading....I know we all think ARod is in a no win situation but you have to admit he has an aversion to big moments. It may be to much to call him Mr. May but I'm begging him to please have a moment in this series that I can consider clutch and under pressure.

I have no clue why Sheff looks a shell of himself. I guess the knee was never fully healed.

Unit will be remembered for all the wrong reasons tonight....

2005-10-07 18:12:24
198.   unpopster
get him out of there Joe...and put him on a plane out of town! This is his last start of 2005. Might as well send him home now!
2005-10-07 18:15:32
199.   LeeDawg n VA
Whoa, unpopster! Keep a lid on that bad karma. The series' not over if we lose tonite which hasn't happened yet.
2005-10-07 18:15:39
200.   atc
On the bright side, we only owe him another $32 million over the next 2 years
Show/Hide Comments 201-250
2005-10-07 18:16:18
201.   randym77
Finally! Joe pulls Randy and puts in Small.

I hope Smally can handle this. Wish Torre had put him in at the beginning of the inning, instead of waiting until there were men on.

2005-10-07 18:16:27
202.   JeremyM
Two on the corners, no outs, big name starter rocked, Yanks losing 5-0. Why isn't Mussina coming in?
2005-10-07 18:16:29
203.   LeeDawg n VA
Wow, 9 hits in 4 innings. Who'd thought it.
2005-10-07 18:17:10
204.   vockins
Chump.

Their only hope is to call the game at this point.

2005-10-07 18:17:23
205.   atc
He should have been pulled right after the Molina homer
2005-10-07 18:18:14
206.   rbj
At least Boston got eliminated today.
2005-10-07 18:18:36
207.   JeremyM
The more I think about it, I think we were down 4-0 in game 7 of the 03 ALCS whem Moose came in.
2005-10-07 18:19:41
208.   LeeDawg n VA
Ironic. The career farmhand who is perfect comes in to clean up the 16 million dollar man's feces...
2005-10-07 18:19:54
209.   atc
Jeremy, that's correct
2005-10-07 18:20:08
210.   tocho
Terrible flashbacks of 2002. They won Game 1, then all their "good" starters going down like losers one after the other, the bats silenced, terrible defense and those stupid angels.

I hope I'm wrong but this is game is over for me.

2005-10-07 18:20:18
211.   claybeez
It looks dire. I'm pissed of as hell. You're right Alex is not a big moment guy generally. He's good, but he's not a Brosius, Jeter, Reggie type.

However, this team IS capable of fighting back. I believed it in May and June and I have to now.

2005-10-07 18:21:08
212.   claybeez
Small!!!! Jeter!!! Cano!!!! Tino!!!
2005-10-07 18:21:13
213.   BklynBomber
That was the turning point...
2005-10-07 18:21:19
214.   LeeDawg n VA
yeah JeremyM, and Jason hit two dingers and then there was another guy named Aaron...

Keep hope alive!

2005-10-07 18:21:26
215.   JeremyM
And they key was, we were down 4-0 when Moose left 3 innings later. Well, the Sox didn't score anymore anyway.

Aaron Small is a real man's man. Gutsy as all hell. Unbelievable.

2005-10-07 18:21:30
216.   atc
We started the wrong guy
2005-10-07 18:21:40
217.   randym77
Cano for Rookie of the Year.
2005-10-07 18:21:44
218.   BxSparksNYC
Talk about needed that. How sad that Smalls comes up bigger than the Unit. A disgrace. Now lets go offense...
2005-10-07 18:22:50
219.   LeeDawg n VA
Why couldn't Randy do that 3 innings ago? What is he thinking? He must be all screwed up in his madula oblungada...
2005-10-07 18:24:00
220.   tocho
Jeremy they were down 4-0 then 4-1, 4-2 (2 JB HR's) then 5-2 Wells gave up a HR v Ortiz, and then came the 8th.

I wish Pedro was on the mound tonight.

I just hope Torre takes out Flash together with RJ.

2005-10-07 18:24:00
221.   JeremyM
Seriously, has there ever been a comeback story like Small? This doesn't even make sense. The guy had a 4+ ERA in AAA and then goes 10-0 in the majors? I hope he keeps it up.
2005-10-07 18:25:04
222.   JeremyM
Damn we needed that. Keep it up guys, keep it up!
2005-10-07 18:25:11
223.   atc
Here we come!!
2005-10-07 18:25:24
224.   randym77
BANZAI! Homer for Godzilla!
2005-10-07 18:26:02
225.   tocho
Hey Yankees, the guy on the mound is Byrd!!

Follow Matsui, get back in there!!

2005-10-07 18:26:13
226.   rbj
Randy did go 5-0 against Boston this year. That was key, too. Otherwise we most likely aren't in the postseason.

But, I've said it before and I'll say it again, I miss El Duque.
Let's get another run this inning. Go Godzilla!

2005-10-07 18:26:23
227.   JeremyM
Flash will stay in because our only other backup is probably Bellhorn. A lightning bolt might strike Posada if he goes in the game. Loving this crowd right now.
2005-10-07 18:27:02
228.   LeeDawg n VA
It's called playing within yourself. not trying to prove anything to the world like Mr Ego the Unit. Shacon's the same. just play baseball guys and you'll win...
2005-10-07 18:27:58
229.   LeeDawg n VA
Here we go. Let's just hope Soscia leaves Byrd in for a little longer...
2005-10-07 18:29:42
230.   JeremyM
Nice Bernie. This is tailor made for Tino by God.
2005-10-07 18:29:52
231.   LeeDawg n VA
I'm feeling it!
2005-10-07 18:30:35
232.   tocho
I just heard that Mussina stayed in California for a potential Game 5... I think its very smart.
2005-10-07 18:30:47
233.   LeeDawg n VA
Come on, Tino, get a hit - I'll love you forever!
2005-10-07 18:31:00
234.   randym77
In an earlier thread, Schteeve said he thought RJ preferred Flaherty to Posada because Flaherty was more submissive. Posada does have a reputation for riding pitchers hard. But maybe they need it sometimes. RJ kept throwing that high fastball, even when it obviously wasn't working.

The rally monkey is pooping on the Angels tonight! Come on, Yanks!

2005-10-07 18:31:55
235.   LeeDawg n VA
Oh yeah - enjoy the moment. No outs and Byrd's about to completely crack. No double play ball, tino!
2005-10-07 18:31:55
236.   vongimp
Has anyone else noticed that Vlad is limping pretty badly? That foul off the shin must have hurt.
2005-10-07 18:32:07
237.   JeremyM
I wondered if Mussina would stay there. I know he was in NY when the Yanks won the DS last year. productive out at least. Posada has to pinch hit here, right?
2005-10-07 18:32:15
238.   rbj
Advance the runners, good job Tino. Maybe we can get two more this inning.
2005-10-07 18:32:19
239.   atc
Nothing like the DirecTv signal going out
2005-10-07 18:33:01
240.   LeeDawg n VA
OK, that was just an ugly sacrifice, that'll work! Let's go Bombers!!!!
2005-10-07 18:33:14
241.   tocho
Just a hit, that's enough. C'mon
2005-10-07 18:33:21
242.   JeremyM
That was a good out, all things considered.
2005-10-07 18:33:28
243.   atc
we need at least one here
2005-10-07 18:34:18
244.   JeremyM
Bellhorn better gets the tools of ignorance ready, just in case.
2005-10-07 18:35:05
245.   LeeDawg n VA
Lookie here! Now that Johnson stepped on his Randy, we can get the real catcher in the game. I'd feel like crap if i were RJ. I mean not just for the dumb ass pitching, but for insisting Flaherty catch him all the time. That's nothing but pride...
2005-10-07 18:35:19
246.   claybeez
Posada did his job.
2005-10-07 18:36:25
247.   LeeDawg n VA
Amazing what happens when you're pitcher pitches and your catcher hits... 2 down, 6 to go. Let's go no, yanks!!!!
2005-10-07 18:36:25
248.   JeremyM
This is Jeter's chance to prove to me that he is indeed clutch. I'm not a believer.

Showing his family is usually a good omen though.

2005-10-07 18:36:37
249.   randym77
Thank you, Captain!
2005-10-07 18:36:59
250.   claybeez
Way to go Jeet! Big moment for Alex.
Show/Hide Comments 251-300
2005-10-07 18:37:17
251.   rbj
Excellent Jorge, and Jeter.
(psst, Alex, a two run shot would be real clutch here.)
2005-10-07 18:38:06
252.   LeeDawg n VA
And now we have a game again. That's why he's clutch1!! Go Jetes!!! I wouldn't trade Jeter for any shortstop in history!!!
2005-10-07 18:38:09
253.   tocho
shut us all up ARod. Do it!!
2005-10-07 18:38:54
254.   LeeDawg n VA
A-Rod's going for it all... and I don't blame him...
2005-10-07 18:38:57
255.   randym77
C'mon, A-Rod. Just get your butt on base.
2005-10-07 18:40:28
256.   randym77
Chicken. Too scared to give A-Rod anything he could hit.
2005-10-07 18:40:30
257.   rbj
I'll take a walk. C'mon Jason.
2005-10-07 18:41:26
258.   JeremyM
How does Giambi normally hit Donnelly?
2005-10-07 18:42:50
259.   LeeDawg n VA
People like to talk about Torre but who left byrd out there too long tonight? I would have pulled him after the second hit this inning.
2005-10-07 18:44:13
260.   LeeDawg n VA
Come on Jason - kill, kill, kill, kill, kill...
2005-10-07 18:44:18
261.   tocho
Make them pay JG. C'mon just a hit

Double steal here

2005-10-07 18:45:07
262.   JeremyM
Wow.
2005-10-07 18:45:08
263.   atc
LETS GOOOOOOO!!!!!!!
2005-10-07 18:45:25
264.   rbj
Jason goes to the opposite field?!
2005-10-07 18:45:56
265.   randym77
Woo-hoo! Giambi baby!
2005-10-07 18:46:25
266.   tocho
YES. C'mon Sheff, just a hit
2005-10-07 18:46:30
267.   BxSparksNYC
By the way I hate Figgins
2005-10-07 18:46:32
268.   JeremyM
I am going to hunt Figgins down like a dog. This guy is KILLING us with the glove.
2005-10-07 18:46:33
269.   rbj
Still a successful inning. Hold 'em Aaron
2005-10-07 18:46:40
270.   randym77
Figgins again. He's killing us.
2005-10-07 18:47:12
271.   vongimp
Ouch. No way finley makes that play.
2005-10-07 18:47:27
272.   atc
good thing we have our ace on the mound to hold them
2005-10-07 18:47:44
273.   tocho
damn Figgins. That guy is soooo fucking good!! He saved them, again
2005-10-07 18:48:33
274.   vockins
Figgins is no joke. Wow.
2005-10-07 18:49:36
275.   LeeDawg n VA
Ahhh. don't you just love baseball? And we have the privilege of cheering of cheering the frikkin' NEW YORK YANKEES!!!! It's October, Baby and this is wha they do!!!

How are ya feeling, jeremyM? Ain't it great!!!

2005-10-07 18:51:08
276.   randym77
They just said the rules are the same in the post-season. Five innings is a game.

Randy, give Aaron Small your paycheck for this week.

2005-10-07 18:51:15
277.   BklynBomber
That was a huge 1-2-3 by Small!!!
2005-10-07 18:51:27
278.   atc
I'm a little worried about the rain. We need to get this tied up right here.
2005-10-07 18:51:34
279.   tocho
You the man LeeDawg n VA
2005-10-07 18:51:34
280.   vockins
Small is my hero.
2005-10-07 18:52:03
281.   LeeDawg n VA
And Smallie's just taking care of business!! I'm loving this game! We don't need no stinking Unit!
2005-10-07 18:52:10
282.   BklynBomber
randym — Unit owes small at least 3 million so far.
2005-10-07 18:54:35
283.   BklynBomber
Right before the killer DP, I turned Miller/Morgan down and cranked up Sterling. I urge anyone with that capability to do the same. It's workin' out OK so far...
2005-10-07 18:55:09
284.   singledd
Anyone notice that Sheff isn't pulling the ball lately. I don't think Ive ever seen him go to dead center twice in a row.
2005-10-07 18:55:29
285.   atc
I'm already there Bklyn
2005-10-07 18:57:21
286.   BklynBomber
I don't know who got the break there...
2005-10-07 18:57:57
287.   LeeDawg n VA
Alright, here we go again. And for all of you who don't know it, this is why we got rid of Soriano: because he couldn't do what Cano has done so far this postseason - get a clutch hit.

Come on Rob ROY!!!

2005-10-07 18:59:03
288.   BklynBomber
atc - the delay kinda sucks, but I'll deal with it with these results ;-)
2005-10-07 18:59:40
289.   atc
I just woke the neighbors
2005-10-07 18:59:52
290.   BklynBomber
Rockin' Rob ROY!
2005-10-07 18:59:53
291.   claybeez
I love Cano!!!
2005-10-07 18:59:53
292.   rbj
You called it LeeDawg! Tied up!
2005-10-07 18:59:54
293.   LeeDawg n VA
CANO can DO!!!
2005-10-07 18:59:55
294.   randym77
LOL! I hear screams of glee throughout my apartment complex.
2005-10-07 19:00:18
295.   atc
Tivo Bklyn, tivo
2005-10-07 19:01:14
296.   The Bear
CANO!!!!
2005-10-07 19:01:45
297.   claybeez
These guys are too good - and this year, too hungry - to give up on.
2005-10-07 19:01:47
298.   randym77
Robby has been the MVP of the postseason so far.
2005-10-07 19:01:48
299.   LeeDawg n VA
Right now, somewhere in a pub in Dallas, Alfonso Soriano is crying into his fuzzy navel... LOL!!
2005-10-07 19:02:08
300.   singledd
Robie is looking at series MVP if this keeps up. ROY is looking better all the time.
Show/Hide Comments 301-350
2005-10-07 19:02:34
301.   BklynBomber
atc — Damn! You told me that last time. I floundered and didn't get one...
2005-10-07 19:02:44
302.   vongimp
I love it how Torre always calls him "the kid".
2005-10-07 19:03:15
303.   LeeDawg n VA
Shields' has had a really good year, but right now, he's in Sturtze-ville. Watch and see. He won't get it done.
2005-10-07 19:03:33
304.   atc
Start Raining Baby!!!
2005-10-07 19:03:35
305.   randym77
Good enough, Bernie!
2005-10-07 19:03:48
306.   rbj
Nice, Bernie.
2005-10-07 19:04:13
307.   BklynBomber
Good call, LeeDawg!
2005-10-07 19:05:41
308.   Stormer Sports
Hell yes. What a great game. I have a good feeling.
2005-10-07 19:08:59
309.   Popcult
Offense: found!
2005-10-07 19:10:19
310.   randym77
Come on, Yanks! Don't let up now. Keep your foot on their necks.
2005-10-07 19:12:16
311.   LeeDawg n VA
Now that we have the lead and we all can breath a little easier chew on this, it's only the 6th and we've used their 2 best middle relief guys. Our boys are hitting now - no way we lose. But we're using up their 'pen in the process. This is turning out to be a good night. This game will probably have a positive bearing on the next game if we play tomorrow - some way.
2005-10-07 19:13:08
312.   joe in boston
Hi everyone - keep your fingers crossed ! Just logged in.....great comments so far.

I COULD have the best situation right now:

Yankee game on mute with a lead.

WEEI (Boston sports talk) on the radio, listening to all the whining/tears/bitching/the ol' sky is falling Red Sux that we've known for a long time.

2005-10-07 19:15:53
313.   atc
shit
2005-10-07 19:15:53
314.   rbj
Damn.
2005-10-07 19:16:22
315.   joe in boston
Oops - shouldn't have typed anything....tie game....
2005-10-07 19:17:07
316.   LeeDawg n VA
Come on, Aaron. We need to get through the next two innings without giving up much. You can do this!
2005-10-07 19:17:26
317.   BklynBomber
Hey, Small — what you done for us lately? ;-)

As long as we can keep rakin', we'll be OK tonight...

2005-10-07 19:18:05
318.   billm
Should Posada have been sitting a little more in the basepath there?
2005-10-07 19:18:53
319.   LeeDawg n VA
No, actually a good time to chime in Joe. Somebody somewhere in a clubhouse in Boston is wishing they were involved in a tie game tonight. It could be a lot worse.
Come on D!!
2005-10-07 19:19:09
320.   atc
And just like that, I'm ready to puke again
2005-10-07 19:20:20
321.   LeeDawg n VA
BklynBomber's right. Our boys are feeling it. And there's that first out...
2005-10-07 19:21:05
322.   atc
At least they weaken their defense in cf with Finley
2005-10-07 19:21:26
323.   claybeez
Finley will go to CF, right, moving Figgins to 3B? That could prove key.
2005-10-07 19:21:28
324.   LeeDawg n VA
Oops - i meant 2nd out.

What happened to Steve Finley? Did he just quit on life? He's an awesome comeback just waiting to happen... someday...

2005-10-07 19:24:51
325.   LeeDawg n VA
Go for it Aaron! You gotta forget about the base runner with two here against Kennedy. Get the out at the plate.
2005-10-07 19:25:11
326.   rbj
Goddammit
2005-10-07 19:25:51
327.   atc
I'm not saying Bubba gets that, but still...
2005-10-07 19:25:55
328.   LeeDawg n VA
2 runs in. We can't have this now!
2005-10-07 19:25:56
329.   randym77
Oh, no. Sturtze is coming in.
2005-10-07 19:28:38
330.   LeeDawg n VA
Oh gosh - I don't want to see Sturtze here...
2005-10-07 19:30:02
331.   rbj
Only one run, we'll get it back in the bottom of the inning.
2005-10-07 19:30:05
332.   randym77
All right, we can get those runs back. Jeter, A-Rod, and Giambi coming up.
2005-10-07 19:30:15
333.   atc
Top of the order...can't get discouraged now
2005-10-07 19:30:24
334.   Cliff Corcoran
Huge batter there. Sturtze + Vlad = Grand Slam there. What to do for the 7th? Gordon + Vlad also = Home Run. Gulp.

First thing's first. Get those runs back.

What a game!

2005-10-07 19:32:03
335.   vockins
Did Jon Miller say "touchdown!" when Cano hit his double?
2005-10-07 19:33:05
336.   Cliff Corcoran
Oh yeah, I almost forgot. Leiter owns Vlad.

Leiter to get Vlad then go to Gordon for Molina and use Flash & Mo to combine for three innings.

Runs first.

2005-10-07 19:33:16
337.   boo
walk vlad
2005-10-07 19:33:52
338.   randym77
He said "touchdown" when the throw to the plate sailed over Molina's head.
2005-10-07 19:35:21
339.   BxSparksNYC
I don't think I can take 9 innings. Truthfully
2005-10-07 19:35:42
340.   rmd0311
I hate those Morgan and that other fool... But is it e., or has Jeter swung at the first pitch in every at bat...
2005-10-07 19:36:02
341.   joe in boston
C'mon Jeter ! How 'bout a solo shot ?!
2005-10-07 19:36:07
342.   joe in boston
C'mon Jeter ! How 'bout a solo shot ?!
2005-10-07 19:36:28
343.   Stormer Sports
We gotta get some runs here.

That aint gonna do it Jete.

2005-10-07 19:37:53
344.   joe in boston
This the kind of game the old Yanks would pull out late in the game.

I think they still will. Hang in there everyone !

oh my God, Boston Sports Radio is unbelievable right now...injury excuses, finger pointing (Francona, Damon....), it's great to be a Yankee fan....

Hey, there's a basehit for AROD !

2005-10-07 19:39:43
345.   joe in boston
Next commercial break everyone (hopefully after a big Yankee rally) ... check this out !

http://www.bostondirtdogs.com/

2005-10-07 19:40:55
346.   BxSparksNYC
Let hope ARod has the stop sign and give Giambi a chance to swing...
2005-10-07 19:42:04
347.   atc
Joe, I feel a little better
2005-10-07 19:42:31
348.   BxSparksNYC
All arms, all elbows coming in at 94 mph with movement, Shields in nasty...
2005-10-07 19:43:21
349.   randym77
Wow. What did Damon say?
2005-10-07 19:45:27
350.   BklynBomber
The patented 2 out rally... here we go...
Show/Hide Comments 351-400
2005-10-07 19:48:29
351.   rbj
Gawd it looks awful at The Stadium.
2005-10-07 19:48:45
352.   BxSparksNYC
Don't help them blue!!!!
2005-10-07 19:48:50
353.   joe in boston
man, i wish there was only 1 out....

randym77 - something about more money....

2005-10-07 19:50:39
354.   rbj
Johnny's comment: I do not want this guy on the Yankees:
"...You want to put people in the seats and I'm the kind of guy who can do that. I'm looking for five plus. I'm looking for a lot. For what I bring to the table night in and night in. We know how good Manny and David are, but I also help them look real good. They make me look real good."
-- Johnny Damon immediately after a season-ending devastating loss
2005-10-07 19:51:32
355.   LeeDawg n VA
Can you believe this? It would be great if the kid came through here, but I hope he doesn't press. A walk will do.
2005-10-07 19:51:37
356.   joe in boston
fuggin a. Cano - first pitch ?! you gotta be kiddin me !
2005-10-07 19:53:19
357.   Cliff Corcoran
DUDE! What the hell are you guys prattling on about the freaking Red Sox for?! This is a hell of a playoff game and an extremely important rubber game in this series. Who cares about what drivel comes out of Damon's mouth right now?

That said, Cano's had a great series thus far, but anyone really thing he wasn't going to swing at the first pitch there?

2005-10-07 19:53:19
358.   LeeDawg n VA
Patience, boys, patience! Stop trying to win the game in one inning.

Man, I think it's too early for Gordon. I think he gets it done, but we should have tried for one more out with Sturtze.

2005-10-07 19:53:24
359.   JVarghese81
Come on Joe - he's not kidding you...he's done it all year long - that's just Cano's game right now.
2005-10-07 19:55:35
360.   BxSparksNYC
Please no Sturtze. Gordon my not be successfully but I go to no one else right no besides Mo. Now lets get Vlad...

Great play Mats...

2005-10-07 19:57:21
361.   LeeDawg n VA
Cliff's right. This is a war - probably the key game of the series. The winner here has the decided momentum.
2005-10-07 19:58:06
362.   joe in boston
Sorry Cliff.....my bad....

I DID enjoy the sweep however....I put up with this Red Sox crap all year.....freaking trophy visited my high school (I'm a teacher)....and everyone town in this state. Tough year.

2005-10-07 19:58:14
363.   BxSparksNYC
Ok. Maybe I should retract that and cut that down to just Mo...
2005-10-07 19:58:22
364.   atc
That's a broken arm
2005-10-07 19:58:58
365.   LeeDawg n VA
I smell trouble. This is why Gordon scares me. As consistent as he can be he gets into these kinds of situations where he can't get the first out.
2005-10-07 19:59:02
366.   BxSparksNYC
Straight on the elbow..might be broke...
2005-10-07 19:59:14
367.   joe in boston
should have hit him sooner....
2005-10-07 20:00:03
368.   atc
Gordon = Pressure Playoff Game = Disaster
2005-10-07 20:00:31
369.   BxSparksNYC
wow...
2005-10-07 20:00:53
370.   joe in boston
can we fly El Duque down from Boston for the 8th inning ?
2005-10-07 20:01:17
371.   atc
Sorry revised: Gordon + Pressure Playoff Game = Disaster
2005-10-07 20:01:31
372.   BklynBomber
Keep it here, Flash. We have a few AB's left...
2005-10-07 20:01:45
373.   joe in boston
I have a very bad feeling about this. Why do I think this could end up 14-6 Angels?????
2005-10-07 20:02:43
374.   Cliff Corcoran
Joe 367, not cool. You hate to see that sort of thing. If Molina's out for the season and the Yanks win this series it's tainted. The postseason is about beating the best. Plus you never want to see anyone hurt. Even the Red Sox. :)
2005-10-07 20:02:50
375.   BxSparksNYC
wow...ARod just brainlocked....
2005-10-07 20:03:33
376.   LeeDawg n VA
Frikkin' Flash! As much as anyone I blame him for last year!! He wilts under pressure.
2005-10-07 20:04:25
377.   Cliff Corcoran
Gordon got zero outs. That's a huge blow. The momentum swung to the yanks with Cano's DP, it just swung right back.
2005-10-07 20:04:31
378.   joe in boston
yeah CLiff, I know. Gee, scolded by you twice in one night.....everything is going sour right now.
2005-10-07 20:04:42
379.   rmd0311
I cannot TAKE THIS ANYMORE... WHY KIND of Bullshit call was that....
2005-10-07 20:05:38
380.   JVarghese81
Lordy lordy - bases loaded and a pitcher up who doesn't throw strikes...my god, what a craptastic bullpen
2005-10-07 20:05:56
381.   atc
Lee, totally agree. He is more responsible for last year than anyone else. The guy absolutely wilts under pressure.
2005-10-07 20:06:48
382.   LeeDawg n VA
Brilliant move Joe (yes I'm being sarcastic). You should have used Leiter first against Vlad. Now we get stuck with Al even if he gets out of the inning, instead of seeing him for one lefty. I swear Joe is on crack with his pitching changes in the playoffs.
2005-10-07 20:07:06
383.   Cliff Corcoran
How many does Al walk in here?
2005-10-07 20:07:43
384.   atc
Cliff, can I root for Joe West to get injured?
2005-10-07 20:07:44
385.   BxSparksNYC
This is a desperate situation....I told you I couldn't take 9 innings...
2005-10-07 20:07:49
386.   randym77
They should have done what Cliff suggested, and put Leiter in to get Vlad out.

Now Leiter has to come in with bases loaded and no one out. He's used to getting out of jams, getting into them so often, but I dunno if he can make like El Duque here.

2005-10-07 20:08:15
387.   Murray
Country Joe West, man on the spot for bad umpiring.
2005-10-07 20:08:54
388.   murphy
it's nights like this that i am glad i don't have cable. i will now quit firefox and stop following the gamecast so i can go to sleep watching simpsons episodes in hopes of dulling the pain. g'night kids.
2005-10-07 20:09:00
389.   rmd0311
None., Strikes out Erstad... Then forces double play.
2005-10-07 20:09:40
390.   Cliff Corcoran
Torre's actually done a pretty good job with his pitching changes until now. Sturtze was a bad idea in Game 1, but he had room to try it. Ditto leaving Leiter in to face Molina in Game 2.

Woah! Huge K for Leiter there. Two more lefties due up, throw strikes, Al.

2005-10-07 20:10:08
391.   LeeDawg n VA
Anyone expecting to see a repeat of what El Duque did in Boston tonight, just close your eyes. We'll you when it's over...

He got one out and Christmas comes early in the form of Finley.

2005-10-07 20:10:35
392.   JeremyM
God that was a BS call. I take some time off to walk the dogs (they were going nuts with all my ridiculuous yelling) and it all goes to hell. Come on Leiter, keep it close.
2005-10-07 20:10:42
393.   BxSparksNYC
Did Gordon just hurl again in the playoff. Tell me you guy aren't noticing a trend.

Guess Mike was watching the earlier game...

2005-10-07 20:10:57
394.   zgoodfella75
that call was just terrible by the ump.....
and the squeeze call, is very ballsy
2005-10-07 20:11:19
395.   Cliff Corcoran
That squeeze was a gift. I know they got an extra run, but I didn't trust Leiter to give up less than one anyway. Now first is open and he only needs one out to get out of it. Huge gift from Scioscia.
2005-10-07 20:11:42
396.   joe in boston
more Tums please
2005-10-07 20:11:46
397.   rbj
9-6, it's doable. But I'm logging off. I think we're burning up their pen, just hope Chacon can go long tomorrow.
2005-10-07 20:12:43
398.   Cliff Corcoran
Awesome. Huge K and the squeeze really saved the Yankees there. Three to tie. Old Guard (literally) due up.
2005-10-07 20:12:47
400.   LeeDawg n VA
Yeah well you can't keep speeding and never expect to get caught. Our dynamic duo of dumb-dom did us in once again - Torre and Gordon. TorFlash? How about plain old Torch as in crash and burn!
Show/Hide Comments 401-450
2005-10-07 20:13:18
401.   Murray
It was actually an all right call, but it's one that umpires never make. Except, of course, for Joe West. It's all about Joe West. He's the man the fans pay to see.
2005-10-07 20:13:43
402.   JVarghese81
Hey, he did a very good job - bases loaded, none out and he gets out of it with only one run...not too bad at all. All right - 3 runs in 3 innings - let's do this.
2005-10-07 20:14:42
403.   joe in boston
We need some of that old ('late 90's) magic !!!!!!
2005-10-07 20:15:23
404.   BxSparksNYC
Torre should have started the 7th with Leiter obviously...But no telling what Gordon would have given in the 8th...
2005-10-07 20:16:14
405.   BklynBomber
Yeah... we could use a Yankeeography here.
2005-10-07 20:16:15
406.   Cliff Corcoran
Amen, Murray.
2005-10-07 20:16:55
407.   randym77
Leiter did well. Nothing he could really do about that run.

But I have a feeling putting him back in for another inning would be trouble. Mo for 2 innings?

2005-10-07 20:17:54
408.   JeremyM
I saw Gordon going for the gatorade cups before he came in, and he could barely grab one (granted, he had his glove on.) All I could think was he was going to drink some gatorade and then puke it right back up. I almost feel bad for him, it's pretty pathetic.

I think we got what we could out of Leiter, but then again, who else can we pitch now? Mo? Embree-God no.

Anyone else tired of these "we're not intimidated by the Yankees" blurbs. Every team they play, we hear it, again and again. Like we think pro ballplayers just wilt and die against us (Arthur Rhodes excluded of course).

2005-10-07 20:18:18
409.   LeeDawg n VA
The old guard can do it. Bernie's hitting well and tino is due. Let's hope they still believe and Jetes is telling them ghost stories in the dugout.
2005-10-07 20:19:19
410.   Oscar Azocar
Why am I not surprised when Bernie grouds weakly to 2nd...

Go Tino!

2005-10-07 20:19:37
411.   Chucksax
Gordon just kills me. I knew it was a bad idea to bring him in, and Joe verified my "faith" in Gordon.

I don't htink you go for Mo for 2 innings - although, considering that the Yanks go home tomorrow without a win, I'm not sure what you're saving him for.

2005-10-07 20:20:10
412.   Murray
The ESPN guys have been dying for the opportunity to talk about how the Angels are Not. Intimidated. By. The. Yankees.

Yawn.

2005-10-07 20:20:16
413.   Chucksax
Why is Tino in the game? He's not what he used to be defensively, and he's a sure out. That makes no sense to me.
2005-10-07 20:20:33
414.   JeremyM
Tino's done. He's got nothing anymore, sorry to say.
2005-10-07 20:22:41
415.   JeremyM
The kid picking his boogers with both fingers in the stands has the the right idea. Six runs is not enough with freakin' Randy Johnson on the hill.
2005-10-07 20:22:42
416.   Murray
Who are these people who bring very small children to night playoff games? I could have been sitting in that seat.
2005-10-07 20:25:31
417.   atc
Waldman just said on the radio that Molina has a contusion (sp?) and they're going to take xrays. She said that he probably won't play tomorrow, but I'm not sure how she can know that. No matter how it happened, if he doesn't play, it's definitely good for us.
2005-10-07 20:27:02
418.   LeeDawg n VA
In all fairness to Tino, he's not done. He single-handedly carried us when we badly needed him this Spring. That said, I can't follow the reasoning behind starting him other than hoping that his playoff experience will cash out. Well that was at best a gamble.
2005-10-07 20:27:23
419.   BxSparksNYC
Asking for 2 innings from Leiter boggles the mind. But I'm with 408. Who else? Wow.
2005-10-07 20:27:51
420.   JeremyM
I don't know whether to be happy or scared that our season comes down to Chacon tomorrow.

What a terrible throw by Matsui.

2005-10-07 20:28:36
421.   Cliff Corcoran
In a way, I'm not bummed by the 1-2-3 there, rather have the top of the order up to make a rally with some outs to work with than have them get men on with two outs and leave them there on something that would have been productive with 0 or 1 outs, thus clearing the heart of the order perhaps for the last time this game.

Leiter vs. Figgins is cool, and his history vs. Vlad is excellent, Cabrera isn't much of a hitter. I can deal with having him pitch this inning.

. . . or not.

And Matsui did not play that perfectly, he played it terribly, if he played the rebound Figgins is at second.

2005-10-07 20:28:42
422.   BxSparksNYC
I should play lotto..
2005-10-07 20:29:14
423.   JeremyM
Exactly. He carried us this spring. Did nothing else. Which is fine, he earned his money in the spring, but he shouldn't start in October.

I guess Proctor could come in. Ugh. Big out there.

2005-10-07 20:29:41
424.   zgoodfella75
Chacon will have a huge game tomorrow
2005-10-07 20:30:39
425.   Cliff Corcoran
Better Tino than Sierra.
2005-10-07 20:31:51
426.   zgoodfella75
I dont even want SIerra to put on a uniform
2005-10-07 20:33:21
427.   JeremyM
Guess Torre hasn't read Vlad's numbers against Leiter.
2005-10-07 20:33:45
428.   Cliff Corcoran
vs. lefties, Jose is only slighly less dangerous than Bengie.

Throw strikes Proctor, and use that curve!

2005-10-07 20:34:07
429.   JeremyM
I can think of 29 other uniforms I want him to put on.
2005-10-07 20:34:10
430.   Murray
Maybe they can give Sierra an Angels uniform.
2005-10-07 20:35:06
431.   Cliff Corcoran
You know, Jeremy, I can deal with walking Vald the Impaler to set up a DP with a Molina batting and a runner at third and one out. That said, Proctor isn't very likely to get a ground ball.
2005-10-07 20:35:18
432.   rmd0311
good lord... Proctor... put 2 more runs in the books.
2005-10-07 20:37:39
433.   JeremyM
I can see Torre's logic in walking Vlad. But who didn't see that happening? Proctor is just worthless.
2005-10-07 20:37:45
434.   unpopster
so, honestly guys, how confident are we that Chacon will save our season? ho hum.

Randy fucked us tonight...plain and simple. Unless he goes 22-0 next year and wins us a WS, It will not be forgotten.

2005-10-07 20:38:09
435.   Cliff Corcoran
Very pleased Joe's buried Embree, by the way. He's the only man in the pen who hasn't seen action in this series yet. I would have taken Wayne Franklin over Embree on the PS roster. Seriously.

Thhhpppptttt. 10-6. Ouch.

2005-10-07 20:38:13
436.   zgoodfella75
THIS ONE IS JUST ABOUT OVER BOYS AND GIRLS
2005-10-07 20:38:54
437.   Oscar Azocar
Our remaining bench players consist of Sierra, Bellhorn, Crosby, and Womack....How I long for the days when we could bring Straw off the bench, call on Wade Boggs to draw a key bases loaded walk a-la game 4 of the '96 WS.

Friggin Proctor!

2005-10-07 20:39:01
438.   JeremyM
432 called it:(

I like Chacon a lot so I'm going to put my faith in him, but this sucks.

2005-10-07 20:39:07
439.   BxSparksNYC
wow. wow. When Proctor came in all I could say is Wow...
2005-10-07 20:39:22
440.   unpopster
well, let's go Sha-Con (clapclapclapclapclap), let's go Sha-Con (clapclapclapclapclap)
2005-10-07 20:40:24
441.   Cliff Corcoran
Good night, Irene. I sure hope Chacon has it in him tomorrow, I fear the meltdown he had against the Red Sox in early Sept.

Oh, what am I saying. Five runs? Jeter, Rodriguez, Giambi, Sheffield, Matsui, Cano, there's six, beeeaaaaatch.

2005-10-07 20:41:12
442.   JeremyM
Oscar, I picked up that new Yankees DVD set (Borders broke the street date) and watched that game last night. Well worth the money for just that at bat. That said, I wish they would've put even more famous moments on the set from the glory years.
2005-10-07 20:42:20
443.   BxSparksNYC
I can see the headline in the morning. Unit and Yanks hopes get washed away....
2005-10-07 20:42:28
444.   JeremyM
So I wonder why Jeter comes up to "Gold Digger" by Kanye West:)
2005-10-07 20:42:43
445.   zgoodfella75
this is realistically are chance right here in the 8th
2005-10-07 20:42:45
446.   randym77
I hope Chacon has it tomorrow, because if he doesn't, who are we going to put in? Not Moose, if he's still in CA.

But at this point, I think I have more faith in Chacon than I do in our supposed aces, Mussina and Johnson. RJ, you really let us down tonight.

2005-10-07 20:43:21
447.   LeeDawg n VA
Well, well, well. back where we started 5 runs down.

Who said it? 6 runs isn't enough when you have Johnson on the mound. Crap. This game should have turned out so much differently. And if you look at the culprits, there are Johnson and Gordon right smack in the middle. This is what you call and implosion. We just got yanked. Oh well. One consolation - we haven't used Mo.

2005-10-07 20:43:27
448.   Cliff Corcoran
One.
2005-10-07 20:43:27
449.   zgoodfella75
there is 1 back
2005-10-07 20:43:32
450.   randym77
Way to go, Captain!
Show/Hide Comments 451-500
2005-10-07 20:43:47
451.   JeremyM
Nice shot. You never know. You never know.
2005-10-07 20:44:37
452.   LeeDawg n VA
That's why we love Jeter!

And that's why the rest of America hates him. Hey, somebody called that homer earlier tonight...

2005-10-07 20:46:49
453.   joe in boston
Wow, this sucks. Thanks Randy. Thanks alot. Go push another cameraman. This is NY man, the big city. You gotta get it done in this town and you spit the bit.

I'll say it again, this sucks.

I miss ROger and Andy by the way

2005-10-07 20:47:28
454.   zgoodfella75
Everybody here has been killing Posada, Bernie, Randy, Gordon...Sheffield has been worse than ALL of them....don't give him a pass, just AWFUL
2005-10-07 20:47:29
455.   JeremyM
Sheffield looks totally off.
2005-10-07 20:47:39
456.   joe in boston
LeeDawg, that was me earlier on the homer.

My only shining moment tonight.

2005-10-07 20:48:25
457.   Murray
Yes, Clemens has been great in the playoffs this year.
2005-10-07 20:48:37
458.   BxSparksNYC
Sheff non existent
Arod (granted a gift) hitless
Gordon hurls.

How far are we away from 96 to 2000....

2005-10-07 20:49:15
459.   zgoodfella75
too far sparks too far
2005-10-07 20:50:31
460.   BxSparksNYC
I can't help it, this hurts...
2005-10-07 20:50:55
461.   JeremyM
Can I be the first one to ask about Colter Bean?
2005-10-07 20:51:25
462.   zgoodfella75
Sparks this IS tough....
Z
2005-10-07 20:51:26
463.   joe in boston
Angels batting practice continues....
2005-10-07 20:51:46
464.   JeremyM
Gordon puts new meaning to the term hurler in baseball, eh?
2005-10-07 20:52:26
465.   Cliff Corcoran
I'm sorry, I thought Rodriguez was 2 for 4 with a double and Clemens spit the bit himself. Or am I wrong about that?
2005-10-07 20:52:59
466.   zgoodfella75
Lookin at Steve Finley's numbers, he should be a candidate for patrolling centerfield next year for the Yanks.....
2005-10-07 20:52:59
467.   zgoodfella75
Lookin at Steve Finley's numbers, he should be a candidate for patrolling centerfield next year for the Yanks.....
2005-10-07 20:53:29
468.   JeremyM
A-Rod has not been the problem. He hasn't been nails, but he's been on base left and right.
2005-10-07 20:53:34
469.   Cliff Corcoran
Just like last year, Jeremy. The Yanks bring up Bean in '04 and the curse would still be alive.
2005-10-07 20:54:33
470.   LeeDawg n VA
The thing about it is that this team pound for pound is STILL better than those others on paper. The old crew was just stupid enough to believe they were the best damn team on the planet.

19 frikkin' hits in a playoff game.

I still believe we're going to win this series, but this is the type of game that shakes my faith in the teams ability to come through in a close game. This was our game to win... or lose as it so happens.

2005-10-07 20:55:14
471.   BxSparksNYC
Cliff you don't consider that a gift from Vlad on that double...small potatoes compared to Randy...
2005-10-07 20:55:31
472.   Oscar Azocar
# 442 Jeremy: I gotta check out that DVD. I remember going nuts during that game. I at college in NYU, just excited that they made the WS after 11+ seasons as a Yankee fan. My whole dorm went nuts when Leyritz hit the shot. I knew Boggs would do something worthwhile in his AB. The city, or Yankee fans seemed to go more wild over that one than the subsequent wins. I think it's b/c of the long time between titles. Also, it's probably b/c there were much less "bandwagon" folks (greater % of Yankee fans were of the die-hard variety at that time).

For some reason, I just don't feel as confident when watching Yankee playoff games now as I did during the '96-2000 run.

2005-10-07 20:57:12
473.   BxSparksNYC
your bugging Z...no Steve Finley please...try for Vernon in Tor if possible...
2005-10-07 20:59:15
474.   billm
They just showed FRod warming up. Hopefully they bring him in with a 4 run lead. Anything that works that bullpen at all is good news for tomorrow (assuming there is a game tomorrow with the weather).
2005-10-07 21:01:16
475.   LeeDawg n VA
Yeah definitely NO Finley and I only hope someone's looking at getting Wells here.

Here's a prediction and I know you'll probably wanna stone me after this, but if we can compensate for hit crappy outings and we get to the aLCS, Randy Johnson is lights out.

2005-10-07 21:01:44
476.   Cliff Corcoran
I think Z was kidding about Finley. Meanwhile, LeeDawg, you're very wrong about this team being better than those old clubs. Pitching, baby, pitching.
2005-10-07 21:03:11
477.   LeeDawg n VA
What a way to welcome K-Rod, MatZilla!
2005-10-07 21:03:30
478.   Cliff Corcoran
Agreed on RJ, LeeDawg. I think the rain screwed up his focus/grip/landing etc. Excuses excuses, I know, but he'll come back angry (if he gets the chance).
2005-10-07 21:04:41
479.   Oscar Azocar
Make K-Rod pitch. Just make him throw pitches.
OK, maybe too much to ask Cano to make him work...

BTW, is every single guy with the last name Rodriguez now doomed to have some sort of XYZ-Rod type nickname?

2005-10-07 21:04:58
480.   LeeDawg n VA
Scoscia's playing for keeps here. He knows that we'll more than likely be rained out so he can rest everyone in the pen after tonight. That's why K-Rod's in with a 4 run lead. It's actually a pretty good move.
2005-10-07 21:05:11
481.   JeremyM
I was still in high school during that game. Off the bat I thought Leyritz' shot was an easy fly ball out, but it just kept carrying and carrying. So many classic moments in that game: Graeme Lloyd batting for the first time in his career, Tim Raines falling down while making the last catch, etc. But they should've included the 1-0 game 5 as well, although the World Series video included covers it well.
2005-10-07 21:06:27
482.   JeremyM
So is the forecast still bad for tomorrow?
2005-10-07 21:07:23
483.   Cliff Corcoran
Worst case scenario here. Ruben gets a big hit. Yanks still lose. Ruben starts tomorrow.
2005-10-07 21:07:26
484.   JeremyM
Here comes Sierra! Let's make this night better and end it on a good note!
2005-10-07 21:08:07
485.   BxSparksNYC
A big Wow to see Ruben make an apprearance. Good night. Good luck Chacon....(sigh)
2005-10-07 21:08:09
486.   JeremyM
Cliff, Sierra ain't hitting nothin'.
2005-10-07 21:08:38
487.   Oscar Azocar
I can feel the breeze from Sierra's whiffs...
2005-10-07 21:08:54
488.   JeremyM
So, what is the story with A-Rod's playoff lips? He had them on Seattle in 2000 as well.
2005-10-07 21:09:08
489.   Cliff Corcoran
What, no Game 5? The Pettitte-Smoltz game was the greatest game I've ever seen. Down 1-2 in the series, no margin for error, incredible pitchers duel. That to me was the biggest win of the '96 series.
2005-10-07 21:10:59
490.   Cliff Corcoran
Here's hoping that K glues Ruben's rear to the bench the rest of the series.

If the weather holds I'll be at the park tomorrow. If not I'll probably be at that Coliseum Books promoting Baseball Prospectus's Mind Game, which I contributed to.

2005-10-07 21:11:06
491.   JeremyM
No, only 5 games total, one from each series from 96 to 01. 96-game 4, 98-game 3, 99-game 3, 2000-game 5, and 2001-game 4.
2005-10-07 21:12:12
492.   JeremyM
Now, if we're going to talk goats, there's only one to talk about. We scored 7 runs so the offense is free and clear.
2005-10-07 21:13:16
493.   Cliff Corcoran
That's terrible. The '98 and '99 series were sweeps, no great games. Two great games in '96 and two great games in '01. And Game 1 was the best game of the '00 series.
2005-10-07 21:13:34
494.   randym77
If anything, the weather report for tomorrow is worse. Heavy rain and thunder until about 11 pm.
2005-10-07 21:14:08
495.   LeeDawg n VA
Oh boy. These are the games I hate to lose. You know when you're back is against the wall and the team just keeps fighting and finally overcomes. Then we just get outclassed by the opposition because we didn't play chess when we should have.

I really believe we lost this one when gordon came out to play. We just let it get out of hand at that point. Another one (like game 2) that we should have won. You can't give two games away in every series and expect to win. Just ask the Red Sox.

2005-10-07 21:15:48
496.   JeremyM
Well, the 98 and 99 games were great comebacks. But the opener of the 2000 series should've been on there. Paul O'Neill's at bat was unreal.
2005-10-07 21:16:29
497.   Murray
Game 5 of the 2000 series was fantastic.
2005-10-07 21:23:41
498.   weeping for brunnhilde
Well, what can I say. The better team clearly won. It's funny, I'm sad and all (and yes, I know it's not over yet, but let's face it) but I can't help but admire these Californias and their style of ball. I mean, if we could only squeeze, we could have maybe won against Florida in '03 and Boston last year.

I mean, just like in '02, this team just seems to get it done, no excuses. They don't go down swinging or looking with men in scoring position and they hit the ball the other way.

Plus, of course, they actually have a bullpen.

You watch a team like that beat your ass and you realize just how one-dimensional our team has become.

I'm not sad because I really didn't expect to get this far in the first place.

Anyway, I just hope as we rebuild, we keep in mind the value of a more balanced team than the one we have.

2005-10-07 21:28:50
499.   LeeDawg n VA
Small did OK today. He should have lasted at least through the 6th, but he was OK. Johnson? Just terrible. 'nuff said. However, I am extremely confident in Chacon for the next start. He (more so than anyone who started the second half for us) has been magnificent in all but two starts (me thinks). He'll turn in another quality start.

Another thing about a game like this that bothers me is the stigma that we haven't learned anything from the loss. Torre essentially turned Sturtze into a ROOGY and called in Gordon early. I hate playing the second-guess game with Joe because I have tremendous repect for him, but at least allow Tanyon one base runner with nobody out. Then react. When I spoke about Torre's pitching changes being crap in the playoffs, I was specifically referring to the Marlins series two years ago. Sometimes I feel like Joe is going with his heart because he's pulling for a guy. Even with our sad bullpen and banged up starting pitching, we have more than enough to work with in a situation like tonight. Tonight was not Torre over-using gordon, but more flash fizzling. He just choked. We need to find the lesson in this loss and learn from it or we'll be watching the ALCS with Dead Sox next week.

2005-10-07 21:29:21
500.   Cliff Corcoran
Murray, I guess my problem with Game 5 in '00 was that the Yankees were up 3-1 and there was no urgency to it. You're right, the game itself was excellent, but those other games I mentioned were more thrilling because of the swing they effected on the outcome of the series.

So when do they put out the '53 series etc. on DVD? That's the stuff I want, things I didn't get to see the first time.

Show/Hide Comments 501-550
2005-10-07 21:30:30
501.   weeping for brunnhilde
496--was that the walk against Benitez? If so, yeah, one of my favorite at-bats of all time.

Along with the same at-bat from Boggs in '96, though I for the life of me can't remember the scenario of that one.

2005-10-07 21:32:42
502.   ChuckM
I'm not happy at all to be saying this, but the general mood over here after game 2 was "we got 1 there and RJ is going for game 3" when I said we had them for game 2 and never put our foot on their throats. Give them an inch, they'll take a mile. Congrats on the corporate crowd leaving by the 7th as well. I understand the weather sucked, but its a friggin' playoff game!. If the yuppies wanna leave once they're down in bad weather, at least let the upper deck move down. That stadium tonite made us look like Turner Field. Where are the long time fans that value a winner? oh yeah, they can't afford tix anymore...

P.S. Pardon the typos and whatnot, beers and nicorette do not mix. 3 1/2 days w/out a Marlboro Red. Woo Hoo!!

2005-10-07 21:34:11
503.   Cliff Corcoran
WFB, Boggs came in as a PH, the last man of the bench, and worked a bases loaded walk to drive in the winning run. Leyritz's homer merely tied it (if I remember right).
2005-10-07 21:34:48
504.   weeping for brunnhilde
Oh yeah, and another thing. It's great that Small had that Mussina moment and all, but why in the hell wasn't he starting that inning? I was screaming at the television because it was clear Johnson had nothing. Why was he trotted back out there instead of just starting the inning with Small?

I was wondering whether Joe was counting on some magic transformation in Johnson's stuff because he had no business coming back out there.

But it was nice to see Small be so clutch, and Canoe's play was sweet. That's something positive on the night.

2005-10-07 21:41:18
505.   ChuckM
Cano's play was something to behold. Once I saw him drop to a knee to snag it, I figured they had one more run in the books. I don't think I've ever seen a 2B turn one like that-especially w/a guy as fast as Figgins. Once he learns to take a couple of pitches each AB, he's gonna be something ridiculous
2005-10-07 21:51:46
506.   weeping for brunnhilde
503--Oh my God, that was the same game as the Leyritz homer!? That's amazing. I remembered it was bases-loaded, but that's all. Baseball's so beautiful.
2005-10-07 22:23:23
507.   brockdc
Weeping,

I have a real tough time disagreeing with any of your posts. Man, we just see it all pretty much the same way.

Of course it's disappointing and gut-wrenching to lose like this but, let's face it: L.A. can do things that our roster is simply not capable of doing. Period. They can execute the hit-and-run and every variation of the sacrifice, they produce mostly productive outs, they can go to the opposite field, they can steal if need be, and they rarely give away at-bats. And I haven't even begun to mention their lights-out bullpen, solid starting rotation and above-average defense. Have I left anything out (I tend to think that their manager is a bit on the overrated side, but, then again, so is ours)?

The Angels are precisely the type of team that give the Yankees fits because they are solid in EVERY aspect of their game and, as you said, the Yankees are crippled by their one-dimensional, two three-run homers-and-pray-for-rain-dogma.

2005-10-07 22:37:09
508.   brockdc
ChuckM,

Living out in Cali (not by choice - I miss NY), I get back East every summer and usually take in a few at the stadium while at home. I thought it was just my cynical nature, but, over the past several years, I've observed Yankee crowds growing increasingly more corporate. I say corporate as opposed to affluent because of the incessant "clienting" and shmoozing by the business elite. I recall going to games as a kid and overhearing old guys (they were actually probably about 40 back then, but, then again, I was only 10) kibitzing over in-game strategy or about whether Mantle was a better defensive CFer than Joe D. Now the stadium's replete with Wall Street shop talk spewing forth from glorified used car salesmen in 150.00 shirts.

2005-10-07 23:01:33
509.   JeremyM
501, that's the at-bat.

I can only imagine the scenario described above will only get worse with the new Yankee stadium. I couldn't believe all of the empty seats. The lead was only 4 runs, geez. The Joe Six Packs are getting fazed out of major sports as far as I can see.

2005-10-07 23:43:43
510.   brockdc
Not to wax too philosophical - or pessimistic - but the Joe Six Packs are getting phased out of just about everywhere.
2005-10-08 07:29:42
511.   zakysdad1
I've been saying for years that I'm getting priced out of baseball. $71.00 for my loge box seats for last night x 6 tickets for my wife and kids. There is a part of me that secretly hopes they get knocked out now so the money I sent in for post season gets applied to my season tickets. Otherwise I've got to juggle finances for three months to pay for my tickets. Only a few people I know in my section were there.......in there stead a bunch of obnoxious, booing idiots who know nothing about the game (some don't even know the players-I asked a guy who hit the homer in the 3rd for the Angels-Molina-he shrugged and later I heard his girl friend ask what would happen if "that pitcher, guy", referring to Randy, kept pitching badly...would they replace him or what.........kinda makes you want to give up.

Comment status: comments have been closed. Baseball Toaster is now out of business.