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Maybin? I'm Amazed
2007-08-17 14:17
by Cliff Corcoran

The good news about last night's loss to the Tigers was that it came in the game with the least favorable pitching matchup for the Yankees. In a way, it reminded me of the team's 14-4 loss to the Devil Rays in the opening game of a four-game series in the Bronx four weeks ago. Mike Mussina got torched in that game (4 2/3 IP, 6 R), and then the Yankees torched the Devil Rays over the remaining three games.

Indeed, tonight's matchup favors the Yankees quite a bit. Nate Robertson is 1-3 with a 6.39 ERA over his last five starts, while Andy Pettitte has recovered from his stumble just before the All-Star Break to go 5-1 with a 3.15 ERA in seven post-break starts. Five of those seven have been quality starts and the only two that weren't saw Pettitte fall just one out short. The biggest difference between the two of late has been extra base hits. Opposing hitters have hit just one home run and slugged just .352 against Pettitte over those last seven games while hitting four jacks off Robertson in his last five and slugging .557 against the bespectacled Bengal. Altogether, 41 percent of Robertson's hits allowed over that span have gone for extra bases, while just 23 percent of Pettitte's have.

Finally some roster notes on the Tigers. Remember in yesterday's preview when I said "Monroe has been so bad . . . that he appears to be losing his job." I meant his job as the starting left fielder. Turns out, he just lost his job as a Detroit Tiger, getting designated for assignment this afternoon so that the Tigers could call up top prospect Camron Maybin. Maybin, a 20-year-old righty-hitting outfielder, is a classic five-tool prospect who was the organization's minor league player of the year while in low-A ball last year, but this might be a little too much too soon. Maybin just hit double-A this month and comes to the majors with just six games above A-ball under his belt. Of course he went 8 for 20 with four homers in those six games, but it's still just six games. He also struck out 83 times in 83 games in high-A and six more times in those six games in double-A. Nonetheless, he'll make his major league debut in left field at Yankee Stadium tonight in a game with playoff implications. But no pressure, kid.

Less exciting is the swap of right-hitting backup infielders Omar Infante and Ramon Santiago. A lot less exciting.

Meanwhile, Joe Torre seems unconcerned about Robertson's left-handedness and rather fierce platoon splits. Torre's keeping Bobby Abreu in the lineup, starting Jason Giambi at DH, and giving Melky Cabrera a day of rest, which puts Johnny Damon in center field. Save for Abreu, who should be platooning with Shelley Duncan, there's really nothing wrong with that lineup. Andy Phillips starts at first over Duncan as well, but with the groundballing Pettitte on the mound, that's legit, too.

Comments (351)
Show/Hide Comments 1-50
2007-08-17 14:46:17
1.   rilkefan
0 The title reminds me of Rilkekind(age 14 months)'s piano playing.
2007-08-17 14:46:49
2.   rilkefan
1 Oops, just a moment ago it was "'lakdsf".
2007-08-17 14:53:19
3.   Cliff Corcoran
2 Funny, because 1 would still work if the tyke could play McCartney. Nonetheless, I accidentally posted the thing with a filler title (obviously).
2007-08-17 14:57:41
4.   rilkefan
3 He hasn't gotten past pre-serial Schoenberg. He can't reach the black keys yet so no tone rows.
2007-08-17 15:00:51
5.   Cliff Corcoran
4 slacker
2007-08-17 15:50:55
6.   thelarmis
4 last nite both Eric Dolphy and Penderecki were mentioned. Tonight, you mention Schoenberg. what a blog! They should play some Derek Bailey over the PA at the Stadium tonite. it should assure a victory...
2007-08-17 15:53:54
7.   Chyll Will
6 "Oh-boooyyy..."
2007-08-17 15:54:12
8.   cult of basebaal
and three nights ago during the Great Karstens Implosion of Ought-Seven, i threw in a shout out for The Stormtroopers of Death!

we cater to all the denominators, here!!!

2007-08-17 15:54:49
9.   cult of basebaal
anyone got an update on the weather, i heard it was raining hard in the vicinity ...
2007-08-17 16:06:23
10.   Matty B
They just took the tarp off the field, but the pitchers still need to warm up.
2007-08-17 16:06:37
11.   Vandelay Industries
9 Looks like about a half hour rain delay.
2007-08-17 16:11:46
12.   Cliff Corcoran
It's pouring in NJ at 7:10. Been nasty thunder and lightening in the early evening and rain of varying intensity since.
2007-08-17 16:14:49
13.   unmoderated
it's a My9 game tonight, and our feed is commercial-free and uncensored.

i'll be recording.

that is, if they get a game in.

2007-08-17 16:20:31
14.   Marcus
13 Who are the announcers (usually) for My9?
2007-08-17 16:28:46
15.   matt0620
14 Same as YES...in this case Kay, Leiter, and Flaherty I believe.
2007-08-17 16:33:35
16.   Yankees Brasil
What time is the game going to start??
2007-08-17 16:47:18
17.   Eirias
Meanwhile, the Jets are due to play in 15 minutes.
2007-08-17 16:56:38
18.   OldYanksFan
game on!
2007-08-17 17:05:52
19.   ny2ca2dc
what happened
2007-08-17 17:06:10
20.   OldYanksFan
oops... not quite. soon... Halos up 1-0
2007-08-17 17:07:33
21.   tommyl
Tabata is done for the year. They finally figured out his wrist injury, its all coming from the hamate bone. He's having it removed, 6 week rehab. Man, if he was hitting that well playing through an injury that requires surgery, I can't wait to see the kid hit next year.
2007-08-17 17:07:50
22.   Vandelay Industries
20 They are going to play? EI has rain delay.....should I set my DVR or save the space?
2007-08-17 17:08:29
23.   tommyl
14 My9 games look exactly like YES games, even down to the same ball/strike, score thing on top. Just when the logo flashes its says My9 instead of YES. Otherwise its exactly the same.
2007-08-17 17:08:53
24.   tommyl
22 My Gameday says warmup.
2007-08-17 17:10:06
25.   Vandelay Industries
24 Mine too, thanks. I guess I'll just set the DVR and hope the game is here when I get back.

Go Yankees! For God's sake!

2007-08-17 17:12:02
26.   tommyl
25 My MLB.TV (at the girlfriend's place tonight) just had the pregame. I think they are going to start very soon.
2007-08-17 17:12:37
27.   ny2ca2dc
here we go. false start before i guess
2007-08-17 17:12:37
28.   Cliff Corcoran
Game on at 8:15
2007-08-17 17:14:49
29.   seamus
on those nights that Pete Abe isn't at the game, why doesn't he ask Brian Heyman to post directly to the blog instead of just calling in with the lineups?
2007-08-17 17:19:33
30.   seamus
"It's all about the beer."

I couldn't agree more.

2007-08-17 17:29:10
31.   OldYanksFan
Being an out-of-Stater, I just discovered Mike and the Mad Dog on WFan about a month or so ago. I assume most here are familiar with it? Anyway, I have heard probably 3 interviews with Cashman and Torre, including a lengthy one with Cash, just yesterday.

I'm impressed. Cash seems to know exactly what is happening around him, and made his decisions based on his future game plan. He addresses all of Mike's questions head-on, and seemed very straight. He mentioned Britton a couple of times as someone who might help this team, so he's on the radar. Maybe there is still an issue that we are not aware of.

2007-08-17 17:29:56
32.   OldYanksFan
Man... we are hitting into tons of DPs lately. At least Jetes pulled the ball.
2007-08-17 17:30:14
33.   OldYanksFan
Halos still up 1-0 after 5.
2007-08-17 17:39:11
34.   seamus
awfully quiet here.

LETS GO YAN-KEES!

2007-08-17 17:39:26
35.   tommyl
31 Yeah, its a staple, if you can stomach both their idiocy and the guys who call in and ask why we don't trade for Santana and bring back Bernie Williams.

Cash is no moron. You may disagree with moves he makes, but the guy is very shrewd and knowledgeable. More importantly, he's willing to adjust. I'd say his remaining flaw is not quite knowing when to just cut bait on someone.

2007-08-17 17:42:17
36.   thelarmis
hip-hip!
2007-08-17 17:42:57
37.   Mike T
Nice pic off Jorgie.
2007-08-17 17:44:16
38.   Mike T
Andy at 22 pitches through 2 innings. He's doing his job.
2007-08-17 17:46:19
39.   Mike T
Angels 2-0 Sox
2007-08-17 17:51:01
40.   williamnyy23
I hate to pick on him because it's probably just a coincidence, but every since Giambi re-emerged in the lineup, it seems as if it's May all over again.
2007-08-17 17:52:05
41.   JeremyM
40 Funny, I was thinking the same thing, even though it's a coincidence, as you say.

I think:)

2007-08-17 17:53:28
42.   Mike T
That was a pretty weak at-bat by Jason. Down on three pitches? Come on. Shouldn't our guys be murdering this pitcher?
2007-08-17 17:55:08
43.   Mike T
Angels 2-0 Sox end 6th
2007-08-17 17:55:56
44.   williamnyy23
Why did he cut that and why was no one at 2nd? This team continue to play like crap and is going to find itself back in a deep hole if they don't snap out of it soon.
2007-08-17 17:57:10
45.   bartap74
That was quite the little league play. Ugh.
2007-08-17 17:57:43
46.   bobtaco
45 I think the throw as true and they would have had him dead at the plate. No idea why Phillips cut that off.
2007-08-17 17:59:51
47.   williamnyy23
That's an awful walk by Pettitte. With Sheffield in the hole, you can't walk the lefty. The Yankees are collectively not stepping up the competition.
2007-08-17 18:01:03
48.   Cliff Corcoran
inexplicable play by Phillips
2007-08-17 18:03:53
49.   williamnyy23
Crap...why didn't Cashman deal Sheff to the NL!!
2007-08-17 18:03:56
50.   fansince77
Phillips trying to be Jeter...he should just START trying to be Andy Phillips.
Show/Hide Comments 51-100
2007-08-17 18:05:46
51.   williamnyy23
How useless is it to be 20 feet in front of the catcher...if the throw was offline, Posada could have stepped forward and made the play. Phillips shouldhave been at second. Braindead plays like that will have the Yankees playing golf in October.
2007-08-17 18:05:53
52.   fansince77
What are they chanting about Sheffield?
2007-08-17 18:07:25
53.   Mike T
Is Sheffield being booed rather lustily?
2007-08-17 18:07:30
54.   williamnyy23
52 That he sucks.
2007-08-17 18:09:46
55.   bobtaco
Way to atone, Andy!
2007-08-17 18:10:02
56.   fansince77
I've been a coach for years...I applaud Phillips desire to try to think ahead on the play BUT # 1: First base already has a responsibility on that play #2 Since when does Jeter ever need a double relay home? That play is one of Jeter's specialties. THe way I saw that play on the relay was another momentum changing defensive gem by Mats/Jeter/Posada- Unless my perspective is way off- the through would have beat the runner by a few feet and Posada had an easy tag. WTF was Phillips thinking?
2007-08-17 18:10:23
57.   williamnyy23
35 Like Torre? :)
2007-08-17 18:11:31
58.   fansince77
Wow that was outside!
2007-08-17 18:12:43
59.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
Cool by Andy. Obviously not scared of Sheff. Figured pitching around Granderson, trying to bait the rook into a dp ball, or facing Sheff, was best.

Meanwhile, leadoff single by Papi at the Fens in the 7th. Surely the Halos should think about a pitching change. Shields could get 6 outs, no?

Crap, even as I typed that Nancy doubles to put the tying run in scoring position.

2007-08-17 18:12:47
60.   williamnyy23
Why wouldn't you tag? Another bad play...what's going on??
2007-08-17 18:13:39
61.   fansince77
WHY THE FUCK ISN't Cano on third base!
2007-08-17 18:14:12
62.   williamnyy23
Jeter has been a culprit over the last few games...he needs to start hitting again.
2007-08-17 18:14:38
63.   bobtaco
What's up with Jeter, this is going on weeks now.
2007-08-17 18:14:53
64.   Mike T
Who is this guy posing as Derek Jeter?
2007-08-17 18:16:04
65.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
Jeter needs to join Mo on his 2-3 day vacation.
2007-08-17 18:16:44
66.   bobtaco
nice break
2007-08-17 18:17:07
67.   Yankees Brasil
but that pitch to Jeter was way inside..
2007-08-17 18:17:22
68.   fansince77
I find this umpire interesting - this is a case of a CATCHER getting favoritism- It is clear that GUCCIONE is going to fall for every frame job that Rodriguez gives him and not follow the path of the ball . Pudge is a master but this ump is clearly lickin' his huevos.
2007-08-17 18:17:22
69.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
Wow, Torre with the right call on letting Bobby face a lefty.
2007-08-17 18:18:00
70.   williamnyy23
Some luck...maybe that will wake this team up.
2007-08-17 18:18:04
71.   thelarmis
boBBy!

i think brandon webb is now at 40 consecutive scoreless innings...

2007-08-17 18:18:39
72.   seamus
i couldn't figure what happened in the corner there at all.
2007-08-17 18:19:28
73.   fansince77
We gotta thank the Tiger rookie for not trying to catch that ball...muchas gracias.
2007-08-17 18:19:46
74.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
71 What's OH's record? 50 innings?
2007-08-17 18:20:27
75.   williamnyy23
74 59 2/3, I believe.
2007-08-17 18:20:33
76.   DougP
Nice shots on MY9 of Torre and Molina schooling Cano on not tagging on the fly by Damon.
2007-08-17 18:21:23
77.   fansince77
Blow some fire on this guy Matzilla - treat him like Tokyo!
2007-08-17 18:22:08
78.   OldYanksFan
Lead off triple by Vlad then a sac fly. 3-1 Halos, top 8th.
2007-08-17 18:22:42
79.   williamnyy23
DAMN IT!!!!!!!!!!!
2007-08-17 18:22:57
80.   DougP
Can't believe Hideki didn't take that pitch.
2007-08-17 18:23:14
81.   Mike T
Don't swing at ball four.
2007-08-17 18:23:20
82.   OldYanksFan
Got real lucky this inning. Cano botched an EASY running play. Full count on Mats.
2007-08-17 18:23:24
83.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
Crap, according to gameday Mats swung at ball 4.
2007-08-17 18:23:39
84.   Mike T
Angels 4-1 Sox top 8
2007-08-17 18:23:58
85.   OldYanksFan
GM Jr HR. 4-1
2007-08-17 18:24:03
86.   williamnyy23
83 It almost bounced...he just swung at ball 4 again...this is so frustrating.
2007-08-17 18:24:22
87.   fansince77
Matsui with his exorcist impression on ball 4
2007-08-17 18:25:10
88.   williamnyy23
And he swung at ball four again...3x...what an awful AB. It's nice to get a lucky hop, but the Yankees should have blown the game open. That will likely come back to haunt them.
2007-08-17 18:25:38
89.   fansince77
That was 3 ball fours. Does that make it ball twelve?
2007-08-17 18:25:52
90.   Mike T
Unreal. That's why you don't swing at ball four. I don't know if he was trying to be a hero and hit a grand slam or what, but walking in a run is deflating for a pitcher. Matsui really should have taken that pitch. A huge opportunity blown for the Yanks.
2007-08-17 18:27:31
91.   williamnyy23
The Yankees inability to beat a good team other than the Indians is really disconcerting. They are lucky to be up 2-1, but it's only a matter of time if they don't start playing fundamental baseball.
2007-08-17 18:28:58
92.   seamus
91 if we are winning, how are we unable to beat them?
2007-08-17 18:29:59
93.   seamus
Matsui was trying too hard to make something there. It is too bad because it could have been a bigger inning. At least Robertson is up to 56 pitches.
2007-08-17 18:32:05
94.   williamnyy23
92 I was referring to the Yankees less than impressive record against the likes of ANA, BOS, SEA and DET, not their 2-1 lead.
2007-08-17 18:32:50
95.   fansince77
Andy Phillips should work at Baskin Robbins...
2007-08-17 18:33:09
96.   BklynBmr
Nice pick by Andy!

Q: Any ink about how Sheff is reacting to the boos? (Been crazy busy, no time for recreational reading)...

2007-08-17 18:33:45
97.   bobtaco
Thank you, Jason Giambi
2007-08-17 18:33:50
98.   BklynBmr
Oh yeah!!!! Jason!
2007-08-17 18:34:53
99.   williamnyy23
Damn...almost caught another break.
2007-08-17 18:36:05
100.   OldYanksFan
Halos throwing it away.
Show/Hide Comments 101-150
2007-08-17 18:36:49
101.   Mike T
Sox with bases loaded, one out, bottom 8.
2007-08-17 18:36:57
102.   BklynBmr
99 He obviously owns the DVD set, "How to Play Left Field — The Matsui Way"...
2007-08-17 18:37:37
103.   OldYanksFan
bases loaded, 1 out. 4-1. New pitcher coming.
2007-08-17 18:37:43
104.   Mike T
K-Rod in for the Angels.
2007-08-17 18:39:41
105.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
dammit. Shields spits the bit. Walks Lugo and rookie Ellsbury. Papi up w/ bases juiced now, K-Rod into game. Ugghh. Who do you root for? K'rod or Papi? My head's going to explode.
2007-08-17 18:40:09
106.   williamnyy23
103 Nice to see the Angels good pitchers spit the bit. Why do they play so well against the Yankees??
2007-08-17 18:40:36
107.   OldYanksFan
K-Rod to Ortiz...
2007-08-17 18:41:06
108.   DougP
I hope 106 was in response to 105, not 103, otherwise the use of "spit the bit" in both posts is eerie.
2007-08-17 18:41:25
109.   williamnyy23
105 Maybe we can beat out the Angels for the WC and face Seattle in the first round?
2007-08-17 18:41:30
110.   fansince77
Andy Phillips should work at Baskin Robbins because...
2007-08-17 18:41:34
111.   OldYanksFan
My God! WP. 4-2, 2nd and 3rd
2007-08-17 18:41:36
112.   BklynBmr
4-2 Halos. WP/PB....
2007-08-17 18:41:54
113.   bobtaco
107 just threw a 36 ft pitch
2007-08-17 18:42:00
114.   Mike T
Wild pitch by K-Rod, Lugo scores, 4-2.
2007-08-17 18:42:09
115.   williamnyy23
108 It wasn't...I posted it before reading 105 . Thank George for that.
2007-08-17 18:42:28
116.   Mike T
Angels 4-4 Sox
2007-08-17 18:42:43
117.   OldYanksFan
Papi double. Tied game
2007-08-17 18:43:02
118.   thelarmis
infuriating goings on in beantown...
2007-08-17 18:43:14
119.   williamnyy23
Incredible...I hate the Angels...come Monday of course, they'll be world beaters.
2007-08-17 18:43:25
120.   fansince77
KROD BLOWS!
2007-08-17 18:43:34
121.   bobtaco
119 Of course.
2007-08-17 18:43:35
122.   BklynBmr
Anything to take the Halos out of the PS is OK with me. Go Sawx. Go Seattle. Just sayin'...
2007-08-17 18:43:46
123.   williamnyy23
Let's see Krod pump his fist now...what a jackass.
2007-08-17 18:44:00
124.   OldYanksFan
Manny double. Soz up 5-4.
2007-08-17 18:44:18
125.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
There was that one series in 2005, right around the trading deadline, that we got the Angels bullpen . . .

Sigh.

2007-08-17 18:44:32
126.   williamnyy23
That's a great win for the Sox...a division is now over kind of win.
2007-08-17 18:44:33
127.   Mike T
Angels 4-5 Sox. I don't necessarily mind watching the Angels lose, but I was hoping for some victories from them over the Sox this weekend.
2007-08-17 18:46:16
128.   williamnyy23
What's the deal with Rayburn? Why can't the Yankees get him out?
2007-08-17 18:46:16
129.   thelarmis
126 they haven't won yet...
2007-08-17 18:46:51
130.   DougP
129 Right, neither the game nor the division.
2007-08-17 18:47:05
131.   williamnyy23
129 I don't see Papelbon blowing this one.
2007-08-17 18:47:29
132.   bobtaco
127 At least they are burning Krod out...
2007-08-17 18:47:39
133.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
This Raburn kid is much better than Polanco in my book.
2007-08-17 18:47:57
134.   williamnyy23
132 For Sat and Sun...meaning he'll be fresh for Monday.
2007-08-17 18:49:23
135.   bobtaco
134 I would think he will pitch again on Sunday if necessary.
2007-08-17 18:50:08
136.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
Ok Andy. pitch around Granderson again to get to the rook.
2007-08-17 18:50:12
137.   williamnyy23
135 I hope so.
2007-08-17 18:51:37
138.   Mike T
Gange in for the Sox. Does he have a blown save in him tonight?
2007-08-17 18:51:38
139.   bobtaco
131 Gagne is in.
2007-08-17 18:51:42
140.   OldYanksFan
Gagme vs bottom of the Halos order. Where's Papsmear?
2007-08-17 18:52:48
141.   williamnyy23
139 I told you Papelbon wouldn't blow it!
2007-08-17 18:52:55
142.   seamus
140 paps closed game 1.
2007-08-17 18:53:19
143.   Mike T
136 Why do that when you can go right at him, and strike him out?
2007-08-17 18:53:26
144.   bobtaco
140 I believe he pitched 2 innings in the first game.
2007-08-17 18:53:37
145.   OldYanksFan
126 Willy, don't make me count how many times you've said that this year. How about just waiting until mathimatical eliminations?
2007-08-17 18:53:44
146.   fansince77
And Grandersen disappoints all of his Norweigen countryfolk.
2007-08-17 18:53:50
147.   3rd gen yankee fan
I <3 Andy.
2007-08-17 18:53:52
148.   BklynBmr
126 I knew I was busy this week, but didn't realize there are only only 5 games left in the season. Thanks for the heads up...
2007-08-17 18:54:08
149.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
143 Silly me.
2007-08-17 18:55:24
150.   Mike T
Come on DJ, let's right the ship on this at bat.
Show/Hide Comments 151-200
2007-08-17 18:56:04
151.   williamnyy23
145 I guess I could just wait for the final outcome, but that isn't much fun. I kind of like to have opinions on what has yet to happen.
2007-08-17 18:57:17
152.   thelarmis
webb threw a shutout. stands at 42 scoreless innings. 2 more shutouts away...

willits making gagne work.

DJ is crapping the bed...

2007-08-17 18:58:08
153.   bobtaco
Wow, Abreu is having some crazy ABs tonight.
2007-08-17 18:59:08
154.   fansince77
Did Bobby and Derek do a freaky friday "I wish I was you for a day" thing?
2007-08-17 19:00:20
155.   fansince77
152 So DJ is pulling a SPUD from TRAINSPOTTIN'?
2007-08-17 19:01:12
156.   Mike T
Angels with a baserunner, one out.
2007-08-17 19:01:45
157.   fansince77
AROD should have MASHULATED that High Hanger.
2007-08-17 19:04:56
158.   Mike T
Angels 1st and 3rd, one out.
2007-08-17 19:05:17
159.   OldYanksFan
Gagme w/1st and 3rd, 1 out.
2007-08-17 19:05:42
160.   fansince77
AROD Missed alot of pitches that ab. He could have hit like four homeruns.
2007-08-17 19:05:48
161.   Eirias
It feels weird writing this, but... go Angels? Ugh...
2007-08-17 19:06:52
162.   OldYanksFan
Cabrear BH! Tied game! Gagme the Yankee comes through again!
2007-08-17 19:06:58
163.   Mike T
Angels tie the game.
2007-08-17 19:07:09
164.   Eirias
Gagne, the Trojan Horse.
2007-08-17 19:07:09
165.   fansince77
Are we sure we didn't make a deal with Gagne?
2007-08-17 19:07:19
166.   3rd gen yankee fan
Can't believe I'm cheering for the f'in Angels.
2007-08-17 19:07:28
167.   thelarmis
tie game in boston!
2007-08-17 19:07:52
168.   seamus
I cannot believe how bad Gagne has been. Unfortunately, I don't think he'll keep it up. He'll be good again. I guess the only caveat could be a tired elbow or something.
2007-08-17 19:08:01
169.   3rd gen yankee fan
bwahahahaha VLAD IS UP!!! jhbjhbcacuyg!!!jnscjab!
2007-08-17 19:08:21
170.   bartap74
Maybe they'll start selling Gagne jerseys around Yankee Stadium. He's certainly doing his part for New York's playoff push.
2007-08-17 19:08:33
171.   Eirias
For how long does Boston have Gagne under contract?
2007-08-17 19:08:36
172.   bobtaco
LAA take the lead 7-5!
2007-08-17 19:08:42
173.   OldYanksFan
2 RUN DOUBLE! Halos up 7-5!
2007-08-17 19:08:43
174.   williamnyy23
Crap...another missed opportunity.
2007-08-17 19:09:04
175.   Mike T
Angels 7-5 Sox.
2007-08-17 19:09:05
176.   3rd gen yankee fan
hahahahaha!!!!
2007-08-17 19:09:47
177.   OldYanksFan
Gagme says: FUCK as Vlad cruises into 2nd. I thought he was French? Man in 2nd, 1 out.
2007-08-17 19:10:05
178.   thelarmis
vlad the impaler!
2007-08-17 19:10:07
179.   fansince77
I am curious did Jorge just say to himself as Matsui did "I am going to close my eyes and swing!" This one is far from over and I absolutely hate the way the Yanks are NOT tacking on runs the way they should be. Dangerous formula.
2007-08-17 19:10:33
180.   seamus
gagne won't mean nothing unless we take care of our own business.

LETS GO YAN-KEES!

2007-08-17 19:11:58
181.   williamnyy23
Poor Maybin.

179 These games give me a queasy feeling.

It's not where he is standing! It's whether the ball is in fair territory.

2007-08-17 19:12:09
182.   Shaun P
I wish I could tell Steve Phillips to his face what a freakin' moron he is. Go Angels (grumble grumble).
2007-08-17 19:12:45
183.   OldYanksFan
We catch another break.
Sox coming up w/ 7-8-9
2007-08-17 19:12:48
184.   BklynBmr
151 The fun is the rollercoaster ride. You've had us dead and buried before, and if we have a 1 game lead going into the seasoning ending series with Baltimore, you'll have us dead and buried again. I can't relate to that doom and gloom...

Say what? Halos retake the lead? Guess the games, let alone the season take time to play out, huh?

2007-08-17 19:12:54
185.   williamnyy23
Imploded the save...sometimes Michael Kay can be funny.

Great play by Matsui.

2007-08-17 19:12:58
186.   bobtaco
Matsui with the snow-cone!
2007-08-17 19:13:07
187.   Mike T
gameday is showing there was on on field delay. What happened?
2007-08-17 19:14:11
188.   fansince77
Looks like Hideki works at Baskin Robbins too!
2007-08-17 19:14:16
189.   OldYanksFan
Would you call that a GREAT catch? Our guys blowing Matsui, who blew a very important AB.
2007-08-17 19:14:53
190.   Mike T
One out for the Sox.
2007-08-17 19:15:31
191.   OldYanksFan
K-Rog vs. Youk. 0-2.
2007-08-17 19:16:21
192.   williamnyy23
184 I most certainly do not have the Yankees dead buried. All I said was if the Sox sweep this DP in dramatic fashion it would be the type of win that could carry them into a nice winning streak, which would seal the division.
2007-08-17 19:16:29
193.   3rd gen yankee fan
Youk = Kinky Kelly.
2007-08-17 19:16:29
194.   OldYanksFan
Youk Ks on a controversial check swing. 1 out in the 9th.
2007-08-17 19:16:37
195.   Shaun P
Anyone else notice Maybin's picture on Gameday? (I'm impressed they have one!) He looks like he's 12 years old. I still can't believe the Tigers called him up.

K-Rod don't you dare scare this up.

2007-08-17 19:17:26
196.   Mike T
Two out for the Sox, on a disputed third strike.
2007-08-17 19:17:42
197.   OldYanksFan
Francoma pissed. Francoma tossed.
2007-08-17 19:18:25
198.   OldYanksFan
My bad. 2 out.
2007-08-17 19:18:54
199.   3rd gen yankee fan
Aw, Sox getting screwed. Darn. Guess it DOES happen to everyone.
2007-08-17 19:19:03
200.   bobtaco
What is Robertson's pitch count? He seems like he should be out by now.
Show/Hide Comments 201-250
2007-08-17 19:19:09
201.   Eirias
197 Is the misspelling intentional?
2007-08-17 19:19:30
202.   williamnyy23
Looks like more bad umpiring in the majors. I really wish MLB would keep and publish umpire stats.
2007-08-17 19:20:15
203.   williamnyy23
Gotta score more runs, esp. if Mo isn't available.
2007-08-17 19:20:33
204.   bartap74
Yahoo says Youk struck out swinging. Was it a checked swing?
2007-08-17 19:21:11
205.   williamnyy23
204 It was a clear foul tip that the ump blew.
2007-08-17 19:21:21
206.   BklynBmr
192 How could it seal the division with so many games remaining, let alone the head to head? Their next series could put them in a funk. You're far too informed to start sounding like Steve Phillips, my friend ;-)
2007-08-17 19:21:29
207.   Eirias
204 Whatever it was, he got ejected for it.
2007-08-17 19:21:47
208.   3rd gen yankee fan
205 Yup.
2007-08-17 19:21:52
209.   williamnyy23
Wow...Maybin looks like Melky circa 2005.
2007-08-17 19:22:04
210.   fansince77
Ok- time for andy NOT to fly out to the warning track.
2007-08-17 19:22:15
211.   OldYanksFan
Ballgame OVAH. Halos 7 - williamnyy23 5. I mean Red Sox 5.
2007-08-17 19:22:16
212.   DougP
Andy! Yeah!
2007-08-17 19:22:25
213.   JeremyM
203 I missed it, why isn't Mo available? We do have Joba ready to go, if Pettitte can give us one more he could finish it off.
2007-08-17 19:22:28
214.   Mike T
Angels win.
2007-08-17 19:22:58
215.   fansince77
That May'bin the worst route to a ball I ever did see.
2007-08-17 19:23:05
216.   DougP
213 Torre is giving Mo 2-3 days off after his poor outings this week.
2007-08-17 19:23:57
217.   seamus
Pettite is only at 79 pitches. Why not two more innings?

Robertson is at 105 pitches

2007-08-17 19:24:14
218.   Chyll Will
215 Yeah, looked like he was flying JetBlue...
2007-08-17 19:24:16
219.   Eirias
215 Awful. Simply awful.
2007-08-17 19:24:27
220.   Marcus
215 I think you topped Cliff's pun with that one. Funny stuff :)
2007-08-17 19:24:51
221.   vockins
ALLEZ-ALLEZ GAGNE!
2007-08-17 19:25:25
222.   fansince77
219 which one?
2007-08-17 19:25:28
223.   williamnyy23
206 Settle down :)...I wasn't making a declaration. I was expressing an opinion, not a mathematical conclusion. It wasn't even a definitive opinion.

I can't sound too much like Phillips because I think the Yankees will win the Wild Card (although that doesn't mean I am not anxious for every win). Just because I think Boston has a favorable schedule and isn't likely to implode doesn't mean I think the Yankees are dead.

2007-08-17 19:25:30
224.   DougP
209 I was thinking that earlier in the game where he overran a ball and then reached back and caught it. That's the kind of thing Melky used to do.
2007-08-17 19:26:22
225.   JeremyM
215 Awesome! :)

My God, they called up a 20-year old with 8 games in AA? I'm really out of the loop today. I know the Yanks rushed Joba, but it seems like there's so much more to learn for an outfielder than a stud pitcher with dynamic stuff.

2007-08-17 19:26:42
226.   williamnyy23
211 Not fair...I would have used Papelbon. I can't be held responsible for Francona's mismanagement of the bullpen. I have my hands full worrying about Torre.
2007-08-17 19:27:24
227.   Eirias
222 A little from column A, a little from column B.
2007-08-17 19:27:30
228.   thelarmis
contreras is back to starting. ibanez w/ a 2-run shot off him, bottom of 1st...
2007-08-17 19:28:48
229.   williamnyy23
225 Also, in fariness to Maybin, he is a centerfielder. Left field, especially in a major league ball park, is probably foreign to him.
2007-08-17 19:29:17
230.   JeremyM
228 Is it wrong that I enjoy Contreras getting shelled (although not tonight)? I know he tried for the Yanks, but something about him pitching like a super ace for that stretch in 2005 really bugged me.
2007-08-17 19:29:21
231.   Eirias
222 Mostly because I couldn't come up with a better joke.
2007-08-17 19:29:24
232.   bartap74
I'll be honest - I pretty much gave up on the Yankees making the playoffs a month ago, when they were approx. 14.5 out of the division lead and 7-8 games out of the wildcard with 5 teams ahead of them.

Clearly, I was wrong. Now, I think even the division is a viable objective. I've never been more glad to be wrong.

2007-08-17 19:29:32
233.   williamnyy23
228 Damn...Contreras...oh well...wait...I'll wait for the outcome before jumping to conclusions :)
2007-08-17 19:29:38
234.   OldYanksFan
Gagme can not be very popular in the Red Sox clubhouse. The odds of a good pitcher pitching this badly are stunning.
2007-08-17 19:31:33
235.   Eirias
230 As long as the White Sox are playing the Bloody Sox, the Tigers, the Indians or the Angels, Contreras can pitch like "El Titan de Bronze."
2007-08-17 19:32:47
236.   fansince77
Casey looked like he needed to use the restroom. I am glad for him he is back in the dugout.
2007-08-17 19:32:55
237.   williamnyy23
234 Keep in mind that Gagne had thrown only 15 IP over 2005 and 2006 and was babied by Texas. Sure Gagne had good stats, but he also had only pitched 33 innings. Maybe Gagne is hitting a wall and Texas was smart to limit his workload to set up a trade.
2007-08-17 19:33:59
238.   Max
234 I think he'll get better (can't get any worse), but it's stunning how bad he's been. I turned on the TV briefly to watch the Red Sox game (and was promptly reminded how much I despise both teams...pure visceral hatred)...yet I actually felt sorry for him. He looked completely lost.
2007-08-17 19:34:34
239.   seamus
234 It has been a short stretch. While he could be hitting a wall, it may just be a bad stretch.
2007-08-17 19:34:43
240.   bobtaco
Who knew Johnny played RF too?
2007-08-17 19:35:12
241.   fansince77
Definately one more for Pettitte
2007-08-17 19:36:58
242.   seamus
241 that would be great. ANd then maybe some chamberlain to shut it down for the night! or Edwar!
2007-08-17 19:37:20
243.   nemecizer
As a born French Canadian to another born French Canadian, I have only this to say to Gagne: HAHAHAHAHAHHAHA, Fuck Tu, Salopard! Tabernac que tu suck!

Sorry about the abus de langage, but I am loving this.

Return to civility starting .... >now<

2007-08-17 19:38:23
244.   fansince77
Babe Ruth's ghost to Gagne: "Hey man...I am the only fat, sweaty, sloppy guy allowed to pitch like Cy Young in Boston...That Wells guy tried it too...when will you guys learn! Take that Crusty the Clown!"
2007-08-17 19:39:57
245.   williamnyy23
239 In his last 9 IP (going back to Texas), he has given up 14 runs. That's almost 25% of his season, so I am not sure you can dismiss it as a bad stretch.
2007-08-17 19:40:21
246.   Chyll Will
I need to hang out in French Canadia...
2007-08-17 19:41:14
247.   BklynBmr
223 My apologies, brah. I have too many Halos, Sawx and Tiger fan buds around me here on the Left Coast, so I'm overly defensive when I hear even a hint of our boys being counted out. I'm with ya, though. It ain't gonna be easy, and every Sox win takes a day off the calendar. But we can do it, I think ;-)
2007-08-17 19:42:28
248.   seamus
245 you can't say it isn't a bad stretch either. It is too small a sample size. Good pitchers have beenknown to have bad months, and gagne has only had a bad two weeks.
2007-08-17 19:44:23
249.   OldYanksFan
243 I love when we get treated to culture here!
2007-08-17 19:44:34
250.   Chyll Will
247 "Don't think, Axel, it makes my ... "
Show/Hide Comments 251-300
2007-08-17 19:45:12
251.   williamnyy23
248 All I am saying is the man had pitched only 15IP over the previous two seasons and has no been awful over his last 9IP, which while only a small sample respresents a significang percentage of his workload. In other words, there as much reason to believe that Gagne's struggles will continue as there is to expect he will pitch effectively.
2007-08-17 19:46:22
252.   fansince77
Ahhhh Gagne is Fr Canadian...that explains why he is keeps chuckling uncontrollably and holding up his hand (forefinger and thumb about an inch apart) every time our starting pitcher's name was announced.
2007-08-17 19:46:23
253.   Chyll Will
249 Sorry about that, I'll leave now...
2007-08-17 19:46:40
254.   seamus
251 oh i agree. it is anyone's guess how good he'll be. He'll either come around, or he is going to be tired and unable to maintain a descent performance level.

Something I just noticed, but hadn't realized is that he had two bad outings just before the trade. He finished with two 1 inning saves before going to boston, but it does make you wonder if he just needs a long rest.

2007-08-17 19:48:28
255.   Mike T
Maybin looks like Urkel.
2007-08-17 19:49:01
256.   seamus
chamberlain needs to pitch the 9th. He hasn't pitched in days.

Why is Viz up?

2007-08-17 19:49:07
257.   williamnyy23
254 Taken further, he pitched both ends of a double header on July 24 and then didn't pitch again until August 2. Who knows? Maybe the double duty took something out of him.
2007-08-17 19:49:40
258.   bobtaco
256 Wheel of Guts?
2007-08-17 19:49:57
259.   williamnyy23
256 I wouldn't mind saving Chamberlain for tomorrow.
2007-08-17 19:50:16
260.   Mike T
Pettitte at 104 through 8. Does he come out in the ninth for a complete game?
2007-08-17 19:50:21
261.   fansince77
That Maybin a hit in the Minor Leagues. BUT NOT HERE BUDDY! Have a seat.
2007-08-17 19:50:25
262.   JeremyM
256 The weakness of the Joba rules, he throws today and then he's not available tomorrow when we might need him.
2007-08-17 19:50:34
263.   thelarmis
thank you andy for a great game!

who's in for the 9th - joba or someone like farns or villone?

2007-08-17 19:51:26
264.   seamus
257 July 23 and 24. That was the most he pitched probably all year in such a compact frame. Then, as you note, he was down for 8 days. Either the overuse or the rest could have screwed up his game.
2007-08-17 19:51:38
265.   Max
Eight innings, five hits, one run from a starter. Such sweet music given our recent pitching troubles.
2007-08-17 19:51:51
266.   BklynBmr
250 Thanks for the reminder. An old boss once told me "I'll do the figgerin' around here", but it never registered...
2007-08-17 19:52:17
267.   bobtaco
262 Now he's up, crazy...
2007-08-17 19:52:49
268.   seamus
262 I hear ya. I just worry about a guy when he hasnt pitched in 4 days. We saw what happened to edwar last time. And while I realize that chamberlain's stuff probably doesn't require the same care, I worry.

plus, we'll have edwar, Mo, Viz, etc... tomorrow if Cham,berlain finishes tonight.

2007-08-17 19:53:40
269.   fansince77
Fuck it man- Let Pettitte finish this thing- no problem.
2007-08-17 19:53:46
270.   JL25and3
248 In this case it's a little different, because the Red Sox picked up Gagne specifically for a small sample size. If he's not lights out over the course of a few weeks, then the Sox screwed up big time. That small sample size doesn't mean he's a bad pitcher, just that it's already a bad deal for the Sox.
2007-08-17 19:54:00
271.   williamnyy23
How nice would it be to have Britton, Edwar, Chamberlain and Viz setting up Mo? The bullpen is almost there...
2007-08-17 19:55:08
272.   bobtaco
Bye Bye Giambi, god damn!
2007-08-17 19:55:12
273.   bartap74
Say, this Giambi kid is pretty good.
2007-08-17 19:55:14
274.   williamnyy23
270 That's a good point...although, if the Sox makes the playoffs in spite of Gagne, and then he pitches well in the postseason, it would still have been worth it.

Giambi has massive power.

2007-08-17 19:55:30
275.   seamus
271 i'd rather have brower, karstens, farnsworth, and proctor closing...
2007-08-17 19:55:51
276.   thelarmis
giambino x2!
2007-08-17 19:56:30
277.   OldYanksFan
yup... Jason really dragging this team down.
2007-08-17 19:56:48
278.   Mike T
Jason Giambi didn't forget his bat today.
2007-08-17 19:56:53
279.   williamnyy23
Great to see Giambi hit HRs, but I hope Torre doesn't fall in love with a lineup sans Melky. If Giambi rates more ABs, they have to come from Phillips and Damon.
2007-08-17 19:56:57
280.   bartap74
I checked Yahoo and it says A. Lopez is pitching for the Tigers, and I thought Aurelio? Now I feel old.
2007-08-17 19:57:25
281.   bobtaco
Roll Tide...
2007-08-17 19:57:39
282.   fansince77
272 BurritoBob. Your post came through before MLBTV for me...so I was expecting to see JG strikeout. I didn't know it was THAT kind of GODAMN! Holy SHit!
2007-08-17 19:58:10
283.   williamnyy23
You don't make a pitching change for this reason...but Chamberlain v. Sheffield would be a lot of fun.
2007-08-17 19:58:36
284.   bobtaco
282 Stream of consciousness :-)
2007-08-17 19:58:42
285.   Bama Yankee
281 Hey, that's my line... ;-)
2007-08-17 19:58:45
286.   Mike T
275 Thanks for the laugh of the day.
2007-08-17 19:59:57
287.   bobtaco
285 Just filling in until you showed up
2007-08-17 20:00:18
288.   williamnyy23
280 Maybe the Yankees can trot out Ron Davis then?
2007-08-17 20:00:44
289.   bartap74
275 So would Torre. The BFOG index on that group is through the roof!
2007-08-17 20:00:46
290.   seamus
286 couldn't help myself...
2007-08-17 20:00:56
291.   bobtaco
Release the Kracken!
2007-08-17 20:01:36
292.   OldYanksFan
I have to say that Pettitte rates very high on the BFOG scale tonight.
2007-08-17 20:01:44
293.   Mike T
Ok so the Angels won the nightcap. Time to root for the White Sox.

Go Sox!

2007-08-17 20:01:51
294.   Bama Yankee
287 Thanks for taking up my slack...
My boy Andy has had a pretty good night. Roll Tide, indeed.
2007-08-17 20:01:51
295.   williamnyy23
6-1 is too low leverage for Chamberlain...at least Edwar and Viz are available tomorrow...unless Torre decides to use Farnsworth anyway.
2007-08-17 20:01:55
296.   cult of basebaal
keep joba getting regular work ... let him go tonite, walk off the mound at the end of a yankees win for the first time ... keep him sharp

1 inning, he can work again sunday

regarding gagne, since i'm 1/2way through the top of the 9th in that game on TiVo, he doesn't seem to have any confidence or command of his offspeed stuff ... at this point he's thrown close to 30pitches in the inning and almost all of them have been fastballs ... maybe 2 curves that weren't close and only 1 changeup ... without his offspeed stuff, he's just not finishing guys off, though his command of the fastball still seems sound, on the cabrera single that tied the game, he hit varitek's target perfectly ...

yay! joba time!!!

2007-08-17 20:02:45
297.   fansince77
Conversation before game between disappointed kid and Dad.

"Dad, I thought you said we had good seats for tonight?"

"Sorry, son I thought that PFL meant Professional Field Level not Planes Flying Low."

"Now I'll never catch a foul ball."

"Thanks Jason Giambi!"

2007-08-17 20:02:50
298.   williamnyy23
Joba has really surpassed Hughes as the golden child.

Sheff hit it nice, but that's what happens when you throw 98mph...it bites back a little bit.

Slow down Joba!

2007-08-17 20:03:07
299.   Mike T
Sheff down on one pitch. I love it.
2007-08-17 20:03:09
300.   BklynBmr
I'm looking at this game as a return to the trend. Our three game skid was nothing more than a 'market correction', just to get everyone to calm down for a pause, then the juggernaut continues...

I'm diggin' the crowd treatment of Sheff. He's earned it...

Go Joba!

Show/Hide Comments 301-350
2007-08-17 20:04:14
301.   williamnyy23
296 An "anonymous" scout gave a similar assessment before the deal. I think it was in Jayson Stark's column.
2007-08-17 20:04:28
302.   fansince77
Ordonez is such a pro.
2007-08-17 20:05:26
303.   Mike T
Six pitches, two outs. A guy hitting .355 was bound to break through eventually.
2007-08-17 20:05:37
304.   williamnyy23
300 The matchups are good over the next two days...hopefully, you are correct.
2007-08-17 20:05:49
305.   bobtaco
The pitch was insane!
2007-08-17 20:05:54
306.   fansince77
That's funny. Justin Timberlake was born Joba Timberlake. Who knew?
2007-08-17 20:06:23
307.   williamnyy23
302 I thought the same thing...Joba was flat out dominant, but Mags still put a good AB on him. Impressive.
2007-08-17 20:06:37
308.   BklynBmr
The future is here...
2007-08-17 20:06:49
309.   fansince77
At birth he was "Justin the Hut." Thank God for legal processes.
2007-08-17 20:07:19
310.   Chyll Will
That... wasn't... even... fair! >;)
2007-08-17 20:07:20
311.   bobtaco
309 funny stuff
2007-08-17 20:07:22
312.   Mike T
10 pitches. With that light of a workload tonight, do you guys think he could throw tomorrow, or no?
2007-08-17 20:07:42
313.   williamnyy23
Joba is Clemens son...I am sure of it.
2007-08-17 20:08:01
314.   3rd gen yankee fan
Man, even Pudge was like, "damn, dude."
2007-08-17 20:08:43
315.   bartap74
I heart Joba.
2007-08-17 20:09:17
316.   seamus
so, what is that, 6 IP, 3 hits, 9 Ks? Oh, and 0 ER of course. not bad.
2007-08-17 20:09:24
317.   thelarmis
10 pitches, k to end it. i love this kid!

296 great points on joba, per usual, cult!

go pale hose! (down 3-0 now)

bama, you're getting your lines stepped on a lot lately! hey, are you anywhere near Montgomery? i'm performing there in 2 weeks...

2007-08-17 20:09:26
318.   williamnyy23
312 If necessary...but I am also confident that Edwar and Viz can give three quality innings too.
2007-08-17 20:09:28
319.   fansince77
How the fuck does that feel- you are 21 years old and just struck out Pudge Rodriguez to end the game and the Yankee slide. Way to go JC (Oh...interesting initials.)
2007-08-17 20:09:53
320.   nemecizer
This Joba guy only struck one out tonight. I say we should bench him to give Farnsworth more time.

With EDSP gone, it only makes sense, right?!?!!?

2007-08-17 20:10:45
321.   BklynBmr
310 Good thing this isn't the NFL. He'd be outlawed by spring...
2007-08-17 20:12:22
322.   thelarmis
312 i don't think pitch count has anything to do with it. i don't think they want him warming up and stretching his arm out 2 days in a row. i think the rules are the rules and them are they. who knows if they'd adhere to them as strictly say the last week of the season if we were gunning for a playoff spot or in a tight spot in the playoffs, but here in august, joba ain't pitchin' manana...
2007-08-17 20:12:35
323.   BklynBmr
319 On the job simulation training for October. I'd say he passed this test...
2007-08-17 20:12:40
324.   Bama Yankee
317 Actually, I'm in the northeast part of the state. About three hours from Montgomery.
2007-08-17 20:13:18
325.   Shaun P
316 But the Yanks should have traded "great 5th OF, good 4th OF, there's a million of those" Melky and Kennedy for Gagne!

I kid, I kid. I heart Joba too - and I really dislike that dumb Steve Phillips.

4 games again!

2007-08-17 20:15:02
326.   thelarmis
324 oh, boo - too far to come to this gig...
2007-08-17 20:16:40
327.   SF Yanks
325 5 games
2007-08-17 20:17:19
328.   OldYanksFan
Zambrano deal for five years, $91.5 million in Chicago
2007-08-17 20:19:29
329.   cult of basebaal
301 speaking of anonymous scouts, anyone catch this in stark's most recent piece?

"The Yankees continue to say they haven't ruled out the idea of phenom Joba Chamberlain's heading back to the rotation next year. But one scout says that if they want Chamberlain to make an impact in the big leagues anytime soon, that's a lousy idea. "I saw him twice [in the minor leagues] this year, and he wasn't ready to pitch in the big leagues as a starter," the scout said."

i love the bullshit in that paragraph, from start to finish ... where do they find these people?

for comparison, here's the scouting take on joba from a scout (from rosenthal's column):

Mammoth physical presence. Chop off his head and he looks like an advanced aged Roger Clemens. Athleticism in delivery exudes even though he's a big man. Good delivery. Powerful arm. Consistently hit 95-99 on the radar gun for seven innings as a starting pitcher. Fastball can be straight up in zone. Nasty when down and located. Two types of breaking balls. Slider and curve are defined. Close to being wipeout type breaking balls and coupled with the heat they intrigue. Solid changeup that he neglects. Should throw more. Delicate touch on changeup. Verlander-ish-type stuff. Small health concerns. Missed some time earlier in the year. If it all fell apart for this kid he's Jon Broxton. That's a happy soft landing.

2007-08-17 20:21:10
330.   williamnyy23
329 Someone brought that comment up to Keith Law in a recent chat and he skewered the "scout", saying if you are going to say something that stupid, at least put your name on it.
2007-08-17 20:25:53
331.   OldYanksFan
Giambi with 2 HRs and JD with an OPS about .700. Its tough, but I think we have to sit JD for Giambi at DH. JD plays on rest days for Abreu, Melky and Mats, or if Gaimbi plays 1st. But that still doesn't account for getting Shelly his ABs. I think Shelly's HR power is need for the PS.

Really, really good to have Jason back.

2007-08-17 20:43:30
332.   JL25and3
279 , 289 Seriously, look at what Torre has been doing recently. He's said repeatedly and unequivocally that Melky is the center fielder, and he's stuck by it; Damon's playing time has bee seriously limited for weeks now. Torre's been using his entire bench, and using it flexibly. He used Edwar and Henn the day they were brought up, Farnsworth is seeing only the lowest of low-leverage situations, Vizcaino's workload has been reasonable, and Torre's trying to give Mo a few days rest.

He's doing exactly what he should be doing, and what people have been saying he should do. It's time to recognize that.

2007-08-17 20:47:06
333.   pistolpete
332 Gee, if only we knew Melky was this good before we signed Damon. One can only imagine what that money could have been used for...
2007-08-17 20:56:11
334.   Vandelay Industries
332 I agree. Hard to say anything these days about Joe. I almost began another tirade when I saw Joba come in with a five run lead in the ninth, but I settled myself down. We need every win, and nothing short of a ten run lead should find Farnsworth or Villone on the mound in the late innings.

Mariners up on Chicagi 5-0. I hate to be the I told you so, but I told you so. When exactly is it that they are going to fade as predicted by many? July? August? September? I say again, I hope I am very wrong about them, but I like their chances.

This is going to be quite a stretch run for the Yankees. Great win tonight, but I am beginning to think that taking the division is a llong shot, unless Beckett and Matsuzaka go to dinner in the same cab and get rear ended by a bus.

Andy proves to be the Yankees stopper once again circa 1996. There isn't anyone else I'd rather have out there for us in a must win game at home. Clemens going tomorrow! Let's go get them! I am also sending good thoughts to FOX in hopes I don't have to watch the Cardinals instead of the Yankees. The DVR reads Yankees vs. Detroit, but it's toyed with me before.

2007-08-17 20:59:57
335.   Vandelay Industries
333 Someone did. The Stick has been behind him right through, with Reggie singing his praises later. But hell, what does Gene Michael know about talent that Brian Cashman doesn't ;)

That being said, Bobby Abreu is really growing on me. He costs a fortune, but I hope they pick up the option, and keep a deep bench instead of throwing Duncan or Damon out there.

2007-08-17 21:04:32
336.   JeremyM
329 When did Steve Phillips become an anonymous "scout"?

Or maybe Stark just interviewed some kid shooting for his Eagle Badge?

2007-08-17 21:05:25
337.   Vandelay Industries
Grand Slam Richar CHW. 5-4 Seattle top seventh. Gulp, like I said, I hope I am very very wrong about them.
2007-08-17 21:06:45
338.   Vandelay Industries
326 Good stuff! Although I would like a peek at that changeup.
2007-08-17 21:11:03
339.   BklynBmr
335 I said it before and I'll say it again. Stick should be in charge of identifying talent, Cash in charge of getting them in pinstripes. Co-GMs. We won't go wrong.
2007-08-17 21:16:00
340.   JeremyM
339 Now that Tony Womack is retired, I agree. Still not sure where Stick was coming from on that one, if it really was his suggestion.
2007-08-17 21:27:47
341.   Vandelay Industries
339 I agree. I was secretly upset when Damon came on board--although he had a great year--because I really wanted to see Melky come to fruition. He's never going to hit 40 HR, but he's a very good defensive player who is only going to get better and better at the plate. The every day fan needs these young guys to root for to keep baseball what it is, a fun game, a child's game. If you begin to tune in in September, then I suppose it doesn't much matter who is playing. Let's hope Joe stays true to his word. He has said many things in the past, most notably the refusal to use Mo multiple innings last year and this, but it didn't take him too long in either case to retreat from that proclimation.
2007-08-17 21:28:53
342.   Vandelay Industries
Miss Putzman in the game in a big spot in Seattle.
2007-08-17 21:29:20
343.   yankz
Yikes, another ugly game for Jeter.

Oh, and only 1 K for Joba? Send him back down.

2007-08-17 21:42:52
344.   Vandelay Industries
Putz shuts the door, three more outs to go. With a healthy Putz, and the rest of that bullpen, coupled with that offense and the occasional gem like tonight from Batista, they are a solid club.

Silly question. Anyone have any information on what or whom Joba is "praying" to, if that is even the correct vernacular? I am too tired to do the research on Native American spirituality. I am not at all religious and have strong distaste for all the sky pointing and God this and God that in sports. I'd like to think if there was a God, he or she or it wouldn't give two shits what happens in a baseball game or for that matter, that I just typed "shit."

I am interested, and if anyone knows what Joba might be up to, I'd appreciate the knowledge.

2007-08-17 22:03:54
345.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
I dunno. I just don't see where all the love for Seattle is coming from. Sure, their bullpen is ok, but they've given up more runs than we have -- and our pitching was scarcely impressive first half -- and and as for their offense, they've scored something like 140 fewer runs than us.

Meanwhile, they're a mere plus 6 in runs scored vs runs given up, scarcely the mark of a great team, or even a very good one.

Meanwhile, their schedule looks much tougher than ours. Aside from the current Sox series, 7 vs Texas, and 3 vs TB, they have to play 3 at Minny, 7 vs LAA, 5 vs Cleveland, a 9-game road trip vs Toronto, us, and Detroit, and 6 v. Oakland

Best case scenario for them is us tanking the rest of August and they're opening up a lead, but I don't see that happening.

Oakland could be key, but they've won 7 of 10 and might be putting their typical 2nd 1/2 surge togehter, which would be very good news for us and bad news for Seattle.

2007-08-17 22:20:21
346.   Vandelay Industries
345 Such is the mark of the anomoly. Sometimes 2 + 2 = A playoff birth and not 4. I don't get it either, but the once "surprising" Mariners lead the WC race by .5 games going into late August. I think the Vegas odds are 7/2 that Seattle wins the WC. Watch that line. I trust it a whole lot more than any samermatrician. The Yankees are 5/6.

As for their schedule, I respectfully disagree. The Twins, Cleveland, Oakland and Toronoto are hardly what they could be. The numbers tell me that Seattle will miss, but with every live game I watch here on the west coast, I like their chances more and more. What's more, we have had opportunities to put some distance between them and us, but we haven't. I wish I didn't have to work so much, this is going to be a run to remember, no matter how it ends.

2007-08-17 22:28:34
347.   Vandelay Industries
345 How is life in Chicago these days? Cubs watch crazy? I lived there for a year and a half, at Grand and State, and also on Superior near River North. Also over by the Egg (Can't remember the name of that park, but it was fun to go there and drink at the outside bar and watch games). The Sox minor leaguers who got called up stayed there a lot, or at the Grand Plaza where I also stayed. I met Bobby Jenks in 2005 when he got called up. He would get me and the door man tickets regularly (bad ones at that, low man on the pole I guess). I even threw the ball with him one day in the park outside the building. Nice guy. I had no idea who he was until the door man told pulled me aside and told me. I love that town and miss it terribly. LA is great and all with the weather, but the poeple in Chicago beat this place hands down.
2007-08-17 22:34:48
348.   Vandelay Industries
Millenium Park...my bad.
2007-08-18 00:46:26
349.   Yu-Hsing Chen
way to stay positive there Vadelay, would you still be doom and gloom if the Yankees somehow won the WS or something?

Seattle has a good offense? they have exactly 1 player who's above average for his position (Ichiro!) everyone else either hover around average ( SS , C , LF , RF ) or are utter disastors (1B, DH, 2B)

they manage to be middle of the road in scoring, (well amoung last in the playoff hopefuls, and considering their overall individual numbers, it says a lot about the ability of Ichiro) and while their BP have been awsome, their SP? ...not so much. a good bullpen can't make up for everything. Seattle is due for some games where their SP either gets bombed or their offense can't score a lick. granted that Adam Jones help to make their lineup better, and Richie Sexson is finally showing a little sign of life. but still. the chance for us NOT overtaking them is ridiculasly low.

And why do you assume we would catch them overnight or won't catch them is beyond me. Yankee were 1.5 games behind them on August the first (so yes we still caught 1 game despite losing 3 strait before that) and we were 7.5 games behind them on July the 1st. hell, on 7/17 we were 4.5 games behind them.

are you oblivious to the fact that the Yankees have litterally bombed up the ladder in a month's time, where NO ONE in the AL played anywhere near their level?

2007-08-18 04:15:15
350.   OldYanksFan
339 Cashman seems to be a guy who is fine with delagating. I don't think he believes he is a talent guru. I'm betting he depends on the opinions of those around him, and like any good administrator, simply compliles the data and declares the bottom line. I have to believe 'Stick Michael' is a very valued member of this organization.

341 Last year, we were behind for most of the season, and until the 5 game sweep of the Sox, our position was tenuous. Then the Sox collapsed. So even though the final standings weren't close, it really was 'close' for most of the year. JD had a lot to do with our getting back into the race. I was against the trade because of the 4 years, but I don't think having Melky was enough to prevent us from trying to get an impact OFer. Time will tell if Melky ultimately has as good/better career then JD.

346 So you DONT believe that the Pathag record of a team is a good indicator of their talent and final standing?

349 Thank you for some sanity. Look at what Minn. did last September. There is a dark horse almost every year in MLB. It seems few people here understand what a 162 season is. Our team, as is, is basically now going head-2-head with Seattle for a WC spot. We have a pretty easy Sept. schedule. You don't think the odds are in our favor? With Hughes, Joba, Giambi, Edwar and many other talents we didn't have earlier in the year?

Is there ANYONE here who honestly believed at the ASB that we would be in this position in the standings on this date?

Is there ANYONE here who honestly believed that our current lineup would be in place instead of the one we had at the ASB?

Is there ANYONE here, considering our record and roster, who honestly thinks things could have gone any better since the ASB?

Hey... I'm scared SHITLESS at the idea that we won't make the PS. But we gotta be realistic. We are sittin' pretty!

Show/Hide Comments 351-400
2007-08-18 07:03:54
351.   seamus
Personally, I consider Damon's contract a good problem to have. In the sense that he is both talented and therefore can contribute and in that I expect him to be dealt to a team that needs his talent for more talent.

For this year, it has been so great being able to switch in Damon and now Duncan into the outfield and rotate Matsui, Cabrera, and Abreu rest days.

Of course Betemit has given us the same thing in the infield - opportunities to rest Cano, Jeter, Arod without going house money.

I'm enjoying this and so long as we continue to take care of business we'll make the playoffs.

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