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Tampa Bay Devil Rays
2007-09-25 12:15
by Cliff Corcoran

The Yankees dropped two of three to the Devil Rays at the beginning of the month, but the Rays had won six of seven coming into that series and went on to win five of their next seven after leaving the Bronx. In other words, the Rays were hot. Entering this penultimate series of the season, the Rays have won just three of their last twelve. They're also playing without Carl Crawford, who hasn't played in two weeks due to some muscle strains in his legs, and James Sheilds, who would have started tomorrow, but won't because he's reached his innings limit for the season (he's thrown 215 innings this year after throwing 185 2/3 innings between triple-A and the majors as a rookie last year). Both are breaks for the Yanks as Shields had emerged as a strong number two in the Tampa rotation and, in an otherwise disappointing season, Crawford has hit .380/.436/.500 against the Yankees this year.

The Rays are also without second baseman Brendan Harris (shoulder), which is news less because of his absence than because of the player who has replaced him, 32-year-old minor league lifer Jorge Velandia, who is with his fifth organization in as many years. Velandia is a career .247/.304/.356 hitter in the minors and last sniffed the majors with the Mets in 2003, but he returned with a rage last week and went 10 for 18 with four doubles and four walks over his first six games as the Rays' starting second baseman. He's 1 for 8 with four Ks over his last two games, however, so perhaps the Yankees be fortunate enough to see the real Jorge Velandia at the plate over the next three days.

They better hope so, as Kei Igawa is starting tonight in place of Roger Clemens, who has been scratched once again due to his tweaky left hamstring. Clemens will not appear in this series, but the Yankees are still expecting him to pitch against Baltimore and answer the bell for the postseason. Much like they are with Ian Kennedy, the Yankees are being overly cautious with Clemens now in the hope of getting more out of him in October. Here's hoping it works out that way, at least in Clemens' case (with Kennedy ticketed for the long relief role, something will have to go wrong for him to see much if any postseason action).

Igawa made seven starts since his last demotion to triple-A Columbus, posting the following line:

43 2/3 IP, 45 H, 20 ER, 8 BB, 44 K, 1.21 WHIP, 4.12 ERA, 3-2

Four of those seven starts were quality starts, including his final three. Igawa's only faced one batter since August 31. That came on Saturday and the batter, Toronto's Hector Luna, hit an RBI single.

Opposing Igawa will be Jason Hammel. Hammel was supposed emerge in the rotation along with Shields, but stumbled badly in his last four starts last year, starting with a stinker against the Yanks at the Stadium. He then failed to make the Rays out of camp, arrive in mid-June to post a 6.11 ERA out of the bullpen, then increased that to 7.44 over his first eight starts (the first of which saw him allow two runs in four innings in the Bronx). However, Hammel has posted a 2.35 ERA over his last four starts, allowing just one home run and striking out 17 against just four walks in 23 innings. That streak also started in the Bronx--Hammel threw five innings of one-run ball striking out seven and walking none the last time these two teams met--and has continued with games against the Blue Jays, Mariners, and Angels.

Hammel will face the same lineup the Yanks ran out there yesterday, though Damon will play in the field and Matsui will DH.

Incidentally, the Devil Rays will shorten their name to the Tampa Bay Rays next year and adopt new uniforms with blue as their primary color (something their official site has unsubtly hinted at all year with it's all-blue color scheme). The uni designs have slipped out here. Personally, I'm annoyed that they're ditching the unique and appropriate green to become the 17th major league team with some shade of blue as its primary color. I'm also very disappointed in the generic design and the name change. The Rays uniforms won't be ugly, but they will be perhaps the least interesting in all of baseball, which is saying really something.

Meanwhile, the same site has images of the sleeve patches the Yankees will be wearing next year in honor of the All-Star Game and the (#&*@*&$) final season of Yankee Stadium, as well as some other new alternate uniforms and sleeve patches that we'll see around the majors in 2008 here.

Tampa Bay Devil Rays

2007 Record: 64-92 (.410)
2007 Pythagorean Record: 64-92 (.409)

Manager: Joe Maddon
General Manager: Andrew Friedman

Home Ballpark (2007 Park Factors): Tropicana Field (102/102)

Changes:

  • Jay Witasick was activated from the DL
  • The following players were called up with expanded rosters: Jorge Velandia, Justin Ruggiano, Raul Casanova, J.P. Howell, Jon Switzer, Jeff Ridgway
  • Velandia has taken over second base from Brendan Harris, who's out with a strained left shoulder
  • Howell has taken over the rotation spot of James Sheilds, who was shut down due to reaching his innings limit
  • Carl Crawford has been out with a strained groin and hamstring. As a result, Jonny Gomes has played left with Greg Norton DHing

Current Roster:

1B – Carlos Peña (L)
2B – Jorge Velandia (R)
SS – Josh Wilson (R)
3B – Akinori Iwamura (L)
C – Dioner Navarro(S)
RF – Delmon Young (R)
CF – B.J. Upton (R)
LF – Jonny Gomes (R)
DH – Greg Norton (S)

Bench:

R - Josh Paul (C)
R - Joel Guzman (IF)
R - Justin Ruggiano (OF)
R - Raul Casanova (C)
R - Brendan Harris (IF)*
L – Carl Crawford (OF)*

Rotation:

R – James Shields**
L – Scott Kazmir
R – Andy Sonnanstine
R – Edwin Jackson
R - Jason Hammel
L - J.P. Howell

Bullpen:

R - Al Reyes
R - Dan Wheeler
R – Gary Glover
R – Brian Stokes
L - Jon Switzer
R – Juan Salas
R - Scott Dohmann
R - Grant Balfour
R - Jay Witasick
L - Jon Switzer
L - Jeff Ridgway

60-day DL: S - Ben Zobrist (IF), R – Rocco Baldelli (R), R - Shawn Riggans (C)

Inactive List: R - Elijah Dukes (OF)

*injured
**shut down due to innings limit

Typical Lineup:

L – Akinori Iwamura (3B)
R - Jorge Velandia (2B)
L - Carlos Peña (1B)
R - B.J. Upton (CF)
R – Delmon Young (CF)
S - Greg Norton (DH)
R - Jonny Gomes (RF)
S – Dioner Navarro (C)
R - Josh Wilson (SS)

Comments (521)
Show/Hide Comments 1-50
2007-09-25 14:31:26
1.   mehmattski
Kei Igawa: 7 IP 2 H 0 ER 10 K

You heard it hear first.

2007-09-25 14:31:42
2.   yankz
Igawa: 5 IP, 4 ER, 7 K.
2007-09-25 14:31:46
3.   mehmattski
You also herd it here first....
2007-09-25 14:34:41
4.   cult of basebaal
I for one, would like to welcome our Flying Monkey Overlords and would like to remind them that I, as a trusted member of Bronx Banter community, can be useful in rounding up other to toil in their above-ground banana labor camps ...
2007-09-25 14:36:40
5.   Knuckles
O-Kei Go!

4.1 IP, 4 ER, at least 2 men on base when pulled.

2007-09-25 14:39:22
6.   Mattpat11
I actually think the worst thing that can happen is Igawa pitching well tonight. Then we'll sit through four more years of seven ERA while people scream "Remember the clincher?"
2007-09-25 14:40:18
7.   RIYank
Yeah, I think yankz and Knuckles must be close to the truth.

We'll see lots of relief pitching today, and I presume it will be a post-season tryout. Ohlendorf, Ramirez, ... Henn? Farns??

2007-09-25 14:43:05
8.   yankz
7 I would gladly accept my prediction. A 7.20 ERA? Jackpot.
2007-09-25 14:53:13
9.   Max
5 I was going to up your estimate by 2 runs, but I forgot about the expanded rosters. Should be a nice short hook for Iggy, followed by a boatload of relievers.

I probably mentioned this before, but the most excruciating plane flight I experienced this year (where the inconvenience wasn't the result of the airlines or weather) was a JetBlue cross country flight one Monday evening, when Igawa was pitching against the Rays (game was on ESPN). I kept watching the Yankee half of an inning, then flicking off my headphones in disgust everytime Iggy gave back runs in the bottom of the same inning. This seemed to go on endlessly before he got lifted.

Only redeeming thing was Alex was in the middle of his torrid streak, and hit two home runs. Quite a few people around me switched to ESPN whenever Alex was batting...that's how hot he was.

2007-09-25 14:55:54
10.   Bama Yankee
6 So, if Igawa pitches badly tonight you will be unhappy and if Igawa pitches well you will be unhappy...

Might I suggest "Dancing With the Stars" tonight? At least you might get a chance to see Mark Cuban fall on his large... uh, wallet.
;-)

2007-09-25 14:58:22
11.   Mattpat11
10 I'm unhappy with the very idea of Kei Igawa.
2007-09-25 15:00:44
12.   cult of basebaal
11 i'm just hoping for a double helping of the igawa-karstens boogaloo, like we got against the blue jays
2007-09-25 15:03:10
13.   Bama Yankee
11 Let's just hope that Kei Igawa doesn't ever appear on "Dancing With the Stars"... then you'll really be in trouble (along with half the people in the front row).
2007-09-25 15:11:43
14.   Max
10 I love watching good dancers (my sister is a jazz and hip-hop dance choreographer, my mother is a dancer, and I've photographed ballet, modern dance, tap and breakdancers for assignments), but the appeal of "Dancing with the Stars" is almost totally lost on me, outside of the train wreck factor. The show just seems to perpetuate a certain stereotype of professional dancers as grinning, swishy cheeseballs.

I'll glad take Igawa on that show, though, instead of in a Yankee uniform.

2007-09-25 15:13:33
15.   spufi2007
6 Oh, like anyone remembers a clincher....especially a wild card clincher? Tell me, who was the winning pitcher the day we clinched the division in 2004?
2007-09-25 15:13:42
16.   Max
14 ...that last line was supposed to say, "I'll gladly (and I do mean gladly) take Igawa on that show..."
2007-09-25 15:15:25
17.   thelarmis
well...there ain't nothin' we can do about it - kei is pitching tonite. wow, we were all pretty psyched about "Quest" in march. hopefully he can channel the Boston game and pitch well. if not, let's hope we eke out a victory and everyone else - det, sea, bos - loses.

perhaps i'm lucky - i'll miss every single pitch tonight as i have a loaded teaching schedule and then must practice. in my stead, i will leave a Kei Igawa 2007 Bowman Rookie Card displayed in my home before i go to work in a half-hour.

it's a green border with a fine and quiet spring training backdrop. on the back, a portion reads:

SKILLS: Fastball usually sits around 90 mph...Uses change-up as his out pitch...Also has a slider and a curveball...Excellent control.

GO YANKS!!!

2007-09-25 15:15:34
18.   spufi2007
15 And it's cheating if you go to www.baseball-reference.com, folks.
2007-09-25 15:17:12
19.   Mattpat11
15 I think they'll use any excuse to keep him.
2007-09-25 15:18:25
20.   cult of basebaal
personally, i'm rooting for igawa to pitch well, both tonite and in the future, but only superficially, with bad peripherals

then, as more and more casual fans start to warm up to lil' iggy and say nice things about him, mattpat will grow increasingly more and more infuriated by the whole situation and more and more obsessed with debunking the whole illusion of the "good" igawa ...

in short order i see this leading to facial tics and twitches, screeds, rants and denunciations, various plots and subterfuges to undermine igawa in the games his pitches ... and finally culminating in an nefarious scheme to have lil' iggy bumped off

you know, sort like Chief Inspector Dreyfus reacted to Clouseau in the Pink Panther movies ...

twitch, twitch ... twitch, twitch!

2007-09-25 15:19:47
21.   mehmattski
20 I'll take your story but instead of the result being a drastic change in mattpat's life, instead other teams will be convinced to trade for him.
2007-09-25 15:20:02
22.   Mattpat11
Leading to?
2007-09-25 15:35:00
23.   Mattpat11
17 Excellent control?

I'm playing Dare by Stan Bush

2007-09-25 15:37:39
24.   Mattpat11
The Yankee Spin Machine has Igawa "recording an out" the other day
2007-09-25 15:44:08
25.   Cliff Corcoran
14 I have to admit, my wife watched "So You Think You Can Dance?" this year, and I was impressed by both the dancers and the choreography. There was some very good art being created on that show, something that's almost never true on "American Idol" or "Dancing With The Stars" or the rest. If only they had a better title, people might take it more seriously.
2007-09-25 15:54:12
26.   JL25and3
Doesn't it seem like the Yankees play the Devil Rays about 35 games each year - a home-and-home series every month?

11 So you're opposed to Igawa not just as a pitcher, but as a metaphysical construct? I like it, and I admire your philosophical rigor.

2007-09-25 15:56:43
27.   Cliff Corcoran
26 It does feel like they play Tampa Bay and Baltimore a lot more than Boston and Toronto. Amazingly, they'll have played each exactly 18 times this year.
2007-09-25 16:00:03
28.   cult of basebaal
26 igawa is, therefore mattpat hates?
2007-09-25 16:04:04
29.   mehmattski
15 Since no one does remember, I cheated: Jon Leiber started on 9/30/04 and got the win as the Yankees clinched the AL East. They went on to be one out away from a pennant when I slipped on some ice and went into a two week coma. I can therefore only assume they won it all.
2007-09-25 16:09:52
30.   Mattpat11
Igawa broke the feed.
2007-09-25 16:11:24
31.   mehmattski
I think Kay should do his uniform description like the old days.

No names... of course.

2007-09-25 16:13:32
32.   yankz
25 They did indeed have some great dancers there. AI sucks compared to it.

I want Igawa to be the next Whitey Ford. Reason #1, so the Yanks win. Reason #2? To listen to Mattpat still demand that he GETS OFF THE TEAM.

2007-09-25 16:15:07
33.   Mattpat11
Fine start
2007-09-25 16:15:13
34.   mehmattski
So, if mattpat11 is in an elevator with Kei Igawa, Kyle Farnsworth, Lyle Overbay, and a gun with only two bullets...?
2007-09-25 16:15:46
35.   yankz
Jeter loves this time of the year.
2007-09-25 16:16:13
36.   yankz
34 I believe he has two kneecaps.
2007-09-25 16:20:34
37.   Mattpat11
32 If I thought Igawa could be useful, I'd have no problem with him
2007-09-25 16:22:43
38.   yankz
37 I doubt that. You're the one that suggested they trade him to SD for absolutely anything instead of taking up an unused AAA rotation spot.
2007-09-25 16:23:02
39.   vockins
Those new uniforms suck. They couldn't be more mediocre.

Keep the green, monochromatic ray logo with no letters on left breast, number on right breast, interlocking TB on hat. Green "Tampa Bay" on grey away jersey. Done.

2007-09-25 16:23:07
40.   Mattpat11
34 Only need one
2007-09-25 16:23:17
41.   yankz
Well, it's awfully quiet around here, so I'll check back in later.
2007-09-25 16:24:29
42.   Mattpat11
38 Because I don't think he can be useful
2007-09-25 16:29:30
43.   mehmattski
It's gonna be a close one in the Baserunners vs Outs race again today.
2007-09-25 16:31:40
44.   fansince77
Igawa has thrown 7 straight balls after being given the lead. God I hope this guy gives me a reason not to HATE watching him pitch.
2007-09-25 16:33:57
45.   fansince77
Get Igawa off the mound now! I wanted to watch baseball tonight...not bullshit.
2007-09-25 16:35:03
46.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
14 Pitches. 3 Strikes!
2007-09-25 16:35:14
47.   Yankees Brasil
I'd take any pitcher on the D'Rays 'pen over Igawa.
2007-09-25 16:35:23
48.   mehmattski
Upton really has a .451 BABIP? That's incredible.
2007-09-25 16:35:57
49.   fansince77
Jorge trying to see if he can throw a strike to second since Igawa can't throw one 90 feet. My biggest worry...the next strike donkey boy throws will be SUPERFAT!
2007-09-25 16:36:02
50.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
We know how this ends. When he finally throws a strike it'll end up a 3-run bomb.
Show/Hide Comments 51-100
2007-09-25 16:37:19
51.   williamnyy23
The only thing more frustrating than watching Igawa pitch is listening to Sterling get frustrated watching him pitch. I still can't believe that the Yankees would start him with a chance to win the division, but I guess they really don't care about how they get in.
2007-09-25 16:37:20
52.   Yankees Brasil
Bruney can throw more strikes than Igawa
2007-09-25 16:38:26
53.   claybeez
52 What an indictment.
2007-09-25 16:40:54
54.   fansince77
I can't figure what's worse donkey boy's pitcing or the Rays announcer's bias and enthusiasm for foul balls! THIS IS GOING TO BE GRUELING. I'll be outa here soon don't worry- cuz Joe's gonna stay with Donkeyboy until it's too late.
2007-09-25 16:41:54
55.   fansince77
There's only one bullet left in the chamber...and it's the second inning.
2007-09-25 16:43:24
56.   RIYank
Wow! He struck out two guys to work out of the jam!

It's like a microcosm of the season for Igawa. He started off having real problems, but it looks like he's finally coming around. This is great!

(This message brought to you by AMMHE, the Alliance to Make Mattpat's Head Explode)

2007-09-25 16:44:04
57.   cult of basebaal
twitch, twitch ... twitch, twitch ...
2007-09-25 16:46:27
58.   RIYank
I love what Igawa is doing. I mean, he's obviously unhittable (0 H per IP). And he's making the most of the strikes he's throwing (outs per strike thrown). Most guys just waste all those strikes, but he's using them very efficiently.
2007-09-25 16:49:42
59.   mehmattski
The second inning is going to be: 12 straight balls followed by 9 straight strikes to get out of the bases-loaded jam.
2007-09-25 16:52:20
60.   RIYank
59 The perfect Igawa inning! Aesthetic perfection, anyway.
Too bad, he's wrecked it. But, we can dream.
2007-09-25 16:52:29
61.   Max
25 32 Glad to see it wasn't just me who saw the good stuff in "So You Think You Can Dance". There are some truly amazing dancers (and performance pieces) on that show.

26 There is something about an imminent playoff entrance that seems to have got everyone in fine humor and wit. Dare I say it's even kind of fun tapdancing on the ledge with Iggy, knowing the consequences are nothing more dire than backing into the division, or waiting an extra day or two. We have the opportunity to foam at the mouth for a few hours, and still get a good night's sleep when it's all over.

Of course if Farnsworth makes an appearance, with visions of future playoff usage, the bile will sit in our stomachs a bit more unsettlingly...

2007-09-25 16:52:36
62.   mehmattski
Kay: It's not a done deal yet but I hear that on the bp show tomorrow, Kim Jones is going to swim in the devil ray tank.

Leiter: Now THAT I'd like to see...

(cackling from the booth and awkward silence)

2007-09-25 16:53:47
63.   fansince77
58 hilarious.
2007-09-25 16:56:26
64.   fansince77
Now I understand this move. Kei Igawa was brought up specifically to boost Mike Mussina's confidence. With Igawa topping out at 85 Mussina is sure to feel confident with his blazer at 88. Now if we could only get Mussina to learn the Igawa rop-a-dope. When everyone is about out cold from bordem- gas it!
2007-09-25 17:00:01
65.   mehmattski
64 Gameday says the pitch Navarro flew out on was at 91 mph.

Still- 8 balls, 5 strikes.

2007-09-25 17:00:07
66.   Yankees Brasil
Igawa no-hitting the Rays.
2007-09-25 17:00:15
67.   fansince77
Yanks can it the crap out of this guy if they stop swinging at the high strike. Make Hamel come down and we pound him.
2007-09-25 17:01:14
68.   fansince77
200 mi capitain...bravo.
2007-09-25 17:03:02
69.   RIYank
I'm sure Moose is dying to learn the technique of inducing guys to line into double-plays. Farnsworth was impressed by the four-pitch walk and has some questions about Kei's grip.
2007-09-25 17:03:52
70.   RIYank
Kei, mean while, is admiring how Hammel is pitching this inning. "Ah, got us right where he wants us now."
2007-09-25 17:04:19
71.   RIYank
Yum. Salami.
2007-09-25 17:04:19
72.   mehmattski
53!
2007-09-25 17:04:30
73.   williamnyy23
He was trying to do that.
2007-09-25 17:04:40
74.   Mattpat11
WHOOOOOOOOO
2007-09-25 17:04:57
75.   claybeez
Crushed.
2007-09-25 17:06:04
76.   claybeez
70 Still giggling over that one.
2007-09-25 17:06:21
77.   tommyl
Christ he annihilated that ball. I love that all time Yankee HR leaderboard they just showed:

Maris
Ruth
Mantle
Rodriguez

Not bad company.

2007-09-25 17:06:25
78.   Yankees Brasil
Thank you A-Rod!
2007-09-25 17:06:38
79.   fansince77
Did I see that correctly? Did that ball hit the seam on the back wall and the roof?!? Holy shit! Holy shit! Thank you AROD for that thrill.
2007-09-25 17:07:03
80.   RIYank
53, also 151 rbi.

I'm listening to John and Suzyn this evening, by the way. Seems like the perfect night for it. The circus atmosphere.

2007-09-25 17:08:25
81.   RIYank
79 Suzyn is describing Shelley and Wilson trying to show Alex (and now Damon) where the ball went. Alex isn't getting it.
2007-09-25 17:10:14
82.   mehmattski
The YES replay of the homer kind of sucked, it suggested it fell into the first deck of the left field seats. It did not?
2007-09-25 17:14:36
83.   Dark Knight
cano only has 3 stolen bases all year?! even posada has 2. what gives?
2007-09-25 17:15:22
84.   fansince77
82 what i saw was that the ball (on the way up) hit the corner of the building where the roof meets the seam of the back wall...please someone tell me I'm wrong.
2007-09-25 17:15:59
85.   Jersey
Sooo....is that the salami that ultimately seals the playoff spot?
2007-09-25 17:16:03
86.   yankz
Just checking in to say Arod rules, Igawa for 4th starter in October, and RIYank is on a roll.
2007-09-25 17:17:59
87.   Bob B
Kay makes a good point, wouldn't it be ironic if Igawa is the winning pitcher on the clinching game. Just keep him off the post-season roster along with Farnsworth.
2007-09-25 17:18:58
88.   RIYank
I dunno where the ball went, because I'm listening to the radio. John said it hit the ceiling and landed on the field; he also said it struck a catwalk.

Now Suzyn says that the reason Iwamura's hit went over Jeter's glove is that the turf here makes the ball gain velocity as it moves over the infield.

2007-09-25 17:19:41
89.   mehmattski
88 Lisa! Get in here! In my house we obey the laws of thermodynamics!
2007-09-25 17:21:09
90.   jkay
Thanks for the heads up for the Bx is Burning deal. I talked trash with Mick the Quick and he signed my DVD. Very cool.

I enjoyed the tv series and I will watch it again after the season is over.

2007-09-25 17:21:12
91.   RIYank
Magnetized turf? iron filings in the ball?
Anyway, the goddam laws of physics ruined Kei's no-no!
2007-09-25 17:25:54
92.   fansince77
Igawa trying to give it back...so excruciating.
2007-09-25 17:27:28
93.   3rd gen yankee fan
This is gonna be painful, I can tell.

LOL to the Rays announcers on their NYY bullpen comment.

2007-09-25 17:28:30
94.   Yankees Brasil
Bruney and Karstens, that can't end well.
2007-09-25 17:29:32
95.   RIYank
93 What did they say?
2007-09-25 17:29:34
96.   3rd gen yankee fan
I missed an AGod slam? Dammit!
2007-09-25 17:29:59
97.   RIYank
Kei Houdini.
2007-09-25 17:30:04
98.   JeremyM
So, is Mattpat still among the living?

How frustrating is this Igawa cat?

2007-09-25 17:30:56
99.   fansince77
OK - thanks mr igawa...much appreciated three innings of service. Now sit down and watch the rest of the game. Please someone take donkeyboy out. Please!
2007-09-25 17:31:23
100.   RIYank
96 It was cool. It helped give a circus atmosphere to the proceedings. He was the fourth batter of the inning, too.
Show/Hide Comments 101-150
2007-09-25 17:36:45
101.   fansince77
90 You met "Mick the Quick" - man that would have been a thrill for me. Mickey Rivers for some strange reason was my hero when I was six years old - (he was so odd and so unique)and on my way to Bronx Banter. #17 is the reason why I am fan since 77.
2007-09-25 17:36:55
102.   3rd gen yankee fan
100 Friggin work. Thanks.

btw the announcers compared the NYY bullpen to "another borough of NY with all those guys down there. Bet Joe wishes he had four mounds there instead of just two."

2007-09-25 17:37:57
103.   williamnyy23
Derek has 200 hits for the 6th time, the most by any SS and four behind Rose's record of 10 seasons.
2007-09-25 17:42:04
104.   3rd gen yankee fan
Meanwhile, across the continent, Chad Gaudin is melting down, walking the bases loaded with... nobody out.
2007-09-25 17:43:14
105.   3rd gen yankee fan
Check that, walked Nancy & walked in the tiebreaking run.
2007-09-25 17:44:36
106.   Mattpat11
Nancy walks a run in
2007-09-25 17:44:55
107.   fansince77
THATS ENOUGH! No more Igawa. You cannot walk guys with a fucking five run lead!
2007-09-25 17:47:07
108.   Chyll Will
106 Did we start calling him Nancy first, or was there a cloud that followed him over? I read in the Rues on Sunday that RSN is calling him Nancy too...
2007-09-25 17:47:31
109.   SF Yanks
Focus Iggy! ;)
2007-09-25 17:47:50
110.   Mattpat11
Oh God. He's going to be on the playoff roster
2007-09-25 17:48:31
111.   RIYank
I have to admit, I'm worried. Torre likes pitchers to pitch out of jams. He may be convinced that K should be on the PS roster.

Maybe he should start the fifth and walk two guys on 8 pitches. Would that seal his fate?

2007-09-25 17:49:17
112.   3rd gen yankee fan
107 It's certainly better than if we had a one run lead.
2007-09-25 17:49:43
113.   3rd gen yankee fan
110 No way.
2007-09-25 17:50:01
114.   RIYank
112 Yeah, Kei out of the bullpen... great idea.
2007-09-25 17:50:14
115.   3rd gen yankee fan
please god no
2007-09-25 17:57:59
116.   RIYank
He's gonna get the W.
2007-09-25 17:59:00
117.   JeremyM
I don't know what you guys see, but I see a guy who doesn't have his best stuff and is out there battling, refusing to give in. He'd rather walk a guy and face one that he knows he can get out, even if it's a booming out to the warning track. Hats off to Kei Igawa, keep it up my friend.
2007-09-25 18:00:49
118.   williamnyy23
The D-Rays are hitting the ball hard, but Igawa is getting outs. I don't really care what that means for the future because I'm more interested in winning this game today.
2007-09-25 18:00:51
119.   Mattpat11
117 I see a guy pitching like he always does and tripping ass backwards into success.
2007-09-25 18:01:03
120.   nyy jim
Minky flashes the leather once again
2007-09-25 18:03:20
121.   JeremyM
119 Mattpat11, I think you owe Kei an apology man, 5 scoreless! That doesn't happen by mistake.

Seriously, I'm getting a kick out of his highwire act tonight, but he frustrates the hell out of me normally.

2007-09-25 18:04:06
122.   fansince77
This HAS to be a joke . That pitcher's name cannot be "Balfour" Wow - talk about not having a shot!
2007-09-25 18:04:10
123.   fansince77
This HAS to be a joke . That pitcher's name cannot be "Balfour" Wow - talk about not having a shot!
2007-09-25 18:04:55
124.   Zack
5 scoreless innings is five scoreless innings. Ask Phil Hughes how tough that can be, no matter how good you might be...
2007-09-25 18:05:29
125.   vockins
I gotta bring this up again because it's making me nuts:

Did any of you that signed via yankees.com for the playoff ticket lottery get a respose one way or the other yet? Thanks.

2007-09-25 18:05:33
126.   fansince77
"C'mon Bal-four!...Let's go Bal-four!"

"Shit which team are you rooting for man!"

2007-09-25 18:07:05
127.   Raf
Blind squirrel... Nut... Found
2007-09-25 18:07:54
128.   JeremyM
127 Did that little guy make it down to Tampa now?
2007-09-25 18:09:40
129.   3rd gen yankee fan
Cano sleeping.
2007-09-25 18:09:59
130.   jkay
125 No word so far.
2007-09-25 18:11:20
131.   Dark Knight
someone has to teach this boy how to read pitchers and steal bases. it's inexcusable that he only has 3 sb. damon has 25. melky has 13!
2007-09-25 18:11:51
132.   weeping for brunnhilde
Oh, and speaking of rundowns, remember that series, when we were at the bottom of the well when we botched two rundowns in two games? Or maybe we only almost botched the second one, both involving Jorgie and Alex.

Was that against Toronto? Same series when they stole fucking home?

God, how far we've come.

2007-09-25 18:13:47
133.   Dark Knight
paul o'neill stole 22 in his final season just to do everything he could to win.
2007-09-25 18:14:26
134.   RIYank
Edwar.
This is definitely Audition Day.
2007-09-25 18:14:41
135.   motown yankees fan
125 Partial season ticket holders have until 10:00 tonight to purchase tickets, so I think lottery emails will come out after that. Also, I heard that both yes and no ticket people get emails. Good luck, by the way.
2007-09-25 18:14:55
136.   mehmattski
127 Clock... broken... twice a day...
2007-09-25 18:15:05
137.   Eirias
133 How many CS?
2007-09-25 18:17:03
138.   williamnyy23
135 I am a partial season ticket holder and the seats available for more than singles were awful (bleachers and wings of the upper deck). I'd rather watch at home than shell out $100+ for those kinds fo seats.
2007-09-25 18:17:28
139.   JeremyM
137 3 caught stealing.
2007-09-25 18:18:23
140.   vockins
135 , 130 Thanks. I guess I can stop refreshing my yahoo mail account every fifteen seconds.
2007-09-25 18:19:46
141.   JeremyM
139 In other O'Neill stats, he had an ERA of 13.50 in 2 appearances (with the Reds), and appeared at first three times for a total of 2 innings for the Yanks.
2007-09-25 18:21:00
142.   RIYank
Edwar's audition isn't going well.
2007-09-25 18:21:41
143.   Dark Knight
139 it's not like paul was running on young legs. skill, passion, interest. cano has skill.
2007-09-25 18:21:47
144.   williamnyy23
This is a pretty dissapointing outing for Edwar. I think he is pitching his way off the post season roster.
2007-09-25 18:22:42
145.   motown yankees fan
138 I totally bought those tickets for all three series. Got game 7 for the Serious. Although, if it goes to that, I don't think my nerves would be able to take it. But you are right, the tickets weren't optimal. (And neither were my tickets in the Sunday package. I still love being where the magic happens)
2007-09-25 18:23:40
146.   JeremyM
Edwar is turning into a (much) skinnier version of Colter Bean. I guess whatever they found in his mechanics hasn't helped:(
2007-09-25 18:24:22
147.   Dark Knight
in other o'neill stats, final season, 59 strikeouts in 510 at bats. 21 hr. that's impressive, although .267/.330/.459.
2007-09-25 18:24:55
148.   RIYank
Thank you very much, Mr. Ramirez. We'll call your agent if we need you.

Next.

2007-09-25 18:26:08
149.   williamnyy23
145 I've been to so many playoffs games thanks to the Yankees great run of success. I am at the point now where if I can't see the entire field, I'd rather watch it on TV. I get way too nervous to have to hold my breath as the ball goes out of view!! At least on TV, I feel like I can better anticipate the action. Also, playoff crowds kind of bother me a little too. It seems as if they are filled with people who don't really care as much about the outcome as simply being there.
2007-09-25 18:27:15
150.   Mr OK Jazz TOKYO
Just tuned in, Igawa started!! He did well and I still feel tense!!
Show/Hide Comments 151-200
2007-09-25 18:27:19
151.   williamnyy23
No help from Oakland tonight...it really sucks not knowing whether these games mean anything.
2007-09-25 18:27:23
152.   RIYank
Mr. Bruney, have you prepared anything for us? Oh, that should be good. Hope you don't mind the inherited runners.

Please go ahead. Take your time.

2007-09-25 18:27:39
153.   Orly Yarly NoWai
120 Jeff Weaver would like a word with you.
2007-09-25 18:28:00
154.   RIYank
150 He didn't do well. It just turned out well. not the same thing.
2007-09-25 18:28:57
155.   RIYank
Oh, Mr. Bruney? Mr. Bruney, we've heard this song before. Do you have anything else?
2007-09-25 18:29:48
156.   williamnyy23
The Yankees should simply release Bruney. He has walked 112 men in 147 innings. I think the sample size is sufficient...he will never throw strikes.
2007-09-25 18:30:35
157.   RIYank
Oh, that's more like it. Thank you. Could you run that by us one more time?
2007-09-25 18:31:22
158.   claybeez
145 We only managed tickets for the ALCS. Everything else was singles. So, we picked up division series tickets on that broker site that rhymes.
2007-09-25 18:32:21
159.   motown yankees fan
149 I've only been to one playoff game live, the Detroit game last year where Mussina couldn't hold the lead. I'd love to see a Yankee win live. I have many fond memories of pacing back and forth in various rec rooms, living rooms, dens, etc. since 1978--but I want to see something good live. Sounds like you already have.
2007-09-25 18:33:26
160.   OldYanksFan
We don't have a chance in the PS with this BP unless all our starters go 7.

If Moose is a starter, are both Hughes and IPK on the PS rooster and in the BP? Edwar, Bruney and the rest can NOT be counted on in a short series.

2007-09-25 18:33:36
161.   williamnyy23
Another reason I didn't get the post season tickets was that the Yankees were 4-13 in games I attended. Considering the Yankees home record, I decided to take one for the team.
2007-09-25 18:33:57
162.   RIYank
Oh. No, our fault, sorry. Not that one. The other one, Mr. Bruney. The strikey one.
2007-09-25 18:34:10
163.   williamnyy23
I realize Joe is auditioning, but he should he really throw this game away. Hasn't he seen enough from Bruney?
2007-09-25 18:34:33
164.   OldYanksFan
Torro is gonna bite his fucking head off when he comes back into the dugout
2007-09-25 18:34:35
165.   motown yankees fan
158 I wonder if that means the lottery tickets will be even worse. Or do they save some for the lottery. The lottery tickets my sister got us last year were in the outfield, way upper deck, past the foul pole. Still fun though.
2007-09-25 18:35:16
166.   JeremyM
You guys don't get it, Bruney is trying to get strikeouts, and sometimes you have to throw bad pitches to get em.

Hey, he said it, not me.

2007-09-25 18:35:21
167.   RIYank
Ah.

Thanks, Mr. Bruney. We'll let you know.

Next.

2007-09-25 18:35:25
168.   tommyl
Wow, Brian Bruney, stop taking tips from Kyle Farnsworth.
2007-09-25 18:35:32
169.   nyy jim
I can't stand watching this bullshit pitching.
2007-09-25 18:35:56
170.   williamnyy23
163 I guess not...shameful managing by Torre. He simply tossed a win back.
2007-09-25 18:36:01
171.   Marcus
You've got to be kidding me.
2007-09-25 18:36:02
172.   Yankees Brasil
Fuck Bruney!
2007-09-25 18:36:16
173.   Dark Knight
ugh!! hmmm, kei at 87 pitches is looking better and better to have gone another inning.
2007-09-25 18:36:22
174.   claybeez
149 The only playoff game I've ever been to was during the '79 WS. I was given the ticket by my grandfather who had piano lessons. I don't remember if he was allowed to take me into the stadium, though I think he was. He's already talked to the other fans in his section and they knew to watch out for me.

This, however, will be my first Yankees post-season - in person...

Oh, Brian. Man, I guess you turned the corner, but went back home to make sure the stove was off.

2007-09-25 18:36:25
175.   jkay
Text message from YES says Clemens out for rest of regular season. Yanks still hoping he will heal and be playoff contributor.
2007-09-25 18:36:35
176.   JeremyM
DFA his ass.
2007-09-25 18:36:37
177.   fansince77
Is anyone surprised? Yankee second tier bullpen sucks. We need to leave these people at home in the playoffs or it will be more of the same.
2007-09-25 18:36:51
178.   vockins
Velandia? Good lord.
2007-09-25 18:37:03
179.   Bob B
Bruney must go
2007-09-25 18:37:23
180.   tommyl
Good time for the April bullpen to show up.
2007-09-25 18:37:46
181.   OldYanksFan
170 Is 9/11 Torre's fault also? While I agree Torre can throw more strikes then Bruney, it's not really his job.
2007-09-25 18:37:55
182.   Yankees Brasil
9 walks by Yankees pitching. That's pathetic.
2007-09-25 18:38:05
183.   RIYank
180 Hey, better than a week later.
2007-09-25 18:38:08
184.   motown yankees fan
But don't forget, Reyes is the closer.
2007-09-25 18:38:21
185.   Dark Knight
velandia's FIRST career HR in 208 at bats.
2007-09-25 18:38:22
186.   Marcus
Bruney threw nothing but fastballs that whole outing. If you can't put a fastball over the plate, you do not belong on a ML roster.
2007-09-25 18:38:30
187.   weeping for brunnhilde
132 And yet, le plus ca change...

Motherfucker.

It was 5-0.

It was 5-0.

2007-09-25 18:39:47
188.   randym77
Was it only last year Bruney looked so good, and we wondered how Arizona could have been so stupid as to let him go?
2007-09-25 18:39:55
189.   williamnyy23
181 Torre's job is to realize that Bruney will never throw strikes. Bringing him in with men on base is suicide. Why can't Joe see that? Did he really think Bruney would reverse 150 major league innings of precedent?
2007-09-25 18:40:24
190.   Dark Knight
181 wow, you know it's depressing when we slippery sloped to 9/11 talk. where is rudy g?
2007-09-25 18:41:01
191.   claybeez
Our pen is currently a disaster. Cashman is going to have to sign another veteran RP for some odd million just to keep the clamor down for him to move Joba to the pen.
2007-09-25 18:41:50
192.   JeremyM
It's like a Yankees reality show- let's see who gets voted off the playoff island next.
2007-09-25 18:42:47
193.   williamnyy23
188 Yep, which explains why you shouldn't be fooled by small samples, nor ignore peripherals (ERA of 0.87, but whip of 1.403).
2007-09-25 18:43:38
194.   Robert the Robot
Champagne's on ice. If we manage to win this thing, fill Bruney's bottle with Giuseppe Franco's Hair Grease.......
2007-09-25 18:43:44
195.   3rd gen yankee fan
You are freakin kidding me. I go away for HALF AN HOUR...?
2007-09-25 18:44:35
196.   BklynBmr
188 He must not want it that bad. Maybe just getting re-upped with the Yankees was good enough for him. Have a nice October, Brian. No worries, the SF Giants will pick you up next year...
2007-09-25 18:45:16
197.   rsmith51
IF
Posada
ARod
Jeter
Cano
Minky
Bettemit
Giambi
Duncan
Molina

OF
Damon
Matsui
Abreu
Cabrera

SP
Andy
Wang
Rocket
Moose

RP
Rivera
Joba
Viz
Ramirez
Farns
Hughes
Kennedy

Who's number 25? Villone? Bruney?

I really want the Yanks to win tonight.

2007-09-25 18:45:19
198.   tommyl
Ok, here is what I don't get, is it that hard to throw strikes (with a fastball) down in the zone? I pitched for several years in little league and it never seemed that hard to me. I'm not asking for Maddux like control, but c'mon throw it a bit off the middle and low.

How can someone get as far as the ML level with the inability to throw strikes? and call themselves pitchers?

2007-09-25 18:46:15
199.   JeremyM
197 I'd take Villone over Ramirez.
2007-09-25 18:46:43
200.   rsmith51
Mets' fans can't wait till this season is over.
Show/Hide Comments 201-250
2007-09-25 18:47:08
201.   williamnyy23
198 For quality pitchers it isn't. For Brian Bruney, it is. His career stats speak for themselves. I don't think you can blame Bruney for being something he isn't.
2007-09-25 18:47:11
202.   Flip Play
194 I don't know the Yankees. I've never seen them play. I wouldn't put my name on them. All I know is I get payed every time this commercial airs.
2007-09-25 18:47:34
203.   rsmith51
199 You can have both, unless I missed someone.
2007-09-25 18:48:25
204.   BklynBmr
195 I went outside for a smoke when it was 5-1, based loaded, 2 out, come back, see a commerical on and think 'whew, we got out of it'. Then reality hit. Un-f-n-believable...
2007-09-25 18:48:39
205.   OldYanksFan
189 Bringing anyone out of our BP, aside from MoJoViz, is suicide. We have given up 9 walks AND a HR. Torre can't make good moves with a BP full of little leaguers.

Are Hughes and IPK in the BP for the PS?

2007-09-25 18:49:32
206.   Robert the Robot
202 Tell me Giuseppe, will that Hair Grease remove a Nazi Iron Cross tattoo from a forearm?
2007-09-25 18:49:39
207.   Marcus
From PeteAbe:

"What a travesty. Edwar Ramirez and Brian Bruney – the darlings of the stat geeks – walk four and give up two hits to lose the lead to one inning. Well, they were each released before. They won't be surprised when it happens again after the season. The Yankees would be crazy to put either of them on the postseason roster."

Ramirez could probably be considered loved by "stat geeks"
Bruney? Hardly. See 193 .

Sometimes, I just shake my head at PeteAbe...

2007-09-25 18:49:54
208.   rsmith51
205 I assume so. Anybody who can throw strikes, preferably.
2007-09-25 18:50:16
209.   JeremyM
203 Yes, but as far as your 24 I'd skip Ramirez and give the guaranteed spot to Villone, and select the 25th from the rest.
2007-09-25 18:50:25
210.   williamnyy23
205 He could have let Igawa go longer, leave Ramirez in or try Britton, Veras, etc. Bringing in the guy with a career walk rate around 7 per 9IP was by far the worst choice. Even when you have bad options, that doesn't mean you have to choose the worst one.
2007-09-25 18:51:29
211.   rsmith51
207 Who does Pete Abe suggest on the roster? I don't understand the stat geek comment about Bruney. Maybe he is thinking of Britton.
2007-09-25 18:51:40
212.   tommyl
PeteAbe just said that Bruney was a darling of the stat geeks. C;mon Pete, that's just retarded.
2007-09-25 18:52:06
213.   OldYanksFan
I'm not sure Slim can be on the PS rooster. He gives up so many HRs.
2007-09-25 18:52:14
214.   Dark Knight
mlb says injury delay. who?
2007-09-25 18:52:26
215.   rsmith51
209 I don't have much confidence in Villone, but if he's pitching it probably won't matter.
2007-09-25 18:52:39
216.   randym77
Will Kennedy be on the post-season roster? From what PeteAbe said, I assumed he wouldn't be.
2007-09-25 18:53:09
217.   JeremyM
215 I don't either, but moreso than some of the jokers we have. But you're right, it's a moot point.
2007-09-25 18:53:59
218.   rsmith51
216 That is true, something about shutting Ian down...
2007-09-25 18:54:12
219.   BL-YF
You know I really don't have enough bad language in my vocabulary to express how I am currently feeling toward Ramirez and Bruney.
2007-09-25 18:54:16
220.   williamnyy23
Francona just brought Paps in to bail Gagne out of the 8th. I guess Francona is still managing to win ball games. I wish Joe was doing the same (although with Joe, he may actually have expected Bruney to come through).
2007-09-25 18:54:27
221.   rsmith51
Matsui NEEDS a hit right now.
2007-09-25 18:55:10
222.   JeremyM
Thanks Matsui. A-Rod can't do it freaking all.
2007-09-25 18:55:32
223.   rsmith51
The only prerequisite for a pitcher was to throw strikes. Why would you bring in Bruney?
2007-09-25 18:55:44
224.   Yankees Brasil
Crazy called strike. At least 2 feet outside.
2007-09-25 18:55:53
225.   williamnyy23
It's going to be difficult for the bats to come back alive. It can't be easy to put up 5 runs and then watch your manager audition crappy relievers. I'm sure more than a few shoulders slumped when Bruney came into the game.
2007-09-25 18:56:35
226.   nyy jim
Ok when do the bad pitchers come in for the Rays or do we have all of them? Since ARod's slam it seems like we stopped playing.
2007-09-25 18:56:41
227.   fansince77
That pitch was outside. This ump hasn't called that strike all game. But honestly- Abreu's at bat is what the inning turned on.
2007-09-25 18:56:48
228.   JeremyM
{224} Really? Man, the umpiring is just awful this year.
2007-09-25 18:56:55
229.   rsmith51
How about Ohlendorf? I might choose him over Villone, Ramirez, and Bruney.
2007-09-25 18:57:05
230.   Orly Yarly NoWai
Well, hopefully Paps gets shelled and gets hit in the hand he uses to be obnoxious.
2007-09-25 18:57:15
231.   Yankees Brasil
222 Not his fault, the pitch was way outside.
2007-09-25 18:58:38
232.   rsmith51
STOP WALKING PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!
2007-09-25 18:58:38
233.   Raf
223 The thing about power arms in this game is that they will be given every chance to succeed, in the hopes that they will maybe turn it around. Sometimes they do, many times they don't.
2007-09-25 18:58:51
234.   williamnyy23
Is Britton even on the team? He is the only b-list arm who doesn't walk guys. Why not bring him in?
2007-09-25 18:59:11
235.   Yankees Brasil
What a crazy strike zone, Villone's pitches are right down the middle but somehow are being called balls.
2007-09-25 19:00:15
236.   OldYanksFan
Audition Britton too?
2007-09-25 19:00:18
237.   rsmith51
I think in a tie game late, home field is important.
2007-09-25 19:01:22
238.   williamnyy23
236 Britton has the best track record. He actually deserves an audition. Instead, Torre beats his head against the wall and goes with what we already know doesn't work.
2007-09-25 19:07:55
239.   Raf
Well Baby Huey's in the game now...
2007-09-25 19:08:25
240.   rsmith51
7-1 Boston
2007-09-25 19:10:40
241.   williamnyy23
Too many strikes from Britton...Joe isn't going to like that.
2007-09-25 19:10:43
242.   RIYank
Huh.
So, maybe Britton passes the audition. Or anyway earns himself a callback.
2007-09-25 19:11:46
243.   RIYank
241 Edwar, Kei, Brian huddle together. "Hmmm. Interesting approach Chris has. Interesting. Hmmm."
2007-09-25 19:12:10
244.   claybeez
Does Britton sit around 91 MPH (YES Gun) or is that where he tops out?
2007-09-25 19:13:23
245.   RIYank
I like Gomes.
I like Jorgie more, though.
2007-09-25 19:13:29
246.   williamnyy23
244 Low 90's. He isn't spectacular, but he throws strikes. He should be light years ahead of Bruney in the pecking order.
2007-09-25 19:14:05
247.   JeremyM
Nice start.
2007-09-25 19:15:09
248.   claybeez
Nice up the middle shot by Robbie.
2007-09-25 19:15:12
249.   RIYank
I figure Posada could have made it to third on that hit. Oh well. Jorgie can use the innings off, anyway.
2007-09-25 19:15:49
250.   Mattpat11
Just get it in the air, Jason
Show/Hide Comments 251-300
2007-09-25 19:16:34
251.   williamnyy23
Yankees need to take the lead here...by burning through four pitchers in two innings, the pen is getting pretty thin.
2007-09-25 19:16:41
252.   RIYank
I'm looking for the walk here.
Looks like Jason isn't, though.
2007-09-25 19:18:24
253.   RIYank
Giambi was looking for the curve again.
2007-09-25 19:18:34
254.   williamnyy23
Giambi has really been awful. If he doesn't start getting more ABs, he'll be useless in the playoffs.
2007-09-25 19:18:48
255.   RIYank
253 Or slider, I guess.
2007-09-25 19:18:50
256.   Mattpat11
Unbelievable
2007-09-25 19:19:25
257.   williamnyy23
That is the best throw of Gomes life.
2007-09-25 19:19:32
258.   claybeez
Melky's struggling, but he got the job done.
2007-09-25 19:20:16
259.   Yankees Brasil
Nice Melky!
2007-09-25 19:20:23
260.   williamnyy23
258 He had the right approach there though. Usually, he tried to pull in those situations, but this time he went the other way.
2007-09-25 19:20:26
261.   OldYanksFan
Wow... 2 breaks in 1 inning.
2007-09-25 19:20:43
262.   Mattpat11
Come on Johnny
2007-09-25 19:23:08
263.   Mattpat11
Come on Derek
2007-09-25 19:23:12
264.   RIYank
Jesus. 5-for-5. But no rbi!
2007-09-25 19:23:33
265.   williamnyy23
That ball was hit very weakly...how does Cano not score?
2007-09-25 19:23:52
266.   williamnyy23
265 He froze with two outs....that's why.
2007-09-25 19:24:05
267.   3rd gen yankee fan
Here comes Mr. Two Out Rally himself!
2007-09-25 19:24:31
268.   Mattpat11
265 Gomes got to it quickly
2007-09-25 19:25:24
269.   williamnyy23
268 If Cano had a bigger lead and ran on contact, he would have scored. Instead, he didn't wander too far off the bag and paused until the ball went through.
2007-09-25 19:25:28
270.   Yankees Brasil
265 266 Cano is sleeping on the basepaths.
2007-09-25 19:26:31
271.   claybeez
265 I think the previous throw from Gomes may have had something to do with it.
2007-09-25 19:26:52
272.   Mattpat11
269 He is slow as dirt
2007-09-25 19:27:45
273.   Mattpat11
How do you take THAT?
2007-09-25 19:27:50
274.   claybeez
272 That too.
2007-09-25 19:28:07
275.   fansince77
WHy is derek taking that pitch? Perplexing!
2007-09-25 19:28:19
276.   fansince77
WHy is derek taking that pitch? Perplexing!
2007-09-25 19:28:31
277.   JeremyM
There's exhibit A against "clutch." :)
2007-09-25 19:29:48
278.   randym77
Umm...Farnsworth? Britton can't get more than one out?
2007-09-25 19:29:58
279.   fansince77
How do we NOT give up runs for an inning with our bullpen? Any ideas?
2007-09-25 19:30:07
280.   Mattpat11
Oh no.
2007-09-25 19:30:52
281.   RIYank
278 It's an audition.
You hadn't noticed?
2007-09-25 19:31:30
282.   JeremyM
Oh come on Torre. Britton gets one K and he's gone? Didn't we learn from Ohlendorf getting the same treatment?
2007-09-25 19:31:33
283.   tommyl
Kyle Farnsworth. Great.

Nice that Britton got a fair audition compared to Bruney. Of course he doesn't have the stuff that Bruney does.

2007-09-25 19:31:34
284.   williamnyy23
Britton gets one batter and then is pulled? Maybe Torre is planning to settle for a tie after the 10th like in the All Star Game?
2007-09-25 19:31:40
285.   Mattpat11
Is That Al Reyes?
2007-09-25 19:31:45
286.   RIYank
279 Sure, Villone and Britton could combine for a scoreless inning.
2007-09-25 19:32:54
287.   williamnyy23
Even if you dismiss the importance of these games, Torre's complete lack of logic still makes me fearful for how he'll hadle the playoffs.
2007-09-25 19:33:23
288.   pistolpete
Who is this guy and what did he do with Kyle Farnsworth?
2007-09-25 19:34:25
289.   williamnyy23
At least Kyle is open to change, which implies that he knows he has been awful.
2007-09-25 19:35:23
290.   Mattpat11
The "Vick Divide" was on

How could anyone possibly support Michael Vick?

2007-09-25 19:36:05
291.   Mattpat11
A-Rod needs to clinch it now.
2007-09-25 19:36:28
292.   RIYank
And Kyle secures a spot on the PS roster.
2007-09-25 19:36:46
293.   fansince77
God Farns IS Nuke LaLoosh. Million dollar arm...5 cent head. Glad the million dollar arm showed up today.
2007-09-25 19:36:47
294.   pistolpete
289 I'm thinking the full windup might give him more time to drive forward with his legs, giving more oomph on the fastball. He kinda looked like Gator in his prime on a few of those pitches.

Note: I AM NOT COMPARING HIM TO GUIDRY. ;-)

2007-09-25 19:37:23
295.   nyy jim
Despite all his problems this year, I still would rather see Farnsworth out there than all the other crap relievers. This inning is an example of what he can do on occasion. I'll stop short of saying I have confidence in him but I feel better with him than most of the others.
2007-09-25 19:37:28
296.   RIYank
Bobby has to get on. Then they won't pitch around A-Rod.

Al Reyes!

2007-09-25 19:38:34
297.   Mattpat11
295 Even a blind squirrel finds a nut
2007-09-25 19:39:14
298.   RIYank
Whoa, Bobby almost gave us the lead himself.
2007-09-25 19:39:36
299.   Mattpat11
VERAS?
2007-09-25 19:40:48
300.   pistolpete
299 Joe apparently wants the Tigers to lose it, not the other way around.

"They can't possibly run the table, can they?", he's thinking.

Show/Hide Comments 301-350
2007-09-25 19:40:53
301.   williamnyy23
299 When you burn Britton for 1 AB, that's what happens.
2007-09-25 19:41:29
302.   RIYank
Prince Fielder is still challenging for the hr lead: two tonight!

Alex, your pride and title are on the line together...

2007-09-25 19:41:42
303.   williamnyy23
Maybe Joe is warming up for the playoffs too?
2007-09-25 19:41:55
304.   Mattpat11
Why is Veras on this team?
2007-09-25 19:42:09
305.   JeremyM
A-Rod basically has to win it here, because Veras will lose this thing in no time flat.
2007-09-25 19:42:27
306.   williamnyy23
304 I think he has fire in his belly.
2007-09-25 19:42:30
307.   RIYank
300 The M's have to lose, too.
2007-09-25 19:42:48
308.   pistolpete
F*ck.
2007-09-25 19:43:06
309.   Mattpat11
We're gonna lose.
2007-09-25 19:43:13
310.   RIYank
Oh, damn.
2007-09-25 19:43:14
311.   yankz
WTF HAPPENED? I leave for like 2 hours and Edwar and Bruney decided they'd rather be in AAA next year?
2007-09-25 19:43:42
312.   JeremyM
Come on Matsui.
2007-09-25 19:43:48
313.   yankz
OTOH, Igawa for 4th starter!
2007-09-25 19:43:49
314.   Mattpat11
ATTENTION YANKEES: AL REYES SUCKS
2007-09-25 19:44:26
315.   RIYank
Veras will be okay. We can still get the lead in the tenth and then bring in a real pitcher.
2007-09-25 19:45:27
316.   RIYank
311 You really only had to be away for twenty minutes. It was comedic. And yet, tragic.
2007-09-25 19:46:06
317.   Mattpat11
Wilson >l Betimit on deck
2007-09-25 19:46:39
318.   pistolpete
Matsui's lucked out - he's got nothing. I would hope Joe puts Posada behind A-Rod in the lineup for the playoffs if this keeps up.
2007-09-25 19:46:44
319.   RIYank
So that pinch runner turns out to be costly.
2007-09-25 19:47:02
320.   Mattpat11
I'd rather Molina. He swings.
2007-09-25 19:48:26
321.   JeremyM
319 Well, Posada wouldn't have scored.
2007-09-25 19:48:40
322.   yankz
So I guess ARod can only homer when his team already has the lead?
2007-09-25 19:49:10
323.   Mattpat11
321 On a throw to the backstop?
2007-09-25 19:49:25
324.   pistolpete
Can someone get Julio Lugo on the phone for a scouting report? ;-)
2007-09-25 19:50:08
325.   RIYank
321 Yeah, he would have. Damon singled, remember? I'm pretty sure even Jorgie can score from third on a single.
2007-09-25 19:51:03
326.   RIYank
Christ, that was ball four. Oh well.
2007-09-25 19:51:33
327.   Mattpat11
I say Veras gives up a walk and RBI double
2007-09-25 19:51:51
328.   JeremyM
I'm confused, I thought he scored on sac fly from Cabrera, I thought it was a good throw from Gomes.

Betemit stinks, all he does is strike out.

2007-09-25 19:52:03
329.   pistolpete
Why don't I think we're seeing any champagne tonight?
2007-09-25 19:52:42
330.   nyy jim
The book on Wilson appears to be right. He does seem to strike out a lot.
2007-09-25 19:52:57
331.   Mattpat11
329 Veras
2007-09-25 19:53:28
332.   williamnyy23
Bruney with men on base and now Veras in a tie game in the 9th. I am glad Britton was able to get that one out. Man, Torre is in post season form.
2007-09-25 19:53:34
333.   weeping for brunnhilde
I think Betemit should have stepped out there.

Pitcher fucked with his rhythm.

2007-09-25 19:53:57
334.   RIYank
328 Sardinha scored on the sac, but then there was a Damon double after that.
2007-09-25 19:54:29
335.   JeremyM
"Craig" Wilson Betemit.
2007-09-25 19:54:51
336.   fansince77
I hope this guy has a Betemit than he does a bat because I can't understand why a guy would swing at that pitch after taking so many closer ones. AHRRRGGHHHHH! No way we win this game. Sorry. But this song has played all year.
2007-09-25 19:55:16
337.   Mattpat11
333 Yeah. Usually he would strike out looking.
2007-09-25 19:55:33
338.   Raf
323 The throw was good, Navarro mishandled it.
2007-09-25 19:55:41
339.   pistolpete
334 That borders on revisionist history - who knows if TB pitches the same way to Damon if there's still a man on third.
2007-09-25 19:55:56
340.   RIYank
I'm telling you, Veras is fine tonight.

And Betamit has gotten some good hits for us. But, he's no Posada.

2007-09-25 19:56:07
341.   Mattpat11
Pena.

Ballgame

2007-09-25 19:56:08
342.   williamnyy23
I wonder if Torre is really giving one inning auditions. Could he be that ignorant to make such an important decision on so small a sample? Even I give him more credit than that, but it sure seems that way.
2007-09-25 19:56:13
343.   rufuswashere
Veras? WTF? Breath-holding time.

If you would bring Rivera in here, raise your hand. Anyone who watched the 2003 WS when Weaver came into the tie game on the road, please vote twice.

2007-09-25 19:56:50
344.   yankz
So...anybody watch House?
2007-09-25 19:57:11
345.   pistolpete
Veras will tease us - he'll get 2 outs and get a 1-2 count on the 3rd guy before he loses it with an upper-deck shot.
2007-09-25 19:57:17
346.   RIYank
339 Well, that's true. I'm just responding to "Posada wouldn't have scored".
My only real point was that it would have been nice to have Posada up instead of Betemit.
2007-09-25 19:58:00
347.   williamnyy23
345 You're giving him two outs? Generous.
2007-09-25 19:58:05
348.   yankz
336 Yeah, like the second extra-inning game vs. Toronto, or the 8-7 win over Boston, or CLEVELAND!...oh, shit.
2007-09-25 19:58:36
349.   RIYank
341 You frightened Veras.
2007-09-25 19:58:41
350.   tommyl
Can we please have BP auditions after we clinch the playoffs?
Show/Hide Comments 351-400
2007-09-25 19:58:49
351.   yankz
Could've been worse.
2007-09-25 19:58:52
352.   Mattpat11
Why is Veras on this team?
2007-09-25 19:59:01
353.   fansince77
How many walks is that this game?
2007-09-25 19:59:03
354.   williamnyy23
I wonder what other rational experiments Joe Torre has in mind. Maybe after the game, he'll have Bruney jump off the roof to see if he can fly?
2007-09-25 19:59:46
355.   Yankees Brasil
11 walks and counting
2007-09-25 20:00:09
356.   Mattpat11
354 Bruney has to be good at something
2007-09-25 20:00:26
357.   RIYank
353 Eleven.
2007-09-25 20:00:54
358.   williamnyy23
356 I'd give him better odds than throwing strikes. I know he can't do that.
2007-09-25 20:01:46
359.   fansince77
Wow- that was there! Alot closer than Matsui's strike three!
2007-09-25 20:01:49
360.   RIYank
Veras is fine.

You guys are nuts. What's wrong with you? This is Jose Freakin' Veras.

2007-09-25 20:02:17
361.   tommyl
354 356 John Force broke his ankle driving his Funny car over the weekend. Maybe Brian would be good at that. You know, high speed, kinda wild, only have to be good for a few seconds.
2007-09-25 20:02:23
362.   yankz
Muahaha. Is Mo available? Feels like he's pitched a lot lately.
2007-09-25 20:02:25
363.   cult of basebaal
the thing i love the most is that the one guy who has actually been impressive recently, ohlendorf, seems to be running last in the race for actually getting used in any significant way ... yay! joey joe joe!
2007-09-25 20:02:26
364.   Mattpat11
what was upton arguing?
2007-09-25 20:02:34
365.   fansince77
Justice.
2007-09-25 20:02:52
366.   Raf
Keroppi! That's who Delmon Young looks like
2007-09-25 20:03:10
367.   pistolpete
Has Kay EVER just said someone was bad on the air?
2007-09-25 20:03:22
368.   RIYank
Remember, 'Veras' is an anagram of 'saver'. It's destiny.
2007-09-25 20:03:35
369.   pistolpete
Holy crap he got out of it.
2007-09-25 20:03:46
370.   Raf
364 He was called out on the same pitch that was called a ball a pitch prior.
2007-09-25 20:03:49
371.   rufuswashere
He did it. Senor Veras, I stand corrected. Nice inning.
2007-09-25 20:03:50
372.   yankz
360 I too had faith.
2007-09-25 20:04:04
373.   williamnyy23
Great...extra innings...I smell another Sean Henn walk off.
2007-09-25 20:04:06
374.   weeping for brunnhilde
Nice pitching by this Veres character.
2007-09-25 20:04:18
375.   tommyl
Soooo....how about Ohlendorf and Veras for the postseason roster? I dunno, at this point its a crapshoot. Like others have said, if the last guy or two in the pen is in the game, we're likely dead in the water anyways.
2007-09-25 20:04:25
376.   yankz
Jose Veras for 4th starter!
2007-09-25 20:04:25
377.   Mattpat11
okay. Lets win it before Henn comes in.
2007-09-25 20:04:28
378.   RIYank
364 The pitch might have been outside. Close.
2007-09-25 20:05:40
379.   RIYank
I think Ohlendorf is next.
I mean, unless we get the lead, in which case a good pitcher will finish it. Rivera is available; so are Joba and The Vizcount.
2007-09-25 20:05:50
380.   Mattpat11
Danny Glover!
2007-09-25 20:06:22
381.   pistolpete
Let the movie references commence!
2007-09-25 20:06:41
382.   Max
370 Actually, the pitch Upton took for a ball looked better than the one he got called out on. Pretty borderline at best, but I'll take it.
2007-09-25 20:06:59
383.   tommyl
Damnit, ground balls to the left of SS are an automatic single, aren't they?
2007-09-25 20:07:27
384.   williamnyy23
382 I thought it was a make up call myself. Upton's argument seemed to be that it was the same pitch, so why call them differently.
2007-09-25 20:08:42
385.   williamnyy23
This is the kind of a game that a manager can win or lose for you. Hopefully, the Yankees can overcome their manager here.
2007-09-25 20:09:17
386.   Mattpat11
I say we send molina if he walks.
2007-09-25 20:10:25
387.   RIYank
386 There's another cost of pinch running for Posada.
2007-09-25 20:12:06
388.   Mattpat11
How are we not hitting this bullpen?
2007-09-25 20:12:54
389.   pistolpete
So I guess it's kinda sorta good that we keep getting into these EI games this late in the season - it pretty much eliminated half our pen as candidates for the PS...
2007-09-25 20:13:24
390.   williamnyy23
388 Maybe the hitters are working on adjustments to their swings. If the pitchers can audition, why not the hitters?
2007-09-25 20:13:45
391.   pistolpete
KARSTENS?!!
2007-09-25 20:14:13
392.   RIYank
Okay. Well, we need a good inning from someone or other -- next inning it's top of the order so we ought to score and then save. So this is the key, right here.

Oh, I'm so excited.

And the Oscar goes to...

2007-09-25 20:14:19
393.   Mattpat11
This is unacceptable.

Might as well throw Karstens

2007-09-25 20:15:27
394.   williamnyy23
389 If you think about it, Torre has created these extra innings. On Saturday and today, Torre's mismanagement directly turned wins into long drawn out affairs. Maybe his strategy is to extend audition time?
2007-09-25 20:15:45
395.   rufuswashere
This is working out exactly as Sox fans would like: Yanks blow a lead, game goes into extras to blow out the bullpen ... but can we win it at least?

Whine.

2007-09-25 20:15:52
396.   williamnyy23
Karstens is in...hopefully Melky has his arm warmed up.
2007-09-25 20:16:54
397.   Max
Watching Cano, Molina, and Melky flail and hack against crappy relief is pretty painful...not as bad as watching Edwar and Bruney cough up the lead, but not far behind.
2007-09-25 20:17:01
398.   nyy jim
Navarro with a walk off. Nice going Karstens. I already had this typed out before he got up to bat. That's how much confidence I have in Karstens.
2007-09-25 20:17:01
399.   williamnyy23
Here's a first...the Yankees have brought in two pitchers with ERAs over 10 into a tie ball game in extra innings. That's very impressive.
2007-09-25 20:17:19
400.   pistolpete
aerjg
wpseijs sahf;kjsdhgl;kjwheTR83[œ?ˆ?©ˆdeYQWDE?…yqd
Show/Hide Comments 401-450
2007-09-25 20:17:31
401.   fansince77
Is Kartsens just going to give this away?
2007-09-25 20:17:32
402.   Raf
well, that sucked. Not unexpected, tho'
2007-09-25 20:17:36
403.   williamnyy23
Another Torre loss...is it too late to hire a new manager?
2007-09-25 20:17:44
404.   RIYank
Ahhhhhhh.

Thank you, Jeff. Don't forget your dancing shoes. We'll be in touch.

That's it for tonight, folks. More auditions tomorrow!

2007-09-25 20:17:52
405.   fansince77
Geee Joe- didn't see that coming.
2007-09-25 20:18:04
406.   tommyl
Mmm...tie game on the road. Why would we use Mo? We need to save him for when we take the lead.
2007-09-25 20:18:15
407.   Mattpat11
I hate this team
2007-09-25 20:18:21
408.   yankz
Hey, Karstens only threw 3 pitches, so he's probably available tomorrow.
2007-09-25 20:18:44
409.   dianagramr
Are there the "Karstens Rules" too?
2007-09-25 20:18:48
410.   pistolpete
I'd better not see most of these losers in ST next year.
2007-09-25 20:18:52
411.   randym77
It really plecks me off that we traded Navarro for Randy Johnson.
2007-09-25 20:19:05
412.   RIYank
Yankz, if you're still watching:
would you say that this was Torre's fault, or was it really just a matter of laziness?
2007-09-25 20:19:22
413.   williamnyy23
405 He probably didn't. I hope the Yankees score a ton of runs in the post season because they aren't going to win many close ones with Torre at the helm.

Thanks for wasting our time Joe. Can you please let us know if you are going to try tomorrow night?

2007-09-25 20:19:46
414.   tommyl
411 Did it when he was batting .197 for the first half of the year?
2007-09-25 20:19:53
415.   yankz
411 Me too, but let's not overrate him. The deal sucked, but Navarro sucks too (OPS+ = 65).
2007-09-25 20:20:18
416.   Yankees Brasil
407 I hate Karstens. And Bruney. And Igawa. And Joe's 'audition'.
2007-09-25 20:20:30
417.   williamnyy23
410 Add Torre to the list of those I hope not to see in ST next season.
2007-09-25 20:20:31
418.   fansince77
Dear Yankee pitchers,
When you fall behind every batter 2-0 or 3-1 you are eventually going to get hit very, very, very hard. Kei Igawa did and was slapped around the field - but magically gave up no runs. Kartsens was the final bullet in the chamber with five shots already fired. BANG! Thanks alot for fucking wasting my evening.
2007-09-25 20:21:25
419.   rufuswashere
Calling Joe Torre: remember how we tied the game in the 2003 WS, and Rivera (our best relief pitcher) was NOT USED, BUT JEFF WEAVER WAS? REMEMBER THAT JOE?

Crap. I'm waiting for the e-mails from my Red Sox fan friends, they should start piling up right about ... now.

2007-09-25 20:21:35
420.   williamnyy23
Joe brought in the pitcher with a 10.13 ERA in the 9th, so when that didn't work he brought in the guy with a 10.43 to make sure the job got done. Pathetic.
2007-09-25 20:21:56
421.   Mattpat11
So, whats the positive spin on this game?
2007-09-25 20:22:14
422.   weeping for brunnhilde
That was horseshit.
2007-09-25 20:22:52
423.   williamnyy23
421 Cashman was watching and will be less inclined to retain Torre?
2007-09-25 20:22:58
424.   weeping for brunnhilde
404 ha ha ha ha hah!

:)

2007-09-25 20:23:01
425.   pistolpete
Navarro now has 1/3 of his home run total for 2007 against the Yankees.

Unf*ckingbelievable.

2007-09-25 20:23:07
426.   RIYank
421 Damon was 5-for-5!
Also, it was a baseball game.

That's plenty of positive for me.

2007-09-25 20:24:11
427.   cult of basebaal
421 i just saved a bundle on car insurance by switching to geico!
2007-09-25 20:25:47
428.   williamnyy23
Thanks for punting the division Joe...I'll be sure to save my full appreciation for when the Yankees are playing game 5 in Anaheim.
2007-09-25 20:25:54
429.   JeremyM
My God, he really brought in Karstens?!? I suppose there are Ohlendorf rules as well.
2007-09-25 20:27:21
430.   Mattpat11
421 Cashman PUT all these shitty pitchers on the team!
2007-09-25 20:27:28
431.   aronneil
The positive spin is that Joe didn't use the good relief pitchers for a game that didn't matter. Hell, the Yanks probably don't need to win another game this year in order to make it to the playoffs. I only wish he'd rest A-Rod, Jeter, Melky, and Jorge, too.
2007-09-25 20:28:23
432.   RIYank
Okay, well, everyone please bring your champagne glasses again tomorrow.

And players, bring your instruments or dancing shoes and we'll pick up where we left off.

2007-09-25 20:28:32
433.   pistolpete
I think I know what the deal is. Joe doesn't want to put in our better bullpen guys so scouts can't get a good look at 'em.

It's BRILLIANT.

:-P

2007-09-25 20:28:35
434.   weeping for brunnhilde
426 It was, in fact, a baseball game. :)

And as the leaves turn, I find myself saddened by the prospect of a long, dark winter without baseball.

Enjoy it while it lasts...

2007-09-25 20:28:37
435.   OldYanksFan
Well.... we don't have to worry about the Division anymore so...
1) Hope we win ONE more game
2) Rest MoJoViz, as they are our only hope for the PS
3) Hughes is in the PS, as Roger is out
4) Angels lose, Cleveland winning... so maybe we get Cleveland is the PS.
5) Remember how many times and how many people had definitively declared we were OUT of the PS, and rejoice in the fact that we play in October.
2007-09-25 20:28:56
436.   Mattpat11
OH, YOU'RE A NEGATIVE NANCY! JEFF KARSTENS WILL NEVER GET IN AN IMPORTANT GAME!
2007-09-25 20:28:57
437.   randym77
414 Yes. Remember who we had in his place. One Wilbert Nieves.
2007-09-25 20:29:03
438.   weeping for brunnhilde
426 ha ha ha ha hah ah a!
2007-09-25 20:29:33
439.   williamnyy23
430 A 16 man bullpen pretty much means crap will be included. That doesn't mean the manager has to use it when games are on the line.
2007-09-25 20:30:33
440.   weeping for brunnhilde
431 Kindly knock upon wood and pray to the gods that they do, in fact, win ONE MORE game.

Please?

2007-09-25 20:31:05
441.   williamnyy23
431 I wouldn't go that far. Torre already helped orchestrate one historic collapse. At this point, I wouldn't put anything past him.
2007-09-25 20:32:58
442.   tommyl
I can't believe we lost a game in which Igawa threw 5 shutout innings and A-Rod hit a grand slam.
2007-09-25 20:33:20
443.   Start Spreading the News
i can't believe the caterwauling I am finding on this site. The season is over. We are prepping for the post-season. Inevitably, we will win a game in the next five. Or the Tigers will lose a game in five.

So let Torre have his auditions. He isn't trying to win the games -- he is trying to rest players and figure out which of his bullpen can succeed.

If he wanted to win, he would obviously have a different set of pitchers there.

But for the sake of the postseason roster, we needed to know if Edwar can cut. He can't. We needed to know if Bruney had anything. He doesn't. Villone showed something. So did Farnsworth. I still don't trust either one of them. But is it me or did Farnsworth just pitch two days in a row without sucking??? Jose Veras is still hanging in the picture though he is unlikely for the playoffs.

Step away from the edge, people. No need to jump. The best thing about today's auditions is that Ohlendorf, Vizcaino, Joba and Rivera DID NOT pitch.

2007-09-25 20:33:53
444.   Mattpat11
439 When you build a horrid pen to begin with, what is gained by adding ten awful pitchers?
2007-09-25 20:35:09
445.   Start Spreading the News
If we can't win one game in six against Tampa and Baltimore while coasting, then we don't deserve to be in the playoffs.
2007-09-25 20:35:27
446.   SF Yanks
Ohlendorf needs to be on the post season roster. No reason to put Bruney, Edwar, and any other cant-get-it-done guy in the pen. Hell, throw in Britton too.
2007-09-25 20:35:47
447.   tommyl
I just wish he'd do auditions after we were in. Also, why not audition guys like Ohlendorf, pitch Britton a bit longer.

Karstens has zero chance of making the PS roster. His only place would be as a long man, and that slot is going to one of either Hughes or Kennedy. So, why was he in the game at all?

2007-09-25 20:36:01
448.   Mattpat11
443 You're telling me he was considering adding Jeff karstens to the playoff roster?
2007-09-25 20:36:41
449.   tommyl
443 Ahem, 1964 Phillies. Don't count on that. The Tigers have never won 5 games in a row?
2007-09-25 20:36:50
450.   cult of basebaal
440 jesus christ, it's like i've been caught in a time warp and transported back in time to SoSH 3 days ago ... you people hyperventilate like red sox fans ... sheesh
Show/Hide Comments 451-500
2007-09-25 20:37:23
451.   tommyl
448 That's just Joe being Joe.
2007-09-25 20:37:28
452.   Start Spreading the News
444 Because we can't use Joba, Vizcaino and Rivera every day in a playoff series. We need to find someone else who can pitch. It could be Farnsworth (shudder) or Ohlendorf. Maybe even Veras or Villone. But it needs to be someone else.

So it is time to find the least crappiest of the crap.

2007-09-25 20:37:53
453.   Mattpat11
446 if the manager is trying to lose games, we may not win.
2007-09-25 20:38:20
454.   williamnyy23
443 Crazy me, but I think a manager should try to win games instead of hold silly auditions for the post season. Are you really suggesting that Torre is going to base his post season roster on a couple of innings? Shouldn't Bruney's career walk rate of 7/9IP take more precedence over one inning against Tampa? Sure, the Yankees will likely stumble into a win one way or the other, but that doesn't mean Torre should thumb his nose at trying to win games.
2007-09-25 20:38:50
455.   tommyl
450 That's not the point. I think they'll win one more game. But why not win said game and then audition every scrub in existence after that? Then you can rest or DH A-Rod, Jeter, etc. to your hearts content. If you are up 5-0 in the 6th inning, go for the jugular. Relax tomorrow.
2007-09-25 20:39:05
456.   williamnyy23
445 That would be true if the manager wasn't trying to win.
2007-09-25 20:39:44
457.   Mattpat11
450 The manager is actively trying to lose. we can't hit danny glover.
2007-09-25 20:42:31
458.   tommyl
452 Really? With as many off days built in there? I think we could just some subset of them most times its close and we have a lead. Throw in Ohlendorf and Farnsy, plus Hughes and/or Kennedy to pitch some lower leverage innings. Maybe Britton or Veras.

Bruney has been horrid most of the year. Yes, he got that lineup card. That was what, 1 2/3 innings? Its the postseason, you don't rest people.

2007-09-25 20:42:41
459.   Start Spreading the News
447 448 Not every guy who is auditioning was available. Ohlendorf pitched yesterday. He has yet to pitch in back to back games.

Clearly they are starting to push farnsworth to back to back days. I would expect to see Farnsworth a few more times in back to back situations.

The last time Vizcaino has pitched 73 or more innings was in 2002. So they will probably be using him infrequently.

2007-09-25 20:43:23
460.   williamnyy23
You can laugh off the importance of these games, but no one will be smiling when Clueless leaves in one of his auditions while Mariano sits on the bench. He has done it before; there is no reason why he wont do it again.

Any reported with courage would challenge Joe, but I'm sure they'll laugh it off along with him.

2007-09-25 20:44:36
461.   weeping for brunnhilde
442 No fucking kidding.
2007-09-25 20:44:58
462.   Mattpat11
459 Why was Jeff karstens in this game? why is he on the team?
2007-09-25 20:45:40
463.   williamnyy23
Hysterical...Joe, why did you bring in Karstens...Joe: I knew Jeff could throw strikes and he had the most experience.

Curiously, no mention of the 10.43 ERA. Luckily, Joe said we have all week to get Bruney straightened out. I'm sure they'll keep trying right up until he blows a playoff game.

2007-09-25 20:46:17
464.   tommyl
459 And Britton for one batter? He couldn't go another inning? or at the worst go batter to batter? I wasn't asking for Mo and Joba to each throw 2 innings and Viz to throw 3.

I say again, you need 1 win to clinch. You're up 5-0 after 5 innings. Why not go for the win?

2007-09-25 20:47:06
465.   yankz
412 Laziness, no doubt. This one is on the batters not hustling and keeping their eyes on the ball. Torre did his part, but the guys just do not give a shit about clinching. Who wants to go to the playoffs anyway?
2007-09-25 20:47:32
466.   JeremyM
I'm not trying to be a jerk, but the 2000 Yankees nearly blew their shot at the playoffs with a lengthy losing streak and a Boston winning streak. I'm not saying they have to bring out all the stops, but this was a horribly managed game. Get the win and then screw around if you must.

But all that said, Bruney and Edwar need to do the freaking job. Pathetic.

2007-09-25 20:47:44
467.   tommyl
462 The second question is not fair. Before his injury he was a serviceable long man and spot starter. I see no reason why he can't be that again next year, his track record shows that. You don't get rid of every player who isn't Mariano Rivera.
2007-09-25 20:48:36
468.   pistolpete
"Experience" against whom? Tampa Bay in a practically meaningless game?

Everyone on this ROSTER has 'experience' of some sort, Joe. Tampa is barely better than some of the AAA teams some of our young guys have faced. We KNOW Jeff Karstens stinks - STOP USING HIM.

2007-09-25 20:48:41
469.   weeping for brunnhilde
I agree with william and tommy. Clinch first, audition second.

Don't bank on Detroit losing a game.

Don't bank on vague expectations of winning a game sometime in the next couple of days.

That's a loser's plan.

2007-09-25 20:48:53
470.   williamnyy23
464 Seems mind boggling doesn't it. I want to give Joe a pass for his auditions, but Weaver throwing a walk off is still so fresh. The bottom line is Torre's bullpen management defies logic and stands as a significant obstacle that the Yankees must overcome.
2007-09-25 20:49:47
471.   weeping for brunnhilde
466 I know, I know.

Couldn't win a game.

Could not win a game.

A bird in the hand...

2007-09-25 20:50:06
472.   williamnyy23
Bruney: "I pitched like crap today and I can only try to do it again tomorro".

It's not what he meant, but oh so true.

2007-09-25 20:51:38
473.   williamnyy23
Yes graphic:

Jeff Karstens, 1-4, 11.05 ERA

Well done, Joe.

2007-09-25 20:51:48
474.   yankz
I've asked this before, but nobody seems to listen to me. For everyone who says, "THEY SHOULDN'T HAVE GOTTEN HIM!!!" please explain who they should have instead, and how exactly they should have gotten them

Oh, wait, I remember why I gave up on this exercise. Mattpat answered once (the only response I got), and said that we should have traded Wright and Unit- two shitty, usually injured pitchers- for better SP. Okay.

2007-09-25 20:51:54
475.   Mattpat11
467 Then call him up to spot start after we clinch. There was no reason to bring him up in a pennant race.
2007-09-25 20:53:55
476.   JeremyM
467 You have a point that he should get another shot next year, whether it be spring training or whatnot, but he really hasn't shown much in MLB yet. His positive track record in MLB is some scary flyball games in pitcher's parks where they stayed in the park.
2007-09-25 20:54:58
477.   williamnyy23
Joe: "This was a different team on the field than yesterday. There was more energy and emotion".

Hmmm...the sunshine boys have a dilema. Either the Yankees didn't give a full effort yesterday, or Torre doesn't know what he is talking about. I vote for both.

2007-09-25 20:55:06
478.   Mattpat11
474 Callingup No one is a better option than calling up Karstens and Wright and DeSalvo
2007-09-25 20:56:22
479.   williamnyy23
What is Bruney know for? Walks. What did he do? Walk people.

What is Karstens known for? Scary fly balls. What did he do? Give up a scary fly ball.

If we know these things, why doesn't Joe?

2007-09-25 20:56:50
480.   yankz
478 OK. So overuse the few good pitchers they have right before the playoffs. Why didn't the Yankees think of that? We all know Vizcaino doesn't need rest. And Joba is young, he can go every day!

Who would've eaten up all those innings the starters didn't get to the past week? I would bet there were many EXCLUDING the extra innings.

2007-09-25 20:57:45
481.   williamnyy23
I hope the Sox win out this week. It will be very frustrating to know that Torre punted the division.
2007-09-25 21:00:40
482.   Start Spreading the News
For all those on the ledge, the pitching matchups tomorrow:
Wang (3.72 ERA) vs Howell (6.80)
Santana (3.29) vs Detroit's Jurrjens (3.90)

If Santana doesn't do it, Wang really should clinch it for them.

For the crazies who think we can win the division, it is Blanton vs Lester.

2007-09-25 21:01:54
483.   Mattpat11
480

So overuse the few good pitchers they have right before the playoffs.

No, you're right. Call up useless warm bodies to lose games in a pennant race.

And the lousy bullpen arms were the cause of all those extra innings.

2007-09-25 21:02:07
484.   yankz
481 "I hope the Sox win out this week."

Are you even a Yankee fan?

2007-09-25 21:02:29
485.   williamnyy23
482 Go Johan...hopefully Gardenhire isn't auditioning. Then again, looking at the Twins lineup, maybe it would be better if they would.
2007-09-25 21:03:38
486.   Mattpat11
482 Well, we should win, but Torre might want to lose again
2007-09-25 21:04:46
487.   williamnyy23
483 Don't bother...logic isn't going to win this debate. If one can't see the mismanagement in this game, their credibility goes out the window.
2007-09-25 21:04:55
488.   yankz
483 You repeat yourself a lot. I already got it down: You would rather use JobaVizMo every day right before the playoffs. Personally, I would rather they be rested, but you're probably right. Relief pitchers don't need rest anyway, especially not for October.
2007-09-25 21:05:29
489.   Mattpat11
484 The Yankees don't want to win the division.

Might as well hope Boston wins out and gets cold next week

2007-09-25 21:05:55
490.   yankz
487 There's no denying that the game was mismanaged. But Mattpat's idea that a team should not call up anybody from the minor leagues to eat up innings so the valuable RP can get rest right before the busy playoffs is laughable.
2007-09-25 21:06:32
491.   Start Spreading the News
480 Agreed. People here don't seem to realize that the Yanks have been asking their bullpen to pitch a LOT recently.

Anyone remember a 14 inning game? Or a 10 inning game the next day (where the starter went 5)??? Or how about Monday where Pettite only went 5??? Or today when we had another 5 inning start???

Come on. That's 22 innings in 5 days. That's a LOT to ask from a bullpen.

2007-09-25 21:07:02
492.   yankz
489 Um. Why not hope Boston loses out and gets cold next week?

I realize the division race is almost certainly over. But there's no reason not to HOPE for it. Hope =/= expect. Yeesh.

2007-09-25 21:08:22
493.   yankz
491 ANYONE BUT BRUNEY EDWAR KARSTENS IGAWA DESALVO OR ANYONE ELSE FROM THE MINORS. I can only assume he means JobaVizMo- or maybe Melky can throw a couple innings.
2007-09-25 21:08:30
494.   williamnyy23
490 Like you misrepresented my comment in 481 , you are misrepresenting his. The Yankees don't need Karstens, Wrights and De Salvos to eat innings. Instead, Torre could do something novel like let Britton go more than one batter. Heck, even Villone can be extended beyond 2/3 of an inning when he is getting outs. Besides, Karstens isn't eating innings...he is pitching important ones. He not only lost today, but could have lost Saturday's game if not for Cano's relay and a great tag by Posada.
2007-09-25 21:10:27
495.   Mattpat11
488 I don't see how forfeiting games that can help our playoff standing is going to help us either
2007-09-25 21:10:35
496.   williamnyy23
491 The 10 inning Saturday game was the result of lifting Ohlendorf after one out and allowing Veras to blow the game. Today, the extra innings resulted from the clever use of Bruney. Also (and I said this at the time), why would you burn through relievers like Britton and even Villone in a close game where you don't plan on using an A-level guys. It's not a matter of using Joba and Mo, but better utilizing the lesser options you do have.
2007-09-25 21:12:01
497.   yankz
494 I agreed with you that Karstens shouldn't have been pitching the 10th. Torre mismanaged, as he often does in that situation. But see 491 .

And the assertion that the bad relievers caused the extra innings is wrong. In the first game, Wang and Halladay had a great pitcher's duel until Wang, our ace, blinked. What if they didn't have guys to eat up those innings? Rest is way, way too valuable at this stage to not stock up on pitchers.

I was referring to his exact words, which were "Callingup No one"

2007-09-25 21:12:57
498.   Mattpat11
492 The manager is trying to lose baseball games
2007-09-25 21:13:00
499.   yankz
495 Repeating yourself again. In your exact words, the Yankees should have called up "no one." Sorry, just can't buy that. Gotta sleep early, goodnight everyone.
2007-09-25 21:14:49
500.   Start Spreading the News
I know this might break up the kvetching going on here, but the way things are shaping up, Boston probably hosts Anaheim while Cleveland hosts the Yanks.

And Yanks record vs Cleveland: 6-0

Show/Hide Comments 501-550
2007-09-25 21:14:55
501.   williamnyy23
497 They didn't have guys eat up those innings....they used Joba, Mo and Viz before having Bruney blow it. I wasn't talking about that game tough...but rather today and Saturday.

Also, Matt's exact words were Callingup No one is a better option than calling up Karstens and Wright and DeSalvo.

I agree...if they hadn't called up Karstens, Torre wouldn't have been able to use him in two crucial situations.

2007-09-25 21:15:57
502.   williamnyy23
500 Maybe Eric Wedge wasn't trying to win those games though :)
2007-09-25 21:16:33
503.   Mattpat11
490 When you call up warm bodies that offer nothing, this is the result you get.

If these men can't get major leaguers out, how are they going to eat innings?

2007-09-25 21:18:00
504.   JeremyM
500 I hear ya, but they owned Detroit last season, and that didn't go so well....

But, this team has seemingly had a knack for playing up, or down, to the ability of their opponents. Hopefully that continues in October (it is spelled with an 'O' right...?).

2007-09-25 21:18:34
505.   williamnyy23
There really is no debate here...Torre bungled yet another game and likely punted the division in the process. Instead of debating the devil's advocate, I'd like to offer a quick poll:

The Yankees lost tonight because:

1) Joe Torre is incompetent.
2) Joe Torre doesn't care.
3) Joe Torre has an early time share in Hawaii.

2007-09-25 21:21:39
506.   JeremyM
I don't have a problem with guys coming up, but a manager has to pick his spots with usage. Using guys who seem to be throwing well for 1 batter is not an effective strategy on any level, and has probably cost them 2 wins in the last week.

Oh well, get em tomorrow.

2007-09-25 21:26:48
507.   Start Spreading the News
505 #2

and neither do I

All I wanted to see from today's game was the absence of Rivera, Joba and Vizcaino. I was pleasantly surprised to see Farnsy used back to back. That will be needed ( though hopefully not) in the playoffs.

Igawa did not impress. 5 walks is bad. If he was auditioning for the role of a reliever, then NO. We can't have a reliever who doesn't throw strikes.

2007-09-25 21:28:49
508.   Mattpat11
507 When will he start caring?
2007-09-25 21:29:55
509.   tommyl
505 3) is known as the Jeff Weaver Memorial Condos, Phase II
2007-09-25 21:30:28
510.   SF Yanks
505
4) William has lost his mind if he thinks Torre doesn't want to win ball games... or was that Mattpat... eh, it doesn't matter. I'm not getting sucked into this black hole of abyss... G'night.
2007-09-25 21:33:44
511.   Mattpat11
510

He put Karstens in.

2007-09-25 21:39:17
512.   SF Yanks
511 I see...
2007-09-25 21:41:42
513.   Mattpat11
512 I see no other explanation. He wanted to lose.
2007-09-25 21:49:18
514.   SF Yanks
513 LOL!...ok

Torre wanted to lose. Gotcha.

2007-09-25 21:52:36
515.   Mattpat11
What do you think he was trying to do?
2007-09-25 21:58:07
516.   SF Yanks
515 Oh I completely agree. He wanted to lose. I figure he's tired and content with 4 rings, got pooped right before tonight's game, and just couldn't hack it. He's clearly burnt out on managing, and it's obvious he rather golf than win a World Series. I just wish I could have seen it sooner.
2007-09-25 22:03:01
517.   Mattpat11
He could not have possibly put Karstens in the game thinking he'd win.
2007-09-25 22:14:15
518.   Start Spreading the News
Yea, when was the last time that happened? Oh right. The last time.
2007-09-25 22:18:53
519.   JeremyM
518 All it took was a rocket throw from Melky and a perfect relay from Cano to get the runner (uber-slow Matt Stairs) at home to save Karstens and get the win that time.
2007-09-25 22:19:16
520.   Mattpat11
When Karstens pitched like shit, giving up a booming double that should have lost the game?
2007-09-25 22:44:54
521.   Mattpat11
seattle's losing

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