| Posted by Phil Allard on April 1, 2008 at 12:20 PM |
If you’ve haven’t tried this yet, you're in for a treat: The Baseball Reference Oracle can match up just about any six players so you can see how they are associated through the proverbial Six Degrees of Separation.
Now that we have a fiery manager, or at least a guy who won’t fall asleep in the 7th inning, I wanted to see how he connected to one of my all time favorites, the inimitable John McGraw.
John McGraw played with Hughie Jennings for the 1895 Baltimore Orioles
Hughie Jennings played with Ty Cobb for the 1907 Detroit Tigers
Ty Cobb played with Jimmie Foxx for the 1927 Philadelphia Athletics
Jimmie Foxx played with Granny Hamner for the 1945 Philadelphia Phillies
Granny Hamner played with Fred Norman for the 1962 Kansas City Athletics
Fred Norman played with Andre Dawson for the 1980 Montreal Expos
Andre Dawson played with Joe Girardi for the 1991 Chicago Cubs
So it took 6 steps for Girardi to connect with McGraw. But it only took former Yankee gritmeister Bubba Crosby 5 steps to connect with Babe Ruth:
Babe Ruth played with Ben Chapman for the 1930 New York Yankees
Ben Chapman played with Early Wynn for the 1941 Washington Senators
Early Wynn played with Tommy John for the 1963 Cleveland Indians
Tommy John played with Al Leiter for the 1989 New York Yankees
Al Leiter played with Bubba Crosby for the 2005 New York Yankees
Go have fun: http://www.baseball-reference.com/oracle/
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| Posted by Phil Allard on March 30, 2008 at 10:45 AM |
When the Yanks first signed LaTroy Hawkins, I was doubtful that he was going to help the team. A few years ago when he was pitching for Baltimore, he became a piñata for the sluggers in the A.L., and fair game for the banjo hitters as well. His K/9 rates were dropping as much as Bush’s approval ratings; his neck was sore from glancing back at the long drives hit off him.
But LaTroy had re-invented himself. He no longer tries to throw it by anyone. Having recognized his eroding skills, he developed a sinker and he is a dramatically different pitcher now. Of course it’s too early to tell if he will be successful in New York, but his 8 2/3 spring innings yielded no earned runs; that’s got to offer some hope.
The chart below shoes how much Hawkins has changed. With all the ground balls, he may be indistinguishable from Chien-Ming Wang this year. Of course, those groundballs necessitate someone to field them …but that’s another story:
IP GB FB G/F Ratio
2005 56.1 76 66 1.15
2006 60.1 97 74 1.31
2007 55.1 110 36 3.06
Besides being a groundball throwing machine, Hawkins seems to be a very caring individual. Both Peter Abraham and George King relay a story today about how Hawkins came to Scott Patterson’s aid when the 28-year-old indie was sent packing to Scranton.
King tells us: “Seeing that Scott Patterson was upset about being sent out, Hawkins headed for Patterson's locker. Hawkins knew Patterson was almost perfect in eight games (one hit, no runs in 71/3 innings) and figured he needed some encouragement.
"I told him to go to his room and have some drinks and charge it to my room, 901," Hawkins said.
Patterson didn't run up Hawkins' room service bill but appreciated the support.
"That was awesome, I probably needed that at that point," said Patterson.
"I told him I have been there before and they know what you can do," Hawkins said. "He isn't that far away. They put him in every situation they could and he came out smelling like a rose. He got big-league hitters out. It was OK to be upset."
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| Posted by Phil Allard on March 28, 2008 at 11:30 PM |
Yankee beat writer and blogger-extraordinaire Peter Abraham just revealed the opening day relief pitching staff for the Yanks.
Frankly, I am shocked. But it’s a GOOD shocked. After hearing all spring from Joe Girardi that he prefers a long man, he and Michael Corleone, sorry, I mean he and Brian Cashman have decided to eschew that role—at least for now—and trust some of the more talented arms available to him.
That means no Kei Igawa on the Opening Day roster. No Darrel Rasner. And no Jeff Karstens, who was ruled out when he injured his leg on Thursday.
No Scott Patterson either and that’s a shame. But I trust we will see Scott some time this season.
These are the relievers that will go north to New York. One of them will be sent down when Andy Pettitte comes off the DL on April 5.
Mariano Rivera
Joba Chamberlain
Kyle Farnsworth
LaTroy Hawkins
Billy Traber
Ross Ohlendorf
Jon Albaladejo
Brian Bruney
Brian Bruney needs to seize this opportunity and throw strikes. He has the talent and throws hard, but he’s got to trust himself more. Jonathon Albaledejo made mince meat of the Mets last September, and his small sample size numbers looked great last year.
I’m glad these guys are getting chances, along with the fireballing 4-seam fastballer Ross Ohlendorf and the re-invented Billy Traber.
This is a fine bullpen. Kudos to Giradi and Cashman for making some difficult choices.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on March 28, 2008 at 5:08 PM |
Ken Rosenthal’s article today was so strange, I feel compelled to comment.
Ken’s prediction that the Braves will emerge as World Champs isn’t what got to me. He backs it up with reasonable enough analysis and, yes, the Braves do have an interesting mix of veterans and youngsters. (If you don’t have Yunel Escobar on your fantasy baseball team, go get him.)
I fully expect the Braves and Phillies to claw it out for the NL East Title, with the over-hyped Mets finishing a distant third. The Mets have so many holes, even the drones on WFAN can see them.
What I find so interesting about Rosenthal’s article is how the sabermetric community has clearing gotten under his skin. I will not excerpt him here, because I don’t want to take his comments out of context and you can decide for yourself. I’ve provided the link below.
One thing is clear: the “mainstream media” used to claim ignorance of the sabermetric community – now they seem to be running scared. There is no question in my mind that “mainstream media” now gets ideas from websites like NYYFANS , U.S.S. Mariner, SonsOfSamHorn and from the kind of saber-inclined writers you read at Baseball Think Factory, Baseball Musings, waswatching, and RLYW.
The conventional press reads what more intellectually engaged people are writing and this fuels their columns. Don’t ask these folks to admit that, however.
I firmly believe that the time will come when the dinosaurs die out and newer, innovative blood will work their way into the newspapers, radio stations, and major websites. It’s already happening with the likes of Max Kellerman, Alex Belth and Jon Weisman, among many others.
The morons like Chris Russo will be a distant memory.
There was a time when the importance of On Base Percentage was a radical idea.
There was a time when “maybe it’s not a good idea to run ourselves out of an inning” was a far-reaching concept.
There was a time when Strikeout pitchers were frowned upon. (Sorry, Mel, but you ruined Dwight Gooden as much as drugs did.)
Maybe guys like Rosenthal are looking over their shoulders at something they don't have the capacity to defend themselves against. It sure seems that way.
For the full text of Rosenthal’s bizarre confession, here you go:
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7951230/Braves-have-the-goods-to-be-October-surprise?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=49
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| Posted by Phil Allard on March 24, 2008 at 7:51 PM |
The last week of Spring Training is usually the most interesting: roster spots that have been fought over for the month of March are settled, rotations are announced, and opening day is within sight.
For the Yanks, the lone remaining roster questions settle around the bullpen. The team will carry 7 relievers.
The locks are:
Rivera
Chamberlain
Farnsworth
Hawkins
The LOOGY is likely to be:
Billy Traber
The talented additional guy will likely be:
Ross Ohlendorf … Jonathon Albaladejo, Scott Patterson and Jose Veras have waning outside chances.
That leaves the long man. With an incredibly loaded April schedule that features only 2 off-days, Manager Joe Girardi insists on having an innings-eater in the pen. Only 3 pitchers fit the description: Kei Igawa, Jeff Karstens, and Darrell Rasner.
The trouble is all three of these choices are abysmal. In order to include a long-man, a pitcher who possesses vastly higher talent will be in Scranton, and the Yanks will be left with lesser talent on the mound.
All three candidates have had poor springs. Yes, they are small-sample sizes, but would you really want them to get bigger?
IP H ER BB KK
Rasner: 12.1 13 8 8 8
Igawa 8 7 5 4 4
Karstens 9.1 19 10 3 5
Of the three, I find Rasner the least objectionable. He has the most potential to mix and match his stuff and occasionally succeed.
If Igawa makes the team, the decision will smack of GM Brian Cashman trying to give this guy every chance to prove himself. It’s high-time for Cashman to admit his mistake and cut bait on the disappointing lefty. When Igawa gets the ball up in the zone, he gets smacked around in a most inglorious fashion.
Let’s hope the Yanks make an 11th hour decision to keep Patterson as the “long man.” In 6 innings this spring, Scott has given up just 1 hit, with 0 runs, 0 walks, and 5 Ks. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on March 17, 2008 at 8:42 AM |
Scott Patterson has been very impressive this Spring and may actually make the team over the inept Jeff Karstens. This would be welcome news for Yankee Fans. I was also quite taken by Mr. Patterson's comments to reporters yesterday concerning Mr. Torre. The words speak volumes.
“If Joe Torre were still the manager, my chances wouldn’t be very good,” Patterson said. “It’s different with Joe Girardi in charge. He seems very willing to go with the best players, regardless of the experience. I don’t know if I’m going to make it but I think I will at least be considered. That’s all I can ask for.” |
| Posted by Phil Allard on March 15, 2008 at 6:05 PM |
Our beloved Peter Abraham reports that the Yanks have just added lefty Billy Traber to the 40-man roster. (As expected, Andrew Brackman was put on the 60-day DL.)
In all likelihood, Traber will be given a good chance to become the first Yankee LOOGY of 2008. Lord knows that the Yanks have had a lot of difficulty filling this role for most of this decade.
Billy Traber is an interesting case. Once a promising starter in the Mets’ and Indians’ systems, his career has been derailed with elbow woes. But now he finds himself healthy and he’s been very impressive this spring. Yes, Yes, it’s a small sample size, but what else can you go by? 4 IP, 3 hits, 5K, 0 BB.
Joe Girardi is happy with Traber: "There was something about him that we liked, and he's showing it to us. He's got a good curve and he throws his fastball to both sides of the plate."
Traber was involved in one of the more interesting trades in Mets history. On December 13, 2001, he was sent to Cleveland along with Matt Lawton, Alex Escobar, Jerrod Riggan and Earl Snyder for Roberto Alomar, Mike Bacsik and Danny Peoples.
Little did the Mets know that Roberto was about to begin the downside of his great career.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on March 13, 2008 at 9:08 PM |
Jeff Karstens’ outing was brutal today: He gave up 7 hits in just 1.1 innings. He allowed 10 base runners out of 14 men faced. Jeff’s Spring ERA ballooned to 8.63. ouch.
Despite the carnage, Karstens still has a good chance to make the team, but not because of his talent. Girardi has expressed consistently his desire to have a long man in the bullpen, something the Yanks haven’t had in recent years.
General Joe is particularly concerned with the tough April schedule, which has only two scheduled off days—not to mention a streak of 19 straight games. Somewhere during that stretch, a starter will get pummeled and a long man will be needed. Enter our delegate Karstens.
Although the Yanks have a plethora of talented relievers in camp, all of whom have better major league potential than Karstens, none of them fit the long man profile very well.
As a result, the Yanks may be stuck with Karstens or Kei Igawa on the 25-man roster, and that’s a shame if you’re a Yankee fan. It’s hard to think that Ramirez, Albaladejo, Patterson, Bruney, Britton, Veras or a host of others wouldn’t fair as well.
Right now, my best guest for the bullpen on March 31 is:
Rivera
Chamberlain
Farnsworth
Hawkins
Ohlendorf
Traber
Karstens
Prove me wrong, Cash and Joe, keep Veras rather than Karstens.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on March 11, 2008 at 11:24 AM |
The San Francisco Chronicle Reported Today (tip of the hat to waswatching)that the Yanks are scouting the A’s Joe Blanton. If Billy Beane is truly attempting to rid Oakland of all its major league talent, who are the Yanks not to partake in the fire sale?
At first take, Blanton is unimpressive. He doesn’t strike people out, he does not have overwhelming stuff, he gives up a lot of hits, and he is not the kind of pitcher any batter fears.
He is also exactly what the Yanks need. Blanton is a professional innings eater. He is durable and can keep his team in the game while resting the pen. Because the Yanks have the kids on strict innings counts, and Mussina can no longer go long into games, it’s pretty important to have another starter who can pile up innings.
Last year in the A.L., Blanton was 2nd only to C.C. Sabathia in innings pitched.
AMERICAN LEAGUE
2007
INNINGS PITCHED
1 C.C. Sabathia 241
2 Joe Blanton 230
3 Roy Halladay 225.1
4 John Lackey 224
5 Dan Haren 222.2
6 Johan Santana 219
7 Javier Vazquez 216.2
8 Gil Meche 216
9 Andy Pettitte 215.1
T10 Fausto Carmona 215
T10 Jamie Shields 215
Perhaps as important, Blanton doesn’t walk anyone…only 40 men in 230 innings last year. Despite his poor K rate, he was still 7th in the league in K/BB ratio.
AMERICAN LEAGUE
2007
STRIKEOUTS/WALKS
1 C.C. Sabathia 5.65
2 Jamie Shields 5.11
3 Josh Beckett 4.85
4 Johan Santana 4.52
5 Javier Vazquez 4.26
6 Erik Bedard 3.88
7 Joe Blanton 3.50
8 Dan Haren 3.49
9 John Lackey 3.44
10 Paul Byrd 3.14
I say give Blanton a long look. If Beane doesn’t want too much, pull the trigger on the deal.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on March 9, 2008 at 2:58 PM |
Jason Giambi has become the latest Yankee to put in some digs against former Manager Joe Torre.
When asked about his situation the last few years, Giambi told writers: “I might DH for 30 games. Then Joe [Torre] would say ‘I need you back at first base’ and I wouldn’t be ready. I’ve always tried to do what’s best for the team. Defense is like offense; there’s a rhythm.”
As more players and writers exercise their newly found freedom to drill through the Teflon that protected Torre for so long, more stories emerge.
Granted, taken in isolation, it may be hard to believe Kyle Farnsworth’s account that Torre hatched the plan to not pitch him in back-to-back days, and never told him about it. But what keeps bubbling up from various sources is that Joe Torre did not create an environment where everybody was ready to play. Last year, Bobby Abreu and Johnny Damon admitted that were out of shape and not game-ready until June. Under Camp Girardi, such nonsense is not tolerated.
We all know about Torre’s penchant to burn out key relievers (by the way, Luis Vizcaino’s elbow is barking now at Rockies’ camp. He is scheduled to take an MRI), but his inability, or reluctance, to maneuver people in and out of the lineup also hurt the team. That's what precipitated Jason's comment.
If you’re a young whippersnapper type of fan who only remembers Torre as manager of your team, you’re in for a treat.
But the blinders away, with Joe Girardi, the Yankees have an intellectually engaged manager. He will show creativity as the season progresses, and he is bound to manage the bullpen in a much saner fashion.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on March 4, 2008 at 9:42 PM |
I just received via Fed Express my copy of the newly published Bill James Gold Mine 2008. This thing is a potpourri of delicious baseball stats and articles. I should be all night with this. Anyone interested in baseball really should buy it.
Among some Yankee tidbits:
Abreu Lookin’ Good
Who led the Yank’s last year with RBIs on singles, doubles, triples, walks and groundouts? It’s got to be Alex, right? Nope. It was Bobby Abreu.
Not a total surprise, but 99%?
Percentage of fastballs thrown by Mariano Rivera last year: 99%
Pull, Pull, Pull
Number of opposite field singles by A-Rod last year: 1
In need of more Republican Congressmen?
Houston’s record in 2005 when Rocket started: 15-17
Houston’s record in 2006 when Rocket started: 9-10
Yanks’ record in 2007 when Rocket started: 8-9
Chances of current Yankees eventually being elected to the Hall of Fame:
Bobby Abreu: 20%
Johnny Damon: 30%
Jason Giambi: 35%
Derek Jeter: 99%
Hideki Matsui: 1%
Mike Mussina: 80%
Andy Pettitte: 40%
Jorge Posada: 55%
Mariano Rivera: 98%
Alex Rodriguez: 99%
Chien-Ming Wang: 9%
Among many essays in the book is one called “Closer Fatigue," with Mariano Rivera as the central figure in the study. One of the more interesting conclusions James draws is that when “fatigued,” Rivera’s control improves. This occurs because there is more “early contact” and because the ball doesn’t move quite so much. Of course, his ERA goes up dramatically, so I guess it’s a moot point. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on February 25, 2008 at 10:20 PM |
Is Sean Henn the worst pitcher in Yankee history? Maybe not THE worse, but he is certainly within shouting distance.
It’s really a shame that’s he’s a lefty. If he were right-handed, the Yanks would have lost interest in him long ago.
But if you believe Joe Girardi, he and Dave Eiland are impressed with the embattled southpaw so far in camp. Let’s just hope nothing comes of this. With all the talent the Yanks have vying for a bullpen spot, it would be a vicious crime to allow Henn to make the team simply because he’s s southpaw. The truth is he can’t get anyone out.
Thankfully, Sean is out of options and he should be a distant memory come April.
Just look at his major league line:
IP: 57.3 innings
ERA: 7.53
ERA+ 59
WHIP: 2.02
Hits: 73
Walks: 43
HBP: 4
That’s 120 base runners in 57.3 innings.
In the history of the New York Yankees, for pitchers with more than 55 innings of service, Henn is dead last in baserunners allowed per 9 innings. Yes, Henn is worse than Cuddles Marshall and Stinky Beall:
BR/9 IP
1 Sean Henn 18.84
2 Alex Ferguson 18.21
3 Lou McEvoy 17.86
4 Al Lyons 17.39
5 Cuddles Marshall 17.38
6 Bob Wiesler 16.73
7 Walter “Stinky” Beall 16.54
8 Alan Mills 16.45
9 Randy Keisler 16.14
10 Art Schallock 16.08
For Yankee pitchers with ate least 55 innings, Henn is 2nd worse in lifetime ERA:
ERA
1 Lou McEvoy 7.88
2 Sean Henn 7.53
3 Randy Keisler 7.19
4 Alex Ferguson 6.85
5 Terry Mulholland 6.49
6 Jeff Johnson 6.47
7 Wade Taylor 6.27
8 Kei Igawa 6.25
9 George Uhle 6.19
10 Denny Neagle 5.81
Hey look, Henn is 9th worse for hits per 9, and that quick healer Carl Pavano is 10th
H/9 IP
1 Paul Quantrill 12.16
2 Alex Ferguson 12.01
3 Jeff Johnson 11.80
4 Jimmy Jones 11.76
5 Ed Whitson 11.73
6 Lou McEvoy 11.67
7 Al Shealy 11.63
8 Don Johnson 11.50
9 Sean Henn 11.46
10 Carl Pavano 11.40
Coming out of the bullpen, it’s important no to walk anyone. It’s even more important not to bring in Henn:
BB/9 IP
1 Bob Wiesler 8.80
2 Walter ‘Stinky” Beall 8.00
3 Cuddles Marshall 7.35
4 Tommy Byrne 6.91
5 Charlie Devens 6.80
6 Sean Henn 6.75
7 Marshall Bridges 6.69
8 Brian Bruney 6.62
9 Sam McDowell 6.56
10 Bill Burbach 6.48
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| Posted by Phil Allard on February 25, 2008 at 9:53 PM |
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| Posted by Phil Allard on February 22, 2008 at 12:00 AM |
Writing a blog entry that sings the praises of Mariano Rivera kind of falls into the “water is wet” category.
As in “duh, tell me something I don’t know.”
Mariano might have been the greatest pitcher of all time, if he stayed a starter. We will never know about that. But what we do know is astonishing:
For all Pitchers in the modern era (since 1920) with 950 innings or more, Rivera has the best ERA by far:
CAREER
1920-2007
ERA
1 Mariano Rivera 2.35
2 Hoyt Wilhelm 2.52
3 Whitey Ford 2.74
4 Sandy Koufax 2.76
5 Dan Quisenberry 2.76
6 Ron Perranoski 2.79
7 Pedro Martinez 2.80
8 Bruce Sutter 2.83
9 John Hiller 2.83
10 Spud Chandler 2.84
Granted, most of those guys listed above are relievers, and Mariano's ERA wouldn't be that low if he started...but still, it shows his greatness.
CAREER
1920-2007
Baserunners/9 IP
1 Pedro Martinez 9.71
2 Mariano Rivera 9.75
3 Juan Marichal 10.02
4 Sandy Koufax 10.02
5 Johan Santana 10.03
6 Dick Hall 10.05
7 Tom Seaver 10.23
8 Catfish Hunter 10.34
9 Bruce Sutter 10.37
10 Hoyt Wilhelm 10.37
Ah...there's Mariano is the same ballpark as Pedro and Marichal...and without the cock fighting.
CAREER
1920-2007
SO/BB Ratio
1 Curt Schilling 4.38
2 Pedro Martinez 4.28
3 Ben Sheets 3.94
4 Johan Santana 3.79
5 Doug Jones 3.68
6 Jon Lieber 3.67
7 Bret Saberhagen 3.64
8 Roy Oswalt 3.62
9 Mariano Rivera 3.60
10 Mike Mussina 3.53
What the hell is Schilling doing at #1?
Also consider Mariano’s career ERA + of 194 and a postseason line of 117.1 IP and 0.77 ERA. Too bad he is used one inning at a time…he could have given Koufax, Seaver or Walter Johnson a run for their money if was a starter. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on February 19, 2008 at 11:24 AM |
I was doing my usual morning stroll though baseballreference.com this morning when I came across this article about Derek Jeter:
http://www.dugoutcentral.com/blog/?p=982
It seems to me that the growth of the delusional Jeter fan boy militia has reached dangerous proportions. Does this guy actually believe what he is writing… Equating Jeter to General MacArthur with bizarre statements such as “ the Yankees want to win the World Series this year, they need the 2008 Spring Training to be Jeter’s Inchon."
I am not accustomed to commenting on other writers’ work. God knows it’s a thankless profession and there is always someone who will disagree with you.
But frankly, this article scares me. Every observation is dangerously misguided.
Most Yankee fans with a functioning brain understand that Jeter is a poor defensive shortstop. This has been objectively proven time-after-time with statistical data that I won’t repeat here. The man has no range on grounders. Yes, he is good at pop-ups, but a shortstop's main responsibility is ground balls.
Most Yankee fans with a functioning brain also realize that Jeter is an above-average offensive player who is racking up base hits at a level only matched by Pete Rose and Ty Cobb. Yes, he is going to the hall of fame. But he continues to do a dis-service to his team by playing shortstop.
As far as his leadership skills, ask A-Rod.
It continues to amaze me that these same members of the delusional Jeter fan boy militia also think that Jeter is a “clutch” hitter.
Jeter usually hits well in the post-season because he is a good hitter, not because he dons some sort of super-human apparel.
It’s impossible to discuss Derek Jeter objectively in New York. He has been deified.
People, he's a ballplayer. He doesn't turn water into wine or attack Manchuria. He is not in the linear chain from Abraham. Enjoy him for what he is--a damn good player.
I Can't help but quote one of the readers at Baseball Think Factory:
"In addition to his clutch hitting and gold glove defense, Jeter also will lead the league in CCPSAR (Corn Cob Pipes Smoked Above Replacement) and fire up the team with his unquenchable lust to bomb Manchuria." |
| Posted by Phil Allard on February 19, 2008 at 8:39 AM |
A few hours after watching Andy Pettitte answer questions about his HGH use, the Baby Boss tried to divert attention away from his team by pointing a finger at the NFL:
"Everybody that knows sports knows football is tailor-made for performance-enhancing drugs. I don't know how they managed to skate by. It irritates me. Don't tell me it's not more prevalent. The number in football is at least twice as many. Look at the speed and size of those players."
There is some validity to Hank’s outrage, but more importantly, Hank has proven that he will constantly entertain us with comments—on a daily basis.
What could be more fun than that? Yankee fans who are too young to remember how George Steinbrenner ran the team in the 70s and 80s are in for a treat. My advice is to not take anything Hank says to heart and enjoy the ride. Personally, I just hope he has something to say this Spring about Carl Pavano.
As far as Andy Pettitte goes, yes, he did look like an honest man yesterday. But let’s not delude ourselves, the man does not deserve all the accolades he is getting in the press today. He cheated and he is coming clean because he got caught. He is simply not making matters worse by lying about it.
The question now is whether the ongoing scandal will affect his season. Stay tuned…I’m sure Hank will have something to say about this…
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| Posted by Phil Allard on February 14, 2008 at 1:33 PM |
In a move that is bound to get many Yankee fans angry, the team issued number #21 to Morgan Ensberg yesterday. It will be the first time anyone has worn the number since Paul O’Neill retired after the 2001 season.
Surely, the Yanks have too many retired number already. So I am not in favor of Paulie getting his number retired. But Ensberg is the first guy who gets it? A spring training invitee on a Minor League contract? Very strange. What? Did Josh Phelps turn it down last year?
I believe Ensberg will contribute in 2008. But he doesn’t need the heavy weight of that number. He has enough on his plate.
In another shocking development, Roger Clemens does not know what a vegan is. I suspect not many Texans outside of Austin do either.
I somehow managed to watch the Congressional hearings yesterday, and what disturbed me the most was how it all broke along part lines. The Democrats attacked Clemens and the Republicans attacked McNamee.
And what was in Aunt Bee’s brownies if she doesn’t think Roger has gotten bigger since his Boston days. What a sham.
Here is what’s obvious: We already knew McNamee was a liar and a cheater. It’s all too clear now, too, that Clemens is a liar and a cheater. At first I believed him, but how absurd is it that after he begged for his day in front of Congress to clear his name, all he and his defense attorney could come up with is that Andy Pettitte must have “mis-remembered.”
And Roger did what many politicians do when they are caught in a scandal, he wrapped himself around the flag. In a futile attempt to clear his name, he made himself look much, much worse.
The big question for Yankee fans now is how this will affect Andy Pettitte. I hope I’m wrong, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he hangs it up this weekend. Asking to report late and letting his teammates answer questions about him is not like Andy at all. Neither is throwing his Dad under the bus. This does not bode well.
Welcome to the job of a lifetime, Mr. Girardi. Here we go…..
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| Posted by Phil Allard on February 12, 2008 at 9:11 AM |
In the New York Post this morning, Joel Sherman revealed that the Yanks have an elaborate usage plan this year for Joba Chamberlain.
According to Sherman’s exclusive report, the Yanks will employ Joba in the set-up role for April and May. Then, at some point in June, they will send him down to Scranton so he can “stretch it out” and get into the rhythm of starting. He will then move into the rotation for the 2nd half of the season.
If the team is serious about this plan, it poses several problems. Is the changing of roles and the move back to the minors good for the kid? Wouldn’t it be better to just let him pitch as a starter and leave him alone? Suppose he is lights out for two months as set-up and the Yanks get off to a good start. How disruptive, or even absurd, will it be in June to lose Joba for 3-4 weeks? At that point, he won’t be helping the team as a starter or as a reliever. I'd rather see him move to long relief at the major league level if the team insist on jerking him around. Why waste 20 or 25 innings at the minor league level if his ceiling is around 150?
From where I stand, this is just too much messing around with the kid. In an effort to “save” him – he is being poked and prodded in excess. Not good.
I'd love Earl Weaver to weigh in on this inning count fiasco. Or Jim Kaat for that matter.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on February 12, 2008 at 12:12 AM |
Now that Brian Cashman has held on to the young pitchers, how will General Girardi use them?
Girardi will not have complete say in how Ian Kennedy, Joba Chamberlain and Phil Hughes will be employed. “The organization” will issue strict innings counts for the youngsters, and Girardi will be under orders to comply.
If these youths constitute 3/5ths of the rotation, this clearly poses a huge problem for Girardi. Namely, he runs the risk of burning out the bullpen since the starters will not be aloud to go deep into games.
To Chamberlain’s credit, he says he is okay with whatever role the team asks him to assume. If he ends up setting up Mariano Rivera for a few months to keep his inning count down, he won’t complain.
Joba told the AP: "We've approached it in a great way. We're going to go in the beginning and understand there's an innings limit, and I know that. I'm excited to have a new challenge this year."
We all know the game as changed and pitch and inning counts are here to stay. Gone forever are the days of 4-man rotations and pitchers with 300 + innings per year. There are a myriad of reasons for this, including the need for teams to protect their big investments and the rise of the relief pitcher’s importance.
But that doesn’t mean everyone likes the trend. Take Lou Piniella, for example. Lou has never been one to “baby” his pitchers. He once told the New York Times: “It’s gotten even more absurd. They’ve put these kids on pitch counts of 100 pitches, pitching every five days. How do you develop good mechanics and good location and how do you learn to pitch yourself out of trouble and get your second wind throwing 100 pitches?"
Below are charts of the top ten pitchers in MLB for innings pitched by decade since the 1970s. It’s not surprising to see knuckleballers like Wilbur Wood and Phil Niekro on the list, but how about the paunchy Mickey Lolich toiling for 376 innings in 1971? That was good for 29 complete games.
INNINGS PITCHED YEAR IP
T1 Wilbur Wood 1972 376
T1 Mickey Lolich 1971 376
3 Wilbur Wood 1973 359
4 Steve Carlton 1972 346.1
5 Gaylord Perry 1973 344
6 Gaylord Perry 1972 342.2
7 Phil Niekro 1979 342
8 Phil Niekro 1978 334.1
9 Wilbur Wood 1971 334
10 Nolan Ryan 1974 332.2
INNINGS PITCHED YEAR IP
1 Steve Carlton 1980 304
2 Steve Carlton 1982 295.2
T3 Jack Morris 1983 293.2
T3 Bert Blyleven 1985 293.2
5 Rick Langford 1980 290
6 Dave Stieb 1982 288.1
7 Charlie Hough 1987 285.1
8 Fernando Valenzuela 1982 285
9 Mike Norris 1980 284.1
10 Steve Carlton 1983 283.2
INNINGS PITCHED YEAR IP
1 Randy Johnson 1999 271.2
2 Roger Clemens 1991 271.1
3 Curt Schilling 1998 268.2
4 Greg Maddux 1992 268
T5 Dave Stewart 1990 267
T5 Greg Maddux 1993 267
T7 Kevin Brown 1992 265.2
T7 Pat Hentgen 1996 265.2
T9 Pat Hentgen 1997 264
T9 Roger Clemens 1997 264
INNINGS PITCHED YEAR IP
1 Roy Halladay 2003 266
2 Randy Johnson 2002 260
3 Curt Schilling 2002 259.1
4 Curt Schilling 2001 256.2
5 Livan Hernandez 2004 255
6 Jon Lieber 2000 251
7 Randy Johnson 2001 249.2
8 Greg Maddux 2000 249.1
9 Randy Johnson 2000 248.2
10 Livan Hernandez 2005 246.1
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| Posted by Phil Allard on January 31, 2008 at 6:06 PM |
The Yanks’ signing of Morgan Ensberg today is a good low-risk, high potential-reward move. Ensberg will now compete with Shelley Duncan, Wilson Betemit, Jason Lane, and Jason Giambi for time at first base.
Ensberg signed a minor-league contract, so right now he is just another body to throw at first base while Girardi figures out what direction he wants to go in.
Morgan had a career year in 2005 when he went .283/.388/.557. Of course Minute Maid is a great place to pad your stats…but a quick look at his home/away splits for the past three years suggest that he hit almost as well on the road:
3 year splits 2005-2007:
Away: .262/.371./.484
Home: .248/.380/.497
Ensberg can take a walk too, as his lifetime .366 OBP suggest. (League average is .344)
This move has been rumored for most of the winter. The Yanks even had their eye on Ensberg last year when they acquired Wilson Betemit.
This move can not be good news for Shelley Duncan, and it’s not clear yet if Duncan’s off-season blood clot issue will affect him this Spring. As an insurance policy, Ensberg makes a lot of sense. If Kevin Long can help him recapture some of that 2005 magic, this is a steal.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on January 24, 2008 at 1:11 PM |
There’ something kind of cute when a Boston fan, or better yet a member of the Boston media, claim that they no longer “care” what New Yorkers think of them.
The truth is that day will never come.
The inferiority complex that fuels Boston fans with their hatred of New York has long been part of their DNA. It’s passed down by generation. It doesn’t go away because of a few recent successes.
So when I read Steve Buckley’s column in the Boston Herald today, all I could do is laugh. The more he tries to explain why Bostonians don’t care about New York, the more he proves the other side of the argument.
It was kind of like listening to Eric Cartman say he doesn’t have a problem with Kyle’s mother.
Simply put, there is no bigger group of thin-skinned, obnoxious fans in the world than those pink-hat wearing, front-running, Boston fans. And they care deeply about what New Yorkers think. I am sure if I check my email later today I will find some humdingers…Perhaps I will share them with you all soon and we can laugh together.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on January 17, 2008 at 5:35 PM |
An announcement came today that Bud Selig has once again been extended as commissioner -- this time until 2012.
This is bad news for all who want to uphold the integrity of baseball.
Selig’s extension is so undeserved, it’s really hard to know where to begin.
Not only has he emerged unscathed from the steroid era--an era that he helped to usher in by allowing it to grow unfettered throughout his tenure, but he is actually gaining more power and prestige among Congress and the owners.
This is astonishing…and very disturbing.
Here is a man who tried desperately to orchestrate the trade of A-Rod to the Red Sox, a man who appointed an employee of the Red Sox to compile a steroid report based largely on hearsay from a few unreliable sources, a man who conspired with John Henry to be sure Henry could purchase the Red Sox while lower bids were turned down, a man who was an owner while serving as commissioner and tried to contract his competition in Minnesota.
Of all the sins Selig has committed, perhaps his most egregious is his forced income distribution from the astute and thriving franchises to the bumbling and inept. Yes, friend, the Bolsheviks are alive and well in the Commissioner’s Office. It’s bad enough that the Kansas City Royals and the Tampa Bay Rays are allowed to “compete” with the Yankees’ money—but there are no checks and balances to be sure they are using the money properly. The Yanks’ hard-won money is simply lining the pockets of disreputable owners.
Comrade Bud’s New World Order marches on…
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| Posted by Phil Allard on January 15, 2008 at 2:53 PM |
Well...maybe Rocket was not quite "framed." Actually, I should amend last week's entry to "Rocket is guilty as sin."
There is no question that the Mitchell report is incomplete, unfair, and based on accusations from less-than-desirables (i.e. scum). But according to the Congressional hearings today...there is supposedly iron-clad evidence against Clemens.
Ex-Senator and Red Sox employee Mitchell said, "Mr. McNamee had an overwhelming incentive to tell the truth. We believe that the statements provided to us were truthful."
I just don’t know who to believe, but I do know that Congress will use all their power to bring Clemens down…right or wrong.
By attacking the report head-on, Clemens has declared war on the power-elite. War on Selig… War on Mitchell... War on Congress.
Guys like Congressman Waxman will pay more attention to this than Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan combined…your tax dollars at work.
What really stops me is Rocket's thought process. He must know he is guilty...but now he is opening up himself up the depositions, perjury, and possible jail time.
What drives Clemens? Arrogance? Stupidity? Amnesia?
Better buck-up Rocket. You're in for the fight of your life...and you're going to lose.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on January 7, 2008 at 6:02 PM |
I am well aware that I am in the minority when I admit this—but I now believe Roger Clemens that he has not taken steroids.
I haven’t come to this conclusion lightly, and I admit that I was in the guilty-until-proven-innocent group until this weekend.
Clemens' full-court press to clear his name is unprecedented. By filing the lawsuit against Brian McNamee, by going on 60 minutes, by drawing his avenging sword against Bud Selig and MLB, and by volunteering to go in front of Congress, Clemens is opening himself up to all kinds of legal issues if he is not telling the truth.
So far, McNamee’s handlers have not sued back, although they may. The rambling and somewhat bizarre phone conversation played at the Press Conference Monday between Roger and Brian McNamee further exposed McNamee to be a stooge.
Clemens and his lawyer know that they are now taking Bud Selig and this Mitchell report head-on, and Selig will use all his power to bring Clemens down. This is a startling and brave move by Clemens. But the public scrutiny is only just beginning. This will be a story for a very long time.
As Roger said before storming out of the press conference, it’s almost impossible to prove a negative. All that will happen is the public will get a huge dose of “Roger, the angry Texan.”
Of course I could be wrong about all this, and there is no way to change the mind of all the Clemens haters out there…but that’s my 2 cents…the man was framed.
Rocket is arrogant, boastful, condescending and rude...but that's besides the point if he's innocent. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on January 6, 2008 at 11:02 AM |
It’s not like we needed any confirmation that Brian Cashman’s role within the Yankee front office has been diluted. This has been clear since Hank wrestled control of the team and during the Torre decision making process.
But for the first time, Cashman has opened up about this disturbing development this weekend when he helped support Red Sox GM Theo Epstein’s annual charitable event.
With words that should worry every Yankee fan, Cashman said: “The dynamics are changing with us…When I signed up with this current three-year deal, and this is the last year of it, it was with full authority to run the entire program. George (Steinbrenner, the Yankees’ owner) had given me that. But things have changed in this third year now with the emergence of Hal and Hank Steinbrenner and that started this winter.”
Cashman is a smart poker player…and those words are meant to be a warning to Hank that he could walk at the end of the year. This bears watching all season long and if Hank truly impedes Cashman’s ability to run the team…he will be the GM of another club in 2009.
Yes, it’s true that Cashman has made some shaky moves over the years. But he and Damon Oppenheimer are the main reason that the Yankee farm team is now flourishing. Cashman had said time and time again that the Yanks will develop pitching from within. Despite all pressure to trade the youngsters, Cashman has held on to Hughes, Chamberlain, Kennedy and others. Brian has a clear direction for the team and is not likely to make a panic move, if left to his own devices.
It remains to be seen how much Hank will interfere…but so far he seems a lot like his father in the 1970s. He is making it impossible for Cashman to do his job. Peter Abraham has it right when he says that “Cashman is like a poker player who’s buddy is standing behind him saying, ‘Wow, you have two kings.’ ”
Yes Hank. We get it. You’re in charge. Daddy handed you the keys to the car that you have done nothing to earn. Get over yourself and let Cashman drive.
On another note: Good luck to a great guy: Andy Phillips. The embattled first-baseman signed a minor league contract with the Reds and has been invited to Spring Training. Perhaps Andy’s OBP is low enough to impress Dusty Baker…
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| Posted by Phil Allard on December 3, 2007 at 8:38 AM |
After spending two weeks in the abyss of a severe fever caused by a spider bite...I'm delighted to have regained my equilibrium in time for the Baseball Winter Meetings.
I was bitten by a brown recluse spider right above the elbow. Before the anti-biotics kicked in, I was delirious and had malaria-like symptoms...punctuated by a bizarre situation in which my mind tried to solve puzzles non-stop. There is no way to explain this; it was like taking a two- week LSAT test.
Anyway...as I expected from the beginning, Pettitte will be back. Sure, I'd love to have Santana on the Yanks, but I'd much rather see the young kids develop. It's been a long time since the farm has produced such talent.
Unless Hank is blowing smoke, the Yanks will pull out of the Santana talks today if they don't get an agreement from the Twins. Then the Yanks will set their sites on the impressive Dan Haren.
But with Andy back, is that wise?
Stay tuned. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on November 15, 2007 at 8:16 PM |
Dave Pinto of Baseball Musings released his Probabilistic Model of Range for Rightfielders today. I was pleasantly surprised to see how high Bobby Abreu rated on the list. He was 8th on a list of 35 players.
That’s really quite good for our wall-shy fly chaser. If one is in a good mood, one can even argue that his fear of padded concrete is helping the team, since it decreases his chance at injury.
Well, okay, but still Abreu did a better job this year of tracking the ball. I’m not sure how a 33 year-old outfielder improves on this most important characteristic, but these objective numbers are suggesting it.
The top 8 rightfielders (1000 balls in play):
Player In Play Actual Outs Predicted
Outs DER Predicted
DER Ratio
Jayson Werth 1389 109 95.35 0.078 0.069 114.32
Shane Victorino 2837 229 210.62 0.081 0.074 108.72
Nick Swisher 1289 109 101.65 0.085 0.079 107.23
Carlos Quentin 1718 138 129.11 0.080 0.075 106.89
F.Gutierrez 1757 136 128.55 0.077 0.073 105.79
Nelson Cruz 1922 148 141.26 0.077 0.073 104.77
Luke Scott 2560 198 190.34 0.077 0.074 104.02
Bobby Abreu 4148 313 302.45 0.075 0.073 103.49
The bottom 8 rightfielders (1000 balls in play):
J.D. Drew 3128 212 219.98 0.068 0.070 96.37
Ken Griffey Jr. 3649 291 302.61 0.080 0.083 96.16
Andre Ethier 2315 177 184.39 0.076 0.080 95.99
Xavier Nady 2390 162 168.97 0.068 0.071 95.88
Jose Guillen 4063 268 284.73 0.066 0.070 94.13
Juan Encarn. 1983 125 132.90 0.063 0.067 94.06
Jack Cust 1205 79 84.93 0.066 0.070 93.01
Brad Hawpe 3851 247 267.07 0.064 0.069 92.48
Cliff Floyd 1185 69 78.30 0.058 0.066 88.12
Okay, I actually listed the bottom 9 defensive rightfielders since the 9th was J.D. Drew and this is a Yankee site.
With Abreu posting above average defensive numbers, his worth to the Yanks next year can not be over-stated. We already know how good he is offensively. Where else would the Yanks find a right fielder with a lifetime OPS + of 134? A lifetime .408 OBP? The man is an extremely potent offensive machine.
I just hope he shows up in shape for Spring Training. The Yanks need the Abreu who emerged in the 2nd half of the season after a slow start. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on November 14, 2007 at 1:35 PM |
You gotta hand it to A-Rod, he sure knows how to keep himself in the news.
According to Mark Feinsand and Bill Madden, the Yanks may be in secret negotiations with A-Rod. The key to these stealth talks is that Scott Boras is not involved.
"We will not negotiate with Scott Boras," a Yankees source said. "He cannot be in the room."
The Post is reporting something quite similar. Apparently, A-Rod is “concerned” about how he is being ripped in the press over the whole World Series fiasco.
Like many Yankee fans, I’ve gotten my mind around losing his production. I felt certain that Hank Steinbrenner and company would not turn back on their word to let A-Rod walk.
I’m so confused about this now, I don’t know what to think. I can’t see A-Rod leaving a penny on the table. But who knows, if Boras isn’t involved, that might happen.
Or is this all a clever ploy by Boras to keep the Yanks in the negotiations?
This is all so much more interesting than watching actual games.
All I know is I better stop writing articles about A-Rod. I spent four years defending him to all comers, then I blast him in the combustible A-Rod, Inc. article.
Do I now need to defend him again ???? Apparently so.
Just now on Mike and the Mad Dog, Feinsand said he expects A-Rod to sign with the Yanks "within the next 4 or 5 days."
John Sterling just said that the chances of A-Rod signing are 101%, or some such statement.
This turn of events has my head spinning. It's time to reach for a xanax and go for a walk. I’ll let this play out.
What's next? Mike Lowell for first base?
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| Posted by Phil Allard on November 6, 2007 at 11:57 AM |
There is no doubt that Jorge Posada had his best offensive year. 338/.426/.543 speaks for itself. But as he turns 36, the Yanks have a dilemma on the hands. Should they pay him for past performance, knowing that his numbers will decline?
Or do they cut bait in an impersonal Billy Beane kind of way?
Looking at Jorge’s career so far, he is clearly one of the best offensive catchers of all time.
Posada is tied for 4th all-time in OPS for catchers with over 4,000 at bats.
OPS
1 Mike Piazza .922
2 Mickey Cochrane .897
3 Bill Dickey .868
4 Jorge Posada .860
4 Roy Campanella .860
6 Gabby Hartnett .858
7 Yogi Berra .830
8 Javier Lopez .828
9 Mike Stanley .827
10 Ivan Rodriguez .819
And here are the top 10 all-time catchers in slugging percentage (4,000 at at bats)
SLG SLG
1 Mike Piazza .545
2 Roy Campanella .500
3 Javier Lopez .495
4 Gabby Hartnett .489
5 Bill Dickey .486
6 Yogi Berra .483
7 Johnny Bench .482
8 Jorge Posada .479
8 Ivan Rodriguez .479
10 Mickey Cochrane .478
The Yanks dearly want to keep Jorge, but word is that Posada would like a 4-year contract. If the Yanks are entertaining such a thought, they must begin a transition to 1B or DH…and they must at least retain Jose Molina or get someone better to catch more.
Brian Cashman and Mike Fishman are no dummies. They realize that they will be overpaying for declining production. But Cash and Hank Steinbrenner also know they should not let all the old guard walk, if at all possible.
I expect Posada back for 3 years for more than he is worth going forward. Just consider it payment for services rendered.
However, if the unthinkable happens, and Posada dangles a Met offer in Cashman's face...say if Omar is willing to go 5 years at 65-70 million, then I let Posada walk.
He will never be as good as he was last year. Branch Rickey and Billy Beane know that. So does Cash.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on November 5, 2007 at 9:23 PM |
Andy Pettitte's decision to decline his player option for 2008 is just a formality. I have no doubt that Big Game Andy is coming back.
If anything, Andy did the Yanks a favor. Right now they can use the roster space as the GMs converge on Orlando. Don’t be surprised if there is a move on another player within the next few days.
Andy is a man of his word. His insistence that he will not go to any other team should put Yankee fans’ minds at ease. He is NOT going to join Mr. Torre in LA, as one disreputable website in California is suggesting tonight.
I also could only take a few moments of the ESPN mis-information machine tonight. Steve Phillips was fanning the flames on NESN2. It’s amazing that Phillips has a job. I've never heard anyone who is as consistently wrong -- on all subjects -- as Phillips. (Possible exception, Joe Morgan)
Now Fox Sports is reporting the same thing; some talking head said "Rookie Manager Joe Girardi has to Face the Season without his 14 game winner."
Folks, besides the fact that Girardi is not a rookie manager, since he piloted the Marlins in 2005 as everyone knows, and besides the fact that Andy won 15 games, not 14, last year, please remember:
The large majority of the mainstream media is clueless.
It’s quite possible that the Yanks and Andy will get a multi-year deal done. There is no reason to panic.
Your 2008 opening day starter on March 31 will be Andy Pettitte. He’ll be facing Roy Halladay of the Blue Jays. Should be a good one.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on November 3, 2007 at 10:18 AM |
A tip of the hat to Steve Lombardi over at http://www.waswatching.com. for posting an interesting tidbit: Brains seem to run in the Girardi family. Take a look at some of the papers Joe’s sister Maria has published: www.math.sc.edu/~girardi/wpaper.html
Chances are quite strong that I won’t be curling up with “The dual of the James Tree space is asymptotically uniformly convex” tonight, but it’s impressive none the less.
As the Joe Girardi era begins, I’m extremely optimistic about the Yanks’ future. Rivera and Posada’s people are making the right rumblings about coming back to the fold now, and Abreu is coming back to hold down right field for another year. (Maybe the right-field fence can be lined with jello in 2008.) Hopefully, Abreu can get back to his + .400 on base percentage. His career OBP of .408 is much better than last year’s .369. Bobby’s mechanics were entirely messed up the first two months because he came into camp overweight and it took him until June to get into proper rhythm.
Expect Girardi to be more pro-active with guys like Abreu and Betemit, even in the off-season. They will be in shape.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 31, 2007 at 3:21 PM |
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 31, 2007 at 8:35 AM |
Don Mattingly's Press Conference yesterday further solidified his reputation for being a class act in a tough city.
Although he is clearly disappointed about being passed over for his dream job, Mattingly had nothing but praise and respect for the people who choose Joe Girardi over him.
In a half-hour conference call, Don told reporters that ""I was treated great here. It's not like I'm sitting here with vengeance running through me at all."
Don also denied that he was ever promised the job by George, thus clearing up any notions that Don was fibbed to these past few years.
Brian Cashman and Joe Girardi wanted Don to stay on the coaching staff, but Don’s claim that he didn’t want to be perceived as looking over Girardi’s shoulder came off as sincere.
Perhaps my favorite quote of the call was this: "Trust me, I'm not going to all of a sudden start rooting for the Red Sox. I kind of consider myself a New Yorker, that's where I grew up."
Donny is gone now, probably to Los Angeles to join Joe Torre. Can't help but wish him well.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 26, 2007 at 11:50 AM |
I've gotta think this Yankee non-announcement is back-firing on Bud Selig. By asking the Yanks to wait until the World Series is over before they announce a new manager, the Yanks are actually soaking up the limelight more than if they just got on with the announcement.
But it looks like the Yanks want to think it through over the weekend. I believe the delay helps Joe Girardi's chances. He is the man that Brian Cashman really wants, and if Hank is telling the truth, they will rely heavily on Cashman's decision.
My feeling is that they want Girardi, but also want to avoid another PR disaster when Donny bolts. Perhaps they are trying to figure some way to keep Donny in the organization.
Also, word is that Tony Pena did very well in his interview, and that makes things even more complex.
My hope remains that Girardi will get the nod as manager, with Bowa and Pena remaining with the team. Either man would make a fine bench coach. Yes, it's true that Don has been "in-training" for the job that George all but promised him, but the team has to hire the best man for the job. There is no room for a sentimental choice.
Indications are that Brain Cashman will use today to dialog with Scott Boras...go get em, Cash.... |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 20, 2007 at 3:09 PM |
BREAKING NEWS:
(AP) – Reports surfaced yesterday on NYYFANS that the website’s Intrepid Yankee Reporter’s Post-season Blog was hacked into by Yankee President Randy Levine.
Although such devious tactics are clearly not beyond the scope of possibility when dealing with an insidious jackel like Levine, a systematic check of Allard’s hardware suggest that no such hijacking took place.
Mr. Allard is currently unavailable for comment, as he is in Saratoga Springs celebrating the end of the Torre era with 2 days of debauchery with accomplices of questionable character. However, we contacted Allard’s Spokesman, Howard Finklestein, who issued the following statement:
“Mr. Allard’s view remains that Randy Levine is an unmitigated blowhard who diminishes the reputation of the franchise every time he opens his mouth. In fact, Mr. Allard has mentioned to me on several occasions that the ‘Steinbrenner children would do well to sever Levine’s vocal chords, forcing him to resort to sign language when addressing the press.’
Unfortunately, Mr. Allard is not available for comment this weekend, but before leaving for his sojourn to Saratoga, he wanted to express his gratitude to Joe Torre for his 12 years of service and for being a swell guy.”
We will report back as information becomes available. When asked about the Levine rumors, the following members of the press had plenty to say:
“I’ve known Allard for 20 years, he would never let Randy Levine use his computer.” ~ Bob Chapstick, The CD
“Get it right. Allard is not a Levine butt-boy. He is a Cashman butt-boy.”
~ Mike Fransecer, Fatso and Fruit Loops
“Hey, I make things up all the time. I kind of wish I thought of this before.”
~ George Queen, The Post
“You gonna eat that donut?”
~ Peter Abraho, HiHud
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 19, 2007 at 10:07 AM |
Now the Joe Torre love fest begins in earnest in the media.
For the next few weeks, all the pundits will be chiming in about the great Torre era and how his departure means that the Yanks are no longer “classy” and “elite.”
Well, it’s true that Randy Levine's bluster makes the team appear less eloquent, but the departure of Torre tells me that the team is simply moving on. I feel it’s refreshing not to be stuck in the past when the present is no longer working.
Keep in mind that one of the main reasons that the beat writers love Torre so much is because he is great with the media and gives them unprecedented access. The beats will return the favor now with a Torre love fest. Torre's has wonderful attributes to be sure, and he makes the writers’ jobs much easier.
But making the job of the writers easier is not my main priority. I want the Yanks to win another championship. That’s why I’ve felt for awhile now that it’s time for Joe to go.
The Yanks (whoever they are, but that’s the subject of another article) made Torre an offer with a base salary that would keep him the highest paid manager in baseball history. This is a diss? Moreover, with the incentives, he could earn more than he did last year.
Personally, I don’t see a problem with a performance based salary structure. That’s how the real world works.
The argument about whether the contract is fair to Torre is absurd. Of course it's "fair" to offer him a contract that is more than 50% higher at its base than the next manager's salary. And even if the contract weren't "fair," This is about the needs of the Yankees, not Torre. He isn't bigger than the team.
12 years is an awful long time for a manager. We’ve all read that Bill James piece with the research of how a manager’s best years come in his first two or three seasons.
Also, Torre has become too close to his veterans. They are too comfortable with him at the helm. Casey Stengel would never make the mistake of propagating such complacency, nor would Billy Martin. If Jorge and Mariano want to tarnish their Yankee heritage by leaving, let them go. What do they think? That Torre will magically appear as manager of their new team?
Another interesting aspect that came out of the meetings is Cashman’s comment about the new manager: "There may be some surprising names that show up."
Something tells me it won’t be Mattingly or Girardi. It will be a bigger name.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 18, 2007 at 3:01 PM |
Wow.....Torre turned the team down. I'm speechless at the moment. I fully expected him to accept the offer.
I don't think many people saw this coming. All reports were that Torre was going down to Tampa to sign the new contract. But he must have not taken well to the pay cut.
The offer was 1 yr at a base of 5 million, with $1 million bonus if he got to the Division series, and $1 to the ALCS, and another $1 million to the World Series.
The Yanks did the right thing. Torre would still be the highest paid manager in baseball, and he would be rewarded for success.
Some folks may see this as a 33% pay cut, an offer that Torre had to refuse. But I disagree, I see the Yanks offering a contract with incentives that could pay him more than what he was making.
The only pause is the 1 year. Rookie managers get 2 years. I can understand Torre getting angry at that.
Now the Yanks will go forward with a quick manager search.
More later as this develops.... |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 17, 2007 at 4:56 PM |
A second day of meetings have now passed, and the Yankees have not made a decision regarding Joe Torre. Cashman announced to an assembled throng that no news would be coming out today. Unless the Yanks need all this time to negotiate a long term deal with Torre, they look really foolish.
They either want the guy to manage to team or they don’t. My guess is they must want Torre to fire himself by refusing a smaller salary. That way they can say: “Well, we tried to keep him.”
But the bottom line is it’s getting really tiring to keep guessing every day. Popes have been elected in less time than this.
One point that did come out of the meetings is the Yanks have reiterated, in strong terms, that they will not negotiate with A-Rod if he opts out.
The Yanks want to keep their leverage…I can’t blame them. It’s the right move by the Yanks, why let Boras drive the price way, way up. The Yanks are calling Boras’ bluff...
That Morgan Ensberg and Wilson Betemit platoon at 3rd is not looking very attractive from a fan’s point-of-view, however.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 16, 2007 at 5:02 PM |
I’ve kept quiet for a few days here because I figured the Yankee brain trust would make a decision today on Torre’s fate. But an announcement just came down now, at about 4:40 pm on Monday, that the meeting will continue tomorrow. No announcement will come today.
"The meetings are adjourned for tonight," spokesman Howard Rubenstein said. "There have been no decisions made, nor will there be any comment today. The meetings will resume tomorrow."
This is a disaster. This tells the baseball world that no one is in charge and no consensus has been reached. What have these people been doing for the past week? They must have had some conference calls on the phone. Why does the meeting break up at 4? Does Big Stein need a nap? Is it time to catch the early bird dinner? They ran out of calzones?
This debacle has all the earmarks of a dysfunctional family conference where people take sides and no real decisions get made. There must have been plenty of horrific arguments, but it’s impossible to know who is making the call…I doubt it’s a simple majority vote. If the owner were making the call, Torre would be gone by now.
One thought here is perhaps time is needed tonight to work out the details of a new contract…either with Torre or Mattingly… the more I think about it, that really makes the most sense; it would explain the wait. hmmmm. I bet Torre is back...but don't quote me.
Kudos to the Yankee braintrust for fooling the media on the location of the meeting. While all the reporters and photographers were camped out at the Tampa Complex, the meeting was getting underway at George’s house. For some reason I find that hilarious. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 13, 2007 at 9:21 AM |
I meant to post this much earlier but I got all caught up in the daily Torre drama. Below are the Final 2007 AL Leaders for Runs Created Above Average (courtesy of Lee Sinins).
No surprise with A-Rod at #1. And again, Posada's value to the team seems to grow each year. Posada is in many of the top 10 categories, all-time, for catchers in OPS, OBP, and other critical categories.
Curtis Granderson is an under-rated player, but how about Jack Cust? He's come a long way since his Baltimore base running blunder. (No doubt this board's beloved bobby jr. blamed the Cust base running miscue on the Yankee payroll.)
AL RCAA*
LEADERS
1 Alex Rodriguez 83
2 Magglio Ordonez 73
3 David Ortiz 70
4 Carlos Pena 69
5 Jorge Posada 47
6 Curtis Granderson 45
7 Vladimir Guerrero 41
8 Jim Thome 39
9 Ichiro Suzuki 38
10 Jack Cust 35
Woe is Melky, Final Yankee RCAA:
YANKEES
Alex Rodriguez 83
Jorge Posada 47
Hideki Matsui 21
Derek Jeter 19
Bobby Abreu 15
Robinson Cano 12
Jason Giambi 5
Johnny Damon 4
Shelley Duncan 2
Chris Basak 0
Doug Mientkiewicz 0
Jose Molina 0
Bronson Sardinha -1
Kevin Thompson -1
Wilson Betemit -3
Alberto Gonzalez -3
Josh Phelps -4
Miguel Cairo -6
Andy Phillips -6
Wil Nieves -9
Melky Cabrera -14
* RCAA definition from the online Glossary of Sabermetric Terms:
RUNS CREATED Bill James's formulation for run contribution from a variety of batting and base running events. Many different formulas are used, depending upon data available. In its basic expression, the formula is:
(Hits + Walks) (Total Bases)
--------------------------
At-Bats + Walks
The essence of this formulation is that the ability to get on base and the ability to push base runners around fairly describes offensive ability. James later refined the formula with a "stolen base version":
(Hits+Walks-Caught Stealing)(Total Bases +.55 X Stolen Bases)
----------------------------------------------------------
At-Bats + Walks
In its current version, the formula is:
A factor: Hits + Walks + HBP - GIDP - CS
B factor: Total Bases + ((Walks + HBP - Intentional Walks) * .24) + (SB * .62)
+ ((SH + SF) * 0.5) - (SO * .03)
C factor: AB + Walks + HBP +SH + SF
Runs Created = (A + B) / C
|
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 12, 2007 at 11:10 AM |
One of the more unsettling consequences of Big Stein issuing his ultimatum to Joe publicly is that it’s given all of Torre’s players a chance to support the skipper in the newspapers. It really was a bad move by Steinbrenner; he would have been much better off inflicting a swift and decisive blow, but that chance is gone now. Public outcry is moving in Torre’s favor. The Yanks as an organization are appearing weak and indecisive.
Torre will actually be able to plead his case next week in front of the Tampa family and a neutered Brian Cashman. I now agree with those who think he will be offered a much lower one-year salary, and I actually think he will take it. He wants to manage in the Bronx.
As if the Torre news weren’t bad enough, we now have to endure Roger Clemens clamoring that he may want to come back for another year.
I’m glad that Roger was here this summer to tutor the youngsters, and I would not be opposed to him showing up next year for an occasional boot camp session, but he has to listen to his body.
Part of Cashman’s plan this year was based on Roger coming back and pitching well. That didn't happen, mostly due to assorted injuries. Roger needs to stop being delusional, get a new cell phone plan, and retire...unless, of course, he wants to burden the Red Sox with the next farewell tour.
Theo is too smart for that, however. And Houston won’t want to spend the money. The Yanks have to be strong enough to tell Roger no, and to hand Suzyn Waldman a hankie.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 11, 2007 at 9:36 PM |
Fox Sports is reporting now that Joe Torre will meet with the Boss next week, down in Tampa.
Setting the calibration on the Torre watch is proving difficult, but as each day goes by with Torre still recording a pulse, the chance that he will be retained increases.
This is bad news for the anti-Torre faction, and for those who would like to see the Yanks adapt to the times with a fresh voice that will embrace the team's youth movement.
This is also bad news for Cashman, as his days of having "full control" over the Yanks are disappearing faster than a plate of pasta left on the desk of Tommy Lasorda.
Of all the voices that have chimed in to support Torre, the strangest may be David Ortiz, but the most influential is Rudy Giuliani's. He and Billy Crystal are putting the full-Nelson on Big Stein. Weird that it all comes down to that.
Article:
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7324434?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=49 |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 11, 2007 at 9:34 AM |
As the paparazzi continue to hold vigil outside the home of “Joey 4-Rings”, the embattled skipper grows angrier by the minute. The hordes of parasitic photographers follow Joey to his daughter’s school, where he drops her off…to the barber shop…where he gets his flowing locks tapered, and to the corner deli, where he picks up his ham and cheese.
What? These people don’t have enough photos of Joe Torre? Let the man alone, he deserves to go out in peace and dignity.
That being said, he DOES need to go out. 12 years is enough. The litany of sins Torre has committed against the team have filled my journal to capacity, and they have etched my days and nights in agony.
I won’t repeat his myriad of transgressions again. But I will say that 12 years is too long. If anything, the veterans are too close to this guy; they are too comfortable. There is a reason guys like Casey Stengel and Billy Martin kept some distance between the players. A manager with too much loyalty to “his guys” is prone to make bad decisions, and he is prone to distrust young, emerging talent.
With all the young kids coming up from Cashman’s farm, Torre is not the man to mold the youth. A new manager is needed, someone who is not blinded by the past...someone who realizes it’s been a long time since the last World Championship (at least in Yankee terms), someone who realizes that the game is changing, someone who prefers talent over experience. As Ken Davidoff said in his spot-on article in Newsday two days ago:
“Cheap, durable, versatile youngsters rule the day…” The problem is that Torre abhors “cheap, durable, versatile youngsters.” He caters to expensive, veterans whose skills are eroding, and he can not distinguish between 1998 and 2007.
It’s time to let Joe go…but for God sakes do it with some class.
|
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 10, 2007 at 9:13 AM |
Is today the day that Torre is told he's not being renewed? Will Cashman be involved in the decision?
We will know a lot about who’s in charge of the Yankees by how things are handled. If Torre finds out that he’s not going to be offered a new contract from a friend who’s watching Mike and the Mad Dog when the missive comes down, we will know that some new insidious version of the Tampa family had wrestled control from the New York branch. This could be one of the sons, Hal or Hank, it could be Levine or it could be some new person we don’t know (Think Billy Crystal walking on the beach with Dinero.)The point is, a Steinbrenner dismissal is by nature, ugly and drawn-out, inflicted with as much pain as possible...the kind of stuff Amnesty International gets involved in.
If the decision to not bring Torre back is handled with some semblance of tact and dignity, it means that Brian Cashman is still in control of the team. Of course, he is on “the big hook” too, so he may also be jettisoned.
If another day or two goes by, and Torre is left twisting while the paparazzi chase him down the street and up the driveway of his home, then it’s more likely that chaos has returned to the Yankee front office, and some sort of coup is taking place.
Don’t even get me going on Scott Boras…Is anyone surprised?
|
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 9, 2007 at 10:40 AM |
And now begins that awkward transition from the exhilarating baseball season to the cold, bleak winter… from the eager anticipation of the next night’s game to the utter desolation and total despair that characterizes the long, bored months of no baseball.
I do not take refuge in any other sports, so for you Red Sox fans out there, you may rejoice knowing that I will spend the next several months in a sort suspended hibernation, starring blankly at the clock, willing it to move forward, forward, forward to spring—while you guzzle your Sam Adams at the Cask n’ Flagon, licking the foam off the chilled glass with satisfied smirks.
Pulling for your favorite team in earnest as I do is a type of myopia, a sickness if you will. There is no cure for it, only the temporary remission of winter.
Sure, the Yanks will be back, but it will take a while to recognize the team, the manager, the coaches…and the batboys. All will change.
I’ll know I’m ready for Spring when I long for the voice of Suzyn Waldman. (That usually takes awhile.) Right now I don’t think I can handle the radio or the papers, and I have long ago abandoned the sadistic practice of watching ESPN. (I find NESN much more objective and rational in their baseball coverage than ESPN, which is simply a home for front running Boston fratboys.)
As a lifelong New Englander, I have always lived in enemy territory. It’s often unsettling, sometimes insufferable. April can’t come soon enough.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 9, 2007 at 12:12 AM |
It’s clear that Joe knows this is the end. As John Flaherty just mentioned, there was a lot of “they” and not a lot of “we” in his comments.
Some highlights from Joe Torre’s Press Conference:
“This team, they dug themselves out of a hole and learned how to be a team. This ball club has a great future. The young kids who have come down the pike here, not just the ability but the quality of them, it’s something special."
“It’s been a great 12 years, no matter what happens; I will look back on these 12 years with great pleasure. The 12 years seemed like it was 10 minutes long, to be honest with you.”
“The fans never quit on you, they let you know when they don’t like something, but that’s their right."
“I’m looking forward to spending some time at home, I would appreciate it if there are no vigils outside my home. I give you what you want when I’m here. I’d like some privacy."
“We think it’s going to last forever, but a 5-game series is a crapshoot. When you bury yourself in your work, it’s like putting a puzzle together. And I thank my coaching staff. The team fought back into contention. They knew it would be hard work and they would get dirty along the way. They way I feel about my guys, you hug them."
When asked if he wanted to manage somewhere else:
“Not in the next three days. I’ll see what my options are. I am not ready to move somewhere and not do something.”
My first guess is Hello St. Louis…
|
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 8, 2007 at 11:44 PM |
Thus ends another Yankee season. It was a lot of fun watching the surge in the second half. And it was exhilarating to see so many youngsters develop right before our eyes.
Certainly the future is extremely promising, but those cheerful thoughts are appropriate for another day.
It goes without saying that this game was one of the most frustrating post-season games I’ve seen. The Yanks had so many chances to score, inning after inning, but in the end the offense couldn’t make up for Wang’s horrible start.
The solo HRs from Robby, A-Rod and Bobby strangely added to the aggravation, as they served to remind me of all the missed chances that occurred with men on base.
It’s the end of an era. The post-game press conferences will be fascinating. How will Torre handle the inevitable questions about his job? And you know A-Rod will be drilled about the opt-out.
Is this also the last we’ve seen of Posada and Rivera?
Well, at least we won’t have to see any more of Craig Sager’s suits anymore this year. I know, small consolation.
|
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 8, 2007 at 10:50 PM |
Here is one of many reasons why Kyle Farnsworth is useless to have on the team: Even if he pitches a scoreless inning, which is rare, he can’t go more than one inning. And he can’t pitch two days in a row.
Having Farnsworth on the team severely limits Torre’s options. If he can't go two here, he never will. Can you imagine? It looks like it may be Jose Veras with the season on the line for the 8th inning. Either Veras or a tired Joba.
Here is where bringing out Joba for that 2nd inning yesterday could be a big problem...otherwise he'd be pitching now instead of Veras
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 8, 2007 at 10:36 PM |
The Yankee offensive has teased at times tonight, but the big hit has been missing from the repertoire. Jeter’s DP in the bottom of the 6th with 2 men on and a run in was a death blow. I can’t keep posting the Yanks average with runners in scoring position. Trust me, it’s hideous. The Yanks now have the same number of hits as the Tribe: 10
I might have ran Damon to keep out of the double play, but that’s hindsight.
Shelley Duncan has had some good at bats this series; he’s been patient yet aggressive within the strike zone. He is another bright spot for the future. (It’s getting to be time to think about the future pretty soon. )
Three more innings to save the season and, incidentally, save Torre’s job.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 8, 2007 at 9:53 PM |
The Yanks continue to swing at the first pitch against Paul Byrd. Clearly, that “adjustment” was a bad idea. Now that Byrd has gotten his team through 5 innings, the strong bullpen will take over. Got to hand it to Byrd for bending and not breaking.
Raphael Perez in this series: 4 IP, 5K, 0 ER.
Paul Byrd: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Houdini
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 8, 2007 at 9:00 PM |
Yes, Wang pitched horribly for the second straight time and you can blame him all you want, he deserves it. But in two innings the Yanks have had 6 base runners and scored just one run. If they don’t get to Byrd within the next few innings to at least tie the game, that Indian bullpen will take over.
The lost opportunities for the Yanks are as much of a story as Wang’s poor pitching. And A-Rod's swing is getting long, just saying.
Also, for some reason, the Yanks are starting to swing at the first pitch, rather than wait Byrd out. Is it a conscious adjustment or are they over-anxious? They were at least getting on base with the patient approach. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 8, 2007 at 8:42 PM |
I’m trying to resist the temptation to recall the 2003 ALCS, when Moose saved Game #7 in relief of Clemens. I truly did not expect Wang to implode, at home, after his previous bad start. Should the Yanks pull off a miracle and win the ALDS, they go into the ALCS with one dependable starter.
Still, this is Paul Byrd they are facing. The only hope here is that the Yanks will chip away and that Moose can hold them. A long shot for sure. It surely was a bad sign to see A-Rod and Posada jumping out of their shoes in the first inning.
A word about Wang: He won 19 games 2 years in a row. He’s part of a bright Yankee future. Don’t turn on him, Yankee fans. There must be a mechanical that's keeping the ball up.
Wang’s full ALDS are too ugly too post (19.06 ERA), but this stat is just as ugly:
At this juncture, with 2 outs and RISP:
Cleveland: 12 for 23
New York: 0-6
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 8, 2007 at 7:17 PM |
Pretty strong words today from Michael Salfino over at SNY about Torre's bullpen management.
This quote stands out:
"If he had managed with an ounce of common sense in either instance, Yankees fans could hope for a solid five innings from Wang followed by two from Chamberlain and then two from Rivera with the off day providing necessary rest for both leading into Game 5.
Instead, he's made things considerably more difficult for no good reason."
The bottom line is Torre has no faith in anyone other than Joba and Mariano in the pen. I didn't get on Torre for last night because I also believe that a 4 or 5 run lead is not enough to trust Farnsworth or the others. Yes, that is pathetic, but true. (Of course, part of the reason for this is because Torre abused Vizcaino this season.)
Obviously, the Yanks need a blow-out tonight. Maybe if it's 9-0, Kyle can come in and throw his one inning.
Article:
http://web.sny.tv/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071008&content_id=1439497&oid=36019&vkey=10 |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 8, 2007 at 4:58 PM |
As expected, the Yanks have added Ron Villone to the roster, replacing Clemens. It does make sense to have a lefty out of the pen, but Ron is no Raphael Perez, or J.C. Romero for that matter.
Villone this year pitched 42.3 innings, giving up 36 hits, with 25 Ks and 18 BBS; he had a 4.25 ERA.
Against lefties, Villone pitched to a 4.00 ERA in 18 innings. He gave up 16 hits with 5 BB and 4 K. He pitched to a 1.17 WHIP and lefties hit .239 against him. Kenny Lofton is 4 for 8 lifetime against Villone with 3 walks.
Good lineup tonight. With Wang pithing, Doug at first base is a must. Matsui off his two hits last night gets another chance at DH, and Posada will be protecting A-Rod.
Damon LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Posada C
Matsui DH
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Mientkiewicz 1B |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 8, 2007 at 3:07 PM |
Tonight's starting pitcher for Cleveland, Paul Byrd, is an aspiring writer. He's penning a "graphic journal" about how a man of faith can make it through the myriad of temptations that face a major league player. He seems particularly concerned about conversations he's had with "atheist players." (I wonder if Kenny Lofton will be in the book.)
He's calling it the "Free Byrd Project." I'm sure it will be a very interesting book...and I certainly hope he will have all the time in the world to write his heart out in a few days.
http://sports.aol.com/fanhouse/2007/09/11/paul-byrd-is-penning-a-graphic-journal/
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 8, 2007 at 9:33 AM |
As the Yanks embark on Game #4 tonight, it’s imperative that Derek Jeter join the post-season plans and get involved in the offense.
Most writers and bloggers, me included, have been harping on Matsui’s lack of production, wondering when A-Rod would get a hit, or complaining non-stop about Joe Torre.
But always, it seems, Jeter gets a pass.
The myth that Jeter is a clutch post-season hitter is just that, a myth. Jeter has good post-season numbers because he is a good hitter, not because he jumps into a phone booth and dons a cape and rescues Gotham from the evil clutches of some insidious opponent.
Lifetime, Jeter’s vitals are 317/.388/.462
For the post-season, he is slightly lower at .308/.377/.469.
With 490 post-season at bats, that’s about right where he should be: his career norm.
The problem is that Jeter must continue to hit at his career norms or better in order to help the team. We already know he is a horrible defensive shortstop on grounders. Yes, he is excellent on pop-ups and can charge the ball well, but a shortstop’s main role is to show enough range to cut off those singles.
It’s worth repeating that Jeter has the worst range of any major league shortstop: The ESPN zone ratings (see further down in this blog) rate him dead last.
As defensive metrics get more sophisticated, there is more and more data to prove Jeter’s defensive shortcomings in an objective manner. From TangoTiger to Dave Cameron to, well, everyone who looks at this stuff, the picture is clear: The man appears as if he’s stuck in quicksand on that first step to his left.
When I interviewed Brian Cashman a few weeks ago, I asked if the organization was considering a position move for Jeter. Cash paused and was clearly startled at such a seemingly foolish question. But Cash is a smart man; he's not going to tell some guy like me that no one knows that Jeter will be moving to another position. It's the kind of thing that would be announced in Spiring Training. I just hope Cash is considering it. He has his own numbers guy in Mike Fishman. I have to think the conversation has come up before.
The Captain needs to show an awful lot of intangibles to make up for his lack of range, because the phrase “Past a diving Jeter” has entered the Bronx Lexicon in a most unwelcome fashion.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 11:13 PM |
The Yanks received more good news tonight when Eric Wedge confirmed that he will stick with Paul Byrd tomorrow night rather then bring back C.C. Sabathia on 3 days rest.
You never can tell with baseball, but this should be a huge break for the Yanks. Byrd is a back-of-the-rotation guy without much zing at all. He’s the kind of guy the Yanks have feasted on all season.
In Byrd’s lone start against the Yanks this year, he surrendered 7 earned runs in just two innings. In his last ten starts this year, Byrd pitched to a 5.65 ERA, with 75 hits in 57.1 innings. For the season, opponents have hit .301 against him.
Wang at home this year has pitched to a 2.75 ERA.
Torre managed a great game tonight. He removed Clemens before he could do more damage. He employed the bunt in the one situation when it made sense (pinch hitting Doug M. for Giambi.) He had no problem getting Joba right back out there for two innings.
Tomorrow night, expect to see Joba for one inning and Mariano for two, if needed.
Hopefully, the Yanks can get to Byrd early and ride to an easy victory.
|
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 10:54 PM |
On Joe Torre’s post-game conference, he made it clear that Wang will get the start at home for Game 4. He told reporters: “Wang is pitching tomorrow. We’ll get him to pitch at the Stadium. He’s a 19-game winner. Moose will back him up. We will really rely on Wanger.”
This is the right move for sure. Wang is a much different pitcher at Yankee Stadium, with an ERA more than 2 runs lower in the Bronx. Three days rest may even help his sinker. Pettitte for Game #5 is a no-brainer too. So no real surprises here.
The Yanks will have a decision to make about Roger Clemens, Torre said he thought Clemens may be able to be replaced on the current roster, but then he would not be available again until the World Series.
The Yanks have to “disable” Rocket. If they do make it to the ALCS, there is no way that Roger will be ready. The Yanks can’t risk it and the money he makes doesn’t matter now.
Figure on Ron Villone joining the team. Ian Kennedy hasn’t pitched in awhile and he’s on his honeymoon.
As far as Phil Hughes, Torre said, “He showed us something the other day in Game #1 when he did a heck of a job…to do what he did tonight, he looked like a seasoned pro. You look into his eyes and he is not surprised."
I've got to check, but I believe Phil is the youngest Yankee to ever record a win in a post-season game.
As far as the comments from the Boss, Joe said “When you work here you understand the pressure you're under. I just want my players to roll the dice. But the players are human beings. They are not machinery. Blood goes through their vines. It’s my job to make sure they realize giving all they have is all they can do.
On Damon, Torre said: “Johnny is such a good pressure guy. He sits there with a clear mind and a plan. When he got healthy you see the difference he has made.”
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 9:30 PM |
Well that "underbelly" included Trot Nixon in right. That error was a mirror-image of one he made years ago against the Yanks that cost the Red Sox a game.
Cano's hit broke the game open. And even Matsui and A-Rod have 2 hits. With Joba in now to nail down the win with a filhty inning or two, the question now is who will pitch tomorrow? Wang on 3 days rest or Mussina? Sabathia on 3 days rest or Byrd?
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 9:08 PM |
Having the lead in the late innings is crucial for the Yanks. They have had no answer to the lefty Raphael Perez. Perez is available tonight and has gone:
5 IP, 5K, 0 ER.
But with a 5-3 deficit, Wedge will likely go to the underbelly of the pen.
It’s true that the Yanks don’t have a lefty in the pen to match Perez. And Ron Villone certainly wasn’t the answer. I’m surprised they didn’t go after J.C. Romero when he was available. If the Yanks do win tonight, well…we’ll talk about that later.
By the way, perfect bunt by Doug M., perfect. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 9:00 PM |
A remarkable performance by Hughes. If he felt any pressure, he didn't show it. Anyone here going to mind watching this guy pitch for the next 15 years?
His line so far: 3.2 innings, 2 hits, 4 K, 0 BB, 0 ER
Torre and Gator have a big decision on whether to bring him back for the 7th. I bet they go to Joba.
|
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 8:42 PM |
Remember that article I wrote back in July where I called Johnny Damon “Cashman’s Biggest Folly?” That, um, Damon holds the Yankees hostage thing...
Uh, Please do not go into the archives to read it.
Phil held down the fort. Joba time soon, sans bugs
|
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 8:13 PM |
Westbrook's sinker is causing so much trouble for the Yanks right now. If they keep getting the lead-off man on as they have in the first three innings, Joe's has to try some hit-and-run or a straight steal.
That's normally not a good idea with a lineup like the Yanks have, but with the way they're hitting and the way Westbrook's sinker is working, that may be the only way to chip away.
Bad game so far for the Captain, a quasi-error and two rally-killing DPs...on the bright side, Hughes looks like he's taken control. He may have to go awhile. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 7:34 PM |
If Rocket is really hurting here, he has to take himself out. This is not about him; he can't jeopardize the whole season by proving his manhood. By now it's clear that the Tribe hitters are not biting on the split. And Roger's control is off. The K after off Martinez was impressive...but that Roger's last pitch. I can't remember seeing him look so uncomfortable.
It's up to young Phil Hughes now. Clemens passes the zen stick to Phil... there's some symbolism there.
I have to think that Roger is gone for the remainder of the post-season, but that hardly seems the point right now.
That 2-out hit by Peralta was a killer. With the way the Yanks are hitting, 3-0 seems like 30-0. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 7:07 PM |
You know it's amazing. Even the official scorer protects Jeter. Is there anyone who thinks that Cabrera should have been awarded a hit there?
That's 11 2-out hits now for Cleveland. Derek's wild pitch leads to the first run.
So annoying, though, to hear about how this might be Rocket's last game...there has to be a statute of limitations on that.
Rocket has to be careful with Nixon. He owns him.
|
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 4:20 PM |
In an effort to get more offense into the lineup, Torre has inserted Jason Giambi at 1B. It's about time that Torre gave Jason a chance, but I'd much rather see him at DH with Minky at 1B....
Matsui is the DH again, and he has done nothing to deserve the playing time at this point. His numbers are as dreadful as anyone's, and you can see from his at bats that he is out-of-sync.
Well, here's hoping Matsui goes 4-4
Damon LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Posada C
Giambi 1B
Matsui DH
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 2:44 PM |
It doesn’t make sense to provide a long line of Roger Clemens’ accomplishments here because they really have no bearing on today’s game.
What matters is whether the hammy will hold, and there is no way to tell right now. What we do know is that Rocket will give it his all. He told the NY Post: “What I lack in stuff, I'll throw my heart out there like I always have."
I can’t help but wonder what kind of pre-game ritual Roger is partaking in right now. Is he parading around the clubhouse in battle fatigues listening to John Philip Sousa? Is he gnawing on some fibrous animal part? Who knows? But at least if the Yanks go down today, they will do so with some attitude.
Another positive for Rocket, according to Mark Hale:
“Yesterday at Yankee Stadium, Clemens, unprompted, talked about the midges being a hindrance, then said, ‘I would have probably pulled us off the field.’"
Roger is aware that sometimes a manager just has to do something…anything. The bugs may or may not have made any difference. But you see your kid pitcher out there being flustered for the first time, you have to try something to settle things down.
Lineups should be posted soon… |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 10:32 AM |
Ian O'Connor reports today that Joe Torre's job is in serious jeopardy. To quote Big Stein:
"His job is on the line. I think we're paying him a lot of money. He's the highest-paid manager in baseball, so I don't think we'd take him back if we don't win this series."
I don't know whether Cashman and company will be able to talk George out of this like they did last year when Bill Madden reported that Torre was toast.
Of course, the difference this year is that George doesn't have to fire Torre. Since Joe's contract is up, he just needs to waive good-bye.
Many folks will think: "Great, just what the Yanks need...more pressure." But by going public with this, George is telling Torre's boys (the guys with rings) that they are playing for Joe's job. "You want this guy back? Fine...then win."
George has laid down the law. Win this series, Joe, or you're out.
Now, THAT's a reality show. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 7, 2007 at 9:32 AM |
What a beautiful day today for a Yankee victory. Now, you know I was just trying something different with that Psychiatrist post, right? Judging from a few emails, I'm not so sure. The post-season is a small sample size. You just can't judge a player by it.
To sum up: A-Rod is the best player in baseball, but he can't do it alone. Somebody else must help save this season. Maybe Giambi? I would give him a start and roll the dice.
Here's what Curt Schilling has to say about our 3rd baseman:
"You look at what Alex has done this year in New York, one of the best single seasons in the history of the game. The media there couldn't wait for six at-bats. He's 0-for-6. They had three hits (Friday). The focal point of the New York media is that Alex has screwed it up again.
"We know as players that's not how it works."
And so it goes, Jeter can fail and he gets a free pass. Not so for Alex. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 6, 2007 at 9:40 PM |
An excerpt from my visit today with Psychiatrist Jerome David in Scarsdale, New York.
Dr. David:
Yes. Yes. Come in. I thought I’d see you today what with the bugs, the A-Rod, the Joe Torre…sit down, sit down.
Intrepid Yankee Fan:
.080 Doc, he’s hitting .080 with no RBIs in the post-season since Game #4 of the 2004 ALCS. 4 for 50. Twice last night he’s up with a runner in scoring position but he can’t get the hit. I’m always defending him, to a fault. But he has the same amount of RBIs in 50 at bats as you and I do. As many as my dead Uncle Irving (God rest his soul)
Dr. David:
And this bothers you? What happened to your irrational hatred of Joe Torre? All summer I’ve sat here to hear you whine about the Torre this, the Torre that, thank God I got paid for it.
Intrepid Yankee Fan:
Well I don’t understand how Torre can bat Matsui 5th behind Alex. No protection at all on that knee. But last night in my blog I finally caved in and discussed A-Rod’s lack of clutch hitting. I couldn’t take it anymore; I feel like I abandoned my faith. My readers think I’ve joined the enemy. I’m confused.
Dr. David:
Clutch hitting? Clutch hitting? For two years now I have to hear you go on about how clutch hitting is a myth. Some nonsense you spoke about Bill James and the fog. All you did is give me numbers about no clutch hitting. Numbers, numbers, you kids with all your numbers these days. Back in my day, if a hitter was no good, you just said so without all these numbers.
Intrepid Yankee Fan:
Well yes, but then I get emotionally involved in the game. The heart takes over, the brain retreats….
Dr. David:
Finally we agree on something (pause) you know, about your brain retreating.
Intrepid Yankee Fan:
Yes. There is no such thing as clutch hitting, just small sample size in the post- season. In fact, I just got an email from Lee Sinins, you know, the Baseball Encyclopedia Guy I always talk about. Lee says “Making ANY baseball determination based on small sample sizes is the height of stupidity.” So, with the Sinins Baseball CD I worked out these splits and…
Dr. David:
Lee Sinins. Lee Sinins. Again with the Lee Sinins. Why don’t you marry this Lee Sinins that you love him so much? Then you two could talk all day long already about the small sample size, the OPS, the VORP, the whole thing. You’ll be very happy together.
Intrepid Yankee Fan:
Look. You’re not helping. I have to go blog something now on NYYFANS that defends A-Rod. I have to make up for last night’s defection.
Dr. David:
Did you dream about this game last night too?
Intrepid Yankee Fan:
Hell ya. The bugs too that attacked Chamberlain influenced my dream states in a very nasty way. A word of advice: Do not drink Nyquil right after a tough playoff loss. The ensuing nightmares will stagger the imagination. They would cause Stephen King to drop his pen in disgust, because he could never match those stats for shear horror. Carrie’s got nothing on Game #2.
Dr. David:
Alright Already. It’s time to look inside. What does the little voice inside you say?
Intrepid Yankee Fan:
About what?
Dr. David:
About A-Rod. We must dig deeper. What does the little man inside your head say about A-Rod.
Intrepid Yankee Fan:
Doc, What the hell are you talking about? Are you sure YOU don’t belong on this coach.
Dr. David:
I can’t solve this today. The Door is over there — you with your Bill James Handbook. Oy, I have Spiker to see now and I must prepare. You’ll need to make another appointment with Ms. Carlyle out in the hall. In the meantime, these pills will help.
Intrepid Yankee Fan:
Cool. Are these the same pills you tell me to take when Kyle Farnsworth comes in the game?
Dr. David:
The same…
(Intrepid Yankee fan departs office, pills in one hand, the Bill James handbook in the other. He nods to Spiker in the waiting room as he exits.)
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Don't miss our next episode, when Intrepid Yankee Fan gets kidnapped by members of Sons of Sam Horn and forced to attend the Red Sox ALDS celebration party.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 6, 2007 at 5:08 PM |
As we know by now, those ornery insects that attacked Joba Chamberlain last night were a type of gnat known as “midges.”
Particularly bad-tempered and unrelenting, these midges play a role in J. R. R. Tolkien's’ Lord of the Rings. They are described as a particularly annoying pest that can stop one cold in their tracks. They were known to be a hindrance to hobbits and often derailed them from their task at hand. (Kind of like, say, Kenny Lofton does)
From Lord of the RingsBook VI, chapter 2 (The Land of Shadow):
"Flies, dun or grey, or black, marked like orcs with a red eye-shaped blotch, buzzed and stung; and above the briar-thickets clouds of hungry midges danced and reeled".
Does this make Joba a hobbit? He seems too big to be a hobbit and his feet aren’t hairy, so I don’t know if the metaphor can be further extended. But I know from midges myself, when you’re swarmed by them while walking near a marsh, you can not focus on anything else. They get in your ears…your nose…your mouth and can even settle in your eyelids. You want to jump in water or even set yourself on fire to be rid of the pests.
It’s a biblical plague that only Torre could have stopped by asking for a delay. 20 minutes later, the midges had greatly subsided. So had the Yanks hopes. Unless there is a miracle, it's off to the land of shadows.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 6, 2007 at 11:00 AM |
I was about to go the Baseball Reference.com and put together some stats on the Yank’s offense in the playoffs these past few years and then I thought to myself: What’s the point? It’s very simple: No one is hitting. No one.
I can only imagine that some form of the following dialog took place in the Cleveland pre-series pitchers' meeting with coach Carl Willis:
Rule #1 – Don’t let A-Rod beat you. Walk him. It’s okay. He will either take the walk or get frustrated and swing at bad pitches. Let the next guy beat you.
Rule #2 – If you notice that A-Rod is starting to lunge at pitches, then he is feeling the pressure of having to be the man, and it also means that the guy behind him isn’t producing.
Rule #3 – If Torre is inept enough to put Matsui behind A-Rod, you can pitch to both of them because A-Rod by now will be so crazed that he will be entering that self-doubt area of confusion and panic.
Rule #4 – And if Torre bats Matsui 5th again for Game #3, everyone remember to bring your goggles to the celebration, the champagne really stings.
More blogging later, I’m off to my therapist.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 6, 2007 at 8:31 AM |
There’s one thing we can count on for sure. Once the final out is recorded that ends this Yankee season, the media will swarm like an Old Testament plague of Lake Erie mosquitoes to A-Rod and ask him if he is going to opt-out.
Despite all the evidence that we’ve heard so far that suggests he will stay, I’ve got to think that if he goes another 0-fer and if the Yanks lose this series, he will go. Of course he won’t tell us now that he’s leaving. But I do believe Scott Boras is making the plans.
Now, I don't want to lose A-Rod; don't get me wrong. I just really think he will be happy to leave.
Who will replace A-Rod? It won’t be Wilson Betemit. They will keep him as backup and get someone new.
We must judge the new 3rd baseman on his own merits. He isn’t going to hit 50 HRs and knock in 150.
But who knows, the new guy may even get a hit in the post season.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 9:57 PM |
It's so sad when 6 months of valiant play gets compressed into 2 games and your season is shot.
But that's where we are. Somehow, in some strange way, I expected this. The Yanks are not going to win 3 straight here. The season is now over. Does A-Rod's 0-6 have anything to do with this and can he be blamed?... NO
I am tired of defending him so I will sleep on things. But we are talking about an extra inning game here where the Yanks got 3 hits... 3....
Torre was faithful to Matsui's knee. That knee is 0-7.
Bottom line: 3-12 in our past 15 post season games. Torre must go.
Combined, the team is hitting .121, based on 8 of 66. It's clear that A-Rod has to swing at pitches outside the zone if he wants to get a hit. So yes, it's true that no one is hitting well, including A-Rod, but Torre must give the team the best chance to win and putting the one guy you KNOW can't hit now due to injury, that being Matsui, behind A-Rod, is insane.
Same story, different year.
The changes next year will be enormous. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 8:59 PM |
Well. This is ugliness personified.
We all know that two wild pitches by Joba is not the norm. But that’s what happened and despite his brilliance it was 1-1 in THEIR ballpark. Not good.
Mariano has to put on his SUPERMAN cape and shut them down for two innings.
But can he do it??. Mariano Ks the first batter but he reaches on a past ball. The inevitable sacrifice occurs. Man on 2nd 1 out. Then Hafner grounds out 4-3. The HBP loads the bases with 2 outs…
The entire Yankee season is on the line with Mo against Peralta..YESSSSSSSS
KKKKKKKKKK
We have a chance!!!!!
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 7:59 PM |
Has Joba finally meet his match???
Gnats???
He is clearly very disturbed about the hideous onslaught of bugs...they are all landing on his neck.
This is horrible...
but Doug saves the day with a grab on a vicious liner and then ... what... Joba with a wild pitch....
such is the way of pitcher's duels.
2 Wild pitches in one inning for Joba...not good. We are tied.
It does seem that if Joe put up a stink, maybe the umps could call time and wait this out...don't be surprised if the bugs infestation stops when Cleveland takes the field.
This is where Joe can't think outside the box... If this happens to Billy Martin or Lou Pinella, they get the game delayed and Joba doesn't throw that game-tying wild pitch. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 7:11 PM |
It ain't Vintage Andy, it's current Andy, and that's all the better. Tying run at 3rd and no one out (Bobby missed the cut-off man) and Andy gets out of it with a come backer and two Ks.
Andy didn't get Shlabotnick to K. He claimed Hafner and Martinez.
Mesmerized them.
anyone surprised??? I am not. Big Game Andy better pitch Game 5 if we get there. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 7:00 PM |
You all saw it too! It has to be a good omen. The squirrel has trekked to Cleveland.
by the by, Frank Thomas is an excellent analyst for TBS. He has tremendous insight into what pitchers are thinking. I can listen to him all night long.
I met him once and he was so cordial and polite when I asked for a few quotes. Frank is a classy guy. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 6:52 PM |
Thank The Lord that Eric Wedge is playing small ball.
That’s great news for Andy and the Yanks.
I might bunt the tying run to 2nd in the 8th or 9th, but not in the 5th. Actually, I wouldn’t do it then either.
I am an old Earl Weaver guy: You play for one run….you lose by one run.
Michaels sacrifices after the Lofton single. Andy knows how to pitch to Blake. Fly ball to left. And then Andy picks Lofton off at 3rd. Andy again with the pick.
Outs are sacred, folks. Outs need to be nurtured and protected. Never, Never give outs up willingly.
Andy did a great job…but Wedge handed the Yanks the inning.
And so much for Kenny making the 3rd out at 3rd...On to the 6th...
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 6:38 PM |
Great at bat by Posada to work the count of Carmona. Leading off the 5th , that is a “clutch” walk.
Carmona is dealing. It really is a wonder to behold such young talent with such a moving fastball. Regardless of the outcome, as a bit of a baseball purist, I always love the pitcher’s duel over a slugfest.
So far this game is a beauty for me. Of course, the Cano DP not so much, but it was scorched. That’s baseball. What can you do???
On to the Bottom of the 5th...
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 5:56 PM |
It's no coincidence that Melky's permanent move to CF coincided with the Yanks surge this year.
That throw to nail Peralta was perfect Melky. That arm truly rocks.
The solo HR was a nice touch as well.
For everyone watching on TV - don't you miss the YES cameras? The TBS footage does not close in enough to see the ball, even on the replay. We would have seen it five times already on YES.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 5:34 PM |
Is it me? Or is Frank Thomas such a huge guy that he makes Cal Ripken look like Mike Lupica???
Ya, Lupica, what a tool. His article about the Mets blowing the lead was so apologetic...can you image if the Yanks blew that lead?
Can't wait for the next Lupica Yankee payroll article. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 5:34 PM |
Is it me? Or is Frank Thomas such a huge guy that he makes Cal Ripken look like Mike Lupica???
Ya, Lupica, what a tool. His article about the Mets blowing the lead was so apologetic...can you image if the Yanks blew that lead?
Can't wait for the next Lupica Yankee payroll article. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 4:13 PM |
From the Yankee Press Box Notes:
Pettitte is 13-8 with a 4.05 ERA in 30 post season starts with the Yanks.
Andy is the Yanks’ all-time leader in post season wins, starts, innings, and Ks.
This is Andy’s 4th ALDS Game 2 start following a Yankee loss. He is 2-1 with a 1.98 in those games.
Watch for the first inning: Elias tells us that Andy compiled the best ERA in the league this year in the first inning: 1.32
Andy has allowed two runs or less in 18 of his 34 starts this year.
This is a really good time to make it 19 of 35….
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 3:56 PM |
Amazing.
Joe saw last night that Matsui could not drive the ball with that bad knee....
Joe saw that the Indians' game plan would be to pitch around A-Rod.
So, now Joe is batting Matsui 5th -- right behind A-Rod.
I hope I'm wrong, there is nothing I'd like better than to be wrong here...but what is the logic to batting the team's worst slumping player right behind the best player in baseball.
This is just like last year, when Joe managed the playoffs like a May game. We don't have time to let Matsui work out of the slump. We don't have time.
I gotta find my xanax...back soon. |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 2:50 PM |
Was anyone surprised about all those "singles" that got by Jeter last night -- including Lofton's game breaker?? You shouldn't be. He's a horrible defensive shortstop when it comes to range on grounders...
ESPN zone rating for all starting SS's-2007:
Omar Vizquel, SF .897
Troy Tulowitzki, Col.866
Jose Reyes, NYM.863
Khalil Greene, SD.855
Rafael Furcal, LA.851
Jason Bartlett, Min. 843
Miguel Tejada, Bal.843
Orlando Cabrera, LAA.833
Tony Pena Jr., KC .832
Juan Uribe, CWS .828
Jimmy Rollins, Phi.824
Julio Lugo, Bos.822
David Eckstein, StL.812
Jack Wilson, Pit .810
Carlos Guillen, Det .807
Stephen Drew, Ari.803
Yuniesky Betancourt, Sea .802
Edgar Renteria, Atl .800
Michael Young, Tex .799
J.J. Hardy, Mil .797
Jhonny Peralta, Cle .793
Felipe Lopez, Was .787
Hanley Ramirez, Fla .786
Derek Jeter, NYY. 765
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 12:40 PM |
I made the usual mistake today of reading some of the mainstream media accounts of last night’s game. If one can ever be surprised and not surprised at the same time, I sure am when it comes to how A-Rod is portrayed.
Surely, there were a constellation of issues to discuss about Game #1, but you’d think after reading some of these nitwits that A-Rod lost this game with his 0-2 and 2 walks.
A-Rod will be getting a lot of walks in this series. He has two choices, swing at bad pitches or take the walk. It is imperative that Posada is on his game and can hit behind Alex, otherwise the Yanks will be in trouble.
Matsui in the 6th hole is also a big problem. Matsui is hitting .176 since Sept. 1. He can’t drive the ball with that knee. It’s time to move Cano to 6th and DH Giambi 7th.
I can wait to see the lineup later today.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 5, 2007 at 9:17 AM |
Despite many unnerving dreams last night (I usually worry about how the hell I'm supposed to make ends meet on a Ventriloquist's salary, last night I was cursing Joe's bullpen usage in my sleep, according to my wife), I am convinced that the Yanks are in good shape.
Andy comes up big today. The Yanks go back to NYC with home field advantage. Westbrook and Byrd can be had...More blogging later folks, thanks for checking in.... |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 11:12 PM |
Okay..if you want to panic, the biggest problem here is that Joe Torre is the manager.
I just heard Suzyn Waldman report that Torre realized early that Wang was getting belted around because of the fly balls.
Yet Torre sits there drinking his green tea doing nothing while the game blows up...by the time he wakes up and takes Wang out, the game is out of hand. Again, he recognized that Wang was "off," but he does nothing.
Rather than using Hughes when the game can be turned around, he lets Phil mop-up later. Amazing inept management.
If the Yanks win this thing, it's in spite of the Manager.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 10:39 PM |
Don't Panic.
Everyone read your Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy tonight. The Yanks win tomorrow under Pettitte and all of a sudden they go back to New York tied up with home field advantage.
This team has proven to be nothing less than resilient this year. They got their rear-ends kicked but I feel strangely confident about tomorrow. Now is not the time to turn into a pansy-ass frontrunner.
Besides, we all now what recent history has shown us, the Yanks are better off losing the first game, that means they will take the series.
But if you must fret, here are things to be concerned about: see last past on Torre's use of Hughes.
Also, Matsui can be a terror when he's healthy, but his slump continued tonight. That bad knee prevents him from driving the ball. I'd love to see Giambi at DH tomorrow.
You can't wait for guys to "come around" in a 5 game playoff series. If Torre can do something absurd like bat A-Rod 8th against Detroit, he can do something mildy different like DH Jason and sit Matsui.
Big Game Andy, get your sleep tonight.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 9:55 PM |
Joe Torre is killing me. It didn't take him long to make a boneheaded bullpen move.
Very strange getting Hughes in the game AFTER it's already shot at 11-3. If Hughes were to be used today, why not get him in much earlier before Wang completely imploded? Maybe when it was 4-3--when the team had a chance to win?
What's the point of bringing Phil in a blow-out when he may be needed in a close game--say if Roger's hammy blows out on Sunday. Down 8 runs and NOW he brings in Hughes???
What? Veras can't go more than 1/3 of an inning? Veras is here as the mop-up man. Let him pitch some mop-up innings.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 9:34 PM |
True story: Ohlendorf pitched so poorly, my cat actually came into the room and threw up on that last Lofton double:
We will see what Ross is made of if he can shake this off next time he takes the mound:
BB
2B
Fly out
Ground Out
HR
2B
HBP
Grond Out
2B
ERA: 27.00 |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 9:18 PM |
A tip of the hat to Steve Lombardi over at www.waswatching.com for posting this great article from the Christian Science Monitor about old friend Freddy Sez. It's a great read if you want to take your mind off this game for a few minutes.
If you're not already, you should be reading Steve's blog every day.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 9:06 PM |
If 3 RBIs by Kenny Lofton isn’t a bummer, I don’t know what is. Maybe it’s rivaled by the faith I had in Wang here in Game #1. He couldn’t keep the ball down and the Tribe figured that out pretty quickly. It's truly sad to think he can only pitch at home.
Basically, this is a disaster.
It won’t get easier for the Yanks when the Indians go to the pen: The set-up men are better than the closer:
Betancourt 1.47
Perez 1.78
Fultz 2.92
But this horrible 5th inning was not the turning point of the game so far. It was the Yanks’ failure to get more runs in the top of the 5th after the IBB to A-Rod. The Indians have all but announced that they won't let A-Rod beat them if they can help it.
A-Rod needs to be patient in the post-season. They don’t want him to beat them. Posada must be good.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 8:45 PM |
Good move by Joe to get Duncan in the 5th against the tough CC. I was hoping Duncan would get the start. He jumped started the inning.
CC looks to be tiring and getting the ball up. That intentional walk to A-Rod tells us how crucial Posada's at bats will be this series. The K off a 3-0 count for Posada further suggest A-Rod won't get much to hit.
Matsui continues his trend of horrible at bats. He can't drive the ball. The knees, the knees...
Giambi may need to DH |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 8:08 PM |
Through the first four innings, it appears that the Yanks have left C.C. off the hook. Then..boom... Robby makes it closer at 4-2. Let's see if Wang can hold them here. Usually that sinker gets better when he tires a little.
Cano came into this first play-off game batting .351 (98-279) in his final 72 games. He has the most hits of any 2B since he came on the scene on 5/3/05 (Elias)
Basically, he got really hot right after I wrote an article that questioned his will... HA |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 7:37 PM |
Talk about knee-jerk reactions...I just received two emails (Thanks for writing) but both of them questioned why Wang got the Game #1 start.
There is no controversy here. Wang is the ace. No one is baseball has more wins than him the past two years. He's tied for 2nd best record in the Majors this year against teams that finished with a winning record. (10-5 with a .320)
Having to defend this is absurd. Torre and Cash made the right move here. Besides either Wang or Pettitte can go in Game #5.
What's the difference if he starts Game #2 from Game #1? What do you want to do? Not start Wang at all?
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 7:12 PM |
An Omen? Damon leads the game off with a Home Run. Everyone in the park knew it was a HR except for the ump responsible for the call. Thankfully, the umps huddled and reversed the call. Let's hope poor umpiring doesn't affect this series like it has so many others.
Ask any San Diego fan...
That's 14-24 for Johnny...he's so important to this team right now |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 6:00 PM |
| The sage is burning, the primordial drums are beating, the carcasses are bled, and the smoldering decay of the ritual sacrifices is drifting away with the southeast wind….it’s nearly game time… |
| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 12:41 PM |
PRE-SERIES PREDICTIONS
• Somewhere along the line Wilson Betemit will make a major contribution in this series with a key game-tying or go-ahead hit.
• Somewhere along the way, Joe Torre will perpetrate a bullpen blunder. (However, Cash has constructed the pen to make it much harder for Joe to do this! Stay tuned.)
• Who’s going to win this series? How the hell do I know? Predictions like that are for the mainstream media. There are too many variables in a small sample size, 5-game series. Just because the Indians have the better team doesn’t mean anything. Just enjoy it. The future for the Yanks is brighter than ever.
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 11:52 AM |
The Yanks’ willingness to go with the younger, more talented pitchers, such as Ohlendorf and Veras, suggests that Brian Cashman is truly exerting his control over Joe Torre. Besides, the right-handed pitchers are better at getting out left-handed batters this year than any of the so-called LOOGYs were. I'll take talent over experience any day, sorry Ron Villone.
Now, Edwar Rameriz’s change-up might have given batters a different look coming out of the pen, but down the stretch Edwar was just too unreliable to be trusted in a big spot.
But make no mistake, this new trend off developing youngsters down the stretch and trusting them in the playoffs is a major development for the Yanks. It’s a new way of doing business for them. Even the inclusion of Bronson Sardinha as a pinch-runner gives the Yanks added versatility and speed. Perhaps there will be a Dave Roberts moment. The Yanks should run on Victor Martinez.
Very pleasant indeed.
Yanks’ ALDS Pitching Roster
Starting Pitchers
RHP Chien-Ming Wang
LHP Andy Pettitte
RHP Roger Clemens
RHP Mike Mussina
Bullpen
RHP Mariano Rivera
RHP Joba Chamberlain
RHP Kyle Farnsworth
RHP Luis Vizcaino
RHP Ross Ohlendorf
RHP Jose Veras
RHP Phil Hughes
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| Posted by Phil Allard on October 4, 2007 at 11:50 AM |
Welcome to the NYYFAN postseason blog. I plan to post commentary, in-game comments, previews, and pretty-much whatever I find rattling around in my head for as long as the Yanks last in the playoffs.
I hope you check in often; this should be fun.
Many fans of other teams think that Yankee fans have a sense of entitlement—as if we think the Yanks are a lock to make the post-season every year.
I can only speak for myself, but I certainly didn’t take this year for granted. In fact, I questioned the sanity of anyone thinking the Yanks could rebound from 21-29.
(I tend to notice the problems first.)
But then came the market correction. It took a .652 winning percentage (71-39) to get it done, and here we are.
- Phil Allard
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Comments coming soon!